bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression and Distribution of Intermediate‐filament Proteins and Laminin during the Development of the Bovine Müllerian Duct
Authors: Kenngott R. A.‐M. , Sinowatz F.
Published: January 2008

The expression pattern of several intermediate‐filament proteins (vimentin, cytokeratin 8, 18 and19) and the basal lamina component laminin was investigated in the Wolffian and the Müllerian ducts of bovine embryos and fetuses. The material studied comprised sexually undifferentiated stages [crown‐rump length (CRL) 0.9 cm/1.0 cm/1.2 cm/1.9 cm/2.5 cm] and female stages (CRL 3.0 cm/4.2 cm/5.1 cm). Laminin could be demonstrated in the basal lamina of the developing Wolffian and Müllerian duct as well as in the stroma surrounding the Müllerian duct. The intermediate‐filament protein vimentin was expressed in the mesothelium of the funnel field and in the epithelium of the Müllerian duct in all studied specimens, whereas the epithelial cells of the Wolffian duct only showed vimentin expression from a CRL of 2.2 cm onwards. In the cranial part of the Müllerian ducts only a few cells stained with pan‐cytokeratin antibodies, whereas mesothelium and epithelium of the Wolffian duct showed as distinct immunostaining in all investigated stages. Both genital ducts showed no immunostaining with the antibody against cytokeratin 19 at any time of development. We conclude from our immunohistochemical results that the epithelial cells of the Wollfian duct do not contribute cells to the developing Müllerian duct.
Comparison of different models for estimation of genetic parameters of early growth traits in the Mehraban sheep
Authors: Zamani P. , Mohammadi H.
Published: January 2008

Genetic parameters for birth weight (BW), weaning weight (WW) and pre‐weaning daily gain (PWDG) in Iranian Mehraban sheep were estimated using restricted maximum likelihood (REML) procedure. Six different animal models were fitted, differentiated by including or excluding maternal effects, with and without covariance between maternal and direct genetic effects. The estimates for direct heritability ranged from 0.26 to 0.53, 0.18 to 0.32 and 0.15 to 0.33 for BW, WW and PWDG respectively. The estimates were substantially higher when maternal effects, either genetic or environmental, were ignored in the model. The results of this study show that full models with maternal genetic and environmental effects gave the most accurate estimates for early growth traits.
Introgressing multiple QTL in breeding programmes of limited size
Authors: Piyasatian N. , Fernando R.L. , Dekkers J.C.M.
Published: January 2008

The ability to enrich a breed with favourable alleles from multiple unlinked quantitative trait loci (QTL) of a donor breed through marker‐assisted introgression (MAI) in a population of limited size was evaluated by considering the effects of the proportion selected, the size of the marker intervals, the number of introgressed QTL and the uncertainty of QTL position. Informative flanking markers were used to select progeny with the largest expected number of donor QTL alleles over five generations of backcrossing and five generations of intercrossing. In the backcrossing phase, with 5% selected and 20 cM marker intervals for three QTL, there were sufficient backcross progeny that were heterozygous for all markers, and QTL frequencies dropped below 0.5 only because of double recombinants. For higher fractions selected, longer marker intervals, and more QTL, frequency reductions from 0.5 were greater and increased with additional generations of backcrossing. However, even with 20% selected, three QTL, and marker intervals of 5 or 20 cM, mean QTL frequencies in generation 5 were 0.35 and 0.30, sufficient to allow subsequent selection of QTL in the intercrossing phase. After five generations of intercrossing, over 90% of individuals were homozygous for all QTL, and 85% when five QTL were introgressed. The higher the proportions selected, the longer the marker intervals, and larger numbers of introgressed QTL increased the number of intercrossing generations required to achieve fixation of QTL. Location of the QTL in the marked intervals did not affect QTL frequencies or the proportion of QTL lost at the end of the introgression programme. In conclusion, introgressing multiple QTL can be accomplished in a MAI programme of limited size without requiring that all individuals selected during the backcrossing phase to be carriers of favourable alleles at all QTL.
Comparison of casein haplotypes between two geographically distant European dairy goat breeds
Authors: Finocchiaro R. , Hayes B.J. , Siwek M. , Spelman R.J. , Van Kaam J.B.C.H.M. , Ådnøy T. , Portolano B.
Published: January 2008

The aim of this paper was to characterize the diversity among haplotypes based on 22 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and one deletion within four casein genes in two geographically distant goat populations, the Sicilian Girgentana breed and the Norwegian goat breed. Forty Girgentana goats were genotyped for the aforementioned polymorphisms and the resulting data set was compared with 436 goats from the Norwegian population previously genotyped for these markers. Several casein gene polymorphisms were not in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium either in Girgentana, or in the Norwegian breed. The SNP haplotype frequencies for the four casein genes were calculated and despite the large geographical distance and phenotypic divergence between these breeds, a proportion of casein loci haplotypes were found to be identical between both Norwegian and Girgentana goats. However, for the CSN2 gene there were no common haplotypes between the two populations. The level of linkage disequilibrium between the casein genes was less in the Girgentana population than in the Norwegian population.
Genetic evaluation of retail product percentage in Simmental cattle
Authors: Crews D.H. , Enns R.M. , Rumph J.M. , Pollak E.J.
Published: January 2008

