bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary optimization of speed and accuracy of decoding on the ribosome
Authors: Wohlgemuth Ingo , Pohl Corinna , Mittelstaet Joerg , Konevega Andrey L. , Rodnina Marina V.
Published: September 2011

Speed and accuracy of protein synthesis are fundamental parameters for the fitness of living cells, the quality control of translation, and the evolution of ribosomes. The ribosome developed complex mechanisms that allow for a uniform recognition and selection of any cognate aminoacyl-tRNA (aa-tRNA) and discrimination against any near-cognate aa-tRNA, regardless of the nature or position of the mismatch. This review describes the principles of the selection—kinetic partitioning and induced fit—and discusses the relationship between speed and accuracy of decoding, with a focus on bacterial translation. The translational machinery apparently has evolved towards high speed of translation at the cost of fidelity.
The meaning of a minuscule ribozyme
Authors: Yarus Michael
Published: September 2011

The smallest ribozyme that carries out a complex group transfer is the sequence GUGGC-3′, acting to aminoacylate GCCU-3′ (and host a manifold of further reactions) in the presence of substrate PheAMP. Here, I describe the enzymatic rate, the characterization of about 20 aminoacyl-RNA and peptidyl-RNA products and the pathways of these GUGGC/GCCU reactions. Finally, the topic is evolution, and the potential implications of these data for the advent of translation itself.
A vestige of a prebiotic bonding machine is functioning within the contemporary ribosome
Authors: Krupkin Miri , Matzov Donna , Tang Hua , Metz Markus , Kalaora Rinat , Belousoff Matthew J. , Zimmerman Ella , Bashan Anat , Yonath Ada
Published: September 2011

Based on the presumed capability of a prebiotic pocket-like entity to accommodate substrates whose stereochemistry enables the creation of chemical bonds, it is suggested that a universal symmetrical region identified within all contemporary ribosomes originated from an entity that we term the ‘proto-ribosome’. This ‘proto-ribosome’ could have evolved from an earlier machine that was capable of performing essential tasks in the RNA world, called here the ‘pre-proto-ribosome’, which was adapted for producing proteins.
Identification of congenital muscular dystonia 2 associated with an inherited GlyT2 defect in Belgian Blue cattle from the United Kingdom
Authors: Gill J. L. , James V. M. , Carta E. , Harris D. , Topf M. , Scholes S. F. E. , Hateley G. , Harvey R. J.
Published: September 2011

Two newborn Belgian Blue calves from a farm in the United Kingdom exhibited lateral recumbency, low head carriage and transient muscle spasms following tactile or auditory stimulation. DNA sequence analysis indicated that both calves were homozygous for the recessive congenital muscular dystonia type 2 (CMD2) mutation (c.809T>C, p.Leu270Pro) in SLC6A5, encoding the neuronal glycine transporter GlyT2. Further testing of animals from the index farm and a sample of Belgian Blue sires revealed an unexpectedly high frequency of CMD2 carriers. This implies that linked quantitative trait loci may be influencing the prevalence of CMD2 in the estimated 55 000 Belgian Blue cattle in the United Kingdom. We have therefore developed new inexpensive tests for the CMD2 allele that can be used to confirm diagnosis, identify carriers and guide future breeding strategy, thus avoiding animal distress/premature death and minimizing the future economic impact of this disorder.
Selective decay of terrestrial organic carbon during transport from land to sea
Authors: Weyhenmeyer Gesa A. , Fröberg Mats , Karltun Erik , Khalili Maria , Kothawala Dolly , Temnerud Johan , Tranvik Lars J.
Published: September 2011

Numerous studies have estimated carbon exchanges at the land–atmosphere interface, more recently also including estimates at the freshwater–atmosphere interface. Less attention has been paid to lateral carbon fluxes, in particular to the fate of terrestrial carbon during transport from soils via surface waters to the sea. Using extensive datasets on soil, lake and river mouth chemistry of the boreal/hemiboreal region we determined organic carbon (OC) stocks of the O horizon from catchment soils, annual OC transports through more than 700 lakes (OClakeflux) and the total annual OC transport at Sweden's 53 river mouths (OCseaflux). We show here that a minimum of 0.03–0.87% yr−1 of the OC soil stocks need to be exported to lakes in order to sustain the annual OClakeflux. Across Sweden we estimated a total OClakeflux of ~2.9 Mtonne yr−1, which corresponds to ~10% of Sweden's total terrestrial net ecosystem production, and it is over 50% higher than the total OCseaflux. The OC loss during transport to the sea follows a simple exponential decay with an OC half‐life of ~12 years. Water colour, a proxy often used for dissolved humic matter, is similarly lost exponentially but about twice as fast as OC. Thus, we found a selective loss of the coloured portion of soil‐derived OC during its transport through inland waters, prior to being discharged into the sea. The selective loss is water residence time dependent, resulting in that the faster the water flows through the landscape the less OC and colour is lost. We conclude that increases in runoff will result in less efficient losses of OC, and particularly of colour, if the time for OC transformations in the landscape shortens. Consequently, OC reaching the sea is likely to become more coloured, and less processed, which can have far‐reaching effects on biogeochemical cycles.
Identification of immunity‐related genes in the burying beetle Nicrophorus vespilloides by suppression subtractive hybridization
Authors: Vogel H. , Badapanda C. , Vilcinskas A.
Published: September 2011

