bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe phenotype with cis‐acting heterozygous PMP22 mutations
Authors: Niedrist D , Joncourt F , Mátyás G , Müller A
Published: February 2009

We report on a 20‐year‐old male with severe Charcot–Marie–Tooth (CMT) disease and a de novo deletion (c.281delG, p.G94AfsX17) on the paternal PMP22 allele harboring c.353C>T (p.T118M). RNA‐based sequence analysis confirmed the absence of nonsense‐mediated decay and the presence of the mutant transcripts in Epstein–Barr virus‐transformed lymphoblastoid cells of our patient. His clinical findings included early onset of polyneuropathy, loss of muscle mass with distal pareses, hammer toes, and progressive scoliosis. There was no neuropsychological alteration. Our results suggest that the deletion c.281delG alone is responsible for the severe CMT phenotype. To the best of our knowledge, this is the second report on a proven paternal origin of a de novo single‐base mutation in the PMP22 gene.
Identities and frequencies of mutations of the otoferlin gene (OTOF) causing DFNB9 deafness in Pakistan
Authors: Choi BY , Ahmed ZM , Riazuddin S , Bhinder MA , Shahzad M , Husnain T , Riazuddin S , Griffith AJ , Friedman TB
Published: February 2009

Mutations in OTOF, encoding otoferlin, cause non‐syndromic recessive hearing loss. The goal of our study was to define the identities and frequencies of OTOF mutations in a model population. We screened a cohort of 557 large consanguineous Pakistani families segregating recessive, severe‐to‐profound, prelingual‐onset deafness for linkage to DFNB9. There were 13 families segregating deafness consistent with linkage to markers for DFNB9. We analyzed the genomic nucleotide sequence of OTOF and detected probable pathogenic sequence variants among all 13 families. These include the previously reported nonsense mutation p.R708X and 10 novel variants: 3 nonsense mutations (p.R425X, p.W536X, and p.Y1603X), 1 frameshift (c.1103_1104delinsC), 1 single amino acid deletion (p.E766del) and 5 missense substitutions of conserved residues (p.L573R, p.A1090E, p.E1733K, p.R1856Q and p.R1939W). OTOF mutations thus account for deafness in 13 (2.3%) of 557 Pakistani families. This overall prevalence is similar, but the mutation spectrum is different from those for Western populations. In addition, we demonstrate the existence of an alternative splice isoform of OTOF expressed in the human cochlea. This isoform must be required for human hearing because it encodes a unique alternative C‐terminus affected by some DFNB9 mutations.
4p16.3 haplotype modifying age at onset of Huntington disease
Authors: Nørremølle A , Budtz‐Jørgensen E , Fenger K , Nielsen JE , Sørensen SA , Hasholt L
Published: February 2009

Huntington disease (HD) is caused by an expanded CAG repeat sequence in the HD gene. Although the age at onset is correlated to the CAG repeat length, this correlation only explains approximately half of the variation in onset age. Less variation between siblings indicates that the variation is, in part, explained by genetic modifiers. We analyzed polymorphic loci within or close to the HD gene on the HD chromosome in Danish HD patients. We found one specific haplotype segregating with later age at onset, compared with patients with similar CAG repeat length and another haplotype. The nine Danish families in the study carrying this haplotype most likely have a common founder. Several of the polymorphic loci displayed alleles that may be specific to the late‐onset haplotype, implicating that from this study we cannot determine which of the loci tested (or other polymorphic loci in this chromosomal area) do in fact contain genetic modifiers of age at onset.
Steroid withdrawal five days after renal transplantation allows for the prevention of wound‐healing complications associated with sirolimus therapy
Authors: Sandrini Silvio , Setti Gisella , Bossini Nicola , Maffei Camilla , Iovinella Lucia , Tognazzi Nadia , Maffeis Roberto , Nodari Franco , Portolani Nazario , Cancarini Giovanni
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Background:  Sirolimus (SRL) can increase the risk of wound complications. In this study, we investigated the impact of steroids when added to SRL, in this side effect.

Methods:  One hundred and forty‐eight patients entered prospective studies comparing early (fifth day) with late (sixth month) steroid withdrawal. All patients were on SRL, added either to Tacrolimus (n = 56) or to cyclosporine (n = 97). At 15th day after transplantation, 68 patients were on steroids (On‐St group) and 80 were not (Off‐St group). Wound complications considered were as follows: dehiscence, lymphocele, wound leakage, hematoma and seromas. Risk factors under analysis were as follows: body mass index, diabetes, rejection, creatininemia, length of dialysis before transplantation, recipient age, being on steroids at 15th day, SRL levels.

Results:  The overall incidence of wound complications was significantly lower in Off‐St group than in On‐St group: 18.8% vs. 45.6%, respectively (p < 0.0004). In detail, lymphocele: 5.0% vs. 32.3% (p < 0.0001); dehiscence 0% vs. 10.3% (p < 0.009), leakage 6.2% vs. 8.8% (p = NS), seromas 1.4% vs. 7.5% (NS). At multivariate analysis, the addition of steroids to SRL increases 4.2‐fold the risk for wound complications.

