bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food quality for Daphnia in humic and clear water lakes
Authors: GUTSEIT KELLY , BERGLUND OLOF , GRANÉLI WILHELM
Published: December 2006

1. Growth and reproduction of Daphnia fed lake seston were measured in two categories of meso‐ to eutrophic lakes differing with respect to terrestrial organic matter influence (humic and clear water lakes). The content of highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA), P and N, as well as the taxonomical composition of seston were analysed.

2. Seston HUFA and C : P ratios were similar between lake categories, whereas C : N ratios were lower in the clear water lakes in both spring and summer. Despite the similarity in HUFA and P content of seston, Daphnia growth rate, clutch size and the proportion of gravid females were, respectively, about 1.5, 3 and 6 times higher in the clear water lakes.

3. Differences in growth and reproduction were related to a combination of higher N content and good fatty acid quality of the seston in the clear water lakes. Relatively high biomass of edible algae, such as Rhodomonas sp. and Cryptomonas sp., in the clear water lakes, and differences in water pH likely contributed to the observed differences in Daphnia growth and reproduction between lake categories. Additionally, it is possible that Daphnia was energy limited in the humic lakes despite high particulate organic carbon (POC) concentrations, as the contribution of non‐algal and detrital C to the POC pool was high.

4. Our results suggest that dietary HUFA content has the potential to improve herbivore growth and reproduction if N and P are not limiting. N merits more attention in studies of zooplankton nutrition.
The relationship between Chironomus plumosus burrows and the spatial distribution of pore‐water phosphate, iron and ammonium in lake sediments
Authors: LEWANDOWSKI JÖRG , LASKOV CHRISTINE , HUPFER MICHAEL
Published: December 2006

1. To study the influence of chironomids on the distribution of pore‐water concentrations of phosphate, iron and ammonium, we conducted a laboratory experiment using mesocosms equipped with two‐dimensional pore‐water samplers, filled with lake sediment and populated with different densities of Chironomus plumosus.

2. Specially designed mesocosms were used in the study. A 6‐mm deep space between the front plate and the pore‐water sampler at the back plate was just thick enough to allow the chironomids to live undisturbed, yet thin enough to force all the burrows into a two‐dimensional plane.

3. The courses of the burrows were observed during the experiment as oxidised zones surrounding them, as well as being identified with an X‐ray image taken at the end of the experiment.

4. We investigated the relationship between C. plumosus burrows and spatial patterns of pore‐water composition. Concentrations of the three ions were significantly less around ventilated burrows (54% to 24%), as bioirrigation caused a convective exchange of pore‐water enriched with dissolved species compared with the overlying water, and also because oxygen imported into the sediment resulting in nitrification of ammonium, oxidation of iron(II) and a co‐precipitation of phosphate with Fe(III) oxyhydroxides.

5. In mesocosms with chironomids, new (redox) interfaces occurred with diffusive pore‐water gradients perpendicular to the course of burrows and the site of major phosphate, ammonium and iron(II) release shifted from the sediment surface to the burrow walls.
Carotenoid content and reflectance of yellow and red nuptial plumages in widowbirds (Euplectes spp.)
Authors: ANDERSSON STAFFAN , PRAGER MARIA , JOHANSSON E. I. ANETTE
Published: December 2006

Ornamental carotenoid coloration is commonly based on several different pigments with different nutritional and metabolic constraints. The identification and quantification of carotenoid pigments is therefore crucial to the understanding of signal content and signal evolution.

In male widowbirds (Euplectes spp.), the striking yellow and red carotenoid colours have been measured by reflectance spectrometry and studied with respect to sexual selection through male contest competition, but their biochemical mechanisms have not been analysed.

Here we use reflectance analysis and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to describe the species‐specific colours and plumage carotenoids in three widowbird species: yellow‐mantled widowbird (YMW) Euplectes macrourus, red‐shouldered widowbird (RSW) E. axillaris and red‐collared widowbird (RCW) E. ardens.

YMW yellow (‘hue’ colorimetric λR50 = 522 nm) derives from the two ‘dietary yellow’ xanthophylls lutein and zeaxanthin, together with small amounts of ‘derived yellow’ pigments (3′‐dehydrolutein and canary xanthophylls).

RCW red (λR50 = 574 nm) is achieved by the addition of low concentrations of ‘derived red’ 4‐keto‐carotenoids, notably α‐ and β‐doradexanthin and canthaxanthin.

RSW red (λR50 = 589 nm) is, in contrast, created by high concentrations of ‘dietary yellow’ pigments (lutein, zeaxanthin) and ‘derived yellow’ anhydrolutein, the latter only recently described in birds.

