bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No fecundity cost of female secondary sexual trait expression in the horned beetle Onthophagus sagittarius
Authors: SIMMONS L. W. , EMLEN D. J.
Published: July 2008

Typically males bear the products of sexual selection in the form of ornaments and/or weapons used to compete for and attract females. Secondary sexual traits in females have been thought of as the product of correlated responses to sexual selection on males. However, there is increasing phylogenetic evidence that female secondary sexual traits can arise independently of selection on males, and may be subject to sexual selection. Theoretical models of the evolution of female ornamentation via male mate choice have assumed that females suffer a cost of ornament expression via reduced fecundity, and hence female ornaments are less likely to evolve than male ornaments. In the dung beetle Onthophagus sagittarius, there has been an independent evolutionary origin of horns in females that are qualitatively different from the horns produced by males. We use this system as a model to examine the costs of horn expression for females within a life‐history context. We identified a longevity cost of reproduction for females that was independent of horn expression. Large females lived longer, and after controlling for lifespan, had a higher lifetime fecundity, and invested more heavily in maternal provisioning than did small females. We found no evidence of a cost to females of investment in horns. Rather, the rate of increase in fecundity and horn expression with body size were equal, so that absolute horn size provides an accurate indicator of body size and maternal quality. The effects we observe were independent of female contest competition and/or male mate choice, which were excluded in our experimental protocol. However, we speculate on the potential functional contributions female horns might make to female fitness.
A comparison of heat pulse velocity and lesion lengths for assessing the relative virulence of mountain pine beetle‐associated fungi on jack pine
Authors: Rice A. V. , Langor D. W.
Published: July 2008

The mountain pine beetle (MPB) vectors three blue‐stain fungi, Grosmannia clavigera, Ophiostoma montium and Leptographium longiclavatum, which contribute to the success of the beetles and the death of the trees. The utility of two methods, heat pulse velocity (HPV) and lesion length, for assessing the relative virulence of these fungi were compared on jack pine in central Alberta. The HPV monitoring apparatus failed to detect xylem sap flow in any of the trees and, thus, could not be used to assess fungal virulence. In contrast, measurement of lesion lengths was more sensitive and provided further evidence that G. clavigera and L. longiclavatum are more virulent than O. montium. The failure of the HPV apparatus to detect sap flow suggests that the study trees were moisture stressed, a factor likely to increase their susceptibility to MPB. Thus, this method is not appropriate for assessing the response of the most susceptible (i.e. drought stressed) trees to MPB and its associated fungi.
Resistance of Dalbergia sissoo to Fusarium solani f.sp. dalbergiae
Authors: Shukla A. N.
Published: July 2008

Large‐scale dieback of Dalbergia sissoo trees in India and neighbouring countries is causing concern to the state forest departments and farmers as trees of all age group are dying. Fusarium solani f.sp. dalbergiae, isolated from the roots of dying trees and from the oozing pitch on stems, was tested for pathogenicity. Seeds were collected from 107 mature healthy trees, from 21 heavily infected localities in the country. As many seed failed to germinate, resistance testing was carried out on a limited number of provenances. Seedlings were tested for disease resistance by soil drenching and root‐dip methods using spore suspensions of F. solani f.sp. dalbergiae. On the basis of seedling survival, provenances were classified into four susceptibility classes; seedlings from Amritsar (Punjab) showed maximum survival and were considered very resistant, whereas Dehra (Kangra), Himachal Pradesh, were the most susceptible. F. solani f.sp. dalbergiae from Nihal Gate (Haldwani), Uttarakhand, was the most virulent isolate amongst the three tested.
Mycological examination of the barbers’ tools about sources of fungal infections
Authors: Uslu Hakan , Uyanik Muhammet , Ayyildiz Ahmet
Published: July 2008

The purpose of this study was to determine the colonisation of causative agents for fungal skin infections on the tools and surfaces of barbershops. A total of 357 samples from tools and surfaces of 32 barbershops in Erzurum, Turkey were collected and examined for fungal pathogens. From the combs, Trichophyton rubrum (1), non‐dermatophytic moulds (35) and Candida albicans (1); from the hairbrushes, T. rubrum (3), T. mentagrophytes (1), non‐dermatophytic moulds (21) and yeast (1); from the shaving brushes, non‐dermatophytic moulds (2) and C. albicans (2); from the headrest of barber chairs, T. rubrum (1), non‐dermatophytic moulds (19) were isolated. No fungi were isolated from towels. In conclusion, this study showed that shared tools and contacted surfaces in barbershops are important sources for fungal colonization and may play an important role in spreading mycotic infections among people.
First case of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis peritonitis due to Candida sake
Authors: Guclu Ertugrul , Soypacaci Zeki , Yildirim Mustafa , Kucukbayrak Abdulkadir , Ozdemir Davut
Published: July 2008

