bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electroluminescence observation of nanoscale phase separation in quaternary AlInGaN light-emitting diodes
Authors: Cao X. A. , Yang Y.
Published: April 2010

Anomalous temperature-dependent electroluminescence (EL) of Al0.06In0.02Ga0.92N/Al0.1Ga0.9N multiple-quantum-well light-emitting diodes was investigated. At low temperatures and low currents, the EL was dominated by narrow peaks arising from GaN band edge (3.47 eV) and AlGaN localized state emission (3.59 eV). At 150 K, as thermalized carriers surmounted a static nanobarrier surrounding In-rich nanoclusters, the EL shifted to low-energy emission at 3.39 eV. These EL anomalies are evidence that, contradictory to theoretical predictions, there remains a strong effect of compositional fluctuation toward nanoscale phase separation in low In/Al AlInGaN alloys. During the interphase transfer at 150 K, the majority of excitons underwent nonradiative decay, leading to a sharp decrease in quantum efficiency by over one order of magnitude.
A prototypic microfluidic platform generating stepwise concentration gradients for real-time study of cell apoptosis
Authors: Dai Wen , Zheng Yizhe , Luo Kathy Qian , Wu Hongkai
Published: April 2010

This work describes the development of a prototypic microfluidic platform for the generation of stepwise concentration gradients of drugs. A sensitive apoptotic analysis method is integrated into this microfluidic system for studying apoptosis of HeLa cells under the influence of anticancer drug, etoposide, with various concentrations in parallel; it measures the yellow fluorescent protein/cyan fluorescent protein fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) signal that responds to the activation of caspase-3, an indicator of cell apoptosis. Sets of microfluidic valves on the chip generate stepwise concentration gradient of etoposide in various cell-culture microchambers. The FRET signals from multiple chambers are simultaneously monitored under a fluorescent microscope for long-time observation and the on-chip results are compared with those from 96-well plate study and the methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The microfluidic platform shows several advantages including high-throughput capacity, low drug consumption, and high sensitivity.
Observation of an anomalous mass effect in microcantilever-based biosensing caused by adsorbed DNA
Authors: Kim Seonghwan , Yi Dechang , Passian Ali , Thundat Thomas
Published: April 2010

Quantifying adsorbed mass using resonance frequency variation in a microcantilever is an established technique. However, when applied to adsorbed mass determination in liquids, the resonance frequency variations represent several contributions. While the discrepancy between the apparent and real adsorbed mass is negligible for measurements in air, it can be significant in liquids. Here we present an anomalous effect of adsorbed DNA on the resonance frequency of microcantilevers which cannot be explained using current models. Our findings suggest that the measured frequency shifts may be explained on the basis of a hydrodynamic interaction caused by the adsorbed molecules on the cantilever.
Rapid inactivation of Penicillium digitatum spores using high-density nonequilibrium atmospheric pressure plasma
Authors: Iseki Sachiko , Ohta Takayuki , Aomatsu Akiyoshi , Ito Masafumi , Kano Hiroyuki , Higashijima Yasuhiro , Hori Masaru
Published: April 2010

A promising, environmentally safe method for inactivating fungal spores of Penicillium digitatum, a difficult-to-inactivate food spoilage microorganism, was developed using a high-density nonequilibrium atmospheric pressure plasma (NEAPP). The NEAPP employing Ar gas had a high electron density on the order of 1015 cm−3. The spores were successfully and rapidly inactivated using the NEAPP, with a decimal reduction time in spores (D value) of 1.7 min. The contributions of ozone and UV radiation on the inactivation of the spores were evaluated and concluded to be not dominant, which was fundamentally different from the conventional sterilizations.
Standard Chemical Thermodynamic Properties of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Their Isomer Groups. III. Naphthocoronene Series, Ovalene Series, and First Members of Some Higher Series
Authors: Alberty Robert A. , Chung Michael B. , Reif Andrea K.
Published: April 2010

The tables in our first two papers on polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons [J. Phys. Chem. Ref. Data 17, 241 (1988) and J. Phys. Chem. Ref. Data (18, 77 (1989)], have been extended by calculating thermodynamic properties for the first two isomer groups in the naphthocoronene series, the first two isomer groups in the ovalene series, and first members of some higher series. Successive isomer groups in each series differ by C4H2. The properties of individual species have been estimated using Benson group values of Stein and Fahr for temperatures from 298.15 to 3000 K. Values of C°p, S°, ΔfH°, and ΔfG° for a standard state pressure of 1 bar are given for isomer groups and for individual species. The isomer group values provide a basis for extrapolating to higher carbon numbers where it is not feasible to consider individual molecular species.
The Exercise of Power to Limit the Development of New Housing in the English Countryside
Authors: Sturzaker John
Published: April 2010

