bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Successful pain treatment in arthropathic lower extremities by acupuncture in haemophilia patients
Authors: WALLNY T. A. , BRACKMANN H. H. , GUNIA G. , WILBERTZ P. , OLDENBURG J. , KRAFT C. N.
Published: August 2006

Summary.  Acupuncture is successfully used in the treatment of degenerative osteoarthritis. The treatment of haemophilic arthropathies can require strong painkillers with severe side‐effects. Therefore, a special yet simple acupuncture technique was evaluated in the treatment of these joint problems. Twelve patients with a factor VIII activity <1% and at least one painful arthropathy in both lower extremities were included in this single‐blinded study. The non‐treated side served as a control. Treatment was assessed by a visual analogue scale (VAS) and an orthopaedic clinical examination. Only one needle was inserted at the rear fontanelle once per week and in 15 cycles. Ten of 12 patients showed an improvement of their pain perception. The average VAS could be reduced from 6.8 to 5.0. The side not receiving treatment showed a reduction from 4.1 to 4.0. No side‐effects were observed. Even though interpretation of our data are limited due to the small patient numbers, significant improvement of the VAS after treatment suggests that acupuncture has a measurable positive effect in pain management for haemophilic arthropathy of the lower extremities.
An unusual complication of ice skating and the emergence of a previously undiagnosed bleeding disorder
Authors: MAINWARING C. J. , PLEYDELL‐PEARCE J. , CHANA J. , EVANS J. , ROY A. , LEWIS H.
Published: August 2006

Summary.  We report the case of an 8‐year‐old boy with no prior abnormal bleeding history who presented with severe central abdominal pain following a freak accident at a local ice rink. Clinical examination confirmed a tender periumbilical mass. An ultrasound scan confirmed a large haemorrhagic fluid collection adjacent to the second part of his duodenum that was causing a subacute small‐bowel obstruction. He was found to have a persistently prolonged prothrombin time between 17.3 and 18.1 s but normal liver function tests. There was no suggestion of dietary vitamin K deficiency. Further investigations confirmed factor VII deficiency with levels between 30.4 and 33.6 IU dL−1. His prothrombin time did not normalize with intravenous vitamin K. He was subsequently treated with three 30 μg kg−1 body weight doses of novoseven at 4‐h interval and made an excellent recovery. The haematoma virtually resolved completely confirmed by a follow‐up ultrasound scan 3 months after the initial event.
Celecoxib in the treatment of haemophilic synovitis, target joints, and pain in adults and children with haemophilia
Authors: RATTRAY B. , NUGENT D. J. , YOUNG G.
Published: August 2006

Summary.  Joint haemorrhage and subsequent haemophilic arthropathy are significant complications of haemophilia. The pathophysiology involves inflammation and angiogenesis. Cyclo‐oxygenase 2 (COX‐2) inhibitors have anti‐inflammatory, anti‐angiogenic and analgesic properties yet do not affect platelet function in the manner of traditional non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. We have previously reported the successful use of rofecoxib in the management of haemophilic arthropathy and currently report our use of celecoxib. A retrospective chart review was conducted of all patients with haemophilia A or B seen at the Children's Hospital of Orange County and treated with celecoxib for chronic synovitis, target joint or pain. Efficacy in chronic synovitis and pain reduction was judged subjectively as effective, partially effective or ineffective. Efficacy in resolution of target joints was judged as effective if the target joint resolved or ineffective if it did not resolve. Twelve patients between 9 and 54 years old were treated for a total of 14 courses of celecoxib treatment. All courses were evaluated for safety and efficacy. Celecoxib was used in eight patients with chronic synovitis, three patients with pain, and in one patient with a target joint on three occasions. A response was noted in seven of eight for synovitis, three of three with pain, but no response in the target joint patient. No serious adverse events including hypertension were observed. This is the first study evaluating celecoxib as adjunctive therapy in haemophilia and suggests that celecoxib is safe and effective in treating chronic synovitis and joint pain similar to the previous study of rofecoxib.
Treatment of chronic hepatitis C in patients with haemophilia: a review of the literature
Authors: POSTHOUWER D. , MAUSER‐BUNSCHOTEN E. P. , FISCHER K. , MAKRIS M.
Published: August 2006

Summary.  Chronic hepatitis C is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in haemophilia patients. In contrast to studies in the general population, the studies of antiviral therapy in haemophilia patients are limited and often include small numbers of patients. A review of the literature was performed to assess the efficacy of interferon (IFN)‐based therapy for patients with haemophilia chronically infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Studies were identified by electronic searches (Medline, Embase) and hand searches in references of key articles. Data of the included studies were pooled, and responses to therapy were stratified according to treatment regimen, HIV co‐infection status, and treatment history. The main outcome was a sustained virological response (SVR) defined as absence of HCV RNA both at the end of treatment and 24‐week post‐treatment. Thirty‐five studies were identified that included 1151 patients. After pooling the data of included patients, the SVR in HIV‐negative treatment naïve patients was 22% for IFN monotherapy, 43% for IFN and ribavirin, and 57% for pegylated IFN and ribavirin, respectively. Re‐treatment with IFN and ribavirin of those who failed to respond to previous IFN monotherapy was successful in 33%. In HCV/HIV‐coinfected patients, response to IFN monotherapy was 8% and to IFN combined with ribavirin 39%. Responses to IFN‐based therapy in patients with haemophilia have been improved over time and are nowadays approximately 50–60%. However, data on haemophilic HCV/HIV‐coinfected patients and in patients who failed to respond to previous therapy are limited and future studies in these specific patient population are necessary.
Surgical excision of a giant pelvic pseudotumour in a patient with haemophilia A
Authors: VALENTINO L. A. , MARTINOWITZ U. , DOOLAS A. , MURALI P.
Published: August 2006

