bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2, MMP‐9, MMP‐13, and MT1‐MMP in skin tumors of human papillomavirus type 8 transgenic mice
Authors: Akgül Baki , Pfefferle Regina , Marcuzzi Gian Paolo , Zigrino Paola , Krieg Thomas , Pfister Herbert , Mauch Cornelia
Published: December 2005

Abstract:  Human papillomaviruses (HPV) are small DNA viruses that induce a wide variety of hyperproliferative lesions in cutaneous and mucosal epithelia. It is proposed that HPV is involved in non‐melanoma skin cancer development. We have previously shown that HPV8 transgenic mice spontaneously develop papillomatous skin tumors. Histology revealed epidermal hyperplasia, acanthosis and hypergranulosis and in some cases squamous cell carcinomas (SCC). Zymographic and immunoblot analysis of normal skin extracts identified increased amounts of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9, MMP‐13 and MT1‐MMP in HPV8‐positive mice compared with HPV8‐negative animals. In situ gelatin zymography of tumor specimens displayed a strong proteolytic activity in papillomas, and SCC putatively attributed to the increased amounts of activated MMP‐9 found in tissue extracts. In addition, immunoblot analysis revealed increased amounts of active MMP‐13 and MT1‐MMP in tumor extracts as compared with control extracts. Immunohistochemical stainings of SCC specimens depicted MMP‐13 to be specifically expressed in stromal fibroblasts neighboring the tumor islands, whereas MT1‐MMP was detected both in tumor cells and in stromal cells. Taken together, these results implicate a role for MMPs in the development of HPV8‐induced cutaneous tumors.
Effect of pimecrolimus vs. corticosteroids on murine bone marrow‐derived dendritic cell differentiation, maturation and function
Authors: Krummen Mathias B. W. , Varga Georg , Steinert Meike , Stuetz Anton , Luger Thomas A. , Grabbe Stephan
Published: December 2005

Abstract:  Pimecrolimus (SDZ ASM981) is a non‐steroid member of calcineurin inhibitors recently developed for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases. In this study, we compared the effect of pimecrolimus and corticosteroids on the differentiation, maturation and function of murine bone marrow‐derived dendritic cells (BM‐DC). We added pimecrolimus at concentrations of 5–500 ng/ml or 0.5 ng/ml mometasone furoate at different timepoints to the BM‐DC culture and checked (i) the number of matured cells, (ii) the expression of activation markers, (iii) the release of cytokines and (iv) the stimulatory capacity of the resulting BM‐DC in vivo. Even at the highest concentration, pimecrolimus treatment resulted in only modest effects. In the pimecrolimus‐treated culture, we observed a decrease in the numbers of matured cells but no significant effects on the expression of activation markers. The release of some inflammatory cytokines was reduced, but the stimulatory capacity in vivo was not affected. In contrast, mometasone furoate has pronounced effects on BM‐DC at a concentration ten to 1000 times lower than those used with pimecrolimus. Furthermore, topical treatment of mice with clobetasole cream 0.05% resulted in almost complete depletion of splenic DC and a severe hyposplenia, while high‐dose oral pimecrolimus treatment did not show any effects on the spleen or on splenic DC. These results support that pimecrolimus, unlike corticosteroids, has little effects on dendritic cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of this type with use of BM‐DC.
Antibodies neutralizing feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) in cats immunized with the transmembrane envelope protein p15E
Authors: Langhammer Stefan , Hübner Janine , Kurth Reinhard , Denner Joachim
Published: December 2005

The feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) vaccines that are currently in wide use are generally poor inducers of virus‐neutralizing antibodies, although such antibodies appear after recovering from challenge. However, the presence of neutralizing antibodies in cats recovering from natural FeLV infection clearly correlates with resistance to subsequent infection and passive transfer of antibodies can protect other animals. After demonstrating the induction of neutralizing antibodies in rats and goats immunized with the transmembrane envelope protein p15E of FeLV, cats were immunized with the same antigen. High titres of neutralizing antibodies specific for FeLV were induced and epitope mapping revealed a pattern of recognition similar to that seen following immunization of rats and goats. These epitopes are highly related to epitopes recognized after immunization with porcine endogenous retrovirus (PERV) p15E and to epitopes recognized by neutralizing antibodies in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1. The ability of p15E to induce neutralizing antibodies in cats suggests that it should be included in the next generation of vaccines. In contrast, sera from FeLV‐infected animals usually fail to recognize the neutralization‐relevant epitopes in p15E. Since homologous epitope sequences are present in feline endogenous retroviruses, it appears that tolerance against these sequences is not induced.
Hepatitis C and steatosis: a reappraisal
Authors: Lonardo A. , Loria P. , Adinolfi L. E. , Carulli N. , Ruggiero G.
Published: December 2005

