bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of X-ray and electron backscatter diffraction textures for back-annealed Al–Mg alloys
Authors: Engler O.
Published: November 2009

The potential of electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) to determine integral macrotexture data is explored by comparing EBSD-derived textures with standard X-ray texture results. The comparison is performed for an Al–Mg alloy AA 5005 in the cold-rolled and various back-annealed states in order to analyse the impact of the microstructural state on the quality of EBSD-based macrotextures. The number of EBSD single orientation measurements necessary to represent a texture adequately is determined by way of exploring the convergence of the statistical parameter ρ, which represents the relative mean square deviation between the EBSD and X-ray-based textures. The effect of EBSD filtering tools and the impact of sampling step size on the statistical significance of EBSD data are investigated. Several means to reduce the number of data points without compromising the accuracy of the texture results as an input for subsequent texture simulation are addressed.
Basal plane bending of 6H-SiC single crystals observed by synchrotron radiation X-ray topography
Authors: Ning Lina , Hu Xiaobo , Wang Yingmin , Xu Xiangang , Gao Yuqiang , Peng Yan , Chen Xiufang , Huang Wanxia , Yuan Qingxi
Published: November 2009

Basal plane bending is a structural defect in SiC single crystals caused mainly by the thermal mismatch between seed and holder, which deteriorates the quality of the wafers and blocks their applications. In this paper, basal plane bending was detected by high-resolution X-ray diffractometry (HRXRD) and transmission synchrotron white-beam X-ray topography (SWBXT). HRXRD reveals that the (0001) Si face is a concave sphere and SWBXT shows that the shapes of the Laue spots are different from that of the cross section of the synchrotron radiation beam. On the basis of a spherical curvature model for a (0001) 6H-SiC single crystal, the shapes of the Laue spots were simulated. The results are in good agreement with the experimental observations. Thus, SWBXT is an effective method for detecting basal plane bending.
Food selection of a corallivorous butterflyfish Chaetodon austriacus in the Red Sea, with particular emphasis on size and fish symbionts of corals
Authors: Niedermüller S. K. , Schiemer L. S. , Herler J.
Published: November 2009

The exquisite butterflyfish Chaetodon austriacus feeds mainly on Acropora, Pocillopora, Montipora and Stylophora in the northern Red Sea. Large colonies of Acropora are preferred over smaller colonies and other coral genera, whereas avoidance is indicated for corals that are occupied by certain coral‐associated gobiid fishes of the genus Gobiodon. It is suggested that, apart from coral identity, colony size and potential repellent effects of particular coral symbionts are both important sources of variation in the food selectivity of corallivorous chaetodotids.
Linking marine and freshwater growth in western Alaska Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha
Authors: Ruggerone G. T. , Nielsen J. L. , Agler B. A.
Published: November 2009

The hypothesis that growth in Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. is dependent on previous growth was tested using annual scale growth measurements of wild Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha returning to the Yukon and Kuskokwim Rivers, Alaska, from 1964 to 2004. First‐year marine growth in individual O. tshawytscha was significantly correlated with growth in fresh water. Furthermore, growth during each of 3 or 4 years at sea was related to growth during the previous year. The magnitude of the growth response to the previous year's growth was greater when mean year‐class growth during the previous year was relatively low. Length (eye to tail fork, LETF) of adult O. tshawytscha was correlated with cumulative scale growth after the first year at sea. Adult LETF was also weakly correlated with scale growth that occurred during freshwater residence 4 to 5 years earlier, indicating the importance of growth in fresh water. Positive growth response to previous growth in O. tshawytscha was probably related to piscivorous diet and foraging benefits of large body size. Faster growth among O. tshawytscha year classes that initially grew slowly may reflect high mortality in slow growing fish and subsequent compensatory growth in survivors. Oncorhynchus tshawytscha in this study exhibited complex growth patterns showing a positive relationship with previous growth and a possible compensatory response to environmental factors affecting growth of the age class.
Resource utilization by deep‐sea sharks at the Le Danois Bank, Cantabrian Sea, north‐east Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Preciado I. , Cartes J. E. , Serrano A. , Velasco F. , Olaso I. , Sánchez F. , Frutos I.
Published: November 2009

