bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yeasts and Moulds in the Bovine Rumen
Authors: LUND A.
Published: June 2009

Summary: Only small numbers of fungi were found in the rumen fluid of cattle cultured on agar plates at 39°C, the counts being up to 3500 yeast colonies/ml, with a similar number of mould colonies. However, considerably larger numbers of yeast colonies appeared on plates incubated at 25°C. Nine species of yeasts were isolated belonging to Candida (including corresponding species of Pichia), Trichosporon, Torulopsis, Kluyveromyces, Saccharomycopsis, and Hansenula. The predominating species were Candida krusei, Trichosporon cutaneum and Trichosporon capitatum. The most common moulds were members of the Mucoraceae, of which Absidia corymbifera, A. ramosa, and Mucor pusillus were identified. Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated frequently. The fungal content of rumen fluid seemed to be dependent on the diet of the animal, and no particular fungal flora could be associated with the rumen per se. The predominating Candida krusei, and also the rarely-isolated species Torulopsis pintolopesii and Kluyveromyces bulgaricus, could reproduce under anaerobic conditions in vitro, but another commonly occurring yeast, Trichosporon capitatum, was unable to grow under the same conditions. The majority of yeast cells were obviously destroyed during passage through the alimentary tract, whereas large quantities of moulds could be excreted in a viable state.
An Anucleolate Mutant of the Cellular Slime Mould Dictyostelium discoideum
Authors: ISHIDA S. , MAEDA Y. , TAKEUCHI I.
Published: June 2009

Summary: An anucleolate mutant (AN) was isolated from the cellular slime mould, Dictyostelium discoideum. The AN developed normally until the beginning of culmination, when development stopped and no differentiation of the spore or stalk cell occurred. The AN had nucleoli at the vegetative stage, but lost them after formation of a cell mass, in contrast to the wild type (WT) which possessed them throughout development. AN cells disaggregated from a slug, reconstructed nucleoli and resumed vegetative growth. Difference in tetrazolium reduction between the prestalk cell and the pre-spore cell, as observed in the WT, was not detected in the AN, although vacuoles specific to the pre-spore cell were formed. When the WT and AN cells were mixed, they aggregated together, but no interaction in cell differentiation was observed. The roles of nucleoli in the development of this organism are discussed.
One‐year follow‐up of the outcome of a randomized controlled trial of a home‐based intervention programme for children with autism and developmental delay and their families
Authors: Rickards A. L. , Walstab J. E. , Wright‐Rossi R. A. , Simpson J. , Reddihough D. S.
Published: June 2009

Introduction  There is debate about the type and intensity of early childhood intervention that is most helpful for children with developmental problems. The aim of the study was to determine whether a home‐based programme provided over 12 months resulted in sustained improvement in development and behaviour 12 months after the intervention ceased. The characteristics of the children and families who benefited most from the intervention were also studied.

Method  Randomized controlled trial.

Participants  A total of 59 children, aged 3–5 years, attending two early childhood intervention centres in Melbourne, Australia.

Intervention  Half of the subjects received an additional home‐based programme consisting of 40 weekly visits.

Main outcome measures  Bayley Scales of Infant Development and Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence Revised, Preschool Behaviour Checklist, Bayley Behaviour Rating Scale and Behaviour Screening Questionnaire. All tests administered pre‐intervention, following the intervention and 12 months later.

Secondary outcome measures  Family stress, support and empowerment.

Results  Fifty‐four children completed the assessments 12 months after conclusion of the intervention. Compared with the control group, improvement in aspects of cognitive development in the children who received the extra intervention was sustained 1 year later (P= 0.007) while significant behavioural differences post intervention were not. Analyses of the data by the Reliable Change Index indicated improvement of clinical significance occurred in non‐verbal areas. In contrast to the control group who deteriorated, language skills in the intervention group remained stable. Improvements were significantly associated with higher stress in the families.

Conclusion  Improvements following the provision of a home‐based programme to preschool children with developmental disabilities were sustained 1 year later. Children from highly stressed families appeared to benefit most, reinforcing the importance of involving families in early childhood intervention programmes.
Treatment fidelity as a predictor of behaviour change in parents attending group‐based parent training
Authors: Eames C. , Daley D. , Hutchings J. , Whitaker C. J. , Jones K. , Hughes J. C. , Bywater T.
Published: June 2009

Background  Change in parenting skills, particularly increased positive parenting, has been identified as the key component of successful evidence‐based parent training (PT), playing a causal role in subsequent child behaviour change for both prevention and treatment of Conduct Disorder. The amount of change in parenting skills observed after PT varies and may be accounted for by both the content of the programme and by the level of PT implementer process skills. Such variation in implementer skills is an important component in the assessment of treatment fidelity, itself an essential factor in successful intervention outcome.

Aims  To establish whether the Leader Observation Tool, a reliable and valid process skills fidelity measure, can predict change in parenting skills after attendance on the Incredible Years PT programme.

Results  Positive leader skills categories of the Leader Observation Tool significantly predicted change in both parent‐reported and independently observed parenting skills behaviour, which in turn, predicted change in child behaviour outcome.

