bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional significance of the taper of vertebrate cone photoreceptors
Authors: Hárosi Ferenc I. , Novales Flamarique Iñigo
Published: January 2012

Vertebrate photoreceptors are commonly distinguished based on the shape of their outer segments: those of cones taper, whereas the ones from rods do not. The functional advantages of cone taper, a common occurrence in vertebrate retinas, remain elusive. In this study, we investigate this topic using theoretical analyses aimed at revealing structure–function relationships in photoreceptors. Geometrical optics combined with spectrophotometric and morphological data are used to support the analyses and to test predictions. Three functions are considered for correlations between taper and functionality. The first function proposes that outer segment taper serves to compensate for self-screening of the visual pigment contained within. The second function links outer segment taper to compensation for a signal-to-noise ratio decline along the longitudinal dimension. Both functions are supported by the data: real cones taper more than required for these compensatory roles. The third function relates outer segment taper to the optical properties of the inner compartment whereby the primary determinant is the inner segment’s ability to concentrate light via its ellipsoid. In support of this idea, the rod/cone ratios of primarily diurnal animals are predicted based on a principle of equal light flux gathering between photoreceptors. In addition, ellipsoid concentration factor, a measure of ellipsoid ability to concentrate light onto the outer segment, correlates positively with outer segment taper expressed as a ratio of characteristic lengths, where critical taper is the yardstick. Depending on a light-funneling property and the presence of focusing organelles such as oil droplets, cone outer segments can be reduced in size to various degrees. We conclude that outer segment taper is but one component of a miniaturization process that reduces metabolic costs while improving signal detection. Compromise solutions in the various retinas and retinal regions occur between ellipsoid size and acuity, on the one hand, and faster response time and reduced light sensitivity, on the other.
Long‐term severe diabetes only leads to mild cardiac diastolic dysfunction in Zucker diabetic fatty rats
Authors: Daniels Anneleen , Linz Dominik , van Bilsen Marc , Rütten Hartmut , Sadowski Thorsten , Ruf Sven , Juretschke Hans‐Paul , Neumann‐Haefelin Claudia , Munts Chantal , van der Vusse Ger J. , van Nieuwenhoven Frans A.
Published: January 2012

Aims

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) leads to cardiac dysfunction irrespective of hypertension and coronary artery disease; this is called diabetic cardiomyopathy. Here, we investigated the severity of diabetic cardiomyopathy and myocardial remodelling in aged Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats.

Methods and results

Body weight, blood glucose and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, and urinary albumin excretion were monitored regularly in ZDF rats (n = 19) and control littermates (n = 19) up to age 45 weeks. ZDF rats were severely diabetic during the entire study period and demonstrated decreased body and heart weights at sacrifice. Left ventricular (LV) function was determined using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at age 44 weeks and revealed similar LV ejection fraction and cardiac output index in control and ZDF rats, indicating preserved systolic function. LV pressure characteristics assessed at age 45 weeks showed significant, but mild elevations of LV end‐diastolic pressure (+45%) and relaxation time constant Tau (+54%) in ZDF rats, indicating diastolic dysfunction. Histological analyses revealed a significantly increased LV collagen content (+50%), but no cardiomyocyte hypertrophy in ZDF rats.

Conclusion

The present study clearly shows that long term, severe DM in 45‐week‐old ZDF rats resulted in relatively mild impairment of diastolic LV function, whereas systolic function was well preserved. These data do not support the notion that diabetes per se is a critical factor in the induction of a clinically relevant degree of cardiac dysfunction. Co‐morbidities such as hypertension and coronary artery disease probably have larger impacts on myocardial function in diabetic individuals.
Influence of Stenocarpella maydis Infected Corn on the Composition of Corn Kernel and Its Conversion into Ethanol
Authors: Dien Bruce S. , Wicklow Donald T. , Singh Vijay , Moreau Robert A. , Winkler‐Moser Jill K. , Cotta Michael A.
Published: January 2012

Widespread epidemics of Stenocarpella ear rot (formerly Diplodia ear rot) have occurred throughout the central U.S. Corn Belt in recent years, but the influence of S. maydis infected grain on corn ethanol production is unknown. In this study, S. maydis infected ears of variety Heritage 4646 were hand‐harvested in 2010 from a production field in central Illinois and segregated into one of five levels of ear rot severity based upon visual symptoms. The concentration of ergosterol, a sterol produced by fungi but not plants, was observed to increase with the severity of ear rot (127–306.5 μg/g), and none was detected in the control corn. Corn test weight declined with progression of the disease and was 42.6% lower for the most severely rotted grain from ears infected early in their development. Accompanying changes in composition were also apparent. Crude fat and oil contents decreased (from 4.7 to 1.5%) and fiber increased (from 6.6 to 9.6%), but starch content remained largely invariant. Oil composition also varied among the infected samples. Control and infected corn samples were subjected to ethanol fermentation with a laboratory‐scale corn dry‐grind ethanol process. Ethanol yields for control and infected samples were similar on an equivalent weight basis (2.77–2.85 gal/bu). In comparison with the control, S. maydis infection altered the distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) properties, wherein the crude protein was significantly higher and oil significantly reduced, and ash, fiber, and yield per ton were not significantly different. Based upon these results, we conclude that Stenocarpella ear rot has the potential to affect DDGS composition but not ethanol yield on an equivalent weight basis.
The GCR1 and GPA1 Participate in Promotion of Arabidopsis Primary Root Elongation Induced by N-Acyl-Homoserine Lactones, the Bacterial Quorum-Sensing Signals
Authors: Liu Fang , Bian Ziriu , Jia Zhenhua , Zhao Qian , Song Shuishan
Published: January 2012