Conclusions:  Early steroid withdrawal is effective in preventing both the incidence and the severity of wound‐healing complications because of SRL regime, even when started with a loading dose.
Prospective trial of mycophenolate mofetil–cyclosporine A prophylaxis for acute GVHD after G‐CSF stimulated allogeneic bone marrow transplantation with HLA‐identical sibling donors in patients with severe aplastic anemia and hematological malignancies
Authors: Ostronoff Fabiana , Ostronoff Mauricio , Souto‐Maior Ana Patricia , Domingues Mariana , Sucupira Alexandre , Manso Djenane Almeida , De Lima Ana Karla Farias , Monteiro Poliana Gomes , Florêncio Rodrigo , Calixto Rodolfo
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  The combination of methotrexate and cyclosporine A (MTX–CSA) is the standard regimen for the prevention of graft vs. host disease (GVHD) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT) from HLA‐identical siblings. Mycophenolate mofetil and CSA (MMF–CSA) combination has been successfully used for GVHD prophylaxis after non‐reduced intensity conditioning (non‐RIC) allo‐SCT with peripheral blood or non‐G‐CSF stimulated bone marrow as stem cell source. We report the results of the first prospective trial of the MMF–CSA combination for acute GVHD prophylaxis in 47 patients after non‐RIC G‐CSF stimulated allo‐BMT (G‐BMT) from HLA‐identical siblings in patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA) or hematological malignancies. Median age was 28 yr (range, 6–48 yr). Median follow‐up was 22 months. The median time to neutrophil and platelets recovery were nine d (range, 8–17) and 16 d (range, 10–28), respectively. Acute GVHD of grade II–IV and chronic GVHD occurred in 51% and 27%, respectively. Overall survival rates at two yr for patients with SAA and hematological malignancies were 87% and 65%, respectively. The event‐free survival at two yr for patients with hematological malignancies was 76%. We concluded that MMF–CSA appears equivalent to MTX–CSA for GVHD prophylaxis in patients receiving non‐RIC G‐BMT from HLA‐identical siblings, with a tendency for more rapid neutrophil engraftment.
An extremely uncommon variation of left hepatic artery around the esophagus: a case report
Authors: Altaca Gulum , Karakayali Hamdi , Haberal Mehmet
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  An extremely rare case of a replaced left hepatic artery (LHA) around the esophagus in a deceased multi‐organ donor is reported. The liver could not be harvested unless either of the LHA or the esophagus was transected. This is the second report of a LHA off the left gastric artery with such a peculiar course around the esophagus. Whether to cut the artery or the hollow viscus in such a situation is controversial; nevertheless, a surgeon must precisely identify all the extrahepatic arteries during liver harvest, to prevent injuries that might result in compromised complete arterialization of the graft.
Impact of race and gender on live kidney donation
Authors: Reeves‐Daniel A. , Adams P.L. , Daniel K. , Assimos D. , Westcott C. , Alcorn S.G. , Rogers J. , Farney A.C. , Stratta R.J. , Hartmann E.L.
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Background:  African Americans (AA) and women are less likely to receive a live kidney donor (LKD) transplant than Caucasians or men. Reasons for non‐donation are poorly understood.

Methods:  A retrospective review of 541 unsuccessful LKD was performed to explore reasons for non‐donation and to assess for racial and/or gender differences.

Results:  We identified 138 AA and 385 Caucasian subjects who volunteered but did not successfully donate. Females (58.2%) were more likely to be excluded than males due to reduced renal function (glomerular filtration rate < 85 mL/min, 7.9% vs. 0.9%, p < 0.0001) or failure to complete the evaluation (6.4% vs. 1.8%, p = 0.01). AA were more commonly excluded due to obesity (body mass index ≥ 32 kg/m2; 30.4% AA vs. 16.6% Caucasian, p = 0.0005) or failure to complete the evaluation (12.3% AA vs. 1.8% Caucasian, p < 0.0001) whereas Caucasians were more often excluded due to kidney stones (1.5% AA vs. 7.3% Caucasian, p = 0.01).

