bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theism and Hypertheism
Authors: Laird John
Published: August 2011

Theists, I suppose, are persons who believe in “God's” existence. Atheists are persons who deny the same.

Such statements may be suitable, and even adequate, for many proper purposes. In several contexts it is silly or malicious to interrogate them closely. Even in theology, which is, or should be, some kind of science, they may have, and they do have, their use and their propriety. For many theological purposes, however (and also for some others) they are far too vague. It may be wrong, no doubt, to tell a theologian that he must either produce an accurate definition of what he means by “God” or be forever shamed.
“The Way of All Flesh”
Authors: Ogle Marbury B.
Published: August 2011

This paper is not, as the title would seem to imply, a discussion of Butler's famous novel, nor does it attempt to answer the question where Butler found the phrase. It may well be doubted indeed whether the novelist himself could have given us an exact reference to his source, since the phrase, as a euphemism for the dread word “death,” is one of those winged utterances which come into one's mind without a definite perception whence or how or when. English literature at least seems to furnish comparatively few examples of its use and the writers who do employ it, if we except Dickens who, in one of the stories in Sketches by Boz, makes Mr. Parsons remark that his wife's father “allowed us something to live on till he went the way of all flesh,” are not such as are commonly read. Moreover it is clear that the phrase was generally familiar before the date of its earliest appearance in our literature. This was in the year 1607, in the play Westward Ho, by Dekker and Webster, II, 2, where one of the characters remarks, “I saw him even now going the way of all flesh, that's to say, towards the kitchen.” This remark would have been without point, had the phrase not been in common use with a more serious connotation.
Minimum prey and area requirements of the Vulnerable cheetahAcinonyx jubatus: implications for reintroduction and management of the species in South Africa
Authors: Lindsey P. , Tambling C.J. , Brummer R. , Davies-Mostert H. , Hayward M. , Marnewick K. , Parker D.
Published: August 2011

In South Africa there are efforts to manage reintroduced subpopulations of the Vulnerable cheetahAcinonyx jubatusin small reserves (10–1,000 km2) as a managed metapopulation. We estimated areas required to support cheetahs given varying prey densities, prey profiles and presence/absence of competing predators. A recent population and habitat viability assessment indicated that 20 subpopulations of 10 cheetahs or 10 subpopulations of 15 cheetahs are required to retain 90% of the heterozygosity of free-ranging cheetahs and to overcome stochastic events in the absence or presence of lionsPanthera leo, respectively. We estimate that 203 ± SE 42 km2(range 48–466 km2) is required to support 10 cheetahs in the absence of lions, whereas 703 ± SE 311 km2(166–2,806 km2) is required to support 15 cheetahs given equal numbers of lions, and 2,424 ± SE 890 km2(727–3,739 km2) given equal numbers of leopardsPanthera pardus, spotted hyaenasCrocuta crocuta, wild dogsLycaon pictusand lions. Existing subpopulations of cheetahs generally occur at densities higher than our mean predicted densities but usually within the range of predicted densities. The large area requirements of cheetahs have implications for the development of the managed metapopulation. Sourcing reintroduction sites of the sizes required to support recommended subpopulation sizes will be difficult. Consequently, innovative measures to increase the carrying capacity of reserves for cheetahs and/or to enlarge reserves will be required. Managers may be forced to stock cheetahs close to or beyond the carrying capacity of their reserves. Consequently, careful management of reintroduced subpopulations will be required to prevent declines in prey populations.
JaguarsPanthera oncain the Greater Lacandona Ecosystem, Chiapas, Mexico: population estimates and future prospects
Authors: de la Torre J. Antonio , Medellín Rodrigo A.
Published: August 2011

JaguarPanthera oncapopulations have declined severely in Mexico because of habitat loss and poaching of the species and its natural prey. One of the most important, but poorly known, populations of the jaguar remaining in Mexico resides in the Greater Lacandona Ecosystem in Chiapas. Our objective was to determine the density of jaguars in southern Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve and to estimate population size inside the Natural Protected Areas of this Ecosystem. Jaguar densities were estimated during the dry and rainy seasons of 2007 and the dry season of 2008 using camera-trapping combined with closed capture-recapture models. The lowest density estimate was recorded during the 2007 dry season (1.7 ± SE 0.7 per 100 km2) and the highest during the 2008 rainy season (4.6 ± SE 1.6 per 100 km2). Estimating the extent of potential jaguar habitat in the Natural Protected Areas and extrapolating density estimates to these reserves indicates that they could support 62–168 jaguars. This result highlights the potential importance of this Ecosystem for the conservation of the jaguar in the Mayan Forest and Mexico. The implementation of measures to secure the long-term conservation of this population and jaguar population connectivity in the Mayan Forest is urgently required.
High-Resolution Imaging of Dried and Living Single Bacterial Cell Surfaces: Artifact or Not?
Authors: Greif Dominik , Wesner Daniel , Anselmetti Dario , Regtmeier Jan
Published: August 2011

