bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon stock changes and carbon sequestration potential of Flemish cropland soils
Authors: Sleutel Steven , De Neve Stefaan , Hofman Georges , Boeckx Pascal , Beheydt Daan , Van Cleemput Oswald , Mestdagh Inge , Lootens Peter , Carlier Lucien , Van Camp Nancy , Verbeeck Hans , Vande Walle Inge , Samson Roeland , Lust Noël , Lemeur Raoul
Published: July 2003

Evaluations of soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks are often based on assigning a carbon density to each one of a number of ecosystems or soil classes considered, using data from soil profiles within these categories. A better approach, in which the use of classification methods by which extrapolation of SOC data to larger areas is avoided, can only be used if enough data are available at a sufficiently small scale. Over 190 000 SOC measurements (0–24 cm) have been made in the Flemish cropland (the Northern part of Belgium) in the 1989–2000 period. These SOC data were grouped into 3‐year periods and as means plus standard deviation per (part of) community (polygons). This large dataset was used to calculate SOC stocks and their evolution with time, without data extrapolation. Using a detailed soil map, larger spatial groups of polygons were created based on soil texture and spatial location. Linear regression analysis showed that in the entire study area, SOC stocks had decreased or at best had remained stable. In total, a yearly decrease of 354 kton OC yr−1 was calculated, which corresponds with a net CO2 emission of 1238 kton CO2 yr−1. Specific regions with a high carbon sequestration potential were identified, based on SOC losses during the 1989–2000 period and the mean 1999 SOC content, compared to the average SOC content of soils in Flanders with a similar soil texture. When restoring the SOC stocks to their 1990 level, we estimated the carbon sequestration potential of the Flemish cropland soils to be some 300 kton CO2 yr−1 at best, which corresponds to a 40‐year restoration period. In conclusion, we can say that in regions where agricultural production is very intense, carbon sequestration in the cropland may make only a very modest contribution to a country's effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Association between Opuntia species invasion and changes in land‐cover in the Mediterranean region
Authors: Vilà Montserrat , Burriel José Angel , Pino Joan , Chamizo Joan , Llach Emma , Porterias Montserrat , Vives Miquel
Published: July 2003

In Mediterranean regions, biological invasions pose a major threat to the conservation of native species and the integrity of ecosystems. In addition, changes in land‐cover are a widespread phenomenon in Mediterranean regions, where an increase in urban areas and major changes from agricultural abandonment to shrub encroachment and afforestation are occurring. However, the link between biological invasions and changes in land‐cover has scarcely been analyzed. We conducted a regional survey of the distribution of the two alien prickly‐pear cacti Opuntia maxima and O. stricta in Cap de Creus (Catalonia, Spain) and related patterns of invasion to spatially explicit data on land‐cover/change from 1973 to 1993 to test the hypotheses that the two Opuntia species invade areas that have experienced large land‐cover transformations. We found that Opuntia invasion is particularly high in shrublands and woodlands located near urban areas. O. maxima are over‐represented in the shrublands and O. stricta in the woodlands that were former crops. Crop coverage has dropped by 71% in this 20‐year period. This study highlights the role of past land‐cover in understanding the present distribution of plant invasions.
In situlitter decomposition and litter quality in a Mojave Desert ecosystem: effects of elevated atmospheric CO2and interannual climate variability
Authors: Weatherly Heather E. , Zitzer Stephen F. , Coleman James S. , Arnone John A.
Published: July 2003

Rising atmospheric CO2has been predicted to reduce litter decomposition as a result of CO2‐induced reductions in litter quality. However, available data have not supported this hypothesis in mesic ecosystems, and no data are available for desert or semi‐arid ecosystems, which account for more than 35% of the Earth's land area. The objective of our study was to explore controls on litter decomposition in the Mojave Desert using elevated CO2and interannual climate variability as driving environmental factors. In particular, we sought to evaluate the extent to which decomposition is modulated by litter chemistry (C:N) and litter species and tissue composition. Naturally senesced litter was collected from each of nine 25 m diameter experimental plots, with six plots exposed to ambient [CO2] or 367 μL CO2 L−1and three plots continuously fumigated with elevated [CO2] (550 μL CO2 L−1) using FACE technology beginning in April 1997. All litter collected in 1998 (a wet, or El Niño year; 306 mm precipitation) was pooled as was litter collected in 1999 (a dry year; 94 mm). Samples were allowed to decompose for 4 and 12 months starting in May 2001 in mesh litterbags in the locations from which litter was collected. Decomposition of litter produced under elevated CO2and ambient CO2did not differ. Litter produced in the wetter year showed more rapid initial decomposition (over the first 4 months) than that produced in the drier year (27±2% yr−1or 7.8±0.7 g m−2 yr−1for 1998 litter; 18±3% yr−1or 2.2±0.4 g m−2 yr−1for 1999 litter). C:N ratios of litter produced under elevated CO2(wet year: 37±0.5; dry year: 42±2.5) were higher than those of litter produced under ambient CO2(wet year: 34±1.1; dry year: 35±1.4). Litter production in the wet year (amb. CO2: 25.1±1.1 g m−2 yr−1; elev. CO2: 35.0±1.1 g m−2 yr−1) was more than twice as high as that in the dry year (amb. CO2: 11.6±1.7 g m−2, elev. CO2: 13.3±3.4 g m−2), and contained a greater proportion ofLycium pallidumand a lower proportion ofLarrea tridentatathan litter produced in the dry year. Decomposition, viewed across all treatments, decreased with increasing C:N ratios, decreased with increasing proportions ofLarrea tridentataand increased with increasing proportions ofLycium pallidumandLycium andersonii. Because litter C:N did not vary by litter production year, and CO2did not alter decomposition or litter species/tissue composition, it is likely that the impact of year‐to‐year variation in precipitation on the proportion of key plant species in the litter may be the most important way in which litter decomposition will be modulated in the Mojave Desert under future rising atmospheric CO2.
Nitrous oxide emissions from grass swards during the eighth year of elevated atmospheric pCO2 (Swiss FACE)
Authors: Baggs E. M. , Richter M. , Hartwig U. A. , Cadisch G.
Published: July 2003

