bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The placement of Gyrodactylus salmonis (Yin & Sproston) in the molecular phylogeny of studied members of the Gyrodactylus wageneri‐group parasitizing salmonids
Authors: Gilmore S R , Abbott C L , Cone D K
Published: March 2010

The molecular phylogeny of Gyrodactylus salmonis from brook charr, Salvelinus fontinalis, rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, cutthroat trout, O. clarkii, and Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar, in Canada is presented using sequences from ITS‐rDNA and the mitochondrial COX 1 gene. Sequence variation among G. salmonis specimens from the different North American hosts was consistent with within‐species variation reported for other Gyrodactylus. Sequence data are compared to those from other members of the wageneri group parasitizing salmoniform fishes in northern Europe (G. derjavini, G. derjavinoides, G. lavareti, G. salaris, G. salvelini, G. teuchis and G. truttae) and Asia (G. brachymystacis). Sequence divergence between G. salmonis and the recently described G. salvelini on Arctic charr, Salvelinus alpinus, in Finland was consistent with within‐species levels of variation in Gyrodactylus; however, phylogenetic analyses and morphological comparisons provided evidence of their distinctiveness such that they appear to be sister species. They grouped with G. lavareti (a parasite of a coregonid) to form a clade separate from European and Asian species of the wageneri lineage known from salmonid fish. Further study of gyrodactylids from across salmonid, coregonid and thymallid fish in the northern hemisphere would shed more light on the phylogeography of these parasites and serves as an important backdrop to understanding the evolution of their emergent virulence.
An isolate and sequence database of infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV)
Authors: Jonstrup S P , Schuetze H , Kurath G , Gray T , Jensen B Bang , Olesen N J
Published: March 2010

In the field of fish diseases, the amount of relevant information available is enormous. Internet‐based databases are an excellent tool for keeping track of the available knowledge in the field. Fishpathogens.eu was launched in June 2009 with the aim of collecting, storing and sorting data on fish pathogens. The first pathogen to be included was the rhabdovirus, viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus (VHSV). Here, we present an extension of the database to also include infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV). The database is developed, maintained and managed by the European Community Reference Laboratory for Fish Diseases and collaborators. It is available at http://www.fishpathogens.eu/ihnv.
Virologic and biochemical responses to clevudine in patients with chronic HBV infection‐ associated cirrhosis: data at week 48
Authors: Kim J. H. , Yim H. J. , Jung E. S. , Jung Y. K. , Kim J. H. , Seo Y. S. , Yeon J. E. , Lee H. S. , Um S. H. , Byun K. S.
Published: March 2010

Summary.  Clevudine shows high rates of virologic and biochemical responses in patients with chronic hepatitis B. However, the efficacy and safety of clevudine in patients with cirrhosis are unknown. The aims of this study were to evaluate the safety and to assess the virologic and the biochemical responses to clevudine in patients with cirrhosis with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. We reviewed data from treatment‐naïve patients with chronic hepatitis B with and without cirrhosis who started clevudine between April 2007 and March 2008 (n = 52, hepatitis B without cirrhosis n = 21 and chronic hepatitis B with cirrhosis n = 31) at Korea University Ansan/Guro Hospital. All of the patients were treated for more than 48 weeks. The mean age was older in the patients with cirrhosis. Baseline HBV DNA levels were 6.9 and 7.78 log copies/mL (P = 0.042), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were 104.9 and 147.4 IU/L (P = 0.204), for those with and without cirrhosis, respectively. Virologic response (HBV DNA <1000 copies/mL) (87.1%vs 71.4%, P = 0.24) and biochemical response (83.9%vs 80.9%, P = 0.99) at week 48 were not significantly different between the two groups. Early virologic response at week 12 was even higher in the patients with cirrhosis (61.3%vs 28.6%, P = 0.026). Neither ALT flare nor newly onset hepatic decompensation was found in the patients with cirrhosis, whereas ALT flare was transiently observed in 14.3% of the chronic hepatitis group. In conclusion, although clevudine may produce a transient elevation of ALT during the early treatment period, such findings were not observed in patients with cirrhosis and the virologic and biochemical responses of the groups were comparable.
Mutations in the core and NS5A region of hepatitis C virus genotype 1b and correlation with response to pegylated‐interferon‐alpha 2b and ribavirin combination therapy
Authors: Hayashi K. , Katano Y. , Ishigami M. , Itoh A. , Hirooka Y. , Nakano I. , Urano F. , Yoshioka K. , Toyoda H. , Kumada T. , Goto H.
Published: March 2010

