bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection of nematodes by resistant plants has implications for local adaptation and cross‐virulence
Authors: Fournet S. , Kerlan M. C. , Renault L. , Dantec J. P. , Rouaux C. , Montarry J.
Published: April 2012

The variability of resistance durability in different potato genotypes harbouring the same resistance QTL but differing by their genetic background was explored. The indirect consequences of the resistance adaptation in terms of local (i.e. genotype‐specific) adaptation and cross‐virulence was also investigated. Following the virulence of the potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida in a long‐term experimental evolution protocol, the results showed that nematode populations were able to adapt to the resistance of four potato genotypes carrying the QTL GpaV from Solanum vernei, and that the plant genetic background has an impact upon the durability of resistance. The pattern of local adaptation observed here indicates that divergent selection has occurred during the experimental evolution performed from the same initial nematode population, and revealed a trade‐off between the adaptation to a resistant potato genotype and the adaptation to another resistant genotype differing in its genetic background. In terms of cross‐virulence between potato genotypes derived from different resistance sources (S. sparsipilum and S. spegazzinii), this study shows that the adaptation to resistance QTL GpaVvrn does not necessarily allow the adaptation to collinear GpaV loci. The results presented here could be useful for predicting evolution of nematode populations in natural agro‐ecosystems and identifying durable strategies for resistance deployment.
Modified C‐Reactive Protein Selectively Binds to Immunoglobulins
Authors: Boncler M. , Dudzińska D. , Nowak J. , Watała C.
Published: April 2012

Modified C‐reactive protein (mCRP) has been reported to non‐specifically bind to immunoglobulins; notwithstanding, the nature of these interactions is not clear. The aim of this study was to investigate the binding of antibodies directed against HSA and IgG to mCRP, fibrinogen (Fg), IgG, fibronectin (Fn) and C1q and its contaminants. We also studied the binding of mCRP to the antibodies directed towards receptors involved in CRP signalling (anti‐CD32, anti‐CD16). For the analysis of such interactions, a combination of ELISA and Western immunoblotting has been applied. The tested antibodies powerfully bound to either the contaminations of purified proteins (Fg, IgG, Fn and mCRP) or interacted directly with some of these proteins (C1q, mCRP, Fg). The effectiveness of anti‐HSA binding to immobilized proteins was influenced by the antigenic specificity of the antibody, the content of various protein fractions in the contaminants of a given protein (albumin augmented the interactions), overall protein purity and a natural avidity of a given protein towards immunoglobulins. The relative binding of anti‐HSA or anti‐IgG to immobilized mCRP was considerably lower than that observed for plasma proteins. Furthermore, the strength of the direct interaction between immunoglobulins and mCRP varied from the lack of response (anti‐HSA) or a negligible response (anti‐IgG) to the relatively high signal (human IgG, anti‐CD16, anti‐CD32), as compared to the control. Based on these observations, we conclude that the binding of mCRP to immunoglobulins cannot be easily generalized as a kind of some universal phenomenon.
Downregulation of CD94/NKG2A Inhibitory Receptor on Decreased γδ T Cells in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Wang L. , Kang N. , Zhou J. , Guo Y. , Zhang X. , Cui L. , Ba D. , He W.
Published: April 2012

γδ T cells are characterized by recognizing conserved endogenous and stress‐induced antigens without antigen presentation. It has been show that γδ T cells play an important role in anti‐tumour/microbe responses, but their function in autoimmune diseases is yet not clear. Here, we reported the quantity and phenotype of peripheral blood γδ T cells from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Both the percentages of γδ T cells in peripheral blood and among CD3+ T cells of patients with SLE were significantly decreased, regardless of disease activity. However, activating marker CD69 and HLA‐DR was upregulated, while inhibiting receptor CD94/NKG2A was downregulated in γδ T cells of patients with SLE. The expression of CD69 is negatively correlated with the quantity of γδ T cells. Moreover, the expression of CD94/NKG2A remained low even with antigen stimulation on those γδ T cells. Our results suggested that the low expression level of CD94/NKG2A upon γδ T cell activation might lead to the over‐activation of γδ T cells in patients with SLE. These findings will be useful in elucidating the roles of γδ T cells in SLE pathogenesis.
Chromosome rearrangements during domestication of cucumber as revealed by high‐density genetic mapping and draft genome assembly
Authors: Yang Luming , Koo Dal‐Hoe , Li Yuhong , Zhang Xuejiao , Luan Feishi , Havey Michael J. , Jiang Jiming , Weng Yiqun
Published: April 2012

