bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vivo Evaluation of Patellar Tendon Stiffness in Individuals with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Authors: Liu Hsin-Yi , Boling Michelle , Padua Darin , Creighton R. Alexander , Weinhold Paul
Published: December 2008

The objective of this study was to utilise an ultrasonic technique to assess the effect of patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) on the mechanical properties of the patellar tendon. Seven subjects with PFPS and seven matched control subjects volunteered to participate in this study. Subjects were asked to perform isometric maximal voluntary contractions of the knee extensors while their knee extension torque was monitored and the displacement of the patellar tendon was recorded with an ultrasonic system. Our results showed significantly lower tendon stiffness (by ∼30%) in the PFPS subjects. Although tendon secant modulus was lower by 34% in the PFPS subjects, the difference was not statistically significant. Therefore, we conclude that the ultrasonic technique was able to detect a decrease in the structural stiffness of the patellar tendon associated with PFPS. The decrease in tendon stiffness was moderately correlated with the length of symptoms in these individuals.
Learning spaces, agency and notions of improvement: what influences thinking and practices about teaching and learning in higher education? An interpretive meta-ethnography
Authors: Savin-Baden Maggi , McFarland Lorraine , Savin-Baden John
Published: December 2008

This review sought to locate key themes in the literature on teaching and learning thinking and practices, by examining areas of influence and mapping ideas about the themes of practice, transfer and communities in higher education or related contexts. The findings indicate that issues
of pedagogical stance, disjunction, learning spaces, agency, notions of improvement and communities of interest can help to locate overarching themes and hidden subtexts that are strong influences on areas of practice, transfer and community. Nevertheless, these are areas that are sometimes
ignored, marginalised or dislocated from the central arguments about teaching and learning thinking and practices in higher education.
Unpasteurized Milk: A Continued Public Health Threat
Authors: LeJeune Jeffrey T. , Rajala-Schultz Päivi J.
Published: December 2008

Although milk and dairy products are important components of a healthy diet, if consumed unpasteurized, they also can present a health hazard due to possible contamination with pathogenic bacteria. These bacteria can originate even from clinically healthy animals from which milk is derived or from environmental contamination occurring during collection and storage of milk. The decreased frequency of bovine carriage of certain zoonotic pathogens and improved milking hygiene have contributed considerably to decreased contamination of milk but have not, and cannot, fully eliminate the risk of milkborne disease. Pasteurization is the most effective method of enhancing the microbiological safety of milk. The consumption of milk that is not pasteurized increases the risk of contracting disease from a foodstuff that is otherwise very nutritious and healthy. Despite concerns to the contrary, pasteurization does not change the nutritional value of milk. Understanding the science behind this controversial and highly debated topic will provide public health care workers the information needed to discern fact from fiction and will provide a tool to enhance communication with clients in an effort to reduce the incidence of infections associated with the consumption of unpasteurized milk and dairy products.
Current reversals as determinants of intertidal recruitment on the central Oregon coast
Authors: Dudas Sarah E. , Grantham Brian A. , Kirincich Anthony R. , Menge Bruce A. , Lubchenco Jane , Barth John A.
Published: December 2008

Dudas, S. E., Grantham, B. A., Kirincich, A. R., Menge, B. A., Lubchenco, J., and Barth, J. A. 2009. Current reversals as determinants of intertidal recruitment on the central Oregon coast. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 396–407. The influence of current reversals on intertidal invertebrate recruitment was investigated using two seasons of nearshore physical and intertidal biological observations along the central Oregon coast, an intermittent upwelling system. In 1998, upwelling periods were punctuated by infrequent wind reversals and widespread increases in nearshore temperature, whereas 1999 was characterized by frequent, shorter wind reversals. In 1998, barnacle recruitment was best at the site experiencing more frequent reversals of the predominantly equatorward currents, higher poleward velocities, and coincident temperature increases. In 1999, barnacle recruitment peaked at the site with greater poleward current velocities, and maximum mussel recruitment at the site with consistent deep (10 m) onshore currents. Barnacle recruitment generally increased with onshore surface currents and temperature; mussel recruitment showed variable, weaker correlations. The data indicate that substantial decreases or complete reversals of upwelling-driven alongshore currents may be important for barnacle recruitment, but topographically driven differences in the response of currents to wind changes may generate local recruitment differences. This suggests that even relatively straight coastlines may have enhanced recruitment zones attributable to the variable local oceanography. Further, the interannual differences observed in current reversals and recruitment patterns highlight the potential importance of upwelling variation for onshore communities.
Natura 2000 sites and fisheries in German offshore waters
Authors: Pedersen Søren Anker , Fock Heino , Krause Jochen , Pusch Christian , Sell Anne L. , Böttcher Uwe , Rogers Stuart I. , Sköld Mattias , Skov Henrik , Podolska Magdalena , Piet Gerjan J. , Rice Jake C.
Published: December 2008