The objective of this study was to estimate genetic parameters required for genetic evaluation of retail product percentage (RPP) in Simmental cattle. Carcass weight (HCW), subcutaneous fat thickness (FAT), longissimus muscle area (REA) and kidney, pelvic, and heart fat (KPH) records were available to compute RPP on steers (n = 5171) and heifers (n = 1400) from the American Simmental Association database; animals were sired by 561 Simmental bulls and out of 5886 crossbred dams. Genetic parameters were estimated using residual maximal likelihood and a four trait animal model for the components of RPP including fixed harvest contemporary group effects, random animal genetic effects, and a linear covariate for age at harvest. Heritability estimates were 0.51 ± 0.05, 0.36 ± 0.05, 0.46 ± 0.05, and 0.18 ± 0.05 for HCW, FAT, REA and KPH respectively. Non‐zero genetic correlations were estimated between HCW and REA (rg = 0.51 ± 0.06) and between REA and FAT (rg = −0.43 ± 0.08), but other genetic correlation estimates among the component traits were low. As a linear function of its components, heritability and genetic correlations involving RPP were estimated using index methods. The heritability estimate for RPP was 0.41, and genetic correlations were −0.17, −0.83, 0.67, and 0.01 with HCW, FAT, REA and KPH respectively. Therefore, RPP was strongly associated with muscle and fat deposition, but essentially independent of carcass weight and internal body cavity fat. Genetic evaluation of RPP would be straightforward using multiple trait index methods and genetic regression, although the inclusion of KPH would be of marginal value.
Using haplotype probabilities in categorical survival analysis: a case study with three candidate genes in an Iberian × Meishan F2population of newborn piglets
Authors: Casellas J. , Tomás A. , Sánchez A. , Alves E. , Noguera J.L. , Piedrafita J.
Published: January 2008

Haplotype probabilities have been implemented in association analyses performed between three candidate genes and the preweaning survival of F2Iberian × Meishan piglets, under a categorical proportional hazard model. The additive effect of substitution of each haplotype was estimated using information of parental genotypes for non‐genotyped piglets. Analysed loci were the bone morphogenetic protein type 1B receptor (BMPR1B) gene at 8q25 (three SNPs; haplotypes BMPR1BA, BMPR1BB, BMPR1BCand BMPR1BD), the dopamineβ‐hydroxylase (DBH) gene at 1q2.13 (two SNPs; haplotypes DBHX, DBHYand DBHZ), and the prolactin receptor (PRLR) gene at 16q1.4‐q2.3 (six SNPs; haplotypes PRLRA, PRLRB, PRLRC, PRLRDand PRLRE). The number of analysed records were 899 (BMPR1B), 850 (DBH) and 822 (PRLR) with a censoring percentage ranged between 87 and 89%. Associations with preweaning survival were suggested forBMPR1B(p < 0.10) and associations were clearly significant forDBHhaplotypes (p < 0.05), whereas thePRLRlocus did not reach statistical significance (p > 0.10). The BMPR1BAhaplotype could increase piglet survivability in relation to the BMPR1BBhaplotype with a hazard ratio of 0.751 and a confidence interval (CI) between 0.550 and 1.025 (p < 0.10). The two remaining haplotypes did not differ significantly from the BMPR1BBhaplotype, with a hazard ratio higher than 0.90 (p > 0.10). For theDBHlocus, the DBHXand the DBHZhaplotypes were associated with an improved preweaning survival in relation to the DBHYhaplotype. The advantage for DBHXin terms of hazard ratio was 0.789 (CI = 0.625 to 0.994; p < 0.05) and differences between DBHYand DBHZreached a hazard ratio of 0.770 (CI = 0.606 to 0.977; p < 0.05). Although further researches are required,BMPR1BandDBHgenes could be a useful tool to improve piglet survival under a marker assisted selection strategy.
Utilization of F1 information in estimating QTL effects in F2 crosses between outbred lines
Authors: Daley J.W. , Shepherd R.K.
Published: January 2008

Quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis in designed experiments is investigated using a mixed model framework through the modification of segment mapping techniques. Allele effects are modelled in the F1 generation allowing the estimation of additive substitution effects while accounting for QTL segregation within lines and differences in mean QTL effects between lines. The resulting approach is called F1 segment mapping. Simulation is used to illustrate the method and its properties. F1 segment mapping has advantages over F2 segment mapping in the derivation of exact additive genetic covariances and in the computation time for variance component estimation.
Effect of feeding Lagerstroemia speciosa and conventional fodder based rations on nutrient utilization, ruminal metabolites and body weight gain in mithun (Bos frontalis)
Authors: Prakash B. , Dhali A. , Mondal M. , Sangtam M. , Khate K. , Rathore S. S. , Rajkhowa C.
Published: January 2008

