bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Virulence, immunopathology and transmissibility of selected strains ofMycobacterium tuberculosisin a murine model
Authors: Marquina‐Castillo Brenda , García‐García Lourdes , Ponce‐de‐León Alfredo , Jimenez‐Corona Maria‐Eugenia , Bobadilla‐del Valle Miriam , Cano‐Arellano Bulmaro , Canizales‐Quintero Sergio , Martinez‐Gamboa Areli , Kato‐Maeda Midori , Robertson Brian , Young Douglas , Small Peter , Schoolnik Gary , Sifuentes‐Osornio Jose , Hernandez‐Pando Rogelio 
Published: December 2008

SummaryAfter encounter withMycobacterium tuberculosis, a series of non‐uniform immune responses are triggered that define the course of the infection. EightM. tuberculosisstrains were selected from a prospective population‐based study of pulmonary tuberculosis patients (1995–2003) based on relevant clinical/epidemiological patterns and tested in a well‐characterized BALB/c mouse model of progressive pulmonary tuberculosis. In addition, a new mouse model of transmissibility consisting of prolonged cohousing (up to 60 days) of infected and naïve animals was tested. Four phenotypes were defined based on strain virulence (mouse survival, lung bacillary load and tissue damage), immunology response (cytokine expression determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction) and transmissibility (lung bacillary loads and cutaneous delayed‐type hypersensitivity in naïve animals).We identified four clearly defined strain phenotypes: (1) hypervirulent strain with non‐protective immune response and highly transmissible; (2) virulent strain, associated with high expression of proinflammatory cytokines (tumour necrosis factor and interferon) and very low anti‐inflammatory cytokine expression (interleukins 4 and 10), which induced accelerated death by immunopathology; (3) strain inducing efficient protective immunity with lower virulence, and (4) strain demonstrating strong and early macrophage activation (innate immunity) with delayed participation of acquired immunity (interferon expression). We were able to correlate virulent and transmissible phenotypes in the mouse model and markers of community transmission such as tuberculin reactivity among contacts, rapid progression to disease and cluster status. However, we were not able to find correlation with the other two phenotypes. Our new transmission model supported the hypothesis that among these strains increased virulence was linked to increased transmission.
Testicular microlithiasis and carcinomain situoverview and proposed clinical guideline
Authors: Van Casteren N. J. , Looijenga L. H. J. , Dohle G. R. 
Published: December 2008

SummaryTesticular microlithiasis (TM) has been associated with testicular germ cell tumours (TGCTs) in adolescents and adults and with its precursor carcinomain situ(CIS). A clear definition of TM and the need for further diagnostics and follow‐up is lacking. We reviewed the literature of TM and its association with TGCT/CIS and current follow‐up advises and propose a management approach based on associated risk factors for TGCT. In the literature, a wide variance of TM incidence is reported in different patient populations. A consensus concerning the malignant potential of TM has not been reached. In addition, a clear definition on TM is lacking. Although a correlation between TM and TGCT or CIS is found, precise management and follow‐up schedules are absent. We suggest that all hyperechogenic foci smaller than 3 mm without shadowing should be named TM irrespective of their number. In addition, we suggest a management scheme for physicians encountering TM in daily practice. Our algorithm suggests taking a testicular biopsy in a selected patient population with at least one additional risk factor for TGCT. A long‐term active follow‐up schedule, including ultrasonography and physical examinations, is not indicated in the remaining patients with TM.
Androgen receptor gene polymorphism and the metabolic syndrome in 60–80 years old Norwegian men
Authors: Skjærpe Paal André , Giwercman Yvonne L. , Giwercman Aleksander , Svartberg Johan 
Published: December 2008

