bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribution of recombination and selection to molecular evolution of Citrus tristeza virus
Authors: Martín Susana , Sambade Adrián , Rubio Luis , Vives María C. , Moya Patricia , Guerri José , Elena Santiago F. , Moreno Pedro
Published: May 2009

The genetic variation of Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) was analysed by comparing the predominant sequence variants in seven genomic regions (p33, p65, p61, p18, p13, p20 and p23) of 18 pathogenically distinct isolates from seven different countries. Analyses of the selective constraints acting on each codon suggest that most regions were under purifying selection. Phylogenetic analysis shows diverse patterns of molecular evolution for different genomic regions. A first clade composed of isolates that are genetically close to the reference mild isolates T385 or T30 was inferred from all genomic regions. A second clade, mostly comprising virulent isolates, was defined from regions p33, p65, p13 and p23. For regions p65, p61, p18, p13 and p23, a third clade that mostly included South American isolates could not be related to any reference genotype. Phylogenetic relationships among isolates did not reflect their geographical origin, suggesting significant gene flow between geographically distant areas. Incongruent phylogenetic trees for different genomic regions suggested recombination events, an extreme that was supported by several recombination-detecting methods. A phylogenetic network incorporating the effect of recombination showed an explosive radiation pattern for the evolution of some isolates and also grouped isolates by virulence. Taken together, the above results suggest that negative selection, gene flow, sequence recombination and virulence may be important factors driving CTV evolution.
Analysis of the complete genome sequence of epidemic keratoconjunctivitis-related human adenovirus type 8, 19, 37 and a novel serotype
Authors: Kaneko Hisatoshi , Iida Tomohiro , Ishiko Hiroaki , Ohguchi Takeshi , Ariga Toshihide , Tagawa Yoshitsugu , Aoki Koki , Ohno Shigeaki , Suzutani Tatsuo
Published: May 2009

We determined the complete genome sequence of epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC)-related human adenoviruses (HAdVs). We analysed a total of 12 HAdV strains; three prototype strains and two HAdV-8, three HAdV-19 and three HAdV-37 clinical isolates from EKC patients in Japan, and one novel serotype of HAdV. Genome organization of these serotypes was identical to those of the recently determined HAdV-19 and HAdV-37. The identities of the whole genome were over 99 % among strains from the same serotype, except for HAdV-19p, which is not associated with conjunctivitis, resulting in the formation of a distinct cluster in the phylogenetic analysis. The penton, loop 1 and loop 2 of hexon, early region 3 (E3) and fiber were hypervariable regions between serotypes. Results suggest that the HAdV-19 clinical strain is a recombinant of HAdV-19p-like and HAdV-37-like strains, and that the acquisition of the penton, E3 or fiber may be related to ocular tropism.
Domain III of NS5A contributes to both RNA replication and assembly of hepatitis C virus particles
Authors: Hughes Mair , Griffin Stephen , Harris Mark
Published: May 2009

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5A protein plays a critical role in viral RNA replication and has recently been shown to play a role in particle production in the infectious genotype 2a HCV clone (JFH-1). Here, we show that alanine substitutions of serines 2428/2430 within the C-terminal domain III of NS5A do not affect subgenomic replicon RNA replication but do reduce particle production. In contrast, substitution of serines 2390/2391 had no effect on either RNA replication or particle production. Relative to genotype 1, all genotype 2 HCV isolates contain a 19 residue insertion near the C terminus of domain III which, when deleted (▵2408–2426), resulted in a delay to both RNA replication and particle production. None of these mutations affected the ratio of basal to hyperphosphorylated NS5A, suggesting that serines between residues 2390 and 2430 are not phosphorylated. We propose that although domain III is dispensable for RNA replication, it nevertheless influences this process.
NS2/NEP protein regulates transcription and replication of the influenza virus RNA genome
Authors: Robb Nicole C. , Smith Matt , Vreede Frank T. , Fodor Ervin
Published: May 2009

The influenza virus RNA polymerase transcribes the negative-sense viral RNA segments (vRNA) into mRNA and replicates them via complementary RNA (cRNA) intermediates into more copies of vRNA. It is not clear how the relative amounts of the three RNA products, mRNA, cRNA and vRNA, are regulated during the viral life cycle. We found that in viral ribonucleoprotein (vRNP) reconstitution assays involving only the minimal components required for viral transcription and replication (the RNA polymerase, the nucleoprotein and a vRNA template), the relative levels of accumulation of RNA products differed from those observed in infected cells, suggesting a regulatory role for additional viral proteins. Expression of the viral NS2/NEP protein in RNP reconstitution assays affected viral RNA levels by reducing the accumulation of transcription products and increasing the accumulation of replication products to more closely resemble those found during viral infection. This effect was functionally conserved in influenza A and B viruses and was influenza-virus-type-specific, demonstrating that the NS2/NEP protein changes RNA levels by specific alteration of the viral transcription and replication machinery, rather than through an indirect effect on the host cell. Although NS2/NEP has been shown previously to play a role in the nucleocytoplasmic export of viral RNPs, deletion of the nuclear export sequence region that is required for its transport function did not affect the ability of the protein to regulate RNA levels. A role for the NS2/NEP protein in the regulation of influenza virus transcription and replication that is independent of its viral RNP export function is proposed.
Uncoupling of hTREX demonstrates that UAP56 and hTHO-complex recruitment onto herpesvirus saimiri intronless transcripts is required for replication
Authors: Colgan Kevin J. , Boyne James R. , Whitehouse Adrian
Published: May 2009