The feeding habits of birdbeak dogfish Deania calcea, velvet belly lantern shark Etmopterus spinax and blackmouth catshark Galeus melastomus at Le Danois Bank, Cantabrian Sea, south Bay of Biscay were studied in relation to their bathymetric distribution. Deep‐sea sharks were collected during two multidisciplinary surveys carried out in October 2003 and April 2004 at the Le Danois Bank. Two different habitats were defined: (1) the top of the bank, ranging from 454 to 642 m depth and covered by fine‐sand sediments with a low percentage of organic matter, and (2) the inner basin located between the bank and the Cantabrian Sea's continental shelf, at depths of 810–1048 m, which was characterized by a high proportion of silt and organic matter. Deania calcea was not present at the top of the bank but was abundant below 642 m, while E. spinax was abundant in the shallower top of the bank but was not found in the deeper inner basin. There was almost no bathymetric overlap between these two deep‐sea shark species. Galeus melastomus was found over the whole depth range. There seemed to be an ontogenetic segregation with depth for this species, however, since 80% of the specimens collected at the top of the bank were < 600 mm total length (LT) (mean 510 mm LT), whereas larger individuals (mean 620 mm LT) inhabited deeper zones. Galeus melastomus exhibited a significantly higher feeding intensity than both E. spinax at the top of the bank and D. calcea in the inner basin. Little dietary overlap between D. calcea and G. melastomus in the inner basin was found, with D. calcea being an ichthyophagous predator while the diet of G. melastomus at these depths was composed of a variety of meso‐bathypelagic shrimps (e.g. Acantephyra pelagica, Pasiphaea spp. and Sergia robusta), cephalopods and fishes. The diets of E. spinax and G. melastomus at the top of the bank showed a high dietary overlap of euphausiids, which represented the main prey taxa for both species. Euphausiids declined in abundance with depth which was reflected in the diet of G. melastomus. The cluster analysis of prey affinities among hauls depicted two major groups, corresponding to the two different habitats (top of the bank and inner basin). Redundancy analysis also indicated top–basin segregation, with euphausiids representing the main prey taxa at the top of the bank and bathypelagic shrimps in the inner basin. Euphausiids and Micromesistius poutassou were key prey within the Le Danois Bank ecosystem since they were positively selected by the three deep‐sea shark species. These results show that the feeding ecology of these predators in Le Danois Bank ecosystem is highly influenced by depth‐related variables, as a result of changes in prey availability. Overall results were analysed in relation to the deep‐sea Le Danois ecosystem structure and functioning.
Intercalibration of hydroacoustic and mark–recapture methods for assessing the spawning population size of a threatened fish species
Authors: Rakowitz G. , Kubečka J. , Fesl C. , Keckeis H.
Published: November 2009

Hydroacoustic counting and a three‐year mark–recapture study with passive integrated transponders (PIT tags) were used to estimate the size of a spawning population of nase Chondrostoma nasus, a threatened potamodromous cyprinid that undertakes annual spawning migrations into a tributary of the Danube River. In 2005, the estimates of the size of the spawning population from the hydroacoustic counts (N = 2234, 95% CL 1929–2538) and from the Jolly–Seber model (N = 1198, 95% CL 461–5842) corresponded well. Estimates from the jackknife‐estimator based on the hydroacoustic counts yielded slightly higher values (N = 2783, 95% CL 2529–3037), but were still in the same order of magnitude as those from the hydroacoustic and mark–recapture approach. At low run‐size, hydroacoustic counting was more time consuming and technically demanding than mark–recapture studies. At the same time, it was non‐invasive, provided real‐time data on a fine temporal scale, and estimates showed less variability than the Jolly–Seber model. Mark–recapture of fish in spawning streams involved substantial disturbance at a sensitive stage of the life cycle. Hence, hydroacoustics is highly suited for population estimates of threatened potamodromous fishes, where interference needs to be minimized.
First occurrence of the lined seahorse Hippocampus erectus in the eastern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Woodall L. C. , Koldewey H. J. , Santos S. V. , Shaw P. W.
Published: November 2009

A seahorse specimen from Banco Açores (Azores Archipelago) was identified using morphological and molecular genetic data as Hippocampus erectus. This specimen represents the first record of H. erectus in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, well outside its reported range, and may provide evidence of long‐distance translocation in what are assumed to be relatively sedentary fish.
Structural and functional connectivity of marine fishes within a semi‐enclosed Newfoundland fjord
Authors: Bradbury I. R. , Snelgrove P. V. R. , Bentzen P. , De Young B. , Gregory R. S. , Morris C. J.
Published: November 2009

The interplay between structural connectivity (i.e. habitat continuity) and functional connectivity (i.e. dispersal probability) in marine fishes was examined in a coastal fjord (Holyrood Pond, Newfoundland, Canada) that is completely isolated from the North Atlantic Ocean for most of the year. Genetic differentiation was described in three species (rainbow smelt Osmerus mordax, white hake Urophycis tenuis and Atlantic cod Gadus morhua) with contrasting life histories using seven to 10 microsatellite loci and a protein‐coding locus, PanI (G. morhua). Analysis of microsatellite differentiation indicated clear genetic differences between the fjord and coastal regions; however, the magnitude of difference was no more elevated than adjacent bays and was not enhanced by the fjord's isolation. Osmerus mordax was characterized by the highest structure overall with moderate differentiation between the fjord and St Mary's Bay (FSTc.0·047). In contrast, U. tenuis and G. morhua displayed weak differentiation (FST < 0·01). Nonetheless, these populations did demonstrate high rates (< 75%) of Bayesian self‐assignment. Furthermore, elevated differentiation was observed at the PanI locus in G. morhua between the fjord and other coastal locations. Interestingly, locus‐specific genetic differentiation and expected heterozygosity were negatively associated in O. mordax, in contrast to the positive associations observed in U. tenuis and G. morhua. Gene flow in these species is apparently unencumbered by limited structural connectivity, yet the observed differentiation suggests that population structuring exists over small scales despite high dispersal potential.
Elevated ability to compete for limited food resources by ‘all‐fish’ growth hormone transgenic common carp Cyprinus carpio
Authors: Duan M. , Zhang T. , Hu W. , Sundström L. F. , Wang Y. , Li Z. , Zhu Z.
Published: November 2009

Food consumption, number of movements and feeding hierarchy of juvenile transgenic common carp Cyprinus carpio and their size‐matched non‐transgenic conspecifics were measured under conditions of limited food supply. Transgenic fish exhibited 73·3% more movements as well as a higher feeding order, and consumed 1·86 times as many food pellets as their non‐transgenic counterparts. After the 10 day experiment, transgenic C. carpio had still not realized their higher growth potential, which may be partly explained by the higher frequency of movements of transgenics and the ‘sneaky’ feeding strategy used by the non‐transgenics. The results indicate that these transgenic fish possess an elevated ability to compete for limited food resources, which could be advantageous after an escape into the wild. It may be that other factors in the natural environment (i.e. predation risk and food distribution), however, would offset this advantage. Thus, these results need to be assessed with caution.
(−)‐Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate induces Du145 prostate cancer cell death via downregulation of inhibitor of DNA binding 2, a dominant negative helix‐loop‐helix protein
Authors: Luo Katherine L. , Luo Jian‐Hua , Yu Yan P.
Published: November 2009