Emissions of N2O were measured during the growth season over a year from grass swards under ambient (360 μL L−1) and elevated (600 μL L−1) CO2 partial pressures at the Free Air Carbon dioxide Enrichment (FACE) experiment, Eschikon, Switzerland. Measurements were made following high (56 g N m−2 yr−1) and low (14 g N m−2 yr−1) rates of fertilizer application, split over 5 re‐growth periods, to Lolium perenne, Trifolium repens and mixed Lolium/Trifolium swards. Elevated pCO2 increased annual emissions of N2O from the high fertilized Lolium and mixed Lolium/Trifolium swards resulting in increases in GWP (N2O emissions) of 179 and 111 g CO2 equivalents m−2, respectively, compared with the GWP of ambient pCO2 swards, but had no significant effect on annual emissions from Trifolium monoculture swards. The greater emissions from the high fertilized elevated pCO2Lolium swards were attributed to greater below‐ground C allocation under elevated pCO2 providing the energy for denitrification in the presence of excess mineral N. An annual emission of 959 mg N2O‐N m−2 yr−1 (1.7% of fertilizer N applied) was measured from the high fertilized Lolium sward under elevated pCO2. The magnitude of emissions varied throughout the year with 84% of the total emission from the elevated pCO2Lolium swards measured during the first two re‐growths (April–June 2001). This was associated with higher rainfall and soil water contents at this time of year. Trends in emissions varied between the first two re‐growths (April–June 2001) and the third, fourth and fifth re‐growths (late June–October 2000), with available soil NO3− and rainfall explaining 70%, and soil water content explaining 72% of the variability in N2O in these periods, respectively. Caution is therefore required when extrapolating from short‐term measurements to predict long‐term responses to global climate change. Our findings are of global significance as increases in atmospheric concentrations of CO2 may, depending on sward composition and fertilizer management, increase greenhouse gas emissions of N2O, thereby exacerbating the forcing effect of elevated CO2 on global climate. Our results suggest that when applying high rates of N fertilizer to grassland systems, Trifolium repens swards, or a greater component of Trifolium in mixed swards, may minimize the negative effect of continued increasing atmospheric CO2 concentrations on global warming.
The effect of vascular plants on carbon turnover and methane emissions from a tundra wetland
Authors: Ström Lena , Ekberg Anna , Mastepanov Mikhail , Røjle Christensen Torben
Published: July 2003

This paper investigates how vascular plants affect carbon flow and the formation and emission of the greenhouse gas methane (CH4) in an arctic wet tundra ecosystem in NE Greenland. We present a field experiment where we studied, in particular, how species‐specific root exudation patterns affect the availability of acetate, a hypothesized precursor of CH4 formation. We found significantly higher acetate formation rates in the root vicinity of Eriophorum scheuchzeri compared with another dominating sedge in the wetland, i.e. Dupontia psilosantha. Furthermore a shading treatment, which reduced net photosynthesis, resulted in significantly decreased formation rates of acetate. We also found that the potential CH4 production of the peat profile was highly positively correlated to the concentration of acetate at the respective depths, whereas it was negatively correlated to the concentration of total dissolved organic carbon. This suggests that acetate is a substrate of importance to the methanogens in the studied ecosystem and that acetate concentration in this case can serve as a predictor of substrate quality. To further investigate the importance of acetate as a predecessor to CH4, we brought an intact peat‐plant monolith system collected at the field site in NE Greenland to the laboratory, sealed it hermetically and studied the decomposition of 14C‐labelled acetate injected at the depth of methanogenic activity. After 4 h, 14CH4 emission from the monolith could be observed. In conclusion, allocation of recently fixed carbon to the roots of certain species of vascular plants affects substrate quality and influence CH4 formation.
Substantial labile carbon stocks and microbial activity in deeply weathered soils below a tropical wet forest
Authors: Veldkamp Edzo , Becker Anja , Schwendenmann Luitgard , Clark Deborah A. , Schulte‐Bisping Hubert
Published: July 2003