Herpesvirus saimiri (HVS) ORF57 nucleocytoplasmic shuttle protein binds viral RNA and interacts with the cellular nuclear export adaptor protein, Aly, to access the TAP-mediated nuclear export pathway. This enables the efficient nuclear export of HVS intronless mRNAs. Herein, we extend these studies and demonstrate that ORF57 recruits several members of hTREX, namely Aly, UAP56 and hTHO-complex proteins, onto the viral mRNAs to assemble an export-competent ribonucleoprotein particle. Moreover, using a transdominant form of Aly which inhibits UAP56 and hTHO-complex association with viral intronless mRNA, we show that complete hTREX recruitment is required for efficient HVS mRNA nuclear export and replication.
Rev: beyond nuclear export
Authors: Groom H. C. T. , Anderson E. C. , Lever A. M. L.
Published: May 2009

Rev remains a hot topic. In this review, we revisit the insights that have been gained into the control of gene expression by the retroviral protein Rev and speculate on where current research is leading. We outline what is known about the role of Rev in translation and encapsidation and how these are linked to its more traditional role of nuclear export, underlining the multifaceted nature of this small viral protein. We discuss what more is to be learned in these fields and why continuing research on these 116 amino acids and understanding their function is still important in devising methods to combat AIDS.
Midline governs axon pathfinding by coordinating expression of two major guidance systems
Authors: Liu Qing-Xin , Hiramoto Masaki , Ueda Hitoshi , Gojobori Takashi , Hiromi Yasushi , Hirose Susumu
Published: May 2009

Formation of the neural network requires concerted action of multiple axon guidance systems. How neurons orchestrate expression of multiple guidance genes is poorly understood. Here, we show that Drosophila T-box protein Midline controls expression of genes encoding components of two major guidance systems: Frazzled, ROBO, and Slit. In midline mutant, expression of all these molecules are reduced, resulting in severe axon guidance defects, whereas misexpression of Midline induces their expression. Midline is present on the promoter regions of these genes, indicating that Midline controls transcription directly. We propose that Midline controls axon pathfinding through coordinating the two guidance systems.
The H3K27me3 demethylase JMJD3 contributes to the activation of theINK4A–ARFlocus in response to oncogene- and stress-induced senescence
Authors: Agger Karl , Cloos Paul A.C. , Rudkjær Lise , Williams Kristine , Andersen Gitte , Christensen Jesper , Helin Kristian
Published: May 2009

The tumor suppressor proteins p16INK4Aand p14ARF, encoded by theINK4A–ARFlocus, are key regulators of cellular senescence. The locus is epigenetically silenced by the repressive H3K27me3 mark in normally growing cells, but becomes activated in response to oncogenic stress. Here, we show that expression of the histone H3 Lys 27 (H3K27) demethylase JMJD3 is induced upon activation of the RAS–RAF signaling pathway. JMJD3 is recruited to theINK4A–ARFlocus and contributes to the transcriptional activation of p16INK4Ain human diploid fibroblasts. Additionally, inhibition of Jmjd3 expression in mouse embryonic fibroblasts results in suppression of p16Ink4aand p19Arfexpression and in their immortalization.
New curcumin analogues exhibit enhanced growth‐suppressive activity and inhibit AKT and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 phosphorylation in breast and prostate cancer cells
Authors: Lin Li , Hutzen Brian , Ball Sarah , Foust Elizabeth , Sobo Matthew , Deangelis Stephanie , Pandit Bulbul , Friedman Lauren , Li Chenglong , Li Pui‐Kai , Fuchs James , Lin Jiayuh
Published: May 2009

Curcumin, the active component of turmeric, has been shown to protect against carcinogenesis and prevent tumor development in cancer. To enhance its potency, we tested the efficacy of synthetic curcumin analogues, known as FLLL11 and FLLL12, in cancer cells. We examined the impact of FLLL11 and FLLL12 on cell viability in eight different breast and prostate cancer cell lines. FLLL11 and FLLL12 (IC50 values 0.3–5.7 and 0.3–3.8 µmol/L, respectively) were substantially more potent than curcumin (IC50 values between 14.4–50 µmol/L). FLLL11 and FLLL12 were also found to inhibit AKT phosphorylation and downregulate the expression of HER2/neu. In addition, we demonstrate for the first time that FLLL11 and FLLL12 inhibit phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3, an oncogene frequently found to be persistently active in many cancer types. The inhibition of STAT3 signaling was confirmed by the inhibition of STAT3 DNA binding and STAT3 transcriptional activity. Furthermore, FLLL11 and FLLL12 were more effective than curcumin in inhibiting cell migration and colony formation in soft agar as well as inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. These results indicate that FLLL11 and FLLL12 exhibit more potent activities than curcumin on the inhibition of STAT3, AKT, and HER‐2/neu, as well as inhibit cancer cell growth and migration, and may thus have translational potential as chemopreventive or therapeutic agents for breast and prostate cancers. (Cancer Sci 2009; 100: 1719–1727)
Prey abundance, channel structure and the allometry of growth rate potential for juvenile trout
Authors: ROSENFELD J. S. , TAYLOR J.
Published: May 2009

