bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential methylation of genes and repeats in land plants
Authors: Rabinowicz Pablo D. , Citek Robert , Budiman Muhammad A. , Nunberg Andrew , Bedell Joseph A. , Lakey Nathan , O'Shaughnessy Andrew L. , Nascimento Lidia U. , McCombie W. Richard , Martienssen Robert A.
Published: October 2005

The hypomethylated fraction of plant genomes is usually enriched in genes and can be selectively cloned using methylation filtration (MF). Therefore, MF has been used as a gene enrichment technology in sorghum and maize, where gene enrichment was proportional to genome size. Here we apply MF to a broad variety of plant species spanning a wide range of genome sizes. Differential methylation of genic and non-genic sequences was observed in all species tested, from non-vascular to vascular plants, but in some cases, such as wheat and pine, a lower than expected level of enrichment was observed. Remarkably, hexaploid wheat and pine show a dramatically large number of gene-like sequences relative to other plants. In hexaploid wheat, this apparent excess of genes may reflect an abundance of methylated pseudogenes, which may thus be more prevalent in recent polyploids.
Endogenous BDNF is required for long-term memory formation in the rat parietal cortex
Authors: Alonso Mariana , Bekinschtein Pedro , Cammarota Martín , Vianna Monica R.M. , Izquierdo Iván , Medina Jorge H.
Published: October 2005

Information storage in the brain is a temporally graded process involving different memory phases as well as different structures in the mammalian brain. Cortical plasticity seems to be essential to store stable long-term memories, although little information is available at the moment regarding molecular and cellular events supporting memory consolidation in the neocortex. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) modulates both short-term synaptic function and activity-dependent synaptic plasticity in hippocampal and cortical neurons. We have recently demonstrated that endogenous BDNF in the hippocampus is involved in memory formation. Here we examined the role of BDNF in the parietal cortex (PCx) in short-term (STM) and long-term memory (LTM) formation of a one-trial fear-motivated learning task in rats. Bilateral infusions of function-blocking anti-BDNF antibody into the PCx impaired both STM and LTM retention scores and decreased the phosphorylation state of cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB). In contrast, intracortical administration of recombinant human BDNF facilitated LTM and increased CREB activation. Moreover, inhibitory avoidance training is associated with a rapid and transient increase in phospho-CREB/total CREB ratio in the PCx. Thus, our results indicate that endogenous BDNF is required for both STM and LTM formation of inhibitory avoidance learning, possibly involving CREB activation-dependent mechanisms. The present data support the idea that early sensory areas constitute important components of the networks subserving memory formation and that information processing in neocortex plays an important role in memory formation.
Transient hippocampal down-regulation of Kv1.1 subunit mRNA during associative learning in rats
Authors: Kourrich Saïd , Manrique Christine , Salin Pascal , Mourre Christiane
Published: October 2005

Voltage-gated potassium channels (Kv) are critically involved in learning
and memory processes. It is not known, however, whether the expression of the
Kv1.1 subunit, constituting Kv1 channels, can be specifically regulated in
brain areas important for learning and memory processing. Radioactive in situ
hybridization was used to evaluate the content of Kv1.1 α-subunit mRNA
in the olfactory bulb, ventral, and dorsal hippocampus at different stages of
an odor-discrimination associative task in rats. Naive, conditioned, and
pseudoconditioned animals were sacrificed at different times either prior to a
two-odor significance learning or after odor discrimination was established.
Important decreases of Kv1.1 mRNA levels were transiently observed in the
ventral hippocampus before successful learning when compared with the
pseudoconditioned group. Moreover, temporal group analysis showed significant
labeling alterations in the hippocampus of conditioned and pseudoconditioned
groups throughout the training. Finally, Kv1.1 mRNA levels in the hippocampus
were positively correlated with odor-reward association learning in rats that
were beginning to discriminate between odors. These findings indicate that the
Kv1.1 subunit is transiently down-regulated in the early stages of learning
and suggest that Kv1 channel expression regulation is critical for the
modification of neuronal substrates underlying new information
acquisition.
Optimizing the fluid management of ventilated patients with suspected hypovolaemia
Authors: Murch Philip
Published: October 2005

Fluid management is a vital component of patient care within the critical care setting; it has a range of indications and applications, one of the most important being to maintain tissue perfusion and safeguard against single/multiple organ failure. Hypovolaemia is a commonly encountered condition within critical care and has the potential to jeopardize tissue perfusion and accelerate the risk of organ failure. In an attempt to optimize the fluid management of patients within the intensive therapy unit, this article outlines the development and implementation of a fluid prescription for ventilated patients with suspected hypovolaemia.
Regulatory measures against Erwinia amylovora in Switzerland*
Authors: Duffy B. , Schärer H.‐J. , Bünter M. , Klay A. , Holliger E.
Published: October 2005

Switzerland joined the list of fireblight‐affected European countries in 1989. Vigorous and systematic steps were taken to limit the impact of the disease on fruit production and amenity plants. These efforts are codified in a Swiss law detailing prevention, eradication, control measures and issues of compensation. As with many Swiss legal directives, there is a defined coordination of federal and cantonal responsibilities and, in the case of fireblight, there is also an emphasis at all levels on personal responsibility of owners of susceptible objects (e.g. nurseries, orchards, host plants). Extension activities have been a key component in achieving compliance with disease management regulations and in obtained public support for control efforts. Agroscope FAW Wädenswil has taken a leading role in this respect through its website http://www.feuerbrand.ch.
First European workshop on standardized procedure for the inspection of sprayers in Europe (SPISE)
Authors: Ganzelmeier H. , Wehmann H.‐J.
Published: October 2005