The author argues that power is being exercised by rural elites to prevent much-needed new housing being built in the English countryside. Evidence is presented from five case-study local authorities in rural England, via analysis of interview data and policy documents produced at the regional and local plan-making level. Technocratic explanations for the ongoing failure of the planning system to deliver more housing in line with the well-established need/demand for such are rejected. Drawing on the three dimensions of power presented by Lukes, the author explores how the exercise of power effectively subverts planning processes and leads overwhelmingly to decisions being made which favour the exclusionary preferences of certain groups.
Multiple individual southern brown bandicoots (Isoodon obesulus fusciventer) and foxes (Vulpes vulpes) use underpasses installed at a new highway in Perth, Western Australia
Authors: Harris Ian M. , Mills Harriet R. , Bencini Roberta
Published: April 2010

Context. Although wildlife crossing structures are often included when new roads are built, their effectiveness at reconnecting wildlife populations is still largely unknown. A new highway was built in 2005 through an area of remnant vegetation in Perth, Western Australia. Assessment of the area before construction identified potential impacts on a population of southern brown bandicoots (Isoodon obesulus fusciventer).
Aims. We aimed to determine the use by bandicoots of three underpasses constructed to provide a linkage between habitats that were fragmented by the highway, focussing on how many different individuals used them, which is an essential step to demonstrate their effectiveness at reconnecting fragmented populations.
Methods. We used detection of tracks in sand pads for 1 year to establish the use of the underpasses by bandicoots. We then captured 56 bandicoots and fitted them with passive integrated transponders (PIT), and installed a Trovan 650 scanner/decoder within the most frequently used underpass to establish whether multiple individuals used it.
Key results. By using sand pads, we demonstrated that bandicoots used the underpasses, with a total of 278 passes between August 2005 and August 2006. One underpass accounted for 71% of these passes and was used already during construction. Eight different bandicoots were recorded using this underpass between August 2006 and August 2007, demonstrating use by multiple individuals. A dramatic decline in the use of this underpass was observed after foxes (Vulpes vulpes) also started using it in August 2006, and a fox built a den near the entrance of this structure. Because we also failed to recapture any of the bandicoots implanted with PITs we suspect that they had been killed by foxes.
Conclusions. A severe decline in bandicoots coinciding with underpass use by foxes raises questions as to the long-term success of fauna crossings. Clearly, the relationship between underpass use by predators and the target species, in this case bandicoots, needs to be examined further.
Implications. Our work demonstrated that although underpasses have the potential to reconnect populations because multiple individuals used them, their installation may be detrimental to wildlife populations if predators are not controlled.
Primary and secondary resource pulses in an alpine ecosystem: snow tussock grass (Chionochloa spp.) flowering and house mouse (Mus musculus) populations in New Zealand
Authors: Wilson Deborah J. , Lee William G.
Published: April 2010

Context. Rodent populations in many parts of the world fluctuate in response to resource pulses generated by periodic high seed production (masting) by forest trees, with cascading effects on predation risk to other forest species. In New Zealand forests, populations of exotic house mice (Mus musculus) irrupt after periodic heavy beech (Nothofagus spp.) seedfall. However, in alpine grasslands, where snow tussock grasses (Chionochloa spp.) also flower and set seeds periodically, little is known about house mouse population dynamics. Aims. Our primary objective was to test for an increase in alpine mouse density following a summer when snow tussocks flowered profusely. We also estimated mouse density in adjacent montane forest over 2 years, and assessed mouse diet, to predict their potential impacts on native species. Methods. Flowering intensity of Chionochloa was assessed by counting flowering tillers on permanent transects (2003–06). Mouse density was estimated with capture–mark–recapture trapping in alpine (2003–07) and forest (2003–04) habitats. Mice were also collected and their stomach contents analysed. Flowering or fruiting of alpine shrubs and herbs, and beech seedfall at forest sites, were also measured. Key results. Chionochloa flowered profusely in austral summer 2005/06. Between autumn (May) and spring (November) 2006, mean alpine mouse density increased from 4 ha–1 to 39 ha–1, then declined to 8 ha–1 by autumn (May 2007). No mice were captured in 768 trap-nights during the following spring (November 2007). Prior to the mouse irruption, mouse density was consistently higher at alpine (0.4–4.0 mice ha–1) than at montane forest (0.02–1.8 mice ha–1) sites (in 2003–04). Alpine mouse diet was dominated by arthropods before mast flowering, and by seeds during it. Conclusions. The density and dynamics of alpine mice in relation to intensive snow-tussock flowering were similar to those in New Zealand beech forest in relation to beech masts. Implications. We predict the timing and duration of periods of heightened predation risk to native alpine fauna, as the result of pulses in mouse density and likely associated pulses in the density of stoats (Mustela erminea), a key exotic predator.
Maximising trapping efficiency in reptile surveys: the role of seasonality, weather conditions and moon phase on capture success
Authors: Spence-Bailey Lisa M. , Nimmo Dale G. , Kelly Luke T. , Bennett Andrew F. , Clarke Michael F.
Published: April 2010