(Cancer Sci 2010; 101: 707–712)

(−)‐Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) is one of the major polyphenol components in green tea. It effectively induces apoptosis in prostate cancer cells. The anticancer effect of this reagent is appealing because it is a natural component of a popular daily beverage that has proven harmless for thousands of years, making it a good candidate chemopreventive agent. EGCG suppresses cell growth and causes cell death, but the mechanisms are not well characterized, especially in androgen‐independent prostate cancer cells. In the present study, using Affymetrix genechip Hu133 2.0, we analyzed the gene expression patterns of the androgen‐independent prostate cancer cell line Du145, treated with or without EGCG, and found 40 genes whose expression levels were altered (>twofold, either upregulated or downregulated, P < 0.01) upon treatment with EGCG. These gene products are involved in the functions of transcription, RNA processing, protein folding, phosphorylation, protein degradation, cell motility, and ion transport. Among them, inhibitor of DNA binding 2 (ID2), known as a dominant anti‐retinoblastoma (Rb) helix‐loop‐helix protein, was found to be downregulated fourfold by EGCG treatment. Forced expression of ID2 in Du145 cells reduced apoptosis and increased cell survival in the presence of EGCG, and knockdown ID2 expression in Du145 cells using a morpholino oligonucleotide specific for ID2 mimicked the apoptosis effect generated by EGCG treatment, although it was milder. To our knowledge, this is the first report indicating that ID2 is one of the critical factors in the signaling pathway of Du145 cell death induced by EGCG.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG induces tumor regression in mice bearing orthotopic bladder tumors
Authors: Seow Shih Wee , Cai Shirong , Rahmat Juwita N. , Bay Boon Huat , Lee Yuan Kun , Chan Yiong Huak , Mahendran Ratha
Published: November 2009

(Cancer Sci 2010; 101: 751–758)

The present gold standard for bladder cancer is Mycobacterium bovis, Bacillus Calmette Guerin (BCG) immunotherapy. But it has a non‐responder rate of 30–50% and side effects are common. Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota has been reported to reduce the incidence of recurrence in bladder cancer patients and to cure tumor‐bearing mice. Our aim was to determine if Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) could be as efficacious as BCG in a murine model of bladder cancer. MB49 bladder cancer cells secreting human prostate‐specific antigen were implanted orthotopically in female C57BL/6 mice and urinary prostate‐specific antigen levels were used as a marker of tumor growth. Mice were treated with either live or lyophilized LGG given via intravesical instillation, or both oral and intravesical LGG given once a week for a period of 6 weeks starting at day 4 after tumor implantation. A comparison of LGG and BCG immunotherapy was also carried out. LGG therapy (live or lyophilized) significantly (P = 0.006) increased the number of cured mice. Cytokine arrays and immune cell recruitment analysis revealed differences between untreated, treated, cured, and tumor‐bearing mice. LGG therapy restored XCL1 levels to those in healthy bladders. LGG also recruited large numbers of neutrophils and macrophages to the tumor site. Intravesical LGG and BCG immunotherapy had cure rates of 89 and 77%, respectively, compared with 20% in untreated mice. LGG has the potential to replace BCG immunotherapy for the treatment of bladder cancer.
Evaluation of the GlideScope® for tracheal intubation in patients with cervical spine immobilisation by a semi‐rigid collar
Authors: Bathory I. , Frascarolo P. , Kern C. , Schoettker P.
Published: November 2009

Application of cervical collars may reduce cervical spine movements but render tracheal intubation with a standard laryngoscope difficult if not impossible. We hypothesised that despite the presence of a Philadelphia Patriot® cervical collar and with the patient’s head taped to the trolley, tracheal intubation would be possible in 50 adult patients using the GlideScope® and its dedicated stylet. Laryngoscopy was attempted using a Macintosh laryngoscope with a size 4 blade, and the modified Cormack–Lehane grade was scored. Subsequently, laryngoscopy with the GlideScope was graded and followed by tracheal intubation. All patients’ tracheas were successfully intubated with the GlideScope. The median (IQR) intubation time was 50 s (43–61 s). The modified Cormack–Lehane grade was 3 or 4 at direct laryngoscopy. It was significantly reduced with the GlideScope (p < 0.0001), reaching grade 2a in most patients. Tracheal intubation in patients wearing a semi‐rigid collar and having their head taped to the trolley is possible with the help of the GlideScope.
Atomised lidocaine for airway topical anaesthesia in the morbidly obese: 1% compared with 2%*
Authors: Woodruff C. , Wieczorek P. M. , Schricker T. , Vinet B. , Backman S. B.
Published: November 2009