Fungal peritonitis is a relatively uncommon complication of peritoneal dialysis that contributes significantly to morbidity, drop out from the continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) program, and mortality. Candida sake infections were rarely published in literature. We present the first case of peritonitis due to C. sake. A 41‐year‐old man was admitted to our hospital with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, weakness. Abdominal ultrasonography demonstrated a fistula tract, which has an opening at inferolateral of the umbilicus extending 5 cm from the skin into the abdominal cavity with a foreign body (11 × 10 mm length) inside the fistula. The foreign body was removed by surgery being apparently a part of a previously inserted peritoneal catheter. Postoperative specimens revealed polymorph leucocytes and yeast cells in Gram stain, and culture on Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) yielded a growth of a fungus, subsequently identified as C. sake with Api ID 32C. Fluconazole (200 mg/day) therapy was started. He recovered after two weeks of therapy. In conclusion, C. sake, a rare type of Candida species, should be considered as a probable peritoneal pathogen in patients with multiple episodes of bacterial peritonitis, previous broad‐spectrum antibiotic therapy and diabetes mellitus.
Histopathological evolution of a cutaneous myxofibrosarcoma
Authors: Kwong Rhonda A , Kossard Steven
Published: July 2008

A 54‐year‐old woman presented with a 6‐month history of a tender and swollen plaque appearing as a panniculitis affecting the left pretibial area. The initial histopathology revealed dermal and subcutaneous inflammation with interstitial histiocytes and mucinosis suggestive of either granuloma annulare or necrobiosis lipoidica. Over the subsequent 6 months the plaque grew progressively, despite treatment with topical corticosteroids under occlusion. Distal to the plaque reduced sensation developed in the limb. Biopsies of the nodular areas now revealed a dense dermal infiltrate of atypical spindle cells within a prominent myxoid stroma and a pleomorphic multinucleated epithelioid cell component. These features were those of an intermediate grade myxofibrosarcoma. This soft‐tissue sarcoma may initially masquerade clinically as a panniculitis and a granulomatous process on biopsy as in our patient, leading to a delay in surgical therapy.
Workplace stressors experienced by physiotherapists working in regional public hospitals
Authors: Lindsay Robyn , Hanson Lisa , Taylor Melanie , McBurney Helen
Published: July 2008

Objective:  To identify and measure the effects of workplace stressors experienced by Victorian regional physiotherapists.

Design:  Survey questionnaire.

Setting and participants:  A questionnaire was distributed to three Victorian regional public physiotherapy departments and data were collected from 80 physiotherapists.

Main outcome measures:  The type and frequency of workplace stressors, the nature and frequency of common signs and symptoms of stress and the amount of leave taken as a result of stress were measured.

Results:  Caseload quantity, complexity of patients, constant excessive workload, covering staff on leave and staff shortages, were reported as key workplace stressors. Physiotherapists aged between 20 and 29 years were significantly more likely to report a higher number of workplace stressors (F = 4.173, n = 80, P = 0.009). Inpatient rehabilitation physiotherapists were significantly more likely to report stress at a higher frequency than physiotherapists working in other areas (χ2 = 14.359, n = 73, P = 0.002). Eleven per cent of all respondents reported taking leave from work as a result of stress with no significant difference identified between those who took leave and those who did not. There was, however, a trend identified with senior staff (Z = 1.792, n = 80, P = 0.073) and those who work in inpatient rehabilitation (χ2 = 6.926, n = 80, P = 0.074) being more likely to take leave as a result of stress. Many of these physiotherapists did not make their employers aware of the reasons for the leave (77%, n = 9).

Conclusions:  High caseloads, periods of increased activity and staff shortages are some of the factors that contribute to stress in regional physiotherapists. Younger therapists were more likely to identify stressors with greater frequency. Strategies to monitor, prevent and manage stress should be implemented to minimise burnout in regional physiotherapists.
Harnessing the social capital of rural communities for youth mental health: An asset‐based community development framework
Authors: Boyd Candice P. , Hayes Louise , Wilson Rhonda L. , Bearsley‐Smith Cate
Published: July 2008

In Australia, we are facing a period of mental health reform with the establishment of federally funded community youth services in rural areas of the country. These new services have great potential to improve the mental health of rural adolescents. In the context of this new initiative, we have four main objectives with this article. First, we consider the notion of social capital in relation to mental health and reflect on the collective characteristics of rural communities. Second, we review lessons learned from two large community development projects targeting youth mental health. Third, we suggest ways in which the social capital of rural communities might be harnessed for the benefit of youth mental health by using asset‐based community development strategies and fourth, we consider the role that rural clinicians might play in this process.
Pulseless electrical activity after rapid administration of fresh frozen plasma
Authors: Hyde Philip , Puddy Victoria
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  We present two extreme low birthweight preterm neonates who developed pulseless electrical activity during dilutional exchange transfusions with fresh frozen plasma (FFP). Both were polycythaemic recipient twins delivered prematurely because of foetal compromise as a result of twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome. The two events were associated with an acute fall in ionised calcium. We discuss the mechanism of these cardiac arrests and highlight the care required when infusing citrate containing blood products, particularly FFP, in order to avoid causing acute life‐threatening hypocalcaemia.
Withdrawal and limitation of life‐sustaining treatments in a paediatric intensive care unit and review of the literature
Authors: Moore Peter , Kerridge Ian , Gillis Jonathan , Jacobe Stephen , Isaacs David
Published: July 2008

Objectives:  To examine withdrawal and limitation of life‐sustaining treatment (WLST) in an Australian paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and to compare this experience with published data from other countries.

Design:  Retrospective chart review and literature review.

Source of Data:  Review of 12 months of patient records from a tertiary Australian children's teaching hospital. Medline search using relevant key words focusing on death and PICU.