Summary. The overall prevalence of steatosis in patients with Hepatitis C virus (HCV) chronic infection is 55.5% (range 34.8–81.2%). This is a two to threefold increase compared with the prevalence of steatosis in chronic hepatitides because of other aetiologies and of the figures expected on the grounds of a steatosis–HCV chance association. HCV genotype 3 (HCV‐3) has specific epidemiological features; furthermore, as compared with HCV‐non‐3 genotypes, it is associated with a higher prevalence (74.1%vs47.9%,P < 0.01) and with more severe grades of steatosis (prevalence of grade 3 steatosis 29.6vs5.5P < 0.01). Host and viral factors play a role, although to a variable extent, in the pathogenesis of HCV‐3 and non‐3 steatosis. HCV load and body mass index are associated with steatosis in HCV‐3 and in HCV‐non‐3 patients respectively. Serum cholesterol levels and liver steatosis at baseline follow an inverse relationship in HCV infection. As hypocholesterolaemia corrects only in those sustained responders to antiviral treatment both in genotype 3 and in non‐3 genotypes, the occurrence of a virally induced, acquired and reversible hypobetalipoproteinaemia seems plausible. Steatosis affects the natural course of HCV infection: it is associated with fibrosis, a possible mediator of increased risk to develop type 2 diabetes, it impairs the response to antiviral treatment in HCV‐3 patients and might constitute a risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. These observations indicate the need to evaluate the efficacy of combined antiviral and ‘metabolic’ approachesvsstandard antiviral regimes in patients with steatosis and HCV chronic infection.
Survey of the implementation of the recommendations in the Health Service Circular 2002/009 ‘Better Blood Transfusion’
Authors: Murphy M. F. , Howell C. ,   the National Blood Transfusion Committee in England
Published: December 2005

summary.  This report describes the results of questionnaire surveys in 2003 and 2004 on the implementation of the recommendations of the Health Service Circular (HSC) ‘Better Blood Transfusion’ 2002/009 for improving transfusion practice. These followed a similar survey in 2001 to determine the progress with the implementation of recommendations in the previous Health Service Circular (HSC) ‘Better Blood Transfusion’ 1998/224. There was a disappointing response rate (47%) to the 2003 survey and evidence for incomplete compliance with the action plan. It was repeated in April 2004 with a systematic approach to encouraging returns, and the response rate was 95%. The results indicate progress in the implementation of Better Blood Transfusion between 2001 and 2004 in relation to increases in the proportion of hospitals with Hospital Transfusion Committees, the training of some staff groups, the number of hospitals with transfusion practitioners, the development of protocols for the use of blood and audit activity. However, the results also indicate the need for further progress in the training of some staff groups, particularly nurses and doctors, the development of Hospital Transfusion Teams, the development of protocols for the appropriate use of blood, the provision of information to patients and the use of peri‐operative cell salvage. This information should be used to plan further local, regional and national initiatives to implement the Better Blood Transfusion action plan and improve transfusion practice.
One‐year observation on the population structure of Diopatra neapolitana Delle Chiaje (Polychaeta: Onuphidae) in Izmir Bay (Aegean Sea, eastern Mediterranean)
Authors: Dağli Ertan , Ergen Zeki , Çinar Melih E.
Published: December 2005

The present paper deals with the morphology and population structure of Diopatra neapolitana collected in Izmir Bay between July 1997 and June 1998. The density of the species in the area ranged from 42 ind·m−2 (November 1997) to 198 ind·m−2 (March 1998), the biomass from 84 g·m−2 (November) to 408 g·m−2 (March). The coelom contained gametes in all months, except for January, indicating that it has a very long reproductive period in the area. The relationships among the biometrical measurements taken on specimens of Diopatra neapolitana from Izmir Bay were assessed by using regression and correlation analysis. A re‐description of the species is provided.
Morphology, reproductive biology and genetic structure of the whale‐fall and hydrothermal vent specialist, Bathykurila guaymasensisPettibone, 1989 (Annelida: Polynoidae)
Authors: Glover Adrian G. , Goetze Erica , Dahlgren Thomas G. , Smith Craig R.
Published: December 2005

We examined the reproductive biology and genetic structure of the polychaete Bathykurila guaymasensis (Annelida: Polynoidae), a species recorded from both whale‐falls and hydrothermal vents. The habitat of B. guaymasensis is quite different from other vent polynoids, being apparently a specialist feeder on Beggiatoa mat, rather than living commensally with mussels or on the sides of hot vent chimneys. Specimens were collected from whale‐fall sites in the Santa Cruz and Santa Catalina Basins, Southern California at depths of 1200–1600 m, and investigated using a combined morphological and molecular approach. The species exhibits marked sexual dimorphism, asynchronous gametogenesis, evidence for internal fertilization and lecithotrophic larval development – all characters shared with other hydrothermal vent polynoids. Two distinct, sympatrically distributed haplotype groups of B. guaymasensis were identified using mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 gene sequences, indicating that there may be two species within the nominal designation B. guaymasensis. Broad sharing of haplotypes between the two whale‐fall sites suggests high dispersal rates among basins along the California margin.
Molecular analysis indicates gene flow among populations of Paralvinella pandoraeDesbruyères and Laubier 1986 (Alvinellidae, Terebellida), a polychaete annelid endemic to hydrothermal vents of the northeast Pacific
Authors: Knowles James D. , Wenink Emily , Schult Nancy , Tunnicliffe Verena , McHugh Damhnait
Published: December 2005