Conclusions  Delivering an intervention with a high level of treatment fidelity not only preserves the behaviour change mechanisms of the intervention, but can also predict parental behaviour change, which itself predicts child behaviour change as a result of treatment.
Evidence for a regulatory role of α4 – integrins in the maturation of eosinophils generated from the bone marrow in the presence of dexamethasone
Authors: Gaspar‐Elsas M. I. , Queto T. , Vasconcelos Z. , Jones C. P. , Lannes‐Vieira J. , Xavier‐Elsas P.
Published: June 2009

BackgroundAlthough eosinophils co‐express multiple integrin receptors, the contributions of integrins to eosinophil development have not been explored. We previously described extensive aggregation and cytological immaturity in eosinophils developing in bone‐marrow (BM) cultures exposed to dexamethasone. Here we examined the relationship of α4 integrins with these effects of dexamethasone.

ObjectivesWe evaluated: (a) the effects of exposure to dexamethasone in BM culture on eosinophil expression of α4 integrin receptors and ligands; (b) the contribution of α4 integrins to eosinophil aggregation and maturation.

MethodsCultures were established with IL‐5 (alone or with dexamethasone) for up to 7 days, and eosinophil production, α4 integrin receptor/ligand expression, aggregation and morphology were evaluated before and after targeting α4 integrin‐dependent adhesions. Because prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) modifies the effects of dexamethasone on eosinophilopoiesis, PGE2 effects on α4 integrin expression and function were also evaluated.

ResultsDexamethasone increased the yield of eosinophils up to day 7. The frequency of eosinophils expressing α4, β1 and β7 integrin receptors at day 7 was also increased by dexamethasone. Eosinophils also expressed the α4β1 ligand, VCAM‐1. Dexamethasone increased the expression of α4 integrin and VCAM‐1 in aggregates containing eosinophils as early as day 3. PGE2, added up to day 3, modified the effects of dexamethasone to suppress the expression of α4 integrin, decrease aggregation and promote cytological maturation of eosinophils recovered at day 7. Dissociation of immature eosinophils from clusters present at day 3 by reagents targeting α4 or β1 integrins or VCAM‐1 also induced cytological maturation. The concordant effects of targeting α4 integrins with drugs and antibodies support a relationship between α4‐mediated aggregation and maturational arrest.

ConclusionsThese observations support a novel role for α4 integrin receptors and ligands in eosinophilopoiesis. In addition, increased α4 expression following glucocorticoid exposure may contribute to the retention and accumulation of eosinophils in haemopoietic tissue.
Clinical effects of kestose, a prebiotic oligosaccharide, on the treatment of atopic dermatitis in infants
Authors: Shibata R. , Kimura M. , Takahashi H. , Mikami K. , Aiba Y. , Takeda H. , Koga Y.
Published: June 2009

Background
Oligosaccharides may have beneficial properties of the prevention of atopic dermatitis (AD). Kestose, a fructo‐oligosaccharide, stimulates the activity of bifidobacteria.

Objective
To assess the clinical effect of kestose on the treatment of AD in infants.

Methods
A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was carried out using 15 and 14 infants with AD in the kestose group and placebo groups, respectively. One to 2 g kestose and maltose were administered to the subjects in the kestose and placebo groups, respectively, everyday for 12 weeks. Clinical evaluations of AD using Severity Scoring of Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) and the enumeration of bifidobacteria in the feces using real‐time PCR were performed at Weeks 0, 6, and 12.

Results
The medians of the SCORAD score were significantly lower in the kestose group than in the placebo group on both Week 6 (25.3 vs. 36.4; P=0.004) and Week 12 (19.5 vs. 37.5; P<0.001). No significant correlation was found between the improvement of the SCORAD score and the count of bifidobacteria.

Conclusion
Kestose was found to exert a beneficial effect on the clinical symptoms in infants with AD. The mechanism how does kestose improve the symptoms of AD remains to be elucidated.
Lung disease, antibodies and other unresolved issues in immune globulin therapy for antibody deficiency
Authors: Cunningham-Rundles C
Published: June 2009

Defects of antibody production are the most common of the primary immune defects of man. While these defects have been described in clinical terms for more than five decades, in most cases, the pathogenesis is still poorly understood. The most common clinically important of these is common variable immune deficiency. However there is no strict definition of this defect and the criteria for initiating immune globulin therapy are not standardized, leading to wide variation in treatment practices. In addition there has been no clear means to adequate assess progression of lung disease or elucidate the causes of progressive pulmonary inflammation found in some subjects. Moreover, there are still questions such as what are the best predictors of chronic lung disease and how can we prevent this disorder. Other complications such as autoimmunity, granulomatous disease, gastrointestinal inflation, are similarly poorly understood although treatment with various biological agents has been used with some success. A few bio-markers for assessing clinical and immunologic status have been proposed, and some have proved to be useful, but additional methods to gauge the benefits of therapy, predict outcomes, and harmonize treatment practices are needed. Aside from Ig replacement, additional means of prevention of lung disease may need consideration to reduce lung damage apart from prophylactic antibiotics. These might include using macrolides as anti-inflammatory agents, inhaled corticosteroids, bronchodilators, mucolytics or mechanical or rehabilitative respiratory methods.
Dose‐dependent acute effects of recombinant human TSH (rhTSH) on thyroid size and function: comparison of 0·1, 0·3 and 0·9 mg of rhTSH
Authors: Fast Søren , Nielsen Viveque E. , Bonnema Steen J. , Hegedüs Laszlo
Published: June 2009

Context  Recombinant human TSH (rhTSH) is used to augment the effect of radioiodine therapy for nontoxic multinodular goitre. Reports of acute thyroid swelling and hyperthyroidism warrant safety studies evaluating whether these side‐effects are dose dependent.