Burying beetles reproduce on small vertebrate cadavers which they bury in the soil after localization through volatiles emitted from the carcass. They then chemically preserve the carcass and prepare it as a diet for the adults and their offspring. It is predicted that exposure to high loads of soil and/or carrion‐associated microbes necessitates an effective immune system. In the present paper, we report experimental screening for immunity‐related genes in the burying beetle Nicrophorus vespilloides using the suppression subtractive hybridization approach. A total of 1179 putative gene objects were identified in the Nicrophorus cDNA library, which was enriched for transcripts differentially expressed upon challenge with heat‐inactivated bacteria. In addition to genes known to be involved in immunity‐related recognition and signalling, we found transcripts encoding for antimicrobial peptides and for an array of enzymes that can be linked to immunity or to stress‐induced pathways. We also determined proteins that may contribute to detoxification of toxins produced by microbial competitors. In addition, factors involved in mRNA stability determination and central components of the RNA interference machinery were identified, implying transcriptional reprogramming and potential stress‐induced retrotransposon elimination. The identified candidate immune effector and stress‐related genes may provide important information about the unusual ecology and evolution of the burying beetles.
Quality of care in Norwegian nursing homes – typology of family perceptions
Authors: Vinsnes Anne G , Nakrem Sigrid , Harkless Gene E , Seim Arnfinn
Published: September 2011

Aim and objective.  This study aimed to elucidate the understandings and beliefs about quality held by family members of residents of Norwegian nursing homes. The objective reported in the study considers how family member judge factors that enhance or hamper high care quality.

Background.  The percentage of those who will require care in a nursing home some time before the end of their lives will increase dramatically in the next 20 years. Therefore, anticipating this pressure to expand nursing home availability, it is urgent that these services are developed from a keen understanding of what creates the best value. Care quality from the family’s perspective is just one piece of the nursing home experience that must be understood for optimal value in care to be realised.

Design.  Qualitative methodology.

Method.  Three focus group interviews; purposive sampling was used to recruit the 16 family members of residents in nursing homes.

Results.  Three domains emerged that served as anchors for a typology of family perceptions of the quality care continuum: resident contentment, suitability of staff and environmental context. Each domain was developed with categories describing high‐ to low‐quality markers, which were then clarified by enhancing and hindering factors.

Conclusions.  This typology provides a family perspective framework that may be useful to nursing leadership at all levels of the nursing home organisation to identify important quality of care strengths as well as markers of poor care.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Overall, the typology is offered to expand nurses’ understanding of quality, both practically and conceptually, to provide the best value in nursing care.
Biological flora of the British Isles: Orchis anthropophora (L.) All. (Aceras anthropophorum (L.) W.T. Aiton)
Authors: Jacquemyn Hans , Brys Rein , Hutchings Michael J.
Published: September 2011

1. This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Orchis anthropophora (L.) All. (Man Orchid) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The following topics are presented within the framework of the Biological Flora of the British Isles: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characteristics, herbivores and disease, history, and conservation.

2. Orchis anthropophora is a native species in Britain, where it occurs predominantly in chalk and limestone grassland and dune grassland. It can also be found along field margins and in old abandoned chalk pits and limestone quarries, where it is usually found at the foot of slopes. It also grows on road verges and sometimes in quite dense scrub. Orchis anthropophora tolerates some shade, but it flowers most profusely in open conditions. It is a common species in the Mediterranean region.

3. Orchis anthropophora is wintergreen and has leaves throughout the winter. Flowering takes place between mid‐May and mid‐June. Vegetative adult dormancy – the failure of above‐ground parts to appear in a growing season, followed by the reappearance of full‐sized photosynthetic plants in subsequent seasons – has been observed. In most cases, dormancy does not last longer than 1 year. Orchis anthropophora is long‐lived (half‐life of cohorts ranges from 4.0 to 7.8 years).

4. Orchis anthropophora is not autogamous, and pollinators are required for successful pollination and fruit‐set. Flowers are predominantly pollinated by beetles and sawflies. Terpenes are the major compounds of the floral scent profile of O. anthropophora. Natural levels of fruit‐set are generally low. Recorded values are mostly <20% but reached >80% in a population in southern France.

5. Orchis anthropophora hybridizes with several other species in the genus Orchis, including O. italica, O. simia, O. purpurea and O. militaris. Intergeneric hybrids have been reported with Barlia, Dactylorhiza and Neotinea. In Britain, hybrids with O. simia and O. purpurea have been reported.

