bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pyrosequencing‐based Molecular Monitoring of the Intestinal Bacterial Colonization in Preterm Infants
Authors: Chang Ju Y. , Shin Son M. , Chun Jongsik , Lee Jae‐Hak , Seo Jeong‐Kee
Published: July 2011

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to investigate the previously unexplored diversity of neonatal intestinal microbiota and monitor early intestinal colonization patterns in Korean preterm infants using high‐throughput pyrosequencing technology combined with 16S rDNA‐based molecular methods.

Subjects and Methods:

A total of 46,369 partial 16S rDNA sequences obtained from 30 fecal samples serially taken from 10 very‐low‐birth weight preterm infants were analyzed.

Results:

A significant proportion of the molecular species (21.9%) was found to be unclassified. The pathogenic or potentially pathogenic molecular species belonging to the classes Gammaproteobacteria and Bacilli were predominant during the entire observation period. Anaerobic or nonpathogenic molecular species belonging to the class Clostridia (except Clostridium difficile) and phyla Bacteroidetes were ubiquitous even within 72 hours after birth. The proportion of these species increased significantly at 1 month of age. The most ubiquitous and abundant major molecular genera common to all of the postnatal ages were Escherichia, Enterobacter, Enterococcus, Veillonella, Serratia, Staphylococcus, Roseburia, Acinetobacter, Citrobacter, Bacteroides, Faecalibacterium, Blautia, and Streptococcus.

Conclusions:

The diversity and dynamic nature of intestinal bacterial colonization in very‐low‐birth weight preterm infants were revealed using pyrosequencing technology. The results of the present pilot study may provide a basis to consider when investigating or interpreting the role of intestinal microbiota in certain preterm infant diseases such as necrotizing enterocolitis or systemic infection.
Do Oro‐anal Transit Markers Predict Which Children Would Benefit From Colonic Manometry Studies?
Authors: Tipnis Neelesh A. , El‐Chammas Khalil I. , Rudolph Colin D. , Werlin Steven L. , Sood Manu R.
Published: July 2011

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to compare oro‐anal transit time (OTT) measured by radio‐opaque markers with colon motility (CM) findings in children with chronic constipation and to assess clinical outcomes in children with chronic constipation evaluated by OTT and CM studies.

Methods:

Twenty‐four children with chronic constipation (12 girls; median age 12 years [3–18 years]; median symptoms 87 months [6–186 months]) who underwent OTT and CM studies were reviewed. The OTT was determined using commercially available Sitzmarks. Patients were studied for a median of 23 months (4–60 months) and outcomes reviewed.

Results:

All 5 children with normal OTT had normal CM; however, only 47% (9/19) of children with slow OTT had an abnormal CM. The abnormal CM findings were total colonic pseudo‐obstruction in 3 and left colonic pseudo‐obstruction in 6 children. Of the 9 children with abnormal CM, 5 were managed surgically, 1 with medicine escalation, and 3 were lost to follow‐up; all 6 children with known follow‐up have more bowel movements and less soiling. Of the 15 children with normal CM, 10 were managed with medication escalation, 3 with behavioral intervention, and 2 surgically. Of these 15 children, 8 improved, 1 did not change, 2 worsened, and 4 were lost to follow‐up.

Conclusions:

OTT studies may be helpful to predict which children should be referred for CM studies. Normal OTT studies may predict normal colon manometry; however, abnormal OTT studies may not predict abnormalities in colonic manometry in children with chronic constipation. Therefore, patients with slow transit marker studies should be assessed by colon manometry to evaluate colon neuromuscular integrity.
Experimental manipulation of fertility reveals potential lactation costs in a free-ranging marsupial
Authors: Cripps Jemma K. , Wilson Michelle E. , Elgar Mark A. , Coulson Graeme
Published: July 2011

Lactation is the most energetically expensive component of reproduction in mammals. Theory predicts that reproducing females will adjust their behaviour to compensate for increased nutritional demands. However, experimental tests are required, since comparisons of the behaviour of naturally reproducing and non-reproducing females cannot distinguish between true costs of reproduction, individual differences or seasonal variation. We experimentally manipulated reproduction in free-ranging, eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus), using a fertility control agent. Our novel field experiment revealed that females altered their behaviour in direct response to the energetic demands of reproduction: reproducing females increased bite rates, and thus food intake, when the energetic demands of lactation were highest. Reproducing females did not reduce the time spent on vigilance for predators, but increased their forage intake on faecal-contaminated pasture, thereby increasing the risk of infection by gastrointestinal parasites—a largely unrecognized potential cost of reproduction.
Recovery by triple junction motion in aluminium deformed to ultrahigh strains
Authors: Yu Tianbo , Hansen Niels , Huang Xiaoxu
Published: July 2011

