bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutational analysis of morphogenesis of the maize embryo
Authors: Sheridan William F. , Clark Janice K.
Published: February 2011

Morphogenesis of the maize embryo is controlled by many genes. A group of 51 embryo‐specific (emb) mutations representing at least 45 independent mutation events and many different gene loci have been isolated from active Robertson's Mutator stocks. The authors have reported previously that the embryo phenotype of 27 of these mutations, characterized by examining mature embryos in fresh dissection. The maximal development capacity of the 24 emb mutations are reported here which have not been reported previously. All result in retarded embryos that are morphologically abnormal. Three of the mutants are blocked during the first phase of morphogenesis, the period in which the basal‐apical asymmetry is established and the embryo is regionalized into suspensor and embryo proper. Nineteen mutants are blocked during the second phase, the period in which radial asymmetry appears, the embryonic axis is established at a different angle than the original basal‐apical axis of the zygote and the vegetative organ primordia of the adult plant make their first appearance. Two mutants are blocked or altered during the third phase, the period in which vegetative structures are elaborated. Some of the mutants affected in the first phase of morphogenesis may have defective mechanisms for establishing basal‐apical asymmetry, including possibly the asymmetric distribution of morphogenic determinants. Similarly, some of the mutants affected in the second phase may be altered in the mechanisms establishing radial asymmetry and the origin of the meristems. Mutations of the first type may act as early as the first cell division when the zygote undergoes a transverse division, while mutations of the second type are likely to act during the proembryo and transition stages. Both types include mutations affecting embryo pattern formation. Mutations affecting the third phase of morphogenesis may identify genes regulating reiterative morphogenic processes of vegetative plant development and events of embryo maturation. This group of 24 mutations is like that reported previously in representing genes that are crucial to embryo morphogenesis.
Elevated expression of TcHMA3 plays a key role in the extreme Cd tolerance in a Cd‐hyperaccumulating ecotype of Thlaspi caerulescens
Authors: Ueno Daisei , Milner Matthew J. , Yamaji Naoki , Yokosho Kengo , Koyama Emi , Clemencia Zambrano M. , Kaskie Molly , Ebbs Stephen , Kochian Leon V. , Ma Jian Feng
Published: February 2011

Cadmium (Cd) is a highly toxic heavy metal for plants, but several unique Cd‐hyperaccumulating plant species are able to accumulate this metal to extraordinary concentrations in the aboveground tissues without showing any toxic symptoms. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this hypertolerance to Cd are poorly understood. Here we have isolated and functionally characterized an allelic gene, TcHMA3 (heavy metal ATPase 3) from two ecotypes (Ganges and Prayon) of Thlaspi caerulescens contrasting in Cd accumulation and tolerance. The TcHMA3 alleles from the higher (Ganges) and lower Cd‐accumulating ecotype (Prayon) share 97.8% identity, and encode a P1B‐type ATPase. There were no differences in the expression pattern, cell‐specificity of protein localization and transport substrate‐specificity of TcHMA3 between the two ecotypes. Both alleles were characterized by constitutive expression in the shoot and root, a tonoplast localization of the protein in all leaf cells and specific transport activity for Cd. The only difference between the two ecotypes was the expression level of TcHMA3: Ganges showed a sevenfold higher expression than Prayon, partly caused by a higher copy number. Furthermore, the expression level and localization of TcHMA3 were different from AtHMA3 expression in Arabidopsis. Overexpression of TcHMA3 in Arabidopsis significantly enhanced tolerance to Cd and slightly increased tolerance to Zn, but did not change Co or Pb tolerance. These results indicate that TcHMA3 is a tonoplast‐localized transporter highly specific for Cd, which is responsible for sequestration of Cd into the leaf vacuoles, and that a higher expression of this gene is required for Cd hypertolerance in the Cd‐hyperaccumulating ecotype of T. caerulescens.
Clarithromycin for prevention of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome in lung allograft recipients
Authors: Dhillon Gundeep S. , Valentine Vincent G. , Levitt Joseph , Patel Premal , Gupta Meera R. , Duncan Steven R. , Seoane Leonardo , Weill David
Published: February 2011

Dhillon GS, Valentine VG, Levitt J, Patel P, Gupta MR, Duncan SR, Seoane L, Weill D. Clarithromycin for prevention of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome in lung allograft recipients.  Clin Transplant 2012: 26: 105–110.  © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Background:  Bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) is the major limitation to long‐term survival following lung transplantation and strategies to reduce its incidence have remained elusive. Macrolides may stabilize lung function in patients with established BOS. Their role, however, in prevention of BOS remains unexamined.

Methods:  Survival and BOS‐free survival of 102 lung allograft recipients (LARs), transplanted at a single center between July 1995 and December 2001 who routinely received clarithromycin, were compared with two different control groups. The first control group consisted of 44 LARs from the same center who were transplanted from January 2002 onwards and did not receive clarithromycin. The second control group consisted of a contemporaneous cohort of 5089 recipients, transplanted between 1995 and 2001, reported to the United Network for Organ Sharing database.

Results:  When compared with the first control group, BOS‐free survival was reduced in LARs receiving clarithromycin. Univariate (hazard ratio [HR] 3.13, p‐value = 0.004) and multivariate (HR 3.49, p‐value = 0.04) analyses showed that routine use of clarithromycin was associated with an increased risk of developing BOS. When compared with the second control group, the five‐yr survival of clarithromycin group was similar (p‐value = 0.24).

