bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Apical transportation created using three different patency instruments
Authors: Gonzalez Sanchez J. A. , Duran‐Sindreu F. , Albuquerque Matos M. , Garcia Carabaño T. , Mercade Bellido M. , Morello Castro S. , Roig Cayón M.
Published: April 2010

Gonzalez Sanchez JA, Duran‐Sindreu F, Albuquerque Matos M, Garcia Carabaño T, Mercade Bellido M, Morello Castro S, Roig Cayón M. Apical transportation created using three different patency instruments. International Endodontic Journal 43, 560–564, 2010.

Aim  To evaluate root canal transportation at the major foramen through the use of stainless steel size 08 K‐Flex files, size 10 reamers, and XF finger spreaders when used as patency instruments.

Methodology  One hundred and two mesiobuccal canals of maxillary and mandibular first molars were randomly divided into three groups (34 canals each). Size 08 stainless steel K‐Flex files, size 10 stainless steel reamers and stainless steel XF finger spreaders were used as patency instruments in groups A, B and C respectively. The major foramen was photographed before and after instrumentation. The images were superimposed and then evaluated using Photoshop® to determine the frequency of apical transportation. The statistic analysis was performed using χ2test.

Results  Transportation was detected in 22% of the specimens; 9% in group A, 12% in group B and 44% in group C. Significant differences were observed between groups A and C (P = 0.0025) and between groups B and C (P = 0.0069), but not between groups A and B (P = 1.00).

Conclusions  No transportation was found in the majority of the samples when size 08 K‐Flex files and size 10 stainless steel reamers were used. The XF finger spreaders, when used to maintain apical patency, caused the greatest transportation of the major foramen.
The cytotoxic effects of resin‐based sealers on dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Trubiani O. , Caputi S. , Di Iorio D. , D’Amario M. , Paludi M. , Giancola R. , Di Nardo Di Maio F. , De Angelis F. , D’Arcangelo C.
Published: April 2010

Trubiani O, Caputi S, Di Iorio D, D’Amario M, Paludi M, Giancola R, Di Nardo Di Maio F, De Angelis F, D’Arcangelo C. The cytotoxic effects of resin‐based sealers on dental pulp stem cells. International Endodontic Journal.

Aim  To evaluate the effect of four current resin‐based adhesives on expanded ex vivo human dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells (DP‐MSCs).

Methodology  Dental pulp mesenchymal stem cells were derived from dental pulps of ten donors. After in vitro isolation, dental pulp stem cells were analysed using flow cytometry. The immunophenotype of DP‐MSCs disclosed the homogeneous expression of the mesenchymal‐related antigens CD29, CD44, CD73, CD90, CD105, CD166. DP‐MSCs were exposed to four different commercially available bonding systems (CMF Bond, Prime&Bond NT, Clearfil S3 Bond, XP Bond), and after 24, 48 and 72 h of incubation the morphological features and the cell growth were analysed. Moreover, the cell viability was evaluated at the same times by MTT assay. Data were statistically analysed using a two‐way anova and Holm–Sidak method (α set at 0.05).

Results  Significant differences were observed between the four groups when comparing DP‐MSCs appearance. DP‐MSCs survived and proliferated without inhibition in the presence of CMF Bond adhesive. On the contrary, microscopic evaluation of the other three groups revealed extensive cytotoxic effects from the dentine bonding agents. The MTT assay revealed no statistically significant differences in cell viability after 72 h between the control group and CMF Bond group. All the other experimental groups had statistically lower optical density values.

Conclusions  CMF Bond adhesive allowed human dental pulp stem cells to survive and proliferate. All of the other dentine bonding agents had extensive cytotoxic effects.
The effect of past changes in inter‐annual temperature variability on tree distribution limits
Authors: Giesecke Thomas , Miller Paul A. , Sykes Martin T. , Ojala Antti E. K. , Seppä Heikki , Bradshaw Richard H. W.
Published: April 2010

Aim  The northern limits of temperate broadleaved species in Fennoscanndia are controlled by their requirements for summer warmth for successful regeneration and growth as well as by the detrimental effects of winter cold on plant tissue. However, occurrences of meteorological conditions with detrimental effects on individual species are rare events rather than a reflection of average conditions. We explore the effect of changes in inter‐annual temperature variability on the abundances of the tree species Tilia cordata, Quercus robur and Ulmus glabra near their distribution limits using a process‐based model of ecosystem dynamics.

Location  A site in central Sweden and a site in southern Finland were used as examples for the ecotone between boreal and temperate forests in Fennoscandia. The Finnish site was selected because of the availability of varve‐thickness data.

Methods  The dynamic vegetation model LPJ‐GUESS was run with four scenarios of inter‐annual temperature forcing for the last 10,000 years. In one scenario the variability in the thickness of summer and winter varves from the annually laminated lake in Finland was used as a proxy for past inter‐annual temperature variability. Two scenarios were devised to explore systematically the effect of stepwise changes in the variance and shape parameter of a probability distribution. All variability scenarios were run both with and without the long‐term trend in Holocene temperature change predicted by an atmospheric general circulation model.

Results  Directional changes in inter‐annual temperature variability have significant effects on simulated tree distribution limits through time. Variations in inter‐annual temperature variability alone are shown to alter vegetation composition by magnitudes similar to the magnitude of changes driven by variation in mean temperatures.