Cucumber, Cucumis sativus L. is the only taxon with 2n = 2x = 14 chromosomes in the genus Cucumis. It consists of two cross‐compatible botanical varieties: the cultivated C. sativus var. sativus and the wild C. sativus var. hardwickii. There is no consensus on the evolutionary relationship between the two taxa. Whole‐genome sequencing of the cucumber genome provides a new opportunity to advance our understanding of chromosome evolution and the domestication history of cucumber. In this study, a high‐density genetic map for cultivated cucumber was developed that contained 735 marker loci in seven linkage groups spanning 707.8 cM. Integration of genetic and physical maps resulted in a chromosome‐level draft genome assembly comprising 193 Mbp, or 53% of the 367 Mbp cucumber genome. Strategically selected markers from the genetic map and draft genome assembly were employed to screen for fosmid clones for use as probes in comparative fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis of pachytene chromosomes to investigate genetic differentiation between wild and cultivated cucumbers. Significant differences in the amount and distribution of heterochromatins, as well as chromosomal rearrangements, were uncovered between the two taxa. In particular, six inversions, five paracentric and one pericentric, were revealed in chromosomes 4, 5 and 7. Comparison of the order of fosmid loci on chromosome 7 of cultivated and wild cucumbers, and the syntenic melon chromosome I suggested that the paracentric inversion in this chromosome occurred during domestication of cucumber. The results support the sub‐species status of these two cucumber taxa, and suggest that C. sativus var. hardwickii is the progenitor of cultivated cucumber.
Differentiation of endosperm transfer cells of barley: a comprehensive analysis at the micro‐scale
Authors: Thiel Johannes , Riewe David , Rutten Twan , Melzer Michael , Friedel Swetlana , Bollenbeck Felix , Weschke Winfriede , Weber Hans
Published: April 2012

Barley endosperm cells differentiate into transfer cells (ETCs) opposite the nucellar projection. To comprehensively analyse ETC differentiation, laser microdissection‐based transcript and metabolite profiles were obtained from laser microdissected tissues and cell morphology was analysed. Flange‐like secondary‐wall ingrowths appeared between 5 and 7 days after pollination within the three outermost cell layers. Gene expression analysis indicated that ethylene‐signalling pathways initiate ETC morphology. This is accompanied by gene activity related to cell shape control and vesicle transport, with abundant mitochondria and endomembrane structures. Gene expression analyses indicate predominant formation of hemicelluloses, glucuronoxylans and arabinoxylans, and transient formation of callose, together with proline and 4‐hydroxyproline biosynthesis. Activation of the methylation cycle is probably required for biosynthesis of phospholipids, pectins and ethylene. Membrane microdomains involving sterols/sphingolipids and remorins are potentially involved in ETC development. The transcriptional activity of assimilate and micronutrient transporters suggests ETCs as the main uptake organs of solutes into the endosperm. Accordingly, the endosperm grows maximally after ETCs are fully developed. Up‐regulated gene expression related to amino acid catabolism, C:N balances, carbohydrate oxidation, mitochondrial activity and starch degradation meets high demands for respiratory energy and carbohydrates, required for cell proliferation and wall synthesis. At 10 days after pollination, ETCs undergo further differentiation, potentially initiated by abscisic acid, and metabolism is reprogrammed as shown by activated storage and stress‐related processes. Overall, the data provide a comprehensive view of barley ETC differentiation and development, and identify candidate genes and associated pathways.
CK2‐defective Arabidopsis plants exhibit enhanced double‐strand break repair rates and reduced survival after exposure to ionizing radiation
Authors: Moreno‐Romero Jordi , Armengot Laia , Mar Marquès‐Bueno M. , Britt Anne , Carmen Martínez M.
Published: April 2012

The multifunctional protein kinase CK2 is involved in several aspects of the DNA damage response (DDR) in mammals. To gain insight into the role of CK2 in plant genome maintenance, we studied the response to genotoxic agents of an Arabidopsis CK2 dominant‐negative mutant (CK2mut plants). CK2mut plants were hypersensitive to a wide range of genotoxins that produce a variety of DNA lesions. However, they were able to activate the DDR after exposure to γ irradiation, as shown by accumulation of phosphorylated histone H2AX and up‐regulation of sets of radio‐modulated genes. Moreover, functional assays showed that mutant plants quickly repair the DNA damage produced by genotoxins, and that they exhibit preferential use of non‐conservative mechanisms, which may explain plant lethality. The chromatin of CK2mut plants was more sensitive to digestion with micrococcal nuclease, suggesting compaction changes that agreed with the transcriptional changes detected for a number of genes involved in chromatin structure. Furthermore, CK2mut plants were prone to transcriptional gene silencing release upon genotoxic stress. Our results suggest that CK2 is required in the maintenance and control of genomic stability and chromatin structure in plants, and that this process affects several functions, including the DNA damage response and DNA repair.
Weed interference with field‐grown soyabean decreases under elevated [CO2] in a FACE experiment
Authors: DAVIS A S , AINSWORTH E A
Published: April 2012

Davis AS & Ainsworth EA (2012). Weed interference with field‐grown soyabean decreases under elevated [CO2] in a FACE experiment. Weed Research52, 277–285.

Rising atmospheric [CO2] is predicted to affect C3 and C4 weed interference with crop species differently, with C3 weeds benefiting more from elevated [CO2] (eCO2) than C4 species. Our aim was to quantify impacts of eCO2 on C3 and C4 weeds at three levels of biological organisation: individual, population and community. We conducted a field study in 2007 and 2008 within the SoyFACE experiment in Champaign, Illinois, USA, in which Amaranthus rudis (C4) and Chenopodium album (C3) were grown with soyabean. This is a Free Air CO2 Enrichment (FACE) experiment. Elevated [CO2] influenced weeds at all levels of biological organisation. However, community‐level impacts were largest. Interference by A. rudis and C. album with soyabean was 37% and 11% lower, respectively, in eCO2. In residual weed communities under ambient [CO2] (aCO2), C3 and C4 species were equally likely to dominate the community, whereas in eCO2, there was a 90% chance of community dominance by C3 species. Future investigations of weed ecology and global change under FACE conditions may improve their inference space by including sources of environmental stress such as ozone, heat and drought.
Identification of four novel alleles of the BoLA‐DRB3 upstream regulatory region in Chinese yellow cattle
Authors: Wang K. , Sun D.‐X. , Li K.‐Y. , Wang X.‐Q. , Zhang F.
Published: April 2012

