bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Institutional variability in the accuracy of urinary cytology for predicting recurrence of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder
Authors: KARAKIEWICZ PIERRE I. , BENAYOUN SERGE , ZIPPE CRAIG , LÜDECKE GERSON , BOMAN HANS , SANCHEZ‐CARBAYO MARTA , CASELLA ROBERTO , MIAN CHRISTINE , FRIEDRICH MARTIN G. , EISSA SANAA , AKAZA HIDEYUKI , HULAND HARTWIG , HEDELIN HANS , RUPESH RAINA , MIYANAGA NAOTO , SAGALOWSKY ARTHUR I. , MARBERGER MICHAEL J. , SHARIAT SHAHROKH F.
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVE

To assess the contemporary inter‐institutional accuracy of urinary cytology in predicting the recurrence of transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder, in a large multi‐institutional cohort from four continents, as cystoscopy and urinary cytology represent the ‘gold standards’ for surveillance of TCC recurrences, but the ability of cytology to predict recurrence varies.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Ten institutions contributed 2542 patients with a history of superficial TCC, of whom 898 had TCC recurrence. Age‐ and gender‐adjusted logistic regression models were used to evaluate the association between urine cytology and TCC recurrence. The predictive accuracy derived from the logistic regression model was tested using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. The resulting predictive accuracy estimates were internally validated with 200 bootstrap re‐samples.

RESULTS

The mean (range across institutions) age of the patients was 65 (48–69) years and 75 (67–87)% were men. Cytology was positive in 19 (10–38)% of patients; recurrence was identified in 35 (27–54)% of patients. The sensitivity was 38–65% across institutions. Urinary cytology varied significantly in its ability to predict recurrence of bladder cancer. Institution‐specific predictive accuracy adjusted for gender and age was 0.627–0.893. Stratifying by grade and stage only partly attenuated the discrepancies between centres.

CONCLUSIONS

The variability of urinary cytology results was very appreciable among the 10 centres and ranged from poor (63%) to excellent (89%).
Patterns of practice in the management of prostate cancer: results from multidisciplinary surveys of clinicians in Australia and New Zealand in 1995 and 2000
Authors: CHONG COLIN C.W. , AUSTEN LYNETTE , KNEEBONE ANDREW , LALAK ANDRE , JALALUDIN BIN
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVE

To investigate and compare patterns of practice in prostate cancer management in Australia and New Zealand from 1995 to 2000, as there are insufficient randomized trials to guide clinicians in the management of prostate cancer.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This study represents the two largest published surveys of Australian and New Zealand clinicians dealing with prostate cancer. We sent structured questionnaires on the management of prostate cancer patients to 804 urologists, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists in Australia and New Zealand in December 2000. We compared responses to a similar survey of 579 specialist clinicians in 1995.

RESULTS

The response rates were 56% in 1995 and 62% in 2000. In the management of clinically localized disease, the proportion recommending surgery or radiotherapy remained relatively constant between 1995 and 2000, although there was an increase in the use of brachytherapy and adjuvant hormonal therapy, and a reduced tendency to treat pelvic nodes. In the treatment of locally advanced disease, there was an increased use of hormonal treatment and local radiotherapy, with a reduction in the use of total androgen blockade and orchidectomy. In managing positive margins after prostatectomy, there was a clear lack of consensus, with a wide variety of treatment options proposed.

CONCLUSIONS

Practice has changed in several areas in 2000 compared to 1995, but not all changes were influenced by the publication of randomized trials or evidence‐based guidelines.
Testosterone and erectile function recovery after radiotherapy and long‐term androgen deprivation with luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone agonists
Authors: WILKE DEREK R. , PARKER CHRIS , ANDONOWSKI ADAM , TSUJI DEBBIE , CATTON CHARLES , GOSPODAROWICZ MARY , WARDE PADRAIG
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVE

To study the recovery of testosterone levels and erectile function in men who received radiotherapy plus long‐term adjuvant androgen deprivation (LTAD) with luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From April 2000 to July 2001, men who had completed prostate radiotherapy with ≥ 2 years of LTAD, and had their last LHRH agonist injection at least 6 months before, were invited to participate. At study entry, the men completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and their serum total testosterone (TT), prostate‐specific antigen, LH, follicle‐stimulating hormone, haemoglobin, and body mass were measured. This assessment was repeated at 1 year.

RESULTS

In all, 20 men were recruited, with a mean (range) age of 70 (55–81) years. Defining a normal TT level as ≥ 8.0 nmol/L, the median time to a normal level was 2.3 years (95% confidence interval (CI), 1.9–4.2). The median duration of castrate TT levels was 8 months (95% CI, 6.2–14.9). LH recovered before TT, suggesting that the rate‐limiting step in the recovery of TT may be at the testicular level. The median time to recovery of normal LH levels was 3.8 months, compared to 8.0 months to reach supracastrate TT levels, and 2.3 years to reach normal TT levels. Age and the LH/TT ratio were associated with the time to recovery of both supracastrate and normal levels of TT. The IIEF was completed by 17 men; there were no significant changes in the scores in any domain of the IIEF during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