Main conclusions  The varve data indicate that inter‐annual climate variability has changed in the past. The model results show that past changes in species abundance can be explained by changes in the inter‐annual variability of climate parameters as well as by mean climate. Because inter‐annual climatic variability is predicted to change in the future, this component of climate change should be taken into account both when making projections of future plant distributions and when interpreting vegetation history.
The fellowship of the hobbit: the fauna surroundingHomo floresiensis
Authors: Meijer Hanneke J. M. , van den Hoek Ostende Lars W. , van den Bergh Gert D. , de Vos John
Published: April 2010

The Late Pleistocene Flores fauna shows a pattern observed on many other islands. It is neither aberrant nor exclusive, but the result of non‐random selective forces acting upon an impoverished and disharmonic insular fauna. By comparing the Flores vertebrate fauna with other fossil insular biotas, it is apparent that the evolution ofHomo floresiensisis part of a general pattern affecting all the inhabitants of Pleistocene Flores. Vertebrate evolution on Flores appears to have been characterized by phylogenetic continuity, low species richness and a disharmonic fauna. All three aspects stem from the isolated position of the island and have resulted in the distinct morphological characteristics of the Flores fauna. Evidence reviewed herein shows that features exhibited byH. floresiensis, such as small stature, a small brain, relatively long arms, robust lower limbs and long feet, are not unique, but are shared by other insular taxa. Therefore, the evolution ofH. floresiensiscan be explained by existing models of insular evolution and followed evolutionary pathways similar to those of the other terrestrial vertebrates inhabiting Pleistocene Flores.
A link between plant traits and abundance: evidence from coastal California woody plants
Authors: Cornwell William K. , Ackerly David D.
Published: April 2010

1. A number of recent studies have demonstrated that plant traits play a crucial role in determining the success or failure of species in a given environment. However, whether traits play a role in determining species’ abundance and rarity among the co‐occurring species within a community remains an unresolved question.

2. To address this, we analysed the abundance of California coastal woody plant species at landscape and local scales in relation to 11 leaf, wood and seed traits.

3. At the landscape scale, we found no significant relationship between traits and abundance. In contrast, at the local scale we found significant relationships between abundance and four traits: specific leaf area (SLA), height, lumen fraction and wood density. For SLA and height, the relationship was linear; for lumen fraction, it was quadratic. For wood density, the direction of the trait–abundance relationship was dependant on the abiotic context, that is, it shifted across a gradient in soil water content.

4. Synthesis. Understanding the connections between traits and abundance is important for two reasons. First, there is an ongoing debate about the degree to which commonness and rarity are the result of drift among ecologically equivalent species or niche processes. These results suggest that there are non‐random, trait‐based processes affecting abundance and rarity. Secondly, species’ traits have been shown to have a strong effect on photosynthesis and decomposition rates, mediated by the abundance of the species. The connections between traits and abundance presented here are crucial for scaling from measurements of species’ traits to ecosystem‐level processes.
Effects of resource availability and climate on the diversity of wood‐decaying fungi
Authors: Bässler Claus , Müller Jörg , Dziock Frank , Brandl Roland
Published: April 2010

1. Wood‐decaying fungi are crucial for the functioning of forest ecosystems. We tested the hypotheses that on coarse woody debris (CWD), the abundance, diversity and composition of fungi depend more on the amount of available resource than on macro‐ or microclimate, and that on fine woody debris (FWD) more on the microclimate because of the rapid desiccation of thin woody debris.

2. We sampled 7183 dead wood objects with 10 818 fungal samples on 290 plots along four transects, from 650 to 1450 m a.s.l., in the Bavarian Forest National Park, Germany, Overall, we recorded 263 species (54 only on FWD and 71 only on CWD).

3. For each plot, we characterized the macroclimate using field data and a terrain model. Microclimate variables were extracted from remote‐sensing and ground surveys. Resource availability was characterized by measuring the amount, tree species composition, diameter and rotting stage of all dead wood objects. We extracted principal components from each of the three data sets for further analyses.

4. The number of species found per sampled surface area of woody debris indicated that the fungal community on FWD needs a much lower surface area than that on CWD; FWD probably provides more niches per unit surface area than CWD. The abundance of fungi (and therefore also species density) living on FWD and CWD as well as the fungal community composition on CWD were clearly driven by variables characterizing the amount and diversity of the resource. In general, the surface area was the most important factor for abundance of species. In contrast, the community composition on FWD was better predicted by variables characterizing the microclimate.

5. Synthesis. Our results supported the hypotheses that the amount of available resources is more important than macroclimate for fungi living on CWD, and microclimate is more important for fungi living on FWD. Therefore, both dead wood removal and silviculture, which, like logging, open the canopy and increases sunlight exposure, will strongly affect the diversity of wood‐decaying fungi in forests. For the conservation of this important group of organisms in forests, silvicultural strategies are more important than climate.
Nuclear Thimet Oligopeptidase is Coexpressed with Oestrogen Receptor α in Hypothalamic Cells and Regulated by Oestradiol in Female Mice
Authors: Cyr N. E. , Kua L. H. , Bruce L. A. , Chadwick J. G. , Tetel M. J. , Wolfson A. J.
Published: April 2010

