bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen–potassium ATPase inhibitors induce relaxation on rabbit prostatic strips in vitro
Authors: Bagcivan Ihsan , Gökçe Gökhan , Ayan Semih , Yildirim Şahin , Saraç Bülent , Kiliçarslan Hakan , Sarioglu Yusuf
Published: March 2003

Background
: To determine the relaxant effect of omeprazole and lansaprazole, hydrogen–potassium (H+–K+) ATPase inhibitors, on rabbit prostatic tissue in vitro.

Methods
: Male New Zealand white rabbits were sacrificed and their prostatic tissues were removed. The prostatic stromal strips were mounted in organ baths and relaxation responses were obtained in precontracted tissues with phenylephrine, carbachol and potassium chloride (KCl). Relaxation responses were controlled in the presence of various antagonists to explain the mechanism for relaxation exerted by omeprazole and lansaprazole.

Results
: Omeprazole and lansaprazole caused similar relaxation responses in the prostatic strips precontracted with phenylephrine, carbachol and KCl. The addition of prostaglandin synthase inhibitor indomethacin, nitric oxide synthase inhibitor L‐NAME, potassium channel blockers, glibenclamide and tetraethylammonium into the organ baths did not change the relaxations induced by omeprazole and lansaprazole in vitro.

Conclusion
: Omeprazole and lansaprazole cause a relaxation in prostatic stromal tissue precontracted with phenyephrine, carbachol and KC1 in vitro. This relaxant effect is independent of H+–K+ ATPase inhibition. Additionally, cyclooxygenase and nitric oxide pathways do not contribute to this relaxant effect. Further studies are required to determine whether these drugs may have a beneficial effect in the non‐operative treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Incidence and growth pattern of simple cysts of the kidney in patients with asymptomatic microscopic hematuria
Authors: MARUMO KEN , HORIGUCHI YUTAKA , NAKAGAWA KEN , OYA MOTOTSUGU , OHIGASHI TAKASHI , ASAKURA HIROTAKA , NAKASHIMA JUN , MURAI MASARU
Published: March 2003

Abstract
Background:
We examined the incidence and natural history of simple renal cysts found by ultrasonography (US) in patients referred for asymptomatic microscopic hematuria.

Methods:
Among the 906 patients aged 18–78 years, 743 patients who had undergone US were included in the present study. The natural history of simple renal cysts was investigated in 55 patients who underwent periodical US examinations for more than 3 years.

Results:
The incidence of simple renal cysts was 4.3% for ages 29 years or younger, 15.3% for ages 30–39, 21.8% for ages 40–49, 23.3% for ages 50–59 and 32.6% for ages 60 years or older; thus the incidence increased in older age groups (P = 0.0005 for men, P = 0.0020 for women). Men tended to have a higher incidence than women. The degree of hematuria did not influence the incidence of renal cysts (P = 0.9044). The annual growth rate of the mean maximum diameter was 4.2% during a 3‐year follow‐up period in 55 patients and 5.1% during a 6‐year follow‐up in 31 patients.

Conclusion:
Since the diameter of a renal cyst may increase by 5% annually, the diameter of the cyst may increase by 1.6 times in 10 years. The scheduling of follow‐up examinations depends on the size at the time of disclosure, the effects on calyceal systems, or the suspicion of a concurrent malignant disease. However, the most simple renal cysts may be followed‐up at an interval of more than 10 years, once a diagnosis has been established.
Spermatozoon and mitochondrial DNA
Authors: Hirata Shuji , Hoshi Kazuhiko , Shoda Tomoko , Mabuchi Tadashi
Published: March 2003

In eukaryotic cells, mitochondria are the major site of ATP production, which is achieved through the electron‐transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation, according to the energy demand. Mitochondria contain their own genome (mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA) on which a limited number of genes are encoded. In the human sperm, mitochondria helically wrap the midpiece of the tail and supply the energy for the driving force of motility. While various mutations in mtDNA in somatic cells are found to be associated with a wide spectrum of diseases, it is also reported that the abnormal mtDNA causes astenozoospermia and male infertility. At fertilization, the paternal mitochondria and mtDNA are rapidly degraded early in embryogenesis, thus, only maternal mtDNA is transmitted to the descendant. We briefly review here the basic characteristics of mtDNA and its maternal transmission during fertilization, as well as male infertility. (Reprod Med Biol 2002; 1: 41–47)
Evaluation of testicular microlithiasis in varicoceles
Authors: Kobayashi Hideyuki , Nagao Koichi , Nakai Toshiaki , Kudo Takamasa , Yoshida Atsumi , Hara Hiroshi , Miura Kazukiyo , Ishii Nobuhisa , Sawamura Yoshikatsu , Miura Myota
Published: March 2003

Background:  Testicular microlithiasis is said to be characterized by calcific concretions within the seminiferous tubules. There have been reports suggesting a link between testicular microlithiasis and testicular dysfunction and tumors.

Methods:  In this study, we assessed subjects with varicoceles detected by using testicular ultrasound, and evaluated the cases of testicular microlithiasis in terms of age, seminalysis findings, and endocrinological parameters (testosterone, follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin (PRL)). The subjects comprised 224 patients with varicoceles diagnosed by using testicular ultrasound, who attended this institution as outpatients between January 1998 and August 2000.

Results:  Testicular microlithiasis was detected in 15 out of 224 subjects (6.7%), bilateral in all cases. No significant differences were seen between the group with testicular microlithiasis and the group without testicular microlithiasis, in terms of age, seminalysis findings, and/or endocrinological parameters (testosterone, FSH, LH, prolactin). The incidence of testicular microlithiasis in outpatients undergoing testicular ultrasound varies between reports, but is of the order of 0.6–2.0%.