Conclusions:  Significantly different reasons for exclusion of LKD exist between potential Caucasian and AA LKD, particularly among women. Among the differences that we observed are potentially modifiable barriers to donation including obesity and failure to complete the donor evaluation. A further understanding of these barriers may help point to strategies for more effective recruitment and successful LKD.
Sirolimus‐based rescue therapy after rejection in liver transplantation
Authors: Lladó Laura , Fabregat Joan , Castellote Jose , Ramos Emilio , Torras Jaume , Serrano Teresa , Figueras Joan , Rafecas Antoni
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Steroid‐resistant acute rejection (SR‐AR) and ductopenic rejection (DR) after liver transplantation are infrequent, but difficult to manage. We performed a retrospective review of patients with SR‐AR or DR treated with sirolimus‐based therapy. Since 2002, we have treated five patients with SR‐AR and eight patients with DR. All patients had associated renal insufficiency. Six patients showed no response, of whom five died and one was retransplanted. In six cases, rejection was resolved after changing, while one improved. Therefore, the total response rate was 54%. Ten of 13 patients (77%) suffered some type of adverse event. Ten of these (77%) suffered a hematologic event. Four patients (31%) had infection. Only two patients had to discontinue treatment. Univariate analysis showed that pre‐conversion bilirubin was lower in responders (Bilirubin: R: 210 ± 205 vs. NoR: 554 ± 159 μmol/L; p = 0.07 and Creatinine clearance higher: R: 37 ± 11 vs. NoR: 25 ± 11 mL/min; p = 0.09). Sirolimus trough levels one month after switching were higher in responders (R: 11 ± 1.8 vs. NoR: 7.5 ± 3.3 ng/mL; p = 0.03). We conclude that a dual therapy regimen of tacrolimus and sirolimus can achieve a high response rate as a rescue therapy for SR‐AR and DR, provided it is begun as soon as possible.
Loss of a renal graft due to recurrence of anti‐GBM disease despite rituximab therapy
Authors: Sauter Matthias , Schmid Holger , Anders Hans J. , Heller Florian , Weiss Max , Sitter Thomas
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  The recurrence of anti‐glomerular basement membrane (anti‐GBM) glomerulonephritis (GN) in renal transplants is very rare. We report on a patient that developed acute renal allograft dysfunction due to anti‐GBM GN relapse 18 months after transplantation. As plasmaseperation, dose escalation of MMF, steroids and cyclophosphamids did not result in an improvement of the graft function, a therapy with the anti‐CD20 antibody Rituximab was established in addition to plasmaseperation, cyclophosphamid and steroids. Although this resulted in a decrease of anti‐GBM antibody titer, graft function deteriorated further and a renal replacement therapy had to be initiated.
Identification of post‐transplant lymphocele using lymphatic mapping with isosulphane blue
Authors: Cakmak A. , Akyol C. , Can O. S. , Hazinedaroglu S. M.
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Lymphocele development after renal transplantation is a well‐recognized complication that occurs with the incidence of 0.6–18%. Although the majority of patients are asymptomatic, post‐renal transplant lymphocele continues to be a major cause of morbidity if it is left untreated. The standard approach for the treatment of symptomatic lymphoceles is accepted to be laparoscopic or open marsupialization in many centers if simple drainage and conservative measures fail. However, marsupialization is almost impossible under certain circumstances, such as in the case of excessive abdominal adhesions. Hence, direct visualization of the lymphatic leak and suture ligation may become inevitable, which is usually a challenging procedure for the surgeon. Herein we report a case of post‐renal transplant lymphocele treated by the direct identification and suture ligation of injured lymphatic vessel using a new method similar to sentinel lymph node detection using the dye isosulphane blue.
Should heart, lung, and liver transplant recipients receive immunosuppression induction for kidney transplantation?
Authors: Ranney D.N. , Englesbe M.J. , Muhammad W. , Al‐Holou S.N. , Park J.M. , Pelletier S.J. , Punch J.D. , Lynch R.J.
Published: February 2009

Ranney DN, Englesbe MJ, Muhammad W, Al‐Holou SN, Park JM, Pelletier SJ, Punch JD, Lynch RJ. Should heart, lung, and liver transplant recipients receive immunosuppression induction for kidney transplantation? Clin Transplant 2010: 24: 67–72. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  As the outcomes of heart, liver, and lung transplantation continue to improve, more patients will present for subsequent renal transplantation. It remains unclear whether these patients benefit from induction immunosuppression. We retrospectively reviewed induction on solid organ graft recipients who underwent renal transplant at our center from January 1, 1995 to March 30, 2007. Induction and the non‐induction groups were compared by univariate and Kaplan–Meier analyses. There were 21 patients in each group, with mean follow‐up of 4.5–6.0 years. Forty‐seven percent of patients receiving induction had a severe post‐operative infection, compared with 28.6% in the non‐induction group (p = NS). The one yr rejection rate in the induction group was 9.5% compared with 14.3% for non‐induction (p = NS). One‐yr graft survival was 81.0% and 95.2% in the induction and non‐induction group (p = NS). In summary, there is a trend toward lower patient and graft survival among patients undergoing induction. These trends could relate to selection bias in the decision to prescribe induction immunosuppression, but further study is needed to better define the risks and benefits of antibody‐induction regimens in this population.
Hepatic IL‐8 release during graft procurement is associated with impaired graft function after human liver transplantation
Authors: Ilmakunnas Minna , Höckerstedt Krister , Mäkisalo Heikki , Siitonen Sanna , Repo Heikki , Pesonen Eero J.
Published: February 2009

Ilmakunnas M, Höckerstedt K, Mäkisalo H, Siitonen S, Repo H, Pesonen EJ. Hepatic IL‐8 release during graft procurement is associated with impaired graft function after human liver transplantation. Clin Transplant 2010: 24: 29–35. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  In experimental models, brain death induces inflammatory cascades, leading to reduced graft survival. Thus far, factors prior to graft preservation have gained less attention in clinical setting. We studied pre‐preservation inflammatory response and its effects on graft function in 30 brain dead liver donors and the respective recipients. Before donor graft perfusion, portal and hepatic venous blood samples were drawn for phagocyte adhesion molecule expression and plasma cytokine determinations. Donor intensive care unit stay correlated with donor C‐reactive protein (R = 0.472, p = 0.013) and IL‐6 (R = 0.419, p = 0.026) levels, and donor (R = 0.478, p = 0.016) and recipient gamma‐glutamyl transferase (R = 0.432, p = 0.019) levels. During graft procurement, hepatic IL‐8 release was observed in 17/30 donors. Grafts with hepatic IL‐8 release exhibited subsequently higher alkaline phosphatase [319 (213–405) IU/L vs. 175 (149–208) IU/L, p = 0.006] and bilirubin [101 (44–139) μmol/L vs. 30 (23–72) μmol/L, p = 0.029] levels after transplantation. Our findings support the concept that inflammatory response in the brain dead organ donor contributes to the development of graft injury in human liver transplantation.
Molecular characterization of the sweet potato peroxidase SWPA4 promoter which responds to abiotic stresses and pathogen infection
Authors: Ryu Sun‐Hwa , Kim Yun‐Hee , Kim Cha Young , Park Soo‐Young , Kwon Suk‐Yoon , Lee Haeng‐Soon , Kwak Sang‐Soo
Published: February 2009

