bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rabies virus dissemination in neural tissues of autopsy cases due to rabies imported into Japan from the Philippines: Immunohistochemistry
Authors: Tobiume Minoru , Sato Yuko , Katano Harutaka , Nakajima Noriko , Tanaka Keiko , Noguchi Akira , Inoue Satoshi , Hasegawa Hideki , Iwasa Yoko , Tanaka Junichi , Hayashi Hiroyuki , Yoshida Sachiko , Kurane Ichiro , Sata Tetsutaro
Published: July 2009

Two Japanese men, 65 and 69 years old, developed rabies in Japan around 2–3 months after dog‐bite exposure in the Philippines. Laboratory diagnosis of rabies was made following the detection of rabies virus genome on reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction from saliva, and on immunohistochemistry of a nuchal skin punch biopsy in one case. The patients died 9 and 19 days after clinical onset. At autopsy, no macroscopic changes in the CNS were observed. Histopathology indicated that eosinophilic and cytoplasmic inclusion bodies, Negri bodies, were seen in neuronal cells of the CNS. Inflammatory cell reactions were scarce, and no apoptosis in the CNS was detected. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that rabies virus nucleoprotein (N) and phosphoprotein (P) were disseminated to all neural tissues and cells in the body with a similar pattern in both cases. Interestingly, there were no differences of localization between N and P antigen in the brain, but the N antigen was located at the peripheral nerve sheaths and the P antigen was localized in axons. These data indicate that rabies virus dissemination in all neural tissues causes disease development and death. Immunohistochemistry for rabies is a powerful tool to understand the pathogenesis of rabies.
Adenomatoid tumor of the pleura
Authors: Minato Hiroshi , Nojima Takayuki , Kurose Nozomu , Kinoshita Eriko
Published: July 2009

A case of adenomatoid tumor of the pleura is reported, and its differential diagnosis from benign and malignant pleural lesions is discussed. A small pleural nodule was incidentally found during a thoracic operation in a 54‐year‐old woman with esophageal cancer. The patient had no history of exposure to asbestos, and was well with no sign of recurrence 14 months after the operation. A 7 mm, circumscribed tumor had characteristic features of adenomatoid tumor. The tumor was composed of an aggregation of irregularly shaped tubulocystic spaces with fibrous stoma. The spaces were lined by flattened and occasional cuboidal epithelioid cells with cytoplasmic vacuolization, and several spaces contained pale blue mucinous fluid. On immunohistochemistry the tumor cells were positive for AE1/AE3, CAM5.2, vimentin, cytokeratin 5/6, D2‐40, calretinin, thrombomodulin, and WT‐1, but negative for CEA, Leu M1 (CD15), thyroid transcription factor‐1, epithelial membrane antigen, desmin, glucose transporter‐1 (GLUT‐1), CD31, and CD34. The MIB‐1 (Ki‐67) labeling index was 1–2%, indicating low proliferative activity. Adenomatoid tumor of the pleura is rare, and the pathogenesis has not been elucidated. Recognition of these benign mesothelial lesions in the pleura is important to avoid misdiagnosis. The immunohistochemistry in the present case supports its mesothelial origin.
Intracerebral schwannoma in a child with infiltration along perivascular spaces resembling meningioangiomatosis
Authors: Ishihara Misa , Miyagawa‐Hayashino Aya , Nakashima Yasuaki , Haga Hironori , Takahashi Jun A. , Manabe Toshiaki
Published: July 2009

Schwannoma arising within brain parenchyma is a rare lesion, usually found in children. Reported herein is a case of intracerebral schwannoma in a 5‐year‐old boy, with a review of the English‐language literature on the subject, in which 47 cases were found. Few detailed histological reviews of intracerebral schwannoma exist. The tumor had a distinctive plexiform growth pattern, and small aggregates of Schwann cells spread extensively into the surrounding brain tissue along perivascular spaces adjacent to the tumor nodule. Histological differential diagnoses included perivascular schwannosis and meningioangiomatosis. A few intratumoral axons, seen on immunostaining for neurofilament protein, were trapped at the periphery of the main lesion, but there was no evidence of intralesional axons in the multiple nodules of Schwann cell proliferations that extended into the perivascular spaces, suggesting that the lesions are neoplastic. Because Schwann cells are not a natural component of the central nervous system, the origin of intracerebral schwannomas remains unknown. The histology suggests that Schwann cells of the perivascular nerve plexus are a likely site of origin.
Low‐grade periductal stromal sarcoma of the breast with myxoid features: Immunohistochemistry
Authors: Tomas Davor , Janković Dražen , Marušić Zlatko , Franceschi Antun , Mijić August , Krušlin Božo
Published: July 2009