Thimet oligopeptidase (EC 3.4.24.15; also called EP24.15 and TOP; referred to here as TOP) is a neuropeptidase involved in the regulation of several physiological functions including reproduction. Among its substrates is gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH), an important hypothalamic hormone that regulates the synthesis and release of oestradiol and facilitates female sexual behaviour. Using immunohistochemistry, we found that TOP is expressed in the nucleus of cells throughout the female mouse brain, and in high levels in steroid‐sensitive regions of the hypothalamus, which is consistent with previous findings in male rats. Furthermore, dual‐label immunofluorescence revealed that TOP and oestrogen receptor α (ERα) coexpress in several reproductively‐relevant brain regions, including the medial preoptic area (mPOA), arcuate nucleus (ARC), ventrolateral portion of the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMNvl) and the midbrain central grey (MCG). Previous studies in rats have shown that oestradiol decreases hypothalamic TOP levels or activity, possibly potentiating the effects of GnRH. In the present study, analysis by immunohistochemistry revealed that oestradiol decreased TOP immunoreactivity in the VMNvl, whereas no differences were detected in the mPOA, ARC or median eminence. Overall, the present findings indicate that TOP is coexpressed with ERα, and oestradiol regulates TOP expression in a brain region‐specific manner in female mice, providing neuroanatomical evidence that TOP may function in reproductive physiology and/or behaviour.
Prolactin and Human Tumourogenesis
Authors: Fernandez I. , Touraine P. , Goffin V.
Published: April 2010

The involvement of prolactin in human tumourogenesis has been long debated. The reason is that the evidence supporting the role of circulating prolactin in promoting breast cancer was mainly obtained using rodent models, whereas most of the studies performed in human species in the 1980s have remained inconclusive. Things have now started to change because two alternative mechanisms of prolactin actions in tumour growth have emerged since the beginning of the 21st Century. The first involves locally‐produced prolactin, which acts by an autocrine/paracrine mechanism. Genetically‐modified mouse models have demonstrated the tumourigenic potential of local prolactin on the prostate and the mammary gland, and arguments are now emerging in humans also. The second mechanism involves genetic variants of the receptor. Although no genetic disorder has been reported for prolactin or its receptor, a variant of the prolactin receptor exhibiting constitutive activity has been recently identified in patients presenting with breast tumours, suggesting that sustained prolactin signalling may participate in breast tumourogenesis. Recent data regarding these two nonclassical mechanisms of prolactin action are discussed. Finally, we address the question of their inhibition in future cancer therapy, both in light of other findings that have revealed novel actions of prolactin in breast cancer cells, and with respect to the compounds currently available to target prolactin receptor signalling.
Endoplasmic reticulum is a major target of cadmium toxicity in yeast
Authors: Gardarin Aurélie , Chédin Stéphane , Lagniel Gilles , Aude Jean‐Christophe , Godat Emmanuel , Catty Patrice , Labarre Jean
Published: April 2010

Cadmium (Cd2+) is a very toxic metal that causes DNA damage, oxidative stress and apoptosis. Despite many studies, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying its high toxicity are not clearly understood. We show here that very low doses of Cd2+ cause ER stress in Saccharomyces cerevisiae as evidenced by the induction of the unfolded protein response (UPR) and the splicing of HAC1 mRNA. Furthermore, mutant strains (Δire1 and Δhac1) unable to induce the UPR are hypersensitive to Cd2+, but not to arsenite and mercury. The full functionality of the pathways involved in ER stress response is required for Cd2+ tolerance. The data also suggest that Cd2+‐induced ER stress and Cd2+ toxicity are a direct consequence of Cd2+ accumulation in the ER. Cd2+ does not inhibit disulfide bond formation but perturbs calcium metabolism. In particular, Cd2+ activates the calcium channel Cch1/Mid1, which also contributes to Cd2+ entry into the cell. The results reinforce the interest of using yeast as a cellular model to study toxicity mechanisms in eukaryotic cells.
Conjunctival effects of a selective nasal pollen provocation
Authors: Callebaut I. , Spielberg L. , Hox V. , Bobic S. , Jorissen M. , Stalmans I. , Scadding G. , Ceuppens J. L. , Hellings P. W.
Published: April 2010

To cite this article: Callebaut I, Spielberg L, Hox V, Bobic S, Jorissen M, Stalmans I, Scadding G, Ceuppens JL, Hellings PW. Conjunctival effects of a selective nasal pollen provocation. Allergy 2010; 65: 1173–1181.

Background:  Several clinical and experimental observations suggest that allergen deposition in the nose may partially be responsible for the induction of conjunctival symptoms in allergic rhinitis. The aims of this study were to evaluate the induction of conjunctival symptoms by selective nasal allergen provocation and to assess the feasibility of the different tools for evaluation of conjunctival allergic inflammation.

Methods:  Grass pollen allergic subjects with rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms during the pollen season (n = 12) underwent a nasal sham and grass pollen provocation extra‐seasonally. Nasal and conjunctival symptoms were scored using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) system at baseline, 15 min, 1 h and 24 h after provocation. In addition to Peak Nasal Inspiratory flow (PNIF) measurements, conjunctival inflammation and vascular congestion were evaluated and histamine and substance P levels in tear fluid were measured.

