bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calculation of lifetime net income per year (LTNI/year) of Australian Holstein cows to validate the Australian profit ranking of their sires. 2. Validation of the Australian profit ranking of sires and test for genotype by environment interaction based on LTNI/year
Authors: Haile-Mariam M. , Bowman P. J. , Goddard M. E.
Published: August 2010

In Australia, the Australian Dairy Herd Improvement Scheme publishes the Australian profit ranking (APR), which is an economic index combining all economic traits. The APR is used to select sires that will breed the most profitable daughters. The objectives of this study were to test the predictive power of the APR by looking at the relationship between the APR of sires and lifetime net income per year (LTNI/year) of their future daughters and to test if this prediction was accurate in different types of herds. The importance of re-ranking was also tested by considering LTNI/year of cows in different herds as different traits and estimating the genetic correlation between LTNI/year in different herd types (herds differing in calving systems, region or production level). An additional objective was to test the value of individual trait Australian breeding values (ABV) of sires to predict LTNI/year of their future daughters.
The results show that overall the relationship between the APR of bulls and the LTNI/year of their daughters was as expected. That is, the regression of daughter’s LTNI/year on sire’s APR equals 0.5 as expected because cows inherit half their genes from their sire. When LTNI/year of cows was regressed on sire’s APR separately for different herd types, the regression coefficients varied from 0.36 (low production herds) to 0.62 (high production herds). The genetic correlation for LTNI/year between herd types was always high indicating little re-ranking of sires. The lowest was 0.89 between LTNI/year of cows in seasonal and year-round calving systems as well as between Regions 3 (Gippsland and Tasmania) and Region 1 (New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia) herds. Thus, an APR calculated across all herd types will give a good ranking of bulls in any herd type. When LTNI/year of cows was regressed on individual sire ABV the regression coefficients were approximately half the economic weight for each trait as expected. Within seasonal calving and low production herds the regression on sire’s fertility ABV was higher than expected and the regression in year-round and high production herds was less than expected.
In conclusion, over all herds the sire’s APR predicts LTNI/year of future daughters as expected. Owners of low production, seasonal calving herds will get slightly less benefit from 1 unit increase in APR than owners of high production, year-round calving herds and could perhaps benefit from placing additional emphasis on the fertility ABV when selecting sires.
Phenotypic disparity and adaptive radiation in the genus Cladia (Lecanorales, Ascomycota)
Authors: Lumbsch H. Thorsten , Parnmen Sittiporn , Rangsiruji Achariya , Elix John A.
Published: August 2010

Phylogenetic relationships of the genera Cladia, Heterodea and Ramalinora were reconstructed using a combined dataset of ribosomal nuclear ITS and LSU and mitochondrial SSU, and protein-coding Mcm7 DNA sequences. Maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses strongly supported a monophyletic group in which the species of the foliose genus Heterodea and the crustose genus Ramalinora were nested within the fruticose genus Cladia. Alternative hypothesis testing rejected an independent status of Ramalinora. We tested the hypothesis that an adaptive radiation led to the morphological disparity found in the Cladia clade. Gamma-statistics indicated a significantly disproportional clustering of origins of extant lineages at the base of the Cladia clade and lineage-through-time plots were also consistent with the hypothesis of an adaptive radiation at the base of the Cladia clade. Ancestral-range reconstructions supported an origin of Cladia and the three major lineages within Cladia in Australia. On the basis of these results, we propose an evolutionary hypothesis for the genus. The results suggest that processes of adaptive radiation of the ancestor of Cladia in Australia led to the morphological disparity in the extant taxa, and that the broad distribution of some extant species is due to subsequent long-distance dispersal.
No evidence of nanodiamonds in Younger–Dryas sediments to support an impact event
Authors: Daulton Tyrone L. , Pinter Nicholas , Scott Andrew C.
Published: August 2010

The causes of the late Pleistocene megafaunal extinctions in North America, disappearance of Clovis paleoindian lithic technology, and abrupt Younger–Dryas (YD) climate reversal of the last deglacial warming in the Northern Hemisphere remain an enigma. A controversial hypothesis proposes that one or more cometary airbursts/impacts barraged North America ≈12,900 cal yr B.P. and caused these events. Most evidence supporting this hypothesis has been discredited except for reports of nanodiamonds (including the rare hexagonal polytype) in Bølling–Ållerod-YD-boundary sediments. The hexagonal polytype of diamond, lonsdaleite, is of particular interest because it is often associated with shock pressures related to impacts where it has been found to occur naturally. Unfortunately, previous reports of YD-boundary nanodiamonds have left many unanswered questions regarding the nature and occurrence of the nanodiamonds. Therefore, we examined carbon-rich materials isolated from sediments dated 15,818 cal yr B.P. to present (including the Bølling–Ållerod-YD boundary). No nanodiamonds were found in our study. Instead, graphene- and graphene/graphane-oxide aggregates are ubiquitous in all specimens examined. We demonstrate that previous studies misidentified graphene/graphane-oxide aggregates as hexagonal diamond and likely misidentified graphene as cubic diamond. Our results cast doubt upon one of the last widely discussed pieces of evidence supporting the YD impact hypothesis.
Refined LexA transactivators and their use in combination with the
Drosophila
Gal4 system
Authors: Yagi Ryohei , Mayer Franz , Basler Konrad
Published: August 2010