Most men recover supracastrate testosterone levels after LTAD and external beam radiotherapy, but recovery of ‘normal’ testosterone levels is slow. Few men recover potency and sexual desire. The patients age and LH/TT ratio may be predictive of the time to recovery of both supracastrate and normal testosterone levels.
Identifiability of Finite Mixtures of Elliptical Distributions
Authors: HOLZMANN HAJO , MUNK AXEL , GNEITING TILMANN
Published: March 2006

Abstract.  We present general results on the identifiability of finite mixtures of elliptical distributions under conditions on the characteristic generators or density generators. Examples include the multivariate t‐distribution, symmetric stable laws, exponential power and Kotz distributions. In each case, the shape parameter is allowed to vary in the mixture, in addition to the location vector and the scatter matrix. Furthermore, we discuss the identifiability of finite mixtures of elliptical densities with generators that correspond to scale mixtures of normal distributions.
Ocular Motor Measures in Migraine with and Without Aura
Authors: Wilkinson F , Karanovic O , Ross EC , Lillakas L , Steinbach MJ
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to examine basic ocular motor function in individuals with migraine. We used an infrared eye-tracking system to measure horizontal smooth pursuit to a sinusoidal target, saccades to horizontal target displacements of 5–20°, and the stability of fixation in 19 migraine without aura (MoA), 19 migraine with aura (MA) and 19 headache-free control (C) subjects. Eye movement measurements were made at two target displacement rates and against both homogeneous grey and patterned backgrounds. We found no statistically significant differences between migraine and control subjects in any of the eye movement parameters measured, but did find highly significant effects of both target speed and background pattern in all groups. Our results do not provide support for subclinical cerebellar impairment in migraineurs, and do provide evidence that previously described visual abnormalities in migraine are not artefacts of abnormal fixation or eye movements.
ATP Induces Sustained Facilitation of Craniofacial Nociception Through p2x Receptors on Neck Muscle Nociceptors in Mice
Authors: Makowska A , Panfil C , Ellrich J
Published: March 2006

Noxious input from neck muscles probably plays a key role in tension-type headache pathophysiology. ATP selectively excites group III and IV muscle afferents in vitro. Accordingly, ATP infusion into trapezius muscle induces strong pain and local tenderness in healthy man. The present study addresses the impact of ATP on neck muscle nociception in anaesthetized mice. Craniofacial nociceptive processing was tested by the jaw-opening reflex via noxious electrical tongue stimulation. Within 2 h after injection of 100 nmol/l or 1 μmol/l ATP into semispinal neck muscles, reflex integrals significantly increased by 114% or 328%, respectively. Preceding intramuscular administration of the P2X receptor antagonist PPADS (3–100 nmol/l) suppressed the ATP effect. Subsequent application of PPADS (100 nmol/l) caused a total recovery of facilitated reflex to baseline values. ATP induces sustained facilitation of craniofacial nociception by prolonged excitation of P2X receptors in neck muscles.
Pinpoint papular variant of polymorphous light eruption: clinical and pathological correlation
Authors: Bansal I , Kerr H , Janiga JJ , Qureshi HS , Chaffins M , Lim HW , Ormsby A
Published: March 2006

Background  Polymorphous light eruption (PMLE) is the most common chronic idiopathic photodermatosis usually manifesting as a papular eruption along with several other morphological variants including a pinpoint papular variant.

Methods and materials  Between June 1998 and August 2003, 10 PMLE patients presented to the Department of Dermatology at Henry Ford Hospital with complaints of a pruritic pinpoint papular eruption associated with sun exposure. In six patients skin biopsies were performed along with a detailed history and complete skin examination. We correlated the histology with the clinical course of disease corresponding to acute and subacute disease presentation. We also performed immunohistochemistry on three cases to study the immunophenotype in PMLE.

Results  The clinical, histologic and immunostain findings are summarized. Acute: Clinically pinpoint papules and vesicles, some with erythematous base, were seen. Histology showed focal vesicle formation, spongiosis, oedema, red blood cells extravasation, and superficial and deep perivascular and interstitial lymphocytic infiltrate with occasional eosinophils. Subacute: Clinically pinpoint papules with or without erythema were seen. Histology of the pinpoint lesion showed a nodular collection of lymphocytes and histiocytes with claw‐like extension of epidermal rete ridges at the lateral boundaries of the lesion. Overlying epidermal atrophy with adjacent spongiosis, exocytosis, oedema and a superficial perivascular lymphocytic infiltrate and parakeratosis was also observed. The histologic differential diagnosis included lichen nitidus. Immunohistochemical stains revealed the following results: CD8, CD68 positive, CD4 variable (strongly positive to negative) and S‐100 negative.