Commercial purity aluminium at true strains
ε
=2∼5.5 was annealed in a wide temperature range (from room temperature to 220°C), and the evolution of microstructure was characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) techniques. Triple junctions in an ultrafine lamellar structure are classified into three categories based on the structural morphology, and a relationship is formulated between the density (length per unit volume) of triple junctions and the boundary spacing. The triple junction density increases with increasing strain during plastic deformation and decreases during isochronal and isothermal annealing. Based on TEM and EBSD observations, thermally activated triple junction motion is identified as the key process during the recovery of highly strained aluminium, leading to the removal of thin lamellae with small dihedral angles at the ends and structural coarsening. A mechanism for recovery by triple junction motion is proposed, which can underpin the general observation that a lamellar structure formed by plastic deformation during annealing can evolve into an equiaxed structure, preceding further structural coarsening and recrystallization. Within this framework, the grain boundary surface tension on triple junctions is discussed based on the structural parameters characterizing the deformed and annealed microstructure.
Unravelling transmission trees of infectious diseases by combining genetic and epidemiological data
Authors: Ypma R. J. F. , Bataille A. M. A. , Stegeman A. , Koch G. , Wallinga J. , van Ballegooijen W. M.
Published: July 2011

Knowledge on the transmission tree of an epidemic can provide valuable insights into disease dynamics. The transmission tree can be reconstructed by analysing either detailed epidemiological data (e.g. contact tracing) or, if sufficient genetic diversity accumulates over the course of the epidemic, genetic data of the pathogen. We present a likelihood-based framework to integrate these two data types, estimating probabilities of infection by taking weighted averages over the set of possible transmission trees. We test the approach by applying it to temporal, geographical and genetic data on the 241 poultry farms infected in an epidemic of avian influenza A (H7N7) in The Netherlands in 2003. We show that the combined approach estimates the transmission tree with higher correctness and resolution than analyses based on genetic or epidemiological data alone. Furthermore, the estimated tree reveals the relative infectiousness of farms of different types and sizes.
Quantitative disease resistance: to better understand parasite-mediated selection on major histocompatibility complex
Authors: Westerdahl Helena , Asghar Muhammad , Hasselquist Dennis , Bensch Staffan
Published: July 2011

We outline a descriptive framework of how candidate alleles of the immune system associate with infectious diseases in natural populations of animals. Three kinds of alleles can be separated when both prevalence of infection and infection intensity are measured—qualitative disease resistance, quantitative disease resistance and susceptibility alleles. Our descriptive framework demonstrates why alleles for quantitative resistance and susceptibility cannot be separated based on prevalence data alone, but are distinguishable on infection intensity. We then present a case study to evaluate a previous finding of a positive association between prevalence of a severe avian malaria infection (GRW2,Plasmodium ashfordi) and a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I allele (B4b) in great reed warblersAcrocephalus arundinaceus. Using the same dataset, we find that individuals with allele B4b have lower GRW2 infection intensities than individuals without this allele. Therefore, allele B4b provides quantitative resistance rather than increasing susceptibility to infection. This implies that birds carrying B4b can mount an immune response that suppresses the acute-phase GRW2 infection, while birds without this allele cannot and may die. We argue that it is important to determine whether MHC alleles related to infections are advantageous (quantitative and qualitative resistance) or disadvantageous (susceptibility) to obtain a more complete picture of pathogen-mediated balancing selection.
Evidence for instantaneous e-vector detection in the honeybee using an associative learning paradigm
Authors: Sakura Midori , Okada Ryuichi , Aonuma Hitoshi
Published: July 2011

Many insects use the polarization pattern of the sky for obtaining compass information during orientation or navigation. E-vector information is collected by a specialized area in the dorsal-most part of the compound eye, the dorsal rim area (DRA). We tested honeybees' capability of learning certain e-vector orientations by using a classical conditioning paradigm with the proboscis extension reflex. When one e-vector orientation (CS+) was associated with sugar water, while another orientation (CS−) was not rewarded, the honeybees could discriminate CS+ from CS−. Bees whose DRA was inactivated by painting did not learn CS+. When ultraviolet (UV) polarized light (350 nm) was used for CS, the bees discriminated CS+ from CS−, but no discrimination was observed in blue (442 nm) or green light (546 nm). Our data indicate that honeybees can learn and discriminate between different e-vector orientations, sensed by the UV receptors of the DRA, suggesting that bees can determine their flight direction from polarized UV skylight during foraging. Fixing the bees' heads during the experiments did not prevent learning, indicating that they use an ‘instantaneous’ algorithm of e-vector detection; that is, the bees do not need to actively scan the sky with their DRAs (‘sequential’ method) to determine e-vector orientation.
Evolution of ruminant headgear: a review
Authors: Davis Edward Byrd , Brakora Katherine A. , Lee Andrew H.
Published: July 2011

The horns, ossicones and antlers of ruminants are familiar and diverse examples of cranial appendages. We collectively term ruminant cranial appendages ‘headgear’; this includes four extant forms: antlers (in cervids), horns (in bovids), pronghorns (in pronghorn antelope) and ossicones (in giraffids). Headgear evolution remains an open and intriguing question because phylogenies (molecular and morphological), adult headgear structure and headgear development (where data are available) all suggest different pictures of ruminant evolution. We discuss what is known about the evolution of headgear, including the evidence motivating previous hypotheses of single versus multiple origins, and the implications of recent phylogenetic revisions for these hypotheses. Inclusion of developmental data is critical for progress on the question of headgear evolution, and we synthesize the scattered literature on this front. The areas most in need of attention are early development in general; pronghorn and ossicone development in particular; and histological study of fossil forms of headgear. An integrative study of headgear development and evolution may have ramifications beyond the fields of systematics and evolution. Researchers in organismal biology, as well as those in biomedical fields investigating skin, bone and regenerative medicine, may all benefit from insights produced by this line of research.
Host behaviour and physiology underpin individual variation in avian influenza virus infection in migratory Bewick's swans
Authors: Hoye Bethany J. , Fouchier Ron A. M. , Klaassen Marcel
Published: July 2011

