bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct evidence for the cycling of fig wasps within one male fig tree
Authors: Jia Xiao‐Cheng , Dan Yang , Zhang Yun , Chen Yi‐Zhu
Published: October 2008

Fig wasps can only survive when flowering fig trees are present all the year around. Ficus trees can only reproduce if they are pollinated by highly specific wasps. In highly seasonal habitats, when only few trees occur at a specific site, gaps in fruiting may lead to the extinction of the local pollinator population. This paper demonstrates that in a dioecious fig tree, Ficus hirta, the fig wasp population can be maintained successfully within an individual plant, through the strong intra‐tree asynchrony in flowering. By experimentally bagging trees, we showed that the pollinating wasps (Blastophaga javana hilli) could live for two generations, and the non‐pollinating wasps (Sycoscapter sp.) for up to three generations in a closed intra‐tree system. However, there was a sharp decline in wasp abundance, deviating sex ratios and decreasing flower occupancy before their ultimate extinction, indicating that the wasp populations were not sustainable. This phenological strategy may enable dioecious figs, which are not constrained by the cost of selfing, to occupy a wider breadth of niches in both tropical and seasonal habitats.
A new subspecies of Baccharis salicifolia (Compositae‐Astereae) from Peru
Authors: Müller Jochen
Published: October 2008

A new subspecies of the widespread and polymorphic B. salicifolia from the Andes of central and southern Peru is described and illustrated. The morphological delimitation of the new taxon is discussed.
A new species of Gastrodia (Orchidaceae) from Hainan Island, China and its conservation status
Authors: Meng Qian‐Wan , Song Xi‐Qiang , Luo Yi‐Bo
Published: October 2008

A new species, Gastrodia longitubularis Q.‐W. Meng, X.‐Q. Song & Y.‐B. Luo from Hainan Island, southern China is described and illustrated. This is the first species of Gastrodia recorded from Hainan Island. Diagnostic characters, description, detailed illustration and taxonomic comments are given. This species is closely related to G. gracilis, which is characterized by tuberous rhizome with flesh roots, lax inflorescence and nearly united perianth tube. Gastrodia longitubularis distinctly differs from G. gracilis by having slender, glabrous, long perianth tube, horizontal or slightly downward bending flowers. The habitat was investigated in detail and its conservation status was assessed as a critically endangered EN (B2a, C2a) according to the IUCN threatened category criteria based on data from five years’ observations.
Peristrophe magnibracteata, a new combination in Asian Acanthaceae
Authors: Hao Zhen‐Ping , Deng Yun‐Fei , Xia Nian‐He
Published: October 2008

After a careful examination of the type material as well as additional material, Dicliptera magnibracteata Collett & Hemsl. was found to be a member of Peristrophe. This conclusion was based on its linear anther‐thecae and a placenta with a retinaculum that does not rise elastically from the base of the capsule when dehiscing. Therefore, a new combination Peristrophe magnibracteata (Collett et Hemsl.) Z. P. Hao, Y. F. Deng & N. H. Xia, is proposed.
Polypogonnilgiricus– a new species of Poaceae from India
Authors: Althaf Ahamed Kabeer K. , Nair V. J.
Published: October 2008

Polypogon nilgiricus Kabeer & V. J. Nair sp. nov. (Poaceae) collected from Nilgiris of Tamil Nadu in India is described and illustrated. Differences from an allied species, P. interruptus Kunth, is discussed.
A new Campanula (Campanulaceae) from east Anatolia, Turkey
Authors: Kandemir Ali
Published: October 2008

Campanula demirsoyi A. Kandemir (Campanulaceae) is described and illusturated from a localised area of Erzincan province. It is closely allied to C. hedgei Davis and C.coriacea Davis. Diagnostic morphological characters are discussed and compared with those of related taxa.
A new species of Silene (Caryophyllaceae) from east Anatolia, Turkey
Authors: Genç Gülay Ecevit , Kandemir Ali , Genç İlker
Published: October 2008

Silene nerimaniae G. Ecevit Genç, A. Kandemir & İ. Genç sp. nov. (Caryophyllaceae) from east Anatolia (B7: Erzincan‐Turkey) is described and illustrated. Diagnostic characters, a description, detailed illustrations and taxonomic comments on the species are given. It is compared with the closely related taxon Silene araratica Schischk. ssp. araratica. The geographical distribution of the new species and related species is mapped.
Three new Madagascan Ixora species (Rubiaceae) with flowers up to 23 cm long
Authors: De Block Petra
Published: October 2008

Three new Ixora species from Madagascar are described, I. crassipes, I. densithyrsa and I. peculiaris. These species, together with I. siphonantha, are unique within the pantropical genus Ixora because they possess extremely long corolla tubes, up to 23 cm long. In Madagascan Ixoras, corolla tube length shows extreme variation (0.4–23 cm long), perhaps indicating that the radiation process this genus has undergone on the island is, at least partly, pollinator‐driven. A determination key and distribution maps are provided for the Madagascan long‐tubed species (corolla tubes >15 cm long). Descriptions and illustrations are given for the three new species.
How complete and correct was Linnaeus’ knowledge and classification of the Swedish flora?
Authors: Tyler Torbjörn
Published: October 2008