Results:  Twenty of 27 deaths (74%) followed either WLST (n = 16) or Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) orders (n = 4); five children failed cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); and two children were brain‐dead. Meetings between the medical team and family were documented for 15 of 16 children (93.8%) before treatment was withdrawn. The average time between withdrawal of life support and death was 13 min. A review of the English‐language literature revealed that 18–65% occurring in PICUs worldwide follow WLST and/or institution of DNR orders. Rates were higher (30–65%) in North America and Europe than elsewhere. Most PICU deaths occurred within 3 days of admission. North American and British parents appear to be involved in decisions regarding withdrawal and limitation of treatment more often than parents in other countries.

Conclusions:  Withdrawal and limitation of life‐sustaining treatment was more common in an Australian children's hospital ICU than has been reported from other countries. Details of discussion with parents, including the basis for any decision to WLST, were almost always documented in the patient's medical record.
Two region‐dependent pathways of eosinophilic neuronal death after transient cerebral ischemia
Authors: Sun Liyuan , Kuroiwa Toshihiko , Ishibashi Satoru , Miki Kazunori , Li Shihong , Xu Haiyan , Endo Shu , Mizusawa Hidehiro
Published: July 2008

Various types of eosinophilic neurons (ENs) are found in the post‐ischemic brain. We examined the temporal profile of ENs in the core and peripheral regions of the ischemic cortex, and analyzed the relationship to the expression of various cell death‐related factors. Unilateral forebrain ischemia was induced in Mongolian gerbils by transient common carotid artery occlusions, and the brains from 3 h to 2 weeks post‐ischemia were prepared for morphometric and immunohistochemical analysis of ENs. ENs with minimally abnormal nuclei and swollen cell bodies appeared at 3 h in the ischemic core and at 12 h in the periphery. In both locations multiple cell death‐related factors including calcium, µ‐calpain, cathepsin D, 78 kDa glucose‐regulated protein (GRP78) and ubiquitin were activated. In the ischemic core, pyknosis and irregularly atrophic cytoplasm peaked at 12 h, which was associated with significant increases in staining for calcium and µ‐calpain. ENs with pyknosis and scant cytoplasm peaked at 4 days and were positive for TUNEL and calcium staining. In the ischemic periphery, ENs had slightly atrophic cytoplasm and sequentially developed pyknosis, karyorrhexis and karyolysis over 1 week. These cells were positive for TUNEL and calcium staining. All types of EN were negative for caspase 3. There may be two region‐dependent pathways of EN changes in the post‐ischemic brain: pyknosis with cytoplasmic shrinkage in the core, and nuclear disintegration with slightly atrophic cytoplasm in the periphery. This difference coordinates different activation patterns of cell death‐related factors in ENs.
Mature cerebellar teratoma in adulthood
Authors: Beschorner Rudi , Schittenhelm Jens , Bueltmann Eva , Ritz Rainer , Meyermann Richard , Mittelbronn Michel
Published: July 2008

Extragonadal teratomas in adulthood are exceptionally rare and usually not located within the cerebellum. We here report on a 66‐year‐old male patient clinically presenting with chronic occipital headache and episodes of severe vertigo. Neuroradiological investigations revealed a hemorrhagic tumor mass in the cerebellar vermis which was surgically removed and histologically diagnosed as mature teratoma. Hence, the presented case is extraordinary with regard to age, late clinical onset of symptoms and cerebellar location. Late clinical manifestation of the tumor in this case is probably due to an acute late‐onset hemorrhage within the tumor.
Methotrexate‐related leukoencephalopathy without radiation therapy: Distribution of brain lesions and pathological heterogeneity on two autopsy cases
Authors: Matsubayashi Jun , Tsuchiya Kuniaki , Matsunaga Takashi , Mukai Kiyoshi
Published: July 2008

This report concerns two rare autopsy cases of methotrexate (MTX)‐related leukoencephalopathy without radiation therapy. In the first case, there were widespread necrotic foci with prominent spheroids, that is, disseminated necrotizing leukoencephalopathy (DNL), mainly in the cerebral white matter. In contrast, in the second case, there were widespread demyelinated foci without significant axonal changes, which we would like to name disseminated demyelinating leukoencephalopathy (DDL), mainly in the cerebral white matter. We emphasize that the pathology of pure MTX‐related leukoencephalopathy is not uniform, and may show at least two kinds of histologic change. Furthermore, both cases did not develop significant vascular changes, which are usually induced by radiation therapy. The distribution of the lesions in two cases was examined by large specimens, including hemisphere specimens. The distribution of the lesions in the brain of our cases was also different. In the first case, the DNL lesions were predominantly distributed in the frontal and temporal lobes. In the second case, the DDL lesions were prominently localized in the occipital lobe. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing not only the pathological findings of MTX‐related leukoencephalopathy without irradiation but also the precise distributions of the lesions.
Expression of estrogen receptor α and β in reactive astrocytes at the male rat hippocampus after status epilepticus
Authors: Sakuma Satoru , Tokuhara Daisuke , Hattori Hideji , Matsuoka Osamu , Yamano Tsunekazu
Published: July 2008

