bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disease-related conflicts in mammal conservation
Authors: Gortázar Christian , Ferroglio Ezio , Lutton Catherine E. , Acevedo Pelayo
Published: December 2010

Diseases pose a major direct or indirect threat to the conservation of endangered species, and can be a source of conflict among the stakeholders in conservation efforts. We aim to provide examples of disease-related conflicts in conservation, and information that can be used to identify means to reduce existing conflicts and avoid potential new ones. After introducing how diseases can affect conservation efforts, we have provided examples of different types of disease-related conflicts, including (1) those related to the movements of hosts, vectors and pathogens, (2) those linked to cats and dogs living in contact with wild carnivores, (3) those related to ungulate overabundance and (4) those related to carrion and hunting remains. We then discuss the management options available to mitigate these situations and resolve the conflicts surrounding them. Disease-related conflicts can affect conservation in several different ways. Whereas it is clear that diseases must be considered in any recovery plan for endangered species, as well as for sympatric and related abundant species such as relevant prey, it is also important to foresee and mitigate any eventual disease-related conflicts. Where conflicts have arisen, identifying the cultural carrying capacity for a disease or disease host species will help identify management strategies. It is important to quantify the risks for stakeholders and educate them about possible solutions. Multidisciplinary research teams that communicate their work to stakeholders should help resolve conflicts. Management options will not only depend on the status of the endangered host species and the epidemiology of the diseases considered, but also on the levels of existing conflict. Conservation strategies affected by diseases should explicitly include efforts to educate and inform all stakeholders as required throughout the process, and tackle any conflicts that arise.
Identifying conflicts and opportunities for collaboration in the management of a wildlife resource: a mixed-methods approach
Authors: Austin Zoë , Smart James C. R. , Yearley Steven , Irvine R. Justin , White Piran C. L.
Published: December 2010

ContextThe sustainable management of many common-pool ecological resources can be strengthened through collaboration among stakeholder groups. However, the benefits of collaborative management are often not realised because of conflicts of interest among stakeholders. Effective strategies for enhancing collaborative management require an understanding of the trade-offs that managers make between different management outcomes and an understanding of the socioeconomic and location-specific differences that drive these preferences. Approaches based on quantitative or qualitative methods alone often fail to reveal some of the underlying factors inhibiting collaboration. AimsOur aim was to understand the relative importance that private-sector deer managers attach to changes in the following three outcomes of deer management: deer numbers, deer-related road-traffic accidents (RTAs) and deer impacts on conservation woodlands. MethodsWe used a mixed-methods approach, combining choice-experiment methodology with qualitative analysis of focus-group discussions from 10 study regions throughout Britain. Key resultsOur results showed that most of the private-sector stakeholders responsible for deer-management decisions at the local level would prefer to see a future with fewer deer-related RTAs but do not want to see a future with lower deer population levels. This is especially the case for those stakeholders managing for sporting purposes and those that rely on deer as a financial resource. ConclusionsThe preferences of many private-sector stakeholders responsible for deer management are at odds with those of private landowners currently experiencing economic and conservation damage from deer, and with the aims of government and non-government bodies seeking to reduce grazing and browsing damage through lower deer densities. Similar barriers to collaborative management are likely to exist in any situations where ecological resources deliver an unequal distribution of benefits and costs among stakeholders. ImplicationsOvercoming barriers to collaboration requires enhanced understanding of how different collaborative mechanisms are viewed amongst the stakeholder community and how collaborative management can be promoted. More holistic approaches to deer management, which include greater public awareness, additional road-traffic speed restrictions and appropriate fencing, or perhaps include deer-population reduction as only one of a suite of mechanisms for delivering multiple benefits from the land, are likely to gain more support from private-sector stakeholders. Mixed-methods approaches can provide an important first step in terms of both quantifying preferences in relation to the management of ecological resources and enabling detailed insights into the motivations and behaviours underlying them.
Topoisomerase 1 provokes the formation of short deletions in repeated sequences upon high transcription in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Takahashi Diane T. , Burguiere-Slezak Guenaelle , Van der Kemp Patricia Auffret , Boiteux Serge
Published: December 2010

High transcription is associated with genetic instability, notably increased spontaneous mutation rates, which is a phenomenon termed Transcription-Associated-Mutagenesis (TAM). In this study, we investigated TAM using the chromosomal
CAN1
gene under the transcriptional control of two strong and inducible promoters (
pGAL1
and
pTET
) in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
. Both
pTET
- and
pGAL1
-driven high transcription at the
CAN1
gene result in enhanced spontaneous mutation rates. Comparison of both promoters reveals differences in the type of mutagenesis, except for short (−2 and −3 nt) deletions, which depend only on the level of transcription. This mutation type, characteristic of TAM, is sequence dependent, occurring prefentially at di- and trinucleotides repeats, notably at two mutational hotspots encompassing the same 5′-ACATAT-3′ sequence. To explore the mechanisms underlying the formation of short deletions in the course of TAM, we have determined Can
R
mutation spectra in yeast mutants affected in DNA metabolism. We identified topoisomerase 1-deficient strains (
top1
Δ) that specifically abolish the formation of short deletions under high transcription. The rate of the formation of (−2/−3nt) deletions is also reduced in the absence of
RAD1
and
MUS81
genes, involved in the repair of Top1p–DNA covalent complex. Furthermore ChIP analysis reveals an enrichment of trapped Top1p in the
CAN1
ORF under high transcription. We propose a model, in which the repair of trapped Top1p–DNA complexes provokes the formation of short deletion in
S. cerevisiae
. This study reveals unavoidable conflicts between Top1p and the transcriptional machinery and their potential impact on genome stability.
Evolution of convex lens-shaped networks under the curve shortening flow
Authors: Schnürer Oliver , Azouani Abderrahim , Georgi Marc , Hell Juliette , Jangle Nihar , Koeller Amos , Marxen Tobias , Ritthaler Sandra , Sáez Mariel , Schulze Felix , Smith Brian
Published: December 2010

