bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ‘truck‐driver’ effect in leaf‐cutting ants: how individual load influences the walking speed of nest‐mates
Authors: FARJI‐BRENER ALEJANDRO G. , CHINCHILLA FEDERICO A. , RIFKIN SETH , SÁNCHEZ CUERVO ANA M. , TRIANA EMILIA , QUIROGA VERÓNICA , GIRALDO PAOLA
Published: December 2010

The foraging behaviour of social insects is highly flexible because it depends on the interplay between individual and collective decisions. In ants that use foraging trails, high ant flow may entail traffic problems if different workers vary widely in their walking speed. Slow ants carrying extra‐large loads in the leaf‐cutting ant Atta cephalotes L. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) are characterized as ‘highly‐laden’ ants, and their effect on delaying other laden ants is analyzed. Highly‐laden ants carry loads that are 100% larger and show a 50% greater load‐carrying capacity (i.e. load size/body size) than ‘ordinary‐laden’ ants. Field manipulations reveal that these slow ants carrying extra‐large loads can reduce the walking speed of the laden ants behind them by up to 50%. Moreover, the percentage of highly‐laden ants decreases at high ant flow. Because the delaying effect of highly‐laden ants on nest‐mates is enhanced at high traffic levels, these results suggest that load size might be adjusted to reduce the negative effect on the rate of foraging input to the colony. Several causes have been proposed to explain why leaf‐cutting ants cut and carry leaf fragments of sizes below their individual capacities. The avoidance of delay in laden nest‐mates is suggested as another novel factor related to traffic flow that also might affect load size selection The results of the presennt study illustrate how leaf‐cutting ants are able to reduce their individual carrying performance to maximize the overall colony performance.
The DUF579 domain containing proteins IRX15 and IRX15‐L affect xylan synthesis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Jensen Jacob K. , Kim Hoon , Cocuron Jean‐Christophe , Orler Robert , Ralph John , Wilkerson Curtis G.
Published: December 2010

Xylan is the principal hemicellulose in the secondary cell walls of eudicots and in the primary and secondary cell walls of grasses and cereals. The biosynthesis of this important cell wall component has yet to be fully determined although a number of proteins have been shown to be required for xylan synthesis. To discover new genes involved in xylan biosynthesis we explored the psyllium (Plantago ovata Forsk) seed mucilaginous layer through EST profiling. This tissue synthesizes large amounts of a complex heteroxylan over a short period of time. By comparing abundant transcripts in this tissue with abundant transcripts specifically present during secondary cell wall formation in Arabidopsis thaliana, where glucuronoxylan biosynthesis is pronounced, we identified two Arabidopsis genes likely involved in xylan biosynthesis. These genes encode proteins containing a Domain of Unknown Function (DUF) 579 and were designated IRREGULAR XYLEM (IRX) 15 and IRX15‐LIKE (IRX15‐L). We obtained Arabidopsis T‐DNA knockout lines for the two genes and analyzed their lower stems for changes in neutral monosaccharide composition. No changes were observed in each of these mutants, although the irx15 irx15‐L double mutant displayed a moderate reduction in stem xylose. Further characterization of the irx15 irx15‐L mutant revealed irregular secondary cell wall margins in fiber cells and a lower xylan degree of polymerization. Through these studies we conclude that IRX15 and IRX15‐L function in a redundant manner and are involved in xylan biosynthesis.
Automated analysis of hypocotyl growth dynamics during shade avoidance in Arabidopsis
Authors: Cole Benjamin , Kay Steve A. , Chory Joanne
Published: December 2010

Plants that are adapted to environments where light is abundant are especially sensitive to competition for light from neighboring vegetation. As a result, these plants initiate a series of changes known as the shade avoidance syndrome, during which plants elongate their stems and petioles at the expense of leaf development. Although the developmental outcomes of exposure to prolonged shade are known, the signaling dynamics during the initial exposure of seedlings to shade is less well studied. Here, we report the development of a new software‐based tool, called HyDE (Hypocotyl Determining Engine) to measure hypocotyl lengths of time‐resolved image stacks of Arabidopsis wild‐type and mutant seedlings. We show that Arabidopsis grows rapidly in response to the shade stimulus, with measurable growth after just 45 min shade exposure. Similar to other mustard species, this growth response occurs in multiple distinct phases, including two phases of rapid growth and one phase of slower growth. Using mutants affected in shade avoidance phenotypes, we demonstrate that most of this early growth requires new auxin biosynthesis via the indole‐3‐pyruvate pathway. When activity of this pathway is reduced, the first phase of elongation growth is absent, and this is correlated with reduced activity of auxin‐regulated genes. Finally, we show that varying shade intensity and duration can affect the shape and magnitude of the growth response, indicating a broad range of the elongation response to shade.
OsbHLH148, a basic helix‐loop‐helix protein, interacts with OsJAZ proteins in a jasmonate signaling pathway leading to drought tolerance in rice
Authors: Seo Ju‐Seok , Joo Joungsu , Kim Min‐Jeong , Kim Yeon‐Ki , Nahm Baek Hie , Song Sang Ik , Cheong Jong‐Joo , Lee Jong Seob , Kim Ju‐Kon , Choi Yang Do
Published: December 2010