6. Orchis anthropophora has declined markedly in Britain during the last century, and at present, it is rare and classified as endangered. Very few new populations are becoming established, and many populations have become extinct, mainly because of agricultural intensification (ploughing and fertilization of old fields). Conservation of the remaining populations requires moderate grazing by sheep to maintain a short turf and to promote seedling recruitment.
Lateral cephalometric analysis of mandibular morphology: discrimination among subjects with and without temporomandibular joint disk displacement and osteoarthrosis
Authors: BERTRAM S. , MORIGGL A. , NEUNTEUFEL N. , RUDISCH A. , EMSHOFF R.
Published: September 2011

Summary  To assess whether in patients with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthralgia cephalometric variables of mandibular morphology may discriminate among the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging‐based TMJ groups of ‘bilateral presence of disk displacement without reduction (DDwoR) and osteoarthrosis (OA)’ and ‘bilateral absence of bilateral DDwoR and OA’. Bilateral MR imaging of the TMJ was performed in 45 consecutive TMJ arthralgia patients to identify individuals with the specific structural characteristics of bilateral TMJ DDwoR associated with OA. Linear and angular cephalometric measurements were taken from lateral cephalograms to apply selected criteria of mandibular morphology. A discriminant function analysis was used to investigate how cephalometric parameters discriminate among the TMJ groups of ‘bilateral presence of DDwoR with OA’ and ‘bilateral absence of DDwoR and OA’. Ramus height (Ar‐Go) and effective mandibular length (Ar‐Pog) produced a significant discriminant function that predicted TMJ group membership (P < 0·001). This function correctly classified 80·2% of original and cross‐validated grouped cases. This study supports the concept that cephalometric variables of mandibular morphology discriminate among subjects with and without bilateral TMJ DDwoR and OA.
Neat and clear: 700 species of crane flies (Diptera: Tipulomorpha) link southern South America and Australasia
Authors: RIBEIRO GUILHERME CUNHA , ETEROVIC ANDRÉ
Published: September 2011

A biogeographical analysis of crane flies (Diptera, Tipulomorpha) in the southern hemisphere is used to test if their distribution patterns provide evidence of biogeographical homology (shared history) in the South Pacific. Crane fly distributions are interpreted in light of patterns of endemism and diversity and published phylogenetic studies. A panbiogeographical approach, assuming that repeating distribution patterns strongly suggest the existence of past connections between the areas (biogeographical homology), is used. A clear pattern is revealed in which crane fly taxa shared between southern South America, New Zealand and Australia are restricted to that region. Thirty genera and subgenera, together comprising about 700 species, occur in both South America and Australasia and only in these areas. This distribution defines the limits of the South Pacific Track, a standard biogeographical pattern displayed by many taxa, including the southern beeches (Nothofagus). Although the distribution of some taxa spans the entire track, others are present in parts of the areas only, forming a nested set of distributions. Within the surveyed genera and subgenera, all individual species are endemic to one single region or continent, suggesting vicariance as the main process behind crane fly disjunctions in this part of the world. The nested set of distribution patterns could be explained by extinctions in areas where taxa were present previously. Alternatively, it may indicate historical absences and the existence of a heterogeneous set of ancestral distributional ranges. ‘Gondwanan’ may not be the best term for the observed disjunctions, which should be labelled as trans‐Pacific instead. Recent molecular estimates of divergence times suggest a Permian origin of the earliest extant Diptera lineages such as the Tipulomorpha, followed by fast radiation in the Triassic. Although the differentiation of some crane fly groups occurring in the region may have been driven by recent Mesozoic and Cenozoic events of continental breakup, as least part of the fauna may have evolved allopatrically in response to older events. This may explain the overlapping distribution of subgenera in large genera such asGynoplistia.
The potential of cutting regimes to control problem weeds and enhance species diversity in an arable field margin buffer strip
Authors: TARMI S , HELENIUS J , HYVÖNEN T
Published: September 2011

Tarmi S, Helenius J & Hyvönen T (2011). The potential of cutting regimes to control problem weeds and enhance species diversity in an arable field margin buffer strip. Weed Research51, 641–649.

Buffer zones in arable land could promote biodiversity of agricultural areas. These are most often established with sown seed mixtures of grasses and herb species. We studied the impact of cutting management and the role of the seedbank on plant species diversity of a sown buffer strip. Two main hypotheses H1 were tested in this study: (i) sward cutting and removal have positive effects on plant species diversity in a buffer zone adjacent to a cultivated field and (ii) the buffer zone soil seedbank and adjacent grassland act as a species source for the managed buffer zone. After 5 years of management, the number of species was significantly higher and the litter coverage significantly lower in plots mown yearly with cuttings removed than in mown plots with the cuttings left or an uncut control. The abundance of Elymus repens was not affected by the cutting management. To reduce E. repens probably needs cutting more frequently than once per year. Cutting management did not reduce easily‐soluble phosphorus in soils. For species colonisation, adjacent grassland played a more important role than the soil seedbank. We conclude that, in this study, the reduced litter cover, together with adjacent sources of species, resulted in the gradual increase in species diversity in the species‐poor buffer habitat. This study took place in a single location and similar studies in additional locations would be helpful in assessing the generality of our results. On the evidence of this study, the contract periods of agri‐environmental schemes should be longer than 5 years to ensure cutting does result in positive benefits for the management of biodiversity.
Long‐term efficacy and tolerability of tacrolimus 0.03% ointment in infants:* a two‐year open‐label study
Authors: Mandelin Johanna M. , Rubins Andris , Remitz Anita , Cirule Kristine , Dickinson James , Ho Vincent , Mäkelä Mika J. , Rubins Silvestrs , Reitamo Sakari , Undre Nasrullah
Published: September 2011

Background  Tacrolimus ointment is effective for treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD) in children aged ≥2 years (Br J Dermatol, 2004; 150: 554). Here, efficacy and tolerability of tacrolimus 0.03% ointment were evaluated in 50 infants aged <2 years at start of treatment.