The polychaete annelid Paralvinella pandoraeDesbruyères and Laubier 1986 is endemic to hydrothermal vents in the northeast Pacific, and is found at almost all vents sites along the 500‐km long Juan de Fuca ridge (JdF) system. The sperm morphology of P. pandorae indicates that fertilization occurs internally or in the worm's tube, and the maximum observed oocyte size of 215 μm suggests that a dispersive larval phase is short or non‐existent. Size frequency analyses of populations of P. pandorae suggest continuous or semi‐continuous recruitment of juveniles. Given our limited knowledge of the species’ life history, we predicted that populations of P. pandorae would exhibit a decline in genetic similarity with increasing distance among populations along the JdF. While our attempts to use amplified fragment length polymorphisms to test this prediction were not successful, our analysis of cytochrome oxidase I gene sequences provided insights into the phylogeography of the species. For 31 individuals from five sites along the JdF there is little sequence variation among individuals and no phylogeographic pattern among haplotypes from populations separated by distances of up to 210 km. These results indicate that gene flow occurs among all sites in the analyses, i.e. despite the very limited dispersal potential inferred from life history characteristics of this worm, there is no evidence for isolation‐by‐distance across the geographical scale of the study. Demersal larvae dispersed by near‐bottom currents might explain the gene flow among sites, as well as the establishment of populations of P. pandorae at new vents within a year.
Revision of AberrantaHartman, 1965 (Aberrantidae: Annelida), with descriptions of new species from the Mediterranean and Hong Kong
Authors: Mackie Andrew S. Y. , Pleijel Fredrik , Rouse Greg W.
Published: December 2005

Two new species of AberrantaHartman, 1965 are described from southeast France and Hong Kong, China. The two previously known species, A. enigmaticaHartman, 1965 and A. palpataWolf, 1987 are redescribed from type and other material. Aberranta banyulensis n. sp. resembles A. palpata, and its internal and external morphology are examined further using histological, transmission and scanning electron microscopic techniques. Aberranta sulcata n. sp. is morphologically closest to A. enigmatica. The relationships between Aberranta and other polychaetes are discussed in light of a recent morphological and molecular analysis involving Nerillidae and Aciculata. The relationships among the Aberranta species are examined in a morphology‐based cladistic analysis, using an amphinomid and three nerillids as outgroups.
Development of a rat model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis expressing a human SOD1 transgene
Authors: Aoki Masashi , Kato Shinsuke , Nagai Makiko , Itoyama Yasuto
Published: December 2005

Mutations in copper–zinc superoxide dismutase gene (SOD1) have been linked to some familial cases of ALS. We report here that rats that express a human SOD1 transgene with two different ALS‐associated mutations (G93A and H46R) develop striking motor neuron degeneration and paralysis. By comparing the two transgenic rats with different SOD1 mutations, we demonstrate that the time course in these rats was similar to human SOD1‐mediated familial ALS. As in the human disease and transgenic ALS mice, pathological analysis shows selective loss of motor neurons in the spinal cords of these transgenic rats. In addition, typical neuronal Lewy body‐like hyaline inclusions as well as astrocytic hyaline inclusions identical to those in human familial ALS are observed in the spinal cords. The larger size of this rat model as compared with the ALS mice will facilitate studies involving manipulations of spinal fluid (implantation of intrathecal catheters for chronic therapeutic studies; CSF sampling) and spinal cord (e.g., direct administration of viral‐ and cell‐mediated therapies).
Salvage nasopharyngectomy for radiation recurrences
Authors: Bridger G. Patrick , Smee Robert , Baldwin Michael A. R. , Bridger Andrew G.
Published: December 2005

Background:  Salvage nasopharyngectomy has proven to be worthwhile in the management of persistent or recurrent nasopharyngeal cancer after radiotherapy failure; however, surgical complications are common and the indications for surgery and the choice of operation remain controversial.

Methods:  Over a 17‐year period from 1985 to 2001 salvage nasopharyngectomy was undertaken on 11 patients. In six patients an anterolateral disassembly approach was employed and five patients were treated with the more limited maxillary swing approach. In seven patients the nasopharynx was reconstructed with a revascularized forearm free graft.

Results:  Six patients remain alive and free of disease with a minimum follow up of 4 years. There were no incidences of serious postoperative complications. The five patients who failed all did so locally.

Conclusions:  Nasopharyngectomy is safe and effective in the treatment of recurrent nasopharyngeal cancer even after multiple courses of radiotherapy.
Vascular complications of pancreatitis
Authors: Mendelson Richard M. , Anderson James , Marshall Martin , Ramsay Duncan
Published: December 2005

Vascular complications of pancreatitis are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Arterial complications include haemorrhage from direct arterial erosion or pseudoaneurysm formation, and visceral ischaemia. Venous complications predominantly are related to splanchnic vein thrombosis. This review, with illustrative cases, describes the main manifestations of these complications and emphasizes the importance of early radiological diagnosis and intervention.
Left thoracophrenotomy and cervical approach in the surgery of distal third oesophageal and cardia tumours
Authors: Han Serdar , Sakinci Unal , Dural Koray
Published: December 2005

Background:  The aim of the present study was to assess and report the results of left thoracophrenotomy + cervical approach in the surgery of distal third oesophagus and cardia tumours.

Methods:  Thirty patients who were treated between 1999 and 2003 were retrospectively reviewed taking into consideration the result of the surgical method used.

Results:  Eighteen (60%) patients were men with a mean age of 61.3 ± 8.5 years (range, 32−75 years). The main complaints were dysphagia (particularly with hard food), weight loss and odynophagia. There were 14 cases of adenocarcinoma and 16 cases of squamous cell carcinoma. The serum albumin and protein levels were found to be low in 90% of the cases. Minimal anaemia was detected in 80% of the cases. Fifteen (50%) of the cases were stage III, 10 (35%) were stage IIb and five (15%) were stage IIa. Histopathologically, intrathoracic lymph node metastasis was present in eight (27%) patients and intra‐abdominal lymph node metastasis was present in 12 (40%) cases. There were no mortalities related to surgery. Early anastomosis leakage occurred in two (6%) cases. Minor complications occurred in three cases. The mean hospitalization time was 10 days postoperatively. Five years of follow up was possible in 20 of the cases. The mean survival was 26 months in four cases with stage IIa, 22 months in six cases with stage IIb and 16 months in 10 cases with stage III.