Airway anaesthesia using atomised lidocaine for awake oral fibreoptic intubation in morbidly obese patients was evaluated using two doses of local anaesthetic. In this randomised, blinded prospective study, 40 ml of atomised 1% (n = 11) or 2% (n = 10) lidocaine was administered with high oxygen flow as carrier. Outcomes included time for intubation, patient tolerance to airway manipulation, haemodynamic parameters, the bronchoscopist’s overall satisfaction, and serial serum lidocaine concentrations. Patients receiving lidocaine 1% had a longer mean (SD) time from the start of topicalisation to tracheal tube cuff inflation than those receiving lidocaine 2% (8.6 (0.9) min vs 6.9 (0.5) min, respectively; p < 0.05). Patients in the 1% cohort demonstrated increased responses to airway manipulation (p < 0.0001), reflecting lower bronchoscopist’s satisfaction scores (p < 0.03). Haemodynamic responses to topicalisation and airway manipulation were similar in both groups. Peak plasma concentration was lower in the 1% group (mean (SD) 1.4 (0.3) and 3.8 (0.5) μg.ml−1, respectively; p < 0.001). Airway anaesthesia using atomised lidocaine for awake oral fibreoptic intubation in the morbidly obese is efficacious, rapid and safe. Compared with lidocaine 1%, the 2% dose provides superior intubating conditions.
Validation of a novel fibreoptic intubation trainer
Authors: Williams D. J. , Byrne A. J. , Bodger O.
Published: November 2009

The aim of this study was to validate a novel inexpensive training device as a means of improving the psychomotor skills involved in the manipulation of a fibreoptic endoscope. Seventy‐five subjects attempted to pass a fibreoptic endoscope through the device five times, with each attempt timed to the nearest second. Although prior clinical experience of fibreoptic intubation was associated with better performance, all groups showed improvement with each attempt. Qualitative feedback indicated that the device required subjects to use similar skills to those used in clinical practice. This study supports the use of such a device in training and assessment although further studies will be required to determine whether the skills learned on the device can be transferred to the clinical environment.
Patients with B cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia have an expanded population of CD4+ perforin expressing T cells enriched for human cytomegalovirus specificity and an effector‐memory phenotype
Authors: Walton James A. , Lydyard Peter M. , Nathwani Amit , Emery Vincent , Akbar Arne , Glennie Martin J. , Porakishvili Nino
Published: November 2009

We have previously shown an expansion of cytotoxic antigen‐experienced CD4+T cells (CTLs) that express perforin (PF) in the peripheral blood of patients with B cell chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (B‐CLL). Increased frequencies of CD4+CTLs have since been attributed to chronic viral infections, particularly, human cytomegalovirus (HCMV). The present study examined the involvement of CD4+CTLs in responses to HCMV in B‐CLL, and characterized their differentiation. We studied 36 HCMV seropositive (SP) and seronegative B‐CLL patients and 20 healthy age‐matched individuals. The HCMV reactivity of CD4+PF+ and CD4+PF− cells was determined by interferon‐gamma expression, and expression of CD45RA and CCR7 was assessed by flow cytometry. Fluorescence in‐situ hybridization was used to measure relative telomere lengths. CD4+PF+T cell expansion in B‐CLL patients and controls was strongly associated with HCMV seropositivity. CD4+PF+ compared to CD4+PF− cells from SP B‐CLL patients elicited major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II‐restricted responses to HCMV. CD4+PF+T cells from patients and controls were enriched with highly differentiated T‐effector/memory (CCR7−) and revertant (CCR7−CD45RA+) phenotype. CD4+PF+T cells from B‐CLL patients had shorter telomeres than CD4+PF−T cells, indicating an extensive replicative history. We conclude that persistent exposure to HCMV antigens in SP B‐CLL patients leads to an expansion of the circulating MHC class II‐restricted CD4+PF+T cell population with effector/memory phenotype.
Cytomegalovirus‐specific CD8+ T cells targeting different HLA/peptide combinations correlate with protection but at different threshold frequencies
Authors: Giest Sandra , Grace Sarah , Senegaglia Alexandra C. , Pasquini Ricardo , Gonzalo‐Daganzo Rosa M. , Fernández Manuel N. , Mackinnon Stephen , Madrigal J. Alejandro , Travers Paul J.
Published: November 2009

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) causes significant morbidity and mortality in patients after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Due to limitations of current antiviral therapies, alternative approaches, involving transfer of donor‐derived CMV‐specific CD8+ T cells, have been considered. Levels of such cells correlating with protection against CMV infection and disease have only been reported in patients expressing HLA‐A*0201 and HLA‐B*0702. This is despite an increasing number of reports describing cells targeting CMV peptides presented by other human leucocyte antigens (HLAs). Considering several frequent HLA alleles, our findings suggest that HLA‐A*2402/pp65 (341‐349)‐ and HLA‐B*3501/pp65 (123‐131)‐specific CD8+ T cells correlate with protection from CMV reactivation at significantly lower cell levels than HLA‐A*0101/pp50 (245‐253)‐ and HLA‐A*0201/pp65 (495‐503)‐specific CD8+ T cells, both in HSCT recipients post‐transplant and in healthy CMV seropositive volunteers. This may result from a differing efficiency of the responses restricted by the two sets of HLA alleles. These findings add to the knowledge of immunodominance and differences in antigen processing that are coordinated in individuals with different HLA alleles and have direct implications for therapy and monitoring in patients.
Prostaglandin E2 and cysteinyl leukotriene concentrations in sputum: association with asthma severity and eosinophilic inflammation
Authors: Aggarwal S. , Moodley Y. P. , Thompson P. J. , Misso N. L.
Published: November 2009

Background
Inflammation of the airways in asthma is associated with the production of cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLT), prostaglandin (PG)E2, 8‐isoprostane, nitric oxide and other mediators. However, the relationship between asthma severity or eosinophilic inflammation and the concentrations of mediators in sputum is unclear.