Previously, the swpa4 peroxidase gene has been shown to be inducible by a variety of abiotic stresses and pathogenic infections in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas). To elucidate its regulatory mechanism at the transcriptional level under various stress conditions, we isolated and characterized the promoter region (2374 bp) of swpa4 (referred to as SWPA4). We performed a transient expression assay in tobacco protoplasts with deletions from the 5′‐end of SWPA4 promoter fused to the β‐glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene. The −1408 and −374 bp deletions relative to the transcription start site (+1) showed 8 and 4.5 times higher GUS expression than the cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter, respectively. In addition, transgenic tobacco plants expressing GUS under the control of −2374, −1408 or −374 bp region of SWPA4 promoter were generated and studied in various tissues under abiotic stresses and pathogen infection. Gel mobility shift assays revealed that nuclear proteins from sweet potato cultured cells specifically interacted with 60‐bp fragment (−178/−118) in −374 bp promoter region. In silico analysis indicated that four kinds of cis‐acting regulatory sequences, reactive oxygen species‐related element activator protein 1 (AP1), CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein alpha element, ethylene‐responsive element (ERE) and heat‐shock element, are present in the −60 bp region (−178/−118), suggesting that the −60 bp region might be associated with stress inducibility of the SWPA4 promoter.
Proteomic analysis of the secretome of rice calli
Authors: Cho Won Kyong , Chen Xiong Yan , Chu Hyosub , Rim Yeonggil , Kim Suwha , Kim Sun Tae , Kim Seon‐Won , Park Zee‐Yong , Kim Jae‐Yean
Published: February 2009

The cell wall and extracellular matrix in higher plants include secreted proteins that play critical roles in a wide range of cellular processes, such as structural integrity and biogenesis. Compared with the intensive cell wall proteomic studies in Arabidopsis, the list of cell wall proteins identified in monocot species is lacking. Therefore, we conducted a large‐scale proteomic analysis of secreted proteins from rice. Highly purified secreted rice proteins were obtained from the medium of a suspension of callus culture and were analyzed with multidimensional protein identification technology (MudPIT). As a result, we could detect a total of 555 rice proteins by MudPIT analysis. Based on bioinformatic analyses, 27.7% (154 proteins) of the identified proteins are considered to be secreted proteins because they possess a signal peptide for the secretory pathway. Among the 154 identified proteins, 27% were functionally categorized as stress response proteins, followed by metabolic proteins (26%) and factors involved in protein modification (24%). Comparative analysis of cell wall proteins from Arabidopsis and rice revealed that one third of the secreted rice proteins overlapped with those of Arabidopsis. Furthermore, 25 novel rice‐specific secreted proteins were found. This work presents the large scale of the rice secretory proteome from culture medium, which contributes to a deeper understanding of the rice secretome.
Artemia cysts as an alternative food for the predatory bug Macrolophus pygmaeus
Authors: Vandekerkhove B. , Parmentier L. , Van Stappen G. , Grenier S. , Febvay G. , Rey M. , De Clercq P.
Published: February 2009

The suitability of cysts of the brine shrimp Artemia sp. as a factitious food for the predator Macrolophus pygmaeus Rambur was investigated. The influence of decapsulation time and hydration of the cysts on the performance of the predator were studied in the absence of plant material. A longer time of decapsulation had a positive influence on the development of the predator. Hydration of cysts had a significant impact on nymphal survival when cysts where non‐decapsulated or poorly decapsulated. An experiment in which nymphs were switched from a diet of hydrated cysts to non‐hydrated cysts showed that in the absence of plant material the relative importance of hydrating the cysts decreased with nymphal age. Especially, the first instar and to a lesser extent the second instar appear to be susceptible to water shortage. Effects of prolonged rearing on development and reproduction on brine shrimp cysts from different origins were tested in the presence of plant material. Rearing M. pygmaeus on Artemia sp. (Jingyu Lake) cysts yielded similar survival, development, adult weight and fecundity in the fourth as in the second generation. In contrast, for Artemia franciscana cysts, an increase in nymphal development was notable. Biochemical analyses showed that total amino acid content and the concentration of the different amino acids did not differ among diets and generations. There were, however, differences in total fatty acid content between the different diets and generations and in the concentration of certain fatty acids, indicating that insects fed brine shrimp cysts may show nutritional deficiencies compared to those reared on a diet of Ephestia kuehniella eggs. Our results indicate that decapsulated brine shrimp cysts are an economically viable alternative food source in at least part of the rearing process for M. pygmaeus.
Effects of injecting cadherin gene dsRNA on growth and development in diamondback moth Plutella xylostella (Lep.: Plutellidae)
Authors: Yang Z.‐X. , Wen L.‐Z. , Wu Q.‐J. , Wang S.‐L. , Xu B.‐Y. , Chang X.‐L. , Zhu G.‐R. , Zhang Y.‐J.
Published: February 2009