Abstract  The application of a drift‐foraging bioenergetic model to evaluate the relative influence of prey abundance (invertebrate drift) and habitat (e.g. pool frequency) on habitat quality for young‐of‐the‐year (YOY) and yearling juvenile cutthroat trout, Oncorhynchus clarki (Richardson) is described. Experiments and modelling indicated simultaneous limitation of fish growth by prey abundance and habitat, where depth and current velocity limit the volume of water and prey flowing through a fish’s reactive field as well as swimming costs and prey capture success. Predicted energy intake and growth increase along a depth gradient, with slower deeper pool habitat generating higher predicted growth for both YOY and yearling trout. Bioenergetic modelling indicated that fish are constrained to use progressively deeper habitats to meet increasing energy requirements as they grow. Sensitivity of growth to prey abundance identified the need to better understand how variation in invertebrate drift and terrestrial drop affects habitat quality and capacity for drift‐feeding fishes.
Did ciguatera prompt the late Holocene Polynesian voyages of discovery?
Authors: Rongo Teina , Bush Mark , Van Woesik Robert
Published: May 2009

The famous Polynesian voyages characterized an intensive network of cultural exchange and colonization that was particularly active from ad 1000 to 1450. But, why would large groups of people leave their homelands to voyage into the unknown? Oceanic voyages are risky, albeit less so today than in the past. Landfalls were not guaranteed improvements over ports of departure. Taking the Cook Islands as an example, we ask whether harmful algal blooms that result in ciguatera fish poisoning in humans prompted past and present emigration pulses of peoples from within Polynesia. We take a multipronged approach to examine our hypothesis, involving: (1) archaeological evidence, (2) ciguatera fish poisoning reports since the 1940s, and (3) climate and temperature oscillations using palaeodatasets. The archaeological records of fish bones and hooks show abrupt changes in fishing practices in post‐ad 1450 records. Sudden dietary shifts are not linked to overfishing, but may be a sign of ciguatera fish poisoning and adjustment of fishing preference. While fishes form the staple diet of Polynesians, such poisoning renders fishes unusable. We show that ciguatera fish poisoning events coincide with Pacific Decadal Oscillations and suggest that the celebrated Polynesian voyages across the Pacific Ocean may not have been random episodes of discovery to colonize new lands, but rather voyages of necessity. A modern analogue (in the 1990s) was the shift towards processed foods in the Cook Islands during ciguatera fish poisoning events, and mass emigration of islanders to New Zealand and Australia.
Improvement to the scanning electron microscope image colourization by adaptive tuning
Authors: SIM K.S. , TING H.Y. , LAI M.A. , TSO C.P.
Published: May 2009

An improvement to the previously proposed Canny optimization technique for scanning electron microscope image colourization is reported. The additional process is adaptive tuning, where colour tuning is performed adaptively, based on comparing the original luminance values with calculated luminance values. The complete adaptive Canny optimization technique gives significantly better mechanical contrast on scanning electron microscope grey‐scale images than do existing methods.
Three‐dimensional reconstruction of biological macromolecular complexes from in‐lens scanning electron micrographs
Authors: WOODWARD J.D. , WEPF R. , SEWELL B.T.
Published: May 2009

Two helical samples: F‐actin and the bacteriophage T4 tail sheath were reconstructed in three dimensions from contrast enhanced (rotational shadowing and negatively stained) in‐lens cryo‐field emission scanning electron micrographs, using the iterative real‐space helical reconstruction method. The F‐actin – and bacteriophage T4 reconstructions compare favourably to an atomic model refined against fibre diffraction data and a cryo‐electron microscopy reconstruction, respectively. These results show that single‐particle methods, developed for macromolecules imaged in the transmission electron microscope can be applied to cryo‐field emission scanning electron micrographs data with appropriate symmetry.
High second harmonic generation signal from muscles and fascia pig's muscles using the two‐photon laser scanning microscope
Authors: RESHAK A.H.
Published: May 2009

I have provided update to our two photon laser scanning microscope by adding new technique which enables us to simultaneously measured the second harmonic generation signals in the forward and backward directions; in the meantime, one can measure the two photon excitations fluorescence if the materials produce fluorescence. In the present work, the fascia muscles, muscles of pig and pig's skin were used. I found that these materials produced high second harmonic generation signal in both directions. These measurements show that the second harmonic generation strongly depends on the state of the polarization of the laser light and the orientation of the dipole moment in the molecules that interact with the laser light. It is therefore advantageous to control the laser's state of polarization, to maximize second harmonic generation. The novelty of this work is to establish new multi‐functional technique by combing three platforms of laser scanning microscopy – the fluorescence microscopy, harmonic generation microscopy and polarizing microscopy in which one can use the second harmonic imaging to investigate the true architecture of the sensitive samples and the samples which do not produce auto‐fluorescence. Moreover investigation of the new sample needs to look at all details of the true architecture of the sample. Thereby the sample will be exposed to the laser radiation more than the well‐known sample, and that will cause photo‐bleaching and photo‐damage. Since the second harmonic generation does not undergo from photo‐bleaching and photo‐damage it will be the promising technique for investigating the sensitive and new samples. Then one can move to acquire fluorescence images after good investigation of the true architecture of the sample by the SH imaging.
A pixel selection rule based on the number of different‐phase neighbours for the simulated annealing reconstruction of sandstone microstructure
Authors: TANG T. , TENG Q. , HE X. , LUO D.
Published: May 2009