Summary. Mutations in two regions of hepatitis C virus (HCV) have been implicated in influencing response to interferon (IFN) therapy. Substitutions in the NS5A region of HCV have been associated with response to IFN therapy, and this region has been known as the IFN sensitivity‐determining region (ISDR). The mutations in the core region of HCV have also been reported to predict IFN response. The aim of this study was to investigate whether amino acid substitutions in the core region and ISDR among patients with HCV genotype 1b affect the response to IFN therapy. A total of 213 patients who completed IFN treatment were randomly selected. All patients received pegylated‐IFN‐alpha 2b once each week, plus oral ribavirin daily for 48 weeks. Of the 213 patients, 117 (54.9%) showed early virologic response (EVR), with HCV‐negativity, at 12 weeks. Factors related to EVR on multivariate analysis were non‐Gln70 and Leu91 in the core region, and ISDR mutant‐type. One hundred and two (47.9%) showed a sustained virologic response (SVR). SVR occurred more frequently in patients without Gln70 (55.4%) than in those with Gln70 (21.3%) (P < 0.0001). SVR was achieved in 43.6% of patients with wild‐type ISDR and 62.5% of patients with mutant‐type (P = 0.0227). Of the 34 patients who simultaneously had non‐Gln70 and mutant‐type ISDR, 26 (76.5%) achieved SVR. Factors related to SVR on multivariate analysis were non‐Gln70 and ISDR mutant‐type. In conclusion, amino acid substitutions in the core region and ISDR were useful for predicting the response to IFN in patients with HCV genotype 1b.
Kinetics of Local Tissue and Regional Lymph Node IL‐2 and IFN‐γ Responses in Experimental Oral Mucosa and Skin Contact Sensitivity in Mice
Authors: Ahlfors E. E. , Lyberg T.
Published: March 2010

Using ELISA, we have quantified the levels of IL‐2 and IFN‐γ in the oral mucosa, ear skin and regional and distant lymph nodes in an experimental murine model of contact sensitivity (CS), induced by the hapten oxazolone (OXA). Compared to normal conditions, the levels of IL‐2 peaked early (4–6 h) after hapten exposure in the hapten‐exposed tissues analysed both during the first hapten exposure (sensitization) and the second (elicitation) phase, thereafter quickly to subside. The oral mucosa displayed maximal 24‐fold increase in IL‐2 levels after sensitization and 39‐fold increase after elicitation. Respective figures for ear skin were ×27 and ×35 and for regional lymph nodes ×8 and ×9, respectively. The distant lymph nodes displayed only minor cytokine increases at any time. IFN‐γ‐levels did not increase after sensitization with OXA. An increase in IFN‐γ was seen after the second exposure, peaking at 8–24 h, thereafter quickly subsiding. The oral mucosa IFN‐γ increased ×14 after elicitation, the ear skin ×8 and regional lymph nodes ×37. The weight of the four regional lymph nodes increased from 10 to 38 mg, and the total number of cells in these lymph nodes was increased ×11, peaking 48 h after the elicitation. We conclude that in CS reactions, tissue levels of IL‐2 increased in buccal mucosa, ear skin and in regional lymph nodes after hapten exposure and re‐exposure, IFN‐γ appeared only after re‐exposure to the hapten. The increased weight of the regional lymph nodes was mainly attributed to cell proliferation. The common ectodermal origin and the similarity of the CS reactions on skin and in buccal mucosa indicate that these tissues share common immunological patterns of Th1 cell reactivity, at least in dealing with haptens like OXA.
A comparison of the clinical manifestations of feeding whole and hydrolysed chicken to dogs with hypersensitivity to the native protein
Authors: Ricci Rebecca , Hammerberg Bruce , Paps Judy , Contiero Barbara , Jackson Hilary
Published: March 2010

Twenty‐six dogs with known adverse food reactions were fed whole chicken for 14 days. From this group, 12 dogs with cutaneous manifestations following exposure to chicken meat were selected and randomly divided into two groups (n = 6). Each group was then fed hydrolysed chicken or hydrolysed soy for 14 days in a blinded crossover design with a 17‐day washout period between each diet. Assessments of a CADESI (Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index) score and pruritus were performed throughout the entire study, and combined in a global score (GS). Serum was collected weekly for the measurement of chicken‐ and soy‐specific IgG and IgE. Dogs displayed the most severe clinical response when eating whole chicken compared to baseline (P < 0.001). The GS was significantly reduced in 11 of the 12 dogs when fed hydrolysed chicken were compared to those fed whole chicken (3.58 ± 2.81 versus 20.38 ± 14.65,P < 0.01). Serum immunoglobulin G and E responses were variable and did not show relationship with specific dietary exposure.
Amplification of feline sarcoid‐associated papillomavirus DNA sequences from bovine skin
Authors: Munday John S. , Knight Cameron G.
Published: March 2010

Feline sarcoids are uncommon dermal neoplasms that are thought to be caused by papillomaviral (PV) infection. Feline sarcoid‐associated PV (FeSarPV) has been consistently detected in sarcoids from North American and New Zealand cats but has not been detected within any other feline sample. This suggests that feline sarcoids may develop due to cross‐species infection by a PV from an unidentified reservoir host. While there is some epidemiological evidence to suggest that cattle are the reservoir host of FeSarPV, this PV has never been identified within any bovine sample. In this study both consensus PCR primers and primers specific to FeSarPV were used to investigate the presence of PV DNA within five fibropapillomas and 18 samples of inflammatory skin disease from cattle. Consensus primers amplified bovine PV‐2 DNA from four fibropapillomas, but none of the dermatitis samples. However, specific primers amplified FeSarPV DNA from four fibropapillomas and five inflammatory skin lesions. To the best of our knowledge this is the first time that FeSarPV has been detected within any sample other than a feline sarcoid. The ability of FeSarPV to asymptomatically infect bovine skin suggests that cattle are the reservoir host of this PV and feline sarcoids could be the result of cross‐species infection of a dead‐end host by a bovine PV.
Conventional prostatic adenocarcinoma arising in a multilocular prostatic cystadenoma
Authors: Lee Thomas K. , Chuang Shang‐Tian , Netto George J.
Published: March 2010

