bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interferon and ribavirin therapy does not select for resistance mutations in hepatitis C virus polymerase
Authors: Ward C. L. , Dev A. , Rigby S. , Symonds W. T. , Patel K. , Zekry A. , Pawlotsky J.‐M. , McHutchison J. G.
Published: March 2008

Summary.  Ribavirin has a minor and transient effect on hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication and has been suggested to select a novel mutation, F415Y, in the RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase of subtype 1a viruses. Twenty‐nine patients with chronic hepatitis C (subtyped by INNO LiPA as 1a, 17; 1b, 11; 1a/1b, 1) who were nonresponders to interferon‐based therapies were identified retrospectively and screened at Baseline, week 24 of treatment, and 24 weeks post‐treatment. Selection of resistance mutations, including at amino acid position 415 of the polymerase, was investigated. Using clonal sequencing and pyrosequencing of the NS5B gene, we screened for the F415Y resistance mutation among patients who received combination therapy with ribavirin and interferon α. Of the 15 subtype 1a patients treated with interferon plus ribavirin, only one had the F415Y change at week 24, and an F/Y mixture was still present 24 weeks after therapy. Four additional patients in this group had the F415Y change 24 weeks post‐therapy. The NS5B genes were sequenced in order to identify amino acid changes associated with ribavirin therapy, but no evidence was found that ribavirin selects for particular amino acids in the RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase. Ribavirin, a weak inhibitor of HCV replication, does not select for resistance mutations in the sequence of the HCV RNA polymerase.
Cladogenesis and phylogeography of the lizard Phrynocephalus vlangalii (Agamidae) on the Tibetan plateau
Authors: JIN YUAN‐TING , BROWN RICHARD P. , LIU NAI‐FA
Published: March 2008

Phrynocephalus vlangalii is restricted to dry sand or Gobi desert highlands between major mountain ranges in the Qinghai (Tibetan) Plateau. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence (partial ND2, tRNATrp and partial tRNAAla) was obtained from 293 Phrynocephalus sampled from 34 sites across the plateau. Partitioned Bayesian and maximum parsimony phylogenetic analyses revealed that P. vlangalii and two other proposed species (P. erythrus and P. putjatia) together form a monophyletic mtDNA clade which, in contrast with previous studies, does not include P. theobaldi and P. zetangensis. The main P. vlangalli clade comprises seven well‐supported lineages that correspond to distinct geographical areas with little or no overlap, and share a most recent common ancestor at 5.06 ± 0.68 million years ago (mya). This is much older than intraspecific lineages in other Tibetan animal groups. Analyses of molecular variance indicated that most of the observed genetic variation occurred among populations/regions implying long‐term interruption of maternal gene flow. A combined approach based on tests of population expansion, estimation of node dates, and significance tests on clade areas indicated that phylogeographical structuring has been primarily shaped by three main periods of plateau uplift during the Pliocene and Pleistocene, specifically 3.4 mya, 2.5 mya and 1.7 mya. These periods corresponded to the appearance of several mountain ranges that formed physical barriers between lineages. Populations from the Qaidam Basin are shown to have undergone major demographic and range expansions in the early Pleistocene, consistent with colonization of areas previously covered by the huge Qaidam palaeolake, which desiccated at this time. The study represents one of the most detailed phylogeographical analyses of the Qinghai Plateau to date and shows how geological events have shaped current patterns of diversity.
Selective activation by the guanine nucleotide exchange factor Don1 is a main determinant of Cdc42 signalling specificity in Ustilago maydis
Authors: Hlubek Andrea , Schink Kay O. , Mahlert Michael , Sandrock Björn , Bölker Michael
Published: March 2008