Many gram-negative bacteria use N-acyl-homoserine lactones (AHL) as quorum-sensing signals to coordinate their collective behaviors. Accumulating evidence indicates that plants can respond to AHL. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism of plants reacting to these bacterial signals. In this study, we show that the treatment of Arabidopsis roots with N-3-oxo-hexanoyl-homoserine lactone (3OC6-HSL) and N-3-oxo-octanoyl-homoserine lactone (3OC8-HSL) resulted in significant root elongation. The genetic analysis revealed that the T-DNA insertional mutants of gcr1, encoding a G-protein-coupled receptor GCR1, were insensitive to 3OC6-HSL or 3OC8-HSL in assays of root growth. The loss-of-function mutants of the sole canonical Gα subunit GPA1 showed no response to AHL promotion of root elongation whereas Gα gain-of-function plants overexpressing either the wild type or a constitutively active version of Arabidopsis Gα exhibited the exaggerated effect on root elongation caused by AHL. Furthermore, the expression of GCR1 and GPA1 were significantly upregulated after plants were contacted with both AHL. Taken together, our results suggest that GCR1 and GPA1 are involved in AHL-mediated elongation of Arabidopsis roots. This provides insight into the mechanism of plant responses to bacterial quorum-sensing signals.
First Report of Uromyces plumbarius, Rust of Gaura, in Louisiana and a new host, Guara lindheimeri
Authors: Kaur R. , McTaggart A. R. , Ferrin D. M. , Aime M. C.
Published: January 2012

Gaura lindheimeri Engelm. & A. Gray (Onagraceae) is an ornamental shrub that is native to southern Louisiana and Texas. Its texture and form make it a popular perennial border plant. In April 2010 and 2011, three collections of Guara leaf samples with signs and symptoms of a rust disease were made from a home garden in Baton Rouge, LA. Infected leaves showed chlorotic lesions on the adaxial surface and were associated with scattered, hypophyllous uredinia. Urediniospores were globose to obovoid, echinulate, had two equatorial germ pores, and measured 16 to 21 × 18 to 25 μm with a wall 2 μm thick. Telia and teliospores were not observed on any of the collected samples. The pathogen was identified as Uromyces plumbarius Peck on the basis of the uredinial characters compared with four U.S. National Fungus (BPI 1103868, 0013551, 0013554, and 0013557) collections of U. plumbarius. The three collections from Louisiana have been deposited in the Bernard Lowy Mycological Herbarium. DNA was extracted from all three specimens and the nuclear ribosomal large subunit (28S) was amplified according to the protocol outlined by Aime (1). The three Louisiana collections had identical large subunit sequences (GenBank Accession Nos. JQ312670, JQ312671, and JQ312672). No sequences of U. plumbarius were available for comparison in GenBank; a BLAST search was 99% similar over 100% query coverage to Puccinia dioicae Magnus (Accession No. GU058019) and P. silvatica J. Schröt. (Accession No. AY222048). The uredinial/telial hosts of P. dioicae and P. silvatica are in the Cyperaceae, whereas U. plumbarius is an autoecious rust on Onagraceae. It is interesting to note that the aecial stage of P. dioicae occurs on Onagraceae and that it has a high sequence identity to U. plumbarius, supporting the hypothesis that these are correlated species (2). U. plumbarius has been recorded on several species of Gaura within the United States. To our knowledge, this is the first record of U. plumbarius in Louisiana and the first report of U. plumbarius on G. lindheimeri.

References: (1) M. C. Aime. Mycoscience 47:112, 2006. (2) C. R. Orton. Mycologia 4:194, 1912.
Structure of a new high-pressure–high-temperature modification of antimony(III) oxide, γ-Sb2O3, from high-resolution synchrotron powder diffraction data
Authors: Orosel Denis , Dinnebier Robert E. , Blatov Vladislav A. , Jansen Martin
Published: January 2012

A quenchable new high-pressure–high-temperature modification of antimony(III) oxide, γ-Sb2O3, has been obtained at hydrostatic pressures of 9–11 GPa and temperatures of 573–773 K. Its crystal structure has been determined from high-resolution synchrotron powder diffraction data. γ-Sb2O3consists of three-dimensionally cross-linked infinite chains of SbO3Eunits (E= lone pair) with the chains forming tetragonal rod-packing. The underlying topology of γ-Sb2O3(3,3T8) is found very rarely in inorganic structures; it is realised only for the polyanion [Si4O4N6]10−that occurs in the Ce4(Si4O4N6)O structure type. The structural relation to the two previously known polymorphs of Sb2O3at ambient pressure, valentinite and senarmontite is discussed.
Polymorphism of Li2Zn3
Authors: Pavlyuk Volodymyr , Chumak Ihor , Ehrenberg Helmut
Published: January 2012

