bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Consensus Statement on the Diagnosis and Management of Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome
Authors: Li B UK , Lefevre Frank , Chelimsky Gisela G , Boles Richard G , Nelson Susanne P , Lewis Donald W , Linder Steven L , Issenman Robert M , Rudolph Colin D
Published: August 2008

Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a disorder noted for its unique intensity of vomiting, repeated emergency department visits and hospitalizations, and reduced quality of life. It is often misdiagnosed due to the unappreciated pattern of recurrence and lack of confirmatory testing. Because no accepted approach to management has been established, the task force was charged to develop a report on diagnosis and treatment of CVS based upon a review of the medical literature and expert opinion. The key issues addressed were the diagnostic criteria, the appropriate evaluation, the prophylactic therapy, and the therapy of acute attacks. The recommended diagnostic approach is to avoid “shotgun” testing and instead to use a strategy of targeted testing that varies with the presence of 4 red flags: abdominal signs (eg, bilious vomiting, tenderness), triggering events (eg, fasting, high protein meal), abnormal neurological examination (eg, altered mental status, papilledema), and progressive worsening or a changing pattern of vomiting episodes. Therapeutic recommendations include lifestyle changes, prophylactic therapy (eg, cyproheptadine in children 5 years or younger and amitriptyline for those older than 5), and acute therapy (eg, 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor agonists, termed triptans herein, as abortive therapy, and 10% dextrose and ondansetron for those requiring intravenous hydration). This document represents the official recommendations of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition for the diagnosis and treatment of CVS in children and adolescents.
Adiponectin and Insulin Resistance in Childhood Obesity
Authors: Panagopoulou Paraskevi , Galli‐Tsinopoulou Assimina , Fleva Alexandra , Pavlitou‐Tsiontsi Ekaterini , Vavatsi‐Christaki Norma , Nousia‐Arvanitakis Sanda
Published: August 2008

Objectives:

To measure adiponectin serum levels in Greek children and adolescents and correlate them with body fat and insulin resistance.

Patients and Methods:

Forty‐six obese prepubertal children (19 M, 27 F) and 34 obese adolescents (17 M, 17 F) ages 9.33 ± 1.57 and 13.6 ± 1.42 years, respectively, and 43 matched control individuals were studied. Body mass index standard deviation score and percent body fat were measured by bioelectric impedance analysis. Fasting indices of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR and fasting glucose‐to‐insulin ratio) were calculated for all participants. Indices of insulin resistance derived from oral glucose tolerance tests were estimated in obese participants. Adiponectin was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: (Mean ± SD):

Adiponectin serum levels were significantly lower in obese participants than in nonobese participants (8.11 ± 3.80 vs 11.81 ± 4.98 μg/mL, P < 0.001), in obese children than in nonobese children (8.86 ± 3.86 vs 13.08 ± 5.48 μg/mL, P < 0.001), in obese adolescents than in nonobese adolescents (7.04 ± 3.43 vs 10.47 ± 4.10 μg/mL, P = 0.002), and in obese adolescent boys than in obese adolescent girls (5.87 ± 3.52 vs 8.31 ± 3.16 μg/mL, P = 0.042). There were significant correlations between adiponectin and age, body mass index, body mass index standard deviation score, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance, and fasting glucose‐to‐insulin ratio. Adiponectin correlated with percent body fat after adjustment for sex. Adiponectin correlated significantly with several indices of insulin resistance, such as the areas under the curves for glucose and insulin, whole‐body insulin sensitivity index, glucose120′, and insulin30′, in obese participants.

Conclusions:

Adiponectin was significantly lower in obese participants than in nonobese participants in general, and it correlated significantly with fasting indices of insulin resistance and with indices derived from oral glucose tolerance tests. It is worthwhile to further investigate the option of applying a simple measurement of serum adiponectin as a screening tool before applying more time‐consuming techniques in young obese individuals.
1,3,5,7,9,11,13,15-Octaazapentacyclo[9.5.1.13,9.06,18.014,17]octadecane-4,8,12,16-tetrone monohydrate: a methylene-bridged glycoluril dimer
Authors: Ma Pei-Hua , Xiao Xin , Zhang Yun-Qian , Xue Sai-Feng , Tao Zhu
Published: August 2008

In the title compound, C10H12N8O4·H2O, prepared from the reaction of glycoluril with paraformaldehyde, the organic molecule has mm symmetry. The asymmetric unit comprises one quarter of the molecule and a half-molecule of water. The dimer is formed by bridging two glycoluril molecules with methylene groups at the 1 and 6 positions. In the crystal structure, molecules are linked via N—H...O and O—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming a two-dimensional framework.
4-(4-Amino-5-thioxo-4,5-dihydro-1H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl)pyridinium chloride
Authors: Ren Xiao-Yan , Jian Fang-Fang
Published: August 2008

The crystal structure of the title compound, C7H8N5S+·Cl−, is stabilized by intermolecular N—H...Cl and N—H...S hydrogen-bond interactions.
Bis(carboxymethyl)ammonium 4-toluenesulfonate
Authors: Lo Kong Mun , Ng Seik Weng
Published: August 2008

