bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of climate change on an emperor penguin population: analysis of coupled demographic and climate models
Authors: Jenouvrier Stéphanie , Holland Marika , Stroeve Julienne , Barbraud Christophe , Weimerskirch Henri , Serreze Mark , Caswell Hal
Published: May 2012

Sea ice conditions in the Antarctic affect the life cycle of the emperor penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri). We present a population projection for the emperor penguin population of Terre Adélie, Antarctica, by linking demographic models (stage‐structured, seasonal, nonlinear, two‐sex matrix population models) to sea ice forecasts from an ensemble of IPCC climate models. Based on maximum likelihood capture‐mark‐recapture analysis, we find that seasonal sea ice concentration anomalies (SICa) affect adult survival and breeding success. Demographic models show that both deterministic and stochastic population growth rates are maximized at intermediate values of annual SICa, because neither the complete absence of sea ice, nor heavy and persistent sea ice, would provide satisfactory conditions for the emperor penguin. We show that under some conditions the stochastic growth rate is positively affected by the variance in SICa. We identify an ensemble of five general circulation climate models whose output closely matches the historical record of sea ice concentration in Terre Adélie. The output of this ensemble is used to produce stochastic forecasts of SICa, which in turn drive the population model. Uncertainty is included by incorporating multiple climate models and by a parametric bootstrap procedure that includes parameter uncertainty due to both model selection and estimation error. The median of these simulations predicts a decline of the Terre Adélie emperor penguin population of 81% by the year 2100. We find a 43% chance of an even greater decline, of 90% or more. The uncertainty in population projections reflects large differences among climate models in their forecasts of future sea ice conditions. One such model predicts population increases over much of the century, but overall, the ensemble of models predicts that population declines are far more likely than population increases. We conclude that climate change is a significant risk for the emperor penguin. Our analytical approach, in which demographic models are linked to IPCC climate models, is powerful and generally applicable to other species and systems.
Simple additive effects are rare: a quantitative review of plant biomass and soil process responses to combined manipulations of CO2 and temperature
Authors: Dieleman Wouter I. J. , Vicca Sara , Dijkstra Feike A. , Hagedorn Frank , Hovenden Mark J. , Larsen Klaus S. , Morgan Jack A. , Volder Astrid , Beier Claus , Dukes Jeffrey S. , King John , Leuzinger Sebastian , Linder Sune , Luo Yiqi , Oren Ram , De Angelis Paolo , Tingey David , Hoosbeek Marcel R. , Janssens Ivan A.
Published: May 2012

In recent years, increased awareness of the potential interactions between rising atmospheric
CO2

concentrations ([
CO2

]) and temperature has illustrated the importance of multifactorial ecosystem manipulation experiments for validating Earth System models. To address the urgent need for increased understanding of responses in multifactorial experiments, this article synthesizes how ecosystem productivity and soil processes respond to combined warming and [
CO2

] manipulation, and compares it with those obtained in single factor [
CO2

] and temperature manipulation experiments. Across all combined elevated [
CO2

] and warming experiments, biomass production and soil respiration were typically enhanced. Responses to the combined treatment were more similar to those in the [
CO2

]‐only treatment than to those in the warming‐only treatment. In contrast to warming‐only experiments, both the combined and the [
CO2

]‐only treatments elicited larger stimulation of fine root biomass than of aboveground biomass, consistently stimulated soil respiration, and decreased foliar nitrogen (N) concentration. Nonetheless, mineral N availability declined less in the combined treatment than in the [
CO2

]‐only treatment, possibly due to the warming‐induced acceleration of decomposition, implying that progressive nitrogen limitation (PNL) may not occur as commonly as anticipated from single factor [
CO2

] treatment studies. Responses of total plant biomass, especially of aboveground biomass, revealed antagonistic interactions between elevated [
CO2

] and warming, i.e. the response to the combined treatment was usually less‐than‐additive. This implies that productivity projections might be overestimated when models are parameterized based on single factor responses. Our results highlight the need for more (and especially more long‐term) multifactor manipulation experiments. Because single factor
CO2

responses often dominated over warming responses in the combined treatments, our results also suggest that projected responses to future global warming in Earth System models should not be parameterized using single factor warming experiments.
Influence of anti‐asthmatic medications on dental caries in children in Slovenia
Authors: SAMEC TOMI , AMAECHI BENNETT TOCHUKWU , BATTELINO TADEJ , KRIVEC UROŠ , JAN JANJA
Published: May 2012

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2013; 23: 188–196

Objective.  The study investigated the influence of exposure to anti‐asthmatic medications and of various factors on the caries prevalence in children in Slovenia.

Methods.  The study population consisted of children aged 2‐ to 17 years (n = 220) under treatment for asthma, who had used anti‐asthmatic medications for at least 1 year; 220 controls were matched for age. Caries status was determined by the number of decayed, missing, and filled surfaces through clinical examination by two calibrated dentists using the International Caries Detection and Assessment System‐II scoring criteria. Questionnaires completed by parents and data from the patients’ medical records provided information on various confounding factors.

Results.  Asthmatic children had significantly higher (P ≤ 0.01) prevalence of caries on primary and permanent teeth in all age groups, and the proportion of caries‐free children was significantly smaller (P ≤ 0.05). In multivariate regression analysis, asthma diagnosis, child’s age, daily use of inhaled glucocorticoids, length and frequency of medicine application, spacer use, mouth rinsing with water after medicine application, parents’ education, frequent food and drink consumption, and frequency of toothbrushing were associated with caries experience of asthmatic children.