Crystal structures of low- and high-temperature modifications of the binary phase Li2Zn3 were determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques. The low-temperature modification is a disordered variant of Li5Sn2, space group R\bar 3m (No. 166). The high-temperature modification crystallizes as an anti-type to Li5Ga4, space group P\bar 3m1 (No. 164). Two polymorphs can be described as derivative structures to binary Li5Ga4, Li5Sn2, Li13Sn5, Li8Pb3, CeCd2 and CdI2 phases which belong to class 2 with the parent W-type in Krypyakevich's classification. All atoms in both polymorphs are coordinated by rhombic dodecahedra (coordination number CN = 14) like atoms in related structures. The Li2Zn2.76 (for the low-temperature phase) and Li2Zn2.82 (for the high-temperature phase) compositions were obtained after structure refinements. According to electronic structure calculations using the tight-binding–linear muffin-tin orbital–atomic spheres approximations (TB–LMTO–ASA) method, strong covalent Sn—Sn and Ga—Ga interactions were established in Li5Sn2 and Li5Ga4, but no similar Zn—Zn interactions were observed in Li2Zn3.
Pharmacogenetics and anaesthesia: the value of genetic profiling
Authors: Landau R. , Bollag L. A. , Kraft J. C.
Published: January 2012

Approximately 50 years ago, pharmacogenetics was described as a new field of medicine that may explain human drug action. Anaesthesia played a key role in the early investigations. An understanding of how a person’s DNA influences drug metabolism and effectiveness may allow individually tailored prescriptions, improving outcomes and safety. The ultimate goal of pharmacogenetic research is to offer tailored personalised medicine to improve both the efficacy of medication and patient safety by helping to predict risk of adverse outcomes. In this review, we present a selection of historical landmarks where anaesthesia has been a catalyst for pharmacogenetic development. We examine the level of evidence and cite examples of candidate genes and common polymorphisms known to alter the response to peri‐operative medication. Finally, we set forth current views and potential exciting perspectives that may arise from the application of pharmacogenetics to the daily practice of anaesthesia and pain medicine.
Easy and difficult nasal intubation – a randomised comparison of Macintosh vs Airtraq® laryngoscopes*
Authors: St. Mont G. , Biesler I. , Pförtner R. , Mohr C. , Groeben H.
Published: January 2012

A new Airtraq® laryngoscope has been developed for nasal intubation. We prospectively compared tracheal intubation efficiency of the Airtraq for nasotracheal intubation vs that of the Macintosh laryngoscope in 200 patients. Depending on pre‐operative airway evaluation, the patients were allocated to expected easy (n = 100) or difficult (n = 100) intubation groups, on the basis of mouth opening ≤ 2.5 cm, modified Mallampati score of 4, history of difficult intubation, obvious tumour or swelling. Patients were randomly allocated to the Macintosh or nasotracheal Airtraq technique. All easy intubations were successfully performed with the respective technique. In the expected difficult intubation group, the success rate was higher (47/50 vs 33/50; p < 0.01), the glottis view was better (Cormack and Lehane 1/2/3/4 grades: 29/17/1/3 vs 5/11/18/16, p < 0.01), mean (SD) intubation time was shorter (45(46) s vs 77(47)s, p < 0.01) and the number of optimising manoeuvres was reduced with the nasotracheal Airtraq compared with the Macintosh, respectively. For difficult nasal intubations, the nasotracheal Airtraq is more effective than the Macintosh laryngoscope.
Processes controlling the development of a shielding layer on natural soil
Authors: Armstrong A. , Quinton J. N. , Heng B. C. P. , Sander G. C.
Published: January 2012

A significant amount of research focusing on the formation of surface seals and crusts and their effect on erosion can be found in the literature. In contrast, there has been limited research investigating the formation of surface shields, a layer of loose coarse sediment on the soil surface, despite the consequences for the transport of sediment, nutrients, metals and microorganisms. This study used rainfall simulation to examine the role of slope (2 and 10%), infiltration (with and without) and ponding depth (0, 0.3 and 0.7 cm) on the development of surface shields on a silt loam and a loamy sand soil. The results show that a continuous surface shield of loose coarse particles developed on the loamy sand, whereas the silt loam soil surface was covered by varying proportions of aggregates, compacted soil and loose coarse particles. Infiltration had a limited positive impact on shield development and both slope and ponding depth were significant controls over the development of the surface characteristics.
Deletion of the α immunoglobulin chain membrane‐anchoring region reduces but does not abolish IgA secretion
Authors: Amin Rada , Carrion Claire , Decourt Catherine , Pinaud Eric , Cogné Michel
Published: January 2012

Class switching and plasma cell differentiation occur at a high level within all mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissues. The different classes of membrane immunoglobulin heavy chains are associated with the Igα/Igβ heterodimer within the B‐cell receptor (BCR). Whether BCR isotypes convey specific signals adapted to the corresponding differentiation stages remains debated but IgG and IgA membranes have been suggested to promote plasma cell differentiation. We investigated the impact of blocking expression of the IgA‐class BCR through a ‘αΔtail’ targeted mutation, deleting the Cα immunoglobulin gene membrane exon. This allowed us to evaluate to what extent class switching and plasma cell differentiation can be concurrent processes, allowing some αΔtail+/+ B cells with an IgM BCR to directly differentiate into IgA plasma cells and yield serum secreted IgA in spite of the absence of membrane IgA+ B lymphocytes. By contrast, in secretions the secretory IgA was very low, indicating that J‐chain‐positive plasma cells producing secretory IgA overwhelmingly differentiate from previously class‐switched membrane IgA+ memory B cells. In addition, although mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissues are a major site for plasma cell accumulation, αΔtail+/+ mice showed that the gut B‐cell lineage homeostasis is not polarized toward plasma cell differentiation through a specific influence of the membrane IgA BCR.
The effect of dihydrotestosterone exposure during or prior to the masculinization programming window on reproductive development in male and female rats
Authors: Dean A. , Smith L. B. , Macpherson S. , Sharpe R. M.
Published: January 2012