Objective
To assess sputum PGE2, cysLT, 8‐isoprostane and nitrate concentrations, as well as urinary leukotriene (LT)E4 and 9α,11β‐prostaglandin (PG)F2 concentrations, in patients with differing severities of asthma and eosinophilic or non‐eosinophilic airway inflammation.

Methods
Inflammatory cells in sputum were assessed in 12 patients with mild, 14 with moderate and 12 with severe persistent asthma, as well as in 13 control subjects. Asthmatic patients were categorized into those with eosinophilic or non‐eosinophilic airway inflammation. Sputum PGE2, cysLT and 8‐isoprostane, and urinary LTE4 were extracted on immunoaffinity sorbents, and the concentrations of all mediators were measured using enzyme immunoassays. Sputum nitrate concentrations were measured on a chemiluminescence analyzer.

Results
Sputum PGE2 concentrations were higher in both moderate (1710 pg/mL) and severe asthmatic (1590 pg/mL) compared with control subjects (827 pg/mL) (P<0.05). CysLT concentrations were higher in moderate asthmatic compared with control or severe asthmatic subjects (P<0.05). Sputum PGE2 concentrations were lower in patients with eosinophilic (1180 pg/mL) compared with non‐eosinophilic airway inflammation (2520 pg/mL) (P=0.02). In contrast, sputum cysLT and urinary LTE4 concentrations were higher in those with eosinophilic airway inflammation (P<0.05). Forced expiratory volume in 1 s was inversely correlated with sputum eosinophils in all asthmatic patients (rs=−0.5, P=0.002). There were no significant differences in sputum 8‐isoprostane or nitrate concentrations.

Conclusions
Increased airway concentrations of PGE2 are consistent with the hypothesis that PGE2 has a bronchoprotective and anti‐inflammatory role in patients with more severe asthma. A reduced PGE2 to cysLT ratio in the airways may adversely affect lung function and contribute to persistence of symptoms and airway remodelling in patients with eosinophilic airway inflammation.

Cite this as: S. Aggarwal, Y. P. Moodley, P. J. Thompson and N. L. Misso, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 85–93.
Asthma tests in the assessment of military conscripts
Authors: Miedinger D. , Mosimann N. , Meier R. , Karli C. , Florek P. , Frey F. , Scherer K. , Surber C. , Villiger B. , Michel F. , Leuppi J. D.
Published: November 2009

Background
Respiratory diseases such as asthma may affect individuals' fitness for military service. In order to assess fitness for military service in subjects with asthma symptoms at conscription, objective and reliable tests are needed.

Objective
To prospectively determine the diagnostic value of the mannitol and methacholine bronchial provocation test (BPT) as well as exhaled nitric oxide in assessing physician‐diagnosed asthma in a group of Swiss Armed Forces conscripts.

Methods
Questionnaire, spirometry, BPT with methacholine and mannitol, exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) and skin prick testing were conducted in 18–20‐year‐old male conscripts. Asthma was diagnosed by a military physician not involved in this study according to the medical record, results of BPT, current respiratory symptoms and use of asthma medication.

Results
Two hundred and eighty four subjects participated in the study. Complete data for the BPT with methacholine, mannitol and measurement of FeNO were available on 235 subjects. Forty‐two conscripts (17.9%) had physician‐diagnosed asthma. The sensitivity/specificity of mannitol to identify physician‐diagnosed asthma was 41%/93% and for methacholine it was 43%/92%. Using a cut‐off point of 36.5 p.p.b., FeNO had a similar negative predictive value to rule out physician‐diagnosed asthma as BPT with mannitol or methacholine.

Conclusion
BPT with mannitol has a sensitivity and specificity similar to methacholine for the diagnosis of physician‐diagnosed asthma in military conscripts but is less costly to perform without the need to use and maintain a nebulizer.

Cite this as: D. Miedinger, N. Mosimann, R. Meier, C. Karli, P. Florek, F. Frey, K. Scherer, C. Surber, B. Villiger, F. Michel and J. D. Leuppi, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 224–231.
Bronchial hyperresponsiveness: a rather irritable subject
Authors: Spina D.
Published: November 2009

Cite this as: D. Spina, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 9–11.
The Swedish Deep Drilling Program: the quest for the Earth's inner secrets
Authors: Lorenz Henning ,   the SDDP Working group
Published: November 2009

The Swedish Deep Drilling Program (SDDP) has been initiated to study fundamental problems of the dynamic Earth system, its natural history and evolution. Many key scientific questions can be addressed through in situ investigations only, requiring deep continental drilling. Some are unique to Scandinavia, most are of international interest and significance. At present, five core projects (Fig. 1) with international teams are integrating scientific problems with societal and industrial applications. If SDDP succeeds to attract the funding required, Sweden will have a number of world‐class boreholes at key locations by 2020.