This article presents the aims, results, recommendations and conclusions of the First European Workshop on standardized procedure for the inspection of sprayers in Europe (SPISE), held at Braunschweig (DE) on 2004‐04‐27/29. It recommends in particular the general implementation in Europe of European Standard EN13790.
Low algal carbon content and its effect on the C : P stoichiometry of periphyton
Authors: FROST PAUL C. , HILLEBRAND HELMUT , KAHLERT MARIA
Published: October 2005

1. We examined the contribution of algal cells to periphytic organic carbon and assessed the effects of variable biomass composition on the carbon : phosphorus (C : P) ratio of periphyton. We compiled more than 5000 published and unpublished observations of periphytic carbon : chlorophyll a (C : Chl) ratios, an index of algal prevalence, from a variety of substrata collected from lake and low‐salinity coastal habitats. In addition, we converted estimates of algal biovolume into algal C to obtain an independent measure of cellular algal carbon in periphyton. This information was used in a model relating periphyton C : P ratio to algal cellular carbon, the algal C : P ratio, and the C : P ratio of non‐algal organic matter in periphyton.

2. The mean C : Chl ratio of periphyton (405) was relatively high with values in >25% of the samples exceeding 500. On average, 8.4% of total periphyton C was accounted for by C in algal cells. Only 15% of samples were found to have more than 15% periphyton C in cellular algal carbon. Our model showed a nonlinear relationship between periphytic C : P ratios and the C : P ratio of algal cells in the periphyton when non‐algal organic matter was present. However, even at relatively low cellular algal C (<10% of total C), algal C : P ratios can strongly affect the C : P ratio of periphyton as a whole (i.e. algal cells plus other organic matter).

3. The high C : Chl ratios and the low biovolume‐derived algal C of periphyton samples in our data set indicate that algal cells are typically a minor component of organic carbon in periphyton, However, this minor contribution would not preclude algal cellular stoichiometry from notably influencing periphyton C : P ratios.
Taxonomic and regional patterns in benthic macroinvertebrate elemental composition in streams
Authors: EVANS‐WHITE MICHELLE A. , STELZER ROBERT S. , LAMBERTI GARY A.
Published: October 2005

1. Ecological stoichiometry has been used to better understand dynamics in consumer growth and the role of consumer‐recycled nutrients because it focuses on more than one element. Most research has focused on pelagic rather than benthic consumers. Variation in elemental composition among benthic consumer taxa would suggest that taxa differ in their susceptibility to nutrient limitation or in their role in recycling nutrients.

2. We collected benthic macroinvertebrates from streams in two regions (Indiana–Michigan and Wisconsin, U.S.A.) to examine taxonomic and regional variation in benthic macroinvertebrate body carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) concentrations and ratios.

3. Elemental composition varied little within taxa common to both regions. In contrast, elemental composition differed greatly among taxa and appeared to be related to phylogeny. The elemental composition of macroinvertebrates clustered into three distinct groups: insects, mollusks, and crustaceans. To a lesser extent, insects and mollusks also differed in elemental composition among genera.

4. Functional feeding groups (FFGs) differed in elemental composition, with predators having a higher N content than other groups. Substantial elemental imbalances between C and N were found between most primary consumers and their likely food sources, and the magnitude of the imbalance depended in part on the FFG.

5. Our results support an assumption of most ecological stoichiometry models that, within a species, the elemental composition of aquatic invertebrates is relatively constant. Variation in elemental composition among taxa at various higher taxonomic levels suggests that susceptibility of stream invertebrates to nutrient limitation and their role in nutrient cycling will strongly depend on phylogeny.
Biased estimates of fitness consequences of brood size manipulation through correlated effects on natal dispersal
Authors: TINBERGEN JOOST M.
Published: October 2005

Dispersal of parents and offspring in relation to manipulated brood size were analysed in the great titParus major(L.) to study the potential confusion between dispersal and survival. The study area consisted of eight woodlots interspersed with nonbreeding habitat. The maximum distance between nestboxes was 10 km.

The brood size of pairs with similar clutch size and laying date was manipulated in 3 years when chicks were 2 days old (1995, 1997 and 1998). Three nestlings were removed from one and added to another brood while a third was kept as a control. Offspring were measured, weighed and marked and breeding birds were captured and marked to allow dispersal estimates.

For the offspring, dispersal was estimated as the distance between the natal nestbox and the nestbox of first breeding (natal dispersal distance) and, for the parents, as the distance between breeding boxes in two subsequent seasons (breeding dispersal distance).

Natal dispersal distance was positively affected by brood size manipulation. This effect was more pronounced in males than in females. Breeding dispersal distance was not affected by manipulation.

The practical consequence of this finding is that fitness estimates used to measure selection on brood size did depend on the spatial scale of the study area. For the Lauwersmeer population measured selection pressure changed from positive to stabilizing when I restricted the spatial scale of recovery. Other brood size manipulation experiments may suffer from similar biases in their fitness estimates.

