bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimal change oesophagitis: a disease with characteristic differences to erosive oesophagitis
Authors: Nakamura T. , Shirakawa K. , Masuyama H. , Sugaya H. , Hiraishi H. , Terano A.
Published: June 2005

Background : The majority of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) seems to be non‐erosive reflux disease. Nonerosive reflux disease includes minimal change oesophagitis (whitish or reddish, oedematous change and erosion that is not regarded as mucosal break) and no endoscopic abnormalities.

Aim : To investigate the accurate proportion of those with minimal change oesophagitis and to clarify its characteristics. In addition, we evaluated the effect of famotidine (40 mg/ day) in those with minimal change.

Methods : Prospective endoscopic assessment was performed for consecutive 606 out‐patients. Of the 582 patients suitable for analysis, 347 were non‐treated. The latter were divided into those with erosive GERD or minimal change, and their endoscopic findings and characteristics were compared.

Results : Among 347 non‐treated patients, 88 (25%) had erosive GERD and 249 (72%) had minimal change. Compared with patients who have erosive GERD and those with minimal change, the latter were less likely to have hiatal hernia or bile reflux, but more likely to have gastric atrophy. Symptomatic patients (n = 55) with minimal change oesophagitis were more likely to have hiatal hernia than those who were asymptomatic (n= 194). Most patients preferred taking famotidine on‐demand, during a 4‐week follow‐up period.

Conclusions : Most non‐erosive reflux disease can be classified as minimal change oesophagitis, and that have different characteristics from erosive GERD. On‐demand famotidine may be a suitable alternative treatment for patients with minimal change disease.
Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled crossover trial of famotidine in patients with functional dyspepsia
Authors: Kato M. , Watanabe M. , Konishi S. , Kudo M. , Konno J. , Meguro T. , Kitamori S. , Nakagawa S. , Shimizu Y. , Takeda H. , Asaka M.
Published: June 2005

Background : Histamine 2‐receptor antagonists were used as a first therapy against functional dyspepsia. However, few clinical studies with famotidine for functional dyspepsia have been reported.

Aim : To evaluate the effectiveness of famotidine for functional dyspepsia patients.

Methods : A multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled crossover trail was conducted. Patients diagnosed with functional dyspepsia by the Roma II criteria were included. Subjects were randomized into two groups, and received either famotidine or placebo as the first 4 weeks medication. After a 1‐week washout period, they were switched to the other regimen for another 4 weeks. Evaluation was made prior to the start of study, upon completion of the first drug cycle, and the second drug cycle, by Gastrointestinal Symptoms Rating Scale for the seriousness of abdominal symptoms, and by Short Form‐36 for the level of quality of life.

Results : Nineteen of 21 enrolled patients successfully completed this study. Significant improvement in Gastrointestinal Symptoms Rating Scale scores was observed in abdominal pain (P = 0.007), indigestion and reflux syndrome after famotidine treatment. Also quality of life scores showed significant improvement in body pain, vitality and general health perceptions after famotidine treatment. There was no improvement of symptoms and quality of life scores after administration of placebo.

Conclusions : Famotidine was effective for improving symptoms and quality of life in functional dyspepsia patients.
Usefulness of famotidine in functional dyspepsia patient treatment: comparison among prokinetic, acid suppression and antianxiety therapies
Authors: Seno H. , Nakase H. , Chiba T.
Published: June 2005

Background : The treatment of functional dyspepsia is controversial.

Aim : The purpose of this paper is to clarify the initial effect of prokinetic, acid suppression and antianxiety treatment for functional dyspepsia patients.

Patients and methods : Sixty‐four functional dyspepsia patients without Helicobacter pylori infection were randomly assigned to 15 mg/day of mosapride, 40 mg/day of famotidine, or 30 mg/day of tandospirone during an 8‐week treatment. Individual functional dyspepsia symptoms were evaluated with 4 cm visual analogue scale before and at 2, 4 and 8 weeks after treatment.

Results : Among 64 enrolled patients, 62 completed the study. Within 2 weeks, visual analogue scale score in the mosapride‐treated group decreased from 2.29 ±0.14 to 1.57 ± 0.20; in the famotidine from 2.04 ± 0.16 to 1.09 ± 0.12 (mean ± S.E.). Therefore, there were significant improvements of functional dyspepsia symptoms in mosapride‐ and famotidine‐treated patients (P <0.01). Furthermore, famotidine was significantly more effective than mosapride (P < 0.05). On the contrary, visual analogue scale score in the tandospirone therapy was 2.23 ± 0.20 and 2.13 ± 0.22 before and at 2 weeks, respectively, without any significant improvement.

Conclusions : A treatment regimen of famotidine at 40 mg/day had a significant favourable effect on the clinical outcome in functional dyspepsia patients.
Effects of famotidine, mosapride and tandospirone for treatment of functional dyspepsia
Authors: Kinoshita Y. , Hashimoto T. , Kawamura A. , Yuki M. , Amano K. , Sato H. , Adachi K. , Sato S. , Oshima N. , Takashima T. , Kitajima N. , Abe K. , Suetsugu H.
Published: June 2005

Background : An effective therapeutic strategy for functional dyspepsia (FD) has not been well‐established.

Aim : We investigated and compared the therapeutic effects of famotidine, mosapride and tandospirone for the control of dyspeptic symptoms.

Methods : Fully examined FD patients of outpatient clinics at seven different medical centres were enrolled in the study. They were randomly assigned to three groups based on the type of drug administered: famotidine, mosapride and tandospirone. The effects of treatment over 4 weeks were assessed by visual analogue scales.