Jasmonates play important roles in development, stress responses and defense in plants. Here, we report the results of a study using a functional genomics approach that identified a rice basic helix‐loop‐helix domain gene, OsbHLH148, that conferred drought tolerance as a component of the jasmonate signaling module in rice. OsbHLH148 transcript levels were rapidly increased by treatment with methyl jasmonate (MeJA) or abscisic acid, and abiotic stresses including dehydration, high salinity, low temperature and wounding. Transgenic over‐expression of OsbHLH148 in rice confers plant tolerance to drought stress. Expression profiling followed by DNA microarray and RNA gel‐blot analyses of transgenic versus wild‐type rice identified genes that are up‐regulated by OsbHLH148 over‐expression. These include OsDREB and OsJAZ genes that are involved in stress responses and the jasmonate signaling pathway, respectively. OsJAZ1, a rice ZIM domain protein, interacted with OsbHLH148 in yeast two‐hybrid and pull‐down assays, but it interacted with the putative OsCOI1 only in the presence of coronatine. Furthermore, the OsJAZ1 protein was degraded by rice and Arabidopsis extracts in the presence of coronatine, and its degradation was inhibited by MG132, a 26S proteasome inhibitor, suggesting 26S proteasome‐mediated degradation of OsJAZ1 via the SCFOsCOI1 complex. The transcription level of OsJAZ1 increased upon exposure of rice to MeJA. These results show that OsJAZ1 could act as a transcriptional regulator of the OsbHLH148‐related jasmonate signaling pathway leading to drought tolerance. Thus, our study suggests that OsbHLH148 acts on an initial response of jasmonate‐regulated gene expression toward drought tolerance, constituting the OsbHLH148–OsJAZ–OsCOI1 signaling module in rice.
Cyanobacterial flavodoxin complements ferredoxin deficiency in knocked‐down transgenic tobacco plants
Authors: Blanco Nicolás E. , Ceccoli Romina D. , Segretin María E. , Poli Hugo O. , Voss Ingo , Melzer Michael , Bravo‐Almonacid Fernando F. , Scheibe Renate , Hajirezaei Mohammad‐Reza , Carrillo Néstor
Published: December 2010

Ferredoxins are the main electron shuttles in chloroplasts, accepting electrons from photosystem I and delivering them to essential oxido‐reductive pathways in the stroma. Ferredoxin levels decrease under adverse environmental conditions in both plants and photosynthetic micro‐organisms. In cyanobacteria and some algae, this decrease is compensated for by induction of flavodoxin, an isofunctional flavoprotein that can replace ferredoxin in many reactions. Flavodoxin is not present in plants, but tobacco lines expressing a plastid‐targeted cyanobacterial flavodoxin developed increased tolerance to environmental stress. Chloroplast‐located flavodoxin interacts productively with endogenous ferredoxin‐dependent pathways, suggesting that its protective role results from replacement of stress‐labile ferredoxin. We tested this hypothesis by using RNA antisense and interference techniques to decrease ferredoxin levels in transgenic tobacco. Ferredoxin‐deficient lines showed growth arrest, leaf chlorosis and decreased CO2 assimilation. Chlorophyll fluorescence measurements indicated impaired photochemistry, over‐reduction of the photosynthetic electron transport chain and enhanced non‐photochemical quenching. Expression of flavodoxin from the nuclear or plastid genome restored growth, pigment contents and photosynthetic capacity, and relieved the electron pressure on the electron transport chain. Tolerance to oxidative stress also recovered. In the absence of flavodoxin, ferredoxin could not be decreased below 45% of physiological content without fatally compromising plant survival, but in its presence, lines with only 12% remaining ferredoxin could grow autotrophically, with almost wild‐type phenotypes. The results indicate that the stress tolerance conferred by flavodoxin expression in plants stems largely from functional complementation of endogenous ferredoxin by the cyanobacterial flavoprotein.
Trisomy 7 mosaicism prenatally misdiagnosed and maternal uniparental disomy in a child with pigmentary mosaicism and Russell– Silver syndrome
Authors: Petit F , Holder‐Espinasse M , Duban‐Bedu B , Bouquillon S , Boute‐Benejean O , Bazin A , Rouland V , Manouvrier‐Hanu S , Delobel B
Published: December 2010

Petit F, Holder‐Espinasse M, Duban‐Bedu B, Bouquillon S, Boute‐Benejean O, Bazin A, Rouland V, Manouvrier‐Hanu S, Delobel B. Trisomy 7 mosaicism prenatally misdiagnosed and maternal uniparental disomy in a child with pigmentary mosaicism and Russell–Silver syndrome.

Prenatal diagnosis of true mosaic trisomy 7 is rare in amniotic fluid and can be misinterpreted as pseudomosaic. The phenotype is highly variable and may be modified by a maternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 7 leading to mild Russell–Silver syndrome (RSS). We report here the third postnatal case of mosaic trisomy 7 with maternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 7 in a boy presenting a mild RSS. Fetal karyotype performed in amniocentesis for intrauterine growth retardation was considered normal. Mosaic trisomy 7 was diagnosed after birth, on fibroblasts karyotype performed for blaschkolinear pigmentary skin anomalies and failure to thrive. Maternal uniparental disomy of chromosome 7 was observed in blood sample. Retrospectively, trisomic 7 cells were identified in one prenatal long‐term flask culture revealing a prenatal diagnosis failure. This report emphasizes the difficulty of assessing fetal mosaicism and distinguishing it from pseudomosaicism in cultured amniocytes. It is important to search for uniparental disomy as an indirect clue of trisomy 7 mosaicism and a major prognosis element. Although there are only few prenatal informative cases, detection of trisomy 7 in amniocentesis appears to be associated with a relatively good outcome when maternal uniparental disomy has been ruled out.
Honoring the contract with our patients: outcome after repeated re‐transplantation of the liver
Authors: Eguchi Susumu , Soyama Akihiko , Mergental Hynek , van den Berg Aad P. , Scheenstra Rene , Porte Robert J. , Slooff Maarten J. H.
Published: December 2010