Objective  To determine the effects on thyroid size and function of various doses of rhTSH.

Design  In nine healthy male volunteers, the effect of placebo, 0·1, 0·3 and 0·9 mg of rhTSH was examined in a paired design including four consecutive study rounds.

Main outcome measures  Main outcome measures were evaluated at baseline, 24 h, 48 h, 96 h, 7 days and 28 days after rhTSH and included: Thyroid volume (TV) estimation by planimetric ultrasound, and thyroid function by serum TSH, free T3, free T4 and Tg levels.

Results  Following placebo or 0·1 mg rhTSH, the TV did not change significantly from baseline at any time. At 24 and 48 h after administration of 0·3 mg rhTSH, the TV increased by 37·4 ± 12·3% (SEM) (P = 0·03) and 45·3 ± 16·1% (P = 0·05) respectively. After 0·9 mg rhTSH, the TV increased by 23·3 ± 5·8% (P = 0·008) and 35·5 ± 18·4% (P = 0·02) respectively. The increase in serum FT3, FT4 and thyroglobulin (Tg) was greater when administering 0·3 mg compared with 0·1 mg (P = 0·02) and when administering 0·9 mg compared with 0·3 mg (P = 0·02). After 0·1 mg rhTSH, the increase in FT3 and Tg was not significantly different from placebo whereas the FT4 increase was significantly higher (P = 0·02 compared with placebo).

Conclusions  In healthy individuals, rhTSH‐induced thyroid swelling and hyperthyroidism is rapid and dose dependent. If valid for patients with goitre, our results suggest that these adverse effects are unlikely to be of clinical significance, following doses of rhTSH of 0·1 mg or less.
Crowding and disease: effects of host density on response to infection in a butterfly–parasite interaction
Authors: LINDSEY ELIZABETH , MEHTA MUDRESH , DHULIPALA VARUN , OBERHAUSER KAREN , ALTIZER SONIA
Published: June 2009

Abstract.1. Hosts experiencing frequent variation in density are thought to benefit from allocating more resources to parasite defence when density is high (‘density‐dependent prophylaxis’). However, high density conditions can increase intra‐specific competition and induce physiological stress, hence increasing host susceptibility to infection (‘crowding‐stress hypothesis’).

2. We studied monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) and quantified the effects of larval rearing density on susceptibility to the protozoan parasiteOphryocystis elektroscirrha. Larvae were inoculated with parasite spores and reared at three density treatments: low, moderate, and high. We examined the effects of larval density on parasite loads, host survival, development rates, body size, and wing melanism.

3. Results showed an increase in infection probability with greater larval density. Monarchs in the moderate and high density treatments also suffered the greatest negative effects of parasite infection on body size, development rate, and adult longevity.

4. We observed greater body sizes and shorter development times for monarchs reared at moderate densities, and this was true for both unparasitised and parasite‐treated monarchs. We hypothesise that this effect could result from greater larval feeding rates at moderate densities, combined with greater physiological stress at the highest densities.

5. Although monarch larvae are assumed to occur at very low densities in the wild, an analysis of continent‐wide monarch larval abundance data showed that larval densities can reach high levels in year‐round resident populations and during the late phase of the breeding season. Treatment levels used in our experiment captured ecologically‐relevant variation in larval density observed in the wild.
Inhibitors in factor IX deficiency a report of the ISTH‐SSC international FIX inhibitor registry (1997–2006)
Authors: CHITLUR M. , WARRIER I. , RAJPURKAR M. , LUSHER J. M.
Published: June 2009

Summary.  Haemophilia B is an X‐linked disorder resulting in coagulation factor IX deficiency. Patients with severe deficiency (<1% factor IX activity) may have significant bleeding complications similar to patients with haemophilia A or factor VIII deficiency. The development of inhibitory antibodies to the missing coagulation factor is a major complication in patients with haemophilia. While the incidence of inhibitors in patients with haemophilia A is higher than that in haemophilia B, the occurrence of allergic and or anaphylactic reactions with the development of inhibitors is unique to haemophilia B patients. Since haemophilia B is a rare bleeding disorder and the incidence of inhibitors is an even rarer entity, a registry was established by Dr Indira Warrier under the auspices of the FVIII/FIX subcommittee of the International Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, to gather information on the occurrence and characteristics of patients with inhibitors and also the incidence of allergic and anaphylactic reactions in this group of patients. This is the first report from this registry and helps us to gather some insight on haemophilia B patients with inhibitors and complications related to inhibitor development and difficulties with immune tolerance.
Chronic inflammation in the pathogenesis of benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Fibbi B. , Penna G. , Morelli A. , Adorini L. , Maggi M.
Published: June 2009