The iminodiacetic acid component of the title salt, C4H8NO4
+·C7H7SO3
−, is protonated at the N atom. The cation uses the ammonium group to form hydrogen bonds to the O atoms of two adjacent sulfonate groups. In addition, the carboxylic acid portions of the cation form hydrogen bonds to the sulfonate groups. The hydrogen-bonding interactions give rise to a layer structure.
4-[(Ethoxyimino)(phenyl)methyl]-5-methyl-2-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-3(2H)-one
Authors: Wang Jiu-Si , Jiang Yan-Ling , Dong Wen-Kui , Xu Li , Kong Ai-Ping
Published: August 2008

In the molecule of the title compound, C19H19N3O2, the central pyrazole ring makes dihedral angles of 9.89 (3) and 66.06 (5)° with the two phenyl rings, and the two phenyl rings form an angle of 74.05 (5)°. An intramolecular C—H...O hydrogen bond forms a six-membered ring, producing an S(6) ring motif. In the crystal structure, intermolecular N—H...O and C—H...O hydrogen bonds link each molecule to two others, forming an infinite one-dimensional supramolecular structure along the c axis.
2-(4-Chloroanilino)pyridine
Authors: Fairuz M. Zainal Abidin , Aiyub Zaharah , Abdullah Zanariah , Ng Seik Weng
Published: August 2008

The two aromatic rings of each of the four independent molecules in the asymmetric unit of the title compound, C11H9ClN2, are approximately coplanar; the four molecules are arranged into two amino–pyridyl N—H...N hydrogen-bonded pairs. The structure has a 15% twin component related by a twofold rotation about [100].
Bis(2,1,3-benzoselenadiazole-κN)dichloridozinc(II)
Authors: Fun Hoong-Kun , Maity Annada C. , Maity Sibaprasad , Goswami Shyamaprosad , Chantrapromma Suchada
Published: August 2008

In the title complex, [ZnCl2(C6H4N2Se)2], the ZnII center is tetracoordinated by a Cl2N2 donor set in a distorted tetrahedral geometry. Some of the distortion from the ideal tetrahedral geometry might be ascribed to two agostic Z...H interactions The two 2,1,3-benzoselenadiazole ligands are each essentially planar and form a dihedral angle of 35.06 (9)°. An interesting feature of the crystal packing is the observation of short intermolecular contacts between Se and Se, Se and N, and N and N atoms. These arise as a result of three-center bridging of adjacent molecules into chains along the b axis. The crystal structure is stablilized by π–π interactions [minimum centroid–centroid distance = 3.5694 (18) Å].
Variability in responses to thermal stress in parasitoids
Authors: AMICE GAËLLE , VERNON PHILIPPE , OUTREMAN YANNICK , VAN ALPHEN JACQUES , VAN BAAREN JOAN
Published: August 2008

Abstract 1. To study phenotypic effects of stress, a stress is applied to cohorts of organisms with an increasing intensity. In the absence of mortality the response of traits will be a decreasing function of stress intensity because of increasing physiological costs. We call such decreasing functions type A responses.

2. However, when stress caused mortality, some studies have found that for high stress intensities, survivors performed as well as control individuals (type B responses). We proposed that type A responses are caused by the physiological cost of stress whereas type B responses are caused by a mixture of physiological costs and selection.

3. The present study exposed Aphidius picipes wasps to an increasing duration of cold storage (cold stress), and obtained variable responses as predicted when both physiological costs and selection of resistant individuals determine the outcome.

4. When cold storage of parasitoids for biological control is desirable, research should be carried out to find (i) the temperature regime and duration of storage and (ii) the least sensitive stage for storage to minimise losses from mortality and reduction of fitness of survivors.

5. Selection by cold stress as observed in the present study could result in rapid adaptation of populations exposed to such stress.
Functional redundancy of stream macroconsumers despite differences in catchment land use
Authors: SCHOFIELD K. A. , PRINGLE C. M. , MEYER J. L. , ROSI‐MARSHALL E. J.
Published: August 2008

1. The conversion of forested landscapes to agriculture and, increasingly, to suburban and urban development significantly affects the structure and function of both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. While a growing body of research is examining how biotic communities change in response to human alteration of landscapes, less is known about how these changes in community structure affect biotic interactions.

2. The objective of this study was to examine top‐down control by macroconsumers (fish and crayfish) across a human‐impacted landscape. We predicted that changes in stream macroconsumers and physicochemical characteristics associated with increased catchment development (e.g. decreased abundance of fish that are obligate benthic invertivores, increased sedimentation) would diminish top‐down control of benthic insects. We expected that effects on algal assemblages would be more variable, with increased top‐down control at sites dominated by algivorous fish and diminished control elsewhere. To test these predictions, we experimentally excluded fish and crayfish from areas of the bed of five streams whose catchments ranged from 100% to <50% forested, and examined the effects of exclusion on benthic insects and algae.

3. Despite cross‐site differences in physical, chemical and biological characteristics, the outcome of our experiments was consistent across five sites representing a range of catchment development. Across all sites, macroconsumers reduced total insect biomass, largely due to decreases in Chironomidae and Hydropsychidae larvae. Macroconsumers also affected algal assemblages, reducing chlorophyll‐a and the proportion of upright and filamentous diatoms (e.g. Melosira, Cymbella) but increasing the proportion of adnate diatoms (e.g. Achnanthes) across all sites.