Methods  Infants with AD previously enrolled in a tacrolimus ointment pharmacokinetics trial were eligible for a 24‐month open‐label phase II study. Tacrolimus 0.03% ointment was applied to affected areas until clearance. In cases of exacerbation or clinical worsening, patients restarted treatment.

Results  Mean ± SD Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) score improved, from 11.2 ± 10.5 baseline to 2.6 ± 4.1 at endpoint (24 months); mean affected body surface area decreased from 25.2 ± 21.1% to 5.1 ± 9.0%, with improvement on all items of the Physicians’ Assessment of Individual Signs. The Physicians’ Global Evaluation of Clinical Response showed a result of “cleared”/“excellent” for 63.3% of patients; 85.7% of parents/guardians assessed symptoms as “much better.” Treatment was well tolerated, with common, nonserious respiratory infections and gastroenteritis the most frequently reported adverse events. The most common application‐site events were infections and pruritus. Over 98% of blood samples showed tacrolimus concentrations <1.0 ng/ml; >40% showed concentrations below the lower limit of quantification (0.0250 ng/ml).

Conclusions  Over a period of two years, tacrolimus 0.03% ointment was associated with substantial clinical improvement of AD in infants aged <2 years. Treatment tolerability was similar to that seen in older children.
The relationship between maternal folate status in pregnancy, cord blood folate levels, and allergic outcomes in early childhood
Authors: Dunstan J. A. , West C. , McCarthy S. , Metcalfe J. , Meldrum S. , Oddy W. H. , Tulic M. K. , D’Vaz N. , Prescott S. L.
Published: September 2011

To cite this article: Dunstan JA, West C, McCarthy S, Metcalfe J, Meldrum S, Oddy WH, Tulic MK, D’Vaz N, Prescott SL. The relationship between maternal folate status in pregnancy, cord blood folate levels, and allergic outcomes in early childhood. Allergy 2012; 67: 50–57.

Background:  Dietary changes may epigenetically modify fetal gene expression during critical periods of development to potentially influence disease susceptibility. This study examined whether maternal and/or fetal folate status in pregnancy is associated with infant allergic outcomes.

Methods:  Pregnant women (n = 628) were recruited in the last trimester of pregnancy. Folate status determined by both food frequency questionnaires and folate levels in maternal and cord blood serum was examined in relation to infant allergic outcomes at 1 year of age (n = 484).

Results:  Infants who developed allergic disease (namely eczema) did not show any differences in cord blood or maternal folate levels compared with children without disease. Although maternal folate intake from foods was also not different, folate derived from supplements was higher (P = 0.017) in children with subsequent eczema. Furthermore, infants exposed to >500 μg folic acid/day as a supplement in utero were more likely to develop eczema than those taking <200 μg/day (OR [odds ratio] = 1.85; 95% CI 1.14–3.02; P = 0.013), remaining significant after adjustment for maternal allergy and other confounders. There was a nonlinear relationship between cord blood folate and sensitization, with folate levels <50 nmol/l (OR = 3.02; 95% CI 1.16–7.87; P = 0.024) and >75 nmol/l (OR = 3.59; 95% CI 1.40–9.20; P = 0.008) associated with greater sensitization risk than levels between 50 and 75 nmol/l.

Conclusion:  Fetal levels between 50 and 75 nmol/l appeared optimal for minimizing sensitization. While folate taken as a supplement in higher doses during the third trimester was associated with eczema, there was no effect on other allergic outcomes including sensitization. Further studies are needed to determine the significance of this.
Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria treatment with eculizumab is associated with a positive direct antiglobulin test
Authors: Höchsmann B. , Leichtle R. , von Zabern I. , Kaiser S. , Flegel W. A. , Schrezenmeier H.
Published: September 2011

Background/Objectives  Paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) is characterized by intravascular haemolysis with a negative direct antiglobulin test (DAT). Eculizumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that inhibits complement component C5 and is approved for PNH treatment. Recent publications demonstrated that some patients with PNH develop a positive DAT during eculizumab treatment. These published clinical trials investigated a highly selected patient population. Therefore, it seems important to study this topic in a general PNH patient population with a longer follow‐up.

Materials and Methods  We analysed haemolytic activity, RBC transfusion requirement, effect on DAT and ferritin levels in 41 patients with PNH before and during eculizumab therapy with a median follow‐up of 24 months (range 1–63 months).

Results  During eculizumab therapy, median LDH decreased (1657–258 U/l; P < 0·0001), while median haemoglobin increased (9·2–10·3 g/dl). Eighteen of 32 pts (56%) who previously required regular transfusions became transfusion independent. DAT was positive for C3d in 72·4% of 21 eculizumab‐treated pts with available DAT. Ferritin levels increased (69–348 ng/ml, P < 0·0001). This increase was more pronounced in pts with ongoing transfusion dependency during eculizumab therapy.