Results : All of the drugs showed beneficial effects, although famotidine was the most effective for symptom relief, which was significantly greater than tandospirone, while the effect of mosapride was similar to that of famotidine. No subtype of FD showed a better response to a particular type of drug.

Conclusions : For the treatment of FD, famotidine demonstrated the best therapeutic effect, followed by mosapride, while that of tandospirone was significantly lower.
New strategy of therapy for functional dyspepsia using famotidine, mosapride and amitriptyline
Authors: Otaka M. , Jin M. , Odashima M. , Matsuhashi T. , Wada I. , Horikawa Y. , Komatsu K. , Ohba R. , Oyake J. , Hatakeyama N. , Watanabe S.
Published: June 2005

Background : In functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders including functional dyspepsia (FD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), there might be no small extent of contributions of psychosomatic factors. As a therapy for IBS patients, the effectiveness of antidepressants has been reported.

Aim : In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of H2‐receptor antagonist (famotidine) and 5‐HT4 receptor agonist (mosapride citrate). In addition, the effect of antidepressants was assessed as the second‐step therapy.

Methods : Patients complaining upper GI symptoms were diagnosed as FD excluding organic diseases. Randomized patients received 20 mg/day of famotidine or 15 mg/day of mosapride citrate for 4 weeks and the efficacy was compared between the two groups based on a 10‐point visual analogue scale. When symptoms were not relieved (score improvement 0–2 points), patients received amitriptyline (30 mg/day) or no medication for 4 weeks randomly. Patients who had depression in psychological test (SDS) were omitted.

Results : As the first‐step therapy, both famotidine and mosapride showed beneficial effects regardless of FD subtypes, age and gender. The efficacy of these two drugs in relieving FD symptoms was not significantly different. In patients who failed in the first‐step therapy, amitriptyline showed beneficial effects.

Conclusions : These findings might be clinically important in view of the efficient relief of symptoms in FD patients.
Famotidine prevents canine gastric blood flow reduction by NSAIDs
Authors: Hata J. , Kamada T. , Manabe N. , Kusunoki H. , Kamino D. , Nakao M. , Fukumoto A. , Yamaguchi T. , Sato M. , Haruma K.
Published: June 2005

Aim : To investigate the effect of famotidine on gastric blood flow reduction induced by diclofenac sodium, a common non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug in Japan, using laser Doppler flowmetry in the canine stomach.

Methods : The gastric mucosal blood flow was measured by laser Doppler flowmetry in 15 healthy male beagles before and 60 min after the administration of diclofenac suppository (1.0 mg/kg) into the rectum. The examination was done in a crossover, single‐blinded fashion. All dogs underwent both famotidine (0.5 mg/kg) and placebo (saline) injection simultaneously with the administration of diclofenac. In addition, the tissue concentration of prostaglandin E2 was measured.

Results : The blood flow decreased by 18.3 ± 9.1% in the gastric body, by 26.3 ± 8.1% in the antrum in the placebo group after the administration of diclofenac sodium, while the decreases seen were significantly smaller in the famotidine group: 3.2 ± 12.6% in the gastric body and 7.9 ± 16.5% in the antrum (P = 0.001 for the gastric body, P = 0.0034 for the antrum). Conversely, the percentage of mucosal prostaglandin E2 concentration decrease in each group did not show a significant difference.

Conclusion : Famotidine alleviates the reduction of gastric blood flow induced by diclofenac sodium. Further, not only mucosal prostaglandins but also gastric acid may play an important role in non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs‐induced gastric microcirculatory disturbance.
A clinical study of Japanese patients with ulcer induced by low‐dose aspirin and other non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs
Authors: Nakashima S. , Arai S. , Mizuno Y. , Yoshino K. , Ando S. , Nakamura Y. , Sugawara K. , Koike M. , Saito E. , Naito M. , Nakao M. , Ito H. , Hamaoka K. , Rai F. , Asakura Y. , Akamatu M. , Fujimori K. , Inao M. , Imai Y. , Ota S. , Fujiwara K. , Shiibashi M.
Published: June 2005

Background : The incidence and severity of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)‐induced gastro‐duodenal ulcer have not been extensively studied in Japan.

Aim : We performed a prospective study to clarify NSAIDs‐induced gastro‐duodenal injury, focusing especially on low‐dose aspirin (L‐A).

Methods : Two hundred and thirty‐eight patients with bleeding peptic ulcers admitted to our hospital. History of taking NSAIDs and anti‐ulcer drugs was obtained from all patients who underwent endoscopic examinations. The lesion scores of patients taking L‐A were classified numerically from zero (no lesion) to five (ulcer).

Results : The NSAIDs were associated with 28.2% of hemorrhagic ulcers. The rates of patients using L‐A, loxoprofen, diclofenac, and combination of two of these drugs were 27, 16, 10 and 9%, respectively. Co‐administered anti‐ulcer drugs were cytoprotective anti‐ulcer drugs (27%), H2 receptor antagonists (16%), PPI (4%), and none (53%). In patients taking L‐A, H2 receptor antagonists were used most frequently. The HP was positive in 63% of L‐A‐induced ulcer cases and in 69% of NSAIDs other than low‐dose aspirin‐induced ulcer cases. The lesion scores of patients taking L‐A with H2 receptor antagonists or PPI were significantly lower than those of patients who were taking only L‐A (P < 0.05).