Conclusions:  Routine use of clarithromycin does not delay development of BOS or improve survival.
Allogeneic hematopoetic stem cell transplantation in pediatric myelodysplastic syndromes: Improved outcomes for de novo disease
Authors: Andolina Jeffrey R. , Kletzel Morris , Tse William T. , Jacobsohn David A. , Duerst Reggie E. , Schneiderman Jennifer , Helenowski Irene , Rademaker Alfred , Chaudhury Sonali
Published: February 2011

Andolina JR, Kletzel M, Tse WT, Jacobsohn DA, Duerst RE, Schneiderman J, Helenowski I, Rademaker A, Chaudhury S. Allogeneic hematopoetic stem cell transplantation in pediatric myelodysplastic syndromes: Improved outcomes for de novo disease. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 334–343. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  We report 23 consecutive pediatric patients with MDS who received allogeneic HSCT on IRB approved protocols between 1992 and 2009 at Children’s Memorial Hospital (Chicago, IL). Nine patients had de novo MDS, whereas 14 patients had treatment‐related MDS. All patients had a documented cytogenetic abnormality, and monosomy 7/7q− was seen in 12 patients (52%). Fourteen of 23 patients received a myeloablative conditioning regimen; RIC regimens were used for the remaining nine. Five patients relapsed post‐transplant, including four patients who received RIC transplant and four patients with treatment‐related MDS. For the entire group, estimated five‐yr RFS and OS were 47% and 50%, respectively. Treatment‐related MDS was associated with decreased RFS in comparison with de novo MDS (33% vs. 70%, p = 0.05). Five‐year OS rates reached 80% for those with de novo MDS. RIC regimens were associated with decreased three‐yr RFS in comparison with myeloablative regimens (22% vs. 68%, p = 0.02). There was no correlation of survival with blast count at diagnosis, IPSS score, cytogenetic abnormality, donor type, or HLA match. Larger series are needed to confirm prognostic factors so that higher‐risk patients can be targeted with novel approaches.
Immune biomarker panel monitoring utilizing IDO enzyme activity and CD4 ATP levels: Prediction of acute rejection vs. viral replication events
Authors: Dharnidharka Vikas R. , Gupta Sushil , Al Khasawneh Eihab , Haafiz Allah , Shuster Jonathan J. , Theriaque Douglas W. , Shahlaee Amir H. , Garrett Timothy J.
Published: February 2011

Dharnidharka VR, Gupta S, Al Khasawneh E, Haafiz A, Shuster JJ, Theriaque DW, Shahlaee AH, Garrett TJ. Immune biomarker panel monitoring utilizing IDO enzyme activity and CD4 ATP levels: Prediction of acute rejection vs. viral replication events. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 321–328. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Infections have become as important an event as acute rejection posttransplant for long‐term allograft survival. Less invasive biomarkers tested so far predict risk for one event or the other, not both. We prospectively tested blood and urine monthly for 12 months posttransplant from children receiving a kidney transplant. The IDO enzyme pathway was assessed by MS assays using the ratio of product l‐kyn to substrate trp. Kyn/trp ratios and blood CD4 T‐cell ATP levels were correlated with acute rejection or major infection events or stable group (no events) in the next 30 days. The 25 subjects experienced six discrete episodes of acute rejection in five subjects and 16 discrete events of major infection in 14 subjects (seven BK viruria, six cytomegaloviremia, one EB and cytomegaloviremia, and two transplant pyelonephritis). Mean serum kyn/trp ratios were significantly elevated in the group that experienced acute rejection (p = 0.02). Within‐subject analyses revealed that over time, urine kyn/trp ratios showed an increase (p = 0.01) and blood CD4‐ATP levels showed a decrease (p = 0.007) prior to a major infection event. These pilot results suggest that a panel of biomarkers together can predict over‐ or under‐immunosuppression, but need independent validation.
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from a related donor infected with influenza H1N1 2009
Authors: Lee S.H. , Cheuh H. , Yoo K.H. , Kim Y.J. , Sung K.W. , Koo H.H. , Kim D.H. , Kim S.J. , Kim K. , Jang J.H. , Jung C.W.
Published: February 2011

S.H. Lee, H. Cheuh, K.H. Yoo, Y.J. Kim, K.W. Sung, H.H. Koo, D.H. Kim, S.J. Kim, K. Kim, J.H. Jang, C.W. Jung. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from a related donor infected with influenza H1N1 2009. Transpl Infect Dis 2011: 13: 548–550. All rights reserved
Growth rates and energy intake of hand‐reared cheetah cubs (Acinonyx jubatus) in South Africa
Authors: Bell K. M. , Rutherfurd S. M. , Morton R. H.
Published: February 2011

