bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variability in the life history of the water strider Gerris lacustris (Heteroptera: Gerridae) across small spatial scales
Authors: Pfenning B. , Poethke H. J.
Published: April 2006

Abstract.  1. Variability in life‐history traits of the common pond skater Gerris lacustris (L.) (Heteroptera: Gerridae) was investigated on a small geographical scale in Bavaria, Germany (≈ 49 °N). In an area of approximately 3.5 × 3.0 km, voltinism and wing length data of G. lacustris were recorded from 65 ponds located either in an open field or surrounded by forest.

2. Life history differed significantly between populations in the two habitat types. Gerris lacustris showed a bivoltine life‐cycle in most of the field ponds with a high proportion of long‐winged individuals in the diapause generation and a large increase of the short‐winged morph in the midsummer generation. In contrast, almost all populations inhabiting forest ponds were univoltine. Only a few forest populations produced any second generation larvae. The long‐winged morph dominated during the whole season in forest ponds.

3. The appearance of first‐instar larvae was delayed by 3–4 weeks in forest ponds compared with field ponds. Presumably, low temperatures led to this reduction in the developmental rate of eggs and larvae. Consequently, ‘field larvae’ of the first generation developed under increasing daylight conditions (triggering direct reproduction and brachyptery) but ‘forest larvae’ developed under a shortening photoperiod (triggering diapause and macroptery).

4. Offspring raised from ‘forest parents’ in the laboratory showed the same variability in life history when reared in a cool (16.9 ± 2.4 °C) or warm (23.1 ± 1.8 °C) temperature regime.

5. Given the small spatial scale of the study, it is concluded that the variability in the life history of G. lacustris has a strong phenotypic component.
Interdemic variation of cannibalism in a wolf spider (Pardosa monticola) inhabiting different habitat types
Authors: Vanden Borre Jeroen , Bonte Dries , Maelfait Jean‐Pierre
Published: April 2006

Abstract. 1. Cannibalism was investigated in the wolf spiderPardosa monticola(Clerck) using spiders collected from four populations with varying densities, inhabiting two different coastal dune habitat types. Sampled individuals were paired randomly and tested immediately for their cannibalism propensity.

2. The occurrence of cannibalism was found to be influenced by the size (cephalothorax width) of both the smaller and the larger spider of a pair. Larger size differences enhanced cannibalism.

3. Cannibalism rates were not significantly different in spiders from high‐density compared with low‐density populations. Cannibalism rates showed, however, large variability between habitat types, with higher rates in spiders from dune grasslands than from dune slacks. This is suggested to result from differences in prey availability throughout the growing season between both habitat types.

4. Different size classes of spiders did not use different microhabitats, indicating that microhabitat segregation as a cannibalism‐avoidance behaviour is absent in this species.
Costs of cannibalism in the presence of an iridovirus pathogen ofSpodoptera frugiperda
Authors: Williams Trevor , Hernández Olivia
Published: April 2006

Abstract. 1. The costs of cannibalism were examined in larvae ofSpodoptera frugiperda(J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the presence of conspecifics infected by a lethal invertebrate iridescent virus (IIV). The hypothesis of a positive correlation between insect density and the likelihood of disease transmission by cannibalism was examined in laboratory microcosms and a field experiment.

2. Transmission was negligible following peroral infection of early instars with purified virus suspensions or following coprophagy of virus‐contaminated faeces excreted by infected insects. In contrast, 92% of the insects that predated infected conspecifics acquired the infection and died prior to adult emergence in the laboratory. Diseased larvae were more likely to be victims of cannibalism than healthy larvae.

3. The prevalence of cannibalism was density dependent in laboratory microcosms with a low density (10 healthy insects + one infected insect) or high density (30 healthy insects + one infected insect) of insects, and field experiments performed on maize plants infested with one or four healthy insects + one infected insect.

4. Cannibalism in the presence of virus‐infected conspecifics was highly costly toS. frugiperda; in all cases, insect survival was reduced by between ≈ 50% (laboratory) and ≈ 30% (field) in the presence of the pathogen. Contrary to expectations, the prevalence of disease was not sensitive to density because cannibalism resulted in self‐thinning. As infected individuals are consumed and disappear from the population, the prevalence of disease will be determined by the timescale over which transmission can be achieved, and the rate at which individuals that have acquired an infection become themselves infectious to conspecific predators.
Vertical stratification in the spatial distribution of the beech scale insect (Ultracoelostoma assimile) inNothofagustree canopies in New Zealand
Authors: Wardhaugh Carl W. , Blakely Tanya J. , Greig Hamish , Morris Paul D. , Barnden Annabel , Rickard Sarah , Atkinson Basil , Fagan Laura L. , Ewers Robert M. , Didham Raphael K.
Published: April 2006

Abstract. 1. The degree of infestation by New Zealand sooty beech scale insects (Ultracoelostoma assimile, Homoptera: Margarodidae) varies dramatically among adjacent southern beech trees (Nothofagusspp., Fagaceae), but has previously been assumed to be uniformly or randomly distributed within individual host trees. In this study, a full‐census survey was conducted from ground level to canopy level on 14 naturally occurring, canopy‐dominant red beech (Nothofagus fusca) trees (size range 38.7–107.6 cm diameter at breast height) to determine the degree of within‐tree heterogeneity in herbivore density.

