bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inter‐generic relationships of the crows, jays, magpies and allied groups (Aves: Corvidae) based on nucleotide sequence data
Authors: Ericson Per G. P. , Jansén Anna‐Lee , Johansson Ulf S. , Ekman Jan
Published: June 2005

Phylogenetic relationships were studied based on DNA sequences obtained from all recognized genera of the family Corvidae sensu stricto. The aligned data set consists 2589 bp obtained from one mitochondrial and two nuclear genes. Maximum parsimony, maximum‐likelihood, and Bayesian inference analyses were used to estimate phylogenetic relationships. The analyses were done for each gene separately, as well as for all genes combined. An analysis of a taxonomically expanded data set of cytochrome b sequences was performed in order to infer the phylogenetic positions of six genera for which nuclear genes could not be obtained. Monophyly of the Corvidae is supported by all analyses, as well as by the occurrence of a deletion of 16 bp in the β‐fibrinogen intron in all ingroup taxa. Temnurus and Pyrrhocorax are placed as the sister group to all other corvids, while Cissa and Urocissa appear as the next clade inside them. Further up in the tree, two larger and well‐supported clades of genera were recovered by the analyses. One has an entirely New World distribution (the New World jays), while the other includes mostly Eurasian (and one African) taxa. Outside these two major clades are Cyanopica and Perisoreus whose phylogenetic positions could not be determined by the present data. A biogeographic analysis of our data suggests that the Corvidae underwent an initial radiation in Southeast Asia. This is consistent with the observation that almost all basal clades in the phylogenetic tree consist of species adapted to tropical and subtropical forest habitats.
Timing of spring migration in birds: long‐term trends, North Atlantic Oscillation and the significance of different migration routes
Authors: Stervander Martin , Lindström Åke , Jonzén Niclas , Andersson Arne
Published: June 2005

We studied long‐term trends and the yearly variation in mean spring passage time in 36 passerine bird species trapped at Ottenby Bird Observatory in south‐eastern Sweden. Between the years 1952–2002, data were available for 22–45 years depending on species. Most long‐distance migrant species passed progressively earlier over the study period (range: 2.5 days earlier to 0.7 days later per 10 years, with an average of 0.9 days earlier per 10 years). The annual variation in timing of migration in most species, regardless of migration distance, correlated negatively with the winter index of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), a large‐scale climate phenomenon influencing the climate in the North Atlantic region. Birds passed earlier after mild and humid winters, corresponding to the high phase of the NAO. This corroborates the pattern found at a nearby migration site with a comparable dataset (Helgoland, 600 km WSW of Ottenby). However, short/medium‐distance migrant species at Ottenby, in contrast to the situation at Helgoland, have shown no general trend of earlier passage in recent years. This was probably a consequence of the shorter study period at Ottenby, which included only the last 22–32 years (41 years at Helgoland), when the NAO showed no significant trend. At the species‐specific level, the long‐term trends in passage time were similar at the two sites, and there was some congruence to the extent that a given species was affected by NAO. Long‐distance migrants wintering south and south‐east of the breeding grounds showed some of the strongest changes in long‐term trends (passing progressively earlier) at Ottenby, and for some of these species passage time varied negatively with NAO. Obviously, and contrary to previous suggestions, variations in NAO also influence birds migrating through eastern Europe, although the direct or indirect mechanisms through which this is achieved are unknown.
Life history varies with migratory distance in western sandpipers Calidris mauri
Authors: O'Hara Patrick D. , Fernández Guillermo , Becerril Felipe , De La Cueva Horacio , Lank David B.
Published: June 2005

The propensity of migratory waders to remain on the non‐breeding grounds during the arctic breeding season (“oversummer”) in their first biological year of life (“juveniles”) may be latitude, and thus migratory distance dependent. We compared the extent of preparation for northward migration of western sandpipers Calidris mauri spending the non‐breeding season in México and Panamá during 1995–1998. During winter residency and premigratory periods, we measured body mass and scored the extent of dull basic versus bright alternate breeding plumage of captured juveniles and adults (second biological year or older), and obtained additional plumage scores from observations of uniquely colour banded birds. Nearly all western sandpipers in México prepared for northward migration by increasing body mass and moulting into breeding plumage. In Panamá, most adults prepared for migration, but few, if any, juveniles did so. Patterns of body mass and breeding plumage development do not generally support the hypothesis that oversummering by juveniles results directly from less efficient foraging or from resource competition with adults. We suggest instead that costs directly associated with migratory distance per se influence the life history strategies of sandpipers spending the non‐breeding seasons at different latitudes. This latitudinal difference should interact with the well documented sex‐ratio cline in non‐breeding distribution (male western sandpipers predominating in northern parts of the range and females in southern parts). This suggests that females have more conservative life histories, prioritizing first year survivorship, relative to males that instead weight first‐year breeding opportunities.
Proximate causes and fitness consequences of hatching failure in lesser kestrels Falco naumanni
Authors: Serrano David , Tella José L. , Ursúa Esperanza
Published: June 2005

