bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of microsatellite markers for the short-beaked echidna using three different approaches
Authors: Vanpé C. , Buschiazzo E. , Abdelkrim J. , Morrow G. , Nicol S. C. , Gemmell N. J.
Published: October 2009

We used three different methods, size-selected genomic library, cross-species amplification of a mammal-wide set of conserved microsatellites and genomic sequencing, to develop a panel of 43 microsatellite loci for the short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus). These loci were screened against 13 individuals from three different regions (Tasmania, Kangaroo Island, Perth region), spanning the breadth of the range of the short-beaked echidna. Nine of the 43 tested loci amplified reliably, generated clear peaks on the electropherogram and were polymorphic, with the number of alleles per locus ranging from two to eight (mean = 3.78) in the individuals tested. Polymorphic information content ranged from 0.16 to 0.78, and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.19 to 0.84. One of the nine microsatellites showed a heterozygote deficit, suggesting a high probability of null alleles. The genomic sequencing approach using data derived from the Roche FLX platform is likely to provide the most promising method to develop echidna microsatellites. The microsatellite markers developed here will be useful tools to study population genetic structure, gene flow, kinship and parentage in Tachyglossus sp. and potentially also in endangered Zaglossus species.
Distribution, prevalence and persistence of mucormycosis in Tasmanian platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus)
Authors: Gust Nick , Griffiths Joshua , Driessen Michael , Philips Annie , Stewart Niall , Geraghty Dominic
Published: October 2009

While the fungal disease mucormycosis has infected Tasmanian platypuses for nearly three decades, its impacts remain largely unknown. This study documents the spatial and temporal distribution of mucormycosis in Tasmanian platypuses as a baseline for assessing its impacts. Over 1800 platypus capture and observation records were collated and mapped, and indicate that between 1982 and 2007 mucormycosis-infected platypuses were present in at least 11, and potentially 22, of Tasmania’s 48 river catchments. During 2008–09, live-trapping surveys were undertaken to determine the spread, prevalence and persistence of the disease. Surveys of 75 rivers and creeks across 18 catchments captured 167 individuals, and an additional 12 platypuses were obtained from the public. Only seven of the 179 sampled animals were ulcerated with clinical signs of mucormycosis. All infected individuals were obtained from catchments with prior histories of disease, where platypuses have persisted despite mucormycosis being present for up to 20 years. Detection probabilities were calculated to estimate the probability that the other surveyed catchments are currently disease free. Detection probabilities were generally high (>0.75) per catchment, indicating that sampling effort was adequate to reliably detect diseased animals at historically reported prevalence (which averaged 0.295 from surveys undertaken between 1994 and 2000). Mean disease prevalence in affected catchments sampled during the present study declined to 0.071. This significant four-fold reduction in prevalence makes disease detection more challenging and increased sample sizes are required to confidently assert that some catchments are currently disease free. Reduced disease prevalence suggests that mucormycosis is exerting less impact on Tasmanian platypuses now than it was in the mid to late 1990s; however, the individual consequences of infection are poorly understood and require further investigation.
Monotreme chromosomes: an introductory review
Authors: Murtagh Carolyn E. , Sharman G. B.
Published: October 2009

The three extant genera of the prototherian mammals, Ornithorhynchus (platypus), Tachyglossus (Australian echidna) and Zaglossus (New Guinea echidna), all have a mechanism of sex determination at odds with that seen in eutherian and metatherian mammals. Indeed, they stand apart from all vertebrates. Instead of the XX/XY, X1X2Y or ZZ/ZW systems seen in the majority of vertebrates the monotremes have a chain of nine (or ten) chromosomes present during meiosis in the male. This is believed to be the consequence of a presumed series of reciprocal translocations involving four autosomal pairs and the original X and Y chromosomes. The presence of this chain in all three genera indicates that a similar chain occurred in their common ancestor. This paper provides an overview of the search to unravel the mystery of this chain and to determine the identity of the sex chromosomes and members of the chain. The development of new techniques has hugely facilitated clarification of the findings of the earlier researchers. As a result, the chromosomes of the platypus and the echidna have now been individually described, the chain elements and/or sex chromosomes have been identified unambiguously and their order in the chain has been determined. The research reviewed here has also provided insights into the evolution of mammalian sex chromosomes and given new directions for unravelling dosage compensation and sex-determination mechanisms in mammals.
Thermoregulation in monotremes: riddles in a mosaic
Authors: Brice Peter H.
Published: October 2009

The three extant genera of the Monotremata have evolved, probably from a pre-Cretaceous Gondwanan origin, independently of the Theria to display a variety of ancestral and derived features. A comparison of their thermoregulation reveals a diversity of physiology that might represent both plesiomorphic and apomorphic elements within this mosaic. In the tachyglossids, the echidnas Tachyglossus and Zaglossus, body temperature is often labile, rising as a result of activity and allowed to decline during inactivity. This daily heterothermy, which is not necessarily torpor, may combine with typical mammalian hibernation to provide substantial energy economy in a wide variety of often unproductive habitats. Only when incubating do free-ranging echidnas display classic mammalian thermoregulation, the facultative nature of which suggests echidna-like physiology as an example of a protoendothermic stage in the evolution of endothermy. Similarly, physiological response to heat in Tachyglossus, at least, may be plesiomorphic, relying on the cyclic loss of heat stored during activity. Tachyglossids neither exhibit a panting response nor spread saliva to facilitate evaporative cooling and Tachyglossus, though not Zaglossus, lacks functional sweat glands. By contrast, the only extant ornithorhynchid, the platypus Ornithorhynchus, does not utilise heterothermy of any kind and maintains its body temperature more tightly than several semiaquatic eutherians. Although not necessarily required, it responds to heat via sweating, but not panting or saliva spreading. The classic nature of ornithorhynchid thermoregulation stands in marked contrast to the more diverse thermoregulatory responses shown by the tachyglossids, making it difficult to determine which aspects of monotreme thermoregulation are plesiomorphic and which are apomorphic.
Platypus venom genes expressed in non-venom tissues
Authors: Whittington Camilla M. , Belov Katherine
Published: October 2009