The highly conserved GTP‐binding proteins Cdc42 and Rac1 regulate cytokinesis, establishment of cell polarity and vesicular trafficking. In the dimorphic fungus Ustilago maydis, Rac1 is required for cell polarity and budding, while Cdc42 is essential for cell separation during cytokinesis. The same cell separation defect is also observed in mutants that lack Don1, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) of the Dbl family. We have generated a series of chimeric GTP‐binding proteins consisting of different portions of Cdc42 and Rac1. In vivo complementation analysis revealed that a short region encompassing amino acids 41–56 determines signalling specificity. Remarkably, substitution of a single amino acid at position 56 within this specificity domain is sufficient to confer Cdc42 function to Rac1 in vivo. Expression of Rac1W56F in Δcdc42 mutant cells resulted in complementation of the cell separation defect. In vitro GDP/GTP exchange assays demonstrated that the Dbl family GEF Don1 is highly specific for Cdc42 and cannot activate Rac1. However, if Rac1W56F is used as a substrate, Don1 is able to stimulate GDP/GTP exchange. Together these data indicate that activation by the GEF Don1 is an important determinant of Cdc42‐specific signalling in vivo.
Characterization of ExsA and of ExsA‐dependent promoters required for expression of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa type III secretion system
Authors: Brutinel Evan D. , Vakulskas Christopher A. , Brady Keith M. , Yahr Timothy L.
Published: March 2008

Expression of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa type III secretion system (T3SS) is activated by ExsA, a member of the AraC/XylS family of transcriptional regulators. In the present study we examine the DNA‐binding properties of ExsA. ExsA was purified as a histidine‐tagged fusion protein (ExsAHis) and found to be monomeric in solution. ExsAHis specifically bound T3SS promoters with high affinity as determined by electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA). For each promoter tested two distinct ExsA–DNA complexes were detected. Biochemical analyses indicate that the higher‐mobility complex consists of a single ExsAHis molecule bound to DNA while the lower‐mobility complex results from the binding of two ExsAHis molecules. DNase I protection assays demonstrate that the ExsAHis binding site overlaps the −35 RNA polymerase binding site and extends upstream an additional ∼34 bp. An alignment of all 10 ExsA‐dependent promoters revealed a number of highly conserved nucleotides within the footprinted region. We find that most of the highly conserved nucleotides are required for transcription in vivo; EMSA‐binding assays confirm that several of these nucleotides are essential determinants of ExsAHis binding. The combined data support a model in which two ExsAHis molecules bind adjacent sites on the promoter to activate T3SS gene transcription.
PerR acts as a switch for oxygen tolerance in the strict anaerobe Clostridium acetobutylicum
Authors: Hillmann Falk , Fischer Ralf‐Jörg , Saint‐Prix Florence , Girbal Laurence , Bahl Hubert
Published: March 2008

Clostridia belong to those bacteria which are considered as obligate anaerobe, e.g. oxygen is harmful or lethal to these bacteria. Nevertheless, it is known that they can survive limited exposure to air, and often eliminate oxygen or reactive derivatives via NAD(P)H‐dependent reduction. This system does apparently contribute to survival after oxidative stress, but is insufficient to establish long‐term tolerance of aerobic conditions. Here we show that manipulation of the regulatory mechanism of this defence mechanism can trigger aerotolerance in the obligate anaerobe Clostridium acetobutylicum. Deletion of a peroxide repressor (PerR)‐homologous protein resulted in prolonged aerotolerance, limited growth under aerobic conditions and rapid consumption of oxygen from an aerobic environment. The mutant strain also revealed higher resistance to H2O2 and activities of NADH‐dependent scavenging of H2O2 and organic peroxides in cell‐free extracts increased by at least one order of magnitude. Several genes encoding the putative enzymes were upregulated and identified as members of the clostridial PerR regulon, including the heat shock protein Hsp21, a reverse rubrerythrin which was massively produced and became the most abundant protein in the absence of PerR. This multifunctional protein is proposed to play the crucial role in the oxidative stress defence.
Trypsinogen IV, serotonin transporter transcript levels and serotonin content are increased in small intestine of irritable bowel syndrome patients
Authors: Kerckhoffs A. P. M. , Ter Linde J. J. M. , Akkermans L. M. A. , Samsom M.
Published: March 2008

