bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental taphonomy of giant sulphur bacteria: implications for the interpretation of the embryo-like Ediacaran Doushantuo fossils
Authors: Cunningham J. A. , Thomas C.-W. , Bengtson S. , Marone F. , Stampanoni M. , Turner F. R. , Bailey J. V. , Raff R. A. , Raff E. C. , Donoghue P. C. J.
Published: December 2011

The Ediacaran Doushantuo biota has yielded fossils interpreted as eukaryotic organisms, either animal embryos or eukaryotes basal or distantly related to Metazoa. However, the fossils have been interpreted alternatively as giant sulphur bacteria similar to the extant
Thiomargarita
. To test this hypothesis, living and decayed
Thiomargarita
were compared with Doushantuo fossils and experimental taphonomic pathways were compared with modern embryos. In the fossils, as in eukaryotic cells, subcellular structures are distributed throughout cell volume; in
Thiomargarita
, a central vacuole encompasses approximately 98 per cent cell volume. Key features of the fossils, including putative lipid vesicles and nuclei, complex envelope ornament, and ornate outer vesicles are incompatible with living and decay morphologies observed in
Thiomargarita
. Microbial taphonomy of
Thiomargarita
also differed from that of embryos. Embryo tissues can be consumed and replaced by bacteria, forming a replica composed of a three-dimensional biofilm, a stable fabric for potential fossilization. Vacuolated
Thiomargarita
cells collapse easily and do not provide an internal substrate for bacteria. The findings do not support the hypothesis that giant sulphur bacteria are an appropriate interpretative model for the embryo-like Doushantuo fossils. However, sulphur bacteria may have mediated fossil mineralization and may provide a potential bacterial analogue for other macroscopic Precambrian remains.
Epistasis can lead to fragmented neutral spaces and contingency in evolution
Authors: Schaper Steffen , Johnston Iain G. , Louis Ard A.
Published: December 2011

In evolution, the effects of a single deleterious mutation can sometimes be compensated for by a second mutation which recovers the original phenotype. Such epistatic interactions have implications for the structure of genome space—namely, that networks of genomes encoding the same phenotype may not be connected by single mutational moves. We use the folding of RNA sequences into secondary structures as a model genotype–phenotype map and explore the neutral spaces corresponding to networks of genotypes with the same phenotype. In most of these networks, we find that it is not possible to connect all genotypes to one another by single point mutations. Instead, a network for a phenotypic structure withnbonds typically fragments into at least 2nneutral components, often of similar size. While components of the same network generate the same phenotype, they show important variations in their properties, most strikingly in their evolvability and mutational robustness. This heterogeneity implies contingency in the evolutionary process.
Fitness consequences of centrality in mutualistic individual-based networks
Authors: Gómez José M. , Perfectti Francisco
Published: December 2011

The relationships among the members of a population can be visualized using individual networks, where each individual is a node connected to each other by means of links describing the interactions. The centrality of a given node captures its importance within the network. We hypothesize that in mutualistic networks, the centrality of a node should benefit its fitness. We test this idea studying eight individual-based networks originated from the interaction between
Erysimum mediohispanicum
and its flower visitors. In these networks, each plant was considered a node and was connected to conspecifics sharing flower visitors. Centrality indicates how well connected is a given
E. mediohispanicum
individual with the rest of the co-occurring conspecifics because of sharing flower visitors. The centrality was estimated by three network metrics: betweenness, closeness and degree. The complex relationship between centrality, phenotype and fitness was explored by structural equation modelling. We found that the centrality of a plant was related to its fitness, with plants occupying central positions having higher fitness than those occupying peripheral positions. The structural equation models (SEMs) indicated that the centrality effect on fitness was not merely an effect of the abundance of visits and the species richness of visitors. Centrality has an effect even when simultaneously accounting for these predictors. The SEMs also indicated that the centrality effect on fitness was because of the specific phenotype of each plant, with attractive plants occupying central positions in networks, in relation to the distribution of conspecific phenotypes. This finding suggests that centrality, owing to its dependence on social interactions, may be an appropriate surrogate for the interacting phenotype of individuals.
Restriction of histone gene transcription to S phase by phosphorylation of a chromatin boundary protein
Authors: Kurat Christoph F. , Lambert Jean-Philippe , van Dyk Dewald , Tsui Kyle , van Bakel Harm , Kaluarachchi Supipi , Friesen Helena , Kainth Pinay , Nislow Corey , Figeys Daniel , Fillingham Jeffrey , Andrews Brenda J.
Published: December 2011