SummaryThe metabolic syndrome (MS) includes a clustering of metabolic derangements. Low testosterone levels have been shown to be associated with both components of MS and MS per se. As most androgen‐related effects are mediated thorough the androgen receptor (AR), we wanted to investigate to which degree the AR CAG and GGN repeat polymorphisms might be related to MS. Sixty‐eight men, 60–80 years old, with subnormal total testosterone levels (≤11.0 nmol/L) and 104 men with normal levels (>11.0 nmol/L), participating in a nested case–control study were investigated in this study. Body weight, height, waist circumferences and blood pressure were measured. Fasting blood samples were drawn and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed. The CAG and GGN polymorphisms in the AR gene were determined by direct sequencing of leucocyte DNA. Men with MS had lower CAG repeat number than healthy men (p = 0.007). There were, however, no difference in CAG or GGN repeats length between the groups with subnormal or normal testosterone concentrations. In cross‐sectional analyses, men with CAG repeat lengths ≤ 21 had significantly higher fasting glucose, C‐peptide and glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels (all p < 0.05). In multiple regression analyses, CAG repeat length was an inverse and independent predictor of glucose after an OGTT and of HbA1c levels. We also found that men with more than one component of MS had shorter CAG repeat number (p for trend 0.013) than those with only one component. In conclusion, there were no associations with GGN repeat length, while short CAG repeat length seems to be associated with increased risk of MS.
Partial inhibition of cholesterol oxides formation in frozen fish pre‐treated with a plant extract
Authors: Lebovics Vera , Lugasi Andrea , Hóvari Judit , Aubourg Santiago P. 
Published: December 2008

SummaryThe formation of cholesterol oxide products (COPs) in frozen horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) fillets was studied. The effect of pre‐treating the fish by soaking (45 min) in either of two concentrations of the aqueous solution of an antioxidant plant extract prior to the freezing step was determined. The fish fillets were sampled immediately after freezing and at intervals along 12 months of frozen storage (−20 °C). Two control groups consisting of untreated and water‐treated fish were stored and sampled under the same conditions. During the experiment, qualitative analysis revealed the formation of the following COPs: 7α‐hydroxy‐cholesterol, 7β‐hydroxy‐cholesterol and 7‐keto‐cholesterol. All treatment groups showed an increase (P < 0.05) in the content of all three COPs with storage time. As a result of pre‐freezing antioxidant treatment, COPs formation was reduced (P < 0.05) in comparison with both control samples. This partial inhibition was consistent with a longer shelf‐life time as revealed by sensory analysis.
Climatic change as an engine for speciation in flightless Orthoptera species inhabiting African mountains
Authors: VOJE KJETIL LYSNE , HEMP CLAUDIA , FLAGSTAD ØYSTEIN , SÆTRE GLENN‐PETER , STENSETH NILS CHR. 
Published: December 2008

AbstractMany East African mountains are characterized by an exceptionally high biodiversity. Here we assess the hypothesis that climatic fluctuations during the Plio‐Pleistocene led to ecological fragmentation with subsequent genetic isolation and speciation in forest habitats in East Africa. Hypotheses on speciation in savannah lineages are also investigated. To do this, mitochondrial DNA sequences from a group of bush crickets consisting of both forest and savannah inhabiting taxa were analysed in relation to Plio‐Pleistocene range fragmentations indicated by palaeoclimatic studies. Coalescent modelling and mismatch distributions were used to distinguish between alternative biogeographical scenarios. The results indicate two radiations: the earliest one overlaps in time with the global spread of C4 grasslands and only grassland inhabiting lineages originated in this radiation. Climatically induced retraction of forest to higher altitudes about 0.8 million years ago, promoting vicariant speciation in species inhabiting the montane zone, can explain the second radiation. Although much of the biodiversity in East Africa is presently threatened by climate change, past climatic fluctuations appear to have contributed to the species richness observed in the East African hot spots. Perceiving forests as centres of speciation reinforces the importance of conserving the remaining forest patches in the region.
Independent colonization and extensive cryptic speciation of freshwater amphipods in the isolated groundwater springs of Australia's Great Artesian Basin
Authors: MURPHY NICHOLAS P. , ADAMS MARK , AUSTIN ANDREW D. 
Published: December 2008