Growth rate is an important factor in neonatal survival. The aim of this study was to determine growth rates in hand‐reared cheetah cubs in South Africa fed a prescribed energy intake, calculated for growth in the domestic cat. Growth was then compared with previously published data from hand‐reared cubs in North America and the relationship between growth and energy intake explored. Daily body weight (BW) gain, feed and energy intake data was collected from 18 hand‐reared cheetah cubs up to 120 days of age. The average pre‐weaning growth rate was 32 g/day, which is lower than reported in mother‐reared cubs and hand‐reared cubs in North American facilities. However, post‐weaning growth increased to an average of 55 g/day. Growth was approximately linear prior to weaning, but over the entire age range it exhibited a sigmoidal shape with an asymptotic plateau averaging 57 kg. Energy intake associated with pre‐weaning growth was 481 kJ ME/kg BW0.75. Regression analysis described the relationship between metabolic BW, metabolisable energy (ME) intake, and hence daily weight gain. This relationship may be useful in predicting energy intake required to achieve growth rates in hand‐reared cheetah cubs similar to those observed for their mother‐reared counterparts.
A krill oil supplemented diet reduces the activities of the mitochondrial tricarboxylate carrier and of the cytosolic lipogenic enzymes in rats
Authors: Ferramosca A. , Conte L. , Zara V.
Published: February 2011

The mitochondrial tricarboxylate carrier supplies cytosol with the carbon units necessary for hepatic lipogenesis. The activities of cytosolic acetyl‐CoA carboxylase and fatty acid synthetase are therefore strictly connected to the function of mitochondrial tricarboxylate carrier. Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are potent modulators of hepatic lipogenesis. In rats fed with a diet enriched with 2.5% krill oil (KO), a novel source of dietary n‐3 PUFA, a time‐dependent decrease in the activities of the mitochondrial tricarboxylate carrier and of the lipogenic enzymes was found. The KO induced inhibition of hepatic lipogenesis was more pronounced than that found in fish oil (FO)‐fed rats, at least at short feeding times. The decrease in the activity of the mitochondrial tricarboxylate carrier caused by KO was due to a reduced expression of the protein. Furthermore, in the KO‐fed animals a greater reduction in the levels of hepatic triglycerides and cholesterol was found in comparison to FO‐fed rats.
Relation of soya bean meal level to the concentration of plasma free amino acids and body growth in white rats
Authors: Mandal Tapas K. , Parvin Nargish , Mondal Santanu , Saxena Vijaylaxmi , Saxena Ashok K. , Sarkar Sabyasachi , Saha Mitali
Published: February 2011

Amino acid (AA) levels in plasma and body growth were determined in rats (n20) fed diets with different soya bean meal levels. Free AA in plasma was determined by reversed‐phase high‐pressure liquid chromatography. We have used four levels of protein diets like 8%, 15%, 23% and 35% in this trial. Rats which were fed the low‐protein (8%) diet with low percentage of soya bean meal were found to be growth‐retarded. The body weight gain of high protein group (35%) was lower than that of the 23% groups. In the rats fed with the low‐soya bean meal diet, some nonessential AA (NEAA) in plasma like asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid and serine increased, whereas the essential AA (EAA), with the exception of arginine, methionine and valine decreased. Here, plasma EAA‐to‐NEAA ratios were not correlated to growth and experimental diet. We hypothesize that AA metabolism is associated to changes in growth in rats on different protein intake. This study has showed the sensitivity of body mass gain, feed intake, feed conversion rate of rats to four levels of protein in the diet under controlled experimental conditions.
Towards marker‐assisted selection in pulses: a review
Authors: Kumar Jitendra , Choudhary Arbind K. , Solanki Ramesh K. , Pratap Aditya
Published: February 2011

With 2 figures and 2 tables

Pulses are important sources of proteins in vegetarian diet. However, genetic improvement in production and productivity of pulse crops has been very slow owing to several constraints. The present view of researchers is that the effectiveness and efficiency of conventional breeding can be significantly improved by using molecular markers. Nowadays, molecular markers are routinely utilized worldwide in all major crops as a component of breeding. The pace of development of molecular markers and other genomic sources has been accelerated in chickpea, pigeon pea and some other pulses, and marker–trait associations have been established for a number of important agronomic traits. The efforts are underway to use high‐throughput genotyping platforms besides developing more genomic resources in other pulses. So far, progress in the use of marker‐assisted selection as a part of pulse breeding programmes has been very slow and limited to few pulse crops such as chickpea and common bean. In this article, we have reviewed the progress made, limitations encountered and future possibilities for the application of marker‐assisted selection in the genetic improvement of pulse crops.
Freezability of Tushin Ram Semen Extended with Goat or Cow Milk Based Extenders
Authors: Ari UÇ , Kulaksiz R , Öztürkler Y
Published: February 2011

Contents

Cow milk is used as an extender for ram semen cryopreservation. Caseins, the major proteins of milk, appear to provide some protective effect to sperm during cryopreservation. Goat milk has unique casein structure. The aim of this study was to investigate effect of goat milk, as a main semen extender, on freezability of Tushin Ram semen. For this aim, ejaculates from four Tushin rams were collected with artificial vagina and pooled. Pooled semen was separately extended with four different extenders: TRIS based (TRIS), cow skim milk based (CSM) (10 g/100 ml), cow semi‐skim milk based (CSSM) and goat semi‐skim milk based (GSSM) extenders, containing egg yolk and glycerol. The semen was cryopreserved and stored in liquid nitrogen until examination date. After thawing (at 37°C for 1 min), sperm motility, viability, morphology, acrosome and membrane integrity (HOST) were evaluated. Although, there was not any significant differences between extenders in post‐thaw percentage of viable spermatozoa (p > 0.05), Tushin ram semen extended with GSSM or CSM extenders had significantly higher post‐thaw percentage of progressive motility (25.0% and 30.8% respectively), compared with CSSM and TRIS (7.5% and 14.1% respectively, p < 0.001). Moreover, lowest abnormality percentage of post‐thaw spermatozoa were detected in ram semen extended with GSSM (49.5%) and CSM (51.5%), compared with CSSM (65.7%) and TRIS (60.7%) (p < 0.05). Whilst the results were considered, it was concluded that goat milk based extenders may be effectively and trustfully used in cryopreservation of Tushin ram semen, instead of cow milk and Tris based extenders, as a main extender.
Inaccuracies in estimated glomerular filtration rate in one Australian renal centre
Authors: BROWN MARK A , PIRABHAHAR SAIYINI , KELLY JOHN J , MANGOS GEORGE J , MACKENZIE CALLIE , MCCONACHIE PETER , JANSSEN JULIA , SMART RICHARD C
Published: February 2011