The cell cycle-regulated expression of core histone genes is required for DNA replication and proper cell cycle progression in eukaryotic cells. Although some factors involved in histone gene transcription are known, the molecular mechanisms that ensure proper induction of histone gene expression during S phase remain enigmatic. Here we demonstrate that S-phase transcription of the model histone gene HTA1 in yeast is regulated by a novel attach–release mechanism involving phosphorylation of the conserved chromatin boundary protein Yta7 by both cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (Cdk1) and casein kinase 2 (CK2). Outside S phase, integrity of the AAA-ATPase domain is required for Yta7 boundary function, as defined by correct positioning of the histone chaperone Rtt106 and the chromatin remodeling complex RSC. Conversely, in S phase, Yta7 is hyperphosphorylated, causing its release from HTA1 chromatin and productive transcription. Most importantly, abrogation of Yta7 phosphorylation results in constitutive attachment of Yta7 to HTA1 chromatin, preventing efficient transcription post-recruitment of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII). Our study identified the chromatin boundary protein Yta7 as a key regulator that links S-phase kinases with RNAPII function at cell cycle-regulated histone gene promoters.
MicroRNAs as master regulators of the plant NB-LRR defense gene family via the production of phased, trans-acting siRNAs
Authors: Zhai Jixian , Jeong Dong-Hoon , De Paoli Emanuele , Park Sunhee , Rosen Benjamin D. , Li Yupeng , González Alvaro J. , Yan Zhe , Kitto Sherry L. , Grusak Michael A. , Jackson Scott A. , Stacey Gary , Cook Douglas R. , Green Pamela J. , Sherrier D. Janine , Meyers Blake C.
Published: December 2011

Legumes and many nonleguminous plants enter symbiotic interactions with microbes, and it is poorly understood how host plants respond to promote beneficial, symbiotic microbial interactions while suppressing those that are deleterious or pathogenic. Trans-acting siRNAs (tasiRNAs) negatively regulate target transcripts and are characterized by siRNAs spaced in 21-nucleotide (nt) “phased” intervals, a pattern formed by DICER-LIKE 4 (DCL4) processing. A search for phased siRNAs (phasiRNAs) found at least 114 Medicago loci, the majority of which were defense-related NB-LRR-encoding genes. We identified three highly abundant 22-nt microRNA (miRNA) families that target conserved domains in these NB-LRRs and trigger the production of trans-acting siRNAs. High levels of small RNAs were matched to >60% of all ∼540 encoded Medicago NB-LRRs; in the potato, a model for mycorrhizal interactions, phasiRNAs were also produced from NB-LRRs. DCL2 and SGS3 transcripts were also cleaved by these 22-nt miRNAs, generating phasiRNAs, suggesting synchronization between silencing and pathogen defense pathways. In addition, a new example of apparent “two-hit” phasiRNA processing was identified. Our data reveal complex tasiRNA-based regulation of NB-LRRs that potentially evolved to facilitate symbiotic interactions and demonstrate miRNAs as master regulators of a large gene family via the targeting of highly conserved, protein-coding motifs, a new paradigm for miRNA function.
The Cyc8–Tup1 complex inhibits transcription primarily by masking the activation domain of the recruiting protein
Authors: Wong Koon Ho , Struhl Kevin
Published: December 2011

The yeast Tup1–Cyc8 corepressor complex is recruited to promoters by DNA-binding repressors, but the mechanisms by which it inhibits expression of genes involved in various stress pathways are poorly understood. Conditional and rapid depletion of Tup1 from the nucleus leads to concurrent nucleosome depletion and histone acetylation, recruitment of coactivators (Swi/Snf, SAGA, and Mediator), and increased transcriptional activity. Conversely, coactivator dissociation occurs rapidly upon rerepression by Cyc8–Tup1, although coactivator association and transcription can be blocked even in the absence of nucleosomes. The coactivators are recruited to the sites where Tup1 was located prior to depletion, indicating that the repressor proteins that recruit Tup1 function as activators in its absence. Last, Cyc8–Tup1 can interact with activation domains in vivo. Thus, Cyc8–Tup1 regulates transcription primarily by masking and inhibiting the transcriptional activation domains of the recruiting proteins, not by acting as a corepressor. We suggest that the corepressor function of Cyc8–Tup1 makes only a modest contribution to expression of target genes, specifically to keep expression levels below the nonactivated state.
SOX after SOX: SOXession regulates neurogenesis: Figure 1.
Authors: Wegner Michael
Published: December 2011

Vertebrate embryonic stem (ES) cells give rise to many different cell types in multistep processes. These involve the establishment of a competent state, specification, differentiation, and maturation, and often involve Sox transcription factors. In this issue of Genes & Development, Bergsland and colleagues (pp. 2453–2464) determine the genome-wide binding profile of Sox2, Sox3, and Sox11 as ES cells become specified to neural precursors and differentiate into neurons. An ordered, sequential binding of these Sox proteins to a common set of gene enhancers was found to drive neurogenesis, as Sox proteins first help to preselect neural genes in ES cells and later ensure their proper activation in neural precursors or neurons.
Silencing MPK4 in Nicotiana attenuata Enhances Photosynthesis and Seed Production But Compromises Abscisic Acid-Induced Stomatal Closure and Guard Cell-Mediated Resistance to Pseudomonas syringae pv tomato DC3000
Authors: Hettenhausen Christian , Baldwin Ian T. , Wu Jianqiang
Published: December 2011