The two different mechanisms of producing red plumage are compared with other bird species and discussed with regard to costs and signal ‘honesty’.
Genome‐wide and locus‐specific DNA hypomethylation in G9a deficient mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Ikegami Kohta , Iwatani Misa , Suzuki Masako , Tachibana Makoto , Shinkai Yoichi , Tanaka Satoshi , Greally John M. , Yagi Shintaro , Hattori Naka , Shiota Kunio
Published: December 2006

In the mammalian genome, numerous CpG‐rich loci define tissue‐dependent and differentially methylated regions (T‐DMRs). Euchromatin from different cell types differs in terms of its tissue‐specific DNA methylation profile as defined by these T‐DMRs. G9a is a euchromatin‐localized histone methyltransferase (HMT) and catalyzes methylation of histone H3 at lysines 9 and 27 (H3‐K9 and ‐K27). To test whether HMT activity influences euchromatic cytosine methylation, we analyzed the DNA methylation status of approximately 2000 CpG‐rich loci, which are predicted in silico, in G9a−/− embryonic stem cells by restriction landmark genomic scanning (RLGS). While the RLGS profile of wild‐type cells contained about 1300 spots, 32 new spots indicating DNA demethylation were seen in the profile of G9a−/− cells. Virtual‐image RLGS (Vi‐RLGS) allowed us to identify the genomic source of ten of these spots. These were confirmed to be cytosine demethylated, not just at the Not I site detected by the RLGS but extending over several kilobase pairs in cis. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) confirmed these loci to be targets of G9a, with decreased H3‐K9 and/or ‐K27 dimethylation in the G9a−/− cells. These data indicate that G9a site‐selectively contributes to DNA methylation.
Regulated nucleo‐cytoplasmic shuttling of human aci‐reductone dioxygenase (hADI1) and its potential role in mRNA processing
Authors: Gotoh Isamu , Uekita Takamasa , Seiki Motoharu
Published: December 2006

Bacterial aci‐reductone dioxygenase (ARD), a member of the cupin superfamily, has evolutionarily primitive protein folding and functions in the methionine recycling pathway. Recently, a human ARD orthologue (human ADI1, hADI1) has been identified and exhibits functions other than ARD activity. The hADI1 localizes mainly to the cytoplasm, but a substantial fraction is nuclear, suggesting functions in both cellular compartments. In this study, we report that nucleo‐cytoplasmic transport of hADI1 is regulated by a non‐canonical nuclear export signal (NES) located in the N‐terminal region of hADI1. The NES is composed of multiple basic amino‐acid residues instead of the canonical leucine‐rich sequence. Nuclear export of hADI1 was not mediated by CRM1, a major transporter that binds to leucine‐rich NES. Substitution of the basic residues with alanines abolished NES activity. Mutant hADI1 accumulated in the nucleus and formed speckles frequently observed with splicing factors and some transcription factors. Indeed, hADI1 specifically co‐localized with the splicing factor U1‐70K to the nucleus but not with another splicing factor, SC35. U1‐70K over‐expression induced nuclear accumulation of hADI1. Nuclear hADI1 expression significantly altered the splicing pattern of the adenovirus E1A mini‐gene, which generates multiple alternatively spliced transcripts. Thus, hADI1 may have acquired a novel role in nuclear mRNA processing possibly by modulating U1‐70K‐related functions, an activity negatively regulated by a non‐classical NES sequence.
IgE‐mediated anaphylactic reaction to purified and recombinant factor VIII in a patient with severe haemophilia A
Authors: KADAR J. G. , SCHUSTER J. , HUNZELMANN N.
Published: December 2006

Summary.  We report a 51‐year‐old patient with severe haemophilia A developing a severe life‐threatening anaphylactic reaction to recombinant factor VIII (rFVIII). Anaphylactic reactions are a rare but well‐known side effect of FVIII products. The nature of these reactions could not be clarified as previous studies failed to demonstrate a specific IgE response. Here, we could prove a grade 3 anaphlyactic reaction as an IgE‐mediated response to rFVIII for the first time by Western blotting.
Force fluctuations during the Maximum Isometric Voluntary Contraction of the quadriceps femoris in haemophilic patients
Authors: GONZÁLEZ L.‐M. , QUEROL F. , GALLACH J. E. , GOMIS M. , AZNAR V. A.
Published: December 2006

Summary.  In the general population, the degenerative processes in joints are directly related to adult age, and osteoarthrosis represents the most frequent musculoskeletal alteration. In the haemophilic patient, the degenerative processes in the joint begin at very early ages, and are directly related to musculoskeletal bleeding episodes, which are occasionally subclinical and constitute haemophilic arthropathy. In the haemophilic patient, arthropathy constitutes the most frequent, severe and disabling pathology, and its assessment includes muscular force‐related parameters. We have studied the value of Maximum Isometric Voluntary Contraction in the quadriceps femoris of 46 subjects, 28 haemophiliacs (16 severe, eight moderate and four mild) and 18 healthy individuals with a view to establishing appropriate values of force and to restoring physical therapy recommendations. The maximum force values were significantly greater (P < 0.001) in the healthy individuals group. The mild haemophiliacs group also presented significant differences of force (P < 0.05) in relation to the severe and moderate haemophilic patient groups. The mild and severe haemophilia patients presented greater fluctuations of force (P < 0.001) than the control group, the haemophilia group have a minor skill to produce constant force. The seriousness of the arthropathy in the knee is directly related to diminished values of maximum force. Our work evidences that patients with severe haemophilia present a greater degree of arthropathy in relation to moderate and mild haemophilia patients. Haemophilic arthropathy is associated with muscular atrophy and strength deficit. In haemophilic patients, the deficit of maximum force and the presence of fluctuations may suggest an increased risk of bleeding during physical activities and the need to programme specific physical therapy guidelines which increase muscular power through resistance training.
Topical use of tranexamic acid to control perioperative local bleeding in gynaecology patients with clotting disorders: two cases
Authors: SARRIS I. , ARAFA A. , KONARIS L. , KADIR R. A.
Published: December 2006