Conclusion  (i) Pinpoint papular variant of PMLE is a distinct entity, which shows characteristic histology corresponding to the clinical course of the disease (acute and subacute). (ii) The histologic and immunophenotypic differential diagnosis of this variant during the subacute phase includes lichen nitidus.
Necrotizing fasciitis: a deadly infection
Authors: Kihiczak GG , Schwartz RA , Kapila R
Published: March 2006

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a life‐threatening condition, consisting of a soft‐tissue infection with rapidly progressive, widespread fascial necrosis. NF may be caused by a wide variety of microbes. Indeed, NF may be an infection of one species of bacteria or may be polymicrobial. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential. Surgical debridement and antibiotic therapy are the primary treatment options.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Authors: Lacz NL , Schwartz RA , Kapila R
Published: March 2006

Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is an unusual but important dermatological condition to identify without hesitation. The classic triad of headache, fever, and a rash that begins on the extremities and travels proximally to involve the trunk is found in a majority of patients. The cutaneous centripetal pattern is a result of cell to cell migration by the causative organism Rickettsia rickettsii. Such individuals should receive prompt antimicrobial therapy and supportive care to avoid serious and potentially fatal complications.
Exercise‐induced vasculitis
Authors: Ramelet A‐A
Published: March 2006

Background  Usually misdiagnosed and ignored in the literature, exercise‐induced vasculitis (EIV) is not uncommon, occurring mostly in long‐distance runners and in females after long walks, especially in hot weather.

Observations  I report 23 otherwise healthy patients (22 females, 1 male) who developed EIV after walking or hiking in hot weather. Erythematous, urticarial or purpuric plaques arose on the lower legs, not involving skin compressed by socks. Symptoms included itch, pain, and burning sensation. Lesions resolved after some days. Relapses were frequent at further muscular exercise, and could be prevented in some cases by compression hosiery, manual lymphatic drainage, intake of oedema protective agents, or steroids (local or systemic).

Investigations  Histopathology demonstrated leucocytoclastic vasculitis in five biopsies, and urticarial vasculitis in one. Extensive blood investigations have been performed in six patients and were negative. No clear relation with chronic venous disease (duplex or Doppler) had been established in 12 patients.

Conclusions  I suggest denominating this condition exercise‐induced vasculitis. This clinical entity is well defined, but poorly recognized. The presentation of 23 original cases demonstrates its reality.
The Tulip classification of perinatal mortality: introduction and multidisciplinary inter‐rater agreement
Authors: Korteweg FJ , Gordijn SJ , Timmer A , Erwich JJHM , Bergman KA , Bouman K , Ravise JM , Heringa MP , Holm JP
Published: March 2006

Objective  To introduce the pathophysiological Tulip classification system for underlying cause and mechanism of perinatal mortality based on clinical and pathological findings for the purpose of counselling and prevention.

Design  Descriptive.

Setting  Tertiary referral teaching hospital.

Population  Perinatally related deaths.

Methods  A classification consisting of groups of cause and mechanism of death was drawn up by a panel through the causal analysis of the events related to death. Individual classification of cause and mechanism was performed by assessors. Panel discussions were held for cases without consensus.

Main outcome measures  Inter‐rater agreement for cause and mechanism of death.

Results  The classification consists of six main causes with subclassifications: (1) congenital anomaly (chromosomal, syndrome and single‐ or multiple‐organ system), (2) placenta (placental bed, placental pathology, umbilical cord complication and not otherwise specified [NOS]), (3) prematurity (preterm prelabour rupture of membranes, preterm labour, cervical dysfunction, iatrogenous and NOS), (4) infection (transplacental, ascending, neonatal and NOS), (5) other (fetal hydrops of unknown origin, maternal disease, trauma and out of the ordinary) and (6) unknown. Overall kappa coefficient for agreement for cause was 0.81 (95% CI 0.80–0.83). Six mechanisms were drawn up: cardio/circulatory insufficiency, multi‐organ failure, respiratory insufficiency, cerebral insufficiency, placental insufficiency and unknown. Overall kappa for mechanism was 0.72 (95% CI 0.70–0.74).

Conclusions  Classifying perinatal mortality to compare performance over time and between centres is useful and necessary. Interpretation of classifications demands consistency. The Tulip classification allows unambiguous classification of underlying cause and mechanism of perinatal mortality, gives a good inter‐rater agreement, with a low percentage of unknown causes, and is easily applicable in a team of clinicians when guidelines are followed.
Impacts of participating in confidential enquiry panels: a qualitative study
Authors: Rankin J , Bush J , Bell R , Cresswell P , Renwick M
Published: March 2006

Objective  To describe the impacts of participating in confidential enquiry panels for the Confidential Enquiry into Stillbirths and Deaths in Infancy.

Design  Qualitative interview study.

Setting  The former northern health region of England.

Sample  Eighteen health professionals who had participated in at least one confidential enquiry panel.

Methods  Semistructured one‐to‐one interviews using purposive sampling; transcripts were analysed by identifying recurring themes. Data were organised and coded using NUD*IST.

Main outcome measures  Views on the impacts of participation on clinical practice and views on the strengths and limitations of confidential enquiries.

Results  Participants valued attendance at panels as a learning experience that provoked reflection on their own clinical practice. Participants felt that taking part had a positive impact on their clinical thinking and practice by increasing their awareness of standards of care. These impacts occurred through both the detailed examination of cases and the interaction with colleagues from different disciplines and hospitals. Learning impacts were cascaded to colleagues through informal discussion and teaching. Concrete examples of changes in practice at the organisational level, stimulated by panel attendance, were reported.