A 52‐year‐old woman was admitted with a painful right breast tumor measuring more than 20 cm in largest diameter, which ulcerated the overlying skin. The lesion had appeared 4 years previously but the patient hesitated to seek medical care due to ‘fear of cancer’. Microscopically, the tumor was composed of spindle cells that formed cuffs around multiple open tubules and ducts set in an abundant, myxoid stroma. The spindle cells had significant atypia with nuclear pleomorphism, occasional cytoplasmic vacuolation and moderate mitotic activity. The ducts and lobules surrounded by the proliferating tumor cells had minimal distortion, with a pericanalicular growth pattern devoid of the phyllodes pattern. The tumor had a multinodular growth pattern with coalesced and individual tumor nodules, the latter being found mostly at the periphery of the lesion. On immunohistochemistry the tumor cells were positive for smooth muscle actin, CD34, and vimentin, and focally positive for CD10. A diagnosis of low‐grade periductal stromal sarcoma (PDSS) with myxoid features was established. PDSS is a distinct low‐grade breast sarcoma, the appropriate diagnosis of which requires extensive tumor sampling and additional broad immunohistochemistry. PDSS should not be confused with other spindle cell breast tumors because they require different treatment.
Prevalence of childhood obesity from 1978 to 2007 in Japan
Authors: Yoshinaga Masao , Ichiki Tomoko , Tanaka Yuji , Hazeki Daisuke , Horigome Hitoshi , Takahashi Hideto , Kashima Katsuro
Published: July 2009

Background:  There are few cross‐sectional and longitudinal studies on identification of the age of onset of obesity. The purpose of the present study was therefore to investigate 30 years of cross‐sectional and longitudinal changes in the prevalence of obesity from 1978 to 2007 in Japanese children and adolescents between 5 and 17 years of age, using population‐based samples.

Methods:  Subject data were obtained from the Annual Reports of the School Health Survey published by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Japan. Obesity was defined as a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile for age and gender based on the reference years from 1979 to 1981 in Japan. The BMI was calculated as weight in kg/(height in m)2.

Results:  Cross‐sectional analysis of 5‐, 8‐, 11‐, 14‐, and 17‐year‐olds showed that the prevalence of obesity has gradually decreased since the early 2000s, with the highest prevalence in the late 1990s to early 2000s, except for in 17 year‐old boys. Longitudinal studies showed that the critical periods for developing obesity were in late infancy (between 5 and 6 years of age) and in the high school period in boys, and mainly in late infancy in girls.

Conclusions:  Intervention to prevent obesity should be focused on late infancy in both genders and male adolescents in Japan.
A retrospective analysis of anesthesiologic complications in pediatric neurosurgery
Authors: ALEKSIC VALENTINA , RADULOVIC DANILO , MILAKOVIC BRANKO , NAGULIC MIRJANA , VUCOVIC DRAGAN , ANTUNOVIC VASO , DJORDJEVIC MOMCILO
Published: July 2009

Background and objective:  Different clinical and surgical factors can influence the occurrence of anesthesiologic complications in pediatric neurosurgery. Preoperative knowledge of these factors is of great importance in the application of safe anesthetics and a favorable surgical outcome. The objective was to establish the importance of clinical and surgical risk factors on the frequency of anesthesia complications in pediatric neurosurgery.

Data and method:  The research, from 1996 to 2000, involved 705 children, aged from <1 year to 15 years, who underwent surgery for elective neurosurgical pathology and severe head injuries. We analysed the influence that: age, the preoperative neurologic diagnosis, the urgency of the operation, additional disorders, the surgical position, and the duration of anesthesia had on the frequency of anesthesia complications. To test the statistical relevance and to confirm the hypothesis, the Pearson’s chi‐square test, Mann–Whitney U‐test, and univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used.

Results:  Anesthesia complications (cardiovascular, respiratory, air embolism, allergic reactions) were present in 68/705 (9.6%) patients. Their frequency was statistically greater in children for whom the surgery was >240 min, who were in the sitting position and when comorbidity was evident. Neither age nor the urgency of the operation or reoperation had any significant influence on the occurrence of anesthetic complications.

Conclusion:  The duration of anesthesia, the sitting position of the patient, and the presence of comorbidities significantly increase the risk of anesthesia complications in pediatric neurosurgery.
Intraoperative radiotherapy during radical prostatectomy for intermediate‐risk to locally advanced prostate cancer: treatment technique and evaluation of perioperative and functional outcome vs standard radical prostatectomy, in a matched‐pair analysis
Authors: Rocco Bernardo , Jereczek‐Fossa Barbara A. , Matei Deliu‐Victor , Verweij Fabrizio , Santoro Luigi , Vavassori Andrea , Ospina Juan Camillo , Cedeira Francisco , Ciocca Mario , Orecchia Roberto , De Cobelli Ottavio
Published: July 2009

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a novel approach with intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) administered in the surgical field, after pelvic lymphadenectomy (PL) and before radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP), evaluating acute and late toxicity, complications and biochemical progression‐free survival (bPFS), as the adequate treatment of locally advanced prostate cancer is still a controversial issue.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between June 2005 and October 2007, 33 consecutive patients with intermediate‐risk or locally advanced prostate cancer were selected for PL + IORT + RRP. IORT was delivered by a mobile linear accelerator in the operating room (electron beam, 12 Gy at 90% isodose). According to the pathological findings further adjuvant radio‐ or hormone therapy could be administered. The median follow‐up was 16 months. This group was compared retrospectively with a historical group of 100 patients who had undergone RRP and further adjuvant therapy, selected with equivalent criteria. The comparison was conducted as a matched‐pair analysis. The perioperative outcomes (surgical time, estimated blood loss, blood transfusions, days of catheterization, days of drainage, days of hospitalization), continence as the functional outcome, acute and late toxicity, rate of complications and bPFS were evaluated and compared.

