bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Distribution of Mouse Polymeric Immunoglobulin Receptor (mpIgR): Establishment of Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay System for mpIgR
Authors: Omagari D. , Iijima M. , Suguro H. , Sato I. , Asano M. , Moro I.
Published: October 2008

In spite of the relevance of the mouse as an experimental animal for immunological research, there is no specific monoclonal antibody (MoAb) against mouse polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (mpIgR) molecule. The aim of this study was to generate MoAb against mpIgR and to develop an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) system. For this purpose, a mammalian expression vector encoding the extracellular part of mpIgR cDNA (also known as mouse free secretory component: mfSC) was injected into rats and mice. Specific responses were induced in both animals. The lymphocytes were collected from immunized mice and fused with myeloma cells to establish hybridomas secreting a MoAb against mpIgR. The purified MoAb reacted with mpIgR specifically and could be used in several biochemical and morphological experiments, such as Western blotting, immunoprecipitation and cell staining. By combining the two different MoAb, clone No.7 and No.19, which recognize different epitopes on the mpIgR molecule, a sandwich ELISA system was established. With this system, the pIgR concentrations in homogenates of several different mice organs were estimated. As a result, the homogenates of the small intestine were shown to contain higher amounts of pIgR compared with those from the large intestine, the liver or the kidney. These results indicated a differential distribution of the mpIgR molecule along the intestinal tract. This ELISA system should expand our knowledge about the mucosal immune system in mice.
Facies effects on the behaviour of Nd and Sr isotope systems in turbidite mudrocks during diagenesis
Authors: EVANS JANE A. , ZALASIEWICZ JAN A. , CHOPEY‐JONES ANNE
Published: October 2008

A detailed Sm/Nd, epsilon Nd and Rb/Sr profile through a 30‐cm thick section of Silurian (Llandovery) interbedded turbiditic and hemipelagic mudrocks from the central Wales Basin shows well‐marked chemical and isotopic trends. The variations reflect an interplay of depositional mode and diagenetic fractionation. Sm and Nd values are substantially higher and Sm/Nd ratios tend to be lower in the organic‐rich hemipelagite layers due to diagenetic concentration in the hemipelagites. There is a corresponding depletion in the turbidite mudstones. Epsilon Nd values range from −0·8 to −7·1 and this is attributed to diagenetic modification of Sm/Nd ratios causing scatter in back‐calculated epsilon values. Rubidium–strontium ratios in this succession fall within a narrow range, due to homogenization during diagenesis. By contrast, data from a hemipelagite‐dominated (condensed) succession near the northern margin of the Welsh Basin show a lower range of epsilon Nd values and a higher scatter of Rb/Sr values, consistent with less fluid throughput during burial compaction and hence less diagenetic redistribution in these rocks. These patterns demonstrate the sensitivity of mudrock trace element and isotope compositions to both small‐scale sedimentary structure and large‐scale basin architecture.
Individual, household and community factors associated with HIV test refusal in rural Malawi
Authors: Kranzer Katharina , McGrath Nuala , Saul Jacky , Crampin Amelia C. , Jahn Andreas , Malema Simon , Mulawa Dominic , Fine Paul E.M. , Zaba Basia , Glynn Judith R.
Published: October 2008

Objective  To investigate individual, household and community factors associated with HIV test refusal in a counselling and testing programme offered at population level in rural Malawi.

Methods  HIV counselling and testing was offered to individuals aged 18–59 at their homes. Individual variables were collected by interviews and physical examinations. Household variables were determined as part of a previous census. Multivariate models allowing for household and community clustering were used to assess associations between HIV test refusal and explanatory variables.

Results  Of 2303 eligible adults, 2129 were found and 1443 agreed to HIV testing. Test refusal was less likely by those who were never married [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.50 for men (95% CI 0.32; 0.80) and 0.44 (0.21; 0.91) for women] and by farmers [aOR 0.70 (0.52; 0.96) for men and 0.59 (0.40; 0.87) for women]. A 10% increase in cluster refusal rates increased the odds of refusal by 1.48 (1.32; 1.66) in men and 1.68 (1.32; 2.12) in women. Women counsellors increased the odds of refusal by 1.39 (1.00; 1.92) in men. Predictors of HIV test refusal in women were refusal of the husband as head of household [aOR 15.08 (9.39; 24.21)] and living close to the main road [aOR 6.07 (1.76; 20.98)]. Common reasons for refusal were fear of testing positive, previous HIV test, knowledge of HIV serostatus and the need for more time to think.

Conclusion  Successful VCT strategies need to encourage couples counselling and should involve participation of men and communities.
Annual risk of tuberculosis infection among tribal population of central India
Authors: Rao V. G. , Gopi P. G. , Yadav R. , Subramani R. , Bhat J. , Anvikar A. R. , Sadacharam K. , Tiwari B. K. , Gadge V. , Bhondeley M. K. , Shukla G. P. , Ukey M. , Jain S. , Wares D. F.
Published: October 2008

Objective  To estimate the annual risk of tuberculosis infection (ARTI) among tribal children of Madhya Pradesh, central India.

Methods  Community‐based, cross‐sectional tuberculin survey among children aged 1–9 years in the tribal population of Madhya Pradesh. Multistage stratified cluster sampling was used to select a representative random sample of villages predominated by tribal population from selected districts. A total of 4802 children were tuberculin‐tested with 1TU of PPD RT 23 and the reaction sizes read after 72 h.