Summary.  Operating on patients with abnormal coagulation is a challenge frequently faced by surgeons. Achieving haemostasis perioperatively can involve bleeding points that would not ordinarily present a problem with intact clotting function. Here we present two women with localised wound bleeding following a gynaecological surgery in the presence of a clotting disorder. Haemostasis was successfully achieved with tropical use of tranexamic acid. These two cases illustrate a novel use for this antifibrinolytic agent. We suggest that there is a role for topical use of tranexamic acid in perioperative haemostasis in patients with clotting disorders.
Short‐term oral corticosteroid therapy for acute haemarthrosis in haemophilia patients with high‐titre inhibitors
Authors: MEDEIROS D. , LAUFENBERG J. A. , MILLER K. L. , BUCHANAN G. R.
Published: December 2006

Summary.  Treatment of acute bleeding events is unsatisfactory in patients with haemophilia and high‐titre factor VIII (FVIII) inhibitors. In order to determine whether short‐term corticosteroid therapy enhances resolution of the signs and symptoms of acute haemarthrosis, we performed a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study in children with FVIII deficiency and high‐titre inhibitors receiving Factor Eight Inhibitor Bypass Activity (FEIBA®) for acute haemorrhagic events. At each haemarthrosis, patients were randomized to receive either prednisolone 2 mg kg−1 day−1 or placebo‐divided t.i.d. for 2 days (six doses) in addition to FEIBA. The primary endpoint was the number of subsequent doses of FEIBA required. The effect of the study medication was also assessed subjectively by patients or parents, by physical examination and by repeated haemorrhages into the joint. During the study period, seven patients were enrolled with 45 evaluable events, 24 treated with prednisolone and 21 with placebo. An average of 2.08 and 1.86 doses of FEIBA were infused in the prednisolone‐ and placebo‐treated patients, respectively. By Wilcoxon Rank Sum Test, there was no statistically significant difference in number of additional infusions of FEIBA or duration of symptoms between the corticosteroid and placebo arms. We conclude that there is no significant benefit of a 2‐day course of oral corticosteroids as adjunctive therapy for haemarthrosis in patients with haemophilia and a high‐titre inhibitor.
DNA and its cationic lipid complexes induce CpG motif‐dependent activation of murine dendritic cells
Authors: Yoshinaga Takaharu , Yasuda Kei , Ogawa Yoshiyuki , Nishikawa Makiya , Takakura Yoshinobu
Published: December 2006

Unmethylated CpG motifs in bacterial DNA, but not in vertebrate DNA, are known to trigger an inflammatory response of antigen‐presenting cells (APC). In this study, we investigated the cytokine release from murine dendritic cells (DC) by the addition of various types of DNA in the free or complexed form with cationic lipids. Naked plasmid DNA and Escherichia coli DNA with immunostimulatory unmethylated CpG motifs induced pro‐inflammatory cytokine secretion from granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF)‐cultured bone marrow‐derived DC and the DC cell‐line, DC2.4 cells, though vertebrate calf thymus DNA (CT DNA) with less CpG motifs did not. These characteristics differed from mouse peritoneal resident macrophages that do not respond to any naked DNA. The amount of cytokines released from the DC was significantly increased by complex formation with cationic lipids when CpG‐motif positive DNAs were used. Unlike murine macrophages or Flt‐3 L cultured DC, GM‐CSF DC did not release inflammatory cytokines in response to the addition of CT DNA/cationic lipid complex, suggesting that the activation is completely dependent on CpG motifs. Taken together, the results of the present study demonstrate that murine DC produce pro‐inflammatory cytokines upon stimulation with CpG‐containing DNAs and the responses are enhanced by cationic lipids. These results also suggest that DC are the major cells that respond to naked CpG DNA in vivo, although both DC and macrophages will release inflammatory cytokines after the administration of a DNA/cationic lipid complex.
Somatic transformation efficiencies and expression patterns using the JcDNV and piggyBac transposon gene vectors in insects
Authors: Bossin H. , Furlong R. B. , Gillett J. L. , Bergoin M. , Shirk P. D.
Published: December 2006

A somatic transformation gene vector that exploits the genomic integration properties of Junonia coenia lepidopteran densovirus (JcDNV) sequences in vivo has been developed. JcDNV somatic transformation vectors are derivatives of plasmids containing an interrupted genome of JcDNV that provide efficient, robust vectors that can be used to examine regulation of chromosomally integrated transgenes in insects. Microinjection of JcDNV plasmids into syncytial embryos of Drosophila melanogaster or the lepidopterans Plodia interpunctella, Ephestia kuehniella or Trichoplusia ni resulted in persistent transgene expression throughout development. Inclusion of transgenes with tissue‐specific promoters resulted in expression patterns canonical with phenotypes of piggyBac germline transformants. Somatic transformation required the presence of the viral inverted terminal repeat in cis only and did not depend upon non‐structural viral proteins.
Management of central giant cell granuloma: discussion of two cases
Authors: MOONEY GILLIAN C. , McMAHON JEREMY , WARD SEAN E. , DAVIDSON LESLEY E. , NORTH SARAH
Published: December 2006

Background.  The Central Giant Cell Granuloma (CGCG) is an uncommon benign lesion of the jaws. It occurs predominantly in children and young adults, and may cause local destruction of bone and displacement of teeth.