The degree to which Carolus Linnaeus managed to describe the vascular plant species diversity of his native country, and the proportion of his taxonomic decisions concerning the rank and generic classification of these same species that are considered correct by present‐day taxonomists, is analyzed by comparing the most recent checklist of the Swedish flora, excluding later immigrants, with the works of Linnaeus. It is concluded that 79% of the species occurring in Sweden by the year 1700 were recognized and accepted by Linnaeus. Of these, ca 74% are still today accepted with the same rank, and are referred to the same genus. Thus, one answer to the current popular question of to what extent ‘Linnaeus was right’ is: approximately three quarters!
A new typification of Hieracium umbellatum (Asteraceae)
Authors: Sennikov Alexander N.
Published: October 2008

The Linnaean name Hieracium umbellatum has generally been understood in a very strict and clear sense. The original material comprises three specimens and a few illustrations, with a lectotype designated here in Burser's Hortus siccus (UPS). The earlier choice published by W. Lack was made from non‐original material and was therefore not effective. The application of this name is confined to a variety generally known as H. umbellatum var. commune Fr. nom. illeg. (restricted here to the forms with almost entire, sublinear leaves), most proximate to H. umbellatum var. coronopifolium (Bernh. ex Hornem.) Wimm. et Grab.
New species, combinations and records of Hypecoum, Dactylicapnos and Corydalis (Fumariaceae) in China
Authors: Lidén Magnus
Published: October 2008

Five new species of Fumariaceae from the Flora of China area, viz. Hypecoum zhukanum (sect. Leptocarpae), Dactylicapnos gaoligongshanensis (sect. Dactylicapnos), D. leiosperma (sect. Minicalcara), Corydalis laxiflora and C. tianshanica (subgenus Cremnocapnos sect. Strictae), are described. Dactylicapnos burmanica comb. nov., D. grandifoliolata and D. macrocapnos are reported from China for the first time, and the new combinations Dactylicapnos ventii (basion.: Dicentra ventii T. C. Khanh), D. schneideri (basion.: Dicentra schneideri Fedde) and D. burmanica (basion.: Dicentra burmanica K. R. Stern) are validated. Novelties in Corydalis subgenus Corydalis will be published separately.
Molecular phylogeny of the clariid fishes of Lake Victoria, Tanzania, inferred from cytochrome b DNA sequences
Authors: Mwita C. J. , Nkwengulila G.
Published: October 2008

Mitochondrial DNA cytochrome b (cyt b) sequence variation among the clariid fishes of Lake Victoria and the Malagarasi wetland Tanzania were studied between August 2003 and February 2005. Seven species were sampled and together with 26 cyt b sequences from GenBank were used to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships in the family Clariidae. The study revealed two clades: one consisting of the big‐head species, Clarias gariepinus and Heterobranchus longifilis, and the other of small‐sized species, Clarias werneri, Clarias alluaudi, Clarias liocephalus and Clariallabes petricola. The study further revealed that the genus Clarias is paraphyletic and that H. longifilis clusters deeply inside the Clarias group. Although H. longifilis is thought to be the oldest in evolutionary age in Tanzania, it is not close to the ancestor of the Clariidae family. The results also showed that C. werneri and C. alluaudi are genetically distinct from each other.
GnRH and GnRH receptors: distribution, function and evolution
Authors: Chen C.‐C. , Fernald R. D.
Published: October 2008

Gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) was originally identified because of its essential role in regulating reproduction in all vertebrates. Since then, three phylogenetically related GnRH decapeptides have been characterized in vertebrates and invertebrates. Almost all tetrapods investigated have at least two GnRH forms (GnRH1 and GnRH2) in the central nervous system. From distributional and functional studies in vertebrates, GnRH1 in the hypothalamus projects predominantly to the pituitary and regulates reproduction via gonadotropin release. GnRH2, which is located in the midbrain, projects to the whole brain and is thought to be involved in sexual behaviour and food intake. GnRH3, located in the forebrain, has only been found in teleost fish and appears to be involved in sexual behaviour, as well as, in some fish species, gonadotropin release. Multiple GnRH receptors (GnRH‐Rs), G‐protein‐coupled receptors regulate endocrine functions and neural transmissions in vertebrates. Phylogenetic and structural analyses of coding sequences show that all vertebrate GnRH‐Rs cluster into two main receptor types comprised of four subfamilies. This suggests that at least two rounds of GnRH receptor gene duplications may have occurred in different groups within each lineage. Functional studies suggest that two particular subfamilies of GnRH receptors have independently evolved to act as species‐specific endocrine modulators in the pituitary, and these show the greatest variety in regulating neuron networks in the brain. Given the long evolutionary history of the GnRH system, it seems likely that much more remains to be understood about its roles in behaviour and function of vertebrates.
Inheritance of microsatellite DNA in bisexual gynogenesis complex of Fangzheng silver crucian carp,Carassius auratus gibelio(Bloch)
Authors: Jia Z. Y. , Shi L. Y. , Sun X. W. , Lei Q. Q.
Published: October 2008