Pedersen, S. A., Fock, H., Krause, J., Pusch, C., Sell, A. L., Böttcher, U., Rogers, S. I., Sköld, M., Skov, H., Podolska, M., Piet, G. J., and Rice, J. C. 2009. Natura 2000 sites and fisheries in German offshore waters.–ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 155–169. The principal objective of sites selected as part of Natura 2000 is to achieve or maintain a favourable conservation status of habitats and species named in the EU Birds and Habitats directives. In the German exclusive economic zone, the habitat types protected by this legislation are sandbanks and reefs; protected species include marine mammals, seabirds, and specific migratory fish species. The ICES project Environmentally Sound Fishery Management in Protected Areas (EMPAS) aims to answer two questions: (i) To what extent do specific fishing activities significantly threaten attainment of the conservation objectives of the Natura 2000 sites? (ii) What management measures would reduce these conflicts and how effective would they be at helping to ensure the favourable condition of these sites? Assessments of fishing impacts on Natura 2000 sites require basic data on the conservation status of individual habitats and species, as well as data for fine-scale distributions of ongoing fishing activities. This paper describes and discusses the process used by the EMPAS project in developing fishery-management plans for each Natura 2000 site in German offshore waters.
Genetic compatibility and hatching success in the sea lamprey (
Petromyzon marinus
)
Authors: Rodríguez-Muñoz Rolando , Tregenza Tom
Published: December 2008

Recent discussion of genetic benefits of polyandry and female mate choice has distinguished between two potential factors influencing offspring quality: (i) some males carry higher quality genes and (ii) males and females differ in their degree of genetic compatibility. We examined evidence for effects of good genes and genetic compatibility on embryonic survival of sea lamprey (
Petromyzon marinus
), a fish species with external fertilization that spawns in North Atlantic rivers. Using
in vitro
fertilization, we made all possible crosses among 10 males and 5 females collected in the spawning grounds. Male identity did not have any significant effect on hatching success. However, female identity and male×female interactions had a highly significant effect on hatching success. Our results suggest that genetic compatibility between male and female genomes plays an important role in embryo survival during the early stages of development in the sea lamprey.
Spectrally resolved fluorescent lifetime imaging
Authors: Hanley Quentin S
Published: December 2008

Placing an imaging spectrograph or related components capable of generating a spectrum between a microscope and the image intensifier of a conventional fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) system creates a spectrally resolved FLIM (SFLIM). This arrangement provides a number of opportunities not readily available to conventional systems using bandpass filters. The examples include: simultaneous viewing of multiple fluorophores; tracking of both the donor and acceptor; and observation of a range of spectroscopic changes invisible to the conventional FLIM systems. In the frequency-domain implementation of the method, variation in the fractional contributions from different fluorophores along the wavelength dimension can behave as a surrogate for a frequency sweep or spatial variations while analysing fluorophore mixtures. This paper reviews the development of the SFLIM method, provides a theoretical and practical overview of frequency-domain SFLIM including: presentation of the data; manifestations of energy transfer; observation of multiple fluorophores; and the limits of single frequency methods.
Quantitative morphometric measurements using site selective image cytometry of intact tissue
Authors: Kwon Hyuk-Sang , Nam Yoon Sung , Wiktor-Brown Dominika M , Engelward Bevin P , So Peter T.C
Published: December 2008

Site selective two-photon tissue image cytometry has previously been successfully applied to measure the number of rare cells in three-dimensional tissue specimens up to cubic millimetres in size. However, the extension of this approach for high-throughput quantification of cellular morphological states has not been demonstrated. In this paper, we report the use of site-selective tissue image cytometry for the study of homologous recombination (HR) events during cell division in the pancreas of transgenic mice. Since HRs are rare events, recombinant cells distribute sparsely inside the organ. A detailed measurement throughout the whole tissue is thus not practical. Instead, the site selective two-photon tissue cytometer incorporates a low magnification, wide field, one-photon imaging subsystem that rapidly identifies regions of interest containing recombinant cell clusters. Subsequently, high-resolution three-dimensional assays based on two-photon microscopy can be performed only in these regions of interest. We further show that three-dimensional morphology extraction algorithms can be used to analyse the resultant high-resolution two-photon image stacks providing information not only on the frequency and the distribution of these recombinant cell clusters and their constituent cells, but also on their morphology.
Prenatal choline availability alters the context sensitivity of Pavlovian conditioning in adult rats
Authors: Lamoureux Jeffrey A. , Meck Warren H. , Williams Christina L.
Published: December 2008

The effects of prenatal choline availability on Pavlovian conditioning were assessed in adult male rats (3–4 mo). Neither supplementation nor deprivation of prenatal choline affected the acquisition and extinction of simple Pavlovian conditioned excitation, or the acquisition and retardation of conditioned inhibition. However, prenatal choline availability significantly altered the contextual control of these learned behaviors. Both control and choline-deprived rats exhibited context specificity of conditioned excitation as exhibited by a loss in responding when tested in an alternate context after conditioning; in contrast, choline-supplemented rats showed no such effect. When switched to a different context following extinction, however, both choline-supplemented and control rats showed substantial contextual control of responding, whereas choline-deficient rats did not. These data support the view that configural associations that rely on hippocampal function are selectively sensitive to prenatal manipulations of dietary choline during prenatal development.
Spatial memory in the Morris water maze and activation of cyclic AMP response element-binding (CREB) protein within the mouse hippocampus
Authors: Porte Yves , Buhot Marie Christine , Mons Nicole E.
Published: December 2008