Hatching failure is a pervasive phenomenon in birds, but factors affecting hatchability remain poorly understood. We studied proximate causes and fitness consequences of hatching failure in a long‐monitored population of the colonial lesser kestrel Falco naumanni. We investigated whether hatchability was related to clutch characteristics, parental traits, and social or environmental features. Hatching failure represents a cost for the parents in terms of immediate fitness, since it reduced both their number of young fledged and recruits in the breeding population, even when controlling for clutch size. Hatching failure showed a non‐linear relationship with clutch size, clutches of four eggs showing higher levels of hatching success than larger or smaller clutches. Hatchability could therefore play a role in the evolution of optimal clutch size in this species, at least constraining the maximum number of eggs the parents can afford to incubate. Contrary to most studies, the mean volume of the clutch and the individual egg volume were negatively related to hatching failure, indicating that large eggs have thermoregulatory and/or nutritional advantages. Mean daily maximum temperature during incubation affected hatching success negatively, but only for females in poor condition. This result seems to indicate that females are reluctant to jeopardize their own condition, but instead sacrifice incubation effort by paying the costs of a lower hatching success in circumstances of high temperatures. There was no evidence that hatching failure was related to the intrinsic properties of individuals or genetic similarity between the parents as indicated by low repeatabilities of: (1) males that bred with different females, (2) females that bred with different males, and (3) pairs breeding together in different years. Neither colony size nor subpopulation size affected hatchability. All these findings show how hatching failure is simultaneously influenced by several factors acting in a complex way, which could in part explain the apparently conflicting conclusions of empirical or even experimental studies carried out to date.
Stable isotope analyses of feathers help identify autumn stopover sites of three long‐distance migrants in northeastern Africa
Authors: Yohannes Elizabeth , Hobson Keith A. , Pearson David J. , Wassenaar Leonard I.
Published: June 2005

The potential use of stable nitrogen (δ15N), carbon (δ13C) and hydrogen (δD) isotope ratios in feathers of marsh warblers Acrocephalus palustris, river warblers Locustella fluviatilis and whitethroats Sylvia communis was evaluated as a means to help identify the location and isotopic composition of autumn stopover sites in northeast Africa. Feather δD values were compared with regional precipitation δD maps averaged over autumn months. Compared with whitethroats, feather δ15N, δ13C, and δD values of marsh warblers and river warblers suggest the two warblers occupy and grow their feathers in geographic locations with relatively mesic environments, and with higher proportions of C3 (vs. C4) plants. However, δ13C values of marsh and river warblers were distinct enough to indicate use of different foodwebs. From previous studies, it is evident that during autumn stopover, river warblers moult their primaries in Ethiopia. It is likely that marsh warblers, like river warblers, stay in Ethiopia and/or in neighbouring regions. Based on feather δD values and regional δD precipitation maps, this region should lie between southeast Sudan and southwest Ethiopia. However, without additional regional isotopic maps in Africa, more precise locations of the stopover sites remain unclear. The relatively enriched δ15N and δ13C values of whitethroat feathers compared with the two other species, reflect the fact that whitethroats moult in relatively drier environments and/or with a lower proportion of C3 vs. C4 plants.
Ultra‐violet reflectance of male and female red grouse, Lagopus lagopus scoticus, sexual ornaments reflect nematode parasite intensity
Authors: Mougeot François , Redpath Steve M. , Leckie Fiona
Published: June 2005

In many birds, females prefer males with the biggest or brightest sexual ornaments, which might reflect a higher phenotypic quality, such as fewer parasites. Unlike humans, most birds detect near‐ultraviolet (UV) light, and UV signals can play an important role in sexual signalling and mate choice. Using a spectrophotometer, we analysed the colour of red grouse Lagopus lagopus scoticus sexual ornaments (their combs). We first show that combs reflect both in the red (600–700 nm) and UV (300–400 nm) part of the spectrum. Second, we investigated whether comb size and colour, and UV reflectance in particular, reflected an aspect of individual quality: the intensity of infection by a main nematode parasite, the caecal threadworm Trichostrongylus tenuis. We first analysed comb size and colour variation, and parasite intensity variation, in relation to sex and age. Males had bigger and redder combs than females, but UV brightness was greater for female than for male combs. Comb colour also differed between age groups, with young birds of both sexes showing brighter UV than old birds. Young grouse also had fewer T. tenuis worms than old grouse. We further tested whether intensity of infection could be predicted from comb characteristics (size and colour) in male and female red grouse. We found that parasite intensity was not significantly related to comb size or red brightness, but fewer worms were predicted from brighter UV in combs, in both males and females. The results indicate that UV reflectance of combs have a quality revealing function and might play an important role in grouse mate choice: UV brightness of combs could enable both male and female red grouse to assess the parasite loads of a potential mate.
Differential migration of chiffchaffs Phylloscopus collybita and P. ibericus in Europe and Africa
Authors: Catry Paulo , Lecoq Miguel , Araújo António , Conway Greg , Felgueiras Marcial , King J. Michael B. , Rumsey Stephen , Salima Hamidi , Tenreiro Paulo
Published: June 2005