Conclusions : Approximately one‐third of hospitalized patients with NSAIDs‐induced hemorrhagic ulcer showed an association with L‐A. Prospective randomized controlled trials including H2 receptor antagonists are required to establish preventive efforts aimed at L‐A‐induced gastro‐duodenal injury.
Preventive therapy for non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐induced ulcers in Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis: the current situation and a prospective controlled‐study of the preventive effects of lansoprazole or famotidine
Authors: Miyake K. , Ueki N. , Suzuki K. , Shinji Y. , Kusunoki M. , Hiratsuka T. , Nishigaki H. , Tatsuguchi A. , Futagami S. , Wada K. , Tsukui T. , Nakajima A. , Yoshino S. , Sakamoto C.
Published: June 2005

Background : There is a lack of evidence for the efficacy of preventive medications for peptic ulcers (PUs) among long‐term users of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in Japan.

Aim : To estimate the preventive effect by normal dose, not high‐dose histamine‐H2 receptor antagonists (H2RA) for NSAID‐induced ulcers.

Methods : We designed two different studies to assess the efficacy of anti‐ulcer agents in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in patients treated over a long term with NSAIDs. An investigative survey divided patients into those not taking anti‐ulcer agents (non‐medication group); those taking mucosal protective agents (mucosal protectant group), H2RA (H2RA group), proton pump inhibitors (PPI group), or a prostaglandin E1 analog (PG) (PG group). The second study compared prospectively the preventive effects of either famotidine 20 mg bd (famotidine group) or lansoprazole 15 mg daily (lansoprazole group) in patients with PU scars.

Results : The prevalence of PU in the H2RA group was significantly lower compared to the mucosal protectant group (P < 0.05), and the mucosal protectant group was not significantly different to the non‐medication group. The prospective study revealed that the PU onset rate of the famotidine group was 8% (1/13), and lansoprazole group was 15% (2/13), indicating no significant differences between the two.

Conclusions : In Japan, normal‐dose H2RA is expected to be a new PU preventive treatment strategy in patients requiring long‐term NSAID therapy.
Effect of famotidine on recurrent bleeding after successful endoscopic treatment of bleeding peptic ulcer
Authors: Kamada T. , Hata J. , Kusunoki H. , Kido S. , Hamada H. , Aoki R. , Nishida T. , Komoto K. , Todo H. , Sumioka M. , Tanimoto T. , Sanuki E. , Sumii K. , Ogoshi H. , Hidaka T. , Dongmei Q. , Chayama K. , Haruma K.
Published: June 2005

Aim:  We investigated the effect of acid suppression therapy on recurrent bleeding after successful endoscopic treatment of bleeding peptic ulcer.

Methods:  A total of 400 patients with bleeding peptic ulcer received either intravenous infusion of famotidine (40 mg/day) (n = 207, 163 males, 44 females, mean age 61.5 years) or drip infusion of omeprazole (40 mg/day; n = 193, 134 males, 59 females, mean age 59.8 years) after successful endoscopic treatment. The fasting duration, hospital stay, volume of transfused blood, incidence of rebleeding and mortality were compared between the two groups.

Results:  The incidence of rebleeding did not differ significantly between the famotidine group (9%) and the omeprazole group (8%). The mean hospital stay was significantly shorter in the omeprazole group (18.4 days) than in the famotidine group (21.5 days, P = 0.009). However, there was no statistically significant difference in fasting duration, volume of transfused blood or mortality.

Conclusion:  Our findings indicate that intravenous infusion of famotidine after successful endoscopic treatment is equivalent to drip infusion of omeprazole for prevention of recurrent bleeding.
Prevention of the rehaemorrhage of bleeding peptic ulcers: effects of Helicobacter pylori eradication and acid suppression
Authors: Kikkawa A. , Iwakiri R. , Ootani H. , Ootani A. , Fujise T. , Sakata Y. , Amemori S. , Tsunada S. , Sakata H. , Koyama T. , Fujimoto K.
Published: June 2005

Aim : This study aimed to investigate the consequences of Helicobacter pylori eradication and acid suppression on rehaemorrhage caused by bleeding peptic ulcers.

Methods : A total of 320 patients who had been diagnosed with bleeding peptic ulcers between January 1994 and December 2001 were included in the study. Cases between 1994 and 1997, prior to the introduction of eradication therapy, were assigned to group A, whereas those between 1998 and 2001, after the eradication therapy, were assigned to group B.

Results : Of the 320 cases, 162 were designated as group A (113 gastric ulcers and 49 duodenal ulcers) and 158 as group B (116 and 42, respectively). Rehaemorrhage occurred in 24 cases (15%) and five cases (3%) in groups A and B, respectively, presenting a significantly decreased rate of rehaemorrhage in group B. Among those without eradication, rehaemorrhage was observed in 15 of 128 cases (12%) that received treatment with histamine2‐receptor antagonist (famotidine), and 14 of 142 cases (10%) treated with proton‐pump inhibitors, with no significant difference between the two.

Conclusions : Helicobacter pylori eradication lowered the rates of rehaemorrhage. Treatment with histamine2‐receptor antagonist or proton‐pump inhibitors did not produce a difference in the rate of rehaemorrhage.
Histamine‐2 receptor expression in gastric mucosa before and afterHelicobacter pyloricure
Authors: Osawa H. , Kita H. , Ohnishi H. , Mutoh H. , Ishino Y. , Satoh K. , Sugano K.
Published: June 2005

Background: Helicobacter pyloriinfection prevents the occurrence of the tolerance phenomenon of Histamine‐2 (H2) receptor antagonists. Gastro‐esophageal reflux disease develops in some cases with the restoration of acid secretion afterH. pylorieradication therapy.

