bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Pain and Autonomic Phenomena in Headache and Other Pain Conditions
Authors: Jänig W
Published: December 2004

Involvement of the (efferent) autonomic nervous system in the generation of pain is ongoing matter of debate. Based on clinical and experimental observations, there are good arguments that the sympathetic nervous system may be involved in pain following trauma, with and without nerve lesion, at an extremity, such as in complex regional pain syndrome type I and II. However, the mechanisms involved are in many cases still unclear. In various types of headache there is no convicing evidence that the sympathetic nervous system is involved in the generation of pain, although these pains may be accompanied by considerable autonomic reactions which are dependent on activity in sympatheitc neurons. Migraine and headaches with autonomic symptoms are accompanied by autonomic reactions which are dependent on activity in cranial parasympathetic neurons. Whether parasympathetic neurons innervating cranial blood vessels are involved in activation or sensitization of trigemino-vascular afferents is discussed and needs experimental verification.
Testing the grass‐fire cycle: alien grass invasion in the tropical savannas of northern Australia
Authors: Rossiter Natalie A. , Setterfield Samantha A. , Douglas Michael M. , Hutley Lindsay B.
Published: December 2004

Abstract. Invasive alien grasses can increase fuel loads, leading to changes in fire regimes of invaded ecosystems by increasing the frequency, intensity and spatial extent of fires. Andropogon gayanus Kunth. (Gamba grass), a tall perennial grass from Africa, is invading ecosystems in the Top End of northern Australia. To determine whether A. gayanus alters savanna fire regimes, we compared fuel loads and fire intensities at invaded sites with those from native grass savannas. Savanna invaded by A. gayanus had fuel loads up to seven times higher than those dominated by native grasses. This higher fuel load supported a fire that was on average eight times more intense than those recorded in native grass savannas at the same time of year (means 15700 ± 6200 and 2100 ± 290 kW m−1, respectively), and was the highest early dry season fire intensities ever recorded in the Northern Territory. These results suggest that A. gayanus is a serious threat to northern Australia's savannas, with the potential to alter vegetation structure and initiate a grass‐fire cycle.
Whole‐body impedance recording – a practical method for the diagnosis of sleep apnoea
Authors: Saarelainen Seppo , Himanen Sari‐Leena , Hasan Joel , Virkkala Jussi , Kööbi Tiit
Published: December 2004

The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of whole‐body impedance cardiography (ICGWB) in sleep studies, particularly in sleep apnoea detection. A comparison between simultaneous whole night ICGWB and standard polysomnographic recordings were made in 14 patients with a clinical suspicion of obstructive sleep apnoea, a mean age of 46 years (range 30–63 years) and a mean BMI of 29 kg m−2 (25–47). Obstructive apnoeas, central apnoeas and hypopnoeas all caused characteristic patterns in the ICGWB tracing. For an apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI) > 15 events h−1, the sensitivity of ICGWB was 89% and the specificity 80%. In conclusion, ICGWB signal includes valuable physiological information that can be effectively used for the detection of sleep apnoea episodes. The method seems promising in cases where the multichannel polysomnography is not applicable or when ICGWB is used for haemodynamic monitoring in seriously ill and postoperative patients.
The effect of different knee angles on knee volume measured with the Perometer® device in uninjured subjects*
Authors: Man I. O. W. , Elsabagh S. M. , Morrissey M. C.
Published: December 2004

The Perometer® is an optoelectronic device used to calculate limb volume. However, knee angle effect on knee volume during a Perometer measurement has not been reported. This could be a potential confounding factor in assessing knee volume in subjects with impaired knee mobility and where volume measurements are taken over time. To address this issue, bilateral knee volume measurements were recorded from 20 uninjured subjects in seven different knee angles from 0–60° flexion. All 40 knees were not measured in all seven angles because of obstruction of the measurement frame when some knees were in 50° and 60° flexion. Thus, the volume data was separated into three subgroups for analysis: 40 knees at knee flexion angles 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40°; 36 knees at 50°; and 16 knees at 60°. Repeated measures analysis of variance showed a statistically significant difference between the volume measurements in the three subgroups: 0–40° knee flexion [F(4,156) = 35·146, P<0·001], 50° knee flexion (F(5,175) = 56·826, P<0·001] and 60° knee flexion, [F(6,90) = 45·825, P<0·001]. Subsequent paired t‐tests showed statistically significant [P<0·001] differences in knee volume for all angle comparisons except for 0 and 10° (absolute volume difference of 1·2 ml; P = 0·772) and 0 and 20° (absolute volume difference of 10·9 ml; P = 0·036) (Bonferroni adjustment applied). The absolute values of the differences that were shown to be statistically significantly different ranged from 12–47 ml for the 0–40° subgroup; 39–85 ml for the 50° subgroup and 35–107 ml for the 60° subgroup. In conclusion, knee angle affects Perometer knee volume measurements and statistically significant differences occur as knee flexion exceeds 20° with greater differences occurring as the knee is more flexed. Hence, knee angle should be reproduced in re‐testing and in side‐to‐side comparisons when evaluating knee volume with the Perometer.
Cerebral oxygenation monitor during head‐up and ‐down tilt using near‐infrared spatially resolved spectroscopy*
Authors: Kurihara Koichi , Kikukawa Azusa , Kobayashi Asao
Published: December 2004