Background:  Early identification of true renal disease (glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 60 mL/min) results in better patient outcomes. There is now routine reporting in Australia of estimated GFR (eGFR) in all patients over age 18 who have serum creatinine measured, calculated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formula, which was validated in an American Caucasian cohort. Significant clinical decisions and prognosis are often made on the basis of this calculation.

Aim:  To assess the accuracy of three estimates of GFR in an Australian population by comparing eGFR obtained by the abbreviated MDRD (aMDRD), Cockcroft–Gault corrected for body surface area (BSA) (CG) and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology (CKD‐Epi) formulae with a gold standard, isotopic 51Cr‐ethylenediaminetetra‐acetic acid (51Cr‐EDTA) GFR.

Methods:  Patients referred with an eGFR of <60 mL/min reported by the aMDRD formula underwent isotopic measurement of GFR (over 4 h) and had eGFR calculated using CG corrected for BSA, aMDRD and CKD‐Epi formulae. Data were analysed using Bland–Altman plots and regression analysis to compare methods; bias, precision and the proportion of patients correctly stratified by stage of chronic kidney disease (CKD) were also compared according to the three estimates of GFR, using 51Cr‐EDTA GFR as the gold standard.

Results:  A total of 139 patients were recruited (female 45%), mean age 64 years and mean serum creatinine 212 µmol/L. The mean GFR (SD) (mL/min per m2) for isotopic, CG, aMDRD and CKD‐Epi were 47 (28), 37 (20), 32 (17) and 33 (18) (P = 0.001). CG (57%) was more likely to correctly stage CKD than aMDRD (37%) or CKD‐Epi (37%), and absolute bias was significantly lower using CG than either other method (P = 0.001).

Conclusion:  In this small Australian population the CG formula corrected for BSA agreed more closely with isotopic GFR and correctly staged patients with CKD more often than the aMDRD or CKD‐Epi formulae. It is important that each renal Unit considers the accuracy of estimates of GFR according to their population demographics.
Smaller low‐density lipoprotein size as a possible risk factor for the prevalence of coronary artery diseases in haemodialysis patients: Associations of cholesteryl ester transfer protein and the hepatic lipase gene polymorphism with low‐density lipoprotein size
Authors: KIMURA HIDEKI , MIYAZAKI RYOICHI , IMURA TOSHIO , MASUNAGA SHINYA , SHIMADA AKIHIRO , MIKAMI DAISUKE , KASUNO KENJI , TAKAHASHI NAOKI , HIRANO TSUTOMU , YOSHIDA HARUYOSHI
Published: February 2011

Aim:  Smaller low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) size has recently been reported as a non‐traditional lipid risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) and the C/T hepatic lipase (HL) gene polymorphism may promote LDL size reduction via the CETP‐mediated exchange of CE for triglyceride (TG) and subsequent HL‐mediated TG hydrolysis in LDL. However, little is known about LDL size status and its relationship with CAD prevalence in haemodialysis (HD) patients who are at high risk for atherosclerosis.

Methods:  CETP levels, HL genotypes and LDL size were determined, and the determinants of LDL size and its association with CAD prevalence in HD patients (n = 236) aged over 30 years were investigated.

Results:  The HD patients had a similar LDL size to the healthy subjects. In the HD group, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol was an independent positive determinant of LDL size, while log10 (TG) was an independent negative determinant in the high (≥2.1 µg/mL) but not low (<2.1 µg/mL) CETP group. In the patients with hypertriglyceridemia, the high CETP group had a significantly smaller LDL size than the low CETP group. Among the patients with above‐median TG levels, the CC genotype and CETP were independent negative determinants of LDL size. In the whole group and the high CETP group, the patients with CAD had a significantly smaller LDL size than those without CAD. Finally, DM and smaller LDL size were identified as independent risk factors for CAD prevalence.

