bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationships among soil moisture, aeration and plant communities in natural and harvested coniferous forests in coastal British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Sajedi Toktam , Prescott Cindy E. , Seely Brad , Lavkulich Les M.
Published: February 2012

1. This study was undertaken to address a curious ecological phenomenon that occurs over extensive areas of northern Vancouver Island, Canada. Slow tree growth and symptoms of nutrient deficiencies appear within 10 years of harvesting old‐growth cedar‐hemlock (CH) forests, but do not occur on adjacent hemlock‐fir (HA) stands. We investigate the underlying causes of distinct differences in productivity and fertility of the two ecosystems.

2. We hypothesized that the differences in nutrient supply and tree growth arise from small, but ecologically significant, differences in soil moisture with attendant effects on redox potential (Eh), aeration, soil C stores and plant species distribution. Our field studies determined (i) whether neighbouring CH and HA forests differ in soil moisture and aeration, (ii) whether soil carbon stores differ among CH and HA forests, (iii) whether plant community composition in the two forest types is related to soil moisture and aeration and (iv) the impact of harvesting CH and HA forests on moisture and aeration conditions.

3. As hypothesized, soils in CH forests were wetter and less aerated, and had shallower aerated depth and higher frequency of anaerobic conditions compared with HA forests. About 43% of the samples taken from CH forests had average redox values <+300 mV, a threshold below which anaerobic conditions develop and root growth is impeded. Soil carbon stores and rates of decomposition of cellulose did not differ among the forest types. Soil aeration explained 25% of the variability in species composition of plant communities.

4. The two forest types responded differently to clear‐cut harvesting, and there were indications that clear‐cut harvesting could trigger reductions in soil aeration in some HA forest soils which could lead to paludification and a decline in site productivity of these ecosystems.

5. Synthesis.Our findings confirmed that these ecosystems bracket a critical biological threshold below which low soil oxygen availability caused by excessive moisture becomes limiting for biological processes. Recognition of this redox threshold and its ecological implications could contribute to improved ability to manage ecosystems which may be near this threshold or become so in a changing climate.
An analysis of two evidence‐based parent training programmes and determination of the characteristics for a new programme model
Authors: ARKAN B. , ÜSTÜN B. , GÜVENIR T.
Published: February 2012

Accessible summary

A parent programme serves to systematically develop the information, attitudes and skills required for rearing a child, family relations and fulfilling parental responsibilities in the family and society.

The two best (well‐known) parent programmes conducted with the parents of children diagnosed with behaviour problems are the Triple P and the Incredible Years which cooperate with families and the society, reduce the risk factors and support the protective factors.

The programmes also offer a multi‐disciplinary approach with high evidence standards, use randomized controlled studies and yield long‐term results.

The Triple P and Incredible Years are the two best (well‐known) parent programmes which cooperate with families and the society, reduce the risk factors and support the protective factors. The programmes also offer a multidisciplinary approach with high evidence standards, use randomized controlled studies and yield long‐term results. Accordingly, this literature review was conducted in order to evaluate the efficacy of these two programmes, to determine the (similarities) and differences. ‘MEDLINE, PUBMED, COCHRANE’ databases, online and published journals and dissertations in Turkey were reviewed for the study. Consequently, results of 49 studies were presented, which were evaluated according to certain criteria such as samples, methods and results. The studies on the Triple P and the Incredible Years Parent Program illustrated a decrease in problematic behaviours of the children and negative parenting practices of parents following the implementation of programmes. However, the studies also pointed out the differences between the Triple P and the Incredible Years Parent Program. It is recommended that a new parent education programme be prepared and tested for our country in accordance with the results of the study.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of butorphanol following intravenous administration to the horse
Authors: KNYCH H. K. , CASBEER H. C. , McKEMIE D. S. , ARTHUR R. M.
Published: February 2012

Knych, H. K., Casbeer, H. C., McKemie, D. S., Arthur, R. M. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of butorphanol following intravenous administration to the horse. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 36, 21–30.

Butorphanol is a narcotic analgesic commonly used in horses. Currently, any detectable concentration of butorphanol in biological samples collected from performance horses is considered a violation. The primary goal of the study reported here was to update the pharmacokinetics of butorphanol following intravenous administration, utilizing a highly sensitive liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) assay that is currently employed in many drug‐testing laboratories. An additional objective was to characterize behavioral and cardiac effects following administration of butorphanol. Ten exercised adult horses received a single intravenous dose of 0.1 mg/kg butorphanol. Blood and urine samples were collected at time 0 and at various times for up to 120 h and analyzed using LC‐MS. Mean ± SD systemic clearance, steady‐state volume of distribution, and terminal elimination half‐life were 11.5 ± 2.5 mL/min/kg, 1.4 ± 0.3 L/kg, and 5.9 ± 1.5 h, respectively. Butorphanol plasma concentrations were below the limit of detection (LOD) (0.01 ng/mL) by 48 h post administration. Urine butorphanol concentrations were below the LOD (0.05 ng/mL) of the assay in seven of 10 horses by 120 h post drug administration. Following administration, horses appeared excited as noted by an increase in heart rate and locomotion. Gastrointestinal sounds were markedly decreased for up to 24 h.
Identifying insecticide resistance genes in mosquito by combining AFLP genome scans and 454 pyrosequencing
Authors: PARIS MARGOT , DESPRES LAURENCE
Published: February 2012

