bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution and ontogenetic shifts in habitat and abundance of the temperate western blue groper,Achoerodus gouldii(Richardson)
Authors: Shepherd S. A. , Brook J. B.
Published: October 2007

Densities of juveniles western blue groperAchoerodus gouldiion exposed coasts of South Australia were slightly greater on granite than other substrata and increased with increasing bottom relief and declined with depth and increasing exposure. Sub‐adults were in higher density on schists than on other substrata, and densities increased with increasing bottom relief, and declined with depth, increasing exposure and increasing algal canopy cover. Adults were in higher densities on schists, and abundances increased with depth and bottom relief. At a mesoscaleA. gouldiiwas absent from gulfs and sheltered bays, except near their entrances, while at offshore islands juveniles were rare, sub‐adults were in lower abundance, and adults in greater abundance, compared with mainland coasts. It is hypothesized that sub‐adults may swim up to 60 km from settlement locations to exposed areas and to offshore islands. At a geographic scale, abundances of all three size classes ofA. gouldiideclined significantly from west to east over 2000 km of coast from the centre of the species’ range to its eastern edge. AlthoughA. gouldiiis a protected species over part of its range, abundance of sub‐adults and adults was significantly reduced by fishing, as shown by an index of fishing intensity. The mean size of sub‐adultA. gouldiiwas also correlated with this index, suggesting that the observed geographic trend in sub‐adult and adult abundance may be contributed to by fishing. Simulation showed that a high instantaneous fishing mortality rate of 0·8 per annum could explain the maximum observed reductions in mean size of sub‐adultA. gouldii.
Evaluation of visible implant elastomer as a method for tagging small European eels
Authors: Imbert H. , Beaulaton L. , Rigaud C. , Elie P.
Published: October 2007

Visible implant elastomer (VIE) tagging showed no significant effect on survival of either 230 single‐tagged or 60 multiple‐tagged small European eels Anguilla anguilla. Mean tag retention was 98·7% during the 5 month laboratory experiments. Multiple VIE tags had no observed effect on European eel locomotor behaviour. VIE appears a reliable method for individually tagging small European eels, and could be useful in capture–recapture field studies.
Life history and age at maturity of an anadromous smelt, the eulachon Thaleichthys pacificus (Richardson)
Authors: Clarke A. D. , Lewis A. , Telmer K. H. , Shrimpton J. M.
Published: October 2007

Trace element and fork length (LF) frequency analyses of eulachon Thaleichthys pacificus otoliths were used to determine age at maturity and repeat spawning potential, two aspects of eulachon life history that are not known but are important for successful management of this species. The LF‐frequency analysis for ocean caught and spawning eulachon was used to estimate age at maturation. Two size classes of eulachon were caught in the ocean and spawning eulachon were consistently the largest fish indicating that spawners from mid‐coast of British Columbia were 3 years old. Laser‐ablation inductively‐coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) was also used to reconstruct the Ba:Ca and Sr:Ca molar ratios deposited spatially into the otolith to estimate spawner age for five populations of eulachon. Age at maturation differed among populations examined. Based on the seasonal fluctuations in Ba:Ca molar ratios caused by seasonal upwelling of deep waters, it was determined that more southerly populations spawned at a younger age than the northern populations examined. Southern populations of eulachon, Columbia River, Washington, U.S.A., spawn after 2 years. Eulachon from the Fraser, Kemano and Skeena Rivers in British Columbia, Canada, generally mature after 3 years. Some Skeena River eulachon and most of the eulachon from the Copper River, Alaska, U.S.A., matured after 4 years. In contrast to the Ba:Ca molar ratios in the otolith, Sr:Ca molar ratios maintained a relatively flat profile over the life of the eulachon. The lack of a change in Sr:Ca ratios within the otolith, the single size class of spawners across all systems and the single age class within most populations strongly suggest that eulachon in the present study are semelparous.
Sexual dimorphism of the Weberian apparatus and pectoral girdle in Sundadanio axelrodi (Ostariophysi: Cyprinidae)
Authors: Conway K. W. , Britz R.
Published: October 2007

The miniature cyprinid fish, Sundadanio axelrodi, exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism in the skeleton of the Weberian apparatus, the fifth rib and pectoral girdle. Musculature associated with the fifth rib and Weberian apparatus also shows a high degree of sexual dimorphism. It is suggested that these modifications are responsible for the production of a croaking sound that seems to be restricted to males of the species, based on the lack of any corresponding anatomical specializations in females.
Molecular phylogenetics of tribe Synandreae, a North American lineage of lamioid mints (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Scheen Anne‐Cathrine , Lindqvist Charlotte , Fossdal Carl G. , Albert Victor A.
Published: October 2007

The five mint genera Brazoria, Macbridea, Physostegia, Synandra and Warnockia (Lamioideae: Lamiaceae) are all North American endemics. Together with the monotypic European genus Melittis and the Asian genus Chelonopsis, these taxa have been classified as subtribe Melittidinae. Previous morphological studies have failed to uncover synapomorphic characters for this group. We sequenced the plastid trnL‐trnF region and trnS‐trnG spacer and the nuclear ribosomal 5S non‐transcribed spacer (5S‐NTS) to assess phylogenetic relationships within Melittidinae. Standard parsimony and direct optimization (POY) analyses show Melittis, the type genus of the subtribe, as sister to Stachys. Thus, the monophyly of subtribe Melittidinae is not supported either by molecular or morphological data. However, the North American endemics form a monophyletic group that can be recognized as the recircumscribed tribe Synandreae. The molecular relationships among these genera are corroborated by both morphological and cytological data. The expected close relationship between the south‐central endemics Warnockia and Brazoria and their sister relationship to the widespread genus Physostegia is confirmed. Nevertheless, most of the North American endemics are restricted to the south‐east of the continent. Dispersal westwards and northwards is correlated with an increase in chromosome numbers. No specific Eurasian origin (i.e., transatlantic or transpacific) can be determined, but Synandreae are clearly distinct from the large Stachys clade, and therefore represent a separate migration into North America.