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) play pivotal roles in development and environmental interactions in eukaryotes. Here, we studied the function of a MAPK, NaMPK4, in the wild tobacco species Nicotiana attenuata. The NaMPK4-silenced N. attenuata (irNaMPK4) attained somewhat smaller stature, delayed senescence, and greatly enhanced stomatal conductance and photosynthetic rate, especially during late developmental stages. All these changes were associated with highly increased seed production. Using leaf epidermal peels, we demonstrate that guard cell closure in irNaMPK4 was strongly impaired in response to abscisic acid and hydrogen peroxide, and consistently, irNaMPK4 plants transpired more water and wilted sooner than did wild-type plants when they were deprived of water. We show that NaMPK4 plays an important role in the guard cell-mediated defense against a surface-deposited bacterial pathogen, Pseudomonas syringae pv tomato (Pst) DC3000; in contrast, when bacteria directly entered leaves by pressure infiltration, NaMPK4 was found to be less important in the resistance to apoplast-located Pst DC3000. Moreover, we show that salicylic acid was not involved in the defense against PstDC3000 in wild-type and irNaMPK4 plants once it had entered leaf tissue. Finally, we provide evidence that NaMPK4 functions differently from AtMPK4 and AtMPK11 in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), despite their sequence similarities, suggesting a complex functional divergence of MAPKs in different plant lineages. This work highlights the multifaceted functions of NaMPK4 in guard cells and underscores its role in mediating various ecologically important traits.
A Phase I, dose‐finding and pharmacokinetic study of olaparib (AZD2281) in Japanese patients with advanced solid tumors*,†
Authors: Yamamoto Noboru , Nokihara Hiroshi , Yamada Yasuhide , Goto Yasushi , Tanioka Maki , Shibata Takashi , Yamada Kazuhiko , Asahina Hajime , Kawata Toshio , Shi Xiaojin , Tamura Tomohide
Published: December 2011

Olaparib (AZD2281) is an orally active Poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor with favorable antitumor activity in advanced ovarian and breast cancers with BRCA1/2 mutations in Western (USA and European) studies. This Phase I dose‐finding study evaluated the tolerability, pharmacokinetics, PARP inhibitory activity, and antitumor activity of olaparib in Japanese patients with solid tumors. Olaparib was administered as a single‐dose on day 1, followed by twice‐daily dosing for 28 days from 48 h after a single dose. Doses were escalated from 100 mg b.i.d. in successive cohorts, up to a maximum of 400 mg b.i.d. The present study enrolled 12 patients (n = 3, 3, and 6 in 100, 200 and 400‐mg b.i.d. levels, respectively). The most common adverse events were nausea, increased blood creatinine, decreased hematocrit, leukopenia and lymphopenia; dose‐limiting toxicities were not observed up to and including the 400‐mg b.i.d. dose level. Following twice‐daily dosing, olaparib showed no marked increase in exposure at steady state over that expected from the single‐dose pharmacokinetics. PARP‐1 inhibition was observed from the 100‐mg b.i.d. dose level in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 6 h post‐dose on day 1 during the multiple‐dosing period. A patient with metastatic breast cancer (100 mg b.i.d.) had a partial response for 13 months and four patients (two each in the 200 and 400‐mg b.i.d. levels) had stable disease >8 weeks. Olaparib was well tolerated up to the 400‐mg b.i.d. dose in Japanese patients with solid tumors. Preliminary evidence of antitumor activity was observed. (Cancer Sci 2012; 103: 504–509)
Aberrant DNA methylation profile in pleural fluid for differential diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Fujii Masanori , Fujimoto Nobukazu , Hiraki Akio , Gemba Kenichi , Aoe Keisuke , Umemura Shigeki , Katayama Hideki , Takigawa Nagio , Kiura Katsuyuki , Tanimoto Mitsune , Kishimoto Takumi
Published: December 2011

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) usually develops pleural fluid. We investigated the value of DNA methylation in the pleural fluid for differentiating MPM from lung cancer (LC). Pleural fluid was collected from 39 patients with MPM, 46 with LC, 25 with benign asbestos pleurisy (BAP) and 30 with other causes. The methylation of O6‐methylguanine‐DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), p16INK4a, ras association domain family 1A (RASSF1A), death‐associated protein kinase (DAPK), and retinoic acid receptor β (RARβ) was examined using quantitative real‐time PCR. DNA methylation of RASSF1A, p16INK4a, RARβ, MGMT and DAPK was detected in 12 (30.8%), 3 (7.7%), 11 (28.2%), 0 (0.0%) and five patients (12.8%) with MPM, and in 22 (47.8%), 14 (30.4%), 24 (52.2%), 1 (2.2%) and six patients (13.0%) with LC, respectively. The mean methylation ratios of RASSF1A, p16INK4a and RARβ were 0.37 (range 0.0–2.84), 0.11 (0.0–2.67) and 0.44 (0.0–3.32) in MPM, and 0.87 (0.0–3.14), 1.16 (0.0–5.35) and 1.69 (0.0–6.49) in LC, respectively. The methylation ratios for the three genes were significantly higher in LC than in MPM (RASSF1A, P = 0.039; p16INK4a, P = 0.005; and RARβ, P = 0.002). Patients with methylation in at least one gene were 3.51 (95% confidence interval, 1.09–11.34) times more likely to have LC. Hypermethylation seemed no greater with MPM than with BAP. Extended exposure to asbestos (≧30 years) was correlated with an increased methylation frequency (P = 0.020). Hypermethylation of tumor suppressor genes in pleural fluid DNA has the potential to be a valuable marker for differentiating MPM from LC. (Cancer Sci 2012; 103: 510–514)
Venous access and care: harnessing pragmatics in harm reduction for people who inject drugs
Authors: Harris Magdalena , Rhodes Tim
Published: December 2011

Aim  To explore the facilitators of long‐term hepatitis C avoidance among people who inject drugs.

Design  We employed a qualitative life history design.

Setting  Recruitment took place through low‐threshold drug services and drug user networks in South East and North London. Participants were interviewed at the recruitment services or in their homes.

