bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetically determined apo B levels and peak LDL density predict angiographic response to intensive lipid‐lowering therapy
Authors: ZAMBON A. , BROWN B. G. , HOKANSON J. E. , MOTULSKY A. G. , BRUNZELL J. D.
Published: February 2006

Objective:  Lipid‐lowering therapy (LL‐Rx) reduces coronary artery disease (CAD) but the response varies amongst individuals. We investigated the contribution of three genetic forms of dyslipidaemia characterized by elevated plasma apo B, familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH), familial combined hyperlipidaemia (FCHL), and elevated Lp(a), to the angiographic response with LL‐Rx.

Methods and results:  Fifty‐one men, with premature CAD and elevated plasma apo B, were selected in whom a genetic diagnosis was based on lipid phenotypes in relatives. Subjects received conventional (diet ± colestipol) or intensive LL‐Rx (niacin or lovastatin plus colestipol). Clinical parameters and CAD severity were measured before and after 2 years of treatment. Twenty‐seven patients had FCHL, 12 FH and 12 elevated Lp(a). Regression of coronary stenosis was dependent on the effect of therapy (P < 0.001), genetic form of dyslipidaemia (P = 0.004) and the interaction between the two variables (P = 0.02). Significant regression of coronary stenosis occurred only in FCHL and Lp(a) (P = 0.03, vs. control groups); CAD progression was only slowed in FH.

Conclusions:  Three genetic forms of dyslipidaemia were associated with different angiographic outcomes during intensive LL‐Rx. Different forms of dyslipidaemia therefore may require different lipid‐lowering strategy. Patients with FH and buoyant LDL require more aggressive reduction of LDL cholesterol whilst those with either FCHL or elevated Lp(a) with dense LDL need LDL cholesterol reduction as well as therapies aimed at reduction of the small, dense LDL particles.
Scanning electron microscope imaging in liquids – some data on electron interactions in water
Authors: JOY D. C. , JOY C. S.
Published: February 2006

The electron backscattering coefficient of liquid water has been determined for electrons in the energy range 15–30 keV using QuantomixTM capsules. Values of the mean atomic number for water estimated from a fit to the backscatter yield, the mean ionization potential of water and from Monte Carlo simulations, show that the scattering behaviour of water is not anomalous despite the effects of hydrogen bonding. Computations of the electron range, and of the mean depth for backscattering, in water as a function of incident beam energy show that water and vitreous ice are good media for imaging purposes.
Laser autofocusing system for high‐resolution cell biological imaging
Authors: LIRON Y. , PARAN Y. , ZATORSKY N. G. , GEIGER B. , KAM Z.
Published: February 2006

Automated acquisition of high resolution, light microscope images of cells is becoming a common requirement in modern proteomic and cellomic research. A prerequisite for such microscopy is fine focus tuning, commonly optimized by multiple exposures, followed by image sharpness analysis. We describe here an extremely fast and accurate laser autofocusing system with distinct advantages for large‐scale cell‐based screening.
Comparative phylogeography in a genus of coral reef fishes: biogeographic and genetic concordance in the Caribbean
Authors: TAYLOR MICHAEL S. , HELLBERG MICHAEL E.
Published: February 2006

Geographic barriers that limit the movement of individuals between populations may create or maintain phylogenetically discrete lineages. Such barriers are often inferred from geographic surveys of a single mitochondrial marker to identify phylogenetic splits. Mitochondrial DNA, however, has an effective population size one‐fourth that of nuclear DNA, which can facilitate the rapid evolution of monophyletic mtDNA lineages in the absence of geographic barriers. The identification of geographic barriers will thus be more robust if barriers are proposed a priori, and tested with multiple independent genetic markers in multiple species. Here, we tested two proposed marine biogeographic breaks located at the Mona Passage in the Caribbean Sea and at the southern end of Exuma Sound in the Bahamas. We sequenced mitochondrial cytochrome b (400 bp) and nuclear rag1 (573 bp) for nine species and colour forms (183 individuals total) within the teleost genus Elacatinus (Gobiidae) that span the proposed breaks. Our results showed that Mona Passage separated mtcyb and rag1 lineages, with no genetic exchange between populations separated by just 23 km. However, the Central Bahamas barrier was only weakly supported by our data. Importantly, neither barrier coincided with deep genetic splits. This suggests that these two barriers did not initially isolate regional populations, but instead disrupt ongoing gene flow between regions. Our inferred relationships further suggested a division of the Caribbean region into northwestern and southeastern regions, a pattern reflected by some freshwater and terrestrial vertebrates. Our results, coupled with genetic and demographic data from other reef fishes and corals, provide robust support for the Mona Passage as a long‐term biogeographic barrier for Caribbean animals.
Polar assembly of the type IV pilus secretin in Myxococcus xanthus
Authors: Nudleman Eric , Wall Daniel , Kaiser Dale
Published: February 2006