When studying highly resolved scanning electron microscope images of cell surfaces, the question arises, whether the observed patterns are real or just artifacts of the cell preparation process. The following steps are usually necessary for preparation: fixation, drying, and metal coating. Each step might introduce different artifacts. Clever techniques have been developed to dry cells as gently as possible, for example critical point drying with different organic solvents and CO2. Instrument manufacturers also have taken account of this issue, for example, through the realization of the environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM), operating with a low-vacuum environment saturated with water so that samples might stay hydrated. Another approach is the extreme high-resolution scanning electron microscope (XHR SEM), where the electron beam is decelerated shortly before reaching the sample. This technique requires no metal coating of the sample. Cryo-SEM also may be used, where no sample preparation is required beyond freezing in a high-pressure freezer or other cryo-fixation device. Then the cell can be examined in the frozen, hydrated state using a cryostage. However, at least some kind of preparation is necessary for SEM imaging, and we wanted to find out what changes the preparation makes on the cell surface.
Standards-Based Quantification in DTSA-II—Part I
Authors: Ritchie Nicholas W.M.
Published: August 2011

Quantifying an X-ray spectrum is the process of converting a measured spectrum into an estimate of the composition of the material from which the spectrum was collected. In a certain sense, interpreting X-ray spectra is very simple. A spectrum from even the most complex material can be thought of as a sum of spectra from the constituent elements (see Figure 1). To first approximation, if you know the spectrum for the constituent pure elements, you can estimate the spectrum for the complex material. Regardless of the software vendor or the name of the algorithm, this is the basis for quantification of all X-ray spectra.
Calendar
Authors: Webster Paul
Published: August 2011

Following is a list of microscopy related meetings and courses. The editors would greatly appreciate input to this list via the electronic submission form under “events/other microscopy events” at the MSA webpage: www.msa.microscopy.com. We will gladly add hypertext links to the notice on the web and insert a listing of the meeting in the next issue.
Apathy and Its Nonpharmacological Treatment in Dementia
Authors: Treusch Y. , Page J. , Niemann-Mirmehdi M. , Gutzmann H. , Heinz A. , Rapp M.
Published: August 2011

Apathy is the most common behavioral symptom in Alzheimer’s disease. Apathy has been defined as a state characterized by simultaneous diminution in the overt behavioral, cognitive, and emotional concomitants of goal-directed behavior. In that sense, apathy refers to impairments in motor, cognitive, and emotional functions. To date, there is little empirical foundation for how these three levels interact in patients suffering from apathy. We describe here neurobiological foundations as well as clinical correlations between the severity of apathy and impairments in motor, cognitive, and emotional functions. Furthermore, we present a literature review of the nonpharmacological treatment options of apathy in dementia. We suggest that focusing on the motor, cognitive, and emotional aspects of apathy may help to implement successful treatment strategies. Multimodal, individualized approaches, including the use of physical activation and biography-based information to motivate dementia patients, seem to be of high relevance.
Increased responsiveness in feeding behaviour ofCaenorhabditis elegansafter experimental coevolution with its microparasiteBacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Schulte Rebecca D. , Hasert Barbara , Makus Carsten , Michiels Nico K. , Schulenburg Hinrich
Published: August 2011

Immune responses, either constitutive or induced, are costly. An alternative defence strategy may be based on behavioural responses. For example, avoidance behaviour reduces contact with pathogens and thus the risk of infection as well as the requirement of immune system activation. Similarly, if pathogens are taken up orally, preferential feeding of pathogen-free food may be advantageous. Behavioural defences have been found in many animals, including the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans. We here tested nematodes from a laboratory based evolution experiment which had either coevolved with their microparasiteBacillus thuringiensis(BT) or evolved under control conditions. After 48 generations, coevolved populations were more sensitive to food conditions: in comparison with the controls, they reduced feeding activity in the presence of pathogenic BT strains while at the same time increasing it in the presence of non-pathogenic strains. We conclude that host–parasite coevolution can drive changes in the behavioural responsiveness to bacterial microbes, potentially leading to an increased defence against pathogens.
Embryonic exposure to conspecific chemicals suppresses cane toad growth and survival
Authors: Crossland Michael R. , Shine Richard
Published: August 2011

Adaptations to suppress the viability of conspecifics may provide novel ways to control invasive taxa. The spread of cane toads (
Rhinella marina
) through tropical Australia has had severe ecological impacts, stimulating a search for biocontrol. Our experiments show that cane toad tadpoles produce waterborne chemical cues that suppress the viability of conspecifics encountering those cues during embryonic development. Brief (72 h) exposure to these cues in the egg and post-hatching phases massively reduced rates of survival and growth of larvae. Body sizes at metamorphosis (about three weeks later) were almost twice as great in control larvae as in tadpole-exposed larvae. The waterborne cue responsible for these effects might provide a weapon to reduce toad recruitment within the species' invaded range.
Stochastic properties of the plant circadian clock
Authors: Guerriero Maria Luisa , Pokhilko Alexandra , Fernández Aurora Piñas , Halliday Karen J. , Millar Andrew J. , Hillston Jane
Published: August 2011