Abstract  Colorectal and small intestinal visceral hypersensitivity has been demonstrated in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Serine protease signalling via protease‐activated receptor (PAR)‐2 promotes hyperalgesia to mechanical distension. Furthermore, serotonergic pathways are involved in gastrointestinal visceral sensitivity. Abnormalities of serine protease and serotonergic signalling components have been identified in IBS colorectal mucosal biopsies. We determined the role of altered mucosal serine protease and serotonergic signalling in small intestine of IBS patients. Duodenal mucosal biopsies of 34 IBS patients (10 constipation‐,11 diarrhoea‐predominant and 13 alternating) and 20 healthy subjects (HS) were collected. Gene transcripts of PAR‐2, trypsinogen IV, TPH‐1, SERT (serotonin transport protein) and serotonin (5‐HT3) subunits were quantified using real‐time PCR and 5‐HT content was measured by ELISA. Irritable bowel syndrome patients showed 1.5‐fold higher trypsinogen IV mRNA level compared to HS (P = 0.016). SERT expression was 1.8‐fold higher in IBS compared to HS (P = 0.007). Mucosal 5‐HT content was 1.7‐fold higher in IBS compared to HS (P = 0.015). The increase was 2.1‐fold in IBS‐C relative to HS (P = 0.018). Transcript levels of PAR‐2, TPH‐1 and 5‐HT3 receptor subunits did not differ between IBS and HS. In conclusion enhanced trypsinogen IV expression in IBS may cause increased PAR‐2 activation. Increased SERT expression and mucosal 5‐HT content in IBS suggest higher 5‐HT availability. Both may contribute to small intestinal visceral hypersensitivity in IBS patients.
Food wrapping by females of the European Beewolf, Philanthus triangulum, retards water loss of larval provisions
Authors: HERZNER GUDRUN , STROHM ERHARD
Published: March 2008

Abstract Females of the European beewolf, Philanthus triangulum F. (Hymenoptera, Crabronidae), embalm the provisions of their larvae, paralyzed honeybees, with a secretion from a postpharyngeal gland prior to oviposition. This food wrapping is known to delay fungus infestation of the prey. In the present study, the hypothesis that the food wrapping has an additional function, namely the prevention of prey desiccation, is tested. Water loss of paralyzed but unembalmed honeybees and embalmed honeybees is measured and the composition and quantity of their cuticular hydrocarbons analyzed by coupled gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Water loss is significantly lower in embalmed compared with unembalmed bees. This might have important advantages for the larvae under the warm and dry conditions that prevail in some brood cells. The embalming by beewolf females increases the total amount of hydrocarbons on the surface of the bees by almost ten‐fold. Moreover, the proportion of unsaturated and short‐chained hydrocarbons is significantly increased. Unsaturated and short‐chain hydrocarbons are usually less effective against water loss, so the increased protection against water loss appears to be mediated mainly by the thickness of the hydrocarbon layer.
Phase‐related 6‐kDa peptide titre in haemolymph of larvae and adult Schistocerca gregaria and its role in yellow‐protein synthesis
Authors: RAHMAN MAZIBUR M. , BOSCH LUC VANDEN , BEGUM MURSHIDA , SEIDELMANN KARSTEN , BREUER MICHAEL , DE LOOF ARNOLD
Published: March 2008

Abstract The haemolymph titre of the phase‐related 6‐kDa peptide is determined in fourth‐ and fifth‐instar larvae, as well as in adults, by high‐performance liquid chromatography. In larvae, the concentration of this peptide slowly increases towards the end of the instar to reach a maximum just before the moult. The titre is slightly higher in the fifth instar than in the fourth instar. In adults, it reaches an average concentration of 0.8 μg μL−1 of the haemolymph. In females, a peak is found at day 15 whereas, in males, there are two peaks, the first at day 9 and the second at day 15 after fledging. The role of the peptide in inducing yellow protein mRNA synthesis is investigated, as is its effect on the production of the pheromonal compound phenylacetonitrile (PAN). The peptide stimulates yellow protein mRNA synthesis, but its injection causes no change in yellow colouration. No effect on PAN production is found.
Characterization of Fusarium spp. responsible for causing dry rot of potato in Great Britain
Authors: Peters J. C. , Lees A. K. , Cullen D. W. , Sullivan L. , Stroud G. P. , Cunnington A. C.
Published: March 2008