The type IV pilus filament of Myxococcus xanthus penetrates the outer membrane through a gated channel – the PilQ secretin. Assembly of the channel and formation of PilQ multimeric complexes that resist disassembly in heated detergent is correlated with the release of a 50 kDa fragment of PilQ. Tgl lipoprotein is required for PilQ assembly in M. xanthus, because PilQ monomers but no heat and detergent‐resistant complexes are present in a strain from which tgl has been deleted. PilQ protein is often found in single patches at both poles of the cell. Tgl, however, is found in a patch at only one pole that most likely identifies the piliated cell pole. Tgl protein that has been transferred from another cell by contact stimulation leads to secretin assembly in the recipient. Pilus proteins PilQ, PilG, PilM, PilN, PilO and PilP are also required for the donation of Tgl by contact stimulation to a stimulation recipient. We suggest that these proteins are parts of a polar superstructure that holds PilQ monomers in a cluster and ready for Tgl to bring about secretin assembly.
Changes in flagellin glycosylation affect Campylobacter autoagglutination and virulence
Authors: Guerry Patricia , Ewing Cheryl P. , Schirm Michael , Lorenzo Maria , Kelly John , Pattarini Dawn , Majam Gary , Thibault Pierre , Logan Susan
Published: February 2006

Analysis of the complete flagellin glycosylation locus of Campylobacter jejuni strain 81–176 revealed a less complex genomic organization than the corresponding region in the genome strain, C. jejuni NCTC 11168. Twenty‐four of the 45 genes found between Cj1293 and Cj1337 in NCTC 11168 are missing in 81–176. Mutation of six new genes, in addition to three previously reported, resulted in a non‐motile phenotype, consistent with a role in synthesis of pseudaminic acid (PseAc) or transfer of PseAc to flagellin. Mutation of Cj1316c or pseA had been shown to result in loss of the acetamidino form of pseudaminic acid (PseAm). Mutation of a second gene also resulted in loss of PseAm, as well as a minor modification that appears to be PseAm extended with N‐acetyl‐glutamic acid. Previously described mutants in C. jejuni 81–176 and Campylobacter coli VC167 that produced flagella lacking PseAm or PseAc failed to autoagglutinate. This suggests that interactions between modifications on adjacent flagella filaments are required for autoagglutination. Mutants (81–176) defective in autoagglutination showed a modest reduction in adherence and invasion of INT407 cells. However, there was a qualitative difference in binding patterns to INT407 cells using GFP‐labelled 81–176 and mutants lacking PseAm. A mutant lacking PseAm was attenuated in the ferret diarrhoeal disease model.
Inorganic polyphosphate interacts with ribosomes and promotes translation fidelity in vitro and in vivo
Authors: McInerney Peter , Mizutani Taeko , Shiba Toshikazu
Published: February 2006

Inorganic polyphosphate is a biological macromolecule consisting of multiple phosphates linked by high‐energy bonds. Polyphosphate occurs in cells from all domains of life, and is known to play roles in a diverse collection of cellular functions. Here we examine the relationship between polyphosphate and protein synthesis in Escherichia coli. We report that polyphosphate associates with E. coli ribosomes in vitro. Characterization of this interaction reveals that both long‐chain and short‐chain polyphosphates interact with the ribosome. Intact 70S ribosomes, as well as 50S and 30S subunits, display a specific interaction with polyphosphate that is mediated primarily by contacts with ribosomal proteins. Additionally, we examined functional consequences of a ppk mutation, which severely reduces levels of intracellular polyphosphate. Extracts from ppk mutants contain lower levels of polysomes than wild‐type cells, suggesting a defect in mRNA utilization or the mRNA–ribosome interaction. Ribosomes from wild‐type and ppk mutant cells were isolated, and their activities were compared using a polyU RNA in vitro translation assay. While rates of polyphenylalanine synthesis are similar, use of ribosomes from ppk cells results in a misincorporation rate about five times higher compared with the rate observed when ribosomes from wild‐type cells are used. Mistranslation rates in vivo were measured directly, and ppk mutants displayed higher readthrough frequencies for two different stop codons. Taken together, these results indicate that polyphosphate plays an important role in maintaining optimal translation efficiency in vivo and in vitro.
The Escherichia coli plasma membrane contains two PHB (prohibitin homology) domain protein complexes of opposite orientations
Authors: Chiba Shinobu , Ito Koreaki , Akiyama Yoshinori
Published: February 2006

Two membrane proteases, FtsH and HtpX, are jointly essential for Escherichia coli cell viability, presumably through their abilities to degrade abnormal membrane proteins. To search for additional cellular factors involved in membrane protein quality control, we isolated multicopy suppressors that alleviated the growth defect of the ftsH/htpX dual disruption mutant. One of them was ybbK, which is renamed qmcA, encoding a membrane‐bound prohibitin homology (PHB) domain family protein. Multicopy suppression was also observed with hflK–hflC, encoding another set of PHB domain membrane proteins, which had been known to form a complex (HflKC) and to interact with FtsH. Whereas the ΔftsH sfhC21 (a viability defect suppressor for ΔftsH) strain exhibited temperature sensitivity in the presence of cAMP, additional disruption of both qmcA and hflK–hflC exaggerated the growth defect. Pull‐down and sedimentation experiments showed that QmcA, like HflKC, forms an oligomer and interacts with FtsH. Protease accessibility assays revealed that QmcA, unlike periplasmically exposed HflKC, possesses a cytoplasmically disposed large C‐terminal domain, thus assuming the type I (NOUT‐CIN) orientation. We discuss possible significance of having PHB domains on both sides of the membrane.
5‐HT2B receptors do not modulate sensitivity to colonic distension in rats with acute colorectal hypersensitivity
Authors: Greenwood‐van meerveld B. , Campbell‐dittmeyer K. , Johnson A. C. , Hicks G. A.
Published: February 2006