Context. Designing an appropriate survey protocol requires understanding of how capture rates of target species may be influenced by factors other than on-ground abundance, such as weather conditions or seasonality. This is particularly relevant for ectotherms such as reptiles, as activity can be affected by environmental conditions such as ambient temperature. Aims. The present study examines factors affecting capture success of reptiles in semi-arid environments of southern Australia, and addresses the following two main questions: (1) what is the influence of weather and seasonal factors on capture rates of reptiles, and (2) what are the implications for developing an effective protocol for reptile surveys? Methods. We surveyed reptiles using pitfall traps in spring and summer of 2006/07 and 2007/08 at sites (n = 280) throughout the Murray Mallee region of south-eastern Australia. We used mixed-effect regression models to investigate the influence of seasonal and weather-related variables on species’ capture success. Key results. Total captures of reptiles, and the likelihood of capture of 15 reptile species, increased with rising daily temperature. Greater numbers of individual species were captured during spring than in summer, even though temperatures were cooler. This probably reflects greater levels of activity associated with breeding. Several species were more likely to be captured when maximum or minimum daily temperatures exceeded a certain level (e.g. Lerista labialis, Delma australis, Nephrurus levis). Other factors, such as rainfall and moon phase, also influenced capture success of some species. Conclusions. Surveys for reptiles in semi-arid environments are likely to capture the greatest diversity of species on warm days in late spring months, although surveys on hot days in summer will enhance detection of particular species (e.g. Morethia boulengeri, Varanus gouldii). We recommend trapping during periods with maximum temperatures exceeding 25–30°C and minimum overnight temperatures of 15°C. Finally, trapping during rainfall and full-moon events will maximise chances of encountering species sensitive to these variables (blind snakes and geckoes). Implications. Selecting the most favourable seasonal and weather conditions will help ensure that reptile surveys maximise the likelihood of capturing the greatest diversity of reptiles, while minimising trap-effort required.
Potential and flux landscapes quantify the stability and robustness of budding yeast cell cycle network
Authors: Wang Jin , Li Chunhe , Wang Erkang
Published: April 2010

Studying the cell cycle process is crucial for understanding cell growth, proliferation, development, and death. We uncovered some key factors in determining the global robustness and function of the budding yeast cell cycle by exploring the underlying landscape and flux of this nonequilibrium network. The dynamics of the system is determined by both the landscape which attracts the system down to the oscillation orbit and the curl flux which drives the periodic motion on the ring. This global structure of landscape is crucial for the coherent cell cycle dynamics and function. The topography of the underlying landscape, specifically the barrier height separating basins of attractions, characterizes the capability of changing from one part of the system to another. This quantifies the stability and robustness of the system. We studied how barrier height is influenced by environmental fluctuations and perturbations on specific wirings of the cell cycle network. When the fluctuations increase, the barrier height decreases and the period and amplitude of cell cycle oscillation is more dispersed and less coherent. The corresponding dissipation of the system quantitatively measured by the entropy production rate increases. This implies that the system is less stable under fluctuations. We identified some key structural elements for wirings of the cell cycle network responsible for the change of the barrier height and therefore the global stability of the system through the sensitivity analysis. The results are in agreement with recent experiments and also provide new predictions.
Time-resolved nanosecond imaging of the propagation of a corona-like plasma discharge in water at positive applied voltage polarity
Authors: Ceccato P H , Guaitella O , Le Gloahec M Rabec , Rousseau A
Published: April 2010

This paper is an experimental study of a pulsed filamentary plasma discharge inside liquid water in pin-to-plane electrode configuration. Time-resolved electrical and imaging diagnostics have been performed. The initiation and the propagation of the discharge have been studied for several experimental parameters. The propagation is continuous and is followed by reilluminations at low water conductivity. The measured propagation velocity of the plasma discharge is 30 km s−1for the secondary positive mode. This velocity was found to be surprisingly constant whatever the experimental parameters and especially as a function of the water conductivity.
Copper Supplementation in Parenteral Nutrition of Cholestatic Infants
Authors: Frem Juliana , Sarson Yvonne , Sternberg Tom , Cole Conrad R
Published: April 2010

Background and Objectives:

Conventional practice is to reduce or eliminate copper (Cu) supplementation in the parenteral nutrition of infants with cholestasis because of the increased risk of hepatotoxicity. However, there are reports of Cu deficiency in cholestatic infants because of Cu reduction in their parenteral nutrition. The objectives of the present study are to determine the proportion of cholestatic infants who develop elevated serum Cu while receiving a nonreduced dose of parenteral Cu, to evaluate potential clinical factors that affect serum Cu in cholestatic infants, and to evaluate the impact of serum Cu on liver disease.

Patients and Methods:

This is a retrospective review of 28 cholestatic infants receiving 20 μg · kg−1 · day−1 of Cu via parenteral nutrition. Age‐adjusted references were used to determine normality of serum Cu levels. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine predictors of serum Cu and alanine aminotransferase (ALT).

Results:

Serum Cu levels were elevated in 2 infants (7%). On average, infants received 80% of their energy intake from parenteral nutrition for 3 months. Intestinal failure was present in 50% of the patients. Birth weight, gestational age, and ALT were identified as predictors of serum Cu (R2 = 0.53; P = 0.0001). Serum Cu, gestational age, and total bilirubin were associated with serum ALT (R2 = 0.43; P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

Supplementation of parenteral Cu at 20 μg · kg−1 · day−1 does not lead to a significant increase in Cu toxicity or worsening of liver disease in cholestatic infants.
Endotoxin and Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor‐1 Serum Levels Associated With Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis in Children
Authors: Alisi Anna , Manco Melania , Devito Rita , Piemonte Fiorella , Nobili Valerio
Published: April 2010

Objectives:

Recent evidence supports a role for endotoxemia in the progression from nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We investigated the association between serum levels of endotoxin, proinflammatory molecules, and histology in children with NAFLD.