Summary.  The development of pseudotumors represents one of the most challenging complications facing physicians who care for patients with hemophilia. The successful removal of the giant pseudotumor described in this case report was acheived by a multidisciplinary team and demonstrates that this approach, albeit associated with significant risk, may be curative.
R5 An audit of local compliance with general anaesthetic guidelines outlined for paediatric dentistry
Authors: MODARAI F. , DARWISH* C.
Published: August 2006

Objectives:  To assess current practice in terms of diagnosis, treatment planning and consent in the use of dental general anaesthetic (GA). To compare current practice to national guidelines and implement any changes required to improve clinical practice.

Methods:  A retrospective study was carried out over 1 year (2004–2005). 100 paediatric patients undergoing long (comprehensive care) and short (extractions only) dental GA were randomly selected. A proforma was designed to collect data, from patient records, regarding presenting complaint, medical history, treatment carried out during and before GA and consent. Patients who attended oral and maxillofacial clinics were not included.

Results:  In most cases, GA was justified inline with guidelines but consent and treatment planning could be improved.

Conclusion:  The department is adhering to guidelines in prescribing GA for patients. It is hoped that by producing a departmental policy, this could improve.
C1 Retarded eruption of all permanent teeth. An extreme case report
Authors: ARHAKIS* A , DALAMPIRAS S
Published: August 2006

Presenting problem:  A 14 year old male patient with delayed eruption of all permanent teeth with the exception of maxillary first permanent molars was referred to our clinic. The clinical examination of the patient showed no signs of abnormality. Mental and physical development was normal for his age and there were no signs or symptoms supporting the presence of syndromes related to eruption problems. Blood tests were within normal limits and there was no history of such a problem in the family. Radiological examination showed that all permanent first molars were present but only the maxillary first molars had erupted. In order to achieve spontaneous eruption of their permanent successors a general practitioner extracted the central primary mandibular incisors. However no eruption of the permanent successors was observed over a period of two years.

Clinical management:  A decision was made to surgically expose the crowns of the permanent central incisors in the lower jaw in order to promote spontaneous eruption. A year after the operation these teeth together with the mandibular third molars were partially erupted. No other teeth had erupted at this stage.

Discussion:  A case of delayed eruption of all permanent teeth is very rare, especially when it is not related to any known syndrome. The pathogenesis is a diagnostic riddle and the treatment demands a very careful approach.
Remote control of photosynthetic genes by the mitochondrial respiratory chain
Authors: Matsuo Mitsuhiro , Obokata Junichi
Published: August 2006

In this paper, we study whether mitochondrial respiration has an impact on the biogenesis of photosynthetic apparatus in the unicellular alga, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. When respiration was activated by acetate in the dark, mRNAs of nuclear‐encoded photosynthetic genes were induced. This induction did not occur in the cells treated with respiration inhibitors or in respiration mutants. An uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation did not inhibit this mRNA induction; rather, it enhanced it in response to the increase in respiratory electron transport (RET). Plant and algal mitochondria have two RET pathways: the cytochrome pathway and the alternative pathway. Inhibitors of the former pathway inhibited mRNA induction, but inhibitors of the latter enhanced it. Taken together, these indicate that photosynthetic gene mRNAs are induced in response to activation of the cytochrome pathway. This RET‐responsive induction is analogous to the photosynthetic electron transport (PET)‐responsive induction of photosynthetic gene mRNAs (Matsuo and Obokata, Plant Cell Physiol. 43, 1189). PET‐responsive induction occurred in photo‐autotrophic and mixotrophic conditions, while RET‐responsive induction occurred in mixotrophic and dark heterotrophic conditions. These results indicate that the regulatory system of photosynthetic genes changes between chloroplastic PET‐dependent type and mitochondrial RET‐dependent type in response to shifts in the dominant energy source between photosynthesis and respiration.
Determinants of native and alien species richness in the urban flora of Rome
Authors: Celesti‐Grapow Laura , Pyšek Petr , Jarošík Vojtěch , Blasi Carlo
Published: August 2006

