bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High efficacy with five days schedule of oral fludarabine phosphate and cyclophosphamide in patients with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Cazin Bruno , Divine Marine , Leprêtre Stéphane , Travade Philippe , Tournilhac Olivier , Delmer Alain , Jaubert Jérôme , Feugier Pierre , Dreyfus Brigitte , Mahé Béatrice , Grosbois Bernard , Maloisel Frédéric , Eghbali Houchingue , Dumontet Charles , Bénichou Jacques , Guibon Odile , Leleu Xavier , Leporrier Michel , Maloum Karim
Published: August 2008

A multicentre single‐arm study testing the efficacy and toxicity of the oral combination of fludarabine and cyclophosphamide (FC) over 5 d in 75 patients with untreated B cell‐chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Oral FC demonstrated high efficacy with overall (OR) and complete response (CR) rates of 80% and 53%, respectively. Out of the 30 CR patients studied for Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) using 4‐colour flow‐cytometry and the 22 using Clonospecific polymerase chain reaction, 22 (66%) and 16 (68%), respectively, were MRD negative. Median survival and median treatment‐free interval had not been reached at 7 years of follow‐up. Median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 5 years. Toxicity was acceptable, with 52% and 16% of National Cancer Institute grade 3/4 neutropenia and infections, respectively. Gastrointestinal toxicity was mild. Oral FC demonstrated a high efficacy and an acceptable safety profile and may be considered as the standard first line treatment in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.
Does thrombophilia testing help in the clinical management of patients?
Authors: Middeldorp Saskia , Van Hylckama Vlieg Astrid
Published: August 2008

Thrombophilia can be identified in about half of all patients presenting with venous thrombosis. Testing has increased tremendously for various indications, but whether the results of such tests help in the clinical management of patients has not been settled. Here, we review the most commonly tested thrombophilic abnormalities, i.e. protein C, protein S, and antithrombin deficiencies, the F5 R506Q (factor V Leiden) and F2 G20210A (prothrombin G20210A) mutations, and elevated levels of coagulation factor VIII, and their association with venous and arterial thrombosis as well as pregnancy complications. We conclude that testing for hereditary thrombophilia generally does not alter the clinical management of patients with venous or arterial thrombosis or pregnancy complications. Because testing for thrombophilia only serves limited purpose this should not be performed on a routine basis.
Allogeneic transplantation for Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Peggs Karl S. , Anderlini Paolo , Sureda Anna
Published: August 2008

The majority of patients with Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) can now expect to be cured with conventional chemo‐ and/or radio‐therapy. However, a subgroup still exists that have poor outcomes, even following dose escalation and autologous stem cell transplantation. Furthermore, patients relapsing after autografting have limited therapeutic options available. Whilst the application of allogeneic transplantation strategies has historically been limited by prohibitive transplant‐related mortality, the exploration of reduced intensity approaches has demonstrated the feasibility of delivering allogeneic immunotherapies with more acceptable mortality rates. Although its role remains controversial, we are beginning to re‐evaluate the use of allogeneic transplantation in the management of patients with HL and to address a number of critical questions. These include whether a clinically relevant graft‐versus‐tumour response occurs in HL, and whether subgroups of patients who might benefit from allogeneic approaches can be identified in order to inform development of rational clinical studies. This review focuses on evaluating recent experience with reduced intensity allogeneic approaches in HL in order to inform opinion on its current role and to highlight areas for future investigation.
Expression of iodine metabolism genes in human thyroid tissues: evidence for age and BRAFV600E mutation dependency
Authors: Espadinha Carla , Santos Jorge Rosa , Sobrinho Luís G. , Bugalho Maria João
Published: August 2008

Context  Children present a higher susceptibility to developing thyroid cancer after radioiodine exposure and also a higher frequency of functional metastases than adults.

Objective  To assess the mRNA expression of the sodium/iodide (Na+/I−) symporter (NIS), the Pendred syndrome gene (PDS), thyroperoxidase (TPO), thyroglobulin (Tg) and TSH receptor (TSH‐R) in normal thyroid tissues (NTTs) and papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs) among different age groups.

Methods  Analysis included 59 samples: 21 NTTs and 38 PTCs, of which 21 were the classic type (CPTC) and 17 the follicular variant (FVPTC). Patients were divided into three age groups: I (n = 16) 5–21 years, II (n = 13) 22–59 years, and III (n = 10) 60–91 years. The relative mRNA expression of the five target genes was determinate by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (QRT‐PCR).

Results  Expression of all genes was significantly higher in NTTs than in PTCs, and it was not age dependent in the NTT group. Among PTCs, the mean expression of PDS, TPO and TSH‐R was significantly lower in group II than in group I. PDS, TPO and Tg expression was significantly lower in classic PTCs than in FVPTCs. The difference was related to a higher frequency of the BRAFV600E mutation in the former group.