Reflectance near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has become a suitable and easily manageable method to monitor cerebral oxygenation changes in presyncopal and syncopal symptoms caused by postural changing or standing. A new clinical tissue oxygenation monitor has been recently developed which measures absolute tissue haemoglobin saturation (Tissue Oxygenation Index, TOI) utilizing spatially resolved spectroscopy (SRS). The present study examined the effects of postural changes on cerebral oxygenation as reflected in SRS‐NIRS findings. Cerebral oxyhaemoglobin (O2Hb), deoxyhaemoglobin (HHb), and the TOI were recorded from both sides of the forehead in five healthy male subjects (age range, 28–40 years) during 90° head‐up tilt (HUT) and −6° head‐down tilt (HDT). Three series of measurements were carried out on separate days. O2Hb was decreased during HUT. TOI was significantly lower in HUT than in the supine position (SUP). There was no significant change in TOI during HDT. A significant session effect was observed in the left forehead TOI during SUP, but not in the right. SRS‐NIRS measurements confirmed sub‐clinical alterations of cortical oxygenation during HUT. NIRS data from the left side of the forehead, which may vary with cognitive or emotional activation, were more variable than those from the right side.
Pre‐ and post‐discharge feeding of very preterm infants: impact on growth and bone mineralization
Authors: Kurl Sangita , Heinonen Kirsti , Länsimies Esko
Published: December 2004

In this prospective study we examined (1) how the nutritional status of very preterm infants, judged by growth measures and biochemical values, evolved during the initial hospitalization; (2) the effect of feeding on growth after discharge from hospital; and (3) the risk factors associated with low lumbar bone mineral content (BMC) later in infancy. Sixty‐four former preterm infants had their lumbar spine (L2–L4) BMC assessed by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry when they weighed between 5 and 7 kg. Predicted BMC values were calculated based on our previously reported reference lumbar BMC data. These values were used to convert the preterm infants’ BMC values into percentages. The extremely preterm group (gestational age ≤28 weeks) had significantly more respiratory morbidity and longer duration of hospital stay than the more mature infants. Both groups developed growth retardation and malnutrition during the hospital stay. Exclusive breastfeeding after discharge from hospital supported linear catch‐up growth and weight gain but was associated with a 7·0 (1·2–41·7)‐fold risk of having low BMC values. The other factors associated with the risk of having low BMC values later in infancy were low serum phosphate levels at 6 weeks, with a 7·8 (1·6–37·0)‐fold risk, and male gender, with a 4·3 (1·2–16·1)‐fold risk. Appropriately designed interventional studies are needed to improve the growth and nutrition of these infants during initial hospitalization. In order to improve the postdischarge nutrition, we suggest that the amount and duration of multicomponent human milk fortification should be studied further to provide individualized nutrition throughout the catch‐up growth period until the end of the first year of life.
Reference values for the geometric centre analysis of colonic transit measurements with 111indium‐labelled diethylenetriamine penta‐acetic acid
Authors: Madsen Jan Lysgård , Fuglsang Stefan , Graff Jesper
Published: December 2004

The geometric centre analysis is often used for evaluating colonic transit data obtained by scintigraphy after oral intake of 111indium‐labelled diethylenetriamine penta‐acetic acid (111In‐DTPA). The purpose of this study was to establish reference values for the geometric centre analysis in adult humans. Forty‐eight healthy volunteers (24 women, 24 men) who were equally distributed among three age groups (young, middle‐aged, elderly) were studied. In all subjects the geometric centre of radioactivity in the colon was calculated from abdominal gamma camera images acquired 24, 48, 72, and 96 h after oral administration of 111In‐DTPA. Overall, the men had a higher geometric centre value than women after both 24 and 48 h indicating a faster progress of colonic contents in men at these time points. At each time point the geometric centre value was higher in both the young and middle‐aged subjects than in the elderly subjects, whereas we did not find any difference between young and middle‐aged subjects. Furthermore, the smokers had a higher geometric centre value than non‐smokers at each time point. The geometric centre value was not influenced by body mass index at any time point.
Normal aortic dimensions and flow in 168 children and young adults
Authors: Poutanen Tuija , Tikanoja Tero , Sairanen Heikki , Jokinen Eero
Published: December 2004

Background: Knowledge of normal aortic dimensions is important while evaluating children with aortic root dilatation.

Objective: The purpose of the study was to create normal values for aortic dimensions with two‐dimensional echocardiography and for aortic flow velocities with Doppler echocardiography in healthy children and young adults.

Design and patients: One hundred and sixty‐eight healthy children were studied by a single observer using digitized two‐dimensional (2DE) and Doppler echocardiography.

Methods: The 2DE measurements were obtained at the level of aortic annulus, sinus, sinotubular junction, before the origin of innominate artery, before and after the origin of left carotid artery, after left subclavian artery and descending aorta at the level of the diaphragm. Doppler measurements were made from ascending aorta and from descending aorta.