AFLP‐based genome scans are widely used to study the genetics of adaptation and to identify genomic regions potentially under selection. However, this approach usually fails to detect the actual genes or mutations targeted by selection owing to the difficulties of obtaining DNA sequences from AFLP fragments. Here, we combine classical AFLP outlier detection with 454 sequencing of AFLP fragments to obtain sequences from outlier loci. We applied this approach to the study of resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) toxins in the dengue vector Aedes aegypti. A genome scan of Bti‐resistant and Bti‐susceptible A. aegypti laboratory strains was performed based on 432 AFLP markers. Fourteen outliers were detected using two different population genetic algorithms. Out of these, 11 were successfully sequenced. Three contained transposable elements (TEs) sequences, and the 10 outliers that could be mapped at a unique location in the reference genome were located on different supercontigs. One outlier was in the vicinity of a gene coding for an aminopeptidase potentially involved in Bti toxin‐binding. Patterns of sequence variability of this gene showed significant deviation from neutrality in the resistant strain but not in the susceptible strain, even after taking into account the known demographic history of the selected strain. This gene is a promising candidate for future functional analysis.
Alterations in composition and diversity of the intestinal microbiota in patients with diarrhea‐predominant irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Carroll I. M. , Ringel‐Kulka T. , Siddle J. P. , Ringel Y.
Published: February 2012

Background  The intestinal microbiota has been implicated in the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Due to the variable resolutions of techniques used to characterize the intestinal microbiota, and the heterogeneity of IBS, the defined alterations of the IBS intestinal microbiota are inconsistent. We analyzed the composition of the intestinal microbiota in a defined subgroup of IBS patients (diarrhea‐predominant IBS, D‐IBS) using a technique that provides the deepest characterization available for complex microbial communities.

Methods  Fecal DNA was isolated from 23 D‐IBS patients and 23 healthy controls (HC). Variable regions V1–V3 and V6 of the 16S rRNA gene were amplified from all samples. PCR products were sequenced using 454 high throughput sequencing. The composition, diversity and richness of microbial communities were determined and compared between D‐IBS and HC using the quantitative insights into microbial ecology pipeline.

Key Results  The contribution of bacterial groups to the composition of the intestinal microbiota differed between D‐IBS and HC. D‐IBS patients had significantly higher levels of Enterobacteriaceae (P = 0.03), and lower levels of Fecalibacterium genera (P = 0.04) compared to HC. β‐Diversity values demonstrated significantly lower levels of UniFrac distances in HC compared to D‐IBS patients. The richness of 16S rRNA sequences was significantly decreased in D‐IBS patients (P < 0.04).

Conclusions & Inferences  Our 16S rRNA sequence data demonstrates a community‐level dysbiosis in D‐IBS. The altered composition of the intestinal microbiota in D‐IBS is associated with significant increases in detrimental and decreases in beneficial bacterial groups, and a reduction in microbial richness.
Obesity and its associated disease: a role for microbiota?
Authors: Tehrani A. Bonakdar. , Nezami B. G. , Gewirtz A. , Srinivasan S.
Published: February 2012

Background  Gut microbiota have recently been implicated in the pathogenesis of the obesity and its related metabolic diseases. A variety of factors including diet, genetic background, environment and host innate and adaptive immune responses define an individual’s gut microbiota.

Purpose  In this review we outline potential mechanisms by which gut microbiota can contribute to the development of obesity focusing on specific processes such as microbial energy extraction, microbiota induced‐inflammation and regulation of appetite. We review the current understanding of each of these processes on regulating metabolism and examine potential therapeutic strategies for the treatment or prevention of the metabolic syndrome. We explore the hypothesis that alteration in gut microbiota may be an initial event leading to altered feeding behavior and/or systemic inflammation, ultimately leading to weight gain and the metabolic syndrome.
Forisome performance in artificial sieve tubes
Authors: KNOBLAUCH MICHAEL , STUBENRAUCH MIKE , VAN BEL AART J. E. , PETERS WINFRIED S.
Published: February 2012

In the legume phloem, sieve element occlusion (SEO) proteins assemble into Ca2+‐dependent contractile bodies. These forisomes presumably control phloem transport by forming reversible sieve tube plugs. This function, however, has never been directly demonstrated, and appears questionable as forisomes were reported to be too small to plug sieve tubes, and failed to block flow efficiently in artificial microchannels. Moreover, plugs of SEO‐related proteins in Arabidopsis sieve tubes do not affect phloem translocation. We improved existing procedures for forisome isolation and storage, and found that the degree of Ca2+‐driven deformation that is possible in forisomes of Vicia faba, the standard object of earlier research, has been underestimated substantially. Forisomes deform particularly strongly under reducing conditions and high sugar concentrations, as typically found in sieve tubes. In contrast to our previous inference, Ca2+‐inducible forisome swelling certainly seems sufficient to plug sieve tubes. This conclusion was supported by 3D‐reconstructions of forisome plugs in Canavalia gladiata. For a direct test, we built microfluidics chips with artificial sieve tubes. Using fluorescent dyes to visualize flow, we demonstrated the complete blockage of these biomimetic microtubes by Ca2+‐induced forisome plugs, and concluded by analogy that forisomes are capable of regulating phloem flow in vivo.
The Late Neoproterozoic/Early Palaeozoic evolution of the West Congo Belt of NW Angola: geochronological (U‐Pb and Ar‐Ar) and petrostructural constraints
Authors: Monié Patrick , Bosch Delphine , Bruguier Olivier , Vauchez Alain , Rolland Yann , Nsungani Pedro , Buta Neto André
Published: February 2012