Conclusion  Eculizumab therapy for PNH should be added to the list of possible causes for a positive DAT. Intravascular haemolysis was inhibited by eculizumab, but signs of extravascular haemolysis should be monitored. Because renal iron loss was stopped, eculizumab‐treated pts can be prone to iron overload and therefore ferritin concentrations should be monitored closely.
Dose‐dependent effects of dietary zinc oxide on bacterial communities and metabolic profiles in the ileum of weaned pigs
Authors: Pieper R. , Vahjen W. , Neumann K. , Van Kessel A. G. , Zentek J.
Published: September 2011

Pharmacological levels of zinc oxide (ZnO) can improve the health of weaning piglets and influence the intestinal microbiota. This experiment aimed at studying the dose–response effect of five dietary concentrations of ZnO on small intestinal bacteria and metabolite profiles. Fifteen piglets, weaned at 25 ± 1 days of age, were allocated into five groups according to body weight and litter. Diets were formulated to contain 50 (basal diet), 150, 250, 1000 and 2500 mg zinc/kg by adding analytical‐grade (>98% purity) ZnO to the basal diet and fed ad libitum for 14 days after a 7‐day adaptation period on the basal diet. Ileal bacterial community profiles were analysed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis and selected bacterial groups quantified by real‐time PCR. Concentrations of ileal volatile fatty acids (VFA), d‐ and l‐lactate and ammonia were determined. Species richness, Shannon diversity and evenness were significantly higher at high ZnO levels. Quantitative PCR revealed lowest total bacterial counts in the 50 mg/kg group. Increasing ZnO levels led to an increase (p = 0.017) in enterobacteria from log 4.0 cfu/g digesta (50 mg/kg) to log 6.7 cfu/g digesta (2500 mg/kg). Lactic acid bacteria were not influenced (p = 0.687) and clostridial cluster XIVa declined (p = 0.035) at highest ZnO level. Concentration of total, d‐ and l‐lactate and propionate was not affected (p = 0.736, p = 0.290 and p = 0.630), but concentrations of ileal total VFA, acetate and butyrate increased markedly from 50 to 150 mg/kg and decreased with further increasing zinc levels and reached low levels again at 2500 mg/kg (p = 0.048, p = 0.048 and p = 0.097). Ammonia decreased (p < 0.006) with increasing dietary ZnO level. In conclusion, increasing levels of dietary ZnO had strong and dose‐dependent effects on ileal bacterial community composition and activity, suggesting taxonomic variation in metabolic response to ZnO.
Broad spectrum antidermatophytic drug for the control of tinea infection in human beings
Authors: Bhadauria Seema , Kumar Padma
Published: September 2011

During antifungal evaluation of various plant extracts, free and bound flavonoids of Piper betle were found to be most effective as an antidermatophytic against human pathogenic dermatophytes Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Microsporum gypseum and Candida albicans. Dermatophytic fungi cause both superficial and internal mycoses. These mycoses, although normally not lethal, are unpleasant and difficult to cure and cause considerable financial losses. Earlier workers prove that allopathic drugs are still found effective against dermatomycoses, but these drugs could not be accepted as a routine treatment for every case, because they are expensive and require long treatment. It is almost unaffordable by middle and lower class people. In view of such prospects and constraints, our aim was to explore more new compounds of plant origin for controlling dermatophytic infections. Author explored water, methanolic and flavonoid extracts for screening as antidermatophytic agent. Plant extracts that showed good results in vitro were selected for clinical studies. The study may give cheaper treatment for medium and lower class patients suffering with tinea and may provide them much relief. Well‐established paper disc method was used for the screening of different extracts of their antidermatophytic activity. Moreover, it did not exhibit any adverse side effect on mammalian skin. Flavonoids in the form of ointment Pi be I and Pi be II were subjected to topical testing on patients attending out patients department of S.M.S. Hospital, Jaipur, India. Patients were diagnosed as tinea corporis, tinea capitis, tinea manum or tinea pedis. All patients showed positive potassium hydroxide (KOH) results at the beginning of trial. Patients between the ages of 3 months to 58 years were enrolled. At the end of treatment, while 64% of patients cured completely, 24% showed significant improvement and 12% showed little improvement from the disease. Allopathic treatment took 4–8 weeks when compared with only 1–5 weeks taken by Pi be I and Pi be II ointments. The ointment, thus not only showed maximum affectivity but was also found to be a better and cost effective alternative to allopathic drug for tinea infections. The acceptability of alternative medicines, particularly herbal medicines, has now become a critical need of the times.
Subtypes of irritable bowel syndrome on Rome III criteria: A multicenter study
Authors: Yao Xin , Yang Yun Sheng , Cui Li Hong , Zhao Ka Bing , Zhang Zhen Hua , Peng Li Hua , Guo Xu , Sun Gang , Shang Jun , Wang Wei Feng , Feng Jia , Huang Qiyang
Published: September 2011

Background and Aim:  The aim of this study was to explore the distribution and clinical characteristics of four subtypes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) based on Rome III criteria in Chinese.

Methods:  A total of 754 consecutive IBS outpatients from three tertiary hospitals in China were included. Diagnostic criteria were based on Rome II or Rome III.