Results: For the analysis the subjects were divided into five groups according to body surface area (BSA): 0·5–0·75 m2, 0·75–1·0 m2, 1·0–1·25 m2, 1·25–1·5 m2 and over 1·5 m2. Aortic dimensions normalized to BSA were greater in smaller children at all levels. All diameters correlated closely with age, BSA, height and weight (for each r>0·75, P<0·001). The best predictor of aortic dimensions was BSA with r values over 0·84 for all estimates (P<0·001). The diameters of ascending and descending aorta were similar in both genders when indexed to BSA. Flow velocities in descending aorta were greater than those measured in ascending aorta (P<0·001 for all measurements). There were significant inverse correlations with heart rate and velocity time integral in ascending and descending aorta (r = −0·32 and −0·53, P<0·001, respectively).

Conclusions: The presented aortic dimensions at eight levels from the valve annulus to the descending thoracic aorta by 2DE in conjunction with Doppler measurements of ascending and descending aorta in 168 healthy subjects will serve as reference data for further studies and clinical use in patients with various cardiac abnormalities.
A DM domain protein from a coral, Acropora millepora, homologous to proteins important for sex determination
Authors: Miller Steven W. , Hayward David C. , Bunch Thomas A. , Miller David J. , Ball Eldon E. , Bardwell Vivian J. , Zarkower David , Brower Danny L.
Published: December 2004

SUMMARY The identification and functional studies of DM domain‐containing proteins Doublesex, MAB‐3, and DMRT1 indicated that flies, nematodes, and humans share at least some of the molecular mechanisms of sex determination. We identified a gene, AmDM1, from the coral Acropora millepora that encodes a homologous DM domain‐containing protein. Molecular analyses show that the AmDM1 primary transcript is processed to generate four different messenger RNAs. Alternative use of two polyadenylation sites produces transcripts that vary only in the 3′ untranslated regions, whereas alternative splicing generates transcripts with and without the region coding for the DM domain. All the transcripts include a second motif, the DMA domain, which is found in a number of other proteins containing a DM domain. Hermaphroditic A. millepora differentiates sexual cells seasonally before the spring spawn, and Northern blot analysis shows that the AmDM1 transcripts are present at higher levels during sexual differentiation. The non‐DM domain‐containing messages are also present at significant levels in late embryos, but DM domain transcripts are extremely rare at this stage. These data suggest that the association of DM domain proteins and sexual determination or differentiation predates the separation of the Cnidaria from the rest of the Metazoa.
Ontogenetic evidence for the Paleozoic ancestry of salamanders
Authors: Schoch Rainer R. , Carroll Robert L.
Published: December 2004

SUMMARY The phylogenetic positions of frogs, salamanders, and caecilians have been difficult to establish. Data matrices based primarily on Paleozoic taxa support a monophyletic origin of all Lissamphibia but have resulted in widely divergent hypotheses of the nature of their common ancestor. Analysis that concentrates on the character states of the stem taxa of the extant orders, in contrast, suggests a polyphyletic origin from divergent Paleozoic clades. Comparison of patterns of larval development in Paleozoic and modern amphibians provides a means to test previous phylogenies based primarily on adult characteristics. This proves to be highly informative in the case of the origin of salamanders. Putative ancestors of salamanders are recognized from the Permo‐Carboniferous boundary of Germany on the basis of ontogenetic changes observed in fossil remains of larval growth series. The entire developmental sequence from hatching to metamorphosis is revealed in an assemblage of over 600 specimens from a single locality, all belonging to the genus Apateon. Apateon forms the most speciose genus of the neotenic temnospondyl family Branchiosauridae. The sequence of ossification of individual bones and the changing configuration of the skull closely parallel those observed in the development of primitive living salamanders. These fossils provide a model of how derived features of the salamander skull may have evolved in the context of feeding specializations that appeared in early larval stages of members of the Branchiosauridae. Larvae of Apateon share many unique derived characters with salamanders of the families Hynobiidae, Salamandridae, and Ambystomatidae, which have not been recognized in any other group of Paleozoic amphibians.
Expression of the 22 nucleotide let‐7 heterochronic RNA throughout the Metazoa: a role in life history evolution?
Authors: Pasquinelli Amy E. , McCoy Adam , Jiménez Eva , Saló Emili , Ruvkun Gary , Martindale Mark Q. , Baguñà Jaume
Published: December 2004

Summary The 22 nucleotide let‐7 small temporal RNA has been found consistently in samples from diverse bilateria but not from sponge or cnidarians. Here we further examine the phylogenetic distribution of this regulatory RNA by sampling representatives of diverse metazoan lineages. The 22 nucleotide let‐7 RNA is detectable in triclad and polyclad platyhelminths, nemertean, and chaetognath but not ctenophore or acoel metazoans. These results support recent arguments that acoels are distinct from other acoelomate platyhelminths. We argue that let‐7 is not a bilaterian or triploblast synapomorphy but instead evolved later in metazoan evolution, perhaps in association with complex life history traits.
Rickettsia‐like mitochondrial motility in Drosophila spermiogenesis
Authors: Bazinet Christopher , Rollins Janet E.
Published: December 2004