Aim: To clarify the mechanisms of H2 receptor restoration after the eradication ofH. pylorion parietal cells.

Methods: We enrolled 80 consecutive asymptomatic male patients withH. pyloriinfection, having chronic gastritis with or without the presence of peptic ulcers. Biopsy specimens from the greater curvatures at the mid‐corpus of the stomach were obtained endoscopically from all subjects before and 12 weeks after the eradication ofH. pylori. Degrees of gastric atrophy were evaluated by serum pepsinogen levels. The amounts of mRNA expression of H2 receptor were evaluated in each subject's gastric mucosa by real time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results: H2 receptor mRNA expression levels significantly correlated with serum pepsinogens I and II ratios. The expression level of H2 receptor mRNA was lower in subjects with hypergastrinemia. The median expression level of H2 receptor afterH. pylorieradication was threefold greater than prior to treatment. In addition, its restoration became more pronounced in subjects with severe gastric atrophy. However, a comparatively low restoration of H2 receptor mRNA was found in subjects with hypergastrinemia.

Conclusions: H2 receptor mRNA levels decrease with the progression of gastric atrophy induced byH. pyloriinfection, and are restored afterH. pylorieradication. Such expression levels of H2 receptor may explain a part of the tolerance phenomenon to H2 receptor antagonists.
Effect of long‐term half‐dose famotidine therapy on corpus gastritis in peptic ulcer disease
Authors: Kamada T. , Hata J. , Kusunoki H. , Sugiu K. , Ito M. , Tanaka S. , Kawamura Y. , Chayama K. , Haruma K.
Published: June 2005

Background : Recent studies showed that acid‐suppressive therapy aggravates corpus gastritis in patients with Helicobacter pylori infection.

Aim : The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of famotidine, a histamine receptor antagonist on corpus gastritis in patients with peptic ulcer disease.

Methods : We enrolled 287 patients, 173 with duodenal ulcer and 114 with gastric ulcer and 100 patients with H. pylori‐positive gastritis as control subjects. Patients with peptic ulcer were classified according to whether or not they received famotidine‐maintenance therapy (20 mg/day) after primary treatment. At the time of endoscopy, biopsy specimens were obtained from the antrum and the corpus. The degrees of neutrophil and lymphocyte infiltration, atrophy and intestinal metaplasia were scored according to the updated Sydney System.

Results : The degrees of neutrophil infiltration and atrophy in the corpus were significantly less in patients with gastric ulcer or duodenal ulcer than in patients with H. pylori‐positive gastritis (P < 0.01). Differences in the degrees of neutrophil infiltration and atrophy in the corpus between the non‐maintenance group and the maintenance group were not significant.

Conclusion : Long‐term therapy with famotidine does not appear to lead to an increase in the incidence of corpus gastritis or corpus atrophy in patients with peptic ulcer disease.
A prospective randomized trial of either famotidine or omeprazole for the prevention of bleeding after endoscopic mucosal resection and the healing of endoscopic mucosal resection‐induced ulceration
Authors: Yamaguchi Y. , Katsumi N. , Tauchi M. , Toki M. , Nakamura K. , Aoki K. , Morita Y. , Miura M. , Morozumi K. , Ishida H. , Takahashi S.
Published: June 2005

Background : It has been reported that inhibitors of gastric acid secretion prevent bleeding after endoscopic mucosal resection for mucosal gastric neoplasm. However, uncertain whether an histamine2‐receptor antagonist or proton‐pump inhibitor is more effective.

Aim : To evaluate prospectively the effectiveness of famotidine or omeprazole for ulcer management after endoscopic mucosal resection.

Methods : From July 2003 to October 2004, 57 patients were randomly assigned to famotidine or omeprazole for the management of endoscopic mucosal resection. Both drugs were given intravenously for the first 2 days, thereafter by mouth. The bleeding rates after endoscopic mucosal resection, the effects on the healing of endoscopic mucosal resection‐induced ulceration, and cost‐benefits were compared.

Results : Twenty‐eight patients received famotidine and 29 received omeprazole. No significant difference was observed between the two groups in patient characteristics. The bleeding rates after endoscopic mucosal resection were not significantly different (18% vs. 14%) between the groups. Similarly, no differences were seen in the size of the endoscopic mucosal resection‐induced ulceration at 1, 30 and 60 days after resection between groups. The total costs of anti‐secretory agents demonstrated a significant cost‐benefit to those treated with famotidine (10 420 yen vs. 17 782 yen).

Conclusions : Famotidine is suggested as a better alternative to omeprazole for the management of endoscopic mucosal resection, as it showed a clear cost‐benefit, and the healing results after endoscopic mucosal resection were similar for the two treatment strategies.
Regulation of the ferritin heavy‐chain homologue gene in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti
Authors: Pham D. Q.‐D. , Douglass P. L. , Chavez C. A. , Shaffer J. J.
Published: June 2005

In the yellow fever mosquito Aedes aegypti, the ferritin heavy‐chain homologue (HCH) gene is induced by blood feeding. This suggests that ferritin may serve as a cytotoxic protector against the oxidative challenge of the blood meal and may be essential for the survival of the insect. In this study, various cis‐acting elements for the gene were identified and mapped. Transfection assays showed that the strength and activity of a subset of these elements are orientation‐dependent. The shift observed for the ferritin HCH cis‐acting elements is unique among known ferritin genes. DNase I footprinting data together with Transfac analyses identified a number of putative sites known for their involvement in developmental and cell proliferation processes.
The use of gene silencing to study the role of dopa decarboxylase in mosquito melanization reactions
Authors: Huang C.‐Y. , Chou S.‐Y. , Bartholomay L. C. , Christensen B. M. , Chen C.‐C.
Published: June 2005