We consider convex symmetric lens-shaped networks in

R

2

\mathbb {R}^2

that evolve under the curve shortening flow. We show that the enclosed convex domain shrinks to a point in finite time. Furthermore, after appropriate rescaling the evolving networks converge to a self-similarly shrinking network, which we prove to be unique in an appropriate class. We also include a classification result for some self-similarly shrinking networks.
A novel acetylation of β-tubulin by San modulates microtubule polymerization via down-regulating tubulin incorporation
Authors: Chu Chih-Wen , Hou Fajian , Zhang Junmei , Phu Lilian , Loktev Alex V. , Kirkpatrick Donald S. , Jackson Peter K. , Zhao Yingming , Zou Hui
Published: December 2010

Dynamic instability is a critical property of microtubules (MTs). By regulating the rate of tubulin polymerization and depolymerization, cells organize the MT cytoskeleton to accommodate their specific functions. Among many processes, posttranslational modifications of tubulin are implicated in regulating MT functions. Here we report a novel tubulin acetylation catalyzed by acetyltransferase San at lysine 252 (K252) of β-tubulin. This acetylation, which is also detected in vivo, is added to soluble tubulin heterodimers but not tubulins in MTs. The acetylation-mimicking K252A/Q mutants were incorporated into the MT cytoskeleton in HeLa cells without causing any obvious MT defect. However, after cold-induced catastrophe, MT regrowth is accelerated in San-siRNA cells while the incorporation of acetylation-mimicking mutant tubulins is severely impeded. K252 of β-tubulin localizes at the interface of α-/β-tubulins and interacts with the phosphate group of the α-tubulin-bound GTP. We propose that the acetylation slows down tubulin incorporation into MTs by neutralizing the positive charge on K252 and allowing tubulin heterodimers to adopt a conformation that disfavors tubulin incorporation.
ASSIMILATOR: a new tool to inform selection of associated genetic variants for functional studies
Authors: Martin Paul , Barton Anne , Eyre Stephen
Published: December 2010

Motivation: Fine-mapping experiments from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are underway for many complex diseases. These are likely to identify a number of putative causal variants, which cannot be separated further in terms of strength of genetic association due to linkage disequilibrium. The challenge will be selecting which variant to prioritize for subsequent expensive functional studies. A wealth of functional information generated from wet lab experiments now exists but cannot be easily interrogated by the user. Here, we describe a program designed to quickly assimilate this data called ASSIMILATOR and validate the method by interrogating two regions to show its effectiveness.

Availability:  http://www.medicine.manchester.ac.uk/musculoskeletal/research/arc/genetics/bioinformatics/assimilator/.

Contact:  paul.martin-2@manchester.ac.uk
Self-Incompatibility in Papaver rhoeas Activates Nonspecific Cation Conductance Permeable to Ca2+ and K+
Authors: Wu Juyou , Wang Su , Gu Yuchun , Zhang Shaoling , Publicover Stephen J. , Franklin-Tong Vernonica E.
Published: December 2010

Cellular responses rely on signaling. In plant cells, cytosolic free calcium is a major second messenger, and ion channels play a key role in mediating physiological responses. Self-incompatibility (SI) is an important genetically controlled mechanism to prevent self-fertilization. It uses interaction of matching S-determinants from the pistil and pollen to allow “self” recognition, which triggers rejection of incompatible pollen. In Papaver rhoeas, the S-determinants are PrsS and PrpS. PrsS is a small novel cysteine-rich protein; PrpS is a small novel transmembrane protein. Interaction of PrsS with incompatible pollen stimulates S-specific increases in cytosolic free calcium and alterations in the actin cytoskeleton, resulting in programmed cell death in incompatible but not compatible pollen. Here, we have used whole-cell patch clamping of pollen protoplasts to show that PrsS stimulates SI-specific activation of pollen grain plasma membrane conductance in incompatible but not compatible pollen grain protoplasts. The SI-activated conductance does not require voltage activation, but it is voltage sensitive. It is permeable to divalent cations (Ba2+ ≥ Ca2+ > Mg2+) and the monovalent ions K+ and NH4  + and is enhanced at voltages negative to −100 mV. The Ca2+ conductance is blocked by La3+ but not by verapamil; the K+ currents are tetraethylammonium chloride insensitive and do not require Ca2+. We propose that the SI-stimulated conductance may represent a nonspecific cation channel or possibly two conductances, permeable to monovalent and divalent cations. Our data provide insights into signal-response coupling involving a biologically important response. PrsS provides a rare example of a protein triggering alterations in ion channel activity.
Nucleocytoplasmic Distribution Is Required for Activation of Resistance by the Potato NB-LRR Receptor Rx1 and Is Balanced by Its Functional Domains
Authors: Slootweg Erik , Roosien Jan , Spiridon Laurentiu N. , Petrescu Andrei-Jose , Tameling Wladimir , Joosten Matthieu , Pomp Rikus , van Schaik Casper , Dees Robert , Borst Jan Willem , Smant Geert , Schots Arjen , Bakker Jaap , Goverse Aska
Published: December 2010