Results:  Selective nasal grass pollen provocation induced ocular pruritus, lacrimation and conjunctival vascular congestion. PNIF values correlated inversely with lacrimation (r = −0.71, P < 0.001) and ocular pruritus (r = −0.41, P < 0.05). Four out of 11 patients showed a conjunctival eosinophilic inflammation and levels of histamine (r = 0.73, P < 0.05) and substance P (r = 0.67, P = 0.05) in tear fluid correlated with conjunctival symptoms.

Conclusion:  Selective nasal grass pollen provocation induced conjunctival inflammation, ocular pruritus and lacrimation, which correlated with histamine and substance P levels in tear fluid and inversely with the PNIF values. These data show a naso‐ocular interaction in allergic rhinitis and offer objective tools for evaluation of conjunctival inflammation in allergic rhinoconjunctivitis.
A viral PAMP double‐stranded RNA induces allergen‐specific Th17 cell response in the airways which is dependent on VEGF and IL‐6
Authors: Choi J.‐P. , Kim Y.‐S. , Tae Y.‐M. , Choi E.‐J. , Hong B.‐S. , Jeon S. G. , Gho Y. S. , Zhu Z. , Kim Y.‐K.
Published: April 2010

To cite this article: Choi J‐P, Kim Y‐S, Tae Y‐M, Choi E‐J, Hong B‐S, Jeon SG, Gho YS, Zhu Z, Kim Y‐K. A viral PAMP double‐stranded RNA induces allergen‐specific Th17 cell response in the airways which is dependent on VEGF and IL‐6. Allergy 2010; 65: 1322–1330.

Background:  Innate immune response by a viral pathogen‐associated molecular pattern dsRNA modulates the subsequent development of adaptive immune responses. Although virus‐associated asthma is characterized by noneosinophilic inflammation, the role of Th17 cell response in the development of virus‐associated asthma is still unknown.

Objective:  To evaluate the role of the Th17 cell response and its underlying polarizing mechanisms in the development of an experimental virus‐associated asthma.

Methods:  An experimental virus‐associated asthma was created via airway sensitization with ovalbumin (OVA, 75 μg) and a low (0.1 μg) or a high (10 μg) doses of synthetic dsRNA [polyinosine–polycytidylic acid; poly(I:C)]. Transgenic (IL‐17‐, IL‐6‐deficient mice) and pharmacologic [a vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) inhibitor] approaches were used to evaluate the roles of Th17 cell responses.

Results:  After cosensitization with OVA and low‐dose poly(I:C), but not with high‐dose poly(I:C), inflammation scores after allergen challenge were lower in IL‐17‐deficient mice than in wild‐type (WT) mice. Moreover, inflammation enhanced by low‐dose poly(I:C), but not by high‐dose poly(I:C), was impaired in IL‐6‐deficient mice; this phenotype was accompanied by the down‐regulation of IL‐17 production from T cells from both lymph nodes and lung tissues. Airway exposure of low‐dose poly(I:C) enhanced the production of VEGF and IL‐6, and the production of IL‐6 was blocked by treatment with a VEGFR inhibitor (SU5416). Moreover, the allergen‐specific Th17 cell response and subsequent inflammation in the low‐dose poly(I:C) model were impaired by the VEGFR inhibitor treatment during sensitization.

Conclusions:  Airway exposure of low‐level dsRNA induces an allergen‐specific Th17 cell response, which is mainly dependent on VEGF and IL‐6.
Developmental perspectives on copy number abnormalities of the 22q11.2 region
Authors: Tan TY , Gordon CT , Amor DJ , Farlie PG
Published: April 2010

Tan TY, Gordon CT, Amor DJ, Farlie PG. Developmental perspectives on copy number abnormalities of the 22q11.2 region.

The 22q11.2 chromosomal landscape predisposes to genomic rearrangements that are associated with a variety of clinical phenotypes. The most well known of these include the 22q11.2 deletion and Cat‐eye syndromes (CES), but more recently other copy number abnormalities have been recognised, especially with increased use of microarrays in the investigation of patients with congenital malformations or cognitive impairment. In addition, mutations in the TBX1 gene have been found in patients with phenotypes reminiscent of 22q11.2 syndromes. Recent advances in our understanding of 22q11.2 genes and their interactions provide insight into the mechanisms underlying the phenotypic variability of the 22q11.2 syndromes, and suggest a possible common developmental pathway perturbed by copy number abnormalities of this locus.
Post‐conditioning with cyclosporine A fails to reduce the infarct size in an in vivo porcine model
Authors: LIE R. H. , STOETTRUP N. , SLOTH E. , HASENKAM J. M. , KROYER R. , NIELSEN T. T.
Published: April 2010

Background: Cyclosporine A has generated intense interest in the field of cardioprotection due to its ability to protect the mitochondria at reperfusion by blocking the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. The aim of our study was to examine the cardioprotective effect of Sandimmun®, a clinically available formulation of cyclosporine A, in an in vivo large mammal model.

Methods: Forty‐eight pigs were randomly allocated to one of three groups: (i) Control group (Con, n=19), (ii) Cyclosporine group, (Cyclo, n=19) Sandimmun® 10 mg/kg i.v. bolus 5 min before reperfusion and (iii) Pre‐conditioning group (Precon, n=10) two cycles of 10 min ischemia interspersed with 30‐min reperfusion. The study was further sub‐divided into a metabolic protocol, evaluating myocardial metabolism by measuring changes in the interstitial lactate concentration, and a coronary flow protocol. All animals were subjected to 40 min of left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion, followed by 180 min of reperfusion before histochemical staining and assessment of infarct size by planimetry.