The use of binary transcriptional systems offers many advantages for experimentally manipulating gene activity, as exemplified by the success of the Gal4/UAS system in
Drosophila
. To expand the number of applications, a second independent transactivator (TA) is desirable. Here, we present the optimization of an additional system based on LexA and show how it can be applied. We developed a series of LexA TAs, selectively suppressible via Gal80, that exhibit high transcriptional activity and low detrimental effects when expressed in vivo. In combination with Gal4, an appropriately selected LexA TA permits to program cells with a distinct balance and independent outputs of the two TAs. We demonstrate how the two systems can be combined for manipulating communicating cell populations, converting transient tissue-specific expression patterns into heritable, constitutive activities, and defining cell territories by intersecting TA expression domains. Finally, we describe a versatile enhancer trap system that allows swapping TA and generating mosaics composed of Gal4 and LexA TA-expressing cells. The optimized LexA system facilitates precise analyses of complex biological phenomena and signaling pathways in
Drosophila
.
Prior knowledge of illumination for 3D perception in the human brain
Authors: Gerardin Peggy , Kourtzi Zoe , Mamassian Pascal
Published: August 2010

In perceiving 3D shape from ambiguous shading patterns, humans use the prior knowledge that the light is located above their head and slightly to the left. Although this observation has fascinated scientists and artists for a long time, the neural basis of this “light from above left” preference for the interpretation of 3D shape remains largely unexplored. Combining behavioral and functional MRI measurements coupled with multivoxel pattern analysis, we show that activations in early visual areas predict best the light source direction irrespective of the perceived shape, but activations in higher occipitotemporal and parietal areas predict better the perceived 3D shape irrespective of the light direction. These findings demonstrate that illumination is processed earlier than the representation of 3D shape in the visual system. In contrast to previous suggestions, we propose that prior knowledge about illumination is processed in a bottom-up manner and influences the interpretation of 3D structure at higher stages of processing.
Social interaction modulates autonomic, inflammatory, and depressive-like responses to cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Authors: Norman Greg J. , Zhang Ning , Morris John S. , Karelina Kate , Berntson Gary G. , DeVries A. Courtney
Published: August 2010

Psychological factors, including depression and social isolation, are important determinants of cardiovascular health. The current study uses a well-validated mouse model of cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CA/CPR) to examine the effect of social environment on several pathophysiological and behavioral responses to cerebral ischemia. Male experimental mice were either housed in pairs with an ovariectomized female or socially isolated for the duration of the experiment. Cardiac arrest increased the mRNA expression of the proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, as well as the microglia marker MAC-1; expression of each of these factors, except IL-6, was further increased among socially isolated mice. Furthermore, socially isolated animals exposed to the CA/CPR procedure displayed significantly higher levels of neuronal cell death and microglia staining within the hippocampus at 7 d following surgery. Social isolation also exacerbated CA/CPR-induced depressive-like behavior and cardiac autonomic dysregulation. In the absence of ischemic damage, social environment had no significant effect on the expression of neuronal cell death, autonomic cardiac control, or behavior. Together, these data suggest that social factors influence the pathophysiological trajectory following cardiac arrest.
Membrane-shaping host reticulon proteins play crucial roles in viral RNA replication compartment formation and function
Authors: Diaz Arturo , Wang Xiaofeng , Ahlquist Paul
Published: August 2010

Positive-strand RNA viruses replicate their genomes on membranes with virus-induced rearrangements such as single- or double-membrane vesicles, but the mechanisms of such rearrangements, including the role of host proteins, are poorly understood. Brome mosaic virus (BMV) RNA synthesis occurs in ≈70 nm, negatively curved endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane invaginations induced by multifunctional BMV protein 1a. We show that BMV RNA replication is inhibited 80–90% by deleting the reticulon homology proteins (RHPs), a family of membrane-shaping proteins that normally induce and stabilize positively curved peripheral ER membrane tubules. In RHP-depleted cells, 1a localized normally to perinuclear ER membranes and recruited the BMV 2a
pol
polymerase. However, 1a failed to induce ER replication compartments or to recruit viral RNA templates. Partial RHP depletion allowed formation of functional replication vesicles but reduced their diameter by 30–50%. RHPs coimmunoprecipitated with 1a and 1a expression redirected >50% of RHPs from peripheral ER tubules to the interior of BMV-induced RNA replication compartments on perinuclear ER. Moreover, RHP-GFP fusions retained 1a interaction but shifted 1a-induced membrane rearrangements from normal vesicles to double membrane layers, a phenotype also induced by excess 1a-interacting 2a
pol
. Thus, RHPs interact with 1a, are incorporated into RNA replication compartments, and are required for multiple 1a functions in replication compartment formation and function. The results suggest possible RHP roles in the bodies and necks of replication vesicles.
Sweet recipe for cellular closeness
Authors: Leslie Mitch
Published: August 2010

Protein halts modification of glycoproteins, encouraging germ cells to stay tight.
Propofol Modulates Agonist-induced Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid Subtype-1 Receptor Desensitization via a Protein Kinase Cϵ-dependent Pathway in Mouse Dorsal Root Ganglion Sensory Neurons
Authors: Wickley Peter J. , Yuge Ryo , Russell Mary S. , Zhang Hongyu , Sulak Michael A. , Damron Derek S.
Published: August 2010

Background

The activity of transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype-1 (TRPV1) receptors, key nociceptive transducers in dorsal root ganglion sensory neurons, is enhanced by protein kinase C epsilon (PKCepsilon) activation. The intravenous anesthetic propofol has been shown to activate PKCepsilon. Our objectives were to examine whether propofol modulates TRPV1 function in dorsal root ganglion neurons via activation of PKCepsilon.