Five gynogenetic progeny groups of silver crucian carpCarassius auratus gibeliowere produced and sex ratios (males:total progeny) of each of the progeny groups were analysed. About 110 males and 366 females were genotyped at 15 microsatellite loci for comparison with their parents to (1) verify the gynogenesis status of FangzhengC. auratus gibelio, (2) detect the incorporation of paternal genetic material into the offspring and (3) study the possible association of genetic exchange at microsatellite loci with the existence of sex. The sex ratios in progenies of five groups were highly variable, but all had significant female bias. The sex ratio ranged from 0 to 0·37. Significant differences in the sex ratio within and between groups were also found. Microsatellite genotyping at 15 loci showed that 100 and 97% of the progeny shared the same genotype with the mother in four groups and in one group, respectively, confirming that gynogenesis is the general mechanism of reproduction inC. auratus gibelio. However, 0·63% of all offspring did show incorporation of paternal genetic material. No single loci tested were associated with the occurrence of male progeny, indicating unknown genetic mechanisms for sex determination inC. auratus gibelio.
Molecular analysis of Southern Ocean skates (Bathyraja) reveals a new species of Antarctic skate
Authors: Smith P. J. , Steinke D. , Mcveagh S. M. , Stewart A. L. , Struthers C. D. , Roberts C. D.
Published: October 2008

Two regions of mtDNA, cytochrome b and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1, were sequenced in nine species of Bathyraja from the Southern Ocean and New Zealand. Based on sequence divergence, the species that has been referred to as Bathyraja eatonii from the Antarctic continental shelf and slope is a species distinct from B. eatonii from the Kerguelen Plateau (the type locality) and is a new and undescribed species Bathyraja sp. (cf. eatonii). There was no sequence divergence among samples of Bathyraja sp. (dwarf) from the Ross Sea and the South Atlantic. However, for both Bathyraja sp. (cf. eatonii) and Bathyraja maccaini in the Ross Sea and the South Atlantic Ocean, the DNA sequence divergences indicate differentiation among ocean basins and within Bathyraja sp. (cf. eatonii) divergences are similar to those among recognized species of Bathyraja in the North Pacific Ocean.
The taxonomic status of Theragra finnmarchica Koefoed, 1956 (Teleostei: Gadidae): perspectives from morphological and molecular data
Authors: Byrkjedal I. , Rees D. J. , Christiansen J. S. , Fevolden S.‐E.
Published: October 2008

The gadoid fishes Theragra finnmarchica from the coast of northern Norway and Theragra chalcogramma from the north‐east Pacific could not be taxonomically discriminated by sequencing the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene. However, the taxa differed in 10 of 42 non‐osteological and in four of 17 osteological characters. Ontogenetic changes were found for 16 of the examined non‐osteological characters. Five taxon‐specific characters, unaffected by ontogenetic scaling, were examined by discriminant analysis. A 100% correct classification was obtained from a discriminant function based on number of pyloric caeca and number of gill rakers on the upper part of the gill arch. However, all examined characters overlapped between the two taxa, except the number of pyloric caeca. On the basis of their genetic similarity and slight morphological differences, T. finnmarchica should be considered a junior synonym of T. chalcogramma.
Genetic assessment of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar and sea trout Salmo trutta stocking in a Baltic Sea river
Authors: Nilsson J. , ÖStergren J. , Lundqvist H. , Carlsson U.
Published: October 2008

Microsatellite DNA variation was used to assess the outcome of stocking Atlantic salmon Salmo salar and migratory trout Salmo trutta in River Sävarå, N Sweden. No information on pre‐stocking genetic composition of S. salar and S. trutta in River Sävarå was available. In 2 year‐classes of S. salar smolt, microsatellite data indicated that post‐stocking genetic composition differed markedly (FST= 0·048) from the main donor strain, Byskeälven S. salar, and from other Gulf of Bothnia S. salar stocks (FST 0·047 and 0·132). The STRUCTURE programme failed to detect any substructuring within Sävarå salmon. It was concluded that only minor introgression estimated to a proportion of 0·11 (95% CI 0·07–0·16) has occurred in S. salar. Salmo trutta showed overall low differentiation among populations with maximum FST of 0·03 making analysis more cumbersome than in S. salar. Still, the SävaråS. trutta deviated significantly from potential donor populations, and STRUCTURE software supported that majority of trout in Sävarå formed a distinct genetic population. Admixture was more extensive in S. trutta and estimated to 0·17 (95% CI 0·10–0·25).
Mitochondrial DNA in Atherina (Teleostei, Atheriniformes): differential distribution of an intergenic spacer in lagoon and marine forms of Atherina boyeri
Authors: MILANA V. , SOLA L. , CONGIU L. , ROSSI A. R.
Published: October 2008

The big‐scale sand smelt Atherina boyeri lives in fresh water, brackish water and sea water of the western Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. Previous studies concerning distribution, biometric characters and genetic molecular markers have suggested the possible existence of two or even three different groups or species of sand smelt, one ‘lagoon’ type and one (or two – punctuated and non‐punctuated on the flanks) ‘marine’ type. In this study, the presence and the localization of an insertion was described, c. 200 bp in length, in the mtDNA of the lagoon and marine punctuated specimens of A. boyeri and its absence in the marine non‐punctuated specimens, as well as in other two congeneric species, Atherina hepsetus and Atherina presbyter, and in the atheriniform Menidia menidia. The intergenic spacer is located between the tRNAGlu and cytochrome b (cyt b) genes and shares a c. 50% sequence similarity with cyt b. The distribution and the features of the intergenic spacer suggest that it might have originated from an event of gene duplication, which involved the cyt b gene (or, more likely, a part of it) and which took place in the common ancestor of the lagoon and the marine punctuated specimens. The data obtained therefore support the hypothesis of the existence of three cryptic and, or sibling species within the A. boyeri taxon and provide a genetic molecular marker to distinguish them.
Mitochondrial DNA variation and genetic population structure of chum salmon Oncorhynchus keta around the Pacific Rim
Authors: Yoon M. , Sato S. , Seeb J. E. , Brykov V. , Seeb L. W. , Varnavskaya N. V. , Wilmot R. L. , Jin D. H. , Urawa S. , Urano A. , Abe S.
Published: October 2008