Circadian clocks are gene regulatory networks whose role is to help the organisms to cope with variations in environmental conditions such as the day/night cycle. In this work, we explored the effects of molecular noise in single cells on the behaviour of the circadian clock in the plant model species
Arabidopsis thaliana
. The computational modelling language Bio-PEPA enabled us to give a stochastic interpretation of an existing deterministic model of the clock, and to easily compare the results obtained via stochastic simulation and via numerical solution of the deterministic model. First, the introduction of stochasticity in the model allowed us to estimate the unknown size of the system. Moreover, stochasticity improved the description of the available experimental data in several light conditions: noise-induced fluctuations yield a faster entrainment of the plant clock under certain photoperiods and are able to explain the experimentally observed dampening of the oscillations in plants under constant light conditions. The model predicts that the desynchronization between noisy oscillations in single cells contributes to the observed damped oscillations at the level of the cell population. Analysis of the phase, period and amplitude distributions under various light conditions demonstrated robust entrainment of the plant clock to light/dark cycles which closely matched the available experimental data.
Xamoterol impairs hippocampus-dependent emotional memory retrieval via Gi/o-coupled β2-adrenergic signaling
Authors: Schutsky Keith , Ouyang Ming , Thomas Steven A.
Published: August 2011

Xamoterol, a partial β1-adrenergic receptor agonist, has been reported to impair the retrieval of hippocampus-dependent spatial reference memory in rats. In contrast, xamoterol restores memory retrieval in gene-targeted mice lacking norepinephrine (NE) and in a transgenic mouse model of Down syndrome in which NE levels are reduced. Restoration of retrieval by xamoterol in these two models complements the observation that NE and β1 signaling are required for hippocampus-dependent retrieval of contextual and spatial reference memory in wild-type mice and rats. Additional evidence indicates that cAMP-mediated PKA and Epac signaling are required for the retrieval of hippocampus-dependent memory. As a result, we hypothesized that xamoterol has effects in addition to the stimulation of β1 receptors that, at higher doses, act to counter the effects of β1 signaling. Here we report that xamoterol-induced disruption of memory retrieval depends on β2-adrenergic receptor signaling. Interestingly, the impairment of memory retrieval by xamoterol is blocked by pretreatment with pertussis toxin, an uncoupling agent for Gi/o signaling, suggesting that β2 signaling opposes β1 signaling during memory retrieval at the level of G protein and cAMP signaling. Finally, similar to the time-dependent roles for NE, β1, and cAMP signaling in hippocampus-dependent memory retrieval, xamoterol only impairs retrieval for several days after training, indicating that its effects are also limited by the age of the memory. We conclude that the disruption of memory retrieval by xamoterol is mediated by Gi/o-coupled β2 signaling, which opposes the Gs-coupled β1 signaling that is transiently required for hippocampus-dependent emotional memory retrieval.
Labeling Mitochondria with JC-1
Authors: Chazotte Brad
Published: August 2011

INTRODUCTION

JC-1 (5,5′,6,6′-tetrachloro1,1′,3,3′-tetramethylbenzimidazolylcarbocyanine iodide) dye has been used to monitor mitochondrial potential. The monomeric form has an emission maximum of ∼529 nm. The dye at higher concentrations or potentials forms red fluorescent J-aggregates with an emission maximum at 590 nm. The ratio of this green/red fluorescence is independent of mitochondrial shape, density, or size, but depends only on the membrane potential. It has been used to study whether all mitochondria in the same cell are at the same potential and whether membrane potential in a single long mitochondrion is uniform. JC-1 has also been useful in flow-cytometry studies, because the membrane potential can be followed without the need for confocal microscopy. This protocol describes the labeling of mitochondria in cultured cells with JC-1.
Preparation of Cuticles from Unhatched First-Instar Drosophila Larvae
Authors: Stern David L. , Sucena Elio
Published: August 2011

INTRODUCTION

The finely sculpted cuticle of Drosophila carries a rich array of morphological details. Thus, cuticle examination has had a central role in the history of genetics. Studies of the Drosophila cuticle have focused mainly on first-instar larvae and adult cuticular morphology. This protocol describes the preparation of cuticles from larvae that have not yet hatched from the egg. It is designed for sampling all eggs laid by one or more females. This can be particularly useful, for example, when a mutation produces embryos that are unable to hatch from the egg.
Single-Particle Virus Tracking
Authors: Rust Michael J. , Lakadamyali Melike , Brandenburg Boerries , Zhuang Xiaowei
Published: August 2011

INTRODUCTION

Real-time, live-cell imaging techniques and single-particle tracking algorithms can be used to follow individual virus particles as they infect cells. This protocol describes the use of one or more fluorescent markers to perform single-particle virus-tracking experiments.
Photoacoustic Imaging
Authors: Zhang Yin , Hong Hao , Cai Weibo
Published: August 2011