2. The within‐tree distribution of the sooty beech scale was vertically stratified and highly heterogeneous, with the greatest densities occurring on bark surfaces in the canopy rather than on the trunk, and on the lower rather than upper sides of the branches. The spatial distribution was strongly negatively correlated with trunk and branch diameter, and increasing bark thickness (as a function of diameter) provides a plausible explanation for differences in the establishment and population density of sooty beech scale insects with trunk and branch size. Furthermore, there was a significant change in the spatial distribution of scale insect populations on trunks and branches of trees of increasing diameter at breast height. This indicates a strong temporal component to the spatial dynamics of the sooty beech scale insect driven by changing host phenology. Future studies on phytophagous insects infesting large host trees need to consider more explicitly changes in population dynamics through space and time.

3. Because of the high degree of within‐tree heterogeneity in population density, the total population size of scale insects on an individual tree could not be predicted from any measure of population density low on the trunk. However, the dry weight biomass of sooty mould fungi growing on the ground beneath infested trees was a remarkably accurate predictor of the total population size of scale insects. The use of sooty mould fungi as a relative measure of population size could be incorporated into studies of other honeydew‐producing hemipterans, since the growth of sooty mould is a distinctive feature synonymous with high concentrations of honeydew production worldwide.
Effects of the light environment on oviposition preference and survival of a leaf‐mining moth, Cameraria hamadryadella (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), on Quercus alba L.
Authors: Connor Edward F.
Published: April 2006

Abstract.  1. Oviposition preference and the survival and mortality of larvae of Cameraria hamadryadella (Lepidoptera) on the foliage of Quercus alba L. (Fagaceae) in sun and shade were examined. To separate the effects of the environment of foliation from that of rearing, C. hamadryadella were allowed to oviposit on oak saplings that foliated either in the sun or shade. Subsequently, trees were placed into the sun or shade and larval survival was monitored.

2. Trees that foliated in the shade had leaves that were 30% longer than those that foliated in the sun. However, the density of leaf mines did not differ between trees that foliated in the sun or shade.

3. Larval survival was higher in the shade than in the sun, but no difference in survival due to the site of foliation was detected. Differences in larval survival between the sun and shade environments could not be attributed to differences in natural enemy mortality. However, ‘death by other causes’ was higher for larvae reared in the sun than in the shade. In sunny environments photochemical processes may reduce foliage quality, which results in lower survival of C. hamadryadella larvae.

4. Ovipositing C. hamadryadella do not appear to discriminate between foliage produced in the sun or shade. This lack of discrimination, coupled with the fact that ovipositing C. hamadryadella are active after dark, accounts for the absence of a difference in abundance between sun and shade.

5. The results presented here, combined with other published studies, argue that different patterns of insect herbivory and abundance in relation to the light level experienced by host‐plant foliage might be expected for species that oviposit either in the night or in the day.
The conservation management of mesotrophic (meadow) grassland in northern England. 1. Effects of grazing, cutting date and fertilizer on the vegetation of a traditionally managed sward
Authors: SMITH R. S. , BUCKINGHAM H. , BULLARD M. J. , SHIEL R. S. , YOUNGER A.
Published: April 2006

The results are reported from an experiment on the effects of cutting date (14 June, 21 July and I September), fertilizer application (none or 80 kg ha−1 N plus 40 kg ha−1 P and K) and grazing treatments (none, autumn or autumn plus spring) on the vegetation of an upland mesotrophic grassland in Upper Teesdale. northern England, UK.

Effects on plant species number and cover are reported for 4 years (1989–93) of treatment. Effects on ‘species ‐attributes’ are given for the fourth year.

The cessation of grazing combined with the use of fertilizer progressively reduced species number by about 25%. Under traditional management (no fertilizer, cutting date on 21 July, autumn and spring grazing) the species number and cover remained relatively static over the 4 years.

Comparison between treatments in the fourth year showed a reduction in species number under the fertilizer application, cutting date on 1 September and no‐grazing treatments. Fertilizer use together with cutting date on 1 September particularly lowered species number and cover.

Analysis of variance was used to assess the effect of treatment on species that occurred frequently in the sward. A cutting date of 1 September favoured Agrostis capillaris. Alopecurus pratensis, Poa trivialis, Phleum pratense and Trisetum flavescens, The absence of grazing favoured Dactylis glomerata and Holcus lanatus. The use of fertilizer particularly favoured A. pratensis and H. lanatus. Ordination methods were used to assess the effect of treatment on the less frequent species. These were primarily associated with the treatment combination that matched ‘traditional’ management. Deviations from this ‘traditional’ regime acted separately, rather than in combination, and favoured different grass species. Traditional management was associated with ruderal, stress‐tolerant ruderal and competitive ruderal strategists and with longer seed germination times, heavier seeds, some of which needed scarifying or chilling to break dormancy, and transient seed banks that germinated in the autumn.