Patients and Methods:

A total of 40 children, mean age of 11.9 ± 2.8 years (27 male and 13 female), with biopsy‐proven NAFLD were consecutively enrolled. Anthropometrics, blood pressure, and parameters of the metabolic syndrome were collected. Serum levels of endotoxin, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, and interleukin (IL)‐6 were measured by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and compared with circulating levels of the same soluble factors in 9 age‐ and sex‐matched normal weight controls (age 11.4 ± 1.7 years; 6 boys and 3 girls).

Results:

Children with NAFLD had markedly higher serum concentrations of endotoxin (P < 0.01), PAI‐1 (P < 0.001), TNF‐α, and IL‐6 (P < 0.05) than control subjects. Endotoxin (P = 0.002), PAI‐1, (P < 0.001), IL‐6 (P = 0.002), TNF‐α (P = 0.02), and body mass index (P = 0.03) were significantly associated with a NAFLD activity score ≥5 at the univariate analysis. At the stepwise regression analysis, endotoxin (P < 0.0001) and PAI‐1 (P = 0.009) were the most significant predictors for NAFLD activity score.

Conclusions:

Our findings demonstrate that, apart from TNF‐α and IL‐6, endotoxin and PAI‐1 may represent good markers of NASH. They also reinforce the hypothesis that elevated levels of endotoxin may contribute to the progression from NAFLD to NASH.
Persistence of song types in Darwin's finches,
Geospiza fortis
, over four decades
Authors: Goodale Eben , Podos Jeffrey
Published: April 2010

Learned bird songs evolve via cultural evolution, with song patterns transmitted across generations by imitative learning. In Darwin's finches of the Galápagos Islands, males learn songs from their fathers, and song types can be maintained across multiple generations. However, little is known about the time frame over which specific song types are preserved, in the face of copy errors and corresponding modifications to song structure. Here we investigate cultural evolution in songs of male
Geospiza fortis
, at Academy Bay, Santa Cruz Island, comparing songs recorded in 1961 by R. Bowman (20 individuals) to those recorded in 1999 by J. Podos (16 individuals). For each individual, we characterized four timing and six frequency parameters, and assessed inter-individual variation in song structure using multivariate analysis. Several 1961 song types persisted into 1999, some with remarkable fidelity. Variation among song types was extensive during both years, and we detected no changes in 10 vocal parameters across the sampling period. These results illustrate temporal continuity in a culturally acquired trait, and raise questions about mechanisms that promote stability in song structure.
Biogeography of Triassic tetrapods: evidence for provincialism and driven sympatric cladogenesis in the early evolution of modern tetrapod lineages
Authors: Ezcurra Martin D.
Published: April 2010

Triassic tetrapods are of key importance in understanding their evolutionary history, because several tetrapod clades, including most of their modern lineages, first appeared or experienced their initial evolutionary radiation during this Period. In order to test previous palaeobiogeographical hypotheses of Triassic tetrapod faunas, tree reconciliation analyses (TRA) were performed with the aim of recovering biogeographical patterns based on phylogenetic signals provided by a composite tree of Middle and Late Triassic tetrapods. The TRA found significant evidence for the presence of different palaeobiogeographical patterns during the analysed time spans. First, a Pangaean distribution is observed during the Middle Triassic, in which several cosmopolitan tetrapod groups are found. During the early Late Triassic a strongly palaeolatitudinally influenced pattern is recovered, with some tetrapod lineages restricted to palaeolatitudinal belts. During the latest Triassic, Gondwanan territories were more closely related to each other than to Laurasian ones, with a distinct tetrapod fauna at low palaeolatitudes. Finally, more than 75 per cent of the cladogenetic events recorded in the tetrapod phylogeny occurred as sympatric splits or within-area vicariance, indicating that evolutionary processes at the regional level were the main drivers in the radiation of Middle and Late Triassic tetrapods and the early evolution of several modern tetrapod lineages.
Neosartorya hiratsukae peritonitis through continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Koutroutsos Konstantinos , Arabatzis Michael , Bougatsos George , Xanthaki Anna , Toutouza Marina , Velegraki Aristea
Published: April 2010

Fungal peritonitis is a rare, potentially lethal, complication of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD). We report what we believe to be the first confirmed Neosartorya hiratsukae CAPD-related peritonitis case in Europe. The patient died, despite early removal of the peritoneal catheter and antifungal therapy. This report highlights the impact of emerging fungal pathogens and the importance of early diagnosis on the outcome in CAPD-related fungal peritonitis.
Differences and changes in human papillomavirus type 16 variant status in human immunodeficiency virus-positive adults are not uncommon
Authors: Steinau Martin , Swan David C. , Onyekwuluje Juanita M. , Brooks John T. , Vellozzi Claudia , Unger Elizabeth R. ,   the SUN Study Investigators3
Published: April 2010