Abstract  The 5‐HT4 receptor agonist tegaserod is an effective prokinetic agent that increases gastrointestinal secretion and reduces visceral sensitivity. Tegaserod has both 5‐HT4 receptor agonist and 5‐HT2B receptor antagonist activity, the latter being a less potent effect of the drug. In a rat model of colonic hypersensitivity, selective 5‐HT4 receptor antagonists only partially reversed the antihyperalgesic effect of tegaserod suggesting that non‐5‐HT4 receptor‐mediated mechanisms may also be involved in its overall antihyperalgesic action. The objective of this study was to determine whether 5‐HT2B receptors play a role in colonic hypersensitivity. A visceromotor response (VMR) in acutely sensitized animals (intracolonic acetic acid, 0.6%, 1.5 mL) quantified colonic hypersensitivity. Acetic acid produced an increase in the VMR at all distension pressures. However, neither the 5‐HT2B receptor agonist BW 723C86, the 5‐HT2B antagonist SB204741 or the 5‐HT2B/2C antagonist SB 206553 caused any significant inhibition of the VMR. In summary, in the same rodent model in which tegaserod has previously been shown to produce a potent antihyperalgesic effect, 5‐HT2B receptors do not appear to mediate colonic hypersensitivity. We conclude that 5‐HT2B receptor‐mediated mechanisms are unlikely to play a role in the antihyperalgesic action of tegaserod in man.
Mechanisms of microbially enhanced Fe acquisition in red clover (Trifolium pratense L.)
Authors: JIN CHONG WEI , HE YUN FENG , TANG CAI XIAN , WU PING , ZHENG SHAO JIAN
Published: February 2006

Soil microorganisms may play an important role in plant Fe uptake from soils with low Fe bioavailability, but there is little direct experimental evidence to date. We grew red clover, an Fe‐efficient leguminous plant, in a calcareous soil to investigate the role of soil microbial activity in plant Fe uptake. Compared with plants grown in non‐sterlie (NS) grown plants, growth and Fe content of the sterile(s) grown plants was significantly inhibited, but was improved by foliar application of Fe EDTA, indicating that soil microbial activity should play an important role in plant Fe acquisition. When soil solution was incubated with phenolic root exudates from Fe‐deficient red clover, a few microbial species thrived while growth of the rest was inhibited, suggesting that the Fe‐deficient (– Fe) root exudates selectively influenced the rhizosphere's microbial community. Eighty six per cent of the phenolic‐tolerant microbes could produce siderophore [the Fe(III) chelator] under – Fe conditions, and 71% could secrete auxin‐like compounds. Interestingly, the synthetic and microbial auxins (MAs) significantly enhanced the Ferric reduction system, suggesting that MAs, in addition to siderophores, are important to plant Fe uptake. Finally, plant growth and Fe uptake in sterilized soil were significantly increased by rhizobia inoculation. Root Fe–EDTA reductase activity in the – Fe plant was significantly enhanced by rhizobia infection, and the rhizobia could produce auxin but not siderophore under Fe‐limiting conditions, suggesting that the contribution of nodulating rhizobia to plant Fe uptake can be at least partially attributed to stimulation of turbo reductase activity through nodule formation and auxin production in the rhizosphere. Based on these observations, we propose as a model that root exudates from – Fe plants selectively influence the rhizosphere microbial community, and the microbes in turn favour plant Fe acquisition by producing siderophores and auxins.
Analysis of the temporal and spatial disease progress of Bemisia tabaci‐transmitted Cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus and Cucumber vein yellowing virus in cucumber
Authors: Ruiz L. , Janssen D. , Martín G. , Velasco L. , Segundo E. , Cuadrado I. M.
Published: February 2006

Cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus (CYSDV) has been present in greenhouse‐grown cucumber in Spain since 1992. However, in the autumn of 2000 Cucumber vein yellowing virus (CVYV) was introduced, leading to mixed infections of both Bemisia tabaci‐transmitted viruses. The temporal and spatial spread of disease symptoms were monitored in experimental plastic‐covered greenhouses during six consecutive cucumber plantings from 2000 to 2002. Using linear regression analysis of 46 disease‐progress curves, the Gompertz model best described the CYSDV epidemics in 2000, whereas the logistic model best described the development of CYSDV and CVYV epidemics in 2001 and 2002. The fitted models were used to calculate the amount of degree Celsius‐days at half‐maximum infection in the greenhouses (°D0·5). After multiple regression analysis, 56% of the variation in °D0·5 of CYSDV was related to the numbers of whiteflies infesting the cucumber crops, and was independent of the mean temperatures in the greenhouses. In contrast, 76% of the variation in °D0·5 of CVYV was related to both the numbers of vectors present and maximum temperature. Symptom expression in cucumbers mechanically inoculated with CVYV was most prevalent when plants were grown at regimes of at least 28°C day temperature. According to analysis of spread using Taylor's power law, beta‐binomial distribution fitting, and the ordinary runs test, the prevalence of CVYV showed significant overdispersion, whereas that of CYSDV did not. The χ2 test of independence and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient were used to measure co‐occurrence and covariation, respectively, during the first half of the cultivation period. These results showed that the two diseases were not associated.
Reclassification of an isolate of Guignardia citricarpa from New Zealand as Guignardia mangiferae by sequence analysis
Authors: Everett K. R. , Rees‐George J.
Published: February 2006