Estrogen is neuroprotective against status epilepticus (SE)‐induced hippocampal damage in female animals. In male animals, estrogen is converted from testosterone via aromatization the activity of which is upregulated by brain damage. However, it is controversial whether estrogen is neuroprotective or neuroinvasive against male hippocampal damage after SE. In order to understand the role of estrogen, it is important to elucidate the distribution manner of estrogen receptor (ER)α and β as the targets of estrogen. In this study, we examined the time course changes of ERs in adult male rat hippocampus after SE using anti‐ERα antibodies (MC‐20 and PA1‐309) and anti‐ERβ antibodies (PA1‐310B and PA1‐311). In control rats, both ERα and β were expressed in the pyramidal cells predominantly at CA1 and CA3. ERα was expressed in the cytoplasm and the nucleus, whereas ERβ was expressed in the cytoplasm of the pyramidal cells. After SE, according to the pyramidal cell loss at CA1, the number of ERα‐ and β‐immunoreactive pyramidal cells decreased up to day 21. On the other hand, reactive astrocytes, which newly appeared after SE and formed gliosis at CA1, were confirmed to express both ERs in the nucleus, cytoplasm, and process. There were no differences in immunoreactivity between antibodies. Our results indicate that endogenous estrogen affects the pyramidal cells through ERα and β under normal circumstances in adult male rats, whereas the targets of estrogen shift to the reactive astrocytes through ERα and β after SE.
Chromosome 16q22.1‐linked autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia: An autopsy case report with some new observations on cerebellar pathology
Authors: Shintaku Masayuki , Kaneda Daita
Published: July 2008

An autopsy case of chromosome 16q22.1‐linked autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia is reported. The patient was a 77‐year‐old man who died after a clinical course of about 19 years characterized by pure cerebellar ataxia. Main neuropathological findings included moderate loss of Purkinje cells, variegated degenerative features of the remaining Purkinje cells, finely fibrillary material surrounding the perikarya of Purkinje cells, and ubiquitin‐immunoreactive small dots in the molecular layer and cerebellar white matter. Neuritic hyperplasia surrounding the perikarya of Purkinje cells was also a prominent finding. Golgi impregnation study demonstrated poor dendritic arborization of some Purkinje cells. It is our assumption that the pathological processes leading to Purkinje cell death in this disorder are not singular because the intracellular functions of the protein coded by the mutant gene are manifold, and the multiplicity of the pathological processes is reflected in diverse cytomorphological changes seen in degenerating Purkinje cells.
Spread of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus USA300 in a neonatal intensive care unit
Authors: McAdams Ryan M. , Ellis Michael W. , Trevino Sherry , Rajnik Michael
Published: July 2008

Background: Reports of community‐associated methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA‐MRSA) in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) and in otherwise healthy patients without obvious risk factors have been increasing in frequency. Described herein is a cluster of cases of CA‐MRSA USA300 strains in an NICU affecting infants, health‐care workers and the health‐care workers’ families.

Methods: Infants and health‐care workers with infection and colonization due to MRSA between 1 January 2004 and 30 June 2005 in a tertiary care center NICU in San Antonio, TX were studied. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing and polymerase chain reaction detection of the mecA gene characterized the MRSA isolates. All MRSA cases were reviewed for clinical severity of infection and outcome.

Results: During the 18 months studied, a total of four (0.6%) of 676 infants had CA‐MRSA bacteremia or colonization. One infant with necrotizing pneumonia died and three health‐care workers who directly cared for the infected infants developed soft‐tissue infections caused by CA‐MRSA. Four family members of two health‐care workers subsequently developed soft‐tissue infections. All of the analyzed isolates (eight of nine) belonged to pulsed‐field type USA300 and possessed Panton–Valentine leukocidin genes, which have been associated with severe skin and soft‐tissue infections, and necrotizing pneumonia.

Conclusions: It is likely that the CA‐MRSA USA300 strain can be transmitted between NICU patients to health‐care workers and their family members. The CA‐MRSA cases reported here reinforce the virulence of CA‐MRSA USA300 strains and emphasize the need to embrace infection control practices designed to protect hospitalized patients, health‐care workers and their family members.
Clinical importance of cytomegalovirus antigenemia for intrauterine cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Kaneko Masatoki , Sameshima Hiroshi , Ikenoue Tsuyomu , Kusumoto Kazumi , Minematsu Toshio
Published: July 2008

Background: Little is known about the clinical importance of cytomegalovirus (CMV) antigenemia for intrauterine‐CMV‐infected newborns. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of CMV antigenemia during the neonatal period and its association with clinical manifestations.

Methods: CMV antigenemia was analyzed using neonatal blood from 25 patients suspected of having intrauterine infection because of abnormal clinical manifestations in the mother, fetus, and newborn. Neonatal urine samples were collected for diagnosis of intrauterine infection. The diagnostic accuracy of the antigenemia analysis was evaluated by comparing it with the results of urinary CMV analyses. The clinical manifestations of antigenemia‐positive and ‐negative infected newborns were compared in the infected newborns.

Results: Fifteen newborns were congenitally infected and 10 were uninfected as diagnosed on virus isolation from neonatal urine. Six of 15 infected newborns were positive for CMV antigenemia. CMV antigenemia had a positive predictive value of 100%, a negative predictive value of 52.6%, a sensitivity of 40%, and a specificity of 100%. CMV retinitis and pneumonitis were more prevalent among antigenemia‐positive newborns (4/6) than antigenemia‐negative newborns (0/9;P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Antigenemia was significantly associated with retinitis and pneumonia, but it was not sensitive enough to diagnose intrauterine CMV infection.
Head circumference and development in young children after renal transplantation
Authors: Motoyama Osamu , Kawamura Takeshi , Aikawa Atushi , Hasegawa Akira , Iitaka Kikuo
Published: July 2008

Background:  Growth impairment, microcephaly and developmental delay in young children with chronic renal failure improve after successful renal transplantation. There have been few reports on head circumference (HC) and development after transplantation.