Differential migration is a widespread, but poorly understood, phenomenon in birds. In this paper, we present the first detailed field study of differential migration in the Old World warbler (Sylviidae) family. We studied two chiffchaff Phylloscopus [collybita] semispecies: the common chiffchaff P. [c.] collybita and the Iberian chiffchaff P. [c.] ibericus. Using data collected at several latitudes in Europe and Africa, we present convincing evidence for differential distance migration of sexes in chiffchaffs, with females moving further than males. Interestingly, while there was a pronounced gradient in the sex‐ratios in Europe and North Africa (with an increasing proportion of females with declining latitude), no clear pattern was found south of the Sahara, where sex‐ratios were more male‐biased than predicted by a simple latitude model. This suggests that, amongst the chiffchaffs wintering in West Africa, a large proportion is composed by Iberian birds, and provides support to previous suggestions that Iberian chiffchaffs are long distance migrants. Results from detailed studies in Senegal also show that chiffchaffs display differential timing of spring migration, with males leaving the winter quarters considerably earlier than females. The results are discussed in the framework of the three main (non‐mutually exclusive) hypotheses attempting to explain the latitudinal segregation of the sexes. Given the relative failure of standard comparative studies to discriminate between competing single‐factor hypotheses to explain differential migration, it is argued that the chiffchaff species complex might be particularly suited to study this issue using a new approach suggested by Cristol et al. (1999): detailed (further) comparisons between closely related species (such as the common and the Iberian chiffchaffs) could help identifying the key factors to be incorporated into optimality models that can predict relative distance of migration of different sex or age classes.
Genetic similarity among Eurasian subspecies of boreal owls Aegolius funereus
Authors: E. Koopman Marni , B. McDonald David , D. Hayward Gregory , Eldegard Katrine , A. Sonerud Geir , G. Sermach Sergey
Published: June 2005

Boreal owls Aegolius funereus (referred to as Tengmalm's owls in Europe) breed in boreal forests throughout the Holarctic region and in high‐elevation subalpine forests further south. They are currently classified as seven subspecies; six found throughout Eurasia, and one in North America. The geographic distribution of boreal owls in North America and Eurasia is similar, as are their patterns of dispersal and irruption. Because a recent genetic study of boreal owls in North America found very little genetic differentiation among widely disparate locations, we expected that boreal owls in Eurasia similarly would have very little genetic differentiation. Using seven microsatellite markers, we analyzed genetic samples from 275 boreal owls in North America, 36 in Norway, and five in eastern Russia. We found no detectable genetic differentiation between Norwegian and Russian owls, but notable differentiation between North American and Eurasian owls. Low intra‐continental genetic differentiation likely results from high rates of long‐distance dispersal among subpopulations of boreal owls. In light of these results, we recommend further genetic sampling of boreal owls throughout Eurasia in order to determine whether six separate subspecies here are warranted.
Lack of competition between barnacle geese Branta leucopsis and pink‐footed geese Anser brachyrhynchus during the pre‐breeding period in Svalbard
Authors: Fox Anthony D. , Bergersen Espen
Published: June 2005

The feeding ecology of barnacle geese and pink‐footed geese was studied in Sassendalen, Svalbard during the pre‐nesting period (late May) to assess the potential for inter‐specific competition. Barnacle geese fed almost exclusively (97%) by grazing above‐ground plant material, mostly (79%) along snow edges in moss‐mat habitats. Pink‐footed geese fed mostly (93%) by excavating below‐ground parts of plants, mostly (56%) away from snow and were more evenly distributed between habitat types. Barnacle goose faeces contained mostly (62%) moss, that of pink‐footed geese mostly (48%) below‐ground plant storage organs (especially Bistorta viviparum L.). Principal components analysis of dropping contents showed no overlap in species diet in allopatry or sympatry. There was little overlap in diet and feeding ecology of the two species at this pre‐nesting feeding site. Hence, unless increased goose feeding densities affect future vegetation density and composition, under present circumstances, increasing numbers of either species is unlikely to affect foraging conditions for the other at this important stage in the annual cycle. However, such changes could have local density‐dependent intra‐specific effects.
Trial of trefoil factor 3 enemas, in combination with oral 5‐aminosalicylic acid, for the treatment of mild‐to‐moderate left‐sided ulcerative colitis
Authors: Mahmood A. , Melley L. , Fitzgerald A. J. , Ghosh S. , Playford R. J.
Published: June 2005

Background : Current treatment of ulcerative colitis is imperfect. Trefoil peptides are known to stimulate repair in many models of injury, including animal models of colitis.

Aim : To assess the efficacy of trefoil factor family‐3 enema treatment in a clinical trial.

Methods : A total of 16 patients with mild‐to‐moderate left sided ulcerative colitis were recruited into a double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled study. Patients taking steroids or with proctitis only were excluded. Patients received 75 mL enemas containing either human recombinant trefoil factor family‐3 (10 mg/mL) or saline alone once a day for 14 days. All patients also received an oral dose‐increment of 1.2 g of mesalazine daily above their normal usage. Patients were assessed at 0, 2, 4 and 12 weeks. Remission was defined as Ulcerative Colitis Disease Activity Index of 0 or 1 with no blood in stool. Individual clinical improvement was defined as a Ulcerative Colitis Disease Activity Index reduction of >3. Data was analysed using chi‐square test and anova.