Conclusion.  Children with asthma who had used anti‐asthmatic medications had higher caries experience in primary and permanent teeth.
Home site advantage in two long‐lived arctic plant species: results from two 30‐year reciprocal transplant studies
Authors: Bennington Cynthia C. , Fetcher Ned , Vavrek Milan C. , Shaver Gaius R. , Cummings Kelli J. , McGraw James B.
Published: May 2012

1. Reciprocal transplant experiments designed to quantify genetic and environmental effects on phenotype are powerful tools for the study of local adaptation. For long‐lived species, especially those in habitats with short growing seasons, however, the cumulative effects of many years in novel environments may be required for fitness differences and phenotypic changes to accrue.

2. We returned to two separate reciprocal transplant experiments thirty years after their initial establishment in interior Alaska to ask whether patterns of differentiation observed in the years immediately following transplant have persisted. We also asked whether earlier hypotheses about the role of plasticity in buffering against the effects of selection on foreign genotypes were supported. We censused survival and flowering in three transplant gardens created along a snowbank gradient for a dwarf shrub (Dryas octopetala) and six gardens created along a latitudinal gradient for a tussock‐forming sedge (Eriophorum vaginatum). For both species, we used an analysis of variance to detect fitness advantages for plants transplanted back into their home site relative to those transplanted into foreign sites.

3. ForD. octopetala, the original patterns of local adaptation observed in the decade following transplant appeared even stronger after three decades, with the complete elimination of foreign ecotypes in both fellfield and snowbed environments. ForE. vaginatum, differential survival of populations was not evident 13 years after transplant, but was clearly evident 17 years later. There was no evidence that plasticity was associated with increased survival of foreign populations in novel sites for eitherD. octopetalaorE. vaginatum.

4. Synthesis. We conclude that local adaptation can be strong, but nevertheless remain undetected or underestimated in short‐term experiments. Such genetically based population differences limit the ability of plant populations to respond to a changing climate.
Development of a novel PCR assay based on the 16S–23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer region for the detection of Lactococcus garvieae
Authors: Dang H T , Park H K , Myung S C , Kim W
Published: May 2012

Lactococcus garvieae is recognized as an emerging pathogen in fish. Several PCR‐based methods have been developed for the detection and identification of L. garvieae; however, the sensitivity of these methods is still in question regarding the discrimination of this organism from other closely related species. Two primers, ITSLg30F and ITSLg319R, were designed from the sequence in the 16S–23S internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region and used for the specific detection of L. garvieae. L. garvieae strains including fish isolates were positive by this method. In contrast, previously developed PCR methods showed false‐positive results with non‐L. garvieae species. Our results indicate that a PCR method using the newly designed ITS primer set provides a sensitive and efficient tool for the detection of L. garvieae in fish and aquaculture environments.
WebDASC: a web‐based dietary assessment software for 8–11‐year‐old Danish children
Authors: Biltoft‐Jensen A. , Trolle E. , Christensen T. , Islam N. , Andersen L. F. , Egenfeldt‐Nielsen S. , Tetens I.
Published: May 2012

Background:  The present study describes the development and formative evaluation of the Web‐based Dietary Assessment Software for Children (WebDASC). WebDASC is part of the OPUS project (‘Optimal well‐being, development and health for Danish children through a healthy New Nordic Diet’) and was intended to measure dietary change resulting from a school‐based intervention.

Methods:  WebDASC was developed as a self‐administered tool that could be used by 8–11‐year‐old children with or without parent’s aid. The development of WebDASC followed a prototyping approach: focus groups, informal interviews, literature review, and usability tests preceded its release. Special consideration was given to age‐appropriate design issues.

Results:  In WebDASC an animated armadillo guides respondents through six daily eating occasions and helps them report foods and beverages previously consumed. A database of 1300 food items is available either through category browse or free text search, aided by a spell check application. A type‐in format is available for foods not otherwise found through category browse or text search. Amount consumed is estimated by selecting the closest portion size among four different digital images. WebDASC includes internal checks for frequently forgotten foods, and the following features to create motivation: a food‐meter displaying cumulative weight of foods reported, a most popular food ranking, and a computer game with a high score list.

Conclusions:  WebDASC was developed as an intuitive, cost‐effective, and engaging method to collect detailed dietary data from 8‐ to 11‐year‐old children. Preliminary testing demonstrated that it was well accepted among children.
How to engage children in self‐administered dietary assessment programmes
Authors: Lu A. S. , Baranowski J. , Islam N. , Baranowski T.
Published: May 2012

Effectively assessing children’s dietary intake is essential for understanding the complex relationships among dietary behaviours and obesity. Dietary assessment accuracy decreases when children are unable or unmotivated to complete accurate self‐reports. Technology‐based assessment instruments for children’s self‐report of diet can be enhanced in light of developments in media psychology and communication science. To motivate children to complete a dietary assessment, researchers could use animated, customisable agents; embed the assessment process into a video game; or add narratives to encourage self‐reporting behaviour. To improve accuracy, the intake environment could be recreated virtually; training sessions could be interspersed to improve portion estimation; and implicit attitudinal measures could be incorporated as a control or to increase validity. Research is needed to evaluate possible methods of enhancing children’s self‐reporting motivation and accuracy. The main challenge remains how to engage children without biasing their reporting.
Dietary management of urea cycle disorders: UK practice
Authors: Adam S. , Champion H. , Daly A. , Dawson S. , Dixon M. , Dunlop C. , Eardley J. , Evans S. , Ferguson C. , Jankowski C. , Lowry S. , MacDonald A. , Maritz C. , Micciche A. , Robertson L. , Stafford J. , Terry A. , Thom R. , van Wyk K. , Webster D. , White F. J. , Wildgoose J. ,   on behalf of the British Inherited Metabolic Diseases Group (BIMDG) Dietitian’s Group
Published: May 2012