The original sward was an Anthoxanthum odora‐turn‐Geranium sylvatirum grassland, Briza media subcommunity (MG3b). After 4 years, Festuca ovina‐Agrostis capillaris‐Galium saxatile grassland, Holcus lanatus‐Trifolium repens subcom‐munity (U4b) and Lolium perenne‐Alopecurus pratensis‐Festuca pratensis grassland (MG7c) were found in many of the fertilized and late‐cutting treatments.
RESEARCH NOTE
Authors: HAIGH P. M. , CHAPPLE D. G. , POWELL T. L.
Published: April 2006

Data from twenty‐two experiments conducted at tour ADAS Research Centres during 1980–92 were used to compare untreated silages with silages treated with formic acid, with or without added formalin, commercial inoculants or molasses. The sillages were made from herbage whose dry‐matter (DM) and water‐soluble carbohydrate (WSC) contents were 277 (s.e. 0.46) g DM kg−1 and 36 (s.e. 8.1) g kg−1 respectively. Inoculant use significantly decreased silage pH and ammonia‐N, significantly increased lactic acid and total acid content, and decreased butyric acid and total short‐chain fatty acids. Formic acid use significantly increased silage lactic acid and total acid content, and decreased butyric acid content, whereas formic acid+formalin significantly decreased silage ammonia‐N level. Molasses had little effect upon silage fermentation. Improvements in silage fermentation, however, produced little benefit in terms of either silage DM intake or liveweight gain when the silages were offered to growing lambs.

It is suggested from the results that inoculant‐ and formic acid‐based additives can be used to improve the fermentation of big‐bale silages.
Domestication and the distribution of genetic variation in wild and cultivated populations of the Mesoamerican fruit tree Spondias purpurea L. (Anacardiaceae)
Authors: MILLER ALLISON J. , SCHAAL BARBARA A.
Published: April 2006

Domestication occurs as humans select and cultivate wild plants in agricultural habitats. The amount and structure of variation in contemporary cultivated populations has been shaped, in part, by how genetic material was transferred from one cultivated generation to the next. In some cultivated tree species, domestication involved a shift from sexually reproducing wild populations to vegetatively propagated cultivated populations; however, little is known about how domestication has impacted variation in these species. We employed AFLP data to explore the amount, structure, and distribution of variation in clonally propagated domesticated populations and sexually reproducing wild populations of the Neotropical fruit tree, Spondias purpurea (Anacardiaceae). Cultivated populations from three different agricultural habitats were included: living fences, backyards, and orchards. AFLP data were analysed using measures of genetic diversity (% polymorphic loci, Shannon's diversity index, Nei's gene diversity, panmictic heterozygosity), population structure (FST analogues), and principal components analyses. Levels of genetic variation in cultivated S. purpurea populations are significantly less than variation found in wild populations, although the amount of diversity varies in different agricultural habitats. Cultivated populations have a greater proportion of their genetic variability distributed among populations than wild populations. The genetic structure of backyard populations resembles that of wild populations, but living fence and orchard populations have 1/3 more variability distributed among populations, most likely a reflection of relative levels of vegetative reproduction. Finally, these results suggest that S. purpurea was domesticated in two distinct regions within Mesoamerica.
Phylogeography of postglacial range expansion in Nigronia serricornis Say (Megaloptera: Corydalidae)
Authors: HEILVEIL J. S. , BERLOCHER S. H.
Published: April 2006

We have examined the effects of post‐Wisconsinan glacial range expansion on the phylogeography of the saw‐combed fishfly, Nigronia serricornis Say (Megaloptera: Corydalidae) because aquatic insects are under‐represented in postglacial studies (and in phylogeography in general), and because the effects of ecological degradation on the population genetics of environmental indicator species like N. serricornis cannot be measured unless the underlying phylogeography is understood. Sequence data from a 630‐base fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene were subjected to amova and nested clade analysis for 30 populations (n = 344) of N. serricornis. Both the amova and nested clade analysis revealed substantial population structure; 44.4% of the variance occured among populations. Three northward migrations are apparent: one from Tennessee into Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan and Ontario, a second that radiated eastward from Pennsylvania, and a third that moved along the coast from North Carolina into Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine and then into New York. The latter two of these migrations were the result of contiguous range expansions, while the former expansion, out of Tennessee, appears to have been rapid with little gene flow from the source population. Additional clades included a group of haplotypes in central Kentucky that appear to have expanded along preglacial drainages, and clades in North Carolina and Georgia that have remained centrally located. Haplotype diversity decreased from south to north, a pattern that has been widely reported for animal and plant populations that expanded with the retreat of the Wisconsinan glaciation.
Dispersal and genetic structure in the American marten,Martes americana
Authors: BROQUET T. , JOHNSON C. A. , PETIT E. , THOMPSON I. , BUREL F. , FRYXELL J. M.
Published: April 2006

Natal dispersal in a vagile carnivore, the American marten (Martes americana), was studied by comparing radio‐tracking data and microsatellite genetic structure in two populations occupying contrasting habitats. The genetic differentiation determined among groups of individuals usingFSTindices appeared to be weak in both landscapes, and showed no increase with geographical distance. Genetic structure investigated using pairwise genetic distances between individuals conversely showed a pattern of isolation by distance (IBD), but only in the population occurring in a homogeneous high‐quality habitat, therefore showing the advantage of individual‐based analyses in detecting within‐population processes and local landscape effects. The telemetry study of juveniles revealed a leptokurtic distribution of dispersal distances in both populations, and estimates of the mean squared parent–offspring axial distance (σ2) inferred both from the genetic pattern of IBD and from the radio‐tracking survey showed that most juveniles make little contribution to gene flow.
Endopterygote systematics – where do we stand and what is the goal (Hexapoda, Arthropoda)?
Authors: Beutel Rolf G. , Pohl Hans
Published: April 2006