Conclusions  The confidential enquiry approach was supported not only as an effective way of assessing care but also as a valuable learning experience that motivated change in clinical practice. Local benefits of nationally coordinated confidential enquiries should be valued and supported in their future development. Wide multidisciplinary participation in enquiry panels coordinated through regional clinical networks should be promoted.
Practices and views on fetal heart monitoring: a structured observation and interview study
Authors: Altaf S , Oppenheimer C , Shaw R , Waugh J , Dixon‐Woods M
Published: March 2006

Objective  To assess and explain deviations from recommended practice in National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines in relation to fetal heart monitoring.

Design  Qualitative study.

Setting  Large teaching hospital in the UK.

Sample  Sixty‐six hours of observation of 25 labours and interviews with 20 midwives of varying grades.

Methods  Structured observations of labour and semistructured interviews with midwives. Interviews were undertaken using a prompt guide, audiotaped, and transcribed verbatim. Analysis was based on the constant comparative method, assisted by QSR N5 software.

Main outcome measures  Deviations from recommended practice in relation to fetal monitoring and insights into why these occur.

Results  All babies involved in the study were safely delivered, but 243 deviations from recommended practice in relation to NICE guidelines on fetal monitoring were identified, with the majority (80%) of these occurring in relation to documentation. Other deviations from recommended practice included indications for use of electronic fetal heart monitoring and conduct of fetal heart monitoring. There is evidence of difficulties with availability and maintenance of equipment, and some deficits in staff knowledge and skill. Differing orientations towards fetal monitoring were reported by midwives, which were likely to have impacts on practice. The initiation, management, and interpretation of fetal heart monitoring is complex and distributed across time, space, and professional boundaries, and practices in relation to fetal heart monitoring need to be understood within an organisational and social context.

Conclusion  Some deviations from best practice guidelines may be rectified through straightforward interventions including improved systems for managing equipment and training. Other deviations from recommended practice need to be understood as the outcomes of complex processes that are likely to defy easy resolution.
Long‐term follow up of uterine artery embolisation—an effective alternative in the treatment of fibroids
Authors: Walker WJ , Barton‐Smith P
Published: March 2006

Objectives  To evaluate the long‐term efficacy and complications of uterine artery embolisation (UAE) for treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids.

Design  A prospective observational study.

Setting  A district general hospital and two private hospitals in the southeast of England.

Population  Women with symptomatic fibroids who had been offered surgical options for treatment.

Methods  Postal questionnaire follow up at 5–7 years to assess long‐term clinical effects among women who had undergone UAE.

Main outcome measures  The questionnaire was subdivided into sections dealing with menstrual flow, amenorrhoea and menopause, fibroid‐related symptoms, fertility, vaginal discharge, sexual function, subsequent treatments for fibroids and satisfaction with the procedure.

Results  A total of 258 women were identified as being between 5 and 7 years post‐UAE and suitable for long‐term follow up in October 2004. One hundred seventy‐two completed questionnaires were analysed (67% response rate). Seventy‐five percent of women still had either a return to normal or an improvement in menstrual flow compared with how they were prior to UAE. More than 80% of fibroid‐related symptoms were still resolved or improved. Sixteen percent of women required further treatment for fibroids. Premature menopause directly following UAE occurred in only one woman in the study group. Eighty‐eight percent of women were satisfied with the outcome of the procedure at 5–7 years and would choose it again or recommend it to others.

Conclusions  These findings show that UAE is of benefit to women wishing to avoid hysterectomy and it carries a low risk of complications.
A comparison of intrapartum automated fetal electrocardiography and conventional cardiotocography—a randomised controlled study
Authors: Ojala K , Vääräsmäki M , Mäkikallio K , Valkama M , Tekay A
Published: March 2006

Objective  To examine whether intrapartum monitoring by means of automatic ST analysis (STAN) of fetal electrocardiography could reduce the rate of neonatal acidemia and the rate of operative intervention during labour, compared with monitoring by means of cardiotocography (CTG).

Design  Randomised controlled trial.

Setting  Labour ward in tertiary‐level university hospital.

Sample  A total of 1483 women in active labour with singleton term fetus in cephalic presentation.

Methods  Women were randomly assigned to be monitored either by STAN or by CTG. Fetal blood sampling (FBS) was optional in both groups.

Main outcome measures  Neonatal acidemia (umbilical artery pH <7.10), neonatal metabolic acidosis (umbilical artery pH <7.05 and base excess <−12 mmol/l) and operative interventions: caesarean section rate, vacuum outlet (VO) rate and FBS rate.

Results  There were no statistically significant differences between the STAN group and CTG group in the incidence of neonatal acidemia (5.8 versus 4.7%) or metabolic acidosis (1.7 versus 0.7%). The caesarean section rate (6.4 versus 4.7%) and the VO rate (9.5 versus 10.7%) were also similar in the STAN and CTG groups. The incidence of FBS was lower (P < 0.001) in the STAN group (7.0%) than in the CTG group (15.6%).

Conclusions  Intrapartum fetal monitoring by means of automatic STAN did not improve the neonatal outcome or decrease the caesarean section rate. However, the need for FBS during labour was lower in the STAN group.
Brief overview of maternal triglycerides as a risk factor for pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Ray JG , Diamond P , Singh G , Bell CM
Published: March 2006

Background  Features of the metabolic syndrome—maternal obesity, diabetes mellitus and chronic hypertension—are risk factors for pre‐eclampsia.