Masculinization is programmed by androgen exposure during a masculinization programming window (MPW). Deficiency in MPW androgen action results in reduced size of all reproductive organs and anogenital distance (AGD) and reproductive disorders. Although timing of MPW closing has been defined, what determines ‘opening’ and ‘closing’ of the MPW remains unknown. To test whether initiation of testosterone production/action defines the opening of the window, we first demonstrated that androgen receptor mRNA and protein are expressed prior to the MPW, and then investigated whether masculinization could be advanced or enhanced by treating pregnant rats with either 1 or 10 mg/kg/day dihydrotestosterone (DHT) prior to (early window, EW; e11.5–e14.5) or during the MPW (e15.5–e18.5), and then evaluating offspring in foetal life (e18.5, e21.5), early puberty (day 25) or adulthood (∼day 75). DHT treatment did not affect pregnancy duration, birth, litter or pup size. DHT exposure in either time window did not advance foetal male development (Wolffian duct coiling) and had no effect on AGD, testis, penis and ventral prostate (VP) size at any age when measured; there was a tendency towards smaller penis size. In contrast, exposure of females to 10 mg DHT in either time window induced varying degrees of masculinization, including stabilization of the Wolffian duct and increased AGD (e21.5, Pnd25), VP formation, more male‐like phallus structure, absence of nipples and vaginal opening and, in some adult females, gross fluid distension of the uterus (hydrometrocolpos); these effects were generally more pronounced after exposure in the MPW than in the EW. In conclusion, exposure of the male rat foetus to additional androgens prior to or during the MPW does not advance or enhance any measured parameter of reproductive development. Therefore, androgen availability plays no role in determining timing of the MPW. Susceptibility of the female reproductive system to androgens may precede the MPW.
Simple rules to contain an invasive species with a complex life cycle and high dispersal capacity
Authors: Pichancourt Jean‐Baptiste , Chadès Iadine , Firn Jennifer , van Klinken Rieks D. , Martin Tara G.
Published: January 2012

1. Designing practical rules for controlling invasive species is a challenging task for managers, particularly when species are long‐lived, have complex life cycles and high dispersal capacities. Previous findings derived from plant matrix population analyses suggest that effective control of long‐lived invaders may be achieved by focusing on killing adult plants. However, the cost‐effectiveness of managing different life stages has not been evaluated.

2. We illustrate the benefits of integrating matrix population models with decision theory to undertake this evaluation, using empirical data from the largest infestation of mesquite (Leguminosae: Prosopis spp) within Australia. We include in our model the mesquite life cycle, different dispersal rates and control actions that target individuals at different life stages with varying costs, depending on the intensity of control effort. We then use stochastic dynamic programming to derive cost‐effective control strategies that minimize the cost of controlling the core infestation locally below a density threshold and the future cost of control arising from infestation of adjacent areas via seed dispersal.

3. Through sensitivity analysis, we show that four robust management rules guide the allocation of resources between mesquite life stages for this infestation: (i) When there is no seed dispersal, no action is required until density of adults exceeds the control threshold and then only control of adults is needed; (ii) when there is seed dispersal, control strategy is dependent on knowledge of the density of adults and large juveniles (LJ) and broad categories of dispersal rates only; (iii) if density of adults is higher than density of LJ, controlling adults is most cost‐effective; (iv) alternatively, if density of LJ is equal or higher than density of adults, management efforts should be spread between adults, large and to a lesser extent small juveniles, but never saplings.

4. Synthesis and applications. In this study, we show that simple rules can be found for managing invasive plants with complex life cycles and high dispersal rates when population models are combined with decision theory. In the case of our mesquite population, focussing effort on controlling adults is not always the most cost‐effective way to meet our management objective.
Birds as biodiversity surrogates: will supplementing birds with other taxa improve effectiveness?
Authors: Larsen Frank Wugt , Bladt Jesper , Balmford Andrew , Rahbek Carsten
Published: January 2012

1. Most biodiversity is still unknown, and therefore, priority areas for conservation typically are identified based on the presence of surrogates, or indicator groups. Birds are commonly used as surrogates of biodiversity owing to the wide availability of relevant data and their broad popular appeal. However, some studies have found birds to perform relatively poorly as indicators. We therefore ask how the effectiveness of this approach can be improved by supplementing data on birds with information on other taxa.

2. Here, we explore two strategies using (i) species data for other taxa and (ii) genus‐ and family‐level data for invertebrates (when available). We used three distinct species data sets for sub‐Saharan Africa, Denmark and Uganda, which cover different spatial scales, biogeographic regions and taxa (vertebrates, invertebrates and plants).