Human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV-16) genotype variants have been the subject of several investigations, but study participants have rarely been sampled more than once. In this study, among a cohort of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected adults, HPV-16 variants were investigated in samples collected concurrently from the anus and cervix, as well as in serial samples collected from the same anatomical site at 12-month intervals. HPV-16 variants in stored extracts of cervical and anal samples were determined from subjects with multiple visits and at least one sample positive for HPV-16. Seven polymorphic nucleotide positions within the E6 region were analysed by pyrosequencing to determine genotype variants. Of 364 samples examined, 176 anal and 39 cervical swabs from 84 different subjects yielded unequivocal sequences of eight major HPV-16 variants. Eight samples contained probable novel HPV-16 variants and in one sample two variants were detected. In eight out of 29 (27.6 %) anal–cervical sample pairs positive for HPV-16, discordant variants were found. From 57 anal and nine cervical sample series of HPV-16-positive samples, a change in HPV-16 variant status over time was seen in nine (13.6 %) instances (seven anal and two cervical) from eight different participants. Changes in HPV-16 variants in HIV-infected adults were seen most frequently when different anatomical sites were sampled, but were also observed over time.
Chronic cisplatin treatment promotes enhanced damage repair and tumor progression in a mouse model of lung cancer
Authors: Oliver Trudy G. , Mercer Kim L. , Sayles Leanne C. , Burke James R. , Mendus Diana , Lovejoy Katherine S. , Cheng Mei-Hsin , Subramanian Aravind , Mu David , Powers Scott , Crowley Denise , Bronson Roderick T. , Whittaker Charles A. , Bhutkar Arjun , Lippard Stephen J. , Golub Todd , Thomale Juergen , Jacks Tyler , Sweet-Cordero E. Alejandro
Published: April 2010

Chemotherapy resistance is a major obstacle in cancer treatment, yet the mechanisms of response to specific therapies have been largely unexplored in vivo. Employing genetic, genomic, and imaging approaches, we examined the dynamics of response to a mainstay chemotherapeutic, cisplatin, in multiple mouse models of human non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We show that lung tumors initially respond to cisplatin by sensing DNA damage, undergoing cell cycle arrest, and inducing apoptosis—leading to a significant reduction in tumor burden. Importantly, we demonstrate that this response does not depend on the tumor suppressor p53 or its transcriptional target, p21. Prolonged cisplatin treatment promotes the emergence of resistant tumors with enhanced repair capacity that are cross-resistant to platinum analogs, exhibit advanced histopathology, and possess an increased frequency of genomic alterations. Cisplatin-resistant tumors express elevated levels of multiple DNA damage repair and cell cycle arrest-related genes, including p53-inducible protein with a death domain (Pidd). We demonstrate a novel role for PIDD as a regulator of chemotherapy response in human lung tumor cells.
Swim or chill: lifestyles of a bacillus
Authors: Dubnau David
Published: April 2010

Bacillussubtilisexhibits a number of lifestyles, each characterized by a distinguishing pattern of gene expression. In this issue ofGenes & Development, Chai and colleagues (pp. 754–765) dissect the decision-making processes underlying the switch between the motile and sessile states ofB. subtilis, and show a role for a double-negative feedback loop that locks the system into the sessile state. These findings are discussed in the context of the natural history and of other lifestyle decisions faced by this model organism.
Management of post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder in adult solid organ transplant recipients – BCSH and BTS Guidelines
Authors: Parker Anne , Bowles Kristin , Bradley J. Andrew , Emery Vincent , Featherstone Carrie , Gupte Girish , Marcus Robert , Parameshwar Jayan , Ramsay Alan , Newstead Charles ,   On behalf of the Haemato‐oncology Task Force of the British Committee for Standards in Haematology and British Transplantation Society
Published: April 2010

A joint working group established by the Haemato‐oncology subgroup of the British Committee for Standards in Haematology (BCSH) and the British Transplantation Society (BTS) has reviewed the available literature and made recommendations for the diagnosis and management of post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder in adult recipients of solid organ transplants. This review details the therapeutic options recommended including reduction in immunosuppression (RIS), transplant organ resection, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Effective therapy should be instituted before progressive disease results in declining performance status and multi‐organ dysfunction. The goal of treatment should be a durable complete remission with retention of transplanted organ function with minimal toxicity.
Short‐term changes in parents' resolution regarding their young child's diagnosis of cerebral palsy
Authors: Rentinck I. C. M. , Ketelaar M. , Schuengel C. , Stolk J. , Lindeman E. , Jongmans M. J. , Gorter J. W.
Published: April 2010

Objective  This study aimed to describe changes in parents' resolution regarding their young child's diagnosis of cerebral palsy over a period of 1 year, and to describe the changes in strategies of resolution.

Methods  In this longitudinal study, 38 parents of children with cerebral palsy (mean age 18.4 months, SD = 1.1 at baseline) were followed with the Reaction to Diagnosis Interview, assessing their personal reactions to their child's diagnosis (i.e. resolution status). Changes at main and subclassification level of the Reaction to Diagnosis Interview were investigated using a binominal test.