Conclusion:  These suggest that a smaller LDL size, which is associated with higher levels of TG and CETP and the HL/CC genotype, may serve as a risk factor for CAD in HD patients.
Rituximab‐induced serum sickness in refractory immune thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Le Guenno G. , Ruivard M. , Charra L. , Philippe P.
Published: February 2011

Serum sickness may occur in patients treated with chimeric monoclonal antibody. Rituximab, an anti‐CD20 chimeric monoclonal antibody, is used with increasing frequency in chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Rituximab is relatively safe; however, serum sickness is reported in 1‐20% of patients, more commonly among those with autoimmune conditions. We describe a case of serum sickness in a patient with ITP and review the literature of rituximab‐induced serum sickness.
Clinical effectiveness in everyday practice: improving outcomes for all patients through a national acute coronary syndrome data collaborative
Authors: Astley C. M. , Tonkin A. M. , Mahar L. J. , Davidson P. M. , Boyden A. N. , Brieger D. B. , Pradhan M. , George M. , Mattschoss S. F. , Chew D. P.
Published: February 2011

The management of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) has an extensive and impressive evidence‐base with which to guide clinical practice. Despite this, translation to the clinical environment has proved to be challenging and incomplete and can be attributed to patient, provider and system factors. Causes of suboptimal guideline adherence relate to diverse issues, including patient complexity, barriers in knowledge translation of guideline recommendations and a limited capacity within health services. Addressing these factors may enable more effective guideline implementation. In Australia, the infrastructure for clinical data management is fragmented, uncoordinated and often administratively driven, compromising access to important information, which might improve clinical effectiveness. An integrated approach is required to improve clinical effectiveness in ACS care in Australia. Greater access to information both to assist in clinical decision‐making and monitoring outcomes may help direct the focus towards understudied populations and improve performance and clinically relevant outcomes. A peer‐led initiative based on common datasets, providing rapid feedback, while developing and disseminating a ‘toolbox’ of proven and sustainable interventions, could improve clinical effectiveness in the Australian management of ACS and provides a rationale for a national ACS registry.
Effect of the d‐glucose analog, d‐allose, on the growth of Arabidopsis roots
Authors: KATO‐NOGUCHI HISASHI , TAKAOKA TAKUYA , OKADA KOZUE
Published: February 2011

Although d‐glucose increased the root growth of Arabidopsis seedlings, d‐allose (a d‐glucose epimer at the third carbon atom) inhibited the root growth at concentrations >0.1 mmol L−1 and the inhibition increased with increasing d‐allose concentrations. Allitol (a reduction product of d‐allose) did not show any significant effect on the growth. The addition of d‐glucose into the growth medium of Arabidopsis reversed the d‐allose‐induced growth inhibition, which suggests that the inhibition is not caused by the toxicity of the accumulation of d‐allose and/or its metabolites in the seedlings. d‐Allose is phosphorylated by hexokinase, using ATP and phosphate, to allose‐6‐phosphate, with no known capacity for further metabolism. The addition of phosphate into the growth medium did not affect the d‐allose‐induced growth inhibition and d‐allose did not reduce the ATP level in the roots. These results suggest that the inhibition is not due to phosphate starvation and ATP depletion. d‐Mannoheptulose, a specific competitive inhibitor of hexokinase, defeated the d‐allose‐induced growth inhibition. Hexokinase is known to have a sugar‐sensing function and possibly triggers a signal cascade, resulting in the change of several gene expressions. Therefore, the phosphorylation of d‐allose by hexokinase might trigger a signal cascade, resulting in the inhibition of Arabidopsis root growth. This is probably a useful model system for studies of the hexokinase‐mediated sugar‐sensing function and for developing new types of weed‐control agents.
Allelopathic potential of Acacia melanoxylon on the germination and root growth of native species
Authors: HUSSAIN MUHAMMAD I. , GONZÁLEZ LUIS , REIGOSA MANUEL J.
Published: February 2011

Water extracts that were obtained from the flowers and phyllodes of Acacia melanoxylon were used to determine their allelopathic potential in relation to the germination and seedling growth of the native species, cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata), perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), and common sorrel (Rumex acetosa), as well as a general biotest specie, lettuce (Lactuca sativa), in laboratory bioassays. The flowers and phyllodes of A. melanoxylon were soaked separately in distilled water in a ratio of 1:1 (w/v) for 24 h in order to prepare the aqueous extracts. Distilled water was used as the control. The seeds of the target species were germinated in Petri dishes and counted daily for up to 7 days. The A. melanoxylon flower extract (100%, 75%, and 50%) decreased the seed germination of D. glomerata, R. acetosa, L. perenne, and L. sativa. The flower extract caused the most reduction in the germination index and germination speed in D. glomerata, L. perenne, and L. sativa. The mean LC50 value of the A. melanoxylon flower and phyllode extracts in relation to the germination inhibition of L. perenne was 43% and 41%, respectively, 40% and 38%, respectively, in R. acetosa, and 53% and 41%, respectively, in L. sativa. All four concentrations of the flower extract proved to be more phytotoxic than the phyllode extract, reducing the root length of all four species, while the phyllode extract decreased the root length of L. perenne and R. acetosa at the 100% concentration. The L. perenne and D. glomerata grass seeds were more sensitive regarding germination, as compared to L. sativa and R. acetosa. The flower aqueous extract of A. melanoxylon was more phytotoxic, as compared to the phyllode aqueous extract, even at the lowest concentration (25%).
Bilateral adnexal torsion due to postmenopausal hydatidiform mole
Authors: Özdemir Suna , Balcı Osman , Görkemli Hüseyin , Koyuncu Tuba , Turan Gülay
Published: February 2011