Results  A total of 3062 (64%) children had no BCG scar. The frequency distribution of children by reaction sizes indicated a fair mode at 18 mm in the right hand side of the distribution. By mirror‐image technique, the prevalence of infection among children with no recognizable BCG scar was estimated as 6.8% (95% CI: 4.8–8.9%). The ARTI was computed as 1.3% (0.9–1.7%). The corresponding figures for children irrespective of scar status were 7.1% (95% CI: 5.5–8.8%) and 1.3% (1.0–1.7%) respectively.

Conclusions  The risk of tuberculosis infection in tribal population of Madhya Pradesh, central India is not different from other areas of the country. There is, however, a need to further intensify tuberculosis control measures on a sustained and long‐term basis.
The impact of Mexico’s conditional cash transfer programme, Oportunidades, on birthweight
Authors: Barber Sarah L. , Gertler Paul J.
Published: October 2008

Objectives  To evaluate the impact of Oportunidades, a large‐scale, conditional cash transfer programme in Mexico, on birthweight. The programme provides cash transfers to low‐income, rural households in Mexico, conditional on accepting nutritional supplements health education, and health care.

Methods  The primary analyses used retrospective reports from 840 women in poor rural communities participating in an effectiveness study and randomly assigned to incorporation into the programme in 1998 or 1999 across seven Mexican states. Pregnant women in participating households received nutrition supplements and health care, and accepted cash transfers. Using multivariate and instrumental variable analyses, we estimated the impact of the programme on birthweight in grams and low birthweight (<2500 g), receipt of any pre‐natal care, and number of pre‐natal visits.

Results  Oportunidades beneficiary status was associated with 127.3 g higher birthweight among participating women and a 4.6 percentage point reduction in low birthweight.

Conclusion  The Oportunidades conditional cash transfer programme improved birthweight outcomes. This finding is relevant to countries implementing conditional cash transfer programmes.
Evaluation of a rapid diagnostic test specific for Plasmodium vivax
Authors: Kim Sun Hyung , Nam Myung‐Hyun , Roh Kyoung Ho , Park Hae Chul , Nam Deok Hwa , Park Gli Hong , Han Eun Taek , Klein Terry A. , Lim Chae Seung
Published: October 2008

Plasmodium vivax is the only human malaria indigenous to the Republic of Korea (ROK). A rapid and sensitive diagnostic test (RDT) that detects P. vivax is appropriate for evaluating suspected malaria patients with no travel history abroad. The RDTs, SD Malaria Antigen P.v (SD diagnostic, Kyonggi, ROK) specific for P. vivax and the well documented OptiMAL (DiaMed, Cressier, Switzerland) were compared among 282 volunteers for specificity and sensitivity of P. vivax and Plasmodium falciparum malaria infections against Giemsa‐stained blood smears read by an experienced microscopist. A total of 137 volunteers were diagnosed with P. vivax, 45 cases (returned travellers from overseas) were diagnosed with P. falciparum and 100 healthy volunteers were diagnosed as negative for malaria. Correspondingly, the SD Malaria Antigen P.v test identified P. vivax infections in 128/137 malaria patients (93.4%) and 0/100 (0%) healthy volunteers. Three patients identified with P. falciparum also were interpreted as P. vivax by the SD Malaria Antigen P.v test; however, these patients were later confirmed as mixed infections of P. vivax and P. falciparum by polymerase chain reaction. OptiMAL interpreted the three mixed infections only as P. falciparum and detected 130/137 (94.9%) patients with P. vivax. The sensitivity of the SD Malaria Antigen P.v test decreased from 100% (>5000 parasite/μl) to 81.3% (1–100 parasites/μl) as parasitaemia levels declined. For the regions where P. vivax is the primary malaria parasite, the SD P. vivax‐specific rapid diagnostic test may be useful for screening suspected malaria patients when sufficient material and human resources (e.g. trained microscopists) are unavailable for malaria diagnosis.
ICOS‐gene variants are not associated with atopic disease susceptibility in European children
Authors: Beier Katja C. , Humberdros Steffi , Witt Heiko , Illi Sabina , Rüschendorf Franz , Nickel Renate , Lee Young‐Ae , Lau Susanne , Wahn Ulrich , Hamelmann Eckard
Published: October 2008

The inducible co‐stimulatory molecule, ICOS, is an important regulator of T cell differentiation and effector function. Previously, it was reported that two variants in the ICOS promotor region, g.1‐1413G>A and g.1‐693G>A, were associated with sensitization to airborne allergens, elevated serum IgE levels and Th2 cytokine production in a Hutterite population. The aim of this study was to evaluate these two and four other selected ICOS variants for association with atopic phenotypes in two large European prospective pediatric cohorts. We investigated subjects from the German Multicenter Allergy Study (MAS), which followed over 800 children with atopic family history from birth until 13 yr of age, and from the Early Treatment of the Allergic Child Study (ETAC), which collected DNA and clinical data of over 330 children with atopic dermatitis during their first 2 yr of life. We genotyped DNA from these children by melting curve analysis using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) probes. We could not confirm the previously reported association of g.1‐1413G>A and g.1‐693G>A with atopic phenotypes in our pediatric cohorts. Also four other ICOS variants at putative binding sites for transcription factors showed no association with atopic dermatitis, asthma, allergic sensitization and allergic rhinitis. Our data suggest that these ICOS variants do not play a major role in the development of atopy in European children.
Liver transplantation in children with fulminant hepatic failure: The UCL experience
Authors: Mahadeb Parikshat , Gras Jérémie , Sokal Etienne , Otte Jean‐Bernard , Lerut Jan , Detaille Thierry , De Cléty Stéphan Clément , Reding Raymond
Published: October 2008