Individual variation in infection modulates both the dynamics of pathogens and their impact on host populations. It is therefore crucial to identify differential patterns of infection and understand the mechanisms responsible. Yet our understanding of infection heterogeneity in wildlife is limited, even for important zoonotic host–pathogen systems, owing to the intractability of host statusprior toinfection. Using novel applications of stable isotope ecology and eco-immunology, we distinguish antecedent behavioural and physiological traits associated with avian influenza virus (AIV) infection in free-living Bewick's swans (Cygnus columbianus bewickii). Swans infected with AIV exhibited higher serumδ13C (−25.3 ± 0.4) than their non-infected counterparts (−26.3 ± 0.2). Thus, individuals preferentially foraging in aquatic rather than terrestrial habitats experienced a higher risk of infection, suggesting that the abiotic requirements of AIV give rise to heterogeneity in pathogen exposure. Juveniles were more likely to be infected (30.8% compared with 11.3% for adults), shed approximately 15-fold higher quantity of virus and exhibited a lower specific immune response than adults. Together, these results demonstrate the potential for heterogeneity in infection to have a profound influence on the dynamics of pathogens, with concomitant impacts on host habitat selection and fitness.
Changes in species diversity and size composition in the Firth of Clyde demersal fish community (1927–2009)
Authors: Heath M. R. , Speirs D. C.
Published: July 2011

Following the repeal in 1962 of a long-standing ban on trawling, yields of demersal fish from the Firth of Clyde, southwest Scotland, increased to a maximum in 1973 and then declined until the directed fishery effectively ceased in the early 2000s. Since then, the only landings of demersal fish from the Firth have been by-catch in the Norway lobster fishery. We analysed changes in biomass density, species diversity and length structure of the demersal fish community between 1927 and 2009 from scientific trawl surveys, and related these to the fishery harvesting rate. As yields collapsed, the community transformed from a state in which biomass was distributed across numerous species (high species evenness) and large maximum length taxa were common, to one in which 90 per cent of the biomass was vested in one species (whiting), and both large individuals and large maximum length species were rare. Species evenness recovered quickly once the directed fishery ceased, but 10 years later, the community was still deficient in large individuals. The changes partly reflected events at a larger regional scale but were more extreme. The lag in response with respect to fishing has implications for attempts at managing a restoration of the ecosystem.
A White Spruce Gene Catalog for Conifer Genome Analyses
Authors: Rigault Philippe , Boyle Brian , Lepage Pierre , Cooke Janice E.K. , Bousquet Jean , MacKay John J.
Published: July 2011

Several angiosperm plant genomes, including Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), rice (Oryza sativa), poplar (Populus trichocarpa), and grapevine (Vitis vinifera), have been sequenced, but the lack of reference genomes in gymnosperm phyla reduces our understanding of plant evolution and restricts the potential impacts of genomics research. A gene catalog was developed for the conifer tree Picea glauca (white spruce) through large-scale expressed sequence tag sequencing and full-length cDNA sequencing to facilitate genome characterizations, comparative genomics, and gene mapping. The resource incorporates new and publicly available sequences into 27,720 cDNA clusters, 23,589 of which are represented by full-length insert cDNAs. Expressed sequence tags, mate-pair cDNA clone analysis, and custom sequencing were integrated through an iterative process to improve the accuracy of clustering outcomes. The entire catalog spans 30 Mb of unique transcribed sequence. We estimated that the P. glauca nuclear genome contains up to 32,520 transcribed genes owing to incomplete, partially sequenced, and unsampled transcripts and that its transcriptome could span up to 47 Mb. These estimates are in the same range as the Arabidopsis and rice transcriptomes. Next-generation methods confirmed and enhanced the catalog by providing deeper coverage for rare transcripts, by extending many incomplete clusters, and by augmenting the overall transcriptome coverage to 38 Mb of unique sequence. Genomic sample sequencing at 8.5% of the 19.8-Gb P. glauca genome identified 1,495 clusters representing highly repeated sequences among the cDNA clusters. With a conifer transcriptome in full view, functional and protein domain annotations clearly highlighted the divergences between conifers and angiosperms, likely reflecting their respective evolutionary paths.
The experience of motherhood for alienated mothers
Authors: Finzi‐Dottan Ricky , Goldblatt Hadass , Cohen‐Masica Orlee
Published: July 2011