Terra Nova, 24, 238–247, 2012

U‐Pb zircon and Ar‐Ar amphibole and biotite ages from rocks of the West Congo Belt of Angola indicate that this area underwent two main deformation events of amphibolite facies grade at c. 540 and 490 Ma, which were followed by tectonically assisted exhumation during eastward thrusting of the hinterland domain onto the foreland domain. High‐grade conditions in the West Congo Belt are 20–40 Ma younger than in the Ribeira–Araçuai Belt of Brazil, its South American counterpart, or than in the westernmost Kaoko Belt of Namibia, its African correlative. In the present state of knowledge, a more appropriate counterpart to the southern part of the West Congo Belt may be restricted to the Cabo Frio Terrane in the eastern Ribeira Belt, which yields a broadly similar evolution.
The first case of tinea faciei caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. erinacei isolated in Chile
Authors: Concha Marcela , Nicklas Claudia , Balcells Elvira , Guzmán Ana María , Poggi Helena , León Eugenia , Fich Felix
Published: February 2012

Background  Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. erinacei is a zoophilic dermatophyte transmitted by hedgehogs which human infections manifest as highly inflammatory and pruritic eruptions.

Methods  We report a 21‐year‐old woman who presented with a two‐week history of a pruritic scaly erythematous plaque on the nose. The patient had kept hedgehogs as pets, and one had bitten her on the tip of the nose two months prior to the appearance of the nasal lesion.

Results  Fungal culture from the scales on the tip of the patient’s nose was compatible with T. mentagrophytes var. erinacei. The strains isolated from cultures made from samples taken from the noses and ears of the pet hedgehogs were morphologically similar to the strain isolated from the patient. Morphological identification was confirmed by sequencing the internal transcribed spacer. The lesion was diagnosed as tinea faciei, and therapy was initiated with topical and systemic terbinafine 250 mg/day for eight weeks, which resulted in complete improvement.

Conclusions  Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. erinacei is the most common dermatophyte isolated in hedgehogs. Usually T. mentagrophytes var. erinacei infection manifests as an extremely inflammatory and pruritic eruption that is confined to the site of contact with the hedgehog. Although the identification of T. mentagrophytes by traditional methods is possible, identification by ITS region analysis is a fast, simple, and increasingly available method. The increasing frequency of the practice of keeping exotic animals as pets has resulted in the emergence of several zoonotic diseases that can potentially be transmitted to humans.
Serum levels of GRO‐α are elevated in association with disease activity in patients with Behçet’s disease
Authors: Kato Yasunobu , Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: February 2012

Background  Although the etiology of Behçet’s disease (BD) is still unknown, neutrophils are implicated in its pathogenesis. Growth‐related oncogene‐α (GRO‐α) is a potent chemoattractant and activator for neutrophils.

Objective  To determine the role of GRO‐α in the pathogenesis of BD, we investigated serum GRO‐α levels in patients with BD.

Materials and methods  Sera from patients with BD (n = 57) and control subjects (n = 26) were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Serum levels of GRO‐α were compared with clinical symptoms.

Results  Patients with BD had significantly elevated serum GRO‐α levels compared with healthy controls (121.7 ± 79.2 pg/ml vs. 75.9 ± 20.6 pg/ml, P < 0.01). Concerning the subgroups of BD, serum GRO‐α levels in active patients with BD (n = 35) were significantly higher than in inactive patients with BD (n = 22; 139.0 ± 92.8 pg/ml vs. 94.3 ± 36.2 pg/ml, P < 0.05). Also, as seen in previous studies, serum interleukin‐8 levels in patients with BD (52.4 ± 81.8 pg/ml) were significantly higher than in controls (13.9 ± 19.7 pg/ml, P < 0.01). Enhanced GRO‐α levels correlated with clinical symptoms such as erythema nodosum.

Conclusion  Our results indicate that serum levels of GRO‐α are elevated in patients with active stage BD, suggesting that GRO‐α may serve as a reliable marker for disease activity of BD.
What happens to the severity grading by objective SCORAD if we over‐ or underestimate disease extent or intensity in patients with atopic dermatitis?
Authors: Hon Kam‐lun Ellis , Wang Shuxin Susan , Leung Ting Fan
Published: February 2012

Background  The objective SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) is a widely‐used clinical score for assessing the extent, intensity, and severity of atopic dermatitis (AD).

Objective  We evaluated the effect on the severity grading if extent or intensity was under‐estimated or overestimated.

Materials and methods  Six‐hundred and fifty‐one SCORADs performed over a 40‐month period were evaluated. The effect on AD severity grading of six‐hundred and fifty‐one SCORADs performed over a 40‐month period was evaluated if disease extent or intensivity was misestimated.