Abstract:  The outcome of pediatric LT for FHF was shown to be poor in our center. To better understand such results, recipient and transplant parameters with a putative impact on post‐transplant outcome were analyzed in LT for FHF. Between March 1984 and June 2002, 33 children with FHF received a primary liver allograft. The overall results in this series were studied with respect to pre‐operative demographic and metabolic variables, peri‐operative events, and outcome. Five‐yr patient and graft survivals were 71% and 66%, respectively, with a retransplantation rate at 18%. Incidences of perioperative hemorrhage, of HAT and PVT were 14%, 8%, and 4%, respectively. Five‐yr acute rejection‐free survival rate was 55%. These data confirm the worse outcome following LT for FHF when compared with LT in elective, non‐malignant indications such as BA; results in FHF could not be related to surgical or immunological complications in the post‐transplant period and it is hypothesized that the MOF associated with FHF contributes to early post‐transplant mortality which would justify special management, including aggressive renal and hepatic support.
Pollination in Jacaranda rugosa (Bignoniaceae): euglossine pollinators, nectar robbers and low fruit set
Authors: Milet‐Pinheiro P. , Schlindwein C.
Published: October 2008

Nectar robbers access floral nectar in illegitimate flower visits without, in general, performing a pollination service. Nevertheless, their effect on fruit set can be indirectly positive if the nectar removal causes an incremental increase in the frequency of legitimate flower visits of effective pollinators, especially in obligate outcrossers. We studied pollination and the effect of nectar robbers on the reproductive fitness of Jacaranda rugosa, an endemic shrub of the National Park of Catimbau, in the Caatinga of Pernambuco, Brazil. Xenogamous J. rugosa flowers continuously produced nectar during the day at a rate of 1 μl·h−1. Female and male Euglossa melanotricha were the main pollinators. Early morning flower visits substantially contributed to fruit set because stigmas with open lobes were almost absent in the afternoon. Ninety‐nine per cent of the flowers showed damage caused by nectar robbers. Artificial addition of sugar water prolonged the duration of flower visits of legitimate flower visitors. Removal of nectar, simulating the impact of nectar robbers, resulted in shorter flower visits of euglossine bees. While flower visits of nectar‐robbing carpenter bees (Xylocopa frontalis, X. grisescens, X. ordinaria) produced only a longitudinal slit in the corolla tube in the region of the nectar chamber, worker bees of Trigona spinipes damaged the gynoecium in 92% of the flowers. This explains the outstandingly low fruit set (1.5%) of J. rugosa in the National Park of Catimbau.
Differential expression of the CBF pathway and cell cycle‐related genes in Arabidopsis accessions in response to chronic low‐temperature exposure
Authors: Lee Y. P. , Fleming A. J. , Körner Ch. , Meins Jr F.
Published: October 2008

Low, non‐freezing temperatures are a major factor limiting growth and development of vegetation in cold climates. Activation of the C‐repeat binding factor (CBF) regulatory pathway by acute cold treatment is important for cold acclimation and freezing tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana; however, the potential role of this pathway in response to chronic cold treatment has been less well characterised. We studied long‐term (chronic) effects of low, non‐freezing temperatures on the expression of CBF pathway genes (CBF2/3, COR15a, RD29A) and cell cycle‐related genes (CDKA;1, CYCD2;1, CYCB1;1) in roots of accessions from habitats differing in growing season temperatures. Elongation rates of primary roots at 21 and 10 °C were not significantly correlated with average growing season temperatures, indicating that there is no ecotypic differentiation for these traits. Measurements of mRNA accumulation in roots of seven accessions showed that expression of CBF2/3, COR15a and RD29A is induced by both acute cold treatment (2–24 h at 4 °C) and chronic cold treatment (5–6 weeks at 10 °C), while CYCB1;1 is only induced by chronic cold treatment. RD29A and COR15a mRNA levels were correlated (P < 0.05) with the rate of root elongation in the cold for three high‐altitude accessions relative to the common laboratory stain, Col‐0. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that induction of CBF2/3, COR15a, RD29A and CYCB1;1 is a physiological response to cold that, in the case of RD29A and COR15a, may be important for root growth at low temperatures.
Evidence for discontinuous water columns in the xylem conduit of tall birch trees
Authors: Westhoff M. , Zimmermann D. , Schneider H. , Wegner L. H. , Geßner P. , Jakob P. , Bamberg E. , Shirley St. , Bentrup F.‐W. , Zimmermann U.
Published: October 2008

The continuity of the xylem water columns was studied on 17‐ to 23‐m tall birch trees (trunk diameter about 23 cm; first branching above 10 m) all year round. Fifty‐one trees were felled, and 5‐cm thick slices or 2‐m long boles were taken at regular, relatively short intervals over the entire height of the trees. The filling status of the vessels was determined by (i) xylem sap extraction from trunk and branch pieces (using the gas bubble‐based jet‐discharge method and centrifugation) and from trunk boles (using gravity discharge); (ii) 1H nuclear magnetic resonance imaging of slice pieces; (iii) infusion experiments (dye, 86Rb+, D2O) on intact trees and cut branches; and (iv) xylem pressure measurements. This broad array of techniques disclosed no evidence for continuous water‐filled columns, as postulated by the Cohesion–Tension theory, for root to apex directed mass transport. Except in early spring (during the xylem refilling phase) and after extremely heavy rainfall during the vegetation period, cohesive/mobile water was found predominantly at intermediate heights of the trunks but not at the base or towards the top of the tree. Similar results were obtained for branches. Furthermore, upper branches generally contained more cohesive/mobile water than lower branches. The results suggest that water lifting occurs by short‐distance (capillary, osmotic and/or transpiration‐bound) tension gradients as well as by mobilisation of water in the parenchymatic tissues and the heartwood, and by moisture uptake through lenticels.
Interactions between Azotobacter, Pseudomonas and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Two Varieties of Sesamum indicum L.
Authors: Sabannavar S. J. , Lakshman H. C.
Published: October 2008