Conclusion:  This exposure from this technique provides easy access to both the oesophagus and stomach. Surgical dissection is easy and safe, and complications related to surgery are rare. Lymph node dissections of both systems can be made and a safe surgical margin is possible with cervical anastomosis. It is highly tolerable by the patient. This technique can be used in distal third oesophageal and cardia tumours. It has acceptable morbidity and mortality, with some potential benefits.
Complete resection via medial sternotomy for non‐small cell lung cancer in the right upper lobe
Authors: Miyamoto Hideaki , Wang Zhiming , Fukai Ryuta , Futagawa Toshiro , Anami Yoichi , Yamazaki Akio , Morio Atsushi , Hata Enjo
Published: December 2005

Background:  Right upper lobectomy with right cervical and bilateral mediastinal lymph node dissection via a median approach was performed for non‐small cell lung cancer.

Methods:  From 1995 to 2003, 48 patients aged ≤ 70 years underwent resection of cancer in the right upper lobe, including 26 with N0, four with N1 and 18 with N2 disease.

Results:  Metastases to the right cervical, highest mediastinal, pretracheal and bilateral tracheobronchial lymph nodes were frequent. There were no operative or hospital deaths. Preoperative accuracy of N‐factor diagnosis was only 35.4%. The overall 5‐year survival rate was 58.8%. The rate for C‐N2 disease (n = 18) was 42.6%, and the rate for p‐N2 disease (n = 7) and p‐N3 disease (n = 13) was 57.1% and 0%, respectively, using the Kaplan−Meier method.

Conclusions:  Patients without N3 disease have a good prognosis, and extended and systematic radical lymphadenectomy via median sternotomy improves the staging, and possibly the prognosis of pure N2 disease.
Effect of calcitonin gene‐related peptide on anastomotic healing in the presence of endotoxin
Authors: Dogmuş Mehmet , Ersoy Emin , Anadol A. Ziya , Özel Ümmühani , Bilgehan Ayse
Published: December 2005

Background:  Intestinal anastomotic healing is a complex procedure in which several mediators, cytokines and other substances play roles, as well as calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP). CGRP is capable of stimulating DNA synthesis and cell proliferation in endothelial cells by increasing vasodilatation and inflammatory response and promoting epithelial, vascular and mesothelial cell proliferation. This study was undertaken to investigate whether CGRP has a beneficial effect on intestinal anastomotic healing, even in septic conditions.

Methods:  Four groups of 10 rats were administered normal saline (0.5 mL), lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (0.5 mg/kg), CGRP (0.5 mL 6.5 × 10−10 mol/L) and LPS + CGRP (0.5 mg/kg + 0.5 mL 6.5 × 10−10 mol/L) via intraperitoneal route, respectively, 24 h prior to operation and postoperatively. All rats underwent ileo−ileal end‐to‐end anastomosis. Anastomotic bursting pressure and tissue hydroxyproline levels were measured on postoperative day 7.

Results:  Calcitonin gene‐related peptide was found to have positive effects on both parameters of healing. The LPS‐injected group showed intestinal anastomotic healing disorder suggesting impaired collagen production, which showed improvement after CGRP administration.

Conclusions:  Calcitonin gene‐related peptide increases anastomotic wound healing in experimental intestinal anastomosis in the presence of endotoxin.
Reoperation rate in diaphyseal tibia fractures
Authors: Harris Ian , Lyons Matt
Published: December 2005

Background:  Tibia fractures often require secondary surgery to achieve union. Reoperation is an objective outcome measure that is clinically relevant to the patients and treating doctors. This study determined the complication and reoperation rates for diaphyseal tibia fractures and identified variables predictive of reoperation.

Methods:  One‐hundred and sixty‐seven patients with 175 consecutive tibia shaft fractures (Association for the Study of Internal Fixation classification 42) presenting between July 2000 and June 2003 were included in the study. There were 4 deaths and 12 patients lost to follow up. The remaining 151 patients (159 fractures) were reviewed at a minimum of 6 months post‐injury for the main outcome measures; union and reoperation. Univariate and multivariate analyses by logistic regression were used to identify any relationship between revision surgery and fracture classification, grade of the soft‐tissue injury, mechanism of injury, age, sex, and treating surgeon.

Results:  The overall reoperation rate was 35.8% (57/159) with 13.2% (21/159) tibiae requiring minor revision surgery and 22.6% (36/159) tibiae requiring major revision surgery. Thirteen (8.2%) patients underwent major revision surgery specifically for non‐union. The fracture classification and the Gustilo grade of soft‐tissue injury were significant predictors of revision surgery overall, and of major revision surgery.

Conclusions:  Tibial shaft fractures have a high revision rate as a consequence of non‐union and infection. Revision surgery is best predicted by the fracture classification and the severity of the soft‐tissue injury. This information is important for patient information and clinical decision making.
Effects of the intraperitoneal lornoxicam on the formation of intraperitoneal adhesions in rat peritonitis model
Authors: Bulbuloglu Ertan , Ezberci Fikret , Gul Mustafa , Kurutas Ergul Belge , Bozkurt Serdar , Kale I. Taner , Ciragil Pinar
Published: December 2005

Background:  To investigate the effects of intraperitoneally administered lornoxicam on adhesion formation, bursting pressure, tissue antioxidant levels, morbidity and mortality after ileocolic anastomosis in a rat bacterial peritonitis model.