4. We expected that differences in factors such as macroconsumer assemblage composition, nutrient and light availability and sedimentation would result in variable responses to macroconsumer exclusion in the five streams. Contrary to these expectations, only one response variable (ash‐free dry mass) showed a statistically significant interaction (i.e. site × exclusion) effect. Most responses to exclusion were relatively consistent, suggesting functional redundancy in assemblages of macroconsumers among the sites despite differences in catchment land use.
MsSOCS expression indicates a potential role for JAK/STAT signalling in the early stages of Manduca sexta spermatogenesis
Authors: Elliott G. C. , Zeidler M. P.
Published: August 2008

Our understanding of the Drosophila melanogaster testis stem cell niche has identified the signalling pathways required to maintain stem cells and promote self‐renewal. Here we present the first detailed examination of the testes stem cell niche in the lepidopteran Manduca sexta. We show that larval testes contain hub‐like structures surrounded by mitotically active cells likely to represent a self‐renewing stem cell population. In addition, we have cloned DNA fragments encoding parts of M. sexta Signal Transducer and Activators of Transcription (STAT) and Suppressor of Cytokine Signalling (SOCS) homologues and show that expression of MsSOCS is upregulated in hub‐adjacent cells. Given the conservation of socs‐like genes and their regulation as Janus Kinases/Signal Transducer and Activators Transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway targets, we suggest that increased expression within the testis stem cells indicates increased levels of JAK/STAT signalling and a conserved role for pathway signalling in testis stem cell maintenance.
Dissecting the role of Kr‐h1 brain gene expression in foraging behavior in honey bees (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Fussnecker B. , Grozinger C.
Published: August 2008

Expression of Krüppel homolog‐1 (Kr‐h1) in the honey bee brain is strongly associated with foraging behavior. We performed a series of studies to determine if Kr‐h1 expression correlates with specific aspects of foraging. We found that Kr‐h1 expression is unaffected by flight experience in male bees. Expression was unaffected by behavioral reversion of workers from foraging to brood care, suggesting that expression is not associated with the active performance of foraging, but rather with stable physiological changes. Kr‐h1 expression is increased by cGMP treatment in workers, and the Kr‐h1 promoter contains a conserved potential cGMP response element. Since cGMP treatment causes precocious foraging, our results suggest that Kr‐h1 expression is associated with cGMP‐mediated changes in the brain that occur early in the transition to foraging behavior.
Evaluating online solutions for experiential support of distance learning by teachers in China
Authors: Gu X. , Zhang B. , Lin X. , Song X.
Published: August 2008

This paper describes and assesses the development of an online solution for the experiential support of distance learning by teachers. Three hundred and forty‐eight randomly selected K‐12 teachers participated in this pilot study using the online learning environment designed in this research. Teachers' products, surveys, and interviews were collected and analysed. Results showed that the teacher‐learners could learn as well as in face‐to‐face learning in an earlier implementation of the course. The learning support system as designed fits teacher‐learners' needs. They benefited from learning communities formed online as well as face‐to‐face. More support for online discussion and example cases are needed to support experiential learning. Suggestions are made to improve the design of the learning support system and the pedagogy for experiential teacher learning.
A quantitative study of the pathological changes in the cerebellum in 15 cases of variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (vCJD)
Authors: Armstrong R. A. , Ironside J. W. , Lantos P. L. , Cairns N. J.
Published: August 2008

Aims: To determine in the cerebellum in variant Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (vCJD): (i) whether the pathology affected all laminae; (ii) the spatial topography of the pathology along the folia; (iii) spatial correlations between the pathological changes; and (iv) whether the pathology was similar to that of the common methionine/methionine Type 1 subtype of sporadic CJD. Methods: Sequential cerebellar sections of 15 cases of vCJD were stained with haematoxylin and eosin, or immunolabelled with monoclonal antibody 12F10 against prion protein (PrP) and studied using spatial pattern analysis. Results: Loss of Purkinje cells was evident compared with control cases. Densities of the vacuolation and the protease‐resistant form of prion protein (PrPSc) (diffuse and florid plaques) were greater in the granule cell layer (GL) than the molecular layer (ML). In the ML, vacuoles and PrPSc plaques occurred in clusters regularly distributed along the folia with larger clusters of vacuoles and diffuse plaques in the GL. There was a negative spatial correlation between the vacuoles and the surviving Purkinje cells in the ML. There was a positive spatial correlation between the vacuoles and diffuse PrPSc plaques in the ML and GL. Conclusions: (i) all laminae were affected by the pathology, the GL more severely than the ML; (ii) the pathology was topographically distributed along the folia especially in the Purkinje cell layer and ML; (iii) pathological spread may occur in relation to the loop of anatomical connections involving the cerebellum, thalamus, cerebral cortex and pons; and (iv) there were pathological differences compared with methionine/methionine Type 1 sporadic CJD.
Mineralocorticoid receptor mRNA expression is increased in human hippocampus following brief cerebral ischaemia
Authors: Lai M. , Bae S.‐E. , Bell J. E. , Seckl J. R. , Macleod M. R.
Published: August 2008