Earthen pot experiments were conducted in a randomized block design with three replications to evaluate the effects of sesame varieties, DS 1 and E 8 on a single inoculation of Glomus fasciculatum (Thax. sensu Gerd.) Gerd. and Trappe and Acaulospora laevis Gerd. & Trappe respectively, dual inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) with Azotobacter chroococcum (Ac) or Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pf) and a triple inoculation of AMF, A. chroococcum and P.  fluorescens. The results revealed that inoculation of AMF + Ac + Pf to DS 1 and E 8 varieties stimulated increased AMF colonization, plant growth, i.e. shoot, root length, fresh and dry weight of shoot and root, phosphorus uptake and number of capsules significantly over the dual and single inoculation treatments. The association of bacteria and AMF provides evidence that bacteria are involved in the beneficial effects to AMF on sesame varieties.
Response of multiple generations of beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hübner), feeding on transgenic Bt cotton
Authors: Wu G. , Harris M. K. , Guo J.‐Y. , Wan F.‐H.
Published: October 2008

Development, reproduction and food utilization of three successive generations of beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Hübner), fed on transgenic and non‐transgenic Bt cotton were examined. Significantly longer larval life‐span and lower pupal weight were observed in three successive generations of S. exigua fed on transgenic Bt cotton compared with non‐transgenic Bt cotton. Significantly higher survival rate and adult fecundity of S. exigua were found in three successive generations of S. exigua fed on transgenic Bt cotton compared with non‐transgenic Bt cotton. The survival rate and adult fecundity of S. exigua were occurred significant increase in the third generation compared with the first generation after feeding on transgenic Bt cotton. Significantly lower consumption, frass and relative growth rate (RGR) were observed in three successive generations of S. exigua fed on transgenic Bt cotton compared with non‐transgenic Bt cotton. Cotton variety significantly affected all indices of larval consumption and utilization in three successive generations of S. exigua, except for efficiency of conversion of ingested food. However, beet armyworm generation only significantly affected RGR of S. exigua. The results of this study indicated food quality on the diet‐utilization efficiency of S. exigua was different along with beet armyworm generation. Measuring multigenerational development and food utilization of S. exigua at individual and population level in response to Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can provide a more meaningful evaluation of long‐term population dynamics than experiments on a single generation. It is imperative to develop an appropriate multigenerational pest management tactic to monitor the field population dynamics of non‐target pests (e.g., beet armyworm) in agricultural Bt cotton ecosystem.
Identification and characterization of new S‐alleles associated with self‐incompatibility in almond
Authors: Kodad O. , Sánchez A. , Saibo N. , Oliveira M. , Sociasi Company R.
Published: October 2008

Almond is a highly heterozygous species with a high number of S‐alleles controlling its gametophytic self‐incompatibility system (GSI). In this work, we have analysed 14 Spanish local almond cultivars for S‐RNase allele diversity. Five new S‐RNase alleles were identified by cloning and sequencing, S31 (804 bp) in ‘Pou de Felanitx’ and ‘Totsol’, S32 (855 bp) in ‘Taiatona’, S33 (1165 bp) in ‘Pou d’Establiments’ and ‘Muel’, S34 (1663 bp) in ‘Pané‐Barquets’ and S35 (1658 bp) in ‘Planeta de les Garrigues’. Additionally, seven already known almond alleles could be recognized in the local cultivars studied. The high number of new alleles identified reveals the wide diversity of almond germplasm still existing and requiring characterization, and points to the possibility of new findings by a wider study focusing on other provenances. The almond S‐RNases have been compared to those of other Prunus species, showing a high identity and confirming that the S‐RNase gene in this genus presents a probable common ancestor.
Environmental effects on lutein content and relationship of lutein and other seed components in soybean
Authors: Lee J.‐D. , Shannon J. G. , So Y.‐S. , Sleper D. A. , Nelson R. L. , Lee J.‐H. , Choung M.‐G.
Published: October 2008

Lutein is a major carotenoid in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed, and has been shown to be beneficial for eye health in humans. Development of soybeans high in lutein is a goal of some breeding programmes. Little is known about how different growing environments affect lutein content. The objective of this study was to determine the variation of lutein and its relationship to seed protein, oil and individual fatty acids in soybean seed. Fifteen soybean genotypes were planted at four environments. There was no effect of year and planting date on lutein content in soybean seed. However, genotype × year, genotype × planting date and genotype × year × planting date were significant for lutein content. Although each genotype showed similar response across environments, lutein content varied significantly across the four growing environments in 14 of the 15 genotypes evaluated. Lutein content was not correlated with seed protein or oil and palmitic or stearic acid concentrations. However, lutein was positively correlated with oleic acid content and negatively correlated with linoleic and linolenic acids content.
Effect of Carbohydrates on the Ability of Bull Sperm to Bind to Bovine Oviduct Epithelial Cells
Authors: Kon Y , Iwata H , Shiono H , Matsubara K , Kurita A , Sakaguchi Y , Kuwayama T , Monji Y
Published: October 2008