The sequence of upstream regulatory region (URR) of BoLA‐DRB3 gene was amplified with polymerase chain reaction followed by DNA sequencing from six animals of Chinese yellow cattle. A total of five alleles including four newly identified ones, named BoLA‐DRB3*R‐03‐U2, BoLA‐DRB3*R‐06‐U2, BoLA‐DRB3*R‐07‐U and BoLA‐DRB3*R‐12‐U for the BoLA‐DRB3 URR were found. Result of sequence analysis showed that the regulatory elements W, X, Y, CCAAT and TATA‐like boxes existed in such URRs and 16 polymorphic sites (11 transitions, 3 transversions, 1 deletion and 1 insertion) located in the spacers between the conserved consensus boxes and 1 insertion within X box, while no new polymorphic site within the consensus boxes.
Skin lesions, malaise, and heart failure in a renal transplant recipient
Authors: Kocher C. , Segerer S. , Schleich A. , Caduff R. , Wyler L.G. , Müller V. , Beck B. , Blum J. , Kamarachev J. , Mueller N.J.
Published: April 2012

A male Caucasian patient developed nodular erythematous skin lesions, malaise, and clinical signs of progressive heart failure 4 months after renal transplantation. Bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage performed for a small infiltrate seen on a computed tomography scan revealed Trypanosoma, which had at this point not been suspected as a cause. Parasitemia was present, and reactivation rather than transmission of Chagas' disease was established by performing polymerase chain reaction and serology in the donor and recipient. Treatment with benznidazole and allopurinol successfully reduced parasitemia, but the clinical course was fatal owing to progression of severe myocarditis. The patient had never lived in an endemic area, but had an extensive travel history in South America. The last visit was more than 5 years before transplantation. In non‐endemic countries (United States, Europe), reactivation after transplantation has only been very rarely reported. Given the rising numbers of transplantations in patients with a migration background and extensive travel histories, specific screening procedures have to be considered.
Mortality and hospitalisation costs of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease in New Zealand
Authors: Milne Richard J , Lennon Diana , Stewart Joanna M , Vander Hoorn Stephen , Scuffham Paul A
Published: April 2012

Aims:  To estimate the annual mortality and the cost of hospital admissions for acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) for New Zealand residents.

Methods:  Hospital admissions in 2000–2009 with a principal diagnosis of ARF or RHD (ICD9_AM 390‐398; ICD10‐AM I00‐I099) and deaths in 2000–2007 with RHD as the underlying cause were obtained from routine statistics. The cost of each admission was estimated by multiplying its diagnosis‐related group (DRG) cost weight by the national price for financial year 2009/2010.

Results:  There were on average 159 RHD deaths each year with a mean annual mortality rate of 4.4 per 100 000 (95% confidence limit 4.2, 4.7). Age‐adjusted mortality was five‐ to 10‐fold higher for Māori and Pacific peoples than for non‐Māori/Pacific. The mean age at RHD death (male/female) was 56.4/58.4 for Māori, 50.9/59.8 for Pacific and 78.2/80.6 for non‐Māori, non‐Pacific men and women.

The average annual DRG‐based cost of hospital admissions in 2000–2009 for ARF and RHD across all age groups was $12.0 million (95% confidence limit $11.1 million, $12.8 million). Heart valve surgery accounted for 28% of admissions and 71% of the cost. For children 5–14 years of age, valve surgery accounted for 7% of admissions and 27% of the cost. Two‐thirds of the cost occurs after the age of 30.

Conclusions:  ARF and RHD comprise a burden of mortality and hospital cost concentrated largely in middle age. Māori and Pacific RHD mortality rates are substantially higher than those of non‐Māori/Pacific.
Spatial distribution of Tephrocactus aoracanthus (Lem.) Lem. in relation to shrubs in the hyperarid regions of west‐central Argentina
Authors: ALMIRÓN MARTÍN , MARTÍNEZ CARRETERO EDUARDO
Published: April 2012

The spatial intraspecific and interspecific distribution of Tephrocactus aoracanthus (Lem.) Lem. was studied using univariate and bivariate point pattern analysis, at landscape scale in four different physiographic units and at microscale in terms of the shrubs found in those units. The influence of shrubs on photosynthetically active radiation and on soil temperature under their canopies was analysed. Results show a high environmental variability in light and temperature under shrubs that generally has no influence on the distribution of T. aoracanthus. Apparently, this cactus has great ability to adapt to different conditions of both photosynthetically active radiation and temperature. However, intraspecific distribution was highly clustered in all physiographic units, independently of bushes. Possibly, the mode of seed dispersal and the rooting of cladodes at small scale are the main processes that determine the strong intraspecific clustering of T. aoracanthus.
Clinical symptoms of FSSG in gastroesophageal reflux disease are critical for PPI treatment: Japanese multi‐centers with 185 patients
Authors: Komatsu‐Tanaka Mio , Iwakiri Ryuichi , Fujimoto Kazuma , Fujiwara Yasuhiro , Inamori Masahiko , Tanaka Junji , Shimatani Tomohiko , Akiyama Junichi , Ando Takashi , Manabe Noriaki , Kinjo Fukunori , Deguchi Ryuzo , Kusano Motoyasu
Published: April 2012

Aim:  The main aim of this study was to determine whether questionnaire evaluations of clinical symptoms in gastroesophageal reflux disease were useful to assess proton pump inhibitor therapy.