A 3‐year survey was undertaken to establish the relative frequency of different Fusarium spp. present as inoculum on potato tubers collected from four regions of Great Britain. A total of 219 samples (comprising 10 950 tubers) were collected from the 2000, 2001 and 2002 crops and processed to recover dry rot‐producing isolates. In total, 228 isolates of Fusarium spp. were recovered. Most (94·7%) of these isolates were attributed to one of four Fusarium species: F. coeruleum, F. avenaceum, F. culmorum and F. sambucinum (formerly F. sulphureum). The incidence of the combined Fusarium spp. increased the further south the crops had been grown. Fusarium coeruleum was the most commonly isolated species in each survey year, comprising 37 to 52% of the total Fusarium species. Selected isolates of each species were evaluated for their ability to produce rots in potato tubers. Fusarium sambucinum was a more aggressive pathogen than the other Fusarium species in eight out of 10 cultivars. Fusarium avenaceum and F. culmorum were relatively weaker pathogens. However, these species were aggressive on some cultivars, notably Hermes. The selected isolates were also assessed for their sensitivity to the fungicides thiabendazole and imazalil. Using in vitro tests, 65% of F. sambucinum isolates were resistant to thiabendazole and 7% of F. avenaceum isolates were resistant to imazalil. Tubers treated with imazalil yielded a higher proportion of isolates of F. avenaceum than those that were untreated. Similarly, a higher proportion of F. sambucinum isolates were recovered from tubers treated with thiabendazole than from those that were not treated.
Dynamics of House Sparrow Biparental Care: What Contexts Trigger Partial Compensation?
Authors: Schwagmeyer P. L. , Bartlett Terri L. , Schwabl Hubert G.
Published: March 2008

Nest attendance during incubation is characterized by an inequitable division of labor in house sparrows, Passer domesticus, with females spending more time at the nest than males. Previous research has shown that if male contributions are reduced experimentally via testosterone (T) implants, females compensate partially for those reductions, consistent with predictions from most models of negotiated biparental care. In this study, we attempted to identify the cues and contexts generating partial compensation, using data from both unmanipulated parents and pairs with T‐males. Both males and females of this species sometimes leave the nest before their mate returns to relieve them, and we found that these unrelieved departures by unmanipulated individuals occur when partners are on lengthy recesses. Females compensated partially for long male recesses by marginally extending their bouts; most females also slightly reduced their next recess. By contrast, when males left before their mate returned, they left earlier than when they waited for the female. Neither males nor females adjusted their recess lengths after returning to the nest and discovering that their partner was absent. More pronounced changes in nest attendance of unmanipulated parents occurred in the context of ‘visits’, when individuals returned to the nest but then left without relieving their mate. Such visits effectively prolonged the bout of the on‐duty partner and extended the visitor’s recess. Analyses of behavior of T‐males and their mates revealed that T‐males had significantly longer recesses than control males, and that their mates, in turn, had elevated rates of unrelieved departures. T‐males also visited their on‐duty mates more often than control males, whereas female visits to T‐males were rare. Collectively, the predicted changes in female nest attendance associated with lengthy male recesses and male and female visits account reasonably well for the compensatory response of females paired to T‐males. The majority of female compensation was attributable to changes in visit behavior, however, suggesting that much of the negotiation over nest attendance in this species occurs during direct interactions between mates.
Endoscopic Recovery of Early Preimplantation Bovine Embryos: Effect of Hormonal Stimulation, Embryo Kinetics and Repeated Collection
Authors: Besenfelder U , Havlicek V , Moesslacher G , Gilles M , Tesfaye D , Griese J , Hoelker M , Maddox Hyttel P , Laurincik J , Brem G , Schellander K
Published: March 2008