Conclusion:  In this study, we found a high proportion of testicular microlithiasis at 6.7%, strongly suggesting a link with male infertility. (Reprod Med Biol 2002; 1: 75–79)
Population screening for HFE‐associated haemochromatosis: should we have to pay for our genes?
Authors: Yapp T. R. , Eijkelkamp E. J. , Powell L. W.
Published: March 2003

Haemochromatosis associated with mutations in the HFE gene is the most common inherited disorder in Caucasian populations. Early diagnosis and treatment allows for normal life expectancy, whereas there is considerable morbidity and early mortality in those patients diagnosed late or untreated. Unfortunately, the development of symptoms and signs in haemochromatosis is usually associated with significant iron overload. For this reason, many clinicians and geneticists have advocated population screening. The recent identification of the HFE gene and the availability of a simple DNA‐based diagnostic test have led to international debate as to the most cost‐effective means of population screening for HFE‐associated haemochromatosis. The present paper summarizes the evidence in favour of population screening and analyses the relative advantages of genotypic (DNA test) versus phenotypic (transferrin saturation) testing. (Intern Med J 2001; 31: 48–52)
Retrospective review of febrile neutropenia in the Royal Darwin Hospital, 1994–99
Authors: Healey T. , Selva‐Nayagam S.
Published: March 2003

Abstract Background: Febrile neutropenia is a life‐threatening complication of cytotoxic chemotherapy. Empirical antibiotic treatment should be based on predominant pathogens and epidemiological characteristics of the treated community. The aim of the present study was to review cases of febrile neutropenia at the Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH) in order to assess the appropriateness of empirical antibiotic therapy.

Methods: A retrospective review of cases of febrile neutropenia secondary to malignancy or chemotherapy occurring at the RDH over the period 1994–99. In order to compare infections in this group with those in the wider hospital community, all positive blood cultures in the medical and intensive care units were reviewed for the same time period.

Results: Thirty‐six episodes of febrile neutropenia were reviewed. Staphylococcus aureus (predominantly methicillin resistant), Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli were the most common organisms identified. Nine patients died of their infection, four with methicillin‐resistant S. aureus bacteraemia. S. aureus, E. coli, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Burkholderia pseudomallei (melioid) were the most frequently isolated organisms from blood cultures taken in the medical and intensive care units.

Conclusions: Gram‐positive organisms are the predominant pathogens in febrile neutropenic episodes at the RDH. Standard empirical therapy with an extended‐spectrum penicillin and an aminoglycoside remains appropriate, with the addition of vancomycin when clinical status fails to improve. When practising in the Top End, particular consideration should be given to skin integrity and scabies and testing for Strongyloides in Aboriginal patients. (Intern Med J 2001; 31: 406–412)
Non‐prescription complementary treatments used by rheumatoid arthritis patients attending a community‐based rheumatology practice
Authors: Buchbinder R. , Gingold M. , Hall S. , Cohen M.
Published: March 2003

Background: Over 80% of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients have used some type of complementary medicine (CM) at some time. Littleis known about RA patients’ perceptions of the efficacy, hazards and costs associated with CM use relative to physician‐prescribedmedicine. These data may be helpful in better understanding patients’ needs and in improving their care.

Aims: To determine the prevalence and features of CM use among RA patients attending a community‐based private rheumatology practice. CM was definedas treatment that was initiated by the patient, excluding treatment that had been prescribed or spec­ifically recommended bytheir doctor.

Methods: A telephone‐administered questionnaire was used to survey a stratified random sample of 200 RA patients who had attended the practice withinthe preceding year. The main outcome measures were: (i) CM use in the past year, (ii) patient expenditure onCM, (iii) patients’ perceptions of CM and (iv) characteristics of patientsusing CM.

Results: One hundred and six patients responded (response rate 53%) and 101 completed the interview. Seventy‐four patients (73.3%)had used some form of CM in the past year. There were 68 (67.3%) patients who had utilized complementary therapies and 32 patients (31.7%)who had consulted a complementary practitioner for their RA. The most commonly used treatments were dietary (64 instances) and behavioural/cognitivetherapies (45 instances). Prescription medicine was considered more beneficial than either form of CM, and users and non‐users of CMheld a similar perception of the efficacy of ­prescription medicine. The median amount spent on RA treatment per month was $A7(range 0−91) for complementary treatments, $A26 (1−270) for complementary practitioners and $A7(0−80) for pres­cription medicine. Women were more likely to have consulted a CM practitioner (OR = 1.5;95% CI : 1.2−1.9), as were patients who were not receiving a pension (OR = 1.7;95% CI : 1.1−2.6).