Methods:  A total of 185 Japanese patients (men, 88; women, 97; age: 55.7 ± 16.1 years) with gastroesophageal reflux disease were enrolled. The patients were divided based on the frequency scale for symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease: severe symptoms with scores ≥8 and mild symptoms with scores ≤7. Quality of life was evaluated with the Medical Outcomes Study 8‐Item Short‐Form Health Survey. All patients were treated with a proton pump inhibitor, rabeprazole (10 mg/day), for 8 weeks.

Results:  Patients were classified into four groups: reflux esophagitis with severe symptoms (n = 92, 49.7%); reflux esophagitis with mild symptoms (n = 17, 9.2%); non‐erosive reflux disease with severe symptoms (n = 66, 35.7%); and non‐erosive reflux disease with mild symptoms (n = 10, 5.4%). The dysmotility score was high in non‐erosive reflux disease with severe symptoms compared with reflux esophagitis with severe symptoms (9.1 ± 0.5 vs 6.8 ± 0.5, P < 0.05). The symptom score and quality of life in the severe symptoms groups for both reflux esophagitis and non‐erosive reflux disease were significantly improved by rabeprazole treatment. Only the reflux score was improved by rabeprazole in the reflux esophagitis with mild symptoms group; no therapeutic effect was observed for the non‐erosive reflux disease with mild symptoms group.

Conclusions:  Low scores on the frequency scale for the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease indicate poor responsiveness to proton pump inhibitor treatment, and high scores indicate good responsiveness.
A prospective multicenter evaluation of a new side‐port endoscopic ultrasound‐fine‐needle aspiration in solid upper gastrointestinal lesions
Authors: Kaffes Arthur J , Chen Robert YM , Tam William , Norton Ian , Cho Sarah , Devereaux Ben , Vaughan Rhys
Published: April 2012

Background and Study Aims:  Diagnostic yield of endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) varies depending on the equipment used and the site targeted. Multiple needle passes are usually required to obtain a diagnosis. A new needle incorporating a side‐port carries a theoretical advantage regarding acquisition of cytological material. The aim of the study was to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of the Olympus side‐port needle in solid upper gastrointestinal indications.

Patients and Methods:  A prospective multicenter evaluation of patients referred for EUS‐FNA for solid lesions was performed across six tertiary gastroenterology referral centers in four capital cities in Australia. The main outcome measures include cytological diagnosis, number of needle passes required for diagnosis and complication rates.

Results:  Thirty patients (17 men; 13 women) with a mean age of 67.5 years were studied. Indications included pancreatic or biliary mass in 24 patients, retroperitoneal or periduodenal mass in 2, enlarged lymph node in 2, a gastric submucosal tumor in 1 and a subcarinal mass in 1. The mean size of the lesions was 3.47 cm (range, 0.5–8 cm). All but one case had a diagnosis made (96.7%). The mean number of passes required to reach a diagnosis was 1.7. In neoplastic lesions the diagnosis was made with a mean of 1.6 passes. No complications were encountered.

Conclusions:  The new EUS‐FNA needle with side port appears effective and safe in solid upper gastrointestinal EUS‐FNA indications.
Endoscopic mucosal resection with a ligation device or endoscopic submucosal dissection for rectal carcinoid tumors: An analysis of 24 consecutive cases
Authors: Niimi Keiko , Goto Osamu , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Kodashima Shinya , Ono Satoshi , Mochizuki Satoshi , Asada‐Hirayama Itsuko , Konno‐Shimizu Maki , Mikami‐Matsuda Rie , Minatsuki Chihiro , Yamamichi Nobutake , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: April 2012

Aims:  Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has several advantages over conventional endoscopic mucosal resection, including a higher en bloc resection rate and more accurate pathological estimation. However, ESD is a complex procedure that requires advanced endoscopic skills. The aim of our study is to evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic mucosal resection with a ligation device (EMR‐L) compared to ESD for rectal carcinoid tumors.

Methods:  Between September 2003 and April 2011, 24 rectal carcinoid tumors in 24 patients treated by ESD or EMR‐L were retrospectively analyzed. The indications for endoscopic treatment were node‐negative rectal carcinoid tumors. We compared the therapeutic outcomes of the ESD group (n = 13) and the EMR‐L group (n = 11).

Results:  Both groups had similar mean tumor sizes (ESD: 5.5 ± 2.1 mm; EMR‐L: 4.4 ± 2.2 mm). The rates of en bloc and complete resection were, respectively, 100% and 92.3% for ESD, and 100% and 100% for EMR‐L. Perforations did not occur in either group. Postoperative bleeding occurred in one EMR‐L case, and it was endoscopically managed. However, there were no differences in therapeutic outcomes between the two groups. The mean procedure time was longer in the ESD group (28.8 ± 16.2 min) than in the EMR‐L group (17.4 ± 4.4 min), without a significant difference. The mean hospitalization period was significantly shorter in the EMR‐L group (1.8 ± 3.1 day) than in the ESD group (6.2 ± 2.1 day), and eight EMR‐L cases were treated in an outpatient setting.