Participants  The sample comprised 35 people who inject drugs, 20 of whom were hepatitis C antibody‐negative. Participants' average injecting trajectory was 19 years (6–33), with 66% primarily injecting heroin, and 34% a crack and heroin mix. Nine (26%) of the sample were female and the average age was 39 years (23–53).

Measurements  Two interviews were conducted with each participant, with the second interview incorporating reference to a computer‐constructed life history time‐line. Interview accounts were audiorecorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically.

Findings  Hepatitis C risk awareness was recent and deprioritized by the majority of participants. The facilitation of venous access and care was an initial and enduring rationale for safe injecting practices. Difficult venous access resulted in increased contamination of injecting environments and transitions to femoral injecting. Participants expressed an unmet desire for non‐judgemental venous access information and advice.

Conclusions  Harm reduction interventions which attend to the immediate priorities of people who inject drugs, such as venous access and care, have the potential to re‐engage individuals who are jaded or confused by hepatitis C prevention messages.
Patch use behaviour of Elephantulus myurus and Micaelamys namaquensis: the role of diet, foraging substrates and escape substrates
Authors: Abu Baker Mohammad A. , Brown Joel S.
Published: December 2011

We investigated the role of diet and substrate features in the coexistence and habitat affinities of the rock elephant shrew, Elephantulus myurus, and the Namaqua mouse, Micaelamys namaquensis. We measured giving‐up densities at experimental food patches that varied in foraging substrate, escape substrate surrounding the food patch and food type. In terms of food consumption, E. myurus favoured pebble (63% total harvest) over sand and sawdust, whereas M. namaquensis favoured foraging in sand (48% total harvest) over sawdust (29%) and pebbles (23%). Mealworms comprised most of E. myurus’s harvest, and M. namaquensis harvested seeds the most, followed by alfalfa and mealworms. In terms of escape substrates, M. namaquensis had significantly higher GUDs when the food patch was surrounded by tussocks of sedge (average 28.11 seeds/patch) than rock surfaces (17.41) or by bush/crevice (14.36). In conjunction with morphologic adaptations, E. myurus detects and recovers food using its snout and long tongue, and M. namaquensis digs and handles foods with its forepaws. The different foraging preferences of E. myurus and M. namaquensis suggest that the interaction of substrates with food types characterize their niches and promote coexistence. Elephantulus myurus travelled greater distances, whereas M. namaquensis was selective for microhabitats offering refuge or traction.
Molecular genetic characterization of ovine CSN1S2 variants C and D reveal further important variability within CSN1S2
Authors: Giambra I. J. , Erhardt G.
Published: December 2011

Within this study, the recently identified ovine CSN1S2 variants C and D were characterized at the molecular genetic level. Sequencing of the cDNA and of parts of the DNA identified several sequence differences within CSN1S2*C and D in comparison to CSN1S2*A and B. CSN1S2*C is characterized by two non‐synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within exon 7 (c.178A>G, c.187G>T) leading to the amino acid substitutions p.Val45Ile and p.Ala48Ser. CSN1S2*D is caused by the SNP c.183G>C, leading to an amino acid replacement at position 46 (p.Arg46Ser). A very common c.527G>A‐SNP within exon 15, resulting in the amino acid substitution p.Arg161His and producing the new variant CSN1S2*G, not detectable by isoelectric focusing and previously misidentified as CSN1S2*A, was also identified. On the basis of the identified sequence differences, a new nomenclature is proposed and a possible phylogenetic pathway shown for ovine CSN1S2 variants.
Neonatal bleeding in haemophilia: a European cohort study
Authors: Richards M. , Lavigne Lissalde G. , Combescure C. , Batorova A. , Dolan G. , Fischer K. , Klamroth R. , Lambert T. , Lopez‐Fernandez M. , Pérez R. , Rocino A. , Fijnvandraat K. ,   on behalf of the European Haemophilia Treatment and Standardization Board
Published: December 2011

Birth is the first haemostatic challenge for a child with haemophilia. Our aim was to examine the association between perinatal risk factors and major neonatal bleeding in infants with haemophilia. This observational cohort study in 12 European haemophilia treatment centres (HTC) incorporated 508 children with haemophilia A or B, born between 1990 and 2008. Risk factors for bleeding were analysed by univariate analysis. Head bleeds occurred in 18 (3·5%) children within the first 28 d of life, including three intraparenchymal bleeds, one subdural haematoma and 14 cephalohaematomas. Intra‐cranial bleeds were associated with long‐term neurological sequelae in two (0·4%) cases; no deaths occurred. Assisted delivery (forceps/vacuum) was the only risk factor for neonatal head bleeding [Odds Ratio (OR) 8·84: 95% confidence interval (CI) 3·05–25·61]. Mild haemophilia and maternal awareness of her haemophilia carrier status seemed to be protective (OR 0·24; 95%CI 0·05–1·05 and OR 0·34; 95%CI 0·10–1·21, respectively), but due to the low number of events this was not statistically significant. We found no association between neonatal head bleeding and country, maternal age, parity, gestational age or presence of HTC. Maternal awareness of carrier status protected against assisted delivery (unadjusted OR 0·37; 95%CI 0·15–0·90; adjusted OR 0·47 (95%CI 0·18–1·21).
Vulnerable children's health as described in investigations of reported children
Authors: Hultman Elin , Alm Charlotte , Cederborg Ann‐Christin , Fälth Magnusson Karin
Published: December 2011