Contents

In the present study, we investigated the effect of various carbohydrates on the ability of bovine spermatozoa to bind to the bovine oviduct epithelial cells (OECs). We also examined the fertilization competence and motility of spermatozoa that bind to OECs in the presence of carbohydrates. Frozen‐thawed spermatozoa were incubated with OECs, with and without various carbohydrates. The sperms were then divided into two fractions: OEC‐binding sperms (B‐sperm) and non‐OEC binding sperms (NB‐sperm). The fertilization rate, ability to bind the zona pellucida, and membrane integrity of the spermatozoa as determined using a hypo‐osmotic‐swelling test (HOST) were lower in NB‐sperm than in the unseparated spermatozoa (control). The motility of the B‐sperm was maintained for a longer time than that of the control spermatozoa. The addition of N‐acetyl‐d‐glucosamine (GlcNAc, 5 mm) to the sperm‐OEC mixture increased the number of B‐sperm. D‐mannose (5 mm) and D‐fucose (5 mm) had no effect on the number of B‐sperm. The motility of B‐sperm, which bound to OECs in the presence of GlcNAc, however, was not maintained. When either OECs or the spermatozoa were treated with GlcNAc prior to sperm‐OEC co‐incubation, only sperm‐side treatment enhanced sperm‐OEC binding, but B‐sperm motility was not maintained. The motility of spermatozoa incubated with GlcNAc was lower than that of controls. These results indicate that GlcNAc enhances sperm binding to OECs, probably via sperm surface modification, but does not promote increased sperm survival.
Influence of Inseminate Components on Porcine Leucocyte Migration In Vitro and In Vivo after Pre‐ and Post‐Ovulatory Insemination
Authors: Taylor U , Schuberth HJ , Rath D , Michelmann HW , Sauter‐Louis C , Zerbe H
Published: October 2008

Contents

A post‐breeding migration of leucocytes (PMN) into the uterus is considered to be an important reason for sperm losses. Minimizing such effects may be necessary for successful insemination with low sperm numbers, as required with sex‐sorted spermatozoa. We examined the magnitude of PMN influx 3 h after pre‐ or post‐ovulatory insemination with various combinations of seminal plasma (SP), semen extender Androhep™ (AH; Minitüb, Tiefenbach, Germany) and sperm preparations (S). Pre‐ovulatory inseminations with preparations containing 98% AH caused a massive influx of PMN, independent of whether spermatozoa were present (628 ± 189 × 106 leucocytes/uterine horn) or not (580 ± 153 × 106). Post‐ovulatory, 98% AH caused a comparable immigration only in the absence of sperm cells (AH: 569 ± 198 × 106, AH+S: 162 ± 102 × 106). The presence of SP significantly dampened the numbers of recruited uterine leucocytes. The reaction to all inseminates containing 98% SP both with and without spermatozoa, used before ovulation (SP: 14 ± 6 × 106, SP+S: 73 ± 27 × 106) and after ovulation (SP: 60 ± 32 × 106, SP+S: 51 ± 33 × 106) did not differ significantly from controls using phosphate buffered saline (PBS) (pre‐ovulatory: 1 ± 1 × 106, post‐ovulatory: 11 ± 9 × 106). Quantitative in vitro transmigration assays with blood‐derived PMN proved that AH‐induced leucocyte migration into the uterus to be not as a result of direct chemotaxis, because, on account of the chelator citrate, AH significantly inhibited the transmigration towards recombinant human Interleukin‐8 (rhCXCL8) (AH: 14 ± 5% migration rate vs controls: 37 ± 6%, p < 0.05). Supernatants of spermatozoa incubated in PBS for 1, 12 or 24 h showed neither chemoattractive nor chemotaxis‐inhibiting properties. SP at ≥0.1% [v/v] significantly inhibited the in vitro transmigration of PMN. With respect to in vivo migration of neutrophils, the striking difference in the results between semen extender and seminal plasma suggests that adaptation of extender composition is needed to reflect more closely the in vivo regulatory potential of natural seminal plasma.
The Ductus Epididymis of the Alpaca: Immunohistochemical and Lectin Histochemical Study
Authors: Parillo F , Verini Supplizi A , Macrì D , Catone G
Published: October 2008

Contents

Our objective was to characterize epithelial cells lining the epididymal duct (caput, corpus, cauda) of the alpaca using AE1/AE3 cytokeratin antibodies and a battery of different lectins: Con‐A, UEA‐I, LTA WGA, GSA‐II, GSA‐IB4, SBA, PNA, ECA, DBA, MAL‐II and SNA. Sialidase digestion and deglycosylation pre‐treatments were also employed. The principal cells (PCs) along the epididymis showed differences in immunostaining patterns toward keratin antibodies. Lectin histochemistry demonstrated variations in the content and distribution of glycosidic residues of glycoconjugates in different epididymal regions. In particular, staining of the Golgi zone in the epithelial PCs was interpreted as evidence for synthesis and secretion of O‐ and N‐linked oligosaccharides. In the caput, the apical mitochondria‐rich cells contained mainly β‐GalNAc, subterminal α‐GalNAc, α‐Gal and Neu5Ac α2,3Gal residues. Conversely, in the corpus they were particularly rich in α‐GalNac and β‐Gal‐(1–3)‐d‐GalNAc linked to sialic acid moieties. Basal cells mainly expressed β‐GalNAc and α‐Gal in the caput, α‐Gal in the corpus and α‐Fuc and β‐GalNAc in the cauda. The differences in immunostaining patterns and in lectin histochemistry in the alpaca epididymis reported in this investigation seem to be related to regional differences in function.
Treatment of erosive vulvovaginal lichen planus with methotrexate
Authors: Jang Nelly , Fischer Gayle
Published: October 2008