We investigated the spatio-temporal dynamics of learning-induced cAMP response element-binding protein activation/phosphorylation (pCREB) in mice trained in a spatial reference memory task in the water maze. Using immunohistochemistry, we examined pCREB immunoreactivity (pCREB-ir) in hippocampal CA1 and CA3 and related brain structures. During the course of spatial learning over Days 1–9, pCREB-ir progressively increased in hippocampal neurons whereas its level in the dorsal striatum decreased. No significant changes were observed in the prelimbic cortex and lateral amygdala. Mice killed at various time points after the last training session demonstrated two waves of pCREB-ir in CA1 and an early transient CREB phosphorylation in area CA3, lateral amygdala, and prelimbic cortex. We show that CREB phosphorylation and downstream gene Zif268 activation remained sustained in CA1 and CA3 for at least 24 h after extended training (Days 8–9) but not during early training (Day 3). The present results indicate that the strong CA1 CREB phosphorylation observed immediately after training was not related strictly to learning or to memory. In contrast, at 15 min after training, the changes in CA1 CREB phosphorylation state were specifically related to individual learning capability. We suggest that hippocampal-learning specificity of CREB is reflected best by duration, rather than magnitude, of CREB phosphorylation.
Environmental novelty is associated with a selective increase in Fos expression in the output elements of the hippocampal formation and the perirhinal cortex
Authors: VanElzakker Michael , Fevurly Rebecca D. , Breindel Tressa , Spencer Robert L.
Published: December 2008

If the hippocampus plays a role in the detection of novel environmental features, then novelty should be associated with altered hippocampal neural activity and perhaps also measures of neuroplasticity. We examined Fos protein expression within subregions of rat hippocampal formation as an indicator of recent increases in neuronal excitation and cellular processes that support neuroplasticity. Environmental novelty, but not environmental complexity, led to a selective increase of Fos induction in the final “output” subregion of the dorsal hippocampal trisynaptic circuit (CA1) and a primary projection site (layer five of the lateral entorhinal cortex, ERC), as well as in the perirhinal cortex. There was no selective effect of novelty on Fos expression within “input” elements of the trisynaptic circuit (ERC layer two, the dentate gyrus or CA3) or other comparison brain regions that may be responsive to overall motor-sensory activity or anxiety levels (primary somatosensory and motor cortex or hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus). Test session ambulatory behavior increased with both novelty and environmental complexity and was not significantly correlated with Fos expression patterns in any of the brain regions examined. In contrast, the extent of manipulated environmental novelty was strongly correlated with Fos expression in CA1. These results support the prospect that a novelty-associated signal is generated within hippocampal neurocircuitry, is relayed to cortical projection sites, and specifically up-regulates neuroplasticity-supporting processes with dorsal hippocampal CA1 and ERC layer five. Whether novelty-dependent Fos induction in perirhinal cortex depends on this hippocampal output or reflects an independent process remains to be determined.
Receptor activator of nuclear factor‐kappa B ligand induces osteoclast formation in RAW 264.7 macrophage cells via augmented production of macrophage–colony‐stimulating factor
Authors: Islam Shamima , Hassan Ferdaus , Tumurkhuu Gantsetseg , Dagvadorj Jargalsaikhan , Koide Naoki , Naiki Yoshikazu , Yoshida Tomoaki , Yokochi Takashi
Published: December 2008

RAW 264.7 macrophage cells differentiate into osteoclast‐like cells in the presence of RANKL. Participation of M‐CSF in RANKL‐induced osteoclast formation of RAW 264.7 cells was examined. TRAP‐positive osteoclast‐like cells appeared in RAW 264.7 cells cultured in the presence of RANKL. RANKL‐induced osteoclast formation was markedly inhibited by anti‐M‐CSF antibody. RANKL augmented M‐CSF mRNA expression and M‐CSF production in RAW 264.7 cells. Further, anti‐M‐CSF antibody inhibited the expression of RANK, c‐fms, c‐fos and TRAP mRNA in RANKL‐stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. However, anti‐M‐CSF antibody did not affect the expression of DC‐STAMP in the stimulated cells. Therefore, RANKL was suggested to induce osteoclast formation in RAW 264.7 cells via augmented production of M‐CSF. The putative role of M‐CSF in RANKL‐induced osteoclast formation of RAW 264.7 cells is discussed.
Postdischarge pain, functional limitations and impact on caregivers of children with sickle cell disease treated for painful events
Authors: Brandow Amanda M. , Brousseau David C. , Panepinto Julie A.
Published: December 2008

This study aimed to describe the outcomes of children with sickle cell disease (SCD) after discharge from medical care for vaso‐occlusive painful events and to test the hypothesis that older age, longer length of hospital stay, and a history of frequent vaso‐occlusive painful events will be associated with poor outcomes. Children aged 2–18 years with SCD treated in the emergency department or inpatient unit for a painful event were contacted after discharge to assess: days of pain, days of functional limitations for the child, and days of work/school absenteeism for the caregiver. Descriptive statistics were applied and multivariate logistic regression examined the association between the predictors and outcomes. Fifty‐eight children were enrolled (mean age 10·8 ± 4·8 years, 53·5% female). Postdischarge, 46·5% of children reported three or more days of pain, 54·3% had two or more days of functional limitations, and 24·3% of caregivers missed two or more days of work/school. Children with three or more prior painful events had increased odds of a poor outcome postdischarge (OR 1·79; 95% CI = 1·026, 3·096). In conclusion, acute vaso‐occlusive painful events impact the lives of children with SCD and their caregivers, even after discharge to home.
When should genetic testing be obtained in a patient with phaeochromocytoma or paraganglioma?
Authors: Erlic Zoran , Neumann Hartmut P. H.
Published: December 2008