Background: We have previously reported that neuronal endangerment in vitro and hypothermic transient global ischaemia in vivo each result in increased mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) expression. In both models MR induction is associated with increased neuronal survival, and blocking MR signalling reduces neuronal survival. Furthermore, transgenic overexpression of human MR promotes neuronal survival both in vitro and in vivo. Aims: Here we have assessed whether brief periods of cerebral ischaemia in human subjects, such as occurs in cardiac arrest from which successful resuscitation is achieved, are associated with a sustained increase in hippocampal MR mRNA expression. Methods: Human post‐mortem brain sections from patients who had died in the weeks following cardiac arrest were analysed for MR mRNA expression by in situ hybridization. Results: Sustained upregulation of MR mRNA expression was observed in the dentate gyrus region of human hippocampus following a brief episode of cerebral ischaemia. Conclusions: This confirms that MR mRNA expression is regulated following neuronal injury in human brain, and suggests that the benefits of increased MR expression seen in animal models of ischaemia may also be observed in humans.
Chronic antigen ingestion protects ovalbumin sensitized mice from severe manifestation of Leishmania major infection
Authors: SALDANHA J. C. S. , GARGIULO D. L. , DOURADO L. P. A. , SANTIAGO H. C. , MENEZES G. B. , REIS M. L. C. , TAFURI W. L. , TEIXEIRA M. M. , VIEIRA L. Q. , CARA D. C.
Published: August 2008

In the present work, the development of experimental leishmaniasis was examined in sensitized BALB/c mice that were chronically fed with antigen. After an oral challenge with egg white solution, the ovalbumin (Ova)‐sensitized mice showed an increase in serum anti‐Ova IgE and IgG1 antibodies. Lesions induced by Leishmania major infection were reduced by the ingestion of Ova in sensitized mice, as assessed by reduced footpad growth, lower parasite loads and improved pathological outcome compared to sham sensitized mice. Moreover, such findings were connected to a shift to a Th1 response involving higher IFN‐γ production and serum levels of IgG2a anti‐Leishmania antigens. The data appear to corroborate the suggestion that chronic ingestion of an antigen by sensitized mice modulates the immunological system through a shift in cytokine release, exhibiting a healing response and resistance to L. major infection.
CLINICAL STUDY: Very low dose naltrexone addition in opioid detoxification: a randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Mannelli Paolo , Patkar Ashwin A. , Peindl Kathi , Gorelick David A. , Wu Li‐Tzy , Gottheil Edward
Published: August 2008

Although current treatments for opioid detoxification are not always effective, medical detoxification remains a required step before long‐term interventions. The use of opioid antagonist medications to improve detoxification has produced inconsistent results. Very low dose naltrexone (VLNTX) was recently found to reduce opioid tolerance and dependence in animal and clinical studies. We decided to evaluate safety and efficacy of VLNTX adjunct to methadone in reducing withdrawal during detoxification. In a multi‐center, double‐blind, randomized study at community treatment programs, where most detoxifications are performed, 174 opioid‐dependent subjects received NTX 0.125 mg, 0.250 mg or placebo daily for 6 days, together with methadone in tapering doses. VLNTX‐treated individuals reported attenuated withdrawal symptoms [F = 7.24 (2,170);P = 0.001] and reduced craving [F = 3.73 (2,107);P = 0.03]. Treatment effects were more pronounced at discharge and were not accompanied by a significantly higher retention rate. There were no group differences in use of adjuvant medications and no treatment‐related adverse events. Further studies should explore the use of VLNTX, combined with full and partial opioid agonist medications, in detoxification and long‐term treatment of opioid dependence.
GENETIC STUDY: The dopamine D4Receptor (DRD4) gene exon III polymorphism, problematic alcohol use and novelty seeking: direct and mediated genetic effects
Authors: Ray Lara A. , Bryan Angela , MacKillop James , McGeary John , Hesterberg Kirstin , Hutchison Kent E.
Published: August 2008

The present study sought to integrate convergent lines of research on the associations among the dopamine D4receptor (DRD4) gene, novelty seeking and drinking behaviors with the overall goal of elucidating genetic influences on problematic drinking in young adulthood. Specifically, this study tested a model in which novelty seeking mediated the relationship between DRD4 variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) genotype and problematic alcohol use. Participants (n = 90, 40 females) were heavy‐drinking college students. Analyses using a structural equation modeling framework suggested that the significant direct path between DRD4 VNTR genotype and problematic alcohol use was reduced to a trend level in the context of a model that included novelty seeking as a mediator, thereby suggesting that the effects of DRD4 VNTR genotype on problematic alcohol use among heavy‐drinking young adults were partially mediated by novelty seeking. Cross‐group comparisons indicated that the relationships among the model variables were not significantly different in models for men versus women. These results extend recent findings of the association between this polymorphism of the DRD4 receptor gene, problematic alcohol use and novelty seeking. These findings may also help elucidate the specific pathways of risk associated with genetic influences on alcohol use and abuse phenotypes.
Erythrocyte storage in hypertonic (SAGM) or isotonic (PAGGSM) conservation medium: influence on cell properties
Authors: Zehnder L. , Schulzki T. , Goede J. S. , Hayes J. , Reinhart W. H.
Published: August 2008

Background and Objectives  Prolonged red blood cell (RBC) storage may be associated with increased post‐transfusion morbidity and mortality. A contributing factor is RBC storage lesions. We analysed the role of additive conservation solutions, either hypertonic or isotonic, on such cell properties.

Materials and Methods  After blood donation in citrate–phosphate–dextrose as an anticoagulant, 10 RBC units were stored with saline–adenine–glucose–mannitol (SAGM; 376 mOsm/l) and 10 units with phosphate–adenine–glucose–guanosin–saline–mannitol (PAGGSM; 285 mOsm/l). Measurements were made on days 1 and 42 of storage.