RESULTS

The baseline characteristics of the two groups were equivalent but the node count and the number of positive lymph nodes was higher in the IORT group. The IORT group had longer surgery, and a shorter hospital stay and catheterization. There were no differences in continence rate, and no major complications in either group. The acute and late toxicity and bPFS were equivalent. A retrospective comparison and the short follow‐up were the major limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

IORT administered before RRP seems a feasible approach, with little effect on the variables evaluated.
An analysis of sexual health information on radical prostatectomy websites
Authors: Mulhall John P. , Rojaz‐Cruz Cesar , Müller Alexander
Published: July 2009

Study Type – Therapy (content analysis)

Level of Evidence 3

OBJECTIVE

To define the nature of information posted on websites related to radical prostatectomy (RP), specifically its accuracy and comprehensiveness, as RP is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED).

METHODS

We reviewed 70 robotic RP (RARP) and 20 open RP (ORP) medical centres. Their websites were reviewed for various factors, by two separate reviewers whose reviews were not seen by each other. Websites were graded based on accuracy and comprehensiveness of information by the senior investigator.

RESULTS

Of the academic and community‐based RARP centres, 55% and 79% had specific websites (P < 0.05); 45% of RARP sites had generic information copied directly from the website of Intuitive Surgical (Sunnyvale, CA, USA; the manufacturer of the robotic system). ED was mentioned by only 54% of RARP sites and 45% of ORP sites; 17% of RARP sites were deemed accurate, compared with 30% of ORP sites (P < 0.05). Just over 1% of RARP sites were considered comprehensive, vs 10% of ORP sites (P < 0.05). A third of RARP sites had a direct link to the Intuitive Surgical website (16% academic vs 53% community, P < 0.05), compared to 10% of open sites (P < 0.05). Of most interest was that half of the RARP sites suggested that ED rates were lower for RARP than for ORP; this compared to ED rates being cited as lower for ORP on 5% of the ORP sites (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the stature of RP as a treatment option for men with prostate cancer, and the recent increase in the use of RARP, the accuracy of information pertaining to sexual health on RP websites is poor, with many making false statements about the long‐term outcomes for erectile function. This inadequacy appears to be greater on RARP than on ORP websites.
The politics of protection: aid, human rights discourse, and power relations in Kyaka II settlement, Uganda
Authors: Clark‐Kazak Christina R.
Published: July 2009

This paper explores the conceptualisation and application of ‘protection’ by the United Nations High Commissioner (UNHCR), Ugandan government, and Congolese refugees in Kyaka II refugee settlement, Uganda. Analysing the origins and consequences of a demonstration against school fees, and drawing on other ethnographic data, it explores how different interpretations of this incident reflect different conceptions of, and approaches to, protection. Ugandan government officials viewed the demonstration as a security incident; Congolese and Ugandan adults responded with increased monitoring and ‘sheltering’ of children and young people; students justified the demonstration as a legitimate manifestation of their rights; while UNHCR promoted assistance and resettlement. The paper argues that prevailing protection responses, including ‘sensitisation’, sheltering, and resettlement, are de‐contextualised from daily realities and fail to address the underlying power relations that undermine protection. It concludes with recommendations on how international refugee agencies can reorient assistance to address protection concerns in refugee contexts.
Was Wittgenstein an Anti‐Realist?
Authors: Scheer Richard
Published: July 2009

William Child has said that Wittgenstein is an anti‐realist with respect to a person's dreams, recent thoughts that he has consciously entertained and other things. I discuss Wittgenstein's comments about these matters in order to show that they do not commit him to an anti‐realist view or a realist view. He wished to discredit the idea that when a person reports his dream or his thoughts, or past intentions, the person is reading off the contents of his mind or memory. Reporting what one dreamt or recently thought is not like reporting what one has just read. The language is different, and the criterion of truth is different.

The anti‐realist is able to explain why the reports of thoughts, for instance, are “guaranteed” to be true (PI II, 222) by stipulating that the character and existence of the past thought is constituted by an inclination to assert that one had that past thought so the assertion could not be false. This could not be Wittgenstein's view. What does “guarantee” the truth of such an assertion is the fact that the person himself is the principle authority on what he dreamt, thought, and intended, something which “stands fast” for us.

I next consider Crispin Wright's account of Wittgenstein's ideas about intentions and point out that his assumption that person always makes a judgement as to whether his action conforms to his intention is clearly false. And he is wrong in attributing to Wittgenstein the idea that an intention does not have a determinate content prior to its author's judgement about whether the action conforms to the intention, an idea that is obscure. If this were accurate, it would be a mystery why we do anything, or, at least, why our actions ever conform to our intentions.
ON BEING RATIONAL
Authors: Rorty Amelie
Published: July 2009

To be rational is to be engaged in collaborative, corrigible, historically informed inquiry and deliberation. Critical intelligence is merely the beginning of rationality. Substantive rationality also requires reflective and imaginative inquiry. Its active exercise presupposes trust and mandates a commitment to the common good, to responsible attempts to create the political institutions and social conditions on which intellectual and political trust can flourish. Without these, formal and calculative intelligence are – however brilliant – mere cleverness; and without these, rationality can undo itself.
Latent Transition Models with Latent Class Predictors: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Subtypes and High School Marijuana Use
Authors: Reboussin Beth A. , Ialongo Nicholas S.
Published: July 2009

