bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
ORFcurator: molecular curation of genes and gene clusters in prokaryotic organisms
Authors: Rosenfeld Jeffrey A. , Sarkar Indra N. , Planet Paul J. , Figurski David H. , DeSalle Rob 
Published: July 2004

Abstract
Summary: The ability to detect clusters of functionally related genes in multiple microbial genomes has enormous potential for enhancing studies on gene function and microbial evolution. The staggering amount of new genome sequence data presents a largely untapped resource for gene cluster discovery. To date, gene cluster analysis has not been fully automated, and one must rely on manual, tedious and time-consuming manipulation of sequences. To facilitate accurate and rapid identification of conserved gene clusters, we developed a database-driven web application, called ORFcurator. We used ORFcurator to find clusters containing any genes similar to those of the 14-gene Widespread Colonization Island of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans. From 126 genomes, ORFcurator identified all 73 clusters previously determined by manual searching.
Availability: ORFcurator and all associated scripts are freely available as supplementary information.
Supplementary information: http://www.genomecurator.org/ORFcurator/
GeneNetwork: an interactive tool for reconstruction of genetic networks using microarray data
Authors: Wu Chia-Chin , Huang Hsuan-Cheng , Juan Hsueh-Fen , Chen Shui-Tein 
Published: July 2004

Abstract
Summary: Inferring genetic network architecture from time series data generated from high-throughput experimental technologies, such as cDNA microarray, can help us to understand the system behavior of living organisms. We have developed an interactive tool, GeneNetwork, which provides four reverse engineering models and three data interpolation approaches to infer relationships between genes. GeneNetwork enables a user to readily reconstruct genetic networks based on microarray data without having intimate knowledge of the mathematical models. A simple graphical user interface enables rapid, intuitive mapping and analysis of the reconstructed network allowing biologists to explore gene relationships at the system level.
Availability: Download from http://genenetwork.sbl.bc.sinica.edu.tw/
Supplementary information: Supplement documentation of algorithms for the four approaches is downloadable at the above location.
Factors influencing the effectiveness of an attracticide formulation against the Oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta
Authors: Evenden Maya L. , McLaughlin John R. 
Published: July 2004

AbstractAn attracticide formulation, LastCall™OFM, was tested against the Oriental fruit moth Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in replicated small plot field trials in apple, Malus domestica (Borkhausen), orchards in South‐eastern Pennsylvania, USA. Attracticide treatments were applied using a calibrated hand pump, and treated plots were compared to similar untreated plots. Male moth activity was monitored using virgin female‐baited traps, and the potential for reduction in mating activity was assessed using sentinel virgin females. A comparison of application rates showed that 1500 droplets per ha of the attracticide formulation was as effective as 3000 droplets per ha, and both application rates reduced captures in synthetic pheromone‐baited traps for prolonged periods. Droplets placed either at high or low positions within the canopy significantly reduced trap capture and mating with sentinel females. In addition, the only sentinel females that mated in the treated plots were located in the untreated portion of the tree canopy. Mate finding behaviour was equally disrupted by formulations with and without insecticide. Therefore, under the test conditions, the mechanism by which the attracticide formulation worked was by disruption of male orientation, and not by the removal of males due to insecticide poisoning. Two field cage experiments tested the impact of population density on the competitiveness of the attracticide formulation compared to virgin females. A significant proportion of males were captured in female‐baited traps at the highest female‐to‐droplet ratio tested. Equal proportions of males were captured in attracticide‐baited traps at male moth densities of 10, 20, 40, and 80 males per cage. These results clarify some of the factors influencing the effectiveness and possible mechanisms of an attracticide management tactic against the Oriental fruit moth.
The effects of food and space on the occurrence of cannibalism and predation among larvae ofAnopheles gambiaes.l.
Authors: Koenraadt C.J.M. , Majambere S. , Hemerik L. , Takken W. 
Published: July 2004