Citrus black spot was recorded as present in New Zealand in international databases on the basis of one isolate (ICMP 8336) identified by morphological features as Guignardia citricarpa. This isolate was from a soft rot, not a typical symptom of citrus black spot, on a Seminole tangerine fruit grown in the northern region of New Zealand. Sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region (ITS1, 5·8S and ITS2) showed that this isolate was 99% identical to the ITS region of G. mangiferae, a closely related saprotroph. Despite climatic conditions being suitable for this disease, citrus black spot symptoms have never been seen on citrus fruits grown in New Zealand. Thus the absence of symptoms on citrus in New Zealand is probably because G. citricarpa is not present. On the basis of these results, the record of citrus black spot occurring in New Zealand should be re‐examined.
The potential of nonpathogenic Fusarium oxysporum and other biological control organisms for suppressing fusarium wilt of banana
Authors: Nel B. , Steinberg C. , Labuschagne N. , Viljoen A.
Published: February 2006

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of nonpathogenic F. oxysporum and Trichoderma isolates from suppressive soils in South Africa to suppress fusarium wilt of banana in the glasshouse. Several biological control agents and commercial biological control products were included in the study. The isolates were first screened in vitro on potato dextrose agar. In glasshouse evaluations, the fungal and bacterial isolates were established on banana roots before they were replanted in pathogen‐infested soil, while the commercial biocontrol agents were applied as directed by the supplier. Banana plantlets were evaluated for disease development after 7 weeks. In vitro tests showed none of the nonpathogenic isolates suppressed Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense (Foc), while slight suppression was observed with the two Trichoderma isolates. Results of the glasshouse evaluations revealed that two of the nonpathogenic F. oxysporum isolates, CAV 255 and CAV 241, reduced fusarium wilt incidence by 87·4 and 75·0%, respectively. The known biological control agent Fo47 did not suppress Foc significantly. Pseudomonas fluorescens strain WCS 417, known for its ability to suppress other fusarium wilt diseases (WCS 417), reduced disease incidence by 87·4%. These isolates should be further evaluated for potential application in the field, independently and in combination.
Interactions between a crinivirus, an ipomovirus and a potyvirus in coinfected sweetpotato plants
Authors: Mukasa S. B. , Rubaihayo P. R. , Valkonen J. P. T.
Published: February 2006

Novel and severe symptoms of chlorosis, rugosity, leaf strapping and dark green islands, designated as sweetpotato severe mosaic disease (SPSMD), were caused by dual infection of Sweet potato mild mottle virus (SPMMV; Ipomovirus) and Sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus (SPCSV; Crinivirus) in three East African sweetpotato cultivars (Tanzania, Dimbuka and New Kawogo). The storage root yield was reduced by ∼80%, as compared with healthy plants under screenhouse conditions in Uganda. Plants infected with SPMMV or SPCSV alone showed nonsignificant or 50% yield reduction, respectively. SPCSV reduced resistance to SPMMV in sweetpotato, similar to the situation with resistance to Sweet potato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV; Potyvirus) that breaks down following infection with SPCSV, followed by development of sweet potato virus disease (SPVD). In single virus infections with SPMMV and SPFMV or their coinfection, cvs Tanzania and Dimbuka were initially systemically infected, displayed symptoms and contained readily detectable virus titres, but new leaves were symptomless with very low virus titres, indicating recovery from disease. In contrast, cv. New Kawogo remained symptomless and contained low SPMMV and SPFMV titres following graft inoculation. These moderate and high levels of resistance to SPMMV and SPFMV, respectively, were lost and cultivars succumbed to a severe disease following coinfection with SPCSV. The synergistic interactions increased titres of SPMMV and SPFMV RNA by ∼1000‐fold as quantified by real‐time PCR, whereas SPCSV titres were reduced twofold, indicating an antagonistic interaction. Coinfection with SPMMV and SPFMV caused no detectable changes in virus titres or symptom severity.
Sequence stratigraphy of a Late Devonian ramp‐situated reef system in the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin: dynamic responses to sea‐level change and regressive reef development
Authors: MACNEIL ALEX J. , JONES BRIAN
Published: February 2006

The Alexandra Formation, located in the Northwest Territories of Canada, is formed of a Late Devonian (Frasnian) reef system that developed on a gently sloping, epicontinental ramp in the Western Canada Sedimentary Basin. High‐resolution sequence stratigraphic analysis of its deposits delineates two reef complexes that are separated by a Type I sequence boundary. The second reef complex developed on the outer ramp, basinward of the first, after sea‐level fell ≈17 m. Stratigraphic complexity of the second reef complex was a result of its initiation during forced regression, and its development through an entire cycle of sea‐level rise followed by sea‐level fall. Its highstand systems tract was not characterized by high rates of carbonate production or sediment shedding. Rather, these features took place as sea‐level fell, after its highstand systems tract. The sequence stratigraphic framework of this regressive reef system highlights a number of depositional parameters that differ from high‐relief, shelf‐situated reef systems with steep, narrow margins. These have implications for understanding the controls on the development of ramp‐situated reef systems, and the nature of reef systems with gently sloping profiles. This study demonstrates that the development of stromatoporoid reef systems may be far more complex than generally realized, and that high‐resolution sequence stratigraphy may provide the tools for better understanding of complex, often enigmatic, aspects of these systems.
Sedimentology and stratigraphy of a transgressive, muddy gravel beach: Waterside Beach, Bay of Fundy, Canada
Authors: DASHTGARD SHAHIN E. , GINGRAS MURRAY K. , BUTLER KARL E.
Published: February 2006