Abstract.  Impressive progress has been made recently in the systematics of holometabolous insects. Nevertheless, important questions remain controversial, and uncertainties concerning the relationships of major lineages may even have increased. New analytical techniques have been developed and an immense wealth of molecular data has accumulated. Although no decisive breakthrough has yet been achieved, recent analyses of large molecular datasets have contributed greatly to the reconstruction of the phylogeny of several holometabolous lineages. Extensive combined analyses with substantial morphological datasets and molecular data comprising several genes (‘total evidence’) are still required for a well‐founded phylogenetic hypothesis for the entire group. Endopterygota monophyly is supported mainly by the specific and derived mode of development, which may be considered as a new evolutionary level within Hexapoda. The basal branching pattern remains controversial. A division into two large clades comprising Coleoptera (+ Strepsiptera?) + Neuropterida, on the one hand, and Hymenoptera + [Amphiesmenoptera + Antliophora (including Strepsiptera?)], on the other, appears plausible. Alternative hypotheses have been proposed based on wing characters and molecular data. The position of Strepsiptera remains unsolved. Mecoptera almost certainly is not monophyletic, as Siphonaptera are probably sister to Boreidae. Immense progress has been made in the reconstruction of the intraordinal relationships of all orders, thanks to increasing studies based on combined datasets. Common efforts of morphologists and molecular systematists probably will lead to further rapid progress. Several discoveries of new higher ranking taxa during recent years have revealed that large‐scale habitat destruction will not only have disastrous effects on global biodiversity, but also on the study of insect phylogeny and evolution.
Isolates of Microdochium nivale and M. majus Differentiated by Pathogenicity on Perennial Ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) and in vitro Growth at Low Temperature
Authors: Hofgaard I. S. , Wanner L. A. , Hageskal G. , Henriksen B. , Klemsdal S. S. , Tronsmo A. M.
Published: April 2006

Pink snow mould is a serious disease on grasses and winter cereals in cold and temperate zones during winter. To better understand the basis for the variation in pathogenicity between different isolates of Microdochium nivale and M. majus and to simplify selection of highly pathogenic isolates to use when screening for resistance to pink snow mould in perennial ryegrass, we sought traits correlated with pathogenicity. Isolates of M. nivale were more pathogenic on perennial ryegrass than isolates of M. majus, as measured by survival and regrowth of perennial ryegrass after infection and incubation under simulated snow cover. Pathogenicity as measured by relative regrowth was highly correlated with fungal growth rate on potato dextrose agar (PDA) at 2°C. Measuring fungal growth on PDA therefore seems to be a relatively simple method of screening for potentially highly pathogenic isolates. In a study of a limited number of isolates, highly pathogenic isolates showed an earlier increase and a higher total specific activity of β‐glucosidase, a cell wall‐degrading enzyme, compared with less pathogenic isolates. None of the M. majus isolates was highly pathogenic on perennial ryegrass. Our results indicate biological differences between M. nivale and M. majus and thus strengthen the recently published sequence‐based evidence for the elevation of these former varieties to species status.
Transmission of Zucchini yellow mosaic virus by Colonizing and Non‐colonizing Aphids in Greece and New Aphid Species Vectors of the Virus
Authors: Katis N. I. , Tsitsipis J. A. , Lykouressis D. P. , Papapanayotou A. , Margaritopoulos J. T. , Kokinis G. M. , Perdikis D. Ch. , Manoussopoulos I. N.
Published: April 2006

Nineteen aphid species were tested for their ability to transmit Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV) from and to zucchini under laboratory conditions. Sixteen species were found to be new vectors of ZYMV (i.e. Aphis craccae, Aphis fabae, Aphis nerii, Aulacorthum solani, Brachycaudus cardui, Brevicoryne brassicae, Hyalopterus pruni complex, Hyperomyzus lactucae, Macrosiphoniella sanborni, Macrosiphum rosae, Metopolophium dirhodum, Myzus cerasi, Rhopalosiphum maidis, R. padi, Semiaphis dauci and Sipha maydis). Their transmission efficiency by a single aphid was low (0.1–4.2%). Myzus persicae was used as a control and was the most efficient vector (41.1%, one aphid per plant). Hayhurstia atriplicis, Myzus ascalonicus and Sitobion avenae did not transmit the virus. In four out of six new vectors assayed in arena tests for propensity estimation, propensity was higher than efficiency. Data from an experimental zucchini field in northern Greece revealed a high correlation between ZYMV spread and alatae of the vector species. The most abundant aphid vectors during 2 years experimentation were M. persicae, Aphis gossypii and Aphis spiraecola. The possible role of the 16 new and the previously known aphid vectors in the epidemiology of ZYMV was investigated using data of transmission efficiency combined with the captures of their alatae in the Greek net of a Rothamsted type suction trap.
Rare case of Alstrom syndrome without obesity and with short stature, diagnosed in adulthood (Case Report)
Authors: KOÇ EYUP , BAYRAK GULDEN , SUHER MURAT , ENSARI CUNEYT , AKTAS DILEK , ENSARI ARZU
Published: April 2006