Objectives  To determine the risk of pre‐eclampsia in the presence of maternal hypertriglyceridemia, another major element of the metabolic syndrome.

Search strategy  Two investigators independently searched PubMed and Embase databases from 1980 to December 2004 for relevant studies. The terms preeclampsia, eclampsia, pregnancy‐induced hypertension or toxemia were combined with dyslipidemia, hyperlipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia, lipids, cholesterol, triglycerides (TG) or lipoprotein.

Selection criteria  We included case–control and cohort studies published in English that included at least 20 women with pre‐eclampsia and that sampled serum or plasma TG at any time before, during or after pregnancy.

Data collection and analysis  Mean maternal TG concentrations were compared between cases and controls within each study. The odds ratio of pre‐eclampsia was calculated by comparing the risk of pre‐eclampsia among women in each higher TG concentration category with that in the lowest reference category.

Main results  A total of 19 case–control and 3 prospective cohort studies were included. In 14 studies, the mean TG concentration was significantly higher among pre‐eclamptic cases than among unaffected controls; in seven other studies, there was a nonsignificant trend in the same direction. The risk of pre‐eclampsia typically doubled with each increasing TG category. In the four studies that adjusted for potential confounders, such as maternal age, parity and body mass index, there was about a four‐fold higher risk of pre‐eclampsia in the highest relative to the lowest TG category.

Author's conclusions  There exists a consistent positive association between elevated maternal TG and the risk of pre‐eclampsia. Given that maternal hypertriglyceridemia is a common feature of the metabolic syndrome, interventional studies are needed to determine whether pre‐pregnancy weight reduction and dietary modification can lower the risk of pre‐eclampsia.
A case–control study on the association between female genital mutilation and sexually transmitted infections in Sudan
Authors: Elmusharaf S , Elkhidir I , Hoffmann S , Almroth L
Published: March 2006

Objective  To assess whether the extent of female genital mutilation (FGM) influences the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Design  Hospital‐based case–control study.

Setting  Two obstetric/gynaecological outpatient clinics in Khartoum, Sudan, 2003–2004.

Population  A total of 222 women aged 17–35 years coming to antenatal and gynaecological clinics.

Methods  Women recruited for the study were divided into cases with seropositivity for Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonococcal antibody test), Chlamydia trachomatis (enzyme immunoassay) or Treponema pallidum (Treponema pallidum haemagglutination assay) (n= 26) and controls without antibodies to these species (n= 196). Socio‐demographic data were obtained and physical examination including genital examination was performed in order to classify the form of FGM. Cases and controls were compared using logistic regression to adjust for covariates.

Main outcome measures  Extent of FGM and seropositivity for C. trachomatis, N. gonorrhoeae or T. pallidum.

Results  Of the cases, 85% had undergone the most severe form of FGM involving labia majora compared with 78% of controls (n.s.). Thus, there was no association between serological evidence of STIs and extent of FGM. The only factor that differed significantly between the groups was the education level, cases with STIs having significantly shorter education (P= 0.03) than controls.

Conclusions  There is a little difference between cases and controls in regard to FGM. Having in mind the relatively small sample size, the results still indicate that FGM seems neither to be a risk factor for nor protective against acquiring STIs. This is important as argument against traditional beliefs that FGM protects against pre/extramarital sex.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers in the Atlantic slipper shell Crepidula fornicata for use in paternity analysis
Authors: PROESTOU DINA A.
Published: March 2006

Crepidula fornicata is an ideal species in which to study the evolution and timing of sex change. In order to test current theory on the timing of sex change, male reproductive success must be quantified. Because C. fornicata is polygamous, this can only be achieved through the development of molecular markers and paternity analysis. Here, I report the development of five polymorphic microsatellite loci that are inherited in a Mendelian fashion. The levels of polymorphism and the inheritance patterns of these loci make them suitable for paternity analysis despite the presence of null alleles.
Polymorphic microsatellite loci from the American goldfinch (Carduelis tristis) and their cross‐amplification in a variety of passerine species
Authors: TARVIN KEITH A.
Published: March 2006

Cardueline finches have become important models in studies of sexual selection. Here I describe eight polymorphic microsatellite loci isolated from the American goldfinch (Carduelis tristis) that are useful in parentage and heterozygosity studies. The number of alleles per locus ranged from eight to 38 based on 252 goldfinches. The markers are polymorphic in at least four other Cardueline finch species, and several amplify in nonfinch passerines including red‐winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus), black‐throated blue warbler (Dendroica caerulescens) and tufted titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor), indicating they should be useful in paternity and population studies of a variety of species.
Utility of a set of microsatellite primers developed for the massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) for population genetic studies of the timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus)
Authors: ANDERSON COREY DEVIN
Published: March 2006