Eguchi S, Soyama A, Mergental H, van den Berg AP, Scheenstra R, Porte RJ, Slooff MJH. Honoring the contract with our patients: outcome after repeated re‐transplantation of the liver.  Clin Transplant 2011: 25: E211–E218. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to describe the outcome after repeated orthotopic liver re‐transplantations (re‐OLT) in a population of adults and children, and to determine whether such repeated re‐transplantations are an effective treatment or should be considered futile. In a consecutive series of 867 patients, 628 adults and 239 children, who underwent OLT at the University Medical Center Groningen, 23 patients (2.7%), 10 adults and 13 children, underwent more than two re‐transplantations of the liver between March 1979 and October 2008. All 23 patients had a second re‐transplantation, and seven of them received a third transplant. The overall actuarial patient survival at 1, 5, and 10 yr after primary OLT was 96%, 87%, and 71%, respectively. The overall actuarial patient survival after the second re‐OLT was 78%, 73%, and 67%, respectively. Sixteen patients (70%) survived long term. However, for the 23 repeated re‐transplantation patients, 76 grafts were used. In a simulation calculation, it was shown that honoring the initial commitment to the 23 patients ultimately led to more surviving patients and less death than if treatment of the original patients was stopped after the first re‐transplantation and the remaining grafts were allocated to other primary graft recipients.
Ischemic preconditioning of the graft for intestinal transplantation in rats
Authors: Wang Zhe , Hernandez Francisco , Pederiva Federica , Andrés Ane M. , Leal Nuria , Burgos Emilio , Martínez Maria P. , Molina Manuel , Santamaría Manuel López , Tovar Juan A.
Published: December 2010

Wang Z, Hernandez F, Pederiva F, Andrés AM, Leal N, Burgos E, Martínez MP, Molina M, Santamaría ML, Tovar JA. Ischemic preconditioning of the graft for intestinal transplantation in rats. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15:65–69. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  To test the hypothesis that two modalities of IPC should decrease acute rejection and BT after SBTx in rats. Orthotopic allogenic SBTx was performed from Wistar to BN. IPC was performed by 2 ′ and 5 ′ superior mesenteric artery clamping, following 2‐min and 5‐min reperfusion before graft cooling and retrieving. Donor–recipient sets were randomly allocated to five groups: IPC2m4d, IPC2m7d, IPC5min7d, and the control groups for the two end points; ctrl4d and ctrl7d. IRI, rejection, and BT were assessed after four or seven days depending on the groups. Measured variables included: histology, leukocyte activation by tissue MPO determination, and proinflammatory cytokines (IL‐b and TNF‐α) to assess inflammatory response. Leukocyte activation was significantly reduced in IPC2m7d in comparison with Ctrl and IPC5min7d. Rejection tended to be lower in IPC2min7d. Cytokine levels were contradictory and not consistent with histology. Finally, BT was less frequent in IPC2min4d group but this benefice was missed in animals with rejection (7d). Inflammatory response (MPO) was reduced and rejection tended to be lower after in IPC2m7d. Bacterial translocation was reduced in IPC2min4d but the benefice was missed at day 7.
Acute rejection associated with donor‐specific anti‐MICA antibody in a highly sensitized pediatric renal transplant recipient
Authors: Narayan Shoba , Tsai Eileen W. , Zhang Qiuheng , Wallace William D. , Reed Elaine F. , Ettenger Robert B.
Published: December 2010

Narayan S, Tsai EW, Zhang Q, Wallace WD, Reed EF, Ettenger RB. Acute rejection associated with donor‐specific anti‐MICA antibody in a highly sensitized pediatric renal transplant recipient. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15:E1–E7. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Allograft rejection in HLA identical transplant recipients and in patients without detectable donor‐specific anti‐HLA antibodies has lead to the identification of non‐HLA antigens as targets of the alloimmune response. MICA antigen has been recognized as an important non‐HLA target in renal transplantation. Recent studies have shown that anti‐MICA antibodies are associated with acute renal allograft rejection and failure. Current cross match procedures using donor lymphocytes fail to detect MICA antibodies. Transplant candidates are not routinely tested for pre‐sensitization to MICA antigens nor are transplant donors typed for MICA alleles. Optimal classification and treatment of acute rejection associated with MICA antibody remains unknown. In this case report, we are the first to describe the clinical course and treatment of donor‐specific MICA antibody associated with both Banff type II A ACR and AMR in a highly sensitized pediatric renal re‐transplant recipient. This case also emphasizes the importance of pre‐transplant screening for donor‐specific MICA antibody especially in highly sensitized renal transplant patients.
The role of cytomegalovirus infection and disease in pediatric bone marrow transplant recipients in Mexico City in the context of viral drug resistance
Authors: Arellano‐Galindo José , Vázquez‐Meraz Eugenio , Jiménez‐Hernández Elva , Velazquez‐Guadarrama Norma , Mikeler Elfriede , Hamprecht Klaus , Jahn Gerhard , Acosta‐Vázquez Francisco , Emma Mendoza‐García , Bello‐González Abel
Published: December 2010