Sandstone reservoir is one of the main types of oil and gas reservoirs in China. It has porous microstructure, which directly affects the transport properties of a sandstone. Hence, the study of porous microstructure is important to the exploration and exploitation of oil and gas. Three‐dimensional microstructure of a sandstone can be reconstructed using the simulated annealing method based on statistical properties of its two‐dimensional micrograph. The aim of reconstruction is to minimize the discrepancy between the statistical properties of the reconstructed microstructure and those of the two‐dimensional image. To accelerate the rate of convergence, we proposed a different‐phase neighbours (DPNs)‐based pixel selection rule to replace the random pixel selection rule of the simulated annealing reconstruction. In this rule, pixels with the largest number of DPNs have the largest selection probability. The selection probabilities of other pixels are proportional to their DPNs. Microstructure reconstructed with the DPNs‐based rule is compared with those with the random selection rule and two other biased pixel selection rules. The DPNs‐based rule is the most effective in enhancing convergence. Permeability of the microstructure reconstructed with the DPNs‐based rule is estimated by the Kozeny–Carman formula and is in good agreement with the one reconstructed with the random pixel selection rule.
Lyneborgimyia magnifica gen. et sp.n. (Diptera: Syrphidae) from Tanzania, with a phylogenetic analysis of the Eumerini using new morphological characters
Authors: DOCZKAL DIETER , PAPE THOMAS
Published: May 2009

Lyneborgimyia magnifica
gen. et sp.n. is described and placed with Merodon Meigen and Platynochaetus Wiedemann in the Merodon genus group within the tribe Eumerini. New morphological characters and terms are introduced, and precise definitions proposed for characters applied inconsistently in the literature. The species possesses several unique autapomorphies, including an additional cross‐vein between R4+5 and M1, and a sclerotized connection between sternite 1 and the metepimeron, which are unknown otherwise within Diptera. A parsimony‐based phylogenetic analysis including 73 characters from the adult morphology provides strong support for the monophyly of the Eumerini (Eumerus Meigen, Azpeytia Walker, Lyneborgimyia, Merodon, Platynochaetus) and the Merodon genus group, whereas no support is found for the possible monophyly of the genus Eumerus. A sister‐group relationship is indicated between the Afrotropical Lyneborgimyia and the Palaearctic Platynochaetus.
Regulation and processing of a plant peptide hormone, AtRALF23, in Arabidopsis
Authors: Srivastava Renu , Liu Jian‐Xiang , Guo Hongqing , Yin Yanhai , Howell Stephen H.
Published: May 2009

Arabidopsis has 34 genes encoding proteins related to rapid alkalinization factor (RALF), a peptide growth factor. One of those genes (AtRALF23) is significantly downregulated by brassinolide (BL) treatment of Arabidopsis seedlings or in mutant seedlings expressing a constitutively active form of BES1, a transcriptional effector of the brassinosteroid signaling pathway. Overexpression of AtRALF23 impairs BL‐induced hypocotyl elongation in seedlings, and mature overexpressing plants are shorter and bushier. Overexpression of AtRALF23 produces slower growing seedlings, with roots that have reduced capacity to acidify the rhizosphere. AtRALF23 encodes a 138‐aa protein, and when an epitope‐tagged form (AtRALF23‐myc) was expressed in transgenic plants, the protein was processed to release a C‐terminal peptide. The presumed junction between the precursor and the processed peptide contains a recognition site for site‐1 protease (AtS1P), a plant subtilisin‐like serine protease (subtilase). When AtRALF23‐myc was expressed in the background of a site‐1 protease mutant (s1p‐3), or when the AtS1P recognition site (RRIL) was mutated (RR → GG) and expressed in a wild‐type background, the precursor was not cleaved, and the bushy phenotype was not produced. A fluorogenic peptide representing the presumed subtilase recognition site in AtRALF23 was cleaved in vitro by AtS1P. Thus, BL downregulates AtRALF23 expression, presumably relieving the growth‐retarding effect of a peptide growth factor, which is processed from a larger precursor protein by AtS1P.
Improving Water Relations and Gas Exchange with Brassinosteroids in Rice under Drought Stress
Authors: Farooq M. , Wahid A. , Basra S. M. A. , Islam‐ud‐Din
Published: May 2009

Drought stress is the most pervasive threat to sustainable rice production and mainly disrupts membrane structure and cell‐water relations. Exogenously applied brassinosteroids (BRs) may produce profound changes that may improve drought tolerance in rice. In this study, we monitored some physiological basis of the exogenously applied BRs in improving drought tolerance in fine grain aromatic rice (Oryza sativa L.). Two BRs i.e. 28‐homobrassinolide (HBL) and 24‐epibrassinolide (EBL) were used both as seed priming and foliar spray. To prime, the seeds were soaked in 0.01 μm aerated solution each of HBL and EBL for 48 h and dried back to original weight. Treated and untreated seeds were sown in plastic pots with normal irrigation in a phytotron. At four‐leaf stage (3 weeks after sowing), plants were subjected to drought stress at 50 % field capacity by cutting down the water supply. For foliar spray, 0.01 μm of HBL and EBL solutions were sprayed at five‐leaf stage. Drought stress severely reduced fresh and dry weights, whilst exogenously applied BRs improved net CO2 assimilation, water use efficiency, leaf water status, membrane properties, production of free proline, anthocyanins, soluble phenolics, but declined the malondialdehyde and H2O2 production. In conclusion, BRs application improved the leaf water economy and CO2 assimilation, and enabled rice to withstand drought. Moreover, foliar spray had better effect under drought than seed treatments and of the two BRs, EBL proved more effective.
Ecology of the coprophagous moth Trisyntopa neossophila Edwards (Lepidoptera: Oecophoridae)
Authors: Cooney Stuart J N , Olsen Penny D , Garnett Stephen T
Published: May 2009