Results  The effect on AD grading was generally small if extent had been misestimated by 10% or 20%. In the mild grade (n = 131), 40%, 62%, and 82% would have become moderate if the intensity had been underestimated by 1, 2, and 3, respectively. In the moderate grade (n = 296), 13%, 27%, and 41% would have become severe if the intensity had been underestimated by 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The grading would have become mild in 16%, 31%, and 44% if the intensity had been overestimated by 1, 2, and 3, respectively. In the severe grade (n = 224), 14%, 25%, and 38% would have become moderate if the intensity had been overestimated by 1, 2, and 3, respectively.

Conclusions  The effect on AD grading is generally small if extent is misestimated. A huge difference, especially if underestimated in the mild group, would occur if intensity is misestimated. Surrogate markers of disease severity could overcome or supplement shortcoming of clinical scores in AD research.
Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of 7172 patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis in Sanliurfa, between 2001 and 2008
Authors: Yemisen Mucahit , Ulas Yilmaz , Celik Hakim , Aksoy Nurten
Published: February 2012

Background  Cutaneous leishmaniasis in Sanliurfa is still a public health problem. In this study, we report the epidemiological, clinical, and demographic properties from Sanliurfa.

Materials and Methods  7172 patients followed up in the Sanliurfa Leishmaniasis Treatment Center between January 2001 and December 2008.

Results  The rates of male and female patients were 46% and 54% of the 7172 cases, respectively. The incidence of ACL showed a typical trend of an increase between November and May and a decrease in the summer. The face and extremities were the most involved parts of the body. Clinical appearance and Giemsa smear were most used diagnostic tools and intralesional pentavalent antimony compounds were the first choice of treatment.

Conclusion  The incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Sanliurfa is still low but not zero.
Mucocutaneous manifestation of pediatric human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) in relation to degree of immunosuppression: a study of a West African population
Authors: Umoru Dominic , Oviawe Osawaru , Ibadin Michael , Onunu Abel , Esene Hendrith
Published: February 2012

Background  Mucocutaneous lesions occur at one point or the other during the course of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease. These lesions can be the initial presenting features but could also be a pointer to the presence of immunosuppression.

Aim and objectives  This study was carried out to determine the pattern of mucocutaneous manifestation in children who have human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) in relation to their level of immunosuppression.

Methods  One hundred children who were HIV seropositive aged 18 months to 16 years were evaluated for mucocutaneous lesions, and their degree of immunosuppression was also determined using total CD4+ count or CD4+ percentage. Another group of age and gender matched 100 HIV‐negative children were also examined for mucocutaneous lesions.

Results  The mucocutaneous manifestations were more common among the subjects compared to controls (P = 0.000). The overall prevalence among the seropositive and seronegative subjects was 64% and 12% respectively. The prevalence of mucocutaneous findings in children with severe, moderate, and no immunosuppression were 93.8%, 55.2%, and 46.2%, respectively. The lesions were significantly more common among those with moderate and severe immunosuppression compared to those with no immunosuppression (P = 0.000). Multiple lesions were more frequent among those with severe immunosuppression. Oral thrush was the most frequent lesion (25.6%) among the subjects followed by pruritic papular eruption (20.7%) and dermatophytosis (14.1%). Severe and atypical forms of dermatophytosis and herpes ulcer were also observed among the subjects.

Conclusion  This study shows that mucocutaneous lesions are common in children with HIV/AIDS and could be an early indicator of immune suppression. It is important to recognize them early in order to enhance early case detection and treatment.
Propylthiouracil‐induced ANCA‐positive erythema nodosum treated with thalidomide
Authors: Wan Pengjie , Zhao Xiaoqing , Hunasehally Ranganna Y. P. , Shi Ruofei , Zheng Jie
Published: February 2012

Background  Propylthiouracil (PTU), one of the mainstays of antithyroid therapy drugs, can lead to antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) positivity and skin lesions. PTU‐induced ANCA‐positive vasculitis is rare and even more rare is erythema nodosum.

Objective  To report a case of a 57‐year‐old woman with hyperthyroidism who developed myeloperoxidase (MPO)‐ANCA erythema nodosum after PTU treatment for 11 months.

Methods  Skin biopsy demonstrated septal panniculitis without vasculitis. PTU‐induced ANCA‐positive erythema nodosum was made.

Results  With discontinuation of PTU and initiation of thalidomide, skin lesions resolved completely in three weeks, and after three months, the titers of MPO‐ANCA and perinuclear‐ANCA (p‐ANCA) had decreased remarkably. At 14‐month follow‐up, the patient was asymptomatic, but low levels of ANCA titers persisted.

Conclusions  This report indicated that ANCA positive erythema nodosum could develop following PTU treatment. Thalidomide has been proven to be helpful and averted the adverse effects from systemic corticosteroids and other immunosuppressive drugs in this patient.
Solitary subungual neurofibroma in the right first finger
Authors: Huajun Jiang , Wei Qu , Ming Lu , Chongyang Fu , Weiguo Zhang , Decheng Lv
Published: February 2012

Background  Neurofibromas may occur as part of neurofibromatosis or as a solitary tumor. Solitary subungual neurofibroma appears to be a rare condition. Up until now, less than 10 case reports of solitary subungual neurofibroma have been documented. Solitary subungual neurofibroma is difficult to diagnose, particularly as it is often small and without obvious symptoms. Awareness of the diagnosis is emphasized to prevent unnecessary delay in treatment. So, understanding the differentiation and diagnosis of solitary subungual neurofibroma has a great value.