Conclusions  The finding of higher PDS, TPO and TSH‐R mRNA expression in paediatric vs. adult primary tumour tissues supports the hypothesis that this might contribute to the increased functional activity of metastases in the paediatric group. The finding that mRNA expression of the target genes in NTT was not age dependent does not provide an explanation for the higher susceptibility in the paediatric group.
Assessment of p27 (cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor 1B) and aryl hydrocarbon receptor‐interacting protein (AIP) genes in multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN1) syndrome patients without any detectable MEN1 gene mutations
Authors: Igreja Susana , Chahal Harvinder S. , Akker Scott A. , Gueorguiev Maria , Popovic Vera , Damjanovic Svetozar , Burman Pia , Wass John A. , Quinton Richard , Grossman Ashley B. , Korbonits Márta
Published: August 2008

Objective  Germline mutations in the MEN1 gene predispose to the multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN1) syndrome; however, approximately 10–20% of patients with MEN1 do not have a detectable MEN1 mutation. A rat strain with multiple endocrine tumours, a phenotypic overlap of both MEN1 and MEN2, has been reported to have a homozygous germline p27 (CDKN1B) mutation. Recently, two MEN1 mutation‐negative MEN1 syndrome patients have been identified to harbour a germline CDKN1B mutation. The recently identified gene AIP can also cause familial isolated pituitary adenoma, but no other specific tumour is associated with this syndrome. The objective of this study was to evaluate the possible contribution of CDKN1B and AIP germline mutations in a cohort of MEN1 mutation‐negative MEN1 syndrome patients.

Patients  Eighteen sporadic and three familial cases of MEN1 mutation‐negative MEN1 syndrome were studied (18 pituitary adenomas, 12 hyperparathyroidism, 10 neuroendocrine tumours including 2 ACTH‐secreting lesions and one adrenal nodular hyperplasia). Clinical data and genomic DNA were analysed for mutations in the CDKN1B and AIP genes.

Results  There were no mutations in the coding region or exon/intron junction of the CDKN1B and AIP genes in any patient. Although we have a limited number of patients in our cohort, our data is consistent with others in the literature suggesting that CDKN1B and AIP mutations are extremely rare in MEN1 syndrome.

Conclusion  Our results suggest that mutations in the CDKN1B and AIP genes are relatively uncommon in MEN1 mutation‐negative MEN1 syndrome patients.
Diagnostic value of salivary cortisol in Cushing's syndrome (CS)
Authors: Cardoso Estela M. L. , Arregger Alejandro L. , Tumilasci Omar R. , Contreras Liliana N.
Published: August 2008

Objective  The diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome (CS) remains a challenge in clinical endocrinology. The aim of this study was to determine the reproducibility and diagnostic value of late‐night salivary cortisol (SAF23) for CS and its utility along the follow‐up of treated patients. In addition, using the same radioimmunoassay reactives, the cut‐off values for saliva and serum cortisol, assessed synchronically after the overnight 1 mg dexamethasone suppression test (DST), were defined.

Design  Twenty‐one patients with confirmed CS and 121 volunteers were studied. All the subjects collected 24‐h urine for cortisol (UFC). On the same day whole saliva was obtained from the subjects at 23 h for SAF23. The intraclass coefficient of correlation (ICC) of SAF23 was estimated in 47 subjects (21 CS and 26 C). At 8 h, after DST, simultaneous saliva and serum samples for cortisol (SAFdex and Fdex, respectively) were obtained in 51 subjects (17 CS and 34 C). After specific therapy, 18 patients with CS were followed with SAF23 measurements. SAF and F were expressed as nm.

Results  The intraclass coefficient of correlation of SAF23 was 0·89 in CS and 0·83 in C. SAF23 > 3·8 nm showed a sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 97·5%, respectively, for diagnosing CS. SAF23 correlated positively with UFC (r = 0·685; P = 0·0001). After DST, SAFdex significantly correlated with Fdex (r = 0·61, P < 0·0001). A cut‐off value of SAFdex > 2·0 nm and Fdex > 50·0 nm detected CS with 100% sensitivity and specificity. After successful surgical therapy, 13 patients with CS had SAF23 levels < 3·8 nm (1·4 ± 0·8 nm).

Conclusions  SAF23 and SAFdex seem to be good screening tools based on their noninvasive nature, remarkable reproducibility and diagnostic performances.
Characterization of the anaemia associated with Graves’ disease
Authors: Gianoukakis Andrew G. , Leigh Mary J. , Richards Patrick , Christenson Peter D. , Hakimian Aliza , Fu Paul , Niihara Yutaka , Smith Terry J.
Published: August 2008

Background  Graves’ disease (GD) is associated with hyperthyroidism. Thyrotoxicosis adversely affects multiple organ systems including haematopoiesis. Anaemia occurring specifically in GD has not been systematically studied previously.

Objective  To define the prevalence and characteristics of the anaemia associated with GD.

Design  Eighty‐seven newly diagnosed patients with GD were recruited. Haematological indices, thyroid function and inflammatory parameters were examined at presentation and following successful treatment of hyperthyroidism.

Setting  Tertiary care academic referral centre.

Results  Thirty‐three per cent of subjects presented with anaemia. The prevalence of anaemia not attributable to other causes (GD anaemia) was 22%. GD anaemia affected 41·6% (10/24) of men compared to 17·5% of women (11/63). Mean erythropoietin (EPO) levels (15·5 ± 5·3 mIU/ml) were within normal reference limits but significantly higher (P = 0·004) than those of the non‐anaemic controls. Hgb correlated inversely with EPO (P = 0·05) and CRP (P = 0·04) levels, a relationship that persisted after multivariate adjustment for TT3 or TT4. With antithyroid therapy for 16 ± 6·3 weeks, Hgb levels normalized in 8 out of 9 subjects with GD anaemia (10·7 ± 0·8 to 13·5 ± 1·3 g/dl, P = 0·0001). After normalization of Hgb, mean MCV and TIBC were significantly increased, and median ferritin and mean EPO were significantly decreased.