We report the successful treatment of severe long‐standing erosive vulvovaginal lichen planus in four adult female patients using 2.5–7.5 mg of oral methotrexate once weekly in conjunction with topical clobetasol dipropionate 0.05% ointment and tacrolimus 0.03–0.10% ointment. All cases experienced improvement in symptoms and healing of lesions within 4–8 weeks. Methotrexate was well tolerated and no adverse events have been observed in any of the patients at follow up 4–6 months later.
Nodular granulomatous phlebitis: A phlebitic tuberculid
Authors: McHugh Angela , Siller Gregory , Williamson Richard , Faulkner Catherine
Published: October 2008

A 22‐year‐old woman presented with recurrent non‐ulcerating skin nodules overlying the great saphenous vein on the anteromedial lower legs. Histology showed a granulomatous phlebitis, and polymerase chain reaction performed on lesional skin detected DNA specific for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The lesions resolved with anti‐tuberculous therapy. This case may be a further example of nodular granulomatous phlebitis, a phlebitic tuberculid.
Halo congenital naevus in a middle‐aged patient with vitiligo
Authors: Leow Liang Joo , Goh Boon Kee
Published: October 2008

A case of halo congenital naevus is reported on the chest of a 56‐year‐old Asian woman with pre‐existing vitiligo. The naevus measured 3.5 cm × 2 cm and underwent depigmentation around its periphery. Dermoscopic examination showed coarse pigment in the darker centre of the naevus and depigmentation in the surrounding halo. Light microscopy showed well‐formed naevus cell nests with coarse melanin granules in the papillary dermis, and surrounding fibrosis. Melanocytes extended into reticular dermis, consistent with a congenital growth pattern. There was no evidence of malignancy. The epidermis was of normal appearance. S100 staining highlighted melanocytes in the dermis. Basal melanocytes were retained at the periphery of the naevus. Based on the clinical history and histological findings, a diagnosis of halo congenital naevus was made. The naevus was not excised.
Multiple minute digitate hyperkeratoses associated with paraproteinaemia
Authors: Sriprakash Kavita , Yong‐Gee Simon
Published: October 2008

An 87 year old woman with dementia presented with multiple digitate hyperkeratoses on her face, limbs and chest. She had a previous diagnosis of a paraproteinaemia, with a serum monoclonal band of immunoglobulin G‐κ and anaemia being detected. The skin biopsy of these hyperkeratotic lesions was characterized by multiple areas of orthokeratosis with immunoglobulin deposition. There was no association with hair follicles. These multiple digitate hyperkeratoses have been associated with underlying systemic disorders including malignancies.
Early changes of the portal tract on microcomputed tomography images in a newly‐developed rat model for Budd–Chiari syndrome
Authors: Murad Sarwa Darwish , Dom Veerle A L , Ritman Erik L , De Groen Piet C , Beigley Patricia E , Abraham Susan C , Zondervan Pieter E , Janssen Harry L A
Published: October 2008

Background and Aim:  The effect of increased sinusoidal pressure on the portal tract in Budd–Chiari syndrome (BCS) is as yet not elucidated. Our aim was to investigate portal changes in a newly‐developed rat model for BCS.

Methods:  We created an outflow obstruction in Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 6) by diameter reduction of the inferior vena cava. Left and right liver lobes with portal vein contrast were scanned using microcomputed tomography, and volumes of the portal tree and liver parenchyma were computed by the ANALYZE software program.

Results:  Portal branching density was significantly lower in BCS than the shams, and decreased over time (P < 0.01). There was a significant drop in volume of both parenchyma and the portal tree in the left but not right lobes. At 6 weeks post‐surgery, the perfusion index (i.e. ratio between both volumes) became equal to (left) or even higher than (right) the shams, suggesting a new equilibrium with preserved portal perfusion. Histological findings were consistent with those observed in humans.

Conclusion:  As early as day 2, a significant loss of peripheral portal branches was seen, which progressed over time. Inter‐lobar differences in vascular abnormalities suggest compensatory mechanisms. Despite a decrease in both liver and portal vein volume, relative portal perfusion appeared spared.
Risk factors for neurological complications in complete hemolytic uremic syndrome caused by Escherichia coli O157
Authors: Yamamoto Takehisa , Satomura Kenichi , Okada Shintaro , Ozono Keiichi
Published: October 2008

Background:  The aim of the present study was to investigate the predictive parameters for encephalopathy in complete hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in a large outbreak of O157: H7 infection in 1996.

Methods:  A total of 182 inpatients, 71 of whom had complete HUS, including 12 patients with neurological complications, and 46 colitis patients were studied. Presenting signs and symptoms (n = 115) and laboratory data (n = 69) were analyzed using monovariate and multivariate analysis.

Results:  After adjusting for age and gender, logistic regression showed that presenting symptoms such as bloody diarrhea (odds ratio [OR] = 7.39), proteinuria (OR = 6.16), hematuria (OR = 8.31), oliguria (OR = 17.4) and a pale face (OR = 10.7) were useful for predicting complete HUS. Also, increased white blood cell counts >12 000 μL/mL (OR = 10.0) and C‐reactive protein >1.5 mg/dL (OR = 7.39) at the onset of infection, were useful as predictive laboratory parameters. To predict neurological complications in complete HUS patients, the average daily increase of lactate dehydrase >1200 IU/L per day (OR = 26.3) and creatinine >0.5 mg/dL per day (OR = 12) were found to be useful on multivariate logistic regression.