Trisyntopa neossophila Edwards (Lepidoptera: Oecophoridae) is an unusual moth whose breeding cycle is closely synchronised with a termite mound nesting parrot of northern Australia; the hooded parrot (Psephotus dissimilis Collet). T. neossophila is one of three coprophagous, nest dwelling moths in the genus Trisyntopa Lower 1918. True coprophagy is rare in the Lepidoptera, although some species occasionally consume faeces to gain rare nutrients. We present observations of the life cycle of T. neossophila, a moth that lays its eggs in the nest of a hooded parrot, so that larvae hatch in synchrony with the hatching of the parrot's eggs. The larvae spend their larval period in the nest and exclusively consume the excrement of the nestling parrots. When the parrot chicks fledge, the larvae move to the walls of the nest cavity to pupate, emerging the following wet season to repeat the process during the next parrot breeding season.
Diversity and seasonal succession of coastal mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in the northern Adelaide region of South Australia
Authors: Williams Craig R , Williams Samantha R , Nicholson Jay , Little Susan M , Riordan Julie , Fricker Stephen R , Kokkinn Michael J
Published: May 2009

Northern coastal suburbs in metropolitan Adelaide, South Australia are often subject to extreme levels of mosquito nuisance biting. The diversity and seasonality of the mosquito community in the coastal area of northern Adelaide was investigated over 7 years (2000–2007) in the suburb of Globe Derby Park, which is adjacent to both mangrove and samphire swamps. Eight species were identified from adult mosquito collections, with the salt marsh mosquitoes Aedes camptorhynchus (Thomson) (55.7%) and Ae. vigilax (Skuse) (29.5%) most abundant. These two species display seasonal succession, with the former most abundant in spring and early summer, giving way to the latter in mid‐late summer and autumn. Logistic regression showed that Ae. camptorhynchus abundance spikes were associated with lower temperatures, higher rainfall and increasing day length (r2 = 0.38). Aedes vigilax abundance spikes were associated with higher temperatures and decreasing day length (r2 = 0.52). The description of such temporal succession in salt marsh mosquitoes in southern Australia is novel. The analysis presented might therefore lead to the development of mosquito nuisance predictive tools and novel mosquito management strategies.
The first known larva of the Australian genus Mystropomus Chaudoir (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Paussinae)
Authors: Di Giulio Andrea , Moore Wendy
Published: May 2009

The monogeneric subtribe Mystropomina Chaudoir (Carabidae: Paussinae: Ozaenini) contains two species endemic to Australia: Mystropomus subcostatus Chaudoir and Mystropomus regularis Bänninger. In this paper, we describe and illustrate the larva of M. subcostatus providing the first larval description in this subtribe, thereby filling an important gap in our knowledge of paussine larval morphology. We compare the structural features of this larva with the other known larvae in the subfamily and provide an identification key to larvae of Australian paussine genera. We find no external structural features that indicate that this larva lives with ants, as do many other members of the carabid beetle subfamily Paussinae.
Suppression of populations of Australian sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), with a novel blowfly trap
Authors: Urech Rudolf , Green Peter E , Rice Martin J , Brown Geoffrey W , Webb Philip , Jordan David , Wingett Murray , Mayer David G , Butler Lock , Joshua Edward , Evans Ian , Toohey Les , Dadour Ian R
Published: May 2009

The Australian sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina, initiates more than 85% of fly strikes on sheep in Australia with an estimated average annual cost of A$280 million to the Australian sheep industry. LuciTrap® is a commercially available, selective trap for L. cuprina consisting of a plastic bucket with multiple fly entry cones and a synthetic attractant. The impact of LuciTrap on populations of L. cuprina on sheep properties in five Australian states was evaluated by comparing L. cuprina populations on paired properties with and without LuciTraps over seasons when significant fly populations could be expected. Twenty‐four comparisons (trials) were conducted over 4 years. During times of ‘higher fly density’ (when the 48 h geometric mean of trap catches on the control property was greater than five L. cuprina), the overall geometric mean trap catches for control and trapped properties differed significantly (P < 0.001) with mean trap catches of 19.4 and 7.74 L. cuprina, respectively. The selectivity of the LuciTrap was confirmed with 59% of all trapped flies being L. cuprina. Chrysomya spp. and Calliphora spp. constituted 9.3% and 1.1% of the catches with a variety of other flies (mainly Sarcophagidae and Muscidae) providing the remainder (31%). Lucilia sericata was only trapped in Tasmania and made up 7.7% of the Lucilia spp. catch in that state. Seventy‐two per cent of the trapped L. cuprina were female. The deployment of LuciTrap on sheep properties at one trap per 100 sheep from the beginning of the anticipated fly season suppressed the populations of L. cuprina by 60% compared with matched control properties. The LuciTrap is a selective and easy to use fly trap and constitutes an effective, non‐insecticidal tool for use in integrated management programs for L. cuprina.
Pyuria is not always sterile in children with Kawasaki disease
Authors: Jan Sheng‐Ling , Wu Meng‐Che , Lin Ming‐Chih , Fu Yun‐Ching , Chan Sheng‐Ching , Lin Shing‐Jong
Published: May 2009