Contents

The collection of extra numbers of bovine embryos by superstimulation of donors underlies variation concerning yield of morulae and blastocysts. Our study aimed at establishing a correlation between hormonal treatment and embryo development during oviductal passage including repeated flushing. A transvaginal endoscopic procedure was used to flush the oviducts at six different time intervals (beginning at 24 h until 105 h) after artificial insemination. In total, 119 animals were superovulated using either FSH or eCG. The hormonal treatment resulted in the stimulation of 2076 follicles of which 77% (1590 CL) ovulated. The bilateral flushing resulted in the collection of 1411 complexes (collection rate: 89%), of which 78% (1098) were assessed as viable embryos. The use of FSH resulted in significantly more stimulated follicles and ovulation sites compared with eCG (p < 0.001). Generally, the embryo kinetics were similar among the FSH and eCG treated animals. However, the embryo cleavage of the eCG treated animals was ahead of that of the FSH group comparing the different collection time points. The overall proportions of non‐viable embryos in both groups were similar. Regarding the embryo collection intervals in the eCG group, this proportion significantly increased during 51–105 h compared to 24–50 h (p < 0.05), whereas FSH delivered constant results. It was shown that the repeated endoscopic collection of oviductal stage embryos had no negative influence on the collection parameters. It is concluded that the introduced transvaginal endoscopic technique could have main impact on further studies focusing on early embryo development.
High‐resolution sonography of sublingual space
Authors: Jain P
Published: March 2008

Ultrasound examination of the sublingual region is a non‐invasive, safe, inexpensive and widely available procedure, unaffected by the amalgam in teeth which is a source of considerable artefact on CT and MRI images. With a little practice and good understanding of the anatomy, ultrasound can be a very helpful primary examination. If the lesion is clearly seen, no further imaging may be required.
Initial Australian experience with the recovery inferior vena cava filter in patients with increased risk of thromboembolic disease
Authors: De Villiers L , Mackenzie S , Gibbs H , Leggett D , Neels M , Harper J
Published: March 2008

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are an alternative treatment in venous thromboembolism where there are contraindications to anticoagulation. There are, however, concerns about the long‐term safety of permanent IVC filters. Often, the period of risk from anticoagulation therapy is short, which supports the use of non‐permanent IVC filters. In this series, 54 Recovery Filters (Bard, Tempe, AZ, USA) were placed since its approval for use in Australia in March 2004 (approved for removal up to 160 days after insertion). The most common indication for filter placement in this series was established thromboembolic disease with a temporary contraindication to anticoagulation. Twenty‐two filters were successfully retrieved without complication. In one case, it was not possible to retrieve the filter because of extensive contained thrombus. No complication was experienced at filter placement or retrieval; however, a fatal complication occurred as a result of filter migration. Mean time from placement to retrieval was 48 days (range 7–90 days). We describe methods we found useful at filter retrieval to overcome filter tilting.
Ossifying choroid plexus papilloma recurring with features of atypical papilloma
Authors: Shintaku Masayuki , Nitta Takehiro , Matsubayashi Keiko , Okamoto Shin‐ichiro
Published: March 2008

A case of ossifying choroid plexus papilloma (CPP) with an unusual clinical course is reported. The patient was a 46‐year‐old woman who underwent surgery for a 3‐cm tumor occupying the fourth ventricle. The tumor showed typical histopathological features of CPP, and the formation of psammoma bodies and mature bone trabeculae was prominent in the stroma. The tumor recurred locally after a dormant period of 15 years, and the recurrent lesion showed invasion of the cerebellum as well as increased cellularity, cellular stratification, nuclear atypism, and mitotic activity, all of which were consistent with a diagnosis of “atypical” CPP. The recurrent tumor did not show ossification of the stroma, although many psammoma bodies were found. There have been very few reported cases of ossifying CPP, and all of the previous cases behaved in a benign fashion. The present case is the first report of ossifying CPP that showed postoperative recurrence with progression to atypical CPP after an unusually long dormant period.
Bunina bodies in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Okamoto Koichi , Mizuno Yuji , Fujita Yukio
Published: March 2008

Bunina bodies, which are small eosinophilic intraneuronal inclusions in the remaining lower motor neurons, are generally considered to be a specific pathologic hallmark of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). One year before a publication by Bunina, van Reeth et al. described similar intracytoplasmic inclusions in the anterior horn cells in a patient with Pick's dementia with atypical ALS. At present, only two proteins have been shown to be present in Bunina bodies, one is cystatin C and the other is transferrin. Bunina bodies consist of amorphous electron‐dense material surrounded by tubular and vesicular structures on electron microscopy. Although the nature and significance of Bunina bodies in ALS are not yet clear, the bodies may be abnormal accumulations of unknown proteinous materials.
Radial artery calcification in end‐stage renal disease patients is associated with deposition of osteopontin and diminished expression of α‐smooth muscle actin
Authors: WANG NINGNING , YANG JUNWEI , YU XIANGBAO , HU JIANMING , XING CHANGYING , JU XIAOBING , SHEN XIA , QIAN JUN , ZHAO XIUFEN , WANG XIAOYUN
Published: March 2008