This qualitative study examined the alienated mothers' experience of motherhood. Data were collected by in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with 10 women whose children refused any contact with them. Findings revealed one main theme, ‘Merging vs. detachment’, consisting of four subthemes or motifs in these women's narratives: (i) marriage as an illusion of salvation from an abusive home; (ii) giving birth to a child as compensation for chaotic childhood experiences; (iii) husband exploiting and abusing their sense of failing motherhood; and (iv) the husband and mother‐in‐law expelling the mother. These findings were interpreted within the framework of Bowen's theory. The interpretation suggests that impairment in the mothers' and ex‐husbands' differentiation of the self is manifest in the shattered mother–child relations and in the mothers' loss of their children in the struggle with their mothers‐in‐law. Implications for practice are included.
Expanding the scope of research with transition‐age foster youth: applications of the social network perspective
Authors: Blakeslee Jennifer
Published: July 2011

The support and resources embedded in social networks may be especially important for youth aging out of child welfare custody, such that foster youth support network characteristics influence the degree to which individual risk factors translate to poor outcomes during the transition from care. To examine the extent of this network influence on youth outcomes, social network analysis can be used to measure the interconnected relationships in the service network of caseworkers, foster parents and other providers, and in the personal network of biological family and community supports. By assessing these patterns of relationships, researchers can identify social network characteristics associated with particular subpopulations of foster youth who experience relatively successful or unsuccessful transition outcomes. This paper applies social network concepts and related methodology to frame foster youth transition support from a network perspective and to promote the generation of network‐informed hypotheses that could expand the scope of research with this important population.
Mechanisms of immunotherapy to wasp and bee venom
Authors: Ozdemir C. , Kucuksezer U. C. , Akdis M. , Akdis C. A.
Published: July 2011

Hymenoptera venoms are important allergens that can elicit both local and systemic allergic reactions, including life‐threatening anaphylaxis. Venom immunotherapy (VIT) remains the most effective treatment, reducing the risk of systemic reactions in individuals with Hymenoptera venom allergy. VIT can restore normal immunity against venom allergens and provide patients with a lifetime of tolerance to venoms. During VIT, peripheral tolerance is induced by the generation of allergen‐specific regulatory T (Treg) cells, which suppress proliferative and cytokine responses against the venom allergens. Treg cells are characterized by IL‐10 secretion that directly or indirectly influence effector cells of allergic inflammation, such as mast cells, basophils and eosinophils. Treg cells also have influence on B cells, suppressing IgE production and inducing the production of blocking type IgG4 antibodies against venom allergens. An accumulating body of evidence suggests that Treg cells may affect allergen sensitization and methods for enhancing this cell population may eventually improve the efficacy of VIT. In this article, immune mechanisms enrolled in bee and wasp VIT are reviewed.

Cite this as: C. Ozdemir, U. C. Kucuksezer, M. Akdis and C. A. Akdis, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 1226–1234.
Effect of inhaled dust mite allergen on regional particle deposition and mucociliary clearance in allergic asthmatics
Authors: Bennett W. D. , Herbst M. , Alexis N. E. , Zeman K. L. , Wu J. , Hernandez M. L. , Peden D. B.
Published: July 2011

Background Acute exacerbations in allergic asthmatics may lead to impaired ability to clear mucus from the airways, a key factor in asthma morbidity.

Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of inhaled house dust mite challenge on the regional deposition of inhaled particles and mucociliary clearance (MCC) in allergic asthmatics.

Methods We used gamma scintigraphy (inhalation of 99mTc ‐sulphur colloid particles) to measure the regional particle deposition and MCC in allergic asthmatics (n=12) 4 h following an inhaled dust mite allergen challenge (Dermatophagoides farinae extract; PDmax=fall in forced expiratory volume in 1 s of 10%) for comparison with baseline non‐challenge measures.

Results In responders (n=9 PDmax dose), lung function returned to pre‐challenge values by 3 h but was significantly decreased at 6 and 24 h in three of the responders (i.e. late‐phase response) and induced sputum eosinophils were increased at 24 h post‐challenge (P<0.05). Responders showed enhanced bronchial airway deposition of inhaled particles (P<0.05) and slowed clearance from the central lung zone (P<0.01) at 4 h post‐challenge compared with the baseline (no allergen challenge) that was predicted by the PDmax allergen concentration (r=−0.70, P<0.05). The decline in lung function at 24 h post‐challenge correlated with reduced MCC from the central lung zone (r=−0.78, P<0.02) and PDmax. Non‐responders (n=3) showed no change in lung function, regional deposition or MCC post‐challenge vs. baseline.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance These data suggest that regional deposition and clearance of inhaled particles may be sensitive for detecting mild airway obstruction associated with early‐ and late‐phase allergen‐induced effects on mucus secretions. The study was listed on clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00448851).

Cite this as: W. D. Bennett, M. Herbst, N. E. Alexis, K. L. Zeman, J. Wu, M. L. Hernandez, and D. B. Peden, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 1719–1728.
Phenotypic analysis of perennial airborne allergen‐specific CD4+ T cells in atopic and non‐atopic individuals
Authors: Crack L. R. , Chan H. W. , McPherson T. , Ogg G. S.
Published: July 2011

Background Accumulating evidence suggests that T cells play an important role in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis (AD); yet, little is known of the differentiation status of CD4+ T cells specific for common environmental allergens, such as the major cat allergen, Fel d 1.

Objective To determine the frequency, differentiation phenotype and function of circulating Fel d 1‐specific CD4+ T cells in adult individuals with severe persistent AD in comparison with healthy controls.

