bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new cytogenetic mechanism for bacterial endosymbiont-induced parthenogenesis in Hymenoptera
Authors: Adachi-Hagimori Tetsuya , Miura Kazuki , Stouthamer Richard
Published: August 2008

Vertically transmitted endosymbiotic bacteria, such asWolbachia,CardiniumandRickettsia, modify host reproduction in several ways to facilitate their own spread. One such modification results in parthenogenesis induction, where males, which are unable to transmit the bacteria, are not produced. In Hymenoptera, the mechanism of diploidization due toWolbachiainfection, known as gamete duplication, is a post-meiotic modification. During gamete duplication, the meiotic mechanism is normal, but in the first mitosis the anaphase is aborted. The two haploid sets of chromosomes do not separate and thus result in a single nucleus containing two identical sets of haploid chromosomes. Here, we outline an alternative cytogenetic mechanism for bacterial endosymbiont-induced parthenogenesis in Hymenoptera. During female gamete formation inRickettsia-infectedNeochrysocharis formosa(Westwood) parasitoids, meiotic cells undergo only a single equational division followed by the expulsion of a single polar body. This absence of meiotic recombination and reduction corresponds well with a non-segregation pattern in the offspring of heterozygous females. We conclude that diploidy inN. formosais maintained through a functionally apomictic cloning mechanism that differs entirely from the mechanism induced byWolbachia.
Birds are tracking climate warming, but not fast enough
Authors: Devictor Vincent , Julliard Romain , Couvet Denis , Jiguet Frédéric
Published: August 2008

Range shifts of many species are now documented as a response to global warming. But whether these observed changes are occurring fast enough remains uncertain and hardly quantifiable. Here, we developed a simple framework to measure change in community composition in response to climate warming. This framework is based on a community temperature index (CTI) that directly reflects, for a given species assemblage, the balance between low- and high-temperature dwelling species. Using data from the French breeding bird survey, we first found a strong increase in CTI over the last two decades revealing that birds are rapidly tracking climate warming. This increase corresponds to a 91 km northward shift in bird community composition, which is much higher than previous estimates based on changes in species range edges. During the same period, temperature increase corresponds to a 273 km northward shift in temperature. Change in community composition was thus insufficient to keep up with temperature increase: birds are lagging approximately 182 km behind climate warming. Our method is applicable to any taxa with large-scale survey data, using either abundance or occurrence data. This approach can be further used to test whether different delays are found across groups or in different land-use contexts.
Patterning of Inflorescences and Flowers by the F-Box Protein DOUBLE TOP and the LEAFY Homolog ABERRANT LEAF AND FLOWER of Petunia
Authors: Souer Erik , Rebocho Alexandra B. , Bliek Mattijs , Kusters Elske , de Bruin Robert A.M. , Koes Ronald
Published: August 2008

Angiosperms display a wide variety of inflorescence architectures differing in the positions where flowers or branches arise. The expression of floral meristem identity (FMI) genes determines when and where flowers are formed. In Arabidopsis thaliana, this is regulated via transcription of LEAFY (LFY), which encodes a transcription factor that promotes FMI. We found that this is regulated in petunia (Petunia hybrida) via transcription of a distinct gene, DOUBLE TOP (DOT), a homolog of UNUSUAL FLORAL ORGANS (UFO) from Arabidopsis. Mutation of DOT or its tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) homolog ANANTHA abolishes FMI. Ubiquitous expression of DOT or UFO in petunia causes very early flowering and transforms the inflorescence into a solitary flower and leaves into petals. Ectopic expression of DOT or UFO together with LFY or its homolog ABERRANT LEAF AND FLOWER (ALF) in petunia seedlings activates genes required for identity or outgrowth of organ primordia. DOT interacts physically with ALF, suggesting that it activates ALF by a posttranslational mechanism. Our findings suggest a wider role than previously thought for DOT and UFO in the patterning of flowers and indicate that the different roles of LFY and UFO homologs in the spatiotemporal control of floral identity in distinct species result from their divergent expression patterns.
Atomic resolution structures of Escherichia coli and Bacillus anthracis malate synthase A: Comparison with isoform G and implications for structure‐based drug discovery
Authors: Lohman Jeremy R. , Olson Andrew C. , Remington S. James
Published: August 2008

Enzymes of the glyoxylate shunt are important for the virulence of pathogenic organisms such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Candida albicans. Two isoforms have been identified for malate synthase, the second enzyme in the pathway. Isoform A, found in fungi and plants, comprises ∼530 residues, whereas isoform G, found only in bacteria, is larger by ∼200 residues. Crystal structures of malate synthase isoform G from Escherichia coli and Mycobacterium tuberculosis were previously determined at moderate resolution. Here we describe crystal structures of E. coli malate synthase A (MSA) in the apo form (1.04 Å resolution) and in complex with acetyl‐coenzyme A and a competitive inhibitor, possibly pyruvate or oxalate (1.40 Å resolution). In addition, a crystal structure for Bacillus anthracis MSA at 1.70 Å resolution is reported. The increase in size between isoforms A and G can be attributed primarily to an inserted α/β domain that may have regulatory function. Upon binding of inhibitor or substrate, several active site loops in MSA undergo large conformational changes. However, in the substrate bound form, the active sites of isoforms A and G from E. coli are nearly identical. Considering that inhibitors bind with very similar affinities to both isoforms, MSA is as an excellent platform for high‐resolution structural studies and drug discovery efforts.
Benzothiadiazole affects the leaf proteome in arctic bramble (Rubus arcticus)
Authors: HUKKANEN ANNE , KOKKO HARRI , BUCHALA ANTONY , HÄYRINEN JUKKA , KÄRENLAMPI SIRPA
Published: August 2008