I tested six microsatellite DNA primer pairs developed for the massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus) on a sample population of the timber rattlesnake (Crotalus horridus). It had been speculated in a previous publication that cross‐species amplification would not be worthwhile across the two rattlesnake genera. However, for this primer set (the only one currently published for the genus Sistrurus), successful amplification at each locus was accomplished for all loci with an annealing temperature of 57 °C and locus‐specific buffer conditions. Each locus was polymorphic, with the number of alleles per locus ranging from two to 12. Significant heterozygote deficits were detected for three loci (Scu01, Scu05 and Scu07). For Scu01, all individuals were homozygous for the same allele except one female who was homozygous for a different allele. This same female was also homozygous for a rare allele at Scu07. When this female was removed from the data set, the number of observed heterozygotes at Scu01 and Scu07 did not differ significantly from random expectations. However, a large heterozygote deficit persisted at Scu05 (despite subsampling), suggesting that this locus may not be useful for population genetic studies of timber rattlesnakes. Despite some limitations, this set of primers may be a useful complement to those already developed for the genus Crotalus. Moreover, the results of this study seem to provide new justification for further studies of cross‐species amplification of microsatellite loci across the two rattlesnake genera.
Polymorphic microsatellite loci isolated from the Atlanto‐Mediterranean colonial ascidian Pycnoclavella sp. (Ascidiacea, Tunicata)
Authors: PÉREZ‐PORTELA ROCÍO , DURAN SANDRA , ESTOUP ARNAUD , TURON XAVIER
Published: March 2006

Eight microsatellite loci were characterized in the colonial ascidian Pycnoclavella sp. from an enriched library of genomic DNA. Most microsatellites were large and compound. Allelic variation was assessed in 30 individuals collected from Cerro Gordo (SW Mediterranean Sea). The number of alleles per locus ranged from one to nine, observed heterozygosity from 0.05 to 0.29 and expected heterozygosity from 0.15 to 0.39. No significant linkage disequilibrium between pairs of loci was detected, but five loci showed significant heterozygote deficiency that may be explained either by inbreeding, population substructure or the presence of null alleles.
Development of microsatellite markers for the Mediterranean gorgonian coral Corallium rubrum
Authors: COSTANTINI FEDERICA , ABBIATI MARCO
Published: March 2006

Corallium rubrum, an endemic Mediterranean gorgonian coral, has undergone an intensive exploitation leading to the extinction of local commercial banks and changes in the structure and dynamics of coastal populations. Management and conservation of this species requires a better understanding of the genetic structuring and connectivity among populations. With this aim, seven microsatellite loci have been isolated. All loci were polymorphic with allele numbers ranging from five to 26 and observed heterozygosity ranging from 0.18 to 0.68. Significant deviations from Hardy–Weinberg expected genotype frequencies due to heterozygote deficiency were detected at all loci.
Multiplex genotyping of novel tetranucleotide microsatellites from a marine foodfish species crimson red snapper (Lutjanus erythropterus)
Authors: LO LOONG CHUENG , ZHU ZE YUAN , YUE GEN HUA
Published: March 2006

Crimson red snapper (Lutjanus erythropterus) is an important marine foodfish species in Asia with great potentials for aquaculture. We isolated nine polymorphic microsatellites, among which eight were tetranucleotide repeats, and one was CA‐microsatellite. The average allele number present in 48 individuals was 11.1/locus, ranging from three to 33. The expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.49 to 0.97 with an average of 0.74. Six of the nine markers conformed to the Hardy–Weinberg expectations. No pairwise markers showed the possibility of linkage. Protocols for two multiplex polymerase chain reactions (PCRs), each amplifying two and seven markers, respectively, were presented. The developed microsatellites and optimized multiplex PCRs will be useful for studying population structure of wild stocks and parentage assignment for cultured populations.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellites in Sparganium emersum and cross‐species amplification in the related species S. erectum
Authors: POLLUX B. J. A. , OUBORG N. J.
Published: March 2006

We developed seven novel polymorphic microsatellite loci for the aquatic macrophyte Sparganium emersum (Sparganiaceae). These were characterized on 62 individuals collected from nine different populations. In this set of individuals, seven to 20 alleles per locus were detected and observed heterozygosity ranged between 0.16 and 0.95. Cross‐species amplification was tested in the related species Sparganium erectum, and was successful for five of the seven microsatellite loci.
Microsatellite loci for behavioural studies of rainbow bee‐eaters (Merops ornatus: Aves)
Authors: ADCOCK G. J. , HODGES K. , BOLAND C. R. J. , COCKBURN A. , EBERT D. , HEINSOHN R.
Published: March 2006

A set of polymorphic microsatellite loci was identified for population and behavioural studies of the rainbow bee‐eater (Merops ornatus). Eight loci were newly isolated from a rainbow bee‐eater genomic library enriched for GA‐containing repeats, and six loci from those previously reported for the European bee‐eater (Merops apiaster). From these two sources, the seven most variable loci that amplified reliably were unlinked and in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, had five to 13 alleles (mean 7.7) and an expected heterozygosity of 0.60–0.86 (mean 0.73).
Senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase is lysosomal β‐galactosidase
Authors: Lee Bo Yun , Han Jung A. , Im Jun Sub , Morrone Amelia , Johung Kimberly , Goodwin Edward C. , Kleijer Wim J. , DiMaio Daniel , Hwang Eun Seong
Published: March 2006