Results  The mean cellular volume measured by centrifuged microhaematocrit increased from 87·6 ± 3·1 fl to 100·7 ± 4·3 fl in PAGGSM and to 92·2 ± 2·5 fl in SAGM (P < 0·001) on day 1, after 42 days it was 95·8 ± 4·0 fl and 93·8 ± 3·9 fl, respectively. Spontaneous haemolysis and osmotic fragility were lower after storage in PAGGSM. Both additives showed a similar degree of echinocytosis, decreased RBC aggregability and deformability, and increased RBC suspension viscosity after storage.

Conclusions  The isotonic PAGGSM prevented the initial RBC swelling caused by citrate–phosphate–dextrose less than hypertonic SAGM, but reduced the spontaneous haemolysis rate and osmotic fragility after 42 days of storage. All other parameters, such as echinocytosis, decreased RBC deformability and aggregability, and increased blood viscosity was similar for both additive solutions and remained a major problem of blood banking.
Barrett's esophagus: A retrospective analysis of 13 years surveillance
Authors: Switzer‐Taylor Victoria , Schlup Martin , Lübcke Ralf , Livingstone Vicki , Schultz Michael
Published: August 2008

Background and Aims:  The incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma has increased significantly. Barrett's esophagus (BE), a known precursor, has a high prevalence but only few patients with this condition progress to malignancy − surveillance and screening programs are controversial and lack proven efficacy. This retrospective analysis reviews the 13‐year outcome for patients entered into a surveillance program.

Methods:  Data from patients with histologically proven Barrett's esophagus (1992–2003) that participated in a surveillance program were identified and analyzed retrospectively until 2005.

Results:  404/536 patients had Barrett's esophagus confirmed histologically of which 212 (53%) were followed in a surveillance program (mean 3.95 years per patient). This resulted in 749 gastroscopies (3.5/patient). Histologically, Barrett's mucosa was seen in 54%, low‐grade dysplasia in 18%, ulcerations in 9%, high‐grade dysplasia in 2%. No metaplasia was seen in 13%, no biopsy was obtained in 3%. Nine of 212 patients (4.3%) under surveillance developed esophageal cancer; two presented with symptoms, requiring gastroscopy outside the surveillance program (1/2 was operated successfully, one had advanced disease). In seven asymptomatic patients, cancer was detected on routine endoscopy; curative esophagectomy was performed in six. All patients who developed cancer were male and all but one patient had dysplasia or ulcerations on index endoscopy.

Conclusion:  During 13 years of Barrett's surveillance, 88% of all adenocarcinoma occurred in a subset of only 11% patients. To stratify surveillance for Barrett's esophagus, programs could focus on male patients with dysplasia or ulcerations on index endoscopy. However, the cost‐effectiveness of this remains unproven.
Occult hepatitis B virus infection in Southern African blacks with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kew Michael C , Welschinger Robert , Viana Raquel
Published: August 2008

Background and Aim:  To ascertain the prevalence of occult hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in southern African blacks with hepatocellular carcinoma.

Methods:  Sera from 118 patients negative for HBV surface antigen but positive for HBV antibodies were studied. HBV‐DNA was detected using a nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay and confirmed by nucleotide sequencing of the surface and precore/core genes.

Results:  Surface gene HBV‐DNA was detected in a single PCR assay in 48.4% of the patients. Positive results increased to 57.7% after two PCR assays (not significant) and 75.7% after four assays (P < 0.001). No false positive results were obtained in these assays or in the 15 control samples for which PCR assays were performed four times. Significant differences in positivity rates were not observed between patients positive for HBV core antibody alone and those positive for core and surface antibodies. The sensitivity of the PCR amplification of the precore/core gene was significantly less than that of the surface open reading frame: the yield of positive results was 23.7% after one assay, 32.2% after two assays (not significant), and 52% after four assays (P < 0.001). Combining the results of the assays of the two genes increased the yield of positive results for the first assay (by 11.9%, P = 0.015), but not the second (6.1%) or fourth assays (4.6%).

Conclusion:  Occult HBV infection is present in the serum of the majority of hepatocellular carcinomas in southern African blacks whose serum is negative for hepatitis B surface antigen but positive for anti‐HBV core antigen. The yield of positive results increases if more than one PCR assay is performed.
Multiple neuroenteric cysts at cerebello‐pontine angle and foramen magnum: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Zarineh Alireza , Leon Marino E. , Saad Reda S. , Silverman Jan F.
Published: August 2008