Conclusions:  EMR‐L is a simple and effective procedure that compares favorably to ESD for small rectal carcinoid tumors.
Bartholin's gland leiomyoma: A diagnostic and management dilemma
Authors: Francis Sarah A. , Wilcox Frank L. , Sissons Mark
Published: April 2012

There are limited reports in the literature about Bartholin's gland leiomyoma, mainly due to its rare occurrence. This case report describes a 56‐year‐old woman presenting with a lump in her vulva. The initial suspicion was that of a Bartholin's gland carcinoma based on her clinical signs and symptoms. The mass was excised and the histopathology report described a leiomyoma.

Differentiating between benign and malignant tumors by inspection alone can pose a diagnostic dilemma. There are no clear management guidelines but some authorities recommend that enlarged Bartholin's gland in postmenopausal women should be completely excised so as to exclude adenocarcinoma of the gland. However, other case reports and reviews have tried to justify an initial biopsy before considering complete excision to avoid unnecessary intervention in women whose biopsy confirms a benign lesion. In the case described, surgical excision was necessary and beneficial to the patient to provide symptom control.
Psychiatric morbidity in gynecological outpatients
Authors: Judd Fiona , Stafford Lesley , Gibson Penelope , Komiti Angela , Bryant Christina
Published: April 2012

Aim:  To assess the prevalence of depression and anxiety in women presenting with gynecological symptoms, to determine how many women with these disorders were receiving treatment for them, and to investigate risk factors for these disorders.

Method:  Two hundred and sixty‐four women seeking medical care from gynecology clinics at a specialist women's hospital completed a self‐report questionnaire asking about sociodemographics, physical and mental health, personality (neuroticism) and psychosocial stressors.

Results:  A total of 91 women met the diagnostic criteria for one or more Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) diagnosis. Forty‐six (17.4%) met criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD), 15 (5.7%) for panic disorder (PD) and 73 (27.7%) for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Thirty‐nine (42.9%) of the 91 women met criteria for two or more disorders. An additional 23 (8.7%) met DSM‐IV‐TR criteria for minor (sub‐threshold) depression. Fifty percent with MDD, 4% with minor depression, 53% with PD and 22% with GAD reported they were receiving treatment. Psychosocial stressors and the neuroticism score were risk factors for both anxiety and depression.

Conclusions:  Anxiety and depression are common amongst women attending a gynecology clinic. Clinicians should be alert to the possibility of these disorders and make specific enquiries about their emotional wellbeing.
Y chromosome microdeletions in Mexican males of couples with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss
Authors: Piña‐Aguilar Raul E. , Martínez‐Garza Sandra G. , Kohls Graciela , Vargas‐Maciel Marco A. , Vázquez de Lara Luis G. , González‐Ortega Claudia , Cancino‐Villarreal Patricia , Gutiérrez‐Gutiérrez Antonio M.
Published: April 2012

Aim:  To analyze the presence of Y chromosome microdeletions in males of Mexican couples with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy losses (RPL).

Methods:  Seventy‐one males from couples with RPL and 66 fertile males as controls were studied. DNA was isolated from peripheral lymphocytes and used to run multiplex polymerase chain reactions. Regions AZFa (sY84, sY86), AZFb (sY127, sY134) and AZFc (sY254, sY255) of the Y chromosome were analyzed according to valid guidelines recommended by the European Academy of Andrology and the European Molecular Genetics Quality Network. Also, the sequence tagged sites (STSs): DYS262 (sY67), DYS220 (sY129), DYF85S1 (sY150), DYF86S1 (sY152) and DYF87S1 (sY153) were included in order to analyze STSs previously reported as deleted. A power analysis to support our simple size was performed.

Results:  Results show an absence of Y chromosome microdeletions in males of couples with RPL and controls with an acceptable statistical power.

Conclusion:  The study did not show an association of recurrent pregnancy loss and Y chromosome microdeletions in Mexican male partners. Based on the results, the study of Y chromosome microdeletions in couples with RPL is not considered clinically relevant.
Localized neurofibromatosis of the female genital system: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Gómez‐Laencina Ana M. , Martínez Díaz Francisco , Izquierdo Sanjuanes Blanca , Vicente Sánchez Elena M. , Fernandez Salmerón Rosario , Meseguer Peña Francisco
Published: April 2012

Neurofibromatosis within the female genital tract is uncommon. The vulva is the most frequent genital location, but it has rarely been reported in the context of the vagina, uterine cervix or ovaries. In spite of its rarity, neurofibroma is a neoplasm that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pelvic masses, especially in patients with neurofibromatosis. In this paper we describe the case of a 71‐year‐old patient with pelvic pain and a uterine mass who underwent a hysterectomy after having been diagnosed with an 11‐cm neurofibroma occupying the myometrium of the entire uterine corpus. There were no neurofibromas in the endometrium, serosa, fallopian tubes or ovaries. The patient had an unknown von Recklinghausen's disease.
Co‐infection with Toxoplasma gondii and Clostridium perfringens in a postpartum woman with uterine gas gangrene: A case report
Authors: Alsammani Mohamed Alkhatim , Ahmed Salah Roshdy , Alsheeha Muneera A. , Saadia Zaheera , Khairi Somia A.
Published: April 2012