The venom of the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) has been poorly studied to date. The recent publication of the platypus genome heralds a new era for mammalian venom research and is a useful starting tool for functional studies of venom components. We report here the patterns of tissue expression of two venom genes, OvNGF and OvCNP, in order to provide some insight into the functions of the proteins they produce and to pave the way for further functional and pharmacological studies, which may lead to the development of novel therapeutic agents.
No evidence of expression of two classes of natural antibiotics (cathelicidins and defensins) in a sample of platypus milk
Authors: Whittington Camilla M. , Sharp Julie A. , Papenfuss Anthony , Belov Katherine
Published: October 2009

Marsupial neonates are born without a fully functioning immune system, and are known to be protected in part by natural antimicrobial peptides present in their mother’s milk. Monotreme neonates hatch at a similar stage in development, and it has been hypothesised that their survival in a non-sterile burrow also relies on the presence of natural antibiotics in their mother’s milk. Here we review the field of monotreme lactation and the antimicrobial peptide complement of the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus). Using reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction of milk cell RNA from a sample of platypus milk, we found no evidence for the expression of cathelicidins or defensins in the milk. This was unexpected. We hypothesise that these natural antibiotics may instead be produced by the young platypuses themselves.
The enigma of the platypus genome
Authors: Warren Wesley C. , Grützner Frank
Published: October 2009

Over two centuries after the first platypus specimen stirred the scientific community in Europe, the whole-genome sequence of the duck-billed platypus has been completed and is publicly available. After publication of eutherian and marsupial genomes, this is the first genome of a monotreme filling an important evolutionary gap between the divergence of birds more that 300 million years ago and marsupials more than 140 million years ago. Monotremes represent the most basal surviving branch of mammals and the platypus genome sequence allows unprecedented insights into the evolution of mammals and the fascinating biology of the egg-laying mammals. Here, we discuss some of the key findings of the analysis of the platypus genome and point to new findings and future research directions, which illustrate the broad impact of the platypus genome project for understanding monotreme biology and mammalian genome evolution.
KIR2DS4 is a product of gene conversion with KIR3DL2 that introduced specificity for HLA-A*11 while diminishing avidity for HLA-C
Authors: Graef Thorsten , Moesta Achim K. , Norman Paul J. , Abi-Rached Laurent , Vago Luca , Older Aguilar Anastazia M. , Gleimer Michael , Hammond John A. , Guethlein Lisbeth A. , Bushnell David A. , Robinson Philip J. , Parham Peter
Published: October 2009

Human killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) are distinguished by expansion of activating KIR2DS, whose ligands and functions remain poorly understood. The oldest, most prevalent KIR2DS is KIR2DS4, which is represented by a variable balance between “full-length” and “deleted” forms. We find that full-length 2DS4 is a human histocompatibility leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I receptor that binds specifically to subsets of C1+ and C2+ HLA-C and to HLA-A*11, whereas deleted 2DS4 is nonfunctional. Activation of 2DS4+ NKL cells was achieved with A*1102 as ligand, which differs from A*1101 by unique substitution of lysine 19 for glutamate, but not with A*1101 or HLA-C. Distinguishing KIR2DS4 from other KIR2DS is the proline–valine motif at positions 71–72, which is shared with KIR3DL2 and was introduced by gene conversion before separation of the human and chimpanzee lineages. Site-directed swap mutagenesis shows that these two residues are largely responsible for the unique HLA class I specificity of KIR2DS4. Determination of the crystallographic structure of KIR2DS4 shows two major differences from KIR2DL: displacement of contact loop L2 and altered bonding potential because of the substitutions at positions 71 and 72. Correlation between the worldwide distributions of functional KIR2DS4 and HLA-A*11 points to the physiological importance of their mutual interaction.
The Ca2+ channel β subunit determines whether stimulation of Gq-coupled receptors enhances or inhibits N current
Authors: Heneghan John F. , Mitra-Ganguli Tora , Stanish Lee F. , Liu Liwang , Zhao Rubing , Rittenhouse Ann R.
Published: October 2009