Benzothiadiazole (BTH) induces resistance to the downy mildew pathogen, Peronospora sparsa, in arctic bramble, but the basis for the BTH‐induced resistance is unknown. Arctic bramble cv. Mespi was treated with BTH to study the changes in leaf proteome and to identify proteins with a putative role in disease resistance. First, BTH induced strong expression of one PR‐1 protein isoform, which was also induced by salicylic acid (SA). The PR‐1 was responsive to BTH and exogenous SA despite a high endogenous SA content (20–25 µg/g fresh weight), which increased to an even higher level after treatment with BTH. Secondly, a total of 792 protein spots were detected in two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis, eight proteins being detected solely in the BTH‐treated plants. BTH caused up‐ or down‐regulation of 72 and 31 proteins, respectively, of which 18 were tentatively identified by mass spectrometry. The up‐regulation of flavanone‐3‐hydroxylase, alanine aminotransferase, 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylate oxidase, PR‐1 and PR‐10 proteins may partly explain the BTH‐induced resistance against P. sparsa. Other proteins with changes in intensity appear to be involved in, for example, energy metabolism and protein processing. The decline in ATP synthase, triosephosphate isomerase, fructose bisphosphate aldolase and glutamine synthetase suggests that BTH causes significant changes in primary metabolism, which provides one possible explanation for the decreased vegetative growth of foliage and rhizome observed in BTH‐treated plants.
Clinical experience with a pumpless extracorporeal lung assist device
Authors: Hammell C. , Forrest M. , Barrett P.
Published: August 2008

We present three patients with respiratory failure in whom conventional mechanical lung ventilation resulted in unacceptably high levels of carbon dioxide, severe acidosis and high vasopressor requirements. A pumpless arteriovenous extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal device (Novalung™) was inserted. Arterial carbon dioxide levels were reduced rapidly with a corresponding increase in pH, reduction in vasopressor requirements and reduction in inspiratory pressures. One patient required the additional use of high frequency oscillatory ventilation. There were no complications associated with use of the device. We conclude that use of extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal devices should be considered at an early stage in the management of respiratory failure refractory to conventional ventilatory techniques.
Linkage disequilibrium and signatures of selection on chromosomes 19 and 29 in beef and dairy cattle
Authors: Prasad A. , Schnabel R. D. , McKay S. D. , Murdoch B. , Stothard P. , Kolbehdari D. , Wang Z. , Taylor J. F. , Moore S. S.
Published: August 2008

The objective of this study was to quantify the extent of linkage disequilibrium (LD) on bovine chromosomes 19 and 29 and to study the pattern of selection signatures in beef and dairy breeds (Angus and Holstein) of Bos taurus. The extent of LD was estimated for 370 and 186 single nucleotide polymorphism markers on BTA19 and 29 respectively using the square of the correlation coefficient (r2) among alleles at pairs of loci. A comparison of the extent of LD found that the decline of LD followed a similar pattern in both breeds. We observed long‐range LD and found that LD dissipates to background levels at a locus separation of about 20 Mb on both chromosomes. Along each chromosome, patterns of LD were variable in both breeds. We find that a minimum of 30 000 informative and evenly spaced markers would be required for whole‐genome association studies in cattle. In addition, we have identified chromosomal regions that show some evidence of selection for economically important traits in Angus and Holstein cattle. The results of this study are of importance for the design and application of association studies.
Impact of adiponectin and ghrelin on incident glucose intolerance and on weight change
Authors: Bennett Nadia R. , Boyne Michael S. , Cooper Richard S. , Royal‐Thomas Tamika Y. , Bennett Franklyn I. , Luke Amy , Wilks Rainford J. , Forrester Terrence E.
Published: August 2008

Objectives  Adiponectin and ghrelin are associated with adiposity and type 2 diabetes in several studies. We sought to prospectively determine the interaction of adiponectin and ghrelin in the development of adiposity and hyperglycaemia.

Design  Prospective observational study.

Participants  393 community‐dwelling Afro‐Jamaicans (mean age 47 ± 13 years; BMI 27·3 ± 6·3 kg/m2; 63% women) without glucose intolerance at baseline.

Measurements  Anthropometry, fasting plasma glucose, 2‐h plasma glucose, insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), adiponectin and ghrelin concentrations were measured at baseline and 4·1 ± 0·9 years later. Multivariate analyses were used to explore the associations of HOMA‐IR, adiponectin and ghrelin with weight change and glycaemia.

Results  The mean weight change was 2·6 ± 5·5 kg. There were 114 incident cases of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and 35 cases of diabetes mellitus. Adiponectin was positively correlated with age and female sex (P‐values < 0·01). After adjusting for age and sex, adiponectin and ghrelin were significantly correlated with weight at baseline and follow‐up. However, they were not associated with weight change even after further adjustment for baseline weight. Adiponectin, but not ghrelin, was associated with 2‐h glucose concentrations at follow‐up even after adjusting for age, sex, HOMA‐IR and BMI (P = 0·04). In the fully adjusted logistic regression model, adiponectin predicted incident IGT (OR 0·93; 95% CI: 0·87–0·99) and attenuated the effect of BMI on incident IGT.