Mosquito melanization involves hydroxylation of tyrosine to dopa, which then is oxidized to dopaquinone by phenoloxidase, or decarboxylated to dopamine by dopa decarboxlase (DDC). An Armigeres subalbatus cDNA encoding DDC was cloned and real‐time PCR analysis revealed increased transcripts in blood‐fed and microfilariae (mf)‐inoculated mosquitoes. A double subgenomic Sindbis virus was used to silence DDC and assess its role in melanization of mf. DDC transcription and activity were significantly decreased in silenced mosquitoes, as was the degree of mf melanization 48 h postinoculation; however, melanization increased after 72 and 96 h, demonstrating that DDC influences the rate of melanization. DDC‐silenced mosquitoes also exhibit high mortality, over‐feeding and abnormal movement, consistent with an involvement of DDC in neurotransmission.
Driving midgut‐specific expression and secretion of a foreign protein in transgenic mosquitoes with AgAper1 regulatory elements
Authors: Abraham E. G. , Donnelly‐Doman M. , Fujioka H. , Ghosh A. , Moreira L. , Jacobs‐Lorena M.
Published: June 2005

The Anopheles gambiae adult peritrophic matrix protein 1 (AgAper1) regulatory elements were used to drive the expression of phospholipase A2 (PLA2), a protein known to disrupt malaria parasite development in mosquitoes. These AgAper1 regulatory elements were sufficient to promote the accumulation of PLA2 in midgut epithelial cells before a blood meal and its release into the lumen upon blood ingestion. Plasmodium berghei oocyst formation was reduced by ∼80% (74–91% range) in transgenic mosquitoes. Blood‐seeking behaviour and survival of AgAper1‐PLA2 transgenic mosquitoes were comparable to sibling wild‐type mosquitoes, while fertility was substantially lower. Ultrastructural studies suggest that decreased fitness is a consequence of internal damage to midgut epithelial cells.
Differential expression of a Bombyx mori AHA1 homologue during spermatogenesis
Authors: Miyagawa Y. , Lee J. M. , Maeda T. , Koga K. , Kawaguchi Y. , Kusakabe T.
Published: June 2005

The AHA1 (activator of Hsp90 ATPase) family of proteins were exclusively conserved from yeast to humans, but little is known about their tissue distribution or biological function. In this study, a cDNA for a Bombyx mori AHA1 homologue, BmAHA1, was isolated from the testes of larvae on day 3 of the fifth instar using an mRNA differential display method. This cDNA encodes a protein with 341 amino acid residues. Gene expression studies revealed that BmAHA1 mRNA occurred prominently in the testes. In situ hybridization and immunostaining showed that the BmAHA1 mRNA signals were strongly detected in spermatogonial cells and primary spermatocytes at the fifth larval instar stage, whereas the BmAha1 protein was abundant in round and elongated spermatids at the pupal stage. The localization pattern of the accumulated protein in the elongated spermatids was reminiscent of that reported previously for microtubules, but the BmAha1 protein showed a decrease in apparent concentration during maturation process. The stage‐ and cell‐specific expression indicated that BmAha1 might play a role in silkworm spermatogenesis, especially in postmeiotic differentiation.
A chromosome end satellite of Rhynchosciara americana (Diptera: Sciaridae) resembling nematoceran telomeric repeats
Authors: Madalena C. R. G. , Gorab E.
Published: June 2005

The characterization of chromosome end sequences of Rhynchosciara americana was initiated with the screening of a plasmid microlibrary made from a microdissected polytene chromosome tip. A 268 bp insert chosen for analysis hybridized specifically to non‐telocentric chromosome ends in which reverse transcriptase had been previously identified. Southern‐blot hybridization of R. americana genomic DNA cut with XbaI, the only restriction site identified in the 268 bp probe, showed a ladder composed of multimers of a band in the range of 400 bp indicating a tandem array of the repeat partially represented in the cloned fragment. The complete repeat unit obtained by inverse PCR is 414 bp long, 67% AT‐rich, characterized by the restriction sites XbaI and SalI and displays features typical of a nematoceran telomeric satellite. The telomere‐like repeat is apparently absent from the chromosomes of two other Rhynchosciara species, R. baschanti and R. milleri. Double staining for satellite hybridization and reverse transcriptase in R. americana suggests that the arrays composed of the telomeric‐like satellite do not reach the chromosome ends. This may indicate that telomeric‐like features of some nematoceran terminal satellites do not warrant their telomeric position.
Functional analysis of AeSCP‐2 using gene expression knockdown in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti
Authors: Blitzer E. J. , Vyazunova I. , Lan Q.
Published: June 2005

The effect of gene expression knockdown was used to study the function of the sterol carrier protein‐2 (AeSCP‐2) in the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. Injection of small double stranded AeSCP‐2 RNAs into mosquito larvae resulted in the knockdown of gene products. The lack of AeSCP‐2 in larvae coincided with a reduction in accumulated cholesterol in pupae, supporting the hypothesis that AeSCP‐2 may be involved in cholesterol uptake in mosquito larvae. Knockdown of AeSCP‐2 caused a high mortality rate in developing adult and reduced egg viability. Results from this study indicate that AeSCP‐2 is important for adult development and for the viability of the eggs.
Molecular cloning and characterization of two digestive serine proteases from the Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor
Authors: Mittapalli O. , Stuart J. J. , Shukle R. H.
Published: June 2005