Arellano‐Galindo J, Vázquez‐Meraz E, Jiménez‐Hernández E, Velazquez‐Guadarrama N, Mikeler E, Hamprecht K, Jahn G, Acosta‐Vázquez F, Emma M‐G, Bello‐González A. The role of cytomegalovirus infection and disease in pediatric bone marrow transplant recipients in Mexico City in the context of viral drug resistance. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15:103–111. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  We aimed to identify those pediatric patients undergoing ABMT with CMV EOD who developed GCV resistance. Forty‐seven patients were analyzed following ABMT. Prospective post‐transplant CMV monitoring was performed weekly for the detection of viral leukocyte DNAaemia, viral plasma DNAaemia, and viral DNAuria by PCR. Plasma DNAaemia was confirmed from whole blood by the detection of CMV pp67 late mRNA using NASBA technology. In the cases of persistence of viral DNA in plasma, and positive viral RNA detection in blood, CMV drug resistance screening by comprehensive PCR‐based RFLP and sequencing of the viral UL97 gene were performed retrospectively. Thirty of the 47 (63.82%) patients showed active CMV infection with 27/30 (74.4%) patients belonging to the D+R+ group and 25/30 with proven viral replication. In total, 2/30 (6.6%) children developed CMV pneumonia proven by immunohistochemistry. Screening of the viral UL97 gene revealed in one of these two cases (1/30, 3.3%) the simultaneous presence of two point mutations in codon 460 (M460V, M460I) conferring GCV resistance. The CMV seroprevalence (81%) and the incidence of active infection (63.8%) in Mexican children undergoing ABMT are very high.
Brain‐type natriuretic peptide correlates with right heart pressures in a cross section of pediatric heart transplant patients
Authors: Hall E. K. , Glatz Andrew C. , Quartermain Michael D. , Ravishankar Chitra , Kaufman Beth , Cohen Meryl S. , Hanna Brian D. , Goldberg David J.
Published: December 2010

Hall EK, Glatz AC, Quartermain MD, Ravishankar C, Kaufman B, Cohen MS, Hanna BD, Goldberg DJ. Brain‐type natriuretic peptide correlates with right heart pressures in a cross section of pediatric heart transplant patients. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15:70–74. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Serum brain‐type natriuretic peptide level (BNP) correlates with hemodynamic parameters measured during cardiac catheterization in adult patients with heart failure. We sought to describe the relationship of BNP with invasive hemodynamic measurements and cellular rejection in children following OHT. Children undergoing catheterization for OHT surveillance had simultaneous measurement of BNP. A total of 62 subjects were studied. The median BNP was 171 pg/mL (range 19–1130). There were significant positive correlations between BNP and mean PAP (R = 0.33, p = 0.009), RVSP (R = 0.25, p = 0.05), RVEDP (R = 0.29, p = 0.02), and mean RAP (R = 0.39, p = 0.002). Rejection grade varied from 0 to 3A (58 patients < ISHLT 3A and four patients ≥ ISHLT 3A). There was no significant difference in BNP based on cellular rejection grade. In a cohort of pediatric patients after heart transplantation, BNP correlates with direct measurements of right‐sided pressures, but not with other hemodynamic measurements, time from transplant or rejection grade. This suggests that BNP may have a complimentary role in the monitoring of children following heart transplantation.
Non‐adherence in adolescent transplant recipients: The role of uncertainty in health care providers
Authors: Aujoulat Isabelle , Deccache Alain , Charles Anne‐Sophie , Janssen Magda , Struyf Catherine , Pélicand Julie , Ciccarelli Olga , Dobbels Fabienne , Reding Raymond
Published: December 2010

Aujoulat I, Deccache A, Charles A‐S, Janssen M, Struyf C, Pélicand J, Ciccarelli O, Dobbels F, Reding R. Non‐adherence in adolescent transplant recipients: The role of uncertainty in health care providers. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15:148–156. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  To optimize self‐management and adherence in adolescent patients, HCPs need to discuss not only medical and treatment‐related issues, but also general health and psychosocial concerns. Our study aimed to explore how the members of the paediatric team in our programme understand NA in adolescents, and how they define their own role regarding self‐management education. We used a sequential mixed methods design and conducted a qualitative observational and in‐depth interview study (n = 22) and a quantitative descriptive study through self‐administered questionnaires (n = 31). Our results show a discrepancy between the HCPs’ understanding of the complex psychosocial factors impacting on long‐term adherence, and their current limited practice of patient education. A number of uncertainties were found to explain the HCPs’ perceived difficulty to engage in comprehensive patient education activities: uncertainty regarding (i) the health status of transplant recipients; (ii) a shared operational definition of adherence and the cause of organ rejection in some cases; (iii) the extent to which adherence is a shared responsibility which involves the HCPs as patient educators; (iv) the long‐term impact of a LRD. To avoid the risk of conveying incongruent messages, multidisciplinary health care teams need to explicitly acknowledge and discuss the various areas of uncertainty, some of which are inherent to transplantation.
Interventional radiology for hepatic artery complications soon after living donor liver transplantation in a neonate
Authors: Wakiya T. , Sanada Y. , Mizuta K. , Egami S. , Hishikawa S. , Nakata M. , Hakamada K. , Yasuda Y. , Kawarasaki H.
Published: December 2010

Wakiya T, Sanada Y, Mizuta K, Egami S, Hishikawa S, Nakata M, Hakamada K, Yasuda Y, Kawarasaki H. Interventional radiology for hepatic artery complications soon after living donor liver transplantation in a neonate.