The biological consequence of this finding is that, if clutch size has a heritable component, local adaptation of clutch size will depend on the spatial heterogeneity of the habitat.
Effect of species interactions on landscape abundance patterns
Authors: BUCKLEY LAUREN B. , ROUGHGARDEN JOAN
Published: October 2005

We develop a process‐based bioenergetic model that incorporates population dynamics to predict the abundance trends for Anolis lizards along elevation gradients in the Lesser Antilles islands. Model outcomes are compared with empirical abundance trends on islands with and without species interactions and with differential topography.

The bioenergetic model incorporating body size, thermal physiology and prey abundance qualitatively predicts how lizard abundance declines with elevation for solitary anole species. Empirical elevation trends on northern and southern one‐species islands have similar slopes but different intercepts at sea level. The greater anole abundance on the southern islands is predicted by the model when parameterized with the empirically observed higher insect abundance.

Anole abundance patterns on two‐species islands diverge from the bioenergetic model predictions. One species is more abundant at sea level and the other more abundant at higher elevations compared with the trend for solitary anoles. Species interactions modify population responses to elevation gradients.
Quantifying the influence of sociality on population structure in bottlenose dolphins
Authors: LUSSEAU DAVID , WILSON BEN , HAMMOND PHILIP S. , GRELLIER KATE , DURBAN JOHN W. , PARSONS KIM M. , BARTON TIM R. , THOMPSON PAUL M.
Published: October 2005

The social structure of a population plays a key role in many aspects of its ecology and biology. It influences its genetic make‐up, the way diseases spread through it and the way animals exploit their environment. However, the description of social structure in nonprimate animals is receiving little attention because of the difficulty in abstracting social structure from the description of association patterns between individuals.

Here we focus on recently developed analytical techniques that facilitate inference about social structure from association patterns. We apply them to the population of bottlenose dolphins residing along the Scottish east coast, to detect the presence of communities within this population and infer its social structure from the temporal variation in association patterns between individuals.

Using network analytical techniques, we show that the population is composed of two social units with restricted interactions. These two units seem to be related to known differences in the ranging pattern of individuals. By examining social structuring at different spatial scales, we confirm that the identification of these two units is the result of genuine social affiliation and is not an artefact of their spatial distribution.

We also show that the structure of this fission‐fusion society relies principally on short‐term casual acquaintances lasting a few days with a smaller proportion of associations lasting several years. These findings highlight how network analyses can be used to detect and understand the forces driving social organization of bottlenose dolphins and other social species.
Demographic vital rates determine the performance advantage of crop–wild hybrids in lettuce
Authors: HOOFTMAN DANNY A. P. , OOSTERMEIJER J. GERARD B. , JACOBS MIRJAM M. J. , DEN NIJS HANS C. M.
Published: October 2005

Hybridization seems possible for many crop species after pollen transfer from crops to wild relatives in the surrounding vegetation. Subsequent introgression of crop‐specific traits into wild relatives could lead to invasive introgressants. This process has become a public concern following the introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops. Until now, few studies have used demographic vital rates to compare the performance of hybrids with their wild relatives.

We created second‐generation (S1 and BC1) hybrids between the non‐transgenic crop Lactuca sativa and its entirely cross‐fertile wild relative Lactuca serriola. Seeds of parents and hybrids were individually sown in field plots at three different locations. Next to germination and survival, we measured a range of single fitness components and morphological traits. We also compared observed phenotypes to phenotypes theoretically expected, according to different inheritance scenarios.

Phenotypes of both hybrid classes resembled L. serriola closely, and more than theoretically expected. However, demographic vital rates, i.e. germination and survival of hybrids were much higher than in L. serriola.

Our results indicate that hybrids between crop and wild Lactuca are phenotypically indistinguishable from the wild relative and thus will largely remain unnoticed when they occur. However, these hybrids could potentially become invasive because of substantial differences in vital rates and seeds returned per seed sown.

Synthesis and applications. A comparative study on single fitness components, such as seed production, alone would not have revealed the performance advantage of crop–wild hybrids in Lactuca. Therefore, studying demographic vital rates of hybrids and back‐crosses to test for long‐term consequences of hybridization should be part of any risk assessment of GM crops. Demographic vital rates are also important for the development of predictive modelling tools that can be employed to test the individual‐ and population‐level consequences of new‐to‐add traits.
Preliminary rapport on head posture and muscle activity in subjects with class I and II
Authors: GADOTTI I. C. , BÉRZIN F. , BIASOTTO‐GONZALEZ D.
Published: October 2005