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder which is most often diagnosed in childhood with symptoms often persisting into adulthood. Elevated rates of substance use disorders have been evidenced among those with ADHD, but recent research focusing on the relationship between subtypes of ADHD and specific drugs is inconsistent. We propose a latent transition model (LTM) to guide our understanding of how drug use progresses, in particular marijuana use, while accounting for the measurement error that is often found in self-reported substance use data. We extend the LTM to include a latent class predictor to represent empirically derived ADHD subtypes that do not rely on meeting specific diagnostic criteria. We begin by fitting two separate latent class analysis (LCA) models by using second-order estimating equations: a longitudinal LCA model to define stages of marijuana use, and a cross-sectional LCA model to define ADHD subtypes. The LTM model parameters describing the probability of transitioning between the LCA-defined stages of marijuana use and the influence of the LCA-defined ADHD subtypes on these transition rates are then estimated by using a set of first-order estimating equations given the LCA parameter estimates. A robust estimate of the LTM parameter variance that accounts for the variation due to the estimation of the two sets of LCA parameters is proposed. Solving three sets of estimating equations enables us to determine the underlying latent class structures independently of the model for the transition rates and simplifying assumptions about the correlation structure at each stage reduces the computational complexity.
AN INVESTIGATION INTO DIET AT THE SITE OF YARNTON, OXFORDSHIRE, USING STABLE CARBON AND NITROGEN ISOTOPES
Authors: LIGHTFOOT EMMA , O'CONNELL TAMSIN C. , STEVENS RHIANNON E. , HAMILTON JULIE , HEY GILL , HEDGES ROBERT E.M.
Published: July 2009

This paper reports the results of stable isotopic analyses conducted upon animal and human bones recovered from Yarnton, Oxfordshire. Spanning the Neolithic to Saxon periods, it is in many ways a typical site, but is unusual in that a small Middle Iron Age cemetery was discovered.

All of the data presented here lie within the expected isotopic ranges for the European Holocene, although both faunal and animal δ15N values are higher than is commonly found. The faunal data show the expected pattern for the animals studied (horse, cattle, sheep/goat, pig and dog), with pigs being more omnivorous than ruminants, and dogs eating an isotopically similar diet to humans. The animals' diets had higher δ15N values during the Roman period as compared to the Iron Age, although it is unclear if this reflects an environmental change or alteration in animal management practices. Despite the site's riverine location, there is no isotopic evidence for fish consumption. No distinctions were found based on gender or burial position within the Iron Age cemetery. Age‐based distinctions were found in δ13C values, although these cannot be fully explained. As expected, infants have a higher nitrogen isotopic value than other individuals, reflecting the consumption of their mother's milk.
The last days of dying stroke patients referred to a palliative care consult team in an acute hospital
Authors: Mazzocato C. , Michel‐Nemitz J. , Anwar D. , Michel P.
Published: July 2009

Background and purpose:  Needs of patients dying from stroke are poorly investigated. We aim to assess symptoms of these patients referred to a palliative care consult team, and to review their treatment strategies.

Methods:  All charts of patients dying from stroke in a tertiary hospital, and referred consecutively to a palliative care consultant team from 2000 to 2005, were reviewed retrospectively. Symptoms, ability to communicate, treatments, circumstances and causes of death were collected.

Results:  Forty‐two patients were identified. Median NIH Stroke Scale on admission was 21. The most prevalent symptoms were dyspnoea (81%), and pain (69%). Difficulties or inability to communicate because of aphasia or altered level of consciousness were present in 93% of patients. Pharmacological respiratory treatments consisted of anti‐muscarinic drugs (52%), and opioids (33%). Pain was mainly treated by opioids (69%). During the last 48 h of life, 81% of patients were free of pain and 48% of respiratory distress. The main causes of death were neurological complications in 38% of patients, multiple medical complications in 36%, and specific medical causes in 26%.

Conclusions:  Patients dying from stroke and referred to a palliative care consult team have multiple symptoms, mainly dyspnoea and pain. Studies are warranted to develop specific symptoms assessment tools in non‐verbal stroke patients, to accurately assess patients’ needs, and to measure effectiveness of palliative treatments.
‘Survival Employment’: Gender and Deskilling among African Immigrants in Canada
Authors: Creese Gillian , Wiebe Brandy
Published: July 2009