Case Report.  Two case reports are presented illustrating the joint management of children with this condition by paediatric dentistry and maxillofacial surgery teams.

Conclusion.  The role of the paediatric dental team is extensive in children with CGCG and coordination of care from both teams is essential to ensure that the highest quality of care is provided.
Dental plaque formation and salivary mutans streptococci in schoolchildren after use of xylitol‐containing chewing gum
Authors: HOLGERSON PERNILLA LIF , SJÖSTRÖM INGER , STECKSÉN‐BLICKS CHRISTINA , TWETMAN SVANTE
Published: December 2006

Objective.  The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a fixed daily dose of xylitol on mutans streptococci in saliva and the amount of visible dental plaque. A second aim was to explore if the possible effects differed between children with and without caries experience.

Methods.  The study was designed as a double‐blind randomized controlled trial with two parallel arms. All pupils (n = 149) in grades 1–6 in a comprehensive school in northern Sweden were invited, and 128 children (mean age = 12.7 years) consented to participate. The children were stratified as having caries experience (DMFS/dmfs ≥ 1) or not before the random allocation to a test or control group. The control group (A) was given two pellets containing sorbitol and maltitol three times daily for 4 weeks, and the test group (B) received corresponding pellets with xylitol as single sweetener (total dose = 6.18 g day). Clinical scoring and saliva samples were collected at baseline and immediately after the test period. The outcome measures were visible plaque index, salivary mutans streptococci counts and salivary lactic acid production.

Results.  The amount of visible plaque was significantly reduced in both groups after 4 weeks (P < 0.05). Likewise, the sucrose‐induced lactic acid formation in saliva diminished in both groups (P < 0.05). The proportion of mutans streptococci decreased significantly in the test group compared to baseline, but not in the control group (P < 0.05). The alterations in the test group seemed most prominent among children without previous caries experience.

Conclusions.  The results suggest that chewing gum with xylitol or sorbitol/maltitol can reduce the amount of dental plaque and acid production in saliva in schoolchildren, but only the xylitol‐containing gum may also interfere with the microbial composition.
Postoperative pain in older people: a review of the literature
Authors: Prowse Morag
Published: December 2006

Aims and objectives.  The literature review was conducted to explore those factors which complicate pain management in older people to inform future research, education and nursing practice in this area.

Background.  Acute pain management in hospitalized older people is complex because of the physiological changes of ageing, pharmacological factors and under‐representation of this patient group in reported research about assessing acute pain.

Methods.  A review of the literature was undertaken using electronic databases and specified search terms, some hand searching was also used and included the grey literature, textbooks and conference proceedings. A computerized literature search was carried out using CINAHL, Bandolier, Cochrane, Medline, the British Nursing Index and the International Association for the Study of Pain website for the period 1992–2004. The search terms were acute pain, older people, elder care, pain assessment and acute pain services. Thirty‐seven research‐based reviews and published studies and 17 policy documents were included.

Conclusions.  Managing acute pain well in older adults involves understanding the influence of a series of integrated factors: attitudes and beliefs, physiological ageing processes, pharmacological factors and the social construction of the older person in healthcare contexts.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This review offers new insight into those factors which, taken together, add complexity to managing acute pain in older people well. Moreover, nurses are the professional group mainly responsible for assessing pain, administering and now prescribing analgesia and evaluating the quality of pain relief in older people. On this basis, they are also the group most likely to effect improved patient outcomes.
Vaginal birth after caesarean section (VBAC): exploring women's perceptions
Authors: Meddings Fiona , Phipps Fiona MacVane , Haith‐Cooper Melanie , Haigh Jacquelyn
Published: December 2006

Aims and objectives.  This study was designed to complement local audit data by examining the lived experience of women who elected to attempt a vaginal birth following a previous caesarean delivery. The study sought to determine whether or not women were able to exercise informed choice and to explore how they made decisions about the method of delivery and how they interpreted their experiences following the birth.

Background.  The rising operative birth rate in the UK concerns both obstetricians and midwives. Although the popular press has characterized birth by caesarean section as the socialites’ choice, in reality, maternal choice is only one factor in determining the method of birth. However, in considering the next delivery following a caesarean section, maternal choice may be a significant indicator. While accepted current UK practice favours vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) in line with the research evidence indicating reduced maternal morbidity, lower costs and satisfactory neonatal outcomes, Lavender et al. point out that partnership in choice has emerged as a key factor in the decision‐making process over the past few decades. Chaung and Jenders explored the issue of choice in an earlier study and concluded that the best method of subsequent delivery, following a caesarean birth, is dependent on a woman's preference.

Design and methodology.  Using a phenomenological approach enabled a holistic exploration of women's lived experiences of vaginal birth after the caesarean section.