Abstract:  Early hepatic artery complications after liver transplantation in children, having undergone LDLT, can directly affect graft and recipient outcomes, making early diagnosis and treatment essential. In the past, laparotomy (thrombectomy or reanastomosis) was generally employed to treat early hepatic artery complications. Recently, favorable outcomes of IR have been reported. In children, however, the number of such reports is small. To the best of our knowledge, there is no published report on IR applied to neonates with early hepatic artery complications. We recently succeeded in safely using IR for a neonate with early hepatic artery complications after LDLT and obtained a favorable outcome. This case is presented herein.
Donor‐specific HLA antibodies in paediatric cardiac transplant recipients are associated with poor graft survival
Authors: Irving Claire , Carter Vaughan , Parry Gareth , Hasan Asif , Kirk Richard
Published: December 2010

Irving C, Carter V, Parry G, Hasan A, Kirk R. Donor‐specific HLA antibodies in paediatric cardiac transplant recipients are associated with poor graft survival. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15:193–197. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  There is increasing evidence that DSA are associated with poor graft survival, although there are little data in children. We aimed to describe the incidence of DSA in this group and to determine correlation with graft survival. HLA antibodies were analysed in 59 paediatric cardiac transplant recipients. Mean age 10.4 (0.7–18.5) yr, mean time post‐transplant 5.1 (0.3–17.3) yr. Antibody detection/identification was performed on the Luminex platform with subsequent identification using Lifescreen Identification kits/One‐Lambda Single antigen kits. Forty patients (69%) had no HLA antibodies. DSA were found in four (7%). One had transient Class I antibodies and normal cardiac function. The other three had persistent Class II antibodies (two subsequently required re‐transplantation, the third had cardiac failure due to CAV). Non‐DSA were found in 15 (25%), all with normal graft function and without rejection. There was no difference in function or CAV prevalence between those with non‐DSA and those without antibodies. HLA DSA is uncommon in paediatric cardiac allograft recipients but, if persistent, suggests poorer prognosis. In our series, antibodies to HLA class II on donor tissue were associated with increased graft loss. Routine screening and regular testing are recommended.
The utility of comprehensive assessment of donor specific anti‐HLA antibodies in the clinical management of pediatric kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Gloor James M.
Published: December 2010

Gloor JM. The utility of comprehensive assessment of donor specific anti‐HLA antibodies in the clinical management of pediatric kidney transplant recipients. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 557–563. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Advances in anti‐HLA antibody characterization have had a major impact on kidney transplantation. Comprehensive characterization of DSA has improved protocols for allosensitized transplant candidates, increasing access to acceptable donors. Sensitive and specific solid phase antibody detection assays have given important insight into the clinical characteristics of antibody‐mediated allograft injury, resulting in the development of a classification system for acute AMR. In addition, important insights into the nature of chronic antibody‐mediated allograft rejection have been achieved as a result of improvements in DSA characterization. Finally, assays initially developed as tools to detect DSA in the clinical setting have been employed in innovative research protocols, allowing the investigation of new therapeutic approaches.
Application of the HALF index obviates the need for liver biopsy in half of all patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Lee Hyun Jung , Seo Yeon Seok , Kim Dong Jin , Kang Hyun Seok , An Hyonggin , Kim Ji Hoon , Cheong Jae Youn , Yim Hyung Joon , Yeon Jong Eun , Lee Hong Sik , Byun Kwan Soo , Cho Sung Won , Kim Dong Joon , Um Soon Ho , Kim Chang Duck , Ryu Ho Sang
Published: December 2010

Background and Aims:  Transient elastography (TE) is useful for predicting the fibrosis stage, but it is unsatisfactory as a substitute for liver biopsy, especially in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). This study was performed to establish a reliable model for predicting significant fibrosis (SF) in patients with CHB.

Methods:  All CHB patients who were admitted to undergo liver biopsy were enrolled. They were randomly classified into either a training set (n = 139) or a validation set (n = 69). A model for predicting SF was established in the training set and validated in the validation set. Low and high cutoff values (COVs) were chosen for sensitivity ≥ 99% and specificity ≥ 99%, respectively.

Results:  A total of 208 patients were enrolled. Age was 39 ± 12 years and 149 (71.6%) were men. In the training set, liver stiffness values and serum haptoglobin, apolipoprotein A1, and α2‐macroglobulin levels were independent predictors of SF on multivariate analysis. These variables were used to construct a novel model, called the HALF index. The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of the HALF index for predicting SF was significantly higher than that of TE alone (0.915 vs 0.877, P = 0.010). Using low and high COVs of the HALF index, it appears that approximately half (47.1%) of patients could avoid liver biopsy, with an associated accuracy of 99.0%.

Conclusion:  A combination of liver stiffness and serum markers identified SF with a high degree of accuracy. Approximately half of all patients with CHB could avoid liver biopsy through the utilization of the HALF index.
NSAIDs are a significant risk factor for colonic diverticular hemorrhage in elder patients: Evaluation by a case‐control study
Authors: Tsuruoka Nanae , Iwakiri Ryuichi , Hara Megumi , Shirahama Natsuko , Sakata Yasuhisa , Miyahara Koichi , Eguchi Yuichiro , Shimoda Ryo , Ogata Shinichi , Tsunada Seiji , Sakata Hiroyuki , Fujimoto Kazuma
Published: December 2010

Background and Aim:  Diverticular bleeding is a common cause of lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Several factors, including use of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antithrombotic agents and arteriosclerosis, could be risk factors. The aim of this study is to identify these risk factors.