Results : Median Ulcerative Colitis Disease Activity Index at entry were 8.5 (trefoil factor family‐3 group) and 8 (placebo group). Analysed on an intention‐to‐treat basis, only one patient went into remission (in trefoil factor family‐3 group at day 28). Clinical improvement was seen in two trefoil factor family‐3 and three placebo patients on day 14 and two patients in each group on day 28.

Conclusion : Increasing the dose of 5‐aminosalicylic acid was moderately effective in reducing the Ulcerative Colitis Disease Activity Index but was insufficient to induce remission. Trefoil factor family‐3 enemas were well‐tolerated but did not provide additional benefit above that of adding additional 5‐aminosalicylic acid alone.
Irritable bowel syndrome in the United States: prevalence, symptom patterns and impact
Authors: Hungin A. P. S. , Chang L. , Locke G. R. , Dennis E. H. , Barghout V.
Published: June 2005

Background : The impact of irritable bowel syndrome, a gastrointestinal motility disorder, is underestimated and poorly quantified, as clinicians may see only a minority of sufferers.

Aim : To determine the prevalence, symptom patterns and impact of irritable bowel syndrome in the US.

Methods : This two‐phase community survey used quota sampling and random‐digit telephone dialling (screening interview) to identify individuals with medically diagnosed irritable bowel syndrome or individuals not formally diagnosed, but fulfilling irritable bowel syndrome diagnostic criteria (Manning, Rome I or II). Information on irritable bowel syndrome symptoms, general health status, lifestyle and impact of symptoms on individuals’ lives was collected using in‐depth follow‐up interviews. Data were also collected for healthy controls identified in the screening interviews.

Results : The total prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome in 5009 screening interviews was 14.1% (medically diagnosed: 3.3%; undiagnosed, but meeting irritable bowel syndrome criteria: 10.8%). Abdominal pain/discomfort was the most common symptom prompting consultation. Most sufferers (74% medically diagnosed; 63% undiagnosed) reported alternating constipation and diarrhoea. Previously diagnosed gastrointestinal disorders occurred more often in sufferers than non‐sufferers. Irritable bowel syndrome sufferers had more days off work (6.4 vs. 3.0) and days in bed, and reduced activities to a greater extent than non‐sufferers.

Conclusions : Most (76.6%) irritable bowel syndrome sufferers in the US are undiagnosed. Irritable bowel syndrome has a substantial impact on sufferers’ well‐being and health, with considerable socioeconomic consequences.
Review article: the management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Farrell J. J. , Friedman L. S.
Published: June 2005

Several recent advances have been made in the evaluation and management of acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding. This review focuses on the management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding, especially acute severe bleeding.

The aim of the study was to critically review the published literature on important management issues in lower gastrointestinal bleeding, including haemodynamic resuscitation, diagnostic evaluation, and endoscopic, radiologic, and surgical therapy, and to develop an algorithm for the management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding, based on this literature review.

Publications pertaining to lower gastrointestinal bleeding were identified by searches of the MEDLINE database for the years 1966 to December 2004. Clinical trials and review articles were specifically identified, and their reference citation lists were searched for additional publications not identified in the database searches. Clinical trials and current clinical recommendations were assessed by using commonly applied criteria. Specific recommendations are made based on the evidence reviewed.

Approximately, 200 original and review articles were reviewed and graded. There is a paucity of high‐quality evidence to guide the management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding, and current endoscopic, radiologic, and surgical practices appear to reflect local expertise and availability of services. Endoscopic literature supports the role of urgent colonoscopy and therapy where possible. Radiology literature supports the role of angiography, especially after a positive bleeding scan has been obtained. Limited surgical data support the role of segmental resection in the management of persistent lower gastrointestinal bleeding after localization by either colonoscopy or angiography.

There is limited high‐quality research in the area of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Recent advances have improved the endoscopic, radiologic and surgical management of this problem. However, treatment decisions are still often based on local expertise and preference. With increased access to urgent therapeutic endoscopy for the management of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding, diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy can be expected to play an increasing role in the management of acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding.
Epithelial cell proliferation of the colonic mucosa in diverticular disease: a case–control study
Authors: Morini S. , Hassan C. , Zullo A. , De Francesco V. , Burattini O. , Margiotta M. , Panella C. , Ierardi E.
Published: June 2005

Background : A higher risk of both advanced adenoma and carcinoma occurs in the sigmoid colon of patients with diverticular disease, for which bacterial carcinogens have been claimed to play a role.

Aim : To assess epithelial cell proliferation in colonic mucosa of diverticular disease patients before and after rifaximin treatment.

Methods : Twelve consecutive patients with a new endoscopic diagnosis of left‐sided diverticular disease and 12 matched controls were enrolled. Epithelial cell proliferation in the sigmoid mucosa was assessed by using proliferating cell nuclear antigen. The proliferating cell nuclear antigen index of the whole crypt and of the upper third was separately evaluated before and after 10‐day rifaximin (400 mg b.d.) therapy.