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of feeding green fodder, rice straw and concentrate‐based total mixed rations (TMR) on dry matter (DM) intake (DMI), nutrient utilization, rumen fermentation patterns and body weight (BW) gain (BWG) in mithun (Bos frontalis) calves. In a randomized block design, male mithun calves (n = 18, 8–10 months of age, 121 ± 2 kg BW) were randomly divided into three experimental equal groups (six animals in each group) and fed isonitrogenous TMRs ad libitum for 120 days. The TMR1 contained 30% Napier grass and 30% rice straw, TMR2 contained 60% rice straw and TMR3 contained 30% tree leaves (Lagerstroemia speciosa) and 30% rice straw (DM basis). All the TMRs contained 40% concentrate mixture (DM basis). The results indicated that the BWG, DMI and feed conversion efficiency were significantly (p < 0.01) increased with the inclusion of green fodder in TMRs. The apparent digestibility of DM, crude protein, ether extract, crude fibre and nitrogen free extract were also improved significantly (p < 0.01) with the inclusion of green fodder in TMRs. The higher concentration of total nitrogen and total volatile fatty acid in rumen liquor, but low ruminal pH were evident in animals fed green fodder supplemented TMRs. An increased (p < 0.01) molar proportion of acetic acid was evident in animals fed rice straw‐based TMR. In contrast, the molar proportion of propionic and butyric acids were significantly (p < 0.01) higher in animals fed green fodder supplemented TMRs. On the basis of higher DMI and higher daily BWG, it is concluded that Napier grass and L. speciosa tree leaves may be incorporated upto 30% (DM basis) in TMR of growing mithuns for feeding in complete confinement system.
Effect of feed type and essential oil product on equine chewing activity
Authors: Brøkner C. , Nørgaard P. , Hansen H. H.
Published: January 2008

The ingestive and post‐digestion effect of a blend of special essential oil compounds (EO) on eating, chewing and faecal parameters were measured in horses. Ingestive effects appear after no adaptation. Post‐digestion effects appear after adaptation. Six Icelandic horses were assigned to two groups in a Latin Square subplot design with EO treatments to four different roughage types and four different concentrates. The horses were fed four different roughage meals and two different concentrate meals on each of the four sampling days. Eating time and saliva were observed during meals. Jaw movements (JM) were recorded using a special chewing halter. Eating time was derived from JM and related to DM intake. The size characteristics of faecal particles were measured by using image analysis. All chewing characteristics measured were significantly affected by roughage (p < 0.001) and concentrate type (p < 0.01). EO had a significant ingestive effect on the frequency of observed saliva during concentrate meals. No significant (p < 0.05) post‐digestive or ingestive effect of EO was found for any measured chewing characteristic, which was reflected in the absence of effect on faecal particle dimensions. In conclusion, effect of type of roughage and concentrate was more significant than potential effects of EO.
Effects of dietary mannanoligosaccharide on growth performance, nutrient digestibility and gut development of broilers given different cereal‐based diets
Authors: Yang Y. , Iji P. A. , Kocher A. , Mikkelsen L. L. , Choct M.
Published: January 2008

A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of mannanoligosaccharide (MOS) on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility and gut development of broilers given a corn or a wheat‐based diet over a 21‐day experimental period. Dietary MOS improved the growth performance of birds given the wheat‐based diet compared to that of birds given the corn‐based diet during 7–21 days of age. In line with this, the ileal digestibility of starch was increased by MOS at 21 days of age. The addition of MOS modulated the development of gut microflora. From day 7 to day 21, the numbers of mucosa‐associated coliforms along the small intestine were decreased; whereas the numbers of mucosa‐associated lactobacilli were increased by MOS, regardless of the cereal type in the diets. Dietary MOS also reduced the counts of coliforms and Clostridium perfringens in the caeca of birds by 21 days of age. Villus height at the jejunum was not affected by MOS but the crypt depth and the muscularis thickness were reduced. The specific activities of maltase and alkaline phosphatase were increased in birds given the MOS‐supplemented diet; whereas the development of leucine aminopeptidase was delayed by MOS. All these changes in the mucosal morphology and function were dependent on the type of cereal and/or the age of the birds.
RT‐PCR Detection of Odontoglossum ringspot virus, Cymbidium mosaic virus and Tospoviruses and Association of Infections with Leaf‐Yellowing Symptoms in Phalaenopsis
Authors: Yamane K. , Oyama K. , Iuchi E. , Ogawa H. , Suzuki T. , Natsuaki T.
Published: January 2008

Leaf‐yellowing symptoms in Phalaenopsis are most important effects in its commercial production in Japan and their cause has not yet been clarified. In the present study, Odontoglossum ringspot virus (ORSV), Cymbidium mosaic virus (CymMV) and tospoviruses were evaluated by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) in Phalaenopsis showing leaf‐yellowing symptoms. Ring, spot, mosaic, necrosis and other symptom types were observed in 42%, 24%, 25%, 16% and 44% of the tested plants respectively. ORSV was detected in 55% of the plants, particularly in 35 of 42 plants with ring symptoms. CymMV was detected in 34% of the plants, particularly in 18 of 25 plants with mosaic symptoms. Plants co‐infected with both viruses tended to show severe symptoms. In spite of systemic infection by inoculation of ORSV, no clear ring symptoms were observed in any plant for 6 months. Symptoms of leaf‐yellowing were significantly reduced after 3 months. These results suggest that the symptoms can be associated with the viruses but occurred and alleviated over time and by changes in the environmental conditions. No tospoviruses were detected in 70 tested plants. ORSV and CymMV were simultaneously detected by RT‐PCR using reported primers for ORSV and newly designed primers for CymMV using an efficient direct tube RNA extraction technique providing more cost‐effective RT‐PCR screening. No viruses were detected by RT‐PCR in several plants showing spot or ring symptoms, suggesting the presence of other causal agents related to these symptoms.
Comparison of the Efficacy of Ground Wild Cucumber Fruits, Aldicarb and Fenamiphos on Suppression of Meloidogyne incognita in Tomato
Authors: Mashela P. W. , Shimelis H. A. , Mudau F. N.
Published: January 2008