Method:  Standard deviation scores (SDS) of height and HC and developmental quotient (DQ) after successful renal transplantation were evaluated in 12 recipients under 5 years of age. At the time of transplantation their mean age was 2.5 years and mean bodyweight was 9.0 kg.

Results:  Mean height SDS was −3.0 at transplantation and increased to −2.3 at 1 year after transplant (P = 0.002). Mean HC‐SDS increased from −1.4 to −0.9 at 1 year after transplant (P = 0.02). As for each category of DQ examined 1 year after transplant, mean scores of gross motor function, basic practice, personal relations, speech and recognition increased from 69 to 90 (P = 0.007), from 77 to 102 (P = 0.02), from 87 to 103 (P = 0.04), from 71 to 90 (P = 0.0006), and from 88 to 101 (P = 0.03), respectively.

Conclusion:  In young children, physical growth, HC growth and DQ scores increased 1 year after transplantation. Dialysis and transplantation program should be planned in young children with end‐stage renal failure in anticipation of growth and development of each patient.
MAC‐awake of sevoflurane in children
Authors: DAVIDSON ANDREW J. , WONG AARON , KNOTTENBELT GRAHAM , SHEPPARD SUZETTE , DONATH SUSAN , FRAWLEY GEOFF
Published: July 2008

Introduction:  Age influences the potency of anesthetic agents, but there is little information on how age influences MAC‐awake. MAC‐awake may be an important aspect of anesthesia potency for the prevention of awareness during anesthesia. The aim of this study was to measure MAC‐awake in a range of ages in children.

Methods:  After institutional ethics approval and informed parental consent 60 children were enrolled; 20 in each of three age groups (2 to <5, 5 to <8 and 8–12 years). Children were excluded if they had opioids, sedative premedication or a procedure likely to cause any residual discomfort. All children had sevoflurane anesthesia. At the end of the procedure the sevoflurane was decreased to the target concentration. Once the target endtidal concentration was achieved it was maintained for 10 min before a standard stimulus was applied and an observer determined if the child was awake. The Dixon up–down method was used to determine progression of subsequent concentrations and MAC‐awake (ED50) for the three age groups were obtained using the probit model.

Results:  This study found evidence for a difference in ED50 between age groups (P = 0.008). The MAC‐awake was highest in the youngest group (0.66%) and similar in the older groups (0.45% and 0.43%).

Conclusion:  Although MAC‐awake changes with age, in the ages where awareness has been reported, MAC‐awake was found to be relatively low, and therefore it seems unlikely that age‐specific changes to MAC‐awake are a cause for awareness in children aged 5–12 years.
Multiple modes in a coral species abundance distribution
Authors: Dornelas Maria , Connolly Sean R.
Published: July 2008

Species abundance distributions are an important measure of biodiversity and community structure. These distributions are affected by sampling, and alternative species‐abundance models often make similar predictions for small sample sizes. Very large samples reveal the relative abundances of rare species, and thus provide information about species relative abundances that small samples cannot. Here, we present the species‐abundance distribution for a sample of > 40 000 coral colonies at a single site, exceeding existing samples of coral local assemblages by over an order of magnitude. This abundance distribution is multimodal when examined on a logarithmic scale. Four different model selection procedures all indicate that the underlying community abundance distribution has at least three modes. We show that the multiple modes are not caused by mixtures of species with different habitat preferences. However, spatial aggregation partially explains our results. We inspect published work on species abundance distributions, and suggest that multimodality may be a common feature of large samples.
Effects of experimental inbreeding on herbivore resistance and plant fitness: the role of history of inbreeding, herbivory and abiotic factors
Authors: Leimu Roosa , Kloss Lena , Fischer Markus
Published: July 2008

Inbreeding is common in plant populations and can affect plant fitness and resistance against herbivores. These effects are likely to depend on population history. In a greenhouse experiment with plants from 17 populations of Lychnis flos‐cuculi, we studied the effects of experimental inbreeding on resistance and plant fitness. Depending on the levels of past herbivory and abiotic factors at the site of plant origin, we found either inbreeding or outbreeding depression in herbivore resistance. Furthermore, when not damaged experimentally by snail herbivores, plants from populations with higher heterozygosity suffered from inbreeding depression and those from populations with lower heterozygosity suffered from outbreeding depression. These effects of inbreeding and outbreeding were not apparent under experimental snail herbivory. We conclude that inbreeding effects on resistance and plant fitness depend on population history. Moreover, herbivory can mask inbreeding effects on plant fitness. Thus, understanding inbreeding effects on plant fitness requires studying multiple populations and considering population history and biotic interactions.
Plasma magnesium should be monitored perioperatively in patients undergoing colorectal resection
Authors: Evans M. D. , Barton K. , Pritchard G. A. , Williams E. J. , Karandikar S. S.
Published: July 2008

Objective  Hypomagnesemia has been shown to have several clinically important sequelae. The aims of this study were: to assess the impact of bowel preparation, with sodium picosulphate (Picolax®), on plasma electrolytes, with particular regard to plasma magnesium, in patients undergoing bowel preparation for colonoscopy and colorectal resection and to evaluate the influence of perioperative magnesium levels on postoperative cardiac dysrhythmias.