Methods  A 32‐year‐old woman presented with a two‐year history of painless thickening and elevation of the nail plate of the right first finger. She was treated with complete surgical excision of the tumor, and we performed pathological examination of the biopsy specimen.

Results  The final diagnosis of the tumor was solitary neurofibroma. After surgery, the nail regrew with a good cosmetic result. After 10 months of follow‐up, there were no signs of recurrence of the tumor.

Conclusion  Solitary subungual neurofibroma appears to be a rare condition, and immunohistochemistry is the key to the diagnosis. Complete surgical excision should be considered as the curative treatment of choice for them.
Etanercept use for psoriasis in Taiwan: a case series study
Authors: Chiu Hsien‐Yi , Wang Ting‐Shun , Cho Yung‐Tsu , Tsai Tsen‐Fang
Published: February 2012

Background  The reported efficacy and safety of some biologic agents for psoriasis vary between Caucasians and Asians. Few reports of etanercept exist in psoriasis patients within the Asia‐Pacific region.

Objectives  The study aims to report our clinical experience of etanercept in the treatment of patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis in Taiwan.

Methods  A retrospective analysis of 59 patients with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis who received etanercept was conducted in a tertiary referral center.

Results  Etanercept therapy resulted in a reduction of mean Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) of 47% at week 12 and 61% at week 24. After 12 weeks of treatment, 48%, 26%, and 3.4% of the patients achieved at least PASI50, 75 and 90 response, respectively. At week 24, the proportion of patients achieving at least PASI50, 75 and 90 response was 59%, 37%, and 14%, respectively. Etanercept efficacy in achieving PASI75 improvement was, however, lower than that reported in previous pivotal placebo‐controlled trials. No cases of active tuberculosis, viral hepatitis or malignancies were observed during the observation period.

Conclusion  Our case series demonstrated the efficacy and safety of etanercept for the management of moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis in Taiwan.
Potential efficacy of imiquimod on immunity‐related cytokines in murine skin in vivo and in human Langerhans cells in vitro
Authors: Miao Xu , Luo Dan , Min Wei , Lin Xiangfei , Wang Daguang , Xu Yang , Wu Di
Published: February 2012

Introduction  Imiquimod, an immune‐response modifier, has been proven to be clinically effective in the treatment of viral infections and skin cancers, but its mechanism of action remains poorly understood. This study aimed to assess the effects of imiquimod on the expression of three immunity‐related cytokines, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6.

Materials and methods  Female BALB/C mice were treated for seven days with topical 1% imiquimod cream; they were then killed and skin samples were snap‐frozen. In the in vitro studies, both purified LCs and HaCaT cells were incubated with 5 μg/ml imiquimod for four hours. In all samples, the mRNA levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 were then detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and the secretion levels were determined by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results  Imiquimod upregulated the mRNA and protein expression levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 in the skin of imiquimod‐treated BALB/C mice and in human LCs, compared with untreated controls (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the expression of these cytokines in imiquimod‐treated and untreated HaCaT cells.

Conclusions  These findings indicate that imiquimod increased the expression of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 in skin and that the target cell of imiquimod may be the LCs but is unlikely to be the epidermal keratinocytes.
Varicella zoster virus meningoencephalitis after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Suzuki J. , Ashizawa M. , Okuda S. , Wada H. , Sakamoto K. , Terasako K. , Sato M. , Kimura S.‐I. , Kikuchi M. , Nakasone H. , Kako S. , Yamazaki R. , Oshima K. , Nishida J. , Kanda Y.
Published: February 2012

Although the reactivation of varicella zoster virus (VZV) is a common complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), VZV meningoencephalitis is a rare life‐threatening infectious disease after HSCT. We describe here a patient who developed VZV meningoencephalitis 2 years after human leukocyte antigen‐matched unrelated HSCT for acute myeloblastic leukemia. She developed chronic graft‐versus‐host disease, and cyclosporine (CSA) was continued until 17 months after HSCT. Low‐dose acyclovir (ACV) at 200 mg/day was administered to prevent the reactivation of VZV from day −7 to the termination of CSA. At 22 months, she suddenly developed fever, loss of consciousness, and seizure, with generalized skin rash. A high level of VZV DNA was detected in her cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). She was diagnosed to have VZV meningoencephalitis. Intravenous ACV at 30 mg/kg/day was given for 2 months. Although loss of consciousness was quickly resolved, some neurologic symptoms persisted. She did not have any known risk factors for VZV reactivation. Therefore, we should keep in mind that any HSCT recipient may develop VZV meningoencephalitis, and examination of CSF for VZV infection with an empiric administration of ACV may be recommended for HSCT recipients with central nervous system symptoms, even in the absence of skin manifestations.
Audit on the usage of plasma derived/recombinant coagulation factor concentrates at a German University Hospital
Authors: Strobel J. , Jörns H. , Weisbach V. , Ganslandt T. , Zimmermann R. , Eckstein R.
Published: February 2012

Background  There is a lack of data on the usage of plasma derived/recombinant coagulation factor concentrates (PD/RCFC) regarding diagnostic categories. An audit of PD/RCFC and blood component usage at a tertiary care teaching hospital in northern Bavaria was conducted.