summary  Forward head posture may cause alterations in the stomatognathic system, including changes in the muscle activity of the masticatory muscles and dental occlusion alterations. Considering the need for further understanding of the relationship between the stomatognathic system and the cervical region, the purpose of this study was to analyse the head posture and the electromyographic (EMG) activity of the anterior portion of temporal and masseter muscles bilaterally among bruxist's subjects with different dental occlusion classifications using the Angle method. The study consisted of 20 female volunteers, between the ages of 17 and 27 years. They were separated into two groups (class I and class II occlusions) according to a dentist‐performed evaluation. An assessment of forward head posture was conducted using a photographic technique (angular calculus) combined with a clinical analysis. In the EMG analyses, active differential surface electrodes (Ag) were utilized and were placed bilaterally on the belly of masseter and temporal muscles, perpendicular to the muscles fibres. The EMG signal recorded during bilateral isotonic mastication, was presented using the Root Mean Square and was processed by Matlab software. The results indicated that the EMG responses of temporal and masseter muscles tend to be modified by occlusion alteration class II. Subjects with class II occlusion tended to present more occurrence of forward head posture with alterations in the muscle activity pattern between masseter and temporal muscles.
An evaluation of the effects of two distal extension removable partial denture designs on tooth stabilization and periodontal health
Authors: AKALTAN F. , KAYNAK D.
Published: October 2005

summary  A 30‐month follow‐up study was conducted on 36 patients to evaluate the effects of the lingual plate as a major connector in distally extended removable partial dentures (RPDs) on tooth stabilization. At the same time, the study evaluated the effects of lingual plate‐type RPDs and lingual bar‐type RPDs on periodontal health. The most striking finding of the study was that, with the exception of gingival recession (GR), periodontal conditions improved with both types of RPDs. At the end of 30 months, there were significant differences in plaque index, GR and tooth mobility (TM) values between treatment groups (P < 0·05). Plaque accumulation was greater in the lingual plate treatment group; however, this did not result in periodontal breakdown. There were no statistically significant differences between treatment groups with respect to pocket depth, gingival index or attachment loss (P > 0·05). Moreover, patients treated with lingual plate‐type RPDs demonstrated less TM when compared with patients treated with lingual bar‐type RPDs at the end of 30 months follow‐up. Overall study findings established that with adequate checks on oral and denture hygiene at regular intervals, patients with RPDs may even experience improved periodontal health. Moreover, the clinical interpretation of decreased TM observed in patients treated with lingual plate‐type RPDs may be questionable as the plaque accumulation was greater in the lingual plate treatment group inspite of periodic recalls.
Low intensity laser therapy in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders: a double‐blind study
Authors: DE ABREU VENANCIO R. , CAMPARIS C. M. , DE FÁTIMA ZANIRATO LIZARELLI R.
Published: October 2005

summary  This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of low intensity laser therapy (LILT) in 30 patients presenting temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain and mandibular dysfunction in a random and double‐blind research design. The sample, divided into experimental group (1) and placebo group (2), was submitted to the treatment with infrared laser (780 nm, 30 mW, 10 s, 6.3 J/cm2) at three TMJ points. The treatment was evaluated throughout six sessions and 15, 30 and 60 days after the end of the therapy, through visual analogue scale (VAS), range of mandibular movements and TMJ pressure pain threshold. The results showed a reduction in VAS (p < 0.001) and through the ANOVA with repeated measures it was observed that the groups did not present statistically significant differences (P = 0.2060), as the averages of the evaluation times (P = 0.3955) and the interaction groups evaluation times (P = 0.3024), considering the MVO. The same occurred for RLE (P = 0.2988, P = 0.1762 and P = 0.7970), LLE (P = 0.3265, P = 0.4143 and P = 0.0696), PPTD (P = 0.1558, P = 0.4695 and P = 0.0737) and PPTE (P = 0.2376, P = 0.3203 and P = 0.0624). For PE, there were not statistically significant differences for groups (P = 0.7017) and the interaction groups evaluation times (P = 0.6678), even so in both groups the PE varied with time (P = 0.0069).
Clinical evaluation of tinnitus in patients with sleep bruxism: prevalence and characteristics
Authors: CAMPARIS C. M. , FORMIGONI G. , TEIXEIRA M. J. , DE SIQUEIRA J. T. T.
Published: October 2005

summary  Evaluation of the prevalence and characteristics of tinnitus in a Brazilian series of sleep bruxism patients. In this descriptive study, 100 patients (80 women and 20 men) were selected through the self‐report of grinding teeth during sleep, confirmed by room mate or family member. They were evaluated according to a systematized approach: a questionnaire for orofacial pain and the Portuguese version of the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders. The patients were divided into two groups: group A, 54 patients with complaint of tinnitus and group B, 46 patients without tinnitus complaint. The mean age was 37·85 (13–66 years) and 34·02 years (20–59 years), respectively, for groups A and B (P = 0·1164). There was statistically significant difference between the two groups, with higher prevalence for the group A, in relation to: presence of chronic facial pain (P = 0·0007); number of areas painful to palpation in the masticatory and cervical muscles (P = 0·0032); myofascial pain in the masticatory muscles (P = 0·0003); absence of teeth without prosthetic replacement (P = 0·0145) and indices of depression (P = 0·0234). Structural alterations of the TMJ, like disc displacement and vertical dimension loss did not differ for the two groups. Tinnitus frequency was higher in patients with sleep bruxism and chronic facial pain. Myofascial pain, number of areas painful to palpation in the masticatory and cervical muscles, higher levels of depression and tooth absence without prosthetic replacement were more frequent in the group with tinnitus.
Hepatic iron, liver steatosis and viral genotypes in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Sebastiani G. , Vario A. , Ferrari A. , Pistis R. , Noventa F. , Alberti A.
Published: October 2005