The Rx1 protein, as many resistance proteins of the nucleotide binding–leucine-rich repeat (NB-LRR) class, is predicted to be cytoplasmic because it lacks discernable nuclear targeting signals. Here, we demonstrate that Rx1, which confers extreme resistance to Potato virus X, is located both in the nucleus and cytoplasm. Manipulating the nucleocytoplasmic distribution of Rx1 or its elicitor revealed that Rx1 is activated in the cytoplasm and cannot be activated in the nucleus. The coiled coil (CC) domain was found to be required for accumulation of Rx1 in the nucleus, whereas the LRR domain promoted the localization in the cytoplasm. Analyses of structural subdomains of the CC domain revealed no autonomous signals responsible for active nuclear import. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching and nuclear fractionation indicated that the CC domain binds transiently to large complexes in the nucleus. Disruption of the Rx1 resistance function and protein conformation by mutating the ATP binding phosphate binding loop in the NB domain, or by silencing the cochaperone SGT1, impaired the accumulation of Rx1 protein in the nucleus, while Rx1 versions lacking the LRR domain were not affected in this respect. Our results support a model in which interdomain interactions and folding states determine the nucleocytoplasmic distribution of Rx1.
Structure-Function Analyses of a Caffeic Acid O-Methyltransferase from Perennial Ryegrass Reveal the Molecular Basis for Substrate Preference
Authors: Louie Gordon V. , Bowman Marianne E. , Tu Yi , Mouradov Aidyn , Spangenberg German , Noel Joseph P.
Published: December 2010

Lignin forms from the polymerization of phenylpropanoid-derived building blocks (the monolignols), whose modification through hydroxylation and O-methylation modulates the chemical and physical properties of the lignin polymer. The enzyme caffeic acid O-methyltransferase (COMT) is central to lignin biosynthesis. It is often targeted in attempts to engineer the lignin composition of transgenic plants for improved forage digestibility, pulping efficiency, or utility in biofuel production. Despite intensive investigation, the structural determinants of the regiospecificity and substrate selectivity of COMT remain poorly defined. Reported here are x-ray crystallographic structures of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) COMT (Lp OMT1) in open conformational state, apo- and holoenzyme forms and, most significantly, in a closed conformational state complexed with the products S-adenosyl-l-homocysteine and sinapaldehyde. The product-bound complex reveals the post-methyl-transfer organization of COMT's catalytic groups with reactant molecules and the fully formed phenolic-ligand binding site. The core scaffold of the phenolic ligand forges a hydrogen-bonding network involving the 4-hydroxy group that anchors the aromatic ring and thereby permits only metahydroxyl groups to be positioned for transmethylation. While distal from the site of transmethylation, the propanoid tail substituent governs the kinetic preference of ryegrass COMT for aldehydes over alcohols and acids due to a single hydrogen bond donor for the C9 oxygenated moiety dictating the preference for an aldehyde.
miR156-Targeted and Nontargeted SBP-Box Transcription Factors Act in Concert to Secure Male Fertility in Arabidopsis
Authors: Xing Shuping , Salinas María , Höhmann Susanne , Berndtgen Rita , Huijser Peter
Published: December 2010

The SBP-box transcription factor SQUAMOSA PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN-LIKE8 (SPL8) is required for proper development of sporogenic tissues in Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, we show that the semisterile phenotype of SPL8 loss-of-function mutants is due to partial functional redundancy with several other members of the Arabidopsis SPL gene family. In contrast with SPL8, the transcripts of these latter SPL genes are all targeted by miR156/7. Whereas the introduction of single miR156/7-resistant SPL transgenes could only partially restore spl8 mutant fertility, constitutive overexpression of miR156 in an spl8 mutant background resulted in fully sterile plants. Histological analysis of the anthers of such sterile plants revealed an almost complete absence of sporogenous and anther wall tissue differentiation, a phenotype similar to that reported for sporocyteless/nozzle (spl/nzz) mutant anthers. Expression studies indicated a functional requirement for miR156/7-targeted SPL genes limited to early anther development. Accordingly, several miR156/7-encoding loci were found expressed in anther tissues at later stages of development. We conclude that fully fertile Arabidopsis flowers require the action of multiple miR156/7-targeted SPL genes in concert with SPL8. Either together with SPL/NZZ or independently, these SPL genes act to regulate genes mediating cell division, differentiation, and specification early in anther development. Furthermore, SPL8 in particular may be required to secure fertility of the very first flowers when floral transition-related miR156/7 levels might not have sufficiently declined.
Dermoscopy findings of nail fold capillaries in connective tissue diseases
Authors: HASEGAWA Minoru
Published: December 2010