About 30% of phaeochromocytoma and paraganglioma patients harbour a germline mutation in one of the known susceptibility genes and in more than one‐third of these patients there is no family history for these tumours. The genetic classification, risk assessment and specific management of the patients and at risk family members play an important role in preventive medicine. Distinct diagnostic or therapeutic approaches related to the genetic testing results are and will be even more relevant in the future for the detection of mutation carriers. In addition to a positive family history, other clinical features such as young age at time of manifestation, multifocal tumours and specific tumour location are highly associated with the presence of a germline mutation – genetic testing in these cases should be mandatory. Since several genes are involved in the genetics of phaeochromocytoma and paraganglioma, prioritizing which gene(s) to be tested first by using simple clinical information can reduce the efforts and costs of this analysis. The clinicians offering and performing the genetic testing should provide or make available adequate counselling as well as access to preventive and surveillance options to patients. Collaboration with referral centres and research groups in this field can help to coordinate the management of these patients.
Hormonal activity of adrenal incidentalomas: results from a long‐term follow‐up study
Authors: Vassilatou E. , Vryonidou A. , Michalopoulou S. , Manolis J. , Caratzas J. , Phenekos C. , Tzavara I.
Published: December 2008

Objective  To investigate the natural course of apparently benign adrenal incidentalomas with no overt hyperfunction at diagnosis, as their clinical significance and appropriate management are still controversial.

Design  Prospective long‐term follow‐up study of patients with adrenal incidentalomas with periodic hormonal and morphological evaluation.

Patients and methods  A total of 77 patients with incidental adrenal masses, diameter 1·0–6·0 cm (median 2·5 cm), were submitted to a hormonal assessment of adrenal function at diagnosis. This was repeated, together with an adrenal CT scan, 12 months later and then every 12–24 months, for a period of 12–154 months (mean 62·7 ± 31·9, median 60·0).

Results  At diagnosis, 57 patients had normal adrenal function and 20 had subclinical Cushing's syndrome. During follow‐up, adrenal function remained normal in 49 patients, subclinical Cushing's syndrome was confirmed in 12, whilst intermittent subclinical autonomous cortisol hypersecretion was found in 12 patients. Overt endocrine disease was diagnosed in 4 patients (Cushing's syndrome in 2 and phaeochromocytoma in 2). A change in mass size (≥ 0·5 cm) was observed in 26 patients (enlargement in 20 – including patients who developed overt hyperfunction – with no signs of malignancy and reduction in size in 6).

Conclusions  Subclinical autonomous cortisol hypersecretion is the most frequent hormonal abnormality in patients with adrenal incidentalomas, and may be intermittent in a significant percentage of cases. Few patients develop overt endocrine disease. A growth tendency is observed in some adrenal incidentalomas without evidence of malignant transformation and occasionally can be related to development of overt hyperfunction. These findings indicate the need for periodic hormonal and morphological evaluation for several years.
Elevated VEGF‐plasma levels in young patients with mild essential hypertension
Authors: Stumpf C. , Jukic J. , Yilmaz A. , Raaz D. , Schmieder R. E. , Daniel W. G. , Garlichs C. D.
Published: December 2008

Background  Growing evidence shows that inflammation plays a pivotal role in the pathophysiology of essential hypertension (EH). Vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) is currently discussed as a possible mediator of inflammation. To investigate the hypothesis that VEGF plays a role as an inflammatory mediator in EH we performed the present pilot study of young patients in a very early stage of EH.

Materials and methods  15 young patients with mild EH [33·8 ± 7·3 years, systolic blood pressure (SBP): 143·8 ± 10·5 mmHg, diastolic blood pressure (DBP): 88·2 ± 11·1 mmHg, mean arterial pressure (MAP) 106·6 ± 10·4 mmHg] and 15 healthy controls (31·7 ± 10·6 years) were examined. Blood was drawn from a peripheral vein and serum levels of VEGF, monocyte‐chemoattractant‐protein (MCP)‐1, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin (IL)‐6, and tumour‐necrosis‐factor (TNF)‐α were measured via commercially available enzyme‐linked immunoassays.

Results  Hypertensives showed increased plasma levels of VEGF (P < 0·05) and MCP‐1 (P < 0·05). VEGF positively correlated with MAP (r = 0·46, P < 0·05) and MCP‐1 (r = 0·63, P < 0·01). Multivariate analysis demonstrated VEGF to be an independent predictor of MCP‐1 levels. Furthermore, hypertensives had higher levels of hsCRP (P < 0·01), IL‐6 (P < 0·001) and TNF‐α (P < 0·05). IL‐6 levels correlated with SBP (r = 0·59, P < 0·001), DBP (r = 0·67, P < 0·001) and MAP (r = 0·46, P < 0·001). A significant positive correlation was also found between hsCRP levels and SBP (r = 0·39, P < 0·05).