Methods Using HLA class II tetrameric complexes based on a HLA‐DPB1*0401‐restricted Fel d 1 epitope, ex vivo and cultured T cell frequency and phenotype were analysed in individuals with AD and healthy controls. Cytokine secretion was measured by ex vivo and cultured IL‐4 and IFN‐γ ELISpots.

Results
Ex vivo Fel d 1‐specific DPB1*0401‐restricted CD4+ T cells in both atopics and non‐atopics express high levels of CCR7, CD62L, CD27 and CD28, placing the cells largely within the central memory subgroup. However, the functional phenotype was distinct, with greater IL‐4 production from the cells derived from atopics, which correlated with disease severity.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance Circulating Fel d 1‐specific DPB1*0401‐restricted CD4+ T cells in both atopic and non‐atopic donors maintain a central memory phenotype; however in atopics, the cells had greater Th2 effector function, compatible with a disease model of altered antigen delivery in atopic individuals.

Cite this as: L. R. Crack, H. W. Chan, T. McPherson and G. S. Ogg, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 1555–1567.
Warmer climates boost cyanobacterial dominance in shallow lakes
Authors: Kosten Sarian , Huszar Vera L. M. , Bécares Eloy , Costa Luciana S. , van Donk Ellen , Hansson Lars‐Anders , Jeppesen Erik , Kruk Carla , Lacerot Gissell , Mazzeo Néstor , De Meester Luc , Moss Brian , Lürling Miquel , Nõges Tiina , Romo Susana , Scheffer Marten
Published: July 2011

Dominance by cyanobacteria hampers human use of lakes and reservoirs worldwide. Previous studies indicate that excessive nutrient loading and warmer conditions promote dominance by cyanobacteria, but evidence from global scale field data has so far been scarce. Our analysis, based on a study of 143 lakes along a latitudinal transect ranging from subarctic Europe to southern South America, shows that although warmer climates do not result in higher overall phytoplankton biomass, the percentage of the total phytoplankton biovolume attributable to cyanobacteria increases steeply with temperature. Our results also reveal that the percent cyanobacteria is greater in lakes with high rates of light absorption. This points to a positive feedback because restriction of light availability is often a consequence of high phytoplankton biovolume, which in turn may be driven by nutrient loading. Our results indicate a synergistic effect of nutrients and climate. The implications are that in a future warmer climate, nutrient concentrations may have to be reduced substantially from present values in many lakes if cyanobacterial dominance is to be controlled.
Should we treat HCV carriers with normal ALT levels? The ‘5Ws’ dilemma
Authors: Puoti C. , Guarisco R. , Spilabotti L. , Bellis L. , Mitidieri Costanza O. , Dell’ Unto O. , Elmo M. G.
Published: July 2011

Summary.  Approximately 30% of patients with chronic HCV infection have persistently normal ALT levels. Although formerly referred to as ‘healthy’ or ‘asymptomatic’ HCV carriers, and thus historically excluded from antiviral treatment, it has now become clear that the majority of these patients have some degree of histological liver damage that may be significant in up to 20% of cases and might progress towards a more severe degree of liver fibrosis. A significant proportion of patients experience periods of increased serum ALT associated with enhanced disease progression. However, controversies still exist in clinical practice regarding the definition of ‘persistent’ ALT normality, the virological and histological features of these subjects, the need for liver biopsy, the role of noninvasive tools for the assessment of liver fibrosis, the natural history and the usefulness of antiviral treatment. The advent of new therapeutic options (pegylated interferon plus ribavirin) has shifted treatment targets towards the eradication of underlying infection, with therapy decision based on age, severity of disease and likelihood of response rather than on aminotransferase levels. This review is aimed at approaching the main unresolved issues on this topic, trying to give evidence‐based answers to the more frequently asked questions from patients and their physicians.
Evidence of hidden biodiversity, ongoing speciation and diverse patterns of genetic structure in giant Antarctic amphipods
Authors: BAIRD HELENA P. , MILLER KAREN J. , STARK JONATHAN S.
Published: July 2011

Recent molecular research on Antarctic benthic organisms has challenged traditional taxonomic classifications, suggesting that our current perceptions of Antarctic biodiversity and species distributions must be thoroughly revised. Furthermore, genetic differentiation at the intraspecific level remains poorly understood, particularly in eastern Antarctica. We addressed these issues using DNA sequence data for two sibling amphipod species that could be collected on a circum‐Antarctic scale: Eusirus perdentatus and Eusirus giganteus. Haplotype networks and Bayesian phylogenies based on mitochondrial (COI, CytB) and nuclear (ITS2) DNA provided strong evidence of multiple cryptic species of Eusirus, with several occurring in sympatry and at least one likely to have a true circum‐Antarctic distribution. Within species, gene flow was often highly restricted, consistent with a brooding life history and in some cases suggestive of current or future allopatric speciation. Patterns of genetic structure were not always predictable: one cryptic species showed preliminary evidence of high genetic differentiation across ∼150 km in eastern Antarctica (FST > 0.47, P < 0.01), yet another was remarkably homogenous across ∼5000 km (FST = 0.00, P = 1.00). Genetic diversity also varied among cryptic species, independent of sample size (π = 0.00–0.99). These results indicate several hidden levels of genetic complexity in these Antarctic amphipods that are neither apparent from previous taxonomic or ecological studies nor predictable from their life history. Such genetic diversity and structure may reflect different modes of survival for Antarctic benthic organisms during historic glacial cycles, and/or subsequent re‐establishment of populations on the shelf, and highlight our misunderstanding of Antarctic marine species diversity.
A novel function for a redox‐related LEA protein (SAG21/AtLEA5) in root development and biotic stress responses
Authors: SALLEH FAEZAH MOHD , EVANS KARLY , GOODALL BENJAMIN , MACHIN HELENA , MOWLA SHAHEEN B. , MUR LUIS A. J. , RUNIONS JOHN , THEODOULOU FREDERICA L. , FOYER CHRISTINE H. , ROGERS HILARY J.
Published: July 2011