Results : Proliferating cell nuclear antigen index in the upper third of the crypt was significantly higher in the diverticular patients (median: 25, range: 14–32) as compared with controls (median: 15, range: 5–20) (P = 0.038), and it was not reverted by rifaximin therapy. No difference of the proliferating cell nuclear antigen index of the whole crypt was detected between cases (median: 27, range: 23–44) and controls (median: 25, range: 18–42) (P = 0.6).

Conclusions : Our data showed an upward shifting of cellular proliferation in the sigmoid mucosa of patients with diverticular disease. Because of rifaximin failure in reversing this alteration, factors other than the bacterial load should probably be investigated.
Human leucocyte antigen determinants of susceptibility to Barrett's oesophagus in Asians – a preliminary study
Authors: Rajendra S. , Ackroyd R. , Murad S. , Mohan C. , Ho J. J. , Goh K. L. , Azrena A. , Too C. L.
Published: June 2005

Background : Characteristic immune profiles have been demonstrated in gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease. However, the genetic basis of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease remains unclear.

Aim : To investigate whether certain human leucocyte antigen genes are associated with Barrett's oesophagus.

Methods : Asian patients of Malay, Chinese and Indian descent with Barrett's oesophagus (n = 59) and those without reflux symptoms and a normal oesophagus (n =60) were recruited prospectively using endoscopic and histopathological criteria. Human leucocyte antigen class I and II typing was performed using a polymerase chain reaction sequence‐specific primers method.

Results : The HLA‐B7 allele was present in 17% (10 of 59) of patients with Barrett's oesophagus when compared with 0% (zero of 60) of controls [P = 0.0006, corrected P = 0.0171, OR = 25.67]. Subgroup analysis revealed that the HLA‐B7 allele was confined almost exclusively to Indians with Barrett's oesophagus, 43% (nine of 21) vs. 0% (zero of 19) Indian controls (P = 0.0014, corrected P = 0.0406, OR = 29.64). No class II associations, protective human leucocyte antigens or extended haplotypes for disease susceptibility were identified.

Conclusions : Barrett's oesophagus in Asians, particularly Indians, is strongly positively associated with HLA‐B7; reinforcing a genetic component to gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease. A larger sample size and different ethnic populations should be genotyped to further confirm this association and identify possible additional risk factors in the human leucocyte antigen locus.
Changes in different regions of hepatitis B virus gene in hepatitis B ‘e’ antigen‐negative patients with chronic hepatitis B: the effect of long‐term lamivudine therapy
Authors: Buti M. , Jardi R. , Rodriguez‐Frias F. , Valdes A. , Schaper M. , Esteban R. , Guardia J.
Published: June 2005

Background : Lamivudine therapy for chronic hepatitis B has been associated with changes in different regions of the hepatitis B virus nucleotide sequence.

Aim : To study changes in the sequences of polymerase and precore/core promoter regions of hepatitis B virus, before and during 5 years of therapy with lamivudine.

Methods : Eighty consecutive samples were taken from 10 chronic hepatitis B ‘e’ antigen‐negative patients.

Results : Nine patients carried hepatitis B virus precore mutations during the study. Before therapy, wild type was replaced by A1896 in two (20%) cases. During treatment, A1896 reverted transitory to wild type in five cases (50%) and in one case wild type was replaced by A1896. The continuous detection of precore mutations during therapy was associated with a lower response rate.

YMDD mutations were observed in nine cases and both, L180M and M204V/I mutations were simultaneously detected in six cases. About 75% of the patients with M204V mutations were responders and none with M204I or mixed pattern sustained response.

Conclusion : Hepatitis B ‘e’ antigen‐negative patients exhibit changes in the precore regions both spontaneously and under lamivudine therapy, the transitory reversion to wild type being most frequently witnessed. Patients carrying M204V mutations are more likely to respond to therapy. If, in further studies, these results are confirmed some patients with YMDD mutations could benefit from prolonging the duration of lamivudine therapy.
Digitaria ciliaris seed banks in untilled and tilled soybean fields
Authors: KOBAYASHI HIROYUKI , OYANAGI ATSUSHI
Published: June 2005

We gained an understanding of the vertical distribution and seasonal dynamics of Digitaria ciliaris (Retz.) Koeler seed banks in untilled and tilled soybean fields using studies on naturally established seed banks and on seeds stored in the field. In untilled fields, D. ciliaris seeds were highly concentrated on or near the soil surface from late autumn to spring, whereas only a few seeds were found on the soil surface in the following summer. One year after tillage, there was a high concentration of the seeds on the soil surface. In the tilled fields, seeds were distributed uniformly throughout the soil profile and were present all year long, with only a few seeds found in the following summer. A study of seeds that were artificially buried or stored on the soil surface verified that D. ciliaris seeds were extremely short‐lived in the field and could not form a large, persistent seed bank, even when the seeds were buried by tillage. Tillage contributes to suppression of D. ciliaris seedling emergence by reducing the number of seeds that are on or near the soil surface. Furthermore, D. ciliaris seeds showed a greater need for light in order to germinate throughout the year, even when they were stored on the soil surface. Particularly, light was critical for germination during summer. The light requirement for germination should be one reason why viable D. ciliaris seeds on the soil surface are carried over into the next season in untilled fields.
Red rice (Oryza sativa L.) and barnyardgrass (Echinochloa spp.) biotype susceptibility to postemergence‐applied imazamox
Authors: VASILAKOGLOU IOANNIS , DHIMA KICO
Published: June 2005