Two laboratory diamondback moth (DBM) strains were used to study the effects of injecting cadherin gene double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) on the growth and development of Plutella xylostella (L.). Specifically, the susceptible strain named DBM.1Ac‐S and the low resistant strain DBM.1Ac‐R selected with Cry1Ac toxin were studied. The third larvae of the two strains were injected dsRNA of cadherin gene and their corresponding controls, DBM.1Ac‐RH and DBM.1Ac‐SH, were both injected diethypyrocarbonate (DEPC)‐treated water respectively. The basic biological properties such as death rate, hatching ratio, fecundity, weight of pupa and eclosion rate of the strains mentioned above were likewise studied. Meanwhile, the length and width of the egg and pupa were also measured. The results showed that the cadherin gene dsRNA injection resulted in a significant increase of the death rate and sex ratio. On the other hand, hatching ratio, fecundity, weight of pupa, eclosion rate and adult longevity for male and female of treatments decreased compared to their corresponding controls. As such, there was no significant difference on the length of egg and pupa in between treatments and the corresponding controls. However, their width increased inversely with their corresponding controls. Hence, the results suggest that cadherin gene dsRNA injection retarded the larval growth and development of P. xylostella. Also, these results can help reveal the function of cadherin gene through the RNA interference technique.
Variability in the structure of epiphytic assemblages of the Mediterranean seagrassPosidonia oceanicain relation to depth
Authors: Nesti Ugo , Piazzi Luigi , Balata David
Published: February 2009

The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether the variability in the structure of the epiphytic assemblages of leaves and rhizomes of the Mediterranean seagrassPosidonia oceanicadiffered between depths at a large spatial scale. A hierarchical sampling design was used to compare epiphytic assemblages at two different depths (10 and 20 m) in terms of both species composition and abundance and patterns of spatial variability in the Tuscan Archipelago (North Western Mediterranean Sea, Italy). Results showed significant differences in the structure of assemblages on rhizomes and leaves at different depths. These differences were related to species composition and abundance; differences were not significant for total biomass, total percentage cover and percentage cover of animals and algae. Whereas the higher variability was observed among shoots in all the studied systems, patterns of spatial variability at the other spatial scales investigated differed between the two studied depths. Moreover, in the present study, analogous patterns between depths resulted for both the assemblages of leaves and rhizomes, suggesting that factors that change with depth can be responsible for the spatial variability of both the assemblages (leaves and rhizomes), and operate regardless of the microclimatic conditions and the structure of assemblages.
Biogenic stalactites in submarine caves at the Cape of Otranto (SE Italy): dating and hypothesis on their formation
Authors: Belmonte Genuario , Ingrosso Gianmarco , Poto Marco , Quarta Gianluca , D’Elia Marisa , Onorato Raffaele , Calcagnile Lucio
Published: February 2009

Submarine caves at the Cape of Otranto (SE, Italy) host pseudostalactites. Only recently have they been recognised as originating mainly from the marine tube worm Protula tubularia (Serpulidae, Polychaeta). Their formation depends on the adaptability, life history and behaviour of that species in the cave habitat. The dating of calcareous tubes in the pseudostalactite core represents the first attempt to describe the formation of such bio‐construction, and the gregarious behaviour of the species. Calcareous tubes along the core axis of three pseudostalactites removed from the cave lu Lampiùne (Otranto, South East Italy) have been dated using the 14C method. Measures established ages from 2600 to 5000 years for the three structures. This extremely long period (when compared with the life span of each worm) suggests that each tube aggregation is the result of punctuated growth periods alternated with long standstill phases. At the end of a growth period, each tube aggregation was covered with a brownish concretion, completing the pseudostalactite.
Enterococcus faecalis with the gelatinase phenotype regulated by the fsr operon and with biofilm‐forming capacity are common in the agricultural environment
Authors: Macovei Lilia , Ghosh Anuradha , Thomas Vinai C. , Hancock Lynn E. , Mahmood Sajid , Zurek Ludek
Published: February 2009

The prevalence of gelatinase activity and biofilm formation among environmental enterococci was assessed. In total, 396 enterococcal isolates from swine and cattle faeces and house flies from a cattle farm were screened for gelatinase activity. The most prevalent phenotype on Todd–Hewitt agar with 1.5% skim milk was the weak protease (WP) (72.2% of isolates), followed by the strong protease (SP) 18.7%, and no protease (NP) (9.1%). The majority of WP isolates was represented by Enterococcus hirae (56.9%), followed by Enterococcus faecium (25.9%), Enterococcus casseliflavus (10.4%), Enterococcus gallinarum (5.2%) and Enterococcus saccharolyticus (1.7%). All WP isolates were negative for gelE (gelatinase) and sprE (serine protease) as well as the fsrABDC operon that regulates the two proteases, and only four isolates (7.0%) formed biofilms in vitro. All SP isolates were Enterococcus faecalis positive for the fsrABDC, gelE, sprE genes and the majority (91.2%) formed a biofilm. Diversity of NP isolates was relatively evenly distributed among E. hirae, E. faecium, E. casseliflavus, E. gallinarum, Enterococcus durans, E. saccharolyticus and Enterococcus mundtii. All NP isolates were negative for the fsr operon and only four E. hirae (11.1%) formed a biofilm. Of further interest was the loss of the gelatinase phenotype (18.9% of isolates) from SP isolates after 4 month storage at 4–8°C and several passages of subculture. Results of reverse transcription PCR analysis indicated that mRNA was produced for all the genes in the frs operon and sequencing of the gelE gene did not reveal any significant mutations. However, gelatinase was not detectable by Western blot analysis. Our study shows that E. faecalis with the complete fsr operon and the potential to form a biofilm are relatively common in the agricultural environment and may represent a source/reservoir of clinically relevant strains. In addition, many environmental enterococci, especially E. hirae, produce an unknown WP that can hydrolyse casein but does not contribute to biofilm formation. The stability of the gelatinase phenotype in E. faecalis and its regulation will require additional studies.
Long‐term failure and function after restorative proctocolectomy – a multi‐centre study of patients from the UK national ileal pouch registry
Authors: Tekkis P. P. , Lovegrove R. E. , Tilney H. S. , Smith J. J. , Sagar P. M. , Shorthouse A. J. , Mortensen N. J. , Nicholls R. J.
Published: February 2009