Methods:  Thirty‐six rats were divided into three random groups. Bacterial peritonitis was induced by performing a cecal ligation and puncture, then the cecal was resected and ileocolic anastomosis was performed. Rats of groups 1, 2 and 3 were given 2 mL normal saline, 2 mL lornoxicam, and nothing, respectively. All groups were killed at day 14. Adhesions were scored, and the presence of intra‐abdominal abscesses and fistulas were noted. Anastomotic healing was assessed by bursting pressure. Tissue antioxidant levels were tested from left abdominal walls.

Results:  One day after cecal ligation and puncture, microbiological examination showed polymicrobial bacterial peritonitis. The rats treated with lornoxicam had significantly lower adhesion scores than did the saline and nothing treated rats (P = 0.007) Bursting pressures of groups were unaffected by the treatment. Tissue antioxidant levels of groups were affected by the treatment. Morbidity and mortality were similar in all groups.

Conclusions:  The present study demonstrated that a single intraperitoneal instillation of lornoxicam in buffer solution at the end of the surgery reduces adhesion formation in rats bacterial peritonitis model. It was also determined that lornoxicam had no negative effect on the healing of intestinal anastomosis, abscess and anastomotic leakage. Use of lornoxicam in peritonitis was effective in decreasing the oxidative stress of tissue during peritonitis.
The fate of fluroxypyr in the soil in an oil palm agroecosystem
Authors: HALIMAH MUHAMAD , TAN YEW A. , ISMAIL BIN S.
Published: December 2005

A study on the fate of fluroxypyr in Malaysian agricultural soils was carried out under natural conditions in an oil palm plantation. Three experimental plots in the oil palm estate were selected and three types of treatments were administered, namely fluroxypyr at the recommended dosage, double the recommended rate, and the untreated control. Residues of fluroxypyr in the soil, water, and oil palm leaf were monitored at regular intervals up to 90 days after treatment (DAT). The recovery of fluroxypyr in the water and soil samples ranged from 91–102% when fortified at 1–25 p.p.b. and 91–98% when fortified at 4–50 p.p.b. The recovery from the oil palm leaf ranged from 76–114% when the oil palm leaf sample was fortified at 0.05–1.0 p.p.m. The results showed that fluroxypyr leached down to 50 cm depth at 1 DAT when the plots were treated with either dosage. However, fluroxypyr was not detected in the soil residue at 14 and 21 DAT. Fluroxypyr was not detected in the oil palm leaf samples irrespective of the rates of herbicide application or sampling intervals. The residue of fluroxypyr was detected in water from a nearby stream up to 5 DAT at levels ranging from 0.06–0.21 µg L−1. This result suggests that fluroxypyr persists for a short period in the soil and water ecosystems, but not in the oil palm leaf.
Improving the morbidity of anorectal injury from pelvic radiotherapy
Authors: Abbasakoor F. , Vaizey C. J. , Boulos P. B.
Published: December 2005

Objective  Radiation anorectal injury due to pelvic radiotherapy for non intestinal cancer is a significant cause of morbidity which may limit the treatment dose required. Conservative treatment options are of limited value and surgery is reserved only for the most severe complications. This review addresses radioprotection of the anorectum and aims to increase awareness amongst surgeons of the strategies that have been in practice in order to minimize the side‐effects of radiotherapy while preserving its therapeutic efficacy.

Methods  This review is based on a literature search (Medline and NLM PubMed) with manual cross‐referencing of all articles related to anorectal radiation injury.

Results  Optimization of radiation dose, the use of radioprotective agents and improvement in radiation delivery are the main areas of development. There are few data on the potential of altered fractionation schedules in reducing anorectal injury. A few phase I and II studies suggest that the pharmacological agents amifostine and misoprostol could be beneficial in limiting radiation damage but larger phase III studies are awaited.

Conclusion  The introduction of 3‐dimensional conformal radiation therapy and intensity modulated radiation therapy has been the most significant advance in reducing radiation morbidity.
Pituitary–adrenal axis function in dogs with neoplasia*
Authors: Boozer A. L. , Behrend E. N. , Kemppainen R. J. , Whitley E. M. , Smith A. N. , Busch K. A.
Published: December 2005

Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation tests were done in healthy and tumour‐bearing dogs. In the tumour‐bearing dogs, plasma endogenous ACTH (eACTH) concentration was measured and adrenal gland size was assessed ultrasonographically. Measurements in the tumour‐bearing dogs were taken prior to therapy. No difference existed in basal or ACTH‐stimulated cortisol concentration between tumour‐bearing and healthy dogs. No difference existed in eACTH concentration between dogs with non‐haematopoietic neoplasia (NHN) and lymphoma. However, of 20 dogs with lymphoma, 15% had increased basal serum cortisol concentration, 5% had an exaggerated response to ACTH and 5% had an increased eACTH concentration. Of 15 dogs with NHN, 20% had increased basal cortisol concentration, 7% had an exaggerated ACTH response and no dogs had an increased eACTH concentration. Of the dogs with lymphoma and NHN, 5 and 13%, respectively, had decreased basal cortisol concentrations; 20% of dogs with lymphoma and 13% with NHN had a subnormal ACTH response. eACTH levels were below the reference range in 10% of dogs with lymphoma and 7% with NHN. Overall, 10 adrenal glands were enlarged in seven dogs, five with lymphoma and two with NHN. The clinical significance of these findings remains to be determined.
Maternal Immunopotentiation Affects Caspase Activation and NF‐κB DNA‐binding Activity in Embryos Responding to an Embryopathic Stress
Authors: Torchinsky Arkady , Gongadze Maka , Zaslavsky Zeev , Savion Shoshana , Fein Amos , Toder Veadimir
Published: December 2005