Background:  Although Kawasaki disease (KD) often presents with sterile pyuria, bacterial pyuria (urinary tract infection [UTI]) occasionally occurs.

Methods:  This was a retrospective cohort study of 285 children with KD diagnosed between 1995 and 2005. Among these patients, a total of 210 patients underwent routine urine tests and 75 children underwent urine culture tests. This study was conducted to investigate the incidence, clinical manifestations, management and outcome of KD with pyuria.

Results:  The incidence of pyuria was 29.5% (62/210). Among the 75 children undergoing urine culture tests, 34 had sterile pyuria (45.3%), eight had bacterial pyuria (10.7%), two had UTI without pyuria (2.7%) and 31 had neither pyuria nor UTI (41.3%). When pyuria was used as a predictor of KD with UTI, the positive and negative predictive values were 19% and 93.9%, respectively. There were no significant differences in demographic data, clinical presentations, laboratory results, duration of fever, ratio of resistant KD or risk level, except in the nitrite test, between both groups.

Conclusions:  Pyuria was not always sterile in patients with KD. Although there was no different clinical phenotype or coronary outcome in KD patients with or without UTI, we suggest that UTI should be considered and evaluated in KD patients with pyuria, a positive nitrite test or a positive result of urine culture. If UTI is definitively diagnosed, the patient should be treated for a UTI as well as for KD and complete post‐UTI work‐up is recommended.
Exposure to furosemide as the strongest risk factor for nephrocalcinosis in preterm infants
Authors: Gimpel Charlotte , Krause Alexandra , Franck Peter , Krueger Marcus , Von Schnakenburg Christian
Published: May 2009

Background:  The objective of this study was to determine which of the many risk factors for nephrocalcinosis (NC) in preterm infants are most relevant.

Methods:  In 55 neonates born before 32 completed weeks of gestation, parameters relevant to NC were analyzed. Median birthweight was 1010 g (range 500–2070 g). Fifteen (27%) asymptomatic children had ultrasonographic NC.

Results:  In multivariate analysis the strongest independent risk factor was furosemide therapy above 10 mg per kg bodyweight cumulative dose, with a 48‐fold increased risk of NC (odds ratio confidence interval 4.0–585, P < 0.01). The risk of NC was 1.65‐fold higher per 100 g lower weight (1.07–2.56, P= 0.02) and 4.5‐fold higher per mmol/l of urinary calcium concentration (1.14–17.7, P= 0.03). Many other risk factors were only significant in univariate analysis (gestational age, mechanical ventilation, infection, broncho‐pulmonary dysplasia, blood transfusions, intraventricular hemorrhage, surfactant therapy, vasopressors, phenobarbital or caffeine, duration of hospital stay), indicating an indirect effect only. Other parameters of calcium and phosphate homeostasis were not significant, possibly due to standardized supplementation.

Conclusion:  We suggest that in preterm infants, furosemide should be prescribed with caution and close monitoring of calcium excretions is advisable. Some guidelines for infant respiratory distress syndrome now favor calcium‐sparing thiazides if diuretics are considered.
The merging of community ecology and phylogenetic biology
Authors: Cavender‐Bares Jeannine , Kozak Kenneth H. , Fine Paul V. A. , Kembel Steven W.
Published: May 2009

The increasing availability of phylogenetic data, computing power and informatics tools has facilitated a rapid expansion of studies that apply phylogenetic data and methods to community ecology. Several key areas are reviewed in which phylogenetic information helps to resolve long‐standing controversies in community ecology, challenges previous assumptions, and opens new areas of investigation. In particular, studies in phylogenetic community ecology have helped to reveal the multitude of processes driving community assembly and have demonstrated the importance of evolution in the assembly process. Phylogenetic approaches have also increased understanding of the consequences of community interactions for speciation, adaptation and extinction. Finally, phylogenetic community structure and composition holds promise for predicting ecosystem processes and impacts of global change. Major challenges to advancing these areas remain. In particular, determining the extent to which ecologically relevant traits are phylogenetically conserved or convergent, and over what temporal scale, is critical to understanding the causes of community phylogenetic structure and its evolutionary and ecosystem consequences. Harnessing phylogenetic information to understand and forecast changes in diversity and dynamics of communities is a critical step in managing and restoring the Earth’s biota in a time of rapid global change.
Development and experimental validation of a nifH oligonucleotide microarray to study diazotrophic communities in a glacier forefield
Authors: Duc Laurence , Neuenschwander Stefan , Rehrauer Hubert , Wagner Ulrich , Sobek Jens , Schlapbach Ralph , Zeyer Josef
Published: May 2009