Contrary to large areas in Amazonia of tropical moist forests with a pronounced dry season, tropical wet forests in Costa Rica do not depend on deep roots to maintain an evergreen forest canopy through the year. At our Costa Rican tropical wet forest sites, we found a large carbon stock in the subsoil of deeply weathered Oxisols, even though only 0.04–0.2% of the measured root biomass (>2 mm diameter) to 3 m depth was below 2 m. In addition, we demonstrate that 20% or more of this deep soil carbon (depending on soil type) can be mobilized after forest clearing for pasture establishment. Microbial activity between 0.3 and 3 m depth contributed about 50% to the microbial activity in these soils, confirming the importance of the subsoil in C cycling. Depending on soil type, forest clearing for pasture establishment led from no change to a slight addition of carbon in the topsoil (0–0.3 m depth). However, this effect was countered by a substantial loss of C stocks in the subsoil (1–3 m depth). Our results show that large stocks of relatively labile carbon are not limited to areas with a prolonged dry season, but can also be found in deeply weathered soils below tropical wet forests. Forest clearing in such areas may produce unexpectedly high C losses from the subsoil.
Assessing the impact of land‐use change on soil C sequestration in agricultural soils by means of organic matter fractionation and stable C isotopes
Authors: Del Galdo Ilaria , Six Johan , Peressotti Alessandro , Francesca Cotrufo M.
Published: July 2003

Within the framework of the Kyoto Protocol, the potential mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions by terrestrial ecosystems has placed focus on carbon sequestration following afforestation of former arable land. Central to this soil C sequestration are the dynamics of soil organic matter (SOM). In North Eastern Italy, a mixed deciduous forest was planted on continuous maize field soil with a strong C4 isotopic C signature 20 years ago. In addition, a continuous maize field and a relic of the original permanent grassland were maintained at the site, thus offering the opportunity to compare the impacts on soil C dynamics by conventional agriculture, afforestation and permanent grassland. Soil samples from the afforested, grassland and agricultured systems were separated in three aggregate size classes, and inter‐ vs. intra‐aggregate particulate organic matter was isolated. All fractions were analyzed for their C content and isotopic signature. The distinct 13C signature of the C derived from maize vegetation allowed the calculation of proportions of old vs. forest‐derived C of the physically defined fractions of the afforested soil. Long‐term agricultural use significantly decreased soil C content (−48%), in the top 10 cm, but not SOM aggregation, as compared to permanent grassland. After 20 years, afforestation increased the total amount of soil C by 23% and 6% in the 0–10 and in the 10–30 cm depth layer, respectively. Forest‐derived carbon contributed 43% and 31% to the total soil C storage in the afforested systems in the 0–10 and 10–30 cm depths, respectively. Furthermore, afforestation resulted in significant sequestration of new C and stabilization of old C in physically protected SOM fractions, associated with microaggregates (53–250 μm) and silt&clay (<53 μm).
Postfire response of North American boreal forest net primary productivity analyzed with satellite observations
Authors: Hicke Jeffrey A. , Asner Gregory P. , Kasischke Eric S. , French Nancy H. F. , Randerson James T. , James Collatz G. , Stocks Brian J. , Tucker Compton J. , Los Sietse O. , Field Christopher B.
Published: July 2003

Fire is a major disturbance in the boreal forest, and has been shown to release significant amounts of carbon (C) to the atmosphere through combustion. However, less is known about the effects on ecosystems following fire, which include reduced productivity and changes in decomposition in the decade immediately following the disturbance. In this study, we assessed the impact of fire on net primary productivity (NPP) in the North American boreal forest using a 17‐year record of satellite NDVI observations at 8‐ km spatial resolution together with a light‐use efficiency model. We identified 61 fire scars in the satellite observations using digitized fire burn perimeters from a database of large fires. We studied the postfire response of NPP by analyzing the most impacted pixel within each burned area. NPP decreased in the year following the fire by 60–260 g C m−2 yr−1 (30–80%). By comparing pre‐ and postfire observations, we estimated a mean NPP recovery period for boreal forests of about 9 years, with substantial variability among fires. We incorporated this behavior into a carbon cycle model simulation to demonstrate these effects on net ecosystem production. The disturbance resulted in a release of C to the atmosphere during the first 8 years, followed by a small, but long‐lived, sink lasting 150 years. Postfire net emissions were three times as large as from a model run without changing NPP. However, only small differences in the C cycle occurred between runs after 8 years due to the rapid recovery of NPP. We conclude by discussing the effects of fire on the long‐term continental trends in satellite NDVI observed across boreal North America during the 1980s and 1990s.
Implications of climate change for North American wood warblers (Parulidae)
Authors: Strode Paul K.
Published: July 2003

Since 1912, Neotropical–Nearctic migrant birds may now have up to 20 fewer days to travel between Southern Illinois, where spring is arriving later, and Northern Minnesota, where spring is arriving earlier, to exploit optimal habitat conditions (expanding leaves and caterpillar activity) for refueling and breeding. As case studies of the effect of climate change on bird migration, I analyzed two long‐term data sets of arrival times for eight species of northern breeding migratory wood warblers (Parulidae) gathered over a 100 year period in east‐central Illinois (IL, USA) and a 40 year period in western Minnesota (MN, USA). Six (IL) and seven (MN) of the wood warbler species showed no significant tendency to migrate earlier in response to earlier springs in their breeding range. These results suggest that climate change may force many species of long‐distance migratory songbirds to become uncoupled in the spring from their food resources that are driven by temperature.
Mycobacterium chelonae infection with multiple cutaneous lesions after treatment with acupuncture
Authors: Ara Mariano , De Santamaría Carmen Sáenz , Zaballos Pedro , Yus Carmen , Lezcano María Antonia
Published: July 2003