Replicative senescence limits the proliferation of somatic cells passaged in culture and may reflect cellular aging in vivo. The most widely used biomarker for senescent and aging cells is senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase (SA‐β‐gal), which is defined as β‐galactosidase activity detectable at pH 6.0 in senescent cells, but the origin of SA‐β‐gal and its cellular roles in senescence are not known. We demonstrate here that SA‐β‐gal activity is expressed from GLB1, the gene encoding lysosomal β‐D‐galactosidase, the activity of which is typically measured at acidic pH 4.5. Fibroblasts from patients with autosomal recessive GM1‐gangliosidosis, which have defective lysosomal β‐galactosidase, did not express SA‐β‐gal at late passages even though they underwent replicative senescence. In addition, late passage normal fibroblasts expressing small‐hairpin interfering RNA that depleted GLB1 mRNA underwent senescence but failed to express SA‐β‐gal. GLB1 mRNA depletion also prevented expression of SA‐β‐gal activity in HeLa cervical carcinoma cells induced to enter a senescent state by repression of their endogenous human papillomavirus E7 oncogene. SA‐β‐gal induction during senescence was due at least in part to increased expression of the lysosomal β‐galactosidase protein. These results also indicate that SA‐β‐gal is not required for senescence.
Metallothionein antagonizes aging‐induced cardiac contractile dysfunction: role of PTP1B, insulin receptor tyrosine phosphorylation and Akt
Authors: Fang Cindy X. , Doser Thomas A. , Yang Xiaoping , Sreejayan Nair , Ren Jun
Published: March 2006

Aging is often accompanied by reduced insulin sensitivity and cardiac dysfunction. However, the causal relationship between the two remains poorly understood. This study was designed to determine the impact of cardiac‐specific overexpression of antioxidant metallothionein (MT) on aging‐associated cardiac dysfunction and impaired insulin signaling. Contractile and intracellular Ca2+ properties were evaluated in left ventricular myocytes including peak shortening (PS), maximal velocity of shortening/relengthening (± dL/dt), time‐to‐PS (TPS), time‐to‐90% relengthening (TR90), fura‐2 fluorescence intensity change (ΔFFI) and intracellular Ca2+ decay rate. Expression of insulin receptor, protein‐tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), phosphorylation of insulin receptor (Tyr1146) and Akt were evaluated by Western blot analysis. Aged wild‐type FVB and MT transgenic mice (26–28 months old) displayed glucose intolerance and hyperinsulinemia. Cardiomyocytes from aged FVB mice exhibited prolonged TR90 and intracellular Ca2+ decay associated with normal PS, ± dL/dt, TPS and ΔFFI compared with those from young (2–3 months old) mice. Western blot analysis revealed reduced Akt expression and insulin (5 mU g−1)‐stimulated Akt phosphorylation, elevated PTP1B expression and diminished basal insulin receptor tyrosine phosphorylation associated with comparable insulin receptor expression in aged FVB mouse hearts. All of these aging‐related defects in cardiac contractile function and insulin signaling (although not hyperinsulinemia and glucose intolerance) were significantly attenuated or ablated by MT transgene. These data indicate that enhanced antioxidant defense is beneficial for aging‐induced cardiac contractile dysfunction and alteration in insulin signaling.
The nuclear hormone receptor DAF‐12 has opposing effects on Caenorhabditis elegans lifespan and regulates genes repressed in multiple long‐lived worms
Authors: Fisher Alfred L. , Lithgow Gordon J.
Published: March 2006

The orphan nuclear hormone receptor gene daf‐12 in Caenorhabditis elegans plays a key role in the regulation of development and determination of adult longevity. To understand the effects of daf‐12 on aging we characterized the lifespan of loss‐of‐function and gain‐of‐function daf‐12 alleles that have been identified on the basis of their effects on dauer development. We find that these mutations have opposing effects on longevity and resistance to oxidative and thermal stress which makes daf‐12 the first gene with alleles that can extend or shorten lifespan. We find that the shortened lifespan of the loss‐of‐function mutation is due to accelerated aging in young adulthood rather than an adverse effect of the mutation on development. Microarray analysis of worms carrying the two alleles revealed a relatively small number of genes differentially expressed between the two genotypes. Comparison of the expression profiles with the profiles associated with dauer formation and long‐lived daf‐2 mutants revealed that while the profiles are largely different, there is significant overlap among the genes down‐regulated, but not up‐regulated, in all profiles. Several of these genes down‐regulated in multiple long‐lived worms have known effects on lifespan, and many of the genes belong to a family of poorly characterized genes that are strongly down‐regulated in dauers, daf‐2 mutants, and long‐lived daf‐12 mutants. Our results point to daf‐12 modulating aging and stress responses in part through the repression of specific genes, and emphasize the role that the repression of genes that curtail maximal lifespan plays in lifespan determination.
Aging networks in Caenorhabditis elegans: AMP‐activated protein kinase (aak‐2) links multiple aging and metabolism pathways
Authors: Curtis Rory , O'Connor Greg , DiStefano Peter S.
Published: March 2006