Method  Sixty‐one patients receiving sodium picosulphate (Picolax®) bowel preparation were studied in two groups: Colonoscopy (31 patients) and Colorectal resection (30 patients). Plasma sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, urea, creatinine and blood haematocrit were measured in all patients prior to commencement of bowel preparation, at the time of colonoscopy or colorectal resection and 24 h postoperatively (surgery group only). Mean electrolyte and haematocrit levels were then compared. Postoperative cardiac dysrhythmias were recorded and analysed.

Results  No significant changes following bowel preparation were observed in plasma sodium, potassium, calcium or creatinine. Plasma urea fell following bowel preparation (colonoscopy P < 0.001, resection P = 0.004) and rose following resection (P = 0.002). Magnesium levels increased following bowel preparation in both groups (colonoscopy P < 0.001, resection P = 0.007) and fell following resection (P < 0.001). Thirty‐four per cent (21/60 patients) were hypermagnesemic following bowel preparation and 20% (6/30 patients) became hypomagnesemic following surgery. Postoperative cardiac dysrhythmias were associated with lower magnesium levels at induction and postoperatively (P = 0.022 and P = 0.033).

Conclusion  Bowel preparation with Picolax® does not appear to cause significant electrolyte disturbance, except in elevating plasma magnesium. Postcolorectal resection plasma magnesium dropped significantly suggesting perioperative monitoring and replacement should be routine following colorectal surgery.
Preoperative investigations for metastatic staging of colon and rectal cancer across multiple centres – what is current practice?
Authors: Kosmider S. , Stella D. L. , Field K. , Moore M. , Ananda S. , Oakman C. , Singh M. , Gibbs P.
Published: July 2008

Objective  The optimal strategy for elective distant staging of colorectal carcinoma (CRC) has yet to be defined, with current guidelines based on small and limited series. One specific issue requiring review is the value of routine computerized tomographic (CT) chest examination. Also lacking is data on current routine clinical practice.

Method  A retrospective chart review of consecutive cases of elective surgery for CRC from five hospitals.

Results  Two hundred and fifty‐seven cases were reviewed, 128 colon and 129 rectal primaries. 164 (64%) of patients overall, ranging from 45% to 88% across the individual centres, had a preoperative serum CEA level performed. CT abdomen/pelvis was performed in 222 (86%) of cases, ranging from 69% to 98% per centre. CT chest was performed in 95 (37%) of cases, 47% of rectal vs 29% of colon cancers (P = 0.004). In 17 cases (18%) CT chest examinations revealed abnormalities suspicious for metastatic disease, leading to a change in management in six (35%) of these cases. Of the 17 cases with an abnormal CT chest, in only 5 of the 14 (36%) where carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels were also recorded was this increased, and in only three (21%) was this markedly (> 10 μg/l) elevated.

Conclusions  Substantial variability exists in the preoperative evaluation of patients with CRC. Many patients do not have a CEA and/or abdominal imaging performed. Where performed, CT chest revealed suspicious findings in a significant number of patients, the vast majority of whom had a normal or near normal CEA. Future studies are required to define optimal preoperative staging.
Perineum compression during EAUS enhances visualization of anterior anal sphincter defects
Authors: Titi M. A. , Jenkins J. T. , Urie A. , Molloy R. G.
Published: July 2008

Objective  Endo‐anal ultrasound (EAUS) can detect anal sphincter injuries. However, anterior external anal sphincter (EAS) defects can be difficult to define. We assessed different EAUS techniques to determine if any particular method improved defect identification.

Method  Ninety females with faecal incontinence were prospectively studied. Wexner faecal incontinence scores were obtained. All patients underwent anorectal manometry and EAUS using three different techniques: standard, digit‐assisted (gloved finger pressing on posterior vaginal wall) and balloon‐assisted (standard balloon inflated into the vagina). The three techniques were assessed by comparing defect characteristics (detection, angle, edges and scar tissue), and perineal body thickness. All measurements were performed at the mid anal canal level. Results are expressed as medians (IQR).

Results  Standard EAUS (S‐EAUS) identified a sphincter defect in 54 patients. Digit assisted EAUS (D‐EAUS) and balloon‐assisted EAUS (B‐EAUS) ultrasound revealed a sphincter defect in additional 11 and 9 patients respectively compared to S‐EAUS. Correlation of maximum squeeze pressure with EAUS findings improved on D‐EAUS and B‐EAUS. The defect angle was significantly wider with D‐EAUS and B‐EAUS [S‐EAUS 90°(63–97), D‐EAUS 100°(81–101.5), B‐EAUS 100°(80–105), P = 0.0005]. The perineal body was significantly thicker when measured with B‐EAUS [D‐EAUS 9 mm (7–10) vs B‐EAUS 10 mm (8–11), P = 0.0005]. Inter‐observer agreement was comparable [S‐EAUS (K) = 0.677, D‐EAUS (K) = 0.658, B‐EAUS (K) = 0.601].