Results.  This was a qualitative study and, as such, the findings are not transferable to women in general. However, the results confirmed the importance of informed choice and raised some interesting issues meriting the further exploration.

Conclusions.  Informed choice is the key to effective women‐centred care. Women must have access to non‐biased evidence‐based information in order to engage in a collaborative partnership of equals with midwives and obstetricians.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This study is relevant to clinical practice as it highlights the importance of informed choice and reminds practitioners that, for women, psycho‐social implications may supersede their physical concerns about birth.
Rectal suppository insertion: the reliability of the evidence as a basis for nursing practice
Authors: Bradshaw Ann , Price Lynda
Published: December 2006

Aims and objectives.  This paper considers the correct method for inserting a rectal suppository, both as a medication and also to achieve bowel evacuation. The aim is to find out whether the correct method is blunt end or pointed end foremost.

Background.  It follows from a question raised by a third year student nurse. In the classroom, she had been taught that the correct method for the administration of a suppository for systemic absorption was to insert it blunt end foremost into the rectum. However, if the suppository was to be used for evacuant purposes, it should be given pointed end foremost. In clinical practice, however, she was told the suppository should always be inserted pointed end foremost in all cases, whatever the purpose.

Design.  This article seeks to clarify the dilemma by examining the sources of evidence underpinning different methods for inserting a rectal suppository. Hence, the literature on the insertion of rectal suppositories was gathered as systematically as possible from medical journals and textbooks, nursing journals and textbooks and manufacturers’ information to patients.

Method.  Having gathered the literature, this was examined, appraised and critically analysed for rigour, coherence and reliability.

Results.  The review of the literature appears to show that evidence adduced for inserting the suppository blunt end foremost derives from one study published in the Lancet in 1991, which challenged ‘commonsense’. There did not appear to be other, more recent research. On the other hand, manufacturers’ information to patients states generally that the suppository should be inserted pointed end foremost. This has direct relevance for the administration of suppositories and also raises questions as to how research may become integrated into healthcare practice without adequate justification.

Conclusions.  An article published in the Lancet in 1991 has had a fundamental effect on nursing practice, but has not been subject to scrutiny. The advice given in this Lancet article differs from that currently given by most manufacturers of suppositories, which involves the terms of their product licence. Hence, there is a potential for problems with legal liability should an untoward event arise.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Inserting rectal suppositories, whether as a medication or to achieve bowel evacuation, is a very common healthcare practice. Currently, there is inconsistency and discrepancy in the correct method for this procedure in both nursing education and practice. This paper examines the reliability of existing evidence and shows the need for further work in order to provide a reliable evidence base for this commonplace clinical procedure.
Nitric oxide and nursing: a review
Authors: Stephens Caroline , Fawcett Tonks N
Published: December 2006

Aims and objectives.  This paper, therefore, aimed to review published literature in this area of pharmacological exploitation, to look at the therapeutic applications and clinical relevance and, by so doing, provide an accessible source for nurses to gain insight into the role of nitric oxide in the clinical setting.

Background.  Nitric oxide is a chemical mediator fundamental in the maintenance of adequate tissue perfusion and effective cardiovascular function; a major endogenous regulator of vascular tone. The use of nitrates are well established as pharmacological agents but it is only recently that it has been recognized that they act as a source of nitric oxide. Although widely addressed within the medical literature, there appears to be a paucity of nursing literature that explores either its physiological action, or its relevance to nursing practice.

Conclusions.  This literature review provides an overview of the use of nitric oxide and its implications for nursing practice and patient outcomes.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Knowledge of nitric oxide and its action is pertinent to nurses across diverse specialities. It helps in understanding the principles of many nitrogen‐derived medications which nurses administer to their patients on a daily basis. In terms of oral medication, this is demonstrated by greater insights into the action of nitrates, the appreciation of surprising developments in medications such as sildenafil and the development of new drug opportunities such as nitric oxide–non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. Equally, the use of inhaled nitric oxide therapy in adult and neonatal critical care units appears to be an increasingly valuable source of treatment. A particular research challenge is found in the attempt at nitric oxide inhibition in the management of septic shock. The authors argue that understanding such esoteric areas of therapeutic developments is increasingly to be part of the repertoire of knowledge and skills for nurses in the 21st century.
Assessing the balance capabilities of people with profound intellectual disabilities who have experienced a fall
Authors: Hale L. , Bray A. , Littmann A.
Published: December 2006

Background  Although it is common for people with intellectual disability (ID) to fall, the reasons for this have not yet been identified. This pilot study aimed to explore the balance capabilities of a sample of adults with profound ID who had experienced a fall, in order to identify possible reasons for falling and to identify potential tests that could be used to quantify balance capabilities in this population group.

Methods  The neuromuscular systems and balance capabilities of 20 adults with profound ID were comprehensively assessed with a battery of tests, including computerized posturography.

Results  Of the 20 participants, 15 described themselves as frequent fallers, and 10 participants reported serious injuries as a result of falling. Formalized assessment of the neuromuscular and balance capabilities proved to be challenging, with many participants unable to comprehend what was required of them in the performance of a number of the tests. All participants were observed to have an abnormal pattern of walking. Nine participants completed posturography testing, the main finding of which was that low motor control composite scores indicated a slowing of motor responses to postural perturbations. Other potential risk factors identified were concurrent medical problems, medication, the context and environment of falling, movement impulsiveness and distractibility, and visual deficits.