Full‐length cDNA and genomic sequences for two genes (designated mdesprot‐I and mdesprot‐II) encoding digestive serine proteases in Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor, have been cloned and characterized. The deduced amino acid sequences revealed similarity with trypsin‐like digestive serine proteases from other Dipterans. Both mdesprot‐I and mdesprot‐II encoded proteins with secretion signal peptides at the N‐terminals, indicating the proteins are secreted proteases that should function as midgut digestive proteases. A cytological analysis with fluorescent in situ hybridization revealed the cytological localization of mdesprot‐I and mdesprot‐II on the long arm of Autosome 2. Results are discussed in the context of the efficacy of potential protease inhibitors to develop Hessian fly resistant wheat through genetic engineering approaches.
Analysis of antifreeze proteins within spruce budworm sister species
Authors: Tyshenko M. G. , Doucet D. , Walker V. K.
Published: June 2005

Spruce budworm (Choristoneura) species survive sub‐zero winter temperatures by producing antifreeze proteins (AFPs) encoded by a multigene family of short and long isoforms. We report in this study the first analysis of antifreeze proteins from related Choristoneura sister species. The additional thirty amino acid insert found in the longer AFP isoforms maintains the proteins beta‐helix and original fifteen amino acid (Thr‐X‐Thr) repeat motif. Analysis of the beta‐helix region shows more divergent residues surround the conserved Thr residues. Maintaining the beta‐helix structure and conserved Thr residues appear to be paramount for AFP function and surviving sub‐zero winter temperatures. Two other species within the same lepidopteran clade, Ditrysia, do not appear to contain any AFP‐like sequences.
Novel genetic basis of field‐evolved resistance to Bt toxins in Plutella xylostella
Authors: Baxter S. W. , Zhao J.‐Z. , Gahan L. J. , Shelton A. M. , Tabashnik B. E. , Heckel D. G.
Published: June 2005

Insecticidal toxins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) are widely used to control pest insects, but evolution of resistance threatens their continued efficacy. The most common type of Bt resistance (‘Mode 1’) is characterized by recessive inheritance, > 500‐fold resistance to at least one Cry1A toxin, negligible cross‐resistance to Cry1C, and reduced binding of Bt toxins to midgut membrane target sites. Mutations affecting a Cry1A‐binding midgut cadherin protein are linked to laboratory‐selected Mode 1 resistance in Heliothis virescens and Pectinophora gossypiella. Here we show that field‐evolved Mode 1 resistance in the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, has a different genetic basis, indicating that screening for resistance in the field should not be restricted to a previously proposed DNA‐based search for cadherin mutations.
A few design perspectives on one‐on‐one digital classroom environment
Authors: Liang J.‐K. , Liu T.‐C. , Wang H.‐Y. , Chang B. , Deng Y.‐C. , Yang J.‐C. , Chou C.‐Y. , Ko H.‐W. , Yang S. , Chan T.‐W.
Published: June 2005

1 : 1 educational computing refers to a scenario where every student in a group or class uses a computing device equipped with wireless communication capability to conduct a learning task. This paper, drawing from design experiences with our digital classroom environment series and other studies, attempts to describe a few valuable 1 : 1 design perspectives for educational computing inside the classroom. We try to describe the major components of the 1 : 1 digital classroom environment and classify the most important component, student devices, according to a set of features. Furthermore, based on the notion of computing affordance, a set of communication affordances are described. This set underpins three basic educational activities, namely: teacher‐directed instruction, small group learning and individual learning. Finally, scenarios are exemplified for a few typical educational computing devices. This study concludes with a discussion of short‐ and long‐term research possibilities.
Mobile learning with a mobile game: design and motivational effects
Authors: Schwabe Gerhard , Göth Christoph
Published: June 2005

Abstract Mobile technologies offer the opportunity to embed learning in a natural environment. This paper describes the design of the MobileGame prototype, exploring the opportunities to support learning through an orientation game in a university setting. The paper first introduces the scenario and then describes the general architecture of the prototype. The main part of the paper focuses on the evaluation of design issues and the effects observed in two trials. Design issues include: Supporting work on the move poses difficult interface questions, the accuracy of current outdoor, and indoor positioning systems is still problematic and the game requires near real‐time response time. The evaluation of the effects shows that features such as ‘map‐navigation’ and ‘hunting and hiding’ lead to excitement and fun. The participants immerse into a mixed reality that augments both physical and social space. The game success is based on the motivating design of the game itself. The paper concludes with open issues for future research, especially with the need to thoroughly evaluate the learning benefits.
Using mobile phones in English education in Japan
Authors: Thornton Patricia , Houser Chris
Published: June 2005

AbstractWe present three studies in mobile learning.

First, we polled 333 Japanese university students regarding their use of mobile devices. One hundred percent reported owning a mobile phone. Ninety‐nine percent send e‐mail on their mobile phones, exchanging some 200 e‐mail messages each week. Sixty‐six percent e‐mail peers about classes; 44% e‐mail for studying. In contrast, only 43% e‐mail on PCs, exchanging an average of only two messages per week. Only 20% had used a personal digital assistant.

Second, we e‐mailed 100‐word English vocabulary lessons at timed intervals to the mobile phones of 44 Japanese university students, hoping to promote regular study. Compared with students urged to regularly study identical materials on paper or Web, students receiving mobile e‐mail learned more (P<0.05). Seventy‐one percent of the subjects preferred receiving these lessons on mobile phones rather than PCs. Ninety‐three percent felt this a valuable teaching method.