Objective  There is little information on the long‐term failure and function after restorative proctocolectomy (RPC). The results of data submitted to a national registry were analysed.

Method  The UK National Pouch Registry was established in 2004. By 2006, it comprised data collected from ten centres between 1976 and 2006. The long‐term failure and functional outcome were determined. Trends over time were assessed using the gamma statistic or the Kruskal–Wallis statistic wherever appropriate.

Results  In all, 2491 patients underwent primary RPC over a median of 54 months (range 1 month to 28.9 years). Of these, 127 (5.1%) underwent abdominal salvage surgery. The incidence of failure (excision or indefinite diversion) was 7.7% following primary and 27.5% following salvage RPC (P < 0.001). The median frequency of defaecation/24 h was five including one at night. Nocturnal seepage occurred in 8% at 1 year, rising to 15.4% at 20 years (P = 0.037). Urgency was experienced by 5.1% of patients at 1 year rising to 9.1% at 15 years (P = 0.022). Stool frequency and the need for antidiarrhoeal medication were greater following salvage RPC.

Conclusion  In patients retaining anal function after RPC, frequency of defaecation was stable over 20 years. Faecal urgency and minor incontinence worsened with time. Function after salvage RPC was significantly worse.
Spermiogenesis and spermatozoon ultrastructure of the davaineid cestode Raillietina micracantha (Fuhrmann, 1909)
Authors: Miquel Jordi , Torres Jordi , Foronda Pilar , Feliu Carlos
Published: February 2009

Miquel, J., Torres, J., Foronda, P. and Feliu, C. 2010. Spermiogenesis and spermatozoon ultrastructure of the davaineid cestode Raillietina micracantha. — Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 91: 212–221

The spermiogenesis and the ultrastructural organization of the spermatozoon of the davaineid cestode Raillietina micracantha are described by means of transmission electron microscopy. Spermiogenesis begins with the formation of a zone of differentiation containing two centrioles. One of the centrioles develops a free flagellum that later fuses with a cytoplasmic extension. The nucleus migrates along the spermatid body after the proximodistal fusion of the flagellum and the cytoplasmic extension. During advanced stages of spermiogenesis a periaxonemal sheath and intracytoplasmic walls appear in the spermatids. Spermiogenesis finishes with the appearance of two helicoidal crested bodies at the base of spermatids and, finally, the narrowing of the ring of arched membranes detaches the fully formed spermatozoon. The mature spermatozoon of R. micracantha is a long and filiform cell, tapered at both ends, which lacks mitochondria. It exhibits two crested bodies of different lengths, one axoneme of the 9 + ‘1’ pattern of trepaxonematan Platyhelminthes, twisted cortical microtubules, a periaxonemal sheath, intracytoplasmic walls, granules of glycogen and a spiralled nucleus. The anterior extremity of the spermatozoon is characterized by the presence of an electron‐dense apical cone and two spiralled crested bodies while the posterior extremity of the male gamete exhibits only the axoneme and an electron‐dense posterior tip.
A shortening of the manus precedes the attenuation of other wing‐bone elements in the evolution of flightlessness in birds
Authors: Nudds R. L. , Davidson J. Slove
Published: February 2009

Nudds, R. L. and Slove Davidson, J. 2010. A shortening of the manus precedes the attenuation of other wing‐bone elements in the evolution of flightlessness in birds. —Acta Zoologica(Stockholm)91: 115–122

This is the first study to present evidence for a general pattern of wing‐bone attenuation during the early stages of the evolution of flightlessness. A comparative analysis using phylogenetic independent contrasts showed that in families that contain both flighted (volant) and flightless species, the volant species have shorter wings and total‐arm (humerus + ulna + manus) lengths relative to their body masses than the species within their wholly volant sister families. A shortening of the manus may typify the early stages of the evolution of flightlessness, with the humerus and ulna attenuating later, perhaps because of their role in maintaining the position of the aerodynamically important alula. A shorter wing relative to body mass was not the result of the inverse (i.e. heavier body mass relative to wing length) because mean body masses of volant members of flightless families were similar to or lower than those of their wholly volant sister families. Despite finding a common trend in the wing morphologies of volant members of flightless families, it seems unlikely that a general model of selection pressures driving the evolution of flightlessness exists. At the very least, a dichotomy between those birds that have lost the ability to fly in order to gain the ability to swim and terrestrial forms, may persist.
Biodiversity and distribution of epibiontic communities on Caridina ensifera (Crustacea, Decapoda, Atyidae) from Lake Poso: comparison with another ancient lake system of Sulawesi (Indonesia)
Authors: Fernandez‐Leborans Gregorio , Von Rintelen Kristina
Published: February 2009