Conclusion  The reason why people with ID frequently fall appears complex and multifactorial. Larger studies are required to verify the potential risk factors identified in this pilot study. Many of the standardized outcome measures commonly used in physiotherapy practice to quantify balance capabilities are not suitable for use in this population group, as participants found it difficult to comprehend what was required of them. Allowing the person to become familiarized with both the test and the tester may help to alleviate this problem. Videotaping and quantifying observations of strategies people use to perform common movements such as walking or turning maybe a more appropriate measurement tool of balance capabilities of people with ID than current standardized measures. This method would require rigorous development.
A preliminary study of screening for risk of autism in children with fragile X syndrome: testing two risk cut‐offs for the Checklist for Autism in Toddlers
Authors: Scambler D. J. , Hepburn S. L. , Hagerman R. J. , Rogers S. J.
Published: December 2006

Objective  Risk criteria for the Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (CHAT) and modified risk criteria (i.e. the Denver Criteria) were compared in a group of children with fragile X syndrome (FXS) and autism.

Method  Participants were 17 children aged 2–4 years with DNA confirmation of FXS. Four children had autism and 13 children did not.

Results  Preliminary findings regarding the sensitivity and specificity of the CHAT for detecting risk for autism in children with FXS are as follows: using the original CHAT risk criteria, sensitivity and specificity were 50% and 100%, respectively; and using the Denver Criteria, sensitivity and specificity were 75% and 92%, respectively.

Conclusions  The CHAT and the Denver Criteria resulted in preliminary findings suggesting high levels of sensitivity to autism in children with FXS.
Oral health status in war veterans with post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: MUHVIĆ‐UREK M. , UHAČ I. , VUKŠIĆ‐MIHALJEVIĆ Ž. , LEOVIĆ D. , BLEČIĆ N. , KOVAČ Z.
Published: December 2006

summary  The aim of this study was to assess the oral health condition of Croatian war veterans with post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study included 50 men who experienced combat stress and had been diagnosed with PTSD. They were compared with the group of 50 age‐matched men who did not participate in war and did not have PTSD. Xerostomia, oral mucosal lesion, oral hygiene status, dental, and periodontal conditions, as well as temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) were assessed and compared between the groups. Subjects in PTSD group had poorer oral hygiene, and periodontal status compared with the control subjects. Furthermore, they had less teeth than the control group (P = 0·04). Although, there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in Decayed, Missing and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index (P = 0·36), PTSD group had more decayed and missing teeth, but less filled teeth (P < 0·05 for all). According the Research Diagnosis Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorder (RDC/TMD), PTSD patients had more TMD diagnoses compared with the control subjects. The most prevalent diagnosis was myofascial pain (48%) in PTSD group, while in the control group it was disc displacement with reduction (8%). It can be concluded that the oral health condition in PTSD patients is significantly affected compared with the control subjects.
Clinicopathological differences between hepatitis B viral genotype B‐ and C‐related resectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lin C‐L. , Chen J‐D. , Liu C‐J. , Lee P‐H. , Chen P‐J. , Lai M‐Y. , Kao J‐H. , Chen D‐S.
Published: December 2006

Summary.  Clinical and pathogenic differences exist between hepatitis B viral (HBV) genotypes B and C, and genotype C has a higher risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development than genotype B. The aim of this study was to investigate whether HBV genotypes B and C influence the clinicopathological features of patients with resectable HCC. Stored serum samples from 193 patients with resectable HBV‐related HCC were tested for HBV genotypes by a molecular method. Of 193 patients undergoing resection of HCC, 107 (55%) and 86 (45%) were infected with genotypes B and C, respectively. Compared with genotype C patients, genotype B patients were less likely to be associated with liver cirrhosis (33%vs 51%, P = 0.01). Pathologically, genotype B patients had a higher rate of solitary tumour (94%vs 86%, P = 0.048) and more satellite nodules (22%vs 12%, P = 0.05) than genotype C patients. Our results indicate that genotype B‐related HCC is less associated with liver cirrhosis and has a higher frequency of solitary tumour as well as more satellite nodules than genotype C‐related HCC. These characteristics may contribute to the recurrence patterns and prognosis of HBV‐related HCC in patients with genotype B or C infection.
Efficiency of traps for Stomoxys calcitrans and Stomoxys niger niger on Reunion Island
Authors: GILLES J. , DAVID J.‐F. , DUVALLET G. , DE LA ROCQUE S. , TILLARD E.
Published: December 2006

Abstract The main objective of this study was to compare the trapping efficiency of two Alsynite sticky traps (modified Williams and modified Broce) and two phtalogen blue cloth traps (Vavoua and Nzi) to be used in an integrated control programme of Stomoxys spp. (Diptera: Muscidae) on Reunion Island. Mean daily catches of these flies on two dairy farms differed significantly between the four types of trap. The Broce trap was the least efficient and had the lowest specificity for Stomoxys spp. The Vavoua, Nzi and Williams traps performed significantly better but could not be ranked on the basis of the numbers of Stomoxys caught because their respective performances differed between farms. Given the various practical criteria, it is concluded that, as control tools, blue cloth traps (Vavoua and Nzi) have practical advantages over the Williams trap. The Vavoua trap, which is less expensive and easier to use for farmers, seems adequate to complement other methods of fly control on Reunion Island.
Resource‐based adaptive divergence in the freshwater fishTelmatherinafrom Lake Matano, Indonesia
Authors: ROY DENIS , PATERSON GORD , HAMILTON PAUL B. , HEATH DANIEL D. , HAFFNER G. DOUGLAS
Published: December 2006