Conclusions  These longitudinal data show that adiponectin and ghrelin may not be causally involved in the development of obesity. However, adiponectin is independently associated with decreased risk of incident IGT.
Prognostic significance of the therapeutic targets histone deacetylase 1, 2, 6 and acetylated histone H4 in cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Marquard L , Gjerdrum L M , Christensen Ib J , Jensen P B , Sehested M , Ralfkiaer E
Published: August 2008

Aims:  Aberrant histone acetylation has been associated with malignancy and histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors are currently being investigated in numerous clinical trials. So far, the malignancy most sensitive to HDAC inhibitors has been cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL). The reason for this sensitivity is unclear and studies on HDAC expression and histone acetylation in CTCL are lacking. The aim of this study was to address this issue.

Methods and results:  The immunohistochemical expression of HDAC1, HDAC2, HDAC6, and acetylated H4 was examined in 73 CTCLs and the results related to histological subtypes and overall survival. HDAC1 was most abundantly expressed (P < 0.0001), followed by HDAC2; HDAC6 and H4 acetylation were equally expressed. HDAC2 (P = 0.001) and H4 acetylation (P = 0.03) were significantly more common in aggressive than indolent CTCL subtypes. In contrast, no differences were observed for HDAC1 and HDAC6. In a Cox analysis, elevated HDAC6 was the only parameter showing significant influence on survival (P = 0.04).

Conclusions:  High expression of HDAC2 and acetylated H4 is more common in aggressive than indolent CTCL. HDAC6 expression is associated with a favorable outcome independent of the subtype.
Biogeography of the ubiquitous marine bacterium Alteromonas macleodii determined by multilocus sequence analysis
Authors: IVARS‐MARTÍNEZ ELENA , D’AURIA GIUSEPPE , RODRÍGUEZ‐VALERA FRANCISCO , SÁNCHEZ‐PORRO CRISTINA , VENTOSA ANTONIO , JOINT IAN , MÜHLING MARTIN
Published: August 2008

Twenty‐three isolates of the widely distributed marine bacteria Alteromonas macleodii have been analysed by multilocus sequence analysis combined with phylogenetic and multivariate statistical analyses. The strains originated from the Pacific Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, English Channel, Black Sea and Thailand. Using the nucleotide sequences of nine loci for each of the 23 isolates, a robust identification was achieved of different clades within the single species. Strains generally clustered with the depth in the water column from which the isolate originated. Strains also showed more recombination with isolates from the same vicinity, suggesting that genetic exchange plays a role in diversification of planktonic marine prokaryotes. This study thus shows for the first time for a large set of isolates of a species of planktonic marine prokaryotes that multilocus sequence analysis overcomes the problems associated with the analysis of individual marker genes or presence of extensive recombination events. It can thus achieve intraspecific identification to the level of genotypes and, by comparison with relevant environmental data, ecotypes.
The effect of multiple paternity on the genetically effective size of a population
Authors: KARL STEPHEN A.
Published: August 2008

With the availability of highly variable microsatellite loci, many previously elusive aspects of the lives of animals have been revealed. One important finding is that multiple paternity (MP) appears to be somewhat common throughout the metazoa. Frequently, along with the discovery of MP are assertions that it can increase the genetically effective size of the population (NE). I argue that MP is not likely to have a positive effect on NE because it increases the variance in male reproductive success. Published studies suggesting the contrary have implicitly or explicitly included other changes to the breeding system, and these additions are likely responsible for the presumed increase in NE.
Heterozygosity–fitness correlations and their relevance to studies on inbreeding depression in threatened species
Authors: GRUEBER CATHERINE E , WALLIS GRAHAM P , JAMIESON IAN G
Published: August 2008

The majority of reported multilocus heterozygosity–fitness correlations (HFCs) are from large, outbred populations, and their relevance to studies on inbreeding depression in threatened populations is often stressed. The results of such HFC studies conducted on outbred populations may be of limited application to threatened population management, however, as bottlenecked populations exhibit increased incidence of inbreeding, increased linkage disequilibrium, reduced genetic diversity and possible effects of historical inbreeding such as purging. These differences may affect both our ability to detect inbreeding depression in threatened species, and our interpretation of the underlying mechanisms for observed heterozygosity–fitness relationships. The study of HFCs in outbred populations is of interest in itself, but the results may not translate directly to threatened populations that have undergone severe bottlenecks.
Stress‐induced expression of an activated form of AtbZIP17 provides protection from salt stress in Arabidopsis
Authors: LIU JIAN‐XIANG , SRIVASTAVA RENU , HOWELL STEPHEN H.
Published: August 2008