© The Willi Hennig Society 2007.
Induction of mitotic cell death in cancer cells by small interference RNA suppressing the expression of RecQL1 helicase
Authors: Futami Kazunobu , Kumagai Emi , Makino Hiroshi , Goto Hideyuki , Takagi Motoki , Shimamoto Akira , Furuichi Yasuhiro
Published: October 2007

RecQL1 DNA helicase of the human RecQ helicase family participates in DNA repair and recombination pathways during cell‐cycle replication. When we examined the effect of RecQL1 suppression on cell growth, we found that RecQL1 silencing by small interference RNA efficiently prevented proliferation of a wide range of cancer cells by inducing mitotic catastrophe and mitotic cell death. In contrast, such mitotic cell death was not seen in the growing normal fibroblasts used as controls, even if RecQL1 expression was fully downregulated. Our results support the hypothesis that endogenous DNA damage that occurs during DNA replication and remains unrepaired in cancer cells due to RecQL1 silencing induces cancer cell‐specific mitotic catastrophe through a less‐strict checkpoint in cancer cells than in normal cells. We speculate that normal cells are exempt from such mitotic cell death, despite slow growth, because cell‐cycle progression is controlled strictly by a strong checkpoint system that detects DNA damage and arrests progression of the cell cycle until DNA damage is repaired completely. These results suggest that RecQL1 helicase is an excellent molecular target for cancer chemotherapy. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 71–80)
Phase I study of sorafenib in Japanese patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Furuse Junji , Ishii Hiroshi , Nakachi Kohei , Suzuki Eiichiro , Shimizu Satoshi , Nakajima Keiko
Published: October 2007

Sorafenib is an orally active multikinase inhibitor that targets serine and threonine, and tyrosine kinases that are involved in tumor‐cell signal transduction and tumor angiogenesis. This phase I trial was conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetics (PK), safety, and preliminary efficacy of sorafenib in Japanese patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with underlying liver dysfunction. Patients with unresectable HCC, Child–Pugh status A or B, and adequate organ functions were treated. A single dose of sorafenib was administered, followed by a 7‐day wash‐out period, after which patients received either sorafenib 200 mg (cohort 1) or 400 mg (cohort 2) twice daily. The PK were investigated after a single dose and during steady state. The efficacy was evaluated using the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors. A total of 27 patients were evaluated for PK, safety, and efficacy. Although both area under the concentration–time curve for 0–12 h and maximal concentration at steady state were slightly lower in Child–Pugh B patients than in Child–Pugh A patients, the difference was not considered to be clinically relevant. Common adverse drug events included elevated lipase, amylase, rash or desquamation, diarrhea, and hand–foot skin reaction. A dose‐limiting toxicity of hand–foot skin reaction was observed in one patient (cohort 2). Among the 24 patients evaluable for tumor response, one patient (4%) achieved a partial response, 20 (83%) had stable disease, and three (13%) had progressive disease. Sorafenib demonstrated a favorable tolerability and safety profile in Japanese HCC patients. Moreover, promising preliminary antitumor activity has been observed. Finally, there were no clinically relevant differences in PK between Child–Pugh A and B patients. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 159–165)
Choice of first antihypertensive – are existing guidelines ignored?
Authors: Okechukwu Ifeanyi , Mahmud Azra , Bennett Kathleen , Feely John
Published: October 2007

What is already known about this subject

• Recommended treatment guidelines for hypertension have been developed to assist GPs' decisions about appropriate therapies.

• The British Hypertension Society's (BHS) 2004 guidelines recommend initial drug choice based on age, and avoidance of β‐adrenoceptor blockers in diabetes.

What this study adds

• Prescribing of first‐line antihypertensives in Ireland appears guided by age, but mainly for those under 55 years.

• Adherence to the guidelines was in part related to patient gender.

• Presence of concomitant diabetes had a greater influence on the choice of therapy than age of patient.

Aims

To determine adherence to hypertension guidelines in relation to age and diabetes.

Methods

The Irish HSE‐PCRS prescribing database identified patients initiating antihypertensive monotherapy in 2005. Logistic regression predicted the likelihood of therapy according to guidelines.

Results

The odds ratio (OR) of receiving therapies according to the guideline recommendations in those <55 years vs. ≥55 years was 1.31 (95% CI 1.26, 1.37). Diabetics were more likely than nondiabetics to receive antihypertensives other than β‐adrenoceptor blockers (OR 2.97, 95% CI 2.74, 3.21).

Conclusions

Our findings show some adherence to the guidelines in relation to age but selective prescribing of antihypertensives for diabetics.
Omnivory does not prevent trophic cascades in pelagic food webs
Authors: OKUN NILS , BRASIL JANDESON , ATTAYDE JOSÉ LUIZ , COSTA IVANEIDE A. S.
Published: October 2007

1. Strong trophic cascades have been well documented in pelagic food webs of temperate lakes. In contrast, the limited available evidence suggests that strong cascades are less typical in tropical lakes.