Toxoplasmosis is a protozoan infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii. We report a case of Toxoplasma gondii and Clostridium perfringens co‐infection complicating uterine gas gangrene following a term pregnancy. The histological examination of the necrotic uterine tissues and uterine swab cultures obtained at laparotomy revealed T. gondii and C. perfringens, respectively. Treatment was administered with bactericidal activity against both pathogens and the patient had an uneventful post‐operative recovery. Although there have been some cases that have documented an association between toxoplasmosis and non‐uterine C. perfringens infection, such a relationship has not been established. It is of interest to determine if the presence of both organisms can explain the severe myonecrosis that occurs in some cases of uterine gas gangrene.
The effect of I‐gel™ airway on intraocular pressure in pediatric patients who received sevoflurane or desflurane during strabismus surgery
Authors: Şahin Alparslan , Tüfek Adnan , Cingü Abdullah Kürşat , Çaça ıhsan , Tokgöz Orhan , Balsak Selahattin
Published: April 2012

Objectives:  The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of I‐gelTM laryngeal mask airway on intraocular pressure (IOP) in children with strabismus undergoing balanced anesthesia with sevoflurane or desflurane.

Methods:  Forty‐seven children, ASA physical status I, were scheduled for elective strabismus surgery. Patients were randomly assigned to one of the two inhalation anesthetic groups. Sevoflurane group comprised of 27 children, and desflurane group comprised of 20 children. Anesthesia was induced and maintained with sevoflurane or desflurane. No muscle relaxant was used. IOPs were measured before anesthesia, at 2 and 5 min after insertion of I‐gelTM and after removal of I‐gelTM. IOP measurements were obtained by Tonopen®.

Results:  Intraocular pressure significantly decreased 2 min after insertion of I‐gelTM in both sevoflurane and desflurane groups (P < 0.001). Measurements 5 min after I‐gelTM insertion were also significantly lower than those of before insertion in both groups (P < 0.01). However, no significant differences were found between the preoperative measurement and the measurement after removal of I‐gelTM within two groups (P = 0.072 and P = 0.547, respectively). No significant differences were found in all IOP measurements between sevoflurane and desflurane groups.

Conclusion:  Insertion of I‐gelTM laryngeal mask airway with giving sevoflurane or desflurane inhalation anesthetics seemed not to cause any increase in IOPs in pediatric ophthalmic surgery.
The open abdomen and temporary abdominal closure systems – historical evolution and systematic review
Authors: Quyn A. J. , Johnston C. , Hall D. , Chambers A. , Arapova N. , Ogston S. , Amin A. I.
Published: April 2012

Aim  Several techniques for temporary abdominal closure have been developed. We systematically review the literature on temporary abdominal closure to ascertain whether the method can be tailored to the indication.

Method  Medline, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and relevant meeting abstracts until December 2009 were searched using the following headings: open abdomen, laparostomy, VAC (vacuum assisted closure), TNP (topical negative pressure), fascial closure, temporary abdominal closure, fascial dehiscence and deep wound dehiscence. The data were analysed by closure technique and aetiology. The primary end‐points included delayed fascial closure and in‐hospital mortality. The secondary end‐points were intra‐abdominal complications.

Results  The search identified 106 papers for inclusion. The techniques described were VAC (38 series), mesh/sheet (30 series), packing (15 series), Wittmann patch (eight series), Bogotá bag (six series), dynamic retention sutures (three series), zipper (15 series), skin only and locking device (one series each). The highest facial closure rates were seen with the Wittmann patch (78%), dynamic retention sutures (71%) and VAC (61%).

Conclusion  Temporary abdominal closure has evolved from simple packing to VAC based systems. In the absence of sepsis Wittmann patch and VAC offered the best outcome. In its presence VAC had the highest delayed primary closure and the lowest mortality rates. However, due to data heterogeneity only limited conclusions can be drawn from this analysis.
A PANEL ANALYSIS OF THE STOCK RETURN–DIVIDEND YIELD RELATION: PREDICTING RETURNS AND DIVIDEND GROWTH*
Authors: MCMILLAN DAVID G. , WOHAR MARK E.
Published: April 2012

We investigate dividend yield predictability for stock returns and dividend growth for eight countries over the period 1973–2010. We employ panel methods and report evidence of such predictive power over the full sample. An examination by decade reveals that the predictive ability for stock returns and dividend growth varies with time. Indeed, the strength of this predictability switches between returns and dividend growth. In the 1970s only returns were predicted, while in the 1980s only dividend growth was predicted. In the 1990s and 2000s, both variables were predicted, although the coefficient magnitude and strength of the statistical relationship changes.
COMPETITION AND STABILITY IN EUROPEAN BANKING: A REGIONAL ANALYSIS*
Authors: LIU HONG , MOLYNEUX PHIL , WILSON JOHN O. S.
Published: April 2012

National measures of competition and macroeconomic activity have traditionally been used to examine performance and risk features across banks. Such measures may be inappropriate in cases where banks operate with a regional focus. In this paper we construct measures of competition and economic activity using regional data to examine bank stability in 10 European countries over the period 2000–8. The results suggest that an inverted U‐shaped relationship exists between regional bank competition and stability. Regional economic conditions are also found to play a significant role in determining the stability of European banks.
GESTATIONAL SURROGACY CONTRACTS: ALTRUISTIC OR COMMERCIAL? A CONTRACT THEORETIC APPROACH*
Authors: BANERJEE SWAPNENDU
Published: April 2012