Methods

Lumbar dorsal root ganglion neurons from wild-type and PKC& epsilon;-null mice were isolated and cultured for 24 h. Intracellular free Ca concentration was measured in neurons by using fura-2 acetoxymethyl ester. The duration of pain-associated behaviors was also assessed. Phosphorylation of PKCepsilon and TRPV1 and the cellular translocation of PKCepsilon from cytosol to membrane compartments were assessed by immunoblot analysis.

Results

In wild-type neurons, repeated stimulation with capsaicin (100 nm) progressively decreased the transient rise in intracellular free Ca concentration. After desensitization, exposure to propofol rescued the Ca response. The resensitizing effect of propofol was absent in neurons obtained from PKCepsilon-null mice. Moreover, the capsaicin-induced desensitization of TRPV1 was markedly attenuated in the presence of propofol in neurons from wild-type mice but not in neurons from PKCepsilon-null mice. Propofol also prolonged the duration of agonist-induced pain associated behaviors in wild-type mice. In addition, propofol increased phosphorylation of PKCepsilon as well as TRPV1 and stimulated translocation of PKCepsilon from cytosolic to membrane fraction.

Discussion

Our results indicate that propofol modulates TRPV1 sensitivity to capsaicin and that this most likely occurs through a PKCepsilon-mediated phosphorylation of TRPV1.
A Mouse Model of Ischemic Spinal Cord Injury with Delayed Paralysis Caused by Aortic Cross-clamping
Authors: Awad Hamdy , Ankeny Daniel P. , Guan Zhen , Wei Ping , McTigue Dana M. , Popovich Phillip G.
Published: August 2010

Background

Spinal cord ischemia and paralysis are devastating perioperative complications that can accompany open or endovascular repair surgery for aortic aneurysms. Here, we report on the development of a new mouse model of spinal cord ischemia with delayed paralysis induced by cross-clamping the descending aorta.

Methods

Transient aortic occlusion was produced in mice by cross-clamping the descending aorta through a lateral thoracotomy. To establish an optimal surgical procedure with limited mortality, variable cross-clamp times and core temperatures were tested between experiments.

Results

The onset of paresis or paralysis and postsurgical mortality varied as a function of cross-clamp time and core temperature that was maintained during the period of cross-clamp. Using optimal surgical parameters (7.5-min cross-clamp duration at 33°C core temperature), the onset of paralysis is delayed 24-36 h after reperfusion, and more than 95% of mice survive through 9 weeks after surgery. These mice are further stratified into two groups, 70% (n = 19/27) of mice developing severe hind limb paralysis and the remaining mice showing mild, though still permanent, behavioral deficits.

Conclusion

This new model should prove useful as a preclinical tool for screening neuroprotective therapeutics and for defining the basic biologic mechanisms that cause delayed paralysis and neurodegeneration after transient spinal cord ischemia.
Perioperative Outcomes among Patients with the Modified Metabolic Syndrome Who Are Undergoing Noncardiac Surgery
Authors: Glance Laurent G. , Wissler Richard , Mukamel Dana B. , Li Yue , Diachun Carol Ann B. , Salloum Rabih , Fleming Fergal J. , Dick Andrew W.
Published: August 2010

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated that obesity is paradoxically associated with a lower risk of mortality after noncardiac surgery. This study will determine the impact of the modified metabolic syndrome (defined as the presence of obesity, hypertension, and diabetes) on perioperative outcomes.

Methods

This study is based on data from 310,208 patients in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database. We estimated separate multivariate logistic regression models for 30-day mortality and for 30-day complications.

Results

Patients with the modified metabolic syndrome who are super obese had a 2-fold increased risk of death (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.99; 95% CI 1.41-2.80). As stratified by body mass index, patients with the modified metabolic syndrome had a 2- to 2.5-fold higher risk of cardiac adverse events (CAE) compared with normal-weight patients: obese (AOR 1.70; 95% CI 1.40-2.07), morbidly obese (AOR 2.01; 95% CI 1.48-2.73), and super obese (AOR 2.66; 95% CI 1.68-4.19). In addition, the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) was 3- to 7-fold higher in these patients: obese (AOR 3.30; 95% CI 2.75-3.94), morbidly obese (AOR 5.01; 95% CI 3.87-6.49), and super obese (AOR 7.29; 95% CI 5.27-10.1).

Conclusion

Patients with the modified metabolic syndrome undergoing noncardiac surgery are at substantially higher risk of complications compared with patients of normal weight.
Relationship between Normalized Adductor Pollicis Train-of-four Ratio and Manifestations of Residual Neuromuscular Block
Authors: Heier Tom , Caldwell James E. , Feiner John R. , Liu Luke , Ward Theresa , Wright Peter M. C.
Published: August 2010

Background

Baseline acceleromyographic adductor pollicis train-of-four (TOF) ratio varies significantly between individuals and is often greater than unity. Thus, normalization of acceleromyography data is necessary. The relationship between normalized acceleromyographic TOF ratio, lung volumes, and clinical signs of residual neuromuscular block was studied.