Third, we created a Web site explaining English idioms. Student‐produced animation shows each idiom's literal meaning; a video shows the idiomatic meaning. Textual materials include an explanation, script, and quiz. Thirty‐one Japanese college sophomores evaluated the site using video‐capable mobile phones, finding few technical difficulties, and rating highly its educational effectiveness.
Are house dust mite allergen levels influenced by cold winter weather?
Authors: Gehring U. , Brunekreef B. , Fahlbusch B. , Wichmann H.‐E. , Heinrich J. ,   the INGA study group
Published: June 2005

Background:  Moisture is vitally important for house dust mites and they cannot survive in cold or hot‐dry climates.

Aims of the study:  To investigate the influence of two extraordinarily cold and dry winters in 1995/1996 and 1996/1997 on house dust mite levels in German homes.

Methods:  Dust samples were collected between June 1995 and December 2001 on the mattresses of 655 adults and 454 schoolchildren living in five different areas of Germany. We compared house dust mite allergen Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p 1) levels before and during the winters of 1995/1996 and 1996/1997 with levels after these winters.

Results:  D. pteronyssinus (Der p 1) levels in samples taken after the cold winters of 1995/1996 and 1996/1997 were approximately two times lower than Der p 1 levels in dust samples collected before or during these respective winters (Geometric means: Erfurt 89 vs 33 ng/g; Hamburg 333 vs 219 ng/g; Bitterfeld, Hettstedt, and Zerbst 296 vs 180 ng/g). Except for Hamburg, the decrease in Der p 1 levels was statistically significant. D. pteronyssinus levels measured in dust samples collected in 2001 (i.e. 3 years after the two cold winters) show a statistically non‐significant increase (Geometric means: Erfurt 33 vs 39 ng/g; Hamburg 219 vs 317 ng/g), suggesting that it may take a long time for mite allergen levels to increase again after a sudden decrease.

Conclusion:  We conclude that Der p 1 levels in German mattress dust samples have been approximately reduced by a factor of three to four by the two consecutive cold winters of 1995/1996 and 1996/1997.
Morphometric and Quantitative Evaluation of the NADH‐Diaphorase Positive Myenteric Neurons of the Jejunum of Streptozotocin‐Diabetic Rats Supplemented with Acetyl‐L‐Carnitine
Authors: de Miranda Neto M. H. , Defani M. A. , Fregonesi C. E. P. T. , Natali M. R. M. , Pereira A.
Published: June 2005

In this study we investigated the effect of the acetyl‐L‐carnitine (ALC) supplementation on the myenteric neurons of the jejunum of rats made diabetic at the age of 105 days by streptozotocin (35 mg/kg body weight). Four groups were used: non‐diabetic (C), non‐diabetic supplemented with ALC (CC), diabetic (D), diabetic supplemented with ALC (DC). After 15 weeks of diabetes induction the blood was collected by cardiac puncture to evaluate glycaemia and glycated haemoglobin. Next the animals were killed and the jejunum was collected and subjected to whole‐mount preparation to evidence the myenteric neurons through the histochemical technique of the NADH‐diaphorase. The neuronal counts were made in 80 microscopic fields, in tissue samples of five animals of each group. The profiles of the cell bodies of 1000 neurons per group were analysed. Diabetes induced a significant increase in the area of the cell body and decrease in the number of NADH‐diaphorase positive myoenteric neurons. ALC suplementation to the diabetic group promoted smaller hypertrophic effects and less neuronal loss than in the myoenteric neurons of the diabetic rats, and in addition diminished the body weight decrease and reduced the fasting glycaemia.
Tissue Pool Neutrophils of the Bovine Mammary Gland: Ultrastructural Features During In Vitro Senescence
Authors: Sladek Z. , Rysanek D.
Published: June 2005

The aim of the study was to verify whether the in vitro senescence process of tissue pool neutrophils of the bovine mammary gland is accompanied by similar changes of ultrastructure as typically occurs in in vivo conditions. The experiments were carried out in four clinically healthy, Holstein × Bohemian Red‐Pied crossbred heifers aged 14–16 months. With the aid of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and flow cytometry (FCM), neutrophil apoptosis in vivo was detected and during senescence it was monitored in vitro. The neutrophil apoptosis comprised three ultrastructurally different stages: (1) karyopyknosis, (2) zeiosis, and (3) apoptotic bodies. These stages were obvious in the apoptotic neutrophils both in vivo and in vitro. In addition to the common morphological signs, however, ultrastructural differences were also detected in apoptotic neutrophils in vitro. These in vitro ultrastructural differences mostly comprised hyper‐vacuolation of the cytoplasm with mega‐vacuoles and secondary necrosis of apoptotic neutrophils. Morphological features of apoptosis during in vitro senescence of tissue pool neutrophils of the bovine mammary gland were shown to be in close accordance with these in vivo signs.
Peritoneal Folds of the Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Authors: Pérez W. , Möller R. , Martin E.
Published: June 2005

The anatomy of the rabbit is not well known and there is no consensus on the anatomical nomenclature for this species. The objective of this study was to give a complementary description of the peritoneal folds in order to improve the existing knowledge on this species. Eighteen adult rabbits were studied. Ten animals were dissected unfixed and the remaining eight after fixation in formalin. The hepatic ligaments were similar to those of the dog. The transverse mesocolon was absent. The entry to the caudal recess of the omental sac was relatively smaller than that in other domestic species. We consistently found an omental foramen. An amount of fat tissue was almost always found in the proximal mesorchium. The vaginal process was inconstant.
An Ultrastructural Study on the Leydig and Sertoli Cells in the Immature Lesser Mouse Deer (Tragulus javanicus)
Authors: Andriana B. B. , Kanai Y. , Kimura J. , Fukuta K. , Hayashi Y. , Kurohmaru M.
Published: June 2005