Until now, analytical studies on European urban floras have mostly concentrated on the central and north‐western parts of the continent. In this paper, factors determining species richness of urban flora were studied for the city of Rome, Italy, based on a comprehensive floristic survey carried out between 1985 and 1994, and updated in 2005. All species were recorded in grid cells of 1.6 km2 and classified into native and alien (the latter divided into archaeophytes and neophytes). The grids were classified with respect to the prevailing habitat type, area available to vegetation, level of disturbance and geographical position within the city. Data were analysed using minimal adequate models. Total species number was determined by habitat and its interaction with position on the north‐west gradient; other variables explained much less variance. Holding other variables constant, the average species number per grid cell was highest in archaeological sites and parks, followed by woodlands and rivers, and grasslands and recent developments. Residential areas and the historical centre were poorest in species number. Towards the north of the city, species richness in corresponding habitats increases because of higher landscape heterogeneity and closer association with diaspore pools in the surroundings. Native species make up on average 84% of the total species numbers, and trends opposite to those for the total number of species were found for the proportional representation of aliens. The occurrence of alien and native species in the flora of Rome is driven by similar factors, but factors that increase representation of aliens decrease that of natives and vice versa. The representation of neophytes and native species in grid cells was easier to explain (74% of variation accounted for) than that of archaeophytes (27%); this result reflects that in terms of ecology and response to factors, archaeophytes take an intermediate position between native plants and neophytes. Proportional representation of neophytes decreased with increasing area available to vegetation, reflecting that semi‐natural vegetation is better developed where less fragmented.
Does seasonal fine‐tuning of climatic variables improve the performance of bioclimatic envelope models for migratory birds?
Authors: Heikkinen R. K. , Luoto M. , Virkkala R.
Published: August 2006

We examined the influence of ‘seasonal fine‐tuning’ of climatic variables on the performance of bioclimatic envelope models of migrating birds. Using climate data and national bird atlas data from a 10 × 10 km uniform grid system in Finland, we tested whether the replacement of one ‘baseline’ set of variables including summer (June–August) temperature and precipitation variables with climate variables tailored (‘fine‐tuned’) for each species individually improved the bird‐climate models. The fine‐tuning was conducted on the basis of time of arrival and early breeding of the species. Two generalized additive models (GAMs) were constructed for each of the 63 bird species studied, employing (1) the baseline climate variables and (2) the fine‐tuned climate variables. Model performance was measured as explanatory power (deviance change) and predictive power (area under the curve; AUC) statistics derived from cross‐validation. Fine‐tuned climate variables provided, in many cases, statistically significantly improved model performance compared to using the same baseline set of variables for all the species. Model improvements mainly concerned bird species arriving and starting their breeding in May–June. We conclude that the use of the fine‐tuned climate variables tailored for each species individually on the basis of their arrival and critical breeding periods can provide important benefits for bioclimatic modelling.
Challenging Wallacean and Linnean shortfalls: knowledge gradients and conservation planning in a biodiversity hotspot
Authors: Bini Luis Mauricio , Diniz‐Filho José Alexandre F. , Rangel Thiago F. L. V. B. , Bastos Rogério Pereira , Pinto Miriam Plaza
Published: August 2006

Knowledge about biodiversity remains inadequate because most species living on Earth were still not formally described (the Linnean shortfall) and because geographical distributions of most species are poorly understood and usually contain many gaps (the Wallacean shortfall). In this paper, we developed models to infer the size and placement of geographical ranges of hypothetical non‐described species, based on the range size frequency distribution of anurans recently described in the Cerrado Biome, on the level of knowledge (number of inventories) and on surrogates for habitat suitability. The rationale for these models is as follow: (1) the range size frequency distribution of these species should be similar to the range‐restricted species, which have been most recently described in the Cerrado Biome; (2) the probability of new discoveries will increase in areas with low biodiversity knowledge, mainly in suitable areas, and (3) assuming range continuity, new species should occupy adjacent cells only if the level of knowledge is low enough to allow the existence of undiscovered species. We ran a model based on the number of inventories only, and two models combining effects of number of inventories and two different estimates of habitat suitability, for a total of 100 replicates each. Finally, we performed a complementary analysis using simulated annealing to solve the set‐covering problem for each simulation (i.e. finding the smallest number of cells so that all species are represented at least once), using extents of occurrence of 160 species (131 real anuran species plus 29 new simulated species). The revised reserve system that included information about unknown or poorly sampled taxa significantly shifted northwards, when compared to a system based on currently known species. This main result can be explained by the paucity of biodiversity data in this part of the biome, associated with its relatively high habitat suitability. As a precautionary measure, weighted by the inferred distribution data, the prioritization of a system of reserves in the north part of the biome appears to be defensible.
Protein phosphatase 2A scaffolding subunit A interacts with plasma membrane H+‐ATPase C‐terminus in the same region as 14‐3‐3 protein
Authors: Fuglsang Anja Thoe , Tulinius Grete , Cui Na , Palmgren Michael Gjedde
Published: August 2006

The activity of the plant plasma membrane H+‐ATPase is tightly regulated via phosphorylation and binding of 14‐3‐3 protein to the C‐terminus of the pump. Whereas the 14‐3‐3‐binding mechanism has been described in detail, the identity of specific protein kinases and phosphatases involved in the control of 14‐3‐3 binding has remained elusive. Using the yeast two‐hybrid system, GST pull‐down assays and overlay experiments, we report that scaffolding subunit A of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A‐A) interacts with the C‐terminus of the Arabidopsis plasma membrane H+‐ATPase isoform 2. PP2A‐A binding is inhibited in the presence of 14‐3‐3 protein and fusicoccin, a fungal toxin which induces binding of 14‐3‐3 protein to the C‐terminal end of the plasma membrane H+‐ATPase. This indicates that PP2A‐A and 14‐3‐3 protein compete with each other for binding to the same region in the C‐terminus of the H+‐ATPase.
MULTIPARAMETER QUANTITATIVE COMPUTER‐ASSISTED TOMOGRAPHY ASSESSMENT OF UNICOMPARTMENTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTIES
Authors: Campbell DAVID G. , Johnson LUKE J. , West SIMON C.
Published: August 2006

Background:  Unicompartmental knee arthroplasty is a popular alternative to total knee replacement in selected patients. Component alignment has not yet been described by computer‐assisted tomography (CAT) imaging techniques; these have been developed for total knee arthroplasty analysis. The aims of this study were to report two new technologies; a new unicompartmental knee arthroplasty system was radiographically assessed with a new CAT scan protocol.