Locations of SDDP drilling project proposals. PFDP—Postglacial Fault Drilling Project; PaMVAS—Palaeoproterozoic mineralized volcanic arc systems: the Skellefte District; COSC—Collisional Orogeny in the Scandinavian Caledonides; DRL—The Dellen Impact Crater, a geoscientific deep rock laboratory; SELHO—Svecofennian accretion, an example of the early structural evolution in a large hot orogen; CISP—Concentric Impact Structures in the Palaeozoic: the Lockne and Siljan craters. Background and inset image from Blue Marble Next Generation data set (NASA Earth Observatory, http://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/Features/BlueMarble/).

image
Desert environments of inland Oman
Authors: Fookes Peter G. , Lee E. Mark
Published: November 2009

Following the earlier feature on desert environments (Geology Today, 2009, v.25, n.5, pp.172–180), an example is presented from Oman of current advancements in understanding the historical development of local desert landscapes. This includes our own work, which although not specifically focussed on landscape development, took into account the terrain history in the evaluation of potential geohazards and engineering issues.
Visualizing recall immune responses with multi‐photon microscopy
Authors: Yates Andrew
Published: November 2009

Multi‐photon microscopy has increased our understanding of T‐cell behaviour during the initiation of primary immune responses. In this issue of Immunology a study uses real‐time imaging of lymph nodes to observe and compare the early events in naive, tolerized and primed CD4 T‐cell responses.
Dust mite infestation of flour samples
Authors: Yi F. C. , Chen J. Y. , Chee K. K. , Chua K. Y. , Lee B. W.
Published: November 2009

Background:  Ingestion of flour contaminated with dust mite may trigger severe anaphylaxis in tropical and sub‐tropical regions.

Aims:  This study aimed to evaluate environmental factors that affect dust mite propagation in the tropics.

Materials & Methods:  Dust mites were introduced to a variety of flour samples and incubated at two different environmental conditions.

Results:  It was found that dust mites populations flourished best in wheat flour compared to other varieties of flour, and at ambient temperatures with high humidity instead of the air conditioned environment.

Conclusion:  Dust mite infestation of flour is dependent on the presence of wheat and high ambient temperature in the tropics.
Identification of a novel HLA‐DRB1*15 allele, DRB1*1533, in a recently registered stem cell donor
Authors: Parkner A. , Mosebach M. , Halm‐Heinrich I. , Heim M.
Published: November 2009

The new human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DRB1 nucleotide sequence differs from HLA‐DRB1*150101 in position 130 with an A instead of a T resulting in an amino acid change from Cysteine to Serine.
MICApolymorphisms and haplotypes withHLA‐BandHLA‐DRB1in Koreans
Authors: Sohn Y.‐H. , Cha C.‐H. , Oh H.‐B. , Kim M. H. , Choi S.‐E. , Kwon O.‐J.
Published: November 2009

Abstract

Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I chain‐related gene A (MICA) is located within the human MHC, centromeric toHLA‐Band telomeric toHLA‐DRB1. The location ofMICAin the MHC indicates the presence of linkage disequilibrium with human leukocyte antigen (HLA). Like HLA,MICAis highly polymorphic; however, the information available forMICApolymorphisms is not as comprehensive as that for HLA polymorphisms. We estimated the allelic frequencies ofMICAand haplotypes withHLA‐BandHLA‐DRB1at high‐resolution in a population of 139 unrelated Korean individuals by applying the newly developed method of sequence‐based typing (SBT). A total of 17MICAalleles were identified. The most frequent allele was MICA*010 (19.4%), followed by alleles *00201 (17.6%), *00801 (14.7%), *01201 (9.4%), *004 (8.3%) and *049 (7.9%). The most common two‐ and three‐locus haplotypes were HLA‐B*1501‐MICA*010 (10.4%), MICA*010‐HLA‐DRB1*0406 (5.8%) and HLA‐B*1501‐MICA*010‐HLA‐DRB1*0406 (5.8%). This is the first study to provide such high‐resolution information on the distribution of haplotypes comprisingMICA,HLA‐BandHLA‐DRB1in Korean individuals, a level of resolution made possible by use of the SBT method. The results of this study should help determine the mechanisms underlying diseases associated withMICApolymorphisms in Korean individuals.
Are plant pathogen populations adapted for encounter with their host? A case study of phenological synchrony between oak and an obligate fungal parasite along an altitudinal gradient
Authors: DESPREZ‐LOUSTAU M.‐L. , VITASSE Y. , DELZON S. , CAPDEVIELLE X. , MARÇAIS B. , KREMER A.
Published: November 2009

Biotrophic fungal pathogens are expected to have adapted to their host plants for phenological synchrony, to optimize the possibility of contacts leading to infections. We investigated the patterns and causes of variation in phenological synchrony in the oak‐powdery mildew pathosystem, a major disease in natural ecosystems. The study was carried out along an altitudinal gradient, representing a wide temperature range, in mature oak stands. Both sporulation (pathogen infective stage) and oak flushing (host susceptible stage) were delayed with increasing elevation, but with a significantly different sensitivity for the two species. This resulted in a variable host–pathogen synchrony along the gradient. A common garden experiment did not give evidence of among‐population genetic differentiation (past adaptation) for fungal phenology. This could be explained by the high phenotypic variation in phenology within host populations, precluding selection on fungal phenology at the population scale, but possibly favouring adaptation at the within‐population scale. Phenotypic plasticity was the major cause of the observed variation in the phenology of the fungal populations.
When assumptions on visual system evolution matter: nestling colouration and parental visual performance in birds
Authors: RENOULT J. P. , COURTIOL A. , KJELLBERG F.
Published: November 2009