Sediments exposed at low tide on the transgressive, hypertidal (>6 m tidal range) Waterside Beach, New Brunswick, Canada permit the scrutiny of sedimentary structures and textures that develop at water depths equivalent to the upper and lower shoreface. Waterside Beach sediments are grouped into eleven sedimentologically distinct deposits that represent three depositional environments: (1) sandy foreshore and shoreface; (2) tidal‐creek braid‐plain and delta; and, (3) wave‐formed gravel and sand bars, and associated deposits. The sandy foreshore and shoreface depositional environment encompasses the backshore; moderately dipping beachface; and a shallowly seaward‐dipping terrace of sandy middle and lower intertidal, and muddy sub‐tidal sediments. Intertidal sediments reworked and deposited by tidal creeks comprise the tidal‐creek braid plain and delta. Wave‐formed sand and gravel bars and associated deposits include: sediment sourced from low‐amplitude, unstable sand bars; gravel deposited from large (up to 5·5 m high, 800 m long), landward‐migrating gravel bars; and zones of mud deposition developed on the landward side of the gravel bars. The relationship between the gravel bars and mud deposits, and between mud‐laden sea water and beach gravels provides mechanisms for the deposition of mud beds, and muddy clast‐ and matrix‐supported conglomerates in ancient conglomeratic successions. Idealized sections are presented as analogues for ancient conglomerates deposited in transgressive systems. Where tidal creeks do not influence sedimentation on the beach, the preserved sequence consists of a gravel lag overlain by increasingly finer‐grained shoreface sediments. Conversely, where tidal creeks debouch onto the beach, erosion of the underlying salt marsh results in deposition of a thicker, more complex beach succession. The thickness of this package is controlled by tidal range, sedimentation rate, and rate of transgression. The tidal‐creek influenced succession comprises repeated sequences of: a thin mud bed overlain by muddy conglomerate, sandy conglomerate, a coarse lag, and capped by trough cross‐bedded sand and gravel.
Long‐term study of Japanese encephalitis virus infection in Anopheles subpictus in Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu, South India
Authors: Thenmozhi V. , Rajendran R. , Ayanar K. , Manavalan R. , Tyagi B. K.
Published: February 2006

Objective  To investigate the role of Anopheles subpictus Grassi as a vector of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) transmission in Cuddalore, an area of Tamil Nadu endemic for the disease.

Method  We collected 98 pools (4900 specimens) of wild adult male An. subpictus mosquitoes outdoors during dusk hours and screened them for JEV antigen by antigen‐capture Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay. Additionally, over a period of 1 year, we tested 166 pools (8300 specimens) of wild adult female An. subpictus mosquitoes collected indoors for JEV.

Results  Four pools of male An. subpictus tested positive. This indicates possible natural transovarial transmission of the virus through An. subpictus. Nineteen female pools were positive with a minimum infection rate of 2.3. From January through March the maximum infection rate was highest: 5.0 compared with 1.7 between April and September and 2.1 from October to December, although the difference was not statistically significant. From the 19 positive female pools, four isolates were confirmed as JEV by insect bioassay.

Conclusion  The role of An. subpictus as a secondary vector in JEV transmission in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu lends support to the hypothesis of periodic epidemics in the region.
Cutaneous phaeohyphomycosis caused by an Itraconazole and Amphoterecin B resistant strain ofVeronaeae botryosa
Authors: Chen Yu‐Ting , Lin Hao‐Chiung , Huang Chieh‐Chen , Lo Yuan‐Hsin
Published: February 2006

Background Although the dematiaceous fungusVeronaea botryosais rarely encountered clinically, it can be pathogenic.

Methods A patient with a history of diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, and Cushing's syndrome had recurrent multifocal, crusted, brownish‐red noduloplaques on the right forearm, left upper limb, and right knee. A skin biopsy was obtained for histopathology and fungal cultures.

Results The histopathology showed brownish hyphae and yeast‐like cells scattered in granulomatous infiltrates. Slide cultures revealed erect and straight conidiophores with two‐celled cylindrical conidia, which have round tops and truncated bases. The fungus was identified asVeronaea botryosa. The disease slowly progressed despite a 6‐month itraconazole regimen (200 mg daily). Subsequent use of Amphoterecin B produced only mild clinical improvements. Susceptibility tests showed resistance to both agents.