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disorder affecting 50–80% of the aged male population. Androgens and age have been traditionally considered the main determinants of prostate enlargement, but in the last years a potentially important role of chronic inflammation in BPH pathogenesis has emerged. Bacterial and non‐infectious chronic prostatitis could represent inciting factors leading to tissue hyperproliferation, possibly via the recently demonstrated antigen‐presenting capacity of prostatic stromal cells, enabling them to induce and sustain intraglandular immune responses. The prostate growth‐promoting chemokine IL‐8 could represent a direct link between chronic prostate inflammation and autocrine/paracrine stromal cell proliferation, in agreement with its marked secretion induced in BPH stromal cells by a combination of Th1 and Th17 cell‐derived inflammatory cytokines. BPH stromal cells express the vitamin D receptor (VDR), which is up‐regulated by exposure to inflammatory stimuli. The non‐hypercalcaemic VDR agonist elocalcitol, shown to arrest BPH development by decreasing the intra‐prostatic androgen signalling without directly interfering with systemic androgen action, exerts immunoregulatory and anti‐inflammatory properties in different prostatic pathology characterized by growth and inflammation. The mechanism of action of VDR agonists supports an important role of chronic inflammation in BPH pathogenesis and strengthens the concept of these agents as a therapeutic option for pharmacological treatment of BPH.
Parental perspectives on preterm children's oral health behaviour and experience of dental care during preschool and early school years
Authors: BROGÅRDH‐ROTH SUSANNE , STJERNQVIST KARIN , MATSSON LARS , KLINGBERG GUNILLA
Published: June 2009

Background.  Children born preterm (PT) have medical conditions and impairments that may affect their oral health.

Hypothesis.  Our hypothesis for the study was that PT children display more dental behaviour management problems (BMPs) and less favourable oral health behaviour than controls (C).

Methods.  Parents of 153 PT children and 153 C children were interviewed regarding the children's oral health behaviour and experience of dental care on two occasions, 2 years apart. The interviews concerned the preschool period and the early school years, respectively.

Results.  BMPs were more common in PT children of preschool age, but not during the early school years. Regarding oral health behaviour, there were no differences between the groups, except that PT children had more problems with toothbrushing than C children in the preschool period, in spite of the fact that the PT group reported more medical health problems and more anxious behaviour and indications of cognitive problems than the C group.

Conclusions.  Children born PT exhibit several risk factors for both BMP and impaired oral health. It is essential that this group of patients is identified early and receives special attention from the dental services.
Is there more insect folivory in warmer temperate climates? A latitudinal comparison of insect folivory in eastern North America
Authors: Adams Jonathan M. , Zhang Yangjian
Published: June 2009

1. It is generally believed that warmer climate forests suffer more herbivory, as a proportion of leaf area, than cooler climate forests. However, standardized studies using the same methodology have rarely been performed.

2. We carried out a study on scattered forest‐edge populations of four widespread tree species (Quercus alba, Acer rubrum, Fagus grandifolia and Liquidambar styraciflua) spanning 17° of latitude in North America.

3. We sampled early summer sun leaves (12 weeks after bud break) at each latitude in 2 years. Total insect folivory damage was estimated from the percentage area damaged in fresh leaves on forest edges, using a scanner‐linked software.

4. The percentage area damage per leaf of all four species in both years shows a significant latitudinal trend, with less damage in lower latitude areas of eastern North America. This is contrary to what would generally be expected according to current ecological thinking. Among the four studied species, only A. rubrum showed a significant difference between the 2 years.

5. Synthesis. The observation of an inverse latitudinal trend may have wider implications for the study of community functioning, suggesting that strength of ‘biotic’ interaction between plants and herbivores might actually be no less important, or in fact more important, in cool temperate climates compared with warm temperate climates.
Classification of chronic orofacial pain using an intravenous diagnostic test
Authors: TJAKKES G.‐H. E. , DE BONT L. G. M. , VAN WIJHE M. , STEGENGA B.
Published: June 2009

Summary  The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of a preliminary intravenous diagnostic test to classify chronic orofacial pain patients into different subgroups. Patients with chronic orofacial pain conditions that could not be unambiguously diagnosed. A retrospective evaluation of series of conducted pharmacodiagnostic tests, consisting of the consecutive intravenous administration of drugs. Visual analogue scale scores were retrieved from all patients, based on which they were classified into different responder groups. In total, 46 pain profiles were analysed. Of these, 16 patients (35%) could be classified into one or more pain categories, while 30 patients (65%) could not be classified into any pain category. The pain duration or medication use did not influence the classification. Based on the results of this retrospective study, it seems that classification into subgroups is possible after intravenous testing in a minority of clinically unclassifiable patients. In patients where there is a substantial need for additional diagnostic information, these results may be of value. Recommendations are made for further research, which should include validation in patients with known pain mechanisms.
Technical quality of root canal fillings performed in a dental school and the associated retention of root‐filled teeth: a clinical follow‐up study over a 5‐year period
Authors: BURKE F. M. , LYNCH C. D. , NÍ RÍORDÁIN R. , HANNIGAN A.
Published: June 2009