Methods

In 12 healthy volunteers, three steady-state levels of neuromuscular block were achieved with mivacurium infusions. TOF ratio was measured acceleromyographically at the adductor pollicis using a preload. Lung volume measurements and a series of clinical tests were made at each stable block and reconciled to the normalized TOF measures.

Results

None experienced airway obstruction or arterial oxygen desaturation, even at normalized TOF ratio less than 0.4. Functional residual capacity remained unchanged whereas vital capacity decreased linearly with decreasing TOF ratio. The ability to protrude the tongue was preserved at all times. The ability to clench the teeth was lost in one volunteer at normalized TOF ratio of 0.84 but retained in four at normalized TOF ratio less than 0.4. Four volunteers lost the ability both to raise the head more than 5 s and to swallow, with the most sensitive individual demonstrating these effects at normalized TOF ratio of 0.60. At mean normalized TOF ratio of 0.42, the mean handgrip strength was approximately 20% of baseline value.

Conclusion

Lung vital capacity decreased linearly with decreasing TOF ratio. Responses to clinical tests of muscle function varied to a large extent among individuals at comparable TOF ratios. None of the volunteers had significant clinical effects of neuromuscular block at normalized acceleromyographic TOF ratio greater than 0.90.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of rat autotaxin
Authors: Day Jacqueline E. , Hall Troii , Pegg Lyle E. , Benson Timothy E. , Hausmann Jens , Kamtekar Satwik
Published: August 2010

Rat autotaxin has been cloned, expressed, purified to homogeneity and crystallizedviahanging-drop vapour diffusion using PEG 3350 as precipitant and ammonium iodide and sodium thiocyanate as salts. The crystals diffracted to a maximum resolution of 2.05 Å and belonged to space groupP1, with unit-cell parametersa= 53.8,b= 63.3,c= 70.5 Å, α = 98.8, β = 106.2, γ = 99.8°. Preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis indicated the presence of one molecule per asymmetric unit, with a solvent content of 47%.
Human mesenchymal stem cells promote growth of osteosarcoma: Involvement of interleukin‐6 in the interaction between human mesenchymal stem cells and Saos‐2
Authors: Bian Zhen‐Yu , Fan Qi‐Ming , Li Gang , Xu Wen‐Ting , Tang Ting‐Ting
Published: August 2010

Our previous study showed that exogenous human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) targeted established osteosarcoma and promoted its growth and pulmonary metastasis in vivo. As a follow‐up, the present study aimed to investigate how hMSCs would interact with Saos‐2 through autocrine/paracrine communication. The results showed that co‐injection of hMSCs with Saos‐2 into the proximal tibia of nude mice could promote tumor growth and progression. In vitro, the proliferation of Saos‐2 and hMSCs was promoted by each other’s conditioned medium, in which interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) played an important role. Osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs could be inhibited by conditioned medium of Saos‐2, in which IL‐6 was also involved. Furthermore, decreased IL‐6 secretion by hMSCs during its osteogenesis and increased IL‐6 secretion in response to conditioned medium of Saos‐2 were observed. Based on these data, we suggest that there was a positive feedback loop of IL‐6 in the interaction between hMSCs and Saos‐2. (Cancer Sci 2010; 101: 2554–2560)
Maintenance of clinical benefit in Crohn’s disease patients after discontinuation of infliximab: long‐term follow‐up of a single centre cohort
Authors: Waugh A. W. G. , Garg S. , Matic K. , Gramlich L. , Wong C. , Sadowski D. C. , Millan M. , Bailey R. , Todoruk D. , Cherry R. , Teshima C. W. , Dieleman L. , Fedorak R. N.
Published: August 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 1129–1134

Background  Tumour necrosis factor‐blockade with infliximab has advanced the treatment of Crohn’s disease. While infliximab is efficacious, it remains to be determined whether patients who enter clinical remission with an anti‐tumour necrosis factor therapy can have their treatment stopped and retain the state of remission.

Aim  To assess in patients with Crohn’s disease who obtained infliximab‐induced remission, the proportion who relapsed after infliximab discontinuation.

Methods  This longitudinal cohort study examined patients from a University‐based IBD referral centre. Forty eight patients with Crohn’s disease in full clinical remission and who then discontinued infliximab were followed up for up to 7 years. Crohn’s disease relapse was defined as an intervention with Crohn’s disease medication or surgery.

Results  Kaplan–Meier analysis of the proportion of patients with sustained clinical benefit demonstrated that 50% relapsed within 477 days after infliximab discontinuance. In contrast, 35% of patients remained well, and without clinical relapse, up to the end of the nearly 7‐year follow‐up.

Conclusions  In patients with Crohn’s disease with an infliximab‐induced remission, stopping infliximab results in a predictable relapse in a majority of patients. Nevertheless, a small percentage of patients sustain a long‐term remission.
Meta‐analysis: reduction in hepatic events following interferon‐alfa therapy of chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Wong G. L.‐H. , Yiu K. K.‐L. , Wong V. W.‐S. , Tsoi K. K.‐F. , Chan H. L.‐Y.
Published: August 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 1059–1068

Background  The long‐term benefit of interferon‐alfa (IFN‐α) treatment in preventing various hepatic complications is not certain.

Aim  To study the effects of IFN‐α on reducing the risk of developing overall hepatic events (hepatocellular carcinoma, cirrhotic complications and liver‐related mortality) in chronic hepatitis B patients.