Fernandez‐Leborans, G. and von Rintelen, K. 2010. Biodiversity and distribution of epibiontic communities on Caridina ensifera (Crustacea, Decapoda, Atyidae) from Lake Poso: comparison with another ancient lake system of Sulawesi (Indonesia). — Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 91: 163–175

The epibiont communities of the shrimp Caridina ensifera, endemic to Lake Poso (Sulawesi, Indonesia), were analysed. Most of the epibiont species were ciliated protozoa belonging to three suctorian genera (Acineta, Podophrya and Spelaeophrya), three peritrich genera (Zoothamnium, Vorticella and Cothurnia), and a haptorid genus (Amphileptus). There was also a rotifer epibiont of the genus Embata. Epibionts were identified to species level. There were 14 to 1114 epibionts per shrimp. The distribution of the epibiont species on the surface of the basibiont was recorded, calculating the number on the different colonized individuals of C. ensifera. The most abundant species, Zoothamnium intermedium and Acineta sulawesiensis, were also the most widely distributed. There was a significant difference between the spatial distributions of the different epibiont species. The analysis of the number of the epibiont species throughout the anteroposterior axis of the shrimp showed a gradient from the anterior to the posterior end of the body. Data from Lake Poso were compared with those of the Malili lake system (Sulawesi), obtained from its endemic shrimp, Caridina lanceolata. Lake Poso had the highest mean diversity, while Lake Mahalona showed the highest maximum diversity. All lakes were correlated with respect to the mean number of epibionts on the anatomical units of the shrimp, which showed a similar general distribution. The distributions of the different epibiont species were compared between the lakes. The possible adaptations of the epibionts as well as the colonization patterns were discussed. From the statistical results and the analysis of the distributions, we propose that in these communities epibiont species have a pattern of colonization in which they follow a behaviour as a whole; each species has a differential distribution, with the species occupying the available substratum with the particular requirements of each functional group, but there is a trend towards maintaining an equilibrium among species and groups, compensating for diversity and number of individuals. In all lakes there was an epibiont distribution model comprising the maintenance of an anteroposterior axis gradient, which was supported by the fluctuation in diversity and number of individuals of the different functional groups of epibiont species. The functional role of the different groups of species seems to tend towards sustainability with little global variation among the lakes.
Organizational Ambidexterity: Towards a Multilevel Understanding
Authors: Simsek Zeki
Published: February 2009

abstract

Although interest in the concept of organizational ambidexterity has increased during recent years, this line of inquiry remains unfocused and limited due to a lack of more encompassing conceptual efforts. As a first step, we begin by critically reviewing previous research on the conceptualization, antecedents, and consequences of ambidexterity. We then offer a model that specifies a more encompassing, multilevel explanation of ambidexterity. Finally, we trace research and managerial implications and suggest some potential research avenues.
Atypical brain responses to sounds in children with specific language and reading impairments
Authors: McArthur Genevieve , Atkinson Carmen , Ellis Danielle
Published: February 2009

This study tested if children with specific language impairment (SLI) or children with specific reading disability (SRD) have abnormal brain responses to sounds. We tested 6‐ to 12‐year‐old children with SLI (N =19), children with SRD (N =55), and age‐matched controls (N =36) for their passive auditory event‐related potentials (ERPs) to tones, rapid tones, vowels and consonant‐vowels. Thirty‐eight percent of the children with SLI or SRD had less typical passive auditory ERPs in the N1–P2 window to sounds in general, rather than to tones, rapid tones, vowels or consonant‐vowels specifically. The ERPs of these children were significantly ‘flatter’ in the N1–P2 region than normal. All the children with flatter ERPs in the N1–P2 region had poor non‐word reading. A subgroup of these poor non‐word readers also had poor non‐word repetition. These findings support the hypothesis that impaired auditory processing is a causal risk factor for both SLI and SRD.
Differences in the neural mechanisms of selective attention in children from different socioeconomic backgrounds: an event‐related brain potential study
Authors: Stevens Courtney , Lauinger Brittni , Neville Helen
Published: February 2009

Previous research indicates that children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds show deficits in aspects of attention, including a reduced ability to filter irrelevant information and to suppress prepotent responses. However, less is known about the neural mechanisms of group differences in attention, which could reveal the stages of processing at which attention deficits arise. The present study examined this question using an event‐related brain potential (ERP) measure of selective auditory attention. Thirty‐two children aged from 3 to 8 years participated in the study. Children were cued to attend selectively to one of two simultaneously presented narrative stories. The stories differed in location (left/right speaker), narration voice (male/female), and content. ERPs were recorded to linguistic and non‐linguistic probe stimuli embedded in the attended and unattended stories. Children whose mothers had lower levels of educational attainment (no college experience) showed reduced effects of selective attention on neural processing relative to children whose mothers had higher levels of educational attainment (at least some college). These differences occurred by 100 milliseconds after probe onset. Furthermore, the differences were related specifically to a reduced ability to filter irrelevant information (i.e. to suppress the response to sounds in the unattended channel) among children whose mothers had lower levels of education. These data provide direct evidence for differences in the earliest stages of processing within neural systems mediating selective attention in children from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Results are discussed in the context of intervention programs aimed at improving attention and self‐regulation abilities in children at‐risk for school failure.
The shift in infant preferences for vowel duration and pitch contour between 6 and 10 months of age
Authors: Kitamura Christine , Notley Anna
Published: February 2009