Functional microarrays are powerful tools that allow the parallel detection of multiple strains at the species level and therefore to rapidly obtain information on microbial communities in the environment. However, the design of suitable probes is prone to uncertainties, as it is based so far on in silico predictions including weighted mismatch number and Gibbs free‐energy values. This study describes the experimental selection of probes targeting subsequences of the nifH gene to study the community structure of diazotrophic populations present in Damma glacier (Swiss Central Alps) forefield soils. Using the Geniom® One in situ synthesis technology (Febit, Germany), 2727 in silico designed candidate probes were tested. A total of 946 specific probes were selected and validated. This probe set covered a large diversity of the NifH phylotypes (35 out of the 45) found in the forefield. Hybridization predictors were tested statistically. Gibbs free‐energy value for probe‐target binding gave the best prediction for hybridization efficiency, while the weighted mismatch number was not significantly associated to probe specificity. In this study, we demonstrate that extensive experimental tests of probe‐hybridization behaviour against sequences present in the studied environment remain a prerequisite for meaningful probe selection.
Neuropad as a diagnostic tool for diabetic autonomic and sensorimotor neuropathy
Authors: Spallone V. , Morganti R. , Siampli M. , Fedele T. , D’Amato C. , Cacciotti L. , Maiello M. R.
Published: May 2009

Aims  The aim of the present study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of the Neuropad sudomotor test for diabetic cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) and diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN), the latter assessed using a multi‐level diagnostic approach.

Methods  In 51 diabetic patients, CAN, symptoms and signs of DPN, vibration perception threshold (VPT), cold (CTT) and warm thermal perception thresholds (WTT) were measured. Neuropad response was determined as normal (complete colour change) or abnormal (absent or incomplete colour change). The time until the complete colour change (CCC time) was recorded.

Results  CCC time showed significant correlations with all the neurological parameters, the strongest of which were with Valsalva ratio (ρ = −0.64, P < 0.0001), symptoms of DPN (ρ = 0.66, P < 0.0001), postural hypotension (ρ = 0.54, P = 0.0001) and CTT (ρ = −0.54, P = 0.0001). CCC time showed moderate diagnostic accuracy for both CAN and DPN: the areas under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were 0.71 and 0.76, respectively. The diagnostic characteristics of three cut‐off values of CCC time, identified by ROC analysis (i.e. 10, 15 and 18 min), were analysed. Compared with 10 min, the 15‐min cut‐off value provided better specificity (from 27% to 52% and from 31% to 62% for CAN and DPN, respectively) and a better likelihood ratio for negative result (from 0.67 to 0.34 and from 0.58 to 0.33) without lowering sensitivity (from 82% to 82% and from 85% to 80%).

Conclusions  Neuropad is a reliable diagnostic tool for both CAN and DPN, albeit of only moderate accuracy. Extending the observation period to 15 min provides greater diagnostic usefulness.
Comparing Two Alternative Measures of General Personality in the Assessment of Psychopathy: A Test of the NEO PI‐R and the MPQ
Authors: Gaughan Eric T. , Miller Joshua D. , Pryor Lauren R. , Lynam Donald R.
Published: May 2009

ABSTRACT
This study examined the interrelations between two measures of personality, the Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO PI‐R; P. T. Costa & R. R. McCrae, 1992) and the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (MPQ; Tellegen & Waller, 2008), and their relations with psychopathy in a sample of undergraduates. Results revealed good convergence between conceptually related personality traits; however, the NEO PI‐R facets accounted for more variance in the MPQ subscales (mean R2=.49) than did MPQ subscales in NEO PI‐R facets (mean R2=.35). Both accounted for substantial proportions of variance in psychopathy scores, although the NEO PI‐R accounted for larger proportions and manifested greater incremental validity when using the broader domains of each measure; the differences decreased when the narrower facets/subscales were used. The results suggest that, although both measures assess psychopathy‐related traits, the NEO PI‐R provides a more complete description because of its assessment of interpersonal antagonism and the central role of this construct in psychopathy.
Quality of life in patients with scalp psoriasis treated with calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate scalp formulation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ortonne JP , Ganslandt C , Tan J , Nordin P , Kragballe K , Segaert S
Published: May 2009

Background  Psoriasis vulgaris of the scalp has a significant psychosocial impact on individuals affecting their quality of life (QoL). A combination of calcipotriol and betamethasone dipropionate in a formulation suitable for treatment of scalp psoriasis has been developed.

Objective  To assess the impact of treatment with either calcipotriol plus betamethasone dipropionate scalp formulation or calcipotriol scalp solution on QoL in patients with scalp psoriasis (both within and between treatment groups).

Methods  This 8‐week, randomized, investigator‐blind study, compared the once‐daily, two‐compound scalp formulation (calcipotriol 50 µg/g plus betamethasone 0.5 mg/g as dipropionate; Xamiol®, LEO Pharma A/S, Ballerup, Denmark) with twice‐daily calcipotriol scalp solution (50 µg/mL; Daivonex®, LEO Pharma A/S) in patients with scalp psoriasis of at least moderate severity covering ≥ 10% of the scalp. QoL was assessed (weeks 0, 2, 4, 8) using the 36‐item Short Form Health Survey (version 2; SF‐36v2) and Skindex‐16.