Comparative studies in visual ecology of birds often rely on several assumptions on the evolution of avian vision. In this study, we show that when these assumptions are not upheld, conclusions may be strongly affected. To illustrate this purpose, we reanalysed the data of Avilés & Soler (J. Evol. Biol.22: 376–386, 2009) who demonstrated that nestling gape colouration in altricial birds is associated with visual system. We show that a slight change in analysis methodology leads to opposite conclusions. Such conflicting result raises the problem of applying powerful methods developed for continuous variables to a small sample and a small number of independent events of qualitative visual system shift in comparative analyses. Further, we show that the current trend to assume strong phylogenetic inertia of avian visual systems is contradicted by data and that the sequencing of the SWS1 opsin gene should be considered as an alternative approach.
Nestling coloration is adjusted to parent visual performance in altricial birds irrespective of assumptions on vision system for Laniidae and owls, a reply to Renoult et al.
Authors: AVILÉS J. M. , SOLER J. J.
Published: November 2009

We have recently published support to the hypothesis that visual systems of parents could affect nestling detectability and, consequently, influences the evolution of nestling colour designs in altricial birds. We provided comparative evidence of an adjustment of nestling colour designs to the visual system of parents that we have found in a comparative study on 22 altricial bird species. In this issue, however, Renoult et al. (J. Evol. Biol., 2009) question some of the assumptions and statistical approaches in our study. Their argumentation relied on two major points: (1) an incorrect assignment of vision system to four out of 22 sampled species in our study; and (2) the use of an incorrect approach for phylogenetic correction of the predicted associations. Here, we discuss in detail re‐assignation of vision systems in that study and propose alternative interpretation for current knowledge on spectrophotometric data of avian pigments. We reanalysed the data by using phylogenetic generalized least squares analyses that account for the alluded limitations of phylogenetically independent contrasts and, in accordance with the hypothesis, confirmed a significant influence of parental visual system on gape coloration. Our results proved to be robust to the assumptions on visual system evolution for Laniidae and nocturnal owls that Renoult et al. (J. Evol. Biol., 2009) study suggested may have flawed our early findings. Thus, the hypothesis that selection has resulted in increased detectability of nestling by adjusting gape coloration to parental visual systems is currently supported by our comparative data.
Efficacy of pymetrozine against Myzus persicae and in reducing potato virus Y transmission on tobacco plants
Authors: Margaritopoulos J. T. , Tsamandani K. , Kanavaki O. M. , Katis N. I. , Tsitsipis J. A.
Published: November 2009

Forty‐four parthenogenetic lineages of Myzus persicae s.l. (Sulzer) from tobacco crops and peach orchards located in various regions of Greece were examined to determine their response to the insecticide pymetrozine using leaf‐dip bio‐assays. The results show that the aphid has not developed resistance, as all lineages exhibited resistance factors bellow 6.0. In transmission experiments of potato virus Y (PVY) using a lineage of the tobacco‐adapted subspecies M. persicae nicotianae Blackman on tobacco plants, one foliar application with pymetrozine provided adequate protection for 7 days. Pymetrozine significantly reduced both virus acquisition and inoculation compared with the untreated control and the reduction was comparable to a mineral oil application. These results are discussed in terms of the advantage of incorporating pymetrozine as a compound of pest management strategies against M. persicae s.l. and for control of non‐persistent viruses, especially in crops such as tobacco because of the high selection pressure from neonicotinoids resulting in potential of resistance developing in aphid populations.
Long‐term results after excision of breast mass using a vacuum‐assisted biopsy device
Authors: Yom Cha Kyong , Moon Byung In , Choe Kuk Jin , Choi Hye Young , Park Yong Lai
Published: November 2009

Background:  The excision of breast lesions using an ultrasound‐guided vacuum‐assisted biopsy device (VABD) is a widely used technique for the diagnosis and treatment of breast disease, but the results of long‐term follow‐up after VABD excision of benign breast tumours have not been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results of long‐term follow‐up after complete excision of benign breast tumours using an ultrasound‐guided VABD.

Methods:  This is a retrospective clinical study. Between January 2001 and December 2004, patients who had undergone VABD excision of benign breast tumours and been followed up by clinical examination and ultrasonography for 2 years or more were included.

Results:  One hundred eighty‐four cases representing 153 patients were studied. The median follow‐up period was 33 months (range, 24–67 months). All lesions were histologically benign. The mean size of the lesions was 1.09 ± 0.57 cm (range, 0.3–3.03 cm). Within 2 years after VABD excision, residual lesions were detected in 10% of patients sonographically, but after 2 years or more, residual masses were found in 6.5% of patients. Scar changes also decreased from 36.0% to 15.8% during the period of follow‐up. Finally, the benign breast tumours were completely excised without residual masses in 93.5% of the participant patients. Residual masses developed in two fibroadenoma cases (1.08%); one was re‐excised and the other was followed serially.

Conclusion:  Ultrasound‐guided VABD excision is a minimally invasive technique for the complete removal of benign breast tumours. The results of this long‐term follow‐up of VABD excisions are comparable to conventional methods.
Outcome of endoscopy surveillance for Barrett's oesophagus
Authors: Bright Tim , Schloithe Ann , Bull Jeff A. , Fraser Robert J. , Bampton Peter , Watson David I.
Published: November 2009

Background:  Endoscopic surveillance of individuals with Barrett's oesophagus is undertaken to detect early stage oesophageal malignancy. The impact of a surveillance programme on endoscopy resources and disease detection is uncertain.

Methods:  In 2004, we commenced a structured Barrett's oesophagus surveillance programme. The surveillance protocol specifies surveillance interval and number of oesophageal biopsies required according to previous endoscopy and biopsy findings. The first 3 years of surveillance were reviewed to assess programme adherence, impact on endoscopy resources and the incidence of high‐grade dysplasia and adenocarcinoma in patients undergoing surveillance.