Aim:  Vascular access is the lifeline of haemodialysis patients and radial‐cephalic fistula is the preferred type of access. We investigated vascular calcification in uraemia radial arteries and compared it with clinical parameters.

Methods:  Artery specimens from 30 end‐stage renal disease patients were collected, examined calcification by von Kossa and Alizarin red staining. Expression of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) and the main component of bone matrix, osteopontin (OP) were detected by immunohistochemistry.

Results:  In uraemia vessels, calcification was mainly located in the medial layer. Nineteen (63.33%) patients had no evidence of calcification, six (20%) had mild/moderate calcification and five (16.66%) had severe calcification. Upregulation of OP and diminished expression of α‐SMA occurred in the medial layer, especially in the area of severe calcification. The calcification score, decreased expression of α‐SMA and upregulation of OP were positively correlated with older age, serum calcium, serum phosphorus and calcium × phosphorus product (P < 0.01).

Conclusion:  Vascular calcification in uraemia radial arteries is mainly located in the media layer. The risk factors appear to be older age, an elevated serum level of phosphorus, calcium and calcium × phosphorus product.
Evaluation of the first 5 years of a national eye health programme in Vanuatu
Authors: Williams Carmel , Szetu John L , Ramke Jacqueline , Palagyi Anna , Du Toit Renee , Brian Garry
Published: March 2008

Abstract

Purpose:  To evaluate against its objectives the achievements of the first 5 years of a national eye health programme in Vanuatu.

Methods:  Programme clinical activity data were collated from surgical logs, clinic and outreach reports, and patient register books. Cataract surgical outcomes were retrieved from monitoring software. Programme annual reports provided information about management, infrastructure improvements, equipment supplied, repaired or replaced, the supply and use of consumables, and human resource development and deployment. Costs were determined from project budgets and acquittals.

Results:  The programme promoted eye health, including through the integration of eye care into existing health services; established adequate facilities, at referral hospitals, provincial hospitals and rural health clinics, with equipment and manpower to provide eye care appropriate to the location; established a primary eye care programme; strengthened cataract services, although its effect on any cataract backlog is unknown; developed a diabetic eye disease diagnosis and treatment service, but its reach and effectiveness are unknown; provided accessible comprehensive eye care, but its effect on the prevalence of vision impairment is unknown; and established medical records and data collection systems, but these need more attention.

Discussion:  This programme achieved much. However, the evaluation highlighted the limitations of inadequate project design and that, without addressing further human resource development and the Ministry of Health's wavering financial commitment, there are potential risks to ongoing services. That revenue generating capacity was not incorporated into this programme may prove to be a flaw that will limit ongoing access to eye care, especially in rural areas.
The Association of Asthma with Aspergillus and Other Fungi
Authors: Adiseshan N. , Simpson J. , Gandevia Bryan
Published: March 2008

