bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abscisic Acid Interacts Antagonistically with Salicylic Acid Signaling Pathway in Rice–Magnaporthe griseaInteraction
Authors: Jiang Chang-Jie , Shimono Masaki , Sugano Shoji , Kojima Mikiko , Yazawa Katsumi , Yoshida Riichiro , Inoue Haruhiko , Hayashi Nagao , Sakakibara Hitoshi , Takatsuji Hiroshi
Published: May 2010

Plant hormones play pivotal signaling roles in plant–pathogen interactions. Here, we report characterization of an antagonistic interaction of abscisic acid (ABA) with salicylic acid (SA) signaling pathways in the rice–Magnaporthe grisea interaction. Exogenous application of ABA drastically compromised the rice resistance to both compatible and incompatible M. grisea strains, indicating that ABA negatively regulates both basal and resistance gene–mediated blast resistance. ABA markedly suppressed the transcriptional upregulation of WRKY45 and OsNPR1, the two key components of the SA signaling pathway in rice, induced by SA or benzothiadiazole or by blast infection. Overexpression of OsNPR1 or WRKY45 largely negated the enhancement of blast susceptibility by ABA, suggesting that ABA acts upstream of WRKY45 and OsNPR1 in the rice SA pathway. ABA-responsive genes were induced during blast infection in a pattern reciprocal to those of WRKY45 and OsPR1b in the compatible rice–blast interaction but only marginally in the incompatible one. These results suggest that the balance of SA and ABA signaling is an important determinant for the outcome of the rice–M. grisea interaction. ABA was detected in hyphae and conidia of M. grisea as well as in culture media, implying that blast-fungus-derived ABA could play a role in triggering ABA signaling at host infection sites.
Host Selection of Symbiotic Cyanobacteria in 31 Species of the Australian Cycad Genus: Macrozamia (Zamiaceae)
Authors: Gehringer Michelle M. , Pengelly Jasper J. L. , Cuddy William S. , Fieker Claus , Forster Paul I. , Neilan Brett A.
Published: May 2010

The nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterium Nostoc is a commonly occurring terrestrial and aquatic cyanobacterium often found in symbiosis with a wide range of plant, algal, and fungal species. We investigated the diversity of cyanobacterial species occurring within the coralloid roots of different Macrozamia cycad species at diverse locations throughout Australia. In all, 74 coralloid root samples were processed and 56 endosymbiotic cyanobacteria were cultured. DNA was isolated from unialgal cultures and a segment of the 16S rRNA gene was amplified and sequenced. Microscopic analysis was performed on representative isolates. Twenty-two cyanobacterial species were identified, comprising mostly Nostoc spp. and a Calothrix sp. No correlation was observed between a cycad species and its resident cyanobiont species. The predominant cyanobacterium isolated from 18 root samples occurred over a diverse range of environmental conditions and within 14 different Macrozamia spp. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that endosymbionts were not restricted to previously described terrestrial species. An isolate clustering with Nostoc PCC7120, an aquatic strain, was identified. This is the first comprehensive study to identify the endosymbionts within a cycad genus using samples obtained from their natural habitats. These results indicate that there is negligible host specialization of cyanobacterial endosymbionts within the cycad genus Macrozamia in the wild.
A Point Mutation in the Polymerase of Potato virus Y Confers Virulence Toward the Pvr4 Resistance of Pepper and a High Competitiveness Cost in Susceptible Cultivar
Authors: Janzac Bérenger , Montarry Josselin , Palloix Alain , Navaud Olivier , Moury Benoît
Published: May 2010

To understand why the Pvr4 resistance of pepper against Potyvirus spp. remained durable in field conditions while virulent Potato virus Y (PVY) variants could be selected in the laboratory, we studied the molecular mechanisms which generated these variants and the consequences on viral fitness. Using a reverse genetics approach with an infectious cDNA clone of PVY, we found that the region coding for the NIb protein (RNA-dependent RNA polymerase) of PVY was the avirulence factor corresponding to Pvr4 and that a single nonsynonymous nucleotide substitution in that region, an adenosine to guanosine substitution at position 8,424 of the PVY genome (A8424G), was sufficient for virulence. This substitution imposed a high competitiveness cost to the virus against an avirulent PVY variant in plants devoid of Pvr4. In addition, during serial passages in susceptible pepper plants, the only observed possibility of the virulent mutant to increase its fitness was through the G8424A reversion, strengthening the high durability potential of the Pvr4 resistance. This is in accordance with the fact that the NIb protein is one of the most constrained proteins expressed by the PVY genome and, more generally, by Potyvirus spp., and with a previously developed model predicting the durability of virus resistances as a function of the evolutionary constraint applied on corresponding avirulence factors.
Propofol Preferentially Relaxes Neurokinin Receptor-2-induced Airway Smooth Muscle Contraction in Guinea Pig Trachea
Authors: Gleason Neil R. , Gallos George , Zhang Yi , Emala Charles W.
Published: May 2010

Background

Propofol is the anesthetic of choice for patients with reactive airway disease and is thought to reduce intubation- or irritant-induced bronchoconstriction by decreasing the cholinergic component of vagal nerve activation. However, additional neurotransmitters, including neurokinins, play a role in irritant-induced bronchoconstriction. We questioned the mechanistic assumption that the clinically recognized protective effect of propofol against irritant-induced bronchoconstriction during intubation was due to attenuation of airway cholinergic reflexes.