Occurrence of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) and adnexal torsion is rare in postmenopause. We report a 58‐year‐old postmenopausal woman with adnexal torsion caused by hydatidiform mole. The patient was admitted to our clinic complaining of acute abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting lasting one day. Ultrasonography showed an enlarged uterus including hypo/hyperechogenous cystic areas in the endometrial cavity and bilateral adnexal masses. β‐HCG level was investigated and determined as 157.000 IU/l, because of the suspicion of GTN in ultrasonography. Doppler sonography revealed enlarged left adnexa with absence of vascular flow. The patient underwent total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy. β‐HCG decreased to normal ranges in the fourth postoperative week. The resected uterus contained an endometrial, cystic, grapelike tumor. The ovaries were enlarged bilaterally with necrotic appearance. Histopathology revealed complete hydatidiform mole and theca lutein cysts. To our knowledge, the present case is the first hydatidiform mole associated with bilateral adnexal torsion caused by theca lutein cysts in postmenopausal period.
Human papillomavirus in cervical cancers of Malaysians
Authors: Cheah Phaik‐Leng , Looi Lai‐Meng , Sivanesaratnam Vallipuram
Published: February 2011

Aim:  With cervical carcinoma remaining the second leading cancer among Malaysian women, it is imperative to clarify the prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in this respect, considering the dearth of local information.

Material and Methods:  Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FP) tissues of 29 invasive cervical carcinoma cases, diagnosed between 1 January 1991 and 31 December 1992, fresh, frozen (FF) and paired FP tissues of 43 cases diagnosed between 1 January 1995 and 31 December 2000, and 21 FF normal control cervices were subjected to polymerase chain amplification (PCR) for HPV following successful amplification of a 268 bp β‐globin fragment using primers specific for HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18 and consensus L1 ORF (MY09/11).

Results:  HPV was detected in 69.0% of the cases diagnosed in the earlier, 88.4% of those in the later period and 4.8% of the normal control cervices. HPV 16 formed 80.0% of the HPV types in the earlier and 55.3% in the later period, while HPV 18 formed 5% in the earlier and 13.2% in the later. HPV 16 was more common in squamous (56.4%) than adeno/adenosquamous carcinomas (35.3%), while HPV 18 was detected in 17.6% of adeno/adenosquamous and 5.5% squamous carcinomas.

Conclusion:  HPV prevalence in invasive cervical carcinoma of Malaysians is similar to that observed worldwide. Together, HPV 16 and 18 constituted 85% of the HPV types responsible for cervical carcinogenesis in Malaysians in the earlier and 68% in the later period. Thus, the use of current vaccines should lower cervical carcinoma rate significantly.
Effectiveness of screening for gestational diabetes during the late gestational period among pregnant Turkish women
Authors: Kurtbas Handan , Keskin H. Levent , Avsar A. Filiz
Published: February 2011

Aim:  To assess the incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) beyond 30 gestational weeks (GW) in pregnant Turkish women and to determine the criteria for repeating the test during the late period of gestation when the results were normal after the initial screen.

Materials and Methods:  Two hundred pregnant women were enrolled. Maternal age, gravidity, parity and presence of other risk factors (family history of diabetes mellitus, habitual abortions, prior fetal macrosomia, obesity, gestational hypertension history) were collected. First, GDM was evaluated between the 24th and 28th GW by screening (50‐g glucose challenge test) and diagnostic tests. This protocol was repeated again at least 1 month from the first screen at the 30th–34th GW in all patients, except those diagnosed with GDM due to an abnormal 3‐h test. The results were compared with the clinical risk factors.

Results:  In total, 19.5% of the cases had positive results in the first screening test. Six patients were diagnosed with GDM. Among the remaining 194 pregnancies, another 10 cases were diagnosed as having GDM with repeated tests, and the incidence of newly diagnosed GDM was 5.2%. Only the mean age (34.2 years) (P = 0.010) and a history of delivering a macrosomic infant (P < 0.010) were significantly high in the late‐gestation GDM‐positive cases.

Conclusions:  Even when early screening tests are negative, pregnancies with advanced maternal ages and those with a history of delivering a macrosomic infant should be re‐evaluated for GDM during the late gestational period with screening and diagnostic tests.
Is laparoscopic surgery safe in women over 70 years old with benign gynecological disease?
Authors: Jeon Seung Wook , Choi Joong Sub , Lee Jung Hun , Son Chang Eop , Bae Jong Woon , Hong Jin Hwa , Lee Yong Seung
Published: February 2011

Aim:  To evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of laparoscopic surgery for benign gynecological disease in women over 70 years old.

Materials and Methods:  Fifty‐four women over 70 years old underwent surgery for benign gynecological disease from January 2003 to December 2009. Each woman was matched with two subjects of 30–50 years old in the younger group; the matching with patients undergoing a similar surgical technique was retrospective from December 2009. We evaluated body mass index, comorbidities, number of previous abdominal surgeries, operating time, hemoglobin change, postoperative complications, hospital stay, and return of bowel activity. The χ2‐test and t‐test were used to compare the results of the elderly group and the younger group.

Results:  There were no significant differences between the elderly group (over 70 years old) and a matched younger group (aged 30–50 years old) in body mass index, number of previous abdominal surgeries, operating time, hospital stay, and postoperative complications.