Adaptive radiations are an important source of biodiversity, but resolving which ecological pressures seed these processes in natural systems remains difficult. Here the adaptive radiation amongTelmatherina, a genus of freshwater fish endemic to an ancient lake in central Sulawesi, Indonesia, was examined to determine its causal root. We demonstrate that allTelmatherinain this lake can be categorized into three lineages each possessing specialized skull shapes and pharyngeal jaw bones allowing them to exploit different resources. These data demonstrate a natural example of how resource partitioning has likely initiated adaptive radiation in a resource limited environment.
Phylogeography and environmental correlates of a cap on reproduction: teat number in a small marsupial, Antechinus agilis
Authors: BECKMAN J. , BANKS S. C. , SUNNUCKS P. , LILL A. , TAYLOR A. C.
Published: December 2006

Natural selection should optimize litter size in response to the distribution and abundance of resources during breeding. In semelparous, litter‐bearing antechinuses, teat number limits litter size. Consequently adaptation has been inferred in explaining intraspecific, geographic variability in teat number for several Antechinus spp. The phylogeography of teat number variation and associated genetic divergence were assessed in A. agilis using nine microsatellites and mitochondrial cytochrome b sequence data. Six‐teat Otway Range animals were divergent in microsatellite allele identity and frequencies: samples from three Otway six‐teat sites demonstrated significantly greater similarity genetically to those from six‐teat animals ∼250 km to the west, than to nearby Otway 10‐teat samples, or to the six‐teat animals at Wilsons Promontory. Gene flow between Otway phenotypes appears to have been limited for sufficient time to enable different microsatellite alleles to evolve. Nonetheless, nuclear genetic evidence suggested only incomplete reproductive isolation, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplotypes showed no association with teat number. Other populations across the range were no more genetically differentiated from one another than expected from geographic separation. Principal components and distance‐based redundancy analyses found an association between environmental variables and geographic distribution of A. agilis teat number — six‐teat animals inhabit more temperate forests, whilst those with more teats experience greater seasonality. The apparent restricted breeding between phenotypically distinct animals, together with phylogenetically separate groups of six‐teat animals in different locations with similar environments, are consistent with the hypothesis that adaptation to different habitats drives teat number variation in A. agilis.
Understanding the genetic effects of recent habitat fragmentation in the context of evolutionary history: phylogeography and landscape genetics of a southern California endemic Jerusalem cricket (Orthoptera: Stenopelmatidae:Stenopelmatus)
Authors: VANDERGAST AMY G. , BOHONAK ANDREW J. , WEISSMAN DAVID B. , FISHER ROBERT N.
Published: December 2006

Habitat loss and fragmentation due to urbanization are the most pervasive threats to biodiversity in southern California. Loss of habitat and fragmentation can lower migration rates and genetic connectivity among remaining populations of native species, reducing genetic variability and increasing extinction risk. However, it may be difficult to separate the effects of recent anthropogenic fragmentation from the genetic signature of prehistoric fragmentation due to previous natural geological and climatic changes. To address these challenges, we examined the phylogenetic and population genetic structure of a flightless insect endemic to cismontane southern California,Stenopelmatus‘mahogani’ (Orthoptera: Stenopelmatidae). Analyses of mitochondrial DNA sequence data suggest that diversification across southern California began during the Pleistocene, with most haplotypes currently restricted to a single population. Patterns of genetic divergence correlate with contemporary urbanization, even after correcting for (geographical information system) GIS‐based reconstructions of fragmentation during the Pleistocene. Theoretical simulations confirm that contemporary patterns of genetic structure could be produced by recent urban fragmentation using biologically reasonable assumptions about model parameters. Diversity within populations was positively correlated with current fragment size, but not prehistoric fragment size, suggesting that the effects of increased drift following anthropogenic fragmentation are already being seen. Loss of genetic connectivity and diversity can hinder a population's ability to adapt to ecological perturbations commonly associated with urbanization, such as habitat degradation, climatic changes and introduced species. Consequently, our results underscore the importance of preserving and restoring landscape connectivity for long‐term persistence of low vagility native species.
Regulation of tylosin production: role of a TylP‐interactive ligand
Authors: Bignell Dawn R. D. , Bate Neil , Cundliffe Eric
Published: December 2006