Nail fold (video) capillaroscopy is a well‐established technique to assess patients with Raynaud’s phenomenon, in whom specific abnormalities of capillaries are predictive of underlying systemic sclerosis and its related diseases (scleroderma spectrum disorder). The typical abnormalities are also found in patients with dermatomyositis and those findings are useful for the assessment of vascular injury and the evaluation of therapeutic effect in patients with scleroderma spectrum disorder and dermatomyositis. Recently, it has been suggested that dermoscopy can replace the capillaroscopy in significant part for detection of nail fold capillary abnormalities. In this review, I summarized the established capillaroscopy findings in connective tissues diseases and tried to apply the findings of dermoscopy to the findings and classification of capillaroscopy.
Correspondence between dermoscopic features and epidermal structures revealed by scanning electron microscope
Authors: NAGASHIMA Yoko , TSUCHIDA Tetsuya
Published: December 2010

It is already known that some typical dermoscopic patterns seen in melanocytic nevi on the sole have their own favorite site. In the weight‐bearing area, melanocytic nevi with a parallel furrow pattern were preferentially observed. Those with a lattice‐like pattern were observed in the arch area, whereas those with a crista reticulated pattern were seen in the border area. To investigate the relationship between the distribution of the dermoscopic patterns seen in plantar melanocytic nevi and the 3‐D structures of the epidermis, the basal surfaces of the plantar epidermis from 14 skin lesions were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Our SEM observations revealed that transverse ridges formed a couple of parallel lamellae on the crista profunda limitans (limiting ridges). Between the limiting ridges and the crista profunda intermedia (intermediate ridges), the transverse ridges had different shapes according to the anatomical location of the sole. From these results, it was suggested that the characteristic dermoscopic patterns seen in acquired and junctional melanocytic nevi on the sole simulate the arrangement of transverse ridges.
This article has been retracted: Curcumin targets Akt cell survival signaling pathway in HTLV‐I‐infected T‐cell lines
Authors: Tomita Mariko , Matsuda Takehiro , Kawakami Hirochika , Uchihara Jun‐nosuke , Okudaira Taeko , Masuda Masato , Ohshiro Kazuiku , Mori Naoki
Published: December 2010

This article has been retracted at the request of Editor‐in‐Chief & Author.

The following article from Cancer Science: Mariko Tomita, Takehiro Matsuda, Hirochika Kawakami, Jun‐nosuke Uchihara, Taeko Okudaira, Masato Masuda, Kazuiku Ohshiro and Naoki Mori. Curcumin targets Akt cell survival signaling pathway in HTLV‐I‐infected T‐cell lines, Cancer Science 2006; 97: 322–327, (doi: 10.1111/j.1349‐7006.2006.00175.x), published online on 30 March 2006 on Blackwell Synergy (http://www.blackwell‐synergy.com), now Wiley Online Library (http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/), has been retracted by agreement between the authors, the journal Editor‐in‐Chief, Yusuke Nakamura, and Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd. All authors wish to retract this paper due to inappropriate image utilization in two of the figures within the article.

Yusuke Nakamura Editor‐in‐Chief Cancer Science
Mutations in the Myostatin gene leading to hypermuscularity in mammals: indications for a similar mechanism in fish?
Authors: Stinckens A. , Georges M. , Buys N.
Published: December 2010

The transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) superfamily encodes secreted factors that are important in regulating embryonic development and tissue homeostatis in adults. Myostatin (MSTN, encoded by MSTN) or ‘growth and differentiation factor 8’, a member of this superfamily, is a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth and is highly conserved among animal species. In 1997, a mutation associated with the so‐called double‐muscling phenotype in cattle was found in the MSTN gene. During the years following the discovery of the first MSTN mutation, other mutations were found in cattle and other mammalian species, and MSTN became one of the most thoroughly studied genes in animals. The aim of this review is mainly to describe the functional mutations located in the MSTN genes of several mammalian species, leading to double muscling in these animals. Furthermore, in light of the increasing importance of fish genetics, the possibility of functional mutations in piscine MSTN with a similar effect as in mammals, and a genetic model for MSTN research in fish, will also be discussed.
Angiotensin blockade in diabetic patients decreases insulin resistance‐associated low‐grade inflammation
Authors: Pavlatou Maria G. , Mastorakos George , Margeli Alexandra , Kouskouni Evangelia , Tentolouris Nicholas , Katsilambros Nikos , Chrousos George P. , Papassotiriou Ioannis
Published: December 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2011; 41 (6): 652–658

Background  Insulin‐resistant states, such as metabolic syndrome and diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2), have been associated with chronic low‐grade systemic inflammation. Elevated levels of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP‐1) and C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), are found in patients with type 2 diabetes with and without complications. Angiotensin II (Ang II), a potent vasopressor, seems to regulate also the expression of the above inflammatory mediators acting as proinflammatory cytokine. In this study, we examined the effects of candesartan, an angiotensin receptror blocker, in the chronic low‐grade inflammation observed in DM 2.

Materials and methods  Seventeen patients with DM2 of < 5 years duration were recruited for the study. Patients received 4 mg of candesartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker, for 6 months. Blood levels of IL‐6, MCP‐1, hs‐CRP and other inflammatory indices were measured before and at the end of candesartan administration.