Summary.  Hepatic iron has been described in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection as an important cofactor of disease outcome. The mechanisms leading to hepatic iron deposits (HIDs) in HCV patients are partially understood. We investigated HIDs in the liver biopsies of a consecutive series of 242 HCV‐infected patients with well‐compensated liver disease. Serum ferritin was elevated in 20.7% and transferrin saturation in 19.0%, while 38.8% had stainable HIDs indicating that serum markers of systemic iron overload have low sensitivity in predicting HIDs in hepatitis C. A cut‐off value of serum ferritin (350 μg/L in females and 450 μg/L in males) had good negative predictive value in excluding presence of mild–moderate HIDs (grade II–III). Hepatic iron deposits correlated by multivariate analysis with serum ferritin [odds ratio (OR) 1.008, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.005–1.011] and albumin (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.02–1.297). Hepatic iron deposits were more frequent in HCV‐3‐infected cases than in other genotypes (P = 0.027) while raised serum iron indices were more frequent in non‐HCV‐3 genotypes (P = 0.02). Furthermore, advanced fibrosis (F3–F4 by METAVIR) was more frequent in non‐HCV‐3 genotypes (P = 0.04). In HCV‐3 cases there was a close association between HIDs and severe (grade II–III) steatosis (P < 0.00001). These results indicate that in well‐compensated chronic hepatitis C HIDs are strongly associated with HCV‐3 and viral‐induced hepatic steatosis, while in the presence of other genotypes they might merely reflect a more advanced stage of liver disease and/or a systemic iron overload. Serum ferritin could identify a subgroup of patients in which the need of venesection could be excluded without liver biopsy.
A prospective assessment of an ‘a la carte’ regimen of PEG‐interferon alpha2b and ribavirin combination in patients with chronic hepatitis C using biochemical markers
Authors: D'Arondel C. , Munteanu M. , Moussalli J. , Thibault V. , Naveau S. , Simon A. , Messous D. , Morra R. , Blot C. , Poynard T.
Published: October 2005

Summary.  In therapy with standard interferon and ribavirin, five independent risk factors (RF) were predictive of relapse. The aim was to prospectively validate an a la carte regimen of pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN) alpha2b 1.5 μg/kg and ribavirin 11 mg/kg [PEG‐IFN‐ribavirin (PEG‐IFN‐R)], taking into account these five risk factors in order to determine whether to continue an additional 24 weeks of treatment in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) negative patients after 24 weeks. Treatment was stopped after 24 weeks in PCR positive patients. The same regimen was continued in PCR negative patients for an additional 24 weeks if patients had two or more RF. FibroTest and ActiTest assessed the impact of treatment on the histological features from baseline to end of follow‐up. A total of 96 patients were included; 84 (87.5%) had at least two RF and 12 (12.5%) had no or one RF. A total of 70 patients were sustained virologic response (SVR; 73%), 19 were nonresponders (20%) and seven were relapsers (7%). The SVR in genotypes 2 or 3 was 85% (34/40) vs 64% in other genotypes (36/56; P = 0.02). There was a decrease (P = 0.003) in fibrosis as estimated by FibroTest, from 0.38 ± 0.03 (mean ± SE) at baseline to 0.33 ± 0.03 at the 12‐week follow‐up, and a decrease in activity as estimated by ActiTest, from 0.49 ± 0.02 to 0.19 ± 0.03 (P < 0.0001). Improvement in activity was already significant at 12 weeks, even in virologic nonresponders. This study confirms that an a la carte regimen which takes into account not only genotype but also baseline viral load, fibrosis stage, gender and age, is efficient for the PEG‐IFN‐R combination. It achieves a 73% SVR and a significant decrease in fibrosis and activity as estimated by biochemical markers.
Epidemiological, biological and histological characterization of patients with indeterminate third‐generation recombinant immunoblot assay antibody results for hepatitis C virus
Authors: Ríos M. , Diago M. , Rivera P. , Tuset C. , Cors R. , García V. , Carbonel P. , Gonzalez C.
Published: October 2005

Summary. We studied the epidemiological, laboratory and histological characteristics of a group of patients with positive antibodies against hepatitis C virus (HCV) as determined by third‐generation enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and with indeterminate HCV antibody positivity as established by third‐generation recombinant immunoblot assay (RIBA‐3). The results obtained were compared with those recorded in a group of RIBA‐3‐positive patients. Both groups correspond to blood donors in whom the prevalence of hepatitis C is low. There were no statistically significant intergroup differences in mean age, or in the presence of infection risk factors. RNA positivity was much more frequent in the RIBA‐positive group (71%vs10%;P < 0.05), as was transaminase elevation during the 3 years of follow‐up (54%vs13%;P < 0.05). In 46% of the RIBA‐indeterminate patients the liver biopsy proved normal, or only liver steatosis or minimal changes were detected, while 33% had persistent chronic hepatitis, and 21% showed active chronic hepatitis. A mean Knodell index score of 2.28 was recorded; 50% of the subjects showed no fibrosis, 46% grade 1 fibrosis (fibrous portal expansion), 4% grade 2 fibrosis (bridging fibrosis), and none grade 3 fibrosis (liver cirrhosis). In the RIBA‐positive group, a greater percentage of patients had active chronic hepatitis, a greater Knodell index, and increased‐grade fibrosis. It can be concluded that the RIBA‐3‐indeterminate group is epidemiologically similar to the RIBA‐3‐positive series, although with a lesser prevalence of laboratory test alterations, a lower viral replication index, and more likely to have benign disease – particularly in subjects without viral replication.
Do antiviral CD8+ T cells select hepatitis C virus escape mutants? Analysis in diverse epitopes targeted by human intrahepatic CD8+ T lymphocytes
Authors: Komatsu H. , Lauer G. , Pybus O. G. , Ouchi K. , Wong D. , Ward S. , Walker B. , Klenerman P.
Published: October 2005