Study design and methods  All blood components and PD/RCFC transfused at a university hospital (Erlangen, Germany) during the year 2006 were analysed. Transfused blood products were listed by major diagnostic categories (MDC) formed from principal diagnoses of recipients according to the International Classification of Diseases, tenth revision and German modification.

Results  Blood component usage has markedly increased since last surveyed in 1994 through 1996. The diagnostic categories responsible for most transfusions have not changed since. Antithrombin is the PD/RCFC used most, whereas most money for PD/RCFC was spent on FVIII concentrates. Polytrauma patients need most fibrinogen, whereas most of FXIII is needed in patients with malignancies. Patients with prolonged artificial ventilation receive PCC most often. Altogether, three MDCs (Pre, 17, 05) accounted for 80·5% of costs created by PD/RCFC transfusion.

Conclusion  This study provides for the first time combined data on blood component and PD/RCFC usage in a German university hospital. It shows that the MDCs responsible for most of the costs in transfusion therapy with blood components and with PD/RCFC are few, and are the same. At the same time, blood bank information software should be further improved in order to be able to identify new trends in hemotherapy in more detail.
Rhizobacteria modify plant–aphid interactions: a case of induced systemic susceptibility
Authors: Pineda A. , Zheng S. ‐J. , van Loon J. J. A. , Dicke M.
Published: February 2012

Beneficial microbes, such as plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria and mycorrhizal fungi, may have a plant‐mediated effect on insects aboveground. The plant growth‐promoting rhizobacterium Pseudomonas fluorescens can induce systemic resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana against several microbial pathogens and chewing insects. However, the plant‐mediated effect of these beneficial microbes on phloem‐feeding insects is not well understood. Using Arabidopsis as a model, we here report that P. fluorescens has a positive effect on the performance (weight gain and intrinsic rate of increase) of the generalist aphid Myzus persicae, while no effect was recorded on the crucifer specialist aphid Brevicoryne brassicae. Additionally, transcriptional analyses of selected marker genes revealed that in the plant–microbe interaction with M. persicae, rhizobacteria (i) prime the plant for enhanced expression of LOX2, a gene involved in the jasmonic acid (JA)‐regulated defence pathway, and (ii) suppress the expression of ABA1, a gene involved in the abscisic acid (ABA) signalling pathway, at several time points. In contrast, almost no effect of the plant–microbe interaction with B. brassicae was found at the transcriptional level. This study presents the first data on rhizobacteria‐induced systemic susceptibility to an herbivorous insect, supporting the pattern proposed for other belowground beneficial microbes and aboveground phloem feeders. Moreover, we provide further evidence that at the transcript level, soil‐borne microbes modify plant–aphid interactions.
Irritant bullous contact dermatitis caused by a rove beetle: An illustrated clinical course
Authors: McGrath Lindsay , Piliouras Peter , Robertson Ivan
Published: February 2012

A 26‐year‐old Australian female traveller in Sierra Leone presented with an irritant bullous contact dermatitis consistent with paederus dermatitis. The lesions were treated with a potent topical corticosteroid with good effect. The affected area resolved in 6 weeks and hyperpigmention persisted for months until complete resolution. This dermatitis occurs when beetles of the genus Paederus (rove beetles) are crushed on the skin, releasing pederin. The same dermatitis ensues with Australian Paederus species. Serial clinical photographs are presented which will aid Australian dermatologists in the diagnosis of this dermatitis, which presents in regional Australian patients and returned overseas travellers.
Survey of the differences between regenerative and non‐regenerative animals
Authors: Agata Kiyokazu , Inoue Takeshi
Published: February 2012

To investigate the boundaries between regenerative and non‐regenerative animals, we first survey regenerative ability across animal phyla from sponges to chordates (including mammals). There are both regenerative and non‐regenerative animals in each phylum. The cells participating in regeneration also vary among different species. Thus, it is hard to find clear rules concerning regeneration ability across the animal kingdom, suggesting that it is not useful to compare the difference of regenerative ability across phyla to seek the boundary between regenerative and non‐regenerative animals. Instead, if we carefully compare the differences of regenerative ability between closely related species within each phylum and accumulate these differences at the cellular molecular levels, we may be able to clarify the boundary between regenerative and non‐regenerative animals. Here we introduce our comparative analysis of cellular events after amputation of lower jaws between frogs and newts. Then we propose that such comparative analyses using closely related species within the same phylum should be accumulated to understand the boundary between regenerative and non‐regenerative animals in order to apply this understanding for realizing regenerative medicine in the future.
Matrix metalloprotease 16 expression is downregulated by microRNA‐146a in spontaneously differentiating Caco‐2 cells
Authors: Astarci Erhan , Erson‐Bensan Ayşe E. , Banerjee Sreeparna
Published: February 2012