Recent research points to a growing gap between immigrant and native‐born outcomes in the Canadian labour market at the same time as selection processes emphasize recruiting highly educated newcomers. Drawing on interviews with well‐educated men and women who migrated from countries in sub‐Saharan Africa, this paper explores the gendered processes that produce weak economic integration in Canada. Three‐quarters of research participants experienced downward occupational mobility, with the majority employed in low‐skilled, low‐wage, insecure forms of “survival employment”. In a gendered labour market, where common demands for “Canadian experience”, “Canadian credentials” and “Canadian accents” were uneven across different sectors of the labour market, women faced particular difficulties finding “survival employment”; in the long run, however, women’s greater investment in additional post‐secondary education within Canada placed them in a somewhat better position than men. The policy implications of this study are fourfold: first, we raise questions about the efficacy of Canadian immigration policies that prioritize the recruitment of well‐educated immigrants without addressing the multiple barriers that result in deskillling; second, we question government policies and settlement practices that undermine more equitable economic integration of immigrants; third, we address the importance of tackling the “everyday racism” that immigrants experience in the Canadian labour market; and finally, we suggest the need to re‐think narrowly defined notions of economic integration in light of the gendered nature of contemporary labour markets, and immigrants’ own definitions of what constitutes meaningful integration.
Seasonal patterns in body composition and reproduction of female muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus)
Authors: Adamczewski J. Z. , Flood P. F. , Gunn A.
Published: July 2009

To analyse the effects of season and reproductive status on seasonal changes in body composition of female muskoxen (Ovibos moschatus), we examined 196 muskox cows fromVictoria Island, Northwest Territories, Canada, during 16 collections carried out by Inuit hunters in April, May, July, August, September, and November from 1989 to 1993. During this time, the density of muskoxen on the island increased slowly and they numbered about45,000 in 1993. Hunting and predation by wolves (Canis lupus) were limited, and there was little evidence of muskox mortality due to malnutrition. Adult muskox cows ( 4 years old) were leanest in May, when the ingesta‐free body weight (IFBW) and estimated fat weight of newly‐lactating cows were 116 ± 2 kg (adjusted mean ± S.E.) and 13.7 ± 0.8 kg, respectively, and those of non‐lactating cows were 112 ± and 12.2 ± 1.6 kg. These weights peaked in September at 166 ± 4 kg and 37.8± 1.8 kg in lactating cows and 176 ± 7 and 45.1 ± 3.4 kg in non‐lactating cows. The most rapid losses of fat (242g/day) and protein (55g/day) occurred i lactating cows in late winter. The weight of ingesta, primarily rumen contents, increase during the year from April (20.9% of body weight) to November (27.8%) and was exceptionally high for ruminants. Seasonal patterns in 2‐ and 3‐year‐old females were generally similar to those in older cows, although the younger cows were leaner and weighed less. Pregnancy rates increased from 0 in females 18–23 months old to 25% in cows 30–35 months old and 63% in females 42 months old. Mammary gland weight in lactating females peaked in July and August, suggesting that peak milk production did not occur until at least two months after calving, and lactation was sometimes extended to a year or more. Lactation in November did not preclude pregnancy, but females which were pregnant at this time were fatter and heavier than non‐pregnant cows. These results indicate a high‐amplitude annual cycle of body reserves in female muskoxen, and suggest a considerable sensitivity of pregnancy rates to nutritional influences.
A little known Zodarion (Araneae: Zodariidae) new to Britain
Authors: Snazell R. , Bosmans R.
Published: July 2009

Zodarion vicinum Denis, 1935, previously known only from Italy, is recorded from Britain.

Zodarion obscurum Denis, 1935 is a junior synonym of Z. vicinum.
Monogamy in Hypogeomys antimena, an endemic rodent of the deciduous dry forest in western Madagascar
Authors: Sommer S.
Published: July 2009

Hypogeomys antimena, the largest endemic rodent of Madagascar, is exclusively found in a restricted area of less than 1000 km2 in the deciduous dry forest near the western coast. The facts so far known about its biology, like pair bonds, 1–2 offspring, lack of sexual dimorphism, and the results of a nine‐week trapping and radiotracking field study (Cook et al, 1991) suggest monogamy, a rare social system occurring in only 3% of mammals. By using the same methods of trapping and radiotracking during different seasons, investigations in the proposed social system were carried out and provided a medium‐term view of the social structure. The data on Hypogeomys antimena were then used to test hypotheses about the evolution of monogamy in rodents by comparing spacing behaviour and the size of home ranges of males and females before (dry season) and after (rainy season) the birth of offspring.

Males and females from neighbouring burrows have similarly‐sized but mutually exclusive home ranges. Home ranges of pairs trapped at the same burrows, however, always overlapped extensively. The morphological correlates (no sexual differences in the body measurements, small testes in relation to body size) are those of monogamous species. Pairs remain associated during both breeding and non‐breeding periods and pair bonds seem to continue for more than one reproductive season. Offspring stay together with their parents for at least one more year, implying that sexual maturation is probably not reached before the age of two years. The results are consistent with the previous suggestion that Hypogeomys antimena lives in a monogamous social system.