Conclusions  This pilot study demonstrates that in an early state of EH, inflammatory pathways have already been activated. Besides classical pro‐inflammatory cytokines, VEGF serum levels are significantly elevated. The positive correlation of VEGF with MCP‐1 is suggestive for the already described induction of MCP‐1 via VEGF.
The serum sodium to urinary sodium to (serum potassium)2 to urinary potassium (SUSPPUP) ratio in patients with primary aldosteronism
Authors: Willenberg H. S. , Kolentini C. , Quinkler M. , Cupisti K. , Krausch M. , Schott M. , Scherbaum W. A.
Published: December 2008

Background  The aldosterone‐to‐renin ratio (ARR) is an established diagnostic tool in the screening for primary aldosteronism (PA). However, hormonal determinations are time consuming and expensive. Therefore, we studied the effectiveness of the serum sodium to urinary sodium to (serum potassium)2 to urinary potassium (SUSPPUP) ratio in the diagnosis of PA.

Design  This study included 35 patients with PA, 71 patients with essential hypertension to whom this diagnosis could be excluded, 23 normal subjects without hypertension, and 22 patients with primary adrenal insufficiency. We compared the SUSPPUP ratios with the ARR in these patient groups.

Results  We show that the ARR distinguished PA from essential hypertension with a sensitivity of 94·2% and a specificity of 92·1% at a cutoff of 33 (ng L−1: ng L−1). It correlated well with the SUSPPUP ratio. The sensitivity and specificity of SUSPPUP was 88·6% and 85·9% at a cutoff of 5.3 (mmol L−1)−1, respectively, and thus not as good as the ARR.

Conclusions  The ARR is a good parameter in the screening for PA. The SUSPPUP ratio is a cheap and rapid tool to assess the extent of mineralocorticoid excess and, therefore, can be offered to more patients. In addition, the application of the SUSPPUP ratio can be extended to patients who suffer from other forms of mineralocorticoid hypertension (e.g. with low aldosterone levels).
Clock‐dependent and independent transcriptional control of the two isoforms from the mouse Rorγgene
Authors: Mongrain Valérie , Ruan Xuan , Dardente Hugues , Fortier Erin E. , Cermakian Nicolas
Published: December 2008

Accumulating evidence indicate that molecular mechanisms generating circadian rhythms display some degree of tissue‐specificity. More specifically, distinct patterns of expression for nuclear receptors of the ROR family indicate that the transcriptional control of the clock gene Bmal1 differs among tissues. This study aims to investigate the expression of Rorγisoforms (Rorγ and Rorγt) and characterize the molecular mechanisms underlying their tissue‐specific expression. The expression of Rorγ isoforms was assessed in mouse liver, muscle, thymus and testis throughout 24 h using quantitative RT‐PCR. Although the expression of Rorγ was rhythmic in the liver and thymus, it was constitutively expressed in muscle and testis. In contrast, the expression of Rorγt was constitutive in all four tissues. Furthermore, rhythmic expression of Rorγ was impaired in Clock mutant mice whereas the mutation had no effect on Rorγt expression. In line with these findings, luciferase assays revealed that transcription of the Rorγ promoter is clock‐controlled whereas that of Rorγt promoter is essentially clock‐independent. Our results provide insights into the molecular mechanisms that lead to differential expression of Rorγ and Rorγt and are suggestive of a framework that might account for tissue‐specific circadian regulation.
The removal of woody encroachment restores biophysical gradients in Midwestern oak savannas
Authors: Brudvig Lars A. , Asbjornsen Heidi
Published: December 2008

Savannas throughout the world are characterized by spatial gradients of resources created by scattered overstorey trees. These gradients are important for maintenance of understorey biodiversity; however, they may be disrupted by woody encroachment, resulting in alterations to understorey vegetation. Little is known about the status of understorey gradients in encroached savannas, or whether they redevelop during restoration and if so, by what mechanism.

We used a large‐scale restoration experiment with Midwestern oak savannas (USA) to address these issues. We established understorey transects radiating from overstoreyQuercus albaL. trees to inter‐canopy gaps in four control and four restoration treatment sites. Along each transect, we sampled understorey vegetation over three field seasons and we recorded physical factors in the final year of study.

Restoration produced a strong relationship between visible sky (e.g. light penetrating to the understorey) and distance from overstorey trees, while none existed in control sites. Restored sites had greater variability in soil moisture due to higher levels immediately after rain at all distances from trees, coupled with greater drying rates, particularly at farther distances from overstorey trees. With restoration, a positive relationship between cover by understorey vegetation and distance from overstorey trees developed and strengthened over time, whereas no relationship existed in control sites. Cover by each of the major functional groups, forbs, graminoids, and woody species, contributed to this pattern. Furthermore, after restoration, species richness increased with distance from overstorey trees in the final year of study.

Nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMS) showed that common understorey species were correlated with gradients of canopy cover and soil moisture, which were associated with restoration plots, and gradients of soil texture and N, which were associated with both restoration and control plots. Furthermore, restoration strengthened correlations between NMS plot scores and distance from overstorey trees.