SUMMARY:  Alstrom syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by retinal degeneration, sensorineural hearing loss, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus and chronic nephropathy. It may be associated with acanthosis nigricans, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, hepatic dysfunction, hepatic steatosis, hyperlipidaemia, dilated cardiomyopathy and short stature. We report a patient with Alstrom syndrome who had hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, hepatic dysfunction, hepatic steatosis and short stature with normal body weight, all of which are seen infrequently with this syndrome.
Preliminary experience with mycophenolate mofetil for preservation of renal function in cardiac transplant patients with documented cyclosporine nephrotoxicity
Authors: AL‐ALY ZIYAD , SACHDEVA ASHUTOSH , PHILOCTETE ASHLEY JENNIFER M , BASTANI BAHAR
Published: April 2006

Background: Cyclosporine (CyA) has positively impacted on the outcome of cardiac transplantation; however, the nephrotoxicity associated with CyA has been a major drawback.

Methods: In an effort to reduce exposure to CyA and possibly alleviate its nephrotoxic effects, we undertook a therapeutic strategy to switch cardiac transplant patients with biopsy‐proven CyA nephrotoxicity from azathioprine (AZA) to mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) with subsequent CyA dose reduction or elimination.

Results: MMF was substituted for AZA in five cardiac transplant patients (four males; mean age, 60 ± 6 years old; average time from transplant was 7 ± 3 years) who had biopsy proven evidence of CyA nephrotoxicity, and in whom CyA dose was reduced (3/5) or discontinued (2/5). At the time of the therapeutic intervention, four patients had an average serum creatinine of 230 ± 62 µmol/L and one patient had just been started on haemodialysis (HD). During an average follow‐up period of 42 months, the slope of the inverse serum creatinine significantly improved in three patients and continued to deteriorate in one patient. The patient on HD could be transiently taken off HD. However, he developed a severe episode of cardiac rejection requiring antirejection therapy and increase in the dose of CyA. The patient was subsequently returned back on HD.

Conclusion: In this preliminary report, we show that AZA to MMF switch with subsequent CyA dose reduction or discontinuation may slow down the progression of kidney disease in some patients. However, the patients should be followed closely for evidence of cardiac rejection.
Aldose reductase regulates TGF‐β1‐induced production of fibronectin and type IV collagen in cultured rat mesangial cells
Authors: JIANG TAO , CHE QI , LIN YIFENG , LI HUI , ZHANG NONG
Published: April 2006

Aim:  To study the effects of aldose reductase (AR) on production of fibronectin and type IV collagen in rat mesangial cells (MsC).

Methods:  The vector, pcDNA3‐AR, was constructed based on pET‐15b‐AR. Lipofect AMINE was used for stable transfection and G418 was used for selecting positive clones. Sorbinil and zopolrestat were added for suppressing the activity of AR, respectively. The production of fibronectin and type IV collagen and the activation of Smads and MAPK signal transduction pathway were analysed by western blot and AP‐1 activity was analysed by electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA).

Results:  The normal MsC showed increased expression of fibronectin and type IV collagen with stimulation of TGF‐β1. Compared with the normal MsC, the MsC pre‐incubated with ARI showed reduced expression (P < 0.05) and the AR‐transfected MsC showed increased expression (P < 0.05). The normal MsC showed activation of ERK, JNK and p38 with stimulation of TGF‐β1, while the activation of JNK and p38 was inhibited in the MsC pre‐incubated with ARI and only the activation of JNK was enhanced in the AR‐transfected MsC. The normal MsC showed enhanced AP‐1 activity with the stimulation of TGF‐β1, and similarly the activity was inhibited in the MsC pre‐incubated with ARI and was more enhanced in the AR transfected MsC.

Conclusion:  AR can regulate the expression of fibronectin and type IV collagen with the stimulation of TGF‐β1 in MsC, which may have relations with the activation of JNK‐MAPK and p38‐MAPK signalling pathways and AP‐1.
Miliary tuberculosis in a Caucasian male transplant recipient and the role of intravenous immunoglobulin as an immunosuppressive sparing agent (Case Report)
Authors: LIAN MICHAEL , CHAN WILLIAM , SLAVIN MONICA , COHNEY SOLOMON
Published: April 2006

SUMMARY:  Opportunistic infections are a common and anticipated accompaniment of transplantation, but are generally somewhat predictable in their timing and epidemiology. The authors report here a case of miliary tuberculosis occurring within 3 weeks of transplantation, in a patient not expected to be significantly at risk, and with a normal chest X‐ray at the time of transplantation. A 25‐year‐old Caucasian male dialysis patient who received two paediatric kidneys as an en bloc renal transplant developed fever 3 weeks following transplantation; this eventually proved to be miliary tuberculosis. As well as antituberculous therapy and a significant reduction in the patient's conventional immunosuppression, intravenous immunoglobulin was used as anti‐rejection prophylaxis. The case highlights the immunosuppressed status of dialysis patients prior to transplantation and the need for broad differential diagnosis in transplant recipients even in the absence of recognized epidemiological factors. The case also emphasizes the role of intravenous immunoglobulin as an anti‐rejection therapy that does not add to the patient's immunosuppressive burden.
What Determines Cross‐Country Access to Antiretroviral Treatment?
Authors: Nattrass Nicoli
Published: April 2006