Methods

Muscle force was continuously recorded from isolated guinea pig tracheal rings in organ baths. Rings were subjected to exogenous contractile agonists (acetylcholine, histamine, endothelin-1, substance P, acetyl-substance P, and neurokinin A) or to electrical field stimulation (EFS) to differentiate cholinergic or nonadrenergic, noncholinergic nerve-mediated contraction with or without cumulatively increasing concentrations of propofol, thiopental, etomidate, or ketamine.

Results

Propofol did not attenuate the cholinergic component of EFS-induced contraction at clinically relevant concentrations. In contrast, propofol relaxed nonadrenergic, noncholinergic-mediated EFS contraction at concentrations within the clinical range (20-100 mum, n = 9; P < 0.05), and propofol was more potent against an exogenous selective neurokinin-2 receptor versus neurokinin-1 receptor agonist contraction (n = 6, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Propofol, at clinically relevant concentrations, relaxes airway smooth muscle contracted by nonadrenergic, noncholinergic-mediated EFS and exogenous neurokinins but not contractions elicited by the cholinergic component of EFS. These findings suggest that the mechanism of protective effects of propofol against irritant-induced bronchoconstriction involves attenuation of tachykinins released from nonadrenergic, noncholinergic nerves acting at neurokinin-2 receptors on airway smooth muscle.
Detrusor Activity Is Impaired during Thoracic Epidural Analgesia after Open Renal Surgery
Authors: Wuethrich Patrick Y. , Kessler Thomas M. , Panicker Jalesh N. , Curatolo Michele , Burkhard Fiona C.
Published: May 2010

Background

There are no data on lower urinary tract function during postoperative thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA). Because selected segmental blockade can be achieved with epidural analgesia, we hypothesized that lower urinary tract function remains unchanged during TEA within segments T4-T11 after open renal surgery.

Methods

In a prospective, open, observational, follow-up study, 13 male patients with no preexisting lower urinary tract symptoms (International Prostate Symptom Score < or =7) and postvoid residual less than 100 ml underwent urodynamic investigations the day before open renal surgery (lumbotomy) and 2-3 days postoperatively during TEA. Primary outcome was the difference in postvoid residual before versus after surgery during TEA.

Results

The median postvoid residual increased from 25 ml before surgery (range, 0-95) to 420 ml (15-1020) 2-3 days postoperatively (P = 0.002). Maximum detrusor pressure, detrusor pressure at maximum flow rate, and maximum flow rate were significantly reduced during TEA (37 [28-84] to 27 cm H2O [13-51], P = 0.004; 31 [27-52] to 19 cm H2O [0-33], P = 0.003; and 14 [4-35] to 4 ml/s [0-13], P = 0.001), respectively. Bladder capacity and sensation were not changed during TEA. All patients had a postvoid residual determined by ultrasound of less than 100 ml 1 day after removal of the epidural catheter.

Conclusions

In contrast to our initial hypothesis, detrusor activity was significantly impaired during TEA after open renal surgery. This resulted in clinically relevant postvoid residuals.
Susceptibility of Transcranial Electric Motor-evoked Potentials to Varying Targeted Blood Levels of Dexmedetomidine during Spine Surgery
Authors: Mahmoud Mohamed , Sadhasivam Senthilkumar , Salisbury Shelia , Nick Todd G. , Schnell Beverly , Sestokas Anthony K. , Wiggins Cheryl , Samuels Paul , Kabalin Thomas , McAuliffe John
Published: May 2010

Background

Dexmedetomidine has been increasingly used as an adjunct to opioid-propofol total intravenous anesthesia (TIVA). The authors tested the hypothesis and found that clinically relevant blood levels of dexmedetomidine do not produce significant attenuation of the amplitude of transcranial electric motor-evoked potentials either independently or by interaction with propofol in a dose-dependent manner.

Methods

The authors planned to recruit 72 patients with idiopathic scoliosis who had posterior spine fusion surgery during propofol and remifentanil TIVA with dexmedetomidine as an adjunct. However, the authors terminated the study after enrolling 44 patients because of change in surgical technique. Before administering dexmedetomidine, baseline transcranial electric motor-evoked potentials were acquired during TIVA with remifentanil and propofol. Patients were randomized to varying targeted blood levels of dexmedetomidine (0.4, 0.6, and 0.8 ng/ml) and propofol (2.5, 3.75, and 5 microg/ml) using a factorial design. The primary outcome variable was amplitude of transcranial electric motor-evoked potential. The secondary outcome was amplitude of cortical somatosensory-evoked potentials.

Results

Of the 44 recruited patients, 40 completed the study, and their data were analyzed. The administration of dexmedetomidine in increasing doses as an adjunct to propofol-based TIVA caused a clinically and statistically significant attenuation of amplitudes of transcranial electric motor-evoked potentials.