Conclusions: This study confirmed that CM use is prevalent among RA patients attending a community‐based private rheumatology practice. Despitelesser perceived benefit, patients spent at least as much money on CM as they did on prescription medicine. These findings suggestthat there are other factors motivating the use of alternative treatments. (Intern Med J 2002; 32: 208−214)
Assessment and relevance of enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for antibodies to Saccharomyces cerevisiae in Australian patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Moore M. M. , Fabricatorian D. , Selby W. S.
Published: March 2003

Abstract

The frequency of antibodies to Saccharomyces cerevisiae (ASCA) in Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and non‐inflammatory bowel disease controls has been compared using two commercially available assays. The Medizym test resulted in sensitivity of 50% and specificity
of 93% for Crohn’s disease. The corresponding figures for the QUANTA Lite assay were 79% and 74%,
respectively. Using ASCA and ­perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (pANCA) in combination, the sensitivity and
specificity of ASCA+/pANCA− for Crohn’s disease using the Medizym kit were 50% and
100%, respectively, compared with 79% and 93% using QUANTA Lite. ASCA−/pANCA+ was 100% specific for ulcerative colitis with either assay. ASCA can be found in ­Australian patients with Crohn’s disease at a similar frequency to that reported overseas. (Intern Med J 2002; 32: 349−352)
Measurement variability in sleep disorders medicine: the Victorian experience
Authors: Manser R. L. , Rochford P. , Naughton M. T. , Pierce R. J. , Sasse A. , Teichtahl H. , Ho M. , Campbell D. A.
Published: March 2003

Background: Surveys of laboratories in North America have documented significant diversity in the working definitions used for reporting respiratory events in sleep studies.

Aim: To assess sources of variability in the measurement of sleep‐disordered breathing (as defined by the Apnoea−Hypopnoea Index) between sleep laboratories in Victoria, Australia.

Methods: A self‐complete written questionnaire was constructed following literature review and interviews with staff at three separate sleep laboratories. The survey was sent to all laboratories listed in Victoria by the Australasian Sleep Association. The first part of the survey related to the type of equipment used to record sleep and other variables during overnight polysomnography and the second part related to the definitions and methods used to report results.

Results: Seventeen out of 18 laboratories returned the surveys. There were variations identified in the types of sensors used to measure particular signals. There were also inconsistencies identified in the criteria used to score arousals, apnoeas and hypopnoeas by different laboratories. The variability was greatest for hypopnoea definitions.

Conclusions: There is considerable variation in the methods used to measure and define sleep‐disordered breathing between sleep laboratories in Victoria. The extent to which these variations influence the comparability of reported results between laboratories requires further evaluation. The survey findings may assist the process of developing and implementing local guidelines for the performance and reporting of polysomnography. (Intern Med J 2002; 32: 386−393)
Quality of care of patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Scott I. A. , Denaro C. P. , Flores J. L. , Bennett C. J. , Hickey A. C. , Mudge A. M.
Published: March 2003

Abstract

Background:  Measurement and improvement of quality of care is a priority issue in health care. Patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) constitute a high‐risk population whose care, if shown to be suboptimal on the basis of available research evidence, may benefit from quality improvement interventions.

Aim:  To evaluate the quality of in‐hospital care for patients with ACS, using explicit quality indicators.

Methods:  Retrospective case note review was undertaken of 397 patients admitted to three teaching hospitals in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia, between 1 October 2000 and 17 April 2001. The main out­come measures were 12 process‐of‐care quality indicators, calculated as either: (i) the proportion of all patients who received specific interventions or (ii) the proportion of ideal patients who received ­specific interventions (i.e. patients with clear indi­cations and lacking contraindications).

Results:  Quality indicators with values above 80% included: (i) patient selection for thrombolysis (100%) and discharge prescription of beta‐blockers (84%), (ii) antiplatelet agents (94%) and (iii) lipid‐lowering agents (82%). Indicators with values between 50% and 80% included: (i) timely per­formance of electrocardiogram (ECG) on admission (61%), (ii) early coronary angiography (75%), (iii) measurement of serum lipids (71%) and (iv) discharge prescription of angiotensin‐converting‐enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (73%). Indicators with values <50% included: (i) timely administration of thrombolysis (35%), (ii) non‐invasive risk assessment (23%) and (ii) formal in‐hospital and post‐hospital cardiac rehabilitation (47% and 7%, respectively).

Conclusion:  There were delays in performing ECG and administering thrombolysis to patients who presented to emergency departments with ACS. Improvement is warranted in use of non‐invasive procedures for identifying high‐risk patients who may benefit from coronary revascularization as well as use of serum lipid measurements, ACE inhibitors and cardiac rehabilitation. (Intern Med J 2002; 32: 502−511)
Evaluation of health‐care worker vaccination in a tertiary Australian hospital
Authors: Stewart S. , Murray S. B. , Skull S. A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract

Background : Maintaining a complete vaccination status for health‐care workers (HCWs) is important to minimize morbidity among staff and patients. Despite recommendations from public‐health authorities to support this process, not all hospitals have adequate policy and practice in place.

Aims : To independently assess the implementation and impact of a new policy aimed at improving HCW vaccination coverage in a tertiary Victorian hospital.

Methods : Two cross‐sectional surveys were conducted by telephone in July and October 2000 for a random sample of HCWs, before and after the introduction of the policy. These surveys examined knowledge, attitudes and practices surrounding vaccination and self‐reported vaccination status. Policy implementation was assessed by ascertaining completion of compulsory vaccination status forms and attendance at suggested appointments to review vaccination status.

Results : Only 19% of 269 HCWs reported a complete vaccination status at baseline. Most (76%) had not heard of or seen vaccination guidelines and 39% kept written vaccination records. This was despite a belief in the importance of vaccination (94%) and a willingness to update if necessary (96%). At follow up there was no improvement in any outcome. Only 11/26 (42%) newly employed HCWs surveyed received and returned compulsory vaccination status forms. Of the few HCWs who attended recommended vaccination appointments, all received vaccinations.