Results:  Among 754 outpatients, 510 (67.6%) patients met the Rome II criteria, 735 (97.5%) patients met the Rome III criteria and 492 (65.3%) patients met both sets of criteria. Among 735 patients who met the Rome III criteria, 66.3% had IBS with diarrhea (IBS‐D), 14.7% had IBS with constipation (IBS‐C), 4.2% had mixed IBS (IBS‐M) and 14.8% had unsubtyped IBS (IBS‐U). Most of the IBS‐D, IBS‐C and IBS‐M patients based on the Rome III criteria matched the diarrhea‐predominant IBS, constipation‐predominant IBS and alternating IBS based on the Rome II criteria, respectively. Among IBS‐U patients, 57.0%, 33.3% and 9.7% had constipation‐predominant IBS, diarrhea‐predominant IBS and alternating IBS, respectively. For IBS‐M, the frequencies of bowel movements were stable in 48.4% patients and variable in 51.6% patients. Defecation urgency and straining were most frequent in IBS‐M and least frequent in IBS‐U patients than other subtypes. About 77.2% of IBS‐U patients had abnormal stool frequency (< 3 times/week or > 3 times/day).

Conclusion:  The Rome III criteria are more sensitive and practical in diagnosing IBS. IBS‐D is the most frequent subtype, which is followed by IBS‐U, IBS‐C and IBS‐M. IBS‐U is a new subtype, which warrants further studies.
Serum immunoglobulin G4 associated with number and distribution of extrapancreatic lesions in type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis patients
Authors: Kaji Ryohei , Takedatsu Hidetoshi , Okabe Yoshinobu , Ishida Yusuke , Sugiyama Gen , Yonemoto Koji , Mitsuyama Keiichi , Tsuruta Osamu , Sata Michio
Published: September 2011

Background and Aim:  Type 1 autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is characterized by the increase of serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G4 and abundant IgG4 plasma cell infiltration in the pancreas and various extrapancreatic lesions (EPL), which are proposed as IgG4‐related disease. We assessed the correlation between serum IgG4 and the number of EPL, and the association between serum IgG4 and the distribution of EPL in type 1 AIP patients.

Methods:  Serum IgG4 was measured in 35 type 1 AIP patients and 71 non‐AIP patients. The clinical characteristics and distribution of eight EPL were determined in 35 type 1 AIP patients.

Results:  Serum IgG4 in type 1 AIP was significantly higher than in non‐AIP (P < 0.001). A total of 33 patients had EPL among 35 patients with type 1 AIP (94.3%). There was a significant correlation between serum IgG4 and the number of EPL (ρ = 0.75, P < 0.001). Further, to assess the association between serum IgG4 and the distribution of EPL, type 1 AIP patients were divided into two groups: as abdominal localized EPL and systemic EPL. Both serum IgG4 and total numbers of EPL in systemic EPL were remarkably higher than those in abdominal localized EPL. Serum IgG4 cut‐off value was 346 mg/dL to distinguish between abdominal localized EPL and systemic EPL according to the receiver–operator characteristic curve data.

Conclusions:  Our findings indicated that serum IgG4 was useful in both the diagnosis of type 1 AIP and the detection of systemic EPL. Our finding may help the concept and diagnostic criteria of IgG4‐related disease with type 1 AIP.
Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐α agonist, Wy 14 643, improves metabolic indices, steatosis and ballooning in diabetic mice with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Larter Claire Z , Yeh Matthew M , Van Rooyen Derrick M , Brooling John , Ghatora Kamaljit , Farrell Geoffrey C
Published: September 2011

Background and Aims:  Lipid accumulation precedes hepatocellular injury and liver inflammation in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)α regulates hepatic lipid disposal. We studied whether pharmacological stimulation of PPARα reverses NASH associated with metabolic syndrome in high‐fat (HF)‐fed foz/foz obese/diabetic mice.

Methods:  Female foz/foz mice and wildtype (WT) littermates were fed HF diet for 16 weeks to initiate NASH then treated with Wy 14 643 (Wy) for 10 days or 20 days. Liver disease was assessed by histology, serum alanine aminotransferase, genes (real‐time polymerase chain reaction) and proteins (Western blot, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay) of interest and pro‐inflammatory signaling pathways were determined.

Results:  In diabetic foz/foz mice, NASH was associated with elevated serum MCP1 and hepatic activation of nuclear factor (NF)‐κB and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase, but not oxidative or endoplasmic reticulum stress. Wy treatment decreased steatosis and injury, although induction of PPARα‐responsive fatty acid oxidation genes was proportionally less than in WT. The PPARα agonist lowered serum insulin, corrected hyperglycemia, and suppressed the carbohydrate‐dependent lipogenic transcription factor, carbohydrate response element binding protein. Steatosis resolution was associated with suppression of NF‐κB and JNK activation and decreased hepatic macrophages and neutrophils. Despite this, histology inflammation score remained high, associated with serum monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)1 elevation, a pro‐inflammatory chemokine related to higher adipose, not liver MCP1 mRNA expression.