Multilocular prostatic cystadenoma is a rare benign neoplasm located between the bladder and the rectum. These are prostatic tissue and have been shown to harbor high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia and likely susceptible to the same disease processes seen in the prostate gland. We report the first case of conventional prostatic adenocarcinoma involving a multilocular cystadenoma. Distinction from cystadenocarcinoma is also made.
Prevalence of viral infection detected by PCR and RT‐PCR in patients with acute exacerbation of COPD: A systematic review
Authors: MOHAN Anant , CHANDRA Subhash , AGARWAL Dipti , GULERIA Randeep , BROOR Shobha , GAUR Bharti , PANDEY Ravindra Mohan
Published: March 2010

Background and objective:  Viruses are important aetiological agents of acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD). Their reported prevalence varies from region to region. This systematic review calculated the prevalence of respiratory viral infections in AECOPD.

Methods:  A systematic search was performed using Medline, and references of relevant articles and conference proceedings were hand searched. Articles for review were selected based on the following criteria: (i) prospective or cross‐sectional study, (ii) original research, (iii) viral detection used the highly sensitive techniques of PCR and/or Reverse Transcriptase PCR (RT‐PCR), (iv) viral prevalence in AECOPD defined, and (v) full paper available in English. We assessed the study quality and extracted data independently and in duplicate using a pre‐defined data extraction form. Weighted mean prevalence (WMP) was calculated and a forest plot was constructed to show the dispersion.

Results:  Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. The WMP of respiratory viral infection in AECOPD was 34.1% (95% CI: 23.9–44.4). picornavirus was the most commonly detected virus with WMP 17.3% (95% CI: 7.2–27.3), followed by influenza; 7.4% (95% CI: 2.9–12.0), respiratory syncytial virus; 5.3% (95% CI: 1.6–9.0), corona viruses; 3.1% (95% CI: 0.4–5.8), parainfluenza; 2.6% (95% CI: 0.4–4.8), adenovirus; 1.1% (95% CI: −1.1 to 3.3), and human metapneumovirus; 0.7% (95% CI: −0.3 to 1.8). Maximum WMP was observed in studies from Europe followed by the USA, Australia and Asia. Picorna was the most common virus detected in Western countries whereas influenza was most common in Asia.

Conclusions:  This systematic review demonstrated that viruses are strongly associated with AECOPD, with the highest detection rates of viruses being in Europe. The geographical epidemiology of viruses may have important therapeutic implications for management of AECOPD.
The immunology of tuberculosis: From bench to bedside
Authors: DHEDA Keertan , SCHWANDER Stephan K. , ZHU Bingdong , Van ZYL‐SMIT Richard N. , ZHANG Ying
Published: March 2010

Tuberculosis (TB) is an international public health priority and kills almost two million people annually. TB is out of control in Africa due to increasing poverty and HIV coinfection, and drug‐resistant TB threatens to destabilize TB control efforts in several regions of the world. Existing diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions for TB are suboptimal. Thus, new vaccines, immunotherapeutic interventions and diagnostic tools are urgently required to facilitate TB control efforts. An improved understanding of the immunopathogenesis of TB can facilitate the identification of correlates of immune protection, the design of effective vaccines, the rational selection of immunotherapeutic agents, the evaluation of new drug candidates, and drive the development of new immunodiagnostic tools. Here we review the immunology of TB with a focus on aspects that are clinically and therapeutically relevant. An immunologically orientated approach to tackling TB can only succeed with concurrent efforts to alleviate poverty and reduce the global burden of HIV.
Why are metabolic scaling exponents so controversial? Quantifying variance and testing hypotheses
Authors: Isaac Nick J. B. , Carbone Chris
Published: March 2010

Ecology Letters(2010) 13: 728–735

The metabolic theory of ecology links physiology with ecology, and successfully predicts many allometric scaling relationships. In recent years, proponents and critics of metabolic theory have debated vigorously about the scaling of metabolic rate. We show that the controversy arose, in part, because researchers examined the mean exponent separately from the variance. We estimate both quantities simultaneously using linear mixed‐effects models and data from 1242 animal species. Metabolic rate scaling converges on the predicted value of 3/4 but is highly heterogeneous: 50% of orders lie outside the range 0.68–0.82. These findings are robust to several forms of statistical uncertainty. We then test competing hypotheses about the variation. Metabolic theory is currently unable to explain differences in scaling among orders, but the patterns are not consistent with competing explanations either. We conclude that current theories are inadequate to explain the full range of metabolic scaling patterns observed in nature.
Obese African‐Americans with prostate cancer (T1c and a prostate‐specific antigen, PSA, level of <10 ng/mL) have higher‐risk pathological features and a greater risk of PSA recurrence than non‐African‐Americans
Authors: Caire Arthur A. , Sun Leon , Polascik Thomas J. , Albala David M. , Moul Judd W.
Published: March 2010

Study Type – Prognosis (retrospective cohort) Level of Evidence 2b

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the relationship between African American (AA) race and obesity in men with prostate cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 4196 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy from 1988 to 2008 were identified in the Duke Prostate Center database. A subset of 389 (AA 20.9% and non‐AA 79.1%) patients with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥30 kg/m2, T1c disease and a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) level of <10 ng/mL were stratified by race and analysed. Age at surgery, race, surgical margin status, pathological tumour stage (pT2, pT3/4), pathological Gleason sum (<7, 3 + 4, 4 + 3, >7), extracapsular extension (ECE), seminal vesicle invasion and tumour percentage were assessed by univariate analysis followed by Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