Despite the recent international effort to expand access to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in developing countries, its coverage still varies significantly from country to country and is strongly correlated with per capita income. However, regional and political variables are also important. Cross‐country regressions indicate that, controlling for political and economic characteristics and the scale of the HIV epidemic, Latin American and African countries have better coverage than predicted. Whereas the level of HIV prevalence was a significantly (negative) factor when accounting for HAART coverage in June 2004, this effect had disappeared by December 2004. The improvement appears to have benefited democratic countries in particular.
Social Protection and Health: Experiences in Uganda
Authors: Yates Jenny , Cooper Ros , Holland Jeremy
Published: April 2006

There is an interesting and continuing debate on the nature and role of social protection in poverty reduction. Within the health sector, discussion has focussed on the drawbacks associated with fee exemption schemes and community‐based health insurance, with much less attention paid to the policy option of abolishing user fees. This paper reviews empirical evidence on the impact of the Government of Uganda's decision in 2001 to abolish user fees for health services. The paper finds that this policy intervention has had a significant positive impact on health‐seeking behaviour in Uganda and concludes that this policy measure can make an important contribution towards a more ‘promotional’ policy approach to social protection.
Carotenoids, colour and conservation in an endangered passerine, the hihi or stitchbird (Notiomystis cincta)
Authors: Ewen J. G. , Surai P. , Stradi R. , Møller A. P. , Vittorio B. , Griffiths R. , Armstrong D. P.
Published: April 2006

Carotenoids are essential dietary components utilized not only in pigmentation but also as immuno‐stimulants and antioxidants. Reduced availability can have consequences on individual health and survival, thus making carotenoids a good indicator of environmental stress. We compared carotenoid profiles and plumage colour characteristics of an endangered passerine species in New Zealand, between its remnant island source population and two reintroduced island populations. Circulating carotenoids were predominantly lutein (mean of 82.2%) and zeaxanthin (mean of 14.8%), and these were the major carotenoids present as yellow pigments in the males' plumage. There were clear differences in total carotenoid concentrations and plumage colour among the three populations. Circulating carotenoid concentration was significantly higher in one of the reintroduced populations, and the yellow plumage of males was significantly higher in both reintroduced populations in comparison with the remnant population (reflected as a significant increase in hue). Understanding how these differences arise may be of importance to this species given the health benefits carotenoids impart and our ability to select plant species containing these compounds or artificially supplement them.
Molecular fingerprinting of BMP2‐ and BMP4‐treated embryonic maxillary mesenchymal cells
Authors: Mukhopadhyay P , Singh S , Greene RM , Pisano MM
Published: April 2006

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Mukhopadhyay P, Singh S, Greene RM, Pisano MM

Objective –  To determine the differences in gene expression between control‐, bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)2‐ and BMP4‐treated murine embryonic maxillary mesenchymal (MEMM) cells.

Design –  Transcript profiles of BMP2‐, BMP4‐ and vehicle‐treated MEMM cells were compared utilizing the murine high‐density GeneChip arrays from Affymetrix. The raw chip data (probe intensities) were pre‐processed using robust multichip averaging with GC‐content background correction and further normalized with GeneSpring v7.2 software. Cluster analysis of the microarray data was performed with the GeneSpring software. Changes in the gene expression were verified by TaqMan quantitative real‐time PCR.

Results –  Expression of ∼50% of the 45 101 genes and expressed sequence tags examined in this study were detected in BMP2‐, BMP4‐ and vehicle‐treated MEMM cells and that of several hundred genes was significantly altered (up or downregulated) in these cells in response to BMP2 and BMP4. Expression profiles of each of the 26 mRNAs tested by TaqMan quantitative real‐time PCR were found to be consistent with the microarray data. Genes whose expression was modulated following BMP2 or BMP4 treatment, could be broadly classified based on the functions of the encoded proteins such as the growth factors and signaling molecules, transcription factors, and proteins involved in epithelial–mesenchymal interactions, extracellular matrix synthesis, cell adhesion, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.

Conclusion –  Utilization of the Affymetrix GeneChip microarray technology has enabled us to delineate a detailed transcriptional map of BMP2 and BMP4 responsiveness in embryonic maxillary mesenchymal cells and offers revealing insights into crucial molecular regulatory mechanisms employed by these two growth factors in orchestrating embryonic orofacial cellular responses.
Morphological differences in the temporomandibular joints in asymmetrical prognathism patients
Authors: Kawakami M , Yamamoto K , Inoue M , Kawakami T , Fujimoto M , Kirita T
Published: April 2006

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Kawakami M, Yamamoto K, Inoue M, Kawakami T, Fujimoto M, Kirita T

Objective –  To investigate the morphology of the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) in skeletal asymmetry with prognathism.