Methods:  In a consecutive cohort study, 60 knees were analysed by the ‘UniCAT Protocol’. Patients were implanted with a unicompartmental knee arthroplasty system that uses a unique ligament tensor for femoral component alignment. The uniCAT protocol requires a long anteroposterior and lateral scout scan to measure limb alignment and component orientation. A spiral computer‐assisted tomography at the knee is used to measure component rotation. The total scan time was 20 s with a calculated unshielded radiation dose of 1 mSv or less.

Results:  The mechanical axis had a mean of 2.7° varus. Femoral components were implanted with a mean of 0.37° valgus and 1.3° flexion. Tibial components were implanted with a mean 3.47° varus and 5.1° posterior slope. Femoral components were externally rotated a mean of 3.36°, tibial components were externally rotated 6.59° from the posterior tibia and 5.68° from the transepicondylar axis.

Conclusion:  The UniCAT protocol uses less radiation than whole‐limb spiral scans and is a method that can be used with all modern computer‐assisted tomography machines. The coronal and sagital alignment results compare favourably with previous published reports without computer‐assisted tomography. Component rotation has not previously been reported and its implications are yet to be defined.
DEVELOPMENT OF PATIENT PATHWAYS FOR THE SURGICAL MANAGEMENT OF BURN INJURY
Authors: Greenwood John E.
Published: August 2006

Background:  There are many reasons for the development of patient pathways in burn surgery introduced at the Royal Adelaide Hospital in South Australia at the beginning of January 2005. These include education, standardization of technique, scheduling of surgical episodes and rationalization of the use of expensive therapies.

Methods:  A critical appraisal of both evidence based on published work and personal/peer experience has been used to generate the current pathways.

Results:  The year 2005 was the busiest in the history of the hospital, both in numerical terms and in the proportion of major burn injuries. These protocols were effective in enabling us to cope with negligible mortality.

Conclusion:  Although the first draft pathways work in our unit, they will undergo regular audit. It is hoped that they will form a template that can assist other services to create their own pathways.
NON‐ENTRY OF ELIGIBLE PATIENTS INTO THE AUSTRALASIAN LAPAROSCOPIC COLON CANCER STUDY
Authors: Abraham Ned S. , Hewett Peter , Young Jane M. , Solomon Michael J.
Published: August 2006

Background:  There is currently a need to assess the reasons for non‐entry of eligible patients into surgical randomized controlled trials to determine measures to improve the low recruitment rates in such trials.

Methods:  Reasons for non‐entry of all eligible patients not recruited into the Australasian Laparoscopic Colon Cancer Study were prospectively recorded using a survey completed by the participating surgeons for a period of 6 months.

Results:  In the 6‐month period of the study, 51 (45%) out of 113 eligible patients examined by the 18 actively participating surgeons were recruited into the trial. Eighty‐nine reasons were recorded for the non‐entry of the 62 eligible patients. The most commonly recorded reason was preference for one form of surgery (42%) or the surgeon (31%) by the patient (45 patients (73%) in total). This was followed by lack of time (10 patients (16%)), hospital accreditation (7 patients (11%)) or staffing/equipment (6 patients (10%)). Concern about the doctor–patient relationship or causing the patient anxiety was recorded for three (5%) and two (3%) patients, respectively. Recruitment was positively associated with the availability of a data manager (χ2 = 19.91; P < 0.001, odds ratio (95% confidence interval) = 9.50 (3.53–25.53)) and negatively associated with an increased caseload (more than five eligible patients seen by the surgeon in the study period) (continuity adjusted χ2 = 16.052; P < 0.001, odds ratio (95% confidence interval) = 0.11(0.04–0.30)).

Conclusion:  Having a preference for one form of surgery by the patient or the surgeon was the most common reason for non‐entry of eligible patients in the Australasian Laparoscopic Colon Cancer Study. Concern about the doctor–patient relationship played a minimal role in determining the outcome of recruitment. Patient and surgeon preferences, caseload and the distribution of supportive staff such as data managers according to patient population density should be considered in the planning of future trials.
CHALLENGES IN THE EVALUATION OF SAFETY AND EFFICACY OF HUMAN TISSUE AND CELL BASED PRODUCTS
Authors: Zheng Ming H. , Pembrey Richard , Niutta Silvana , Stewart‐Richardson Patricia , Farrugia Albert
Published: August 2006

Human tissue and cell‐based therapeutic interventions provide efficacious alternative treatment where traditional drugs or medical devices have proved unsatisfactory. Yet human tissue and cell‐based products (HTC/P) still present a series of challenges regarding their safety and efficacy. By reviewing the history of development and current regulatory standards and observing activities related to the manufacture of HTC/P, we have described the common characteristics of HTC/P, including the risk of pathogen transmission, transportation methods of human tissues, quality control in HTC/P manufacturing, and the concern of ancillary materials. The ethical issues of cadaveric donation and clinical trial standards for HTC/P have also been discussed. Overall, we have provided a general standard, which articulates the essential requirements on the safety and efficacy of HTC/P.
Daptonema williamsi sp.n. (Nematoda, Xyalidae) from the Solomon Islands
Authors: VINCX MAGDA , COOMANS AUGUST
Published: August 2006