During the present study the efficacy of ground Cucumis myriocarpus fruits and synthetic non‐fumigant nematicides on suppression of Meloidogyne incognita numbers and effect on growth of tomato was evaluated and compared in a microplot experiment. All microplots were artificially inoculated with second‐stage juveniles of M. incognita. Treatments included an (i) untreated control, application of (ii) Cucumis, (iii) aldicarb (a. i. = 150 g/kg), (iv) fenamiphos (a. i. = 100 g/kg) each at the product quantity of 42 kg/ha. The study was repeated in the second year using randomized complete block design with 10 replications. The application of products reduced nematode numbers in tomato roots (83–99%) and increased tomato fresh fruit yield (72–94%). Generally, the effect of the three applications on the parameters measured were not significantly (P = 0.05) different from one another, confirming the potent nematicidal properties of ground C. myriocarpus fruits.
Combination therapeutic approaches for the management of invasive aspergillosis in organ transplant recipients
Authors: Singh Nina , Pursell Kenneth J.
Published: January 2008

Outcomes in organ transplant recipients with invasive aspergillosis remain sufficiently dismal that combination antifungal approaches present an attractive therapeutic option. The efficacy of such approaches has not been incontrovertibly documented. However, limited data suggest that combination antifungal therapy may be considered in subsets of high‐risk patients e.g. those renal and replacement therapy in whom mortality rates have typically exceeded 90%. Synergistic interactions of antifungal agents with the immunosuppressants suggest a role for devising antifungal strategies that target novel signalling pathways. Finally, manipulating known predisposing immunological defects with immunotherapeutic agents is a potentially promising approach for the management of these challenging opportunistic mycoses.
Macrophage differentiation and function in health and disease
Authors: Naito Makoto
Published: January 2008

Macrophages exist in almost all animals. In some invertebrates, mesenchymal cells, endothelial cells or fibroblast‐like cells can transform into macrophages. In vertebrates, primitive macrophages first develop in yolk sac hematopoiesis and differentiate into fetal macrophages. Monocytes are differentiated from hematopoietic stem cells in the late stage of fetal hematopoietic organs and bone marrow. Macrophages serve as an effector in metabolism and host defense. Depletion of macrophages severely reduced bilirubin production and host resistance to infection. Macrophage scavenger receptors are involved in host defense. Macrophage growth factors are critical for macrophage differentiation and function. In macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (M‐CSF)‐deficient osteopetrotic mice, monocytes, tissue macrophages and osteoclasts are deficient. Granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF)‐deficient mice develop alveolar proteinosis due to impaired surfactant catabolism by alveolar macrophages. Accumulation of glucocerebroside in macrophages due to the deficiency of glucocerebrosidase in lysosomes produces Gaucher cells. Macrophages in the arterial wall incorporate chemically modified low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) and transform into foam cells. Binding oxidized LDL to liver X receptor α (LXRα) upregulates the expression of its target genes, which act as cholesterol removers from macrophages. Inflammatory signals downregulate the expression of LXRα and enhance lipid accumulation. Thus, macrophages play a pivotal role in metabolism and host defense.
Primary mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma of the prostate: Tumor relapse 7 years after local therapy
Authors: Li Chunmei , Hibino Mitsunobu , Komatsu Hirokazu , Sakuma Hidenori , Sakakura Takeshi , Ueda Ryuzo , Eimoto Tadaaki , Inagaki Hiroshi
Published: January 2008

Primary mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma of the prostate is rare, and only five cases have been reported. Reported herein is a new case that has involved a 9 year follow up. A 79‐year‐old man was treated with transurethral resection (TUR) for a mass of the right prostatic lobe, and followed up under a diagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia with atypical lymphoid infiltration. Seven years later TUR was again performed for a right lobe mass. The lesion was diagnosed as a relapsed MALT lymphoma after detailed histological and immunoglobulin heavy chain gene analyses of the initial and relapsed lesions. Interestingly, lymphoepithelial lesions were observed only infrequently in this tumor. The API2‐MALT1 fusion, a gene alteration specific to MALT lymphoma, was absent. The patient had stage IA disease at the time of tumor relapse, and has been alive and well for the 2 years after the second TUR. The present case suggests that despite tumor recurrence, prostatic MALT lymphoma is indolent, and function‐preserving therapy is warranted.
Autopsy cases of fulminant‐type bacterial infection with necrotizing fasciitis: Group A (beta) hemolytic Streptococcus pyogenes versus Vibrio vulnificus infection
Authors: Tajiri Takuma , Tate Genshu , Akita Hidetaka , Ohike Nobuyuki , Masunaga Atsuko , Kunimura Toshiaki , Mitsuya Toshiyuki , Morohoshi Toshio
Published: January 2008