Summary: Five indices of allergic asper‐gillosis (radiographic abnormality, including upper lobe contraction, irregularity of bronchial walls and transient pulmonary infiltration, serial monthly sputum culture, immediate skin reaction, serum precipitins and bronchial reaction to inhalation) were studied in 38 asthmatic subjects drawn from approximately 250 patients admitted to a thoracic unit. Twenty‐three of the patients were selected because of radiographic abnormality or previous positive sputum cultures, neither of these features being present in the remainder. Serum precipitins, but not skin or bronchial reactivity, were significantly more frequent in the selected subjects. Subdivision of the entire series on the basis of radiographic abnormality or of skin sensitivity revealed a trend towards an association between the five indices, but in no case were all five indices present. Three or four indices were present in eleven of the 38 patients. If all five are required to establish the diagnosis, allergic aspergillosis must be rare in Sydney, but spontaneous fluctuations in natural history and problems of methodology conspire to reduce the likelihood of finding all five indices positive, particularly at any one point in time. The clinical course of three patients is cited to support an association between asthma and aspergillus sensitivity when fewer than five indices of allergic aspergillosis were identified. Aspergillus, isolated from the sputum of 20 patients, was rarely isolated in monthly cultures from the patients' homes, whereas alternaria and penicillium, rarely isolated from the sputum, were found in all homes. Skin sensitization rates to these moulds, and also to mucor (occasionally isolated from the sputum but never from the home) were comparable (approximately 40–67%). Although other interpretations are possible, these observations suggest that the capacity of aspergillus to produce sensitization is related to its ability to colonise the bronchial tree more than to chance environmental contact; environmental contact may be the major factor in determining skin sensitivity to other fungi.
Renin Release in Chronic Paraplegia
Authors: Mendelsohn F. A. , Johnston C. I.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Plasma renin levels were measured before and after upright tilting at 45o for 30 minutes in twelve chronic paraplegic patients and four normal subjects. The paraplegics did not show orthostatic hypotension and developed a tachycardia in response to tilting. Individual plasma renin responses were variable in both groups but plasma renin activity increased significantly in the paraplegics. The data shows that despite complete motor and sensory interruption, postural cardiovascular and renal autonomic reflexes are intact in these patients.
The Neuropathology of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Eadie M. J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: For almost 100 years after Parkinson's original description there was uncertainty as to whether there was any structural brain pathology in idiopathic Parkinsonism, or, if there was, whether the lesions were situated in

(a) the spinal cord

(b) the mid‐brain and substantia nigra

(c) the striatum, pallidum, thalamus and mid‐brain

Then, in 1913, Lewy2 studied 20 Parkinsonian brains and found changes in the cerebral cortex, caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus, certain fibre tracts in the basal ganglia, the substantia innominata and the dorsal vagal nucleus. As well as cell loss and gliosis there were neurofibrillary changes in neurons, and laminated inclusion bodies (Lewy bodies). Except for changes in the substantia nigra Lewy described practically all the microscopic lesions of idiopathic Parkinsonism. The nigral changes were emphasised by many later authors, and came to be regarded as the most common, if not the essential, lesions of Parkinsonism. However, the currently available evidence suggests that bilateral substantia nigra lesions alone are not a sufficient explanation for Parkinsonism.

At the present time, at least three problems face those who would interpret the neuropathology of Parkinsonism:

(i) what is the meaning of the Lewy body?

(ii) what is the correlation between regional brain lesions and different aspects of Parkinsonian dysfunction ?

(iii) could Parkinsonism be the clinical expression of a chemical disorder in monoaminergic neurons, with structural alterations a late effect of the underlying chemical changes?
Summary and General Conclusion on the Management of Parkinsonian Patients
Authors: Lance J.W.
Published: March 2008

Summary: This paper brings together the key points of many of the papers presented throughout the day. In particular the neuropathology and pathophysiology of Parkinson's Disease is coordinated. This leads to the outline of a model of Parkinson's Disease based on the best available knowledge at the present time. Summary of explanations for the failure of L‐dopa, a description of electromyographic studies in Parkinsonian patients and several interesting case presentations are included. Contraindications to L‐dopa therapy are summarised.
Isochromosome for the Short Arm of X with Primary Amenorrhoea and a Pituitary Tumour
Authors: Keogh E. J. , de Kretser D. M. , Fitzgerald M. G.
Published: March 2008

Summary: This report describes the association of primary amenorrhoea, a pituitary tumour and isochromosome formation for the short arm of the X chromosome in a phenotypic female of normal stature. It is proposed that these features may be causally related.
The Analgesic Syndrome
Authors: Duggan J. M.
Published: March 2008