Conclusions  GD anaemia is common, resembles the anaemia of chronic disease, and is associated with markers of inflammation. It corrects promptly with return to the euthyroid state following treatment.
Effects of genetic variation in the aldosterone synthase (CYP11B2) gene on enzyme function
Authors: Holloway C. D. , MacKenzie S. M. , Fraser R. , Miller S. , Barr M. , Wilkinson D. , Forbes G. H. , Friel E. , Connell J. M. C. , Davies E.
Published: August 2008

Objective  Evidence suggests that high levels of aldosterone lead to hypertension and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Around 15% of patients with essential hypertension have a raised aldosterone to renin ratio (ARR) suggesting that aldosterone production is inappropriately high in relation to its principal agonist angiotensin II. This may be due to increased activity of aldosterone synthase caused by genetic variation in the CYP11B2 gene. We screened the coding region of human CYP11B2 for genetic variants and tested their effects on function in vitro.

Protocol  Normotensive subjects (n = 69) were screened for sequence variants in the coding region of CYP11B2 by single‐stranded conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis and sequencing. The effects of nonsynonymous variants on enzyme activity were assessed in JEG‐3 cells transiently transfected with wild‐type or variant expression plasmids. The conversion of the substrate 11‐deoxycorticosterone (DOC) to corticosterone (B) and aldosterone was measured.

Results  Twenty variants were detected in CYP11B2 and eight analysed functionally (Arg87Gly, Asn281Thr, Gly288Ser, Lys296Asn, Asp335Asn, Gln404Arg, Ala414Pro and His439Tyr). Corticosterone synthesis was unaltered and aldosterone synthesis reduced in variant Arg87Gly; Asn281Thr increased corticosterone and decreased aldosterone production; Gly288Ser increased corticosterone production and abolished aldosterone production; Lys296Asn reduced both corticosterone and aldosterone production; Asp335Asn increased corticosterone synthesis but did not affect aldosterone production. Variants Gln404Arg, Ala414Pro and His439Tyr showed increases in both corticosterone and aldosterone synthesis compared to the wild‐type.

Conclusion  The study confirms the genetic variability of the CYP11B2 gene and provides us with additional valuable structure–function information.
Use of the Leksell gamma knife in the treatment of prolactinoma patients
Authors: Ježková Jana , Hána Václav , Kršek Michal , Weiss Vladimír , Vladyka Vilibald , Liščák Roman , Vymazal Josef , Pecen Ladislav , Marek Josef
Published: August 2008

Objective  Pharmacological treatment with dopaminergic agonists (DA) is the treatment of choice for prolactinomas. Surgical and radiation treatment is also indicated in certain situations. We describe our 12‐year experience in treating prolactinomas with the Leksell gamma knife (LGK).

Design  We followed 35 prolactinoma patients (25·7% microprolactinomas, 74·3% macroprolactinomas) treated with LGK irradiation. The mean follow‐up period was 75·5 months. Prior to LGK irradiation, patients were treated with DA and 10 of them (28·6%) underwent neurosurgery. Indications for LGK irradiation were: DA intolerance (31·4%), DA resistance (45·7%) and efforts to reduce the DA dose or shorten the period of administration (22·9%). Pituitary function was monitored regularly at 6‐month intervals. The central radiation dose range was 40–80 Gy (median 70 Gy), and the minimal peripheral dose was 20–49 Gy (median 34 Gy).

Results  Normoprolactinaemia was achieved in 37·1% of the patients who discontinued DA and in 42·9% of patients who continued DA treatment after LGK irradiation. The median time to prolactin normalization after discontinuation of DA was 96 months. No relapse was seen in any patient. After LGK irradiation, the prolactinoma stopped growing or decreased in size in all but one patient (97·1%).

Conclusion  LGK treatment resulted in normoprolactinaemia in 80·0% of the patients, all of whom had failed pharmacological treatment due to DA resistance or intolerance. After achieving normoprolactinaemia, no relapse of hyperprolactinaemia was observed in any patient. The size of the adenoma decreased even in those patients in whom it was not changed by previous DA treatment.
Ghrelin concentrations in Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) infants and children: changes during development
Authors: Haqq Andrea M. , Grambow Steven C. , Muehlbauer Michael , Newgard Christopher B. , Svetkey Laura P. , Carrel Aaron L. , Yanovski Jack A. , Purnell Jonathan Q. , Freemark Michael
Published: August 2008

Background  Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is associated with failure to thrive in infancy and progressive hyperphagia and obesity in childhood. This progressive weight gain is associated with hyperghrelinaemia and increased insulin sensitivity. The role of ghrelin excess in the pathogenesis of obesity is unclear.

Objective  To determine if high ghrelin levels precede the onset of obesity in young PWS children.

Design and methods  A cross‐sectional study of 33 infants with PWS and 28 healthy control subjects (C). Fasting ghrelin and other satiety hormones were measured.

Results  Median total serum ghrelin in young children with PWS trended higher, but did not differ significantly from those in C of similar age, weight‐for‐age z‐score and sex. However, there was more variability in ghrelin concentrations of young PWS. Eleven of 33 PWS subjects had ghrelin levels greater than the 95th percentile for ghrelin values in the C subjects (> 2871 pg/ml). Six of the PWS subjects with high ghrelin levels had weight‐for‐age z‐scores < 0. Ghrelin concentrations in PWS and C infants exceeded those in older children. In youngsters with PWS, leptin was higher, suggesting a relative excess of fat to lean body mass and plasma adiponectin was increased.