Results  At the end of treatment with candesartan, IL‐6 levels decreased significantly (P < 0·05). Serum levels of MCP‐1 and hs‐CRP showed a trend for significant decrease with treatment (P < 0·08 and P < 0·09, respectively). Statistically significant correlations were found between hs‐CRP and MCP‐1 (r = 0·623, P < 0·05), IL‐6 and MCP‐1 (r = 0·703, P < 0·05) and TRT and MCP‐1 (r = 0·752, P < 0·05), before but not at the end of candesartan administration.

Conclusions  Candesartan could decrease the low‐grade inflammation of type 2 DM as shown by the decrease of inflammatory mediators. Thus, angiotensin receptor blockers could be useful for treating patients with DM2 not only for their antihypertensive capacity but also for their anti‐inflammatory actions.
Connectivity, dispersal behaviour and conservation under climate change: a response to Hodgson et al.
Authors: Doerr Veronica A. J. , Barrett Tom , Doerr Erik D.
Published: December 2010

1. Hodgson et al. [Journal of Applied Ecology46 (2009) 964] argue that connectivity is complex and uncertain, that it can be improved incidentally by increasing habitat extent, and that connectivity conservation is unlikely to be effective under climate change.

2. We believe that they have overlooked recent research on dispersal behaviour and structural connectivity, which has improved our understanding of functional connectivity and revealed that it will not necessarily increase with habitat extent.

3. New modelling techniques including least‐cost path models incorporate this more detailed understanding of connectivity into conservation planning, facilitating the true aim of connectivity conservation – to ensure appropriate interactions between habitat extent, quality and connectivity.

4. Synthesis and applications. Advances in behavioural research and modelling techniques allow us to manage structural connectivity with as much certainty as we manage extent and quality of habitat. Successful landscape conservation to address both current threats and future climate change must manage these three elements in concert.
Whitefly infestation of pepper plants elicits defence responses against bacterial pathogens in leaves and roots and changes the below‐ground microflora
Authors: Yang Jung Wook , Yi Hwe‐Su , Kim Hyunkyung , Lee Boyoung , Lee Soohyun , Ghim Sa‐Youl , Ryu Choong‐Min
Published: December 2010

1. Upon facing biotic stresses, plants orchestrate defence mechanisms via internal and external mechanisms that are mediated by signalling molecules such as salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, ethylene and various other volatile compounds. Although pathogen‐ and chemical‐induced plant resistance has been studied extensively within the same plant compartment, the effects of above‐ground (AG) insect‐elicited plant defence on the resistance expression in roots and the below‐ground (BG) microbial community are not well understood.

2. We assessed the effect of AG whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) attack on the elicitation of induced resistance against a leaf pathogen,Xanthomonas axonopodispv.vesicatoria, a soil‐borne pathogen,Ralstonia solanacearum, and on BG modifications of the rhizosphere microflora in peppers (Capsicum annuum).

3. Symptom development caused by the two bacterial pathogens on leaves and roots was significantly reduced in whitefly‐exposed plants as compared to controls. A combined treatment with benzothiadiazole (BTH) and whitefly caused an additive effect on induced resistance, indicating that whitefly‐induced plant defence can utilize salicylic acid (SA)‐dependent signalling. To obtain further genetic evidence of this phenomenon, we evaluated the gene expression ofCapsicum annuum pathogenesis‐related protein(CaPR)1,CaPR4,CaPR10andCa protease inhibitor II, and observed increased expression after BTH and/or whitefly treatment indicating that AG whitefly infestation elicited SA and jasmonic acid signalling in AG and BG. Since the expression pattern of PR genes in the roots differed, we assessed microbial diversity in plants treated with BTH and/or whitefly.

4. In addition to eliciting BG defence responses, a whitefly infestation of the leaves augmented the population of root‐associated Gram‐positive bacteria and fungi, which may have positively affected plant growth and induced systemic resistance. Whitefly feeding reduced plant size, which usually occurs as a consequence of the high costs of direct resistance induction.

5. Synthesis.Our results demonstrate that whitefly‐induced resistance against bacterial pathogens can cross the AG–BG border and may cause further indirect benefits on future plant development, because it can positively affect the association or plant roots with putatively beneficial microorganisms.
Constitutive and induced subterranean plant volatiles attract both entomopathogenic and plant parasitic nematodes
Authors: Ali Jared G. , Alborn Hans T. , Stelinski Lukasz L.
Published: December 2010

1. Indirect plant defences are well documented for the above‐ground constituents of plants. Although less investigated to date, below‐ground defences that mediate multitrophic interactions are equally important. Entomopathogenic nematodes (Steinernema diaprepesi) are attracted to herbivore‐induced volatiles from Swingle var. (Citrus paradisi×Poncirus trifoliata) when fed upon by root weevil, Diaprepes abbreviatus.

2. We examined the extent to which below‐ground volatiles modify behaviour of nematode species representing various foraging strategies (cruisers versus ambushers) and trophic levels (plant parasites versus entomopathogens). We compared attraction to volatiles of weevil‐infested and non‐infested roots from Swingle citrus rootstock and a parent line of the Swingle hybrid, Poncirus trifoliata (Pt).