Summary Although it is generally accepted that mitochondria and chloroplasts are descended in evolution from bacteria, the potential contributions of their endosymbiont ancestors to specialized cellular pathways in development remain largely unexplored. Here we show that a motile behavior of mitochondria in Drosophila spermiogenesis is strikingly similar to the actin‐based “comet tail” motility of several bacteria. A combination of electron and fluorescence microscopy demonstrates major reorganization and movement of mitochondria ahead of, and in close association with, dense conical arrays of actin filaments in the sperm individualization complex, which mediates the resolution of male germline syncytia into separate gametes. Because of several other parallels between the movement of the individualization complex and the motility behavior of some rickettsiae, the bacterial family from which mitochondria are most likely descended, this motility phenomenon is a strong candidate for a true vestige of endosymbiont behavior in contemporary mitochondria. The potential conservation of an ancient endosymbiont motility mechanism within a highly conserved feature of gametogenesis, the resolution of germline syncytia, may indicate a formative role for the endosymbiotic ancestor of mitochondria in the evolution of this developmental pathway.
Vertebrate dentitions at the origin of jaws: when and how pattern evolved
Authors: Smith Moya Meredith
Published: December 2004

SummaryNew evidence shows that teeth evolved with a greater degree of independence from jaws than previously considered. Pharyngeal denticles occur in jawless fish and also in early gnathostomes and precede jaw teeth in phylogeny. Many of these denticles form joined polarized sets on each branchial arch; these resemble whorl‐shaped tooth sets on the jaws of stem and crown gnathostomes and are proposed as homologous units. Therefore, the source of patterning of these pharyngeal denticle and tooth sets is conserved from jawless conditions. It is proposed that developmental regulatory systems, responsible for all such tooth patterns on the jaws, are co‐opted from the pharyngeal region and not from the skin as classically understood. This strongly implicates embryonic endoderm as opposed to ectoderm in the genetic control of dentition patterning. New interpretations of ontogenetic data on patterning dentitions of extant sharks are proposed, together with those of osteichthyan fish. Two entirely fossil groups, placoderms and acanthodians, at the base of gnathostome phylogeny are reassessed on the basis of a new model. It is concluded that within stem group and crown group gnathostomes several different strategies, unique to each taxon, were adopted to produce different developmental models of dentition patterning from pharyngeal denticles. One shared developmental pattern is that of initiation from primordial tooth sites, independently in each dentate zone of the jaws. The new model is proposed as a framework for data on evolutionary developmental genetics.
Neuropsychological Changes After Surgical Treatment for Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Wachi Manabu , Tomikawa Masaru , Fukuda Masafumi , Kameyama Shigeki , Kasahara Kazuhiko , Sasagawa Mutsuo , Shirane Seiko , Kanazawa Osamu , Yoshino Mihoko , Aoki Satsuki , Sohma Yoshiaki
Published: December 2004

Summary:   Purpose: The effect of unilateral temporal lobectomy on seizure frequency is well recognized, but little is known about the neuropsychological changes that occur after surgical treatment. We assessed neuropsychological status in 26 patients with an average age of 35 years before and after unilateral temporal lobectomy for medically intractable TLE.

Methods: Neuropsychological examination to assess cognitive function, memory, attention, visuospatial analysis, language, and emotional functions was performed preoperatively and at 1 month and 1 year after the surgery.

Results: At both 1 month and 1 year after the surgery, the patients had improved scores, compared with the preoperative scores, on the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale–Revised (WAIS‐R: verbal IQ, performance IQ, and full‐scale IQ), Wechsler Memory Scale–Revised (WMS‐R: verbal, general, and delayed paired associates memory), and Raven Colored Progressive Matrices. In the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI), significant decreases were observed at 1 year after the surgery in the scores for infrequency, hypochondriasis, psychasthenia, and schizophrenia. Patients in whom the seizures had been relieved postoperatively also had improved scores on the WAIS‐R, WMS‐R, and Raven Colored Progressive Matrices.

Conclusions: These data suggest that neuropsychological improvement postoperatively is influenced by the reduction in the frequency of seizures after surgery.
Psychiatric Disorders Before and After Surgery for Epilepsy
Authors: Inoue Yushi , Mihara Tadahiro
Published: December 2004

Summary:  Purpose: To examine the frequency of psychiatric disorders before and after surgery for epilepsy and the postoperative changes.

Methods: We examined the psychiatric status of 226 patients aged 18 years or older and with IQ >50 who underwent focal resection surgery after age 15 years at our center and were followed up for >2 years after surgery.