Conclusions  Young infants with PWS who have not yet developed hyperphagia or obesity have median fasting ghrelin levels similar to controls. However, a subset (33%) of young PWS is hyperghrelinaemic; approximately one‐half of those with hyperghrelinaemia have BMI z‐score < 0. The age‐related decline in ghrelin is blunted in PWS.
Long‐term plasma levels of leptin and adiponectin in Rett syndrome
Authors: Blardi P. , De Lalla A. , D’Ambrogio T. , Vonella G. , Ceccatelli L. , Auteri A. , Hayek J.
Published: August 2008

Objective  Rett syndrome is a progressive neurological disorder affecting almost exclusively females after age 6 months and characterised by acquired microcephaly, psychomotor retardation, growth failure, purposeless hand movements, autistic‐like behaviour and wide‐based and stiff legged gait. Leptin and adiponectin, peptides secreted by adipose tissue, are involved in the regulation of body weight and energy expenditure.

Design and patients  We investigated in patients with Rett syndrome the variations of plasma leptin and adiponectin and their relation over a 2‐year period. Sixteen female patients, mean age at the basal time 9·4 ± 4·3 years, with classical Rett syndrome were enrolled. Controls were 16 healthy female subjects, mean age at the basal time 9·9 ± 3·4 years.

Measurements  Blood samples were withdrawn in the morning at the baseline, 12 months after and 24 months after; plasma leptin and adiponectin concentrations were detected by ELISA.

Results  In patients, leptin concentrations significantly increased, while adiponectin concentrations significantly decreased. Both leptin and adiponectin values were significantly higher than those found in controls at each time. Leptin significantly correlated with adiponectin in patients, while there was not a significant correlation in controls.

Conclusion  Since all patients were not obese, we might hypothesize that in Rett syndrome leptin and adiponectin might participate to clinical manifestations other than weight balance.
A comparative study of cannibalism and predation in seven species of flour beetle
Authors: ALABI TAOFIC , MICHAUD J. P. , ARNAUD LUDOVIC , HAUBRUGE ERIC
Published: August 2008

Abstract1. The present study quantified egg and pupal cannibalism, and interspecific predation on eggs and pupae, by larvae and adults of seven species of flour beetle (Triboliumspp.) under laboratory conditions:T. anaphe,T. brevicornis,T. castaneum,T. confusum,T. destructor,T. freemani, andT. madens.

2. Variation among species in cannibalism and predation propensities did not reflect taxonomic affinities within the genus, indicating that these behaviours were shaped by ecology at species level.

3. Within species, larvae and adults displayed different propensities for cannibalism and predation, leading to the conclusion that these behaviours evolve independently in the two life stages.

4. All species behaved as intraguild predators to some degree, especially in the adult stage.

5. Three general patterns of cannibalism and predation were described by principal component mapping and cluster analysis.

6. The first group comprised three cosmopolitan pest species that were more voracious as adults than as larvae:T. castaneum,T. confusum, andT. destructor. It is proposed that stored product environments select for high adult voracity because the costs associated with emigration from such rare, but resource‐rich, habitats intensifies interference competition among adults.

7. The second group consisted of species that inhabit natural environments and that were more voracious as larvae:T. anaphe,T. freemani, andT. madens. Habitats for these species are probably numerous, but generally poor in quality, a situation that intensifies larval competition, while favouring earlier adult emigration.

8. The largest species,T. brevicornis, demonstrated inconsistent voracity between life stages and was the only species with chemically defended pupae.

9. It is proposed that consumption of eggs provides primarily nutritional benefits, whereas consumption of pupae has a more important role in interference competition.
Evolution of increased cold tolerance during range expansion of the elongate hemlock scale Fiorinia externa Ferris (Hemiptera: Diaspididae)
Authors: PREISSER EVAN L. , ELKINTON JOSEPH S. , ABELL KRISTOPHER
Published: August 2008

Abstract 1. Alien species often face novel challenges to their spread and population growth. One critical hurdle often involves an organism’s ability to tolerate environmental extremes characteristic of their invaded range. Although abiotic factors often determine range limits, there is less evidence for local adaptation in invasive organisms whose initial arrival and rapid population growth is separated by a lengthy lag period.

2. The invasive elongate hemlock scale Fiorinia externa feeds on Eastern hemlock, Tsuga canadensis, on the east coast of North America. Following its 1908 arrival, it remained localised until entering a period of rapid northward range expansion in the 1970s.

3. The present study tested the survival of overwintering F. externa populations from four sites in the north and south of the invaded range (n = 8 sites total) when exposed to −15 °C for 0–36 h.

4. This experiment was repeated on F. externa offspring that had been reared in a common‐garden environment in order to control for parental effects.

5. Northern populations were more tolerant of exposure to cold temperatures than were southern populations. This held true in both the source‐population experiment and common‐garden experiment. The common‐garden experiment demonstrates that this difference has a genetic basis and may be the consequence of local adaptation to lower winter temperatures.