Methods:  Between January 2000 and December 2008, 51 patients among 178 acute lower gastrointestinal hemorrhages who visited Saga Medical School were diagnosed as colonic diverticular hemorrhage, established by emergency endoscopy and diagnostic criteria. Gender and age matched control cases were selected from patients of other diseases hospitalized during the same period. We evaluated by using logistic regression analysis the influences of comorbidities such as cerebrovascular disease, ischemic heart disease, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, and osteoporosis, medications including NSAIDs and antithrombotic agents, and habits of smoking, alcohol, and chronic constipation.

Results:  Fifty one patients out of 178 acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (28.7%) were diagnosed as diverticular hemorrhage, which was the most common cause of lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Sex ratio of men versus women for colonic diverticular hemorrhage was 35:16. NSAIDs were a significant risk factor for colonic diverticular hemorrhage in elder patients (odds ratio [OR] = 7.492, 95% CI: 1.516–37.024, P = 0.0135). Hypertension and hyperlipidemia had significant association with diverticular hemorrhage among patients younger than 65 years old. This study also indicated that use of NSAIDs was a risk factor for re‐bleeding (OR = 5.4, 95% CI: 1.01–28.78, P = 0.048).

Conclusion:  This case‐control study revealed that the use of NSAIDs was a significant risk factor for colonic diverticular hemorrhage in elder patients. In addition, use of NSAIDs is a risk factor for re‐bleeding from colonic diverticula.
Extended indication of endoscopic resection for mucosal early gastric cancer: Analysis of a single center experience
Authors: Chung Jun‐Won , Jung Hwoon‐Yong , Choi Kee Don , Song Ho June , Lee Gin Hyug , Jang Se Jin , Park Young‐Su , Yook Jeong Hwan , Oh Sung Tae , Kim Byung‐Sik , Kim Jin‐Ho
Published: December 2010

Background:  Endoscopic resection (ER) has become an important therapeutic option for early gastric cancer (EGC). Some investigators have suggested that this indication should be extended. We aimed to compare the extended indication of ER for intramucosal EGC based on data from a large, single‐center study.

Methods:  We assessed lymph node metastasis (LNM) status in 1721 intramucosal EGC patients who underwent surgery to evaluate the potential of extension of the ER. We investigated LNM according to Japanese extended criteria; differentiated mucosal cancers irrespective of ulcer less than 30 mm (Criteria I); differentiated mucosal cancers without ulceration irrespective of tumor size (Criteria II), undifferentiated less than 20 mm without ulceration (Criteria III). We also tried to find the groups which have no and minimal risk of lymph node metastasis.

Results:  The rate of LNM of mucosal cancer was 2.6% (45/1721). There was minimal lymph nodal metastasis risk for criteria I (0.28%, 2/726, 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 0–0.66%), and criteria II (0.23%, 2/882, 95% CI, 0–0.54%). For criteria III, there was significant lymph node metastasis risk (1.15%, 3/261, 95% CI, 0–2.44%). There was no lymph node metastasis in differentiated mucosal cancer less than 20 mm irrespective of ulcer (0%, 0/501, 95% CI 0–0.73%). The differentiated mucosal cancer group irrespective of ulcer and tumor size have a minimal risk of metastasis (0.43%, 4/941, 95% CI, 0–0.84%)

Conclusion:  Our data support extension of the ER indication for the differentiated mucosal EGC. However, undifferentiated lesions without ulceration and smaller than 20 mm were associated with significant metastasis.
Possible involvement of peptidylprolyl isomerase Pin1 in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Nagaoka Akiko , Takizawa Naohiro , Takeuchi Ryohei , Inaba Yutaka , Saito Izumi , Nagashima Yoji , Saito Tomoyuki , Aoki Ichiro
Published: December 2010

The peptidylprolyl isomerase Pin1 is over‐expressed in some human diseases including malignancies and chronic inflammatory diseases, this suggests that it contributes to the constitutive activation of certain intracellular signaling pathways that promote cell proliferation and cell invasion. Here, we investigate the possible role of Pin1 in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Pin1 expression was immunohistochemically analyzed in synovial tissue (ST) obtained from patients with RA and osteoarthritis (OA). To investigate the correlation between Pin1 and motility and proliferation of synovial cells, Pin1 localization was immunohistochemically compared with matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐1, MMP‐3, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Double immunofluorescent staining for Pin1 and p65 was performed to determine whether Pin1 is involved in nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) activation in RA‐ST. Results showed Pin1 expression was significantly higher in RA‐ST than in OA‐ST. The expression of MMP‐1, MMP‐3, and PCNA was also significantly elevated in RA‐ST. Double immunofluorescent staining revealed colocalization of Pin1 and p65 in the nuclei of RA‐ST. These results suggest that Pin1 may be involved in the pathogenesis of RA binding with p65 to activate the proteins MMP‐1, MMP‐3, and PCNA. Therefore, Pin1 may play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of RA.
Effects of wave energy on the residence times of a fluorescent tracer in the canopy of the intertidal marine macroalgae, Sargassum fusiforme (Phaeophyceae)
Authors: Nishihara Gregory N. , Terada Ryuta , Shimabukuro Hiromori
Published: December 2010