Conclusions Cutaneous phaeohyphomycosis caused byV. botryosais extremely rare. Antifungal susceptibility tests are important for choosing the appropriate drug and predicting the clinical outcome.
Histoid leprosy – unusual presentation
Authors: Nair S. Pradeep , Moorthy K. Prasanna , Suprakasan Sukumaran , Jayapalan Sabeena , Mini Gomathy
Published: February 2006

A 39‐year‐old man presented with a chronic nonhealing toe ulcer and multiple skin‐colored papules on the back, arms, and knees. From an initial small erosion, the toe lesion ulcerated over a 1.5‐year period, while the papules progressed over a 6‐month period, first appearing on the back and then spreading to the arms and knees. The past medical and family history were noncontributory. Pertinent findings included the aforementioned well‐defined, asymmetric, shiny papules (Fig. 1). There were multiple, discrete, erythematous, pedunculated, tumor‐like masses of various sizes over the right thigh (Fig. 2) and a well‐defined 4 cm × 3 cm ulcer on the second toe of the left foot, the floor of which was covered by necrotic slough.

Skin‐colored papules of histoid leprosy on the back

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Pedunculated tumor‐like masses on the left thigh

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There was distal loss of sensation to temperature, touch, and pain. The greater auricular, ulnar, radial cutaneous and common peroneal nerves were thickened bilaterally, but nontender. A clinical diagnosis of histoid leprosy was made. The differential diagnosis for the tumor‐like thigh masses included dermatofibroma, neurofibroma, and Kaposi's sarcoma.

The hemogram, liver/renal function tests, chest X‐ray, and abdominal ultrasound were normal. Human immunodeficiency virus enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (HIV ELISA) was negative. The ear lobe smear (ELS) for acid‐fast bacilli showed a bacterial index (BI) of 6+[> 1000 organisms/oil immersion field (oif)] and a morphological index (MI) of 50%. The skin‐colored papules on the back and the pedunculated masses showed a BI of 5+ (100–1000 organisms/oif) and an MI of 50%. The normal skin showed a BI of 4+ (10–100 organisms/oif) and an MI of 5%. Biopsy of the papules and pedunculated tumors showed a well‐circumscribed area of the dermis packed with many acid‐fast organisms and foamy macrophages, consistent with histoid leprosy (Fig. 3). Fite–Faraco stain demonstrated cells packed with lepra bacilli.

Skin biopsy showing foamy macrophages packed with many acid‐fast organisms (Fite stain; ×400)

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A final diagnosis of lepromatous leprosy, histoid variant, was made. Dapsone, clofazimine, rifampicin, and, later, ofloxacin were started.
Naproxen‐induced lichen planus: report of 55 cases
Authors: Güneš Ali Tahsin , Fetil Emel , İlknur Turna , Birgin Bahar , Özkan Şebnem
Published: February 2006

Background  Clinical and histopathological differential diagnosis is usually impossible in drug‐induced lichen planus (LP) and idiopathic LP. Naproxen is a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, which is widely used for its analgesic, antipyretic and anti‐inflammatory effects. To the best of our knowledge, two case reports on naproxen‐induced LP have been reported.

Methods  Fifty‐five patients with LP, and a history of naproxen intake before their eruption, were investigated.

Results  Twenty‐five patients (45.5%) had a history of naproxen intake prior to their eruption without any other medication. Twelve patients (21.8%) had a history of simultaneous use of naproxen with other drugs that were reported as inducers of LP. Eighteen patients (32.7%) had given a history of using naproxen together with drugs that had not been previously reported as inducers of LP. Moreover, in 42 patients, eruptive‐type LP development after naproxen intake, is an interesting observation. New lesions were not observed after the cessation of naproxen intake in any of the patients.

Conclusion  Naproxen might be accepted as an important inducer for LP, especially for the eruptive form.
Current modalities and new advances in the treatment of basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Ceilley Roger I. , Del Rosso James Q.
Published: February 2006

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is one of the most common cancers. Surgical extirpation is currently the standard of care for BCC, which is associated with several advantages and disadvantages. Procedures such as surgical excision used to treat superficial BCC (sBCC) and nodular BCC (nBCC) may have high 5‐year recurrence rates if tumors are not completely excised. Curettage with electrodesiccation is a common method for treating primary BCC. However, multiple cycles are recommended and the procedure can have unsatisfactory cosmetic results (e.g. scarring and hypopigmentation). Mohs micrographic surgery has a low rate of disease recurrence but is a specialized procedure usually limited to specific indications (e.g. high‐risk tumors). Cryosurgery and photodynamic therapy require multiple cycles and are associated with variable cosmetic outcomes and recurrence rates. As with any procedure, potential risks and patient quality‐of‐life issues need to be considered. In addition, substantial patient and healthcare provider inconvenience limit the practical utility of some modalities. Pharmacologic interventions provide another treatment option as adjunctive or monotherapy. Investigations of imiquimod, a novel immune response modifier, have indicated that this topical, noninvasive agent is safe and well tolerated and may be efficacious in the treatment of BCC. This review will highlight the role of standard treatment modalities and introduce new advances in the treatment of BCC.
Pleistocene fragmentation of Amazon species’ ranges
Authors: Bonaccorso Elisa , Koch Ingrid , Peterson A. Townsend
Published: February 2006

