bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hybrid swarm between divergent lineages of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus)
Authors: LATCH EMILY K. , KIEREPKA ELIZABETH M. , HEFFELFINGER JAMES R. , RHODES OLIN E. 
Published: November 2011

AbstractStudies of hybrid zones have revealed an array of evolutionary outcomes, yet the underlying structure is typically characterized as one of three types: a hybrid zone, a hybrid swarm or a hybrid taxon. Our primary objective was to determine which of these three structures best characterizes a zone of hybridization between two divergent lineages of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), mule deer and black‐tailed deer. These lineages are morphologically, ecologically and genetically distinct, yet hybridize readily along a zone of secondary contact between the east and west slopes of the Cascade Mountains (Washington and Oregon, USA). Using microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA, we found clear evidence for extensive hybridization and introgression between lineages, with varying degrees of admixture across the zone of contact. The pattern of hybridization in this region closely resembles a hybrid swarm; based on data from 10 microsatellite loci, we detected hybrids that extend well beyond the F1 generation, did not detect linkage disequilibrium at the centre of the zone and found that genotypes were associated randomly within the zone of contact. Introgression was characterized as bidirectional and symmetric, which is surprising given that the zone of contact occurs along a sharp ecotone and that lineages are characterized by large differences in body size (a key component of mating success). Regardless of the underlying mechanisms promoting hybrid swarm maintenance, it is clear that the persistence of a hybrid swarm presents unique challenges for management in this region.
An activation domain of plasmid R1 TraI protein delineates stages of gene transfer initiation
Authors: Lang Silvia , Kirchberger Paul C. , Gruber Christian J. , Redzej Adam , Raffl Sandra , Zellnig Guenther , Zangger Klaus , Zechner Ellen L. 
Published: November 2011

SummaryBacterial conjugation is a form of type IV secretion that transports protein and DNA to recipient cells. Specific bacteriophage exploit the conjugative pili and cell envelope spanning protein machinery of these systems to invade bacterial cells. Infection by phage R17 requires F‐like pili and coupling protein TraD, which gates the cytoplasmic entrance of the secretion channel. Here we investigate the role of TraD in R17 nucleoprotein uptake and find parallels to secretion mechanisms. The relaxosome of IncFII plasmid R1 is required. A ternary complex of plasmid oriT, TraD and a novel activation domain within the N‐terminal 992 residues of TraI contributes a key mechanism involving relaxase‐associated properties of TraI, protein interaction and the TraD ATPase. Helicase‐associated activities of TraI are dispensable. These findings distinguish for the first time specific protein domains and complexes that process extracellular signals into distinct activation stages in the type IV initiation pathway. The study also provided insights into the evolutionary interplay of phage and the plasmids they exploit. Related plasmid F adapted to R17 independently of TraI. It follows that selection for phage resistance drives not only variation in TraA pilins but diversifies TraD and its binding partners in a plasmid‐specific manner.
Localization and activity of the calcineurin catalytic and regulatory subunit complex at the septum is essential for hyphal elongation and proper septation in Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Juvvadi Praveen Rao , Fortwendel Jarrod R. , Rogg Luise E. , Burns Kimberlie A. , Randell Scott H. , Steinbach William J. 
Published: November 2011

SummaryCalcineurin, a heterodimer composed of the catalytic (CnaA) and regulatory (CnaB) subunits, plays key roles in growth, virulence and stress responses of fungi. To investigate the contribution of CnaA and CnaB to hyphal growth and septation, ΔcnaB and ΔcnaAΔcnaB strains of Aspergillus fumigatus were constructed. CnaA colocalizes to the contractile actin ring early during septation and remains at the centre of the mature septum. While CnaB's septal localization is CnaA‐dependent, CnaA's septal localization is CnaB‐independent, but CnaB is required for CnaA's function at the septum. Catalytic null mutations in CnaA caused stunted growth despite septal localization of the calcineurin complex, indicating the requirement of calcineurin activity at the septum. Compared to the ΔcnaA and ΔcnaB strains, the ΔcnaAΔcnaB strain displayed more defective growth and aberrant septation. While three Ca2+‐binding motifs in CnaB were sufficient for its association with CnaA at the septum, the amino‐terminal arginine‐rich domains (16‐RRRR‐19 and 44‐RLRKR‐48) are dispensable for septal localization, yet required for complete functionality. Mutation of the 51‐KLDK‐54 motif in CnaB causes its mislocalization from the septum to the nucleus, suggesting it is a nuclear export signal sequence. These findings confirm a cooperative role for the calcineurin complex in regulating hyphal growth and septation.
Influence of gastric acid on gastric emptying and gastric distension‐induced pain response in rats – effects of famotidine and mosapride
Authors: Keto Y. , Hirata T. , Takemoto Y. , Yamano M. , Yokoyama T. 
Published: November 2011