3. Swingle weevil‐infested roots attracted more nematodes than non‐infested roots irrespective of nematode foraging strategy and trophic status. The parental line, Pt, attracted all nematode species irrespective of insect herbivory.

4. Dynamic in situ collection and GC–MS analysis of volatiles from soil revealed that Pt roots release attracting cues constitutively. A different non‐hybrid citrus species (sour orange, Citrus aurantium) released nematode attracting cues only in response to larval feeding, similar to responses found in Swingle. Volatile collections from above‐ and below‐ground portions of citrus plants revealed that above‐ground feeding by weevils does not induce production of nematode attracting cues analogous to that induced by root damage, nor does damage by larvae below‐ground induce a similar volatile above ground.

5. Synthesis. Our results suggest that release of nematode attractants by citrus roots occurs broadly and can be constant or herbivore‐induced. The major constituent of this indirect defence is produced by roots and not shoots and in response to below‐ground, but not above‐ground herbivory. Our findings suggest that this cue acts on nematode species broadly, attracting entomopathogenic nematodes that exhibit various foraging strategies. Unexpectedly, we also found that this cue attracts a plant parasitic nematode species. It appears, thus, that release of nematode attracting cues by citrus plants can cause ecological costs. The plants, however, appear to counteract against these costs, because constitutive release was found only in a cultivar that is resistant to phytopathogenic nematodes, while herbivore‐induced release occurred in lines susceptible to pathogenic nematode species.
Measuring biodiversity across spatial scales in a raised bog using a novel paired‐sample diversity index
Authors: Bennie Jonathan , Anderson Karen , Wetherelt Andrew
Published: December 2010

1. Biodiversity is an inherently spatial phenomenon. It is determined by environmental heterogeneity and by spatially structured ecological processes such as disturbance, competition and dispersal. However, conventional biodiversity indices are based on discrete samples or pooled sets of samples without sufficient consideration of the spatial relationships between the samples.

2. Here we describe a new method for spatial analysis of species diversity, based on a paired‐sample version of the widely used Gini–Simpson diversity index and its numbers equivalent. The index and its numbers equivalent are plotted as a function of lag distance between two samples along spatial and/or environmental gradients.

3. We demonstrate the potential of this approach by applying it to two transects of fine‐scale (5 × 5 cm quadrat) vegetation data from sites with contrasting hydrology within a raised bog, where the location of each quadrat is accurately recorded and the height of the bog surface above the water table is measured using a terrestrial laser scanner.

4. Both transects have similar alpha‐diversity as measured using the Gini–Simpson index, and the transition between alpha‐ and gamma‐diversity occurs at similar length scales, suggesting that species aggregate at similar scales along both transects. However, the transect from the central bog dome has higher gamma‐diversity than that from the bog margin, and shows more marked significant spatial structure at a length scale of 135–140 cm, corresponding to the typical hummock–hollow microtopography at the site. We show that beta‐diversity at both transects can be attributable to both species clustering along the hydrological gradient, consistent with niche partitioning, as well as independent spatial aggregation of species that is not explained by hydrology.

5. Synthesis. The paired‐sample diversity index described here is a potentially useful tool in detecting and attributing patterns of beta‐diversity along both spatial and environmental gradients.
Top‐down control of herbivores varies with ecosystem types
Authors: Zhang Yangjian , Adams Jonathan
Published: December 2010

1. Björkman et al. comment on Adams and Zhang’s finding of more leaf herbivory with increasing latitude, pointing out that top‐down control by predators on insect herbivores might cause less herbivory in warmer regions.

2. Stronger top‐down control with more plant diversity has been found mostly in systems that are less diverse overall, such as agricultural fields and grassland. Studies have also concentrated on small spatial scales. Whether top‐down control is relatively more important at large spatial scales in the most highly diverse tropical or warm temperate forests is still in doubt.

3. Synthesis. The importance of top‐down predator control of herbivores may vary with the system studied. Future work to understand the controls of herbivores needs to precisely monitor and compare the dynamics of individual herbivore species and their predators at a large spatial scale.
Role of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) in striatal blood–brain barrier disruption in a 3‐nitropropionic acid model of Huntington's disease
Authors: Duran‐Vilaregut J. , del Valle J. , Manich G. , Camins A. , Pallàs M. , Vilaplana J. , Pelegrí C.
Published: December 2010

J. Duran‐Vilaregut, J. del Valle, G. Manich, A. Camins, M. Pallàs, J. Vilaplana and C. Pelegrí (2011) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology37, 525–537

Role of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9 in striatal blood–brain barrier disruption in a 3‐nitropropionic acid model of Huntington's disease