In superior cervical ganglion (SCG) neurons, stimulation of M1 receptors (M1Rs) produces a distinct pattern of modulation of N-type calcium (N-) channel activity, enhancing currents elicited with negative test potentials and inhibiting currents elicited with positive test potentials. Exogenously applied arachidonic acid (AA) reproduces this profile of modulation, suggesting AA functions as a downstream messenger of M1Rs. In addition, techniques that diminish AA's concentration during M1R stimulation minimize N-current modulation. However, other studies suggest depletion of phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate during M1R stimulation suffices to elicit modulation. In this study, we used an expression system to examine the physiological mechanisms regulating modulation. We found the β subunit (CaVβ) acts as a molecular switch regulating whether modulation results in enhancement or inhibition. In human embryonic kidney 293 cells, stimulation of M1Rs or neurokinin-1 receptors (NK-1Rs) inhibited activity of N channels formed by CaV2.2 and coexpressed with CaVβ1b, CaVβ3, or CaVβ4 but enhanced activity of N channels containing CaVβ2a. Exogenously applied AA produced the same pattern of modulation. Coexpression of CaVβ2a, CaVβ3, and CaVβ4 recapitulated the modulatory response previously seen in SCG neurons, implying heterogeneous association of CaVβ with CaV2.2. Further experiments with mutated, chimeric CaVβ subunits and free palmitic acid revealed that palmitoylation of CaVβ2a is essential for loss of inhibition. The data presented here fit a model in which CaVβ2a blocks inhibition, thus unmasking enhancement. Our discovery that the presence or absence of palmitoylated CaVβ2a toggles M1R- or NK-1R–mediated modulation of N current between enhancement and inhibition identifies a novel role for palmitoylation. Moreover, these findings predict that at synapses, modulation of N-channel activity by M1Rs or NK-1Rs will fluctuate between enhancement and inhibition based on the presence of palmitoylated CaVβ2a.
Orientation of palmitoylated CaVβ2a relative to CaV2.2 is critical for slow pathway modulation of N-type Ca2+ current by tachykinin receptor activation
Authors: Mitra-Ganguli Tora , Vitko Iuliia , Perez-Reyes Edward , Rittenhouse Ann R.
Published: October 2009

The Gq-coupled tachykinin receptor (neurokinin-1 receptor [NK-1R]) modulates N-type Ca2+ channel (CaV2.2 or N channel) activity at two distinct sites by a pathway involving a lipid metabolite, most likely arachidonic acid (AA). In another study published in this issue (Heneghan et al. 2009. J. Gen Physiol. doi:10.1085/jgp.200910203), we found that the form of modulation observed depends on which CaVβ is coexpressed with CaV2.2. When palmitoylated CaVβ2a is coexpressed, activation of NK-1Rs by substance P (SP) enhances N current. In contrast, when CaVβ3 is coexpressed, SP inhibits N current. However, exogenously applied palmitic acid minimizes this inhibition. These findings suggested that the palmitoyl groups of CaVβ2a may occupy an inhibitory site on CaV2.2 or prevent AA from interacting with that site, thereby minimizing inhibition. If so, changing the orientation of CaVβ2a relative to CaV2.2 may displace the palmitoyl groups and prevent them from antagonizing AA's actions, thereby allowing inhibition even in the presence of CaVβ2a. In this study, we tested this hypothesis by deleting one (Bdel1) or two (Bdel2) amino acids proximal to the α interacting domain (AID) of CaV2.2's I–II linker. CaVβs bind tightly to the AID, whereas the rigid region proximal to the AID is thought to couple CaVβ's movements to CaV2.2 gating. Although Bdel1/β2a currents exhibited more variable enhancement by SP, Bdel2/β2a current enhancement was lost at all voltages. Instead, inhibition was observed that matched the profile of N-current inhibition from CaV2.2 coexpressed with CaVβ3. Moreover, adding back exogenous palmitic acid minimized inhibition of Bdel2/β2a currents, suggesting that when palmitoylated CaVβ2a is sufficiently displaced, endogenously released AA can bind to the inhibitory site. These findings support our previous hypothesis that CaVβ2a's palmitoyl groups directly interact with an inhibitory site on CaV2.2 to block N-current inhibition by SP.
Closed-channel block of BK potassium channels by bbTBA requires partial activation
Authors: Tang Qiong-Yao , Zeng Xu-Hui , Lingle Christopher J.
Published: October 2009

Blockade of large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channels by the bulky quaternary ammonium compound, N-(4-[benzoyl]benzyl)-N,N,N-tributylammonium (bbTBA), exhibits features consistent with blockade of both closed and open states. Here, we examine block of closed BK channels by bbTBA and how it may differ from block of open channels. Although our observations generally confirm earlier results, we describe three observations that are inconsistent with a model in which closed and open channels are equally accessible to blockade by bbTBA. First, block by bbTBA exhibits Ca2+-dependent features that are inconsistent with strictly state-independent block. Second, the steady-state voltage dependence of bbTBA block at negative potentials shows that any block of completely closed states either does not occur or is completely voltage independent. Third, determination of the fractional unblock by bbTBA at either low or high Ca2+ reveals deviations from a model in which open- and closed-state block is identical. The results support the view that bbTBA blockade of fully closed channels does not occur. We imagine two general types of explanation. First, a stronger voltage dependence of closed-channel block may minimize the contribution of closed-channel block at negative potentials. Second, voltage-dependent conformational changes among closed-channel states may permit block by bbTBA. The analysis supports the latter view, suggesting that bbTBA blockade of fully closed channels does not occur, but the ability of bbTBA to block a closed channel requires movement of one or more voltage sensors. Models in which block is coupled to voltage sensor movement can qualitatively account for (1) the ability of open-channel block to better fit block of conductance–voltage curves at high Ca2+; (2) the voltage dependence of fractional availability; and (3) the fractional unblock at different open probabilities. BK channels appear to undergo voltage-dependent conformational changes among closed states that are permissive for bbTBA block.
Octahedral tilt twinning and compositional modulation in NaLaMgWO6
Authors: King Graham , Garcia-Martin Susana , Woodward Patrick M.
Published: October 2009