6. The results provide evidence for local adaptation to extreme temperatures in F. externa. This provides one possible explanation for the lag period between the arrival of this species and its eventual northward range expansion.
Foraging behaviour of the social caterpillar Eutachyptera psidii (Sallé) (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae) during a prolonged period of food and water deprivation
Authors: FITZGERALD TERRENCE D. , PESCADOR‐RUBIO ALFONSO , ISAACS GARY
Published: August 2008

Abstract 1. Colonies of the social caterpillar Eutachyptera psidii (Sallé) (Hymenoptera: Lasiocampidae) occurring on oak (Quercus) in upland forests of Mexico endure periods as long as 6 weeks, with little or no food or water between the time host trees shed their leaves in April and produce new leaves in June.

2. By monitoring the activity of both field and laboratory colonies with infrared activity monitors and data loggers, it was found that although colonies remain active during the period of deprivation, their foraging activity shifts from once nightly when food is available to once every second night when food‐deprived.

3. Over a period of absolute food and water deprivation of 18 days, caterpillars lost an average of 36% of their initial mass but none perished. On average, the caterpillars regained their pre‐starvation mass within a few days after food was provided and continued to grow thereafter. During the period of starvation, caterpillars were observed to chew on dead and dried leaves in the field and on sheets of paper in the laboratory.

4. To the authors’ knowledge, there is no other documented instance of a species of caterpillar that exhibits the physiological capacity to engage in a similar level of persistent activity when forced to endure a prolonged period with neither food nor water.
Granivory in terrestrial isopods
Authors: SASKA PAVEL
Published: August 2008

Abstract Granivory (seed feeding) evolved in many animal groups. Field observations hint at the existence of granivory in terrestrial isopods (Crustacea: Isopoda: Oniscidea), for which it was previously unknown. In this paper granivory in terrestrial isopods is addressed for the first time, focusing on (i) seed acceptance in the presence of plant litter and (ii) size as a constraint for acceptance and consumption. In a laboratory choice experiment, Armadillidium vulgare consumed seeds of Capsella bursa‐pastoris and Poa annua when plant litter was present. In a no‐choice experiment, seeds of seven plant species were offered to four isopod species giving 13 combinations in total [A. vulgare (seven species of seeds), Oniscus asellus (two), Porcellio scaber (two), and Porcellionides pruinosus (two)]. The tested isopods differed in their acceptance (proportion of individuals consuming seeds) and consumption (both number and amount of seeds eaten) of seed species. Size as a constraint was demonstrated in A. vulgare offered Cirsium arvense seed, since the probability that this large seed was eaten increased with body size of the isopod. In the other 10 seed–isopod pairs, seed consumption increased linearly with isopod body size. Granivory is thus widespread in terrestrial isopods, although the tendency to eat seeds differs between species.
Trophic interactions among invertebrates in termitaria in the African savanna: a stable isotope approach
Authors: DeVISSER SARA N. , FREYMANN BERND P. , SCHNYDER HANS
Published: August 2008

Abstract 1. Termites (Isoptera) in tropical savannas are known as ecosystem engineers, affecting the spatial and temporal distribution of water, carbon, cations, and nutrients through their mound structures. Their mounds, however, also offer habitation to diverse taxa and feeding guilds of other invertebrates; a keystone role that has not been properly quantified.

2. The aim of this study was to explore the ecosystem role of termitaria in determining invertebrate diversity and their potential trophic interactions. We used stable isotopes to distinguish termite‐feeding invertebrates from invertebrates merely living in termite mounds under field conditions.

3. The results suggest that inquiline spiders (Arachnida) do not feed on termites directly, but on other invertebrates within the termitaria that are termitophagous, elevating the spiders three trophic levels higher than the termites.

4. This study is the first to demonstrate food web interactions among inquiline invertebrates with a stable isotope approach. It provides evidence that termites play a keystone role in the system by providing habitat for various, trophically interacting invertebrates. These results illustrate a rather unexplored ecosystem property of savanna termites.
Phenotypic plasticity of Brevicoryne brassicae in responses to nutritional quality of two related host plants
Authors: LEAL‐AGUILAR K. , RUIZ‐MONTOYA L. , PERALES H. , MORALES H.
Published: August 2008

Abstract 1. The host species used by a herbivorous insect may impose different selective pressures promoting host race formation, yet the presence of plasticity can potentially constrain host race formation.

2. The goal of this study is to determine if there is phenotypic plasticity in life history traits of Brevicoryne brassicae in response to host and nutritional quality of two host species, Brassica oleraceae and Brassica campestris, and to what extent there are genetic differences among genotypes in plasticity.

3. Plants of B. oleraceae and B. campestris were fertilised with three different nitrogen doses (with nutritive solutions of 50, 200 and 400 ppm of soluble nitrogen) to produce plants with different nutritional qualities. Eight clones of B. brassicae were reared on those plants, and days to reproduction (DTR), number of nymphs, and fitness (rm) were recorded.

4. A significant genotype × host interaction was detected in days to reproduction. Genotype × nitrogen interaction (plasticity) was detected in the number of nymphs when aphids were raised on B. campestris. Aphids showed plasticity in DTR and marginal plasticity in rm in reaction to the varying nitrogen content of B. oleraceae.