Two autopsy cases of fulminant‐type infection associated with necrotizing fasciitis were analyzed clinicopathologically. Both cases involved 57‐year‐old alcohol abusers. The former was a woman with group A (beta) hemolytic Streptococcus pyogenes infection, and the latter was a man with Vibrio vulnificus infection. The sudden onset of shock with high fever resulted in sepsis, decreased clotting, and hepatorenal symptoms, followed by death within a few days. Post‐mortem examination showed widespread congestion and bleeding, and alcoholic liver cirrhosis was observed. Necrotizing fasciitis was identified in both cases. Bacteria from the pharynx or intestinal tract invaded the blood, and marked bacterial proliferation produced sepsis, resulting in necrotizing fasciitis. Despite the presence of sepsis, bilateral pulmonary congestion and bleeding were observed without pneumonia. Due to the rapid progression of sepsis, there was no time for granulocyte migration from the bone marrow. It seems that almost all mature granulocytes which had already existed in the bone marrow accumulated at the focus of necrotizing fasciitis because the bone marrow had few mature granulocytes and lacked hypercellularity. The cause of death in each case was circulatory collapse due to septic shock. It was difficult to distinguish the type of infection on histopathology. Cultures were necessary to determine the bacterial agents involved.
Differences in the immunolocalization of surfactant protein (SP)‐A, SP‐D, and KL‐6 in pulmonary alveolar proteinosis
Authors: Kobayashi Makoto , Takeuchi Tamotsu , Ohtsuki Yuji
Published: January 2008

Idiopathic pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare lung disorder characterized by excessive accumulation of surfactant lipoprotein in alveoli, which is caused by autoantibody against granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor. The case of a 42‐year‐old man with idiopathic PAP, who had worked in steel and cement plants for the past 10 years, is presented. His serum anti‐GM‐CSF antibody level was markedly increased. Lung specimens obtained during video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery were examined on immunohistochemistry using mAb for localization of surfactant proteins A and D (SP‐A and SP‐D) and a mucin‐like protein, KL‐6. Furthermore, western blot analysis of his bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was performed using anti‐SP‐A and anti‐SP‐D mAb. As well as KL‐6, SP‐A was localized in the intra‐alveolar fine granular substances. But on HE staining the SP‐D was localized in SP‐A‐negative foci corresponding to eosinophilic large globules that were surrounded by an SP‐A‐positive fine granular structure. On western blot the specificity of mAb was shown. In conclusion, this is the first report demonstrating the striking difference in the distribution of SP‐A and SP‐D in the intra‐alveolar substance of a patient with idiopathic PAP.
Overexpression of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α predicts an unfavorable outcome in urothelial carcinoma of the upper urinary tract
Authors: Ke Hung‐Lung , Wei Yu‐Ching , Yang Sheau‐Fang , Li Ching‐Chia , Wu Deng‐Chyang , Huang Chun‐Hsiung , Wu Wen‐Jeng
Published: January 2008

Objectives:  Hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1) is a transcription factor that plays an important role in cell hypoxia adaptation. Overexpression of HIF‐1α subunit has been reported to be involved in the carcinogenesis, progression and metastasis of many human cancers. We evaluated the clinical significance of HIF‐1α expression in urothelial carcinoma (UC) of the upper urinary tract.

Methods:  Ninety‐eight cases (mean age = 63.5 ± 11.7, range = 23–84 years) of renal pelvic or ureter UC were included in the present study. Those who had distant metastasis at diagnosis, other cancer, urolithiasis, incomplete clinical information or had received radiotherapy or chemotherapy before surgery were excluded. Nuclear HIF‐1α expression were evaluated by immunohistochemistry staining on a paraffin‐embedded section of the tumor and non‐malignant upper urinary tract specimens and scored by two qualified pathologists. Clinical data were collected retrospectively.

Results:  Positive HIF‐1α expression was found in 65 (66.3%) of the cancer specimens. No HIF‐1α expression was found in normal urothelial specimens. Tumor HIF‐1α expression score was significantly correlated with tumor T stage (P < 0.001), N stage (P < 0.001) and grade (P = 0.004). Tumor necrosis was associated with high tumor T stage (P < 0.001), N stage (P = 0.002) and grade (P < 0.001). Higher HIF‐1α score (negative vs 3–5 vs 6–7) was a significant predictor for cancer‐specific survival (Cox regression hazard ratio = 2.23, P = 0.004), and tumor recurrence (Cox regression hazard ratio = 1.58, P = 0.036).

Conclusion:  Our findings indicate that HIF‐1α immunostaining may have an important role in predicting prognosis in upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma.
Network structural properties mediate the stability of mutualistic communities
Authors: Okuyama Toshinori , Holland J. Nathaniel
Published: January 2008

Key advances are being made on the structures of predator–prey food webs and competitive communities that enhance their stability, but little attention has been given to such complexity–stability relationships for mutualistic communities. We show, by way of theoretical analyses with empirically informed parameters, that structural properties can alter the stability of mutualistic communities characterized by nonlinear functional responses among the interacting species. Specifically, community resilience is enhanced by increasing community size (species diversity) and the number of species interactions (connectivity), and through strong, symmetric interaction strengths of highly nested networks. As a result, mutualistic communities show largely positive complexity–stability relationships, in opposition to the standard paradox. Thus, contrary to the commonly‐held belief that mutualism’s positive feedback destabilizes food webs, our results suggest that interplay between the structure and function of ecological networks in general, and consideration of mutualistic interactions in particular, may be key to understanding complexity–stability relationships of biological communities as a whole.
The unseen majority: soil microbes as drivers of plant diversity and productivity in terrestrial ecosystems
Authors: Van Der Heijden Marcel G. A. , Bardgett Richard D. , Van Straalen Nico M.
Published: January 2008