A 58‐year‐old‐woman was first seen in November 1999 with a 4‐week history of several tender, deep red or purple, suppurating subcutaneous nodules on the skin of the abdomen, suggestive of a panniculitis (Fig. 1). She had no history of systemic immunosuppression. Three months prior to examination, the patient had treated with acupuncture for obesity. Two biopsy specimens of the nodules were taken and sent for culture and histologic examination. Histology showed a pattern of panniculitis with chronic inflammatory cells mixed with areas of polymorphonuclear abscesses and necrosis (Fig. 2). Culture of the biopsy specimen grew acid fast bacilli within 4 days, later identified with biochemical and molecular tests as Mycobacterium chelonae (subspecies chelonae). Polymerase chain reaction‐restriction enzyme pattern analysis (PRA) was used for molecular identification of mycobacteria. In vitro sensitivity tests showed sensitivity to clarithromycin, amikacin, tobramycin, doxycycline and erythromycin and resistance to ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole, imipenem and cefoxitin. Oral clarithromycin (500 mg b.d.) was started and after 3 months of therapy the lesions had cleared completely.

Abdomen with disseminated subcutaneous erythematous nodules due to M. chelonae after treatment with acupuncture

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Skin biopsy specimen shows a pattern of panniculitis with chronic inflammatory cells mixed with areas of polymorphonuclear abscesses and necrosis (hematoxylin‐eosin, × 100)

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Common allergens in shoe dermatitis: our experience in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Rani Zahida , Hussain Ijaz , Haroon Tahir Saeed
Published: July 2003

Background Shoe dermatitis is a form of contact dermatitis resulting from exposure to shoes. Different chemicals, in conjunction with a hot and humid environment within the shoe, give rise to allergic or irritant dermatitis. Allergic shoe dermatitis is commonly caused by constituents of rubber, leather, adhesives, and rarely by linings and dyes.

Aim To determine the frequency of various allergens in shoe dermatitis in our patients.

Methods One hundred and nine patients suspected of having contact dermatitis due to shoe allergens were included. All patients were patch tested with the Shoe series and European Standard series. Patches were applied on the upper back and removed after 48 h. Results were read at 48, 72, and 120 h and interpreted according to International Contact Dermatitis Research Group (ICDRG) criteria.

Results Of the 119 patients, 87 (73%) reacted positively to various allergens, 48% of whom showed polysensitivity. Glues (33.6%), particularly para‐tert‐butylphenol formaldehyde resin (PTBP‐FR) (26.9%), were the leading cause of shoe dermatitis. Other allergens were leather chemicals (26.4%), potassium dichromate (16.18%), rubber allergens (7.6%), and dyes (7.6%). Shoe scrapings tested positive in 26.3% of patients. Other common allergens were nickel sulfate (22.7%), neomycin sulfate (10.1%), and cobalt chloride (8.4%).

Conclusions Considering the diversity of allergens, all patients presenting with shoe dermatitis should be patch tested with the Shoe series and a standard series to determine the etiologic allergens.
Comparison of chronic autoimmune urticaria with chronic idiopathic urticaria
Authors: Bakos Noémi , Hillander Maria
Published: July 2003

Background Chronic urticaria has been described in patients with Helicobacter pylori infection. Despite numerous studies, the correlation between H. pylori infection and chronic urticaria is doubtful. Our study was performed to determine the prevalence of H. pylori infection in autoimmune urticaria and in patients suffering from autoimmune urticaria and autoimmune thyroiditis

Methods The authors widely investigated 48 patients. The examinations were extended principally to autologous serum skin test, antithyroid antibodies, and the presence of H. pylori infection as well as detection of antibodies against H. pylori.

Results Out of the 48 patients, 26 were regarded as having autoimmune origin. The prevalence of antithyroid antibodies was different in the two groups of patients with urticaria. There were 11 patients (42.3%) in the autoimmune group compared with three patients (13.6%) in the nonautoimmune group with antithyroid peroxidase antibody (P = 0.03). The difference in the prevalence of H. pylori infection was significant between autoimmune urticaria with and without thyroid autoimmunity (90.9% vs. 46.7%; P = 0.02). Autoimmune thyroiditis was connected with CagA +H. pylori strains, as the H. pylori‐ specific IgG antibodies revealed significant differences in a prevalence of 120 kDa (P < 0.05).

Conclusions The authors observed a relationship between autoimmune urticaria and autoimmune thyroiditis. The results strengthen the possibility of cross‐reactivity being triggered between CagA plus H. pylori strains and some other organ‐specific autoimmune diseases such as autoimmune urticaria and autoimmune thyroiditis. This indicates a possible role of H. pylori in triggering autoimmune urticaria in at least a select group of patients.
Paederus dermatitis in northern Iran: a report of 156 cases
Authors: Zargari Omid , Kimyai‐Asadi Arash , Fathalikhani Fateme , Panahi Mehdi
Published: July 2003

Background Paederus dermatitis develops when beetles of the genus Paederus (often called rove beetles) are crushed on the skin, releasing the vesicant pederin. These beetles are found in many tropical and subtropical habitats.

Methods We describe 156 patients who presented to a dermatology clinic in the Guilan province of northern Iran during a 6‐month period (May–October 2001).

Results The peak time of presentation was in September, and the face and neck were the most common sites of involvement. Clinically, the most common presentation comprised geographic erythematous plaques with micropustules. In three‐quarters of patients, more than one lesion was present. Kissing lesions were seen in 5% of cases, and 15% of patients developed diffuse desquamation. The majority of patients resided within 1 km of rice fields and used fluorescent lighting at home. In half of the cases, another family member was also affected.