Daptonema williamsi sp.n. from the Ombo river, New Georgia, is described and figured in detail. The species shows some interesting morphological characters, mainly in the reproductive system, e.g. an hitherto undescribed protraction and rotation system of the spicules, matching a posteriorly directed vagina. D. williamsi closely resembles D. normandicum (de Man, 1890), D. oxycerca (de Man, 1888) and D. tenuispiculum (Ditlevsen, 1918). The first of these species has shorter spicules, longer setae on the male tail, only 3–4 ejaculatory glands and a vagina perpendicular to the body wall. D. oxycerca and D. tenuispiculum have differently shaped spicules. D. oxycerca has only 3–4 ejaculatory glands and in D. tenuispiculum the ovary does not extend to the level of the pharynx.
Intraspecific VariabiIity in Acrobeloides nanus (de Man) Anderson (Nematoda, Cephalobidae) and a Note on External Morphology
Authors: BOSTRÖM SVEN , GYDEMO ROLF
Published: August 2006

Uniparental free‐living nematodes, Acrobeloides nanus (de Man, 1880) Anderson, 1968, were isolated from the raw humus layer at two coniferous forest sites in central Sweden. Intraspecific variability in progeny from single females cultured both on agar and in soil was studied. Females from field populations were much shorter than those from laboratory cultures and significant differences in length between cultured specimens from the two sites were found. No significant difference in length of animals from comparable cultures on agar and in soil was obtained. The substrate had some effect on the tail shape, but not on the labial probolae shape. No significant differences in taxonomic characters between populations from the two localities were observed. Enzyme analyses by horizontal starch gel electrophoresis showed qualitative differences in isozyme patterns of malate dehydrogenase (MDH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in populations from the two sites, while the esterase patterns were unstable with time and less suitable for population analysis.
A Review of the Sipunculan Genus Thysanocardia Fisher
Authors: GIBBS PETER E. , CUTLER EDWARD B. , CUTLER NORMA J.
Published: August 2006

The taxonomy of the sipunculan taxon Thysanocardia Fisher is reviewed. Originally erected as a subgenus of Golfingia Lankester, the status of Thysanocardia is here elevated to the level of a genus. Of the 17 species currently recognised within this genus, most of which were originally described from single specimens, only three are considered sufficiently distinct as to warrant specific status, namely T. catherinae (Grube), T. procera (Möbius) and T. nigra (Ikeda). T. catherinae is the most widespread of these species being distributed in the western North Atlantic, South Atlantic and western Indian Ocean, whilst T. procera is confined to the north‐eastem region of the North Atlantic and T. nigra chiefly to the North Pacific Ocean.
Morphologie und Morphogenese des Bodenciliaten Oxytricha granulifera sp.n. (CiIiophora, Oxytrichidae)
Authors: FOISSNER WILHELM , ADAM HANS
Published: August 2006

Oxytricha granulifera sp.n. differs from other members of the genus by its subpellicular granules and the strongly shortened dorsal kinety 4. The overall pattern of the morphogenetic events is similar to that known from other Oxytrichidae. However, the oral primordium evolves de novo between the left marginal cirral row and the postoral cirri. The six anlagen of the frontoventral cirri are of different origin. Two anlagen of the proter evolve from parental frontal cirri, two from the opisthe, and one includes basal bodies of the proter and opisthe. Two anlagen of the opisthe evolve from the oral primordium, and three primordia originate from the postoral cirri. Frontal cirrus 1 evolves from the paroral membrane in the proter, and from the oral primordium and the anlagen of the frontoventral cirri in the opisthe. The genus Oxytricha can be subdivided into several groups with regard to the origin of its oral primordium and the development of the frontoventral cirri. The morphogenesis of the dorsal kineties in the Hypotrichida is reviewed. Seven different modes of origin are distinguished. We conclude that morphogenetic features cannot be used in the classification of the Hypotrichida at the generic level, because we have too little information to decide whether special morphogenetic features are important at the generic or species level.
Taxonomic Studies of the Marine Genus Marcusaedrilus Righi & Kanner (Oligochaeta, Tubificidae), with Descriptions of Seven New Species from the Caribbean Area and Australia*
Authors: ERSÉUS CHRISTER
Published: August 2006

The definition of Marcusaedrilus Righi & Kanner, 1979, is modified to include M. hummelincki Righi & Kanner, 1979, M. luteolus sp.n. (both from the Caribbean), and six new species from the Great Barrier Reef, M. grandiculus sp.n., M. minusculus sp.n., M. tuber sp.n., M. capricornae sp.n., M. sacculatus sp.n., and M. irregularis sp.n. The genus is largely distinguished from the closely related Limnodriloides Pierantoni, 1903, by its partially ciliated atria and its tripartite spermathecae.
Système Sétifère des Maxillipèdes des Gonodactyloidea (Crustacea, Stomatopoda)
Authors: JACQUES FRANÇOISE
Published: August 2006