Gamma‐butyrolactones regulate secondary metabolism and, sometimes, sporulation in actinomycetes by binding to specific receptor proteins, causing their dissociation from DNA targets and releasing the latter from transcriptional repression. Previously, in engineered strains of Streptomyces lividans, we showed that TylP, a deduced gamma‐butyrolactone receptor, downregulated reporter gene expression driven by tylP, tylQ or tylS promoter DNA. These genes all control tylosin production in Streptomyces fradiae. Thus, at early stages of fermentation, TylQ represses tylR whereas TylS is needed for transcriptional activation of tylR. Importantly, TylR is the key activator of tylosin‐biosynthetic genes. Here, we show that HIS‐tagged TylP binds to specific DNA sequences, similar to the targets for authentic gamma‐butyrolactone receptors, in the promoters of tylP, tylQ and tylS. Moreover, such binding is disrupted by material produced in S. fradiae and extractable by organic solvent. That putative gamma‐butyrolactone material was not produced when orf18 * was disrupted within the S. fradiae genome and only about 1% of that activity survived inactivation of orf16 *, suggesting roles for the respective gene products in gamma‐butyrolactone synthesis. Continued synthesis of tylosin by the disrupted strains contrasts with other reports that loss of gamma‐butyrolactones abolishes antibiotic production.
The ultraluminous and hyperluminous infrared galaxies in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, 2dF Galaxy Redshift Survey and 6dF Galaxy Survey
Authors: Hwang Ho Seong , Serjeant Stephen , Lee Myung Gyoon , Lee Kang Hwan , White Glenn J.
Published: December 2006

We present a result of cross-correlating the Infrared Astronomical Satellite Faint Source Catalogue with the spectroscopic catalogues of galaxies in the Fourth Data Release of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, the Final Data Release of the 2dF Galaxy Redshift Survey (2dFGRS) and the Second Data Release of the 6dF Galaxy Survey. We have identified 324 ultraluminous infrared galaxies (ULIRGs) including 190 newly discovered ULIRGs, and two hyperluminous infrared galaxies. Adding these new ULIRGs, we increase the number of known ULIRGs by about 30 per cent. The reliability of the cross-correlation is estimated using the likelihood ratio method. The incompleteness of our sample introduced by the identification procedure in this study is estimated to be about 5 per cent. Our sample covers the redshift range of z= 0.037–0.517 with a median redshift of , which is larger than that of the sample of previously known ULIRGs.
Components of resistance to fusarium head blight (FHB) in wheat detected in a seed‐germination assay with Microdochium majus and the relationship to FHB disease development and mycotoxin accumulation from Fusarium graminearum infection
Authors: Browne R. A.
Published: December 2006

Components of partial disease resistance (PDR) to fusarium head blight (FHB), detected in a seed‐germination assay, were compared with whole‐plant FHB resistance of 30 USA soft red winter wheat entries in the 2002 Uniform Southern FHB Nursery. Highly significant (P < 0·001) differences between cultivars in the in vitro seed‐germination assay inoculated with Microdochium majus were correlated to FHB disease incidence (r = −0·41; P < 0·05), severity (r = −0·47; P < 0·01), FHB index (r = −0·46; P < 0·01), damaged kernels (r = −0·52; P < 0·01), grain deoxynivalenol (DON) concentration (r = −0·40; P < 0·05) and incidence/severity/kernel‐damage index (ISK) (r = −0·45; P < 0·01) caused by Fusarium graminearum. Multiple linear regression analysis explained a greater percentage of variation in FHB resistance using the seed‐germination assay and the previously reported detached‐leaf assay PDR components as explanatory factors. Shorter incubation periods, longer latent periods, shorter lesion lengths in the detached‐leaf assay and higher germination rates in the seed‐germination assay were related to greater FHB resistance across all disease variables, collectively explaining 62% of variation for incidence, 49% for severity, 56% for F. graminearum‐damaged kernels (FDK), 39% for DON and 59% for ISK index. Incubation period was most strongly related to disease incidence and the early stages of infection, while resistance detected in the seed germination assay and latent period were more strongly related to FHB disease severity. Resistance detected using the seed‐germination assay was notable as it related to greater decline in the level of FDK and a smaller reduction in DON than would have been expected from the reduction in FHB disease assessed by visual symptoms.
Pathogenicity ofMarssonina betulaeand other fungi on birch
Authors: Green S. , MacAskill G. A.
Published: December 2006

Marssonina betulae,Discula betulina,Melanconium bicolorandFusarium avenaceumwere inoculated onto shoots of 1‐ and 2‐year‐old seedlings ofBetula pendulaandB. pubescensand symptom development monitored over several seasons.Marssonina betulaecaused disease onB. pendula, but not onB. pubescens. OnB. pendulasymptoms included discrete lesions, which often girdled, causing dieback of inoculated leading shoots, and the development of secondary sunken cankers on the main stems, which were usually centred around a dead sideshoot. Cankers on the main stems expanded during subsequent growing and dormant seasons, and often coalesced, girdling stems and causing the death of some seedlings. All isolates ofM. betulaecaused disease onB. pendulaand conidia were able to infect young shoots in early flush without requiring a wound.Discula betulinacaused lesions and dieback onB. pendulaandB. pubescenswithin 3 months of inoculation, but disease did not progress thereafter and all inoculated seedlings recovered.Melanconium bicolorandF. avenaceumcaused very little disease on either birch species. This study showed thatM. betulaeis an aggressive pathogen onB. pendula, causing sunken stem cankers and progressive crown dieback, which are symptoms commonly observed on young, planted birch at field sites across Scotland.