Historical patterns of connection and isolation of the impressive biological diversity of the Amazon Basin have been the subject of extensive debate, based on evidence drawn from distributional patterns of endemic species, vegetation histories from palynological studies, and geological studies. We develop species‐specific ecological niche models based on current occurrence patterns of 17 species of birds and woody plants, which we project onto modelled Pleistocene (Last Glacial Maximum) climatic patterns to reconstruct past potential distributions of each species. Forest species’ distributions showed fragmentation at Last Glacial Maximum and these fragments were coincident spatially, whereas savanna species showed no clear trends. Our results suggest that past climate changes fragmented forest species’ ranges within a matrix of uncertain composition.
Environmental and geographical factors affecting the Iberian distribution of flightlessJekeliusspecies (Coleoptera: Geotrupidae)
Authors: Lobo J. M. , Verdú J. R. , Numa C.
Published: February 2006

The degree of influence of environment, location and geography on the distribution of closely‐relatedJekelius nitidusandJekelius hernandezi, coleopteran species endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, was examined. Niche envelope model predictions of probable absence points were based on available presence information. Presence–absence information for each of the two species was logistic‐regressed against climate, altitude, lithology, spatial and river basin variables from each of 100 km2UTM Iberian Peninsula squares. Models predict that environmental conditions are suitable for both species in an area larger than that in which they have been found. The best‐fitting environment model forJ. nitidus, based on summer precipitation, area underlain by siliceous rocks, area with siliceous sediments and aridity index, explains more than 81% of total deviance. The final model, which includes spatial and river basin variables, accounts for nearly of 89% of total deviance. The best‐fitting environment model forJ. hernandezi,based on the area underlain by calcareous rocks, summer precipitation, aridity index, altitude and minimum annual temperature, explains 63% of total deviance. The final model based on both spatial and river basin variables accounts for nearly 70% of total deviance.

 Our results suggest that climate influences the distribution of both species similarly and that the acidic or basic nature of the substrate is the environment variable that most influences the occurrence of both species. The major degree of influence of river basin variables, together with lithologic variables, on the current distribution of both species may be due to the limited mobility of these flightless species.
Relationships between species richness of vascular plants and terrestrial vertebrates in China: analyses based on data of nature reserves
Authors: Zhao Shuqing , Fang Jingyun , Peng Changhui , Tang Zhiyao
Published: February 2006

The relationship between plant diversity and animal diversity on a broadscale and its mechanisms are uncertain. In this study, we explored this relationship and its possible mechanisms using data from 186 nature reserves across China on species richness of vascular plants and terrestrial vertebrates, and climatic and topographical variables. We found significant positive correlations between species richness in almost all taxa of vascular plants and terrestrial vertebrates. Multiple regression analyses indicated that plant richness was a significant predictor of richness patterns for terrestrial vertebrates (except birds), suggesting that a causal association may exist between plant diversity and vertebrate diversity in China. The mechanisms for the relationships between species richness of plants and animals are probably dependent on vertebrate groups. For mammals (endothermic vertebrates), this relationship probably represents the integrated effects of plants on animals through trophic links (i.e. providing foods) and non‐trophic interactions (i.e. supplying habitats), whereas for amphibians and reptiles (ectothermic vertebrates), this may be a result of the non‐trophic links, such as the effects of plants on the resources that amphibians and reptiles require.
Strong requirements for weak diversities
Authors: Ricotta Carlo
Published: February 2006

Weikard et al. (Diversity and Distributions, 12, 215–217) show that the taxonomic diversity measure proposed by Ricotta (2004) violates ‘weak species monotonicity’. This condition requires that the addition of a species to a given species set should always increase diversity if abundances change only marginally. They further propose a new taxonomic diversity index that overcomes this drawback. In this paper, some statistical properties of this new diversity index are briefly analysed.
Diversity measurement combining relative abundances and taxonomic distinctiveness of species
Authors: Weikard Hans‐Peter , Punt Maarten , Wesseler Justus
Published: February 2006

We discuss a diversity measure combining information of relative abundances and taxonomic distinctiveness suggested by Ricotta (2004). We show that Ricotta's measure violates weak species monotonicity, a condition that requires that the addition of a species should always increase a diversity index if abundances change only marginally. We suggest an alternative index satisfying weak species monotonicity and apply it to the ‘Zeesserveld’ forest reserve in the Netherlands.
How well do Important Bird Areas represent species and minimize conservation conflict in the tropical Andes?
Authors: O'Dea Niall , Araújo Miguel B. , Whittaker Robert J.
Published: February 2006

Where high species richness and high human population density coincide, potential exists for conflict between the imperatives of species conservation and human development. We examine the coincidence of at‐risk bird species richness and human population in the countries of the tropical Andes. We then compare the performance of the expert‐driven Important Bird Areas (IBA) scheme against a hypothetical protected‐areas network identified with a systematic reserve selection algorithm seeking to maximize at‐risk bird species representation. Our aim is to assess the degree to which: IBAs contain a higher richness of at‐risk species than would be expected by chance, IBAs contain more people than would be expected by chance, and IBAs are congruent with complementary areas that maximize species representation with an equivalent number of sites. While the correlation of richness and population was low for the region as a whole, representation of all at‐risk bird species required many sites to be located in areas of high human population density. IBA sites contained higher human population densities than expected by chance (P < 0.05) and were markedly less efficient in representing at‐risk bird species of the region than sites selected using the reserve selection algorithm. Moreover, overlap between IBAs and these latter sites was very limited. Expert‐driven selection procedures may better reflect existing sociopolitical forces, including land ownership and management regimes, but are limited in their ability to develop an efficient, integrated network of sites to represent priority species. Reserve selection algorithms may serve this end by optimizing complementarity in species representation among selected sites, whether these sites are adopted independently or as a supplement to the existing reserve network. As tools of site selection, they may be particularly useful in areas such as the tropical Andes where complex patterns of species disjunction and co‐occurrence make the development of representative reserve networks particularly difficult. Furthermore, they facilitate making spatially explicit choices about how reserve sites are located in relation to human populations. We advocate their use not in replacement of approaches such as the IBA initiative but as an additional, complementary tool in ensuring that such reserve networks are developed as efficiently as practically possible.
Rothia dentocariosa sepsis in a pediatric renal transplant recipient having post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders
Authors: Wiesmayr Silke , Stelzmueller Ingrid , Berger Natalie , Jungraithmayr Therese C. , Fille Manfred , Eller Miriam , Zimmerhackl Lothar Bernd , Margreiter Raimund , Bonatti Hugo
Published: February 2006