Adam S., Champion H., Daly A., Dawson S., Dixon M., Dunlop C., Eardley J., Evans S., Ferguson C., Jankowski C., Lowry S., MacDonald A., Maritz C., Micciche A., Robertson L., Stafford J., Terry A., Thom R., van Wyk K., Webster D., White F.J. & Wildgoose J. on behalf of the British Inherited Metabolic Diseases Group (BIMDG) Dietitian's Group. (2012) Dietary management of urea cycle disorders: UK practice.J Hum Nutr Diet.25, 398–404

Background: There is no published data describing UK dietary management of urea cycle disorders (UCD). The present study describes dietary practices in UK inherited metabolic disorder (IMD) centres.

Methods: Cross‐sectional data from 16 IMD centres were collected by a questionnaire describing the management of UCD patients on prescribed protein‐restricted diets.

Results: One hundred and seventy‐five patients [N‐acetylglutamate synthase deficiency,n = 3; carbamoyl phosphate synthase deficiency (CPS),n = 8; ornithine transcarbamoylase deficiency (OTC),n = 75; citrullinaemia,n = 41; argininosuccinic aciduria (ASA),n = 36; arginase deficiency,n = 12] were reported; 70% (n = 123) aged 0–16 years; 30% (n = 52) >16 years. Prescribed median protein intake decreased with age (0–6 months: 2 g kg−1 day−1; 7–12 months: 1.6 g kg−1 day−1; 1–10 years: 1.3 g kg−1 day−1; 11–16 years: 0.9 g kg−1 day−1and >16 years: 0.8 g kg−1 day−1) with little variation between disorders. Adult protein prescription ranged 0.4–1.2 g kg−1 day−1(40–60 g day−1). In the previous 2 years, 30% (n = 53) were given essential amino acid supplements (EAAs) (CPS,n = 2; OTC, n = 20; citrullinaemia,n = 15; ASA,n = 7; arginase deficiency,n = 9). EAAs were prescribed for low plasma quantitative essential amino acids (n = 13 centres); inadequate natural protein intake (n = 11) and poor metabolic control (n = 9). From diagnosis, one centre prescribed EAAs for all patients and one centre for severe defects only. Only 3% (n = 6) were given branch chain amino acid supplements. Enteral feeding tubes were used by 25% (n = 44) for feeds and 3% (n = 6) for medications. Oral energy supplements were prescribed in 17% (n = 30) of cases.

Conclusions: In the UK, protein restriction based on World Health Organization ‘safe intakes of protein’, is the principle dietary treatment for UCD. EAA supplements are prescribed mainly on clinical need. Multicentre collaborative research is required to define optimal dietary treatments.
Evaluation of regional limb perfusion with amikacin using the saphenous, cephalic, and palmar digital veins in standing horses
Authors: KELMER G. , BELL G. C. , MARTIN‐JIMENEZ T. , SAXTON A. M. , CATASUS C. , ELLIOT S. B. , MEIBOHM B.
Published: May 2012

Previous studies have shown that regional limb perfusion (RLP) using the palmar digital (PD) vein delivers therapeutic concentration of amikacin to the distal limb. Our hypothesis was that using the cephalic and saphenous veins for RLP will enable delivery of therapeutic concentrations of amikacin to the distal limb. Nineteen healthy horses participated in the study. The cephalic, saphenous, or PD vein was used to perfuse the limb with amikacin. Two grams of amikacin was used for RLP using the saphenous and the cephalic veins, and one gram was used in the PD vein. Synovial samples were collected from the metacarpo‐/metatarsophalangeal (MCP/MTP) joint, and blood samples were collected from the jugular vein. Maximum concentration (Cmax) of amikacin in the MCP/MTP joint using the cephalic and the saphenous vein was 277 and 363 mg/L, respectively. The amikacin concentrations achieved in the synovial fluid of the MCP/MTP joint in the current study were between 69 and 91 times the minimally inhibitory concentration of common susceptible bacterial pathogens causing orthopedic infections in horses. To conclude, this study shows that use of the proximal veins for RLP to treat distal limb infections is a viable alternative to using the palmar or plantar digital vein.
Invasion facilitates hybridization with introgression in the Rattus rattus species complex
Authors: LACK JUSTIN B. , GREENE DANIEL U. , CONROY CHRIS JOHN , HAMILTON MEREDITH J. , BRAUN JANET K. , MARES MICHAEL A. , VAN DEN BUSSCHE RONALD A.
Published: May 2012