A survey of mtDNA variation among populations of chum salmon Oncorhynchus keta around the Pacific Rim revealed four large population groups: Rim of the Sea of Japan, the Rim of the Okhotsk Sea and West Bering Sea, North‐west Alaska and Gulf of Alaska. The observed population structure appears to reflect isolation by distance with limited gene flow between regions and larger amounts of gene flow between populations within these four regions.
Molecular phylogeny of Turkish Trachurus species (Perciformes: Carangidae) inferred from mitochondrial DNA analyses
Authors: Bektas Y. , Belduz A. O.
Published: October 2008

Genetic variation among three species of Trachurus (T. trachurus, T. mediterraneus and T. picturatus) from Turkey was investigated by phylogenetic analysis of the entire mtDNA control region (CR) (862 bp, n = 182) and partial cytochrome (cyt) b (239 bp, n = 174) sequences. Individuals were collected at nine stations in four geographic locations: North‐eastern Mediterranean Sea, Aegean Sea, Sea of Marmara and Black Sea. Polymerase chain reaction‐direct sequencing of the CR and the partial cyt b genes produced 28 and 131 distinct haplotypes, respectively. Maximum likelihood, neighbour‐joining and maximum parsimony methods produced similar tree topologies. The results of both CR and cyt b sequence analyses revealed the existence of several species‐specific nucleotide sites that can be used to discriminate between the three species. Genetic distances indicated that T. mediterraneus and T. picturatus are more closely related to each other than either is to T. trachurus. Inter‐nucleotide and intra‐nucleotide diversities of T. picturatus were larger than those of T. mediterraneus and T. trachurus. There was no evidence of a geographical difference in haplotype frequencies of these two mtDNA regions to be clustered.
Eosinophilic oesophagitis in patients presenting with dysphagia – a prospective analysis
Authors: MACKENZIE S. H. , GO M. , CHADWICK B. , THOMAS K. , FANG J. , KUWADA S. , LAMPHIER S. , HILDEN K. , PETERSON K.
Published: October 2008

Background  Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoO) may be a common finding in adults presenting with dysphagia.

Aim  To identify the risk factors and prevalence of EoO in an adult population with dysphagia.

Methods  All patients with dysphagia referred for an upper endoscopy (EGD) were asked to participate. Patients completed a detailed questionnaire followed by EGD with four quadrant biopsies in the distal and mid‐oesophagus. Primary endpoint was the prevalence of EoO; secondary endpoints included age, gender, asthma, food allergies, gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease/dysphagia score and endoscopic findings.

Results  Two hundred and sixty‐one patients enrolled between December 2005 and January 2007. Thirty‐one patients (12%) met pathological criteria for EoO. There was no difference in EoO prevalence within each gender. Mean age of EoO patients was 42 ± 15 vs. 61 ± 15 for non‐EoO patients (P < 0.001). EoO was diagnosed in 35% of patients <50 years of age. EoO was present in 22% of asthmatics vs. 9% non‐asthmatics (P < 0.01). EoO was present in 36.8% of patients with self‐reported food allergies vs. 9.3% those without allergy (P < 0.001). A 13/31(42%) of EoO patients did not have the classic EGD findings (rings ± furrows) and would have been missed without oesophageal biopsies.

Conclusions  Eosinophilic oesophagitis was diagnosed in 12% of the patients presenting with dysphagia with relative risk of 9.5 if age <50 years. Oesophageal biopsies are warranted in patients presenting with dysphagia especially in the younger population. Patients may not present with classic endoscopic findings and EoO can be missed without biopsies.
Meta‐analysis: treatment of hepatitis B infection reduces risk of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: SUNG J. J. Y. , TSOI K. K. F. , WONG V. W. S. , LI K. C. T. , CHAN H. L. Y.
Published: October 2008

Background  Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection leads to development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the effects of treatment in preventing HCC are not clear.

Aim  To study the effects of interferon (IFN) or nucleoside/tide analogue (NA) on the risk of developing HCC in CHB patients.

Methods  Randomized trials, case–control and cohort studies were retrieved from five electronic databases and international conferences over the past 10 years. Relative risks (RRs) of HCC with or without treatment were studied.

Results  Twelve studies (n = 2742) enrolling patients treated by IFN vs. control showed that the risk of HCC after treatment was reduced by 34% (RR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.48–0.89). Benefit is more significant among patients with early cirrhosis than among those without cirrhosis. Five studies (n = 2289) compared patients treated by NA with control. The risk of HCC after treatment was reduced by 78% (RR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.10–0.50). HBeAg‐positive patients showed more significantly reduced HCC risk with treatment. Patients without cirrhosis benefited more from NA than those with cirrhosis. Resistance to NA has obviated the benefit of the treatment.

Conclusions  IFN or NA treatment significantly reduces risk of HCC. While IFN benefited patients with cirrhosis, NA benefited patients with no cirrhosis and HBeAg‐positive CHB infection.
Prospective validation of the short form liver disease quality of life instrument
Authors: KANWAL F. , SPIEGEL B. M. R. , HAYS R. D. , DURAZO F. , HAN S. B. , SAAB S. , BOLUS R. , KIM S. J. , GRALNEK I. M.
Published: October 2008

Background  Despite the realization that health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) is an important outcome in patients with liver disease, there is scarcity of disease‐targeted HRQOL measures that have undergone prospective evaluation.