Methods  Randomized controlled trials, case–control studies and cohort studies were retrieved from electronic databases and conference abstracts. Relative risks (RRs) of different hepatic complications among patients treated by IFN‐α vs. no treatment or placebo were studied.

Results  Eleven studies were identified totalling 975 patients treated by IFN‐α vs. 1147 untreated controls for analysis. Patients were treated by IFN‐α for 1–24 months with a post‐treatment follow‐up of 1–13 years. Treatment by IFN‐α reduced the risk of overall hepatic events (RR 0.55, 95% confident interval or CI 0.43–0.70, P < 0.001) and cirrhotic complications (RR 0.46, 95% CI 0.32–0.67, P < 0.001) by 45% and 54% respectively. Patients who responded to IFN‐α had more profound reduction in overall hepatic events (RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.05–0.87, P = 0.03) and cirrhotic complications (RR 0.19, 95% CI 0.09–0.38, P < 0.001) vs. the untreated controls.

Conclusion  Interferon‐alfa treatment reduces the risk of hepatic events particularly among responders to treatment.
Genomic lesions associated with a different clinical outcome in diffuse large B‐Cell lymphoma treated with R‐CHOP‐21
Authors: Scandurra Marta , Mian Michael , Greiner Timothy C. , Rancoita Paola M. V. , De Campos Cassio P. , Chan Wing C. , Vose Julie M. , Chigrinova Ekaterina , Inghirami Giorgio , Chiappella Annalisa , Baldini Luca , Ponzoni Maurilio , Ferreri Andres J.M. , Franceschetti Silvia , Gaidano Gianluca , Montes‐Moreno Santiago , Piris Miguel A. , Facchetti Fabio , Tucci Alessandra , Nomdedeu Josep Fr. , Lazure Thierry , Lambotte Olivier , Uccella Silvia , Pinotti Graziella , Pruneri Giancarlo , Martinelli Giovanni , Young Ken H. , Tibiletti Maria Grazia , Rinaldi Andrea , Zucca Emanuele , Kwee Ivo , Bertoni Francesco
Published: August 2010

Despite recent therapeutic improvements, the clinical course of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) still differs considerably among patients. We conducted this retrospective multi‐centre study to evaluate the impact of genomic aberrations detected using a high‐density genome wide‐single nucleotide polymorphism‐based array on clinical outcome in a population of DLBCL patients treated with R‐CHOP‐21 (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicine, vincristine and prednisone repeated every 21 d). 166 DNA samples were analysed using the GeneChip Human Mapping 250K NspI. Genomic anomalies were analysed regarding their impact on the clinical course of 124 patients treated with R‐CHOP‐21. Unsupervised clustering was performed to identify genetically related subgroups of patients with different clinical outcomes. Twenty recurrent genetic lesions showed an impact on the clinical course. Loss of genomic material at 8p23.1 showed the strongest statistical significance and was associated with additional aberrations, such as 17p‐ and 15q‐. Unsupervised clustering identified five DLBCL clusters with distinct genetic profiles, clinical characteristics and outcomes. Genetic features and clusters, associated with a different outcome in patients treated with R‐CHOP, have been identified by arrayCGH.
Seizures in the Jamaica cohort study of sickle cell disease
Authors: Ali Susanna B. , Reid Marvin , Fraser Raphael , MooSang Michelle , Ali Amza
Published: August 2010

Although there is some evidence that epilepsy is more common in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), we sought to establish the incidence rates, risk factors for and specific types of seizures in a SCD cohort followed from birth, and how seizure occurrence affects morbidity and mortality. We examined all records of persons in the Jamaica cohort Study of Sickle Cell Disease (JSSCD) clinically identified as having experienced a seizure during their lifetime. At first presentation, seizures were classified as Febrile Convulsion, Acute Symptomatic Seizure or Single Unprovoked Seizure. The seizure classification was revised to include Epilepsy if seizures recurred. Thirty‐eight persons in the JSSCD (N = 543) were identified with seizures. The 5‐year cumulative incidence of febrile convulsions was 2·2%. The incidence rate of epilepsy (all genotypes) was 100/100 000 person‐years, 139/100 000 for the SS genotype. Despite limited availability of diagnostic investigations, clinical seizures were associated with increased all‐cause mortality. Male gender (Odds Ratio [OR]: 4·0[95% confidence interval [CI]; 1·03–20·0]) and dactylitis in childhood (OR: 17·4 [95% CI; 4·82–62·85]) were associated with increased risk of developing epilepsy. Epilepsy in persons with SCD is 2–3 times more common than in non‐sickle populations and is associated with increased all‐cause mortality in all sickle cell genotypes.
Recent advances in the understanding of genetic defects of neutrophil number and function
Authors: Bouma Gerben , Ancliff Phil J. , Thrasher Adrian J. , Burns Siobhan O.
Published: August 2010

Neutrophils are amongst the first immune cells to arrive at sites of infection and play an important role as the host’s first line of defence against invading pathogens. Defects of neutrophil number or function are usually recognized clinically by recurrent infections that often are life‐threatening. Over the last few years, a number of genetic mutations have been discovered to be the basis for congenital neutropenia, adding to our understanding of the molecular basis of these diseases. While many genetic mutations that cause severe congenital neutropenia result in a differentiation block at the promyelocyte stage, defects of neutrophil function are more heterogeneous on clinical, genetic and mechanistic levels. In this review we discuss recent advances in our understanding of the genetic and molecular basis of human neutrophil disorders.
‘The hard work starts now’: a glimpse into the lives of carers of community‐dwelling stroke survivors
Authors: Cecil Rosanne , Parahoo Kader , Thompson Kate , McCaughan Eilis , Power Michael , Campbell Yvonne
Published: August 2010

Aims and objectives.  To explore the personal experiences of carers of stroke survivors and to elicit their views and opinions of what constitute the major issues and concerns of people in their situation.