Abstract: Background: Rothia dentocariosa (RD) is a Gram‐positive rod that colonizes the human oral cavity and can cause infective endocarditis.

Result: We report on a six‐yr‐old boy who underwent renal transplantation for polycystic kidney disease at the age of eight months. He developed post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders after four yr and progressive graft failure. Following chemotherapy, the patient presented with neutropenia and sepsis. RD was isolated from blood and treatment with piperacillin/tazobactam was initiated; however, the child died because of multiorgan failure.

Discussion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of RD sepsis in a pediatric solid organ transplant recipient.
Impact of laparoscopic donor nephrectomy on allograft function in pediatric renal transplant recipients: A single‐center report
Authors: Baqi Noosha , Stock Jeffrey , Lombardo Salvatore A. , Geffner Stuart , Roberti Isabel
Published: February 2006

Abstract: Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN) is rapidly becoming the preferred technique for the procurement of living donor kidneys. An association of this technique with delayed graft function and higher risk for rejection has been reported in pediatric recipients. We reviewed our experience of 17 pediatric patients who received a living donor kidney, from 2002 to 2004, procured by LDN, and compared it with a matched group that received living donor kidneys harvested by the open technique. Patient demographics, etiology of renal failure, intra‐operative events, length of stay, serum creatinine decline, and graft function were reviewed. Our experience confirmed the findings of earlier reports specifically in small pediatric recipients. The LDN group showed a significantly slower decline in creatinine in the immediate post‐operative period and longer intra‐operative time. However, there was no difference between the two groups in the length of hospital stay, and creatinine clearances at discharge, six, 12 and 24 months post‐operatively. The incidence of acute rejection was similar in both groups. LDN is a safe procurement modality for pediatric patients. The risk for prolonged OR time and delay graft function has to be considered during the evaluation process.
Unexpectedly high prevalence of pretransplant abnormal glucose tolerance in pediatric kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Shishido Seiichirou , Sato Hiroyuki , Asanuma Hiroshi , Shindo Masahito , Hataya Hiroshi , Ishikura Kenji , Hamasaki Yuko , Goto Miwa , Ikeda Masahiro , Honda Masataka
Published: February 2006

Abstract:  Several studies suggested that the incidence of new‐onset diabetes following pediatric kidney transplantation has increased markedly in recent years, with reported incidence of up to 20%. However, limited information is available regarding the incidence and features of pretransplant status of abnormal glucose tolerance in pediatric kidney transplant recipients. We assessed the risk of 55 non‐diabetic pediatric transplant recipients developing PTDM by performing OGTT prior to transplantation. For post‐transplant immunosuppression, each patient received either a CsA‐ or a TAC‐based regimen. However, recipients who had abnormal glucose tolerance in the pretransplant OGTT were allocated to the CsA‐based regimen. The mean age of the patients was 9.7 ± 5.4 yr while mean BMI was 16.5 ± 3.3 kg/m2. FPG level before transplantation was within the normal limit in all patients, while the mean HbA1C value was 4.5. However, 18 of the 55 patients (32.7%) had abnormal glucose tolerance in the pretransplant OGTT, 13 (23.6%) had impaired glucose tolerance, and 5 (9.4%) had DM. PTDM developed in two patients on the TAC‐based regimen with these patients having normal glucose tolerance prior to the transplant. In contrast, the 18 patients with abnormal glucose tolerance did not develop PTDM under CsA‐based immunosuppression. Our results demonstrated an unexpectedly high prevalence of abnormal glucose tolerance in pretransplant OGTT even in a pediatric population. We believe that modification of post‐transplant immunosuppression by the identification of high‐risk patients using the pretransplant OGTT may minimize the development of new onset of PTDM.
Progress towards the production of very long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acid in transgenic plants: plant metabolic engineering comes of age
Authors: Napier Johnathan A. , Haslam Richard , Venegas Caleron Monica , Michaelson Louise V. , Beaudoin Frédéric , Sayanova Olga
Published: February 2006

Very long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are vital components of the human diet, playing important multiple roles in optimal health and development. Current dietary sources, in the form of fish oils, are in decline, and an alternative sustainable source is required. Recent attempts to engineer transgenic plants with the capacity to synthesize these fatty acids have clearly demonstrated the possibility of such an approach. This represents a major breakthrough in the quest for alternative sources of fish oils, as well as fulfilling the promise of transgenic plants as green factories.