Cellular differentiation in the gut is vital in maintaining the cellular and functional specialization of the epithelial layer. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have recently emerged as one of the key players in orchestrating the differentiation process in the gut. Using the spontaneously differentiating Caco‐2 cell line, we observed an increased expression of miR‐146a but not miR‐146b in the course of differentiation. Bioinformatic analyses revealed that the membrane type matrix metalloprotease 16 (MMP16, MT3‐MMP) was a predicted target of miR‐146a and a decrease in the mRNA and protein expression of MMP16 was observed in the course of differentiation. Transfection of a luciferase reporter vector containing the 3′UTR of MMP16 showed decreased luciferase activity due to miR‐146a expression. With forced expression of miR‐146a in undifferentiated Caco‐2 cells, a decrease in the mRNA and protein levels of MMP16 and a lower gelatinase activity in a gelatin zymogram were observed. Additionally, forced expression of miR‐146a in HT‐29 colon cancer cells also resulted in decreased expression of MMP16, along with a decrease in the invasion through Matrigel. Taken together, we have shown here that MMP16 is regulated by miR‐146a in spontaneously differentiated Caco‐2 cells. As MMP16 activates the zymogen of MMP2, which is known to degrade extracellular matrix proteins, the regulation of MMP16 by miR‐146a may account, at least in part, for lower motility of well‐differentiated cells.
Functional analysis of the role ofeyes absentandsine oculisin the developing eye of the cricketGryllus bimaculatus
Authors: Takagi Akira , Kurita Kazuki , Terasawa Taiki , Nakamura Taro , Bando Tetsuya , Moriyama Yoshiyuki , Mito Taro , Noji Sumihare , Ohuchi Hideyo
Published: February 2012

In the cricketGryllus bimaculatus, a hemimetabolous insect, the compound eyes begin to form in the embryo and increase 5–6 fold in size during the postembryonic development of the nymphal stage. Retinal stem cells in the anteroventral proliferation zone (AVPZ) of the nymphal eye proliferate to increase retinal progenitors, which then differentiate to form new ommatidia in the anterior region of the eye. However, mechanisms underlying this type of eye formation have not been well elucidated yet. Here, we found that the homologues of the retinal determination transcription factor genes ofeyes absent(eya) andsine oculis(so) are expressed during the cricket embryonic eye formation.eyais also expressed intensely in the AVPZ of the nymphal eye. To explore their functions, we performed knockdown by RNA interference (RNAi). Knockdown ofGb’eyaresulted in loss of the embryonic eye. In the nymphal eye, RNAi againstGb’eyaorGb’soimpaired retinal morphology by apparently transforming cornea structures into head cuticle. These results imply thatGb’eyaandGb’soare essential for the differentiation of the retinal progenitor cells and maintaining retinal structures during eye development.
Zebrafish enhancer trap line showing maternal and neural expression of kctd15a
Authors: Gharbi Naouel , Zhao Xiao‐Feng , Ellingsen Staale , Fjose Anders
Published: February 2012

Potassium channel tetramerization domain containing proteins (KCTDs), which share a conserved BTB (Bric‐a‐brac, Tramtrack, Broad complex) domain at their N‐terminus, are known to be involved in both developmental and neural processes. However, the developmental expression patterns and functional roles of most vertebrate KCTDs remain unknown. Using enhancer‐trapping technology, we have identified a transgenic zebrafish line (ub49) where the vector insertion is in close proximity to kctd15a, and where transgenic marker (eGFP) expression closely reflects endogenous kctd15a expression. Both ub49 and kctd15a show strong maternal expression that suggests a functional role during epiboly and gastrulation. At later developmental stages, expression of eGFP in ub49 also shares the same spatiotemporal features as kctd15a in several neural tissues, including cranial placode precursors, retina, and different areas of the developing brain. In the retina, we observed eGFP labeling of the inner nuclear layer (INL), including a heterogenous population of amacrine cells, and both laminae of the inner plexiform layer (IPL). This expression pattern suggests that Kctd15a proteins have several context‐dependent functional roles in both developmental and neural processes. The enhancer trap line, which is the first transgenic reporter of Kctd gene expression in vertebrates, also provides a novel tool to study kctd15a function in vivo.
Impact of obesity on exercise performance and pulmonary rehabilitation
Authors: DREHER MICHAEL , KABITZ HANS‐JOACHIM
Published: February 2012

While the impact of obesity on respiratory function has been extensively studied, and several definitive conclusions have emerged, its impact on exercise performance is complex, with the available data sometimes providing contradictory or inconclusive information.

Based on the literature discussed, it appears that resting alterations in lung volumes and gas exchange become attenuated during exercise in the obese, while oxygen cost of breathing and dyspnoea are increased. Respiratory muscle function also seems to be impaired, such that inspiratory muscle strength is reduced and respiratory drive is increased. Furthermore, while there is no reduction in the absolute values of maximal oxygen uptake compared with normal‐weight subjects, oxygen uptake at a given workload is increased and maximal workload is reduced in the obese, caused by increases in body mass and/or basal metabolic rate. To date, obesity has not been listed as an indication for pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), hence the reason why conclusive data on the impact of obesity per se on PR are lacking. The majority of evidence discussed is based on comparative data from obese versus normal‐weight patients, with respiratory disorders currently established as indications for PR. The best evidence currently available regarding the impact of obesity on PR is for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); here, it appears that obesity per se has no negative impact on PR. Otherwise, there are no conclusive data on the impact of obesity on PR in respiratory disorders other than COPD, and this remains to be investigated in the future.
Non‐smoking‐related chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A neglected entity?
Authors: ZENG GUANGQIAO , SUN BAOQING , ZHONG NANSHAN
Published: February 2012