Neuroenteric cysts of the CNS are uncommon benign lesions usually involving the spinal cord or rarely the cerebellopontine angle (CPA). We report a rare example of multiple neuroenteric cysts arising from the CPA and foramen magnum in a 20‐year‐old Caucasian woman who presented with headaches and dizziness. An MRI showed three separate lesions, not communicating with each other. The first lesion, within the left posterior lateral aspect of the CPA, demonstrated isointensity to gray matter on the fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) sequence. The second lesion, within the left foramen of Luschka at the level of the CPA, demonstrated hyperintensity on the T2‐weighted sequences, intermediate to slightly hyperintense on T1‐weighted sequence and hyperintensity on FLAIR. The third lesion, within the anterior/inferior left cerebellum at the level of the foramen magnum, followed CSF signal intensity throughout. None of the lesions demonstrated significant enhancement or bone lesions. Due to compression effect, surgery was performed. Pathologic examination revealed cystic structures lined by a single layer of non‐ciliated well‐differentiated mucin‐producing columnar epithelium with eosinophilic to amphophilic cytoplasm and round to oval nuclei with focal pseudostratification. Immunohistochemical studies showed focal positivity for cytokeratin 7, CK 5/6, synaptophysin, and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), diffuse positive staining for epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) and BerEP4; and negative staining for cytokeratin 20, TTF‐1, and GFAP. The MIB‐1 proliferation index was < 1%. One‐year follow‐up has shown no recurrence. The differential diagnosis and a brief review of the literature are also presented.
Coexistence of Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease, Lewy body disease, and Alzheimer's disease pathology: An autopsy case showing typical clinical features of Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease
Authors: Haraguchi Takashi , Terada Seishi , Ishizu Hideki , Sakai Kenichi , Tanabe Yasuyuki , Nagai Taiji , Takata Hiroshi , Nobukuni Keigo , Ihara Yuetsu , Kitamoto Tetsuyuki , Kuroda Shigetoshi
Published: August 2008

We report here an autopsy case of sporadic Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease (CJD) without hereditary burden and with a clinical course typical of sporadic CJD. A 77‐year old man developed memory disturbance, followed by gait disturbance and myoclonus. He died of bronchopneumonia 5 months after the disease onset. Post‐mortem examination revealed neuronal loss, astrocytosis, and patchy spongiosis in the cerebral cortex and lenticular nuclei. Synaptic‐type deposits of prion protein were present in the cerebral cortex. Additionally, Lewy bodies were observed in the cerebral cortex and substantia nigra. Furthermore, senile plaques compatible with definite Alzheimer's disease according to Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's disease criteria and neurofibrillary changes of the limbic system consistent with Braak stage IV were found. Based on a review of the published literature, this autopsy case is very rare, and we suppose that the incidence of CJD accompanied by Lewy body disease and Alzheimer's disease is very low.
Frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitinated tau‐negative inclusions and additional α‐synuclein pathology but also unusual cerebellar ubiquitinated p62‐positive, TDP‐43‐negative inclusions
Authors: King Andrew , Al‐Sarraj Safa , Shaw Christopher
Published: August 2008

Mutations in the progranulin (PGRN) gene on chromosome 17 have been shown to be responsible for one non‐tauopathy subtype of familial frontotemporal lobar degeneration – frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitinated, tau‐negative inclusions (FTLD‐U). Such cases have pathological similarities to sporadic cases with neuronal inclusions positive for ubiquitin, the ubiquitin binding protein, p62 and the newly recognised protein TDP‐43 but negative for hyperphosphorylated (HP) tau. There has been a recent report on two families with a novel progranulin mutation where the neuropathology showed not only TDP‐43 neuronal positivity but separate tau and/or α‐synuclein pathology. We describe an unusual case with some family history but no mutation in the progranulin gene. The pathological features were typical for FTLD‐U but with additional significant α‐synuclein pathology, and unusual ubiquitin‐positive, p62‐positive, TDP‐43‐negative inclusions in the cerebellum. This case may represent a further pathological phenotype for familial FTLD‐U. It also highlights the need for further investigations on the ubiquitin binding protein p62 as a marker in FTLD‐U. It is certainly possible that the presence or absence of these ubiquitinated p62‐positive yet TDP‐43‐negative cerebellar inclusions may act as a useful correlative factor in the future.
Brevilinea pocosinensis Siver, Hamilton & Morales gen. et sp. nov., a new diatom (Bacillariophyceae) genus from North Carolina, USA
Authors: Siver Peter A. , Hamilton Paul B. , Morales Eduardo A.
Published: August 2008

A new diatom genus, Brevilinea gen. nov., is described from an acidic freshwater lake situated on the Atlantic Coastal Plain of North Carolina, USA. The type for the genus, Brevilinea pocosinensis sp. nov., differs from other diatoms by the presence of a unique and reduced raphe that is restricted to the central portion of the valve. The new taxon has large and distinctive areolae that also serve to separate it from existing genera. The taxonomic placement of the new organism relative to other diatoms possessing a reduced raphe is discussed. Although Brevilinea may eventually be placed into a new family, given the current dynamic state of diatom systematics, it is premature to do so at this time.
The ecological barriers to the recovery of bridal creeper (Asparagus asparagoides (L.) Druce) infested sites: Impacts on vegetation and the potential increase in other exotic species
Authors: TURNER PETER J. , SCOTT JOHN K. , SPAFFORD HELEN
Published: August 2008