AbstractThe groundwater‐dependent springs of the Great Artesian Basin (GAB) in arid inland Australia represent a unique and threatened ecosystem. These incredibly isolated springs support a diverse array of endemic flora and fauna. One of the common faunal groups in the GAB springs is the freshwater amphipods of the family Chiltoniidae. The morphological conservatism and taxonomic uncertainty associated with these amphipods has ensured their true biodiversity, phylogeographical history and evolutionary affinities have remained unknown. We have used mitochondrial DNA and allozyme data to unravel a complicated history of isolation, extinction and dispersal among spring amphipod populations across the GAB. The results provide evidence for multiple independent colonizations in the GAB springs, particularly within the Lake Eyre group of springs. The inclusion of a group of Western Australian (WA) stygobitic amphipods from populations up to 1500 km away found surprising evidence for a shared evolutionary history between stygobitic and GAB spring amphipods. Approximate dating of the diversity found between major clades suggests the majority of lineages originated in the late Miocene, around the time of the aridification of inland Australia. The large number of independent lineages and the close connection between GAB spring and WA stygobitic amphipods suggest that a significantly rich amphipod fauna existed in the much wetter environment that once existed in inland Australia. The results also provide evidence for a gross underestimation of the species diversity within the springs, with 12 putative species identified, a conclusion with significant implications for the ongoing conservation of the GAB springs.
Two different stator systems drive a single polar flagellum in Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1
Authors: Paulick Anja , Koerdt Andrea , Lassak Jürgen , Huntley Stuart , Wilms Ina , Narberhaus Franz , Thormann Kai M. 
Published: December 2008

SummaryThe Gram‐negative metal ion‐reducing bacterium Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 is motile by means of a single polar flagellum. We identified two potential stator systems, PomAB and MotAB, each individually sufficient as a force generator to drive flagellar rotation. Physiological studies indicate that PomAB is sodium‐dependent while MotAB is powered by the proton motive force. Flagellar function mainly depends on the PomAB stator; however, the presence of both stator systems under low‐sodium conditions results in a faster swimming phenotype. Based on stator homology analysis we speculate that MotAB has been acquired by lateral gene transfer as a consequence of adaptation to a low‐sodium environment. Expression analysis at the single cell level showed that both stator systems are expressed simultaneously. An active PomB–mCherry fusion protein effectively localized to the flagellated cell pole in 70–80% of the population independent of sodium concentrations. In contrast, polar localization of MotB–mCherry increased with decreasing sodium concentrations. In the absence of the Pom stator, MotB–mCherry localized to the flagellated cell pole independently of the sodium concentration but was rapidly displaced upon expression of PomAB. We propose that selection of the stator occurs at the level of protein localization in response to sodium concentrations.
Three‐dimensional architecture of submarine slide surfaces and associated soft‐sediment deformation in the Lutetian Sobrarbe deltaic complex (Ainsa, Spanish Pyrenees)
Authors: CALLOT PIERRE , ODONNE FRANCIS , DEBROAS ELIE‐JEAN , MAILLARD AGNÈS , DHONT DAMIEN , BASILE CHRISTOPHE , HOAREAU GUILHEM 
Published: December 2008

AbstractFive successive fossil submarine slides have been mapped and described in the Sobrarbe deltaic complex (Ainsa Basin, Spanish Pyrenees). These slides affect and remove up to 15% of the delta front. The head of the scar surfaces is recognized clearly in the field due to the angular unconformity between the infilling sediments and the underlying layers. Most of the slide scarps trend 55°N with 20° to 40° dips indicating north‐westward sliding. Downslope, traces of the sliding surfaces parallel stratification. However, these surfaces can be identified by displaced masses, resedimented sandstones and soft‐sediment deformation features such as metre‐scale half‐grabens, normal faults and tension cracks; all the surfaces indicate a sliding displacement toward the north‐west. A three‐dimensional model built from topographic data with Earth Vision® software shows the architecture of the slide surfaces and provides an estimation of the volume of each sedimentary body within the limit of the studied area. This study also indicates that: (i) the sediments have been cut and carried away before their lithification; (ii) the sedimentation rate infilling a single slump scar is estimated to be about 8 m per 1000 years, i.e. 10 times higher than in the overall area of the Sobrarbe deltaic complex; (iii) each composite scar progressively develops and infills by retrogressive slumps; (iv) the successive slide surfaces stack vertically in a collapse complex structure and migrate downward to follow the sea‐level drop between two successive collapse complex structures; (v) the development of the scars in the Sobrarbe delta is described from a seven‐stage conceptual model starting with a regressive event; and (vi) the triggering of the Sobrarbe instabilities is controlled by high values of sedimentation rate, relative sea‐level falls mainly controlled by tectonic uplift, and likely seismic activity.
Negativization rates of IgE radioimmunoassay and basophil activation test in immediate reactions to penicillins
Authors: Fernández T. D. , Torres M. J. , Blanca‐López N. , Rodríguez‐Bada J. L. , Gomez E. , Canto G. , Mayorga C. , Blanca M. 
Published: December 2008