Conclusion

The authors conclude that under the stimulation conditions used, dexmedetomidine as an anesthetic adjunct to propofol-based TIVA at clinically relevant target plasma concentrations (0.6-0.8 ng/ml) can significantly attenuate the amplitude of transcranial electric motor-evoked potentials.
Cellular Effects of Helium in Different Organs
Authors: Oei Gezina T.M.L. , Weber Nina C. , Hollmann Markus W. , Preckel Benedikt
Published: May 2010

Experimental research in cardiac and neuronal tissue has shown that besides volatile anesthetics and xenon, the nonanesthetic noble gas helium also reduces ischemia-reperfusion damage. Even though the distinct mechanisms of helium-induced organ protection are not completely unraveled, several signaling pathways have been identified. Beside the protective effects on heart and brain that are mainly obtained by different pre- and postconditioning protocols, helium also exerts effects in the lungs, the immune system, and the blood vessels. Obviously, this noble gas is biochemically not inert and exerts biologic effects, although until today the question remains open on how these changes are mediated. Because of its favorable characteristics and the lack of hemodynamic side effects, helium is suitable for use also in critically ill patients. This review covers the cellular effects of helium, which may lead to new clinical strategies of tissue salvage in ischemia-reperfusion situations, both within and outside the perioperative setting.
Kiwifruit EIL and ERF Genes Involved in Regulating Fruit Ripening
Authors: Yin Xue-ren , Allan Andrew C. , Chen Kun-song , Ferguson Ian B.
Published: May 2010

Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa) is a climacteric fruit sensitive to low concentrations of ethylene. To investigate the transcriptional mechanisms underlying kiwifruit ethylene response, transcription factors encoding four EIN3-Like (EILs) and 14 Ethylene Response Factors (ERFs) were cloned from kiwifruit. Expression of these transcription factors was examined during fruit development. The expression of transcripts of most AdERFs was higher during early fruit development, with the exception of AdERF3, which increased with maturity. Several AdERFs were apparently down-regulated by ethylene, as they were affected by the ethylene inhibitor 1-methylcyclopropene and by antisense suppression of ACO (for 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid oxidase) in the fruit. In contrast, AdEILs were constitutively expressed during fruit development and ripening. The transcription factors AdEIL2 and AdEIL3 activated transcription of the ripening-related genes AdACO1 and AdXET5 (xyloglucan endotransglycosylase gene) and, when overexpressed in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), stimulated ethylene production. The potential repressor AdERF9 suppressed this promoter activity. These results support a role for kiwifruit EILs and ERFs in transcriptional regulation of ripening-related genes and in the regulation of kiwifruit fruit-ripening processes.
Clinical trial: controlled, open, randomized multicentre study comparing the effects of treatment on quality of life, safety and efficacy of budesonide or mesalazine enemas in active left‐sided ulcerative colitis
Authors: Hartmann F. , Stein J. ,   the BudMesa‐Study Group
Published: May 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 368–376

Background  Therapy for active left‐sided ulcerative colitis usually involves topical application of mesalazine (mesalamine) or budesonide.

Aim  To compare the efficacy and safety of budesonide enema and mesalazine enema in the treatment of active left‐sided ulcerative colitis.

Methods  A total of 237 patients with mild–moderate ulcerative colitis were randomized open 1:1 to receive either budesonide (n = 118) or mesalazine enemas (n = 119) for 8 weeks. Efficacy variables were clinical activity index, endoscopic, histological index and IBDQ scores after 4 and 8 weeks.

Results  Clinical remission (intention‐to‐treat analysis) at week 4 was 63.5% for budesonide enemas and 77.2% for mesalazine enemas (P < 0.05). The respective values for the per protocol population (PP) were 59.9% examined in the budesonide group and 77.5% in the mesalazine group (P < 0.02). At the final visit (W8), clinical remission was diagnosed in the ITT analysis for 64.4% of the budesonide group and 77.4% of the mesalazine group (P < 0.05). The respective values for the PP analysis were 59.5% in the budesonide group and 75.3% in the mesalazine group (P < 0.02).

Conclusions  Compared with budesonide, mesalazine enema was associated with a significantly higher remission rate; this was supported by favourable trends in endoscopic, histological remission rates and the IBDQ score.
Genome‐wide association mapping for female fertility traits in Danish and Swedish Holstein cattle
Authors: Sahana G. , Guldbrandtsen B. , Bendixen C. , Lund M. S.
Published: May 2010

A genome‐wide association study was conducted using a mixed model analysis for QTL for fertility traits in Danish and Swedish Holstein cattle. The analysis incorporated 2,531 progeny tested bulls, and a total of 36 387 SNP markers on 29 bovine autosomes were used. Eleven fertility traits were analyzed for SNP association. Furthermore, mixed model analysis was used for association analyses where a polygenic effect was fitted as a random effect, and genotypes at single SNPs were successively included as a fixed effect in the model. The Bonferroni correction for multiple testing was applied to adjust the significance threshold. Seventy‐four SNP‐trait combinations showed chromosome‐wide significance, and five of these were significant genome‐wide. Twenty‐four QTL regions on 14 chromosomes were detected. Strong evidence for the presence of QTL that affect fertility traits were observed on chromosomes 3, 5, 10, 13, 19, 20, and 24. The QTL intervals were generally smaller than those described in earlier linkage studies. The identification of fertility trait‐associated SNPs and mapping of the corresponding QTL in small chromosomal regions reported here will facilitate searches for candidate genes and candidate polymorphisms.
Infection by Anguillicoloides crassus in a riverine stock of European eel, Anguilla anguilla
Authors: COSTA‐DIAS S. , DIAS E. , LOBÓN‐CERVIÁ J. , ANTUNES C. , COIMBRA J.
Published: May 2010