Conclusions Paederus dermatitis is a common skin condition in northern Iran. We believe that increased public awareness of this condition can decrease mucocutaneous exposure to pederin.
Complementary and alternative medicine use among patients attending a hospital dermatology clinic in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Yu‐Fu , Chang Jeffrey S.
Published: July 2003

Background Recent studies have indicated that complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has been gaining popularity around the world. Previous studies showed that CAM use was common among dermatology patients in Western nations. This study presents the prevalence and types of CAM use among a group of patients in a dermatology clinic in Taiwan.

Methods A convenient sample of 198 patients was recruited from the dermatology clinic of Show Chwan Memorial Hospital in Changhua City, Taiwan. Each patient completed a standardized questionnaire. Chi‐square tests were used to compare the demographic characteristics of those who did and did not use CAM. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the strength of association between correlate variables and CAM use.

Results Forty‐one per cent of subjects had used CAM to treat their dermatological conditions. Subjects in the younger (< 30 years) and older (> 50 years) age groups were more likely to use CAM than those in the 30–50‐year age group. Those that participated in religious or social groups were more likely to use CAM. CAM users felt a more negative impact of their dermatological conditions on daily living, relationships, emotional well‐being and physical health.

Conclusions As in Western nations, CAM use is prevalent among dermatology patients in Taiwan: not only the traditionally popular Chinese CAM, but also Western CAM. With CAM being popular in the younger age group, dermatologists will likely encounter more CAM users in the future. Because some CAM may produce serious side‐effects, dermatologists need to help and guide patients to assess the benefits and dangers of using CAM to treat dermatological conditions.
Lymphoscintigraphic analysis in chromoblastomycosis
Authors: Ogawa Marília M. , Alchorne Maurício M. A. , Barbieri Antonio , Castiglioni Mário L. V. , Penna Adriana Porto Benatti , Tomimori‐Yamashita Jane
Published: July 2003

Background One of the main complications of chromoblastomycosis is lymphedema. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the lymphatic system of the limbs of patients with chromoblastomycosis using lymphoscintigraphy. It is a reliable, objective and noninvasive means of supporting the diagnosis of lymphedema.

Methods Lymphoscintigraphy was performed in seven patients with chromoblastomycosis, six with lesions in the lower limb and one in the upper limb. Tc‐99 m dextran was injected into the interdigital spaces of the upper or lower extremities. The qualitative parameters analyzed were the visibilization of the lymph vessels and the lymph nodes, dermal backflow, and existence of collateral vessels. All patients were treated with the association of itraconazole and cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen.

Results Three out of the 14 extremities examined had lymphedema clinically, and the lymphoscintigraphy showed abnormalities in the qualitative parameters; whereas these parameters were normal in the extremities without lymphedema. During the treatment of chromoblastomycosis, a second lymphoscintigraphy exam was performed on 10 limbs and did not show any improvement of the previous lymphoscintigraphic alterations.

Conclusions The qualitative lymphoscintigraphy was a reliable method to show the morphology of the lymph vessels and confirm objectively the diagnosis of lymphedema secondary to chromoblastomycosis. The association of oral itraconazol and cryotherapy did not modify the lymphatic alterations in chromoblastomycosis.
Incidence of anti‐Helicobacter pylori and anti‐CagA antibodies in rosacea patients
Authors: Argenziano Gabriele , Donnarumma Giovanna , Maria Rosaria Iovene , BD  , Arnese Pietro , Assunta Baldassarre Maria , Baroni Adone
Published: July 2003

In recent years some authors have reported a possible correlation between Helicobacter pylori (Hp) and dermatological diseases such as rosacea. In this study we evaluated serum IgG and IgA anti‐Hp in a group of 48 patients with rosacea. IgG antibodies were present in 81% of the rosacea patients with dyspepsia and 16% of the rosacea patients without dyspeptic symptoms. Serum IgG and IgA anti‐Hp were detected by means of an enzymatic immunoabsorption test (enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay: ELISA). In addition, an evaluation of the anti‐CagA antibodies by means of an immunoenzymatic method was carried out (ELISA, RADIM). IgA anti‐Hp was present in 62% of patients with dyspepsia and in 6% of patients with no upper gastrointestinal symptoms. Anti‐CagA antibodies were seen to be present in 75% of patients with both rosacea and gastric symptomatology, and were prevalent in patients affected by rosacea with papular symptoms in respect to rosacea with erythematous symptoms. The data that emerge from our case studies appear to confirm the hypothesis put forward by scientists who propose a correlation between the two clinical presentations rather than an inverse hypothesis of total independence.
Head lice on pillows, and strategies to make a small risk even less
Authors: Speare Rick , Cahill Christine , Thomas Genelle
Published: July 2003

Background Due to a lack of evidence, controversy exists about the role of bedding in the transmission of head lice.

Aims To determine the proportion of the head lice population found on pillowcases of people with head lice, and to test strategies available to householders to kill head lice on pillowcases.

Methods To assess the incidence of head lice on pillowcases, people with active pediculosis had their head lice collected and counted and the pillowcase they had used the night before examined for head lice. To test strategies to kill head lice on pillowcases, live head lice were experimentally placed in miniature pillowcases, and the cases were subjected to a hot wash, a cold wash, hot dryer, and hanging out to dry on an outdoor clothes line.