Membrane‐associated basic‐leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factors that reside in the endoplasmic reticulum represent a newly described class of plant stress sensor/transducers. The bZIP factors are anchored in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes with their C‐terminal tails facing the ER lumen and their N terminii, which contain transcriptional components, facing the cytosol. In response to stress, cytosolic components of the transcription factors are released by proteolysis and move to the nucleus where they promote the up‐regulation of stress response genes. One such stress sensor/transducer in Arabidopsis is AtbZIP17, which is activated in response to salt stress. With the aim of enhancing salt tolerance, a constitutively activated form of AtbZIP17, truncated before its membrane‐anchor domain, was introduced into transgenic plants. When placed under the control of a constitutive promoter, the activated form of AtbZIP17 up‐regulated stress response genes under unstressed conditions, but caused a substantial delay in plant development. When the activated form of AtbZIP17 was placed under the control of stress‐inducible promoter, development was normal under unstressed conditions. Under salt stress conditions, the stress‐inducible expression of the activated AtbZIP17 enhanced salt tolerance as demonstrated by chlorophyll bleaching and seedling survival assays.
Adaptive eukaryote‐to‐eukaryote lateral gene transfer: stress‐related genes of algal origin in the closest unicellular relatives of animals
Authors: NEDELCU A. M. , MILES I. H. , FAGIR A. M. , KAROL K.
Published: August 2008

In addition to mutation, gene duplication and recombination, the transfer of genetic material between unrelated species is now regarded as a potentially significant player in the shaping of extant genomes and the evolution and diversification of life. Although this is probably true for prokaryotes, the extent of such genetic exchanges in eukaryotes (especially eukaryote‐to‐eukaryote transfers) is more controversial and the selective advantage and evolutionary impact of such events are less documented. A laterally transferred gene could either be added to the gene complement of the recipient or replace the recipient’s homologue; whereas gene replacements can be either adaptive or stochastic, gene additions are most likely adaptive. Here, we report the finding of four stress‐related genes (two ascorbate peroxidase and two metacaspase genes) of algal origin in the closest unicellular relatives of animals, the choanoflagellates. At least three of these sequences represent additions to the choanoflagellate gene complement, which is consistent with these transfers being adaptive. We suggest that these laterally acquired sequences could have provided the primitive choanoflagellates with additional or more efficient means to cope with stress, especially in relation to adapting to freshwater environments and/or sessile or colonial lifestyles.
Risk factors for the development of diabetes mellitus in chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 4 infection
Authors: Chehadeh Wassim , Abdella Nabila , Ben‐Nakhi Abdullah , Al‐Arouj Monira , Al‐Nakib Widad
Published: August 2008

Background and Aim:  A high occurrence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been reported in Kuwait and other countries. However, HCV genotype 4 has been underrepresented in all previous studies. Our aim was to investigate the viral and host risk factors associated with the development of T2D in patients with chronic hepatitis C genotype 4 infection in the absence of liver fibrosis and steatosis.

Methods:  The study population consisted of 181 HCV‐positive patients and 170 control HCV‐negative patients with T2D.

Results:  The prevalence of HCV‐patients with T2D was 39.8%. There was no significant association of T2D with gender, nationality, obesity, HCV viral load, or antiviral therapy. Older age (≥ 50 years) and family history of diabetes were the only independent risk factor for T2D in HCV patients. However, the median age and the prevalence of obesity in HCV‐positive patients with T2D were significantly lower than those in diabetic HCV‐negative patients. By following‐up HCV‐patients receiving antiviral drugs, a significant decrease of fasting plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin levels was observed in diabetic patients who achieved a sustained viral response (SVR).

Conclusions:  The risk factors associated with the development of T2D in the general population cannot alone account for the high prevalence of T2D obtained in chronic HCV genotype 4 infection. In the absence of liver fibrosis and steatosis, the improvement in glycemic control obtained in SVR patients may imply direct involvement of HCV in the development of T2D.
Effects of branched‐chain amino acids–enriched nutrient support for patients undergoing liver resection for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Okabayashi Takehiro , Nishimori Isao , Sugimoto Takeki , Maeda Hiromichi , Dabanaka Ken , Onishi Saburo , Kobayashi Michiya , Hanazaki Kazuhiro
Published: August 2008

Background and Aims:  Most patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have underlying liver cirrhosis that is frequently associated with a state of protein energy malnutrition. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical benefit of perioperative supplementation of a branched‐chain amino acid–enriched nutrient‐mixture for patients undergoing liver resection for HCC.

Methods:  A total of 112 patients with HCC who underwent hepatic resection were enrolled in this study. These patients were divided into two groups: 40 patients received perioperative supplementation of branched‐chain amino acid–enriched nutrient‐mixture (AEN group) and 72 patients did not (control group). Laboratory data, postoperative complications, duration of hospitalization, and survival were assessed for each group and compared.

Results:  The overall incidence of postoperative complications was lower in the AEN group (17.5%) than in the control group (44.4%) (P = 0.01). Among the postoperative complications, surgical site infection and bile leakage was observed in 5% of patients in the AEN group and in 15.3% and 12.5% of patients in the control group, respectively. Ascites appeared after the surgery in 7.5% of patients in the AEN group and in 16.7% of patients in the control group. The duration of hospitalization was significantly shorter in the AEN group was than in the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  This study strongly suggests that perioperative supplementation of a branched‐chain amino acid–enriched nutrient‐mixture is clinically beneficial in reducing the morbidity associated with postoperative complications and in shortening the duration of hospitalization of patients with chronic liver disease who undergo liver resection for HCC.
Natural history of hepatitis B virus–related cirrhotic patients hospitalized to control ascites
Authors: Kim Seung Up , Han Kwang‐Hyub , Nam Chung Mo , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Chon Chae Yoon , Ahn Sang Hoon
Published: August 2008

Background and Aim:  Few studies have assessed the natural history of hepatitis B virus (HBV)–related cirrhotic ascites. We investigated the natural history of patients with HBV‐related cirrhotic ascites hospitalized to control ascites and determined their prognosis, including survival rates and prognostic factors affecting survival.