Home ranges are larger during the dry season before birth than during the rainy season after the birth of offspring. Pairs with offspring had smaller home ranges than those without. Males tended to stay closer to the offspring than females. This suggests that the protection of the offspring against infanticidal conspecifics and/or predators could explain the male's assistance in rearing the young and the evolution of monogamy in Hypogeomys.
Differences in songflight calls and social calls between two phonic types of the vespertilionid bat Pipistrellus pipistrellus
Authors: Kate E. Barlow  , Jones Gareth
Published: July 2009

The pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus) occurs as two phonic types in Britain, its echolocation calls falling into two distinct frequency bands, with mean frequencies of maximum energy at 55 kHz and 46 kHz. These are termed the 55 kHz and 45 kHz phonic types here for simplicity. Songflight calls produced by males in the mating season, probably to attract females, differed between the two phonic types in the number of components in the calls and the call parameters measured. Songflight calls of the 55 kHz phonic type, which generally consisted of three components, were of higher frequencies than those of the 45 kHz phonic type, usually of four components. There were also significant differences in call parameters among individuals. A discriminant analysis of songflight calls classified 100% of individuals to the correct phonic type. The relationships between echolocation call frequency and songflight call frequency differed significantly between phonic types. Social calls produced during flight also differed between phonic types, in the number of components and call parameters measured. Social calls were compared to songflight calls of each phonic type. Social calls of the 55 kHz phonic type did not differ significantly from songflight calls; there were small but significant differences between the two types of calls of the 45 kHz phonic type. The study provides support for the hypothesis that the phonic types should be treated as sibling species. If songflight calls are used for mate choice, the differences may allow reproductive isolation between the two phonic types. The functions of songflight calls and social calls need to be investigated through experimental studies to explain the implications of the differences between phonic types.
Ecological correlates of hind‐limb length in the Carnivora
Authors: Harris Michelle A. , Steudel Karen
Published: July 2009

What determines the lengths and proportions of mammalian limbs? While the answer to this question is still largely unknown, a number of workers have recently begun analysing the selection of morphology in a rigorous framework, searching for quantitative links between structure, performance, and their ecological and behavioural context. The present study investigates a variety of ecological and behavioural variables to determine whether or not they are correlated with hind‐limb length in the Carnivora. Data were analysed by using phylogenetically independent contrasts and phylogenetic analysis of covariance. We found that traditional perceptions of limb length are often inaccurate; some species widely regarded as relatively long‐legged actually have limb lengths near those expected for their body size. Interestingly, relative hind‐limb length is not a significant predictor of distance moved daily, home‐range area, or prey size. Phylogenetic ANCOVA results, however, indicate a relationship between prey‐capture behaviour and relative hind‐limb length. These findings suggest that the evolution of carnivoran limb length has been most influenced by selection for prey‐capture behaviour. These results, coupled with those of other studies, can be used to suggest which performance variables could most fruitfully be studied in the laboratory to understand the selection of the structure of the mammalian limb. We suggest that relevant performance variables might be: maximum jump height and/or length, the ability to generate outforces, and levels of stress tolerance in limb bones during prey pursuit/capture.
Ontogenetic colour changes in an insular tree species: signalling to extinct browsing birds?
Authors: Fadzly Nik , Jack Cameron , Schaefer H. Martin , Burns K. C.
Published: July 2009

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2009.03025.xCommentary p 282
Alkaline phosphatase activity in pasteurized milk: A quantitative comparison of Fluorophos and colourimetric procedures
Authors: PAYNE CLARE , WILBEY R ANDREW
Published: July 2009

Fluorophos and colourimetric procedures for alkaline phosphatase (ALP) testing were compared using milk with raw milk additions, purified bovine ALP additions and heat treatments. Repeatability was between 0.9% and 10.1% for Fluorophos, 3.5% and 46.1% for the Aschaffenburg and Mullen (A&M) procedure and 4.4% and 8.8% for the Scharer rapid test. Linearity ( R2) using raw milk addition was 0.96 between Fluorophos and the Scharer procedure. Between the Fluorophos and the A&M procedures, R2 values were 0.98, 0.99 and 0.98 for raw milk additions, bovine ALP additions and heat treatments respectively. Fluorophos showed greater sensitivity and was both faster and simpler to perform.
Texture of nonfat yoghurt as influenced by whey protein concentrate and Gum Tragacanth as fat replacers
Authors: AZIZNIA SOMAYEH , KHOSROWSHAHI ASGHAR , MADADLOU ASHKAN , RAHIMI JAMSHID , ABBASI HABIB
Published: July 2009

Seven batches of nonfat yoghurt stabilized with different concentrations of whey protein concentrate (WPC) and Gum Tragacanth (GT) were produced to study the effects of WPC and GT as fat replacers on the rheological properties of yoghurt. By increasing the WPC up to 15 g/L, storage modulus (G′), loss modulus (G″) and complex dynamic viscosity (η*) values were increased and sensory impressions of texture and appearance were improved when compared with the control nonfat yoghurt. Addition of gum above 0.5 g/L led the decrease of G′, G″, η* and resulted in lower scores for sensory attributes than control nonfat yoghurt.
Functional co‐expression of two insect nicotinic receptor subunits (Nlα3 and Nlα8) reveals the effects of a resistance‐associated mutation (Nlα3Y151S) on neonicotinoid insecticides
Authors: Yixi Zhang , Liu Zewen , Han Zhaojun , Song Feng , Yao Xiangmei , Shao Ying , Li Jian , Millar Neil S.
Published: July 2009