This study explores whether the social services weigh in health aspects, and what these may be, when investigating reported children's life situation. Information about physical and psychological health aspects for 259 children in 272 investigations was included. Overall, information about children's health was limited. Problematic emotions were the most commonly reported health aspect in the investigations, whereas suicidal thoughts, self‐harm behaviour and gastrointestinal and renal diseases were mentioned least of all. A cluster analysis revealed that thelow level of health informationgroup included the largest sample of data and consisted of investigations with minimal information about children's health. The three other cluster groups,Neurological diseases and psychosomatic symptoms,Emotional healthandPhysical and psychological health and destructive behaviour, consisted of investigations conducted mostly according to the model called Children's Needs In Focus (BBIC, in Swedish, Barns Behov i Centrum). Although these investigations also produced limited information, they provided more than those assessed as having a low level of information about health aspects. The conclusion is that it is necessary to increase information about health aspects in investigations if social welfare systems are to be able to fulfil their ambition of supporting vulnerable children's need of health care.
You matter to me: important relationships and self‐esteem of adolescents in foster care
Authors: Farineau Heather M. , Stevenson Wojciak Armeda , McWey Lenore M.
Published: December 2011

This study examined the extent to which relationships with biological mothers, foster parents and peers influenced the self‐esteem of adolescents in foster care. A subsample from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well‐Being of adolescents in long‐term foster care was used for this study (n = 188). The findings indicated that when considering relationships with biological mothers, foster parents and peers and controlling for demographic characteristics in one regression model, relationships with peers had the greatest impact on self‐esteem of adolescents. Implications for child welfare and clinical work are discussed.
Incubation temperature affects the metabolic cost of thermoregulation in a young precocial bird
Authors: DuRant Sarah E. , Hopkins William A. , Wilson Amanda F. , Hepp Gary R.
Published: December 2011

1. The developmental environment plays a key role in determining offspring phenotype, and the parents’ behaviour and physiology often dictates developmental conditions. Despite the plethora of studies documenting the importance of incubation temperature on offspring phenotype in reptiles, very few studies have examined such relationships in birds.

2. Because nearly all birds physically incubate their eggs, altering the nest environment may be an important but previously overlooked way parents can influence their offspring’s phenotype. Here, we tested the hypothesis that incubation temperature would affect thermoregulation in wood duck (Aix sponsa) hatchlings.

3. We show that a reduction in <1 °C in incubation temperature affects the metabolic costs of thermoregulation in offspring of a non‐domesticated bird, resulting in 27–40% greater increases in oxygen consumption of ducklings incubated at the lowest temperature relative to ducklings incubated at higher temperatures.

4. Because we demonstrate that incubation temperature affects hatchling phenotypic quality, our findings provide novel support for newly proposed frameworks that highlight the importance of incubation temperature to the evolution of clutch size in birds.
Protected raspberry production alters aphid–plant interactions but not aphid population size
Authors: Johnson Scott N. , Young Mark W. , Karley Alison J.
Published: December 2011

Aphid population dynamics in crops are often driven by interactions with their host plants, which can be extensively influenced by environmental change. Protective environments (i.e. plastic tunnels) are now frequently used for soft fruit production, which may affect the localized climate and alter such interactions. This two year study on red raspberry (Rubus idaeus) addressed how protected environments affected two aphid species; the large raspberry aphid Amphorophora idaei (LRA) and the small raspberry aphid Aphis idaei (SRA).

Temperatures were higher (up to 7–10 °C) in tunnels compared with the field. Plants in tunnels grew approximately 1.4 cm/week faster and had lower (approximately 35%) foliar amino acid concentrations than plants in the field.

Aphids affected plant growth differently depending on growing environment; they promoted plant growth by 18–37% in tunnels, although they had no such effect in the field. Aphids reduced total and essential amino acid concentrations, with SRA causing greatest reductions (approximately 40% and 33%, respectively).

Aphid population sizes were similar in both environments, although individual LRA were smaller in tunnels (30% smaller in 2007) compared with those in the field. We suggest that faster aphid development rates inside warmer tunnels were not realized as a result of the variable effects of the growing environment on amino acid composition.

We conclude that the increasing use of protected environments in crop production will not necessarily cause predictable increases in aphid populations, although it may alter aphid–plant interactions in terms of aphid‐induced changes to plant growth.
Local inflammation influences oestrogen metabolism in prostatic tissue
Authors: Mosli Hisham A. , Al‐Abd Ahmed M. , El‐Shaer Marwa A. , Khedr Alaa , Gazzaz Faten S. , Abdel‐Naim Ashraf B.
Published: December 2011

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The role of oestrogen in prostatic inflammation has been extensively shown. The catechol oestrogens are known to be more potent oestrogenic moieties that not only aggravate the inflammatory response in situ, but are also believed to have oxidative stress and genotoxic effects.

The present study highlights a significant role of inflammation in oestrogen metabolism and, particularly, in generating ‘bad’ oestrogen metabolites. This finding may pave the way for new therapeutic methods for the treatment and/or prevention of prostate diseases.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the impact of experimentally induced inflammation on oestrogen metabolism in rat prostate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prostatitis was induced in normal and oestrogen‐treated male rats by injecting 2% carrageenan solution into the ventral prostate. After 48 h, the rats were killed and the ventral prostate was collected.