Methods:  Between January 1996 and December 2005, 203 consecutive patients with HBV‐related cirrhotic ascites were followed for a median of 80.7 months (range, 15–149) after their first significant ascitic decompensation that required hospitalization.

Results:  The mean age of all patients was 52.6 years. Male gender predominated (male/female, 138/65). A subgroup analysis of 165 patients who had ascitic decompensation as their first episode of hepatic decompensation revealed that gastrointestinal variceal bleeding developed after a median interval of 8 months following ascitic decompensation in 31 (18.8%) patients, hepatic encephalopathy occurred at 9 months in 53 (32.1%), spontaneous bacterial peritonitis appeared at 12.7 months in 24 (14.5%), hepatorenal syndrome occurred at 8.1 months in five (3%), and hepatocellular carcinoma was observed at 21.2 months in 10 (6.1%). The overall median survival was 12.4 months. The 1‐ and 3‐year survival rates were 50.7 and 18.7%. The prognostic factors that independently correlated with survival at the time of ascitic decompensation were Child–Pugh classification B/C (P = 0.030), serum white blood cell (WBC; P = 0.035), serum creatinine (Cr; P = 0.039), serum sodium (Na; P = 0.010), and antiviral therapy (P = 0.040).

Conclusions:  The prognosis of HBV‐related cirrhotic patients with ascitic decompensation is poor. Child–Pugh class, serum WBC/Cr/Na, and antiviral therapy primarily influenced survival.
Bilateral agenesis of the internal carotid artery: Case report and approach to management
Authors: Steer Andrew C , Rowe Peter W
Published: August 2008

Abstract:  We present the case of a 13‐year‐old boy who presented with two episodes of acute onset severe headache. Initial investigation with computerised tomography revealed no apparent abnormality. Magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance angiography revealed that this boy had absence of both internal carotid arteries bilaterally. Absence of the internal carotid arteries is an uncommon condition, but does occur with unilateral absence being more common than bilateral absence. The condition is usually diagnosed in adulthood but may be diagnosed incidentally in childhood. When diagnosed in childhood, the main aim of management is to prevent the development of cerebrovascular accidents.
Hyperinsulinism and hyperammonaemia syndrome due to a novel missense mutation in the allosteric domain of the Glutamate dehydrogenase 1 gene
Authors: Chik Kar‐Ki , Chan Chun‐Wing , Lam Ching‐Wan , Ng Kwok‐Leung
Published: August 2008

Abstract:  Congenital hyperinsulinism is one of the causes of persistent hypoglycaemia in neonates and infants. We describe a one‐month‐old boy with a rare form of congenital hyperinsulinism characterised by hypoglycaemia and hyperammonaemia.
Diagnosis and management of childhood obesity: A survey of general practitioners in South West Sydney
Authors: Sivertsen Louise M , Woolfenden Susan R , Woodhead Helen J , Lewis Di
Published: August 2008

Aim:  To describe general practitioners' (GPs) diagnosis and management of overweight and obesity in children, their attitudes regarding obesity and their awareness of National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) clinical practice guidelines.

Method:  A cross‐sectional written survey of members of the Liverpool Division of General Practice (located in South West Sydney, Australia).

Results:  Of 137 questionnaires sent, 85 (62%) were returned. Although the majority prescribed the correct interventions, there was variability in complications screening, ranging from 75% screening for psychosocial problems to 30% for fatty liver. Less than a third (28%) of GPs used NHMRC guidelines in their practice and only 9% used body mass index charts to correctly diagnose childhood obesity. GPs felt that childhood obesity was a significant issue and identified parental denial and lack of community support as barriers to treatment.

Conclusion:  Although NHMRC guideline adherence was far from universal, the GPs in our survey are motivated and aware of the importance of managing childhood obesity. If the primary care approach is to work, then GPs need support and education in an environment where there is greater community awareness of the impact of childhood obesity.
Feeding problems in preterm infants of preeclamptic mothers
Authors: Ersch Jörg , Baenziger Oskar , Bernet Vera , Bucher Hans Ulrich
Published: August 2008

Aim:  Maternal disease can cause prematurity and neonatal complications, notably feeding problems. To determine the relationship between maternal disease and the nature and severity of neonatal feeding problems, we compared feeding profiles, time to demand feeding and length of hospital stay between preterm infants of preeclamptic mothers, mothers with amniotic infection and mothers with other disease causing prematurity.

Methods:  The retrospective study used labour ward data collected from 2002 to 2005 in a tertiary university centre to analyse three groups of singletons born at <32 completed gestational weeks to mothers with preeclampsia (n = 61), amniotic infection (n = 55) and non‐preeclamptic non‐amniotic infection controls (n = 55). The groups were similar in gestational age, birthweight and sex ratio; all infants received enteral feeding according to departmental guidelines. Feeding profiles and enteral/oral nutrition were compared.