Conclusions : HCW vaccination coverage and knowledge of vaccination requirements were poor. Although attending a physician to discuss vaccination status did result in vaccination, few HCWs made such an appointment. While policy development is an important first step towards improving vaccination coverage, effective implementation requires ongoing evaluation, adequate resources and HCW education. (Intern Med J 2002; 32: 585−592)
Live donor renal transplantation in Australia 1964−1999: an evolving practice
Authors: Prasad S , Russ G. , Faull R.
Published: March 2003

Abstract

Background:  Australia has a low cadaver organ donor (CD) rate by international standards, leading to the increasing use of live donor (LD) renal grafts.

Aims:  To review the Australian experience with LD transplants from 1964 to 1999.

Methods: Data were obtained from the Australian and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry. Survival was assessed by the Kaplan−Meier method.

Results:  A total of 1584 LD and 10 252 CD transplants was performed between 1964 and 1999. While the CD rate dropped over the last decade, the LD rate increased, maintaining the overall transplan­tation rate. Only 3.6% of grafts before 1980 were LD, increasing to 28.4% during 1995−1999. Patient and graft survival of LD grafts was superior to CD grafts. Most LD grafts were from live related donors (LRD), most commonly parents or siblings. The number of transplants from live unrelated donors (LURD) has risen (1980−1989, n = 6; 1990−1999, n = 143), ­primarily due to more spousal donation, with no ­difference in survival between LRD and LURD groups. Grafts from older donors (>50 years of age) increased, with no graft survival difference between donors <50 years and donors >50 years. LD transplants performed prior to commencement of dialysis increased, with survival similar to grafts performed after dialysis.

Conclusion: The pattern of renal transplantation in Australia has changed, with increasing numbers of LD transplants, growing use of unrelated and older donors, and more transplants before dialysis commences. Long‐term patient and graft survival advantages have been maintained, supporting the growing use of live donors to expand the donor pool. (Intern Med J 2002; 32: 569−574)
Adjuvant chemotherapy in colon cancer: what is the evidence?
Authors: Haydon A.
Published: March 2003

Abstract

Over the last 12 years, numerous randomized trials have addressed the role of adjuvant chemotherapy in resected colon cancer. Together, these studies give conclusive evidence of the benefit of adjuvant 5‐fluorouracil combined with folinic acid in stage III (node positive) disease and this is now considered the standard of care. The chemotherapy appears to be equally effective whether it is given daily for 5 days per month or on a weekly schedule. The overall effect is a relative reduction in tumour ­recurrence of 25% or an absolute improvement in survival of 10%.

However, doubt remains as to the role of adjuvant chemotherapy in stage II colon cancer. To date, most of the randomized trials have demonstrated a relative reduction in tumour recurrence but have not shown any significant impact on survival. It seems likely that this inability to demonstrate a survival benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy in stage II disease relates to the fact that the trials have been underpowered to do so. Nevertheless, the absolute survival advantage is only about 2% and clinicians need to weigh this against the costs and toxicities of the treatment when managing these patients. (Intern Med J 2003; 33: 119−124)
Change in weed control studies of rice paddy fields in Korea
Authors: Kim Soon Chul , Im Il bin
Published: March 2003

This paper was reviewed on the research status of weed control according to cultivating patterns of rice in Korea. Weed control study in a nursery bed was chiefly carried out to control the species of barnyardgrass at the times of machine transplanting. Propanil and nitrofen were applied successfully in wet‐nursery beds, and chlornitrofen and pyrazolate/butachlor were also successfully applied in protected semi‐irrigated rice nursery beds in the 1970s. Sequential application of herbicides in the mid‐1980s has resulted in the end of hand weeding. In machine transplanting, basic research such as the selection of herbicides was conducted in the early 1970s, and its related research including crop injury, seedling age, and reaction of cultivars were done in the late 1970s to early 1980s. Effects of the continuous application of herbicides and its methods of labor saving for rice cultivation were studied in the mid to late 1980s. When the rice planting methods were newly established, such as transplanting when seedlings were 10‐days‐old and direct seeding from the early 1990s, weed control research relating to herbicides was carried out (e.g. herbicide registration, crop injury, water management, appropriate application time, and neighboring application with insecticide). Weed control for the dill seeding of fields in wetted and reclaimed saline land have been experimented with, particularly in terms of the physio‐ecological characteristics and the control of problematic weeds, and the resistance of weeds to herbicides was also investigated systematically.
Development and promotion of laborsaving application technology for paddy herbicides in Japan
Authors: Takeshita Takafumi , Noritake Koji
Published: March 2003

Total labor time on paddy rice has been decreasing year by year with the development and introduction of appropriate herbicides, especially ‘one‐shot' herbicides. However, in the case of application of granules, it is still difficult for a farmer to apply herbicides while carrying heavy power backpack sprayers. New formulation recipes and different application technology such as a throw‐in type formulation on jumbo granules or flowable has improved heavy workloads in comparison with granule application by using heavy power backpack sprayers. In addition, other advantageous points such as application volume and elimination of the drift problems of this new application technology were introduced and confirmed. As a result of this introduction, these formulations were used in 830 000 ha and reached 30% of the total treatment area in paddy rice in 2000.
Application timing of asulam for torpedograss (Panicum repens L.) control in sugarcane in Okinawa island
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Amzad , Kuramochi Hitoshi , Ishimine Yukio , Akamine Hikaru
Published: March 2003