3. We found that networks of priority areas identified on the basis of birds alone performed well in representing overall species diversity where birds were relatively speciose compared to the other taxa in the data sets. Adding species data for one taxon increased surrogate effectiveness better than adding genus‐ and family‐level data. It became apparent that, while adding species data for other taxa increased overall effectiveness, predicting the best‐performing additional taxon was difficult. Finally, we demonstrate that increasing overall effectiveness required supplementary data for several additional taxa.

4.
Synthesis and applications. Good surrogates of biodiversity are necessary to help identify conservation areas that will be effective in preventing species extinctions. Birds perform fairly well as surrogates in cases where birds are relatively speciose, but overall effectiveness will be improved by adding additional data from other taxa, in particular from range‐restricted species. Conservation solutions with focus on birds as biodiversity surrogate could therefore benefit from also incorporating species data from other taxa.
Combining efficient methods to detect spread of woody invaders in urban–rural matrix landscapes: an exploration using two species of Oleaceae
Authors: Aslan Clare E. , Rejmánek Marcel , Klinger Robert
Published: January 2012

1. Early detection of biological invasions can reduce the costs of control and increase its efficacy. Although much research focuses on the appearance or establishment of new invaders, few studies target the detection of spread from established populations. Managers of natural areas have limited resources; therefore, there is need for efficient methods of quantifying the spread of likely invaders in local and regional areas.

2. We employed homeowner surveys, seedling outplanting, directed seedling searches and randomly located plots to determine whether two introduced species of Oleaceae, Ligustrum lucidum and Olea europaea, demonstrate invasive levels of recruitment in California’s Sacramento Valley. These methods are examples of low‐cost approaches to examining the regional spread of non‐native woody species with differing habitat requirements.

3. Homeowner surveys indicated abundant recruitment of L. lucidum in irrigated areas, with no evident decline by distance from horticultural source trees. Ligustrum lucidum seedlings established readily when planted immediately adjacent to streams, but were unable to survive summer drought when located further from the water.

4. Recruitment of O. europaea at distances >100 m from source trees was uncommon. Spread of O. europaea is rare relative to the number of reproductive individuals that have been planted in the study area; where it occurs, seedling recruitment appears largely a function of propagule pressure.

5.
Synthesis and applications. Low‐cost and rapid methods are essential for successful long‐term monitoring of spread from populations of introduced, woody plant species. We employed high‐efficiency methods of spread detection for two species of Oleaceae with invasive potential and existing populations in the study region. We detected no barriers to spread by L. lucidum in areas with elevated soil moisture and consider the species a likely riparian invader. By comparison, O. europaea shows little tendency to spread. We suggest that managers combine low‐input methods and direct surveys towards habitats of conservation concern and routes of likely seed dispersal.
Improved fish and crustacean passage in tidal creeks following floodgate remediation
Authors: Boys Craig A. , Kroon Frederieke J. , Glasby Tim M. , Wilkinson Kevin
Published: January 2012

1. Estuarine wetlands are important nurseries for fish and decapod crustaceans. Flood mitigation structures (such as levees, culverts and floodgates) that fragment wetland habitat can reduce fish and crustacean passage and subsequently impact biodiversity.

2. Remediating structures to enhance connectivity, tidal flushing and fish and crustacean passage are assumed to be important ways to rehabilitate estuarine wetlands, but they are rarely evaluated with a robust sampling protocol. Furthermore, studies are inconsistently applied across different barrier types, and success is variable. Consequently, those rehabilitating wetlands are left with an incomplete understanding of what trajectories of change (if any) may be expected from barrier remediation.

3. In collaboration with landholders and managers, ‘floodgate remediation’ (structural and operational changes to increase tidal flushing and connectivity) was undertaken in three tidal creeks in two coastal river systems in northern New South Wales, Australia. Changes in fish and crustacean passage were measured for two different techniques (flap gates built into larger gates and the intermittent opening of gates with manual winching) using a BACI design over 2 years. Temporal changes in assemblages and species richness in managed creeks were compared to those in reference creeks (i.e. without floodgates) and control creeks (with closed floodgates).

4. Both types of floodgate remediation enhanced the passage of fish and crustaceans and had significant impacts on assemblages in managed creeks when compared to control and reference creeks. This shift was sustained for the duration of our study in two of the three creeks and was driven primarily by an increase in the number of estuarine–marine‐dependent species.

5. Synthesis and applications. Our study demonstrates that floodgate remediation can facilitate fish and crustacean passage and rehabilitate aquatic assemblages in defaunated, tidally restricted wetlands. Given that the vast majority of floodgates throughout south‐eastern Australia can be altered to promote connectivity, such remediation may play an important part in guarding against future declines in estuarine connectivity arising from climate change.
Self‐reported bruxism and temporomandibular disorders: findings from two specialised centres
Authors: MANFREDINI D. , WINOCUR E. , GUARDA‐NARDINI L. , LOBBEZOO F.
Published: January 2012