2. To measure the effects of omnivorous tilapia on planktonic communities and water transparency of a small man‐made tropical lake, we performed a 5‐week in situ enclosure experiment with five densities of fish randomly allocated to 20 enclosures. Zooplankton and Phytoplankton biomasses as well as water transparency were measured weekly.

3. Results show that omnivorous tilapia significantly decreased the abundance of large Cladocerans, increased the abundance of small algae (greatest axial linear dimension <50 μm) and decreased water transparency as predicted by trophic cascade theory.

4. Therefore, omnivory was not a sufficient factor to prevent a trophic cascade in this pelagic community, although the cascade effect was weaker than reported from many north temperate, nutrient‐rich lakes.
Slow, fast and in between: habitat distribution and behaviour of larvae in nine species of libellulid dragonfly
Authors: MCCAULEY SHANNON J.
Published: October 2007

1. Activity and microhabitat use are important factors determining species performance in habitats that differ in permanence and species composition of top predators. This study examined the relationship between the distribution across a gradient of habitat permanence and an associated transition in the composition of top predators and the behaviour of species of larval dragonflies. It also assessed the relationship between larval behaviour, body size and the duration of the larval stage. In laboratory mesocosms the mobility of the different species was measured, as was the extent to which they associated with artificial vegetation.

2. Species mobility was positively related to their natural occurrence in habitats in which invertebrates or small‐bodied fish were the top predators, and negatively related with the frequency with which species co‐existed with large‐bodied fish, the permanence of the habitat and the length of the larval stage.

3. Rather than falling into strict low and high mobility categories, habitat generalists that occurred across the habitat gradient, co‐existing with different top predators, had variable mobility levels. In these generalists, mobility was positively related to how frequently they were found in natural habitats in which invertebrates were the top predators.

4. The extent to which species utilized the artificial vegetation in mesocosms was associated with the length of the larval period but was not associated with mobility or species habitat distribution in the field.
Productivity and significance of headwater streams: population structure and biomass of the black‐bellied salamander (Desmognathus quadramaculatus)
Authors: PETERMAN WILLIAM E. , CRAWFORD JOHN A. , SEMLITSCH RAYMOND D.
Published: October 2007

1. Headwater streams are a significant feature of the southern Appalachian landscape, comprising more than 70% of the total stream length in the region. Salamanders are the dominant vertebrate within headwater‐riparian forest ecosystems, but their ecological role is not clearly understood.

2. We studied a population of black‐bellied salamanders (Desmognathus quadramaculatus) at a headwater stream in the southern Appalachian Mountains using radio‐telemetry and mark‐recapture methods. The length and area of headwater streams in the region were estimated using GIS.

3. Home ranges of radio‐tracked salamanders were relatively small (mean = 1.06 m2). Adult salamanders in our telemetry study inhabited edge microhabitats significantly more often than either stream or riparian microhabitats, and the same trend was observed in the mark‐recapture study.

4. We estimated the population density at this site to be 11 294 salamanders ha−1, amounting to 99.30 kg ha−1 of biomass, an estimate that is six times greater than reported in previous studies. The majority of this biomass was found within the stream, but 22% was found in the surrounding riparian habitat more than 1 m from the stream. Using headwater stream length and area estimates, we extrapolated biomass estimates for black‐bellied salamanders inhabiting stream and riparian microhabitats across the study region.

5. We report one of the largest estimates of secondary consumer biomass for a headwater ecosystem, attesting to the overall productivity of headwater streams. Headwaters are known to be important for ecological and ecosystem processes and our biomass estimates suggest that salamanders are a critical component to these systems.
Studies on uptake and intracellular processing of infectious pancreatic necrosis virus by Atlantic cod scavenger endothelial cells
Authors: Martin‐Armas M , Sommer A‐I , Smedsrød B
Published: October 2007

Previous work in our group has identified the scavenger endothelial cells (SECs) of heart endocardium in cod, Gadus morhua L., as the major site for elimination of both physiological and foreign macromolecular waste from the circulation. The present study was undertaken to establish the role of cod SECs in the clearance of virus. We focused on infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV) as it is a well‐known virus with a broad host range, and causes significant economic losses in the salmon industry. Our results showed that cod SEC cultures infected by the IPNV produce high titres of new virus. Ligand‐receptor inhibition experiments suggested that the virus did not enter the cells through any of the major endocytosis receptors of cod SECs. Yet, the infection lowered the capacity of the cells to endocytose ligands via the scavenger receptor. Inhibitors of receptor recycling and vesicle acidification did not affect virus infectivity. The finding that SEC cultures prepared from 25% of the cod produced high titres of IPNV without being infected in the laboratory, suggests that SECs of cod may serve as reservoirs for IPNV in persistently infected cod.
Theophylline and its metabolites produce a stimulating cholinergic effect on the small intestine and a nonadrenergic noncholinergic relaxing effect on the colon: a comparative study in the rabbit intestine
Authors: PSARRA T. A. , BATZIAS G. C. , PEETERS T. L. , KOUTSOVITI‐ PAPADOPOULOU M.
Published: October 2007