Results:  Four hundred five patients were enrolled in the surveillance programme, and 776 patient years of endoscopy follow‐up were analysed. Four‐quadrant biopsies every 2 cm throughout the Barrett's oesophagus were performed in 89.8% of endoscopies. A total of 93.7% of patients had surveillance endoscopy performed at the appropriate time interval. Formalizing surveillance was followed by a decrease in the mean time interval for endoscopy surveillance from 16 months to 15 months, although the mode endoscopy surveillance interval lengthened from 1 year to 2 years. The mean number of biopsies per endoscopy increased from 5.9 to 7. In four patients, T1 stage oesophageal adenocarcinoma was identified, and in six patients, high‐grade dysplasia was identified (combined incidence of adenocarcinoma/high‐grade dysplasia 1 per 77.6 endoscopy years of follow‐up).

Conclusions:  Structured Barrett's surveillance detects malignant progression at an early stage, which provides opportunities for curative surgical or endoscopic intervention. Formalizing surveillance resulted in a high rate of adherence to agreed guidelines and rationalized the use of endoscopy resources without significantly increasing workload.
Association of carotid artery atheromatous plaque types with cerebral perfusion
Authors: Gao Dong Yan , Varcoe Ramon L. , Niesche John W. , Lennox Andrew R. , Haindl Walter , Frawley John Edmond
Published: November 2009

Background:  In an attempt to define the association of internal carotid artery atheromatous plaque morphology with potential cerebral ischaemia, we have investigated the relationship of different carotid plaque types with defects in cerebral perfusion.

Methods:  In 130 patients requiring surgical correction of internal carotid artery stenoses greater than 70%, defects in cerebral perfusion due to both haemodynamic insufficiency and intracerebral vessel occlusion were identified using single photon emission computed tomography scans (SPECT). Carotid artery plaques in these patients were classified as homogeneous or heterogeneous based on preoperative Doppler Duplex Scanning and on the macroscopic characteristics of the plaques recorded by the surgeon during carotid endarterectomy, with sub‐classification into potentially embolus‐generating and non‐ embolus‐generating plaques. In individual patients, plaque types were then correlated with the perfusion defects found in the SPECT scans.

Results:  Of 130 patients, 112 (86%) had cerebral perfusion defects. In 56 asymptomatic patients in the study, 48 (85.7%) had perfusion defects as did 64 (86.5%) of 74 symptomatic patients. Cerebral infarcts were seen in 41 (31.5%). Occlusive infarcts (66%) were twice as frequent as haemodynamic insufficiency infarcts (34%). Eighteen patients with small cerebral infarcts on SPECT scanning gave no medical history of cerebral symptoms. Statistical analysis of the results revealed that there was no statistically identifiable association between carotid plaque type and the generation of cerebral symptoms or infarction.

Conclusion:  This study found that internal carotid plaque morphology has no statistically significant association with perfusion defects, symptoms or cerebral infarction in patients with significant internal carotid artery stenosis. Also, it is suggested that haemodynamic cerebral infarction may be more common that previously believed (34% of infarcts identified in the study). Further, it is suggested that plaque morphology alone is not an indication for carotid endarterectomy.
Cyanoacrylate embolization of endoleaks after abdominal aortic aneurysm repair
Authors: Buckenham Timothy , McKewen Michael , Laing Andrew , Roake Justin , Lewis David , Gordon Malcolm K.
Published: November 2009

Introduction:  Type II endoleaks occur in up to a fifth of endoluminal repairs for abdominal aortic aneurysms and are commonly treated when aortic sac expansion can be demonstrated. Technical failure is common when catheter‐guided particulates or coil embolic agents are used. Presented here is a feasibility study using catheter‐directed N‐butyl‐2‐cyanoacrylate (Histoacryl, Braun, Tuttlingen, Germany) embolotherapy.

Method:  A retrospective review of the case notes of patients undergoing embolization procedures for type II endoleaks with expanding sacs was performed from this centre's cohort of endoluminal aortic repair patients under surveillance. Data on patients with type II endoleaks who were treated with either or both cyanoacrylate and coil embolization were extracted. The outcomes were then compared.

Results:  In total, five cases were identified, and four of these cases had both coil and glue embolization. Technical success was defined as endoleak closure proven on follow‐up computed tomographic imaging. Technical success was achieved in all four patients treated with intra‐sac cyanoacrylate. One case treated initially with coil embolization was successful. All patients had a computed tomographic scan at 3 months. One minor complication occurred that resolved without treatment.

Discussion:  Type II endoleaks after EVAR with expanding sacs require treatment. Percutaneous catheter‐directed cyanoacrylate embolization offers an alternative to coil or particulate embolization and, in this series, was found to be more likely to result in endoleak closure.
Avian hippocampal role in space and content memory
Authors: Kahn Meghan C. , Bingman Verner P.
Published: November 2009

The present study examined whether the hippocampal formation of homing pigeons (Columba livia) was necessary for learning the contents of different goal locations in an open‐field, laboratory environment. Results showed that, although control animals were able to distinguish between two goal locations that contained food items of different quality, pigeons with bilateral hippocampal lesions were impaired in goal‐quality discrimination, even though non‐spatial cues could have been used to distinguish between goal locations. Probe trials further revealed that the hippocampal formation‐lesioned pigeons were impaired in the use of space to recognize goal locations as well as having a poorer capacity to integrate spatial information with the visual features of food bowls. These results promote a revised view of avian hippocampal memory function, one in which the avian hippocampal formation is critical not only for learning the spatial properties of goal locations but also for learning what happens at goal locations in an animal’s environment.