Field and glasshouse experiments were conducted from 1995 through 1996 to evaluate application timing of asulam (methyl sulfanilylcarbamate) for torpedograss (Panicum repens L.) control in relation to plant age in sugarcane. Above‐ground shoots of torpedograss were completely controlled with asulam at 2–4 kg active ingredient (a.i.) ha−1 applied 60 or 80 days after planting (DAP) in artificially infested pots. But some newly developed rhizome buds survived after asulam application resulting in 1–25 and 76–100% or more regrowth in 60 and 80 DAP‐applied pots, respectively. Whereas the herbicide at 2–4 kg a.i. ha−1 applied within 60 DAP completely controlled above‐ground shoots, applied 80 DAP at 2 kg a.i. ha−1 it did not completely control the weed in the artificially infested field. Regrowth levels were 1–25 and 76–100% or more in 60 and 80 DAP‐applied plots, respectively. Asulam at 2–3 kg a.i. ha−1 applied 20, 40, 60 or 80 DAP in a naturally infested field completely controlled above‐ground shoots and regrowth levels were 76–100 or more, 51–75, 1–25 and 26–50% in these same DAP applied plots, respectively. The herbicide applied at 4 kg a.i. ha−1 caused chlorosis on younger sugarcane leaves (one‐leaf stage), but when applied at 2–3 kg a.i. ha−1, no injury symptoms were shown. The herbicide at 2–4 kg a.i. ha−1 applied within 60 DAP resulted in remarkably higher yield and shoot biomass of sugarcane than that applied 80 DAP. This study suggested that asulam at 2–3 kg a.i. ha−1 should be applied 60 days after planting for the maximum control of torpedograss regrowth and better yield of sugarcane. This study also indicated that torpedograss cannot be completely controlled with a single application of asulam in a naturally infested field because of rhizome fragmentation by cross plowing and distribution of rhizomes into different soil layers that require different times to emerge. The shoots emerging after asulam application could not be controlled. Another study is required to determine the interval between sequential applications of asulam for better control of torpedograss in a naturally infested field.
Mitotic disruption by a novel pyrimidine herbicide, NS‐245852, in oat (Avena sativa L.) roots
Authors: Takahashi, Akihiro , Yamada, Shigeo , Yamada Hirokazu , Kawana Takashi
Published: March 2003

The effects of a novel pyrimidine herbicide, NS‐245852 [2‐chloro‐6‐fluorophenyl‐4‐(trifluoromethyl)thieno[2,3‐d]pyrimidine‐2‐yl‐ketone], on mitosis in oat (Avena sativa L. cv. Zenshin) root tips were investigated by using light and immunofluorescence microscopy. The root growth was strongly inhibited at 10−7 mol L−1 of NS‐245852, and swollen root tips were induced at 5 × 10−8 mol L−1. As observed by the use of light microscopy, the herbicide produced disrupted mitosis and large polynucleate cells in the meristematic root tissue. These symptoms were similar to those of mitotic disrupter herbicides. The immunofluorescence microscopy studies of the root tip cells treated for 30 min revealed that spindle fibers and the preprophase band were reduced, although kinetochore fibers and the phragmoplast were not affected. Kinetochore fibers remained as small fluorescence spots, and the phragmoplast disappeared after a 3 h treatment. No microtubule arrays were observed by a longer treatment (longer than 3 h). Among the microtubule arrays, spindle fibers and the preprophase band were found to be the most sensitive to the herbicide, whereas kinetochore fibers were the most resistant. The phragmoplast was intermediate. Thus, the primary action of NS‐245852 is the inhibition of polymerization of tubulin into microtubules.
Plant links between eastern Asia and eastern Australia*
Authors: Michael Peter William
Published: March 2003

Plant links between eastern Asia and eastern Australia, regions showing considerable climatic differences, are discussed under five headings, namely, garden plants or ornamentals; naturalized plants; plants used in traditional Chinese medicine or Oriental Materia Medica; plants not yet well enough studied whose distribution suggests they may have originated in regions of the western Pacific; and comparisons between barnyardgrasses (Echinochloa spp.) in the two regions. A table is presented showing simple climatic data; mean monthly maximum and minimum temperatures and mean monthly and annual precipitation, along with latitude and altitude for 25 places extending from Monbetsu (about 44 N) in Hokkaido, Japan, through the subtropics and tropics to Hobart (approximately 43 S) in Tasmania, Australia.
Effects of aqueous extracts and decomposition of Mikania micrantha H.B.K. debris on selected agronomic crops
Authors: ISMAIL B. S. , CHONG TET‐VUN
Published: March 2003

Laboratory and greenhouse experiments were conducted to determine the effects of aqueous extract and the debris of Mile‐a‐Minute (Mikania micrantha H.B.K.)

on the germination and growth of four test species, viz. tomato (Lycopersicon

esculentum Mill.), Chinese cabbage (Brassica chinensis L.), corn (Zea

mays L.) and long bean (Vigna sesquipedalis L.). Germination percentage,

radicle length and fresh weight of two crops, Chinese cabbage and tomato, decreased

progressively when plants were exposed to increasing concentrations (12.5, 25, 37.5

and 50 g L−1) of aqueous extract of Mikania, but did not

affect those of corn and long bean seedlings. The emergence of tomato and Chinese

cabbage was greatly reduced when Mikania debris was incorporated into the

soil, irrespective of the amount of debris and the decomposition period. In contrast,

the emergence of corn and long bean seedlings was not affected. The application of

fertilizer (NPK 15 : 15 : 15) enhanced the fresh weight of all seedlings tested as

compared with those not supplied with the fertilizer. Four compounds were identified

in the leaf extract of Mikania, viz. caffeic acid, p‐hydroxybenzaldehyde, resorcinol and vanillic acid.
Susceptibility of a broad‐leaved weed, Acanthospermum hispidum, to the grass herbicide fluazifop‐butyl
Authors: Luo Xiao‐Yong , Matsumoto Hiroshi
Published: March 2003