Results: Infarct sizes were measured as: Con 51.4 ± 16.5%, Cyclo 47.3 ± 15.7% and Precon 2.4 ± 3.6%, with no significant difference between the Con and Cyclo groups but a highly significant difference between the Precon and Cyclo and Con groups (P<0.0001 for both comparisons). In the Cyclo group, the interstitial lactate concentration was significantly increased compared with the Con group at 6‐min reperfusion, although significantly lower at 14 min presumably due to accelerated washout.

Conclusion: In this large animal model, a 10 mg/kg bolus administration of Sandimmun® 5 min before reperfusion did not reduce the infarct size.
Countergradient vs. cogradient variation in growth and diapause in a lichen‐feeding moth, Eilema depressum (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae)
Authors: PÖYKKÖ H. , TAMMARU T.
Published: April 2010

Separating genetic and environmental causes of the latitudinal differences among populations is crucial when evaluating the potential for microevolutionary responses to the changing environment. We studied among‐population and environmental components of variation in several life‐history traits of a lichen‐feeding moth Eilema depressum when offspring of replicate Swiss and Finnish females were reared in a common‐garden factorial experiment. A partial second generation was produced only among Swiss larvae, more likely so at higher temperature regime and higher host quality, and more frequently among the offspring of particular females. Growth rates of larvae that chose the diapause development were higher in northern individuals. Our results thus reveal adaptive differences between latitudinal populations in studied life‐history traits, allowing to expect rapid adaptation of the species to further environmental changes. In contrast, invariable responses of the growth rates of the larvae to temperature and host quality support the idea that some basic parameters of insect growth show a high degree of evolutionary conservatism.
Faster evolution of highly conserved DNA in tropical plants
Authors: GILLMAN L. N. , KEELING D. J. , GARDNER R. C. , WRIGHT S. D.
Published: April 2010

A faster rate of nuclear DNA evolution has recently been found for plants occupying warmer low latitudes relative to those in cooler high latitudes. That earlier study by our research group compared substitution rates within the variable internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the ribosomal gene complex amongst 45 congeneric species pairs, each member of which differed in their latitudinal distributions. To determine whether this rate differential might also occur within highly conserved DNA, we sequenced the 18S ribosomal gene in the same 45 pairs of plants. We found that the rate of evolution in 18S was 51% faster in the tropical plant species relative to their temperate sisters and that the substitution rate in 18S correlated positively with that in the more variable ITS. This result, with a gene coding for ribosomal structure, suggests that climatic influences on evolution extend to functionally important regions of the genome.
The diapause decision as a cascade switch for adaptive developmental plasticity in body mass in a butterfly
Authors: GOTTHARD K. , BERGER D.
Published: April 2010

Switch‐induced developmental plasticity, such as the diapause decision in insects, is a major form of adaptation to variable environments. As individuals that follow alternative developmental pathways will experience different selective environments the diapause decision may evolve to a cascade switch that induces additional adaptive developmental differences downstream of the diapause decision. Here, we show that individuals following alternative developmental pathways in a Swedish population of the butterfly, Pararge aegeria, display differential optimization of adult body mass as a likely response to predictable differences in thermal conditions during reproduction. In a more northern population where this type of selection is absent no similar difference in adult mass among pathways was found. We conclude that the diapause decision in the southern population appears to act as a cascade switch, coordinating development downstream of the diapause decision, to produce adult phenotypes adapted to the typical thermal conditions of their expected reproductive period.
Multiple sources of reproductive isolation in a bimodal butterfly hybrid zone
Authors: MUÑOZ A. G. , SALAZAR C. , CASTAÑO J. , JIGGINS C. D. , LINARES M.
Published: April 2010

An important evolutionary question concerns whether one or many barriers are involved in the early stages of speciation. We examine pre‐ and post‐zygotic reproductive barriers between two species of butterflies (Heliconius erato chestertonii and H. e. venus) separated by a bimodal hybrid zone in the Cauca Valley, Colombia. We show that there is both strong pre‐ and post‐mating reproductive isolation, together leading to a 98% reduction in gene flow between the species. Pre‐mating isolation plays a primary role, contributing strongly to this isolation (87%), similar to previous examples in Heliconius. Post‐mating isolation was also strong, with absence of Haldane’s rule, but an asymmetric reduction in fertility (< 11%) in inter‐specific crosses depending on maternal genotype. In summary, this is one of the first examples of post‐zygotic reproductive isolation playing a significant role in early stages of parapatric speciation in Heliconius and demonstrates the importance of multiple barriers to gene flow in the speciation process.
Differences in cytokinin control on cellular dynamics of zucchini cotyledons cultivated in two experimental systems
Authors: Stoynova‐Bakalova E. , Petrov P. , Gigova L. , Ivanova N.
Published: April 2010