Prostatic inflammation and proliferation were confirmed by gross visual evidence, histology and elevated tumour necrosis factor‐α, prostaglandin E2 and cyclin‐D1.

Expression of oestrogen‐metabolizing enzymes was assessed using capillary electrophoresis, and oestrogen metabolites within prostate tissue were assayed using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

Animals exposed to carrageenan insult combined with oestrogen treatment showed the most prominent inflammatory and proliferative response.

Treatment of animals with oestrogen alone induced moderate inflammation and proliferation.

Oestrogen‐metabolizing enzymes were overexpressed in animals with experimental prostatitis with sequential accumulation of catechol oestrogens within prostatic tissues.

Oestrogen receptor‐α was underexpressed in the prostatitis with oestrogen group, while oestrogen receptor‐β was overexpressed.

CONCLUSIONS

The present work provides experimental evidence that local inflammation enhances oestrogen synthesis and directs oestrogen metabolism to generate catechol oestrogens within prostatic tissues.

This may contribute, at least partly, to enhanced prostatic cell proliferation.
Will the implementation of the 2007 National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines on childhood urinary tract infection (UTI) in the UK miss significant urinary tract pathology?
Authors: Deader Rafia , Tiboni Sonia G. , Malone Padraig S.J. , Fairhurst Joanna
Published: December 2011

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Most centres continue to investigate children extensively after a urinary tract infection. These investigations are invasive, time consuming and expensive and despite their widespread application they have not had a significant impact on the rates of chronic renal failure secondary to infection. Despite this evidence the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines generated significant controversy that abnormalities would be missed, placing children at increased risk of renal injury, thus reducing their implementation.

Significant underlying abnormalities of the urinary tract will not be missed if the NICE guidelines are followed. This will reduce the unpleasant investigations that children will be subjected to and it should lead to considerable cost savings. The NICE guidelines are safe and should be widely implemented.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the implementation of the August 2007 National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines would miss significant urinary tract pathology in children with urinary tract infection (UTI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All ultrasound (US) performed in children aged >6 months, during the year 1 August 2006 to 31 July 2007 for UTI, were retrospectively studied.

Each US scan in the study population of 346 was categorised dependent on whether it was appropriate or inappropriate to have been performed under the new guidelines and whether the US scan was normal or abnormal.

The records of each patient with an inappropriate abnormal US scan were re‐analysed to see if patient management was affected by the US scan.

In 2011 patients with an original inappropriate abnormal US scan were re‐evaluated to identify if any had presented with further urinary pathology.

RESULTS

In accordance with the NICE guidelines patients were divided by age.

Children aged 0.5–3 years: 78/95 (82%) US scans were inappropriate of which 12 (15%) were abnormal and four of these had a further documented UTI. After careful assessment of the US abnormalities it was judged that only one would have benefited from the initial US scan.

Children aged >3 years: 146/251 (58%) US scans were inappropriate of which 21(14%) were abnormal and six of these (29%) had a further documented UTI. After careful assessment of the US abnormalities it was judged that only three of 21 (14%) would have benefited from the initial US scan.

CONCLUSIONS

The vast majority of anomalies detected on the inappropriate US scans were of little clinical significance.

It is difficult to identify any patient who would have been truly disadvantaged if the US scan had not been performed after the initial UTI.

The NICE guidelines are safe to follow.
Blood loss during radical prostatectomy: impact on clinical, oncological and functional outcomes and complication rates
Authors: Djavan Bob , Agalliu Ilir , Laze Juliana , Sadri Helen , Kazzazi Amir , Lepor Herbert
Published: December 2011

Study Type – Outcomes (cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

It is generally accepted in the medical community that total and intra‐operative blood loss after RALP is significantly lower in comparison with ORRP. This has led to speculation that less bleeding results in better visualization of the operative field resulting in superior potency and continence.

Blood loss (BL) during ORRP does not adversely impact clinical and functional outcomes irrespective of how BL is defined. Thus, the lower BL associated with RALP would not be expected to improve functional or oncological outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the short‐ and long‐term impact of blood loss (BL) on clinical, oncological and functional outcomes as well as complication rates after an open radical retropubic prostatectomy (ORRP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 2000 and 2008, 1567 men who underwent an ORRP participated in our prospective longitudinal outcomes study.

Haematocrit (Hct) levels, transfusion rates, BL and complications were recorded prospectively.

Validated, self‐administered quality‐of‐life (QoL) questionnaires were completed at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months and yearly thereafter.

Urinary function and erectile dysfunction were assessed using AUA Symptom Score and the UCLA Prostate Cancer Index and analysis of variance (anova)/chi‐square tests were used to compare clinical, BL, biochemical recurrence (BCR) and QoL outcomes amongst the three groups for continuous/categorical variables.

RESULTS

The mean estimated BL was 742.7 (45 to 3500) mL and 5.4% and 3.8% received an autologous (AU) or allogeneic (AL) blood transfusions, respectively.

The average baseline, induction, postoperative and discharge Hct was 43.8%, 48.3%, 35.7% and 34.1%, respectively.

The estimated BL and the rate of change of Hct correlated moderately (r = 0.41, P < 0.0001).