AbstractBackground  Gastroduodenal acidification has been reported to aggravate upper abdominal discomfort and pain that are symptoms suffered by functional dyspepsia (FD) patients. Delayed gastric emptying and hypersensitivity to gastric distension (GD) contribute importantly to the pathophysiology of FD.Methods  In the present study, we determined the influence of pentagastrin‐stimulated endogenous gastric acid on gastric emptying and GD‐induced pain responses using rat model systems. Moreover, we evaluated the effects of famotidine and mosapride on changes in gastric emptying and the GD‐induced pain response to gastric acid hypersecretion. Gastric emptying was measured by excretion of glass beads that had been intragastrically administered with a liquid nutrient, and gastric pain response was evaluated by observing whether a GD‐induced increase in mean blood pressure occurred.Key Results  Pentagastrin (2 mg kg−1, s.c.) which markedly and continuously stimulated gastric acid secretion, significantly delayed and enhanced respectively, gastric emptying and pain compared with saline‐injected groups. Oral famotidine (0.1–3 mg kg−1) and mosapride (0.3–3 mg kg−1) administration in a dose‐dependent manner accelerated the delay of gastric emptying. Furthermore, famotidine (0.3–3 mg kg−1) significantly alleviated the aggravation of the GD‐induced pain response, but mosapride (10 mg kg−1) did not.Conclusions & Inferences  We established rat models to evaluate the effect of gastric acid hypersecretion on gastric emptying and the GD‐induced pain response. In these models, acid hypersecretion delayed gastric emptying and aggravated the pain response. Furthermore, we showed that famotidine ameliorated both delayed gastric emptying and gastric hypersensitivity, whereas mosapride only improved delayed gastric emptying.
Multiple dolomitization events along the Pozalagua Fault (Pozalagua Quarry, Basque–Cantabrian Basin, Northern Spain)
Authors: SWENNEN RUDY , DEWIT JULIE , FIERENS ELS , MUCHEZ PHILIPPE , SHAH MUMTAZ , NADER FADI , HUNT DAVID 
Published: November 2011

AbstractThe Pozalagua Quarry in the Basque–Cantabrian Basin of northern Spain exposes a unique set of fault‐associated dolomites that can be studied on a decametre scale. The dolomites developed along the Pozalagua Fault system in slope‐deposited limestones of Albian age. Following marine phreatic diagenesis, the limestones were subject to meteoric karst formation. The resulting cavities were filled either by angular limestone fragments in a black clay‐rich matrix, or by cave floor/pond (now dolomitized) sediments. The subsequent diagenetic history reflects repeated periods of fracturing, fluid expulsion, dissolution and cementation. Contrasting fluid pulses resulted in the formation of a network of hydrothermal karst and the subsequent development of coarse‐crystalline calcite cement, zebra dolomite, recrystallized coarse‐crystalline dolomite, elongated blue–grey coarse‐crystalline dolomite cement in the open fault and, finally, coarse‐crystalline saddle dolomite. Decimetre‐size reworked host‐rock fragments present in the latter two dolomite phases probably reflect roof collapse fragments of a cave system that developed along the Pozalagua Fault system. However, there are also metre‐scale host‐rock fragments that apparently ‘float’ in the coarse‐crystalline saddle dolomites, implying that either fragment assimilation was a widespread process or violent expulsion of fluids occurred along the Pozalagua Fault system. The presence of pre‐dolomite and post‐dolomite stylolites, parallel to bedding, supports a linkage between the diagenetic events and the Late Albian tectonism that affected the region.
Associations between technical quality of diabetes care and patient experience
Authors: Arah Onyebuchi A. , Roset Bastiaan , Delnoij Diana M. J. , Klazinga Niek S. , Stronks Karien 
Published: November 2011