Aim  To validate prospectively the short form of liver disease quality of life instrument (the SF‐LDQOL) in patients with advanced liver disease.

Methods  The SF‐LDQOL includes 36 disease‐targeted items representing nine domains: symptoms of liver disease, effects of liver disease, memory/concentration, sleep, hopelessness, distress, loneliness, stigma of liver disease and sexual problems. We administered the SF‐LDQOL to 156 advanced liver disease patients at baseline and at 6‐month follow‐up. We estimated internal consistency reliability for multi‐item scales, item discrimination across scale and evaluated construct validity by estimating the associations of SF‐LDQOL scores with SF‐36 scores, symptom severity and disability days. To evaluate the SF‐LDQOL’s responsiveness, we compared HRQOL changes for patients who received with those who did not receive liver transplantation (LT).

Results  The internal consistency reliability coefficients were ≥0.70 for seven of nine scales in baseline and for all scales in follow‐up administration. The SF‐LDQOL correlated highly with SF‐36 scores, symptom severity, disability days and global health. Patients undergoing LT reported improved HRQOL compared with patients without LT and the responsiveness indices were excellent.

Conclusions  This study provides support for the reliability and validity of the SF‐LDQOL in patients with advanced chronic liver disease. This instrument may be useful in everyday clinical practice and in future clinical trials.
An analysis of predictive factors for healing and mortality in patients with enterocutaneous fistulas
Authors: MAWDSLEY J. E. , HOLLINGTON P. , BASSETT P. , WINDSOR A. J. , FORBES A. , GABE S. M.
Published: October 2008

Background  Most studies of enterocutaneous fistula report management and outcome. Few studies examine factors predicting healing and mortality.

Aim  To identify factors predicting healing and mortality in patients with ECF managed either with a definitive attempt at surgical closure or conservatively.

Methods  The case notes of 277 patients with enterocutaneous fistula, treated at our institution over a 10 year period, were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into those managed operatively or conservatively. Eleven factors were examined for their relationship to fistula healing and fistula‐related mortality.

Results  For patients treated operatively, successful enterocutaneous fistula closure related only to the complexity of the fistula (multiple fistula or presence of an internal abscess cavity) (P = 0.03), whereas fistula‐related mortality related only to the presence of comorbidity (P = 0.02). In patients managed conservatively, a decreased likelihood of enterocutaneous fistula closure was associated with a high fistula output (P = 0.01), comorbidity (P = 0.03) and being referred from an external institution (P < 0.001). Fistula related‐mortality in this group was related to a high output (P = 0.003) and an increased age (P = 0.001).

Conclusion  In patients managed operatively, fistula healing and fistula‐related mortality are each associated with only one factor, whereas in patients managed conservatively healing and mortality are predicted by three and two factors, respectively.
Systematic review: the evidence base for long‐term management of coeliac disease
Authors: HAINES M. L. , ANDERSON R. P. , GIBSON P. R.
Published: October 2008

Background While gluten‐free diet is an effective treatment for coeliac disease, the need for and goals of long‐term management of patients are poorly defined.

Aim To review systematically the complications and associations of coeliac disease, to identify potential risk factors, to define ways of assessing risk factors and to provide a strategy for management.

Methods Review of medical literature from 1975.

Results There is an increasing list of potential complications and/or conditions associated with coeliac disease, in particular, autoimmune disease, malignancy and bone disease. Risk factors that may predict or influence long‐term outcomes include genetic susceptibility, environmental factors predominantly gluten ingestion, persistent small intestinal inflammation/injury and nutritional deficiencies. Genotyping of patients is yet to have an established clinical role in long‐term management. Assessment of adherence to the gluten‐free diet largely relies upon skilled dietary history, but the ultimate test is duodenal histopathology, which is the only currently established means of assessing healing. Symptoms, serology or other non‐invasive means are poor predictors of healing and the likelihood of complications.

Conclusion Evidence (albeit limited) that adherence to a gluten‐free diet and mucosal healing prevent and/or ameliorate complications indicates that a planned long‐term strategy for follow‐up is essential.
Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug use as a risk factor for gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease: an observational study
Authors: RUSZNIEWSKI P. , SOUFFLET C. , BARTHÉLÉMY P.
Published: October 2008

Background  Although the associations between nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and peptic ulcer disease or dyspepsia are well established, fewer data exist concerning the relationship between NSAIDs and gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Aim  To examine the relationship between NSAIDs and GERD.

Methods  A self‐administered questionnaire covering NSAID use and GERD symptoms (heartburn and acid regurgitation) was sent to a representative national sample of 10 000 French adults (≥18 years) between 14 October and 21 November 2005. Risk factors associated with GERD were identified by logistic regression analysis in respondents who were not taking aspirin or proton pump inhibitors.