Abstract  Infection by the parasitic nematode Anguillicoloides crassus Kuwahara, Niimi & Itagaki, in a wild riverine stock of European eel, Anguilla anguilla (L.), in a near pristine river was investigated. Samples were collected on a seasonal basis in distinct habitats along the river gradient. This study highlighted the presence of the parasite and completion of the whole life cycle in eels from the Río Esva. Infection levels by A. crassus were high at three sites between the mid river to the estuary and also varied among seasons. Condition of eels was lower at upstream sites compared with downstream locations. Although high‐quality, environmental conditions in the Río Esva may buffer the effects of A. crassus on eels, potential impacts and limiting factors for the parasite are discussed.
Live imaging system for visualizing nuclear pore complex (NPC) formation during interphase in mammalian cells
Authors: Iino Haruki , Maeshima Kazuhiro , Nakatomi Reiko , Kose Shingo , Hashikawa Tsutomu , Tachibana Taro , Imamoto Naoko
Published: May 2010

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) are ‘supramolecular complexes’ on the nuclear envelope assembled from multiple copies of approximately 30 different proteins called nucleoporins (Nups) that provide aqueous channels for nucleocytoplasmic transport during interphase. Although the structural aspects of NPCs have been characterized in detail, NPC formation and its regulation, especially during interphase, are poorly understood. In this study, using the temperature‐sensitive RCC1 mutant tsBN2, a baby hamster kidney 21 cell line, we found that a lack of RCC1 activity inhibited NPC formation during interphase, suggesting that RanGTP is required for NPC formation during interphase in mammalian cells. Utilizing the reversible RCC1 activity in tsBN2 cells, we established a live‐cell system that allows for the inhibition or initiation of NPC formation by changes in temperature. Our system enables the examination of NPC formation during interphase in living cells. As a lack of RCC1 decreased some Nups containing unstructured phenylalanine–glycine repeats in the NPC structure, we propose that RCC1 is also involved in maintaining NPC integrity during interphase in mammalian cells.
Evolution and immunity
Authors: Kaufman Jim
Published: May 2010

This report describes a meeting organized by Ken Smith and Jim Kaufman, entitled Evolution and Immunity, which took place at the University of Cambridge on 24 September 2009 to honour the anniversaries of the birth of Darwin and the first publication of The Origin of Species. Ten internationally‐known speakers described the effects of evolution on immunity, ranging in timescales from the deep‐time evolution of adaptive immune systems in vertebrates and invertebrates to the evolution of pathogens and lymphocytes within a single individual. The final talk explored the application of phylogenetic analysis to non‐biological systems.
In CD28‐costimulated human naïve CD4+ T cells, I‐κB kinase controls the expression of cell cycle regulatory proteins via interleukin‐2‐independent mechanisms
Authors: Lupino Elisa , Buccinnà Barbara , Ramondetti Cristina , Lomartire Annarosa , De Marco Giovanni , Ricotti Emanuela , Tovo Pier‐Angelo , Rinaudo Maria T. , Piccinini Marco
Published: May 2010

Stimulation of naïve CD4+ T cells through engagement of the T‐cell receptor (TCR) and the CD28 co‐receptor initiates cell proliferation which critically depends on interleukin (IL)‐2 secretion and subsequent autocrine signalling via the IL‐2 receptor. However, several studies indicate that in CD28‐costimulated T cells additional IL‐2‐independent signals are also required for cell proliferation. In this study, using a neutralizing anti‐human IL‐2 antibody and two selective, structurally unrelated, cell‐permeable I‐κB kinase (IKK) inhibitors, BMS‐345541 and PS‐1145, we show that in human naïve CD4+ T cells stimulated through a short engagement of the TCR and the CD28 co‐receptor, IKK controls the expression of the cell cycle regulatory proteins cyclin D3, cyclin E and cyclin‐dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) and the stability of the F‐box protein S‐phase kinase‐associated protein 2 (SKP2) and its co‐factor CDC28 protein kinase regulatory subunit 1B (CKS1B), through IL‐2‐independent mechanisms.
The vasodilatory effect of a synthetic polymer‐based root canal material on thoracic aorta
Authors: Seyrek M. , Vural I. M. , Tunca Y. M. , Aydin C. , Ulku C. , Demirkaya K. , Inal A. , Yildiz O.
Published: May 2010

Seyrek M, Vural IM, Tunca YM, Aydin C, Ulku C, Demirkaya K, Inal A, Yildiz O. The vasodilatory effect of a synthetic polymer‐based root canal material on thoracic aorta. International Endodontic Journal 43, 590–599, 2010.

Aim  To test the hypothesis that, Epiphany, either in its mixed form or as separate components, can alter the vascular reactivity of isolated rat thoracic aorta. The possible mechanism of its vascular action was also investigated.

Methodology  The relaxant effect of the base, the catalyst and mixed Epiphany on isolated rat aortic rings pre‐contracted with phenylephrine (PE) was tested. The aortic rings were then incubated with either nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor or K+ channel inhibitors; after pre‐contraction with PE, relaxations to the various compounds of Epiphany were examined. In another set of experiments, to investigate the Ca2+channel antagonistic effect of the Epiphany, the effect of these compounds in Ca2+‐free solution on extracellular Ca2+(CaCl2)‐induced contraction in high‐K+ pre‐challenged rings (in K+‐depolarized rings) was examined to determine whether the direct inhibition of [Ca2+] influx increase accounted for the vasodilatory effects of these compounds. For comparison, L‐type Ca2+channel blocker nifedipine (1 μmol L−1), instead of Epiphany compounds, was assayed in adjacent rat aortic rings in parallel.