In the entire cohort, 143 (38.1%) AA men were obese, compared to 509 (25.0%) of the non‐AA men. AA men had a significantly higher tumour percentage (15% vs 10%, P= 0.002), and a greater proportion of pT3/4 disease (45.1% vs 26.2%, P= 0.039), pathological Gleason sum ≥7 (70.7% vs 50.5%, P= 0.003), positive ECE (37.8% vs 23.1%, P= 0.007), and positive surgical margin (52.4% vs 36.8%, P= 0.010) than non‐AA men. AA men had a greater risk of PSA recurrence on Kaplan Meier (P= 0.004) and Cox regression analysis (P= 0.040, hazard ratio 1.72)

CONCLUSION

A greater proportion of AA men was obese in this cohort. Obese AA with impalpable cancer and a PSA level of <10 ng/mL have a higher risk of pathological features than obese non‐AA men, as well as a higher risk of PSA recurrence. Obesity might be responsible for the racial disparity seen in prostate cancer.
Variability of treatment selection among surgeons for patients with cT1 urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Dalbagni Guido , Kaag Matthew , Cronin Angel , Vora Kinjal , Bochner Bernard , Donat S. Machele , Herr Harry W.
Published: March 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVES

To report the heterogeneity in the treatment of patients with cT1 urothelial carcinoma by different surgeons, and to report outcomes in patients with and without bacillus Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) treatment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 396 patients who had undergone a re‐staging transurethral resection (TUR) for cT1 bladder cancer. We assessed both differences in the treatment by surgeon, and the association of early treatment with BCG with recurrence, progression and bladder cancer‐specific death.

RESULTS

Muscle was captured in the re‐staging TUR specimen in a median of 76% of patients (range 50–94 when stratified by surgeon). On multivariable analysis there was significant heterogeneity among surgeons in the use of early cystectomy (P < 0.001), deferred cystectomy (P < 0.001), and BCG (P= 0.014). However, there was no significant heterogeneity between surgeons in clinical outcome for recurrence (P= 0.9) and overall survival (P= 0.3). Among 288 patients placed on surveillance, the 5‐year probability (95% confidence interval) of freedom from recurrence was 45 (36–54)% for those receiving and 54 (44–62)% for those not receiving early BCG. On multivariable analysis, early BCG was not significantly associated with recurrence (P= 0.14). The cumulative incidence of progression was ≈10% for both groups, and the cumulative incidence of bladder cancer‐specific death was ≈7% for both groups. The cumulative incidence of deferred cystectomy before progression was 14% for those receiving and 15% for those not receiving early BCG.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a significant variability among surgeons in the management of patients with T1 disease. The similar outcome for the BCG‐treated and ‐untreated patients in our study is most likely confounded by patient selection.
Continuity and change: Spatiotemporal land use dynamics on Bellona Island, Solomon Islands
Authors: Birch‐Thomsen Torben , Reenberg Anette , Mertz Ole , Fog Bjarne
Published: March 2010

Traditional agricultural land use systems in the humid tropics of the Southwest Pacific are, as elsewhere, affected by globalization processes. This paper analyzes the directions of change in the land use system of Bellona, a small outer island in the Solomon Islands. We focus on the human–environmental interaction that shapes land use patterns and practices in the context of theoretical lines of thought concerning intensification of agricultural systems in the tropics. Aerial photography from 1966 and satellite imagery from 2006 in conjunction with studies from the 1960s and a contemporary household survey reveal only minor changes in the agricultural system. Land use and land cover dynamics are related to agricultural strategies, demographic factors, institutional actors as well as biophysical drivers or constraints. Local agricultural production still contributes significantly to local subsistence but imported food has also become a major food source. Hence, land use has become partially disconnected from the local population pressure and therefore remains relatively stable while the larger livelihood portfolio has undergone significant diversification. At present, the agricultural system is a supplement to a range of strategies supporting the increasing number of people on the island. This explains why land use patterns continue relatively unchanged while livelihood and food supply strategies have changed.
Endemic avifaunal biodiversity and tropical forest loss in Makira, a mountainous Pacific island
Authors: Danielsen Finn , Filardi Christopher E. , Jønsson Knud A. , Kohaia Victor , Krabbe Niels , Kristensen Jan B. , Moyle Robert G. , Pikacha Patrick , Poulsen Michael K. , Sørensen Mikael K. , Tatahu Charles , Waihuru Joseph , Fjeldså Jon
Published: March 2010

Anthropogenic habitat changes and the introduction of pigs, dogs, cats and rats have caused a catastrophic decline in the terrestrial biodiversity of Pacific archipelagos. At present, economic globalization and an increased demand for timber are promoting industrial logging and plantation expansion. Commercial logging can be sustainable but in practice it more often leads to land degradation, especially on small flat islands. On large and mountainous islands, however, more modest impacts can be expected as the narrowly endemic species tend to inhabit montane forests where logging is difficult. In this study we use ornithological data collected at different elevations to assess the extent to which the avifauna of Makira, a large mountainous island in Melanesia, will be affected by deforestation of the lowlands, most of which are under timber concessions. Our data suggest that a majority of the endemic bird species use lowland forest to some extent and that this may even apply to species hitherto associated with montane forest. If current commercial forestry programmes are continued, the forest habitat may be disturbed or lost over large parts of Makira, potentially undermining the natural resource base for the local subsistence economy, exacerbating climate change and threatening the integrity of one of the most important areas for biodiversity conservation on earth. Our study highlights the importance of understanding the habitat requirements of endemic species and the urgency of establishing and effectively managing community‐based protected areas in suitable lowland forests of the Pacific.
Sustainable land use in Tikopia: Food production and consumption in an isolated agricultural system
Authors: Mertz Ole , Bruun Thilde Bech , Fog Bjarne , Rasmussen Kjeld , Agergaard Jytte
Published: March 2010