Abstract  To protect native biodiversity from environmental weeds, the impacts that these weeds cause need to be known before weed control commences. Asparagus asparagoides (L.) Druce (bridal creeper) (Asparagaceae) is a serious environmental weed and has been selected for biological control in Australia. To predict the responses of plant communities to the control of bridal creeper, a prerelease baseline of the impacts of bridal creeper on native plant communities was undertaken. Plant assemblages in areas invaded by bridal creeper were compared with reference areas that contained little or no bridal creeper. Areas invaded by bridal creeper contained 52% fewer native plant species when compared with nearby reference areas. However, there was no difference in the number of other exotic plant species between areas. Similar trends were found for the germinable seed bank. Although a greater number of exotic species were present in the seed bank compared with the vegetation surveys, there was still no difference between areas with and without bridal creeper. In a glasshouse trial, exotic species germinated more frequently compared with native species. This could indicate that as bridal creeper density decreases following control, exotic species have an advantage over native species when colonizing areas left vacant by bridal creeper. Second, as bridal creeper areas contained reduced native species richness and cover, they may be susceptible to further weed invasion after bridal creeper is removed. Therefore, simply reducing the presence of bridal creeper may not guarantee successful restoration of invaded areas and additional restoration efforts will be needed to ensure the ultimate goal of protecting native biodiversity is reached.
Long‐term effect of forest fragmentation on the Amazonian gekkonid lizards, Coleodactylus amazonicus and Gonatodes humeralis
Authors: CARVALHO JR ELILDO ALVES RIBEIRO , LIMA ALBERTINA PIMENTEL , MAGNUSSON WILLIAM ERNEST , ALBERNAZ ANA LUISA KERTI MANGABEIRA
Published: August 2008

Abstract  We investigated the effect of forest fragmentation on the abundance of the gekkonid lizards Coleodactylus amazonicus and Gonatodes humeralis in fragments associated with Amazonian savanna near Alter do Chão, Pará, Brazil. These fragments have been isolated for at least 150 years and probably more. Abundance of lizards, tree density and food availability were estimated in 1000‐m transects in eight sites in continuous forest and 21 forest fragments, ranging in size from 3.6 to 360 ha and distant from ∼150–10 000 m from continuous forests. Coleodactylus amazonicus was at least an order of magnitude more adundant than G. humeralis in continuous forest, and both species were negatively affected by fragmentation. Coleodactylus amazonicus was encountered only in continuous forest, the largest fragment, and one fragment adjacent to continuous forest. Gonatodes humeralis occurred in the majority of fragments, but was more common in continuous forest, and occurred in lower densities in fragments more distant from continous forest. The species with lowest recorded densities in continuous forest was the most resistant to fragmentation, contrary to what would be predicted from neutral models, such as island‐biogeography theory, possibly because other factors are more important than initial population size in long‐term fragmented landscapes.
Bird richness and composition along an agricultural gradient in New Guinea: The influence of land use, habitat heterogeneity and proximity to intact forest
Authors: MARSDEN STUART J. , SYMES CRAIG T.
Published: August 2008

Abstract We examined variation in bird species richness, abundance and guild composition along an agricultural gradient in New Guinea, and looked for any additive influence of habitat heterogeneity on these variables. The study was based on a grid of survey plots, six plots wide and 24 plots long with the long axis running from a settlement 2.4 km through active and abandoned agricultural plots towards a large area of forest. Each circular survey plot (25 m radius) was assigned to a broad habitat type, ten habitat measures taken, and birds counted for 1 h in each plot. Principal component analysis (PCA) habitat axis 1 described an axis of decreasing forest alteration (larger trees, greater tree densities, fuller canopy) that was positively correlated with distance from the settlement. Bird richness and abundance were highest at intermediate disturbance levels (plots with mid‐range axis 1 scores). Proportions of insectivores and frugivores increased with decreasing forest alteration, while proportions of nectarivores decreased. We calculated three measures of habitat heterogeneity by comparing each plot's PCA score to those of eight neighbouring plots (50–110 m away). These measures reflected how different the plot was to its neighbours, how variable the habitat was around the plot, and the degree to which the plot bordered less disturbed forest. We related these measures to plot bird variable scores independently, and to residuals following regressions of bird scores against PCA scores. Heterogeneity measures had no significant influence on abundance or richness measures, but there were greater proportions of frugivores in plots showing a given degree of habitat alteration if they bordered more pristine habitat. While we readily identified differences in bird communities along the agricultural gradient, the influences of habitat heterogeneity were not striking for birds at this fine scale.
Smoke on the water: Can riverine fish populations recover following a catastrophic fire‐related sediment slug?
Authors: LYON JAROD P. , O'CONNOR JUSTIN P.
Published: August 2008

Abstract  In early 2003 a series of large, wildfire‐related sediment slugs occurred in streams in the south‐eastern Australian alpine region. Back‐pack and boat‐mounted electrofishing were used to measure changes in riverine fish fauna after one particularly large sediment slug which started in an upland stream and then travelled downstream through 200 km of third and fourth order stream. Twelve impact sites and eight control sites were surveyed where there were previous data on fish populations. The sites were surveyed directly after the sediment slug had passed and then 12, 24 and 36 months after. Immediately after the sediment slug, fish abundances fell by between 95–100% at four impact sites in the upper reaches of the study area, primarily due to the effect of low‐dissolved oxygen levels. Twelve months later fish numbers were still decreased in the upper catchment but showed signs of recovery after 24 months. Further downstream, where water quality was not as severely affected by the sediment slug, the effects on native fishes were less apparent. The circumstances of these events represented a unique opportunity to obtain baseline data regarding the effects of post‐fire disturbances on fish, and their time to recovery. If fire were to occur in catchments where endangered species exist, our results suggest that actions such as translocation may be required to ensure the long‐term survival of threatened species.
Chronic ocular lesions associated with bi‐directional microbeam radiation therapy in an experimental rat study for therapy of C6 and F98 gliomas
Authors: Sandmeyer Lynne S. , Sheikh Amber , Shültke Elisabeth , Fourney Daryl , Grahn Bruce H.
Published: August 2008

Objectives  To describe the chronic ocular lesions associated with microbeam radiation therapy (MRT) in an experimental rat study.