Molecular genetics in lower organisms has allowed the elucidation of pathways that modulate the aging process. In certain instances, evolutionarily conserved genes and pathways have been shown to regulate lifespan in mammals as well. Many gene products known to affect lifespan are intimately involved in the control of energy metabolism, including the fuel sensor AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK). We have shown previously that over‐expression of an AMPK α subunit in Caenorhabditis elegans, designated aak‐2, increases lifespan. Here we show the interaction of aak‐2 with other pathways known to control aging in worms. Lifespan extension caused by daf‐2/insulin‐like signaling mutations was highly dependent on aak‐2, as was the lifespan extension caused by over‐expression of the deacetylase, sir‐2.1. Similarly, there was partial requirement for aak‐2 in lifespan extension by mitochondrial mutations (isp‐1 and clk‐1). Conversely, aak‐2 was not required for lifespan extension in mutants lacking germline stem cells (glp‐1) or mutants of the eating response (eat‐2). These results show that aging is controlled by overlapping but distinct pathways and that AMPK/aak‐2 represents a node in a network of evolutionarily conserved biochemical pathways that control aging.
Alleviation of soil compaction: requirements, equipment and techniques
Authors: Spoor G.
Published: March 2006

The nature of soil disturbance required to alleviate soil compaction in a range of agricultural and land restoration situations is identified. Implement geometry and adjustments required to achieve the desired brittle or tensile deformation of compacted soil are discussed. Field operating procedures to achieve the required degrees of soil fissuring, loosening or soil unit rearrangement using the power units and equipment available are described. A new progressive loosening technique is identified for use within deep, extremely compacted soil profiles. Emphasis is given to the importance of making visual field checks across the loosened soil zone at an early stage, to check the desired disturbance is being achieved. Care must be taken during subsequent trafficking operations, to minimize the risk of recompaction.
Soil compaction: identification directly in the field
Authors: Batey T. , McKenzie D. C.
Published: March 2006

The compaction of soil alters its structure, increases its bulk density and decreases its porosity. These changes can be detected by careful and systematic visual and tactile examination directly in the field. These changes also reduce the permeability of soil to water and air and may alter the pattern of root growth. Further signs of compaction may be induced such as the creation of waterlogged zones or of dry zones caused by shallow rooting denying access to deeper reserves of water. Furthermore, there may be a reduction in nutrient uptake from dry soil. Under wet conditions anoxic pockets may form with associated biochemical changes, some of which are visible. Changes in mineral nitrogen may take place through denitrification and a reduction in nitrification. The criteria used to identify compaction in the field include patterns of crop growth, pale leaf colours, waterlogging on the surface or in subsurface layers above compaction, an increase in soil strength, changes to soil structure, soil colour and the distribution of roots and of soil moisture. Manifestation of soil compaction in crops is also dependent on the weather and is influenced by crop type and variety, and stage of growth. Many soil‐borne diseases are made worse by stress to the crop which might be induced by compaction caused by drier or wetter conditions in the root zone. Where, when and how to identify compaction in the field are discussed and the techniques used are described. Specific examples of the identification of compaction are given, covering a wide range of situations.
Influence of aggregate size on phosphorus loss and ryegrass yield in a soil cultivated intermittently
Authors: McDowell R. W. , Scott J. T. , Condron L. M.
Published: March 2006

Intermittent cultivation for forage cropping and subsequent grazing by dairy cattle during winter is practiced in southern New Zealand to protect remaining pastures from poaching damage by cattle. However, this practice may degrade soil aggregate structure affecting pasture yield and nutrient loss. A study was conducted to determine the ability of different aggregate sizes to supply phosphorus (P) to ryegrass in a soil used for winter forage cropping and grazed by dairy cattle 2 out of 7 years. Over 35 weeks ryegrass was grown in pots containing one of six wet‐sieved soil aggregate size classes and leached every 2 weeks. Soil analyses included water soluble P, inorganic and organic P fractions, and P in leachate. Results showed that organic P was preferentially lost in leachate or mineralized and used by ryegrass with decreasing aggregate size, although this did not affect yield. Ryegrass yield was best correlated with bicarbonate extractable P in aggregates, and P loss with water soluble inorganic P after minimum disturbance. These findings suggest that although intermittent cultivation did not affect yield, if this practice decreases aggregate size in the future, it may increase the risk of P loss.
Comparison of two automated periodontal probes and two probes with a conventional readout in periodontal maintenance patients
Authors: Barendregt D. S. , Van der Velden U. , Timmerman M. F. , Van Der Weijden G. A.
Published: March 2006

Aim: The aim of the present study was to test in periodontal maintenance patients whether the systems for pressure control that have been commercially developed contribute to more reproducible probing depth measurements as compared with a manual probe.

Material and Methods: In 12 patients duplicate measurements were made at day 0 and 1 week later. In each patient four teeth with the deepest pockets were measured at six sites. In total 288 sites were available for comparisons. The Florida Probe® (FP) (159 N/cm2), the Jonker Probe® (JP) (153 N/cm2), the Brodontic® probe (BP) (255 N/cm2) and the manual probe (MP) were used in a randomized scheme.

Results: Mean probing measurements showed for the FP and the JP lower recordings than for the BP and manual probe. The FP, the BP and the MP showed no differences between the duplicate measurements, except for the JP where the second measurement was deeper. Correlation coefficients between measurements at day 0 and 1 week show for the BP and the MP are 0.90 and 0.89, respectively, while for the FP and the JP they are 0.76 and 0.75, respectively.

Conclusion: The BP and the MP appear to be reliable tools for reproducible pocket depth measurements in periodontal maintenance patients.