AbstractCompetitive interactions among the aquatic stages of the malaria mosquitoAnopheles gambiaes.l. (Diptera: Culicidae) may affect the resulting adult densities and, hence, the risk of malaria. We investigated the impact of the presence of a fourth‐instar larva (An. gambiaeGiles s.s. orAn. arabiensisPatton), the quantity of food, and the available space on the survival and development of freshly hatched larvae ofAn. gambiaes.s. andAn. arabiensis. To analyse the results, two proportional hazard models were constructed. The first estimated the effects of all covariates on mortality rate and the second estimated the effects of the covariates on development rate into the third larval instar (L3). A time‐dependent covariate for density, which changed during the experiment as a result of death or development to L3, was included in both models. In the presence of a fourth‐instar larva (L4), survival of the experimental larvae was significantly reduced, but no difference was detected between the presence of L4An. gambiaeand L4An. arabiensis. The observation that the majority of dead larvae were not recovered in trays with an L4 present suggested that cannibalism and predation occurred readily. Limitation in space significantly increased mortality of larvae, whereas a limitation of food reduced larval development rate, but did not cause mortality per se. From this, we concluded that both cannibalism and predation were enhanced as a result of more frequent interactions within smaller environments, but did not occur for reasons of food shortage. This study shows that inter‐ and intraspecific interactions among larvae of theAn. gambiaecomplex strongly affect survival and development, and that the quantity of food and the available space are important determinants of the outcome of these interactions. Implications of the results are discussed with respect to the population dynamics of both malaria vectors in the field.
Infochemical‐mediated preference behavior of the parasitoid Microctonus hyperodae when searching for its adult weevil hosts
Authors: Cournoyer Michel , Boivin Guy 
Published: July 2004

AbstractInfochemicals are the most important cues used by parasitoids for host location. The attractiveness of infochemicals in a tritrophic context is expected to be determined by the degree of specialization of the parasitoid and its host(s). Microctonus hyperodae Loan (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is an oligophagous parasitoid that attacks adult Curculionidae of the Brachycerinae subfamily, especially Listronotus bonariensis Kuschel, on Gramineae. In 1996, a new host–parasitoid association between the carrot weevil Listronotus oregonensis LeConte and M. hyperodae was created in the laboratory. In this study, the infochemicals used by M. hyperodae when searching for its adult weevil hosts were determined using a Y‐shaped olfactometer. Three curculionid species (L. oregonensis, Listronotus sparsus Say, and Neydus flavicaudis Boheman) and one bruchid species [Callosobruchus maculatus (Fabricius)], and their feces, were tested. It was expected that hosts phylogenetically and ecologically close to L. bonariensis would be more attractive than species less related but in fact, M. hyperodae responded only to L. oregonensis and its feces. When feces and host insects were tested separately, M. hyperodae responded to the odors emitted by L. oregonensis adults but not to their feces, suggesting that most of the kairomones came from the host itself. Host plants were also tested, but M. hyperodae responded neither to Lolium multiflorum Lamark (Gramineae) nor to Daucus carota L. (Umbelliferae) leaves.
Induced biotic responses to herbivory and associated cues in the Amazonian ant‐plant Maieta poeppigii
Authors: Christianini Alexander V. , Machado Glauco 
Published: July 2004

AbstractAnts inhabiting ant‐plants can respond to cues of herbivory, such as the presence of herbivores, leaf damage, and plant sap, but experimental attempts to quantify the dynamic nature of biotic defenses have been restricted to a few associations between plants and ants. We studied the relationship between certain features of the ant‐shrub Maieta poeppigii Cogn. (Melastomataceae) and the presence or absence of ant patrolling on the leaf surface in plants occupied by the ant Pheidole minutula Mayr (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). We also carried out field experiments to examine ant behavior following plant damage, and the potential cues that induce ant recruitment. These experiments included clipping of the leaf apex, as well as the presentation of a potential herbivore (live termite worker) and a foliar extract from Maieta on treatment leaves. The presence of ants patrolling the leaves of M. poeppigii is influenced by the number of domatia on the plant. Ant patrolling on the leaves of M. poeppigii was constant throughout a 24 h cycle, but the mean number of patrolling ants decreased from young to mature leaves, and from leaves with domatia to those without domatia. There was an overall increase in the number of ants on experimental leaves following all treatments, compared to control leaves. Visual and chemical cues associated with herbivory are involved in the induction of ant recruitment in the Maieta–Pheidole system. The continuous patrolling behavior of ants, associated with their ability to respond rapidly to foliar damage, may result in the detection and repellence/capture of most insect herbivores before they can inflict significant damage to the leaves.
Adaptive change and conservatism in host specificity in two local populations of the thistle‐feeding ladybird beetle Epilachna niponica
Authors: Koji Shinsaku , Nakamura Koji , Yamashita Mio 
Published: July 2004