The effect of endogenous cytokinins on the pattern of palisade cell division post‐germination does not depend on the conditions of cotyledon development –in planta (attached to seedlings) or in vitro (isolated from dry zucchini seeds and cultured on water). In cotyledons originating from 4‐day‐old seedlings (experimental system 1), exogenous cytokinin temporarily (in the first 2 day of cultivation) enhanced post‐mitotic cell enlargement of palisade cells, mainly due to enhanced water uptake and use of cell storage compounds, all of which lead to cotyledon senescence. Cytokinin is not able to resume the completed palisade cell division on day 5. As a result, the number of cells and the final areas of treated and control cotyledons are quite similar. By contrast, the effects of cytokinin on cotyledons isolated from dry seeds (experimental system 2) are better expressed, promoting an increase in number of palisade cells accompanied by additional cotyledon area enlargement. However, the prolonged post‐mitotic cell expansion in control cotyledons compensates for the reduced speed of cell growth and division activity and decreases differences in final cotyledon area between treatments. The results define cell division as the primary target of cytokinin stimulation in cotyledon tissues competent for division, and determine the temporal patterns of palisade cell cycling related to cotyledon age. This knowledge permits a better choice of experimental system to study effects on cell proliferation and cell growth, as well as cell enlargement and senescence‐related events using physiologically homogeneous material.
Interactions Between Sabre‐Tooth Blennies and Their Reef Fish Victims: Effects Of Enforced Repeated Game Structure and Local Abundance on Victim Aggression
Authors: Bshary Andrea , Bshary Redouan
Published: April 2010

The conditions under which humans benefit from contributing to a public good have attracted great interest; in particular the potential role of punishment of cheaters is hotly debated. In contrast, similar studies on other animals are lacking. In this study, we describe for the first time how the course of interactions between parasitic sabre‐tooth blennies (the cheaters) and their reef fish victims can be used to study both punishment and the emergence of public goods. Sabre tooth blennies (Plagiotremus sp.) sneak up from behind to bite off small pieces of scales and/or mucus from other fish. Victims regularly show spontaneous aggression as well as aggressive responses to blenny attacks. In a between species comparison, we tested how the probability of chasing a blenny is affected by (1) the option of avoiding interactions with a blenny by avoiding its small territory, and (2) variation in local abundance of conspecifics. We found that resident victim species are more aggressive towards blennies than visiting species. This difference persisted when we controlled for victim size and territoriality, suggesting that it is the enforced repeated game structure that causes residents to chase blennies. In residents, we also found a negative correlation between aggression towards blennies and local abundance, which suggests that the benefits of chasing are diluted with increasing local abundance. We discuss the implication of these results for future studies.
Identification of Oryza sativa endornavirus in rice genotypes from breeding programmes in the United States
Authors: Valverde R. A. , Sabanadzovic S. , Rush M. C.
Published: April 2010

With 1 figure and 1 table

High molecular weight double‐stranded ribonucleic acids (dsRNAs) were detected in two rice cultivars, ‘M‐201’ and ‘Saturn’, growing in experimental plots and showing virus‐like symptoms. Partial sequencing of these dsRNAs indicated that they were related to the genome of Oryza sativa endornavirus (OSV), which has been reported in Japan infecting many rice cultivars. As this virus has not been reported in the US, 50 rice genotypes from the three major rice‐breeding programmes were tested. The virus was detected in two additional rice cultivars, ‘M‐102’ and ‘Colusa’. Analysis of the pedigree of infected cultivars suggested that the cultivar ‘Colusa’ was likely the source of the virus which was vertically transmitted to the progeny during the breeding process. The frequency of OSV in the tested cultivars was relatively low, compared with the high virus incidence of this virus reported in Japan. The virus does not appear to cause symptoms in rice and it was efficiently transmitted through seed.
Effect of Pre‐Treatment of Ovine Sperm on Male Pronuclear Formation and Subsequent Embryo Development Following Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
Authors: Shirazi A , Derakhshan‐Horeh M , Pilvarian AA , Ahmadi E , Nazari H , Heidari B
Published: April 2010

Contents

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of various methods of sperm pre‐treatment on male pronuclear (MPN) formation and subsequent development of ovine embryos derived from in vitro‐matured oocytes and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). The effect of treatment of injected oocytes with dithiothreitol (DTT) on embryo development was also assessed. In Exp. 1, the injected oocytes with non‐treated sperm were activated with three different procedures. The cleavage and blastocyst rates in those activated with DTT was lower (p < 0.05) than those activated with either ionomycin (Io) + 6‐dimethylaminopurine (6‐DMAP) or DTT + I + 6‐DMAP. In Exp. 2, the effects of sperm pre‐incubated with DTT, sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) or DTT + SDS as well as two‐time frozen/thawed sperm (without cryoprotectant) on MPN formation and oocyte activation were examined. The non‐treated sperm served as controls. The MPN formation in DTT + SDS group was higher (p < 0.05) than other groups except for freeze–thaw group. No difference in the rate of activated ICSI oocytes was observed among groups. In Exp. 3, the effect of pre‐treatment of sperm on subsequent development of ICSI embryos and blastocyst cell numbers were examined. The rates of cleavage and blastocyst formation as well as the blastocyst cell numbers were similar among the pre‐treated and control groups. In conclusion, pre‐treatment of sperm with DTT + SDS positively affected MPN formation, although the subsequent development capacity of the resulting embryos remained limited. Moreover, DTT was not effective on oocyte activation compared with Io + 6‐DMAP after ICSI.
Evaluation of the Australian adaptation of the Keeping It Together (KIT‐Australia) information package with carers of children with special needs
Authors: Stewart Janeen , Galvin Jane , Froude Elspeth H. , Lentin Primrose
Published: April 2010

Background:  Australian carers of children with special needs have expressed concerns about the limited availability and accessibility of suitable information resources. The ‘Keeping It Together’ (KIT) information package was developed and trialled in Canada and found to be effective in meeting the information needs of this population.