Biological invasions result in novel species interactions, which can have significant evolutionary impacts on both native and invading taxa. One evolutionary concern with invasions is hybridization among lineages that were previously isolated, but make secondary contact in their invaded range(s). Black rats, consisting of several morphologically very similar but genetically distinct taxa that collectively have invaded six continents, are arguably the most successful mammalian invaders on the planet. We used mitochondrial cytochrome b sequences, two nuclear gene sequences (Atp5a1 and DHFR) and nine microsatellite loci to examine the distribution of three invasive black rat lineages (Rattus tanezumi, Rattus rattus I and R. rattus IV) in the United States and Asia and to determine the extent of hybridization among these taxa. Our analyses revealed two mitochondrial lineages that have spread to multiple continents, including a previously undiscovered population of R. tanezumi in the south‐eastern United States, whereas the third lineage (R. rattus IV) appears to be confined to Southeast Asia. Analyses of nuclear DNA (both sequences and microsatellites) suggested significant hybridization is occurring among R. tanezumi and R. rattus I in the United States and also suggest hybridization between R. tanezumi and R. rattus IV in Asia, although further sampling of the latter species pair in Asia is required. Furthermore, microsatellite analyses suggest unidirectional introgression from both R. rattus I and R. rattus IV into R. tanezumi. Within the United States, introgression appears to be occurring to such a pronounced extent that we were unable to detect any nuclear genetic signal for R. tanezumi, and a similar pattern was detected in Asia.
Internal waves vs. surface storm waves: a review on the origin of hummocky cross‐stratification
Authors: Morsilli Michele , Pomar Luis
Published: May 2012

Terra Nova, 24, 273–282, 2012

Hummocky cross‐stratification (HCS) is considered a diagnostic structure of surface storm activity at the shoreface–offshore transition. However, the origin of HCS is still debated. Laboratory experiments have not yet reproduced it and direct observations on the continental shelves do not exist. Most hydrodynamic interpretations invoke pure oscillatory flows, unidirectional‐dominated combined flows and oscillatory‐dominated flows, but they all share the assumption of HCS to reflect the combined action of surface storm waves and related currents. Within this context of uncertainties, internal waves (gravity waves propagating along the pycnocline) provide an alternative mechanism to explain the origin of HCS. Internal waves breaking on the shelf create episodic high‐turbulence events and induce upslope‐ and downslope currents as well as oscillatory flows at the depth where the pycnocline intersects the sea floor. In this scenario, both the oscillatory‐ and the unidirectional components needed for HCS to form are not necessarily linked to surface storm waves, but can occur at various depth as far and near there is a pycnocline where internal waves can form.
Nationwide integrated mapping of three neglected tropical diseases in Togo: countrywide implementation of a novel approach
Authors: Dorkenoo A. M. , Bronzan R. N. , Ayena K. D. , Anthony G. , Agbo Y. M. , Sognikin K. S. E. , Dogbe K. S. , Amza A. , Sodahlon Y. , Mathieu E.
Published: May 2012

Objective  To conduct a nationwide integrated neglected tropical disease (NTD) prevalence survey to define the need for public health interventions using an innovative mapping protocol.

Methods  Two villages were selected in every peripheral health unit in endemic districts: 29 districts for schistosomiasis and STH, 15 of them for trachoma. In each village, 15 children aged 6–9 years at a randomly selected school were tested. An additional convenience sample of 35 children aged 1–5 years underwent an eye examination for trachoma. This integrated mapping was followed by a 20‐cluster trachoma survey in each district that surpassed the WHO‐defined threshold of 10% prevalence of trachomatous inflammation‐follicular (TF).

Results  A total of 1096 villages were surveyed in <6 weeks. The district prevalence of schistosomiasis ranged from 2 to 49% and of STH from 5 to 70%, with prevalence at the village level ranging from 0 to 100% for both diseases. Two districts passed the threshold of 10% for active trachoma, but the cluster survey indicated this was because of misclassification bias and that the real prevalence was <1%.

Conclusion  Results of this mapping were used by the MoH and partners to plan integrated mass drug administration (MDA). Mass drug administration for trachoma was not implemented as no district passed the threshold requiring public health intervention.
The sexual behaviour of adolescents in sub‐Saharan Africa: patterns and trends from national surveys
Authors: Doyle Aoife M. , Mavedzenge Sue Napierala , Plummer Mary L. , Ross David A.
Published: May 2012

Objectives  To describe the sexual and reproductive behaviour of adolescents in sub‐Saharan Africa, particularly 15‐ to 19‐year‐olds.

Methods  Using DHS/AIS data (2000–2010), nine indicators of adolescent behaviour and one of adult attitudes towards condom education for adolescents were described for 24 countries. Indicators were disaggregated by gender, urban/rural residency and educational status, and time trends were described.

Results  Up to 25% of 15‐ to 19‐year‐olds reported sex before age 15; this proportion shrank over time in many countries. In most countries, ≥5% of females reported marriage before age 15, and >20% had commenced childbearing. Early sexual debut and childbearing were more common among the least educated and/or rural females. Reporting of multiple sexual partnerships was more common among males than among females, but decreases over time were more common among males. Urban males and females, and females with higher education, were more likely to report multiple partnerships. Urban youth and those with higher education also reported more condom use. Adult support for condom education for 12‐ to 14‐year‐olds has increased over time to 60–65%.