Microbes are the unseen majority in soil and comprise a large portion of life’s genetic diversity. Despite their abundance, the impact of soil microbes on ecosystem processes is still poorly understood. Here we explore the various roles that soil microbes play in terrestrial ecosystems with special emphasis on their contribution to plant productivity and diversity. Soil microbes are important regulators of plant productivity, especially in nutrient poor ecosystems where plant symbionts are responsible for the acquisition of limiting nutrients. Mycorrhizal fungi and nitrogen‐fixing bacteria are responsible forc.5–20% (grassland and savannah) to 80% (temperate and boreal forests) of all nitrogen, and up to 75% of phosphorus, that is acquired by plants annually. Free‐living microbes also strongly regulate plant productivity, through the mineralization of, and competition for, nutrients that sustain plant productivity. Soil microbes, including microbial pathogens, are also important regulators of plant community dynamics and plant diversity, determining plant abundance and, in some cases, facilitating invasion by exotic plants. Conservative estimates suggest thatc.20 000 plant species are completely dependent on microbial symbionts for growth and survival pointing to the importance of soil microbes as regulators of plant species richness on Earth. Overall, this review shows that soil microbes must be considered as important drivers of plant diversity and productivity in terrestrial ecosystems.
Planktonic dispersal dampens temporal trophic cascades in pond metacommunities
Authors: Howeth Jennifer G. , Leibold Mathew A.
Published: January 2008

Trophic cascades, in which changes in predation affect the biomass of lower trophic levels, vary substantially in strength and incidence. Most work to explain this variation has focused on local factors and has ignored larger regional effects. To study how metacommunity dynamics can alter trophic cascades, we constructed mesocosm metacommunities consisting of three pond communities with heterogeneous levels of fish predation and examined how planktonic dispersal rate (5–140% per week) affected biomass partitioning. Two of the three communities differed continually in the occurrence of fish and supported different but constant environments in a ‘spatial trophic cascade,’ while the third community supported temporally variable fish occurrence in a ‘temporal trophic cascade.’ We find that the presence, but the not the magnitude, of dispersal dampens temporal trophic cascades through an increase in grazer biomass. In contrast, dispersal has no effect on the strength of spatial cascades due to strong sorting pressures in the communities with constant presence or absence of fish as top predators.
Biodiversity enhances individual performance but does not affect survivorship in tropical trees
Authors: Potvin Catherine , Gotelli Nicholas J.
Published: January 2008

We developed an analytical method that quantifies the relative contributions of mortality and individual growth to ecosystem function and analysed the results from the first biodiversity experiment conducted in a tropical tree plantation. In Sardinilla, central Panama, over 5000 tree seedlings were planted in monoculture and mixed‐species plots. After 5 years of growth, mixed‐species plots yielded, on average, 30–58% higher summed tree basal area than did monocultures. Simulation models revealed that the increased yield of mixed‐species plots was due mostly to enhancement of individual tree growth. Although c. 1500 trees died during the experiment, mortality was highly species‐specific and did not differ consistently between biodiversity treatments. Our results show that the effects of biodiversity on growth and mortality are uncoupled and that biodiversity affects total biomass and potentially self‐thinning. The Sardinilla experiment suggests that mixed‐species plantings may be a viable strategy for increasing timber yields and preserving biodiversity in tropical tree plantations.
Four ways towards tropical herbivore megadiversity
Authors: Lewinsohn Thomas M. , Roslin Tomas
Published: January 2008

Most multicellular species alive are tropical arthropods associated with plants. Hence, the host‐specificity of these species, and their diversity at different scales, are keys to understanding the assembly structure of global biodiversity. We present a comprehensive scheme in which tropical herbivore megadiversity can be partitioned into the following components: (A) more host plant species per se, (B) more arthropod species per plant species, (C) higher host specificity of herbivores, or (D) higher species turnover (beta diversity) in the tropics than in the temperate zone. We scrutinize recent studies addressing each component and identify methodological differences among them. We find substantial support for the importance of component A, more tropical host species. A meta‐analysis of published results reveals intermediate to high correlations between plant and herbivore diversity, accounting for up to 60% of the variation in insect species richness. Support for other factors is mixed, with studies too scarce and approaches too uneven to allow for quantitative summaries. More research on individual components is unlikely to resolve their relative contribution to overall herbivore diversity. Instead, we call for the adoption of more coherent methods that avoid pitfalls for larger‐scale comparisons, for studies assessing different components together rather than singly, and for studies that investigate herbivore beta‐diversity (component D) in a more comprehensive perspective.
Nanostructure and nanomechanics of live Phaeodactylum tricornutum morphotypes
Authors: Francius Grégory , Tesson Benoît , Dague Etienne , Martin‐Jézéquel Véronique , Dufrêne Yves F.
Published: January 2008