Summary  The aim of this study was to examine the technical quality of root canal fillings performed in a dental school and to investigate the associated effect on the survival/retention of root‐filled teeth. A review of case notes of patients who had root canal treatment performed in the department of Restorative Dentistry, University Dental School and Hospital, Cork, Ireland was carried out. The technical quality of the root canal filling was described according to its relationship with the radiographic apex on a post‐treatment radiograph. Tooth status at review was defined as ‘tooth present’ or ‘tooth absent’ based on the presence or absence of the root‐filled tooth recorded in the treatment records at a review appointment following placement of the root canal filling. One hundred and forty‐eight teeth (129 patients) were considered. Of these, 69·6% (n = 103) were of acceptable technical quality, 23·6% (n = 35) were under‐extended, and 6·8% (n = 10) were overextended. An increased number of intra‐treatment radiographs to confirm the relationship of the canal preparation to the radiographic apex and operator experience were significant predictors of adequate root canal fillings (P < 0·05). Eighty‐three per cent (n = 123) of teeth were present at a review appointment held an average of 40 months following completion of treatment (12–60 months). The technical quality of the root canal filling was the only significant factor in predicting tooth survival (P < 0·05), while the presence of pre‐treatment periapical pathology had no significant effect on survival of the root‐filled tooth. Determination and maintenance of the working length of the canal system is an important feature in producing good quality root canal fillings, which in turn, is associated with increased likelihood of survival/retention of root‐filled teeth.
CymR, the master regulator of cysteine metabolism in Staphylococcus aureus, controls host sulphur source utilization and plays a role in biofilm formation
Authors: Soutourina Olga , Poupel Olivier , Coppée Jean‐Yves , Danchin Antoine , Msadek Tarek , Martin‐Verstraete Isabelle
Published: June 2009

We have characterized the master regulator of cysteine metabolism, CymR, in Staphylococcus aureus. CymR repressed the transcription of genes involved in pathways leading to cysteine formation. Eight direct DNA targets were identified using gel‐shift or footprinting experiments. Comparative transcriptome analysis and in vitro studies indicated that CysM, the OAS‐thiol‐lyase, was also implicated in this regulatory system. OAS, the direct precursor of cysteine, prevents CymR‐dependent binding to DNA. This study has allowed us to predict sulphur metabolism functions for previously uncharacterized S. aureus genes. We show that S. aureus is able to grow on homocysteine as the sole sulphur source suggesting efficient MccA and MccB‐dependent conversion of this compound into cysteine. We propose that SA1850 is a new thiosulphate transporter and that TcyP and TcyABC are l‐cystine transporters. CymR directly controls the use of sulphur sources of human origin such as taurine and homocysteine. The cymR mutant also displayed a reduced capacity to form biofilms, indicating that CymR is involved in controlling this process in S. aureus via an ica‐independent mechanism. These data indicate that fine‐tuning of sulphur metabolism plays an important part in the physiology of this major pathogen and its adaptation to environmental conditions and survival in the host.
Molecular polymorphisms between populations of Pseudoperonospora cubensis from Greece and the Czech Republic and the phytopathological and phylogenetic implications
Authors: Sarris P. , Abdelhalim M. , Kitner M. , Skandalis N. , Panopoulos N. , Doulis A. , Lebeda A.
Published: June 2009

Molecular genetic polymorphisms within Pseudoperonospora cubensis isolates of different geographic origins were investigated to establish their phylogenetic relationships and to assess genetic variability between two distant pathogen populations. Thirty isolates originating from Greece (Crete; 15), the Czech Republic (13), the Netherlands (one) and France (one) were analysed by AFLP fingerprinting and ITS 5·8S rDNA sequence analysis. All isolates were obtained from cucumber (Cucumis sativus) plants showing typical downy mildew symptoms. Four AFLP primer combinations produced a total of 288 high‐quality bands of which 45% were polymorphic, allowing isolates to be grouped into two separate clusters: one including the Central European (Czech Republic) and Western European (the Netherlands and France) and the other the Cretan isolates. Within each AFLP cluster there was some variation, which could be accounted for by geographic origin or pathogenicity. The two populations (Cretan vs. Central and Western European) exhibited a high degree of genetic isolation. There was no clear AFLP grouping of isolates on the basis of pathotypes. No variability was detected in the ITS1 region; however, ITS2 sequences grouped P. cubensis isolates in two subclusters: one with all investigated European and the other with Asian isolates. The two subclusters formed a larger P. cubensis cluster which was differentiated from the cluster of the neighbouring species Pseudoperonospora humuli. Within P. cubensis, AFLP fingerprints could resolve genetically isolated populations, even on small or medium geographic scales, while ITS2 sequence showed differences on a global scale, being only suitable for phylogenetic analyses.
Habitat saturation and the spatial evolutionary ecology of altruism
Authors: LION S. , GANDON S.
Published: June 2009

Under which ecological conditions should individuals help their neighbours? We investigate the effect of habitat saturation on the evolution of helping behaviours in a spatially structured population. We combine the formalisms of population genetics and spatial moment equations to tease out the effects of various physiological (direct benefits and costs of helping) and ecological parameters (such as the density of empty sites) on the selection gradient on helping. Our analysis highlights the crucial importance of demography for the evolution of helping behaviours. It shows that habitat saturation can have contrasting effects, depending on the form of competition (direct vs. indirect competition) and on the conditionality of helping. In our attempt to bridge the gap between spatial ecology and population genetics, we derive an expression for relatedness that takes into account both habitat saturation and the spatial structure of genetic variation. This analysis helps clarify discrepancies in the results obtained by previous theoretical studies. It also provides a theoretical framework taking into account the interplay between demography and kin selection, in which new biological questions can be explored.
A rare case of facial Candida albicans cellulitis in an uncontrolled diabetic patient
Authors: Kwak Om‐Sub , Kang Mi‐Il , Kim Jeong‐Bae , Kim Min‐Wook , Kim Young Keun
Published: June 2009