The present study examines comparatively the effects of theophylline and its metabolites, 1‐methylxanthine (1‐MX), 3‐methylxanthine (3‐MX), 1,3‐dimethyluric acid (1,3‐DMU) and 1‐methyluric acid (1‐MU) along the rabbit intestine, and explores the underlying mechanism(s). In the small intestine, theophylline produces atropine‐ and hexamethonium‐sensitive increases in both the amplitude of phasic contractions and the basal tone. All metabolites mimic the theophylline's stimulating effect. In particular, concerning the phasic contractions, all metabolites are more potent than theophylline in the duodenum and jejunum, while in the ileum, only 1‐MU is more potent. Regarding the basal tone, the metabolites show, in most cases, higher efficacy in all small intestinal regions, the maximum effects of 3‐MX and 1‐MU on the duodenum and ileum being double or triple the one of theophylline. In the ascending colon, while lower concentrations of theophylline produce an atropine‐ and hexamethonium‐sensitive increase in the basal tone, higher ones produce a postsynaptic, nonadrenergic noncholinergic (NANC) relaxing effect. 1‐MU mimics, in a weaker manner, theophylline's effect, while the other metabolites produce only relaxation, the potency rank of order being 3‐MX>1‐MX=1,3‐DMU>theophylline. It is suggested that the theophylline and its metabolites stimulatory effect involves a cholinergic pathway, while the relaxing one is due to 3′,5′‐cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) elevation mediated by the theophylline and its metabolites inhibitory action on phosphodiesterases (PDEs).
Development and validation of the maximal electro‐shock seizure model in dogs
Authors: TERRITO P. R. , FREISE K. J. , NEWHALL K. , BARNHART S. D. , PETERS S. C. , ENGLEKING D. R. , BURNETT T. J. , ABDUL‐KARIM B. , SHANNON H. E.
Published: October 2007

The development and validation of the maximal electro‐shock (MES) model using phenobarbital (Pb) as the positive control is described. This approach builds on previous work in rodent model systems, and has been adapted to dogs as a tool for pharmaceutical dose selection. Dogs, like rodents, exhibit generalized convulsions which manifest as progressive clinical signs in a dose (electrical current) dependent fashion. At the limit (300 mA, 200 msec) animals underwent clonic‐tonic convulsions consistent with complete generalized (Grand Mal) seizures with a grade 3 clinical score (CS) and a menace response time of 98.5 ± 24.4 sec (n = 8). Pretreatment of animals with Pb at 3, 10, and 30 mg/kg, in a 4‐by‐4 complete block crossover design (Latin‐Square), resulted in a dose‐dependant reduction in CS and menace response time. Estimates of plasma Pb concentration taken prior to MES induction showed a similar dose‐dependent reduction in CS and menace response time with concentration. Using a cumulative logistic regression model, a predicted 50% probability of a CS = 1 was approximately 11.4 mg/kg. In addition, plasma Pb concentrations predicted a 50% probability of a CS = 1 occurs at plasma Pb concentration of approximately 16.0 μg/mL. Combined these data suggest that MES is a useful model for evaluating generalized convulsions in canines and may provide a tool for dose selection of novel pharmaceutical compounds.
Hepatitis B virus genetic diversity and its impact on diagnostic assays
Authors: Hollinger F. B.
Published: October 2007

Summary.  Hepatitis B virus (HBV) circulates in blood as closely related, but genetically diverse molecules called quasispecies. During replication, HBV production may approach 1011 molecules/day, although during peak activity this rate may increase 100–1000 times. Generally, DNA polymerases have excellent fidelity in reading DNA templates because they are associated with an exonuclease which removes incorrectly added nucleotides. However, the HBV‐DNA polymerase lacks fidelity and proofreading function partly because exonuclease activity is either absent or deficient. Thus, the HBV genome and especially the envelope gene, is mutated with unusually high frequency. These mutations can affect more than one open reading frame because of overlapping genes. The S gene contains an exposed major hydrophilic region (residues 110–155), which encompasses the ‘a’ determinant that is important for inducing immunity. Nucleotide substitutions in this region are common and result in reduced binding or failure to detect hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) in diagnostic assays. Adaptive immunity also depends on the recognition of HBsAg by specific antibody and variants pose a threat if they interfere with binding to antibody. Finally, genomic hypervariability allows HBV to escape selection pressures imposed by antiviral therapies, vaccines and the host immune system, and is responsible for creating genotypes, subgenotypes and subtypes.
Antiviral‐resistant hepatitis B virus: can we prevent this monster from growing?
Authors: Zoulim F. , Buti M. , Lok A. S.
Published: October 2007

Summary.  Despite the recent progress in antiviral therapy of chronic hepatitis B, clinical experience has shown that antiviral drug resistance is inevitable with the administration of nucleoside analog monotherapy. The long‐term persistence of the viral genome in infected cells and the high rate of spontaneous mutation is the basis for the selection of HBV mutants that are resistant to polymerase inhibitors. Selection of antiviral‐resistant mutations leads to a rise in viral load and progression of liver disease. The incidence of antiviral resistance depends on the potency and genetic barrier to resistance of the antiviral drug, highlighting the importance of the choice if first line therapy. The determination of cross‐resistance profile of each drug has allowed the design of rescue therapy for patients with virologic breakthrough. Early diagnosis and treatment intervention allow the majority of patients to maintain in clinical remission despite the occurrence of drug resistance. Clinical studies are ongoing to determine the best strategy to prevent or delay antiviral drug resistance and of its impact on liver disease.
The scavenger receptor BI and its ligand, HDL: partners in crime against HCV neutralizing antibodies
Authors: Dreux M. , Cosset F.‐L.
Published: October 2007