Conclusions:  Pharmacological activation of PPARα improves metabolic milieu, steatosis, ballooning, and combats NF‐κB and JNK activation, neutrophil and F4/80 macrophage recruitment in diabetes‐related NASH. However, persistent liver inflammation with high serum MCP1 due to unsuppressed adipose inflammation may limit PPARα agonists' efficacy as therapy for NASH.
Effects of peripheral lymphocyte subpopulations and the clinical correlation with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Niwa Fumitoshi , Kuriyama Nagato , Nakagawa Masanori , Imanishi Jiro
Published: September 2011

Aim:  To understand the characteristics of peripheral immunity in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), we investigated the natural killer (NK) cell activity and lymphocyte subpopulations including regulatory T (Treg) cells and type 17 helper T (Th17) cells.

Methods:  Peripheral blood was collected from 29 PD patients (mean age 70.4 years) and 30 healthy controls (mean age 68.9 years). NK cell activity was measured by a calcein acetoxymethyl ester release assay using NK‐sensitive K562 cells, peripheral NK cells and lymphocytes subsets were analyzed using flow cytometry techniques.

Results:  Comparison of the two groups demonstrated that the percentage of NK cells increased and that of helper T cells, particularly type 1 (Th1), decreased in patients with PD. There was no evidence of Th1/Th2 or Treg/Th17 cell predominance in PD. Moreover, the increase of NK cells and the decrease of Th1 cells correlated with Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale scores and the heart‐to‐mediastinum ratios based on myocardial 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine uptake, both of which represent disease severity in patients with PD.

Conclusion:  Our investigation indicates that a certain proportion of NK cells and other lymphocytes in the peripheral blood of patients with PD and their association with disease severity may reflect the effect of innate immunity in patients with PD in addition to the effect of dopaminergic‐related agents. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 102–107.
Comparison of cognitive performance in mild cognitive impairment and dementia patients with that in normal children and adults
Authors: Tsantali Eleni , Economidis Dimitris , Rigopoulou Stamatia , Porpodas Constantinos
Published: September 2011

Background:  It is well known that there is rapid cognitive development in childhood and cognitive decline during aging, but the volume of these changes using the same clinical tool is not well documented in the literature. The aim of our study was to investigate and compare the cognitive performance of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia patients with that of children, adolescents and adults, using a worldwide screening tool, the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), and considering the age, educational level and mental status of the participants.

Methods:  Our sample included 1364 Greek participants and consisted of normal children, adolescents, adults and non‐demented, MCI and demented elderly participants.

Results:  The variables of age, education and mental status influenced the participant's performance in the MMSE, but sex did not. The smallest variance of the MMSE score was found in 16–18‐year‐old adolescents, a big variance was found in 7–8‐year‐old children, while the biggest was in 71–90‐year‐olds. Alzheimer's disease (AD) participants performed poorer than the 7–8 years old children, though MCI participants showed similar cognitive performance to that age‐group. The participants with 7–9 years of schooling and those with more than 9 years had no significant difference in their MMSE performance.

Conclusion:  Comparing cognitive performance between subgroups, our results indicated that MCI patients have a similar cognitive performance to that of 7–8‐year‐old children and AD patients' a poorer one than that group. The significant years of cognitive decline in aging are the 56th year, the 66 quinquennium, and the 7th and 8th decades. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 336–344.
Adult neurogenesis in the decapod crustacean brain: a hematopoietic connection?
Authors: Beltz Barbara S. , Zhang Yi , Benton Jeanne L. , Sandeman David C.
Published: September 2011

New neurons are produced and integrated into circuits in the adult brains of many organisms, including crustaceans. In some crustacean species, the first‐generation neuronal precursors reside in a niche exhibiting characteristics analogous to mammalian neurogenic niches. However, unlike mammalian niches where several generations of neuronal precursors co‐exist, the lineage of precursor cells in crayfish is spatially separated allowing the influence of environmental and endogenous regulators on specific generations in the neuronal precursor lineage to be defined. Experiments also demonstrate that the first‐generation neuronal precursors in the crayfish Procambarus clarkii are not self‐renewing. A source external to the neurogenic niche must therefore provide cells that replenish the first‐generation precursor pool, because although these cells divide and produce a continuous efflux of second‐generation cells from the niche, the population of first‐generation niche precursors is not diminished with growth and aging. In vitro studies show that cells extracted from the hemolymph, but not other tissues, are attracted to and incorporated into the neurogenic niche, a phenomenon that appears to involve serotonergic mechanisms. We propose that, in crayfish, the hematopoietic system may be a source of cells that replenish the niche cell pool. These and other studies reviewed here establish decapod crustaceans as model systems in which the processes underlying adult neurogenesis, such as stem cell origins and transformation, can be readily explored. Studies in diverse species where adult neurogenesis occurs will result in a broader understanding of fundamental mechanisms and how evolutionary processes may have shaped the vertebrate/mammalian condition.
Adult neurogenesis in mammals – a theme with many variations
Authors: Bonfanti Luca , Peretto Paolo
Published: September 2011