Results: Seventy‐eight (34.5%) patients had psychiatric disorders before and/or after surgery, comprising 36 patients with psychosis, 15 with affective disorders, and 27 with neurotic/behavioral disorders. All but four of these patients had temporal lobe epilepsy. Of the 61 patients who had psychiatric disorders before surgery, 22 patients were free of psychiatric symptoms after surgery (eight with psychosis, 13 with neurotic/behavior disorders, one with affective disorders), and 39 patients continued having psychiatric symptoms after surgery (22 with psychosis, 12 with neurotic/behavior disorders, five with affective disorders). Nine patients had a transient affective disorder that appeared 1–2 months after surgery and disappeared within 1–2 months. In eight patients, chronic psychiatric symptoms manifested after surgery (psychosis in six cases, neurotic/behavior disorders in two), one of whom exhibited postictal psychosis after drug noncompliance. Psychosis that disappeared after surgery was often seizure related. The patients with aggravated psychiatric conditions after surgery had a lower age at epilepsy onset and at surgery, and exhibited deviated personality traits even before surgery.

Conclusions: One third of the surgical patients had psychiatric disorders before and/or after surgery. Preexisting psychiatric problems disappeared after surgery in one third of the patients, but persisted after surgery in the remaining patients, with aggravation in a few. Transient affective disorders appeared in some patients immediately after surgery, and chronic psychiatric disorders appeared after surgery in a minority of patients. The patients having aggravated psychiatric conditions after surgery tended to be young and to have deviated personality traits. The social situation of the patients having psychiatric disorders after surgery was not good.
Asymptomatic Isolated Congenital Left Ventricular Muscular Diverticulum In An Adult: A Case Report
Authors: Huang Guoqian , Pavan Daniela , Antonini‐Canterin Francesco , Piazza Rita , Burelli Claudio , Nicolosi Gian Luigi
Published: December 2004

Congenital ventricular diverticulum is a very rare malformation in adults. We describe a 21‐year‐old male with a congenital muscular left ventricular diverticulum in the inferior wall. The lesion was suspected on two‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiography; transesophageal echocardiography allowed clear detection of the diverticulum as well of mild mitral valve prolapse. The diagnosis was confirmed by cardiac catheterization. There were no other thoracoabdominal or cardiac anomalies, the patient was asymptomatic, and surgery was not deemed necessary. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, February 2003)
Doppler Estimation of Filling Pressures in a Patient with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Paelinck Bernard P. , Vrints Christiaan J. , Gillebert Thierry C.
Published: December 2004

A case of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is presented with a restrictive mitral filling pattern but predominant systolic pulmonary vein flow velocities. A stepwise Doppler work‐up including color M‐mode, Doppler tissue imaging of the mitral annulus velocity and loading manipulations could clarify the underlying hemodynamic mechanisms. The Doppler data were correlated with invasive measurements. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, February 2003)
Drainage of the Inferior Vena Cava to the Left Atrium
Authors: Burri Haran , Vuille Cédric , Sierra Jorge , Didier Dominique , Lerch René , Kalangos Afksendyios
Published: December 2004

Drainage of the inferior vena cava to the left atrium is an extremely unusual congenital heart disease. We describe a 54‐year‐old woman, in whom the diagnosis was suggested by transthoracic echocardiography, and then confirmed by a transesophageal exam and magnetic resonance imaging, which also revealed an associated secundum atrial septal defect. Surgical management involved reconstruction of the interatrial septum to include the inferior vena cava in the right atrium. The few previously reported cases in the literature are reviewed. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, February 2003)
Quantitative Assessment of Short Axis Wall Motion Using Myocardial Strain Rate Imaging
Authors: Nakatani Satoshi , Stugaard Marie , Hanatani Akihisa , Katsuki Keiko , Kanzaki Hideaki , Yamagishi Masakazu , Kitakaze Masafumi , Miyatake Kunio
Published: December 2004

Although left ventricular wall motion has been usually assessed with four‐point scale (1 = normal; 2 = hypokinesis; 3 = akinesis; 4 = dyskinesis) based on the visual assessment, this method is only qualitative and subjective. Recently, a new echocardiographic system that enables calculation of myocardial strain rate based on tissue Doppler information has been developed. We investigated whether myocardial strain rate could quantify regional myocardial contraction in 17 patients with and without wall motion abnormalities including 6 patients undergoing dobutamine stress echocardiography. Left ventricular short‐axis wall motion was assessed with standard two‐dimensional echocardiography at basal, mid‐ventricular, and apical levels. The same levels were imaged with tissue Doppler method to determine regional myocardial strain rate. Sixty‐four segments were judged normokinesis, 53 segments hypokinesis, and 18 segments akinesis at rest; 16 segments were judged normokinesis and 6 segments hypokinesis at stress. No segments characterized dyskinesis. Strain rates of normokinetic, hypokinetic, and akinetic wall segments at rest were significantly different each other (

−2.0 ± 0.6

for normokinesis,

−0.6 ± 0.5

for hypokinesis,

P < 0.0001

vs. normokinesis, and

−0.008 ± 0.3

for akinesis,

P < 0.0001

vs. normokinesis and hypokinesis). Further, strain rates well reflected the change in wall motion induced by dobutamine challenge: strain rates in the 15 segments revealing augmented wall motion changed from

−2.0 ± 0.7

to

−4.7 ± 1.7 (1/sec) (P < 0.0001)

and those in the 7 segments revealing deteriorated or unchanged wall motion changed from