INTRODUCTION

Photoacoustic imaging, which is based on the photoacoustic effect, has developed extensively over the last decade. Possessing many attractive characteristics such as the use of nonionizing electromagnetic waves, good resolution and contrast, portable instrumention, and the ability to partially quantitate the signal, photoacoustic techniques have been applied to the imaging of cancer, wound healing, disorders in the brain, and gene expression, among others. As a promising structural, functional, and molecular imaging modality for a wide range of biomedical applications, photoacoustic imaging can be categorized into two types of systems: photoacoustic tomography (PAT), which is the focus of this article, and photoacoustic microscopy (PAM). We first briefly describe the endogenous (e.g., hemoglobin and melanin) and the exogenous (e.g., indocyanine green [ICG], various gold nanoparticles, single-walled carbon nanotubes [SWNTs], quantum dots [QDs], and fluorescent proteins) contrast agents for photoacoustic imaging. Next, we discuss in detail the applications of nontargeted photoacoustic imaging. Recently, molecular photoacoustic (MPA) imaging has gained significant interest, and a few proof-of-principle studies have been reported. We summarize the current state of the art of MPA imaging, including the imaging of gene expression and the combination of photoacoustic imaging with other imaging modalities. Last, we point out obstacles facing photoacoustic imaging. Although photoacoustic imaging will likely continue to be a highly vibrant research field for years to come, the key question of whether MPA imaging could provide significant advantages over nontargeted photoacoustic imaging remains to be answered in the future.
Single-Virus Tracking in Live Cells
Authors: Rust Michael J. , Lakadamyali Melike , Brandenburg Boerries , Zhuang Xiaowei
Published: August 2011

INTRODUCTION

Real-time, live-cell imaging techniques and single-particle tracking algorithms can be used to follow individual virus particles as they infect cells. This article describes the labeling of viruses and cellular structures with fluorescent probes to allow visualization in live cells. It also discusses how virus trajectories and virus–cell interactions can be imaged and analyzed. Methods used for time-lapse imaging are outlined, as are inhibitors and reagents used to study the role of the cellular machinery during viral infection. Algorithms for tracking virus particles and obtaining quantitative measurements of viral transport and virus–cell interactions are also included.
Desensitization regimens for drug allergy: state of the art in the 21st century
Authors: Liu A. , Fanning L. , Chong H. , Fernandez J. , Sloane D. , Sancho‐Serra M. , Castells M.
Published: August 2011

Adverse reactions to drugs are increasingly being recognized as important contributions to disease in their own right as well as impediments to the best treatment of various conditions, including infectious, autoimmune, and neoplastic maladies. Rapid drug desensitization (RDD) is an effective mechanism for safely administering important medications while minimizing or entirely circumventing such adverse reactions in sensitized patients. We reviewed the literature on RDD in the last 10 years, including our experience from the Brigham and Women's Hospital Desensitization Program with hundreds of patients desensitized to a broad variety of drugs. RDD in our programme has been uniformly successful in patients with hypersensitivity reactions to antibiotics, chemotherapeutics, and monoclonal antibodies. Any reactions that occur during desensitization are generally much less severe than the initial hypersensitivity reaction to the drug, and patients have received the full dose of the desired medication 99.9% of the time out of (796) desensitizations. To date, there have been no fatalities. RDD is a safe and highly effective method for treating sensitized patients with the optimal pharmacologic agents. Its use should be expanded, but because patient safety is paramount, protocols must be created, reviewed, and overseen by allergist–immunologists with special training and experience in modern techniques of desensitization.

Cite this as: A. Liu, L. Fanning, H. Chong, J. Fernandez, D. Sloane, M. Sancho‐Serra and M. Castells, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 1679–1689.
A protective role for periostin and TGF‐β in IgE‐mediated allergy and airway hyperresponsiveness
Authors: Gordon E. D. , Sidhu S. S. , Wang Z.‐E. , Woodruff P. G. , Yuan S. , Solon M. C. , Conway S. J. , Huang X. , Locksley R. M. , Fahy J. V.
Published: August 2011

Background

The pathophysiology of asthma involves allergic inflammation and remodelling in the airway and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) to cholinergic stimuli, but many details of the specific underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Periostin is a matricellular protein with roles in tissue repair following injury in both the skin and heart. It has recently been shown to be up‐regulated in the airway epithelium of asthmatics and to increase active TGF‐β. Though one might expect periostin to play a deleterious role in asthma pathogenesis, to date its biological role in the airway is unknown.

Objective

To determine the effect of periostin deficiency on airway responses to inhaled allergen.

Methods

In vivo measures of airway responsiveness, inflammation, and remodelling were made in periostin deficient mice and wild‐type controls following repeated intranasal challenge with Aspergillus fumigatus antigen. In vitro studies of the effects of epithelial cell‐derived periostin on murine T cells were also performed.

Results

Surprisingly, compared with wild‐type controls, periostin deficient mice developed increased AHR and serum IgE levels following allergen challenge without differences in two outcomes of airway remodelling (mucus metaplasia and peribronchial fibrosis). These changes were associated with decreased expression of TGF‐β1 and Foxp3 in the lungs of periostin deficient mice. Airway epithelial cell‐derived periostin‐induced conversion of CD4+ CD25− cells into CD25+, Foxp3+ T cells in vitro in a TGF‐β dependent manner.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Allergen‐induced increases in serum IgE and bronchial hyperresponsiveness are exaggerated in periostin deficient mice challenged with inhaled aeroallergen. The mechanism of periostin's effect as a brake on allergen‐induced responses may involve augmentation of TGF‐β‐induced T regulatory cell differentiation.
Allergenic activity of different tomato cultivars in tomato allergic subjects
Authors: Dölle S. , Lehmann K. , Schwarz D. , Weckwert W. , Scheler C. , George E. , Franken P. , Worm M.
Published: August 2011

Background

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are consumed worldwide and their amount of consumption is associated with the prevalence of tomato allergy. Therefore, identification of tomato cultivars with reduced allergenicity would potentially increase the quality of life of affected subjects.