Summary  The aims of this investigation were to report the frequency of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) diagnoses and the prevalence of self‐reported awake and sleep bruxism as well as to describe the possible differences between findings of two specialised centres as a basis to suggest recommendations for future improvements in diagnostic homogeneity and accuracy. A standardised Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD (RDC/TMD) assessment was performed on patients attending both TMD Clinics, viz., at the University of Padova, Italy (n = 219; 74% women) and at the University of Tel Aviv, Israel (n = 397; 79% women), to assign axis I physical diagnoses and to record data on self‐reported awake and sleep bruxism. Significant differences were shown between the two clinic samples as for the frequency of TMD diagnoses (chi‐square, P < 0·001) and the prevalence of at least one positive response to bruxism items (chi‐square, P < 0·001). The more widespread use of TMJ imaging techniques in one clinic sample led to a higher prevalence of multiple diagnoses, and the higher prevalence of self‐reported bruxism in patients with myofascial pain alone described in the other clinic sample was not replicated, suggesting that the different adoption of clinical and imaging criteria to diagnose TMD may influence also reports on their association with bruxism. From this investigation, it emerged that the features of the study samples as well as the different interpretation of the same diagnostic guidelines may have strong influence on epidemiological reports on bruxism and TMD prevalence and on the association between the two disorders.
Weak and absent peristalsis
Authors: Smout André , Fox Mark
Published: January 2012

Background  Weak and absent esophageal peristalsis are frequently encountered esophageal motility disorders, which may be associated with dysphagia and which may contribute to gastroesophageal reflux disease. Recently, rapid developments in the diagnostic armamentarium have taken place, in particular, in high‐resolution manometry with or without concurrent intraluminal impedance monitoring.

Purpose  This article aims to review the current insights in the terminology, pathology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic work‐up,and management of weak and absent peristalsis.
Achalasia and esophago‐gastric junction outflow obstruction: focus on the subtypes
Authors: Boeckxstaens G. , Zaninotto G.
Published: January 2012

Background  The choice between pneumatic dilation and surgical myotomy is mainly determined by the preference and expertise of the treating physician. Ideally, however, treatment should be personalized to provide the optimal clinical outcome. The introduction of high resolution manometry has not only improved the specificity to diagnose achalasia, but also identified three different manometric subclasses.

Purpose  To review, the data suggesting differences in clinical response to treatment depending on the manometric profile.
Future directions in esophageal motility and function – new technology and methodology
Authors: Fox M. , Sweis R.
Published: January 2012

Background  Symptom based diagnosis is not reliable in patients with swallowing problems, heartburn, and other dyspeptic complaints. The aim of investigation is to provide clinically relevant measurements of gastrointestinal structure and function that explain the cause of symptoms, identify pathology, and guide effective management. Current practice rarely meets these ideals.

Purpose  This review considers recent advances in technology such as high‐resolution manometry (HRM) with esophageal pressure topography (EPT), HRM with impedance, high frequency ultrasound, and endoscopic functional luminal impedance planimetry (Endo‐FLIP) that provide new opportunities to identify the pathophysiologic basis of esophageal symptoms and disease. As experience with these new devices increases researchers are developing new methodologies that maximize their utility in clinical practice. For example, application of HRM to assess motility and function during and after a test meal can identify the causes of swallowing problems, reflux and other postprandial symptoms and intra‐operative application of Endo‐FLIP may help surgeons perform antireflux surgery. These examples illustrate the potential of physiologic measurement to direct rational and effective clinical management for individual patients.
Latest Triassic marine Sr isotopic variations, possible causes and implications
Authors: Callegaro Sara , Rigo Manuel , Chiaradia Massimo , Marzoli Andrea
Published: January 2012

Terra Nova, 24, 130–135, 2012

Large igneous provinces have been suggested to trigger global environmental perturbations and, in turn, major biotic crises. The high resolution of marine biostratigraphy is here applied to constrain the detailed timing of the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province onset. Analyses of biogenic apatite from stratigraphically well‐constrained Tethyan realm conodont samples indicate two significant shifts of the oceanic 87Sr/86Sr composition during the latest Triassic: a rapid drop of 87Sr/86Sr during the lower Rhaetian, followed by an increase during the upper Rhaetian. These shifts are positively correlated with synchronous variations of oceanic 187Os/188Os and they may be attributed to a rapid emplacement and erosion of the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province, followed by a rapid increase in continental weathering. These interpretations require a short duration for the Rhaetian stage (<2 Ma) and are consistent with volcanogenic triggering of end‐Triassic climatic perturbations and biotic crisis starting from the Norian–Rhaetian and culminating at the Triassic–Jurassic boundary.
Maternal control of seed size by EOD3/CYP78A6 in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Fang Wenjuan , Wang Zhibiao , Cui Rongfeng , Li Jie , Li Yunhai
Published: January 2012

Seed size in higher plants is coordinately determined by the growth of the embryo, endosperm and maternal tissue, but relatively little is known about the genetic and molecular mechanisms that set final seed size. We have previously demonstrated that Arabidopsis DA1 acts maternally to control seed size, with the da1‐1 mutant producing larger seeds than the wild type. Through an activation tagging screen for modifiers of da1‐1, we have identified an enhancer of da1‐1 (eod3‐1D) in seed size. EOD3 encodes the Arabidopsis cytochrome P450/CYP78A6 and is expressed in most plant organs. Overexpression of EOD3 dramatically increases the seed size of wild‐type plants, whereas eod3‐ko loss‐of‐function mutants form small seeds. The disruption of CYP78A9, the most closely related family member, synergistically enhances the seed size phenotype of eod3‐ko mutants, indicating that EOD3 functions redundantly with CYP78A9 to affect seed growth. Reciprocal cross experiments show that EOD3 acts maternally to promote seed growth. eod3‐ko cyp78a9‐ko double mutants have smaller cells in the maternal integuments of developing seeds, whereas eod3‐1D forms more and larger cells in the integuments. Genetic analyses suggest that EOD3 functions independently of maternal factors DA1 and TTG2 to influence seed growth. Collectively, our findings identify EOD3 as a factor of seed size control, and give insight into how plants control their seed size.
Quality of life among Malaysian patients with vitiligo
Authors: Wong Su‐ming , Baba Roshidah
Published: January 2012

Background  Vitiligo is a chronic disease and can have significant impairment on patients’ quality of life (QoL). Studies have shown that limitations in QoL are similar in magnitude to patients with other chronic skin diseases like psoriasis. The objective of this study was to assess the quality of life (QoL) of patients with vitiligo attending the dermatology clinic of a tertiary hospital in Malaysia.