Neonicotinoid insecticides, such as imidacloprid, are selective agonists of insect nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and are used extensively to control a variety of insect pest species. Previously, we have identified a nAChR point mutation (Y151S) associated with insecticide resistance in the brown planthopperNilaparvata lugens. Although this mutation has been identified in two differentN. lugensnAChR subunits (Nlα1 and Nlα3) because of difficulties in heterologous expression of Nlα3; its influence on agonist potency has been examined only in Nlα1‐containing nAChRs. Here we describe the cloning of a novel nAChR subunit fromN. lugens(Nlα8), together with evidence for its co‐assembly with Nlα3 in native and recombinant nAChRs. This has, for the first time, enabled the functional effects of the Nlα3Y151Smutation to be examined. The Nlα3Y151Smutation has little effect on agonist potency of acetylcholine but has a dramatic effect on neonicotinoid insecticides (reducingImaxvalues and increasing EC50values). The apparent affinity of neonicotinoids was higher and the effect of the Y151S mutation on neonicotinoid agonist potency was more profound in Nlα3‐containing, rather than Nlα1‐containing nAChR. We conclude that Nlα3‐ and Nlα1‐containing nAChRs may be representative of two distinct insect nAChR populations.
Aging‐dependent upregulation of IL‐23p19 gene expression in dendritic cells is associated with differential transcription factor binding and histone modifications
Authors: El Mezayen Rabab , El Gazzar Mohamed , Myer Rebecca , High Kevin P.
Published: July 2009

Age‐associated changes in immune response increase the risk of infection and promote inflammation and autoimmunity in older adults. The newly discovered cytokine IL‐23 contributes to the maintenance and expansion of Th‐17 cells, which promote proinflammatory responses. Our preliminary findings suggested that Th‐17 responses are increased in aged mice. IL‐23 consists of p40 and p19 subunits. Expression of the p19 subunit is regulated at the transcriptional level by NF‐κB p65 and c‐Rel transcription factors. Using bone‐marrow‐derived dendritic cells (DCs) from C57BL/6 mice, we show that IL‐23 protein production and p19 subunit mRNA levels are significantly increased in DCs from aged mice after activation with TLR ligands (LPS + R848) when compared with DCs of young adult mice. We found that the increase in p19 expression in aged cells is associated with chromatin remodeling characterized by di‐ and tri‐methylation of histone H3K4 and binding of mainly c‐Rel at the p19 promoter. In young DCs, the promoter is tri‐methylated only at H3K4 and bound by both p65 and c‐Rel. C‐Rel knockdown restores p65 binding in aged cells but does not activate p19 expression, suggesting that c‐Rel is critical for p19 expression. In addition, p65 knockdown significantly increases c‐Rel binding and p19 expression in young DCs to levels close to those detected in old cells. Furthermore, the decrease in p65 binding at the p19 promoter in old DCs was specific to the p19 gene since p65 binding to the IL‐12p40 promoter was not significantly different between old and young DCs. Our results demonstrate that selective changes in H3K4 methylation, and c‐Rel and p65 binding at the p19 promoter occur in DCs and contribute to the upregulation of the p19 subunit expression and IL‐23 protein production observed in aged mice. This suggests epigenetic and transcriptional mechanisms contribute to dysregulated inflammatory and autoimmune responses associated with aging.
Molecular identification of the extinct mountain goat, Oreamnos harringtoni (Bovidae)
Authors: CAMPOS PAULA F. , WILLERSLEV ESKE , MEAD JIM I. , HOFREITER MICHAEL , GILBERT M. THOMAS P.
Published: July 2009

Campos, P. F., Willerslev, E., Mead, J. I., Hofreiter, M. & Gilbert, M. T. P. 2009: Molecular identification of the extinct mountain goat, Oreamnos harringtoni (Bovidae). Boreas, 10.1111/j.1502‐3885.2009.00111.x. ISSN 0300‐9483.

Harrington's mountain goat (Oreamnos harringtoni), an extinct North American herbivore, is one of the least known mammals of the Pleistocene. Fossil specimens are predominantly known from dry cave localities throughout the arid American west – the Grand Canyon, Colorado Plateau, Nevada and Mexico. Morphological analysis of the recovered fossils suggests a close phylogenetic relationship between Harrington's mountain goat and the extant mountain goats from the American northwest (Oreamnos americanus). However, the degree of genetic similarity between the two species, and their overall placement within the Caprinae, is not clear. In this study, we recovered and sequenced the first DNA fragments from O. harringtoni in order to investigate these relationships. Genetic analysis further supports the morphological hypothesis that O. harringtoni and O. americanus are two distinct species.
Management of Nevus Sebaceous and the Risk of Basal Cell Carcinoma: An 18‐Year Review
Authors: Rosen Heather , Schmidt Birgitta , Lam Herman P. , Meara John G. , Labow Brian I.
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Nevus sebaceous (NS) is a common congenital hamartoma of the skin, usually found on the head and neck. It may undergo malignant transformation to basal cell carcinoma (BCC). However the incidence and lifetime risk of malignant transformation is unknown. We performed an 18‐year review of all NS excisions at our institution, to report the number of cases of BCC and other neoplasms within excised NS. The aim is to inform physicians who must weigh the risks in recommending excision of a NS in a pediatric patient population with the risk of malignancy. After a database query for years 1990–2008, charts were reviewed and data were extracted on demographics and surgical history relating to NS. Thirty‐one NS with abnormal findings were reviewed microscopically by a dermatopathologist. There were 651 NS distinct lesions among 631 patients and 690 excisions. Twenty‐one intralesional diagnoses were found in 18 patients. Five patients (0.8%) had BCC (mean age 12.5 yrs, range 9.7–17.4 yrs). Seven (1.1%) had syringocystadenoma papilliferum (SP) (mean age 8.8 yrs, range 1.7–16.9 yrs), a lesion that may undergo malignant transformation. Malignant transformation of NS can occur in childhood or adolescence. We believe all NS should be excised, however timing of excision can be flexible. Our data do not support age cutoffs or morphologic changes to determine optimal excision time. In conjunction with the treating physician, the parent and patient may weigh the small risk of malignant transformation of NS against the morbidity associated with excision and anesthesia.
Complete brain‐type creatine kinase deficiency in mice blocks seizure activity and affects intracellular calcium kinetics
Authors: Streijger Femke , Scheenen Wim J.J.M. , Van Luijtelaar Gilles , Oerlemans Frank , Wieringa Bé , Van der Zee Catharina E.E.M.
Published: July 2009