Analysis of the setal system was conducted on the maxillipeds of Gonodactyloidea, which includes the smashers, a functional group of stomatopods. Generally, the homogeneity of the setal system is demonstrated in stomatopods. However, examination of maxillipeds of Gonodactyloidea reveals that some setal types are systematic characters at levels of families or species. The smashers group has a very homogeneous setal system in three families: Gonodactylidae, Odontodactylidae and Protosquillidae. The setal analysis of maxillipeds confirms the functional role of these appendages. Like other morphological characters, the setal system of stomatopods has co‐evolved with behavioral patterns in both groups: spearers and smashers.
Pagurisaea schembrii gen. et sp.n. (Crustacea, Amphipoda) Associated with New Zealand Hermit Crabs, with Notes on lsaea elmhirsti Patience
Authors: MOORE P. GEOFFREY
Published: August 2006

A description is given of both male and female Pagurisaea schembrii gen. et sp.n. (Isaeidae) which inhabit the topmost whorls of shells occupied by the hermit crab Paguristes pilosus Milne‐Edwards off Otago, New Zealand. Notes are appended on the male of Isaea elmhirsti and novel features of gnathopods, uropods and telson illustrated.
On the So‐called Mantle Muscle Scars on Shells of the Margaritiferidae (Mollusca, Pelecypoda), with Observations on Mantle‐Shell Attachment in the Unionoida and Trigonioida
Authors: SMITH DOUGLAS G.
Published: August 2006

Mantle attachment scars on the inner surface of shells of the Margaritiferidae have been traditionally regarded as sites of mantle muscle attachment; however, the actual occurrence of muscle tissue at points of attachment has never been verified. Mantle attachment scars occur on shells of seven examined species of margaritiferids. Gross and histological investigation of the mantle of five species reveals that mantle attachment involves modification of mantle epithelial cells and associated connective fibers within the mantle. The connective fibers within the mantle do not appear to have contractile properties, but along with the attachment cells probably provide support for the mantle. Mantle‐shell attachment scars similar to those of margaritiferids also occur in shells of recent trigonids, thus strengthening arguments for a phylogentic link between the Unionoida and Trigonioida.
Structural and Systematic Studies on Turbellaria Schizorhynchia (Platyhelminthes)
Authors: KARLING TOR G.
Published: August 2006

Supplementary structural and systematic records are given on Thylacorhynchus caudatus, Trapichorhynchus tapes (Schizorhynchidae), Karkinorhynchus primitivus, Cheliplana marcusi, C. setosa and Cheliplanilla caudata (Karkinorhynchidae). Cheliplana vaginalis sp.n. and C. evdonini sp.n. are described. The systematics of the Karkinorhynchidae are reviewed and in part revised.
Diplectanum yamagutii sp.n.(Monogenea, Monopisthocotylea, Diplectanidae), Parasite de Kyphosus cinerascens (Forsskål) à Hawaii
Authors: OLIVER GUY
Published: August 2006

Diplectanum yamagutii sp.n., a gill parasite of Kyphosus cinerascens (Forsskål, 1775) off Hawaii is described from amongst the type‐material deposited by Professor S. Yamaguti in the National Parasite Collection of the United States National Museum of Natural History at Beltsville (Maryland, USA). Diplectanum yamagutii sp.n., D. diplobulbus Yamaguti, 1968, D. nenue Yamaguti, 1968, D. spiculare Yamaguti, 1968 and D. kyphosi (Yamaguti, 1968) comb.n. are sympatric parasites of Kyphosus cinerascens off Hawaii. These five species are distinguished by the shape and size of the armature of both the cirrus and the haptoral sclerotised pieces.
Age Determination of Frogs and Toads (Amphibia, Anura) from North‐western Europe
Authors: GIBBONS MARIA M. , McCARTHY T. K.
Published: August 2006

Age was determined in three anuran species inhabiting a temperate oceanic climate (Rana temporaria, Bufo calamita and Bufo bufo) by means of the histological structure of the phalanges. Narrow, haematoxylinophilic lines were visible in these, and evidence from the examination of subadults and frog (R. temporaria) recaptures showed the lines to be annual. The validity of using the lines as age indicators was tested most extensively on natural frog populations and the effects of endosteal resorption were not found to be significant. The evidence for this conclusion was provided directly by recapture data and indirectly by an analysis of histological measurements made on the phalanges.
Three New Species of Minoninae (Turbellaria, Proseriata, Monocelididae) from the North Sea, with Remarks on the Taxonomy of the Subfamily
Authors: MARTENS PAUL M.
Published: August 2006

Three new species of Minoninae are described and a new genus is proposed for one of them: Minona degadti sp.n., Duplominona septentrionalis sp.n. and Duploperaclistus circocirrus gen. et sp.n. All three species occur in sublittoral sandy habitats in the Southern Bight of the North Sea, but D. circocirrus has also been found at a littoral station. The taxonomy within the subfamily Minoninae is discussed. Seven genera are considered as valid, and they are briefly diagnosed. “Peraclistus ituipus” sensu Westblad (1952) (=Duplominona westbladi Karling, 1966) is included in the new genus as Duploperuclistus westbladi (Karling, 1966) comb.n.
A New Species of Kinorhynchus (Homalorhagida, Pycnophyidae) from Australia with a Redescription and Range Extension of Other Kinorhyncha from the South Pacific
Authors: BROWN ROSEMARY , HIGGINS ROBERT P.
Published: August 2006