SAG21/AtLEA5 belongs to the late embryogenesis‐associated (LEA) protein family. Although it has been implicated in growth and redox responses, its precise roles remain obscure. To address this problem, we characterized root and shoot development and response to biotic stress in SAG21/AtLEA5 over‐expressor (OEX) and antisense (AS) lines. AS lines exhibited earlier flowering and senescence and reduced shoot biomass. Primary root length was reduced in AS lines, as was the number of laterals relative to the primary root. Root hair number was unchanged but root hair length was proportional to SAG21/AtLEA5 expression level, with longer root hairs in OEX lines and shorter root hairs in AS, relative to wild type. Growth of the fungal nectroph, Botrytis cinerea and of a virulent bacterial pathogen (Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato) was affected by SAG21/AtLEA5 expression; however, growth of an avirulent P.syringae strain was unaffected. A SAG21/AtLEA5‐YFP fusion was localized to mitochondria, raising the intriguing possibility that SAG21 interacts with proteins involved in mitochondrial ROS signalling, which in turn, impacts on root development and pathogen responses.
Differential contribution of EF‐hands to the Ca2+‐dependent activation in the plant two‐pore channel TPC1
Authors: Schulze Christina , Sticht Heinrich , Meyerhoff Petra , Dietrich Petra
Published: July 2011

Two‐pore channels (TPC) have been established as components of calcium signalling networks in plants and animals. In plants, TPC1 in the vacuolar membrane is gated open upon binding of calcium in a voltage‐dependent manner. Here, we analyzed the molecular mechanism of the Ca2+‐dependent activity of TPC1 from Arabidopsis thaliana, using site‐directed mutagenesis of its two canonical EF‐hands. Wild‐type TPC1 and TPC1‐D335A with a mutated first Ca2+ ligand in EF‐hand 1 produced channels that retained their voltage‐ and Ca2+‐dependent gating characteristics, but were less sensitive at Ca2+ concentrations <200 μm. Additional mutation of the first Ca2+ ligand in EF‐hand 2 resulted in silent TPC1‐D335A/D376A channels. Similarly, the single mutant TPC1‐D376A could not be activated up to 1 mm Ca2+, indicating that the second EF‐hand is essential for the Ca2+‐dependent channel gating. Molecular modeling suggests that EF‐hand 1 displays a low‐affinity Ca2+/Mg2+‐binding site, while EF‐hand 2 represents a high‐affinity Ca2+‐binding site. Together, our data prove that EF‐hand 2 is responsible for the Ca2+‐receptor characteristics of TPC1, while EF‐hand 1 is a structural site required to enable channel responses at physiological changes in Ca2+ concentration.
A novel HLA‐A allele detected by sequence‐based typing: A*68:66
Authors: Loacker K. , Hörtnagl P. , Grabmer C. , Schennach H. , Mühlbacher A.
Published: July 2011

The novel allele HLA‐A*68:66 differs from HLA‐A*68:01: 01:01 by a synonymous single nucleotide exchange at position 102 (C→T) and three non‐synonymous exchanges at position 257 (G→A), position 259 (A→G) and position 261 (C→G) in exon 2.
Red‐blood‐cell alloimmunization and number of red‐blood‐cell transfusions
Authors: Zalpuri S. , Zwaginga J. J. , le Cessie S. , Elshuis J. , Schonewille H. , van der Bom J. G.
Published: July 2011

Background  Patients receiving red‐blood‐cells may form antibodies against the alloantigens expressed by red‐blood‐cells, with the risk of serious morbidity and the need for extensive phenotype‐matching in subsequent transfusions. The incidence of alloimmunization is considered variable for specific patient groups and for first time antibody formation. We therefore studied the cumulative incidence of the first formed alloantibody as a function of red‐blood‐cells exposure.

Methods  We performed a new‐user cohort among all previously non‐transfused non‐alloimmunized patients that received non‐extended matched (ABO and RhD) red‐blood‐cells transfusions from January 2005 to December 2009 in our university medical centre. Alloimmunization incidences were estimated by Kaplan–Meier survival‐analysis.

Results  A total of 3002 previously non‐transfused patients received 31 103 red‐blood‐cell units. A first time alloantibody forming event was experienced by 54 (1·8%) patients. The cumulative incidence of alloimmunization was 1·0% at 5 units, 2·4% at 10 units, 3·4% at 20 units and 6·5% at 40 units of red‐blood‐cells transfused.