Results  The catalyst and the mixture of Epiphany induced concentration‐dependent relaxations. However, the base of Epiphany did not cause relaxation in rat aorta. The relaxation responses were not significantly altered by incubation of aorta with NOS, COX and potassium channel inhibitors. Whilst nifedipine, the catalyst and the mixture of Epiphany inhibited CaCl2‐induced contractions (P < 0.05), the base of Epiphany did not inhibit CaCl2‐induced contractions significantly (P > 0.05).

Conclusion  Epiphany induced relaxation of rat aorta via a calcium antagonistic effect. Provided that the vasodilatory effect elicited by Epiphany can be reversed by the circulation, its haemorrhagic potential by virtue of permanent vascular dilatation can be ignored.
Digital subtraction radiography evaluation of the bone repair process of chronic apical periodontitis after root canal treatment
Authors: Benfica e Silva J. , Leles C. R. , Alencar A. H. G. , Nunes C. A. B. C. M. , Mendonça E. F.
Published: May 2010

Benfica e Silva J, Leles CR, Alencar AHG, Nunes CABCM, Mendonça EF. Digital subtraction radiography evaluation of the bone repair process of chronic apical periodontitis after root canal treatment. International Endodontic Journal.

Aim  To monitor radiographically the progress of bone repair within chronic periapical lesions after root canal treatment using digital subtraction radiography (DSR).

Methodology  Twelve patients with 17 single‐rooted teeth with chronic apical periodontitis associated with an infected necrotic pulp were selected for root canal treatment. Periapical radiographs were taken before treatment (baseline) and immediately post‐treatment, 45, 90, 135 and 180 days after treatment. The radiographic protocol included the use of individualized film holders with silicone bite blocks. The six radiographic images were digitized and submitted to digital subtraction using DSR® software, resulting in five subtracted images (SI). Quantitative analysis of these SI was performed using Image Tool® software to assess pixel value changes, considering a step‐wedge as the gold standard and a cut‐off value of 128 pixels. The aim was to identify any increase or decrease in mineral density in the region of the periapical lesion.

Results  A minor decrease in mineral density at the canal filling session and a significant progressive mineral gain in the following evaluations (P < 0.001) occurred. Pairwise comparison of pixel grey values revealed that only the 180‐day follow‐up differed significantly from the previous SI.

Conclusion  Digital subtraction radiography is a useful method for evaluating the progress of bone repair after root canal treatment. Noticeable mineral gain was observed approximately 90 days after root canal filling and definite bone repair after 180 days.
Endodontic treatment of a maxillary lateral incisor with vital pulp, periradicular lesion and type III dens invaginatus: a case report
Authors: Keleş A. , Çakıcı F.
Published: May 2010

Keleş A, Çakıcı F. Endodontic treatment of a maxillary lateral incisor with vital pulp, periradicular lesion and type III dens invaginatus: a case report. International Endodontic Journal 43, 608–614, 2010.

Aim  To report the healing of a periradicular lesion and maintaining vitality of the pulp following endodontic treatment of the invaginated canal of a dental invagination.

Summary  Dens invaginatus is a developmental malformation resulting from invagination of the tooth crown or root before calcification has occurred. A case of type III dens invaginatus, an invagination that extends from the crown to the apex, in the maxillary right lateral incisor with a healthy pulp and large peri‐invagination periodontitis is reported. Non‐surgical root canal treatment of the invagination was performed. There appeared to be no communication between the main root canal and the invaginated canal. The invaginated canal was filled by lateral condensation of gutta‐percha and a calcium hydroxide sealer. The final restoration of the tooth was completed using composite, and the tooth was reviewed after 1 and 2 years. Non‐surgical root canal treatment of the invagination retained the pulp in a health condition and resulted in resolution of a substantial peri‐invagination lesion.

Key learning points 

Even though there are no symptoms, radiography should be performed in teeth that exhibit anatomical differences from the contralateral tooth.

Even if there is extensive apical pathology in a tooth with type III dens invaginatus, pulp sensibility tests should be performed.

Correct diagnosis and treatment planning are fundamental when treating dens invaginatus.
Mechanisms driving change: altered species interactions and ecosystem function through global warming
Authors: Traill Lochran W. , Lim Matthew L. M. , Sodhi Navjot S. , Bradshaw Corey J. A.
Published: May 2010

1. We review the mechanisms behind ecosystem functions, the processes that facilitate energy transfer along food webs, and the major processes that allow the cycling of carbon, oxygen and nitrogen, and use case studies to show how these have already been, and will continue to be, altered by global warming.

2. Increased temperatures will affect the interactions between heterotrophs and autotrophs (e.g. pollination and seed dispersal), and between heterotrophs (e.g. predators‐prey, parasites/pathogens‐hosts), with generally negative ramifications for important ecosystem services (functions that provide direct benefit to human society such as pollination) and potential for heightened species co‐extinction rates.

3. Mitigation of likely impacts of warming will require, in particular, the maintenance of species diversity as insurance for the provision of basic ecosystem services. Key to this will be long‐term monitoring and focused research that seek to maintain ecosystem resilience in the face of global warming.