Design –  Three‐group observational clinical study.

Setting and Sample Population –  University setting. Thirty‐five patients undergoing orthognathic surgery without signs and symptoms of TMJ disorder were assigned to three groups (right deviation, n = 11; left deviation, n = 14; and non‐deviation; n = 10) based on anteroposterior cephalometric analysis.

Outcome Measure –  Positional and morphological differences of the TMJs were evaluated using a total of 70 bilateral sagittal TMJ magnetic resonance images.

Results –  In both the right and left deviation groups, the TMJ on the deviated side showed a significantly steeper eminence than that on the non‐deviated side (p < 0.05). The anterior joint space was narrower on the deviated side than on the non‐deviated side whereas the posterior joint space did not differ markedly, indicating an anterior position of the condyle in the glenoid fossa of the TMJ on the deviated side. Disk displacement comparisons revealed no significant differences between left and right sides in the symmetry or asymmetry group.

Conclusion –  Asymmetrical prognathism patients exhibit significant morphological differences between the right and left TMJs concerning the slope of the articular eminence, which correspond to facial asymmetry.
Response to Comment on "The Illusion of Invariant Quantities in Life Histories"
Authors: Nee Sean , Colegrave Nick , West Stuart A. , Grafen Alan
Published: April 2006

Savage
et al
. describe two different kinds of invariant. The kind they claim to have the greatest biological importance allows the invariant quantities to vary widely, even randomly, between different species. We do not agree that such quantities reveal any deep constraints on evolution.
A Bifurcating Pathway Directs Abscisic Acid Effects on Stomatal Closure and Opening in
Arabidopsis
Authors: Mishra Girish , Zhang Wenhua , Deng Fan , Zhao Jian , Wang Xuemin
Published: April 2006

Terrestrial plants lose water primarily through stomata, pores on the leaves. The hormone abscisic acid (ABA) decreases water loss by regulating opening and closing of stomata. Here, we show that phospholipase Dα1 (PLDα1) mediates the ABA effects on stomata through interaction with a protein phosphatase 2C (PP2C) and a heterotrimeric GTP-binding protein (G protein) in
Arabidopsis.
PLDα1-produced phosphatidic acid (PA) binds to the ABI1 PP2C to signal ABA-promoted stomatal closure, whereas PLDα1 and PA interact with the Gα subunit of heterotrimeric G protein to mediate ABA inhibition of stomatal opening. The results reveal a bifurcating signaling pathway that regulates plant water loss.
Control of Electron Localization in Molecular Dissociation
Authors: Kling M. F. , Siedschlag Ch. , Verhoef A. J. , Khan J. I. , Schultze M. , Uphues Th. , Ni Y. , Uiberacker M. , Drescher M. , Krausz F. , Vrakking M. J. J.
Published: April 2006

We demonstrated how the subcycle evolution of the electric field of light can be used to control the motion of bound electrons. Results are presented for the dissociative ionization of deuterium molecules (D
2
⇒ D
+
+ D), where asymmetric ejection of the ionic fragment reveals that light-driven intramolecular electronic motion before dissociation localizes the electron on one of the two D
+
ions in a controlled way. The results extend subfemtosecond electron control to molecules and provide evidence of its usefulness in controlling reaction dynamics.
Clinical and Laboratory Features of theNocardiaspp. Based on Current Molecular Taxonomy
Authors: Brown-Elliott Barbara A. , Brown June M. , Conville Patricia S. , Wallace Richard J.
Published: April 2006

The recent explosion of newly described species ofNocardiaresults from the impact in the last decade of newer molecular technology, including PCR restriction enzyme analysis and 16S rRNA sequencing. These molecular techniques have revolutionized the identification of the nocardiae by providing rapid and accurate identification of recognized nocardiae and, at the same time, revealing new species and a number of yet-to-be-described species. There are currently more than 30 species of nocardiae of human clinical significance, with the majority of isolates beingN. novacomplex,N. abscessus,N. transvalensiscomplex,N. farcinica,N. asteroidestype VI (N. cyriacigeorgica), andN. brasiliensis. These species cause a wide variety of diseases and have variable drug susceptibilities. Accurate identification often requires referral to a reference laboratory with molecular capabilities, as many newer species are genetically distinct from established species yet have few or no distinguishing phenotypic characteristics. Correct identification is important in deciding the clinical relevance of a species and in the clinical management and treatment of patients with nocardial disease. This review characterizes the currently known pathogenic species ofNocardia, including clinical disease, drug susceptibility, and methods of identification.
The Front Line of Enteric Host Defense against Unwelcome Intrusion of Harmful Microorganisms: Mucins, Antimicrobial Peptides, and Microbiota
Authors: Liévin-Le Moal Vanessa , Servin Alain L.
Published: April 2006