Aims: 3‐Nitropropionic acid (3‐NPA) is a natural toxin that, when administered to experimental animals, reproduces the brain lesions observed in Huntington's disease, which mainly consist of selective neurodegeneration of the striatum. The lesions also include severe alterations to the blood–brain barrier (BBB), which increase its permeability to several substances including blood components and exogenous fluorescent dyes, and the concomitant degradation of some of its constituents such as endothelial cells, tight junction proteins and the basement membrane. We studied here the role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)‐2 and ‐9, also called gelatinases A and B, in the degradation of the BBB in the striatal lesions induced by the systemic administration of 3‐NPA to Sprague‐Dawley rats. Methods: 3‐NPA was intraperitoneally administered at a dose of 20 mg/kg once a day for 3 days. MMPs were studied by means of immunohistochemistry and in situ zymography. Results: In 3‐NPA‐treated rats, MMP‐9 was present in most of the degraded blood vessels in the injured striatum, while it was absent in vessels from non‐injured tissue. In the same animals, MMP‐2 staining was barely detected close to degraded blood vessels. The combination of MMP‐9 immunostaining, in situ zymography and inhibitory studies of MMP‐9 confirmed that net gelatinolytic activity detected in the degraded striatal blood vessels could be attributed almost exclusively to the active form of MMP‐9. Conclusion: Our results highlight the prominent role of MMP‐9 in BBB disruption in the striatal injured areas of this experimental model of Huntington's disease.
Early post‐transplant vaccination with pandemic influenza A/H1N1 vaccine in pediatric heart transplant recipients
Authors: Altamirano‐Diaz Luis , West Lori , Humar Atul , Ely Leticia , Urschel Simon , Gubbay Jonathan , Crowcroft Natasha , Kumar Deepali
Published: December 2010

Altamirano‐Diaz L, West L, Humar A, Ely L, Urschel S, Gubbay J, Crowcroft N, Kumar D. Early post‐transplant vaccination with pandemic influenza A/H1N1 vaccine in pediatric heart transplant recipients. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15:172–175. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract: Pandemic influenza A/H1N1 virus has the potential to cause severe disease in pediatric transplant patients. A pandemic vaccine against H1N1 is effective in immunocompetent children. We investigated the immunogenicity of this vaccine when given in the first six months after heart transplantation. Four patients younger than two yr received two doses of vaccine and one patient older than seven yr received one dose. Titers were obtained using the HAI at baseline and after final immunization. Five patients were enrolled, ages 0.5–7 yr. Median age at the time of transplant was five months (range 3 wk–7 yr). All patients received induction with anti‐thymoglobulin and maintenance immunosuppression with tacrolimus, MMF, and prednisone. Patients were immunized with the adjuvanted H1N1 vaccine after heart transplant at median time of nine wk (range 5–23 wk) post‐transplant. Three of five developed protective titers against H1N1. A proportion of pediatric patients may respond to influenza vaccine even when immunized in the early post‐transplant period.
Safety and efficacy of tacrolimus in pediatric liver recipients
Authors: Kelly Deirdre
Published: December 2010

Kelly D. Safety and efficacy of tacrolimus in pediatric liver recipients. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15:19–24. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Pediatric liver transplantation is now so successful that we expect more than 80% of children to survive into adolescence and adulthood. As the focus of care shifts toward long‐term patient management, immunosuppressive regimens should, in addition to preventing acute and chronic rejection, promote good quality of life and be free of significant long‐term side effects. Historically, the most effective immunosuppressive regimens have been based on induction with a combination of calcineurin inhibitors (cyclosporin or tacrolimus) and steroids. Usually, maintenance is monotherapy with cyclosporin or tacrolimus or dual therapy with low‐dose alternate‐day steroids to encourage growth. A number of studies, including long‐term follow‐up, have shown significantly lower incidences of rejection, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and cosmetic side effects in patients treated initially with tacrolimus compared with cyclosporin. The use of anti‐interleukin‐2 inhibitors as induction therapy, with low‐dose tacrolimus or in combination with mycophenolate mofetil, has a key role in preventing significant renal dysfunction and reducing infection and rejection. Steroid‐free immunosuppression is also proving to be an effective option for the management of pediatric liver recipients. The main challenges now facing pediatricians include ensuring long‐term quality of life, optimizing immunosuppression while preventing associated adverse events, and managing a smooth transition from childhood to adolescence and adulthood.
Management of voriconazole hepatotoxicity in a lung transplant patient
Authors: Belaiche S. , Roustit M. , Bedouch P. , Quetant S. , Saint‐Raymond C. , Pison C.
Published: December 2010

S. Belaiche, M. Roustit, P. Bedouch, S. Quetant, C. Saint‐Raymond, C. Pison. Management of voriconazole hepatotoxicity in a lung transplant patient. Transpl Infect Dis 2011: 13: 309–311. All rights reserved

Abstract: Lung allograft airway colonization by Aspergillus species is common among lung transplant recipients. We report the case of a 46‐year‐old female lung transplant outpatient diagnosed with persistent pulmonary Aspergillus colonization (>50 colonies of Aspergillus terreus) 3 months after lung transplantation. Oral voriconazole 200 mg twice a day (b.i.d) was initiated shortly after diagnosis. Two days after voriconazole initiation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) were normal or slightly elevated (79, 37, and 21 UI/L, respectively). Ten days after the first voriconazole administration, these values started to increase. Maximum levels were reached after 20 days for ALP (369 UI/L) and at around 30 days for ALT and AST (223 and 188 UI/L, respectively). Instead of discontinuing antifungal therapy, it was decided to reduce the voriconazole dose to 100 mg b.i.d. This asymptomatic progressive cholestatic hepatitis resolved, and 10 days after dose reduction ALP, ALT, AST were at 136, 53, and 28 UI/L, respectively. Finally, therapeutic drug monitoring revealed adequate voriconazole plasma trough concentrations (0.98 mg/L) 30 days after dose reduction and no more colonies of Aspergillus were observed. Voriconazole‐induced hepatotoxicity is a well known dose‐dependent adverse drug reaction. This experience confirms the appropriateness of voriconazole dose reduction instead of therapy interruption in dose‐dependent moderate liver toxicity. Voriconazole therapeutic drug monitoring before and after dose reduction may help to avoid drug accumulation and inappropriately low drug exposure, respectively.
Hypomania: hype or mania?
Authors: Malhi Gin S , Chengappa KN Roy , Gershon Samuel , Goldberg Joseph F
Published: December 2010