This study investigates the influence of the acoustic properties of vowels on 6‐ and 10‐month‐old infants’ speech preferences. The shape of the contour (bell or monotonic) and the duration (normal or stretched) of vowels were manipulated in words containing the vowels /i/ and /u/, and presented to infants using a two‐choice preference procedure. Experiment 1 examined contour shape: infants heard either normal‐duration bell‐shaped and monotonic contours, or the same two contours with stretched duration. The results show that 6‐month‐olds preferred bell to monotonic contours, whereas 10‐month‐olds preferred monotonic to bell contours. In Experiment 2, infants heard either normal‐duration and stretched bell contours, or normal‐duration and stretched monotonic contours. As in Experiment 1, infants showed age‐specific preferences, with 6‐month‐olds preferring stretched vowels, and 10‐month‐olds preferring normal‐duration vowels. Infants’ attention to the acoustic qualities of vowels, and to speech in general, undergoes a dramatic transformation in the final months of the first year, a transformation that aligns with the emergence of other developmental milestones in speech perception.
Cross‐sectional survey methods to assess retrospectively mortality in humanitarian emergencies
Authors: Cairns K. Lisa , Woodruff Bradley A. , Myatt Mark , Bartlett Linda , Goldberg Howard , Roberts Les
Published: February 2009

Since the rates and causes of mortality are critical indicators of the overall health of a population, it is important to evaluate mortality even where no complete vital statistics reporting exists. Such settings include humanitarian emergencies. Experience in cross‐sectional survey methods to assess retrospectively crude, age‐specific, and maternal mortality in stable settings has been gained over the past 40 years, and methods appropriate to humanitarian emergencies have been developed. In humanitarian emergencies, crude and age‐specific mortality can be gauged using methods based on the enumeration of individuals resident in randomly selected households—frequently referred to as a household census. Under‐five mortality can also be assessed through a modified prior birth history method in which a representative sample of reproductive‐aged women are questioned about dates of child births and deaths. Maternal mortality can be appraised via the initial identification of maternal deaths in the study population and a subsequent investigation to determine the cause of each death.
Children and fighting forces: 10 years on from Cape Town
Authors: Stark Lindsay , Boothby Neil , Ager Alastair
Published: February 2009

It is 10 years since the adoption of the Cape Town Principles and Best Practices on the Prevention of Recruitment of Children into the Armed Forces and on Demobilization and Social Reintegration of Child Soldiers in Africa. The field of programming for the reintegration of children associated with armed forces and armed groups has made significant strides in this period. However, important gaps in the knowledge base remain. This paper examines empirical evidence that supports lessons learned from work with children formerly connected with fighting forces. It evaluates what is known, where promising practice exists, and lacunae in five programming areas: psychosocial support and care; community acceptance; education, training and livelihoods; inclusive programming for all war‐affected children; and follow‐up and monitoring. While the 2007 Paris Commitments to Protect Children from Unlawful Recruitment or Use by Armed Forces or Groups mark an emerging consensus on many issues, there is still a critical need for more systematic studies to develop the evidence base supporting intervention in this area.
Exploring Factors Influencing Incumbents' Response to Disruptive Innovation
Authors: Sandström Christian , Magnusson Mats , Jörnmark Jan
Published: February 2009

This paper explores how certain incumbent characteristics influence an established firm's response to disruptive innovation. More specifically, it looks at the challenges a middle size, top segment company faced and how this affected its reaction to the disruptive threat. This is done by conducting an in‐depth case study of Hasselblad, a manufacturer of professional cameras. It can be seen in this case study that Hasselblad's limited resources and its niche strategy affected how it managed the transition from analogue to digital camera technology. These characteristics made it difficult to allow experimentation with digital imaging in the main business since the available resources were severely limited and this initially inferior technology could harm the brand image. Instead, Hasselblad pursued collaborations and eventually launched a hybrid camera, which was compatible both with film and digital backs but did not become the expected success. Being close to bankruptcy, the digital resources needed were acquired and the company eventually survived the disruption. In conclusion, this paper argues that the managerial challenges and solutions to the innovator's dilemma depend upon the particular characteristics of incumbents and that this heterogeneity has not been sufficiently captured by previous literature. It also suggests that medium size, top segment firms can survive disruptive innovation through collaboration and acquisitions.
Re‐orienting the Corporate Entrepreneurial Journey: Exploring the Role of Middle Management
Authors: Lassen Astrid Heidemann , Waehrens Brian Vejrum , Boer Harry
Published: February 2009

In this article we report research on the implementation of an increased exploitative market orientation in explorative technology‐driven firms, and how the interaction between middle management and the internal context shapes this process. It appears that middle managers play an important role in balancing planned and emergent activities, reconciling market and technological understandings, and negotiating and sanctioning ideas. These roles do not happen automatically. Dominant logics, mindsets and meanings, developed and successful in the past, ‘talk back’. Managerial systems and processes supporting the transition to more and more successful market exploitation are not automatically accepted. Rather, all these and similar changes need to be socially negotiated. In that process, the opportunities and incentives for middle managers to reach beyond their formal job and to engage in the organizational sense‐making process play a key role.