Results:  Feeding problems occurred in 46% of the preeclamptic group, 11% of the amniotic infection group and 13% of controls. Full oral demand feeding was established at 36 0/7 weeks postmenstrual age, 35 3/7 weeks (P = 0.03) and 35 2/7 weeks (P < 0.0001), respectively. Feeding problems were the main cause of delay (7–10 days) in hospital discharge in the preeclamptic group (P = 0.0002).

Conclusions:  Feeding problems are greater, and hospital stay longer, in preterm infants of preeclamptic mothers than in other preterm infants.
An undergraduate paediatric curriculum based on clinical presentations and ‘key features’
Authors: Pinnock Ralph , Jones Alison
Published: August 2008

Aim:  We wanted to develop and define an undergraduate paediatric curriculum in a way that would facilitate the development of clinical reasoning.

Method:  We sent a series of four questionnaires to paediatricians in New Zealand to explore their perceptions of common presenting complaints for an undergraduate paediatrics curriculum. The final group of paediatricians consulted had no further suggestions to add to the twenty five presentations that had already been listed. Further consultation lead to the determination of the knowledge and skills students' require in order to assess and manage these presentations.

Result:  We have defined with wide consultation, a framework for an undergraduate paediatric curriculum suitable for New Zealand.

Conclusions:  When consulting with a range of experts it can be difficult to reach agreement. By describing the curriculum as a series of presenting complaints and using the concept of ‘key features’ we were able to reach agreement on the content and details of an undergraduate curriculum for paediatrics.
A study of proliferative markers and tumor suppressor gene proteins in different grades of ependymomas
Authors: Sharma Mehar C. , Ghara Nihar , Jain Deepali , Sarkar Chitra , Singh Manmohan , Mehta Veer S.
Published: August 2008

Ependymomas are CNS tumors that originate from the spinal canal and walls of the ventricular system. Considerable controversy continues to exist with regard to their prognostic factors; age and extent of resection are the only statistically significant prognostic factors yet identified. The authors report a retrospective study of a homogenous population of 119 patients harbouring ependymomas between 1991 and 2002. All clinico‐radiological and follow‐up data were analyzed and a pathologic review was performed by two pathologists. Immunohistochemical staining for MIB‐1, Topo IIα, p53 and MDM2 was performed. Histopathologic grades show relationship with MIB1 and Topo IIα labelling indices and cut‐off values of 5% can differentiate between anaplastic and lower grades. p53 and MDM2 proteins expression are not common in ependymomas; however, they are seen in higher grades only and may be involved in the tumor progression.
Effect of early versus late intervention with inhaled corticosteroids on airway wall thickness in patients with asthma
Authors: KURASHIMA Kazuyoshi , KANAUCHI Tetsu , HOSHI Toshiko , TAKAKU Yotaro , ISHIGURO Takashi , TAKAYANAGI Noboru , UBUKATA Mikio , SUGITA Yutaka
Published: August 2008

Background and objective:  The aim of this study was to determine whether early versus late initiation of long‐term inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) therapy decreases airway wall thickness in patients with asthma.

Methods:  One hundred and eighty‐one patients with asthma not previously treated with ICS were given inhaled budesonide for 1 year. These patients were divided into five groups according to the duration of their asthma symptoms, which ranged from less than 1 year to more than 10 years. High‐resolution CT images and post‐bronchodilator FEV1 were examined before and 1 year after treatment.

Results:  Before treatment, airway wall thickness was increased relative to the duration of asthma. Disease severity improved with ICS treatment even in patients who had suffered asthma symptoms for more than 10 years. Post ICS treatment, airway wall thickness decreased in patients with a duration of symptoms less than 3 years, and a minor response was seen in patients with a duration of symptoms from 3 to 5 years. However, there was no change in airway wall thickness in patients who had suffered asthma for more than 5 years. Post‐bronchodilator FEV1 improved only in patients who had suffered asthma for less than 3 years.

Conclusions:  ICS therapy may improve asthma control in all asthma patients despite the disease duration, but early ICS treatment may be critical to reverse airway wall thickening associated with asthma.
Neurophysiological signature of effective anticipatory task‐set control: a task‐switching investigation
Authors: Lavric Aureliu , Mizon Guy A. , Monsell Stephen
Published: August 2008

Changing between cognitive tasks requires a reorganization of cognitive processes. Behavioural evidence suggests this can occur in advance of the stimulus. However, the existence or detectability of an anticipatory task‐set reconfiguration process remains controversial, in part because several neuroimaging studies have not detected extra brain activity during preparation for a task switch relative to a task repeat. In contrast, electrophysiological studies have identified potential correlates of preparation for a task switch, but their interpretation is hindered by the scarcity of evidence on their relationship to performance. We aimed to: (i) identify the brain potential(s) reflecting effective preparation for a task‐switch in a task‐cuing paradigm that shows clear behavioural evidence for advance preparation, and (ii) characterize this activity by means of temporal segmentation and source analysis. Our results show that when advance preparation was effective (as indicated by fast responses), a protracted switch‐related component, manifesting itself as widespread posterior positivity and concurrent right anterior negativity, preceded stimulus onset for ∼300 ms, with sources primarily in the left lateral frontal, right inferior frontal and temporal cortices. When advance preparation was ineffective (as implied by slow responses), or made impossible by a short cue–stimulus interval (CSI), a similar component, with lateral prefrontal generators, peaked ∼300 ms poststimulus. The protracted prestimulus component (which we show to be distinct from P3 or contingent negative variation, CNV) also correlated over subjects with a behavioural measure of preparation. Furthermore, its differential lateralization for word and picture cues was consistent with a role for verbal self‐instruction in preparatory task‐set reconfiguration.
The p75 neurotrophin receptor regulates hippocampal neurogenesis and related behaviours
Authors: Catts Vibeke S. , Al‐Menhali Noura , Burne Thomas H.J. , Colditz Michael J. , Coulson Elizabeth J.
Published: August 2008