AbstractAims  It has long been held that high‐quality care has both technical and interpersonal aspects. The nature and strength of any association between both aspects remain poorly explored. This study investigated the associations between diabetes patients’ reports of receiving recommended care (as measures of technical quality) and their experience and ratings (as measures of interpersonal care).Methods  Using data from a cross section of 3096 patients with diabetes nested within 24 diabetes‐care‐networks, we conducted multilevel regression analysis of the relationships between nine indicators of receiving care recommended in practice guidelines and: six scales of patient experience and global ratings of general practitioner, nurses, and overall diabetes care.Results  On average, reporting having received recommended care was associated with reporting better patient experience and ratings. The extent and frequencies of these associations varied across the different care processes. Receiving foot examination, physical activity advice, smoking status check, eye examination, and HbA1c testing, but not nutritional advice, urine, cholesterol or blood pressure checks, were statistically associated with better patient experience and global ratings. Those who received HbA1c testing rated their overall care 1.002 points higher (95% confidence interval: 0.726–1.278) on a scale of 0–10 than those who did not.Conclusions  Higher self‐reported technical quality of care in diabetes appears to be frequently but not always associated with better experiences and ratings. It is possible that the former leads to the latter and/or that both share a common cause within providers. Both care aspects do not seem interchangeable during performance assessment.
Acute kidney injury as defined by the RIFLE criteria is a risk factor for kidney transplant graft failure
Authors: Nakamura Motonobu , Seki George , Iwadoh Kazuhiro , Nakajima Ichiro , Fuchinoue Shohei , Fujita Toshiro , Teraoka Satoshi 
Published: November 2011

Nakamura M, Seki G, Iwadoh K, Nakajima I, Fuchinoue S, Fujita T, Teraoka S. Acute kidney injury as defined by the RIFLE criteria is a risk factor for kidney transplant graft failure.Abstract:  Acute kidney injury (AKI) is not recognized as a major complication at the maintenance phase after kidney transplantation (KTx). Moreover, it is not clear whether the onset of AKI leads to graft failure. We examined the incidence of AKI that developed three months or later after KTx at our institute. We examined whether the incidence of AKI defined by the Risk of renal dysfunction, Injury to the kidney, Failure of kidney function, Loss of kidney function and End‐stage kidney disease criteria associates with graft failure by matched‐pair Cox regression analysis. A total of 289 patients were available for the final analysis. The overall incidence of AKI was 20.4%, and the common etiology of AKI was bacterial infectious diseases. The group that developed AKI had significantly lower graft survival than non‐AKI group independently of acute rejection. AKI Risk represented a high risk for graft failure and AKI Injury/Failure represented a higher risk for graft failure. The analysis by the AKIN classification yielded the similar results. These results indicate that AKI is a relatively common complication of KTx and represents the major risk for graft failure. We should make every effort in the prevention and early detection to avoid the occurrence of AKI and the subsequent graft failure after KTx.
Outcomes of liver transplantation for glycogen storage disease: a matched‐control study and a review of literature
Authors: Maheshwari Anurag , Rankin Rebecca , Segev Dorry L. , Thuluvath Paul J. 
Published: November 2011

Maheshwari A, Rankin R, Segev DL, Thuluvath PJ. Outcomes of liver transplantation for glycogen storage disease: a matched‐control study and a review of literature.  Clin Transplant 2011 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2011.01549.x.  © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.Abstract:  Background:  The clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with glycogen storage disease (GSD) who undergo liver transplantation (LT) have not been well defined. In this study, our objective was to determine the outcome of LT in patients with GSD and compare it with a comparable group of patients without GSD (matched controls).Methods:  UNOS data from 1986 to 2007 were used for this study. For each GSD patient (n = 95; men 62%) who was transplanted, three patients (n = 285, men 60%) without GSD (case controls) matched for age ± five yr, year of transplantation and donor risk index (DRI) ± 0.2 were identified from the UNOS database in a random manner. Unadjusted patient survival was determined by Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and significance determined by log‐rank test.Results:  The mean age of the group was 17.9 yr. GSD patients had lower BMI (22 vs. 24, p = 0.002), lower serum bilirubin (2.7 vs. 13.5 mg/dL, p < 0.0001), higher serum albumin (3.7 vs. 3.1 g/dL, p < 0.0001), and higher wait‐list time (239 vs. 74 d, p < 0.0001) compared to case controls. Recipient age and DRI were similar between the groups. Tumors were more common in GSD group (13.7% vs. 5%). Patient survival was significantly better (p = 0.024) in GSD group at one, five, and 10 yr (82%, 76%, and 64%) than non‐GSD (73%, 65%, and 59%) group.Conclusions:  In this matched‐control study, patients who underwent LT for GSD had a better long‐term survival than a comparable group of patients without GSD.
Speciation within genomic networks: a case study based onSteatocranuscichlids of the lower Congo rapids
Authors: SCHWARZER J. , MISOF B. , SCHLIEWEN U. K. 
Published: November 2011