Results  Twenty‐nine parents (76%) were found to be stable with respect to their main resolution status (i.e. ‘resolved’ or ‘unresolved’), while 24% of the parents either had changed from ‘unresolved’ to ‘resolved’ or in the opposite way. Furthermore, of the 28 parents who were classified as ‘resolved’ at both times, 15 (54%) had changed at subclassification level with respect to the specific strategies used.

Conclusion  Resolution at a main level of parental reactions to their child's diagnosis was predominantly stable. Most parents were classified as ‘resolved’ at both baseline and follow‐up assessment. However, more detailed analyses at subclassification level showed that most parents with a ‘resolved’ main status showed changing patterns of resolution strategies to their child's diagnosis, suggesting that resolution is an ongoing process.
Interference between bacterial feeding nematodes and amoebae relies on innate and inducible mutual toxicity
Authors: Neidig Nina , Jousset Alexandre , Nunes Frank , Bonkowski Michael , Paul Rüdiger J. , Scheu Stefan
Published: April 2010

1. Protozoa and nematodes are important microfauna predators in soil and compete for the same food resource, bacteria. Therefore, inhibition of competitors may enhance food acquisition and fitness of individual predator species.

2. We investigated chemical based interference between the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegansand the amoebaAcanthamoeba castellaniiin a bacteria‐free gnotobiotic system.

3. Exoproducts of amoebae exhibited marked nematostatic activity, and repelled the worms. However, nematodes were able to reduce the activity of proteases and glycosidases, two enzymes playing an important role in the toxicity ofA. castellanii. Exoproducts of nematodes also detrimentally affected amoebae by reducing growth and increasing encystation.

4. The results indicate that both protozoa and nematodes can inhibit each other, and that nematodes are also able to counteract the attack by protist competitors. Non‐trophic interactions appear thus as a new factor affecting the structure of predator communities in soil.
Hypothalamic Pituitary Adrenal Axis Responses to Low‐Intensity Stressors are Reduced After Voluntary Wheel Running in Rats
Authors: Campeau S. , Nyhuis T. J. , Sasse S. K. , Kryskow E. M. , Herlihy L. , Masini C. V. , Babb J. A. , Greenwood B. N. , Fleshner M. , Day H. E. W.
Published: April 2010

Regular physical exercise is beneficial for both physical and mental health. By contrast, stress is associated with deleterious effects on health and there is growing evidence that regular physical exercise counteracts some of the effects of stress. However, most previous studies have suggested that prior exercise does not alter the acute hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis responses to stress. The present series of studies provides evidence that in rats, 6 weeks (but not 1 or 3 weeks) of voluntary wheel running reduces the HPA axis responses to lower‐intensity stressors such as an i.p. saline injection, exposure to a novel environment or exposure to moderate intensity noise, but not to more intense stressors such as predator odour exposure or restraint. Daily exercise does not appear to be necessary for the reduction in HPA axis responses, with intermittent access (24 h out of each 72‐h period) to a running wheel for 6 weeks, resulting in similar decrements in adrenocorticotrophic hormone and corticosterone release in response to 85 dBA noise exposure. Data from in situ hybridisation for c‐fos mRNA are consistent with the hypothesis that voluntary exercise results in a decrease in HPA axis responsiveness to a low‐intensity stressor at a central level, with no changes in primary sensory processing. Together, these data suggest that 6 weeks of daily or intermittent exercise constrains the HPA axis response to mild, but not more intense stressors, and that this regulation may be mediated at a central level beyond the primary sensory input.
Effects of restricted thoracic movement on the regional distribution of ventilation
Authors: PULLETZ S. , ELKE G. , ZICK G. , SCHÄDLER D. , REIFFERSCHEID F. , WEILER N. , FRERICHS I.
Published: April 2010

Background: Restricted thoracic movement is often encountered in patients, necessitating mechanical ventilation during surgery or intensive care treatment. High intraabdominal pressure, obesity or thorax rigidity and deformity reduce the chest distensibility and deteriorate the lung function. They render the selection of proper ventilator settings difficult and complicate the weaning process. Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is currently being proposed as a bedside imaging method for monitoring regional lung ventilation. The objective of our study was to establish whether the effects of decreased chest compliance on regional lung ventilation can be determined by EIT.

Methods: Ten healthy male volunteers were studied in our pilot study under three conditions: (1) unrestricted breathing and (2) restricted breathing by abdominal and (3) lower rib cage strapping. The subjects were followed during spontaneous tidal breathing in five postures (sitting, supine, prone, left and right side). EIT and spirometry data were acquired in each condition.

Results: The distribution of ventilation in subjects with unrestricted breathing corresponded with the physiologically expected values. In the left and right lateral postures, abdominal and thoracic cage restrictions reduced the ventilation in the dependent lung areas; the non‐dependent areas were unaffected. In the prone position, the ventilation of the dependent and non‐dependent areas was reduced. The effects of strapping were least pronounced in the supine posture.