Results  Treatment with the two‐compound scalp formulation (n = 207) resulted in significant improvements from baseline on the SF‐36v2 (Physical Component Summary, P = 0.005, week 8; Mental Component Summary, P < 0.05, weeks 2, 4, 8). A significant change from baseline in the calcipotriol scalp solution group (n = 105) was seen only on the Mental Component Summary (P = 0.04, week 8). Change from baseline in Skindex‐16 was significantly in favour of the two‐compound scalp formulation. Change was significant on both total score and individual scales.

Conclusion  The two‐compound scalp formulation was superior to calcipotriol scalp solution in improving QoL in patients with scalp psoriasis.

Conflict of interest declaration

J.P. Ortonne has served as a paid speaker and consultant for LEO Pharma.

C. Ganslandt is a salaried employee of LEO Pharma.

J. Tan served as a speaker, investigator and advisory board member for LEO Pharma and received honoraria from LEO Pharma for these activities.

P. Nordin served as a paid investigator for LEO Pharma in the clinical trial.

K. Kragballe has served as a paid speaker and consultant for LEO Pharma.

S. Segaert has served as a paid speaker, clinical investigator and consultant for LEO Pharma.
The reliability of palatability estimates obtained from rumen contents analysis and a field‐based index of diet selection
Authors: Tanentzap A. J. , Bee J. N. , Lee W. G. , Lavers R. B. , Mills J. A. , Mark A. F. , Coomes D. A.
Published: May 2009

Understanding herbivore foraging behaviour is often limited by not knowing the palatability of food items. Electivity indices can overcome this challenge by relating the consumption of food items to their relative abundance in the environment. We compare eight widely used electivity indices to relate the level of consumption of 48 food items in the rumen contents of 402 red deer Cervus elaphus in New Zealand to the environmental availability of food items. Additionally, we derive a field‐based index of palatability from observed browse damage recorded during vegetation surveys at our site. Electivity indices were positively correlated with each other and with the browse survey index, which was also positively correlated with electivity indices from other studies. Thus, the choice of electivity index is unimportant when making comparisons of relative palatability among food items. Our analyses suggest that quantitative measures of palatability may be reliably inferred from observed browse damage in the field, which is quicker and less destructive to estimate than electivity indices. As a result, we demonstrate a useful technique for predicting herbivore diet selection.
Primary and secondary phenology. Does it pay a frog to spawn early?
Authors: Loman J.
Published: May 2009

This study examines the consequences of variation in the laying and hatching date for the time of metamorphosis in the common frog Rana temporaria. Field data are presented showing that eggs laid early tend to take longer to develop. Thus, the time advantage for early eggs is reduced at the time of hatching. There was an among‐year variation in this phenomenon; it was not manifest in a phenologically late year. Also, field data revealed that mortality due to pond freezing is a real risk for early laid eggs. Finally, two experiments in tanks analyse the effects of hatching date variation for the time of metamorphosis. (1) When hatching was experimentally delayed by 7 or 11 days, this resulted in later metamorphosis, however, by only 2 and 5 days, respectively. (2a) When tadpoles from the same pond that naturally hatched at different times were compared, it was found that a hatching time difference of 6 days resulted in later metamorphosis by 2 days only. (2b) A comparison of tadpoles from two different ponds that hatched 11 days apart also resulted in only 2 days' difference in metamorphosis. In this case, the later but faster developing tadpoles metamorphosed at a smaller size. I suggest that eggs from these two ponds differed genetically in the growth and development strategy. Despite the obvious risks, and the moderate gain in terms of early metamorphosis, frogs breed dangerously early in spring. Possible reasons for this are discussed. These include external selective forces that promote early metamorphosis (also at a high cost), within‐pond competition among tadpoles with an advantage for early and large tadpoles and finally factors relating to mate choice at the breeding site.
Availability of neurotransmitter glutamate is diminished when β‐hydroxybutyrate replaces glucose in cultured neurons
Authors: Lund Trine M , Risa Øystein , Sonnewald Ursula , Schousboe Arne , Waagepetersen Helle S
Published: May 2009

Ketone bodies serve as alternative energy substrates for the brain in cases of low glucose availability such as during starvation or in patients treated with a ketogenic diet. The ketone bodies are metabolized via a distinct pathway confined to the mitochondria. We have compared metabolism of [2,4‐13C]β‐hydroxybutyrate to that of [1,6‐13C]glucose in cultured glutamatergic neurons and investigated the effect of neuronal activity focusing on the aspartate–glutamate homeostasis, an essential component of the excitatory activity in the brain. The amount of 13C incorporation and cellular content was lower for glutamate and higher for aspartate in the presence of [2,4‐13C]β‐hydroxybutyrate as opposed to [1,6‐13C]glucose. Our results suggest that the change in aspartate–glutamate homeostasis is due to a decreased availability of NADH for cytosolic malate dehydrogenase and thus reduced malate–aspartate shuttle activity in neurons using β‐hydroxybutyrate. In the presence of glucose, the glutamate content decreased significantly upon activation of neurotransmitter release, whereas in the presence of only β‐hydroxybutyrate, no decrease in the glutamate content was observed. Thus, the fraction of the glutamate pool available for transmitter release was diminished when metabolizing β‐hydroxybutyrate, which is in line with the hypothesis of formation of transmitter glutamate via an obligatory involvement of the malate–aspartate shuttle.