Summary.  Better knowledge of the viral and host factors that determine HCV clearance vs. persistence at the acute stage of infection is needed in order to improve antiviral therapy and develop efficient vaccines. Spontaneous HCV clearance is associated with a strong, early and broad cellular immune response. Yet, several observations suggest that antibody‐mediated neutralisation occurs during HCV infection in vivo and that polyclonal antibodies to HCV can be protective. The recent development of HCV infection assays has confirmed that sera from HCV‐infected patients neutralise infection in vitro. Recent studies have demonstrated that Nt‐antibodies, of narrow specificity, are induced during the early phase of infection and could play a role in controlling viral infection or clearance. Yet, high‐titre, broadly cross‐reacting Nt‐antibodies are readily detected in chronically infected patients, suggesting that their effectiveness is limited in patients who do not resolve the disease. The factors that mitigate the impact of the Nt‐antibody response need to be clarified. Here we review some essential features of the Nt‐antibody responses to HCV. We then discuss an original mechanism that HCV may use in vivo to attenuate Nt‐antibodies, which involves the hyper‐variable region‐1 of the HCV‐E2 glycoprotein, high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) and the physiologic activity of the scavenger receptor BI, a receptor shared by both HCV and HDL.
Efficacy of triclosan soap against superficial dermatomycoses: a double‐blind clinical trial in 224 primary school‐children in Kilombero District, Morogoro Region, Tanzania
Authors: Dinkela Almuth , Ferié Julia , Mbata Marco , Schmid‐Grendelmeier Marco , Hatz Christoph
Published: October 2007

Background  Superficial dermatomycoses are a common problem in tropical regions. Due to limited resources, specific antimycotic therapy is often not available. The present study was performed to assess the clinical efficacy of the antimicrobial agent Triclosan in bar soap in comparison with regular soap against selected superficial dermatomycoses in Tanzanian schoolchildren.

Methods  820 primary school children were examined for skin disorders and 224 of these were included in the soap trial. The clinical presentation of dermatomycoses was recorded using a symptom score. Samples were taken for microscopic examination and mycological culture. The study participants received either bar soap containing Triclosan or a placebo for 2 months. They were re‐examined at the end of this period.

Results  The benefit achieved by the addition of Triclosan was not statistically significant. Overall cure rates for Triclosan and placebo groups taken together were 21.8% for tinea versicolor, 58.3% for tinea capitis, 55.5% for tinea corporis and 68.8% for tinea pedis. This was confirmed microscopically. For the majority of the children the dermatomycoses improved significantly.

Conclusions  The results strongly argue for regular soap use against common dermatomycoses as a low‐cost and effective treatment. This promising finding should be considered in settings where dermatophyte infections represent a public health problem and where access to appropriate treatment and financial resources are limited.
Correlation of mucocutaneous manifestations of HIV/AIDS infection with CD4 counts and disease progression
Authors: Nnoruka Edith N. , Chukwuka Judith C. , Anisuiba Ben
Published: October 2007

Background  As the search for reliable clinical indicators for management of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) in resource‐poor settings continues, mucocutaneous disorders of HIV should be considered among key clinical indicators for prediction of underlying immune status, disease progression, and possible complications of highly active antiretroviral therapy in Africa.

Objective  To identify and correlate mucocutaneous disorders to CD4‐positive cell count and total lymphocyte count in HIV/AIDS patients of southeast Nigeria.

Methodology  Data were collected through interview‐administered survey followed by clinical and dermatological examination of recruited patients and controls.

Result  Mean CD4 cell count of HIV/AIDS patients was 303.81 cells/mm3 and was significantly lower to the control group – 807.3 cells/mm3 (z = 10.089 and P < 0.005). In comparison with the CD4 cell count of asymptomatic HIV‐positive patients (mean 433.6 cells/mm3), CD4 cell count of HIV‐positive patients with various mucocutaneous manifestations (mean 293.63 cells/mm3) was statistically correlated with low counts (z = 4.0731 and P < 0.05). Papulopruritic itch accounted for 32.2% (73/227) among patients with CD4+ cell counts of 51–200 cells/mm3, while seborrheic dermatitis occurred most significantly with CD4 cell counts of 201–500 cells/mm3 (43.1% vs. 12%P < 0.01) relative to those with lower CD4+ counts (51–200 cells/mm3). Mucocutaneous lesion counts of >100 cells/mm3 were readily observed in advanced stage.

Conclusion  Cryptococcus skin lesions occurred at low CD4+ counts of ≤ 50 cells/mm3; Kaposi sarcoma at CD4+ counts of ≤ 200 cells/mm3, while seborrheic dermatitis occurred at CD4+ counts of >200 cells/mm3 and as an early skin manifestation within our environment. Campaign for the skin as an important clinical organ for assessment, prediction of immune status, and management of HIV/AIDS, particularly for hard‐to‐reach and resource‐limited health facilities, has to be undertaken.
Marjolin's ulcer: the importance of surgical management of chronic cutaneous ulcers
Authors: Asuquo Maurice , Ugare Gabriel , Ebughe Godwin , Jibril Paul
Published: October 2007