Malhi GS, Roy Chengappa KN, Gershon S, Goldberg JF. Hypomania: hype or mania? Bipolar Disord 2010: 12: 758–763. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.
One‐year post‐hospital medical costs and relapse rates of bipolar disorder patients in Taiwan: a population‐based study
Authors: Tang Chao‐Hsiun , Hsieh Ming H , Hung Sheng‐Tzu , Lee I Hui , Lin Yung‐Jung , Yang Yen Kuang
Published: December 2010

Tang C‐H, Hsieh MH, Hung S‐T, Lee IH, Lin Y‐J, Yang YK. One‐year post‐hospital medical costs and relapse rates of bipolar disorder patients in Taiwan: a population‐based study. Bipolar Disord 2010: 12: 859–865. © 2010 The Authors.  Journal compilation © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objectives:  We examined a nationwide population‐based dataset of patients with bipolar disorder (BD) hospitalized in Taiwan, with our analyses focusing on one‐year medical costs and relapse rates.

Methods:  The data for this study, covering the years 2006 and 2007, were obtained from the Taiwan National Health Insurance (NHI) claims database. The study sample comprised BD patients who were discharged from hospitals between January 1 and December 31, 2006. Annual medical costs and relapse rates were described; the Kaplan–Meier method and the generalized linear models were carried out to examine the risk factors associated with cases of relapse.

Results:  The annual medical costs associated with relapses among the study sample were found to be approximately 7.6 times the average per‐capita NHI expenditure in Taiwan in 2006 (US$4,354 versus US$574), with a one‐year relapse rate of 55%. Those patients between 20 and 60 years old with a medication possession ratio of <80 and with depressive episodes during the recruitment period were identified as being at risk of relapse.

Conclusion:  Bipolar disorder, which is a very costly disease, is associated with both poor medication adherence rates and frequent recurrences. Targeting drug adherence issues during maintenance treatment may well provide a valuable opportunity to reduce the risk of such recurrences.
Immune activation by casein dietary antigens in bipolar disorder
Authors: Severance Emily G , Dupont Didier , Dickerson Faith B , Stallings Cassie R , Origoni Andrea E , Krivogorsky Bogdana , Yang Shuojia , Haasnoot Willem , Yolken Robert H
Published: December 2010

Severance EG, Dupont D, Dickerson FB, Stallings CR, Origoni AE, Krivogorsky B, Yang S, Haasnoot W, Yolken RH. Immune activation by casein dietary antigens in bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disord 2010: 12: 834–842. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objectives:  Inflammation and other immune processes are increasingly linked to psychiatric diseases. Antigenic triggers specific to bipolar disorder are not yet defined. We tested whether antibodies to bovine milk caseins were associated with bipolar disorder, and whether patients recognized different epitopes of the casein protein than control individuals.

Methods:  Anti‐bovine casein immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels were measured with solid‐phase immunoassays in 75 individuals with bipolar disorder and 65 controls. Epitope recognition was evaluated in immunoassays by cross neutralization with anti‐bovine casein polyclonal antibodies of defined reactivity. Group‐specific reactivity and associations with symptom severity scores were detected with age‐, gender‐, and race‐controlled regression models.

Results:  Individuals with bipolar disorder had significantly elevated anti‐casein IgG (t‐test, p ≤ 0.001) compared to controls. Casein IgG seropositivity conferred odds ratios of 3.97 for bipolar disorder [n = 75, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.31–12.08, p ≤ 0.015], 5.26 for the bipolar I subtype (n = 56, 95% CI: 1.66–16.64, p ≤ 0.005), and 3.98 for bipolar disorder with psychosis (n = 54, 95% CI: 1.32–12.00, p ≤ 0.014). Lithium and/or antipsychotic medication did not significantly affect anti‐casein IgG levels. Casein IgG measures correlated with severity of manic (R2 = 0.15, 95% CI: 0.05–0.24, p ≤ 0.02) but not depressive symptoms. Unlike controls, sera from individuals with bipolar disorder did not inhibit binding of casein‐reactive animal sera (t‐test/χ2, p ≤ 0.0001).

Conclusions:  Anti‐casein IgG associations with bipolar I diagnoses, psychotic symptom history, and mania severity scores suggest that casein‐related immune activation may relate to the psychosis and mania components of this mood disorder. Case‐control differences in epitope recognition implicate disease‐related alterations in how the casein molecule is digested and/or how resulting casein‐derived structures are rendered immunogenic.