We determined the relationship between the residence times of water within the canopy of the intertidal macroalgae, Sargassum fusiforme (Harvey) Setchell to the energy caused by hydrodynamic mixing. We measured the residence times (t) of fluorescein dye injected into the canopy (31 ± 9 ind/quadrat; canopy plan form area 6 × 1 m2) to estimate the length of time gametes persist within the canopy. The total kinetic energy (TKE) and wave energy (WE) was measured during dye dispersal, which ranged from 0.002 to 0.009 m2/s2 and 0.001 to 0.016 m2/s2, respectively. The experiments revealed that the canopy significantly (P < 0.0001) increased t, which was 56 ± 35 s inside of the canopy compared with 14 ± 4 s outside. Moreover, the relationship between t and energy could be statistically modeled with a power function, and for the results inside of the canopy, t = 3.67 TKE−0.50 for turbulent kinetic energy and t = 1.83 WE−0.38 for wave energy. Outside of the canopy, t = 0.98 TKE−0.50 and t = 1.83 WE−0.38 Based on the values of t determined for within the canopy, we developed a dispersion model to explore how gametes dispersed within the canopy. The estimated dispersion coefficient (D) with respect to WE, could be modeled as D = 403 WE0.55 and ranged from 10 to 42 cm2/s for the WE examined in the study. Areal gamete densities modeled in the canopy increased in density for increasing WE at short (0.5 h) durations of gamete discharge; however, the relationship reversed above 2 h of discharge.
Utility of rbcS gene as a novel target DNA region for brown algal molecular systematics
Authors: Lee Sang‐Rae , Oak Jung Hyun , Keum Yeon‐Shim , Lee Jin Ae , Chung Ik Kyo
Published: December 2010

The usefulness of molecular phylogenetic studies has increased remarkably as the quantity and quality of available DNA sequences has increased. When compared with the progress that has occurred in angiosperms and animals, there have been relatively few target DNA regions identified for use in taxonomic studies of brown algae. Therefore, in this study, we developed a new set of primers to amplify Rubisco small subunit (rbcS) gene sequences and determined the rbcS gene sequences of various species of brown algae including those belonging to Dictyotales, Ectocarpales, Fucales and Sphacelariales. The level of sequence variations in the rbcS gene varied according to the brown algal lineages. When focusing on the relationship of species within the genus Sargassum, the rbcS gene sequences provided useful information regarding the phylogenetic relationship among sections of the subgenus Bactrophycus. Based on the broad applicability and phylogenetic utility of the rbcS gene, we suggest that the sequence be used as a new target region for the molecular systematics of brown algae.
Research note: First report ofSporolithon ptychoides(Sporolithales, Corallinophycidae, Rhodophyta) for the Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Bahia Ricardo G. , Riosmena‐Rodriguez Rafael , Maneveldt Gavin W. , Amado Filho Gilberto M.
Published: December 2010

Samples corresponding toSporolithon ptychoidesHeydrich were collected in the mesophotic zone (50 m depth) south of Espírito Santo State, Brazil. The collected material presented features characteristic of the species, namely: tetrasporangia of 75–105 × 40–55 µm grouped into sori that are raised above the surrounding vegetative thallus surface; presence of a basal layer of elongate cells in areas where the tetrasporangia develop; presence of buried tetrasporangial compartments deep in the thallus; and 3–5 cells in the tetrasporangial paraphyses. These same features said to collectively characterizeS. ptychoides, were all observed in a representative specimen and the type specimen ofSporolithon dimotum(Foslie & Howe) Yamaguishi‐Tomita ex M.J Wynne. This latter species is thus conspecific withS. ptychoidesand is therefore considered a heterotypic synonym thereof, asS. ptychoideshas nomenclatural priority. This study expands the known geographical distribution of the species and may give insight into the origin of the species into other geographical regions.
Morphological features and chromosome numbers in cultures of five Cephaleuros species (Trentepohliaceae, Chlorophyta) from Japan
Authors: Suto Yasuo , Ohtani Shuji
Published: December 2010

The morphological features and chromosome numbers were examined in cultures of five species of Cephaleuros; C. aucubae, C. biolophus, C. japonicus, C. microcellularis, and C. virescens, collected from Japan. On agar media of Bold's basal medium and CA medium, radial growth of the algal colonies was vigorous in C. virescens, moderate in C. aucubae, and poor in C. microcellularis, but varied from poor to moderate in isolates of C. biolophus and C. japonicus. Filaments of C. virescens branched at an angle less than 40° and just below the cross walls, while those of the other species branched at an angle greater than 40° without relation to the cross walls. The length of filamentous cells was significantly smaller in C. microcellularis than in the other species. The chromosome number differed with the species: n = 22 in C. aucubae, n = 34 in C. biolophus, n = 18 in C. japonicus, n = 12 in C. microcellularis, and n = 24 in C. virescens. The chromosome number did not vary between isolates from filaments and gametes in C. aucubae and C. biolophus and among those from filaments, gametes, and zoospores in C. japonicus and C. virescens.
Research note: Induction of gamete discharge by hypertonic treatment in the green algaBryopsis plumosa(Caulerpales, Chlorophyta)
Authors: Mine Ichiro , Ozaki Chie , Sekida Satoko , Okuda Kazuo
Published: December 2010

Brief treatment with hypertonic solutions induced gamete discharge from gametangia in the coenocytic green algaBryopsis plumosa(Hudson) C. Agardh. It is known that gamete discharge in this alga is triggered by a change from darkness to light. However, in this study mature gametangia, incubated for 30–120 s in artificial seawater (ASW) with an additional 0.4–0.6 M NaCl and then transferred into pure ASW, discharged gametes in darkness. The treatment did not affect the motility of the gametes. Addition of sucrose (1.0–1.2 M) to ASW also induced gamete discharge in darkness. Similar results were obtained by adding KCl (0.4 M) or mannitol (1.2 M) to ASW. Continuous incubation of gametangia in such hypertonic solutions also induced gamete discharge but led to a delay and a reduction in the rate of gamete discharge, and a loss of gamete motility. In gametangia treated with the hypertonic solutions, as well as in those exposed to light, shortening of the gametangial length was observed before gamete discharge.
Maternal psychosocial factors around delivery, and the behavior of 2‐year‐old children
Authors: Chuang Chao‐Hua , Jeng Suh‐Fang , Hsieh Wu‐Shiun , Liao Hua‐Fang , Su Yi‐Ning , Chen Pau‐Chung
Published: December 2010

Background:  The objectives of the present study were to explore whether maternal psychosocial factors, mental health and work stress around delivery, are related to the behavior of 2‐year‐old children.