Findings  A total of 7259 completed questionnaires were returned of which 6823 were evaluable. Overall, 2262 respondents (33%) reported using NSAIDs during the previous 3 months. The lifetime and 3‐month prevalence rates of GERD symptoms were 37% and 21% respectively. GERD symptoms were significantly more common among NSAID users than among non‐users (27% vs. 19%, P ≤ 0.001) and a similar trend was seen for aspirin use. Proton pump inhibitors were received by 31% of respondents who reported experiencing GERD symptoms within the previous 3 months compared with 6% of those without symptoms (P < 0.01); however, only 20% of NSAID‐treated respondents were receiving proton pump inhibitors. NSAID use, age and female gender were independent predictors of GERD symptoms.

Conclusion  NSAID or aspirin use is a significant risk factor for GERD symptoms.
Review article: the use of potentially hepatotoxic drugs in patients with liver disease
Authors: GUPTA N. K. , LEWIS J. H.
Published: October 2008

Background Misconceptions surround the use of hepatotoxic drugs in chronic liver disease. While many prescription and over‐the‐counter (OTC) agents can be used safely, this often runs counter to labelled warnings/contraindications, especially for the statins and other commonly used agents.

Aim To evaluate published data on the use of hepatotoxic drugs in chronic liver disease including pharmacokinetic changes in cirrhosis and drug interactions, where available, to formulate recommendations on their use.

Methods Using a combination of PubMed searches, review texts, the Physicians’ Desk Reference and expert opinion, drugs considered at higher risk of hepatotoxicity in chronic liver disease were evaluated.

Results Most drugs and OTC products including herbals have not been formally studied in chronic liver disease, but available data suggest that several of the most commonly used agents, especially the statins, can be used safely. While there is an increased risk of drug‐induced liver injury for drugs used in the treatment of tuberculosis and HIV patients with hepatitis B or C, recommendations for their safe use are emerging.

Conclusions Although many clinicians remain hesitant to use hepatotoxic drugs in chronic liver disease, the database supporting this view is limited to just a few agents. Most medications can be used safely in patients with chronic liver disease with appropriate monitoring.
Hepatitis vaccination in patients with hepatitis C: practice and validation of codes at a large veterans administration medical centre
Authors: HACHEM C. Y. , KRAMER J. R. , KANWAL F. , EL‐SERAG H. B.
Published: October 2008

Background  Hepatitis vaccination is recommended in patients with chronic liver disease.

Aim  To validate Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes and drug codes for hepatitis vaccination in administrative databases and determine vaccination rates in hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐infected patients in a single large Veterans Administration Medical Center.

Methods  We calculated predictive values for hepatitis vaccination codes in a validation set of 168 patients. We then conducted a retrospective cohort study of 243 HCV‐infected patients to determine rates of hepatitis vaccination and serological testing.

Results  The presence of CPT or drug codes for hepatitis A vaccine yielded a positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 93.2% and 94.0%. The presence of hepatitis B vaccine codes yielded a PPV of 98.0% and an NPV of 94.0%. Among patients diagnosed with HCV between 2000 and 2005, receipt of hepatitis vaccination was documented in approximately 8% overall and 7% in patients with cirrhosis. Half of the patients without hepatitis vaccinations were either not tested for immunity or had negative serology.

Conclusions  Current Procedural Terminology or drug codes for hepatitis vaccinations in administrative data are highly predictive of the presence of vaccinations in medical records. Our data suggest that there is significant under‐utilization of vaccination in patients with HCV.
Immunogenicity negatively influences the outcome of adalimumab treatment in Crohn’s disease
Authors: WEST R. L. , ZELINKOVA Z. , WOLBINK G. J. , KUIPERS E. J. , STOKKERS P. C. F. , VAN DER WOUDE C. J.
Published: October 2008

Background  Adalimumab is an effective treatment in patients with Crohn’s disease; as it is a humanized anti‐tumour necrosis factor monoclonal antibody, immunogenicity is thought not to be of any significance.

Aim  To assess whether antibodies to adalimumab (ATAs) affect adalimumab treatment outcome in patients with Crohn’s disease previously treated with infliximab.

Methods  A retrospective study was performed. Patients with active Crohn’s disease and who had lost response or were intolerant to infliximab were treated with adalimumab. Clinical response and side effects were assessed as were serum ATAs and antibodies to infliximab (ATIs).

Results  In total 30 patients [M/F (7/23)], median age 36 years (range 21–73) were treated with adalimumab for 318 days (median range 83–632). Clinical response was 77% (23/30), a dose escalation was necessary in eight (27%) patients and side effects were observed in 47% (14/30). In five patients (17%) ATAs were detected; of these patients, four were nonresponders. The presence of ATAs was related to nonresponse to adalimumab (P = 0.006). ATIs were positive in 57% of patients (17/30) and serum levels were significantly increased in adalimumab nonresponders (P = 0.01).

Conclusion  Immunogenicity plays a role in adalimumab treatment because of the development of ATAs.
The effect of sand depth, feeding regime, density, and body mass on the foraging behaviour of a pit‐building antlion
Authors: SCHARF INON , GOLAN BOAZ , OVADIA OFER
Published: October 2008

Abstract 1. Pit‐building antlions are small sit‐and‐wait arthropod predators, which dig conical pits in sandy soils. We studied how biotic (conspecific density and feeding regime) and abiotic (sand depth) factors affect pit diameter and depth, while taking into account the larval body mass.

2. Pit diameter increased with larval body mass at a decelerating rate. In addition, larger larvae tended to relocate less frequently than smaller ones.

3. Sand depth positively affected overall pit size, while increasing conspecific density had a weaker but negative effect on pit size.