Aim:  The study aimed to evaluate the KIT‐Australian Adaptation (KIT‐Australia) to determine if it met its purpose of providing carers of children with special needs with strategies to access resources, organise information and communicate with others about their child. The study also aimed to determine whether additional changes were required to increase the KIT‐Australia’s utility.

Methods:  Eighteen carers of children with special needs participated in the study. All participants had accessed services from the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria. Demographic information was collected and carers were orientated to the KIT‐Australia prior to using it. After eight weeks, a telephone survey interview was completed with each participant. A content analysis of qualitative and quantitative data provided the results.

Results:  Most participants stated that they would continue to use the KIT‐Australia, and would recommend it to other carers. Six key themes were identified: getting started, accessing resources, organising and storing information, communicating information about my child to others, recommendations and non‐use of the KIT‐Australia.

Conclusions:  Preliminary data from this study suggests that the KIT‐Australia met its purpose of assisting carers of children with special needs, to access resources, organise information and communicate with others about their child. Participant recommendations to improve the usability of the KIT‐Australia should be implemented for future editions of the resource. Further research may be required to adapt and facilitate use of the KIT‐Australia in other Australian states and territories.
Effect of gastroesophageal reflux disease on sleep
Authors: Fass Ronnie
Published: April 2010

Recent studies have demonstrated a bidirectional relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and sleep where night‐time reflux leads to sleep deprivation and sleep deprivation per se can exacerbate GERD by enhancing perception of intra‐esophageal stimuli. Presently, treatment has primarily focused on reducing night‐time reflux and thus improving sleep quality. Future studies are needed to further explore the relationship between GERD and sleep and the potential of novel therapeutic options to interrupt the vicious cycle between GERD and sleep.
Aspirin‐induced peptic ulcer and genetic polymorphisms
Authors: Shiotani Akiko , Sakakibara Takashi , Nomura Maki , Yamanaka Yoshiyuki , Nishi Ryuji , Imamura Hiroshi , Tarumi Ken‐ichi , Kamada Tomoari , Hata Jiro , Haruma Ken
Published: April 2010

There are a few studies of the association between genetic polymorphisms and the risks of acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)‐induced ulcer or its complications. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of cyclooxygenase‐1 (COX‐1), A‐842G and C50T, exhibited increased sensitivity to aspirin and had lower prostaglandin synthesis capacity, lacking statistical significance in the association with bleeding peptic ulcer. A recent Japanese study indicated that the number of COX‐1‐1676T alleles was a significant risk factor for peptic ulcer in users of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). There are some genetic polymorphisms for aspirin resistance, such as platelet membrane glycoproteins, thromboxane A2 (TXA2) receptor, platelet activating factor acetylhydrolase and coagulation factor XIII; however, data on the frequency of gastrointestinal (GI) events in these variants are lacking. Carrying the CYP2C9 variants is reported a significantly increased risk of non‐aspirin NSAID‐related GI bleeding. The polymorphisms of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) have been associated with development of peptic ulcer or gastric cancer. In a recent investigation, carriage of the IL‐1β‐511 T allele was significantly associated with peptic ulcer among low‐dose aspirin users. Hypoacidity in corpus gastritis related to polymorphisms of pro‐inflammatory cytokines seems to reduce NSAIDs or aspirin‐related injury. Data on which polymorphisms are significant risk factors for GI events in aspirin users are still lacking and further large‐scale clinical studies are required.
Assessment of in vitro biofilm formation by Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Yonezawa Hideo , Osaki Takako , Kurata Satoshi , Zaman Cynthia , Hanawa Tomoko , Kamiya Shigeru
Published: April 2010

Background and Aims:  Biofilms are surface‐bound communities of bacterial cells that are implicated in their survival. As with various bacteria studied to date, Helicobacter pylori can have an alternate lifestyle as a biofilm. We previously reported that strain TK1402 showed a strong biofilm‐forming ability in vitro. However, the mechanisms of its biofilm development remain unclear. We analyzed the basic characteristics of the biofilm‐forming ability in strain TK1402.

Methods:  In order to characterize the biofilm‐forming ability of the H. pylori strains, auto‐aggregation, motility and hydrophobicity, which are important factors in biofilm formation by other bacteria, were analyzed. Further, we tested whether cell growth participated in biofilm formation in strain TK1402.

Results:  There were no significant differences in the auto‐aggregation, motility and hydrophobicity of strain TK1402 compared with the other strains. On the other hand, pre‐culture of this strain for 24–48 h resulted in decreased biofilm formation.

Conclusion:  TK1402 is a strong biofilm‐forming strain of H. pylori in Brucella broth supplemented with 7% fetal calf serum. It is possible that biofilm‐forming cell growth is a principal factor in biofilm development.
Changes in the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection and gastrointestinal diseases in the past 17 years
Authors: Nakajima Shigemi , Nishiyama Yorihiro , Yamaoka Miyoko , Yasuoka Takashi , Cho Eisai
Published: April 2010

Background and Aims:  The aim of the study was to examine whether the change in the prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection had influenced upper gastrointestinal diseases in a recent 17‐year period.