The ultrastructure and mechanical properties of the fusiform, triradiate and ovoid morphotypes of Phaeodactylum tricornutum were investigated using atomic force microscopy. Using topographic imaging, we showed that the surface of the ovoid form is rougher than those of the two other specimens, and coated with an outer layer of extracellular polymers. Using spatially resolved force–indentation curves, we found that the valve of the ovoid form is about five times stiffer (Young modulus of ∼500 kPa) than those of the other forms (∼100 kPa), a finding fully consistent with the fact that only the ovoid form has a silica valve, whereas the valves in the other two consist mostly of organic material. Notably, the girdle region of both fusiform and ovoid forms was five times softer than the valve, suggesting that this region is poor in silica and enriched in organic material. For the triradiate form, we showed the arms to be softer than the core region, presumably as a result of organelle localization. Last, we observed mucilaginous footprints of moderate stiffness (∼100 kPa) in the vicinity of ovoid diatoms, which we believe are secreted extracellular polymers.
Dominant sugar utilizers in sediment of Lake Constance depend on syntrophic cooperation with methanogenic partner organisms
Authors: Müller Nicolai , Griffin Benjamin M. , Stingl Ulrich , Schink Bernhard
Published: January 2008

Six strains of novel bacteria were isolated from profundal sediment of Lake Constance, a deep freshwater lake in Germany, by direct dilution of the sediment in mineral agar medium containing a background lawn of the hydrogen‐scavenging Methanospirillum hungatei as a syntrophic partner. The numbers of colony‐forming units obtained after incubation for more than 2 months were in the same range as those of total bacterial counts determined by DAPI staining (up to 108 cells per millilitre) suggesting that these organisms were dominant members of the community. Identical dilution series in the absence of methanogenic partners yielded numbers that were lower by two to three orders of magnitude. The dominant bacteria were isolated in defined co‐culture with M. hungatei, and were further characterized. Growth was slow, with doubling times of 22–28 h at 28°C. Cells were small, 0.5 × 5 μm in size, Gram‐positive, and formed terminal oval spores. At 20°C, glucose was fermented by the co‐culture strain BoGlc83 nearly stoichiometrically to 2 mol of acetate and 1 mol of methane plus CO2. At higher temperatures, also lactate and traces of succinate were formed. Anaerobic growth depended strictly on the presence of a hydrogen‐scavenging partner organism and was inhibited by bromoethane sulfonate, which together indicate the need for a syntrophic partnership for this process. Strain BoGlc83 grew also aerobically in the absence of a partner organism. All enzymes involved in ATP formation via glycolysis and acetyl CoA were found, most of them at activities equivalent to the physiological substrate turnover rate. This new type of sugar‐fermenting bacterium appears be the predominant sugar utilizer in this environment. The results show that syntrophic relationships can play an important role also for the utilization of substrates which otherwise can be degraded in pure culture.
How does the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) Bridge the Intention–Behavior Gap? An Examination of the Model's Causal Structure
Authors: Sutton Stephen
Published: January 2008

The health action process approach (HAPA) is attracting increasing interest from researchers who want to predict, explain, and change health‐related behaviors. The main aim of this commentary is to examine the causal structure of the continuum version of the HAPA (HAPA‐C), and, in particular, to consider the implications of this structure for the claim that the theory helps to bridge the intention–behavior gap. The article discusses, in turn, mediators of the intention–behavior relationship, additional proximal determinants of behavior, moderators of the intention–behavior relationship and implications for intervention. The commentary may contribute to a better understanding of the HAPA‐C and to its further development.

L’Approche des Processus d’Action en faveur de la Santé (HAPA) suscite de plus en plus d’intérêt de la part des chercheurs qui souhaitent prédire, expliquer et modifier les comportements relatifs à la santé. L’objet de ce commentaire est l’examen de la structure causale de la version continuum de l’HAPA (HAPA‐C) et, en particulier, de prendre en considération les implications de cette structure dans la prétention de la théorie à combler le fossé intention–comportement. L’article aborde successivement les médiateurs de la relation intention–comportement, les déterminants immédiats additionnels de la conduite, les modérateurs de la relation intention–comportement et les retombées pour les interventions. Ce commentaire peut contribuer à une meilleure compréhension de l’HAPA‐C et à son futur développement.
Stage and Non‐stage Theories of Behavior and Behavior Change: A Comment on Schwarzer
Authors: Velicer Wayne F. , Prochaska James O.
Published: January 2008

Schwarzer characterises theories as being Continuum Models or Stage Models. We prefer the labels Theories of Behavior and Theories of Behavior Change. The stage concept is designed to represent the temporal dimension. In this way, individuals are viewed as evolving over time. Theories of behavior change also focus on dynamic variables, i.e. variables that are open to change while theories of behavior will focus on static variables. Schwarzer focuses on the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA), which distinguishes between pre‐intentional motivational processes and post‐intentional volition processes and makes a compelling case that theories of behavior change need to differentiate between at least two stages, motivation and action, if they are to fill the intention–behavior gap. In some HAPA studies, these two stages are expanded into three stages. The issue of how many stages there are and what are the best ways to represent, assess and treat the different stages represents an important research focus. This response discusses several reasons to believe that the stage differentiation of five stages included as part of the Transtheoretical Model is superior to the two‐ or three‐stage model included as part of HAPA.