Pot experiments were conducted to evaluate the level of imazamox tolerance in five red rice (Oryza sativa L.) and four barnyardgrass (three Echinochloa crus‐galli (L.) Beauv. and one Echinochloa oryzoides (Ard.) Fritch) morphologically distinct biotypes collected from rice fields in northern Greece. The susceptibility of barnyardgrass biotypes to propanil was also studied. Red rice biotypes were not controlled by imazamox applied at 40 g ha−1. In contrast, 80 g imazamox ha−1 provided 56–84% red rice control (averaged across shoot number and fresh weight reduction). Not all barnyardgrass biotypes were susceptible to imazamox applied postemergence. However, propanil applied at 2.6 kg ha−1 controlled the E. crus‐galli biotypes well, but propanil applied at rates of 2.6 and 5.2 kg ha−1 was not effective in reducing the shoot number and fresh weight of the E. oryzoides biotype. Propanil applied at 10.4 kg ha−1 reduced the shoot number and fresh weight of this biotype by 78 and 85%, respectively. In most cases, a linear equation (y = % of control, x = g ha−1) provided the best fit for regressions between red rice or barnyardgrass shoot number or fresh weight and imazamox rates. The results of this study suggest that postemergence application of imazamox is not effective against all red rice and barnyardgrass biotypes found in the rice fields of Greece and that significant variability regarding herbicide efficacy among biotypes might exist.
Physiological basis of differential phytotoxic activity between fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl and cyhalofop‐butyl‐treated barnyardgrass
Authors: KIM JIN‐SEOG , OH JUNG‐IM , KIM TAE‐JOON , PYON JONG YEONG , CHO KWANG YUN
Published: June 2005

This study investigated the physiological causes of differences in phytotoxic symptoms shown in barnyardgrass from foliar applications of the herbicides fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl and cyhalofop‐butyl. When these were applied to the third leaves of the whole plant, the chlorosis and desiccation in the third leaf was greater in fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl than cyhalofop‐butyl. However, initial growth inhibition of the fourth leaf was greater when using cyhalofop‐butyl than when using fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl. In the shoot regrowth test, regrowth at five days after treatment (DAT) was smaller in cyhalofop‐butyl than in fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl; the regrowth at 10 DAT exhibited the reverse trend. The chlorosis (decrease of chlorophylls: carotenoids ratio) in barnyardgrass leaf segments that were floated on herbicide solution was greater in the fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl treatment. These results indicate that different herbicidal responses induced by the two herbicides are likely to be related to differential translocation and metabolism. The relatively light chlorosis and desiccation in treated leaves, severe cessation of initial growth (but a lower final herbicidal efficacy in the cyhalofop‐butyl treatment) are probably related to its rapid translocation to the meristem region from the treated leaf, followed by faster metabolism. In contrast, the relatively greater chlorosis and desiccation compared to inhibition of initial growth in the fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl treatment is likely to be related to its relatively slower translocation and metabolism in the treated leaf.
Weed composition and cover after three years of soil fertility management in the central Brazilian Amazon: Compost, fertilizer, manure and charcoal applications
Authors: MAJOR JULIE , STEINER CHRISTOPH , DITOMMASO ANTONIO , FALCÃO NEWTON P.S. , LEHMANN JOHANNES
Published: June 2005

Soils of the lowland tropics in the central Brazilian Amazon are generally highly leached, acidic and nutrient‐poor. Charcoal, combined with other soil amendments, might improve fertility but this, in turn, could lead to increased weed problems for agricultural production. This experiment was conducted to assess weed pressure and species composition on plots receiving various inorganic and organic soil amendments, including charcoal. Additions of inorganic fertilizer, compost and chicken manure resulted in increases in weed ground cover of 40, 22 and 53%, respectively, and increases in species richness of 20, 48, and 63%, respectively. When chicken manure was applied, dominance by a few weed species was reduced, such that different species were more evenly represented. Although charcoal additions alone did not significantly affect weed ground cover or species richness, a synergistic effect occurred when both charcoal and inorganic fertilizers were applied. The percentage ground cover of weeds was 45% within plots receiving inorganic fertilizer, 2% within plots receiving charcoal and 66% within plots receiving both amendments. Improvements in the fertility of nutrient‐poor soils of the tropics might increase weed pressure and make the development of effective weed management strategies more critical. These effects on weed populations were observed nearly 2.5 years after the addition of charcoal, chicken manure and compost, and > 1 year after the last application of inorganic fertilizer.
Triticeae plants preferentially responded to S‐1‐α‐methylbenzyl‐3‐p‐tolylurea in root growth and tetrazolium reduction assays
Authors: TANAKA CHIAKI , ITAGAKI MINORI , ARAI SHIN , OMOKAWA HIROYOSHI
Published: June 2005