Conclusion  The risk to develop a first red‐blood‐cells alloantibody increases up to the 40th transfusion and is similar for men and women. More data are needed to examine the risk after 40th transfusion.
Evaluation of a multi‐line broiler chicken population using a single‐step genomic evaluation procedure
Authors: Simeone R. , Misztal I. , Aguilar I. , Vitezica Z.G.
Published: July 2011

Effects on prediction of analysing a multi‐line chicken population as one line were evaluated. Body weight records were provided by Cobb‐Vantress for two lines of broiler chickens. Phenotypic records for 183 695 and 164 149 broilers and genotypic records for 3195 and 3001 broilers were available for each line. Lines were combined to create a multi‐line population and analysed using a single‐step procedure combining the additive relationship matrix and the genomic relationship matrix (G). G was scaled using allele frequencies from each line, the multi‐line population, or 0.5. When allele frequencies were calculated from each line, distributions of diagonal elements were bimodal. When allele frequencies were calculated from the multi‐line population, the distribution of diagonal elements had one peak. When allele frequency 0.5 was used, the distribution was bimodal. Genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs) were predicted using each allele frequency. GEBVs differed with allele frequency but had ≥0.99 correlations with GEBVs predicted with correct allele frequencies. Means of each line and differences in mean between the lines differed based on allele frequencies. Assumed allele frequencies have little impact on ranking within line but larger impact on ranking across lines. G may be used to evaluate multiple populations simultaneously but must be adjusted to obtain properly scaled estimates when population structure is unknown.
Rediscovering nursing: A study of overseas nurses working in Western Australia
Authors: Smith Christine D. A. , Fisher Colleen , Mercer Annette
Published: July 2011

The shortage of nurses worldwide has taken its toll on the Australian healthcare system and, as a result, there is an increased migration of overseas‐qualified nurses, some of them with a non‐English‐speaking background. Despite Australia's regulations that assess the eligibility for nursing registration, many migrant nurses who have been successful in gaining their nursing license feel only partially prepared to work. This article presents the findings of a study, based on Husserlian phenomenology, that describes the work experience of 13 female nurses who were working in Western Australia, Australia. The participants, who could recognize the core components of nursing, were taken aback by the way that nursing is practised in Western Australia. The major differences that they encountered were related to clinical skills, holistic care, the work dynamic with doctors and patients, and the overall societal status of the nursing profession. As a result, they had to adjust their practice to conform to the new work environment. In this study, the participants elaborated on some positive and some not‐so‐positive aspects of their experiences in their endeavor to integrate into the Western Australian metropolitan hospital setting.
Subarachnoid hemorrhage in elderly: Advantages of the endovascular treatment
Authors: Garbossa Diego , Panciani Pier Paolo , Fornaro Riccardo , Crobeddu Emanuela , Marengo Nicola , Fronda Chiara , Ducati Alessandro , Bergui Mauro , Fontanella Marco
Published: July 2011

Aim:  Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) from aneurysm rupture accounts for approximately 3% of all strokes. A significant improvement in surgery and endovascular procedures has reduced mortality and morbidity. Nowadays, endovascular treatment is a viable alternative to conservative treatment in elderly patients. We designed a retrospective observational study on all endovascular procedures carried out in our department in order to evaluate the outcome in elderly patients compared with a younger cohort.

Methods:  A total of 378 patients with aneurysmal SAH were treated with detachable platinum coils in our department (1994–2009). Of these, 310 patients were aged 20–69 years and 68 were aged over 70 years. Data were stratified according to Hunt–Hess (H–H) grade at admission. The mean follow up was 4.8 years. The final outcome was evaluated through the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS).

Results:  We observed a favorable outcome (GOS 5–4) in both groups of patients admitted with moderately good clinical conditions (H–H 1–3), with no statistically significant difference. In contrast, in the case of H–H grade at admission > 3, we observed a statistically significant poor outcome in elderly patients.

Conclusions:  We consider the endovascular treatment as first choice for elderly patients presenting with a good H–H grade at admission. Quick functional recovery and reduced hospitalization time were observed. Unlike young patients, a chance of recovery in elderly patients with H–H 4–5 is more difficult to achieve. Therefore, a conservative approach should be considered. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 46–49.
Prepubertal vulval fibroma with a coincidental ectopic breast fibroadenoma: Report of an unusual case with literature review
Authors: Zhang Jian , Chen Yue , Wang Kana , Xi Mingrong , Yang Kaixuan , Liu Hui
Published: July 2011

Prepubertal vulval fibroma and ectopic breast fibroadenoma of the vulva are two rare tumors, and they are very difficult to distinguish from other vulval masses, both clinically and pathologically. The complication of the two diseases is extremely rare. We report the case of an extremely large and progressively enlarging mass in the vulva of an 18‐year‐old Chinese girl. The mass was excised completely and pathologically diagnosed as a prepubertal vulval fibroma and ectopic breast fibroadenoma. The patient was followed up for 10 months and no evidence of recurrence was observed. Prepubertal vulval fibroma and vulval ectopic breast fibroadenoma should be considered in their preoperative differential diagnosis of a vulval mass, especially in prepubertal girls. Pathologically, immunohistochemical staining for vimentin and CD34 is valuable for diagnosis. Complete surgical excision is effective and long‐term follow up is necessary.
Influence of regular aerobic exercise on endothelium‐dependent vasodilation and cardiorespiratory fitness in pregnant women
Authors: Ramírez‐Vélez Robinson , Aguilar de Plata Ana Cecilia , Escudero Mildrey Mosquera , Echeverry Isabella , Ortega José Guillermo , Salazar Blanca , Rey Juan José , Hormiga Claudia , López‐Jaramillo Patricio
Published: July 2011

Aim:  To evaluate the effect of regular aerobic exercise on the endothelial function and cardiorespiratory fitness in pregnant women.