The land use system on Tikopia – a Polynesian outlier in Solomon Islands – is analyzed to determine how it has developed since it was first described in the 1930s and again in the 1970s. Fieldwork included a household questionnaire survey, in‐depth interviews on farming practices and decision making, and the collection of soil samples from the major soil and garden types. The Tikopian land use system has not undergone significant changes since the 1970s; indeed the focus on self‐sufficiency in food crops may have been strengthened over the past 30 years as ship arrivals have become increasingly unreliable. Local agricultural production and exploitation of marine resources are essential to sustain the population, and with few exceptions farming and fishing techniques remain unchanged. Most of the island is still farmed permanently and the intensive agricultural system has not suffered long‐term setbacks, not even from extreme events such as Cyclone Zoe in 2002. The high fertility of Tikopian soils reported in the 1960s was found to be unchanged. It is concluded that the land use system is highly resilient to shocks and that there are no indications that Tikopian villagers would not be able to support their subsistence in the future, provided there is no substantial increase in the resident (de facto) population.
An indigenous soil classification system for Bellona Island – a raised atoll in Solomon Islands
Authors: Breuning‐Madsen Henrik , Bruun Thilde Bech , Elberling Bo
Published: March 2010

One of the challenges of evaluating existing traditional farming systems is to combine local knowledge and modern scientific methods and terminology. This requires an evaluation of indigenous soil classification in modern terms. This paper focuses on an indigenous soil classification system developed by local farmers on the island of Bellona, Solomon Islands. The definitions of the different soil types are described and the principles of the classification system and the applicability of ethnopedology in soil surveys are discussed. Based on interviews with about 20 per cent of the farmers on the island as well as standard soil chemical and physical determinations on main soil types, an evaluation of the soil types for cultivation of various crops is carried out. The soils on Bellona are developed on oolitic or clayey phosphate‐rich deposits forming the basis for the agriculture production on the island. The Bellonese soil classification system is mainly based on the physical properties of the humus‐containing top layer. Subsoil layers are only used for classification if they are very close to the surface and may be mixed with the topsoil. Results show a general agreement among farmers, who perceive the same four out of seven soil types as highly useful for cultivation and rank these soil types similarly according to their suitability for different crops such as yam, watermelon, cassava and sweet potato. It is concluded that the indigenous soil classification is in line with the soil production potential and useful for land evaluation on Bellona.
Marine biodiversity and ethnobiodiversity of Bellona (Mungiki) Island, Solomon Islands
Authors: Thaman R.R. , Puia Tepaikea , Tongabaea Wilson , Namona Ashley , Fong Teddy
Published: March 2010

This paper reports on the marine biodiversity and ethnobiodiversity of Bellona, a small island in Solomon Islands inhabited by Polynesians who have, for centuries, depended on biodiversity for their own sustainability. The Bellonese have names for at least 8 whales and dolphins, 7 reptiles, over 500 finfish, 191 molluscs, 48 crustaceans, 29 echinoderms and a range of corals, other invertebrates and marine plants, most of which have commercial, subsistence or cultural value. If conserved, this inheritance will continue to provide a foundation for continuing sustainability in a rapidly globalizing world. The paper highlights the importance of the preservation, and application to development, of ethnobiodiversity for food and subsistence security, and contingent issues of conservation and sustainability in small island developing states. As the current extinction crisis escalates globally, the rate of attrition of the intangible indigenous knowledge that has coevolved with this threatened biodiversity is probably far greater. In itself, the recording of information on biodiversity and related sustainable livelihoods is not sufficient to ensure sustainability. There is a vital need to integrate this into the formal education system and applied scientific activities at all levels to achieve the right balance between agriculture, wild harvest and trade, upon which sustainability and subsistence affluence still depend.
On the Private Provision of Two or More Public Goods
Authors: CORNES RICHARD , ITAYA JUN‐ICHI
Published: March 2010

We extend the simple model of voluntary public good provision to allow for two or more public goods, and explore the new possibilities that arise in this setting. We show that, when there are many public goods, voluntary contribution equilibrium typically generates, not only too low a level of public good provision, but also the wrong mix of public goods. We also analyze the neutrality property in the more general setting, and extend a neutrality proposition of Bergstrom, Blume, and Varian (1986).
Polarized targeting of DNER into dendritic plasma membrane in hippocampal neurons depends on endocytosis
Authors: Kurisu Junko , Fukuda Tetsuko , Yokoyama Seisuke , Hirano Tomoo , Kengaku Mineko
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1598–1610.