We in this paper provide an analytical structure to endogenize the optimal gestational surrogacy contract in terms of a simple moral hazard framework. We show that altruistic surrogacy is optimal only if the surrogate has lower outside option and is sufficiently altruistic. Otherwise commercial surrogacy is optimal. We also show that for lower outside option greater social ignominy makes the surrogacy contract relatively more altruistic but the reverse happens when the surrogate has higher outside option. We also point to alternative model specifications and find situations where commercial surrogacy is always optimal irrespective of altruism, outside option and social ignominy.
RESALE PRICE MAINTENANCE VERSUS DELEGATION, UNDER ASYMMETRIC INFORMATION*
Authors: NARIU TATSUHIKO , LEE DONGJOON
Published: April 2012

In this paper we analyze vertical restraints by two manufacturers in which each sells through a separate retailer who has private information on the uncertain demand it faces. The degree of product differentiation plays an important role in equilibrium. If the products are differentiated, the dominant strategy is for each manufacturer to itself stipulate the retail price of its products. If the products are homogeneous, there exist two equilibria: either both manufacturers impose retail price maintenance (RPM), or both delegate pricing to the retailer. Social welfare is greater under regulatory regimes that permit RPM, irrespective of product differentiation or demand uncertainty.
ON THE SUPERIORITY OF FIXED FEE OVER AUCTION IN TECHNOLOGY LICENSING*
Authors: MIAO CHUN‐HUI
Published: April 2012

In this note, we identify conditions under which a fixed‐fee policy is superior to an auction in technology licensing by an outsider innovator. We find that, even in cases involving a minimum degree of asymmetry among downstream firms, fixed‐fee licensing can generate a strictly higher revenue than an auction, but the same can never be true in cases where issuing multiple licenses is optimal.
COLONIZING CONTRASTING LANDSCAPES. THE PIONEER COAST SETTLEMENT AND INLAND UTILIZATION IN SOUTHERN NORWAY 10,000–9500 YEARS BEFORE PRESENT
Authors: BANG‐ANDERSEN SVEINUNG
Published: April 2012

This article contributes a western Scandinavian perspective to the discussion of the human colonization of former glaciated landscapes. Four assumptions concerning the peopling of the Norwegian coast are discussed: 1) a delayed colonization, 2) an immigration from the ‘North Sea Continent’, 3) reindeer as the main economic factor, and 4) a rapid rate of expansion along the coast. It is argued that only the first and last suppositions still appear credible, but need to be confirmed. A gradual major development is evident. Stage 1: Marine hunters colonized the resource‐rich coastlines of south‐west Sweden and southern Norway about 10,000 y.BP. Stage 2: Soon after, based on short seasonal moves, some coastal groups started exploiting reindeer in recently deglaciated mountain areas in south‐west Norway. A similar subsistence pattern developed in north‐west Norway. With its remote location, distinct landscape development and many‐faceted environments, Norway appears as ideal for exploring human colonization processes on different geographical scales. More C14‐dates and osteological material are, however, still needed.
EXPERIMENTS WITH AN OLD CERAMIC BEEHIVE
Authors: FRANCIS J.E.
Published: April 2012

Ceramic beehives are frequently identified on archaeological sites in Greece and occur in large numbers. Their existence is at odds with the accounts of Roman authors, who disdain the use of clay for beekeeping and praise materials like wicker and wood, which have left no archaeological traces. The reason for the rejection of terracotta hives is unanimously that they are too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer, but temperature experiments with a nineteenth century ceramic beehive in Greece proved them to be within the norms experienced by bees. The results of this research thus indicate different traditions of beekeeping in Roman Greece and Italy and seek to explain why these may have developed.
DATING COINS, DATING WITH COINS
Authors: LOCKYEAR KRIS
Published: April 2012

This paper addresses the issue of how coins are dated, and how coins are then used to provide dates on archaeological excavations. Using examples from Roman archaeology, the author examines how patterns of manufacture, supply, loss and retrieval can impact on the value of those dates. The need to examine coin finds within their stratigraphic context is emphasized, as well as the need for the archaeological numismatist and the excavator to collaborate closely to obtain the best from the data. The paper concludes with an analysis of the impact of sample size on dating.
THE CONSTRUCTION/DECONSTRUCTION OF THE CUBICULUM: AN EXAMPLE FROM THE VILLA OF MATERNUS AT CARRANQUE (SPAIN)
Authors: CARUCCI MARGHERITA
Published: April 2012

This study discusses the validity and limits of modern criteria for the identification of a specific room‐type, the cubiculum, in the material remains of the Roman house. The starting point is the cubiculum of the late‐antique Villa of Maternus at Carranque, in Spain. Here, in the mosaic panel of the threshold, is an inscription which informs the reader that the room about to be entered is the cubiculum of Maternus. The explicit definition of this domestic space offers the rare opportunity to analyse a specific room‐type on secure grounds and to verify what types of layouts were used for the arrangement of the cubiculum in the late‐antique domestic buildings of Hispania.
Loss of cytosolic NADP‐malic enzyme 2 in Arabidopsis thaliana is associated with enhanced susceptibility to Colletotrichum higginsianum
Authors: Voll Lars M. , Zell Martina B. , Engelsdorf Timo , Saur Alexandra , Wheeler Mariel Gerrard , Drincovich Maria F. , Weber Andreas P. M. , Maurino Veronica G.
Published: April 2012

While photosynthetic NADP‐malic enzyme (NADP‐ME) has a prominent role in the C4 cycle, the biological function of nonphotosynthetic isoforms remains elusive. Here, we analysed the link between Arabidopsis thaliana cytosolic NADP‐ME2 and the plant defence response.