Objective

In this study, we examined the allergenic and biological activity of two different tomato cultivars in tomato allergic subjects.

Methods

Twenty‐five subjects with tomato allergy were identified using double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenges (DBPCFC). We applied skin prick test (SPT) and further DBPCFC to investigate the clinical differences between two tomato cultivars (‘Reisetomate’ and ‘Matina’). To examine the molecular basis of allergenic activity, immunoblotting and basophil activation test (BAT) were performed.

Results

The cultivar ‘Reisetomate’ induced significantly less positive skin reactions (P = 0.045) and elicited fewer symptoms after oral challenge compared with ‘Matina’ (P = 0.047). Molecular assessment revealed that IgE‐binding profiles were variable on an interindividual basis, but no major differences between ‘Reisetomate’ and ‘Matina’ were detectable. In contrast, BAT underpinned the clinical differences evoked by the different tomato cultivars and showed a left‐shift of the dose‐response curve obtained for ‘Matina’ extract (P = 0.046).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Tomato cultivars promote a distinct clinical reactivity in tomato allergic subjects, demonstrated using SPT, DBPCFC and BAT. The molecular background for these differences could not be clarified, as the IgE‐binding profiles did not reveal significant alterations. This might be due to instabilities of physicochemical sensitive proteins and/or different isoform expression of allergens.
Long‐term growth patterns in a pond‐dwelling population of crucian carp, Carassius carassius: environmental and density‐related factors
Authors: TARKAN A. S. , GAYGUSUZ Ö. , GODARD M. J. , COPP G. H.
Published: August 2011

Abstract  Scale samples from crucian carp, Carassius carassius (L.), collected over a 10‐year period from a population in an ornamental pond were used to examine patterns in growth as a function of environmental factors, including water temperatures. Back‐calculated standard lengths (SL) at age differed between year classes in most cases. Annual SL increments were related to temperature and age using a non‐linear growth model. Growth declined with increasing age, whereas annual SL increments increased with increasing water temperature. The best‐fit model was with the total number of summer days when air temperature exceeded 20 °C (using water temperature equivalents of air temperature). A growth model including water temperature, age, year class, relative condition and rainfall was a better fit than other models. Year‐class strength was positively correlated with water degree‐days, and year‐class strength negatively affected annual SL increments. The results indicate that within a strong year class of crucian carp, the growth of individual fish is reduced compared with weak year classes, suggesting that density negatively affects growth in ponds where resources are limited.
Preparing for hibernation in ground squirrels: adrenal androgen production in summer linked to environmental severity in winter
Authors: Boonstra Rudy , Bradley Adrian J. , Delehanty Brendan
Published: August 2011

1. At high latitudes, evolutionary adaptations focus on those that maximize survival, with hibernation being a major one used by many smaller mammals. Typically, mammalian hibernators overwinter in sites that are ≈0°C. However, in arctic regions, such sites do not exist, necessitating hibernation at sites well below 0°C. Lipid, the normal fuel of most hibernators, may not provide sufficient glucose needed by certain tissues to permit survival, with muscle breakdown being required. Critical to enhancing muscle stores are high concentrations of anabolic androgens prior to hibernation when the gonads are inactive.

2. We compare and contrast androgen levels in arctic ground squirrels (AGS) (Urocitellus parryii Richardson) from the Yukon and Columbian ground squirrel (CGS) (U. columbianus Ord) from southern Alberta.

3. In males, changes in testes mass over the active season were similar between AGS and CGS. In contrast, during the breeding and the nonbreeding, pre‐hibernation periods, androgen levels in AGS were 6–10 and 20–25 times, respectively, those of CGS. From the breeding to the pre‐hibernation periods, androgen levels declined 41% in AGS, but 86% in CGS. In females, androgen levels in AGS were high throughout the active season and, prior to hibernation, were 24 times those in CGS.

4. In pre‐hibernating AGS, we determined the source of these high androgen levels from two studies. First, using a hormonal challenge protocol to probe the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis, we found that androgen levels in both females and males decreased ≥10% in response to suppression by dexamethasone (an artificial glucocorticoid that inhibits ACTH release) and increased ≥18% in response to direct adrenal stimulation by adrenocorticorticotropic homone (ACTH). Second, by sequential hormonal injections in males of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) and of ACTH coupled with gonadectomy (GDX), followed by adrenalectomy (ADX), we found that GnRH had no effect, whereas ACTH stimulated androgen levels by >40%, both before and after GDX. After ADX, levels fell by 80%. Thus, the adrenals, not the gonads, are the source of these androgens.