Leydig and Sertoli cells of the immature lesser mouse deer testes, obtained in East Malaysia, were observed using light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The testes were fixed in 5% glutaraldehyde, post‐fixed in 1% OsO4, dehydrated in ethanol, and embedded in Araldite M. Serial semi‐thin sections were cut, stained with toluidine blue and observed using light microscopy. Serial ultra‐thin sections were cut, stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate, and examined using TEM. As a result, ultrastructurally, two types of underdeveloped filament bundles were infrequently recognized in Leydig cells, but not in other testicular cells. One type was the underdeveloped bundles of actin filaments (approximately 5 nm in diameter), which were found in the nucleus of Leydig cells. The other type was the underdeveloped bundles of intermediate filaments (approximately 10 nm in diameter), which were found in the cytoplasm of Leydig cells. A multivesicular nuclear body (MNB) – specifically present in the Sertoli cell nucleus of ruminant testes – was infrequently observed. The MNB is situated in the vicinity of nuclear membrane, still in an underdeveloped stage.
Macro Anatomical Investigations of the Cranial Cervical Ganglion in Domestic Pig (Sus scrofa domesticus)
Authors: Kabak M. , Orhan I. O. , Hazıroglu R. M.
Published: June 2005

In this study, the left and right cranial cervical ganglia (ganglion cervicale craniale) of eight young (four male, four female) domestic pigs weighing around 70–80 kg were inspected macro anatomically. The cranial cervical ganglion (CCG) was found cranio‐ventrally of the distal ganglion of the vagus nerve, medial of the jugular process extremity, ventral of the atlas, dorsal of the epiglottis base and medial of the common root (CR) established by the internal carotid and occipital arteries. The internal carotid nerve and jugular nerve ramified from the cranial part of CCG. The jugular nerve gave branches that merged with the vagus and glossopharyngeal nerves. Other nerve branches originating from the cranial part of the ganglion reached to the external carotid artery and CR. The internal carotid nerve varied among cadavers in number of branches (two to four). These branches did not travel along the side of the internal carotid artery. The central part of CCG gave thin nerve branches that reached to various anatomical structures including the first and second cervical nerves, wall of the pharynx, accessory nerve, hypoglossal nerve, vagus nerve, external carotid artery and CR. The caudal part of CCG gave nerve branches that merged with the vagus, cranial laryngeal nerves, and common carotid artery. The external carotid nerves, which were two or three in number, also originated from the caudal part of CCG. In conclusion, the nerves ramifying from CCG of the pig varied in number among cadavers. Compared with literature raised in other species, there are also differences in number of nerve branches and course pattern of these nerves.
Bourgeois Males of the Peacock Blenny, Salaria pavo, Discriminate Female Mimics from Females?
Authors: Gonçalves David , Matos Ricardo , Fagundes Teresa , Oliveira Rui
Published: June 2005

In a Portuguese population of Salaria pavo, two types of reproductively active males occur: large bourgeois males that defend nests and have fully developed secondary sex characters (SSC) and small sneaker males that mimic the females’ morphology and behaviour to approach nests and parasitize fertilizations. These two alternative reproductive tactics are sequential, as sneakers develop into bourgeois males. We investigated whether bourgeois males were able to discriminate between sneakers and females of different sizes. In a laboratory experiment bourgeois males were sequentially presented with a female and a sneaker matched for size. Complementary field observations were conducted on the interactions between females and sneakers with bourgeois males. If bourgeois males discriminated females from sneakers, we predicted that they should direct more aggressive behaviours towards sneakers and more courtship acts towards females. In general, bourgeois males courted and attacked small females and sneakers equally. However, large sneakers were courted less and attacked more than large females. Larger sneakers, beginning to develop SSC, were attacked more and courted less by the bourgeois male than smaller sneakers, and larger females were attacked less and courted more than smaller females. These results strongly suggest that only small female‐mimicking males were able to deceive bourgeois males. In S. pavo, if the sneakers’ fertilization success correlates with their female‐mimicking ability, a fitness decrease with an increasing body size can be predicted.
Do ‘Quiet’ Places Make Animals Placid? Island vs. Mainland Tiger Snakes
Authors: Bonnet X. , Aubret F. , Lourdais O. , Ladyman M. , Bradshaw D. , Maumelat S.
Published: June 2005

Most animals that possess potent venom display a wide variety of warning messages to discourage predators. Tiger snakes are large and highly venomous elapids that exhibit these anti‐predator behaviours. We compared the anti‐predator behaviours of two neighbouring and genetically indistinguishable populations in Western Australia (Herdsman Lake, HL and Carnac Island, CI). CI is free from human, native and feral predation. All of these factors represent a continual threat on HL situated on the mainland. Neither body size, nor sex influenced defensive behaviours. However, we observed a marked inter‐population difference among adults in the degree to which anti‐predator behaviours were displayed when snakes were continually aggravated: HL snakes exhibited a typical warning signal (flat‐neck) and bite, while CI snakes remained very docile. In stark contrast, neonates of both populations exhibited marked anti‐predator behaviours and both populations were indistinguishable in terms of the intensity of display. Neonates reared in captivity, hence regularly confronted by human predators, became more defensive in comparison with neonates exposed to natural conditions on CI; similarly several adult CI snakes kept in captivity became more defensive. Our results highlight the extreme behavioural plasticity of snakes. We also hypothesize that CI snakes may become more placid over time as they grow up in an environment free from predation.