5. The phenotypic plasticity to fine‐scale variation of host (nutritional quality) documented here may be an important source of phenotypic variation and may potentially constrain host race formation.
Geographical patterns of hoverfly (Diptera, Syrphidae) functional groups in Europe: inconsistency in environmental correlates and latitudinal trends
Authors: KEIL PETR , DZIOCK FRANK , STORCH DAVID
Published: August 2008

Abstract 1. Relationships between species richness in higher taxa and large‐scale environmental variables have been widely studied over the past 15 years. Much less is known about how different functional groups (FGs) of species with similar biological and life‐history traits contribute to the overall trends, or how they differ in species‐richness patterns.

2. Multivariate analysis clustered 641 species of Syrphidae into eight FGs on the basis of 10 life‐history features, revealing feeding strategy as the main factor separating the groups.

3. Geographical trends in species richness and determinants of species richness within the FGs were compared across Europe.

4. Total species richness showed no latitudinal trend. However, the richness of individual FGs revealed variable relationships with latitude, including positive, negative, and hump‐shaped ones. This appeared to be related to how different environmental factors affected species richness within FGs.

5. Functional groups differed in their responses to the environmental variables. Annual temperature, evapotranspiration, and elevation span were the most important variables separating the FGs in ordination analysis. The multiple regression models showed further differences between FGs and their responses to the environment.

6. The FG approach revealed important inconsistencies in latitudinal diversity gradients and diversity‐climate relationships.
Comparison of frog assemblages between urban and non‐urban habitats in the upper Blue Mountains of Australia
Authors: LANE ALAN , BURGIN SHELLEY
Published: August 2008

1. World wide, and in Australia, many frog populations have declined over the last two decades. The present study was undertaken to determine whether urbanization has affected frog diversity and abundance.

2. Five urban sites were paired with non‐urban sites. Urban sites were in Katoomba and Blackheath, and were subject to physical environmental disturbance and impacted by storm water pollution due to urban runoff. Non‐urban sites were in the Blue Mountains National Park and were effectively subject to no human impact.

3. Water quality at urban sites was typical of sites polluted with sewage, while non‐urban sites exhibited water quality typical of ‘pristine’ natural bushland streams.

4. Six species were found at urban sites (Litoria peronii, Litoria dentata, Litoria verreauxii, Limnodynastes dumerilii, Limnodynastes peronii, Crinia signifera), with up to four species present at a site. Only one species (C. signifera) was recorded at non‐urban sites, and frogs were absent from most non‐urban sites.

5. The situation in non‐urban sites mirrors the trend of decline observed in other montane regions. Surprisingly, frog abundance and diversity were higher in urban habitats, running counter to this trend.

6. We hypothesize that the salts, detergents and other chemicals in urban wastewaters provide frogs with a level of protection against disease, particularly chytridiomycosis.
Feedback between zebra mussel selective feeding and algal composition affects mussel condition: did the regime changer pay a price for its success?
Authors: VANDERPLOEG HENRY A. , JOHENGEN THOMAS H. , LIEBIG JAMES R.
Published: August 2008

1. We investigated the role of algal composition on pumping, clearance, assimilation, pseudofaeces and faeces production, feeding time budgets, and condition of zebra mussels from spring to autumn at two sites in Saginaw Bay (Lake Huron) and one site in western Lake Erie. Size‐fractioned chlorophyll was used to distinguish between feeding on small (<53 μm) and large (>53 μm) size fractions, and mussel feeding behaviour was quantified by video observations.

2. Mussel pumping, clearance and assimilation rates varied among sites, particularly during summer, when phytoplankton composition varied considerably among sites. Lowest values were seen at the inner‐bay site of Saginaw Bay, low to moderate values at the outer‐bay site of Saginaw Bay, and high values at the Lake Erie site. Clearance, pumping and assimilation rates were all highly positively correlated (R2 = 0.76) with per cent contribution of flagellates to total algal biomass and negatively correlated with per cent of Microcystis aeruginosa (R2 = 0.63). The negative effects on pumping rate (as determined by clearance rate on the <53 μm fraction) of Microcystis, which occurred in the >53 μm fraction, could be mitigated by the presence of flagellates in the <53 μm fraction.

3. Visual observations of mussel feeding showed evidence for poor seston quality during summer negatively affecting feeding rates. High faeces production during times of low assimilation rate was suggestive of poor assimilation efficiency and/or viable gut passage of grazing resistant algae. Long periods of time not filtering by the mussels during some Microcystis blooms and lack of production of a filtering current during one experiment were suggestive of intoxication from microcystin or other secondary compounds.

4. Clearance and feeding rates of the mussels in Saginaw Bay were high during spring and autumn and very low in summer, particularly at the inner‐bay site. Condition of the mussels (mass : length ratio) was highest in spring and lowest during summer. This seasonal variation probably reflected high food assimilation rate during autumn and spring and low assimilation rate and reproduction during summer. The condition of mussels throughout the year was higher at the outer‐bay than the inner‐bay site, reflecting better feeding conditions at the former. Mussel selective feeding may have been responsible for the poor quality of food at the inner bay site; therefore, we postulate that a regime shift in phytoplankton composition promoted by the mussels fed back into lowered condition of the mussels.
Multivesicular bodies in intestinal epithelial cells: responsible for MHC class II‐restricted antigen processing and origin of exosomes
Authors: Büning Jürgen , Von Smolinski Dorthe , Tafazzoli Kianush , Zimmer Klaus‐Peter , Strobel Stephan , Apostolaki Maria , Kollias George , Heath Joan K. , Ludwig Diether , Gebert Andreas
Published: August 2008