AbstractWe investigated geographic differences in the host specificity of Epilachna niponica Lewis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). The Yuwaku population feeds mainly on Cirsium matsumurae Nakai (Asteraceae) and secondarily on Cirsrium kagamontanum Nakai. The Asiu population, located 150 km away from the Yuwaku, feeds exclusively on C. ashiuense Yokoyama et T. Shimizu. Under laboratory conditions, we examined the differences between the two populations in adult feeding acceptance, adult feeding preference, and larval performance, using several closely related thistle species and varieties, including their native hosts. In the Asiu population, adult beetles clearly avoided the host of the Yuwaku population, C. kagamontanum, and no larvae were able to complete their development, whereas in the Yuwaku population, adults accepted and even preferred it to some other thistle species, and about 10% of first instar larvae became adults. This indicates that the Yuwaku population evolved its feeding preference and physiological adaptation to C. kagamontanum through a utilization of this low‐ranked host under natural conditions. Apart from C. kagamontanum, the two populations showed a similar host susceptibility pattern, indicating that this ladybird beetle has a conserved hierarchy in feeding preference and growth performance. We also observed adult leaf choice behavior when given different thistle species, and found that difference in biting rate after palpation determined the leaf areas consumed, implying that factors on the leaf surface played an important role in the choice.
Environmental factors affecting dispersal, germination and distribution of Stipa capensis in the Negev Desert, Israel
Authors: BOEKEN Bertrand , ARIZA Clara , GUTTERMAN Yitzchak , ZAADY Eli 
Published: July 2004

The effects of postmaturation ambient temperatures, light, as well as chemical and structural properties of the substrate on germination and patch distribution of Stipa capensis in a shrubland landscape were studied. This species is a dominant annual grass in exposed intershrub areas covered with biological loess soil crusts in the northern Negev Desert.Freshly matured caryopses do not germinate. After 7–8 months of dry storage at high temperatures, there was a significant reduction in primary dormancy and an increase in the rate and percentage of germination of caryopses stored at high temperatures. The speed and percentages of germination were lower on various sterile substrates, such as organic matter and loose loess soil, in comparison with similar live substrates or the control on filter paper.In 3 of 4 years of field observations in semi‐arid shrubland, the density of Stipa capensis plants on soil crust in the exposed intershrub areas was significantly higher than below shrubs. The positive effects of higher temperatures on the dry soil during summer, before the season with rains, and of light during germination, can favor germination in exposed patches.Although germination responses to storage temperature and light regime differentiate between patch types before and during germination, other processes may be critical for the pattern of distribution of Stipa capensis. These include dispersal of caryopses, arrival, soil penetration and density of local seed banks, as well as substrate properties affecting germination and plant density, in different landscape patches.
Trimethoprim−sulphamethoxazole therapy in Nocardia keratitis
Authors: Kalavathy C Muniswamy , Parmar Pragya , Ramalingam MD Kuthalingam , Kaliamurthy Jayaraman , Jesudasan CA Nelson , Thomas Philip A 
Published: July 2004