Background.  The unexpected nature of stroke can propel people into the role of carer with little or no warning. Some carers of stroke survivors suffer from considerable stress and a range of psychological and physical disorders.

Design.  A small‐scale qualitative study of experienced carers of stroke survivors.

Method.  Ten carers with experience of caring for a stroke survivor were recruited to the study through community stroke staff. Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews and a focus group.

Results.  The women’s main concerns were focused around the need for information and support, including the need for some preparation and training in the necessary skills of caring.

Conclusions.  To understand fully the lives that carers lead, it is necessary to explore what carers want to do, and expect to do, for the care‐recipient. There is a need to develop an understanding of factors that appear to be protective against stress, to identify how they can be enhanced and to develop ways to minimise the impact of those factors that have a detrimental impact on the well‐being of carers and on those for whom they care.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Health professionals need to ensure that appropriate information is clearly provided for carers. Communication between health professionals to ensure the ‘joined up’ provision of therapeutic services is another area for continual development. Carers expressed the wish to be better prepared to take on the caring role in the home and would have welcomed some training in this area.
Chasing the unknown: predicting seed dispersal mechanisms from plant traits
Authors: Thomson Fiona J. , Moles Angela T. , Auld Tony D. , Ramp Daniel , Ren Shiquan , Kingsford Richard T.
Published: August 2010

1. The dispersal capabilities of most plant species remain unknown. However, gaining basic dispersal information is a critical step for understanding species’ geographical distributions and for predicting the likely impacts of future climate change. Dispersal mechanisms can indicate short‐ or long‐distance dispersers, and highlight important biological interactions.

2. To predict dispersal mechanisms for species where information is limited, we used generalized linear mixed models with basic life‐history and ecological traits. Sets of models were created (using Australian species) for six dispersal categories: wind, unassisted, water, ant, vertebrate‐ingestion and vertebrate‐attachment dispersal mechanisms. We validated our models on the dispersal mechanisms of 50 Australian, 30 Californian, 30 Swiss plant species and a global compilation of 70 species.

3. Growth form, seed mass and vegetation type were the main predictor variables. Our models predicted dispersal mechanisms for Australian and Californian plant species equally well (c. 70% correct) and to a lesser extent for the Swiss flora (c. 50% correct). Our models predicted observed dispersal mechanisms (c. 50% correct) equally well to inferred dispersal mechanisms (based on seed morphology).

4. Synthesis. Our approach of using easily obtainable traits for predicting dispersal mechanisms of species allows dispersal information to be predicted for species where little is known. From here, the application of realistic dispersal curves to the predicted dispersal mechanisms will further understanding on the dispersal capabilities of species.
Subtelomeric rearrangements and copy number variations in people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Christofolini D. M. , De Paula Ramos M. A. , Kulikowski L. D. , Da Silva Bellucco F. T. , Belangero S. I. N. , Brunoni D. , Melaragno M. I.
Published: August 2010

Background  The most prevalent type of structural variation in the human genome is represented by copy number variations that can affect transcription levels, sequence, structure and function of genes.

Method  In the present study, we used the multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) technique and quantitative PCR for the detection of copy number variation in 132 intellectually disabled male patients with normal karyotypes and negative fragile‐X‐testing.

Results  Ten of these patients (7.6%) showed copy number variation in the subtelomeric regions, including deletions and duplications.

Discussion  Duplications of the SECTM1 gene, located at 17q25.3, and of the FLJ22115 gene, located at 20p13, could be associated with phenotype alterations. This study highlights the relevance in the aetiology of intellectual disability of subtelomeric rearrangements that can be screened by MLPA and other molecular techniques.
Type 2 transglutaminase in Huntington’s disease: a double‐edged sword with clinical potential
Authors: Mastroberardino P. G. , Piacentini M.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Mastroberardino PG, Piacentini M (Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands; University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’, and National Institute for Infectious Diseases IRCCS ‘Lazzaro Spallanzani’, Rome, Italy) Type 2 transglutaminase in Huntington’s disease: a double‐edged sword with clinical potential (Review‐Symposium).J Intern Med2010;268: 419–431.

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a dominant genetic neurodegenerative disorder. The pathology affects principally neurons in the basal ganglia circuits and terminates invariably in death. There is compelling necessity for safe and effective therapeutic strategies to arrest, or even retard the progression of the pathogenesis. Recent findings indicate the autophagy‐lysosome systems as appealing targets for pharmacological intervention. Autophagy exerts a critical role in controlling neuronal protein homeostasis, which is perturbed in HD, and is compromised in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases. Type 2 transglutaminase (TG2) plays an important role both in apoptosis and autophagy regulation, and accumulates at high levels in cells under stressful conditions. TG2 inhibition, achieved either via drug treatments or genetic approaches, has been shown to be beneficial for the treatment of HD in animal models. In this review we will discuss the relevance of TG2 to the pathogenesis of HD, in an effort to define novel therapeutic avenues.
Current and potential geographical distribution of the invasive plant Parthenium hysterophorus (Asteraceae) in eastern and southern Africa
Authors: MCCONNACHIE A J , STRATHIE L W , MERSIE W , GEBREHIWOT L , ZEWDIE K , ABDUREHIM A , ABRHA B , ARAYA T , ASAREGEW F , ASSEFA F , GEBRE‐TSADIK R , NIGATU L , TADESSE B , TANA T
Published: August 2010

McConnachie AJ, Strathie LW, Mersie W, Gebrehiwot L, Zewdie K, Abdurehim A, Abrha B, Araya T, Asaregew F, Assefa F, Gebre‐Tsadik R, Nigatu L, Tadesse B & Tana T (2011). Current and potential geographical distribution of the invasive plant Parthenium hysterophorus (Asteraceae) in eastern and southern Africa. Weed Research 51, 71–84.