Problem Increased embryonic resistance to teratogenic stresses as a result of maternal immunopotentiation is associated with a decrease in the intensity of teratogen‐induced apoptosis in target embryonic structures. These findings suggest that this effect of maternal immunopotentiation might be realized through modification of the expression of molecules regulating the teratogen‐induced apoptotic process. To examine this possibility, we evaluated caspases 3, 8 and 9 activation as well as nuclear factor (NF)‐κB DNA‐binding activity in the embryos of immunopotentiated mice exposed to cyclophosphamide (CP).

Methods of study The rate of resorptions and the proportion of malformed fetuses in CP‐treated mice were recorded on day 19 of pregnancy. Activity of caspases was tested in cytoplasmic extracts collected from the embryonic brain 24 hr after CP treatment using appropriate fluorometric kits, whereas NF‐κB DNA‐binding activity was evaluated in nuclear extracts using the electrophoretic mobility shift assay.

Results As in our previous studies, immunopotentiated CP‐treated females exhibited a lower rate of resorptions or fetuses with open eyes than their non‐immunopotentiated counterparts. In parallel, we observed that maternal immunopotentiation normalized the CP‐induced activation of the tested caspases as well as the CP‐induced suppression of NF‐κB DNA‐binding activity.

Conclusions As caspases act as inducers of apoptosis, and NF‐κB acts in CP‐treated embryos as an apoptosis suppressor, the above results suggest that maternal immunopotentiation might affect embryonic sensitivity to embryopathic stresses via NF‐κB‐ and caspases‐associated pathways.
Testicular Isoform of Angiotensin I‐Converting Enzyme (ACE, CD143) on the Surface of Human Spermatozoa: Revelation and Quantification Using Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Nikolaeva Marina A. , Balyasnikova Irina V. , Alexinskaya Marina A. , Metzger Roman , Franke Folker E. , Albrecht Ronald F. , Kulakov Vladimir I. , Sukhikh Gennady T. , Danilov Sergei M.
Published: December 2005

Problem  The elucidation of the role of angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE, CD143) in the male fertility has been hampered by the absence of highly specific antibodies to the native testicular isoform (tACE). The quantification of tACE expression on human‐ejaculated spermatozoa was performed using a novel panel of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs).

Method of study The expression of tACE on the surface of live and fixed human spermatozoa was analyzed by flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry using new mAbs to human tACE.

Results Monoclonal antibodies 1E10 and 4E3 similarly revealed tACE on the surface of live and fixed spermatozoa. The high percentage of tACE‐positive spermatozoa (median 81%) was revealed in the swim‐up fraction of sperm. Antibody‐induced tACE shedding occurs preferentially from live sperm with defective function and/or morphology. Testicular ACE is located on the plasma membrane of the post‐acrosomal region, the neck and midpiece of normal spermatozoa, but showed a variable distribution on the defective cells.

Conclusions The new mAbs recognizing the C‐terminal domain of human ACE are useful tools for quantification of tACE expression on human live and fixed spermatozoa and further adequate analysis of the tACE role in reproduction.
Granulocyte‐Macrophage Colony‐Stimulating Factor Levels in Amniotic Fluid Before the Onset of Labor and During Labor Do Not Differ in Normal Pregnancies
Authors: Hayashi Masatoshi , Sohma Ryoichi , Sumioka Yumiko , Inaba Noriyuki
Published: December 2005

Problem  Granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) at the implantation site may regulate invasion and differentiation of placental trophoblast. We evaluated whether GM‐CSF levels in amniotic fluid during labor contributing to subsequent delivery differed from those before the onset of labor in normal pregnancies.

Method of study This study enrolled 36 Japanese women experiencing normal pregnancies with single fetuses who had no infection. Of these pregnancies, 18 were women during labor that led to subsequent term delivery (labors). The other 18 were women without labor underwent cesarean section (controls). These two groups (18 labors and 18 controls) were compared. The average gestational age at entry was 38–39 weeks of gestation. The women's ages and gestational ages did not differ significantly between the two groups. Amniotic fluid was collected and the GM‐CSF levels were compared between two groups. The GM‐CSF level was determined by the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method.

Results There was no significant increase in GM‐CSF levels in amniotic fluid during labor compared with that before the onset of labor.

Conclusions The GM‐CSF in amniotic fluid may not promote the onset of labor at term and/or term labor contributing to subsequent delivery may not induce the production and secretion of GM‐CSF into amniotic cavity.
Evidence for Interleukin‐10‐Mediated Inhibition of Cyclo‐ oxygenase‐2 Expression and Prostaglandin Production in Preterm Human Placenta
Authors: Hanna Nazeeh , Bonifacio Lea , Weinberger Barry , Reddy Pradeep , Murphy Shaun , Romero Roberto , Sharma Surendra
Published: December 2005

Problem  Interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) is thought to be a key cytokine for the maintenance of pregnancy. Here we examined the expression profiles of IL‐10 and cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), and the effect of IL‐10 on COX‐2 expression and prostaglandin release in the human placenta from preterm labor deliveries associated with chorioamnionitis.