The targeting of membrane proteins into axons and dendrites is of critical importance for directional signal transmission within specific neural circuits. Many dendritic proteins have been shown to reach the somatodendritic membrane based on selective sorting and transport of carrier vesicles. Using rat hippocampal neurons in culture, we investigated the trafficking pathways of Delta/Notch‐like EGF‐related receptor (DNER), a transmembrane Notch ligand which is specifically expressed in CNS dendrites. Mutations in the cytoplasmic domain of DNER that abolished somatodendritic localization also increased its surface expression. Furthermore, inhibition of endocytosis resulted in disruption of the somatodendritic localization of DNER, indicating that the somatodendritic targeting of DNER is dependent on endocytosis. The DNER cytoplasmic domain binds to a clathrin adaptor protein complex‐2 via a proximal tyrosine motif and a 40 amino acid stretch in the mid‐domain, but not by the C‐terminal tail. Molecular and pharmacological inhibition revealed that the surface expression of DNER is regulated by clathrin‐dependent and ‐independent endocytosis. In contrast, the somatodendritic targeting of DNER is predominantly regulated by clathrin‐ and adaptor protein complex‐2‐independent endocytosis via the C‐terminal tail of DNER. Our data suggest that clathrin‐independent endocytosis is critical for the polarized targeting of somatodendritic proteins.
In vivo validation of quantitative SPECT in the heart
Authors: Willowson Kathy , Bailey Dale L. , Bailey Elizabeth A. , Baldock Clive , Roach Paul J.
Published: March 2010

Background: We have previously developed and validated a method to achieve quantitative SPECT data based on CT‐derived corrections, for the radionuclide 99mTc in phantoms and in man for lung scanning. This clinical study was performed to investigate the accuracy of this method when applied to cardiac blood pool imaging. The study involves tagging the radionuclide 99mTc to erythrocytes in a sample of the subject’s blood before it is re‐injected. After a short time, the radiolabelled cells achieve an equilibrium concentration in the blood pool, such that SPECT imaging allows the radioactivity concentration of blood present in the left ventricle to be measured. Methods and results: Absolute concentration of radioactivity inside the left ventricle of the heart was compared to true concentrations measured directly from a peripheral venous blood sample taken from the subject at the time of scanning. In 12 subjects, the average difference between the measured and true concentrations was found to be within ∼1% of the true value with a range of (−6 to +5)%. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the accuracy of CT‐based quantitative SPECT in clinical cardiac blood pool imaging, and we anticipate that similar accuracy could be achieved in the myocardium.
Fatigue on Shot‐Peened Gears: Experimentation, Simulation and Sensitivity Analyses
Authors: Olmi G. , Comandini M. , Freddi A.
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  The present paper deals with fatigue experimentation and with the application and improvement of predictive models; in addition, a sensitive analysis is performed on the main factors related to the shot‐peening treatment and on the efficiency of the aforementioned models. The research involved gears, made of high‐strength steel and carburised, quenched, ground, shot‐peened and superfinished. The experimental campaign initially dealt with the investigation into the influence of isotropic superfinishing; the attention was then focused on shot peening and how to optimise the fatigue limit, by a suitable choice of operative parameters. The option of duplex peening for further fatigue improvement was also considered. Results concerning component residual stress distributions and fatigue limits were then processed by investigating their sensitivity with respect to driving factors, namely the shot diameter and the Almen intensity. Two theories for fatigue prediction (the method of the relative stress gradient and the theory of critical distances) were reviewed for application to shot‐peened components, with a comparison between experimental and numerical results. A comparative analysis was then performed on the two theories, on the basis of the number of data inputs, advantages and drawbacks, while sensitivity analyses focused on how uncertainties affecting input data propagate to predictive results.
Parametric Control of the Stiffness of Lumbar Segments
Authors: Wachowski M. M. , Mansour M. , Hawallek T. , Kubein‐Meesenburg D. , Hubert J. , Nägerl H.
Published: March 2010

Abstract:  To clarify relations between kinematics and mechanics of lumbar spinal segments (L3/L4, L4/L5) versus thoracic T6/T7. Measurements of rotational angle–torque characteristics and migrations of the instantaneous helical axis (IHA) in cyclic segment motions; correlation of IHA‐position and differential segment stiffness by applying theorem of Steiner. In neutral axial position of the thoracic segment (α = 0), IHA was found within central areas of the intervertebral disc. No change of axial IHA‐positions by flexion/extension. In axial rotation IHA‐migrations along wide arches from one joint to the other and S‐shaped characteristics: strong dependence of IHA‐migration and the differential stiffness on the degree of flexion/extension. In flexion/extension, J‐shape of the characteristic and simultaneous anterior/posterior IHA‐migration. Correlation of initial differential segment stiffness and IHA‐position via theorem of Steiner. The following conclusions are obtained: 1. Non‐linearity of the characteristics is hardly produced by the soft tissues but mainly by IHA‐migration and IHA‐tilting. 2. The segment stiffness in axial rotation is parametrically controlled via the degree of additional flexion/extension. 3. The autochthon muscles are able to control the segment stiffness in axial rotation via shifting the resulting force line in anterior/posterior direction without change of its amount about the factor 3–5.
ARE SERVICE FIRMS AFFECTED BY EXCHANGE RATE MOVEMENTS?
Authors: Baggs Jen , Beaulieu Eugene , Fung Loretta
Published: March 2010