Synthesis and applications.Re‐establishing overstorey structure was an important step during restoration of the oak savannas in this study. While encroached savannas contained a homogenized understorey, restored sites contained understorey patterning typical of intact savannas. The timeframe for re‐establishment – within years of restoration, after decades of degradation – demonstrates high resiliency and suggests restorability of other highly degraded sites; however, we recognize the importance of prescribed fire for maintaining open savanna structure and, probably, promoting further understorey pattern development.
Mid‐Holocene decline in African buffalos inferred from Bayesian coalescent‐based analyses of microsatellites and mitochondrial DNA
Authors: HELLER R. , LORENZEN E. D. , OKELLO J. B. A. , MASEMBE C. , SIEGISMUND H. R.
Published: December 2008

Genetic studies concerned with the demographic history of wildlife species can help elucidate the role of climate change and other forces such as human activity in shaping patterns of divergence and distribution. The African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) declined dramatically during the rinderpest pandemic in the late 1800s, but little is known about the earlier demographic history of the species. We analysed genetic variation at 17 microsatellite loci and a 302‐bp fragment of the mitochondrial DNA control region to infer past demographic changes in buffalo populations from East Africa. Two Bayesian coalescent‐based methods as well as traditional bottleneck tests were applied to infer detailed dynamics in buffalo demographic history. No clear genetic signature of population declines related to the rinderpest pandemic could be detected. However, Bayesian coalescent modelling detected a strong signal of African buffalo population declines in the order of 75–98%, starting in the mid‐Holocene (approximately 3–7000 years ago). The signature of decline was remarkably consistent using two different coalescent‐based methods and two types of molecular markers. Exploratory analyses involving various prior assumptions did not seriously affect the magnitude or timing of the inferred population decline. Climate data show that tropical Africa experienced a pronounced transition to a drier climate approximately 4500 years ago, concurrent with the buffalo decline. We therefore propose that the mid‐Holocene aridification of East Africa caused a major decline in the effective population size of the buffalo, a species reliant on moist savannah habitat for its existence.
Population genetic structure in Atlantic and Pacific Ocean common murres (Uria aalge): natural replicate tests of post‐Pleistocene evolution
Authors: MORRIS‐POCOCK J. A. , TAYLOR S. A. , BIRT T. P. , DAMUS M. , PIATT J. F. , WARHEIT K. I. , FRIESEN V. L.
Published: December 2008

Understanding the factors that influence population differentiation in temperate taxa can be difficult because the signatures of both historic and contemporary demographics are often reflected in population genetic patterns. Fortunately, analyses based on coalescent theory can help untangle the relative influence of these historic and contemporary factors. Common murres (Uria aalge) are vagile seabirds that breed in the boreal and low arctic waters of the Northern Hemisphere. Previous analyses revealed that Atlantic and Pacific populations are genetically distinct; however, less is known about population genetic structure within ocean basins. We employed the mitochondrial control region, four microsatellite loci and four intron loci to investigate population genetic structure throughout the range of common murres. As in previous studies, we found that Atlantic and Pacific populations diverged during the Pleistocene and do not currently exchange migrants. Therefore, Atlantic and Pacific murre populations can be used as natural replicates to test mechanisms of population differentiation. While we found little population genetic structure within the Pacific, we detected significant east–west structuring among Atlantic colonies. The degree that population genetic structure reflected contemporary population demographics also differed between ocean basins. Specifically, while the low levels of population differentiation in the Pacific are at least partially due to high levels of contemporary gene flow, the east–west structuring of populations within the Atlantic appears to be the result of historic fragmentation of populations rather than restricted contemporary gene flow. The contrasting results in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans highlight the necessity of carefully considering multilocus nonequilibrium population genetic approaches when reconstructing the demographic history of temperate Northern Hemisphere taxa.
Phenotypic and Genotypic Changes in the Phytophthora infestans Population in Taiwan – 1991 to 2006
Authors: Chen Chien‐Hua , Wang Tien‐Chen , Black Lowell , Sheu Zong‐Mng , Perez Frances , Deahl Kenneth
Published: December 2008

Late blight, caused by Phytophthora infestans, is one of the most destructive diseases of tomato in Taiwan. A total of 655 isolates of P. infestans, including 29 isolates from potato, was collected from major tomato and potato production areas of Taiwan during 1991 to 2006. Isolates were characterized for their pathogenicity, mating type, in vitro metalaxyl sensitivity and molecular genotype (including allozyme pattern, mitochondrial genomic haplotype and DNA fingerprint) to monitor population changes in P. infestans. The population of P. infestans in Taiwan underwent a dramatic genetic shift in the 1997–1998 cool growing season. Isolates collected from tomato before 1997 were aggressive to tomato but not potato; most isolates obtained after 1998, were aggressive to both hosts. Metalaxyl sensitivity of isolates changed from sensitive/intermediate before 1997 to resistant since 1998. Similarly, the isolates obtained before 1997 were all US‐1 clonal lineage (including variants US‐1.1, US‐1.2, US‐1.3 and US‐1.4). During the 1997–1998 cool growing season, the US‐11 clonal lineage and the TW‐1 genotype appeared, possibly introduced on imported table potatoes. The US‐11 lineage spread rapidly and since 1999 has almost completely displaced the old population in Taiwan. Mating type determined by pairing with A1 and A2 reference isolages of P. parasitica, showed all isolates were of the A1 mating type, suggesting that the A2 mating type had not become established in Taiwan. The increasing percentage (up to 42.3% in 2006) of the US‐11 variants (including US‐11.l, US‐11.2, US‐11.3 and US‐11.4) implied that genomic diversity of the pathogen is changing quickly. Therefore, it is important to continuously monitor the population changes of P. infestans and develop an integrated management strategy for this disease.
Molecular Characterization of a Genomic Fragment Containing Pi‐kh Gene from the Genomic Library of Indica Rice Line Tetep
Authors: Madhav Maganti S. , Plaha Parikshit , Singh Nagendra K. , Sharma Tilak R.
Published: December 2008