Broad‐leaved plants are generally resistant to aryloxyphenoxypropionate (AOPP) and cyclohexanedione (CHD) herbicides. In laboratory experiments, however, we confirmed that Acanthospermum hispidum, a Compositae weed, was susceptible to one of the AOPP herbicides, fluazifop‐butyl, but tolerant to other AOPP herbicides (quizalofop‐ethyl and fenoxaprop‐ethyl) and a CHD herbicide (sethoxydim). The symptoms induced by fluazifop‐butyl in A. hispidum (wilting and necrosis) were distinctly different from those induced in oat (chlorosis). The period required to cause seedling death of A. hispidum (48–72 h) was shorter than that of oat (ca 15 days). The (R)‐enantiomer of fluazifop‐butyl was more active on this weed. In oat, lipid biosynthesis and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACCase) activity were inhibited, and electrolyte leakage from the shoots was increased by fluazifop‐butyl and sethoxydim. In the case of A. hispidum, the membrane permeability increased and the lipid biosynthesis was inhibited only by fluazifop‐butyl. These results indicate that A. hispidum is particularly sensitive to fluazifop‐butyl, and its mechanism of action in the plant may be different from its mechanism of action in oat.
Weed control in summer‐sown soybeans with flumioxazin plus acetochlor and flumiclorac‐pentyl plus clethodim
Authors: Han Jucai , Liu Huiping , Guo Pingyi , Hao Ci
Published: March 2003

Field trials were conducted in Taigu, Shanxi province, China, to evaluate the efficacy of flumioxazin plus acetochlor and flumiclorac‐pentyl plus clethodim applied to summer‐sown soybeans at pre‐ and postemergence. It was demonstrated that tank‐mixing flumioxazin at 50 g ai ha‐1 and acetochlor at 800 g ai ha‐1 created an effective soil‐applied herbicide for weed control in soybean crops. The control efficacy was better than when the herbicides were applied individually, and no injury was caused to the soybeans. Flumiclorac‐pentyl at 50 g ai ha‐1 plus clethodim at 70 g ai ha‐1 suppressed both broad‐leaved weeds and grass weeds with an increased efficacy of more than 90%. Flumiclorac‐pentyl applied alone or tank‐mixed caused some injury to soybean seedlings, but the soybeans recovered 2–3 weeks after treatment and there was no reduction in the yield.
Physiological basis of bentazon tolerance in rice (Oryza sativa L.) lines
Authors: HAN YUEH‐CHI , WANG CHING‐YUH
Published: March 2003

In the present study, 98.8 mm of bentazon was applied to 3‐leaf stage rice seedlings. Two tolerant lines, M202 and cv. TNG67, showed slightly visible injury, photosystem II inhibition, as well as a low level of lipid peroxidation 7 days after application compared with the susceptible lines. Further physiological study of the mechanism of differential tolerance among Japonica and Indica types indicated that, although the tolerant Japonica lines M202 and cv. TNG67 absorbed more 14C‐bentazon, most of the 14C remained in the treated leaf or translocated to older leaves. However, two susceptible lines, FSK (Japonica) and IR36 (Indica), absorbed less 14C‐bentazon throughout the experiment, and most of the 14C was translocated from the treated leaves to younger leaves, which might result in the death of developing tissues. In addition, more bentazon residue and less polar metabolites were detected in these two susceptible lines. It is proposed that the higher tolerance of lines M202 and TNG67 to bentazon could be mainly due to a higher rate of metabolism of this herbicide, and partially due to less translocation to developing tissues.
Improvement of intraoperative somatosensory evoked potentials by ketamine
Authors: AGARWAL RITA , ROI™AN KAREN J. , STOKES MAUREEN
Published: March 2003

Many anaesthetics effect the latency and amplitude of somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP). We present a patient who underwent two anterior/posterior spine fusions (A/PSF) at age 11 and 12 years old after resection of a spinal astrocytoma. She did have residual neurologic deficits of her lower extremities. SSEPs were unobtainable during the first surgery using an opioid‐based anaesthetic. A ketamine‐based anaesthetic was used for the second surgery and SSEPs were easily monitored. No other factors seem to have changed between the two surgeries. The anaesthetic management during each procedure is reviewed and the contributions of other factors to SSEP monitoring discussed.
Paediatric cardiac anaesthesia in a developing country
Authors: SCHECHTER WILLIAM , NAVEDO ANDRES , JORDAN DESMOND , DOMINGUEZ CARMEN , HALL SHARI , KICHUCK MARYANNE , GALANTOWICZ MARK , MICHLER ROBERT , DELPHIN ELLISE ,   THE GUATEMALA HEART TEAM
Published: March 2003

During the week of October 15–24, 1995 a team of 65 medical, anaesthesiology, surgical, nursing and paramedical personnel travelled to Guatemala City, Guatemala to perform cardiac surgery on children with complex congenital and acquired valvular heart disease. During this mission 42 patients had their lesions surgically repaired. Cardiopulmonary bypass was required in 36 cases. There were no anaesthetic or surgical deaths. All six patients who did not require cardiopulmonary bypass were extubated in the operating room. Of the patients who required cardiopulmonary bypass,23 were extubated in the operating room (64%). There was no intraoperative anaesthetic morbidity nor postoperative respiratory complications. No patient was reintubated after planned extubation. Cardiac surgery in paediatric age patients can safely be performed in developing countries if close attention is paid to proper patient selection and one maintains the standards of care practised in developed countries.
The advantages of intrathecal opioids for spinal fusion in children
Authors: GOODARZI MASHALLAH
Published: March 2003