Facial cellulitis is defined as infections or inflammation of the skin or connective tissue in orbital, periorbital area and cheeks, and is known to be caused mainly by bacterial infections, for which treatment with proper antibiotics and incision and drainage are necessary. Candidal cellulitis is a rare disease and only two cases have been reported in the world to our knowledge. Candidal facial cellulitis is a non‐haematogenous, deep‐seated infection and we should figure out for known risk factors of candidal colonisation or overgrowth and possible routes of infection for candidiasis. We report one case of facial cellulitis caused by Candida albicans in an uncontrolled diabetic woman aged 50.
Hypertonic saline reduces metalloproteinase expression in liver during pancreatitis
Authors: Rios Ester CS , Moretti Ana IS , De Souza Heraldo P , Velasco Irineu T , Soriano Francisco G
Published: June 2009

We recently demonstrated that hypertonic saline reduces inflammation and mortality in acute pancreatitis. The present study investigated the effects of hypertonic saline in metalloproteinase (MMP) regulation and pancreatitis‐associated hepatic injury.

Wistar rats were divided into four groups: (i) control, not subjected to insult or treatment; (ii) no treatment (NT), induction of pancreatitis (retrograde infusion of 2.5% sodium taurocholate (1.0 mL/kg)), but no further treatment; (iii) normal saline (NS), induction of pancreatitis and treatment with normal saline (0.9% NaCl, 34 mL/kg, i.v. bolus, 1 h after the induction of pancreatitis); and (iv) hypertonic saline (HS), induction of pancreatitis and treatment with hypertonic saline (7.5% NaCl, 4 mL/kg administered over a period of 5 min, 1 h after the induction of pancreatitis). In all four groups, 4, 12 and 24 h after the induction of pancreatitis, liver tissue samples were assayed to determine levels of MMP‐2, MMP‐9, 47 kDa heat shock protein (HSP47) and collagen (Type I and III).

Compared with the control group, MMP‐9 expression and activity was increased twofold in the NS and NT groups 4 and 12 h after the induction of pancreatitis, but remained at basal levels in the HS group. In contrast, MMP‐2 expression was increased twofold 12 h after the induction of pancreatitis only in the NS group, whereas the expression of HSP47 was increased 4 h after the induction of pancreatitis in the NS and NT groups. Greater extracellular matrix remodelling occurred in the NS and NT groups compared with the HS group, probably as a result of the hepatic wound‐healing response to repeated injury. However, the collagen content in hepatic tissue remained at basal levels in the HS group.

In conclusion, the results of the present study indicate that hypertonic saline is hepatoprotective and reduces hepatic remodelling, maintaining the integrity of the hepatic extracellular matrix during pancreatitis. Hypertonic saline‐mediated regulation of MMP expression may have clinical relevance in pancreatitis‐associated liver injury.
Fluctuations in haemoglobin levels in haemodialysis, pre‐dialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients receiving epoetin alpha or darbepoetin alpha
Authors: WALKER ROWAN , PUSSELL BRUCE A ,   ON BEHALF OF THE AUSTRALIAN RENAL ANAEMIA GROUP
Published: June 2009

Aim:  To characterize the haemoglobin variability of haemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis and pre‐dialysis patients treated with either epoetin alpha or darbepoetin alpha in a clinical setting where treatment was administered according to current standard Australian practice.

Methods:  Data on haemodialysis, pre‐dialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients were extracted from the Renal Anaemia Management database (RAM) from 1 January 2001 to 31 December 2004. The variance in haemoglobin was calculated from patient records with more than five haemoglobin observations over a period of at least 4 weeks following 9 weeks of therapy. A mixed‐model was fitted to the within‐patient variances and weighting was based on the number of observations minus 1 for each record.

Results:  The mean within‐patient variance in haemoglobin levels for i.v. administered erythropoietin‐stimulating agents (IV) haemodialysis, s.c. administered erythropoietin‐stimulating agents (SC) haemodialysis, predialysisSC and peritoneal dialysisSC patients receiving epoetin alpha were 9% (95% CI: 13% to 5%, P < 0.0001), 17% (95% CI: 32% to 0.2%, P = 0.047), 19% (95% CI: 27% to 11%, P < 0.0001) and 26% (95% CI: 33% to 18%, P < 0.0001) lower than that for patients receiving darbepoetin alpha. The mean haemoglobin levels for haemodialysisIV, haemodialysissc predialysisSC and peritoneal dialysisSC patients receiving darbepoetin alpha were 11.6 g/dL, 11.2 g/dL, 11.5 g/dL and 11.5 g/dL compared with 11.5 g/dL, 11.6 g/dL, 11.7 g/dL and 11.5 g/dL for patients receiving epoetin alpha.