Conclusion  EAS anterior defect detection and definition on EAUS may be improved by the demarcation and gentle pressure on the posterior vaginal wall.
Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 in type 2 diabetes: the β‐cell and beyond
Authors: Nauck Michael A.
Published: July 2008

Many traditional treatments for type 2 diabetes fail to achieve and maintain effective glycaemic control, witnessed by a progressive decline in β‐cell functionality and a corresponding rise in blood glucose levels over time. The routine loss of 50% of β‐cell function at diagnosis lends new urgency that both diagnosis and treatment initiation take place as early as possible in the course of the disease, before β‐cell decline proceeds too far. This review describes the role of the β‐cell and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) in both normal metabolism and type 2 diabetes, highlights available and anticipated therapies and explores the prospect that certain incretin‐derived therapies, which seek to harness the therapeutic potential of native GLP‐1, may offer more than glycaemic control alone: they may also facilitate weight loss, improve the cardiovascular profile and, ideally, treat the β‐cell in such a way as to modify the natural history of the disease itself.
Glucagon‐like peptide‐1‐based therapies: new developments and emerging data
Authors: Garber Alan J.
Published: July 2008

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic, progressive disease characterized by an inexorable decline in β‐cell function. Current treatments fail to manage this continued β‐cell failure, and eventually patients with type 2 diabetes will require insulin therapy. The ‘ideal’ therapy for type 2 diabetes needs to provide not only effective glycaemic control with no weight gain and preferably, no hypoglycaemia, but also address continued β‐cell deterioration. The development of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) based therapies provides an alternative to traditional oral antidiabetic drugs. Here, we present the evidence base showing that the incretin mimetics (exenatide, exenatide long‐acting release and liraglutide) and the incretin enhancers (sitagliptin and vildagliptin) offer significant glycaemic improvements over existing treatments, with low rates of hypoglycaemia. In addition, we present evidence to show that incretin mimetics are associated with significant weight loss, in contrast to incretin enhancers, which are weight neutral. Finally, we summarize and discuss the key features of the incretin enhancers and incretin mimetics in terms of glycaemic control, side effects and flexibility of treatment regimen.
A retrospective study on the prevalence of primary cataracts in two pedigrees from the German population of English Cocker Spaniels
Authors: Engelhardt Anja , Stock Kathrin F. , Hamann Henning , Brahm Rolf , Grußendorf Heinrich , Rosenhagen Carsten U. , Distl Ottmar
Published: July 2008

Objective  Two pedigrees from the German English Cocker Spaniel population are presented to illustrate the familial occurrence of primary cataract (CAT) in single‐ and multicolored English Cocker Spaniels. The aim was to characterize similarities and differences in the prevalence and formation of CAT in these separately bred color variants of English Cocker Spaniels.

Materials  The study was based on the veterinary records for presumed inherited eye diseases of 1232 English Cocker Spaniels which were provided by the German panel of the European Eye Scheme for diagnosis of inherited eye diseases in animals (DOK, ). Data included information on 615 single‐colored and 617 multicolored English Cocker Spaniels.

Results  CAT was diagnosed in 92 (14.96%) of the single‐colored and 34 (5.51%) of the multicolored English Cocker Spaniels. The pedigree of the single‐colored English Cocker Spaniels included 40 ophthalmologically examined dogs with 18 unaffected and 22 affected dogs. The pedigree of the multicolored English Cocker Spaniels contained 16 ophthalmologically examined dogs with 11 unaffected and five affected dogs.

Conclusions  In both color variants of the English Cocker Spaniels different forms of primary CAT with respect to location within the lens occurred among close relatives. Appearance of CAT was very heterogeneous without obvious sex differences. The sample pedigrees do not support the assumption of familial segregation of specific forms of primary CAT in English Cocker Spaniels.
Microstructure and glycosaminoglycan ratio of canine cornea after reconstructive transplantation with glycerin‐preserved porcine amniotic membranes
Authors: Tsuzuki Keiko , Yamashita Kazuto , Izumisawa Yasuharu , Kotani Tadao
Published: July 2008

Objective  Although amniotic membranes of canine, feline, and equine species have some advantages as corneal transplantation material in many canine ocular diseases, their softness, thinness, and low availability can pose problems. As an alternative, the more abundant porcine amniotic membranes may be used. This paper describes the use of glycerin‐preserved porcine amniotic membranes in corneal transplantation in eight normal dogs.

Method  A 0.4‐mm deep recipient bed in the axial cornea of the OS of all dogs was created using an 8‐mm Barron radial vacuum trephine. The recipient bed was then filled with amnion, and the entire cornea was covered with another piece of the glycerin‐preserved membrane. The ocular signs evaluated were corneal opacity and corneal vascularization. The dogs were euthanized on days 5, 10, 20, or 40 after surgery, and samples were collected to evaluate corneal thickness, parenchymal cell number, mean collagen fibril diameter, collagen fibril content and the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) ratio.

Results  Corneal opacity was observed immediately after surgery. Restoration of corneal transparency, regression of corneal vascularization, and visualization of the pupil and iris were noted on day 40.

Conclusions  The clinical observations were supported histologically by regained corneal thickness, parenchymal cell number, mean collagen fibril diameter, collagen fibril content, and GAG ratio, suggesting that this technique may be a novel method for the treatment of ocular surface disorders.
Retinopathy of Coton de Tulear dogs: clinical manifestations, electroretinographic, ultrasonographic, fluorescein and indocyanine green angiographic, and optical coherence tomographic findings
Authors: Grahn Bruce H. , Sandmeyer Lynne L. , Breaux Carrie
Published: July 2008

Objectives  To document the clinical manifestations, development, progression, and mode of inheritance of the retinopathy of Coton de Tulear dogs.