Abstract Purpose: To describe the clinical features, microbiological features and treatment outcome of nine patients with Nocardia keratitis treated with topical trimethoprim− sulphamethoxazole drops. Methods: Retrospective review of nine patients with culture‐proven Nocardia keratitis. Results: Nine patients with Nocardia keratitis were treated with topical trimethoprim−sulphamethoxazole drops. The average duration of treatment was 25 ± 9 days. Five of the nine patients presented with superficial ulcers with margins studded with yellowish white discrete pinhead sized infiltration; the other four patients had deep stromal infiltration. Complete healing of the ulcer was achieved in six out of the nine patients with topical trimethoprim− sulphamethoxazole alone or in combination with ciprofloxacin 0.3% eye drops. Conclusion: Topical application of trimethoprim−sulphamethoxazole appears to be effective therapy for superficial keratitis due to Nocardia.
Evaluation of polytetrafluoroethylene suture for frontalis suspension as compared to polybutylate‐coated braided polyester
Authors: Bajaj Mandeep S , Sastry Srinivas S , Ghose Supriyo , Betharia Subhash M , Pushker Neelam 
Published: July 2004

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore‐Tex) suture as compared to polybutylate‐coated braided polyester (Ethibond) suture as sling materials for frontalis suspension in bilateral congenital ptosis. Methods: Frontalis sling surgery by modified Crawford's double triangle technique was performed on 30 patients (60 eyes) with bilateral ptosis. The patients were randomized into two groups depending on the type of suture material used: polytetrafluoroethylene or braided polyester. Results: Polytetrafluoroethylene suture achieved a statistically significant better and more stable ptosis correction, with slightly more lagophthalmos, than braided polyester suture over a mean (± SD) follow‐up period of 16 ± 3.24 months. There were more postoperative complications with braided polyester suture, but the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: This is the first clinical study in which polytetrafluoroethylene in the form of suture has been studied. Polytetrafluoroethylene suture was found to be a safe and effective sling material for frontalis suspension and it can be recommended for clinical use.
Two cases of X‐linked juvenile retinoschisis with different optical coherence tomography findings and RS1 gene mutations
Authors: Chan Wai Man , Choy Kwong Wai , Wang Jianghua , Lam Dennis SC , Yip Wilson WK , Fu Weiling , Pang Chi Pui 
Published: July 2004

AbstractThe optical coherence tomography (OCT) findings, clinical features, and mutations in the RS1 gene of two unrelated patients with X‐linked retinoschisis (XLRS) are reported herein. Two Chinese patients with early onset XLRS were given a comprehensive ophthalmologic examination and OCT investigation. The RS1 gene was screened for sequence alterations in all exons and splice regions. The two patients presented with different phenotypic features and OCT findings. One patient with more severe clinical presentation had a RS1 exon 1 deletion and a P193S mutation was found in the other patient with mild macular involvement. OCT demonstrates the markedly different features of XLRS patients with different RS1 mutations. This study strengthens the role of OCT in the diagnosis and monitoring of XLRS.
Evaluation of surveillance methods for an epidemiological study of contact lens related microbial keratitis
Authors: Keay Lisa , Edwards Katie , Brian Garry , Naduvilath Thomas , Stapleton Fiona 
Published: July 2004

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate surveillance methods in a pilot epidemiological study of contact lens related microbial keratitis (MK) cases identified by ophthalmic practitioners in Australia and New Zealand between May and August 2003 inclusive. Methods: Twelve ophthalmologists and 55 optometrists from rural and metropolitan locations were sent a study information pack with postal reporting forms. After 2 months, practitioners were emailed a link to a website for Internet reporting. After 4 months, practitioners were prompted by email and then by telephone if a response was not received. Passive response rates were the rate of returns after posting information and emailing the website link. Active response rates included personalized email and telephone follow‐up. Results: Ten cases of MK were identified by optometrists and five by ophthalmologists. The passive response rates were 79% and 58% for the first and second reporting periods, respectively. There was a lower response rate in the second reporting period compared to the first (P = 0.02). With active surveillance the response rate increased to 97% and 96%. A large proportion of optometrists (62%) and ophthalmologists (55%) used the website for at least one reporting period. Internet reporting was used by all New Zealand practitioners (5/5). Conclusions: A surveillance study to estimate the incidence of contact lens related MK in Australia and New Zealand is feasible and acceptable. Internet‐based reporting offers a reliable, rapid and cost‐effective means of running a large scale, international surveillance study. Active surveillance methods are necessary to enhance reporting rates.
Retinoblastoma in Victoria, 1976−2000: changing management trends and outcomes
Authors: Dondey Joanne C , Staffieri Sandra , McKenzie John , Davie Gabrielle , Elder James 
Published: July 2004