Conclusion:  There are useful predictive clinical factors for neurological complications in complete HUS.
Thoracoscopic surgery in children in the Kyushu area of Japan
Authors: Asabe Koushi , Oka Yoichiro , Kai Hiroki , Shirakusa Takayuki , Iwasaki Akinori
Published: October 2008

Background:  Recently, minimally invasive thoracoscopic surgery has offered several options for both the diagnosis and surgical treatment in the field of pediatric surgery. This report reviews the surgical experience in order to assess the problems including the complications, encountered during thoracoscopic surgery in children under 15 years of age in the Kyushu area, Japan.

Methods:  From 1993 to 2005, 153 boys and 103 girls underwent thoracoscopic surgery for chest disease. Pertinent information included number of operations for each year, sex, age, indication, treatment procedure, follow‐up duration, cause of conversion to thoracotomy, method of treatment, and complication.

Results:  There has gradually been an increase in the number of operations every year. These included procedures for funnel chest, n= 121; pneumothorax, n= 25; mediastinal tumor, n= 25; palmar hyperhydrosis, n= 23; neuroblastoma, n= 11; and cystic lung disease, n= 10. A large portion of the surgery was for patients under 1 year of age excluding neonates. Approximately half of the procedures were for the excision of a neuroblastoma. Approximately half of the patients older than 5 years of age underwent Nuss procedure for funnel chest. Almost all of the pneumothorax and palmar hyperhydrosis surgery was for patients 14 or 15 years old. Three patients required a conversion to a standard thoracotomy. Six complications occurred. There was no mortality associated with the thoracoscopic surgical procedures.

Conclusions:  Thoracoscopy is a useful diagnostic and therapeutic tool for both infants and children. Various thoracoscopic complex procedures have been performed both safely and effectively.
Hypergalactosemia in early infancy: Diagnostic strategy with an emphasis on imaging
Authors: Kono Tatsuo , Hiki Taro , Kuwashima Shigeko , Hashimoto Teisuke , Kaji Yasushi
Published: October 2008

Background:  Portosystemic shunt is one of the main causes of persistent hypergalactosemia without enzyme deficiency, but the diagnostic imaging strategy has not yet been established. The purpose of the present study was to establish a diagnostic imaging strategy.

Methods:  A retrospective investigation of the clinical and imaging findings of 10 children with persistent hypergalactosemia without enzyme deficiency detected by screening was undertaken.

Results:  Abnormal ultrasonography (US) findings were detected in all eight patients with liver disorders. In three patients with citrin deficiency, the combination of fatty liver on US and laboratory evidence of cholestasis led to the diagnosis. In three patients with portosystemic shunt, US on sedation clearly depicted the shunt vessels. The extent was more easily understood on contrast computed tomography (CT). Per‐rectal portal scintigraphy with N‐isopropyl‐p‐I‐123 iodoamphetamine and lung perfusion scintigraphy with 99mTc macroaggregated albumin were useful for evaluation of portal shunt index and assessment of pulmonary arteriovenous shunt. One patient underwent transarterial coil embolization. In two patients with hepatic tumor, the lesions and its vascularity were clearly demonstrated on US and dynamic CT. In one patient, small shunt index on per‐rectal portal scintigraphy suggested no need for treatment. The other patient was treated with a combination of steroid, radiation, and interventional radiology. The etiology remained unknown in two children.

Conclusions:  In the assessment of hypergalactosemia, US is the modality of choice. CT is a useful tool for more detailed evaluation of the abnormalities found on US. Per‐rectal portal scintigraphy and pulmonary perfusion scintigraphy play an important role in the evaluation of portosystemic shunt. Interventional radiology is sometimes effective.
Peritonitis rates and common microorganisms in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis and automated peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Akman Sema , Bakkaloglu Sevcan A. , Ekim Mesiha , Sever Lale , Noyan Aytul , Aksu Nejat
Published: October 2008

Background:  The aim of the present study was to perform a multicenter investigation in Turkish children on chronic peritoneal dialysis by examining the rates of peritonitis as well as causative organisms according to year.

Methods:  Twelve pediatric renal units participated in this study and data were obtained by review of the medical records.

Results:  One hundred and thirty‐two patients were on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD), 21 were on automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) and 59 were on CAPD and APD at different times. Mean durations of CAPD and APD were 24.2 ± 21.1 months and 22.9 ± 12.8 months, respectively. Seventy‐one (33%) out of 212 patients had no peritonitis episode. Overall peritonitis rate was one episode per 15.5 patient‐months. The peritonitis rate was one episode per 15.4 patient‐months for APD and one episode per 15.6 patient‐months for CAPD. Coagulase‐negative staphylococcus was the most common cause of peritonitis among patients with positive culture (20.6%). While the incidence of Gram‐negative infection remained unchanged according to year in patients on CAPD (P = 0.68), the rate of Gram‐negative peritonitis in children on APD was significantly higher (P = 0.03).

Conclusions:  Peritonitis rate was similar in CAPD and APD, but the risk of Gram‐negative peritonitis in APD was higher than that of CAPD.
Are city population and the number of emergency medical facilities correlated?
Authors: Ehara Akira
Published: October 2008

Background:  The shortage of physicians is reported in the small cities in Japan, but the mal‐distribution of physicians and emergency medical facilities has not been fully investigated

Methods:  Survey of Medical Institutions, 2005, Survey of Physicians, Dentists and Pharmacists, 2004, and 2005 Population Census of Japan were used. The relationships between city population and the numbers of medical resources such as emergency medical facilities, physicians and pediatricians were analyzed.