Chronic cutaneous ulcers are commonplace in the developing world, especially in rural areas with poor living conditions and often result from the trauma of road‐traffic injuries. Chronic cutaneous ulcers may also be due to vascular insufficiency, neuropathy, nodular leprosy, pressure, diabetes, or hemoglobinopathies, or they may be tropical ulcers. If poorly managed, these lesions may undergo malignant transformation. We evaluated the clinical histories and treatment outcomes of patients seen at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, between January 2000 and December 2004, who had histologic diagnosis of Marjolin's ulcer, in an attempt to identify risk factors for this problem. The six patients were men, age 30–70 years (mean, 42 years). Trauma was the leading cause of injury leading to ulceration: road‐traffic accidents (four patients, 66.7%), fall (one patient, 16.7%), and flame burn (one patient, 16.7%). Most injuries involved the limbs: lower (four patients, 66.7%) and upper (one patient, 16.7%). The histologic diagnosis in all the cases were squamous cell carcinoma and mean latency period from injury to diagnosis of malignancy was 18.5 years. All the patients had been admitted because of poor results from topical treatment. Three patients (50%) were managed with wide excision and skin grafting with the lesions healed. Ignorance as well as economic and sociocultural factors were the underlying issues. Education concerning the risks associated with chronic wounds and the need for prompt and proper surgical management are recommended.
Cutaneous disorders in the “bairro Inhamudima” of Beira, Mozambique
Authors: Chhaganlal Kajal , Van Jaarsveld Inge , Hoffmann Kristina , Ramos Maria Isabel , Krober Monique , De Hoop Dirk
Published: October 2007

Background  There are no reliable data on the prevalence of skin diseases in Mozambique.

Aim  To address this issue and to apply the findings to the dermatology teaching program at the Universidade Católica de Moçambique.

Methods  Medical students attempted to identify the most common skin disorders in the “bairro Inhamudima” of Beira, Mozambique by conducting a population survey. During a 3‐month period, the students visited families in a slum area. Information on gender, age, human immunodeficiency virus status, cutaneous abnormalities, diagnosis, treatment, and clinical course was recorded.

Results  Eleven per cent of the study population suffered from cutaneous disease. More than half the patients (57%) sought medical assistance, but 39% could not be diagnosed by the medical students. The most common disorder was scabies. Other problems included fungal infections, viral infections, allergies, and dermatitis with or without secondary bacterial infection.

Conclusions  There is a major dermatologic need in the slum areas of Beira, Mozambique. The dermatology teaching program should pay particular attention to training in the diagnosis and management of infections and infestations.
Effect of alternative medicinal systems and general practice
Authors: Verma Shyam
Published: October 2007

Alternative medicinal systems like Ayurveda and homeopathy are respected and legitimate sciences. The former was born in India. Colleges abound in this country churning out tens of thousands of graduates of these fields. It is ironic that a large number of them pratice allopathic general practice instead of, or along with, their field of specialisation despite laws prohibiting them to do so. Their gross lack of knowledge of dermatology wreaks a havoc. Even GPs contribute to this confusion for the same reason. Pharmacists contribute to unauthorised sale of dermatologic drugs and promote unsupervised treatment flouting the law. The result is neglected and vitiated dermatoses, unwanted adverse drug reactions and resource depletion for the patient. The practising dermatologist in India is unfortunately the one who bears the brunt of the above confusion. However these situations are also contributory to the enviable clinical skills that Indian dermatologists are so well known for.
Pod shatter resistance evaluation in cultivars and breeding lines of Brassica napus, B. juncea and Sinapis alba
Authors: Wang R. , Ripley V. L. , Rakow G.
Published: October 2007

Pod shatter susceptibility was investigated in Brassica napus germplasm and shatter resistant species of B. juncea and Sinapis alba. The comparisons were made by measuring seed yield in field plots, detached pod rupture energy (RE) and the half‐life of pod‐opening. Pod shatter resistance was significantly greater in B. napus lines derived from interspecific hybridizations of B. napus with B. rapa, B. carinata and B. juncea, than common B. napus cultivars. While these lines exhibited no significant difference in resistance to pod shatter than B. juncea, an entry of S. alba had no yield loss caused by pod shatter. Resistance to pod shatter was characterized in the field as little or no yield loss after full maturity, delayed shattering in time, and stable yield performance under variable climatic conditions during pod maturity. Yield loss caused by pod shatter ranged from a low of 4% for the B. juncea cv. ‘AC Vulcan’ to a high of 61% for the black seeded B. napus line DH12075 in 2‐year field trials after 1 month maturity. Pod shatter resistance was not significantly associated with specific plant and pod morphological traits, except pod length (P = 0.005) in tested materials. Field visual scores of pod shatter through inspections of average pod shatter per plant within plots were highly correlated with plot yield loss. Indoor quantitative evaluations of pod strength using a pendulum machine to measure pod RE and random impact test to measure half‐life of pod‐opening resistance were highly correlated with field yield loss. Multiple evaluations of pod shatter in method and in time after pod maturity are recommended for reliable evaluation of pod shatter resistance.
Genetic diversity of Chinese Spring Soybean Germplasm Revealed by SSR Markers
Authors: Wang L. X. , Guan R. X. , Li Y. H. , Lin F. Y. , Luan W. J. , Li W. , Ma Y. S. , Liu Z. X. , Chang R. Z. , Qiu L. J.
Published: October 2007