4. Feeding the antlions resulted in an increase in pit diameter compared with an unfed control group. However, as prey size increased this positive effect diminished. This result suggests that the existence of prey provides information about the quality of the microhabitat, triggering pit extension. However, similarly to the reduction in the foraging effort of saturated predators, antlions provided with large prey invested only little effort in pit enlargement.

5. Antlions were previously shown to be sensitive to prey and conspecific vibrations in the sand. We thus expected the feeding regime of the neighbour to affect antlion behaviour – surrogate of discriminating between local and global shortage of prey. Nevertheless, antlions with fed neighbours (a local prey shortage) did not show different behaviour compared with a control group in which both antlions were unfed (a global prey shortage).
No effect of larval experience on adult host preferences in Polygonia c‐album (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae): on the persistence of Hopkins’ host selection principle
Authors: JANZ NIKLAS , SÖDERLIND LINA , NYLIN SÖREN
Published: October 2008

Abstract 1. The possible effect of juvenile imprinting or ‘chemical legacy’ on the subsequent oviposition – often called the ‘Hopkins’ host selection principle’– has been a controversial but recurrent theme in the literature on host‐plant preference. While it appears possible in principle, experimental support for the hypothesis is equivocal. The present study points out that it is also important to consider its theoretical implications, and asks under what circumstances, if any, it should be favoured by natural selection.

2. Following this reasoning, it is predicted that host preference in the polyphagous butterfly Polygonia c‐album L. (Lepidoptera, Nymphalidae) should not be influenced by larval environment. This was tested by rearing larvae on three natural host plants: the high‐ranked Urtica dioica and the medium‐ranked Salix cinerea and Ribes uva‐crispa, and exposing the naive females to oviposition choices involving the same set of plants.

3. It was found that larval host plant had no effect on oviposition decisions of the adult female. Hence, the Hopkins’ host selection principle does not seem to be applicable in this species.

4. Based on recent insights on how accuracy of environmental versus genetic information should affect the control of developmental switches, the conditions that could favour the use of juvenile cues in oviposition decisions are discussed. Although the Hopkins’ host selection hypothesis cannot be completely ruled out, we argue that the circumstances required for it to be adaptive are so specific that it should not be invoked as a general hypothesis for host selection in plant‐feeding insects.
Adaptive radiation through phenological shift: the importance of the temporal niche in species diversification
Authors: SACHET JEAN‐MARIE , PONCET BÉNÉDICTE , ROQUES ALAIN , DESPRÉS LAURENCE
Published: October 2008

Abstract1. Phenological shift in oviposition in seed predators may be a key factor for adaptive radiation if temporal differences lead to less intense competition.

2. This hypothesis was tested at two sites in the French Alps in three sympatric species of larch cone flies grouped into two phenological groups (early and late) differing in adult emergence and oviposition timing by approximately 2 weeks. The present study assessed the intensity of competition within and between groups by measuring four larval traits. Cone traits were measured, and the impact of early species parasitism on cone development was assessed.

3. The occupation of the central axis of a developing cone by one early larva has a strong detrimental effect on cone growth and seed production. However, there was almost no correlation between the variables measured on the cones and on the larvae, suggesting that the resources available were not limiting.

4. Inter‐group competition had no significant effect on early larvae. In contrast, both inter‐ and intra‐group competition had a significant negative effect on late larvae length (–11% and –16% respectively), dry mass (–8% and –23%), and lipid mass (–15% and –26%). The intensity of competition was stronger among larvae in the same phenological group, which is consistent with the hypothesis that shifts in oviposition promote adaptive radiation in larch cone flies by reducing competition among larvae.
Movement, colonization, and establishment success of a planthopper of prairie potholes,Delphacodes scolochloa(Hemiptera: Delphacidae)
Authors: CRONIN JAMES T.
Published: October 2008

Abstract1. Movement, and particularly the colonisation of new habitat patches, remains one of the least known aspects of the life history and ecology of the vast majority of species. Here, a series of experiments was conducted to rectify this problem withDelphacodes scolochloaCronin & Wilson, a wing‐dimorphic planthopper of the North American Great Plains.

2. The movement of brachypterous and macropterous planthoppers within and among host‐plant patches was quantified. Also, an experiment was conducted to assess whether planthopper propagule size (i.e. number of colonists) influenced the presence of planthopper adults or eggs over time, planthopper population growth rate (R0), and abundance or impact of an egg parasitoid.

3. Delphacodes scolochloamovement was well described by a simple diffusion model. As expected, brachypters were less dispersive than macropters – mean displacement distances among patches were three times greater for macropters (2.8 m vs. 8.1 m per day).

4. Number of colonists of vacant patches increased with increasing patch size (both wing forms) and decreased with increasing isolation (brachypters only). At the scale of individual potholes (<38 m), brachypters were dispersal limited.

5. Establishment success was strongly influenced by propagule size. An Allee effect constrained the establishment of new populations, but low establishment success was not a result of mate limitations or the presence of natural enemies (i.e. egg parasitoids).6. These movement data reveal important insights regarding the spatial population structure and spread ofD. scolochloa.
Stress magnitude matters: different intensities of pulsed water stress produce non‐monotonic resistance responses of host plants to insect herbivores
Authors: MODY KARSTEN , EICHENBERGER DANIELA , DORN SILVIA
Published: October 2008

Abstract 1. Water stress may increase or reduce the suitability of plants for herbivores. The recently proposed ‘pulsed stress hypothesis’ suggests consideration of stress phenology (pulsed vs. continuous stress) to explain these conflicting effects of plant water stress on herbivore performance.