Background:  Skin test sensitivity in patients with immediate allergy to penicillins tends to decrease over time, but no information is available concerning in vitro tests. We analysed the negativization rates of two in vitro methods that determine specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, the basophil activation test using flow cytometry (BAT) and the radioallergosorbent test (RAST), in immediate allergic reactions to penicillins.Methods:  Forty‐one patients with immediate allergic reactions to amoxicillin were followed up over a 4‐year period. BAT and RAST were performed at 6‐month intervals. Patients were randomized into groups: Group I, skin tests carried out at regular intervals; Group II, skin tests made only at the beginning of the study.Results:  Differences were observed between RAST and BAT (P < 0.01), the latter showing earlier negativization. Considering different haptens, significant differences for the rate of negativization were only found for amoxicillin (P < 0.05). Comparisons between Groups I (n = 10) and II (n = 31) showed a tendency to become negative later in Group I with RAST.Conclusions:  Levels of specific IgE antibodies tended to decrease over time in patients with immediate allergic reactions to amoxicillin. Conversion to negative took longer for the RAST assay, although the differences were only detected with the amoxicillin hapten. Skin testing influenced the rate of negativization of the RAST assay, contributing to maintenance of in vitro sensitivity. Because of the loss of sensitivity over time, the determination of specific IgE antibodies to penicillins in patients with immediate allergic reactions must be done as soon as possible after the reaction.
Dual sensitization to rat and mouse urinary allergens reflects cross‐reactive molecules rather than atopy
Authors: Jeal H. , Harris J. , Draper A. , Newman Taylor A. , Cullinan P. , Jones M. 
Published: December 2008

Background:  Sensitization to rats and mice can develop in laboratory animal workers exposed to only one species. Reasons for this dual sensitization are unclear but may reflect a genetic predisposition to developing allergy (atopy) or alternatively cross‐reactivity between rat and mouse urinary allergens. We examined cross‐reactivity between rat and mouse urine and the effect atopy has on dual sensitization in laboratory animal workers.Methods:  In a cross‐sectional study the frequency of sensitization to rat and/or mouse was analysed in 498 employees exposed to both rat and mouse at work and 220 to rat only. RAST inhibitions, western blots and blot inhibitions were carried out on a subset of five individuals to assess cross‐reactivity.Results:  Fourteen per cent of workers were sensitized to rats and 9% to mouse. Over half (62%) of rat sensitized individuals were also mouse sensitized and the majority (91%) of mouse sensitized individuals were also rat sensitized. IgE cross‐reactivity was demonstrated between rat and mouse urine using RAST inhibitions. Rates of atopy did not differ between rat only sensitized individuals compared with those sensitized to both species. Sensitization to cats and rabbits was more common amongst those with dual sensitization.Conclusions:  Dual sensitization to rat and mouse reflects IgE cross‐reactivity rather than atopy. Individuals with dual sensitization are more likely to be sensitized to other animal allergens. These findings will have implications for individuals working with only one rodent species who develop sensitization and symptoms to be aware of the potential for allergy to other species.
Production and characterization of an amphiploid between common wheat and Psathyrostachys huashanica Keng ex Kuo
Authors: Kang H. Y. , Wang Y. , Sun G. L. , Zhang H. Q. , Fan X. , Zhou Y. H. 
Published: December 2008