Method of study  Placental tissues from preterm labor and term labor deliveries were processed for ex vivo placental explant culture system. IL‐10 expression was assessed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis. COX‐2 expression was evaluated by IHC, Western blotting and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) release was measured by ELISA.

Results  IL‐10 was significantly reduced in chorioamnionitis‐associated preterm labor as well as in term labor placental tissues compared with second trimester normal pregnancy samples obtained from elective terminations. Similar results were obtained with freshly isolated cytotrophoblasts from these deliveries. As expected, COX‐2 mRNA was detected at significant levels in tissues from term and preterm labor deliveries compared with no labor term deliveries. Importantly, IL‐10 inhibited COX‐2 expression in cultured placental explants from preterm labor deliveries, but not from term labor samples. Inhibition of COX‐2 expression coincided with reduced PGE2 release.

Conclusion  These results demonstrate the importance of IL‐10 in countering inflammation associated with preterm labor, and suggest that term and preterm parturition may, in part, represent different conditions.
Diversity and systematics of the Malacosporea (Myxozoa)
Authors: Tops Sylvie , Curry Alan , Okamura Beth
Published: December 2005

Abstract. Myxozoans belonging to the recently described class Malacosporea parasitize freshwater bryozoans during at least part of their life cycle. There are at present only two species described in this class: Buddenbrockia plumatellae and Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae. The former can exist as vermiform and sac‐like stages in bryozoan hosts. The latter, in addition to forming sac‐like stages in bryozoans, is the causative agent of salmonid proliferative kidney disease (PKD). We undertook molecular and ultrastructural investigations of new malacosporean material to further resolve malacosporean diversity and systematics. Phylogenetic analyses of 18S rDNA sequences provided evidence for two new putative species belonging to the genus Buddenbrockia, revealing a two‐fold increase in the diversity of malacosporeans known to date. One new malacosporean is a vermiform parasite infecting the bryozoan Fredericella sultana and the other occurs as sac‐like stages in the rare bryozoan, Lophopus crystallinus. Both bryozoans represent new hosts for the genus Buddenbrockia. Our results have established that the malacosporean which infected F. sultana was not a vermiform stage of T. bryosalmonae, although it was collected from a site endemic for PKD. Ultrastructural investigation of new material of B. plumatellae revealed the presence of numerous external tubes associated with developing polar capsules, confirming that the absence of external tubes should no longer be considered as a character of the class Malacosporea.
Induction of preputium eversion by peptides, serotonin receptor antagonists, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in Biomphalaria glabrata
Authors: Fong Peter P. , Olex Allison L. , Farrell Jennifer E. , Majchrzak Ryan M. , Muschamp John W.
Published: December 2005

Abstract. Eversion of the preputium is one of the initial steps in the male copulatory behavior of freshwater pulmonates. Previous experiments have shown that serotonergic mechanisms are involved in eversion in the snail Biomphalaria glabrata because the vertebrate 5‐HT1 receptor antagonist methiothepin caused long‐lasting eversion in a dose‐dependent manner. In this study, we tested a variety of serotonergic receptor ligands, bioactive peptides, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for their ability to induce preputium eversion in B. glabrata in order to elucidate the physiological mechanism of eversion. Of 15 compounds tested, five significantly induced preputium eversion: the serotonin receptor antagonists methiothepin (1 and 10 μM; p<0.0001), cyproheptadine (1–10 μM; p<0.007–0.0001), and mianserin (5–50 μM; p<0.01–0.001), the molluscan cardioactive peptide FMRFamide (10 and 50 μM; p<0.0002–0.0001), and the SSRI fluoxetine (=Prozac, 10–100 μM; p<0.0003–0.0001). Serotonin itself neither induced eversion nor blocked methiothepin‐induced eversion. This suggests that fluoxetine is not acting as an SSRI, but potentially as a receptor ligand. These preliminary data shed light on the possible physiological mechanism of preputium eversion in B. glabrata and suggest similarity with that of the model freshwater gastropod Lymnaea stagnalis.
Tracking Bat‐Dispersed Seeds Using Fluorescent Pigment1
Authors: Reiter J. , Curio E. , Tacud B. , Urbina H. , Geronimo F.
Published: December 2005

Tracking the dispersal of seeds by fruit‐eating animals in tropical rain forests is crucial to further our understanding of plant–frugivore interactions and their impacts upon forest regeneration and plant population dynamics. We tested the feasibility of tracking bat‐dispersed seeds in a Philippine lowland rain forest with the help of fluorescent pigment. The powder was mixed with acetone and sprayed to ripe fruits of fig trees,i.e.,Ficus septicaandF. variegata. During nightly monitoring using a hand‐held ultraviolet lamp bat deposits (seed‐containing spat outs and feces) could successfully be detected. Distances and directions of deposit sites to the focal trees were recorded and seed shadow areas were analyzed. Bats dispersed most of the seeds less than 50 m away from the parent plants resulting in seed shadow areas < 0.30 ha in size. Anin situfruit preference experiment showed that fluorescent powder is unlikely to deter bats from feeding on ripe figs. In conclusion, the technique is simple, inexpensive, noninvasive, applicable to different fields of research and allows one to follow the fate of seeds from known sources.
Species Turnover and Vertical Partitioning of Ant Assemblages in the Brazilian Amazon: A Comparison of Forests and Savannas1
Authors: Vasconcelos Heraldo L. , Vilhena José M. S.
Published: December 2005