AbstractHybridization in animals is a much more common phenomenon as previously thought and may have profound implications for speciation research. The cichlid genusSteatocranus(Teleostei: Cichlidae), a close relative to members of the East African cichlid radiations, radiated under riverine conditions in the lower Congo rapids and produced a small species flock. Previous phylogenetic analyses suggested that hybridization occurred and contributed to speciation in this genus. A re‐analysis of an already published 2000 loci‐AFLP data set explicitly testing for patterns of ancient gene flow provided strong evidence for a highly reticulate phylogenetic history of the genus. We provide, to our knowledge, the first example of a complex reticulate network in vertebrates, including multiple closely related species connected through ancient as well as recent gene flow. In this context, the limited validity of strictly bifurcating tree hypotheses as a phylogenetic basis for hypothesis testing in evolutionary biology is discussed.
Developmental plasticity, morphological variation and evolvability: a multilevel analysis of morphometric integration in the shape of compound leaves
Authors: KLINGENBERG C. P. , DUTTKE S. , WHELAN S. , KIM M. 
Published: November 2011

AbstractThe structure of compound leaves provides flexibility for morphological change by variation in the shapes, sizes and arrangement of leaflets. Here, we conduct a multilevel analysis of shape variation in compound leaves to explore the developmental plasticity and evolutionary potential that are the basis of diversification in leaf shape. We use the methods of geometric morphometrics to study the shapes of individual leaflets and whole leaves in 20 taxa ofPotentilla(sensu lato). A newly developed test based on the bootstrap approach suggests that uncertainty in the molecular phylogeny precludes firm conclusions whether there is a phylogenetic signal in the data on leaf shape. For variation among taxa, variation within taxa, as well as fluctuating asymmetry, there is evidence of strong morphological integration. The patterns of variation are similar across all three levels, suggesting that integration within taxa may act as a constraint on evolutionary change.
Nephrotoxicity of recreational party drugs
Authors: BERNEY‐MEYER LINDA , PUTT TRACEY , SCHOLLUM JOHN , WALKER ROBERT 
Published: November 2011

ABSTRACT:N‐benzylpiperazine (BZP) is the active ingredient in recreational ‘party’ pills with a stimulant, euphoric mechanism of action akin to that of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA or ecstasy). Many people (ab)use BZP‐based party pills usually without any significant toxic effects. However, nephrotoxicity secondary to hyperthermia and rhabdomyolysis has been reported. Another serious renal‐related side‐effect is hyponatraemia with acute cerebral oedema. There is also evidence that these agents may have a specific toxic effect producing acute kidney injury. Thus, acute kidney injury either direct or secondary to the effects of BZP or MDMA need to be considered when any individual presents with symptoms of a recreational party drug overdose.
Active surveillance criteria for prostate cancer: Can they be applied to Japanese patients?
Authors: Goto Yusuke , Nozumi Kazuyoshi , Miyazaki Kanetaka , Matsumoto Akihiro , Inoue Atsushi , Kito Hiroki , Hasegawa Naoki , Nagata Maki , Kakuta Yukio , Suzuki Hiroyoshi , Yamaguchi Kunio 
Published: November 2011