AbstractWide crosses and synthetic amphiploids have played an important role in introgressing desirable traits from related species into cultivated wheat. Hybrids between Triticum aestivum cv. ‘J‐11’ and Psathyrostachys huashanica were treated with colchicine, to produce a new intergeneric amphiploid (PHW‐SA). The morphological characteristics of PHW‐SA resembled the parent ‘J‐11’. PHW‐SA plants have purple internodes and pubescence in the basal spikelet, inherited from the P. huashanica parent. Somatic chromosome numbers varied from 2n = 51 to 2n = 56, with 70.59% of plants having 56 chromosomes. At metaphase I, PHW‐SA (2n = 56) plants showed an average of 1.15 univalents, 27.34 bivalents, 0.03 trivalents and 0.02 tetravalents per cell; complete chromosome pairing occurred in 50% of the pollen mother cells. A survey of disease resistances revealed that the stripe rust resistance from P. huashanica was expressed, but powdery mildew resistance was suppressed. The fertility of PHW‐SA was 60%.
Morphology of Reproductive Organs, Semen Quality and Sexual Behaviour of the Male Rabbit Exposed to a Soy‐containing Diet and Soy‐derived Isoflavones during Gestation and Lactation
Authors: Cardoso JR , Báo SN 
Published: December 2008

ContentsPlacental and breastfeeding transfer of soy isoflavones are potential routes for animal and human exposure to phytoestrogens, and reproductive dysfunctions have been linked to early exposure to these compounds. So, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of perinatal (intrauterine and lactational) exposure to soy‐containing diet and soy‐derived isoflavones on the reproductive parameters of male rabbits. For this purpose, 12 female rabbits were randomly assigned to receive: (1) a soy‐ and alfalfa‐free diet (control diet); (2) a soy‐ and alfalfa‐free diet supplemented with 10 mg/kg body wt/day of soy isoflavones; (3) a soy‐ and alfalfa‐free diet supplemented with 20 mg/kg body wt/day of soy isoflavones; and (4) a diet containing 18% of soy meal, throughout gestation and lactation. Weight and morphology of the reproductive organs of some of the male offspring were evaluated at weaning (between days 29 and 31). The remaining males were placed on the control diet from weaning to adulthood (gestational and lactational exposure only). Sexual behaviour, semen quality and reproductive organs’ morphology were evaluated after puberty. There were no significant differences in litter size and gestation duration between control and treatment groups. Perinatal exposure to soy‐containing diet and soy isoflavones did not alter testis, epididymides, proprostate and prostate weight and gross morphology. After puberty, sexual behaviour and semen parameters did not differ significantly from the control group. These results indicate that intrauterine and lactational exposure to soy‐containing diet and soy‐derived isoflavones may not adversely affect reproductive development and function of male rabbits.
Effects of Gonadotropins on In Vitro Maturation and of Electrical Stimulation on Parthenogenesis of Canine Oocytes
Authors: Kim BS , Lee SR , Hyun BH , Shin MJ , Yoo DH , Lee S , Park YS , Ha JH , Ryoo ZY 
Published: December 2008

ContentsThe objective of this study was to determine the effects of gonadotropins on in vitro maturation (IVM) and electrical stimulation on the parthenogenesis of canine oocytes. In experiment I, cumulus oocyte complexes were collected from ovaries at a random phase of the oestrus cycle and cultured on maturation medium treated with hCG or eCG for 48 or 72 h. There were no significant differences in the effects on the metaphase II (MII) rate between the hCG and eCG treatment groups over 48 h (5.4% vs 5.5%). The MII rate in the co‐treatment group of hCG and eCG for 48 h was higher than in each hormone treated group (15.5%, p < 0.05). In experiment 2, the parthenogenetic effect on oocyte development, at various electrical field strengths (1.0, 1.5, 2.0 kV/cm DC) for 60 or 80 μs with a single DC pulse after IVM on the co‐treatment of hCG and eCG, was examined. The rate of pronuclear formation (37.1%) in electrical activation at 1.5 kV/60 μs without cytochalasin B (CB) was higher than that of oocytes activated in the other groups (p < 0.05). However, we did not observe the cleavage stages. Also, CB did not influence parthenogenesis of canine oocytes. The results showed that the pronucleus formation rate, indicative of the parthenogenesis start point, could be increased by electrical stimulation. Therefore, these results can provide important data for the parthenogenesis of canine oocytes and suggest the probability of parthenogenesis in canines.