Methods  All patients with a clinical diagnosis of vitiligo who were seen at our dermatology clinic and phototherapy daycare center from September 15 to November 20, 2009 were invited to participate.

Results  A total of 102 patients with vitiligo were included in this survey (56.9% females, 43.1% males; mean age 43.6). The mean DLQI score ± SD was 6.40 ± 5.17. The highest mean DLQI score was seen in the patient group aged 30–59 years (mean score 7.05). Malays had significantly higher DLQI scores compared with Indians (P = 0.026).

Conclusion  Patients in our cohort showed a moderate limitation of QoL, comparable to that of other chronic skin diseases. Management should focus not only on medical treatment but also psychological aspects, hence better QoL and treatment outcomes.
Skin diseases in Greek and immigrant children in Athens
Authors: Katsarou Alexandra , Armenaka Melina , Kosmadaki Maria , Lagogianni Eirini , Vosynioti Vasiliki , Tagka Anna , Stefanaki Christina , Katsambas Andreas
Published: January 2012

Objectives  This study aimed to characterize the spectrum of skin diseases affecting children in Greece.

Methods  We retrospectively studied data for 4071 children, aged 0–12 years, who were examined and diagnosed with dermatoses at the outpatient clinic of a university dermatological hospital between December 2005 and August 2007. To evaluate changes in disease patterns, these data were compared with data for a cohort of 12,700 children diagnosed with skin diseases at the same clinic two to three decades earlier (in 1977, 1980, and 1983).

Results  The most frequent disease was dermatitis/eczema (34.7%), with atopic dermatitis found in 20.7% of children, contact dermatitis in 6.9%, pityriasis alba in 2.1%, and seborrheic dermatitis in 1.8%. Infections (19.3%), nevi (5.6%), scabies (4.8%), and insect bites (4.3%) followed. More viral (12%) than bacterial (3.7%) and fungal (3.6%) infections were noted. Warts constituted 53.2% of viral infections. Immigrants had an increased risk for bacterial infections and scabies.

Conclusions  Children diagnosed with skin diseases 24–30 years earlier were younger; exhibited lower prevalences of dermatitis/eczema (P = 0.01), viral infections (P < 0.001) and nevi (P < 0.001); higher prevalences of bacterial and fungal infections (P < 0.001) and insect bites (P < 0.01); and similar rates of scabies (P = 0.17). This study documents the high prevalence of atopic dermatitis in the region, the increasing incidence of viral infections and nevi, and the continuing problem of scabies, especially in immigrants.
Head lice infestation in schoolchildren and related factors in Mafraq governorate, Jordan
Authors: Mohammed ALBashtawy
Published: January 2012

Background  Little is known about the effect of socioeconomic status on the infestation by head lice in schoolchildren in Jordan.

Materials and methods  A cross‐sectional school‐based study was conducted from December 2009 to February 2010. A list of all primary schools in Mafraq governorate was obtained (394 primary schools). Eight primary schools were randomly selected (four male schools and four female schools). Data were collected by five well‐trained nurses. Hair was examined for head lice as well as for eggs/nits. Analysis of data was conducted by using SPSS software version 16. The chi‐square test was used to assess statistical significance of subgroup differences in the prevalence of infestation, and multivariate logistic regression was used to control for potential confounding.

Results  Out of 1550 primary schoolchildren screened, 412 (26.6%) were infected with lice, 163 (19.6%) boys and 249 (34.7%) girls. The results showed significant variations in head lice infestation by factors such as gender, age, and socioeconomic variables (family income, father’s education, mother’s education, number of rooms, number of siblings younger than 15 years, frequency of hair washing per week, and bathing per week). There was no significant variation in lice infestation with parents’ occupation (P > 0.05).

Conclusions  Socioeconomic status is a major factor influencing the occurrence of pediculosis capitis among schoolchildren in both sexes. Improving standards of living and personal hygiene might significantly reduce pediculosis capitis in schoolchildren in Jordan.
A recurrent missense mutation of keratin 1 gene in a Chinese family with epidermolytic hyperkeratosis (severe palmoplantar hyperkeratosis, type 1)
Authors: Zeng Yue‐Ping , Chai Wan‐Xin , Fang Kai , Sun Qiu‐Ning , Zuo Ya‐Gang
Published: January 2012

Background  Epidermolytic hyperkeratosis (EHK) is an autosomal dominantly inherited genodermatosis manifesting with blistering and erythroderma in infancy and widespread hyperkeratosis of the skin, particularly over flexural areas, in adulthood. It can be classified into six clinical phenotypes.