The intestinal tract is a complex ecosystem that combines resident microbiota and the cells of various phenotypes with complex metabolic activities that line the epithelial wall. The intestinal cells that make up the epithelium provide physical and chemical barriers that protect the host against the unwanted intrusion of microorganisms that hijack the cellular molecules and signaling pathways of the host and become pathogenic. Some of the organisms making up the intestinal microbiota also have microbicidal effects that contribute to the barrier against enteric pathogens. This review describes the two cell lineages present in the intestinal epithelium: the goblet cells and the Paneth cells, both of which play a pivotal role in the first line of enteric defense by producing mucus and antimicrobial peptides, respectively. We also analyze recent insights into the intestinal microbiota and the mechanisms by which some resident species act as a barrier to enteric pathogens. Moreover, this review examines whether the cells producing mucins or antimicrobial peptides and the resident microbiota act in partnership and whether they function individually and/or synergistically to provide the host with an effective front line of defense against harmful enteric pathogens.
The Continuing Challenges of Leprosy
Authors: Scollard D. M. , Adams L. B. , Gillis T. P. , Krahenbuhl J. L. , Truman R. W. , Williams D. L.
Published: April 2006

Leprosy is best understood as two conjoined diseases. The first is a chronic mycobacterial infection that elicits an extraordinary range of cellular immune responses in humans. The second is a peripheral neuropathy that is initiated by the infection and the accompanying immunological events. The infection is curable but not preventable, and leprosy remains a major global health problem, especially in the developing world, publicity to the contrary notwithstanding.Mycobacterium lepraeremains noncultivable, and for over a century leprosy has presented major challenges in the fields of microbiology, pathology, immunology, and genetics; it continues to do so today. This review focuses on recent advances in our understanding ofM. lepraeand the host response to it, especially concerning molecular identification ofM. leprae, knowledge of its genome, transcriptome, and proteome, its mechanisms of microbial resistance, and recognition of strains by variable-number tandem repeat analysis. Advances in experimental models include studies in gene knockout mice and the development of molecular techniques to explore the armadillo model. In clinical studies, notable progress has been made concerning the immunology and immunopathology of leprosy, the genetics of human resistance, mechanisms of nerve injury, and chemotherapy. In nearly all of these areas, however, leprosy remains poorly understood compared to other major bacterial diseases.
Burn Wound Infections
Authors: Church Deirdre , Elsayed Sameer , Reid Owen , Winston Brent , Lindsay Robert
Published: April 2006

Burns are one of the most common and devastating forms of trauma. Patients with serious thermal injury require immediate specialized care in order to minimize morbidity and mortality. Significant thermal injuries induce a state of immunosuppression that predisposes burn patients to infectious complications. A current summary of the classifications of burn wound infections, including their diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, is given. Early excision of the eschar has substantially decreased the incidence of invasive burn wound infection and secondary sepsis, but most deaths in severely burn-injured patients are still due to burn wound sepsis or complications due to inhalation injury. Burn patients are also at risk for developing sepsis secondary to pneumonia, catheter-related infections, and suppurative thrombophlebitis. The introduction of silver-impregnated devices (e.g., central lines and Foley urinary catheters) may reduce the incidence of nosocomial infections due to prolonged placement of these devices. Improved outcomes for severely burned patients have been attributed to medical advances in fluid resuscitation, nutritional support, pulmonary and burn wound care, and infection control practices.
Interpretive Breakpoints for Fluconazole and
Candida
Revisited: a Blueprint for the Future of Antifungal Susceptibility Testing
Authors: Pfaller M. A. , Diekema D. J. , Sheehan D. J.
Published: April 2006

Developing interpretive breakpoints for any given organism-drug combination requires integration of the MIC distribution, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters, and the relationship between in vitro activity and outcome from both in vivo and clinical studies. Previously, the Subcommittee for Antifungal Testing of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI [formerly National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards]) proposed MIC interpretive breakpoints for fluconazole and
Candida
spp. These breakpoints were considered to be somewhat weak, because the clinical data supporting them came largely from mucosal infections and there were very few infections involving strains with elevated fluconazole MICs. We readdress the issue of fluconazole breakpoints for
Candida
by using published clinical and microbiologic data to provide further validation of the breakpoints proposed by the CLSI in 1997. We also address interpretive breakpoints for agar disk diffusion testing of fluconazole. The MIC distribution for fluconazole was determined with a collection of 13,338 clinical isolates. The overall MIC at which 90% of the isolates were inhibited was 8 μg/ml: 91% were susceptible (S) at a MIC of ≤8 μg/ml and 3% were resistant (R) (MIC ≥ 64 μg/ml). Similar results were obtained for 2,190 isolates from randomized clinical trials. Analysis of available data for 1,295 patient-episode-isolate events (692 represented mucosal infections and 603 represented invasive infections) from 12 published clinical studies demonstrated an overall success rate of 77%, including 85% for those episodes in which the fluconazole MIC was ≤8 μg/ml, 67% for those episodes in which the MIC was 16 to 32 μg/ml, and 42% for those episodes with resistant (MIC ≥ 64 μg/ml) isolates. Pharmacodynamic analysis demonstrated a strong relationship between MIC, fluconazole dose, and outcome. A dose/MIC ratio of ∼25 was supportive of the following susceptibility breakpoints for fluconazole and
Candida
spp.: S, MIC ≤ 8 μg/ml; susceptible-dose dependent (SDD), MIC = 16 to 32 μg/ml; R, MIC ≥ 64 μg/ml. The corresponding disk test breakpoints are as follows: S, ≥19 mm; SDD, 15 to 18 mm; R, ≤14 mm.