5. We hypothesize that pre‐hibernating AGS have evolved a solution seen in no other known mammal: exploiting the benefits of high adrenal androgen levels prior to hibernation to build muscle that is then catabolized overwinter. The unknown is how AGS have mitigated the costs of these high androgen levels.
Litter diversity, fungal decomposers and litter decomposition under simulated stream intermittency
Authors: Bruder Andreas , Chauvet Eric , Gessner Mark O.
Published: August 2011

1. The drying of stream channels resulting from flow interruption is expected to increase as a consequence of climate change. Implications for aquatic organisms and processes are profound. We assessed whether riparian diversity can partially buffer against consequences of drying on fungal decomposers and leaf litter decomposition, an important ecosystem process.

2. Our central hypothesis was that during dry periods recalcitrant leaf litter with high water‐holding capacity would extend the window of opportunity for microbial activity in less recalcitrant litter when both litter types are mixed, and that this would lead to a positive litter diversity effect on decomposition. To test for such interactive effects, we conducted a diversity experiment in a Mediterranean stream, in which alder and oak litter, and a mixture of both, was subjected to various drying regimes differing in intensity and timing.

3. Drying regime affected both fungal decomposers and the decomposition rate of alder litter. Effects were observed both immediately and 3 weeks after stream flow resumed. Small differences in the timing of the dry period influenced both decomposition rate and measures of fungal performance (i.e. biomass and sporulation activity). Litter mixing, in contrast, had no effect on either decomposition or fungal decomposers, although mixing increased moisture retention in alder litter as required for the mechanism hypothesized to lead to a diversity effect.

4. Given the contrasting traits of the litter types used in the experiment, our results imply that riparian tree diversity is unlikely to buffer against increased frequencies of stream flow disruption expected in the face of climate change. It appears, however, that the precise timing of dry periods and high‐flow events will strongly influence the extent to which stream food webs can exploit the resources supplied by riparian vegetation in the form of leaf litter.
Comparison of two POLQ mutants reveals that a polymerase‐inactive POLQ retains significant function in tolerance to etoposide and γ‐irradiation in mouse B cells
Authors: Li Yingqian , Gao Xiang , Wang Ji‐Yang
Published: August 2011

DNA polymerase θ (POLQ) is a family A polymerase that contains an intrinsic helicase domain. POLQ has been implicated in tolerance to DNA damage but whether this depends solely on its polymerase domain remains unknown. In this study, we generated POLQ‐null CH12F3 B cells by gene targeting and compared their sensitivity to DNA‐damaging agents with previously established POLQ‐inactive CH12F3 cells in which only the polymerase core domain was deleted. Compared with WT cells, POLQ‐null and POLQ‐inactive cells exhibited similarly increased sensitivity to mitomycin C, cisplatin, and ultraviolet radiation, suggesting that tolerance to these DNA‐damaging agents depends largely on POLQ polymerase activity. Intriguingly, POLQ‐null cells exhibited higher sensitivity than did POLQ‐inactive cells to etoposide and γ‐irradiation, both of which induce double‐strand breaks (DSBs). This observation indicates that the polymerase‐deleted POLQ, expressed in POLQ‐inactive cells, retains significant function in tolerance to these agents. Class switch recombination of immunoglobulin genes, which involves repair of activation‐induced cytidine deaminase (AID)‐triggered DSBs, however, was unaffected in both POLQ‐null and POLQ‐inactive cells. These results suggest that the polymerase and other functional domains of POLQ both play important roles in tolerance to etoposide and γ‐irradiation but are dispensable for AID‐mediated class switch recombination.
Inferior alveolar nerve injury resulting from overextension of an endodontic sealer: non‐surgical management using the GABA analogue pregabalin
Authors: López‐López J. , Estrugo‐Devesa A. , Jané‐Salas E. , Segura‐Egea J. J.
Published: August 2011

López‐López J, Estrugo‐Devesa A, Jané‐Salas E, Segura‐Egea JJ. Inferior alveolar nerve injury resulting from overextension of an endodontic sealer: non‐surgical management using the GABA analogue pregabalin. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 98–104, 2012.

Aim  To describe a case of endodontic sealer (AH Plus) penetration within the mandibular canal after root canal treatment with resolution of pain and paraesthesia after a non‐surgical approach, including treatment with prednisone and pregabalin.

Summary  A 37‐year‐old woman underwent root canal treatment of the left mandibular second molar tooth. Postoperative periapical radiographs revealed the presence of radiopaque canal sealer in the mandibular canal. The day after, the patient reported severe pain in the tooth and paraesthesia/anaesthesia in the region innervated by the left inferior alveolar and mental nerve. Diagnosis of injury to the inferior alveolar nerve because of extrusion of AH Plus was established. The non‐surgical management included 1 mg kg−1 per day prednisone, two times per day, in a regimen on a daily basis, and 150 mg per day pregabalin, two doses per day, monitoring the progress with periodic follow‐up visits. One month after the incident, the signs and symptoms were gone.

Key learning points 

 This case illustrates the care required when performing root canal treatment, especially when the root apices are in close proximity to the inferior alveolar nerve canal.