We measured beta diversity, or turnover in species composition, of ant assemblages inhabiting patches of forest and savanna (cerrado) near Alter do Chão, in the Brazilian Amazon. In addition, we assessed vertical partitioning of these assemblages by comparing the ground and lower vegetation strata within each habitat. Ants attracted to sardine baits were collected along transects in 39 savanna and 34 forest sites scattered over a 16 km × 16 km landscape. There were about twice as many species in the forest as in the savanna, and within both habitats, we collected more species on the ground than in the vegetation. Similar results were obtained when analyzing data at the level of individual transects, indicating that ant species richness is affected by both habitat and strata. About two‐thirds of the species recorded in the savanna were also found in the forest. Within both habitats, a large proportion of the species found in the least species‐rich stratum (vegetation) were also found in the richer one (ground). However, ordination analysis, using data from individual transects, revealed that different habitats and strata can be clearly discriminated from each other in terms of their ant species composition. Each habitat and stratum had a number of characteristic (indicator) species which, although generally not exclusive to that particular habitat and stratum, predominated there. Our findings indicate that habitat and strata specialization is an important factor governing the organization of ant communities in Amazonia.
A MICROTRAY‐BASED AGGREGATION ASSAY FOR THE RAPID DETECTION OF POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION AMPLICONS PRODUCED FROM BACTERIAL PATHOGENS
Authors: PU HSIN‐YI , WU SHAW‐JYE
Published: December 2005

A microtray‐based aggregation test was developed for the rapid and cost‐effective detection of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplicons from foodborne pathogens. The PCR was performed using biotinylated primers, and the amplified DNA fragments were able to aggregate streptavidin‐coated particles. When transferred to a microtyping tray, the aggregated particles converged at the periphery of the well floor to form a visible ring within 5 min. No additional equipment was needed, and purification of the PCR amplicons was unnecessary. Using species‐specific biotinylated primers, we successfully demonstrated that the aggregation test can detect and identify Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella Typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, Campylobacter jejuni and Escherichia coli O157:H7 cells. The simplicity, rapidity and economy of this method should benefit food‐safety monitoring, as well as various other diagnostic PCR experiments.
MODELING SURVIVAL CURVES OF SALMONELLA SPP. IN CHORIZOS USING ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORKS AND REGRESSION
Authors: HAJMEER M. , BASHEER I. , CLIVER D.O.
Published: December 2005

Time‐dependent survival curves of Salmonella spp. in chorizos were modeled using both the classical method of statistical regression and the newly introduced method of artificial neural networks (ANNs). The survival curves were obtained experimentally for chorizos formulated at five initial water activity (Aw0) levels of 0.85, 0.90, 0.93, 0.95 and 0.97, which had been stored under four different storage conditions: in a refrigerator (Ref) at 6C, at room temperature (RT) of 25C, in a hood (Hd) at 25C with forced inflow air circulation velocity F of 25.4 m/min and in an incubator (Inc) at 30C. The developed models enable prediction of survival curves (log count versus time) for Salmonella in chorizos as affected by a given set of operating conditions (Aw0, storage temperature [T] and F). Additionally, both the 1D‐ and 2D‐values (time to reduce the count by 1 and 2 logs, respectively) were derived from a number of simulated survival curves and were used to develop regression models (R2 = 0.980 and 0.977 for 1D‐ and 2D‐value models, respectively) for predicting these two times as a function of operating conditions. Both 1D‐ and 2D‐values increased with increasing Aw0 and decreasing T and F. Additionally, these times were more sensitive to Aw0 when the latter was above 0.940, and F was more influential at higher T. The ANN‐based model (R2 = 0.967) outperformed the regression‐based model (R2 = 0.919) and was also used to develop models for predicting the 1D‐ and 2D‐values as a function of Aw0, T and F.
Do Conservative Solutes Migrate at Average Pore‐Water Velocity?
Authors: Rovey Charles W. , Niemann William L.
Published: December 2005

According to common understanding, the advective velocity of a conservative solute equals the average linear pore‐water velocity. Yet direct monitoring indicates that the two velocities may be different in heterogeneous media. For example, at the Camp Dodge, Iowa, site the advective velocity of discrete Cl− plumes was less than one tenth of the average pore‐water velocity calculated from Darcy's law using the measured hydraulic gradient, effective porosity, and hydraulic conductivity (K) from large‐scale three‐dimensional (3D) techniques, e.g., pumping tests. Possibly, this difference reflects the influence of different pore systems, if the K relevant to transient solute flux is influenced more by lower‐K heterogeneity than a steady or quasi‐steady water flux.

To test this idea, tracer tests were conducted under controlled laboratory conditions. Under one‐dimensional flow conditions, the advective velocity of discrete conservative solutes equaled the average pore‐water velocity determined from volumetric flow rates and Darcy's law. In a larger 3D flow system, however, the same solutes migrated at ∼65% of the average pore‐water velocity. These results, coupled with direct observation of dye tracers and their velocities as they migrated through both homogeneous and heterogeneous sections of the same model, demonstrate that heterogeneity can slow the advective velocity of discrete solute plumes relative to the average pore‐water velocity within heterogeneous 3D flow sytems.
Visual Basic Programs for Spreadsheet Analysis
Authors: Hunt Bruce
Published: December 2005

A collection of Visual Basic programs, entitled Function.xls, has been written for ground water spreadsheet calculations. This collection includes programs for calculating mathematical functions and for evaluating analytical solutions in ground water hydraulics and contaminant transport. Several spreadsheet examples are given to illustrate their use.