Conclusion:  There was 9–26% greater within‐patient fluctuation in haemoglobin levels in patients receiving darbepoetin alpha compared with epoetin alpha. The causes of haemoglobin fluctuations and the implications for patient outcomes and resource use require further study.
Role of the basal ganglia in switching a planned response
Authors: Cameron Ian G. M. , Coe Brian C. , Watanabe Masayuki , Stroman Patrick W. , Munoz Douglas P.
Published: June 2009

The ability to perform an appropriate response in the presence of competing alternatives is a critical facet of human behavioral control. This is especially important if a response is prepared for execution but then has to be changed suddenly. A popular hypothesis of basal ganglia (BG) function suggests that its direct and indirect pathways could provide a neural mechanism to rapidly switch from one planned response to an alternative. However, if one response is more dominant or ‘automatic’ than the other, the BG might have a different role depending on switch direction. We built upon the pro‐ and antisaccade tasks, two models of automatic and voluntary behavior, respectively, and investigated whether the BG are important for switching any planned response in general, or if they are more important for switching from a more automatic response to a response that is more difficult to perform. Subjects prepared either a pro‐ or antisaccade but then had to switch it unexpectedly on a subset of trials. The results revealed increased striatal activation for switching from a pro‐ to an antisaccade but this did not occur for switching from an anti‐ to a prosaccade. This activation pattern depended on the relative difficulty in switching, and it was distinct from frontal eye fields, an area shown to be more active for antisaccade trials than for prosaccade trials. This suggests that the BG are important for compensating for differences in response difficulty, facilitating the rapid switching of one response for another.
In‐vitroanalysis of Pitx3 in mesodiencephalic dopaminergic neuron maturation
Authors: Papanikolaou Theodora , Amano Tomokazu , Lennington Jessica , Sink Kelly , Farrar Andrew M. , Salamone John , Yang Xiangzhong , Conover Joanne C.
Published: June 2009

The transcription factor Pitx3 is expressed exclusively by mesodiencephalic dopaminergic neurons; however, ablation of Pitx3 results in selective degeneration of primarily dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra pars compacta, the neuronal population that is most vulnerable in Parkinson’s disease. Although the exact molecular mechanisms of the action of Pitx3 are unclear, roles in both terminal maturation and/or survival of substantia nigra dopaminergic neurons have been suggested. To investigate the connection between Pitx3 and selective neurodegeneration, we generated embryonic stem cells from a Pitx3‐deficient mouse (aphakia) forin‐vitrodifferentiation to dopaminergic neurons. This ‘loss of function’in‐vitrosystem allowed us to examine characteristic features in dopaminergic neuron development and to assess the role that Pitx3 plays in the differentiation/maturation process. We found thataphakiaembryonic stem cells generated 50% fewer tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive/microtubule‐associated protein (Map)2‐positive mature neurons compared with control cultures. The expression of dopamine transport regulators and vesicle release proteins was reduced and dopamine release was unregulated in the Pitx3‐deficient tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive neurons generated. Treatment ofaphakiaembryonic stem cell cultures with retinoic acid resulted in a significant increase in mesodiencephalic tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive neurons, providing further support for the role of Pitx3 in dopaminergic neuron specification through the retinoic acid pathway. Our study, using Pitx3‐deficient embryonic stem cells in anin‐vitrodifferentiation culture system, allowed us to assess the role of Pitx3 in the specification and final maturation of dopaminergic neurons.
Extensive carbon isotopic heterogeneity among methane seep microbiota
Authors: House Christopher H. , Orphan Victoria J. , Turk Kendra A. , Thomas Burt , Pernthaler Annelie , Vrentas Jennifer M. , Joye Samantha B.
Published: June 2009

To assess and study the heterogeneity of δ13C values for seep microorganisms of the Eel River Basin, we studied two principally different sample sets: sediments from push cores and artificial surfaces colonized over a 14 month in situ incubation. In a single sediment core, the δ13C compositions of methane seep‐associated microorganisms were measured and the relative activity of several metabolisms was determined using radiotracers. We observed a large range of archaeal δ13C values (> 50‰) in this microbial community. The δ13C of ANME‐1 rods ranged from −24‰ to −87‰. The δ13C of ANME‐2 sarcina ranged from −18‰ to −75‰. Initial measurements of shell aggregates were as heavy as −19.5‰ with none observed to be lighter than −57‰. Subsequent measurements on shell aggregates trended lighter reaching values as 13C‐depleted as −73‰. The observed isotopic trends found for mixed aggregates were similar to those found for shell aggregates in that the initial measurements were often enriched and the subsequent analyses were more 13C‐depleted (with values as light as −56‰). The isotopic heterogeneity and trends observed within taxonomic groups suggest that ANME‐1 and ANME‐2 sarcina are capable of both methanogenesis and methanotrophy. In situ microbial growth was investigated by incubating a series of slides and silicon (Si) wafers for 14 months in seep sediment. The experiment showed ubiquitous growth of bacterial filaments (mean δ13C = −38 ± 3‰), suggesting that this bacterial morphotype was capable of rapid colonization and growth.
Comparative genomics of marine cyanomyoviruses reveals the widespread occurrence of Synechococcus host genes localized to a hyperplastic region: implications for mechanisms of cyanophage evolution
Authors: Millard Andrew D. , Zwirglmaier Katrin , Downey Mike J. , Mann Nicholas H. , Scanlan Dave J.
Published: June 2009