Two groups of 40 homogeneous patients (ASA physical status (1–2)) with idiopathic scoliosis undergoing spinal fusion with CD instrumentation were studied prospectively. Group A (intrathecal) received a mixture of morphine and sufentanil administered intrathecally at the level of L3–L4 after the induction of anaesthesia. Group B (control) had inhalation and intravenous narcotic anaesthesia. The use of intrathecal opioids resulted in a significant reduction of blood pressure without the use of any hypotensive agents and produced prolonged postoperative analgesia. There was no adverse effect on somatosensory evoked potentials. The dose requirement for the anaesthetic agents was significantly reduced and the blood loss was 27% of their blood volume compared with 53% in the control group. No long or short term impairment of cerebral or spinal function was observed. The use of intrathecal opioids supplemented with other anaesthetic agents is an alternative method with multiple benefits for any major surgery such as spinal fusion.
Comparison of endtidal CO2 and arterial blood gas analysis in paediatric patients undergoing controlled ventilation with a laryngeal mask or a face mask
Authors: Özlü O. , Öcal T.
Published: March 2003

Endtidal CO2 (PeCO2) and arterial blood gas tensions were compared between laryngeal mask (LMA) and face mask (FM) ventilation in paediatric outpatients. Following premedication with midazolam, anaesthesia was induced with either thiopentone or isoflurane and atracurium. Anaesthesia was maintained with N2O, O2 and isoflurane. Manually controlled ventilation was applied with a nonrebreathing system. Both PeCO2 and arterial blood gas tensions were measured at 5 and 15 min after skin incision. The mean PaCO2 values in the LMA group were 36.6±7.4 and 37.5±6.4 mmHg and PaCO2–PeCO2 were 1.8±2.4 and 2.5±3.3 mmHg, respectively. The mean PaCO2 values in the FM group were 41.3±8.1 and 43.4±8.9 mmHg; and PaCO2–PeCO2 were 5.3±3.6 and 8.8±7.0 mmHg, respectively. These values were lower in the LMA group (P< 0.05). We have concluded that monitoring of PeCO2 is more reliable for estimating blood gas values during controlled ventilation with a LMA than a face mask.
Resistance to vecuronium in burned children
Authors: UYAR M. , HEPAGUŞLAR H. , UĞUR G. , BALCIOĞLU T.
Published: March 2003

We compared the time‐course of action of vecuronium in 16 burned children undergoing excision and autograft surgery with that of ten unburned children. Standardized anaesthesia was induced with thiopentone 4–6 mg kg−1 and fentanyl 1 μg??kg−1 and maintained with endtidal 1–1.5% isoflurane in N2O/O2. Neuromuscular responses were monitored by acceleromyography (TOF‐Guard, Organon Teknika/Biometer) with supramaximal train‐of‐four (TOF) stimuli delivered every 15 s. Vecuronium 0.1 mg kg−1 was administered intravenously. Onset was recorded as the time, in seconds, between the initial bolus of vecuronium and a decline in the first twitch of TOF (T1) to 5% of control. The times for the recovery of T1–25%, 50% and 75% of control, recovery index and the recovery of TOF 25% and 50% were recorded. Onset of action was found slower in burned patients (189??70 s) than in control (98??20 s) (P< 0.01). Recovery times of T125, T150, T175, TOF25 and TOF50 were significantly shorter in burned patients indicative of decreased sensitivity to vecuronium (P< 0.01).
Sedation failures in children undergoing MRI and CT: is temperament a factor?
Authors: Voepel‐Lewis Terri , Malviya Shobha , Prochaska Gerrie , Tait Alan R.
Published: March 2003

This study examined the relationship between temperament and sedation failure during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT). One hundred and two children (aged 3–7 years) who underwent MRI or CT with or without sedation were studied. Demographics, sedatives administered, efficacy of sedation, and adverse events were recorded. Parents completed the Behavioural Style Questionnaire for 3–7 years olds during their wait. Eight children underwent MRI successfully without sedation, 83 were successfully sedated, and 11 procedures were aborted. Children whose sedation failed were less adaptable than children whose sedation was successful (P =0.04). Children who underwent MRI without sedation were more persistent than children who were sedated (P =0.05), and more persistent and less active than those whose sedation failed (P =0.02 and 0.03, respectively). The child's underlying temperament may contribute to sedation outcomes during MRI and CT. A presedation assessment of the child's temperament may therefore assist in decisions regarding sedation.
Sublingual morphine may be a suitable alternative for pain control in children in the postoperative period
Authors: Engelhardt Thomas , Crawford Michael
Published: March 2003

The purpose of this pilot study was to compare the effects of sublingual morphine with intravenous morphine in the treatment of postoperative pain following adenotonsillectomy in children. Twenty‐nine children scheduled for adenotonsillectomy were randomly assigned to group1 (n=14) receiving 0.1 mg·kg−1 sublingual morphine and group 2 (n=15) 0.1 mg·kg−1 intravenous morphine followed by 1 mg·kg −1 diclofenac rectally in both groups after induction of anaesthesia. Postoperatively, time to first eye opening, sedation score, pain score, time for further analgesia requests and incidence of nausea and vomiting were recorded. There was no statistical significant difference in any of these parameters between the two groups. The results suggest that sublingual morphine may be a suitable alternative to various other routes of opioid administration in children, but further investigations of the sublingual route of administration of opioids in children are required.
Perioperative intravenous ketoprofen neither prolongs operation time nor delays discharge after adenoidectomy in children
Authors: Kokki Hannu , Salonen Aarre , Nikanne Elina
Published: March 2003