A combination of selected-area electron diffraction (SAED), neutron powder diffraction (NPD) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) reveals a complex superstructure in the ordered perovskite NaLaMgWO6. Through indexing of SAED patterns the unit-cell dimensions are found to be 46.8 × 7.8 × 7.9 Å, which corresponds to a 12a
p × 2a
p × 2a
p superstructure of the simple Pm\overline 3 m perovskite unit cell. HRTEM images reveal the formation of an unmistakable stripe contrast that repeats with the same periodicity. Doubling of the b and c axes is brought about by a combination of layered ordering of Na and La, rock-salt ordering of Mg and W, and octahedral tilting. The a axis repeat distance results from a one-dimensional twinning of the octahedral tilts in combination with a compositional modulation. Modeling of the NPD pattern shows that the underlying tilt system is a
−
a
−
c
0 with tilt angles of ∼ 8° about the a and b axes. The octahedral tilt-twin boundaries run perpendicular to the a axis and are separated by 6a
p. Simulated HRTEM images show that octahedral tilt twinning alone cannot explain the stripes seen in the HRTEM images, rather a compositional modulation involving the A-site cations is necessary to explain the experimental images.
Assessment of Rhodamine B for labelling the plague reservoir Rattus rattus in Madagascar
Authors: Rahelinirina Soanandrasana , Duplantier Jean‐Marc , Ratsimba Mamy , Ratovonjato Jocelyn , Ramilijaona Olga , Papillon Yves , Rahalison Lila
Published: October 2009

The black rat is the main plague reservoir in rural foci in Madagascar, inside the villages as well as in the cultivated areas around. We have evaluated the potentialities of mass‐marking of rats, using baits containing Rhodamine B (RB) in order to get a tool to study the movements of rats and to understand the spread of plague. Laboratory experiments demonstrated that: (i) rats were more attracted by the rodent granules and peanut butter; (ii) incorporation of RB in baits did not reduce their appetence; (iii) RB lasted for 60 days in rat vibrissae and 180 days in rat hairs; and (iv) consumption of baits during a week was under the lethal dose. Field tests have been realized comparatively among 24 highland villages where plague is endemic, in different contexts: baits inside houses or around the village, baits with and without RB, rats captured 1, 2 and 3 months after the marking. No negative effect of the RB on population dynamics of rats or fleas on them was observed. The effectiveness of the marking was comparable between males and females. This technique of collective marking appears very valuable for monitoring rat movements in plague foci.
Importance of predecessor basin history on sedimentary fill of a retroarc foreland basin: provenance analysis of the Cretaceous Magallanes basin, Chile (50–52°S)
Authors: Romans B. W. , Fildani A. , Graham S. A. , Hubbard S. M. , Covault J. A.
Published: October 2009

An integrated provenance analysis of the Upper Cretaceous Magallanes retroarc foreland basin of southern Chile (50°30′–52°S) provides new constraints on source area evolution, regional patterns of sediment dispersal and depositional age. Over 450 new single‐grain detrital‐zircon U‐Pb ages, which are integrated with sandstone petrographic and mudstone geochemical data, provide a comprehensive detrital record of the northern Magallanes foreland basin‐filling succession (>4000‐m‐thick). Prominent peaks in detrital‐zircon age distribution among the Punta Barrosa, Cerro Toro, Tres Pasos and Dorotea Formations indicate that the incorporation and exhumation of Upper Jurassic igneous rocks (ca. 147–155 Ma) into the Andean fold‐thrust belt was established in the Santonian (ca. 85 Ma) and was a significant source of detritus to the basin by the Maastrichtian (ca. 70 Ma). Sandstone compositional trends indicate an increase in volcanic and volcaniclastic grains upward through the basin fill corroborating the interpretation of an unroofing sequence. Detrital‐zircon ages indicate that the Magallanes foredeep received young arc‐derived detritus throughout its ca. 20 m.y. filling history, constraining the timing of basin‐filling phases previously based only on biostratigraphy. Additionally, spatial patterns of detrital‐zircon ages in the Tres Pasos and Dorotea Formations support interpretations that they are genetically linked depositional systems, thus demonstrating the utility of provenance indicators for evaluating stratigraphic relationships of diachronous lithostratigraphic units. This integrated provenance dataset highlights how the sedimentary fill of the Magallanes basin is unique among other retroarc foreland basins and from the well‐studied Andean foreland basins farther north, which is attributed to nature of the predecessor rift and backarc basin.
The Astrakhan Arch of the Pricaspian basin: Geothermal analysis and modelling
Authors: Ismail‐Zadeh A. , Wilhelm H. , Volozh Y. , Tinakin O.
Published: October 2009