 The complete resolution of paraesthesia and the control of pain achieved in the present case suggests that a non‐surgical approach combining prednisone and pregabalin is a good option in the management of the inferior alveolar when it is contacted by extruded root filling material.
A plastid protein NUS1 is essential for build‐up of the genetic system for early chloroplast development under cold stress conditions
Authors: Kusumi Kensuke , Sakata Chikako , Nakamura Takahiro , Kawasaki Shinji , Yoshimura Atsushi , Iba Koh
Published: August 2011

During early chloroplast differentiation, the regulation of the plastid genetic system including transcription and translation differs greatly from that in the mature chloroplast, suggesting the existence of a stage‐dependent mechanism that regulates the chloroplast genetic system during this period. The virescent‐1 (v1) mutant of rice (Oryza sativa) is temperature‐conditional and develops chlorotic leaves under low‐temperature conditions. We reported previously that leaf chlorosis in the v1 mutant is caused by blockage of the activation of the chloroplast genetic system during early leaf development. Here we identify the V1 gene, which encodes a chloroplast‐localized protein NUS1. Accumulation of NUS1 specifically occurred in the pre‐emerged immature leaves, and is enhanced by low‐temperature treatment. The C‐terminus of NUS1 shows structural similarity to the bacterial antitermination factor NusB, which is known to play roles in the regulation of ribosomal RNA transcription. The RNA‐immunoprecipitation and gel mobility shift assays indicated that NUS1 binds to several regions of chloroplast RNA including the upstream leader region of the 16S rRNA precursor. In the leaves of the NUS1‐deficient mutant, accumulation of chloroplast rRNA during early leaf development was impaired and chloroplast translation/transcription capacity was severely suppressed under low temperature. Our results suggest that NUS1 is involved in the regulation of chloroplast RNA metabolism and promotes the establishment of the plastid genetic system during early chloroplast development under cold stress conditions.
Evolutionary reduction of developmental plasticity in desert spadefoot toads
Authors: KULKARNI S. S. , GOMEZ‐MESTRE I. , MOSKALIK C. L. , STORZ B. L. , BUCHHOLZ D. R.
Published: August 2011

Organisms vary their rates of growth and development in response to environmental inputs. Such developmental plasticity may be adaptive and positively correlate with environmental heterogeneity. However, the evolution of developmental plasticity among closely related taxa is not well understood. To determine the evolutionary pattern of plasticity, we compared plasticity in time to and size at metamorphosis in response to water desiccation in tadpoles among spadefoot species that differ in breeding pond and larval period durations. Like most tadpoles, spadefoot tadpoles possess the remarkable ability to accelerate development in response to pond drying to avoid desiccation. Here, we hypothesize that desert spadefoot tadpoles have evolved reduced plasticity to avoid desiccation in ephemeral desert pools compared to their nondesert relatives that breed in long‐duration ponds. We recorded time to and size at metamorphosis following experimental manipulation of water levels and found that desert‐adapted species had much less plasticity in larval period and size at metamorphosis than nondesert species, which retain the hypothetical ancestral state of plasticity. Furthermore, we observed a correlation between degree of plasticity and fat body content that may provide mechanistic insights into the evolution of developmental plasticity in amphibians.
Fine mapping and identification of the soybean RSC4 resistance candidate gene to soybean mosaic virus
Authors: Wang Dagang , Ma Ying , Liu Ning , Yang Zhonglu , Zheng Guijie , Zhi Haijian
Published: August 2011

With 3 figures and 3 tables

Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) disease is one of the most destructive viral diseases for soybeans worldwide. In this study, 1047 F2 plants derived from ‘Dabaima’ (resistant) × ‘Nannong1138‐2’ (susceptible) were used to study inheritance and resistance gene linkage to SMV strain SC4. SSR were used to establish genetic maps of the parent plants, in addition to resistant or susceptible F2 generation plants. Results indicated that a single dominant gene (designated RSC4) located on chromosome 14 (MLG B2) controls resistance to SC4 infections. In addition, SNP and genomic‐SSR markers near RSC4 were examined. Based on the linkage analysis of the population, the genomic‐SSR markers BARCSOYSSR_14_1413 and BARCSOYSSR_14_1416 were found flanking RSC4. Sequence analysis of the soybean genome indicated that the interval between the two genomic‐SSR markers was <100 kb on chromosome 14. Quantitative real‐time PCR (QRT‐PCR) analysis of the 100‐kb region identified three genes (Glyma14g38510, 38560 and 38580) likely involved in regulating resistance to SMV. These results are useful for transferring and pyramiding or map‐based cloning of RSC4.
Predicting the treatment effect of sorafenib using serum angiogenesis markers in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Miyahara Koji , Nouso Kazuhiro , Tomoda Takeshi , Kobayashi Sayo , Hagihara Hiroaki , Kuwaki Kenji , Toshimori Junichi , Onishi Hideki , Ikeda Fusao , Miyake Yasuhiro , Nakamura Shinichiro , Shiraha Hidenori , Takaki Akinobu , Yamamoto Kazuhide
Published: August 2011

Background and Aim:  Sorafenib, the first agent demonstrated to have efficacy to improve the survival of patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is an active multikinase inhibitor affecting angiogenesis and tumor proliferation. We analyzed cytokines related to angiogenesis or cell proliferation, and tried to determine their utility as biomarkers of sorafenib treatment effect for HCC.