In normal conditions intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) constitutively stimulate regulatory CD4+T cells. However, in Crohn's disease (CD), this major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II‐restricted antigen presentation results in stimulation of proinflammatory CD4+T cells. We hypothesized that these alternative functions might be mediated by differential sorting and processing of antigens into distinct MHC II‐enriched compartments (MIICs). Accordingly, we analysed the endocytic pathways of lumenally applied ovalbumin (OVA) in IECs of the jejunum and ileum of wild‐type (WT) and TNFΔARE/WT mice that develop a CD‐resembling ileitis. Using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, we found that messenger RNA levels of interferon‐γ, tumour necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐17 and interleukin‐10 were significantly up‐regulated in the inflamed ileum of TNFΔARE/WT mice, confirming CD‐like inflammation. Fluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy revealed the presence of MHC II and invariant chain throughout the late endocytic compartments, with most molecules concentrated in the multivesicular bodies (MVB). OVA was targeted into MVB and, in contrast to other MIICs, accumulated in these structures within 120 min of exposure. The IEC‐specific A33 antigen localized to internal vesicles of MVB and A33/class II‐bearing exosomes were identified in intercellular spaces. Remarkably, the expression pattern of MHC II/invariant chain molecules and the trafficking of OVA were independent of mucosal inflammation and the specific region in the small intestine. MVB seem to be principally responsible for class II‐associated antigen processing in IECs and to constitute the origin of MHC II‐loaded exosomes. The distinctive functions of IECs in antigen presentation to CD4+T cells might arise as a result of differential processing within the MVB identified here.
Co‐ordinated expression of lymphoid and myeloid specific transcription factors during B‐1b cell differentiation into mononuclear phagocytes in vitro
Authors: Popi Ana F. , Motta Fabiana L. T. , Mortara Renato A. , Schenkman Sergio , Lopes José D. , Mariano Mario
Published: August 2008

We previously demonstrated that B‐1b cells can undergo differentiation to acquire a mononuclear phagocyte phenotype upon attachment to substrate in vitro. Here we followed the expression of surface markers and transcription factors during this differentiation. B‐1b cells spontaneously express both myeloid and lymphoid restricted transcription factors. When induced to differentiate into a phagocyte, the lymphoid genes E box protein (E2A), early B‐cell factor (EBF), paired box 5 (Pax5) are down‐modulated, while expression of genes related to myeloid commitment is sustained. Furthermore, B‐1b cell‐derived phagocytes (B‐1CDPs) decrease immunoglobulin M (IgM) expression but retain the expression of the heavy chain variable gene VH11 or VH12, an immunoglobulin gene rearrangement predominantly expressed by B‐1 cells. The maintenance of lymphoid characteristics in B‐1CDPs characterizes a unique type of phagocyte, not related to monocyte‐derived macrophages.
Does nasal decongestion improve obstructive sleep apnea?
Authors: CLARENBACH CHRISTIAN F. , KOHLER MALCOLM , SENN OLIVER , THURNHEER ROBERT , BLOCH KONRAD E.
Published: August 2008

Whether nasal congestion promotes obstructive sleep apnea is controversial. Therefore, we performed a randomized placebo‐controlled cross‐over trial on the effects of topical nasal decongestion in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) and nasal congestion. Twelve OSA patients with chronic nasal congestion (mean ± SD age 49.1 ± 11.1 years, apnea/hypopnea index 32.6 ± 24.5/h) were treated with nasal xylometazoline or placebo for 1 week each. At the end of treatment periods, polysomnography including monitoring of nasal conductance by an unobtrusive technique, vigilance by the OSLER test, and symptom scores were assessed. Data from xylometazoline and placebo treatments were compared. Mean nocturnal nasal conductance on xylometazoline was significantly higher than on placebo (8.6 ± 5.3 versus 6.3 ± 5.8 mL s−1Pa−1, P < 0.05) but the apnea/hypopnea index was similar (29.3 ± 32.5/h versus 33.2 ± 32.8/h, P = NS). However, 30–210 min after application of xylometazoline, at the time of the maximal pharmacologic effect, the apnea/hypopnea index was slightly reduced (27.3 ± 30.5/h versus 33.2 ± 33.9/h, P < 0.05). Xylometazoline did not alter sleep quality, sleep resistance time (33.6 ± 8.8 versus 33.4 ± 10.1 min, P = NS) and subjective sleepiness (Epworth score 10.5 ± 3.8 versus 11.8 ± 4.4, P = NS). The reduced apnea/hypopnea index during maximal nasal decongestion by xylometazoline suggests a pathophysiologic link but the efficacy of nasal decongestion was not sufficient to provide a clinically substantial improvement of OSA. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier is NTC006030474.
Repression of small toxic protein synthesis by the Sib and OhsC small RNAs
Authors: Fozo Elizabeth M. , Kawano Mitsuoki , Fontaine Fanette , Kaya Yusuf , Mendieta Kathy S. , Jones Kristi L. , Ocampo Alejandro , Rudd Kenneth E. , Storz Gisela
Published: August 2008