Parthenium hysterophorus (Asteraceae), of South American origin, is considered to be one of the world’s most serious invasive plants, invading Australia, Asia and Africa. As part of an international collaborative project, this study attempted to improve the understanding of the geographical distribution of P. hysterophorus in eastern and southern Africa. The climate modelling program CLIMEX was used to assist in the selection of survey localities. Roadside surveys of the distribution of the weed were conducted in Botswana, Ethiopia, South Africa, Swaziland and Uganda. Prior to these surveys, only limited P. hysterophorus locality records existed; substantially more records were obtained from surveys. Most infestations were high density (>3 plants m−2). Distribution records were used to validate the CLIMEX model, which proved a useful tool. This study increased current understanding of the distribution of P. hysterophorus and developed a baseline from which to monitor future spread and abundance of P. hysterophorus. Additional surveys are required in other countries in Africa which are predicted by CLIMEX to be at risk. This will enhance integrated management decisions for the control of a weed which has implications for food security and human health.
Splenic autotransplantation reverses interferon‐gamma and nitric oxide production and resistance to Listeria monocytogenes in splenectomized mice
Authors: Perobelli S.M. , Alves C.C.S. , Rezende A.B. , Farias R.E. , Nunes S.I. , Teixeira H.C.
Published: August 2010

S.M. Perobelli, C.C.S. Alves, A.B. Rezende, R.E. Farias, S.I. Nunes, H.C. Teixeira. Splenic autotransplantation reverses interferon‐gamma and nitric oxide production and resistance to Listeria monocytogenes in splenectomized mice. Transpl Infect Dis 2011: 13: 154–160. All rights reserved

Abstract: Splenectomized mice control Listeria monocytogenes infection better than non‐splenectomized mice. Here, BALB/c mice subjected to splenectomy and autogenous grafting of spleen were evaluated after 3 and 7 days of intravenous L. monocytogenes infection. The group of splenectomized animals (SP) presented a lower number of bacteria in the liver in comparison with both the sham‐operated control group (CT) and the group that received splenic autotransplantation (AT) in the retroperitoneal site. The AT  group presented bacterial counts in the liver similar to the CT  group. SP animals showed larger production of interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) and nitric oxide (NO) in the liver in comparison with CT  and AT, this being associated with greater accumulation of mononuclear cells. IFN‐γ production by spleen cells after stimulation with heat‐killed Listeria was similar between the AT and CT  groups, suggesting that the implanted fragments behaved like the original organ. The autogenous grafting of spleen fragments reverses the resistance to L. monocytogenes infection found in splenectomized mice, associated with a reduced IFN‐γ and NO production in the liver. The present study shows that splenic autotransplantation restores the function of the spleen in splenectomized mice, even though in this case it does favor the susceptibility to L. monocytogenes infection.
Chronic norovirus gastroenteritis in a double hematopoietic stem cell and lung transplant recipient
Authors: Boillat Blanco N. , Kuonen R. , Bellini C. , Manuel O. , Estrade C. , Mazza‐Stalder J. , Aubert J.D. , Sahli R. , Meylan P.
Published: August 2010

N. Boillat Blanco, R. Kuonen, C. Bellini, O. Manuel, C. Estrade, J. Mazza‐Stalder, J.D. Aubert, R. Sahli, P. Meylan. Chronic norovirus gastroenteritis in a double hematopoietic stem cell and lung transplant recipient. Transpl Infect Dis 2011: 13: 213–215. All rights reserved
Gross Anatomy and Ultrasonographic Images of the Reproductive System of the Malayan Tapir (Tapirus indicus)
Authors: Lilia K. , Rosnina Y. , Abd Wahid H. , Zahari Z. Z. , Abraham M.
Published: August 2010

With 4 figures

The Malayan tapir (Tapirus indicus) is the largest among the four tapir species and is listed as an endangered species. Ultrasound examination and description of the external anatomy of the female reproductive system of three adult females were performed, whereas the internal anatomy was investigated in necropsied samples of four adult females and one subadult female. Descriptions of the male external genitalia were conducted on one adult male. Gross examination revealed the presence of a bicornuate uterus. The uterine cervix is firm and muscular with projections towards its lumen, which is also evident on ultrasonography. The elongated and relatively small ovaries, which have a smooth surface, could not be imaged on ultrasonography, due to their anatomical position. The testes are located inside a slightly pendulous scrotum that is sparsely covered with soft, short hairs. The penis has one dorsal and two lateral penile projections just proximal to the glans penis.
Role of research in occupational therapy clinical practice: Applying action learning and action research in pursuit of evidence‐based practice
Authors: Du Toit Sanet H. J. , Wilkinson Annette C. , Adam Kerry
Published: August 2010

Background:  In South Africa, as in many other countries, the development of research capacity in students and their early professional career is regarded as of major importance. Within the context of clinical education for occupational therapy students at the University of the Free State, a lecturer and her students embarked on a collaborative journey while fulfilling the requirements of their undergraduate curriculum. The outcome is a model promoting evidence‐based practice (EBP) during service development on a dementia care ward.