4. We provide guidelines for pursuing research that quantifies the nexus between ecosystem function and global warming. These include documentation of key functional species groups within systems, and understanding the principal outcomes arising from direct and indirect effects of a rapidly warming environment. Localized and targeted research and monitoring, complemented with laboratory work, will determine outcomes for resilience and guide adaptive conservation responses and long‐term planning.
Clarifying an ambiguous evolutionary history: range‐wide phylogeography of an Australian freshwater fish, the golden perch (Macquaria ambigua)
Authors: Faulks Leanne K. , Gilligan Dean M. , Beheregaray Luciano B.
Published: May 2010

Aim  We conducted a range‐wide phylogeographic study of a common Australian freshwater fish, the golden perch (Macquaria ambigua), to investigate the relationship between environmental processes and evolutionary history in drainage basins.

Location  Inland [Lake Eyre (LEB), Murray–Darling (MDB) and Bulloo (BULL)] and coastal basins [Fitzroy (FITZ)] of eastern Australia.

Methods  A total of 590 samples were collected from across the entire species’ distribution and a section of the mitochondrial DNA control region was sequenced. In order to reconstruct the evolutionary history of M. ambigua a comprehensive suite of phylogeographic analyses was conducted, including nested clade phylogeographic analysis, mismatch analysis and isolation‐with‐migration model simulations.

Results  Three major lineages corresponding to the major drainage basins, FITZ, MDB and LEB/BULL, were identified (ΦST = 0.92). Lineages from the coastal basin (FITZ) were highly divergent from those of the inland basins (up to 6%). Levels of genetic diversity in the inland basins were relatively low and our analyses indicate that these populations experienced both demographic and range expansions during the Pleistocene.

Main conclusions  Investigation of the range‐wide phylogeography of M. ambigua has revealed new insights into the biogeography of the Australian arid zone, particularly with regard to evolutionary events chronologically associated with cyclical moist and dry conditions. We propose that M. ambigua originated on the east coast (FITZ) and crossed a major geographic barrier, the Great Dividing Range (GDR), to colonize the inland basins (MDB, LEB and BULL). We infer a series of demographic and range expansion events for M. ambigua consistent with a scenario of moister Pleistocene conditions and increased connectivity of freshwater environments, both within and among drainage basins. Major lineages then diversified following isolation of freshwater environments under increasingly arid climate conditions. We suggest that management priorities for M. ambigua should include the resolution of taxonomic uncertainties and the maintenance of genetic diversity of both stocked populations in the MDB and native populations of the LEB that may be at risk of further isolation and reduced gene flow due to increased aridification under future climate change scenarios.
Biogeography of Aegagropila linnaei (Cladophorophyceae, Chlorophyta): a widespread freshwater alga with low effective dispersal potential shows a glacial imprint in its distribution
Authors: Boedeker Christian , Eggert Anja , Immers Anne , Wakana Isamu
Published: May 2010

Aim  Aegagropila linnaei is a freshwater macroalga that is generally regarded as a rare species. It is apparently absent from large but seemingly suitable areas of the Northern Hemisphere, implying a limited dispersal potential and an imprint of Pleistocene glaciations in its biogeography. However, despite the popularity of its enigmatic lake ball‐form, detailed biogeographical studies of A. linnaei have never been conducted. The main means of reproduction of A. linnaei is fragmentation and akinetes are not formed, supporting the assumption of limited dispersal capacity. The aim of this study was to reconstruct the biogeography of A. linnaei, and to identify possible refugia during glaciations, as well as to evaluate dispersal potential by quantitative desiccation experiments.

Location  Palaearctic.

Methods  The current distribution of A. linnaei was inferred from herbarium specimens, literature data and recent field observations. All herbarium specimens were morphologically re‐examined. Desiccation experiments were performed with vegetative filaments of three isolates of A. linnaei, as no specialized resistant stages are known. For comparison, the widespread freshwater algae Cladophora glomerata and Rhizoclonium sp. were included. Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) ribosomal DNA sequences were generated and a ribotype network was constructed.

Results  Aegagropila linnaei was recorded from 283 locations in freshwater and brackish environments. The majority of locations were in central and northern Europe in previously glaciated areas. Desiccation experiments showed that A. linnaei is very susceptible to desiccation. Based on ITS sequences of 34 samples, five different ribotypes were identified. Four of these ribotypes had a restricted distribution. Aegagropila linnaei represents a single species with little genetic variation (0.1–0.5%).

Main conclusions  This is the most comprehensive study of this species so far, reporting many new locations and tackling several taxonomic problems. Few additional finds were made from North America, and the origin of A. linnaei is inferred to be in Asia. The highest density of its present‐day locations is in previously glaciated areas in Europe, where glacial ice‐dammed lakes might have functioned as refugia. Low effective long‐distance dispersal capacity is inferred, based on high susceptibility to desiccation and its modes of dispersal.
Reassessment of phylogeographical structure in an eastern North American tree using Monmonier’s algorithm and ecological niche modelling
Authors: Morris Ashley B. , Graham Catherine H. , Soltis Douglas E. , Soltis Pamela S.
Published: May 2010

Aim  Patterns of phylogeographical diversity in eastern North America have been well documented, with suggestions of Pleistocene refugia in both coastal and interior regions. However, most studies to date have assessed these patterns only qualitatively, largely through visual observation of haplotype networks. Furthermore, many plant studies use only one or two individuals per locality, which probably limits the recovery of haplotype diversity. The aim of this study is to address the issues of sampling strategy and quantitative assessment of phylogeographical patterns in an eastern North American tree, Fagus grandifolia (American beech).