The vast majority of cyanophages isolated to date are cyanomyoviruses, a group related to bacteriophage T4. Comparative genome analysis of five cyanomyoviruses, including a newly sequenced cyanophage S‐RSM4, revealed a ‘core genome’ of 64 genes, the majority of which are also found in other T4‐like phages. Subsequent comparative genomic hybridization analysis using a pilot microarray showed that a number of ‘host’ genes are widespread in cyanomyovirus isolates. Furthermore, a hyperplastic region was identified between genes g15–g18, within a highly conserved structural gene module, which contained a variable number of inserted genes that lacked conservation in gene order. Several of these inserted genes were host‐like and included ptoX, gnd, zwf and petE encoding plastoquinol terminal oxidase, 6‐phosphogluconate dehydrogenase, glucose 6‐phosphate dehydrogenase and plastocyanin respectively. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that these genes were acquired independently of each other, even though they have become localized within the same genomic region. This hyperplastic region contains no detectable sequence features that might be mechanistically involved with the acquisition of host‐like genes, but does appear to be a site specifically associated with the acquisition process and may represent a novel facet of the evolution of marine cyanomyoviruses.
Obstructive sleep apnoea in patients with type 2 diabetes: aetiology and implications for clinical care
Authors: Idris Iskandar , Hall Andrew P. , O’Reilly John , Barnett Anthony , Allen Martin , Andrews Robert , Grunstein Phillipe , Lewis Keir , Goenka Niru , Wilding John P.
Published: June 2009

Recent attention has been drawn to the close association between obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Debate has included much discussion about cause and effect with mechanisms proposed whereby one condition might cause the other. However, both clearly share a common phenotype, namely, obesity that overlaps considerably with the other components of the metabolic syndrome, hypertension and hyperlipidaemia. It would therefore appear likely that all are manifestations of the same basic pathological processes. Possible interacting aetiological mechanisms are reviewed along with treatment options. A recent report by the International Diabetes Federation has made recommendations to raise awareness of possible OSA in patients with T2DM and also for screening for hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and T2DM in patients with known OSA. The clinical implications are discussed.
Transgenic chloroplasts are efficient sites for high‐yield production of the vaccinia virus envelope protein A27L in plant cells†
Authors: Rigano M. Manuela , Manna Carmela , Giulini Anna , Pedrazzini Emanuela , Capobianchi Maria , Castilletti Concetta , Di Caro Antonino , Ippolito Giuseppe , Beggio Paola , De Giuli Morghen Carlo , Monti Luigi , Vitale Alessandro , Cardi Teodoro
Published: June 2009

Orthopoxviruses (OPVs) have recently received increasing attention because of their potential use in bioterrorism and the occurrence of zoonotic OPV outbreaks, highlighting the need for the development of safe and cost‐effective vaccines against smallpox and related viruses. In this respect, the production of subunit protein‐based vaccines in transgenic plants is an attractive approach. For this purpose, the A27L immunogenic protein of vaccinia virus was expressed in tobacco using stable transformation of the nuclear or plastid genome. The vaccinia virus protein was expressed in the stroma of transplastomic plants in soluble form and accumulated to about 18% of total soluble protein (equivalent to approximately 1.7 mg/g fresh weight). This level of A27L accumulation was 500‐fold higher than that in nuclear transformed plants, and did not decline during leaf development. Transplastomic plants showed a partial reduction in growth and were chlorotic, but reached maturity and set fertile seeds. Analysis by immunofluorescence microscopy indicated altered chlorophyll distribution. Chloroplast‐synthesized A27L formed oligomers, suggesting correct folding and quaternary structure, and was recognized by serum from a patient recently infected by a zoonotic OPV. Taken together, these results demonstrate that chloroplasts are an attractive production vehicle for the expression of OPV subunit vaccines.
Policy Space: What, for What, and Where?
Authors: Mayer Jörg
Published: June 2009

This article examines how developing countries can use, and enlarge, existing policy space, without opting out of international commitments. It argues that: (i) a meaningful context for policy space must extend beyond trade policy and include macroeconomic and exchange‐rate policies that will achieve developmental goals more effectively; (ii) policy space depends not only on international rules but also on the impact of international market conditions and policy decisions taken in other countries on the effectiveness of national policy instruments; and (iii) international integration affects policy space through several factors that pull in opposite directions; whether it increases or reduces policy space differs by country and type of integration.
Leaving Poverty Behind: A Radical Proposal for Developing Bangladesh Through Emigration
Authors: Moses Jonathon W.
Published: June 2009

This article argues that the most efficient way of developing Bangladesh is to encourage more emigration. This argument is made in three steps: (i) proposing that 10% of the population be encouraged to emigrate to member states in the Bangladeshi Aid Consortium; (ii) outlining the anticipated costs; and (iii) describing the anticipated gains, which in the light of any feasible alternative, and when contrasted with the relatively meagre costs, are phenomenal and encouraging. By providing individual Bangladeshis with such an opportunity the hopes of the millions remaining behind are strengthened.
Claiming evidence from non‐evidence: a reply to Morton and Harper
Authors: Bialystok Ellen
Published: June 2009

Morton and Harper (2007

) argue that research presented in support of a bilingual advantage in the development of executive control has been confounded with social class, the actual mechanism for group differences. As evidence, they report a study in which a small group of monolingual and bilingual 6‐ and 7‐year‐olds performed similarly on a Simon task. The present paper points to weaknesses in their experimental design, analysis, and logic that together undermine their criticism of the conclusion that bilingualism is responsible for the reported group differences.