Results Forty‐eight people and their pillowcases were recruited from Townsville, Qld, Australia (dry tropics). One thousand, eight hundred and forty‐five lice were collected from their heads to give an average and median intensity of infection of 38.4 and 21 lice, respectively. Two of the 48 pillowcases contained live lice, one nymph on each, 2 h and 9 h after the pillowcases had been removed from the bed. Another pillowcase contained a dehydrated nymph. The incidence of live lice on pillowcases was 4.2% per night and the proportion of the head louse population on the pillowcases was 0.11%. Heat (hot wash and hot clothes dryer) killed head lice experimentally placed in pillowcases. Cold wash and hanging pillowcases out to dry did not kill head lice.

Conclusions Head lice transfer to pillowcases at night, but the incidence is low. Pillowcases pose a risk for re‐infection with head lice, but the risk is low, and changing the pillowcase is a reasonably cost‐efficient strategy to minimize this risk. Lice on pillowcases can be killed by heating the pillowcase by immersion in water at > 60 °C, by a hot wash, or by 15 min in a hot clothes dryer.
Case of generalized lichen amyloidosis
Authors: Tursen Umit , Kaya Tamer Irfan , Dusmez Duygu , Ikizoglu Guliz
Published: July 2003

A 23‐year‐old white female patient presented with a 3‐year history of a pruritic rash on the trunk, extensor surfaces of the extremities, back, abdomen, and the glutea. There was no family history of any similar dermatological disease. Dermatological examination revealed generalized rough, mildly keratotic, symmetrical dome‐shaped papules, involving dorsal and extensor surfaces of both the lower and upper extremities, abdomen, back and the glutea (Fig. 1). Physical examination was normal.

Dome‐shaped, lichenified papules, 4–5 mm in diameter, on the right lower extremity

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Waardenburg syndrome: case report
Authors: Krishtul Anna , Galadari Ibrahim
Published: July 2003

A 15‐year‐old Arab boy presented with congenital deafness, heterochromia iridis (right, brown; left, blue), poliosis (white forelock), with an area of leukoderma beneath the forelock, broad nasal root, and lateral displacement of the medial canthi (Fig. 1). Further investigation revealed that one of his siblings was similarly affected. The child was diagnosed with Waardenburg syndrome.

Waardenburg syndrome: white forelock, heterochromia iridis, broad nasal root, leukoderma and hypertrichosis of medial eyebrows

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As the child grew older, the leukodermic patch on the scalp became more evident, together with confluence of the eyebrows (synophrys).
Is topical metronidazole effective in seborrheic dermatitis? A double‐blind study
Authors: Koca Rafet , Altinyazar H. Cevdet , Eştürk Emel
Published: July 2003

Background Seborrheic dermatitis is a common, chronic, papulosquamous dermatosis. Although several types of treatment have been developed, repetitive treatment courses are often necessary.

Aim To perform a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind clinical study with metronidazole 0.75% gel in patients with mild to moderate seborrheic dermatitis of the face.

Methods Eighty‐four patients (52 males and 32 females) with seborrheic dermatitis were enrolled in the study. Patients were randomly allocated to the application of metronidazole 0.75% gel or placebo to their facial lesions, twice daily for 8 weeks. Patients were scored with regard to the severity of the lesions at the initial evaluation and every 2 weeks for 2 months. All patients were evaluated for a final assessment of improvement at the end of the study.

Results At baseline, both treatment groups were comparable in terms of demographic data and lesion severity score. Seventy‐eight patients (48 males and 30 females), 48 (62%) in the metronidazole group and 30 (38%) in the placebo group, completed the study. Two patients in the metronidazole group and four patients in the placebo group left the study. There was no statistically significant difference in the change in the mean severity score between the two groups at the end of the study (P > 0.05). At the final evaluation of the response at 8 weeks, no statistically significant difference was found between the treatment groups (P > 0.05). Metronidazole gel was generally tolerated well during the study.

Conclusions Metronidazole 0.75% gel and placebo show similar efficacy in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis.
308‐nm excimer laser for the treatment of localized vitiligo
Authors: Taneja Atul , Trehan Manju , Taylor Charles R.
Published: July 2003

Background and Objective Vitiligo is commonly treated with PUVA, and more recently, narrow‐band UVB (NBUVB) phototherapy. Given the proximity of the wavelengths of NBUVB (311 nm) and the excimer laser (308 nm), we undertook a clinical trial to test the efficacy of this device.

Methods Twice‐weekly 308‐nm UV‐B radiation was given to selected vitiligo lesions for a maximum of 60 treatments. These lesions had been unsuccessfully treated previously with at least one other method of treatment. Initial doses were 100 mJ/cm2 with increments of 10–25%. Improvement was assessed on a visual scale via serial photographs.

Results Subjects tolerated the treatment well. Improvement varied with body site. After 60 treatments, lesions on the hands and feet showed grade 2 improvement in 2/10 subjects and grade 1 in 8/10. For the axillae, there was grade 4 improvement in 1/3 subjects and grade 2 improvement in 2/3 by treatment 60. The face demonstrated the most rapid repigmentation with grade 4 repigmentation seen in 3/5 subjects by 40 treatments and grade 3 in 2/5 by 30 treatments. There were no adverse effects.