Although changes to neural circuitry are believed to underlie behavioural characteristics mediated by the hippocampus, the contribution of neurogenesis to this process remains controversial. This is partially because the molecular regulators of neurogenesis remain to be fully elucidated, and experiments generically preventing neurogenesis have, for the most part, depended on paradigms involving irradiation. Here we show that mice lacking the p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR−/−) have 25% fewer neuroblasts and 50% fewer newborn neurons in the dentate gyrus, coincident with increased rates of cell death of newly born cells and a significantly smaller granular cell layer and dentate gyrus, than those of p75NTR+/+ mice. Whereas p75NTR−/− mice had increased latency to feed in a novelty‐suppressed feeding paradigm they had increased mobility in another test of “depression”, the tail‐suspension test. p75NTR−/− mice also had subtle behavioural impairment in Morris water maze tasks compared to wild‐type animals. No difference between genotypes was found in relation to anxiety or exploration behaviour based on the elevated‐plus maze, light‐dark, hole‐board, T‐maze or forced‐swim tests. Overall, this study demonstrates that p75NTR is an important regulator of hippocampal neurogenesis, with concomitant effects on associated behaviours. However, the behavioural attributes of the p75NTR−/− mice may be better explained by altered circuitry driven by the loss of p75NTR in the basal forebrain, rather than direct changes to neurogenesis.
Mapping immediate‐early gene activity in the rat after place learning in a water‐maze: the importance of matched control conditions
Authors: Shires K. L. , Aggleton J. P.
Published: August 2008

The expression of two immediate‐early genes (IEGs), Zif268 and c‐Fos, was quantified in hippocampal subregions and related structures following spatial learning in the Morris water‐maze. A critical feature was the novel control protocol alongside more standard controls, the purpose of which was to test whether hippocampal activity is set automatically when traversing an environment or whether it is dependent on reaching a specific goal using learning that requires the hippocampus (i.e. task dependent). The new control protocol (Procedural Task) made it possible to match swim time, swim distance and learning to escape from water with that of the experimental (Working Memory) group. Unlike the Working Memory group, the Procedural Task animals showed no evidence of learning the absolute platform location during the test session. While the Working Memory rats showed c‐Fos increases relative to the Procedural Task controls in the frontal and parahippocampal cortices, hippocampal levels did not differ. Again, for Zif268 there was no evidence of a relative increase of hippocampal activity in the Working Memory group. In fact, hippocampal Zif268 showed evidence of a relative decrease, even though the spatial working memory task is hippocampal dependent. The study not only highlighted the shortcomings of other control procedures used in water‐maze studies (free‐swimming or home cage control), but also indicated that the expression of these IEGs in the hippocampus is not a direct predictor of explicit spatial location learning. Rather, the activity in combinations of regions, including prefrontal cortex, provides a stronger correlate of water‐maze learning.
Arterial to endtidal carbon dioxide gradient during pediatric laparoscopic fundoplication
Authors: SANDERS JOHN C. , GERSTEIN NEAL
Published: August 2008

Background:  Discrepancies between arterial carbon dioxide (PaCO2) and endtidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) measures have been demonstrated in ventilated children with cyanotic congenital heart disease, infants with respiratory failure and during visceral and urological laparoscopic surgery.

Objectives:  Our objective was to assess the extent of the PaCO2 to ETCO2 gradient in children during laparoscopic fundoplication.

Methods:  We prospectively collected data on patient characteristics, surgical conditions, pH, ETCO2and PaCO2 during laparoscopic fundoplication using carbon dioxide insufflation in children age <29 months.

Results:  Data were collected on nine cases, four cases aged <1 year. A Pa‐ETCO2 gradient was present during insufflation. The gradient was larger in children age less than 1 year but statistically significantly different from a value of zero, only at t = 30 min (mean = 8 mmHg, sem = 0.81, P = 0.004) and t = 60 min (mean = 5 mmHg, sem = 1, P = 0.014). Minute ventilation was increased from 20% to 100% to control ETCO2.