Case report  We report the case of a 25‐year‐old man who presented with severe palmoplantar thickening and hyperkeratosis over the flexures for nearly 24 years. Histopathological findings showed characteristic features of EHK, and EHK type PS‐1 (severe palmoplantar hyperkeratosis, type 1) was suspected. Further investigation revealed that his father, sister, and nephew (the son of his sister) were similarly affected. A heterozygous missense mutation in exon 7 of KRT1 (c.1436T>C), resulting in an isoleucine to threonine substitution at codon 479 (designated p.I479T), was detected in all affected individuals within the pedigree.

Discussion  Up to now, there has been one sporadic case and one family (including 14 affected individuals) with EHK type PS‐1 reported since DiGiovanna and Bale described 25 patients (from two families) with EHK type PS‐1 out of 51 patients (from 21 families) with EHK. Although the mutation (c.1436T>C) in KRT1 reported here is a recurrent one, it has not been reported in Chinese patients with EHK. It is interesting to note that the same mutation in KRT1 can cause different phenotypes of EHK.

Conclusions  We expand the clinical heterogeneity of EHK due to the same mutation (c.1436T>C) in KRT1 and enrich the database of the KRT1 gene mutations underlying EHK in the Chinese population.
Treatment of folliculitis decalvans with tacrolimus ointment
Authors: Bastida Jesús , Valerón‐Almazán Pedro , Santana‐Molina Néstor , Medina‐Gil Carolina , Carretero‐Hernández Gregorio
Published: January 2012

Folliculitis decalvans is an embarrassing and challenging disease with no established treatment guidelines. In this paper, we described four patients with this disease treated successfully with Tacrolimus ointment. All of them showed significant control of the condition, stopping inflammatory lesions and progression of the disease, although weak transitory outbreaks of inflammatory lesions were observed in some cases. Alopecia and tufted hairs remained unchanged. The discontinuation of the therapy produced rapid relapses in all cases. Close monitoring of these patients is recommended due to the potential risk of malignant transformation of the disease.
Increased incidence of aberrant DNA methylation within diverse imprinted gene loci outside of IGF2/H19 in Silver–Russell syndrome
Authors: Kannenberg K , Urban C , Binder G
Published: January 2012

Kannenberg K, Urban C, Binder G. Increased incidence of aberrant DNA methylation within diverse imprinted gene loci outside of IGF2/H19 in Silver–Russell syndrome.

Almost half of the patients with Silver–Russell syndrome (SRS) are affected by DNA hypomethylation of the Imprinting Center Region 1 (ICR1) at the IGF2/H19 locus on 11p15. We searched genome‐wide for additional aberrant DNA methylation in such SRS patients that could account for the clinical variability of the disorder. For this purpose, 18 children with SRS (11 with ICR1 hypomethylation) and 9 children small for gestational age (SGA), serving as controls, were recruited. Genomic DNA from whole blood was subjected to microarray analysis with the HumanMethylation27 BeadChip. This array allows investigating 27,500 CpG sites mostly located in the promoter regions of 14,000 genes. Data were validated by the methylation‐specific multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MS‐MLPA) technique for the 11p15 region. SRS patients with ICR1 hypomethylation were significantly more frequently affected by DNA hypo‐ and hypermethylation of CpG sites from diverse imprinted loci than the SGA controls (p = 0.0048). There was no recurrent specific methylation defect outside of IGF2/H19. These findings suggest as causative in SRS a defective mechanism necessary for establishment or maintenance of imprinting marks, which affects imprinted loci in general with low specificity and the IGF2/H19 locus with high specificity, implying the existence of some structural peculiarities at the IGF2/H19 locus.
Regional patterns and controls of leaf decomposition in Australian tropical rainforests
Authors: PARSONS SCOTT A. , CONGDON ROBERT A. , STORLIE COLLIN J. , SHOO LUKE P. , WILLIAMS STEPHEN E.
Published: January 2012

Future climates have the potential to alter decomposition rates in tropical forest with implications for carbon emissions, nutrient cycling and retention of standing litter. However, our ability to predict impacts, particularly for seasonally wet forests in the old world, is limited by a paucity of data, a limited understanding of the relative importance of different aspects of climate and the extent to which decomposition rates are constrained by factors other than climate (e.g. soil, vegetation composition). We used the litterbag method to determine leaf litter decay rates at 18 sites distributed throughout the Australian wet tropics bioregion over a 14‐month period. Specifically, we investigated regional controls on litter decay including climate, soil and litter chemical quality. We used both in situ litter collected from litterfall on site and a standardized control leaf litter substrate. The control litter removed the effect of litter chemical quality and the in situ study quantified decomposition specific to the site. Decomposition was generally slower than for other tropical rainforests globally except in our wet and nutrient‐richer sites. This is most likely attributable to the higher latitude, often highly seasonal rainfall and very poor soils in our system. Decomposition rates were best explained by a combination of climate, soil and litter quality. For in situ litter (native to the site) this included: average leaf wetness in the dry season (LWDS; i.e. moisture condensation) and the initial P content of the leaves, or LWDS and initial C. For control litter (no litter quality effect) this included: rainfall seasonality (% dry season days with 0‐mm rainfall), soil P and mean annual temperature. These results suggest that the impact of climate change on decomposition rates within Australian tropical rainforests will be critically dependent on the trajectory of dry season moisture inputs over the coming decades.