Conclusions  Many 15‐ to 19‐year‐olds are at risk of HIV/STIs and unplanned pregnancies because of multiple partnerships and insufficient condom and other contraceptive use. In many countries, trends are moving in a favourable direction. To better inform prevention programmes in this important area, we recommend routine collection of sexual and reproductive behaviour data for adolescents aged <15 years, expanding the data collected for 15‐ to 19‐year‐olds to include detailed information on sexual behaviour within partnerships, and disaggregating data according to sociodemographic variables.
Hospital‐based surveillance for Lassa fever in Edo State, Nigeria, 2005–2008
Authors: Ehichioya Deborah U. , Asogun Danny A. , Ehimuan Jacqueline , Okokhere Peter O. , Pahlmann Meike , Ölschläger Stephan , Becker‐Ziaja Beate , Günther Stephan , Omilabu Sunday A.
Published: May 2012

Objectives  To estimate the burden of Lassa fever in northern and central Edo, a state in south Nigeria where Lassa fever has been reported.

Methods  Blood samples were obtained from 60 patients hospitalised at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), Irrua, with a clinical suspicion of Lassa fever and from 451 febrile outpatients seen at the ISTH and hospitals in Ekpoma, Iruekpen, Uromi, Auchi and Igarra. All samples were tested retrospectively by Lassa virus‐specific RT‐PCR. Outpatients were additionally screened for Lassa virus‐specific antibodies by indirect immunofluorescent antibody assay.

Results  Lassa virus was detected in 25 of 60 (42%) patients with a clinical suspicion of Lassa fever. The disease affected persons of all age groups and with various occupations, including healthcare workers. The clinical picture was dominated by gastrointestinal symptoms. The case fatality rate was 29%. Lassa virus was detected in 2 of 451 (0.44%) febrile outpatients, and 8 (1.8%) were positive for Lassa virus‐specific IgG.

Conclusions  Lassa fever contributes to hospital mortality in Edo State. The low prevalence of the disease among outpatients and the low seroprevalence may indicate that the population‐level incidence is not high. Surveillance for Lassa fever should focus on the hospitalised patient.
Cytochrome 1A1 and 1B1 gene diversity in the Zanzibar islands
Authors: Cavaco I. , Piedade R. , Msellem M. I. , Bjorkman A. , Gil J. P.
Published: May 2012

Amodiaquine (AQ) is a 4‐aminoquinoline widely used in the treatment of malaria as part of the artemisinin combination therapy (ACT). AQ is metabolised towards its main metabolite desethylamodiaquine mainly by cytochrome P450 2C8 (CYP2C8). CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 play a minor role in the metabolism but they seem to be significantly involved in the formation of the short‐lived quinine‐imine. To complete the genetic variation picture of the main genes involved in AQ metabolism in the Zanzibar population, previously characterised for CYP2C8, we analysed in this study CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 main genetic polymorphisms. The results obtained show a low frequency of the CYP1A1*2B/C allele (2.4%) and a high frequency of CYP1B1*6 (approximately 42%) followed by CYP1B1*2 (approximately 27%) in Zanzibar islands. Genotype data for CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 show a low incidence of fast metabolisers, revealing a relatively safe genetic background in Zanzibar’s population regarding the appearance of adverse effects.
Which patients are more likely to benefit from renal transplantation?
Authors: De Lima José Jayme Galvão , Gowdak Luís Henrique Wolff , de Paula Flávio Jota , César Luiz Antonio Machado , Ramires José Antonio Franchini , Bortolotto Luiz A.
Published: May 2012

Background

We evaluated whether the advantages conferred by renal transplantation encompass all individuals or whether they favor more specific groups of patients.

Methods

One thousand and fifty‐eight patients on the transplant waiting list and 270 receiving renal transplant were studied. End points were the composite incidence of CV events and death. Patients were followed up from date of placement on the list until transplantation, CV event, or death (dialysis patients), or from the date of transplantation, CV event, return to dialysis, or death (transplant patients).

Results

Younger patients with no comorbidities had a lower incidence of CV events and death independently of the treatment modality (log‐rank = 0.0001). Renal transplantation was associated with better prognosis only in high‐risk patients (p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Age and comorbidities influenced the prevalence of CV complications and death independently of the treatment modality. A positive effect of renal transplantation was documented only in high‐risk patients. These findings suggest that age and comorbidities should be considered indication for early transplantation even considering that, as a group, such patients have a shorter survival compared with low‐risk individuals.
Clinical analysis of emergency liver transplantation: the role of living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Kim Say‐June , Yoon Yung‐Chul , Yoo Young‐Kyung , Park Jung‐Hyun , Kim Dong‐Goo
Published: May 2012

The current liver allocation system requires reevaluation because of the advancements in peri‐transplantation care and surgical techniques. And, the role of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) in an emergency has not been determined yet. Retrospective review of all patients undergoing emergency liver transplantation (LT) from January 2000 to June 2010 was conducted, and clinical data were analyzed. Of the total 505 LTs, 69 patients (13.7%) underwent an emergency LT. Of these, 54 patients (78.3%) underwent LDLT using a right liver, and 15 patients (21.7%) underwent deceased donor liver transplantation (DDLT). The overall hospital mortality was 21.7% (15/69). The leading cause of death after transplantation was sepsis (60.0%). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that a model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) >33 [hazard ratio (HR), 16.6; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.443–191.632; p = 0.024] and existence of pre‐transplantation intubation (HR, 18.2; 95% CI, 1.463–225.483; p = 0.024) were independent factors associated with poor survival after emergency LT. LDLT group and DDLT group showed no difference in hospital mortality (p = 0.854) and graft survival (p = 0.861). Thus, MELD score and respiratory insufficiency could be parameters predicting post‐transplant survival. And, LDLT using the right liver could be an appropriate alternative to DDLT in an emergency.
Histological evolution of hepatitis C virus infection after renal transplantation
Authors: de Oliveira Uehara Silvia Naomi , Emori Christini Takemi , Pereira Patrícia da Silva Fucuta , Perez Renata M. , Pestana José Osmar Medina , Lanzoni Valéria Pereira , Silva Ivonete Sandra Souza e , Silva Antonio Eduardo Benedito , Ferraz Maria Lucia Cardoso Gomes
Published: May 2012

Background

information regarding histological progression of hepatitis C after renal transplant (RTx) is scarce.