Methods:  The practical use of action learning, action research (ALAR) approach in the clinical context, was used to encourage student engagement in successive small‐scale research projects while simulating EBP. The projects ranged from the development of therapeutic multi‐sensory environments to compiling activity profiles for identified residents. At the same time, students had the opportunity to experience the value of a scientific approach to practice development, which stimulated their awareness of the importance of research.

Results:  Reflection by the researcher contributed towards more effective ways for compiling project assignments and a formalised approach for assessing projects. Students described personal and professional gains because of participation in projects against the life‐changing experience of rendering a service to elderly persons suffering from dementia. The formalised approach guiding thoughts and actions finally assisted in developing a practical process model that could support EBP.

Conclusions:  The ALAR model contributed towards a scholarship of practice where the students, clinical educator and residents of a dementia unit all experienced the value of research.
The Outcome of Continuing Pregnancies Complicated by Threatened Abortion
Authors: Correy J. F.
Published: August 2010

A series of 524 continuing pregnancies complicated by bleeding prior to the 16th week of gestation was analysed. In 93%, the length of gestation was at least 38 weeks. The incidence of congenital anomalies in the threatened abortion group was 1.9% as against 0.9% in the control group (p < 0.05). The only increase in obstetrical complication of any significance was that of placenta praevia — 1.3% as against 0.5% (p < 0.02).
Genetic Amniocentesis and Follow‐Up Study of the Infants: A Japanese Collaborative Work
Authors: Sugawa Tadashi , Ogita Sachio , Matsumoto Masahiko , Yagami Yoshiaki , Suzumori Kaoru , Kitagawa Teruo , Tada Keiya , Jinbo Toshiharu
Published: August 2010

Prenatal diagnosis of genetic disease in Japan today, as of the end of 1978, and results of a follow‐up study of infants born after genetic amniocentesis are reported.

Of the 585 amniocentesis in 523 women, 568 cases contributed data for the results of their analysis. A previous history of pregnancy with Down's syndrome was a major indication in these 585 cases (59.5%); other indications included advanced maternal age 69 cases (11.8%), and metabolic disorder 56 cases (9.6%).

Fetal loss occurred in a total 12 out of 542 cases (2.2%). Ten of these fetal losses occurred during the mid‐trimester. No increase in perinatal mortality, perinatal morbidity or retardation of physical and mental development as a consequence of amniocentesis was observed.

Erroneous diagnosis was attested in 7 out of 568 cases (1.2%). Test accuracy was thus demonstrated at 98.8%.
Adjunctive Use of Laminaria Tents for Termination of Early Mid‐Trimester Pregnancy with Intramuscular 15(S) ‐ 15‐ Methyl PGF2 alpha
Authors: Chowdhury N.N. Roy , Bulusu Ratna
Published: August 2010

Forty‐five patients with gestational age between 12–16 weeks treated with insertion of Laminaria tents followed 14 hours later by serial intramuscular injections of 15‐methyl PGF2 alpha had a mean abortion time of 10.49 ± 0.94 hours and percentage effectiveness of 97.78% within 20 hours. Except for one case of cervical laceration, no other complications occurred. Tents reduce the drug‐abortion interval and improve the cumulative success rate. A close relationship between degree of difficulty at removal of the tents and the mean abortion interval was noted.
Diagnostic Gynecologic Laparoscopy —Analysis of 1226 cases—
Authors: Punnonen Reijo
Published: August 2010

During the period 1971–1980 a total of 1226 diagnostic laparoscopies were performed at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Turku University Central Hospital. In 591 patients the indication for laparoscopy was chronic pelvic pain. The most common pathology in these patients was endometriosis (36 per cent). Adhesions and pelvic varicosis were the next most common findings. In 197 patients (33 per cent) no pathology was found in laparoscopic examination. Endometriosis and adhesions were also the most common finding in the 288 infertile patients; 43 per cent of the 55 infertile patients with a normal HSG showed pathology in laparoscopy. Laparoscopy is also an important tool in the decision for or against tuboplasty. Suspected ectopic pregnancy was the indication for 182 patients. In 73 of the patients (40 per cent) the finding was a tubal pregnancy and in three cases an ovarian pregnancy was found.

Other indications for diagnostic laparoscopy had been for example primary and secondary amenorrhoea, hirsutism and anomalies in the genital tract. Often laparoscopy can be both diagnostic and therapeutic.
Ectopic Pregnancy: A Clinical Review of 204 Cases
Authors: Smith David H. , Dalrymple Christopher , Grundzinskas Jurgis G.
Published: August 2010

A review of 204 consecutive patients with ectopic pregnancies admitted to a large general hospital showed an increasing incidence during the period 1974–1980. The most common clinical findings were abdominal pain, irregular vaginal bleeding and abdominal tenderness. Laparoscopy was used frequently to make an early diagnosis and unilateral salpingectomy was the most common operative procedure. Incidence of ectopic pregnancy in the subsequent pregnancy was 9.6% in patients accessible for follow‐up.