AbstractProstate‐specific antigen screening has significantly increased the percentage of men who are diagnosed with low‐risk prostate cancer. All men undergoing retropubic radical prostatectomy for primary treatment of prostate cancer from April 2004 to September 2010 in our hospital were examined in order to determine whether active surveillance criteria could be applied to Japanese men. From pathological data of prostate biopsies, whether these men met five published criteria for active surveillance (Johns Hopkins Medical Institution, Prostate Cancer Research International: Active Surveillance Study, University of California, San Francisco, Toronto and Kakehi criteria) was evaluated. Men who met any of the criteria had a statistically significant lower extracapsular extension rate and organ‐confinement rate. From the view of the possibility of Gleason upgrading and organ‐confinement rate, the Johns Hopkins Medical Institution and Prostate Cancer Research International: Active Surveillance Study criteria showed to be appropriate for Japanese patients. However, the present study had limitations of selection bias and a limited number of cases.
Association of 29C>T polymorphism in the transforming growth factor‐β1 gene with lean body mass in community‐dwelling Japanese population
Authors: Fuku Noriyuki , Mori Seijiro , Murakami Haruka , Gando Yuko , Zhou Heying , Ito Hideki , Tanaka Masashi , Miyachi Motohiko 
Published: November 2011

Aim:  Sarcopenia is the significant degenerative loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength associated with aging, and it is one of the components of frailty. We previously reported an association between the 29C>T polymorphism in the transforming growth factor‐β1 gene (rs1800470) and the prevalence of vertebral fractures in subjects with postmenopausal osteoporosis. The association was not attributable to bone mineral density, which suggests that polymorphism influences some aspects of bone quality that affects strength and/or frailty rather than bone strength itself. Thus, we examined the relationship between genetic polymorphism and lean body mass in a Japanese population.Methods:  A total of 479 adults comprising 143 men and 336 women, age 23 to 85 years, participated in the present study. Fat‐free mass was measured by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry, and the relative skeletal muscle index was calculated as the ratio of appendicular (sum of arms and legs) fat‐free mass to the square of height.Results:  Total, leg, and appendicular fat‐free mass as well as the relative skeletal muscle index were significantly lower in male subjects with CT/TT genotypes compared to those with CC genotype. Female subjects did not show any genotype‐dependent differences when analyzed as a group, but when those without menstruation (postmenopausal women) were analyzed, arm fat‐free mass was significantly lower in the CT/TT genotypes than in the CC genotype.Conclusions:  T allele of the 29C>T polymorphism in the transforming growth factor‐β1 gene might be a risk factor of sarcopenia in a Japanese population. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 292–297.
Towards continuous improvement of endoscopy standards: validation of a colonoscopy assessment form
Authors: Boyle E. , Al‐Akash M. , Patchett S. , Traynor O. , McNamara D. 
Published: November 2011

AbstractAim  The assessment of procedural colonoscopy skills is important and topical. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a competency‐based colonoscopy assessment form that would be easy to use, suitable for the assessment of junior and senior endoscopists and potentially a useful instrument to detect differences in performance standards following different training interventions.Method  A standardized assessment form was developed incorporating a checklist with dichotomous yes/no responses and a global assessment section incorporating several different elements. This form was used prospectively to evaluate colonoscopy cases during the period of the study in several university teaching hospitals. Results were analysed using ANOVA with Bonferroni corrections for post hoc analysis.Results  Eighty‐one procedures were assessed, performed by eight consultant and 19 trainee endoscopists. There were no serious errors. When divided into three groups based on previous experience (novice, intermediate and expert) the assessment form demonstrated statistically significant differences between all three groups (P < 0.05). When separate elements were taken into account, the global assessment section was a better discriminator of skill level than the checklist.Conclusion  This form is a valid, easy‐to‐use assessment method. We intend to use it to assess the value of simulator training in trainee endoscopists. It also has the potential to be a useful training tool when feedback is given to the trainee.
DEFENDING DOUBLE EFFECT
Authors: Wedgwood Ralph 
Published: November 2011

AbstractThis essay defends a version of the Doctrine of Double Effect (DDE) – the doctrine that there is normally a stronger reason against an act that has a bad state of affairs as one of its intended effects than against an otherwise similar act that has that bad state of affairs as an unintended effect. First, a precise account of this version of the DDE is given. Secondly, some suggestions are made about why we should believe the DDE, and about why it is true. Finally, a solution is developed to the so‐called ‘closeness problem’ that any version of the DDE must face.