Aims

To analyze clinical and laboratory evolution and histological progression of hepatitis C in patients evaluated before and after RTx.

Methods

Twenty‐two HCV‐infected patients submitted to liver biopsy pre‐ and post‐RTx were included. A semiquantitative analysis of necroinflammatory activity and fibrosis staging was performed and the two biopsies were compared.

Results

Patients were mostly men (73%) with mean age of 36 ± 9 yr. Time post‐transplant was 4 ± 2 yr and time between biopsies was 5 ± 2 yr. An elevation of alanine aminotransferase (p = 0.041) and aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.004) levels was observed in the post‐transplant period. Fibrosis progression after renal transplantation was observed in 11 (50%) of the patients, and necroinflammatory activity worsening was observed in 7 (32%) of the patients. The histological progression occurred even among those without significant histological lesions in pre‐transplant biopsy.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that the practice of indicating treatment in the pre‐transplant phase based mainly on histological disease should be revised, because a high proportion of patients present disease progression. Because interferon cannot be used safely after RTx, treatment should be indicated for all ESRD patients with hepatitis C.
Perspectives on allergen‐specific immunotherapy in childhood: An EAACI position statement
Authors: Calderon M. A. , Gerth van Wijk R. , Eichler I. , Matricardi P. M. , Varga E. M. , Kopp M. V. , Eng P. , Niggemann B. , Nieto A. , Valovirta E. , Eigenmann P. A. , Pajno G. , Bufe A. , Halken S. , Beyer K. , Wahn U.
Published: May 2012

To cite this article: Calderon MA, Gerth van Wijk R, Eichler I, Matricardi PM, Varga EM, Kopp MV, Eng P, Niggemann B, Nieto A, Valovirta E, Eigenmann PA, Pajno G, Bufe A, Halken S, Beyer K, Wahn U. Perspectives on allergen‐specific immunotherapy in childhood: An EAACI position statement. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2012: 23: 300–306.

This article is the result of consensus reached by a working group of clinical experts in paediatric allergology as well as representatives from an ethical committee and the European Medicine Agency (EMA). The manuscript covers clinical, scientific, regulatory and ethical perspectives on allergen‐specific immunotherapy in childhood. Unmet needs are identified. To fill the gaps and to bridge the different points of view, recommendations are made to researchers, to scientific and patient organizations and to regulators and ethical committees. Working together for the benefit of the community is essential. The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) serves as the platform of such cooperation.
Photosynthetic downregulation in leaves of the Japanese white birch grown under elevated CO2 concentration does not change their temperature‐dependent susceptibility to photoinhibition
Authors: Komatsu Masabumi , Tobita Hiroyuki , Watanabe Makoto , Yazaki Kenichi , Koike Takayoshi , Kitao Mitsutoshi
Published: May 2012

To determine the effects of elevated CO2 concentration ([CO2]) on the temperature‐dependent photosynthetic properties, we measured gas exchange and chlorophyll fluorescence at various leaf temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40°C) in 1‐year‐old seedlings of the Japanese white birch (Betula platyphylla var. japonica), grown in a phytotron under natural daylight at two [CO2] levels (ambient: 400 µmol mol−1 and elevated: 800 µmol mol−1) and limited N availability (90 mg N plant−1). Plants grown under elevated [CO2] exhibited photosynthetic downregulation, indicated by a decrease in the carboxylation capacity of Rubisco. At temperatures above 30°C, the net photosynthetic rates of elevated‐CO2‐grown plants exceeded those grown under ambient [CO2] when compared at their growth [CO2]. Electron transport rates were significantly lower in elevated‐CO2‐grown plants than ambient‐CO2‐grown ones at temperatures below 25°C. However, no significant difference was observed in the fraction of excess light energy [(1 − qP)× Fv′/Fm′] between CO2 treatments across the temperature range. The quantum yield of regulated non‐photochemical energy loss was significantly higher in elevated‐CO2‐grown plants than ambient, when compared at their respective growth [CO2] below 25°C. These results suggest that elevated‐CO2‐induced downregulation might not exacerbate the temperature‐dependent susceptibility to photoinhibition, because reduced energy consumption by electron transport was compensated for by increased thermal energy dissipation at low temperatures.
Hexavalent chromium disrupts mitosis by stabilizing microtubules in Lens culinaris root tip cells
Authors: Eleftheriou Eleftherios P. , Adamakis Ioannis‐Dimosthenis S. , Fatsiou Maria , Panteris Emmanuel
Published: May 2012

Hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)] is an accumulating environmental pollutant due to anthropogenic activities, toxic for humans, animals and plants. Therefore, the effects of Cr(VI) on dividing root cells of lentil (Lens culinaris) were investigated by tubulin immunofluorescence and DNA staining. In Cr(VI)‐treated roots, cell divisions were perturbed, the chromosomes formed irregular aggregations, multinucleate cells were produced and tubulin clusters were entrapped within the nuclei. All cell cycle‐specific microtubule (MT) arrays were affected, indicating a stabilizing effect of Cr(VI) on the MTs of L. culinaris. Besides, a time‐ and concentration‐dependent gradual increase of acetylated α‐tubulin, an indicator of MT stabilization, was observed in Cr(VI)‐treated roots by both immunofluorescence and western blotting. Evidence is also provided that reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by Cr(VI), determined with the specific marker dichlorofluorescein, may be responsible for MT stabilization. Combined treatments with Cr(VI) and oryzalin revealed that Cr(VI) overcomes the depolymerizing ability of oryzalin, as it does experimentally introduced hydrogen peroxide, further supporting its stabilizing effect. In conclusion, it is suggested that the mitotic aberrations caused by Cr(VI) in L. culinaris root cells may be the result of MT stabilization rather than depolymerization, which consequently disturbs MT dynamics and their related functions.
Mechanism of Cd and Cu action on the tonoplast proton pumps in cucumber roots
Authors: Kabała Katarzyna , Janicka‐Russak Małgorzata , Anklewicz Agnieszka
Published: May 2012

The effect of Cd and Cu on the tonoplast proton pumps, V‐ATPase (EC 3.6.3.14) and V‐PPase (EC 3.6.1.1) was investigated in cucumber roots subjected to 10 µM metals for 3 and 6 days. Both hydrolytic and transporting activities of V‐ATPase as well as V‐PPase increased under copper stress. In contrast, all activities examined were inhibited after the exposure of plants to cadmium. Cd and Cu changed the efficiency of coupling between proton transport and ATP hydrolysis whereas H+/PPi stoichiometry was not modified. Pre‐incubation of control tonoplast vesicles with copper caused the stimulation of V‐ATPase as well as V‐PPase, indicating direct activation by Cu ions. Pre‐treatment with cadmium had no significant effect on the activities of both enzymes. The gene expression and western blot analyses showed that observed modifications in enzyme activities were not related to the changes in the transcript levels of genes encoding V‐ATPase subunit A and c, and V‐PPase or in amounts of enzyme proteins. Moreover, the addition of reduced or oxidized glutathione (GSH and GSSG) to the reaction medium containing tonoplast vesicles isolated from stressed roots did not change the activity level of either enzyme when compared with the controls, suggesting that heavy metal‐induced modifications are not simple reversible redox modulations.
Variation in floral longevity in the genus Leptosiphon: mating system consequences
Authors: Weber J. J. , Goodwillie C.
Published: May 2012

Pollination or fertilisation trigger floral senescence in a wide range of flowering plants, and yet little attention has been given to the implications of this phenomenon to mating system evolution. We examined the effects of pollination on floral senescence in the genus Leptosiphon. Species in the genus exhibit a wide range of breeding systems. In all cases, compatible pollination induced senescence; emasculated flowers lived longer than hand‐outcrossed flowers. In the self‐compatible species, Leptosiphon acicularis and L. bicolor, and in one highly selfing population of L. jepsonii, unmanipulated flowers had reduced longevity compared to emasculated flowers, suggesting that autonomous self‐pollination limits floral longevity in these species. Limited floral longevity in these highly selfing taxa may reduce opportunities for male outcross success, representing a possible source of selection on the mating system. In turn, the mating system might influence how selection acts on floral longevity; obligately outcrossing taxa are expected to benefit from longer floral longevities to maximise opportunities for pollination, while selfing taxa might benefit from earlier floral senescence to reduce resource expenditure. Overall, the longevity of unpollinated flowers increased with the level of outcrossing in the genus Leptosiphon. Our results taken together with those of a previous study and similar results in other species suggest that floral longevity may represent a largely unexamined role in mating system evolution.
Development of a direct test of baculovirus resistance in wild codling moth populations
Authors: Schulze‐Bopp S. , Jehle J. A.
Published: May 2012

The occurrence of resistance of codling moth (CM, Cydia pomonella L.) to Cydia pomonella granulovirus (CpGV) used as biological control agent revealed the need for fast and reliable resistance monitoring methods. Here, we describe the development of a laboratory resistance test that is directly performed on larvae extracted from infested apples. This test is based on a 14‐day bioassay at a discriminative CpGV concentration of 2 × 105 occlusion bodies/ml diet and can be applied to L1–L4 larvae. Information on virus resistance can be obtained within <4 weeks. In a survey, CM larvae were isolated and tested from 6698 apples from 10 different orchards in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy and the Netherlands. We identified seven CM populations resistant or partly resistant to CpGV isolates. Although some of the orchards were treated with commercial CpGV products, this method allowed us to obtain reliable information about the resistance status of the examined populations.
Reactivity of the 1,3‐β‐D‐glucan assay during bacteraemia: limited evidence from a prospective study
Authors: Racil Zdenek , Kocmanova Iva , Toskova Martina , Winterova Jana , Lengerova Martina , Timilsina Shira , Mayer Jiri
Published: May 2012