Conclusions The user‐friendly 308‐nm excimer laser allows targeted treatments of localized vitiligo.
Behavioural effects of minor sex pheromone components in Brazilian apple leafroller Bonagota cranaodes (Lep., Tortricidae)
Authors: Coracini M. D. A. , Bengtsson M. , Reckziegel A. , Eiras A. E. , Vilela E. F. , Anderson P. , Francke W. , Löfqvist J. , Witzgall P.
Published: August 2003

Abstract:  The behavioural response of Brazilian apple leafroller males, Bonagota cranaodes (Meyrick), to natural and synthetic sex pheromone was studied in a wind tunnel. Calling females elicited upwind flights followed by landing and wingfanning at the source in 72% of the males tested. Female gland extracts, with the main compound (E, Z)3,5dodecadienyl acetate released at 100 pg/min, attracted 57% of the males to the source. Few males (1%) were attracted to the main compound alone, released at the same rate. Even a synthetic blend of all five gland compounds eliciting an antennal response, formulated according to their proportion in female gland extracts, was barely attractive (7%). Comparison of this synthetic blend and female gland extracts indicates a behavioural role of other gland compounds. Male attraction was significantly increased (34%) in response to a 100 : 5 : 5 : 5‐blend of the main compound and three minor gland compounds, (Z)‐5‐dodecenyl acetate, (E, Z)‐3,5‐tetradecadienyl acetate, and (Z)‐9‐hexadecenyl acetate.
Utilization of the polymerase chain reaction in the diagnosis of nuclear polyhedrosis virus infections of gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar, Lep., Lymantriidae) populations
Authors: Charpentier G. , Desmarteaux D. , Bourassa J.‐P. , Belloncik S. , Arella M.
Published: August 2003

Abstract:  Three specific DNA probes were used for the detection of the nuclear polyhedrosis (NPV) virus of Lymantria dispar (LdNPV) genome. Two of these probes, H2 and H3 were obtained by classical cloning method and one (TR6) by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). These probes, used individually or in a pool in the standard slot–blot hybridizations, were able to detect 109 genome copies. By performing 35 cycles of PCR amplification before hybridization with primers specific to LdNPV genome on DNA extracted from infected larvae, the sensitivity of the hybridization technique was increased, so that as little as 10 copies of the LdNPV genome could be detected. Using these methods, L. dispar naturally infected by LdNPV were identified among field populations in Canada and in the United States near the eastern Canadian border. Using a combination of PCR and hybridization, LdNPV contamination of egg masses were also detected. By disinfecting the eggs with sodium hypochlorite prior to PCR amplification and hybridization, it was also demonstrated that transmission of viral infection in the natural populations is mainly caused by external contamination of the egg and is unlikely to occur through the transovarial route.
Effects of diet on development of Podisus nigrispinus (Dallas) (Het., Pentatomidae), a predator of the cotton leafworm
Authors: Lemos W. P. , Ramalho F. S. , Serrão J. E. , Zanuncio J. C.
Published: August 2003

Abstract:  The effects of diet on development of Podisus nigrispinus (Dallas) (Het., Pentatomidae) were studied at 25°C, relative humidity of 60 ± 10%, and photoperiod of 14 h light : 10 h dark. Development times of P. nigrispinus nymphs were similar when fed with third or fifth instar larvae of cotton leafworm (Alabama argillacea Hübner) (Lep., Noctuidae) or Tenebrio molitor L. (Col., Tenebrionidae). When fed with housefly larvae (Musca domestica L.) (Dipt., Muscidae) or artificial diet, the predator had a longer development time. Independent of diet, instar or sex, the females of P. nigrispinus showed a longer longevity than the males. The total survival of the nymphal stage, on the different diets, varied from 22.46 (fed with housefly) to 77.33% (fed with T. molitor larvae). P. nigrispinus males were heavier when fed with third or fifth instar cotton leafworm larvae than when fed with artificial diet. The weight of the females varied from 37.91 (with artificial diet) to 64.68 mg (with fifth instar cotton leafworm larvae). Independently of the diet, newly emerged females of P. nigrispinus were heavier than the males. Females of P. nigrispinus which were fed with fifth instar cotton leafworm larvae had heavier ovaries than those fed other diets.
Plant‐Parasitic Nematodes Associated with Hop Production in Tasmania, Australia
Authors: Hay F. , Pethybridge S.
Published: July 2003

The abundance, diversity and temporal fluctuations in plant‐parasitic nematodes associated with hop production, and their effect on cone yield and levels of alpha acids were assessed in two hop (cv. ‘Pride of Ringwood’) gardens in Tasmania, Australia within the 1999/2000 season at Forrester River, and within the 2001/2002 season at Gunns Plains. The most abundant plant‐parasitic nematode found at both sites was Heterodera humuli Filipjev 1934. Heliocotylenchus dihystera, Pratylenchus spp. and Meloidogyne spp. were present in comparatively low numbers. Temporal fluctuations in the numbers of H. humuli suggested that one generation occurred at Forrester River and Gunns Plains. At Forrester River, the numbers of H. humuli second stage juveniles (J2) on 11 October 1999 were significantly negatively correlated with cone yield on 17 March 2000. No significant correlations were detected between numbers of H. humuli J2 and cone yield at later dates, or between numbers of H. humuli J2 at any sampling date and alpha acid content.
Pathogenic Variation among Isolates of Pyrenophora teres, the Causal Agent of Barley Net Blotch
Authors: Arabi M. I. E. , Al‐Safadi B. , Charbaji T.
Published: July 2003