Method:  This was a randomized, double‐blinded, controlled clinical trial of 64 healthy primigravid women between 16 and 20 weeks' gestation. The experimental group took part in aerobic exercise at an intensity of 50–65% of their maximum heart rate for 60 min, three times a week for 16 weeks. The control group undertook their usual physical activity. The outcomes were the endothelial function evaluated by flow‐mediated dilatation and cardiorespiratory fitness evaluated by the maximum indirect oxygen consumption (VO2max) in a 6‐min walk test.

Results:  Initially, no differences were found between the groups in any of the variables. At the end of the intervention, the participants that performed exercise showed a higher cardiorespiratory fitness, measured by the walked distance in the 6‐min walk test (P = 0.014) and by the VO2max (P = 0.014). Also, the exercise group showed a lower heart rate at rest and a higher flow‐mediated dilatation than the control group (P = 0.02).

Conclusions:  Regular aerobic exercise improves endothelium‐dependent vasodilation in pregnancy. This intervention may be an early and effective alternative to strengthen the prevention of disorders associated to endothelial dysfunction.
The sculpture and morphology of postcranial dermal armor plates and associated bones in gasterosteiforms and syngnathiforms inhabiting Estonian coastal waters
Authors: Lees Janek , Märss Tiiu , Wilson Mark V. H. , Saat Toomas , Špilev Heli
Published: July 2011

Lees, J., Märss, T., Wilson, M. V. H., Saat, T. and Špilev, H. 2011. The sculpture and morphology of postcranial dermal armor plates and associated bones in gasterosteiforms and syngnathiforms inhabiting Estonian coastal waters. ―Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 93: 422–435.

Five fish species inhabiting Estonian coastal waters (Gasterosteus aculeatus L., Pungitius pungitius (L.), and Spinachia spinachia (L.) of the order Gasterosteiformes and Syngnathus typhle L. and Nerophis ophidion (L.) of the order Syngnathiformes) are described on the basis of the sculpture and morphology of their postcranial dermal armor plates, as revealed and illustrated by SEM images. This study shows that the shapes of these superficial skeletal elements vary by species as well as by their position on the body, whereas the sculpture on the bones is taxon specific. The detailed features allow the identification of isolated fossil and subfossil remains and show promise for future systematics studies.
Defining predictors of response to intralesional verapamil injection therapy for Peyronie’s disease
Authors: Moskovic Daniel J. , Alex Byron , Choi Judy M. , Nelson Christian J. , Mulhall John P.
Published: July 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Intralesional verapamil (ILV) injection therapy is useful to prevent progression of Peyronie’s Disease in some patients.

These data are analyzed to identify predictors to better indentify patients likely to benefit from ILV therapy.

OBJECTIVE

• To assess factors that predict penile curvature responses to intralesional verapamil (ILV) injection therapy for men with Peyronie’s disease (PD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• Men with PD for <1 year were assessed at baseline and after 3 months of bi‐monthly ILV‐injection therapy. Curvature was assessed at the time of maximum penile rigidity.

• Univariate relationships were tested with correlation or chi‐square analyses.

• Multivariate analyses included logistic and linear regression.

• We analysed curvature improvement, defined as a decrease of ≥10 ° from baseline. Additionally, the relationship between curvature outcomes and patient age and degree of baseline penile curvature were assessed.

RESULTS

• Data from 131 men were included and the rates of penile curvature change were:26% improved, 12% worsened, and 62% stable.

• Age (r=−0.24, P < 0.01) and larger baseline penile curvature (r= 0.33, P < 0.01) were associated with improved curvature on univariate analysis.

• On multivariate analysis (logistic regression), both age [odds ratio (OR) 0.93, P < 0.01, 95%CI 0.89–0.97] and larger baseline penile curvature (OR 1.07, P < 0.01, 95%CI 1.04–1.11) were associated with improvements in curvature after ILV‐injection therapy.

• Improvements in curvature were associated with age (≤40 years vs >40 years; OR 0.27, P < 0.05, 95%CI 0.10–0.75) and degree of penile curvature at baseline (≤30 ° vs >30 °; OR 9.12, P < 0.01, 95%CI 1.94–42.84) when dichotomized as indicated.

CONCLUSION

• Younger age and larger baseline penile curvature were predictive of favourable curvature outcomes.

• Analysis of dichotomized variables suggests that age and baseline curvature thresholds may be important to consider when deciding on ILV as a therapeutic strategy for PD.