There is a growing literature addressing the effects of exchange rate movements on manufacturing firms, but almost no analysis concerning firms in the service sector. We analyze the effects of industry specific real exchange rate movements on the profitability, survival, and sales of Canadian service sector firms. Using rich firm‐level data and service trade data, our empirical results show that real appreciations of the Canadian dollar reduce firm probability of survival, sales, and profitability while depreciations have the opposite effect. Overall, our findings suggest a significant exchange rate effect on service firms that is qualitatively similar to that found for manufacturing firms. However, the magnitude of the exchange rate effects is quite different for manufacturing and service firms. The impact of the exchange rate on profits is larger for manufacturing firms; the impact on survival is larger among service sector firms; and the impact on sales is of similar magnitude.
Aldosterone‐receptor antagonism as a potential therapeutic option for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Lendeckel Uwe , Dobrev Dobromir , Goette Andreas
Published: March 2010

Recent research provided important insights into the development of atrial fibrillation (AF)‐maintaining substrate and suggested targeting of the underlying molecular mechanisms, ‘upstream’ of the electrical aspects of AF, as a novel strategy for AF treatment (‘upstream’ therapy). Upstream therapies for AF include drugs targeting the renin‐angiotensin II‐aldosterone system (angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and AT1 receptor antagonists and aldosterone antagonists), statins, steroids and ω‐3 fatty acids (fish oil). Aldosterone causes volume retention, cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis, and systemic inflammation and coagulation that promote AF development and its complications and blockade of aldosterone receptors with spironolactone or eplerenone suppresses inducible AF. Although the clinical impact of spironolactone treatment requires validation in randomized clinical trials in AF patients, further understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which aldosterone causes atrial remodelling is likely to lead to development of novel therapeutic approaches to AF.

This article is a commentary on Zhao et al., pp. 1584–1594 of this issue. To view this paper visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2009.00551.x
Complicated Forms of Tachycardia‐Mediated Cardiomyopathy Associated with Idiopathic Left Ventricular Tachycardia
Authors: CASTRO‐RODRIGUEZ JOSÉ , VERBEET THIERRY , MORISSENS MARIELLE , LOMAS OLIVER , TRAN‐NGOC EMMANUEL , MALEKZADEH‐MILANI SOPHIE , BIARENT DOMINIQUE , JAJAH LILIANE , PEPERSTRAETE BÉATRICE , DECOODT PIERRE , KNECHT SÉBASTIEN
Published: March 2010

Idiopathic left ventricular tachycardia is an infrequent form of ventricular tachycardia associated with a structurally normal heart. The prognosis is usually benign; however, sustained cases have been reported. In this report, we describe two cases of persistent idiopathic left ventricular tachycardia complicated by tachycardia‐mediated cardiomyopathy. In the first case, the patient developed a right ventricular thrombus with subsequent pulmonary embolism. In the second case, the patient developed acute pulmonary edema. Both cases were cured by catheter ablation. (PACE 2011; e52–e55)
Elastic and Mechanical Properties of Polycrystalline Transparent Yttria as Determined by Indentation Techniques
Authors: Albayrak Ismail C. , Basu Sandip , Sakulich Aaron , Yeheskel Ori , Barsoum Michel W.
Published: March 2010

The Young's modulus (E) and nanoindentation (NI) stress–strain curves of fully dense, transparent yttria were determined using a nano‐indenter capable of continually measuring the stiffness (S). Two hemispherical indenters with radii of 1.4 and 5 μm were used, in addition to a Berkovich tip. The E values—calculated from the S vs. a (contact radius) curves obtained with both spherical indenters (158–171 GPa) were ≈5% lower than the 176 GPa dynamic modulus measured on the same sample using ultrasound. Depending on range of penetration depths, the Berkovich modulus was ≈1%–5% higher than the dynamic modulus. When the NI load‐displacement curves were converted to NI stress–strain curves, the yield point obtained was 7 ± 1 GPa. This value was ≈20% and ≈33% lower than the Vickers and Berkovich hardness values measured on the same sample, respectively. The Vickers microhardness values (8.8 ± 0.2 GPa) and the fracture toughness extracted from the latter (1.5 ± 0.3 MPa·m1/2) are in good agreement with published results on samples with comparable microstructures. The strain hardening rates were almost identical for both tips; no tip size effect was observed. Based on this work, we conclude that S vs. a plots are a powerful, and relatively simple, technique to measure the Young's moduli of polycrystalline ceramics and other hard solids. The fact that one also obtains NI stress–‐strain curves is a distinct advantage over the more commonly used Berkovich tip.
Microstructure Effect on the Oxygen Permeation through Ba0.95La0.05FeO3−δ Membranes Fabricated by Different Methods
Authors: Watanabe Ken , Ninomiya Subaru , Yuasa Masayoshi , Kida Tetsuya , Yamazoe Noboru , Haneda Hajime , Shimanoe Kengo
Published: March 2010

In order to investigate the effect of the microstructure on the oxygen permeation in Ba0.95La0.05FeO3−δ membranes, three different methods such as solid‐state reaction, nitrate and acetate decomposition (NAD), and amorphous malic acid precursor (AMP) methods were used to fabricate membranes with different grain sizes. The grain size of the membranes was successfully controlled from 35 to 829 μm2 via sintering at 1175°–1275°C. The oxygen permeation fluxes through the Ba0.95La0.05FeO3−δ membranes increased with a decrease in the grain size. The AMP method, using malic acid as a complexing agent, produced a membrane having the highest oxygen permeability (3.10 cm3·(min·cm2)−1 at 930°C) and the smallest grain size. The results obtained again confirmed the significant importance of microstructure control in designing high‐performance oxygen permeable membranes.
Characterizations of a Hot‐Pressed Polycrystalline Spinel:Ce Scintillator
Authors: Chen Ching‐Fong , Doty F. P. , Houk Ronald J. T. , Loutfy Raouf O. , Volz Heather M. , Yang Pin
Published: March 2010