Procedures  MRT was administered bi‐directionally with a skin entry dose of 350 Gy. During laterally directed irradiation, the beam entered the head on the right with the center of the beam array 3 mm posterior to the center of the right eye. During irradiation in anterior‐posterior direction, the right eye was almost completely in the path of the beam array. Twelve months after MRT ophthalmic examinations were completed on 37 treated (MRT+) and 16 control (MRT–) rats. Electroretinography (ERG) was completed in two MRT+ and one MRT– rat. Histopathology was performed on eyes of 16 MRT+ and 9 MRT– rats, and retinal and choroidal thicknesses were measured.

Results  Biomicroscopic and indirect ophthalmoscopic examinations revealed fundus pallor and retinal vascular attenuation in 33 of 37 right and 2 of 37 left eyes of MRT+ rats. Cataracts were present in the right eyes of 12 of 37 MRT+ rats. ERG amplitudes were reduced in the eyes of MRT+ rats. Light microscopy revealed retinal lesions ranging in severity with loss of outer to inner retinal cell layers, in 16 of 16 right and of 8 of 16 left eyes MRT+ rats. The mean right retinal thickness of MRT+ rats was reduced.

Conclusions  Eyes within the field treated with MRT at a dose of 350 Gy develop retinal degeneration and occasionally, cataract.
Acute blindness in dogs: Sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome versus neurological disease (140 cases, 2000–2006)
Authors: Montgomery Keith W. , Van Der Woerdt Alexandra , Cottrill Nancy B.
Published: August 2008

Objective To evaluate dogs with amaurosis and compare signalment, history, ophthalmic examination and neurologic abnormalities between dogs diagnosed with sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome (SARDS) versus neurological disease (ND). Animals Studied‐140 dogs with acute vision loss and ocular abnormalities insufficient to account for visual deficits. An electroretinogram (ERG) was performed on each dog.

Procedures Medical records were reviewed and information was collected for all dogs meeting the inclusion criteria. Dogs diagnosed with SARDS were compared to those with ND based on signalment, duration of clinical signs, past medical problems, clinicopathologic findings, and ophthalmic and physical examination abnormalities.

Results 120 dogs were diagnosed with SARDS and 20 dogs with ND based on ERG results. Mixed‐breed dogs were most commonly diagnosed with SARDS as well as ND. Pure breed dogs frequently diagnosed with SARDS included the Miniature Schnauzer and Dachshund. Dogs with SARDS did not differ significantly from those with ND based on age or sex distribution. Cushing's‐like symptoms were reported more frequently in SARDS dogs as well as conjunctival hyperemia and retinal vascular attenuation. Papilledema and asymmetric visual deficits were observed more frequently in dogs with ND. Dogs with ND were no more likely than SARDS dogs to have additional neurological deficits.

Conclusions Appreciable overlap of clinical signs exists between dogs with SARDS and dogs with ND resulting in acute vision loss. As a significant portion of dogs (14%) in the present study were diagnosed with ND, an ERG to rule out ND is indicated in dogs with amaurosis.
Benchmarking benchmarks: measuring characteristic selectivity using portfolio holdings data
Authors: Fong Kingsley , Gallagher David R. , Lee Adrian D.
Published: August 2008

This study proposes methodological adjustments to the widely adopted performance benchmarking methodology of Daniel et al. (1997) as a means of improving the precision of alpha measurement for active equity fund managers. We achieve this by considering the monthly updating of characteristic benchmarks and to ensure neutrality to the Standard & Poor's/Australian Stock Exchange 300 index. Applying this benchmark to a representative sample of active Australian equity funds and simulated passive portfolios that mimic fund manager‐style characteristics, we find statistically different and lower tracking error compared with using the standard characteristic benchmark methodology. We also find evidence that the modified benchmark statistically infers an alpha closer to zero compared with the standard benchmark methodology. Our findings suggest that improved specifications of characteristic benchmarks represent better methods in quantifying fund manager skill.
Market Entry Regulation and International Competition*
Authors: Stähler Frank , Upmann Thorsten
Published: August 2008

We analyze a non‐cooperative two‐country game where each government decides whether to allow free market entry of firms or to regulate market access. We show that a Pareto‐efficient allocation may result in equilibrium. In particular, if the cost difference between home and foreign production is “significant,” production will be located in the cost‐efficient country exclusively; and if this cost difference is even “substantial,” the induced allocation is also Pareto efficient. Only if the cost difference is “insignificant,” production may take place in both countries and the allocation is inefficient.
Can Rich Countries Become Pollution Havens?*
Authors: Umanskaya Victoria I. , Barbier Edward B.
Published: August 2008

This paper bridges the gap between two‐country Ricardian trade models where differences in environmental policies create pollution havens in a poorer region with weaker pollution regulations, and 2 × 2 Heckscher–Ohlin models that predict under certain conditions that pollution havens may occur in a richer region with tighter regulations. By relaxing the Heckscher–Ohlin assumptions of factor price equalization and no specialization, we show how creation of pollution havens in either region is possible, due to the interplay of policy and factor‐endowment motives. We also analyze the conditions for creating pollution havens in the cases of exogenous and endogenous environmental policy.