Schwarzer caractérise les théories comme relevant soit des modèles du continuum soit des modèles de processus de changement. Nous préférons les termes de théories du comportement et de théories des stades du changement. Le concept d’étapes est employé pour tenir compte de la dimension temporelle. Ainsi, les individus sont envisagés comme évoluant au cours du temps. Les théories des stades du changement se focalisent donc sur des variables dynamiques i.e. des variables tenant compte du changement alors que les théories du comportement se concentrent sur des variables statiques. Schwarzer se polarise sur l’approche des processus d’action pour la santé (HAPA) qui distingue les processus motivationnel pré‐intentionnel du processus de volition post‐intentionnelle. Il avance l’argument selon lequel les théories des stades du changement ont besoin de distinguer au moins deux étapes, la motivation et l’action, dans la mesure où elles doivent expliquer le lien entre intention et comportement. Dans certaines études HAPA, ces deux étapes sont étendues à trois. La question de savoir le nombre d’étapes et les meilleures façons de les représenter, évaluer et traiter constitue un champ de recherches important. Cet article avance plusieurs raisons soulignant que la différenciation en 5 étapes incluses dans le Modèle transthéorique est supérieur à celui en deux ou trois étapes établi par l’HAPA.
Messenger RNA expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 and interleukin‐6 in stone‐containing kidneys
Authors: Boonla Chanchai , Hunapathed Chanutra , Bovornpadungkitti Sombat , Poonpirome Kanitta , Tungsanga Kriang , Sampatanukul Pichet , Tosukhowong Piyaratana
Published: January 2008

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the intrarenal mRNA expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) in patients with nephrolithiasis, and to evaluate whether their expression is associated with renal function, as oxidative stress and inflammation are involved in the pathogenesis of nephrolithiasis.

PATIENTS, SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Renal biopsies from near the stone, and blood and 24‐h urine specimens were collected from 29 patients with nephrolithiasis. Control renal tissues were taken from non‐cancerous and cancerous portions of nephrectomy from six patients with renal cancers, and control 24‐h urine samples were obtained from 30 healthy subjects. Corrected creatinine clearance, urinary N‐acetyl‐β‐glucosaminidase activity and 8‐hydroxy‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) were determined. The mRNA expressions of MCP‐1 and IL‐6 in the tissues were measured by real time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Patients with nephrolithiasis had significantly greater renal tubular damage and oxidative stress than the healthy controls. Intrarenal mRNA expressions of MCP‐1 and IL‐6 in stone‐adjacent renal tissues were significantly lower than in cancerous renal tissues, but not statistically different from that in non‐cancerous renal tissues. In stone‐adjacent renal tissues, the mRNA level of MCP‐1 was significantly higher than that of IL‐6, but their expressions were significantly correlated with each other. Histological examination showed that the number of infiltrated leukocytes corresponded well with the intrarenal mRNA levels of MCP‐1 and IL‐6. Patients with nephrolithiasis and compromised renal function had significantly higher intrarenal mRNA levels of MCP‐1 and IL‐6 than those with preserved renal function. Also, the mRNA levels in patients with severe renal tubular damage were significantly greater than in those with less renal tubular damage. There was no association between intrarenal mRNA expression and urinary 8‐OHdG.

CONCLUSION

Nephrolithiasis was associated with low‐grade intrarenal inflammation. A greater intrarenal mRNA expression of MCP‐1 and IL‐6 was associated with enhanced renal impairment. Thus, expression of MCP‐1 and IL‐6, at least in part, contributed to the progression of nephrolithiasis.
Students' Preferences and Needs in Portuguese Higher Education
Authors: TAVARES DIANA , TAVARES ORLANDA , JUSTINO ELSA , AMARAL ALBERTO
Published: January 2008

In Portugal, there is a diversified higher education system comprising some 160 institutions: universities, polytechnics and isolated schools, public or private, with a total enrolment of some 350,000 students. This article presents the analysis of the results of questionnaires which were completed in 2004 by students entering higher education for the first time so as to understand their perceived needs and aspirations and how they chose their institution/study programme.

In the last few years, there has been a decline in the number of candidates to higher education — mainly due to demography — which created strong institutional competition. Therefore it is important to understand the reasons behind students' choices, perceived needs and aspirations and how students assess the capacity of different institutions/programmes to fulfil these. It is also relevant to understand how their choices may be conditioned by factors such as their socio‐economic and cultural background, employability prospects, other available information, gender and type of institution and study programme.
Indicators and Indices of Children's Well‐being: towards a more policy‐oriented perspective
Authors: BEN‐ARIEH ASHER
Published: January 2008

This article focuses on the potential and actual use of child social indicators and indices in the policy‐making process. It opens with a brief overview of the child indicators field and its current development and trends. A discussion of these new developments follows, with special emphasis on the consequences of the changing field to the potential role of child social indicators in the policy‐making process. The third section focuses on existing knowledge on indicators of children's well‐being and the information needed to enhance their policy impact.

The article then turns to discuss two major efforts to measure and monitor children's well‐being: the UNICEF child well‐being index and the Foundation for Child Development (FCD) child well‐being index. As both cases were mainly data driven, the paper uses them as case studies assessing the potential for using existing indicators of children's well‐being in the policy process. The paper if finalized with discussing the two indices within a context of a future oriented research and indicators development agenda for anyone who want to enhance the policy impact of indicators and indices of children well‐being.