Because nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, such as ketoprofen, prolong bleeding time, their preoperative administration may both prolong operation time and delay discharge. Therefore, charts of 335 children who had undergone adenoidectomy were evaluated to determine the effect of ketoprofen on operation time (OPERTIME) and length of hospital stay (ACTUAL LOS). The study was conducted in three phases (I–III) which differed from each other in the dose of i.v. ketoprofen, 0.3–3 mg·kg−1. All phases were conducted with parallel groups using a prospective, randomized, and double blind design, moreover phases I and III were placebo‐controlled. OPERTIMEs were similar between Placebo groups and Ketoprofen groups. The dose of ketoprofen did not affect OPERTIME or ACTUAL LOS. In phase I, ACTUAL LOS was significantly longer in the Placebo group (251 ± 46 min, mean ± SD) compared to the Ketoprofen group (225 ± 44 min, P=0.006). In conclusion, preincisional ketoprofen did not prolong OPERTIME or delay discharge in children undergoing adenoidectomy.
Safety and efficacy of peribulbar block as adjunct to general anaesthesia for paediatric ophthalmic surgery
Authors: Deb Kallol , Subramaniam Rajeshwari , Dehran Maya , Tandon Radhika , Shende Dilip
Published: March 2003

Methods: Fifty children (age 5–14 years, ASA I–II) undergoing elective ophthalmic surgery were chosen for the study. Of these, 25 received intravenous pethidine (control group) and 25 received a peribulbar block (block group) for perioperative analgesia, and were monitored intraoperatively and postoperatively by an investigator blinded to the analgesic technique.

Results: Intraoperative values of haemodynamic variables were significantly higher in the control group (P < 0.01). Requirement for intraoperative rescue analgesic and postoperative analgesia was higher in the control group (P < 0.05 andP < 0.001, respectively). Children in the block group had lower postoperative pain scores at all times. Incidence of oculocardiac reflex was significantly higher (P < 0.001) in the control group. Seventy‐six percent of children in the control group had postoperative nausea and vomiting compared to 20% children in the block group (P < 0.001).

Conclusions: There were no complications related to the block. Peribulbar block appears to be a safe and useful analgesic technique for paediatric ophthalmic surgery.
Use of the Bispectral Index monitor to aid titration of propofol during a drug‐assisted interview
Authors: Palmer Greta M. , Davidson Andrew J. , Sethna Navil , Laussen Peter
Published: March 2003

We report two drug‐assisted interviews with propofol in an 18‐year‐old with the diagnosis of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome type 1. We describe difficulty in titration of propofol in the first interview. Consequently, in the second interview, the Bispectral Index (BIS) monitor was applied to assist adjustment of the propofol infusion. This facilitated the achievement of a prolonged sedative‐hypnotic state for a successful neuropsychological evaluation. Pertinent information was obtained from this patient. However, the role of drug‐assisted interviews as a technique needs to be further elucidated.
Perioperative care of children with nerve agent intoxication
Authors: Abraham Ron Ben , Weinbroum Avi A. , Rudick Valery , Paret Gideon
Published: March 2003

Nerve agents (NA) present a major threat to civilian populations. When a ballistic system is used for spreading poison, multiple trauma, as well as toxic trauma could be caused. Children are more susceptible, due to their smaller physiological reserve. Urgent surgical intervention for combined intoxication in the multiple‐traumatized child could be a tremendous task in view of the background of physiological instability. Nerve agents affect the autonomic, as well as the central nervous system, leading occasionally to unexpected interactions with agents normally used for resuscitation. This can cause additional instability, and possibly systemic collapse. This review presents and emphasizes points concerning treatment of a child who suffers from combined multiple and toxic traumas. The review is based on scant knowledge of a database of similar cases of pesticide organophosphate poisoning in children since these compounds are alike. We also extrapolated data from reports concerning episodic civilian exposure to NA.
Distal oesophageal pH measurement in children during general anaesthesia using the laryngeal mask airwayTM, tracheal tube and face mask
Authors: Özlü Onur , Türker Arzu Kiliç , Özgün Gülten , Soykan Irfan
Published: March 2003

Background: Distal oesophageal pH was measured during controlled ventilation in children with the laryngeal mask airway (LMATM), tracheal tube (TT) and face mask (FM).

Methods: Fifty‐six children scheduled for inguinal surgery with a standardized general anaesthetic technique were randomly allocated to receive LMA (n=21), TT (n=18) or FM (n=19). A 14 Fr pH probe was placed into the distal oesophagus and pH values were measured over 1 min at 2‐min intervals during the first 20 min of anaesthesia.

Results: The median values of pH were 4.4 (3.5–5.5), 4.2 (3.3–4.9), 4.1 (3.2–5.1), 4.1 (3.3–5.0), 4.0 (3.3–4.9), 4.0 (3.4–5.1); 4.2 (3.3–5.1), 4.2 (3.6–5.0), 4.2 (3.5–5.0), 4.2 (3.5–5.2), 4.2 (3.5–5.0), 4.1 (3.5–5.0) and 4.2 (3.6–5.0), 4.2 (3.8–5.8), 4.1 (2.8–5.2), 4.2 (3.3–5.1), 4.2 (3.4–5.1), 4.3 (3.4–5.1) for LMA, TT and FM groups, respectively.

Conclusions: There was no difference in the median pH values, within and between the groups (P > 0.05). We conclude that there is no difference in gastro‐oesophageal reflux, when using a LMA, TT or FM during controlled ventilation in anaesthetized children.