Kinorhynchus phyllotropis sp.n., from Sydney Harbour, is the first species of the phylum Kinorhyncha to be described from Australian coasts. It appears to be most closely related to K. anomalus (Lang, 1953) from the Chilean coast and possibly, but to a lesser extent, to K. spinosus (Lang, 1949) from the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic. Kinorhynchus anomalus is rede‐scribed and, along with the new species, is compared with the South Atlantic species, the two species known from the Northeast Pacific and the remaining four members of this genus from the North Atlantic, Mediterranean Sea and Black Sea. Cateria styx Gerlach, 1956, is reported from beaches north of Valparaiso, Chile, the first report of this mesopsarnmic cryptorhagid kinorhynch from the Pacific Ocean.
Systematics and Ecology of Protodrilus helgolandicus sp.n., an Interstitial Polychaete (Protodrilidae) from Subtidal Sands off Helgoland, German Bight
Authors: von NORDHEIM HENNING
Published: August 2006

Protodrilus helgolandicus sp.n. is described and compared to similar species. Indirect sperm transmission by spermatophores and egg deposition are reported. Some data on life cycle, population dynamics and ecology are given.
Ultrastructure of Euspermiogenesis in the Mesogastropod Stenothyra sp. (Prosobranchia, Rissoacea, Stenothyridae)
Authors: HEALY JOHN M.
Published: August 2006

The structure of mature and developing euspermatozoa of the rissoacean gastropod Stenothyra sp. has been studied using transmission electron microscopy. During cuspermiogenesis nuclei pass through fibrillar and lamellar phases of condensation. A Golgi‐derived acrosome attaches to the nucleus during the fibrillar phase. Spherical mitochondria of early euspermatids fuse to form the mitochondrial sheath which undergoes metamorphosis to form helical midpiece elements, paracrystalline material and helical midpiece compartments. Mature euspermatozoa consist of a flat acrosome (acrosomal cone, axial rod, basal plate), short curved nucleus (2.5–2.8 μm) and elongate midpiece and glycogen piece. Coarse fibres associated with the axoneme emerge from a posterior invagination of the nucleus and continue into the initial portion of the midpiece. In the proximal portion of the midpiece, two helical compartments (filled with membranous material) are present—only one of which persists further posteriorly. No compartments occur in the distal region of the midpiece. Posterior to the midpiece, the axoneme is surrounded by tightly‐packed (glycogen) granules and terminates within this region. The distal end of the euspermatozoon consists solely of glycogen granules surrounded by the plasma membrane. Although coarse fibres (associated with the axoneme), midpiece paracrystalline material and helical compartments are commonly reported in sperm of euthyneuran gastropods, this represents the first report of all three features in any prosobranch euspermatozoon.
Nuclear magnetic resonance‐determined lipoprotein subclass profile in the DCCT/EDIC cohort: associations with carotid intima‐media thickness
Authors: Lyons T. J. , Jenkins A. J. , Zheng D. , Klein R. L. , Otvos J. D. , Yu Y. , Lackland D. T. , McGee D. , McHenry M. B. , Lopes‐Virella M. , Garvey W. T. ,   The DCCT/EDIC Research Group
Published: August 2006

Aims  To relate nuclear magnetic resonance lipoprotein subclass profiles (NMR‐LSP) and other lipoprotein‐related factors with carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT) in Type 1 diabetes.

Methods  Lipoprotein‐related factors were determined in sera (obtained in 1997–1999) from 428 female [age 39 ± 7 years (mean ± sd)] and 540 male (age 40 ± 7 years) Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT)/Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (EDIC) participants. NMR quanti‐fies chylomicrons, three very low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL) subclasses, intermediate density lipoprotein (IDL), three low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) subclasses, two high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) subclasses, mean VLDL, LDL and HDL size, and LDL particle concentration. Conventional lipids, ApoA1, ApoB and Lp(a) and in vitro LDL oxidizibility were also measured. IMT was determined (in 1994–1995) using high‐resolution B‐mode ultrasound. Relationships between IMT and lipoproteins were analysed by multiple linear regression, controlling for age, diabetes‐related factors, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors.

Results  IMT associations with lipoproteins were stronger for the internal than the common carotid artery, predominantly involving LDL. Internal carotid IMT was positively (P < 0.05) associated with NMR‐based LDL subclasses and particle concentration, and with conventional LDL‐cholesterol and ApoB in both genders. Common carotid IMT was associated, in men only, with large VLDL, IDL, conventional LDL cholesterol and ApoB.

Conclusions  NMR‐LSP reveals significant associations with carotid IMT in Type 1 diabetic patients, even 4 years after IMT measurement. NMR‐LSP may aid early identification of high‐risk diabetic patients and facilitate monitoring of interventions. Longer DCCT/EDIC cohort follow‐up will yield CVD events and IMT progression, permitting more accurate assessment of pre‐morbid lipoprotein profiles as determinants of cardiovascular risk in Type 1 diabetes.
Routinely collected general practice data aids identification of people with hyperglycaemia and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Heldgaard P. E. , Griffin S. J.
Published: August 2006

Aims  To assess the performance of a risk score comprising data routinely available in general practice records (age, gender, body mass index, family history of diabetes, smoking habits and prescribed anti‐hypertensive drugs or steroids) in detecting diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance and metabolic syndrome.