Conclusions:  ETCO2 may not accurately represent arterial values during laparoscopic fundoplication, especially in the infant when carbon dioxide insufflation is used. Consideration should be given to placing an arterial line for blood gas measurement in some patients.
Cardiac output measurement in pediatric anesthesia
Authors: SKOWNO JUSTIN J. , BROADHEAD MICHAEL
Published: August 2008

Maintenance of cardiovascular stability is crucial to safe anesthetic practice, but measurement of cardiac output has been technically challenging, particularly in pediatric patients. Cardiovascular monitoring has therefore generally relied upon pressure‐based measurements, as opposed to flow‐based measurements. The measurement of cardiac output under anesthesia and in critical care has recently become easier as a result of new techniques of measurement. This article reviews the basic concepts of and rationale for cardiac output monitoring, and then describes the techniques available for monitoring in clinical practice.
Durability of central venous catheters. A randomized trial in children with malignant diseases
Authors: HENNEBERG STEEN , JUNGERSEN DORTE , HOLE PETER
Published: August 2008

In a prospective randomized study the durability of tunnelled and non‐tunnelled central venous catheters was investigated in children with malignant diseases. Twenty children were included in the study but four (two in each group) had to be excluded; three because the entry criteria turned out not to be fulfilled and one because of lack of data. The median duration of the tunnelled catheters was 224 days with a range of 25–846 days which was significantly longer than that of conventional catheters (39.5 days, range 9–228 days). In addition six of eight conventional catheters were accidentally removed whereas all catheters in the tunnelled group had to be removed via a small incision. Three cases of catheter related sepsis, two in the tunnelled group and one in the conventional group, were registered. The corresponding number of infections per catheter days were 1 in 1189 days and 1 in 522 days, respectively. In conclusion cuffed, tunnelled central venous catheters are less prone to displacement than traditional percutaneous central venous catheters when used in children with malignant diseases.
Fluorangiographic study of the ocular fundus in normal horses
Authors: Molleda José M. , Cervantes Isabel , Galán Alba , Tardón Rodrigo , Gallardo José M. , Martín‐Suárez Eva M.
Published: August 2008

Purpose: To describe the protocol and appearance of fluorescein angiography (FA) in normal horses.

Animals: A total of 25 healthy horses aged between 5 and 15 years.

Materials and Methods: The horses were sedated with 15 µg/kg detomidine and 50 µg/kg butorphanol and dilated with topical tropicamide 1%. All angiograms were recorded after intravenous bolus injection of 10 mg/kg of fluorescein sodium solution.

Results: Two successive angiographic phases could be discerned: the choriopapillary phase, starting at 46.95 ± 9.48 s, and the retinal vascular phase, starting at 47.79 ± 10.38 s. The retinal vascular phase was divided in three parts:filling phase,maximum fluorescence point, andfading phase. During the filling phase, the dye progressed into the retinal vessels, obtaining maximum fluorescence at 59.79 ± 10.39 s, termed themaximum fluorescence point.Thefading phasestarted immediately following the maximum fluorescence point. During this phase, vascular fluorescence decreased to complete reduction at 74.76 ± 9.81 s. Also, areas of delayed choroidal filling, the presence of short retinal vessels in the ventral region of the optic disc, and a particular filling of the optic disc were also observed.

Conclusions: The normal angiographic sequence was described in horses. FA may be a useful method for studying the integrity of the blood–retinal barriers in horses.
Ocular distribution and toxicity of intravitreal injection of triamcinolone acetonide in normal equine eyes
Authors: Yi N. Y. , Davis J. L. , Salmon J. H. , Gilger B. C.
Published: August 2008

Objective  To determine ocular distribution and toxicity of a single injection of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in normal horses.

Animals studied  Six adult horses, donated to North Carolina State University.

Procedures  Six horses were injected intravitreally with either 10, 20, or 40 mg (n = 2 each) of TA. The opposite eye of each horse was injected with balanced salt solution (BSS). Ocular toxicity was assessed by biomicroscopy, tonometry, indirect ophthalmoscopy, and electroretinogram. Aqueous humor (AH), vitreous humor (VH), and plasma samples were collected. Horses were euthanized 7 or 21 days after injection and eyes enucleated for histopathology. TA concentrations in AH, VH, and plasma were measured by HPLC.

Results  Three control eyes and one TA eye developed inflammation after injection or collection of AH. Positive bacterial cultures (Corynebacterium spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Streptococcus spp.) were obtained from three of these eyes. Other than transient corneal edema in TA injected eyes, which resolved by 7 days after injection, no other changes were observed. TA crystals were visible within the vitreous body. No evidence of TA toxic effect was noted on histopathology. TA was detected in all AH and VH samples from treated eyes following injection. Drug was not detected in the plasma.

Conclusions  There was no evidence of overt toxicity from intravitreal TA in normal horses and a single intravitreal injection resulted in TA ocular levels for 21 days. However, the risk for bacterial infections with intravitreal injection or anterior chamber aspirations in horses is high. Use of topical and systemic antibiotics after injection is recommended.
Daily rhythm of tear production in normal horse
Authors: Piccione Giuseppe , Giannetto Claudia , Fazio Francesco , Giudice Elisabetta
Published: August 2008

Objective  This study was designed to assess the daily rhythm of tear production in clinically healthy horses, to compare left eye and right eye, and to evaluate the influence of time and gender.

Animal studied  For our study 18 horses (nine female and nine male) were subjected to three different light/dark (L/D) schedules: 12/12 L/D cycles, constant light (24/0 L/D) and constant darkness (0/24 L/D).

Procedures  In all subjects Schirmer tear tests were performed at 4‐h intervals over a 24‐h period.

Results  A circadian rhythm of tear production was found during the 12/12 L/D period and during constant darkness. Also our results showed a statistical significant difference comparing left eye and right eye, and between gender.

Conclusions  Our findings would suggest that the time of tear evaluation is significant in the diagnosis of tear film disorders, and that the difference between the two eyes and the two genders should be taken into consideration during the ophthalmic exam.