Summary.  Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a variable RNA virus that can readily establish persistent infection. Cellular immune responses are important in the early control of the virus. Evidence from animal models suggests that mutation in epitopes recognized by CD8+ T lymphocytes may play an important role in the establishment of persistence but in human persistent infection, equivalent evidence is lacking. We investigated this by analysing a unique resource: viruses from a set of chronically HCV‐infected individuals in whom the CD8+ T‐cell responses in liver had previously been accurately mapped. Virus was sequenced in seven individuals at 10 epitopes restricted by 10 human leucocyte antigen (HLA) molecules. Two main patterns emerged: in the majority of epitopes sequenced, no variation was seen. In three epitopes, mutations were identified which were compatible with immune escape as assessed using phylogenetic and/or functional studies. These data suggest that – even where specific intrahepatic T cells are detectable – many epitopes do not undergo mutation in chronic human infection. On the contrary, virus may escape from intrahepatic CD8+ T‐cell responses in a ‘patchy’ manner in certain specific epitopes. Furthermore, longitudinal studies to identify the differences between ‘selecting’ and ‘nonselecting’ intrahepatic CD8+ T‐cell responses are needed in HCV infection.
Wide‐range analysis of genetic structure of Betula maximowicziana, a long‐lived pioneer tree species and noble hardwood in the cool temperate zone of Japan
Authors: TSUDA Y. , IDE Y.
Published: October 2005

Betula maximowicziana is a long‐lived pioneer tree species in Japanese cool temperate forests that plays an important role in maintenance of the forest ecosystem and has high economic value. Here we assess the wide‐range genetic structure of 23 natural populations of B. maximowicziana using 11 simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci. Genetic diversity within populations was relatively low in all populations (mean HE, 0.361; mean allelic richness, 2.80; mean rare allelic richness, 1.02). The population differentiation was also relatively low (FST, 0.062). Genetic distance‐based and Bayesian clustering analysis revealed that the populations examined here could be divided into a southern group and a northern group. Analysis of rare allelic richness and Bayesian clustering revealed evidence for both southern and northern refugia during the last glacial period. Furthermore, a comparison of regional genetic diversity revealed significant clines in allelic richness. In spatial genetic structure evaluation, significant isolation by distance (IBD) was detected among the 23 populations, but not within regions. Moreover, significant population bottlenecks were found in all populations under infinite allele model (IAM) assumptions. These unusual, significant bottlenecks might be because of the processes of postglacial colonization and the species’ characters and/or life history as a long‐lived pioneer tree species. The wide‐range, regional genetic structure found in this study provides an important baseline for conservation and forest management, including the identification of evolutionarily significant units (ESUs) and/or management units (MUs) of B. maximowicziana.
The significance of facultative scavenging in generalist predator nutrition: detecting decayed prey in the guts of predators using PCR
Authors: FOLTAN PAVEL , SHEPPARD SAMUEL , KONVICKA MARTIN , SYMONDSON WILLIAM O. C.
Published: October 2005

Gut‐content analyses using molecular techniques are an effective approach to quantifying predator–prey interactions. Predation is often assumed but scavenging is an equally likely route by which animal DNA enters the gut of a predator/scavenger. We used PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to detect scavenged material in predator gut homogenates. The rates at which DNA in decaying slugs (Mollusca: Pulmonata) and aphids (Homoptera: Aphididae) became undetectable were estimated. The detectability of DNA from both carrion types in the guts of the generalist predator Pterostichus melanarius (Coleoptera: Carabidae) was then determined. The effects of carrion age and weight, as well as beetle sex, on detection periods, were quantified. Laboratory trials measured prey preference of beetles between live and decaying prey. Further experiments measured, for the first time, feeding by P. melanarius on dead slugs and aphids directly in the field. In both field and laboratory, P. melanarius preferentially fed on dead prey if available, but preference changed as the prey became increasingly decayed. Disappearance rates for slug carrion in wheat fields and grasslands were estimated and P. melanarius was identified as the main scavenger. Comparison of the retention time for dead slugs in the field, with the detection period for decaying slug material in the guts of the predators, showed that PCR‐based techniques are not able to distinguish between predated and scavenged food items. This could potentially lead to overestimation of the impact of predation on slugs (and other prey) by carabids. Possible implications of facultative scavenging by invertebrate predators for biocontrol and food‐web research are discussed.
Dynamics of water transport and storage in conifers studied with deuterium and heat tracing techniques
Authors: MEINZER F. C. , BROOKS J. R. , DOMEC J.‐C. , GARTNER B. L. , WARREN J. M. , WOODRUFF D. R. , BIBLE K. , SHAW D. C.
Published: October 2005