Identification of full length genes along with upstream regulatory elements is important to understand its expression. Here, we report preparation of high titre genomic library and identification of a genomic clone containing Pi‐kh gene with its complete upstream and downstream sequences from the rice blast resistant line Tetep. Structural analysis of protein revealed that Pi‐kh has a central nucleotide binding site domain, leucine‐rich repeats domain and a unique zinc‐finger domain. Comparative analysis of Pi‐kh protein sequence showed 64% and 45% similarity with the protein sequences of rice blast resistance genes Pi‐b and Pi‐ta, respectively.
Antagonism and Action Mechanism of Antifungal Metabolites from Streptomyces rimosus MY02
Authors: Liu Qiu , Yu Jicheng , Yan Jianfang , Qi Xiaohui , Liu Changjian , Jin Hua
Published: December 2008

The genus of Streptomyces, a saprophytic Gram‐positive bacterium, has properties, which make them useful as pharmaceutical and biocontrol agents. A streptomyces strain MY02 from soil samples showed significant antagonism against 14 plant pathogenic fungi including Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumarinum. Antifungal metabolite(s) SN06 from the culture of the strain MY02 were extracted with n‐butanol and purified by silica gel column chromatography. The minimum concentration of SN06 inhibiting any visible fungal growth of F. oxysporum f. sp. cucumarinum is 12.5 μg/ml by twofold serial dilutions method. The mycelia of F. oxysporum f. sp. cucumarinum treated with SN06 were observed under the normal optics microscope. The results showed that some cells of hyphae began to dilate and formed some strings of beads. The cytoplasm oozed out of the cells with the culture time and so most of the cells became empty. The hyphae broke into many segments and then collapsed after 48 h. After inoculated in potato dextrose medium for 48 h, the filtrate of mycelia treated with 1% NaCl containing 12.5 μg/ml SN06 was scanned using ultraviolet spectrophotometer and absorption peak at 260 nm showed that the mycelia cell membrane of F. oxysporum f. sp. cucumarinum was broken and that nucleic acid oozed out of the cell.
Effect of salvia miltiorrhizae on apoptosis and NF‐κB p65 expression in the liver of rats with severe acute pancreatitis or obstructive jaundice
Authors: Zhang Xiping , Chen Li , Zhang Jie , Tian Hua , Zhang Xiaofeng , Zhou Yifeng , Wang Zhiwei , Wang Keyi
Published: December 2008

Objective:  To investigate the therapeutic effects and mechanism of salvia miltiorrhizae in the treatment of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) or obstructive jaundice (OJ).

Methods:  SAP rat models were prepared and randomly divided into the model control group and treated group. The sham‐operated group was also set. At 3 h, 6 h and 12 h after operation, the mortality rate, the pathological changes in the liver, the contents of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in serum, the expression levels of Bax and NF‐κB p65 proteins in the liver, and the apoptosis index of hepatic cells in SAP rats in each group were observed. On days 7, 14, 21 and 28 after operation, the above parameters and the contents of TBILI (total billirubin), DBILI (direct bilirubin) and r‐GT (r‐glutamyl transpeptidase) in serum in OJ rats were observed.

Results:  The contents of serum ALT (at 6 h and 12 h after operation) and AST (at 3 h and 12 h after operation) as well as the staining intensity of NF‐κB p65 protein (at 12 h after operation) in the liver of SAP rats in the treated group were significantly lower than those in model control group (all P < 0.01). The pathological severity scores (on 21 d and 28 d after operation) in the liver, the contents of serum ALT (on 14 d and 21 d after operation), AST (on 21 d after operation), TBILI (on 21 d and 28 d after operation), DBILI (on 28 d after operation) and r‐GT (on 21 d after operation), and the apoptosis index of hepatic cells in OJ rats in treated group were significantly lower than those in model control group (all P < 0.05). The positive rates of Bax protein (on 28 d after operation) in treated group was significantly lower than model control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  Salvia miltiorrhizae is able to improve the liver function of SAP or OJ rats, suppress the expression of NF‐κB p65 protein in the liver of SAP rats, and inhibit apoptosis in OJ rats, thereby showing some protective effects on the liver of SAP or OJ rats.
Effect of Abdominal Straining on Urinary Flow Rate in Normal Males
Authors: MEFFAN P. J. , NACEY J. N. , DELAHUNT B.
Published: December 2008

Summary— The measurement of urinary flow rate by uroflowmetry and its relationship to voided volume and age have been extensively studied. It is well recognised that some men void with abdominal straining, but any effect of this on the urinary flow rate is usually not taken into account in urological practice.