−2.1 ± 1.0

to

−1.7 ± 0.8 (1/sec) (P < 0.05)

. In conclusion, strain rate agreed well with assessed wall motion. Strain rate imaging may be a new powerful tool to quantify regional wall contraction. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, February 2003)
The Incidence of Diastolic Right Atrial Collapse in Patients With Pleural Effusion in the Absence of Pericardial Effusion
Authors: Sadaniantz Ara , Anastacio Ramon , Verma Vikas , Aprahamian Nadine
Published: December 2004

The aim of this study was to describe the incidence of cardiac chamber collapse assessed by echocardiography and explore possible mechanisms in a clinical population of 116 patients with pleural effusion in the absence of pericardial effusion. We found that the frequency of chamber collapse was 18% in patients with pleural effusion in the absence of pericardial effusion, thus cardiac chamber collapse occurs in patients with pleural effusion. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, April 2003)
Lower Receiving Frequencies Than Transmitting Frequencies Could Yield Improved Results for Contrast Imaging:
Authors: Rusk Rosemary A. , Mori Yoshiki , Li Xiaokui , Mao Zuhua , Von Behren Patrick L. , Paine Diane , Kenny Antoinette , Sahn David J.
Published: December 2004

Background:
Ultrasonic imaging methods of receiving at higher frequencies, which are multiples of the transmitting frequencies (harmonic imaging), are well established as a means of improving myocardial visualization in association with intravenous contrast administration. This exploratory study examined the effect of using receive frequencies that were lower than the transmit frequencies while imaging closed chest dogs with an Ensemble wideband, phase inversion contrast program on a modified Siemens Elegra scanner. Methods: Intravenous bolus injections of 0.75 mL Definity and 1 mL QW7437 were administered to six anesthetized dogs. Intermittent imaging for contrast visualization was performed using either a broadband array, transmitting at 1.4 MHz and receiving at 2.6–3.2 MHz or a broadband 4–7.5 MHz transducer transmitting at 6.0 MHz and receiving at 4.2–4.5 MHz. Contrast enhancement was measured by videodensitometry, sampling mid‐cavity and within the myocardium before and after injection. The changes in videodensity from control to after injection were calculated for each method. Results: There was no significant difference in the change in intracavity videodensity between the two imaging strategies although there was near full intracavity saturation in all cases. However, the change in myocardial density was significantly greater for both contrast agents when using receiving frequencies lower than transmitting frequencies (P = 0.02 and 0.03). The difference in duration of the myocardial blush did not reach statistical significance but it tended to persist for longer with the lower receiving frequencies. Conclusion: Delivering sound energy at a slightly higher frequency and receiving at lower than the transmit frequency may be an advantageous method of enhancing myocardial perfusion signals during intravenous contrast echocardiography. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, April 2003)
Dynamic Three‐Dimensional Color Flow Doppler: An Improved Technique for the Assessment of Mitral Regurgitation
Authors: Sugeng Lissa , Spencer Kirk T. , Mor‐Avi Victor , DeCara Jeanne M. , Bednarz James E. , Weinert Lynn , Korcarz Claudia E. , Lammertin Georgeanne , Balasia Beth , Jayakar David , Jeevanandam Valluvan , Lang Roberto M.
Published: December 2004

Background: Prior studies have reconstructed mitral regurgitant flow in three dimensions displaying gray scale renditions of the jets, which were difficult to differentiate from surrounding cardiac structures. Recently, a color‐coded display of three‐dimensional (3D) regurgitant flow has been developed. However, this display was unable to integrate cardiac anatomy, thereby losing spatial information, which made it difficult to determine the jet origin and its spatial trajectory. To overcome this limitation, an improved method of 3D color reconstruction of regurgitant jets obtained from color flow Doppler using a transesophageal approach was developed to allow the combined display of both color flow and gray scale information. Objectives: To demonstrate the feasibility of 3D reconstruction of regurgitant mitral flow jets using an improved method of color encoding digital data acquired by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Methods: We studied 46 patients undergoing a clinically indicated TEE study. All subjects had mitral regurgitation detected on a previous transthoracic study. Atrial fibrillation or poor image quality were not used as exclusion criteria. The 3D study was performed using a commercial ultrasound imaging system with a TEE probe (Sonos 5500, Agilent Technologies). A rotational mode of acquisition was used to collect two‐dimensional (2D) color flow images at 3‐degree intervals over 180 degrees. Images were processed off line using the Echo‐View Software (TomTec Imaging Systems). Volume‐rendered 3D color flow jets were displayed along with gray scale information of the adjacent cardiac structures. Results: Mitral regurgitant flow, displayed in left atrial and two longitudinal orientations, was successfully reconstructed in all patients. The time for acquisition, post‐processing, and rendering ranged between 10 and 15 minutes. There were 28 centrally directed jets and 15 eccentric lesions. Eight patients in the study had periprosthetic mitral regurgitant flow. Conclusions: Three‐dimensional imaging of mitral regurgitant jets is feasible in the majority of patients. This improved technique provides additional information to that obtained from the 2D examination. Particularly, in patients with paravalvular leaks 3D color flow Doppler provides information on the origin and the extent of the dehiscence, as well as insight into the jet direction. In addition, in patients with eccentric mitral regurgitation, this new modality overcomes the inherent limitations of 2D echo Doppler by depicting the full extent of the jet trajectory. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, April 2003)
Alteration of Surgical Management Following Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography in a Patient With Mobile Left Atrial Thrombi Embolized During Anesthesia
Authors: Ha Jong‐Won , Chung Namsik , Hong Yong‐Woo , Kwak Young‐Ran , Chang Byung‐Chul , Cho Seung‐Yun
Published: December 2004