Methods  In a population‐based, cross‐sectional study in a semi‐rural general practice in Jutland, Denmark, Cambridge Risk Scores were calculated for 1355 patients without known diabetes (69% response rate) who completed questionnaires and underwent anthropometric measurement and an oral glucose tolerance test.

Results  Prevalences of diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance and metabolic syndrome were 2.29% (95% CI: 1.56–3.23), 6.64% (95% CI: 5.38–8.10) and 13.4% (95% CI: 11.5–15.2), respectively. Area under the ROC curve for the risk score and diabetes was 83.8% (75.9–91.7) and for metabolic syndrome [European Group for the Study of Insulin Resistance (EGIR)] was 78.1% (74.6–81.6). Twenty per cent of the population had a risk score above 0.246; at this threshold the sensitivity to detect diabetes was 71.0% (53.4–83.9), the specificity 81.2% (79.0–83.2), positive predictive value 8.1% (6.6–10.0) and likelihood ratio 3.77 (2.94–4.85). For metabolic syndrome (EGIR) corresponding values for sensitivity were 50.3% (43.1–57.5), specificity 84.7% (82.5–85.6), positive predictive value 33.6% (28.2–39.4), and likelihood ratio 3.28 (2.69–4.00).

Conclusions  Undiagnosed hyperglycaemia and metabolic syndrome are common. The Cambridge Risk Score is a practical first step in a screening procedure to identify individuals with these disorders who might benefit from diagnostic testing or to direct preventive interventions.
An expert system for lighting energy management in public school facilities
Authors: Fonseca Daniel J. , Bisen Kirtikumar B. , Clark Midkiff K. , Moynihan Gary P.
Published: August 2006

Abstract: Lighting accounts for a large part of the energy expenses of a facility, ranging from 40% to 60% of the total energy cost. Therefore, it represents a critical factor to consider in any energy management program. Lighting audits involve complex energy calculations, such as the estimation of light intensity per square unit area, quality of illumination, and required number of light sources to obtain an adequate illumination level in the facility. In this paper we discuss the development and implementation of an easy‐to‐use expert system for lighting energy management in public schools. The prototype computer‐based system can evaluate 11 different areas of a school facility, and it can identify suitable lighting solutions from 17 distinct bulb types and 38 ballast types. The system determines a facility's required number of bulbs, and it performs the cost and saving analysis of its final recommendation. The constructed expert system was successfully validated by two human experts through two case studies, involving the evaluation of a conventional classroom and a medium‐size office.
Time to REST: epidemiology and burden
Authors: Garcia‐Borreguero Diego
Published: August 2006

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by a compelling urge to move, accompanied by disturbing sensations within the legs. It is now recognized that RLS is a common condition that has a substantial impact on sleep, daily activities and quality of life. Recent data from the REST (RLS Epidemiology, Symptoms, and Treatment) general population study show that symptoms of RLS are present in approximately 7% of the general population, and that 2–3% experience moderate or severe symptoms at least twice a week. Amongst this RLS cohort, approximately 88% reported sensory disturbances and 76% reported sleep‐related symptoms. These symptoms had a marked effect on everyday life, with up to 50% of the RLS cohort reporting disruption of everyday activities or personal relationships. Sleep disturbances in turn lead to impaired daytime functioning. RLS is associated with a significant impairment of quality of life, comparable with that seen in chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or depression. Given the significant burden of morbidity associated with RLS, there is a strong case for treatment in patients with troublesome symptoms.
p16INK4A is a robust in vivo biomarker of cellular aging in human skin
Authors: Ressler Sigrun , Bartkova Jirina , Niederegger Harald , Bartek Jiri , Scharffetter‐Kochanek Karin , Jansen‐Dürr Pidder , Wlaschek Meinhard
Published: August 2006

The cell‐cycle regulating gene, p16INK4A, encoding an inhibitor of cyclin‐dependent kinases 4 and 6, is considered to play an important role in cellular aging and in premature senescence. Although there is an age‐dependent increase of p16INK4A expression in human fibroblast senescence in vitro, no data are available regarding the age dependency of p16INK4A in vivo. To determine whether p16INK4A expression in human skin correlates with donor age, p16INK4A expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry as well as the expression of the p16INK4A repressor BMI1. Samples from the age groups 0–20, 21–70, and 71–95 years were selected from a bank of healthy human skin. We show that the number of p16INK4A positive cells is significantly higher in elderly individuals compared to the younger age groups. The number of p16INK4A positive cells was found to be increased in both epidermis and dermis, compartments with strictly different proliferative activities. BMI1 gene expression was significantly down‐regulated with increasing donor age, whereas no striking age differences were observed for Ki67. In immunofluorescence co‐expression studies, Ki67‐positive cells were negative for p16INK4A and BMI1‐expressing cells also stained negatively for Ki67. In conclusion, we provide for the first time evidence that p16INK4A expression directly correlates with chronological aging of human skin in vivo. p16INK4A therefore is a biomarker for human aging in vivo. The data reported here suggest a model for changes in regulatory gene expression that drive aging in human skin.