The aim of this study was to determine whether abdominal straining had any significant influence on the urinary flow rate. Three male volunteers performed multiple voidings either with or without abdominal straining. Statistical transformation of the data and the use of co‐variant analysis allowed a comparison between “normal” or passive voiding and voiding with abdominal straining. The results showed that abdominal straining caused a significant improvement in both the average and maximum urinary flow rate. If the effect of abdominal straining is not taken into account during the interpretation of uroflowmetry results, incorrect conclusions may be made which could influence subsequent management. It is suggested that the method of voiding should be standardised by instructing patients, if possible, to avoid abdominal straining during uroflowmetry assessment.
Response of the Canine Bladder Base during Reflex Micturition
Authors: YE G. , NAI‐MIAN G.
Published: December 2008

Summary— The response of the bladder base to filling and voiding was studied in a surgical dog model in which the bladder base was separated from the main body and closed to form a chamber. In the bladder distension phase there was a reduction in pressure in the bladder base chamber, which implies relaxation of the bladder base. In the expulsion phase the reflex bladder body activity took place with an increase in bladder base pressure, indicating contraction. Relaxation and contraction were blocked by propranolol and phentolamine respectively and both responses were abolished by trimetaphan. It was concluded that the bladder base activity in the micturition cycle is a reflex action mediated via the sympathetic nervous system.
Haematuria Frequency Syndrome in Patients with Positive HIV Serology: Observations in Zambia
Authors: ELEM B. , PATIL P. S. , LUCAS S. B.
Published: December 2008

Summary— Observations are presented on 9 patients recently treated in the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia, for painful urinary frequency, suprapubic pain and microscopic and/or macroscopic haematuria without any demonstrable urinary tract infection. At cystoscopy the bladder mucosa of all patients depicted a highly characteristic, uniformly congested appearance with no demonstrable ulcers; there was no significant reduction in bladder capacity. The histological appearance was essentially non‐specific in type with an apparent resemblance to that of interstitial cystitis; mast cells were, however, absent in all specimens. An important feature common to all patients was an associated HIV infection; cytochemistry of the bladder tissue did not reveal an associated cytomegalovirus cystitis. No such case was observed in Zambia prior to the advent of HIV infection and the phenomenon was observed only in seropositive patients. It has been suggested that the virus is likely to be associated with the genesis of the bladder symptoms. The natural history of the disorder, its incidence among the seropositive individuals and its pathogenesis remain unclear.
Rationalisation of Follow‐up in Patients with Noninvasive Bladder Tumours
Authors: MORGAN J. D. T. , BOWSHER W. , GRIFFITHS D. F. R. , MATTHEWS P. N.
Published: December 2008

Summary— The risk of recurrence and progression in 170 patients presenting with pTa urothelial tumours of the bladder has been estimated so that follow‐up can be rationalised. Patients were followed up for between 1 and 15 years, the original pathology reviewed and those with carcinoma in situ (CIS) or dysplasia of the background urothelium excluded. Only 5 patients progressed over the whole follow‐up period, giving an overall progression rate of 3%. Solitary tumours had an annual initial recurrence risk (AIR) of 0.23 in the first year; after the first year the AIR fell to approximately 0.1 but did not fall significantly in subsequent years up to 8 years. Of the 45 patients with multiple tumours, 32 suffered recurrences within the first year (Al R 0.71). Tumour grade did not influence either recurrence or progression. The results indicate that for solitary pTa tumours, less frequent endoscopic follow‐up is justified but some continued surveillance after 5 disease‐free years is necessary. The estimated risk of recurrence is a useful factor to consider when planning follow‐up.
Transferrin Receptor Activity as a Marker in Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder
Authors: BAşAR I. , AYHAN A. , BiRCAN K. , ERGEN A. , TAşAR ¸.
Published: December 2008

Summary— An immunohistochemical staining method was used to study transferrin receptors (TFR) in bladder tissue from 10 patients with benign conditions and 33 with bladder cancer. All patients with bladder cancer were followed up by cystoscopy at intervals of 3 months (mean follow‐up period 11 months). The relationship between TFR activity and recurrence rates was investigated.

It was not possible to demonstrate TFR in normal bladder mucosa except for the proliferating cells of the basal layer. TFR activity in malignant tissue correlated well with the histological grade and pathological stage of the tumour. Patients with low grade superficial tumours showing TFR activity had a higher recurrence rate than those with no TFR activity.

It was concluded that TFR activity in low grade superficial bladder tumours is a useful marker for predicting the recurrence rate.
Systemic Chemotherapy for Urothelial Cancer in Patients with Ureteric Obstruction
Authors: MACNEIL H. F. , HALL R. R. , NEAL D. E. , ROBERTS J. T.
Published: December 2008

Summary— The aims of this study were to document the toxicity of systemic chemotherapy and response rates in patients with ureteric obstruction caused by urothelial cancer.

The study group included 91 patients who received cisplatin and methotrexate; 36 (40%) had upper tract dilatation, 9 of whom had drainage by stenting or nephrostomy and 55 (60%) had normal upper tracts. The response rate was documented in 65 patients (71%) who had measurable primary or metastatic disease.

No significant differences were found between the dilated/drained group, the dilated/undrained group and the normal group in biochemical measurements of renal function during or after the courses of chemotherapy. Serious haematological toxicity occurred in 10% (10/104 cycles) of the dilated/undrained group and in 6% (12/200 cycles) of the normal group. The complete response rate in the dilated group was 15% compared with 41% in the normal group.

No increased chemotherapy toxicity was observed in patients with upper tract dilatation and a significant complete response rate was found in patients with upper tract dilatation without renal impairment.