The volume and complexity of their vascular systems make the dynamics of long‐distance water transport in large trees difficult to study. We used heat and deuterated water (D2O) as tracers to characterize whole‐tree water transport and storage properties in individual trees belonging to the coniferous species Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco and Tsuga heterophylla (Raf.) Sarg. The trees used in this study spanned a broad range of height (13.5–58 m) and diameter (0.14–1.43 m). Sap flow was monitored continuously with heat dissipation probes near the base of the trunk prior to, during and following injection of D2O. The transit time for D2O transport from the base of the trunk to the upper crown and the tracer residence time were determined by measuring hydrogen isotope ratios in water extracted from leaves sampled at regular intervals. Transit times for arrival of D2O in the upper crown ranged from 2.5 to 21 d and residence times ranged from 36 to 79 d. Estimates of maximum sap velocity derived from tracer transit times and path length ranged from 2.4 to 5.4 m d−1. Tracer residence time and half‐life increased as tree diameter increased, independent of species. Species‐independent scaling of tracer velocity with sapwood‐specific conductivity was also observed. When data from this study were combined with similar data from an earlier study of four tropical angiosperm trees, species‐independent scaling of tracer velocity and residence time with sapwood hydraulic capacitance was observed. Sapwood capacitance is an intrinsic tissue‐level property that appears to govern whole‐tree water transport in a similar manner among both tracheid‐ and vessel‐bearing species.
Distinctive clinical presentation of a NF‐1 patient with loss of heterozygosity of PTCH in his epithelial tumors
Authors: Jacobson Elizabeth , Toms Catherine , Huang Conway , Skelton Henry , Smith Kathleen
Published: October 2005

Although patients with neurofibromatosis (NF) have an increased incidence of tumors, there is only one study that suggests that NF1 patients may have an increased risk for epithelial malignancies.

We present a patient with known NF1 who had developed multiple epithelial tumors since early in his life. All but one of these tumors were morphologically most consistent with trichoepitheliomas. Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) for Patched 1 gene (PTCH) was demonstrated within two of the trichoepitheloma‐like tumors and one tumor diagnosed as basal cell carcinoma, and the patient was show to have a PTCH gene deletion.

To our knowledge, a patient presenting with both NF1 and multiple trichoepitheliomas (MTE) has not previously been reported. The dysregulation in cellular proliferation and signaling induced by decreased NF1 along with the PTCH gene mutation may explain the pattern of immunohistochemical staining within these tumors, and the rare association of NF1 with epithelial neoplasms.
Atrophia maculosa varioliformis cutis
Authors: Kuflik Julianne H. , Schwartz Robert A. , Becker Kenneth A. , Lambert W. Clark
Published: October 2005

Atrophia maculosa varioliformis cutis is a rare disease characterized by spontaneously formed facial scars in young adults. Its etiology is unknown; there may be an underlying defect of dermal elastin. We discuss a patient with this unusual disorder and review its literature.
Onychomycosis in Adana, Turkey: A 5‐year study
Authors: Ilkit Macit
Published: October 2005

Background  Onychomycosis results from invasion of the nail plate by dermatophytes, yeasts or mould species of fungi. This report documents the etiological agents of onychomycosis in Adana, Turkey.

Methods  Results of mycological tests of nail clippings or subungal scrapings collected in the period between 1998 and 2002 were analyzed. Both the direct microscopy and the cultures of the nail material were performed to identify the causative agent.

Results  Out of a total of 388 cases examined, finger (12.4%) and toenail (87.6%) involvement, 155 (39.9%), were mycologically proven cases of onychomycosis (15 finger, 140 toenail). Among the 98 specimens from positive fungal cultures, dermatophytes were isolated in 74 (75.5%), and yeasts in 24 (24.5%). Trichophyton rubrum was the most common causative agent (48.0%), followed by T. mentagophytes var. interdigitale (26.6%), Candida tropicalis (11.2%), C. albicans (9.2%), C. glabrata (2.0%), C. krusei (2.0%) and Epidermophyton floccosum (1.0%).

Conclusions  Dermatophyte fungi, especially T. rubrum and T. mentagrophytes var. interdigitale, were responsible for most of the infections.
Iatrogenic calcinosis cutis following nadroparin injection
Authors: Giorgini Simonetta , Martinelli Canio , Massi Daniela , Lumini Annalisa , Mannucci Marco , Giglioli Leonetto
Published: October 2005

Accumulation of calcium in the skin is usually classified as a group of disorders referred to as calcinosis cutis. We report the case of a patient who developed iatrogenic calcinosis at the site of subcutaneous administration of low‐molecular‐weight heparins (LMWH) as nadroparin. This is usually used for the prevention of deep venous thrombosis, especially following renal transplantation. The role of calcium content in nadroparin is discussed.
Transmission potential of the human head louse, Pediculus capitis (Anoplura: Pediculidae)
Authors: Takano‐Lee Miwa , Edman John D. , Mullens Bradley A. , Clark John M.
Published: October 2005

Background  Millions of people are infested by head lice every year. However, louse transfer between hosts is not well‐understood. Our goals were to determine: (1) which stages were most likely to disperse and why, (2) the likelihood of fomites transmission, and (3) if host blood gender affects louse development.