Conclusion:  Laparoscopic surgery in elderly women for benign gynecological disease is feasible, efficient, and safe. However, a large prospective randomized study is needed to confirm the conclusion.
Clinical significance of incidental focal colorectal 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose uptake: our experience and a review of the literature
Authors: Treglia G. , Calcagni M. L. , Rufini V. , Leccisotti L. , Meduri G. M. , Spitilli M. G. , Dambra D. P. , De Gaetano A. M. , Giordano A.
Published: February 2011

Aim  The aims of the present study were: (i) to evaluate the focal incidental colorectal uptake of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose ([18F]FDG) and to correlate it with colonoscopy and histological findings; (ii) to evaluate the relationship between the presence/absence of neoplastic disease and clinical data and the anatomical site of [18F]FDG uptake; and (iii) to compare our results with those reported for incidental colorectal uptake of [18F]FDG in the literature and those obtained from various screening programmes for colorectal cancer.

Method  The database of 6000 patients referred for [18F]FDG positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET‐CT) to our centre was retrospectively reviewed for incidental colorectal uptake of [18F]FDG. Patients with focal uptake were selected and the aetiology of PET findings was verified with a subsequent colonoscopy and histopathological analysis when available.

Results  Incidental colorectal uptake of [18F]FDG was seen in 144 (2.4%) patients, of whom 64 (1.1%) had focal uptake; 48 out of these 64 patients underwent colonoscopy, which showed malignant tumours in 12 (25%), premalignant lesions in 19 (40%), non‐neoplastic lesions in six (12%) and lesions not confirmed by colonoscopy in 11 (23%). Our data agreed with previously published data. Statistical analysis did not show any significant relationship between the presence/absence of neoplastic disease and patient sex or age, type of primary disease and anatomical site of [18F]FDG uptake. Comparing our data with various screening programmes, a significant difference was found only with series in which colonoscopy was performed in patients at high risk for colorectal cancer.

Conclusion  Focal incidental colorectal uptake of [18F]FDG is observed in about 1% of PET/CT studies and carries a high risk of neoplastic disease. A PET‐CT report should suggest colonoscopy when abnormal findings are reported.
Bacillus thuringiensis: a century of research, development and commercial applications
Authors: Sanahuja Georgina , Banakar Raviraj , Twyman Richard M. , Capell Teresa , Christou Paul
Published: February 2011

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a soil bacterium that forms spores during the stationary phase of its growth cycle. The spores contain crystals, predominantly comprising one or more Cry and/or Cyt proteins (also known as δ‐endotoxins) that have potent and specific insecticidal activity. Different strains of Bt produce different types of toxin, each of which affects a narrow taxonomic group of insects. Therefore, Bt toxins have been used as topical pesticides to protect crops, and more recently the proteins have been expressed in transgenic plants to confer inherent pest resistance. Bt transgenic crops have been overwhelmingly successful and beneficial, leading to higher yields and reducing the use of chemical pesticides and fossil fuels. However, their deployment has attracted some criticism particularly with regard to the potential evolution of pest‐resistant insect strains. Here, we review recent progress in the development of Bt technology and the countermeasures that have been introduced to prevent the evolution of resistant insect populations.
Image‐Based Empirical Importance Sampling: An Efficient Way of Estimating Intensities
Authors: HANSEN LINDA V. , KIDERLEN MARKUS , VEDEL JENSEN EVA B.
Published: February 2011

Abstract.  Very recently, it has been suggested in the biomedical literature to combine computerized image analysis with non‐uniform sampling to increase the efficiency of estimators of intensities of biological cell populations. We give this ingenious idea of empirical importance sampling a stochastic formulation, using point process theory and modern sampling theory. We develop statistical tools for assessing its efficiency and construct optimal model‐based estimators of intensities. Examples of applications of empirical importance sampling in microscopy are provided.
The construction of meaning by experts and would‐be parents in assisted reproductive technology
Authors: Silva Susana , Machado Helena
Published: February 2011

This article explores the construction of meaning regarding assisted reproductive technology by legal framers, medical practitioners and would‐be parents, through the concept of ecology of knowledge. It is argued that these inter‐relationships between experts and lay people can be understood in terms of the formation of a social structure of ecology of knowledge, which depends on local and emotional knowledge co‐produced by medical doctors, jurists and lay people in dynamic ways without compromising the autonomy of medical, legal and lay knowledge and skills. The assessment of the benefits and risks of assisted reproductive technology partially represents negotiations of knowledge between these social and professional groups, aiming to reproduce existing relations and practices, particularly the social power of medicine and technology, the dominant perceptions about women’s and men’s bodies and the geneticisation of genealogy. These negotiations of knowledge generate new rights, new social actors, new scientific fields and new ways of thinking and talking about individual and institutional responsibilities. Ecology of knowledge comes imbued with hope, trust, power, credibility of institutions and moralisation whereby some citizens’ rights may be weakened.
Elite positionings towards Hindi: Language policies, political stances and language competence in India1
Authors: Chand Vineeta
Published: February 2011

In India, Hindi is imagined and institutionalized as the national language which weds together India's pluralistic population under the banner of a shared Indian identity. Approaching language competence as embedded in and performed through language practices and ideologies, I explore how a New Delhi elite community positions themselves towards Hindi vis‐à‐vis national language policies and political movements. Contrasting with traditional unified elite portrayals, e.g. ‘elite closure’ (Myers‐Scotton 1990), India has multiple sociolinguistically discordant elite groups, and these liberal elites ideologically construct their Hindi (in)competency in an alternative framework attending to the history (and failure) of Hindi‐based nationalism, their disalignment with modern right‐wing movements, and their continued affiliation with English. This perspective of some elites as negotiating and disagreeing with contemporary political movements and language policy legislature illuminates language competencies as socially constructed and locally grounded, and challenges past interpretations of postcolonial elites as unified actors controlling the dominant linguistic marketplace.
Noisy zones of proximal development: Conversation in noisy classrooms
Authors: McKellin William H. , Shahin Kimary , Hodgson Murray , Jamieson Janet , Pichora‐Fuller M. Kathleen
Published: February 2011