The Astrakhan Arch (ASAR) region contains one of the largest sub‐salt carbonate structures of the Pricaspian salt basin (located to the northwest of the Caspian Sea), where prospects for hydrocarbon generation and accumulation in the Devonian to Carboniferous deposits are considered to be high. We evaluate the regional vertical temperature gradient within stratigraphic units based on the analysis of 34 boreholes drilled in the region. To show that the thermal gradient is altered in the vicinity of salt diapirs, we study measured temperatures in six deep boreholes. We develop a three‐dimensional geothermal model of the ASAR region constrained by temperature measurements, seismic stratigraphic and lithological data. The temperatures of the sub‐salt sediments predicted by the geothermal model range from about 100 °C to 200 °C and are consistent with the temperatures obtained from the analysis of vitrinite reflectivity and from previous two‐dimensional geothermal models. Temperature anomalies are positive in the uppermost portions of salt diapirs as well as within the salt‐withdrawal basins at the depth of 3.5 km depth and are negative beneath the diapirs. Two areas of positive temperature anomalies in the sub‐salt sediments are likely to be associated with the deep withdrawal basins above and with the general uplift of salt/sub‐salt interface in the southern part of the study region. This implies an enhancement of thermal maturity of any organically rich source rocks within these areas. The surface heat flux in the model varies laterally from about 40 to 55 mW m−2. These variations in the heat flux are likely to be associated with structural heterogeneities of the sedimentary rocks and with the presence of salt diapirs. The results of our modelling support the hypothesis of oil and gas condensate generation in the Upper Carboniferous to Middle Devonian sediments of the ASAR region.
A comparison of prognostic classification systems for differentiated thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Verburg Frederik A. , Mäder Uwe , Kruitwagen Cas L. J. J. , Luster Markus , Reiners Christoph
Published: October 2009

Objective  To identify and compare prognostic classification systems based on basic tumour characteristics that were developed and/or validated for differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC).

Design  Retrospective chart study.

Methods  Literature was studied using PubMed. Fifteen different prognostic classification systems were identified, of which seven were developed or validated for DTC patients and were based on basic tumour characteristics. These systems were applied to 1225 DTC patients who were treated in our hospital between 1978 and 2002.

Results  Log‐rank analysis of Kaplan–Meier cancer‐specific survival curves showed that the curve of the Tumor, Lymph‐Node, Metastasis (TNM) system had the greatest discriminatory power (log‐rank test, log P = −84·9). Cox‐regression analysis showed that the TNM system was the most powerful determinant of cancer‐specific survival curves. Proportion of variance explained (PVE) analysis showed that the TNM system had the highest PVE.

Conclusion  Of the prognostic classification systems analysed in this study, the TNM system performs best in all the three analyses, and is therefore the most suitable for predicting outcome in DTC‐patients.
Leuprolide acetate gonadotrophin response patterns during female puberty
Authors: Martinez‐Aguayo A. , Hernández M. I. , Capurro T. , Peña V. , Avila A. , Salazar T. , Asenjo S. , Iñiguez G. , Mericq V.
Published: October 2009

Objective  To assess normative data and the usefulness of spontaneous and LHRH analogue‐stimulated serum LH and FSH levels measured by immunoradiometric assays (IRMA) in the evaluation of normal puberty.

Design  Prospective. Healthy girls in Tanner I and Tanner II from the local community were invited to participate (n = 47).

Methods  A leuprolide acetate test (500 mcg/m2; sc) was performed. LH and FSH levels were determined using IRMA. Tanner II girls were assessed every 6 months until Tanner V. Girls who progressed from Tanner II to Tanner III in the next 6 months were called Tanner II‐2; otherwise, they were called Tanner II‐1.

Results  The prepubertal upper limit (CI 95%) was 0·49 IU/l for basal LH and 5·1 IU/l for stimulated LH. Taking into account these LH cut‐off limits, 72·2% and 66·7% of Tanner II‐1 and 41·6% and 41·7% of Tanner II‐2 subjects presented overlapping values for basal and stimulated LH, respectively, as compared with the Tanner I group. The cut‐offs for basal and stimulated LH to predict progression from Tanner II to Tanner III in the next 6 months were a basal LH level ≥0·49 IU/l (Sensitivity = 0·58; 1‐Specificity = 0·33) and a poststimulated LH level ≥4·75 IU/l (Sensitivity = 0·67; 1‐Specificity = 0·44).

Conclusion  According to an IRMA, the basal and leuprolide acetate gonadotrophin response patterns during the beginning stages of puberty overlapped between Tanner I and Tanner II, and the cut‐offs of basal and stimulated LH levels to predict progress from Tanner II to Tanner III had low sensitivities for the following 6 months.
Soil organic phosphorus dynamics following perturbation of litter cycling in a tropical moist forest
Authors: Vincent A. G. , Turner B. L. , Tanner E. V. J.
Published: October 2009

The productivity of tropical lowland moist forests is often considered to be limited by the availability of phosphorus. Organic phosphorus is often abundant in tropical soils, but its role in forest nutrition is largely unknown. We addressed this by using a large‐scale litter manipulation experiment to investigate the stability of soil organic phosphorus in a tropical lowland forest in Central Panama. Three years of litter removal reduced the organic phosphorus concentration in the surface 2 cm of mineral soil by 23%, as determined by NaOH‐EDTA extraction and31P‐NMR spectroscopy; this included decreases in phosphate monoesters (20%) and DNA (30%). Three years of litter addition (equivalent to adding 6 kg P ha–1per year) increased soil organic phosphorus by 16%, which included a 31% increase in DNA. We did not detect higher‐order inositol phosphates, despite their abundance in mineral soils of temperate ecosystems. Our observed turnover rate suggests that even the 0–2‐cm layer of the mineral soil contributes a fifth of the total phosphorus needed to sustain above‐ground growth in this forest. Soil organic phosphorus is thus likely to make a more important contribution to the nutrition of semi‐evergreen forest plants than has hitherto been acknowledged.
Subantarctic flowering plants: pre‐glacial survivors or post‐glacial immigrants?
Authors: Van der Putten Nathalie , Verbruggen Cyriel , Ochyra Ryszard , Verleyen Elie , Frenot Yves
Published: October 2009

Aim  The aim here was to assess whether the present‐day assemblage of subantarctic flowering plants is the result of a rapid post‐Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) colonization or whether subantarctic flowering plants survived on the islands in glacial refugia throughout the LGM.