2. This hypothesis was tested for the effect of differing stress intensity on performance and preference of insect herbivores belonging to different feeding guilds, namely leaf‐chewing insects (Spodoptera littoralis caterpillars) and phloem‐feeding insects (Aphis pomi aphids), on apple plants (Malus domestica). The plants were non‐stressed or exposed to a low or high intensity of pulsed water stress.

3. Plant responses to the different stress levels were generally monotonic. Growth, stomatal conductance (gs), leaf water, and old‐leaf nitrogen concentration decreased, whereas young‐leaf nitrogen concentration and leaf mass per area (LMA) increased with increasing stress intensity. The stable isotope composition of foliar carbon (δ13C) responded non‐monotonically to the drought treatments. The δ13C values were highest in low‐stress plants, intermediate in high‐stress plants, and lowest in non‐stressed plants.

4. The preference and performance responses of the caterpillars were also non‐monotonic. Non‐stressed plants were intermediately, low‐stress plants least, and high‐stress plants most attractive or suitable. Aphid population growth was highest on non‐stressed plants and lowest on low‐stress plants.

5. The results highlight the importance of water stress intensity for the outcome of interactions between herbivores and drought‐affected plants. They show that pulsed water stress may enhance or reduce insect herbivore performance and plant resistance, depending on stress intensity.
Thresholds of economic damage by clover seed weevil (Apion fulvipes Geoff.) and lesser clover leaf weevil (Hypera nigrirostris Fab.) on white clover (Trifolium repens L.) seed crops
Authors: Hansen L. M. , Boelt B.
Published: October 2008

Severe reductions in the seed yield of white clover can occur because of feeding by the white clover seed weevil Apion fulvipes and the lesser clover leaf weevil Hypera nigrirostris which together can reduce the seed yield by more than 0·50. From 2002 to 2006 five field experiments were carried out to investigate the relationship between the density of these two weevil species and seed yield of white clover. Damage caused by the weevils was calculated as the difference in the number of weevils and the difference in seed yield between the average of insecticide‐treated and untreated plots. Loss of seed yield was expressed as a proportion of the seed yield in insecticide‐treated plots, which allowed for a comparison between years as yields in insecticide‐treated plots varied. A multiple regression approach was chosen in which proportional loss in seed yield was the response variable and the weevils A. fulvipes and H. nigrirostris were the independent variables. Data obtained from the experiments were used to construct the following threshold model of economic damage:
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Knowledge transfer in virtual settings: the role of individual virtual competency
Authors: Wang Yinglei , Haggerty Nicole
Published: October 2008

Economic forces, competitive pressures and technological advances have created an environment within which firms have developed new ways of organizing (e.g. virtual work settings) and managing their resources (e.g. knowledge management) in order to maintain and improve firm performance. Extant research has highlighted the challenges associated with managing knowledge in virtual settings. However, researchers are still struggling to provide effective guidance to practitioners in this field. We believe that a better understanding of individual virtual competency is a potential avenue for managing the complexity of knowledge transfer in virtual settings. In particular, we suggest that optimal knowledge transfers can be achieved by individuals armed with the right personal capabilities and skills for virtual work, particularly when those knowledge transfers are emergent, bottom‐up and cannot be specified a priori. The virtual competency exhibited by individuals can be the key to overcoming the constraints of knowledge transfers with such characteristics because underlying competency can facilitate effective action in unfamiliar and novel situations. In this conceptual research, we develop a theoretical model of individual virtual competence and describe its role in the communication process, which underpins effective knowledge transfer in virtual settings. Additionally, we consider the antecedent role that prior experience in virtual activity plays in aiding workers to develop virtual competence, which in turn engenders effective knowledge transfer. We conclude with implications for future research and for practicing managers.
Oral‐health‐related quality of life among children with and without dental fear
Authors: LUOTO ANNI , LAHTI SATU , NEVANPERÄ TERHI , TOLVANEN MIMMI , LOCKER DAVID
Published: October 2008

Objectives. This study aims to determine whether the oral‐health‐related quality of life (ORHQoL) and its dimensions differed among children with and without dental fear when different characteristics of fear were measured.

Material and methods. The participants were 11‐ to 14‐year‐old Finnish child volunteers from the Oulu University Hospital cleft lip and/or palate (CLP) treatment register (n = 51) and schoolchildren (n = 82). Dental fear was measured with ‘Treatment of dental decay’ and ‘Attending dentist’ dimensions of the modified Children's Fear Survey Schedule–Dental Subscale and a single question. ORHQoL was measured with CPQ11–14. Background variables were gender and the dental care experienced.

Results. The response rates were 87% and 51% in the schoolchildren's and CLP groups, respectively. Those who were afraid of ‘Treatment of dental decay’ had higher mean CPQ11–14total scores (33.2) and higher scores for social (8.8) and emotional well‐being (9.0) than those who were not fearful (24.0, 6.2, and 5.8, respectively,P < 0.05), indicating poorer ORHQoL. Among those with experience of orthodontics, the association between dental fear and social and emotional well‐being was weaker than among those with no experience of orthodontics.

Conclusion. Dental fear may have a negative effect on a child's ORHQoL, especially on social and emotional well‐being. Positive minor treatment experiences might weaken this effect.