This report describes alteration of surgical management in a patient with a large free‐floating ball thrombus in the left atrium, which was embolized before sternotomy as demonstrated by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography. Due to new findings observed by intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography, unnecessary sternotomy could be avoided. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, April 2003)
Platypnea‐Orthodeoxia in a Patient With Ostium Primum Atrial Septal Defect With Normal Right Heart Pressures
Authors: Patel Amar D. , Abo‐Auda Wael S. , Nekkanti Rajasekhar , Ahmed Sujood , Razmi Ronald M. , Pohost Gerald M. , Nanda Navin C.
Published: December 2004

We describe an adult patient with an ostium primum atrial septal defect (ASD) and a patent foramen ovale (PFO) with normal right heart pressures who presented with platypnea and orthodeoxia. A dilated aortic root encroaching into the region of the ASD and PFO, along with a tricuspid regurgitant jet moving into the left atrium through the ASD found on the transesophageal echocardiogram may have been responsible for orthodeoxia. Surgical closure of these defects resulted in the disappearance of both platypnea and orthodeoxia. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, April 2003)
Transesophageal Three‐Dimensional Echocardiographic Demonstration of Ebstein's Anomaly
Authors: Ahmed Sujood , Nanda Navin C. , Nekkanti Rajasekhar , Pacifico Albert D.
Published: December 2004

We report three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiographic findings in an adult patient with Ebstein's anomaly. Using the anyplane technique and multiple views, especially the short‐axis view of tricuspid valve, three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography clearly demonstrated the intermittent tethering of all three leaflets of tricuspid valve to the right ventricular walls giving a “bubble‐like” appearance. On the other hand, two‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography demonstrated well the tethering of the septal tricuspid leaflet, but tethering of the other two leaflets was not well seen. To our knowledge, these findings have not been demonstrated by three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography before. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 20, April 2003)
Photoperiod‐dependent adult diapause within a geographical cline in the multivoltine bruchid Bruchidius dorsalis
Authors: Kurota Hiroyuki , Shimada Masakazu
Published: December 2004

Abstract The bruchid beetle Bruchidius dorsalis Fahraeus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) has been known to undergo larval diapause during the final instar under short photoperiods (Kurota & Shimada, 2001). This species has a multivoltine life cycle and the overwintering stages show a geographical variation across Japan (Kurota & Shimada, 2002). In cooler areas, overwintering occurs during the final instar, whereas in warmer climates overwintering can occur during several developmental stages: non‐diapausing young instars, diapausing instars, and adults. In this study, we investigated the adult reproductive diapause in three populations from different geographical regions to clarify the role of geographical variation on overwintering strategies. We found that: (1) B. dorsalis entered reproductive diapause in addition to larval diapause under short photoperiods, (2) diapause propensity was higher and the critical photoperiod was longer in populations from cooler regions, and (3) the sensitive photoperiod range was the first 5 days after emergence. Predictions of the overwintering stage, derived from critical photoperiods, were consistent with actual overwintering stages observed in each population. The geographical variation in diapause induction is likely to reflect the adaptive overwintering strategy in each local environment.
Genetic variation in larval period and pupal mass in an aphidophagous ladybird beetle (Harmonia axyridis) reared in different environments
Authors: Ueno Hideki
Published: December 2004

Abstract Genetic trade‐offs for host plant use are hypothesized to facilitate the diversification of insect populations through specialization to their host plants. Previous studies mainly estimated the architecture of genetic variances and covariances in herbivorous species with discrete and limited types of host species. In contrast to herbivores, the relative abundance of resources for predatory species fluctuates in time and space, causing a more unpredictable encounter with prey species. The ecological characteristics of resource use might result in a differential mode of selection for herbivorous and predatory species, which could be reflected in a differential genetic architecture of developmental traits such as the duration of larval stage (henceforth referred to as larval period) and size of pupa (measured as pupal weight). This paper presents results from a study on the genetic architecture of larval period and pupal mass of an aphidophagous ladybird beetle, Harmonia axyridis Pallas, in different resource environments. Beetles reared on Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) showed a shorter developmental period and a heavier pupal mass than their siblings on Aphis craccivora Koch or on artificial diet, while the average larval period and pupal mass on A. craccivora and the artificial diet were similar. Further analyses of the genetic architecture suggest that the developmental traits on the two aphid species are genetically correlated, while there are only weak or no genetic correlations between these two traits on the two aphid preys and the artificial diet. Thus, the results suggest that the patterns of genotypic relationships between developmental traits differ from the phenotypic ones. The effects of past selection on the genetic architecture and the possible cause of the genetic correlation are discussed, as well as consequences for mass rearing for biological control.
Plant and insect characteristics in response to increasing density of Homalodisca coagulata on three host species: a quantification of assimilate extraction
Authors: Andersen Peter C. , Brodbeck Brent V. , Mizell Russell F.
Published: December 2004