Location  The circumpolar subantarctic region, comprising six remote islands and island groups between latitudes 46° and 55° S, including South Georgia in the South Atlantic Ocean, the Prince Edward Islands, Îles Crozet, Îles Kerguelen, the Heard Island group in the South Indian Ocean and Macquarie Island in the South Pacific Ocean.

Methods  Floristic affinities between the subantarctic islands were assessed by cluster analysis applied to an up‐to‐date dataset of the phanerogamic flora in order to test for the existence of provincialism within the subantarctic. A review of the primary literature on the palaeobotany, geology and glacial history of the subantarctic islands was carried out and supplemented with additional palaeobotanical data and new field observations from South Georgia, Île de la Possession (Îles Crozet) and Îles Kerguelen.

Results  First, a strong regionalism was observed, with different floras characterizing the islands in each of the ocean basins, and endemic species being present in the South Indian Ocean and South Pacific Ocean provinces. Second, the majority of the plant species were present at the onset of accumulation of post‐glacial organic sediment and there is no evidence for the natural arrival of new immigrants during the subsequent period. Third, a review of geomorphological data suggested that the ice cover was incomplete during the LGM on the majority of the islands, and ice‐free biological refugia were probably present even on the most glaciated islands.

Main conclusions  Several independent lines of evidence favour the survival of a native subantarctic phanerogamic flora in local refugia during the LGM rather than a post‐LGM colonization from more distant temperate landmasses in the Southern Hemisphere.
Multiple losses of self‐incompatibility in North‐American Arabidopsis lyrata?: Phylogeographic context and population genetic consequences
Authors: HOEBE P. N. , STIFT M. , TEDDER A. , MABLE B. K.
Published: October 2009

Arabidopsis lyrata is mostly outcrossing due to a sporophytic self‐incompatibility (SI) system but around the Great Lakes of North America some populations have experienced a loss of SI. We researched the loss of SI in a phylogeographic context. We used cpDNA and microsatellite markers to test if populations of North‐American A. lyrata around the Great Lakes have experienced different (recent) histories, and linked this with individually established selfing phenotype and population level realized outcrossing rates calculated based on variation in progeny arrays at multi‐locus microsatellite markers. We found three chloroplast haplotypes, in two of which the loss of self‐incompatibility had occurred independently. Shifts to high rates of inbreeding were most apparent in one of these lineages but individuals showing loss of SI occurred in all three. Self‐compatible individuals usually showed a reduction of observed heterozygosity (HO) compared to outcrossing individuals. In the lineage that included the populations with the highest levels of inbreeding, this reduction was more substantial. This may indicate that the loss of SI in this lineage did not occur as recently as in the other lineage. The geographic distribution of the haplotypes suggested that there had been at least two independent colonization routes to the north of the Great Lakes following the last glaciation. This is consistent with postglacial migration patterns that have been suggested for other organisms with limited dispersal, such as reptiles and amphibians.
Parents’ genetic dissimilarity and offspring sex in a polygynous mammal
Authors: CARRANZA J. , PÉREZ‐GONZÁLEZ J. , MATEOS C. , FERNÁNDEZ‐GARCÍA J. L.
Published: October 2009

Offspring quality may benefit from genetic dissimilarity between parents. However, genetic dissimilarity may trade‐off with additive genetic benefits. We hypothesized that when sexual selection produces sex‐specific selective scenarios, the relative benefits of additive genetic vs. dissimilarity may differ for sons and daughters. Here we study a sample of 666 red deer (Cervus elaphus) microsatellite genotypes, including males, females and their foetuses, from 20 wild populations in Spain (the main analyses are based on 241 different foetuses and 190 mother‐foetus pairs). We found that parental lineages were more dissimilar in daughters than in sons. On average, every mother was less related to her mate than to the sample of fathers in the population when producing daughters not sons. Male foetuses conceived early in the rutting season were much more inbred than any other foetuses. These differences maintained through gestation length, ruling out intrauterine mortality as a cause for the results, and indicating that the potential mechanism producing the association between parents’ dissimilarity and offspring sex should operate close to mating or conception time. Our findings highlight the relevance of considering the sex of offspring when studying genetic similarity between parents.
Contrasting signals from multiple markers illuminate population connectivity in a marine fish
Authors: SALA‐BOZANO MARIA , KETMAIER VALERIO , MARIANI STEFANO
Published: October 2009