Investigations of adult neurogenesis in recent years have revealed numerous differences among mammalian species, reflecting the remarkable diversity in brain anatomy and function of mammals. As a mechanism of brain plasticity, adult neurogenesis might also differ due to behavioural specialization or adaptation to specific ecological niches. Because most research has focused on rodents and only limited data are available on other mammalian orders, it is hotly debated whether, in some species, adult neurogenesis also takes place outside of the well‐characterized subventricular zone of the lateral ventricle and subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus. In particular, evidence for the functional integration of new neurons born in ‘non‐neurogenic’ zones is controversial. Considering the promise of adult neurogenesis for regenerative medicine, we posit that differences in the extent, regional occurrence and completion of adult neurogenesis need to be considered from a species‐specific perspective. In this review, we provide examples underscoring that the mechanisms of adult neurogenesis cannot simply be generalized to all mammalian species. Despite numerous similarities, there are distinct differences, notably in neuronal maturation, survival and functional integration in existing synaptic circuits, as well as in the nature and localization of neural precursor cells. We also propose a more appropriate use of terminology to better describe these differences and their relevance for brain plasticity under physiological and pathophysiological conditions. In conclusion, we emphasize the need for further analysis of adult neurogenesis in diverse mammalian species to fully grasp the spectrum of variation of this adaptative mechanism in the adult CNS.
Is there a relationship between adult neurogenesis and neuron generation following injury across evolution?
Authors: Ferretti Patrizia
Published: September 2011

All vertebrates can produce new neurons postnatally in discrete regions of their nervous system, but only some lower vertebrates (fish and amphibians) can significantly repair several neural structures, including brain, spinal cord, retina, olfactory and auditory–vestibular system, to compensate for neural tissue loss and recover significant functionality. Some regenerative ability, however, is found also in reptiles and birds, and even in mammals. The recognition that neurogenesis indeed occurs in the CNS of all adult vertebrates challenges the view that there is a simple relationship between maintenance of neurogenic regions in the adult CNS and regenerative capability. The aim of this review is to revisit this relationship in the light of recent literature focusing on selected examples of neurogenesis and regeneration, and discuss possible frameworks that may help to elucidate the relationship between adult neurogenesis and regeneration. This could provide useful paradigms for harnessing regeneration in the human CNS.
Birds as a model to study adult neurogenesis: bridging evolutionary, comparative and neuroethological approaches
Authors: Barnea Anat , Pravosudov Vladimir
Published: September 2011

During the last few decades, evidence has demonstrated that adult neurogenesis is a well‐preserved feature throughout the animal kingdom. In birds, ongoing neuronal addition occurs rather broadly, to a number of brain regions. This review describes adult avian neurogenesis and neuronal recruitment, discusses factors that regulate these processes, and touches upon the question of their genetic control. Several attributes make birds an extremely advantageous model to study neurogenesis. First, song learning exhibits seasonal variation that is associated with seasonal variation in neuronal turnover in some song control brain nuclei, which seems to be regulated via adult neurogenesis. Second, food‐caching birds naturally use memory‐dependent behavior in learning the locations of thousands of food caches scattered over their home ranges. In comparison with other birds, food‐caching species have relatively enlarged hippocampi with more neurons and intense neurogenesis, which appears to be related to spatial learning. Finally, migratory behavior and naturally occurring social systems in birds also provide opportunities to investigate neurogenesis. This diversity of naturally occurring memory‐based behaviors, combined with the fact that birds can be studied both in the wild and in the laboratory, make them ideal for investigation of neural processes underlying learning. This can be done by using various approaches, from evolutionary and comparative to neuroethological and molecular. Finally, we connect the avian arena to a broader view by providing a brief comparative and evolutionary overview of adult neurogenesis and by discussing the possible functional role of the new neurons. We conclude by indicating future directions and possible medical applications.
Phylogenetic position of the Ohiya rat (Srilankamys ohiensis) based on mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequence analysis
Authors: Buzan Elena V. , Pagès Marie , Michaux Johan , Krystufek Boris
Published: September 2011

Buzan, E. V., Pagès, M., Michaux, J. & Krystufek, B. (2011). Phylogenetic position of the Ohiya rat (Srilankamys ohiensis) based on mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequence analysis. —Zoologica Scripta, 40, 545–553.

We investigated the phylogenetic position the Ohiya rat, endemic to Sri Lanka, Srilankamys (Rodentia, Murinae), within the tribe Rattini based on the combined analysis of three independent genes (a mitochondrial one and two nuclear exons). Three major lineages (the Maxomys, the Dacnomys and the Rattus divisions) were retrieved as monophyletic groups within the tribe Rattini. Srilankamys was not affiliated to any of the representatives of the Dacnomys division as it was supposed based on morphological characters, but clearly appeared as the first genus to diverge among the Rattus division. The Mindanao Shrew Mouse, Crunomys melanius, emerged as a part of the Maxomys division raising questions about the validity of the Crunomys and the Maxomys divisions as currently defined. Molecular date of divergence between Srilankamys and the other representatives of the Rattus division falls within the interval 6.7 ± 0.74 Mya, coinciding with the time of the isolation of Sri Lanka from the Deccan peninsula and the aridification period owing to the climate change at the end of the Miocene epoch. We suggest that the isolation of Sri Lanka from the continent, reinforced by the action of a seasonal monsoon‐dominated climate, would have led to the isolation of some ancestral rodents of the Rattus division, which would have differentiated later into the Ohiya rat by a vicariant process. In a more general point of view, our study supports the previous results obtained on other organisms and evidence that Sri Lanka appears to be characterized by a particular fauna as compared to the Indian mainland. This island would therefore be considered as a specific distinct hotspot of biodiversity.