Three experiments were performed to assess the effect of the number of the leafhopper Homalodisca coagulata (Say) (Homoptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Cicadellidae) on the plant characteristics of Lagerstroemia indica L. (Lythraceae), Prunus salicina Lindl. (Rosaceae) and Glycine max (L.) Merrill (Leguminoseae) and on subsequent consumption rates and fecundity. Leafhoppers were placed in sleeve cages (L. indica or P. salicina) or on caged plants (G. max) for 2–3 weeks at densities of 0–16 per cage. Consumption rates and fecundity were not influenced by leafhopper treatments. Shoot growth and shoot xylem tension were examined on L. indica and G. max, and were not influenced by treatment. For G. max, plant height increased with leafhopper days, however plant dry weight was unaffected. The concentrations of primary organic compounds in xylem fluid were evaluated at the termination of experiments on L. indica (amino acids and organic acids) and G. max (amino acids, ureides, organic acids, and sugars). For L. indica, there was no significant density effect on the concentration of total amino acids or total organic acids. For the smaller legume G. max, concentrations of five primary organic compounds in xylem fluid were moderately reduced (between P = 0.05 and 0.1) with leafhopper days. Consumption rates were inversely related (between P = 0.05 and 0.1) to the concentrations of three organic compounds in xylem fluid. The total quantity of each chemical compound, organic carbon, organic nitrogen, and energy extracted by H. coagulata feeding on G. max was estimated by incorporating consumption rates, leafhopper days, diet composition, and the heat of combustion of each compound quantified. The quantity of water and nutrients (and particularly organic N) depleted by leafhopper feeding at high densities was substantial. Individual H. coagulata extracted 3.9 cm3 water, 57 µmol organic carbon, 21 µmol organic nitrogen, and 2.7 J of chemical bond energy during a day of feeding. Moderate to large sized plants (P. salicina and L. indica) did not exhibit effects of leafhopper feeding, however high amounts of feeding on G. max increased plant height and moderately reduced the concentrations of several compounds in xylem fluid.
Spatial patterns and infestation processes in the horse chestnut leafminer Cameraria ohridella: a tale of two cities
Authors: Gilbert M. , Svatoš A. , Lehmann M. , Bacher S.
Published: December 2004

Spatial patterns of the horse chestnut leafminer Cameraria ohridella Deschka & Dimic (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) population density was analysed in the cities of Bern and Brussels in order to explore its spatial population dynamics. The surveys were carried out in Bern in 1998 and 2000 and in Brussels in 2001 to assess population density in relation to local characteristics. In Brussels, population density was also measured using pheromone traps distributed over the city and collected twice per moth generation. A quantitative relationship was found between local population density (measured by pheromone traps and survey observations) and the amount of leaves left on the ground the previous fall. Several other factors were related to observed infestation levels: the occurrence of the pathogen Guignardia aesculi was inversely related to infestation by C. ohridella in Bern in 1998 and 2000, the number of horse chestnut trees within 800 m distance was positively related to infestation level in Bern in 2000, and the proportion of green areas within 100 m and the number of other horse chestnut trees within 2000 m were positively related to infestation levels in the 2001 Brussels survey. The pattern of infestation levels as a function of distance to potential population reservoirs suggested that C. ohridella re‐invades areas where overwintering leaves have been cleaned from refuge areas such as parks or urban forests. Our results indicate that the removal of leaves is a feasible first aid control measure to reduce moth population densities. However, leaf removal may not reduce moth densities when done improperly. In places where proper leaf removal is not feasible, other control measures are needed.
Stadium‐specific transmission of endosymbionts needed for pederin biosynthesis in three species of Paederus rove beetles
Authors: Kellner Rupert L. L.
Published: December 2004

Abstract Females of the rove beetle genus Paederus (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) accumulate large amounts of the defensive compound pederin produced by an endosymbiotic bacterium. Pederin is transferred in the eggs, while the endosymbionts are transmitted via the egg shell. In all three species analyzed (P. melanurus, P. riparius, and P. sabaeus), descendants of aposymbiotic matrilines (lacking both endosymbionts and biosynthetic capabilities) acquire biosynthetic capability by the ingestion of eggs with endosymbionts during larval development. Successful colonization by endosymbionts depends on the number of eggs consumed and the age of the feeding larvae. During the adult stage, however, the females cannot acquire biosynthetic capabilities. Adult females are able to sequester pederin from eggs eaten, and they transfer the substance into their own eggs. Lack of intrinsic biosynthesis after ingestion of endosymbionts indicates that these are not biosynthetically active within the gut and have to reach an unknown internal location before completion of metamorphosis. These results are discussed with regard to the benefit of intraspecific cannibalism.