Recent advances in molecular biology and bioinformatics have helped to unveil striking and previously unrecognized patterns of geographic genetic structure in marine populations. Largely driven by the pressing needs of fisheries management and conservation, studies on marine fish populations have played a pivotal role in testing the efficiency of a range of approaches to explore connectivity and dispersal at sea. Here, we employed nuclear and mitochondrial DNA markers and parasitic infestations to examine the nature and patterns of population structure in a warm‐temperate coastal marine teleost across major putative biogeographic barriers in the Mediterranean Sea and Eastern Atlantic Ocean. We detected deep genetic divergence between mitochondrial lineages, likely caused by dramatic climatic and geological transformations before and during the Pleistocene. Such long‐diverged lineages later came into secondary contact and can now be found in sympatry. More importantly, microsatellite data revealed that these lineages, after millions of years of independent evolution, now interbreed extensively. By combining genetic and parasite data, we were able to identify at least five independent demographic units. While the different genetic and parasite‐based methods produce notably contrasting signals and may complicate the reconstruction of connectivity dynamics, we show that by tailoring the correct interpretation to each of the descriptors used, it is possible to achieve a deeper understanding of the micro‐evolutionary process and, consequently, resolve population structure.
Timing of diagenesis and very low‐grade metamorphism in the eastern sector of the Sierra de Cameros (Iberian Range, Spain): a U–Pb SHRIMP study on monazite
Authors: Del Río P. , Barbero L. , Mata P. , Fanning C. M.
Published: October 2009

The Sierra de Cameros is an intracontinental orogen and represents the north‐western part of the Iberian Range in Northern Spain. It comprises a thick sequence of syn‐rift continental sediments (mainly sandstones and carbonates) deposited during lower Cretaceous times. A unique characteristic of the Sierra de Cameros in relation to the rest of the Iberian Range is the presence of low‐grade metamorphism in certain parts of the basin, an event that predates basin inversion. This paper describes the presence, textural relationships and geochemical aspects of authigenic and/or metamorphic monazite within different lithologies from the deepest parts of the basin. Sensitive high resolution ion microprobe (SHRIMP) U–Pb dating of monazite records the presence of two age populations: the first with 206Pb/238U ages ranging from 122 to 116 Ma which is considered as diagenetic in origin, whilst the second is dated at 99 ± 2 Ma and postdates the metamorphic climax.
Genetic evidence for a role of IL33 in nasal polyposis
Authors: Buysschaert I. D. , Grulois V. , Eloy P. , Jorissen M. , Rombaux P. , Bertrand B. , Collet S. , Bobic S. , Vlaminck S. , Hellings P. W. , Lambrechts D.
Published: October 2009

To cite this article: Buysschaert ID, Grulois V, Eloy P, Jorissen M, Rombaux P, Bertrand B, Collet S, Bobic S, Vlaminck S, Hellings PW, Lambrechts D. Genetic evidence for a role of IL33 in nasal polyposis. Allergy 2010; 65: 616–622.

Background:  Little is known about the genetic factors that contribute to nasal polyposis (NP). A genome‐wide association study identified 10 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with eosinophilia. As eosinophils play a key role in the pathogenesis of NP, we assessed if any of these SNPs contribute to genetic susceptibility of NP.

Methods:  We recruited 284 patients with NP in four participating hospitals in Belgium and 427 healthy controls, and genotyped 10 SNPs affecting eosinophilia (rs1420101 in IL1RL1, rs12619285 in IKZF2, rs4431128 in GATA2, rs4143832 in IL5, rs3184504 in SH2B3, rs2416257 in WDR36, rs2269426 in MHC, rs9494145 in MYB, rs748065 in GFRA2, and rs3939286 in IL33) using MALDI‐TOF. A two‐stage design was used while correcting for multiple testing.

Results:  First stage analysis, involving 150 NP patients and 250 controls, identified rs3939286 nearby IL33 as a susceptibility factor for NP. Per at‐risk A‐allele, rs3939286 increased the risk for NP with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.60 (95% CI = 1.16–2.22; P = 0.0041). Second stage replication analysis in another 123 NP patients and 165 controls confirmed this association (OR = 1.43; CI = 1.00–2.06; P = 0.046). The combined analysis of both stages revealed an OR of 1.53 (CI = 1.21–1.96; P = 0.00041). Given the association of IL33 with NP, we also investigated rs1420101 in IL1RL1, which is the receptor for IL33. Although rs1420101 itself failed to associate with NP, a combined risk assessment of rs3939286 and rs1420101 further increased the risk for NP.

Conclusion:  We provide unprecedented genetic evidence suggesting a role for the IL33 pathway in the pathogenesis of NP.
Neuroprotective effects of a combination of dexmedetomidine and hypothermia after incomplete cerebral ischemia in rats
Authors: SATO K. , KIMURA T. , NISHIKAWA T. , TOBE Y. , MASAKI Y.
Published: October 2009

Background: Dexmedetomidine and hypothermia are known to reduce neuronal injury following cerebral ischemia. We examined whether a combination of dexmedetomidine and hypothermia reduces brain injury after transient forebrain ischemia in rats to a greater extent than either treatment alone.

Methods: Thirty‐eight male Sprague–Dawley rats were anesthetized with fentanyl and nitrous oxide in oxygen. Four groups were tested: group C (saline 1 ml/kg, temporal muscle temperature 37.5 °C); group H (saline 1 ml/kg, 35.0 °C); group D (dexmedetomidine 100 μg/kg, 37.5 °C); and group DH (dexmedetomidine 100 μg/kg, 35.0 °C). Dexmedetomidine or saline was administered intraperitoneally 30 min before ischemia. Cerebral ischemia was produced by right carotid artery ligation with hemorrhagic hypotension (mean arterial pressure 40 mmHg) for 20 min. Neurologic outcome was evaluated at 24, 48, and 72 h after ischemia. Histopathology was evaluated in the caudate and hippocampus at 72 h after ischemia.