Optically active 1‐α‐methylbenzyl‐3‐p‐tolylurea (MBTU) shows diverse plant physiological properties. Gramineae plants exhibit enantioselective root growth inhibition by R/S‐MBTU. In the present paper, the dose–growth response (DGR) towards the optically active MBTUs was examined in the tribe Triticeae plants, including Hordeum vulgare L., Secale cereale L., Triticum aestivum L. and Aegilops cylindrica Host., and compared with those of the genus Bromus (B. inermis Leyss), which is classified into the tribe Bromeae, and the genus Oryza. In spite of their phylogenetic difference, the Triticeae plants responded homogeneously in their chiral recognition. Of particular interest, is the result of the dichotomic enantioselective response of tested Gramineae plants. Only the genus Oryza responds to R‐MBTU, and the tribes Triticeae (Triticum, Aegilops, Secale and Hordeum) and Bromeae (Bromus) preferentially respond to the S‐enantiomer. The tetrazolium–phenazine methosulfate–formazan (TPF) assay was demonstrated to measure redox activity of root tips of the MBTU‐treated Oryza sativa and T. aestivum, which are the typical dichotomic, enantioselective‐responsive plants. In Oryza and Triticum root tips, enantioselective responses of reduction activity in TPF assays were strongly related to those of root growth inhibition in DGR assays, suggesting aggressive participation of the MBTU in the generation of the reducing mechanism in mitochondria.
A study on spot heating induced fatigue crack growth retardation
Authors: RAY P. K. , RAY P. K. , VERMA B. B.
Published: June 2005

The propagation of a growing fatigue crack can be effectively retarded by heating a spot near the crack tip (under zero stress condition). Spot heating to a subcritical temperature and at a precise location modifies the crack growth behaviour in a way, more or less, similar to specimens subjected to an overload spike. It is observed that the magnitude of spot heating induced crack growth retardation increases with increase in spot temperature. It is also observed that the crack growth behaviour is influenced by the position of the heating spot and there exists an optimum position of hot spot that produces maximum retardation in fatigue crack growth rate. The plastic zone length due to spot heating has been estimated using experimental data. It is found that the plastic zone length due to spot heating increases exponentially with increase in spot temperature. The Wheeler model for crack growth retardation has been modified by introducing a plastic zone correction factor λ. The values of λ and the shaping exponent, m, in the Wheeler model have been obtained for different spot heating temperatures.
Fracture of plasma‐sprayed thick thermal barrier coatings under multiaxial stress states
Authors: GAO H. , SOCIE D. F.
Published: June 2005

Failure behaviour of free‐standing plasma‐sprayed coatings was investigated under combined axial and shear loading. Thin‐walled tubular specimens were loaded with various combinations of tension/compression and torsion. This allows the failure surface to be established for loading situations where the two principal stresses are of opposite signs. Specimens failed in one of the two modes, a tensile failure perpendicular to the maximum principal stress or a compression shear failure through the thickness. Failure data were adequately described by the maximum principal stress theory. Stress–strain curves fall within a single scatter band depending on the failure mode. In situ deformation tests showed that the mechanism was microcrack closing and sliding in compression and microcrack opening, coalescence and the development of new microcracks in tension.
Population pharmacokinetic analysis of indinavir in HIV‐infected patient treated with a stable antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Brendel Karl , Legrand Mayeule , Taburet Anne‐Marie , Baron Gabriel , Goujard Cécile , Mentré France ,   the Cophar 1‐ANRS 102 Trial Group
Published: June 2005

The objectives of this study were to build a population pharmacokinetic model that describe plasma concentrations of indinavir in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected patients with sustained virological response under a stable antiretroviral combination, and to characterize the effect of covariates and comedications on indinavir pharmacokinetics. Data were obtained from 45 patients who received different dosages of indinavir: either indinavir alone t.i.d. (mostly 800 mg), either indinavir b.i.d. (mostly 800 mg) with a booster dose of 100 mg of ritonavir. Patients were required to have a baseline plasma HIV RNA <200 copies/mL and to have unchanged antiretroviral treatment for 6 months. Indinavir concentrations were measured at a first visit (one sample before drug administration and five after) and at a second visit 3 months later (before and 1 or 3 h after drug administration). A one‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and first‐order elimination best described indinavir pharmacokinetics. For patients treated with indinavir alone, absorption rate constant was estimated to be 0.43/h, and oral clearance Cl/F was 33 L/h. For patients treated with indinavir plus ritonavir these estimates were 0.25/h and 19 L/h, respectively. Cl/F was found to increase by 1.45‐fold in men and by 1.18‐fold in patients also receiving zidovudine. Oral volume of distribution (V/F) was 24 L. The inter‐individual and intra‐individual variability were 117 and 205% for V/F, 42 and 58% for Cl/F, respectively. This population analysis in patients with sustained virological response, quantified the effect of ritonavir on the absorption rate constant and on the clearance of indinavir, showed an increase of Cl/F in men and can be used to draw reference curve for therapeutic drug monitoring.
Prostaglandin E synthase in the pathophysiology of arthritis
Authors: Kojima Fumiaki , Kato Soichiro , Kawai Shinichi
Published: June 2005