Methods:  Nine serum cytokines (angiopoietin‐2 [Ang‐2], follistatin, granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor [G‐CSF], hepatocyte growth factor [HGF], interleukin‐8 [IL‐8], leptin, platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB, platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule‐1, and vascular endothelial growth factor) were measured in 30 HCC patients treated with sorafenib, and the effects of treatment were compared using modified Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors.

Results:  All but IL‐8 were significantly higher at baseline in patients with progressive disease. Progression‐free survival was significantly shorter in patients with high levels of Ang‐2, G‐CSF, HGF, and leptin, and the hazard ratios were 2.51, 6.89, 2.55, and 4.14, respectively. As the number of cytokines at a high level increased, the treatment response deteriorated. Disease progression was seen in three of 12 (25.0%) patients with zero to two high biomarkers, two of six (33.3%) patients with 3–5 high biomarkers, and 10 of 12 (83.3%) patients with six to eight high biomarkers (P = 0.008). The prognosis of all patients with eight high biomarkers was progressive disease.

Conclusion:  High levels of serum cytokines at baseline were correlated with poor effects of sorafenib treatment in patients with HCC.
Perioperative reactivation of hepatitis B virus replication in patients undergoing partial hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Huang Liang , Li Jing , Lau Wan Yee , Yan Jianjun , Zhou Feiguo , Liu Caifeng , Zhang Xianghua , Shen Jun , Wu Mengchao , Yan Yiqun
Published: August 2011

Background and Aim:  Reactivation of hepatitis B virus (HBV) replication happens in patients who receive transarterial chemoembolization or systemic chemotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The incidence and risk factors of HBV reactivation during the perioperative period in HCC patients receiving hepatic resection is unknown.

Methods:  Between May 2009 and November 2010, 164 consecutive patients with HBV‐related HCC who underwent hepatic resection were prospectively enrolled in the study. Among these, 126 patients received antiviral treatment before the operation (the antiviral group) and 38 patients did not receive any antiviral treatment (the non‐antiviral group).

Results:  Ten patients (6.1%) developed HBV reactivation perioperatively (within 1 month after hepatectomy). The incidence of HBV reactivation in the antiviral group and non‐antiviral group were 1.6% (2/126) and 21.1% (8/38), respectively (P < 0.001). On univariate analysis, preoperative HBV DNA < 1.0 × 103 copies/mL and non‐antiviral therapy were significantly correlated with the occurrence of HBV reactivation (P = 0.044 and P < 0.001, respectively). Only non‐antiviral therapy remained as a predictive factor on multivariate analysis (odds ratio, 15.46; 95% confidence interval, 2.80–85.46, P = 0.002). The recovery of liver function (defined as a decrease of alanine aminotransferase back to normal) was achieved in 86.8% (132/152) patients without HBV reactivation and in 37.5% (3/8) patients with HBV reactivation when evaluated on day 30 after hepatectomy (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  Hepatectomy could reactivate HBV replication during the perioperative period, especially in patients who did not receive any antiviral therapy. A close monitoring of HBV DNA during the perioperative period was necessary irrespective of the preoperative HBV DNA level. Once HBV was reactivated, antiviral therapy should be given.
Assessment of markers of glycaemic control in diabetic patients with chronic kidney disease using continuous glucose monitoring
Authors: VOS FREDERIEK E , SCHOLLUM JOHN B , COULTER CAROLYN V , MANNING PATRICK J , DUFFULL STEPHEN B , WALKER ROBERT J
Published: August 2011

Aim:  Due to altered red blood cell survival and erythropoietin therapy glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) may not accurately reflect long‐term glycaemic control in patients with diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Glycated albumin (GA) and fructosamine are alternative markers of glycaemia. The aim of this study was to investigate the accuracy of HbA1c, GA and fructosamine as indicators of glycaemic control using continuous glucose monitoring.

Methods:  HbA1c, GA and fructosamine concentrations were measured in 25 subjects with diabetic nephropathy (CKD stages 4 and 5 (estimated glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min per 1.73 m2)) matched with 25 subjects with diabetes and no evidence of nephropathy. Simultaneous real‐time glucose concentrations were monitored by continuous glucose monitoring over 48 h.

Results:  GA correlated significantly to mean glucose concentrations in patients with and without CKD (r = 0.54 vs 0.49, P < 0.05). A similar relationship was observed with fructosamine relative to glucose. A poor correlation between HbA1c and glucose was observed with CKD (r = 0.38, P = ns) but was significant in the non‐CKD group (r = 0.66, P < 0.001). The GA/HbA1c ratio was significantly higher in diabetic patients with CKD compared with controls (2.5 ± 0.4 vs 2.2 ± 0.4, P < 0.05). HbA1c values were significantly lower in CKD patients, relative to non‐CKD patients at comparable mean glucose concentrations.

Conclusion:  HbA1c significantly underestimates glycaemic control in patients with diabetes and CKD stages 4 and 5. In severe CKD, GA more accurately reflects glycaemic control compared with fructosamine and HbA1c and should be the preferred marker of glycaemic control.