Location  Eastern North America.

Methods  Comparing two sampling strategies (more localities with lower sample size within localities versus fewer localities with increased sample size within localities), we analysed chloroplast DNA sequence data from more than 230 individuals across 130 localities using statistical parsimony, maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood and Bayesian analyses. We then assessed support for inferred phylogenetic relationships using Monmonier’s algorithm and analysis of molecular variance. As an additional test of biogeographic hypotheses, we employed ecological niche models (ENMs), which are used to predict the geographic range of a species from occurrence data and environmental records. Here we predict both present and palaeodistributions.

Results  More haplotypes were recovered when more localities were sampled, but novel haplotypes and haplotype distributions were recovered using both strategies. Phylogeographical patterns suggest possible Pleistocene refugia along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts according to ENMs, as well as a more interior refugium according to Monmonier’s algorithm.

Main conclusions  Monmonier’s algorithm supports previous findings of an interior refugium in the Lower Mississippi River Valley/Upper Midwest, while ENMs indicate that the Gulf and Atlantic coasts may have provided the most suitable habitat for F. grandifolia during the Pleistocene. Our findings allow us to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the two approaches. We propose that future phylogeographical studies should follow a step‐wise sampling strategy, balancing cost and expected outcomes.
From ice age to modern: a record of landscape change in an Andean cloud forest
Authors: Valencia B. G. , Urrego D. H. , Silman M. R. , Bush M. B.
Published: May 2010

Aim  To investigate the palaeoecological changes associated with the last ice age, subsequent deglaciation and human occupation of the central Andes.

Location  Lake Pacucha, Peruvian Andes (13°36′26″ S, 73°19′42″ W; 3095 m elevation).

Methods  Vegetation assemblages were reconstructed for the last 24 cal. kyr bp (thousand calibrated 14C years before present), based on pollen analysis of sediments from Lake Pacucha. An age model was established using 14C accelerator mass spectrometry dates on bulk sediment. Fossil pollen and sedimentological analyses followed standard methodologies.

Results  Puna brava replaced the Andean forest at the elevation of Lake Pacucha at the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Deglaciation proceeded rapidly after 16 cal. kyr bp, and near‐modern vegetation was established by c. 14 cal. kyr bp. The deglacial was marked by the range expansion of forest taxa as grassland taxa receded in importance. The mid‐Holocene was marked by a lowered lake level but relatively unchanged vegetation. Quinoa and maize pollen were found in the latter half of the Holocene.

Main conclusions  Temperatures were about 7–8 °C colder than present at this site during the LGM. The pattern of vegetation change was suggestive of microrefugial expansion rather than simple upslope migration. The mid‐Holocene droughts were interrupted by rainfall events sufficiently frequent to allow vegetation to survive largely unchanged, despite lowering of the lake level. Human activity at the lake included a 5500‐year history of quinoa cultivation and 3000 years of maize cultivation.
Endothelin A receptors mediate relaxation of guinea pig internal anal sphincter through cGMP pathway
Authors: Huang S.‐c.
Published: May 2010

Background Endothelin (ET) modulates motility of the internal anal sphincter through unclear receptor subtypes.

Methods We measured relaxation of guinea pig internal anal sphincter strips caused by ET‐related peptides and binding of125I‐ET‐1 to cell membranes prepared from the internal anal sphincter muscle. Visualization of125I‐ET‐1 binding sites in tissue was performed by autoradiography.

Key Results  In the guinea pig internal anal sphincter, ET‐1 caused a marked relaxation insensitive to tetrodotoxin, atropine, or ω‐conotoxin GVIA. ET‐2 was as potent as ET‐1. ET‐3 caused a mild relaxation. The relative potencies for ETs to cause relaxation were ET‐1 = ET‐2 > ET‐3. The ET‐1‐induced relaxation was inhibited by BQ‐123, an ETAantagonist, but not by BQ‐788, an ETBantagonist. These indicate that ETAreceptors mediate the relaxation. The relaxant response of ET‐1 was attenuated by LY 83583, KT 5823, Rp‐8CPT‐cGMPS, tetraethyl ammonium, 4‐aminopyridine andN(omega)‐nitro‐l‐arginine, but not significantly affected byNG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester,NG‐methyl‐l‐arginine, charybdotoxin, apamin, KT 5720, and Rp‐cAMPS. These suggest the involvement of cyclic guanosine 3′,5′‐cyclic monophosphate (cGMP), and potassium channels. Autoradiography localized125I‐ET‐1 binding to the internal anal sphincter. Binding of125I‐ET‐1 to the cell membranes prepared from the internal anal sphincter revealed the presence of two subtypes of ET receptors, ETAand ETBreceptors.