To use, maintain and increase crop germplasm collections efficiently, it is important to assess the diversity of these collections. In this study, 1383 accessions of Chinese spring sowing soybean (Glycine max) were used for SSR analysis. In total, 1111 alleles were detected among these collections with an average number of alleles (NA) of 18.52 per locus. The genetic diversity index (PIC value) varied from 0.456 to 0.928 with an average of 0.815. Intensive breeding of cultivars have led to a decrease of genetic diversity. Random‐repeated sampling within landraces of different geographical regions suggested that the ranking of both average NA and PIC values among different geographical regions were North spring soybean (Nsp) > South spring soybean (Ssp) > Northeast spring soybean (NEsp), but because of the uneven distribution of SSR variation patterns, the differences between them did not reach a significant level. There was a relationship between genetic distances and geographical distances among soybean populations from different regions, indicating a certain degree of geographical differentiation among Chinese soybean germplasm collections.
Effect of Porcine and Ovine FSH on Nuclear Maturation of Pig Oocytes In Vitro
Authors: Samartzi F , Tsakmakidis I , Theodosiadou E , Vainas E
Published: October 2007

Contents

The effect of porcine or ovine FSH on the maturation rate of porcine oocytes and on the time course of meiotic progression was studied. Groups of 20 grade‐A cumulus oocyte complexes, aspirated from slaughterhouse cycling‐gilt ovaries, were cultured in vitro in 400 μl of Modified Parker's Medium supplemented with oestrous cow serum and porcine FSH (Folltropin®‐V, 0.50 mg/ml) or ovine FSH (OvagenTM, 0.44 iu/ml), in four‐well dishes under mineral oil, at 38.5°C, 5% CO2 in humidified air. At the end of each 3‐h interval, from 3 to 42 h of culture, the nuclear status of oocytes was assessed microscopically (1000×), after fixation (methanol/acetic acid: 3/1) and orcein (2%) staining. Oocytes were classified as (i) immature (IMM), i.e. oocytes at germinal vesicle stage, germinal vesicle break down and prophase I, (ii) metaphase I (MI) and (iii) metaphase II (MII), i.e. oocytes at anaphase I, telophase I and metaphase II. Data were analysed using regression analysis, chi‐square and t‐test. Nuclear status was assessed in 1610 oocytes (porcine FSH: 787, ovine FSH: 823). Most of the oocytes were at MI from 24 to 33 h (porcine FSH 60.27%, ovine FSH 42.80%, p < 0.001) and at MII from 36 to 42 h (porcine FSH 80.38%, ovine FSH 67.45%, p < 0.01) of culture. Significantly higher maturation rate was observed in porcine FSH than in ovine FSH treated oocytes (86.69 ± 12.97%, 71.34 ± 9.86%, mean ± SD, p < 0.05), after 42 h of culture. In conclusion, under the specific culture conditions, porcine FSH seems to support pig oocyte maturation better than ovine FSH.
Amyloidosis of the breast mimicking recurrence in a previously treated early breast cancer
Authors: Toohey JM , Ismail K , Lonergan D , Lewis CR
Published: October 2007

Amyloid involvement of the breast is infrequently reported and may have clinical and radiological features suspicious for a primary breast malignancy. We describe a case of amyloid of the breast in which asymptomatic mammographic findings were suspicious for locally recurrent disease in a patient with previously treated breast cancer.
Post‐radiofrequency ablation syndrome after percutaneous radiofrequency of abdominal tumours: One centre experience and review of published works
Authors: Carrafiello G , Laganà D , Ianniello A , Dionigi G , Novario R , Recaldini C , Mangini M , Cuffari S , Fugazzola C
Published: October 2007

The aim of this study was to evaluate prospectively post‐radiofrequency ablation (RFA) syndrome and to determine its effect on the quality of life in the 15 days after percutaneous RFA treatment. We carried out an internal review board‐approved prospective study of the delayed symptoms that occurred after 71 consecutive RFA sessions in 53 patients (12 women and 41 men; age range 45–83 years; mean age 71.6 years) with 45 primary liver tumours, 34 liver metastases, 3 renal cell carcinoma (RCC), 2 residual lesions from RCC after nephrectomy and 1 pancreatic metastases from RCC. Postablation symptoms occurred in 17 of 53 (32%) patients. Six of 17 patients developed low‐grade fever (from 37.5 to 38.5°C). Other symptoms included delayed pain (9/17), nausea (7/17), vomiting (3/17), malaise (3/17) and myalgia (1). Postablation syndrome is a common phenomenon after RFA of solid abdominal tumours. Not only in our study but also in the previous ones the occurrence is observed in approximately one‐third patients. Patients should be informed that these symptoms are self‐limiting after RFA and most patients should be able to resume near‐complete preprocedural levels of activity within 10 days after the procedure.
Metatarsalgia: An ultrasound perspective
Authors: Gregg J , Marks P
Published: October 2007

Research on metatarsophalangeal joint instability and the plantar plate was conducted from May 2002 to May 2006. Along with plantar plate tears, we found a range of pathologies. This is a pictorial review of our experience.
Imaging of ascariasis
Authors: Das CJ , Kumar J , Debnath J , Chaudhry A
Published: October 2007