Tertiles of BL were based on the difference between induction and discharge Hct (Delta 1) and the average Delta 1 for Groups 1, 2 and 3 were 7.9%, 12.7% and 17.2%, respectively.

Intra‐operative, early/delayed complications, length of hospital stay (LoS), SM surgical margins status, anastomotic stricture and BCR were not statistically different (P < 0.001) and the mean AUASS, UCLA Prostate Cancer urinary bother scores, urinary function scores, sexual bother/function scores at 24 months were similar amongst all tertiles (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

BL during ORRP does not adversely impact clinical and functional outcomes irrespective of how BL is defined.

Thus, the lower BL associated with robotic‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) in and of itself would not be expected to improve functional or oncological outcomes.
PERCEIVED ARSENIC‐RELATED MORTALITY RISKS FOR SMOKERS AND NON‐SMOKERS
Authors: SHAW W. DOUGLASS , JAKUS PAUL M. , RIDDEL MARY
Published: December 2011

Prolonged ingestion of arsenic in drinking water can increase the risks of dying of lung and bladder cancer, particularly for smokers. In a survey of arsenic hotspots in the United States, we elicited individuals' subjective mortality risks related to the presence of arsenic in drinking water. Using this data, we address whether smokers perceive mortality risks from this source differently from non‐smokers. We find that those who have smoked at some point in their life have significantly higher perceived arsenic mortality risks than those who have never smoked, on average. We also find that the sample group of current smokers has higher average perceived arsenic mortality risks than those who have quit smoking. We model the decision to treat water for arsenic and find some evidence that current smokers are less likely to engage in this mitigating behavior than are ex‐smokers or non‐smokers even though their perceived risk is higher. We infer that smokers are either less risk averse or have a higher rate of time preference than non‐smokers and ex‐smokers. (JEL I0, D81, Q53)
MEDIA ADVERTISING AND BALLOT INITIATIVES: THE CASE OF ANIMAL WELFARE REGULATION
Authors: RICHARDS TIMOTHY , ALLENDER WILLIAM , FANG DI
Published: December 2011

Spending on political advertising increases with every election cycle, not only for congressional or presidential candidates, but also for state‐level ballot initiatives. There is little research in marketing, however, on the effectiveness of political advertising at this level. In this study, we conduct an experimental analysis of advertisements used during the 2008 campaign to mandate new animal welfare standards in California (Proposition 2). Using subjects' willingness‐to‐pay for cage‐free eggs as a proxy for their likely voting behavior, we investigate whether advertising provides real information to likely voters, and thus sharpens their existing attitudes toward the issue, or whether advertising can indeed change preferences. We find that advertising in support of Proposition 2 was more effective in raising subjects' willingness‐to‐pay for cage‐free eggs than ads in opposition were in reducing it, but we also find that ads in support of the measure reduce the dispersion of preferences and thus polarize attitudes toward the initiative. More generally, political ads are found to contain considerably more “hype” than “real information” in the sense of Johnson and Myatt [Johnson, J. P., and D. P. Myatt. “On the Simple Economics of Advertising, Marketing and Product Design.” American Economic Review, 96, 2006, 756–84]. (JEL D12, D72, K32, L66, M37)
Allocation trade in Australia: a qualitative understanding of irrigator motives and behaviour*
Authors: Loch Adam , Bjornlund Henning , Wheeler Sarah , Connor Jeff
Published: December 2011

Governments in Australia are purchasing water entitlements to secure water for environmental benefit, but entitlements generate an allocation profile that does not correspond fully to environmental flow requirements. Therefore, how environmental managers will operate to deliver small and medium‐sized inundation environmental flows remains uncertain. To assist environmental managers with the supply of inundation flows at variable times, it has been suggested that allocation trade be incorporated into efforts aimed at securing water. This paper provides some qualitative and quantitative perspective on what influences southern Murray–Darling Basin irrigators to trade allocation water at specific times across and within seasons using a market transaction framework. The results suggest that while irrigators now have access to greater risk‐management options, environmental managers should consider the possible impact of institutional change before intervening in traditional market activity. The findings may help improve the design of intervention strategies to minimise possible market intervention impacts and strategic behaviour.
Oxidative stress mediates cardiac infarction aggravation induced by intermittent hypoxia
Authors: Ramond Amandine , Godin‐Ribuot Diane , Ribuot Christophe , Totoson Perle , Koritchneva Irina , Cachot Sandrine , Levy Patrick , Joyeux‐Faure Marie
Published: December 2011

We have previously shown that chronic intermittent hypoxia (IH), a component of the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, increases heart sensitivity to infarction. We investigate here the deleterious mechanisms potentially involved in the IH‐induced infarction aggravation, investigating the role of oxidative stress. Male Wistar rats were subjected to chronic IH or normoxia (N). IH consisted of repetitive 1‐min cycles (30 s with inspired O2 fraction 5% followed by 30 s normoxia) and was applied for 8 h during daytime, for 14 days. After the 14‐day exposure, mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) was higher in the hypoxic compared with the normoxic group. Infarct size, measured on isolated hearts after ischemia‐reperfusion, was significantly increased in IH compared with normoxic group (36.0 ± 2.8% vs. 21.8 ± 3.1% for tempol corresponding control groups and 40.3 ± 3.5% vs. 29.4 ± 3.7% for melatonin corresponding control groups). Tempol or melatonin administration during the 14‐day IH exposure prevented both IH‐induced increase in MABP and infarction aggravation (24.8 ± 2.8% vs. 25.9 ± 4.0% for tempol‐treated groups and 32.3 ± 3.2% vs. 34.5 ± 4.2% for melatonin‐treated groups). Myocardial oxidative stress was induced by IH, as measured by dihydroethidium (DHE) level and p47‐phox expression (the cytosolic protein required for the activation of the NADPH oxidase). This effect was abolished by tempol and melatonin treatments, which were able to normalize DHE level and NADPH expression. In conclusion, oxidative stress appears to mediate the deleterious cardiovascular effects of IH and, in particular, the increased myocardial susceptibility to infarction.
Perinatal outcome of congenital diaphragmatic hernia in an Australian tertiary hospital
Authors: O'Mahony Edward , Stewart Michael , Sampson Amanda , East Christine , Palma-Dias Ricardo
Published: December 2011