Prostaglandin E synthase (PGES) is a recently identified terminal enzyme that acts downstream of cyclooxygenase and catalyzes the conversion of prostaglandin (PG) H2 to PGE2. At least three isozymes have been cloned so far, which are called membrane‐associated PGES (mPGES)‐1, mPGES‐2, and cytosolic PGES. Among them, mPGES‐1 is induced by various inflammatory stimuli in some cells and tissues. Induction of mPGES‐1 in the component of articular tissues of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis has been demonstrated in vitro. Recent studies using adjuvant induced arthritis model have shown the increase of mPGES‐1 expression resulted in the increase of PGE2 production at the sites of inflammation. In addition, reports of mPGES‐1‐deficient mice clearly suggest the role of mPGES‐1 in the process of chronic inflammation such as collagen‐induced arthritis and collagen antibody induced arthritis in vivo. Thus, recent in vitro and in vivo findings suggest that mPGES‐1 may be a novel therapeutic target for arthritis. This paper introduces recent advances in research about the role of PGES in the pathophysiology of arthritis.
Gefitinib (ZD1839, Iressa®) in non‐small‐cell lung cancer: a review of clinical trials from a daily practice perspective
Authors: Barlési Fabrice , Tchouhadjian Cécile , Doddoli Christophe , Villani Patrick , Greillier Laurent , Kleisbauer Jean‐Pierre , Thomas Pascal , Astoul Philippe
Published: June 2005

Gefitinib (ZD1839) is the most widely studied targeting agent in the area of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Gefitinib is an orally active epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase (TK) inhibitor. In order to assess the role of gefitinib in the management of NSCLC patients, we systematically reviewed published clinical trials from a daily practice perspective. A systematic research was made in the international medical literature. Gefitinib demonstrated a good tolerance and an encouraging efficacy in pretreated NSCLC patients in preclinical studies. These results were then confirmed in two phase II trials (IDEAL 1 and 2) involving more than 400 patients mostly pretreated with a platinum‐containing regimen and docetaxel. All these results were reinforced by those of retrospective studies on patients enrolled in a compassionate use programme. Thus, two phase III trials in chemo‐naive patients were initiated (INTACT 1 and 2). Unfortunately, the use of gefitinib with standard combination chemotherapy provided no survival benefit nor response rate or progression‐free survival improvement over placebo. Furthermore, we also reviewed the results of studies interested in the characterization of predictive clinical or biological markers for response to gefitinib and discussed the results obtained with other EGFR inhibitors. The efficacy of gefitinib in the first‐line setting of each stage of NSCLC has to be further studied through clinical trials. Furthermore, translational studies characterizing the molecular features involved in the response to anti‐EGFR‐targeted therapies are needed.
The implications of P‐glycoprotein in HIV: friend or foe?
Authors: Owen Andrew , Chandler Becky , Back David J.
Published: June 2005

P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp), coded by the ABCB1 gene, has a wide tissue distribution. The drug transporter is known to limit the bioavailability of a plethora of drugs and xenobiotics including the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) protease inhibitors. There remains a considerable degree of debate in the literature with respect to the role of ABCB1 polymorphisms in HIV‐treatment outcome and some studies have also implicated antiretroviral drugs as inducers of P‐gp. Recent evidence indicates a role for P‐gp in the inhibition of viral infectivity and/or release and cellular relationships with other infection‐related proteins (and cholesterol). It is becoming increasingly clear that future studies on P‐gp in HIV should consider both pharmacological and virological issues.
Allergy‐like reactions to iodinated contrast agents. A critical analysis
Authors: Jean‐Marc Idée , Emmanuelle Pinès , Philippe Prigent , Claire Corot
Published: June 2005

Allergy‐like reactions may occur following administration of iodinated contrast media (CM), mostly in at‐risk patients (patients with history of previous reaction, history of allergy, co‐treated with interleukin‐2 or beta‐blockers, etc.) but remain generally unpredictable. Severe and fatal reactions are very rare events. All categories of CM may induce such reactions, although first generation (high osmolar CM) have been found to induce a higher rate of adverse events than low osmolar CM. However, no differences were found between the two categories of CM with respect to mortality. Delayed reactions can also occur. There are no differences between the various categories of CM except for non‐ionic dimers, which are more likely to induce such effect. Numerous clinical studies have evaluated the prophylactic value of drugs (mostly antihistamines and corticosteroids). Results are unclear and highly variable. Any prevention depends upon the mechanism involved. However, the mechanism of CM‐induced allergy‐like reaction remains disputed. Relatively recent data revived the hypothesis of a type‐I hypersensitivity mechanism. Positive skin tests to CM have been reported. However, the affinity of IgE towards CM has been found to be very low in the only study which actually evaluated it. Other pathophysiological mechanisms (involving direct secretory effects on mast cells or basophils, or activation of the complement system associated or not with the plasma contact system) are also much debated. Anaphylaxis and anaphylactoid reactions are, in the end, clinically undistinguishable.