Despite the importance of context in studies of language use, sociolinguists have ignored the impact of noise on conversational interaction. This inattention is of particular concern in classrooms where language is a learning tool. Our research on interaction in noisy settings took place in English language elementary school classrooms with students in grades 3, 5, and 7, whose first language was English. Students were observed during regular classroom activities. Employing a novel method, in which students wore ear‐level microphones, we obtained stereophonic recordings of the noise and conversation that reached each listener's ears. A dosimeter measured the noise levels in each classroom. Analyses of students’ patterns of conversation suggest that noise levels impeded the intended development of complex conversational interaction and collaborative learning. This study also questions the place of acoustics in understanding context, and the significance of the hearer's perspective in sociolinguistic studies of conversational interactions.
Identity, language, and ethnic relations in the Bilingual Autonomous Communities of Spain1
Authors: Montaruli Elisa , Bourhis Richard Y. , Azurmendi Maria‐Jose
Published: February 2011

This study surveyed 2446 undergraduates from five Bilingual Autonomous Communities (BAC) of Spain. We propose that the creation of the BAC of Spain in 1978 allowed the development of differing prototypic identities ranging from Spanish only identity, Autonomous only identity, and various permutations of dual Spanish/Autonomous identities. Based on their linguistic and ethnic self‐identifications, the percentage of participants endorsing each prototypic identity was monitored along with their key sociopsychological correlates. Six prototypic identity profiles were obtained. Results indicate that individuals endorsing the Autonomous only (11%) and Spanish only (13%) identities were more likely to engage in problematic intergroup relations. Strong Dual identifiers (9%) are the most likely to act as cultural and linguistic brokers and to foster intergroup harmony. Pro‐Spanish (15%) and Moderate Dual (7%) identifiers are more likely to benefit from language learning in the Autonomous language and emerge as cultural brokers.

Esta investigación sondeó 2446 estudiantes de pregrado de cinco Comunidades Autónomas Bilingües (CAB) de España. Proponemos que la creación de las CAB de España en 1978 permitió el desarrollo de diferentes identidades prototípicas que van desde identidades solamente españolas, identidades solamente autónomas hasta varias permutaciones de identidades dobles españolas/autónomas. Basado en sus auto‐identificaciones lingüística y étnica, se observó el porcentaje de participantes que corresponden a cada identidad prototípica y sus correlacionados socio‐psicológicos claves. Se obtuvieron seis perfiles de identidad prototípicos. Los resultados indican que los individuos que asumen una identidad solamente autónoma (11%) y solamente española (13%) tienen más probabilidades de entablar relaciones intergrupales problemáticas. Los que tienen más probabilidades de comportarse como conciliador cultural y lingüístico, y de fomentar armonía intergrupal son los que asumen una fuerte identidad doble (9%). Los que asumen una identidad pro‐española (15%) o una identidad doble moderada (7%) tienen más probabilidades de beneficiar del aprendizaje de la lengua autónoma y se revelaron como conciliador cultural.
What Incongruent Counterparts Show
Authors: Landy David
Published: February 2011

Abstract: In a recent paper, Robert Hanna argues that Kant's incongruent counterparts example can be mobilized to show that some mental representations, which represent complex states of affairs as complex, do so entirely non‐conceptually. I will argue that Hanna is right to see that Kant uses incongruent counterparts to show that there must be a non‐conceptual component to cognition, but goes too far in concluding that there must be entirely non‐conceptual representations that represent objects as existing in space and time. Kant is deeply committed to the thesis that no representation of a complex state of affairs as complex can be entirely non‐conceptual. For Kant, all representations of complex states of affairs as complex (including those of incongruent counterparts) are conceptually structured. I present an interpretation of the Transcendental Aesthetic according to which Kant not only aims at Leibnizian and Newtonian accounts of space and time, but also Hume's. Hume's account fails to make representations of complex states of affairs sufficiently determinate. Kant offers an account later in the Critique that is meant to correct this failing by requiring that all representations of complex states of affairs as complex be conceptually (inferentially) structured.
Kierkegaard and the Search for Self‐Knowledge
Authors: Watts Daniel
Published: February 2011

Abstract:In the first part of this essay (Sections I and II), I argue that Kierkegaard's work helps us to articulate and defend two basic requirements on searching for knowledge of one's own judgements: first, that searching for knowledge whether one judges that P requires trying to make a judgement whether P; and second that, in an important range of cases, searching for knowledge of one's own judgements requires attending to how one's acts of judging are performed. In the second part of the essay (Sections III and IV), I consider twoprima facieproblems regarding this conception of searching for knowledge of one's own judgements. The first problem concerns how in general one can coherently try to meet both these requirements at once; the second, how in particular one can try to attend to one's own acts of judging. I show how Kierkegaard's work is alive to both these problems, and helps us to see how they can be resolved.