Background:  Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a potentially correctable anatomical defect that continues to represent a significant cause of stillbirth and neonatal death.

Aims:  To describe the outcomes of fetuses diagnosed antenatally with CDH.

Methods:  A retrospective cohort study of fetuses with CDH detected antenatally at our fetal medicine unit between January 1996 and December 2008. The study analyses factors associated with mortality in a setting where no fetal intervention for this condition is performed.

Results:  Eighty‐six cases were identified and 75.5% of infants were born alive. Mortality prior to corrective surgery was 7%. The survival rate for babies born at term with isolated CDH was 83%. Presence of an additional anomaly, herniated liver and preterm delivery were associated with increased mortality. Seventy‐four percent of liveborn infants with either isolated CDH or other anomalies survived to discharge.

Conclusions:  Although the overall mortality rate for this condition remains high, fetuses with isolated CDH born at term have relatively high survival rates. This study provides data for counselling parents in tertiary centres with advanced neonatal care but where antenatal intervention for this condition has not been introduced.
Acute Effects of Muscular Counterpulsation Therapy on Cardiac Output and Safety in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure
Authors: Ostojic Dominique , Seifert Ingmar , Pütz Vanessa , Bartsch Stephan , Bitter Thomas , Horstkotte Dieter , Oldenburg Olaf
Published: December 2011

Our aim was to investigate acute effects of muscular counterpulsation (MCP) on hemodynamic parameters and to evaluate its safety in regard to myocardial integrity and interferences with implanted rhythm devices in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). A total of 22 patients with CHF (16 male, 67.8 ± 9.5 years, New York Heart Association [NYHA] class II + III, left ventricular ejection fraction 29.6 ± 6.6%) were treated with MCP for 3 consecutive days for 45 min, while hemodynamic parameters were measured noninvasively by bioimpedance (Task Force Monitor). Laboratory control and a complete device testing were performed prior to the first and after the third treatment. In addition, continuous rhythm device interrogation was performed online during the first MCP application. During each application, a significant increase in cardiac output (CO; average change +2.08 ± 2.33 L/min, P < 0.05) was documented. This increase was due to a decrease of total peripheral resistance (−336 ± 530 dyn × s/cm5, P < 0.05), to an augmented stroke volume (+8.35 ±  20.86 mL, P = n.s.), and an increase in heart rate (+17.12 ± 21.12 bpm, P < 0.05). Cardiac markers and enzymes were within normal limits at all times and did not increase during treatment. MCP stimuli were monitored using surface electrocardiogram, and no abnormal sensing or pacing events occurred. MCP acutely improves CO in patients with stable CHF. No adverse influence on myocardial integrity was observed nor were any inappropriate sensing or pacing artifacts detected in patients with implanted rhythm devices.
A Dynamic Flux in Natural Killer Cell Subsets as a Function of the Duration of Alcohol Ingestion
Authors: Ballas Zuhair K. , Cook Robert T. , Shey Michael R. , Coleman Ruth A.
Published: December 2011

Background:  Chronic ethanol (EtOH) consumption is associated with a wide variety of immune abnormalities including changes in T cells, B cells, dendritic cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. However, there is conflicting information as to the direction of such immune changes. The hypothesis that was tested in this report is that, for NK cells, the changes can vary as a function of the duration of alcohol ingestion.

Methods:  Using the Meadows–Cook murine model of chronic alcohol ingestion, the changes in NK cell function and subset distribution were examined as a function of the duration of alcohol ingestion.

Results:  Acute alcohol ingestion resulted in decreased number and cytotoxic function of NK cells with no effect on intracellular interferon gamma expression. These abnormalities normalized after 12 to 14 days of alcohol ingestion and there was an increase of NK cell number and cytotoxicity after 8 weeks of continued EtOH ingestion. Ten weeks of continued alcohol consumption results in a significant decrease in the Ly49H+ CD11b+ CD27− splenic NK cell subset; this difference continued to be significant at 30 weeks.

Conclusions:  This report may explain some of the conflicting data in the literature that examined NK cell activity in alcoholic patients. It is apparent that various abnormalities can be seen in NK cell activity and subset distribution with the flux being a function of the duration of alcohol ingestion. The demonstration of a decrease in the Ly49H+ subset (which is known to be involved in resisting murine cytomegalovirus infection) may explain the reported increase in susceptibility to some viral infections in chronic alcohol abuse. Another novel finding is that changes of some subsets of NK cells are not evident until at least 10 weeks of continued EtOH consumption.