Results: Neurologic outcome was significantly better in the group DH than the group C (P<0.05), whereas it was similar between the group DH and the groups D or H. Survival rate of the hippocampal CA1 neurons was significantly greater in groups D, H, and DH than group C (P<0.05). Histopathologic injury in the caudate section was significantly less in groups H and DH than group C (P<0.05).

Conclusion: The combination of dexmedetomidine and hypothermia improved short‐term neurologic outcome compared with the control group, whereas the combination therapy provided comparable neuroprotection with either of the two therapies alone.
Postoperative impact of regular tobacco use, smoking or snuffing, a prospective multi‐center study
Authors: BRATTWALL M. , WARRÉN STOMBERG M. , RAWAL N. , SEGERDAHL M. , HOULTZ E. , JAKOBSSON J.
Published: October 2009

Background: The aim was to study the effects of different tobacco administration routes on pain and post‐operative nausea and vomiting (PONV), following three common day surgical procedures: cosmetic breast augmentation (CBA), inguinal hernia repair (IHR) and arthroscopic procedures (AS). We have prospectively investigated the effects of regular tobacco use in ambulatory surgery.

Methods: The 355 allocated patients were followed during recovery and the first day at home.

Results: Thirty‐two percent of the patients used tobacco regularly, 33% of CBA, 27% of IHR and 34% of AS. Pain was well controlled in the post‐anesthesia care unit at rest; during ambulation, 37% of all patients reported VAS>3. Tobacco use had no impact on early post‐operative pain. Post‐operative nausea was experienced by 30% of patients during recovery while in hospital. On day 1, 14% experienced nausea. We found a significant reduction of PONV among tobacco users (smoking and/or snuffing). Smoking or snuffing reduced the risk of PONV by nearly 50% in both genders on the day of surgery and at the first day at home. The reduction of PONV was equal, regardless of tobacco administration routes.

Conclusion: We found that regular use of tobacco, both by smoking and snuffing, had a significant effect on PONV during the early post‐operative period. Non‐tobacco users undergoing breast surgery were found to have the highest risk for PONV. We could not see any influence of nicotine use on post‐operative pain. Thus, it seems of value to identify regular tobacco use, not only smoking, as a part of the pre‐operative risk assessment.
Tissue Distribution of P‐Glycoprotein in Cats
Authors: Van Der Heyden S. , Chiers K. , Ducatelle R.
Published: October 2009

Permeability glycoprotein (P‐gp) is a membrane‐bound efflux pump that exports various substances out of the cell. Variations in P‐gp expression play an important role in susceptibility to toxic substances, drug efficacy and disease risk. In the present study, the distribution of the MDR1‐gene product P‐gp was determined in normal tissues of domestic shorthair cats using immunohistochemistry. Two monoclonal antibodies C494 and C219 were used, recognizing a different epitope on the human P‐gp molecule. A consistent positive immunolabelling was obtained. The tissue distribution and cellular locations with antibody C494 were similar to those in man and dogs; with liver, colon, adrenal cortex and brain capillaries being consistently and intensely labelled. However, the immunolabelling in the kidney was in contradiction to man and dogs. The C219 antibody seems to react with a specific form of P‐gp, only expressed in feline tissues with a barrier function, i.e. endothelia of the brain, testes and ovaries, and intestinal epithelial cells in contact with the lumen.
What research questions matter to Australian paediatricians? National Delphi Study
Authors: Rudolph Suba , Hiscock Harriet , Price Anna , Efron Daryl , Sewell Jill , South Mike , Wake Melissa
Published: October 2009

Aim:  The newly formed Australian Paediatric Research Network (APRN) aims to facilitate general paediatricians' participation in research in secondary care settings. This (its first) project aimed to identify Australian paediatricians' top research priorities and preferred research designs.

Methods:  All Australian general paediatricians were invited into a national Delphi process survey. In Stage 1, they were asked ‘Thinking about your clinical practice, what are the most important research questions which need addressing?’. Using qualitative methods, a ‘top 20’ list of the most common, feasible research questions was generated. In Stage 2, respondents prioritised these ‘top 20’ research questions in terms of perceived importance to their practice, and rated their interest in participating in various types of research.

Results:  A total of 685 (68%) of 1006 paediatricians completed the baseline survey, with 209 paediatricians contributing 430 Stage 1 research questions. Of these, 128 (30%) had not been addressed in the literature and were researchable in the secondary care outpatient setting. The top five questions ranked in Stage 2 by 348 paediatricians were obesity management (two questions), long‐term ADHD educational outcomes, autism spectrum outcomes, and prophylactic antibiotics in preventing urinary tract infections. Paediatricians were willing to participate in research designs, including longitudinal research (75%) and randomised trials (64%).

Conclusions:  Australian paediatricians are interested in research, and their ideas can provide direction for APRN and potentially other networks in Australia. Many of the questions generated could not be easily answered by traditional biomedical and clinical research methods, highlighting the potential benefit of practice‐based research networks.