Methods:  The prevalence of H. pylori infection was examined by serum H. pylori antibody tests in the subjects undergoing annual health checks at the Social Insurance Shiga Hospital in 1998 and 2005 (142 and 242 subjects, respectively). The prevalence of H. pylori infection in 1988 was estimated by parallel translation from the prevalence in 1998. A total of 2833 records of endoscopy performed in 1988 and 2005 at Otsu Municipal Hospital were studied. The age‐adjusted prevalence of peptic ulcer, gastric cancer and reflux esophagitis were compared between 1988 and 2005.

Results:  The age‐adjusted prevalence of H. pylori infection significantly decreased in 2005 compared with 1988 (70.5–52.7%). The endoscopic records of 937 and 1246 patients in 1988 and 2005, respectively, were included in the analysis. The age‐adjusted prevalence of peptic ulcer significantly decreased 0.34‐fold in both men and women in 2005 compared with 1988. The age‐adjusted prevalence of gastric cancer significantly decreased 0.44‐fold in men, but did not change in women (0.99‐fold), and overall significantly decreased 0.56‐fold. The age‐adjusted prevalence of reflux esophagitis significantly increased 6.6‐, 2.7‐ and 4.8‐fold in men, women and total, respectively. The increase was dominant in men aged 30–69 years.

Conclusion:  Over the 17‐year period, accompanying the decreasing prevalence of H. pylori infection, the age‐adjusted prevalence of peptic ulcer and gastric cancer decreased, but that of reflux esophagitis increased.
Increased expression of microRNA in the inflamed colonic mucosa of patients with active ulcerative colitis
Authors: Takagi Tomohisa , Naito Yuji , Mizushima Katsura , Hirata Ikuhiro , Yagi Nobuaki , Tomatsuri Naoya , Ando Takashi , Oyamada Yuichi , Isozaki Yutaka , Hongo Hitoshi , Uchiyama Kazuhiko , Handa Osamu , Kokura Satoshi , Ichikawa Hiroshi , Yoshikawa Toshikazu
Published: April 2010

Background and Aims:  MicroRNA (miRNA) are endogenous, approximately 22‐nucleotide non‐coding RNA that suppress gene expression at post‐transcriptional levels by binding to the 3′‐untranslated region of specific mRNA targets through base‐pairing. It has been recently reported that miRNA have critical functions in key biological processes such as cell proliferation and cell death in various cancer cells. However, the relationship between intestinal inflammation and miRNA expression remains unclear. In the present study, we used microarray technology to identify miRNA induced in the colonic mucosa of patients with active ulcerative colitis (UC).

Methods:  Two colonic biopsy specimens from patients with active stage (>Matts grade 2) of UC under colonoscopy and two colonic biopsy specimens from healthy volunteers were obtained for gene expression profiles. Total RNA was extracted, and miRNA expression profiles were investigated using miRNA Microarray. Subsequently, to confirm the result of the Microarray investigation, we checked the expression of several selected miRNA using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 12 colonic biopsy specimens from patients with active UC under colonoscopy and 12 specimens from the healthy volunteers.

Results:  In the microarray study, the expression of several miRNA was upregulated in the colonic mucosa of patients with active UC. Furthermore, two miRNA (miR‐21, miR‐155) were selected in the study using real‐time PCR.

Conclusion:  Upregulated miRNA may be responsible for the development of intestinal inflammation in UC.
Endogenous prostaglandin E2accelerates healing of indomethacin‐induced small intestinal lesions through upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor expression by activation of EP4 receptors
Authors: Takeuchi Koji , Tanigami Mayu , Amagase Kikuko , Ochi Akimu , Okuda Sayaka , Hatazawa Ryo
Published: April 2010

Background and Aims: The effects of an EP4 agonist/antagonist on the healing of lesions produced by indomethacin in the small intestine were examined in rats, especially in relation to the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiogenesis.

Methods: Animals were given indomethacin (10 mg/kg s.c.) and killed at various time points. To impair the healing of these lesions, a small dose of indomethacin (2 mg/kg p.o.) or AE3‐208 (EP4 antagonist: 3 mg/kg i.p.) was given once daily for 6 days after the ulceration was induced, with or without the co‐administration of AE1‐329 (EP4 agonist: 0.1 mg/kg i.p.).

Results: Indomethacin (10 mg/kg) caused severe damage in the small intestine, but the lesions healed rapidly decreasing to approximately one‐fifth of their initial size within 7 days. The healing process was significantly impaired by indomethacin (2 mg/kg) given once daily for 6 days after the ulceration. This effect of indomethacin was mimicked by the EP4 antagonist and reversed by co‐administration of the EP4 agonist. Mucosal VEGF expression was upregulated after the ulceration, reaching a peak on day 3 followed by a decrease. The changes in VEGF expression paralleled those in mucosal cyclooxygenase‐2 expression, as well as prostaglandin E2(PGE2) content. Indomethacin (2 mg/kg) downregulated both VEGF expression and angiogenesis in the mucosa during the healing process, and these effects were significantly reversed by co‐treatment with the EP4 agonist.

Conclusion: The results suggest that endogenous PGE2promotes the healing of small intestinal lesions by stimulating angiogenesis through the upregulation of VEGF expression mediated by the activation of EP4 receptors.