Purpose:  Brain‐type creatine kinase (CK‐B) and ubiquitous mitochondrial creatine kinase (UbCKmit) act as components of local phosphocreatine ATP shuttles that help in the compartmentalization and maintenance of pools of high‐energy phosphate molecules in both neurons and glial cells. We investigated the role of these brain‐type creatine kinases during extreme energy‐demanding conditions in vivo (generalized tonic–clonic seizures) and in vitro.

Methods:  The physiologic response of wild‐types and mice lacking both CK‐B and UbCKmit (CK‐‐/‐‐mice) to pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)–induced seizures was measured using electroencephalography (EEG) recordings and behavioral monitoring. In vitro intracellular Ca2+ kinetics in hippocampal granule neurons were monitored upon single and repetitive depolarizations.

Results:  PTZ induced in only a few CK‐‐/‐‐ mice PTZ seizure‐like behavior, but in all wild‐types a full‐blown seizure. EEG analysis showed that preseizure jerking was associated with high‐amplitude discharges. Wild‐type EEG recordings showed continuous runs of rhythmic 4–6 Hz activity, whereas no rhythmic EEG activities were observed in the few CK‐‐/‐‐ mice that developed a behavioral seizure. All other CK‐‐/‐‐ mice displayed a sudden postictal depression without any development of a generalized seizure. Hippocampal granule neurons of CK‐‐/‐‐ mice displayed a higher Ca2+ removal speed following repetitive KCl‐induced depolarizations.

Discussion:  Deficiency for creatine kinase is affecting brain energy metabolism and will likely contribute to the disturbance of seizure development. Because CK‐‐/‐‐ hippocampal neurons exhibited an increase in Ca2+ removal rate of elevated intracellular levels, we conclude that altered Ca2+ clearance in CK‐‐/‐‐ neurons could play a role in the abnormal EEG and seizure activity.
Progressive multifocal cystlike cortical tubers in tuberous sclerosis complex: Clinical and neuropathologic findings
Authors: Chu‐Shore Catherine J. , Frosch Matthew P. , Grant Patricia E. , Thiele Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2009

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disease characterized by the presence of hamartomatous lesions in multiple organs and cortical tubers in the brain. The majority of patients with TSC have epilepsy, although the mechanisms underlying epileptogenesis remain unknown. Tubers are traditionally thought to be stable lesions that result from abnormal corticogenesis in early fetal development. Recently, cystlike tubers have been identified in nearly half of patients with TSC, although the spectrum and natural history of these lesions remains unknown. Herein we report eight children with a high burden of cystlike tubers and present detailed clinical information on two children with documented progression. We also report neuropathologic findings of one of the cystlike cortical tubers resected in epilepsy surgery. These cases support the notion that cystlike tubers in TSC are not static lesions and can exhibit evolving characteristics over time. Further work evaluating how these lesions relate to epileptogenesis needs to be done.
HETEROGENEITY OF THE CYANOBACTERIAL GENUS SYNECHOCYSTIS AND DESCRIPTION OF A NEW GENUS, GEMINOCYSTIS1
Authors: Korelusová Jana , Kasˇtovský Jan , Komárek Jiří
Published: July 2009

The study and revision of the unicellular cyanobacterial genus Synechocystis was based on the type species S. aquatilis Sauv. and strain PCC 6803, a reference strain for this species. Uniformity in rRNA gene sequence, morphology, and ultrastructure was observed in all available Synechocystis strains, with the exception of the strain PCC 6308, which has been considered by some to be a model strain for Synechocystis. This strain differs substantially from the typical Synechocystis cluster according to both molecular (<90% of similarity, differences in 16S–23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer [ITS] secondary structure) and phenotypic criteria (different ultrastructure of cells). This strain is herein classified into the new genus Geminocystis gen. nov., as a sister taxon to the genus Cyanobacterium. Geminocystis differs from Cyanobacterium by genetic position (<94.4% of similarity) and more importantly by its different type of cell division. Because strain PCC 6308 was designated as a reference strain of the Synechocystis cluster 1 in Bergey’s Manual, the members of this genetic cluster have to be revised and reclassified into Geminocystis gen. nov. Only the members of the Synechocystis cluster 2 allied with PCC 6803 correspond both genetically and phenotypically to the type species of the genus Synechocystis (S. aquatilis).