There are discrepancies in the retrospective studies published in literature of whether or not bacteraemia could lead to false positivity of 1,3‐β‐D (BG) glucan assay. We performed, for the first time, a prospective study evaluating the role of bacterial bloodstream infection to the reactivity of BG assay. Twenty‐six episodes of bacteraemia that occurred in high‐risk haematological patients were included in our study. Consecutive BG levels >80 pg ml−1 were required for test positivity. Only 2 of 26 patients were BG positive – both with IFDs. Thus, we prospectively did not prove bacteraemia as the source of cross reactivity of BG assay in haematological patients.
Molecular Cloning, Characterization of Porcine IZUMO1, an IgSF Family Member
Authors: Kim E , Kim J‐S , Lee Y , Song B‐S , Sim B‐W , Kim S‐U , Saitoh T , Yazawa H , Nunoya T , Chang K‐T
Published: May 2012

Contents

IZUMO1, belonging to the family of mammalian immunoglobulin proteins, has been well characterized in the mouse. Here, we describe the molecular cloning and expression analysis of porcine IZUMO1 (pIZUMO1). Partial sequence information published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database was used to generate the full‐length sequence for IZUMO1 using rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). A search of the porcine genomic sequence in the NCBI database identified a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) encoding the pIZUMO1 gene. This BAC is derived from porcine chromosome 6 and is syntenic with the corresponding regions of mouse, bovine, and human genomes encoding the IZUMO gene family. This BAC was found to encode an IZUMO1 protein with a predicted amino acid sequence having high similarity with mouse and human IZUMO1. Western blot analysis of proteins from porcine tissues indicated that pIZUMO1 was specifically expressed in the sperm. Furthermore, to confirm whether pIZUMO1 forms complexes, we overexpressed pIZUMO1 in HEK293 cells. The recombinant pIZUMO1 from cell extracts was found to form complexes. Our finding suggests that pIZUMO1 forms homodimeric complex on the sperm membrane. Furthermore, an IVF inhibition assay with an antibody for the porcine IZUMO1 Ig‐like domain showed that Ig‐like domain effectively prevented pig sperm–egg interactions.
Efficacy of Ozone and Other Treatment Modalities for Retained Placenta in Dairy Cows
Authors: Zobel R , Tkalčić S
Published: May 2012

Contents

Retained placenta is a worldwide recognized clinical condition in puerperal cows, which can significantly affect their health and fertility. Available treatment modalities are often of questionable efficacy or associated with time constraints, practicality or monetary considerations for their wide application in a routine dairy practice. The objective of this study was to compare and assess the efficacy of different treatment options, including a novel ozone treatment, for the retained placenta. Two hundred cows diagnosed with retained placenta were divided into five treatment groups, each receiving a different treatment option. Group A (n = 40) was given a combination treatment of intrauterine ozone and parenteral cephalexin; group B (n = 40) was given intrauterine ozone; group C (n = 40) was given a combination of parenteral cephalexin and intrauterine antibiotic tablets; group D (n = 40) was given only parenteral cephalexin and group E (n = 40) was given parenteral prostaglandins in 11‐day intervals. The control group (group Z, n = 200) included cows that gave birth without assistance and were not diagnosed with a retained placenta. The ozone treatment (groups A and B) was found to be the most effective modality resulting in the shortest period of days open, the smallest number of artificial inseminations until pregnancy, the smallest number of animals diagnosed with fever within 10 days post‐calving, the highest percentage of animals pregnant within 200 days after calving and the smallest number of animals culled because of infertility, when compared to the other treatment groups. The intrauterine ozone flush therefore has a potential as an efficacious and cost‐effective treatment option for retained placenta, with an overall positive effect on puerperal health and fertility in cows.
Quantitative evaluation of anterior chamber parameters using anterior segment optical coherence tomography in primary angle closure mechanisms
Authors: Shabana Noor , Aquino Maria CD , See Jovina , Ce Zheng , Tan Anna M , Nolan Winifred P , Hitchings Roger , Young Stephanie M , Loon Seng Chee , Sng Chelvin C , Wong Wanling , Chew Paul TK
Published: May 2012

Abstract

Background:  To evaluate different mechanisms of primary angle closure and to quantify anterior chamber parameters in these mechanisms using anterior segment optical coherence tomography in an Asian population.

Design:  Hospital‐based cross‐sectional observational study.

Participants:  Forty‐eight consecutive patients with primary angle closure glaucoma.

Methods:  Patients underwent complete ophthalmic examination and imaging of nasal‐temporal angles with anterior segment optical coherence tomography. Images were categorized into four primary angle closure mechanisms: pupil block, plateau iris configuration, Thick peripheral iris roll and exaggerated lens vault. Parameters computed: anterior chamber depth central, anterior chamber depth at 1000 µm and 2000 µm anterior to scleral spur, lens vault, anterior chamber area, angle opening distance, trabecular iris space area and iris thickness.

Main Outcome Measure:  Anterior chamber parameters and primary angle closure mechanisms.

Results:  Mean values of anterior chamber depths: central (P < 0.001), at 2000 µm (P < 0.001), 1000 µm (P < 0.001), lens vault (P < 0.001), anterior chamber area (P < 0.001), were significantly different among the four groups. Multivariate analysis showed anterior chamber depths: central, and anterior chamber depth at 2000 µm and anterior chamber area were higher in plateau iris and Thick peripheral iris roll and lower in exaggerated lens vault (P < 0.001) as compared to pupil block mechanism, lens vault was greater in exaggerated lens vault (P < 0.001) and lesser in plateau iris and Thick peripheral iris roll as compared to pupil block mechanism.

Conclusion:  Anterior segment optical coherence tomography may be used for evaluation of underlying primary angle closure mechanism(s) in a patient and tailor the treatment accordingly.