The sequences encoding the QUAD1 RNAs were initially identified as four repeats in Escherichia coli. These repeats, herein renamed SIB, are conserved in closely related bacteria, although the number of repeats varies. All five Sib RNAs in E. coli MG1655 are expressed, and no phenotype was observed for a five‐sib deletion strain. However, a phenotype reminiscent of plasmid addiction was observed for overexpression of the Sib RNAs, and further examination of the SIB repeat sequences revealed conserved open reading frames encoding highly hydrophobic 18‐ to 19‐amino‐acid proteins (Ibs) opposite each sib gene. The Ibs proteins were found to be toxic when overexpressed and this toxicity could be prevented by coexpression of the corresponding Sib RNA. Two other RNAs encoded divergently in the yfhL‐acpS intergenic region were similarly found to encode a small hydrophobic protein (ShoB) and an antisense RNA regulator (OhsC). Overexpression of both IbsC and ShoB led to immediate changes in membrane potential suggesting both proteins affect the cell envelope. Whole genome expression analysis showed that overexpression of IbsC and ShoB, as well as the small hydrophobic LdrD and TisB proteins, has both overlapping and unique consequences for the cell.
Prevalence of self‐perceived allergic diseases and risk factors in Italian adolescents
Authors: Brescianini Sonia , Brunetto Barbara , Iacovacci Patrizia , D’Ippolito Cristina , Alberti Giuseppina , Schirru Maria Antonietta , Stazi Maria Antonietta , Pini Carlo , Di Felice Gabriella , Barletta Bianca
Published: August 2008

The aim of the study was to assess the symptoms prevalence of allergic diseases in a population of 11–15 yr old schoolchildren, to evaluate the associations between asthma and other symptoms and identify risk factors for asthma, rhinitis and eczema syndromes. A sample of 481 students was studied using an International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire. Prevalence of different kind of self‐reported symptoms was calculated. Using a logistic regression approach, we tried to identify risk factors for three syndromes – rhinitis, eczema and asthma. The highest and the lowest prevalence rates of self‐reported symptoms were recorded for rhinitis (43.6%) and for eczema (8.1%), respectively. The prevalence of asthma was 15.7%. Univariate analysis showed a mutual association between wheeze and rhinitis symptoms. Multivariate logistic regression model for eczema syndrome revealed female gender as a significant risk factor. The polytomic logistic multivariate regression revealed female gender and family history of allergy as significant risk factors for rhinitis syndrome only, and maternal smoking and familial allergy for rhinitis and asthma together. In particular, familial allergy yields a 400% higher chance of developing asthma and rhinitis together. The synergistic effect of familial allergy on rhinitis and asthma syndromes suggests the implementation of preventive measures in children with family history of these diseases.
An aspergillotic aneurysm of the internal carotid artery following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation: successful management with catheter coil embolization and long‐term antifungal agents
Authors: Watanabe T. , Okada T. , Okada C. , Onishi T. , Watanabe H. , Okamoto Y. , Kitamura Y. , Manabe S. , Matsubara S. , Kageji T. , Iwai A.
Published: August 2008

Abstract: We report a case of a mycotic aneurysm of the internal carotid artery and cerebral hemorrhagic infarction resulting from Aspergillus middle ear infection in a patient with severe aplastic anemia who received unrelated bone marrow transplantation. Although a mycotic aneurysm is a rare complication, and most often fatal, the patient was successfully treated with catheter coil embolization of the internal carotid artery and long‐term systemic antifungal therapy. This case emphasizes the need for the rapid diagnosis of potential fungal involvement of the vascular system and suggests the necessity for aggressive treatment, such as with the modality illustrated in this case.
The effects of moxifloxacin ophthalmic solution 0.5% or gatifloxacin ophthalmic solution 0.3% treatment on corneal wound healing in pigmented rabbits following anterior keratectomy
Authors: Williams K. Keven , McCartney Mitchell D. , Rice Rebecca L. , Wax Martin B. , Hiddemen Joseph W.
Published: August 2008

Purpose  These studies examined corneal healing rates, Type‐IV collagen and zonula occludens membrane‐associated protein (ZO‐1) expression, as well as aqueous PGE2 and IL‐1β concentrations in pigmented rabbits treated with either moxifloxacin 0.5%, gatifloxacin 0.3% or BSS® following anterior keratectomy.

Methods  Anterior keratectomy surgery was followed by topical administration with commercial ophthalmic formulations of either moxifloxacin or gatifloxacin or BSS® (TID for 96 h). Images of the fluorescein‐stained healing corneas were analyzed for wound area. At 48 or 96 h following surgery, aqueous humor samples were collected and analyzed for the inflammatory mediators PGE2 and IL‐1β using an ELISA. The corneas were subsequently evaluated using both scanning and transmission electron microscopy. In a second parallel study, corneas were evaluated at both 48 and 96 h for Type‐IV collagen and ZO‐1 expression using immunohistochemistry.

Results  Fluorescein‐stained corneal images at 96 h postsurgery demonstrated that 90% ± 8% re‐epithelialization for moxifloxacin, 81% ± 14% for gatifloxacin, and 88 ± 6% for BSS® (P > 0.05). PGE2 levels in the aqueous humor of fluoroquinolone treated eyes were reduced at 48 h compared to BSS® treated eyes. IL‐1β was undetectable in all samples. No differences in Type‐IV collagen or ZO‐1 expression were observed between any treatment groups. There were no differences between groups in histological appearance or in ultrastructural healing processes.

Conclusions  These studies demonstrated that the commercial ophthalmic formulations of moxifloxacin and gatifloxacin were similar to each other in their effects on the levels of aqueous humor PGE2 and rates of corneal wound re‐epithelialization.