Abstract Purpose: To describe changes in the management of retinoblastoma in Victoria and to review the effect of newer, conservative treatments on preservation of eyes, visual outcome and mortality by comparing a similar group of patients treated over successive time intervals. Methods: A retrospective analysis of all cases of retinoblastoma diagnosed and treated in Victoria between 1956 and 2000 was conducted. Historical data on 77 cases previously published by O’Day et al. was used for the period 1956−1976 (series 1). Data on 88 cases recorded in the Royal Children's Hospital (Melbourne) Retinoblastoma Database was used for the period 1976−2000. The latter group was subdivided into those treated between 1976 and 1989 (series 2), prior to the advent of modern eye saving treatments, and those treated subsequent to their introduction from 1990 to 2000 (series 3). Results: In unilateral retinoblastoma, final enucleation rates for 1956−1976 (series 1) and 1976−1989 (series 2) were almost identical, being 98% and 97% of affected eyes, respectively (P = 1.00). Despite the newer treatments used after 1990 (series 3), 88% of affected eyes were still enucleated, representing a statistically similar outcome to series 2 (P = 0.33). In bilateral retinoblastoma, primary enucleation of the more involved eye was similar for series 1 (84%) and 2 (80%) but series 3 (41%) was substantially less than series 2 (P = 0.04) following the increased use of conservative treatments. In series 3, 59% of more involved eyes were treated conservatively compared with 16% (P = 0.007) and 20% (P = 0.04) for series 1 and 2, respectively. Despite attempts at eye salvage, the failure rate was higher in series 3 (29%) yielding a final enucleation rate of 70%, which represented a modest downward trend in the numbers of eyes finally enucleated; 84% (series 1), 73% (series 2) and 70% (series 3) (test for trend, P = 0.33). Bilateral enucleation rates were significantly lower, from 36% and 30% in series 1 and 2, respectively, to 7% in series 3 (test for trend, P = 0.02). As a consequence, more eyes were preserved over time, being 20/50 (40%) in series 1, 15/30 (50%) in series 2 and 21/34 (62%) in series 3. Comparison of visual outcome was hampered by incomplete data in series 1 but it appeared series 2 and 3 achieved better visual acuities with 67% and 62% of preserved eyes in bilateral cases measuring equal to or better than 6/12. Mortality rates in all series were low, being 7.8% in series 1, 4.5% in series 2 and nil in series 3. Conclusions: Following the introduction of new conservative treatments, there has been an increase in preservation of eyes and improved visual outcome, and a dramatic decrease in numbers of bilateral enucleations without adversely affecting survival.
Life expectancy of patients with neovascular glaucoma drained by Molteno implants
Authors: Blanc John‐Paul , Molteno Anthony CB , Fuller J Robert , Bevin Tui H , Herbison Peter 
Published: July 2004

Abstract Purpose: To determine the survival of patients with sighted eyes who had Molteno implants inserted for neovascular glaucoma. Methods: Patients who had Molteno implants inserted for neovascular glaucoma between October 1977 and March 2001 at Dunedin Hospital, New Zealand, were reviewed. Relative survival analysis was then used to compare survival in this group to survival of the New Zealand population of the same age. Results: A total of 114 patients had 131 Molteno implants inserted for neovascular glaucoma. Neovascular glaucoma was secondary to central retinal vein occlusion in 66 eyes (50%) and diabetes in 42 eyes (32%), and patients lost 52% or 6.53 years of their expected remaining life span. Age, sex and postoperative intraocular pressure control did not predict survival. The only predictor of improved survival was a preoperative visual acuity of 6/48 or better. These patients lost 21% (or 2.43 years) of expected remaining life compared to 62% (or 10.78 years) in those patients who had a presenting visual acuity of 6/60 or worse. Conclusions: Patients with neovascular glaucoma had a markedly reduced life expectancy, which has improved in recent years when compared to that of the normal sex and age‐matched New Zealand population. Patients presenting with better vision (6/48 or better) survived significantly longer than those presenting with poorer vision.