Methods:  In a prospective cohort study design, pregnant women attending the National Taiwan University Hospital for delivery and post‐partum care from April 2004 to January 2005 were recruited and their children were observed at 24 months. A total of 186 mother–term‐born child dyads completed the measurement. The five‐item Mental Health Index (MHI‐5) self‐report data of maternal psychosocial factors were selected from the Taiwanese version of the short form 36 (SF‐36). The Child Behavior Checklist for age 1½–5 (CBCL/1½‐5) was completed by the parents when the child was 2 years old.

Results:  The mean score of mental health around delivery was 68.11. The proportion of mothers with work stress seldom and always was 61.8% and 24.7%, respectively. The mean of the total CBCL score, and internalizing, externalizing behavior and sleep problems scores was 45.95, 11.89, 15.59 and 4.23, respectively. After adjusting for the potential confounders, maternal work stress around delivery was found to have a significant effect on the total CBCL and externalizing, attention and aggressive, behavioral problems of 2‐year old children. Maternal mental health around delivery, however, did not show significant effects on child behavior.

Conclusions:  Work stress around delivery seems to aggravate children's externalizing behavior problems at 2 years old. It is therefore important to improve the psychosocial health and reduce the stress of pregnant women.
Comparing the qualitatively different effects rapidly evolving and rapidly induced defences have on predator–prey interactions
Authors: Cortez Michael H.
Published: December 2010

Ecology Letters (2011) 14: 202–209

Interspecific interactions depend not only on the population densities of the interacting species, but on their phenotypes as well. Phenotypic variation can be plastic or heritable and both mechanisms can drive phenotypic change at rates comparable to or faster than those of ecological dynamics (e.g. changes in population abundances or spatial distributions). In this study, we compare the effects rapidly induced and rapidly evolving defences have on community dynamics by considering the fast phenotypic change limit using fast‐slow systems theory. Our approach allows us to study phenotypically plastic and evolving systems with one overarching theory, thus capturing the effects rapidly induced defences have on ecological dynamics and how those effects differ from the effects of evolving defences. Our results show that rapidly induced defences tend to stabilize community dynamics and that some behaviours observed in rapidly evolving systems cannot be produced by phenotypic plasticity.
Organising for Effective Emergency Management: Lessons from Research1
Authors: Boin Arjen , 't Hart Paul
Published: December 2010

The February 2009 bushfires have prompted a debate with regard to contemporary arrangements for dealing with large‐scale disasters. In this article, we seek to contribute to that debate by culling lessons learned from the literature on crisis and disaster management. We discuss what constitutes an effective disaster response system, we identify some key barriers to the effective functioning of such a system, and offer some suggestions for improvement.
The Banking Crisis: Grid, Group and the State of the Debate
Authors: Hindmoor Andrew
Published: December 2010

The banking crisis and the recession it induced provide a salient backdrop to domestic and international politics.

2

The

International Monetary Fund (IMF 2010)

estimates that total banking losses between 2008 and 2010 exceeded US$2.3 trillion. This article uses grid‐group theory to review the existing literature on the causes of the banking crisis and, in doing so, distinguishes between hierarchical, individualist, egalitarian and fatalist accounts of what went wrong and of what needs to be done to prevent another crisis from occurring. It is argued that the existing reform agenda is underpinned by a hierarchical analysis of the causes of the crisis and that this risks narrowing the support base for the reform process.
The Privatisation of Prisoner Transfer Services in Western Australia. What Can we Learn from the Ward Case?
Authors: Baldino Daniel , Drum Martin , Wyatt Ben
Published: December 2010

In 2008, Aboriginal elder Mr Ward died of heat stroke while being transported in the back of a prison van operated by private security company GSL (now G4S). This article will address the role accountability mechanisms can play in improving correctional and custodial services and whether existing oversight frameworks can provide a proper supervision and quality control of private security operators. It will focus on the key reports issued by Western Australia's Inspector of Custodial Services, the independent office to oversee the prisoner transfer system. Another central source of information will be an examination of the report and recommendations handed down by the Western Australian Coroner Alastair Hope in June 2009. The Hope Report details the numerous failings of the system which led to the Ward tragedy. Both GSL and the Western Australian state government had breached a duty of care to Mr Ward. Further, it remains highly problematical having a range of oversight bodies if elected government is able to simply ignore the subsequent advice. Parliament must therefore remain a central part of the system of political accountability.
The 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission: Lessons for the Conduct of Inquiries in Australia
Authors: Pascoe Susan
Published: December 2010

Royal commissions with their wide powers, independence and uncertain outcomes are adopted sparingly by government. Hence, those charged with establishing such an inquiry are often left to begin anew. The 2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission (VBRC) provides a means of exploring lessons for public administration in light of its inquiry approach and internal operation. Similarly, recent reports on the conduct of statutory inquiries provide the opportunity to examine good practice. This article explores the central issue of what mode of inquiry is suited for particular circumstances. It characterises three different types of inquiry and analyses their features. The author provides participant observer insights from the VBRC and reflects on lessons learned.