Ascaris lumbricoides is one of the most common parasitic infestations of the gastrointestinal tract worldwide. During the intestinal phase of the disease, the adult worms usually remain clinically silent, sometimes causing a variety of non‐specific abdominal symptoms. When present in large numbers, the worms may get intertwined into a bolus, causing intestinal obstruction, volvulus or even perforation. Occasionally, the adult Ascaris worm may migrate into the Vater’s ampulla and enter the bile duct, gall bladder or pancreatic duct, leading to a variety of complications such as biliary colic, gallstone formation, cholecystitis, pyogenic cholangitis, liver abscess and pancreatitis. Imaging plays a significant role in showing the presence of worms and possible complications in intestinal as well as hepatobiliary ascariasis. This pictorial essay aims to illustrate various imaging features of ascariasis and its associated complications.
Usefulness of muscle denervation as an MRI sign of peripheral nerve pathology
Authors: Lisle DA , Johnstone SA
Published: October 2007

Peripheral nerve disorders may be classified into compressive or entrapment neuropathies and non‐compressive neuropathies. Muscle denervation recognized on MRI may be a useful sign in the diagnosis of peripheral nerve disorders. Acute or subacute denervation results in prolonged T2 relaxation time, producing increased signal in skeletal muscle on short tau inversion‐recovery and fat‐suppressed T2‐weighted images. Chronic denervation produces fatty atrophy of skeletal muscles, resulting in increased muscle signal on T1‐weighted images. This review will outline and illustrate the various ways that muscle denervation as seen on MRI may assist in the diagnosis and localization of peripheral nerve disorders.
Modern imaging of renal tuberculosis in children
Authors: Mapukata A , Andronikou S , Fasulakis S , McCulloch M , Grobbelaar M , Jee L
Published: October 2007

Renal tuberculosis is relatively uncommon in children. Imaging of renal tuberculosis in children differs from adults in that intravenous urography is rarely performed for urinary symptoms in childhood because of radiation dose considerations. Modern imaging modalities include cross‐sectional techniques such as ultrasound, CT and MRI, which successfully show renal, calyceal, ureteric and bladder pathology of renal tuberculosis in children.
Comparison of two imaging protocols for acute stroke: Unenhanced cranial CT versus a multimodality cranial CT protocol with perfusion imaging
Authors: Langer RD , Neidl van Gorkom K , Al Kaabi HO , Torab F , Czechowski J , Nagi M , Ashish GM
Published: October 2007

The aim of the study was to validate a multimodality cranial computed tomography (CCT) protocol for patients with acute stroke in the United Arab Emirates as a basic imaging procedure for a stroke unit. Therefore, a comparative study was conducted between two groups: retrospective, historical group 1 with early unenhanced CCT and prospective group 2 undergoing a multimodality CCT protocol. Follow‐up unenhanced CCT >48 h served as gold standard in both groups. Group 1: Early unenhanced CCT of 50 patients were evaluated retrospectively, using Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score, and compared with the definite infarction on follow‐up CCT. Group 2: 50 patients underwent multimodality CCT (unenhanced CCT, perfusion studies: cerebral blood flow, cerebral blood volume, mean transit time and CT angiography) <8 h after clinical onset and follow‐up studies. Modified National Institute of Health Stroke Scale was used clinically in both groups. Group 1 showed 38 men, 12 women, clinical onset 2–8 h before CCT and modified National Institute of Health Stroke Scale 0–28. Group 2 included 38 men, 12 women, onset 3–8 h before CCT, modified National Institute of Health Stroke Scale 0–28. Sensitivity was 58.3% in group 1 and 84.2% in group 2. Computed tomography angiography detected nine intracranial occlusions/stenoses. The higher sensitivity of the multimodality CCT protocol justifies its use as a basic diagnostic tool for the set‐up of a first‐stroke unit in the United Arab Emirates.
A randomized cross‐over study of auto‐continuous positive airway pressure versus fixed‐continuous positive airway pressure in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: TO Kin W. , CHAN Wing C. , CHOO Kah L. , LAM Wai K. , WONG Kwan K. , HUI David S.
Published: October 2007

Background and objectives:  To compare the efficacy of auto‐CPAP (AutoSet Spirit, ResMed) versus fixed‐CPAP (S6 Elite, ResMed) in improving daytime sleepiness, health status, objective compliance and the ultimate treatment preference in patients with severe OSA.

Methods:  The study recruited 43 subjects aged 18–65 years with newly diagnosed severe OSA (AHI >30/h). Patients were initially treated with either auto‐CPAP or fixed‐CPAP for 2 months and then crossed over after a washout period of 1 week for another 2 months.

Results:  The study was completed by 41 patients. Results are presented as mean (SE). Use of auto‐CPAP in the first and the second month was significantly higher than that of fixed‐CPAP [129.7 (9.9) and 130.5 (10.7) h vs 115.2 (9.5) and 113.2 (9.4) h, P = 0.04 and 0.01], whereas mean hourly use per night was 4.3 and 4.4 h versus 3.8 and 3.7 h, respectively. The Epworth sleepiness scores improved after 1 month in both treatments (13.4 to 8.5 and 8.2, P < 0.01 for both). The Sleep apnoea quality of life index improved in the first month in both compared with baseline [4.6 (0.2) to 5.0 (0.2) for auto‐CPAP and 4.9 (0.2) for fixed‐CPAP, P = 0.01 and 0.04, respectively], with no difference between the two treatments. Nine and 30 patients preferred auto‐CPAP and fixed‐CPAP, respectively, at the end of the trial, whereas 14 and 25 patients would have chosen the same treatments if cost had not been a consideration.

Conclusions:  Auto‐CPAP and fixed‐CPAP were equally effective in improving symptoms and health status in patients with severe OSA. Usage was higher with auto‐CPAP, but more patients ultimately chose fixed‐CPAP.