Methods  Various life stages of lice at differing densities were permitted to cross over a 15‐cm hair bridge placed between two artificial blood‐feeding arenas. Louse transfer caused by hot air movements, combing, toweling, and passive transfer to fabric was investigated. The ability of lice to oviposit on different foreign substrates and the hatching potential of eggs intermittently incubated for 8 h/night on a host were likewise investigated. Louse in vitro development following feeding on human female or male donor blood was compared.

Results  Adult lice were the most likely to disperse. Neither population density nor hunger significantly affected dispersal tendencies. Lice were dislodged by air movement, combs and towels, and passively transferred to fabric within 5 min. Females oviposited on a variety of substrates and 59% of eggs incubated for 8 h/night hatched after 14–16 days. There was no survivorship difference between lice artificially fed on female vs. male blood.

Conclusions  Adult lice are the most mobile, indicating that they are most likely to initiate new infestations. Although head‐to‐head contact may be the primary route of transmission, less direct routes involving fomites may play a role and need further evaluation. Blood‐borne factors do not appear to cause any gender‐biased host preference.
Decubitus ulcers: A review of the literature
Authors: Bansal Cheryl , Scott Ron , Stewart David , Cockerell Clay J.
Published: October 2005

Decubitus ulcers are a worldwide health care concern affecting tens of thousands of patients and costing over a billion dollars a year. Susceptibility to pressure ulcers comes from a combination of external factors (pressure, friction, shear force, and moisture), and internal factors (e.g. fever, malnutrition, anaemia, and endothelial dysfunction). Often, enough damage is done to create the basis for a decubitus ulcer after as little as 2 h of immobility, a situation which may be difficult to avoid if the patient must undergo prolonged surgery or remain bedridden. Damage owing to pressure may also occur hours before the patient receives medical attention, especially if the patient falls or becomes immobilized owing to a vascular event. Several classification systems for decubitus ulcers have been described, based on where injury first occurs. The histologic progression of decubitus ulcers is a dynamic process involving several stages, each having characteristic histologic features. A team‐focused approach integrating all aspects of care, including pressure relief, infection control, nutrition, and surgery, may improve healing rates. With accurate risk assessment and preventative care, we can hope to minimize complications and mortality owing to decubitus ulcers.
Airway inflammation and cough sensitivity in cough‐variant asthma
Authors: De Diego A. , Martínez E. , Perpiñá M. , Nieto L. , Compte L. , Macián V. , Senent L.
Published: October 2005

Background:  Mechanisms underlying cough and bronchoconstriction in patients with cough‐variant asthma (CVA) are not well established. Differences in location or degree of activation of eosinophils and allergic cytokines have been suggested as the likely causes. To address this issue, we have carried out a comparative study of airway inflammatory markers between patients with CVA and classic asthma (CA). The relationship between these markers with airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and cough sensitivity has also been studied.

Methods:  Twenty‐seven non‐smokers and steroid‐naive patients with CVA (12) and CA (15) were examined. Capsaicin challenge, histamine bronchoprovocation test, nitric oxide levels in exhaled air and sputum induction were performed in all of them. Differential cell sputum recount and supernatant concentrations of eosinophil granule‐derived cationic proteins (ECP), interleukin (IL)5, IL8 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α were also measured.

Results:  There were no significant differences in either the inflammatory pattern of soluble markers or differential cell counts between CA and CVA. Histamine PC20 was correlated with IL‐5 in CVA, whereas it was associated with sputum eosinophilia in CA. Cough sensitivity (log C5) and histamine PC20 were inversely related in CA.

Conclusions:  Although the pattern of inflammatory sputum markers in patients with asthma and cough‐variant asthma is similar, its relation with bronchial hyperreactivity and cough sensitivity is different in each group.
β2‐ADR haplotypes/polymorphisms associate with bronchodilator response and total IgE in grass allergy
Authors: Woszczek G. , Borowiec M. , Ptasinska A. , Kosinski S. , Pawliczak R. , Kowalski M. L.
Published: October 2005

Association and linkage studies of β2‐adrenergic receptor (β2‐ADR) polymorphisms in relation to the expression of asthmatic phenotypes and immune regulatory mechanisms have shown inconsistent results. In order to analyse the relevance of particular combinations of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) or haplotypes of β2‐ADR gene to bronchial asthma, bronchodilator response and total immunoglobulin E (IgE) we determined by direct DNA sequencing five SNPs (in positions: −47, −20, 46, 79, 252) in a group of 180 Caucasian subjects (110 patients with grass allergy and 70 nonatopic controls). The eight different β2‐ADR haplotypes were identified, with three the most common of them representing 92% of the studied cohort. Significantly higher (pcor = 0.0045) bronchodilator response was observed in patients with homozygotic genotype 46A/A in comparison with respective homo‐ and hetero‐zygotes. There was no significant difference in bronchodilator response when β2‐ADR haplotypes were analysed. Significantly higher (pcor = 0.0005) total IgE levels were found in patients with β2‐ADR haplotype −47T/−20T/46A/79C/252G and homozygotic carriers of 46A (pcor = 0.0015) and 79C (pcor = 0.003) genotypes. No significant associations were found in regards to asthmatic phenotype and atopy. These results indicate that depending on phenotype studied, either an individual β2‐ADR SNP or β2‐ADR haplotype might affect disease manifestation.