Materials and methods  Multiple Coton de Tulear dogs were examined with biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy, photopic and scotopic electroretinography, fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography, optical coherence tomography, ultrasonography, and fundic photography for 3 years.

Results  The retinopathy of Coton de Tulear dogs is inherited as an autosomal recessive condition and manifests as multifocal serous retinal detachments in homozygous puppies, between 3 and 4 months of age. Optic coherence tomography and ultrasonography confirm multiple focal serous retinal detachments. Serial fundic photographs confirmed minimal progression of lesions beyond 1 year of age. Electroretinography identified diminished scotopic and photopic amplitudes; however, the only significant differences between affected and age‐matched control Coton de Tulear dogs were noted during photopic flicker electroretinograms. Leakage of fluorescein or indocyanine green through the blood ocular barriers was not detected during repeated angiograms prior to, during, and after development of the retinopathy. There was no focal pooling of fluorescein in any of the dogs examined. Focal retinal thinning was detected with optical coherence tomography over each detachment and the serous content of some of the bullae diminish after several years leaving focal areas of hyper‐reflectivity.

Conclusions  Multifocal retinopathy of Coton de Tulear dogs is inherited as an autosomal recessive condition. The retinopathy manifests early in life as nonprogressive multifocal bullous retinal detachments. The blood ocular barrier remains intact. Photopic and scotopic electroretinography are minimally diminished compared to age‐matched dogs.
Use of a biosynthetic material to repair the surgical defect following excision of an epibulbar melanoma in a cat
Authors: Plummer Caryn E. , Kallberg Maria E. , Ollivier Franck J. , Gelatt Kirk N. , Brooks Dennis E.
Published: July 2008

A limbal melanoma was surgically excised from the OS of a 4‐year‐old castrated male Domestic Short‐haired cat (DSH). The resultant scleral defect was repaired by placement of A‐cell bio‐scaffold material. The patient responded well in the postoperative period with no apparent discomfort, nor any observable complications. No signs of recurrence have been evident nearly 2.5 years following surgical removal. A‐cell appears to be a safe and reasonable option to lend support to corneoscleral defects following removal of neoplastic lesions. It carries with it the advantages of availability, minimal host rejection, and reduced potential for iatrogenic spread of infections agents.
Cloning and characterization of an acyl‐CoA‐dependent diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) gene from Tropaeolum majus, and a study of the functional motifs of the DGAT protein using site‐directed mutagenesis to modify enzyme activity and oil content
Authors: Xu Jingyu , Francis Tammy , Mietkiewska Elzbieta , Giblin E. Michael , Barton Dennis L. , Zhang Yan , Zhang Meng , Taylor David C.
Published: July 2008

A full‐length cDNA encoding a putative diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1, EC 2.3.1.20) was obtained from Tropaeolum majus (garden nasturtium). The 1557‐bp open reading frame of this cDNA, designated TmDGAT1, encodes a protein of 518 amino acids showing high homology to other plant DGAT1s. The TmDGAT1 gene was expressed exclusively in developing seeds. Expression of recombinant TmDGAT1 in the yeast H1246MATα quadruple mutant (DGA1, LRO1, ARE1, ARE2) restored the capability of the mutant host to produce triacylglycerols (TAGs). The recombinant TmDGAT1 protein was capable of utilizing a range of 14C‐labelled fatty acyl‐CoA donors and diacylglycerol acceptors, and could synthesize 14C‐trierucin. Collectively, these findings confirm that the TmDGAT1 gene encodes an acyl‐CoA‐dependent DGAT1. In plant transformation studies, seed‐specific expression of TmDGAT1 was able to complement the low TAG/unusual fatty acid phenotype of the Arabidopsis AS11 (DGAT1) mutant. Over‐expression of TmDGAT1 in wild‐type Arabidopsis and high‐erucic‐acid rapeseed (HEAR) and canola Brassica napus resulted in an increase in oil content (3.5%–10% on a dry weight basis, or a net increase of 11%–30%). Site‐directed mutagenesis was conducted on six putative functional regions/motifs of the TmDGAT1 enzyme. Mutagenesis of a serine residue in a putative SnRK1 target site resulted in a 38%–80% increase in DGAT1 activity, and over‐expression of the mutated TmDGAT1 in Arabidopsis resulted in a 20%–50% increase in oil content on a per seed basis. Thus, alteration of this putative serine/threonine protein kinase site can be exploited to enhance DGAT1 activity, and expression of mutated DGAT1 can be used to enhance oil content.
Cultural differences in estimation of other people's self‐construals: Comparison of Korea and USA
Authors: Park Hee Sun , Ahn Ji Young
Published: July 2008

The current study examined cultural differences in the relationship between individuals' self‐ratings and their estimation of others on independent and interdependent self‐construals. With data from undergraduates in the USA and Korea, findings showed that, in both USA and Korea, participants rated themselves higher than others on independent self‐construal. For interdependent self‐construal, however, Korean participants rated themselves higher than others, whereas American participants rated themselves lower than others. The positive relationship between self‐esteem and the extent to which self‐ratings exceeded ratings of others on independent self‐construal was stronger for Korean than for American participants.