Conclusions & Inferences Taken together, these results demonstrate that ETAreceptors mediate relaxation of guinea pig internal anal sphincter through the cGMP pathway.
Sugars are under light control during bud burst in Rosa sp.
Authors: GIRAULT TIFFANIE , ABIDI FAROUK , SIGOGNE MONIQUE , PELLESCHI‐TRAVIER SANDRINE , BOUMAZA RACHID , SAKR SOULAIMAN , LEDUC NATHALIE
Published: May 2010

Bud burst in certain species is conditioned by the luminous environment. With roses, the requirement for light is absolute, and darkness totally inhibits bud burst. Few studies have looked into understanding the action of light on the physiological bud burst processes. Here, we show the impact of light on certain components of glucidic metabolism during bud burst. Measurements were taken on decapitated plants of Rosa hybrida L. ‘Radrazz’ exposed either to darkness, white, blue or R light. Results show that a mobilization of bud and the carrying stem sucrose reserves only takes place in light and accompanies the bud burst. Furthermore, the activity of the RhVI vacuolar acid invertase which contributes to the breakdown of sucrose in the buds, as well as the transcription of the RhVI gene, is reduced in darkness, although it is strongly stimulated by light. The same analysis concerning the RhNAD‐SDH gene, coding an NAD‐dependent sorbitol dehydrogenase, shows, on the contrary, a strong induction of its transcription in darkness that could reflect the use of survival mechanisms in this condition.
Fast response of Scots pine to improved water availability reflected in tree‐ring width and δ13C
Authors: EILMANN BRITTA , BUCHMANN NINA , SIEGWOLF ROLF , SAURER MATTHIAS , CHERUBINI PAOLO , RIGLING ANDREAS
Published: May 2010

Drought‐induced forest decline, like the Scots pine mortality in inner‐Alpine valleys, will gain in importance as the frequency and severity of drought events are expected to increase. To understand how chronic drought affects tree growth and tree‐ring δ13C values, we studied mature Scots pine in an irrigation experiment in an inner‐Alpine valley. Tree growth and isotope analyses were carried out at the annual and seasonal scale. At the seasonal scale, maximum δ13C values were measured after the hottest and driest period of the year, and were associated with decreasing growth rates. Inter‐annual δ13C values in early‐ and latewood showed a strong correlation with annual climatic conditions and an immediate decrease as a response to irrigation. This indicates a tight coupling between wood formation and the freshly produced assimilates for trees exposed to chronic drought. This rapid appearance of the isotopic signal is a strong indication for an immediate and direct transfer of newly synthesized assimilates for biomass production. The fast appearance and the distinct isotopic signal suggest a low availability of old stored carbohydrates. If this was a sign for C‐storage depletion, an increasing mortality could be expected when stressors increase the need for carbohydrate for defence, repair or regeneration.
Effect of latitude on flavonoid biosynthesis in plants
Authors: JAAKOLA LAURA , HOHTOLA ANJA
Published: May 2010

The growth conditions in different latitudes vary markedly with season, day length, light quality and temperature. Many plant species have adapted well to the distinct environments through different strategies, one of which is the production of additional secondary metabolites. Flavonoids are a widely spread group of plant secondary metabolites that are involved in many crucial functions of plants. Our understanding of the biosynthesis, occurrence and function of flavonoids has increased rapidly in recent decades. Numerous studies have been published on the influence of environmental factors on the biosynthesis of flavonoids. However, extensive long‐term studies that examine the effect of the characteristics of northern climates on flavonoid biosynthesis are still scarce. This review focuses on the current knowledge about the effect of light intensity, photoperiod and temperature on the gene–environment interaction related to flavonoid biosynthesis in plants.
Relation among plant growth, carbohydrates and flowering time in the Arabidopsis Landsberg erecta × Kondara recombinant inbred line population
Authors: EL‐LITHY MOHAMED E. , REYMOND MATTHIEU , STICH BENJAMIN , KOORNNEEF MAARTEN , VREUGDENHIL DICK
Published: May 2010

Arabidopsis thaliana natural variation was used to study plant performance viewed as the accumulation of photo‐assimilates, their allocation and storage, in relation to other growth‐related features and flowering‐related traits. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis using recombinant inbred lines derived from the cross between Landsberg erecta (originating from Poland) and Kondara (originating from Tajikistan) grown on hydroponics, revealed QTLs for the different aspects of plant growth‐related traits, sugar and starch contents and flowering‐related traits. Co‐locations of QTLs for these different aspects were detected at different regions, mainly at the ER locus; the top of chromosomes 3, 4 and 5; and the bottom of chromosome 5. Increased plant growth was associated with early flowering and leaf transitory starch, and correlated negatively with the levels of soluble sugar at early phases of development. From the significant correlations and the co‐locations of the QTLs for these aspects, we conclude that there is a complex relationship between plant growth‐related traits, carbohydrate content and flowering‐related traits.
CLINICAL STUDY: BRIEF REPORT: Serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor A increase during alcohol withdrawal
Authors: Heberlein Annemarie , Muschler Marc , Lenz Bernd , Frieling Helge , Büchl Christa , Gröschl Michael , Riera Rafael , Kornhuber Johannes , Bleich Stefan , Hillemacher Thomas
Published: May 2010

Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF‐A) is a key regulator of angiogenesis. This study investigated VEGF‐A serum levels during alcohol withdrawal (days 1, 7 and 14, 76 male patients, 38 healthy controls). Patients showed significantly higher VEGF‐A serum levels (t = 2.620, P = 0.010), which increased significantly during withdrawal (F = 4.484, P = 0.014, mean difference = −36.835, P = 0.037). The increase of VEGF‐A serum levels was significantly associated with initial breath alcohol concentration and the sumscore of the severity scale of alcohol dependence (SESA questionnaire, F = 5.252, P = 0.008). Increase of VEGF‐A serum levels is closely associated to alcohol intoxication and severity of alcohol dependence.