Conclusions: We conclude that EIT is able to measure changes in the regional distribution of ventilation induced by restricted chest movement and has the potential for optimising artificial ventilation in patients with limited chest compliance of different origins.
Measurement of post‐operative cognitive dysfunction after cardiac surgery: a systematic review
Authors: RUDOLPH J. L. , SCHREIBER K. A. , CULLEY D. J. , MCGLINCHEY R. E. , CROSBY G. , LEVITSKY S. , MARCANTONIO E. R.
Published: April 2010

Post‐operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a decline in cognitive function from pre‐operative levels, which has been frequently described after cardiac surgery. The purpose of this study was to examine the variability in the measurement and definitions for POCD using the framework of a 1995 Consensus Statement on measurement of POCD. Electronic medical literature databases were searched for the intersection of the search terms ‘thoracic surgery’ and ‘cognition, dementia, and neuropsychological test.’ Abstracts were reviewed independently by two reviewers. English articles with >50 participants published since 1995 that performed pre‐operative and post‐operative psychometric testing in patients undergoing cardiac surgery were reviewed. Data relevant to the measurement and definition of POCD were abstracted and compared with the recommendations of the Consensus Statement. Sixty‐two studies of POCD in patients undergoing cardiac surgery were identified. Of these studies, the recommended neuropsychological tests were carried out in less than half of the studies. The cognitive domains measured most frequently were attention (n=56; 93%) and memory (n=57; 95%); motor skills were measured less frequently (n=36; 60%). Additionally, less than half of the studies examined anxiety and depression, performed neurological exam, or accounted for learning. Four definitions of POCD emerged: per cent decline (n=15), standard deviation decline (n=14), factor analysis (n=13), and analysis of performance on individual tests (n=12). There is marked variability in the measurement and definition of POCD. This heterogeneity may impede progress by reducing the ability to compare studies on the causes and treatment of POCD.
Peripheral antinociceptive effect of 2‐arachidonoyl‐glycerol and its interaction with endomorphin‐1 in arthritic rat ankle joints
Authors: Mecs Laszlo , Tuboly Gabor , Toth Kalman , Nagy Endre , Nyari Tibor , Benedek Gyorgy , Horvath Gyöngyi
Published: April 2010

1. Both cannabinoid and opioid receptors are localized at the peripheral level, and drugs acting on these receptors may produce antinociception after topical administration; however, the effect of endogenous ligands at these receptors is poorly understood. Our goal was to determine the antinociceptive potency of the endogenous cannabinoid 2‐arachidonoyl‐glycerol (2‐AG), and its interaction with endomorphin‐1 (EM1) at joint level in the rat inflammation model.

2. Mechanical hypersensitivity was produced by injection of carrageenan (300 μg/30 μL) into the tibiotarsal joint of the right hind leg. The mechanical threshold was assessed by von Frey filaments. 2‐AG (3–200 μg), EM1 (100–300 μg) and their combinations in a fixed‐dose ratio (1 : 10) were given into the inflamed joint, and the threshold was determined repeatedly for 105 min after the drug administrations.

3. Both ligands produced dose‐dependent anti‐hyperalgesia, and the highest doses caused prolonged effects, but they did not influence the degree of oedema and the withdrawal threshold at the non‐inflamed side. EM1 had lower potency compared to 2‐AG (ED25: 233 (CI: 198–268) μg and 126 (CI: 88–162) μg, respectively;P < 0.05). The effects of EM1 and 2‐AG were prevented by μ‐opioid and cannabinoid 1 receptor antagonists, respectively. The ED25value for the combination (98 (CI: 80–112) μg) did not differ significantly from the value of 2‐AG; however, the largest dose combination produced a significantly higher effect than the ligands by themselves.

4. Our data showed that 2‐AG was an effective antinociceptive ligand at joint level, and its combination with EM1 produced long‐lasting, effective antinociception.
Natural history of suspected developmental delay between 12 and 24 months of age in the 2004 Pelotas birth cohort
Authors: Moura Danilo R , Costa Jaderson C , Santos Iná S , Barros Aluísio JD , Matijasevich Alicia , Halpern Ricardo , Dumith Samuel , Karam Simone , Barros Fernando C
Published: April 2010

Aims:  To describe the incidence and persistence of suspected developmental delay (SDD) between 12 and 24 months of age and associated factors in the 2004 Pelotas Birth Cohort.

Methods:  A cohort of 4262 newborns, 3907 of whose were monitored from 12 to 24 months of life. SDD was established by Battelle Screening Developmental Inventory. The adjusted analyses were carried out using Poisson regression. Relative risks and 95% confidence intervals were calculated.

Results:  Incidence of SDD between 12 and 24 months of age was 1.8% (95% CI: 1.4–2.3). After the adjusted analyses, the following factors increased the risk of the incidence: Apgar 5′ < 7, preterm delivery, low socio‐economic level, intergestational interval ≤24 months, not having been told stories in the previous 2 weeks, lack of children's books at home and male gender. A total of 390 children were positive in the 12 month (prevalence of 10%; 95% CI: 9.0–10.9). From these children, 58 remained positive up to 2 years of age, with a persistence rate of 15.6% (95% CI: 11.9–19.3). The following were factors for persistence in SDD: Apgar 5′ < 7, low socio‐economic level, intergestational interval ≤24 months, breastfeeding duration <6 months and not having been told stories in the previous 2 weeks.