Results:  The population and the number of emergency medical facilities of 895 cities were strongly correlated (r = 0.800, P = 0.000), and the numbers of the physicians and pediatricians had strong relationships to city population.

Conclusion:  All the cities cannot provide 24 h emergency services, therefore access time to medical facilities should be shortened by the construction of a transportation network instead of dispatching physicians to remote districts.
Cross‐calibration of multi‐frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis with eight‐point tactile electrodes and dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry for assessment of body composition in healthy children aged 6–18 years
Authors: Lim Jung S. , Hwang Jin S. , Lee Jun A. , Kim Dong H. , Park Kyung D. , Jeong Jin S. , Cheon Gi J.
Published: October 2008

Background:  In diagnosis and treatment of obesity, body composition analysis including percent body fat (%BF) is useful in the clinical setting. Because bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) could be used quickly, easily and was non‐invasive in clinical setting, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the usefulness of multi‐frequency BIA with eight‐point tactile electrodes (MF‐BIA8; InBody 720, Biospace) compared with dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) in healthy children and adolescents.

Methods:  A total of 166 children and adolescents under 18 (male, n = 86; female, n = 80) were recruited. Height, weight, body mass index (BMI) and Tanner stage were measured for each subject. The body composition such as fat‐free mass (FFM), fat mass (FM), and %BF was measured on BIA and DXA and compared.

Results:  On linear regression analysis, DXA FFM = 1.006(BIA FFM) + 0.554, R2 = 0.99 and the standard error of the estimate (SEE) was 1.16 kg; DXA FM = 0.971(BIA FM) – 0.596, R2 = 0.93; SEE, 1.34 kg; and DXA %BF = 0.940(BIA %BF) – 1.026, R2 = 0.858; SEE, 3.03%. Limit of agreement in FFM, FM, and %BF was 0.7 ± 2.3 kg, −0.9 ± 2.9 kg and –2.2 ± 6.1%, respectively.

Conclusions:  Although the %BF was not interchangeable with DXA, MF‐BIA8 (InBody 720; Biospace) could be used to measure body composition of children and adolescents in the clinical field because of its high precision.
Neural tube defects: Prevalence, etiology and prevention
Authors: Kondo Atsuo , Kamihira Osamu , Ozawa Hideo
Published: October 2008

Spina bifida and anencephaly, the common form of neural tube defects, affect approximately 300 000 newborns each year worldwide. The effectiveness of folic acid supplementation in preventing their occurrence or recurrence has been unambiguous since 1991. In general, the prevalence of these abnormalities has decreased in the past 20 to 30 years because of periconceptional folate supplementation, food fortification in several countries, avoiding exposure to environmental factors, and increased accuracy of prenatal screening for fetal anomalies. Women who are planning to conceive should be informed about the importance of folic acid in fetal development and advised to take 400 µg/day of folic acid supplements. Food fortification with folic acid will ultimately be necessary to reduce the number of patients. Primary prevention of neural tube defects by the periconceptional intake of folic acid is a major public health opportunity and has wide implications in reducing the mortality and morbidity of offspring.
Genetic polymorphism of sulfotransferase 1A1, cigarette smoking, hazardous chemical exposure and urothelial cancer risk in a Taiwanese population
Authors: Wang Yuan‐Hung , Juang Guang‐Dar , Hwang Thomas IS , Shen Cheng‐Huang , Shao Ke‐Yun , Chiou Hung‐Yi
Published: October 2008

Objectives:  To investigate the association between genetic polymorphism of sulfotransferase1A1 (SULT1A1), cigarette smoking, hazardous chemical exposure and urothelial cancer risk in a Taiwanese population.

Methods:  In a hospital‐based case–control study, a total of 300 urothelial cancer (UC) cases and 300 cancer‐free controls frequency‐matched by age and gender were recruited from September 1998 to December 2005. The SULT1A1 arginine213histidine (Arg213His) polymorphism was genotyped using a polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism method.

Results:  We found that the significantly increased UC risks of ever smokers and heavy smokers (≥28 pack‐years) were 2.1 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.4–3.3) and 2.2 (95% CI = 1.3–3.6), respectively. An increased UC risk of 1.8 (95% CI = 0.8–3.8) was observed among individuals with more than one item of hazardous chemical exposure, but it was not statistically significant. Compared with study subjects carrying the SULT1A1 Arg/Arg genotype, those with SULT1A1 Arg/His or His/His genotypes have a significantly decreased UC risk (Odds ratio [OR] = 0.5, 95% CI = 0.3–0.8). Heavy smokers carrying the SULT1A1 Arg/Arg genotype have a significantly increased UC risk (OR = 5.2, 95% CI = 2.3–11.6). Individuals who had been exposed to more than one item of hazardous chemicals and who carried the SULT1A1 Arg/Arg genotype have a significantly increased UC risk (OR = 3.7, 95% CI = 1.4–9.7). The highest significant increased UC risk (OR = 16.1, 95% CI = 2.9–87.2) was observed among ever smokers with hazardous chemical exposure and the SULT1A1 Arg/Arg genotype.

Conclusions:  SULT1A1 Arg213His polymorphism is associated with the development of UC, especially among cigarette smokers exposed to hazardous chemicals.