Arabidopsis thaliana plants with wild‐type and modified NADP‐ME2 expression levels were analysed after elicitation with pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and during the interaction with the hemibiotrophic fungal pathogen Colletotrichum higginsianum.

Under normal growth conditions, the lack or gain of NADP‐ME2 activity produced large changes in plant metabolite pool sizes without any effect on morphology or development. Total NADP‐ME activity and NADP‐ME2 transcript level were enhanced after PAMP treatment and pathogen infection. During infection with C. higginsianum, loss‐of‐function mutants of NADP‐ME2 (nadp‐me2) showed enhanced susceptibility. Transient apoplastic reactive oxygen species (ROS) production after elicitation and callose papilla formation after infection were dampened in nadp‐me2. Late salicylic acid (SA)‐dependent and SA‐independent defence responses were not affected.

Taken together, our results indicate that NADP‐ME2 is an important player in plant basal defence, where it appears to be involved in the generation of ROS. Moreover, NADP‐ME2 was found to be dispensable for later defence responses.
Eye shape and retinal shape, and their relation to peripheral refraction
Authors: Verkicharla Pavan K , Mathur Ankit , Mallen Edward AH , Pope James M , Atchison David A
Published: April 2012

Citation information: Verkicharla PK, Mathur A, Mallen EAH, Pope JM & Atchison DA. Eye shape and retinal shape, and their relation to peripheral refraction. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2012, 32, 184–199. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2012.00906.x

Purpose:  We provide an account of the relationships between eye shape, retinal shape and peripheral refraction.

Recent findings:  We discuss how eye and retinal shapes may be described as conicoids, and we describe an axis and section reference system for determining shapes. Explanations are given of how patterns of retinal expansion during the development of myopia may contribute to changing patterns of peripheral refraction, and how pre‐existing retinal shape might contribute to the development of myopia. Direct and indirect techniques for determining eye and retinal shape are described, and results are discussed. There is reasonable consistency in the literature of eye length increasing at a greater rate than height and width as the degree of myopia increases, so that eyes may be described as changing from oblate/spherical shapes to prolate shapes. However, one study indicates that the retina itself, while showing the same trend, remains oblate in shape for most eyes (discounting high myopia). Eye shape and retinal shape are not the same and merely describing an eye shape as being prolate or oblate is insufficient without some understanding of the parameters contributing to this; in myopia a prolate eye shape is likely to involve both a steepening retina near the posterior pole combined with a flattening (or a reduction in steepening compared with an emmetrope) away from the pole.

Summary:  In the recent literature, eye and/or retinal shape have often been inferred from peripheral refraction, and, to a lesser extent, vice versa. Because both the eye’s optics and the retinal shape contribute to the peripheral refraction, and there is large variation in the latter, this inference should be made cautiously. Recently retinal shape has been measured independent of optical methods using magnetic resonance imaging. For further work on retinal shape, determining the validity of cheaper alternatives to magnetic resonance techniques is required.
Strategic Foreign Direct Investment in Vertically Related Markets*
Authors: ISHIKAWA JOTA , HORIUCHI EIJI
Published: April 2012

By using a simple North‐South trade model with vertically related markets, this article draws our attention to previously unidentified effects of foreign direct investment (FDI), namely that a North downstream firm affects the pricing behavior of an input supplier through technology spillovers and market integration led by FDI. Whether or not the North firm strategically undertakes FDI in the presence of technology spillovers depends on the South firm's capacity to absorb North's technology. When the capacity is not very high, the North firm could actually gain from technology spillovers to the South firm. FDI may benefit all producers and consumers.
A modified Bismuth‐Containing Quadruple Therapy Including a Short Course of Furazolidone for Helicobacter pylori Eradication After Sequential Therapy Failure
Authors: Fakheri Hafez , Bari Zohreh , Sardarian Hossein
Published: April 2012

Background:  Helicobacter pylori eradication has still remained a challenge, especially in case of failure to novel treatments. Therefore, we designed a study to evaluate the effects of a modified bismuth‐containing quadruple therapy including a short course of furazolidone on a group of patients whose sequential therapy had been unsuccessful.

Materials and Methods:  Thirty‐six H. pylori‐positive patients who had previously failed a clarithromycin‐containing sequential therapy enrolled the study. They received pantoprazole (40 mg‐bid), amoxicillin (1 g‐bid), and bismuth subcitrate (240 mg‐bid) for 2 weeks and furazolidone (200 mg‐bid) just during the first week. Eight weeks after treatment, H. pylori eradication was reassessed using C14‐urea breath test.

Results:  Thirty five patients completed the study. H. pylori eradication rates were 80.6% (95% CI = 67.6–93.5) and 82.9% (95% CI = 70.6–95.2) according to intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol analyses, respectively. All patients had excellent compliance to treatment, and no one interrupted therapy owing to adverse effects.

Conclusion:  Regarding the eradication rate (>80%), low price, and very low adverse effects, a 2‐week bismuth‐containing quadruple regimen including a short course of furazolidone can be an encouraging regimen for second‐line H. pylori eradication in case of sequential therapy failure. Possibly, it can be improved by alterations in dose, dosing intervals, and/or duration.