Conclusions:  Easy access to children's literature and telling stories to children are inexpensive measures that may have an impact on the child's development between 12 and 24 months of life.
Managing organ transplantation, the ultimate public resource
Authors: Carney G.
Published: April 2010

Public awareness campaigns have minimal impact on transplant waiting lists. Why? There is no substantial Australian‐based research on the attitudes of stakeholders, or the public. An explanation is awareness groups may have a negative impact either by promoting public fatigue about organ donation or, for want of professionalism and training, lack the tact to convey a balanced message. The nascent Australian Organ and Tissue, Donation and Transplantation Authority is a welcome influence to the administration of transplantation, with a promise of an evidence‐based approach to tackle a pragmatic appraisal of the problem and implementing practical methodologies to increase transplantation.
Molecular evidence for widespread occurrence of Foraminifera in soils
Authors: Lejzerowicz Franck , Pawlowski Jan , Fraissinet‐Tachet Laurence , Marmeisse Roland
Published: April 2010

Environmental SSU rDNA‐based surveys are contributing to the dramatic revision of eukaryotic high‐level diversity and phylogeny as the number of sequence data increases. This ongoing revolution gives the opportunity to test for the presence of some eukaryotic taxa in environments where they have not been found using classical microscopic observations. Here, we test whether the foraminifera, a group of single‐celled eukaryotes, considered generally as typical for the marine ecosystems are present in soil. We performed foraminiferal‐specific nested PCR on 20 soil DNA samples collected in contrasted environments. Unexpectedly, we found that the majority of the samples contain foraminiferal SSU rDNA sequences. In total, we obtained 49 sequences from 17 localities. Phylogenetic analysis clusters them in four groups branching among the radiation of early foraminiferal lineages. Three of these groups also include sequences originated from previous freshwater surveys, suggesting that there were up to four independent colonization events of terrestrial and/or freshwater ecosystems by ancestral foraminifera. As shown by our data, foraminifera are a widespread and diverse component of soil microbial communities. Yet, identification of terrestrial foraminiferal species and understanding of their ecological role represent an exciting challenge for future research.
Multilocus PCR typing strategy for differentiation of Staphylococcus aureus siphoviruses reflecting their modular genome structure
Authors: Kahánková Jana , Pantůček Roman , Goerke Christiane , Růžičková Vladislava , Holochová Pavla , Doškař Jiří
Published: April 2010

Given the great biological importance and high diversity of temperate Staphylococcus aureus bacteriophages, a method is needed for the description of their genomic structure. Here we have updated a multiplex PCR strategy for the complex characterization of S. aureus phages of the family Siphoviridae. Based on the comparative genomic analysis of the available phage sequences, a multilocus PCR strategy for typing the major modules of the phage genome was designed. The genomic modules were classified on the basis of the genes for integrase (10 types), anti‐repressor (five types), replication proteins polA, dnaC and dnaD (four types), dUTPase (four types), portal protein (eight types), tail appendices (four types) and endolysin (four types) corresponding to the integrase locus, lysogeny control region, and modules for DNA replication, transcription regulation, packaging, tail appendices and lysis respectively. The nine PCR assays designed for the above sequences were shown to be capable to identify the bacteriophage gene pool present both in the phage and bacterial genomes and their extensive mosaic structure. The established multiplex PCR‐based multilocus diagnostic scheme is convenient for rapid and reliable phage and prophage classification and for the study of bacteriophage evolution.
Identifying the risk of disease progression after surgery for localized renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Abel E. Jason , Culp Stephen H. , Meissner Matthew , Matin Surena F. , Tamboli Pheroze , Wood Christopher G.
Published: April 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors in a large cohort of patients with pathologically localized renal cell carcinoma (RCC) that predicted disease progression after surgery, as RCC most commonly presents as a localized tumour which is treated with surgical excision.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Using an institutional database, we identified all patients who underwent radical or partial nephrectomy and had pathologically confirmed pT1 or pT2 RCC. Multivariable stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to calculate an odds ratio corresponding to the odds of progression to metastatic disease during surveillance, based on several clinical and pathological variables. We defined those variables that remained significant on multivariable analysis as risk factors and, based on the number of risk factors, we assessed risk of disease progression.

RESULTS

In all, 925 patients were eligible for analysis with a median follow‐up of 48.2 months. There was progression to metastatic disease in 53 (5.7%) patients; pT1 in 20/774 (2.6%), pT2 in 33/151 (21.9%). Risk factors included pT2 disease, male gender, symptoms at presentation (local or constitutional), presence of sarcomatoid de‐differentiation, and macroscopic necrosis on final pathology. In 177 patients with no risk factors, none progressed; 20 of 618 (3.2%) with one or two risk factors had progression at a median of 37.1 months; 33 of 130 (25.4%) with three or more risk factors progressed at a median of 25.2 months.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified five risk factors that can help to predict those patients with pT1 or pT2 RCC at highest risk for disease progression after surgery. The potential for disease progression is exceedingly low in patients with no risk factors and surveillance can be minimized in this group.