Isolates of Pyrenophora teres, the causal agent of net blotch of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) has been collected from France and Syria. Their virulence spectra were evaluated using 11 barley genotypes as differential hosts. The genotypes exhibited a continuous range of response from highly susceptible to moderately resistant. A mean disease rating of 3.7 is considered as the separation point between avirulent and virulent reactions. The frequency of virulence was highest for isolates S5, R5 and S6‐2 and lowest for R‐ICA31 and R‐HAS‐6. A cluster analysis indicated that the isolates exhibited distinct differential virulence patterns and they were identified into five groups. The French isolates S5, R5 and S6‐2 had a higher mean virulence and a low variance across all genotypes. None of the tested genotypes was highly resistant to all investigated isolates.
Cultural Characterization and Conidial Dimorphism in Colletotrichum sublineolum
Authors: Souza‐Paccola E. A. , Fávaro L. C. L. , Bomfeti C. A. , Mesquita S. F. P. , Paccola‐Meirelles L. D.
Published: July 2003

Anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum sublineolum, is one of the most important diseases of sorghum in Brazil. This fungus showed conidial dimorphism when cultivated on solid or in liquid media. In solid media only falcate conidia were produced, whereas in liquid media the conidia were of variable size, but mostly oval. Wild strains, differentiated by their α and β esterase electrophoretic profiles, were assessed. The effect of different culture media on the production of both conidial types was evaluated. Unlike that of oval conidia, the production of falcate conidia was light‐dependent. Some strains failed to produce falcate conidia in solid media, but all produced oval conidia in all the liquid media. The falcate conidia were uninucleate, but oval conidia contained one to three nuclei, although most were uninucleate. Both types of conidia induced symptoms in inoculable sorghum plants under controlled conditions. Both oval and falcate conidia produced mutants after exposure to UV light, and hyphal anastomoses occurred in crosses between mutant conidia carriers of complementary markers. The production of these oval conidia in C. sublineolum is an alternative to pathogenicity tests and genetic studies, especially for strains that sporulate poorly in solid culture media.
A Rapid Seedling Based Screening Technique to Assay Tobacco for Resistance to Phytophthora nicotianae
Authors: Van Jaarsveld E. , Wingfield M. J. , Drenth A.
Published: July 2003

Black shank caused by Phytophthora nicotianae is a serious root and stem disease of cultivated tobacco worldwide. In this study, a rapid seedling‐based screening technique was developed to evaluate tobacco cultivars for resistance to P. nicotianae. This technique was compared with a stem inoculation technique commonly used on adult plants. The overall aim was to develop an improved and rapid technique that could also be used to characterize races of P. nicotianae. A strong positive correlation was found between results of the seedling assay and adult plant trials for all isolates and cultivars tested. Furthermore, P. nicotianae isolates could be characterized as race 0 or 1 using both stem inoculation and the rapid seedling assay. This assay will facilitate rapid and large‐scale screening for black shank resistance and therefore has the potential to reduce yield losses because of this disease in the field.
Relationships of Ceratocystis fimbriata Isolates from Colombian Coffee‐Growing Regions Based on Molecular Data and Pathogenicity
Authors: Marin M. , Castro B. , Gaitan A. , Preisig O. , Wingfield B. D. , Wingfield M. J.
Published: July 2003

One of the most important diseases that reduce the profitability of coffee plantations in Colombia is coffee tree canker. This disease, caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata, has increased in severity and incidence in recent years, resulting in substantial losses to resource‐poor farmers. The aim of this investigation was to consider the relatedness of C. fimbriata isolates from different Colombian coffee‐growing regions, and thus to provide a foundation for future development of resistant coffee varieties. Fifty isolates from 11 provinces were characterized based on morphology and pathogenicity. In addition, isolates were compared using restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. DNA sequence comparisons for the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, Mat‐2 HMG Box and partial β‐tubulin gene, were also made. The results of all comparisons clearly showed that Colombian isolates of C. fimbriata are highly variable. All molecular parameters used for these comparisons also showed that C. fimbriata isolates from Colombia reside in two major phylogenetic lineages. We believe that one of these lineages represent C. fimbriata sensu stricto and the other, a new taxon that needs further characterization. Isolates had different levels of pathogenicity on coffee, with some causing death of more that 90% and others killing <5% of inoculated plants. There was also a clear pattern of distribution of the most pathogenic strains within coffee‐growing areas.
Susceptibility of some Mesophilic Hardwoods to Alder Phytophthora
Authors: Santini Alberto , Barzanti Gian Paolo , Capretti Paolo
Published: July 2003

Inoculation tests were carried out in the greenhouse on seedlings of five hardwoods (Alnus cordata, A. glutinosa, Castanea sativa, Juglans regia and Quercus robur) to determine their susceptibility to an isolate of alder Phytophthora obtained in Italy from A. cordata. A Phytophthora cinnamomi strain was used for comparison. Host susceptibility to infection was determined as the lesion length after stem inoculation and the percentage of necrotized rootlets after soil infestation with inoculated millet seeds. The aggressiveness of the alder Phytophthora isolate was significantly higher in the two Alnus species than in the other hosts. Our results were confirmed with both methods of inoculation. Alnus cordata was consistently the most susceptible host species when compared with the other hardwoods. Damage by P. cinnamomi was severe, particularly after soil infestation tests. The most susceptible species were alders, chestnut and walnut. The test also suggests that alder Phytophthora is able to spread through infected seedlings of different hardwood species.