Here, we report a new polycrystalline ceramic scintillator for possible use in γ‐ray detection and medical imaging applications. The goal was to develop a cerium‐doped spinel (MgAl2O4:Ce), which can be processed utilizing ceramic forming techniques. High‐purity MgAl2O4 powders were used as the starting materials. Lithium fluoride (LiF) was used as a sintering aid and CeO2 powder was used as the dopant. The mixed and dried powders were hot pressed in a vacuum environment to achieve high‐density MgAl2O4:Ce. The hot‐pressed sample shows a transparent polycrystalline appearance. In‐line transmission was measured to determine the transparency of the structure. Microstructures were characterized using X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Fluorescence absorption and emission peaks were also measured in addition to the decay time measurement.
PIBF: The Double Edged Sword. Pregnancy and Tumor
Authors: Szekeres‐Bartho Julia , Polgar Beata
Published: March 2010

Citation Szekeres‐Bartho J, Polgar B. PIBF: The Double Edged Sword. Pregnancy and Tumor. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010; 64: 77–86

Problem  The role of progesterone‐dependent immunomodulation in the maintenance of normal pregnancy.

Methods  In vitro and in vivo data on the effect that progesterone and its mediator progesterone‐induced blocking factor (PIBF) exert on the immune functions of pregnant women are reviewed, together with clinical findings.

Results  Activated pregnancy lymphocytes express progesterone receptors, which enable progesterone to induce a protein called PIBF. PIBF increases Th2 type cytokine production by signaling via a novel type of IL‐4 receptor and activating the Jak/STAT pathway. PIBF inhibits phosholipase A2, thus reduces prostaglandin synthesis. PIBF inhibits perforin release in human decidual lymphocytes and reduces the deleterious effect of high NK activity on murine pregnancy. PIBF production is a characteristic feature of normal human pregnancy, and its concentration is reduced in threatened pregnancies. PIBF mRNA and protein are expressed in a variety of malignant tumors. Inhibition of PIBF synthesis increases survival rates of leukemic mice.

Conclusion  Progesterone‐induced blocking factor is produced by pregnancy lymphocytes and also by malignant tumors. The PIBF‐induced Th2‐dominant immune response is favorable during pregnancy but might facilitate tumor growth by suppressing local antitumor immune responses.
Establishment of Long‐Term Model throughout Regular Menstrual Cycles in Immunodeficient Mice
Authors: Kikuchi‐Arai Maiko , Murakami Takashi , Utsunomiya Hiroki , Akahira Jun‐ichi , Suzuki‐Kakisaka Haruka , Terada Yukihiro , Tachibana Masahito , Hayasaka Shinichi , Ugajin Tomohisa , Yaegashi Nobuo
Published: March 2010

Citation Kikuchi‐Arai M, Murakami T, Utsunomiya H, Akahira J, Suzuki‐Kakisaka H, Terada Y, Tachibana M, Hayasaka S, Ugajin T, Yaegashi N. Establishment of long‐term model throughout regular menstrual cycles in immunodeficient mice. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010

Problem  The number of uterus natural killer (NK) cells change through the menstrual cycle, but the origin of uterus NK cell was not unclear. Our aims are to study whether we can reproduce repetition of menstrual cycle and to reveal the origin of uterus NK cells.

Method of study  Endometrial samples were obtained from fertile women, and the tissues were transplanted into ovariectomized non‐obese diabetic (NOD)/severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)/γCnull (NOG) mice. Mice were treated with sex hormones which were in accord with human menstrual cycle.

Results  The replants showed similar histological changes as in eutopic endometrium repeatedly. CD56‐positive, CD16‐negative NK cells increased significantly during the treatment with estradiol and progesterone combination.

Conclusion  Histological assessment demonstrated that this model of NOG mice repeatedly exhibited regular menstrual cycles, and this model mimicked not ‘ectopic endometrium’, but ‘eutopic endometrium’ in humans. Change in number of NK cells suggested that NK cell might be derived from the endometrium.
REVIEW ARTICLE: The Immune System in Pregnancy: A Unique Complexity
Authors: Mor Gil , Cardenas Ingrid
Published: March 2010

Citation Mor G, Cardenas I. The immune system in pregnancy: a unique complexity. Am J Reprod Immunol 2010

Placental immune response and its tropism for specific viruses and pathogens affect the outcome of the pregnant woman’s susceptibility to and severity of certain infectious diseases. The generalization of pregnancy as a condition of immune suppression or increased risk is misleading and prevents the determination of adequate guidelines for treating pregnant women during pandemics. There is a need to evaluate the interaction of each specific pathogen with the fetal/placental unit and its responses to design the adequate prophylaxis or therapy. The complexity of the immunology of pregnancy and the focus, for many years, on the concept of immunology of pregnancy as an organ transplantation have complicated the field and delayed the development of new guidelines with clinical implications that could help to answer these and other relevant questions. Our challenge as scientists and clinicians interested in the field of reproductive immunology is to evaluate many of the ‘classical concepts’ to define new approaches for a better understanding of the immunology of pregnancy that will benefit mothers and fetuses in different clinical scenarios.