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an increasing cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and it has been strongly correlated to tobacco smoking. While a number of studies have concentrated on smokers only, recent published data demonstrate that at least one fourth of patients with COPD are non‐smokers, and that the burden of COPD in non‐smokers is also higher than previously believed. Risk factors of COPD in non‐smokers may include genetic factors, long‐standing asthma, outdoor air pollution (from traffic and other sources), environmental smoke exposure (ETS), biomass smoke, occupational exposure, diet, recurrent respiratory infection in early childhood, tuberculosis and so on. In Asian region, indoor/outdoor air pollution and poor socioeconomic status may play important roles in the pathogenesis of non‐smoking‐related COPD. The prevalence of COPD among never smokers varies widely across nations. Such a variation may arise from several aspects, including study design, definition of COPD, diagnostic criteria, age and gender distribution of the studied population, local risk factors and socioeconomic status. More investigations and efforts are required to elucidate the involved factors and their shared contributions to non‐smoking‐related COPD so as to achieve better estimation and reduction of the burden of this neglected entity worldwide.
Effects of prophylactic indomethacin on renal and intestinal blood flows in premature infants
Authors: Maruyama Kenichi , Fujiu Tohru
Published: February 2012

Background:  Prophylactic indomethacin reduces severe intraventricular hemorrhage and symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus in premature infants. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of prophylactic low‐dose indomethacin on renal and intestinal blood flow.

Methods:  Subjects were 19 extremely low‐birthweight infants admitted to our hospital and enrolled in a multicenter randomized control trial to study the efficacy and complications of prophylactic low‐dose indomethacin in the reduction of severe intraventricular hemorrhage and patent ductus arteriosus (indomethacin and placebo groups, ten and nine infants, respectively). We measured blood flow velocity in the right renal artery (right RA) and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) with pulsed Doppler ultrasound before and after the administration of the first dose of 0.1 mg/kg indomethacin or placebo.

Results:  End‐diastolic blood flow velocity (EDV) in the right RA and SMA increased significantly after the administration of indomethacin (P = 0.0414 and 0.0284, respectively), although the time‐averaged mean blood flow velocity (TAV) did not change significantly in either artery. In the placebo group, the pre‐ and postadministration values for TAV and EDV in the right RA and SMA did not differ. Neither group showed a significant change in the relative vascular resistance (mean blood pressure/TAV) in the right RA or SMA. EDV in the left pulmonary artery was significantly reduced only after the administration of indomethacin (P = 0.0284).

Conclusions:  Prophylactic low‐dose indomethacin increases the diastolic blood flow in the RA and SMA via a reduction in the ductal shunt volume, with no change in the regional vascular resistance.
Recruitment and PEEP level influences long‐time aeration in saline‐lavaged piglets: an experimental model
Authors: Hanson Angela , Göthberg Sylvia , Nilsson Krister , Hedenstierna Göran
Published: February 2012

Objectives: To evaluate aeration/ventilation in saline‐lavaged piglets during a 3‐h follow‐up after a recruitment maneuver (RM)/PEEP titration compared with PEEP 10 cmH2O without a RM.

Background: Lung recruitment and PEEP titration are used to find a PEEP preventing repetitive opening/collapsing of lung.

Methods: Twenty‐one lung‐lavaged piglets, mean age 7 weeks and mean weight 10 kg; a RM‐group and a PEEP10‐group, were ventilated at PEEP 5 cmH2O (baseline) followed by zero PEEP ventilation. In the RM‐group, tidal elimination of CO2and dynamic compliance (Cdyn) guided recruitment and PEEP titration, respectively. A final 3‐h ventilation followed using PEEP 2 cmH2O above the first decline of Cdyn and end‐inspiratory pressure (EIP) for a target tidal volume (VT) of 10 ml·kg−1. In the PEEP10‐group, PEEP 10 cmH2O without a RM was used during the final 3‐h ventilation. CT scans and blood gases were repeated every 30 min. Airway pressures, Cdyn and hemodynamics were continuously recorded.

Results: Aeration improved without differences between groups. The RM‐group PEEP level of 10 ± 0.6 cmH2O did not differ from the PEEP10‐group. Compared to baseline EIP was lower in the RM‐group after 3‐h ventilation. In both groups, driving pressure (DP) was lower and Cdyn higher than baseline. In the RM‐group, final EIP and DP were lower and Cdyn higher than in the PEEP10‐group.

Conclusions: Both RM/PEEP titration and PEEP elevation resulted in improved aeration without differences between groups at the end point. Lung aeration was achieved at lower EIP and DP and higher Cdyn in the RM‐group than in the PEEP10‐group.
Third eyelid dermoid in a horse
Authors: Greenberg Shari M. , Plummer Caryn E. , Brooks Dennis E. , Craft Serena L. , Conway Julia A.
Published: February 2012

An 8‐year‐old Gypsy Vanner gelding presented to the University of Florida Ophthalmology service for the evaluation of chronic, recurrent corneal ulcers behind the third eyelid of the right eye. On ophthalmic examination, a cluster of aberrant hairs was identified growing along the margin of the third eyelid. This portion of third eyelid was surgically excised, and histopathology identified the haired tissue as a dermoid. Chronic keratitis secondary to a third eyelid dermoid was diagnosed, and excision appeared curative at 6 months post‐operative follow‐up.