Summary: A review of 63 patients with analgesic abuse, analgesic nephropathy and peptic ulcer is presented. It is suggested that the term “Analgesic Syndrome” be reserved for this combination which is often associated with hyper‐tension, ischaemic heart disease, hypo‐chromic anaemia and psycho‐social disability. The syndrome may present in a variety of forms and the diagnosis will often be missed unless urine testing with Phenistix for salicylates is used as a routine and unless the clinician is aware that patients often deny analgesic abuse. Many patients had taken no phenacetin for several years and the data supports suggestions that aspirin may produce analgesic nephropathy. The peptic ulcer is often gastric, the incidence of complications high, but in only one of the 16 deaths was it an immediate cause which was most often renal failure and ischaemic heart disease.
Wenckebach Block in the Distal Conduction System
Authors: Hunt David , Stuckey John , Vohra Jitu , Sloman Graeme
Published: March 2008

Summary: Two patients presented with dizziness or syncope and electrocardiographic evidence of intraventricular and/or atrioventricular conduction abnormalities. Both had prolonged HV intervals at rest indicating trifascicular disease. Wenckebach block in the bundle branch system was present in one patient at rest and in the other during atrial pacing. The significance of these findings are discussed.
Infective Endocarditis in a Sydney Teaching Hospital—1962–1971.*
Authors: Bailey I. K. , Richards J. G.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Infective endocarditis in a Sydney teaching hospital—1962–1971. I. K. Bailey and J. G. Richards, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 413–420.
Prolonged Control of Hypoglycaemia by L‐Asparaginase in Islet Cell Carcinoma producing Insulin and Gastrin
Authors: Warne G. L. , Adie R. , Hansky J. , Martin F. I. R. , Varigos G.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Prolonged control of hypoglycaemia by L‐asparaginase in islet cell carcinoma producing insulin and gastrin. G. L Warne, R. Adie, J. Hansky, F. I. R. Martin and G. Varigos, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1975, 5, pp. 466–468.
Urinary Cyclic AMP in Diagnosis and Management of Hypercalcaemia: Studies of Patients without Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Bartley Paul C. , Lloyd H. M. , Willgoss D.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Urinary adenosine‐3′, 5′‐cyclic monophosphate was measured in 14 patients with hypercalcaemia not caused by primary hyperparathyroidism. Increased levels were found in patients with malignant disease without bone metastases and believed to be examples of paraendocrine syndrome. Decreased levels were found in patients with meta‐static carcinoma involving bone, and in patients with multiple myeloma, lymphoma and immobilisation after fracture. Results obtained during treatment for hypercalcaemia are described in three patients.

In two hypercalcaemic patients (one with hyperthyroidism and one with breast cancer with bone metastases) normal levels were found.

This measurement is a useful substitute for assay of serum parathyroid hormone and is of value in the diagnosis of hypercalcaemia, in monitoring effects of treatment and in revealing underlying mechanisms.
Symptomatic Hypergastrinaemia with Achlorhydria: Relief by Antrectomy*
Authors: Thompson C. D. , Mackay I. R. , Hansky J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: A woman had hypergastrinaemia associated with the variety of gastritis (Type A) that is associated usually with pernicious anaemia, together with recurring bouts of severe abdominal pain. Fasting serum gastrin levels ranged between 600 and 2750 pg/ml. There was a rise in serum gastrin levels after a standard protein meal, indicative of a large G cell mass, and a fall after intragastric HCI, which led to a trial of treatment with HCI; this gave some symptomatic relief. After surgical antrectomy there was a profound fall of serum gastrin from a pre‐operative level of 2500 pg/ml to constant values of 16–25 pg/ml, and complete and lasting relief from the bouts of abdominal pain.
Mycobacterium Ulcerans in Australia
Authors: Radford Anthony J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: The epidemiology of 39 s of infection with Mycobacterium ulcerans published during the past 25 years in Australia is presented. A review is made of the laboratory findings of the strains found in Australia and of the contribution of Australian workers to the description, treatment and prevention of this disfiguring disease.
Efficacy of Two Minor Tranquilizers in Relieving Symptoms of Functional Gastrointestinal Distress
Authors: Baume Peter , Traceyt M. , Dawson Lynette
Published: March 2008

Summary: Efficacy of two minor tranquilizers in relieving symptoms of functional gastrointestinal distress
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approach to Chronic Leukaemia
Authors: Gunz F. W.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Diagnostic and therapeutic approach to chronic leukaemia.
Type V Hyperlipoproteinaemia Re‐visited: Findings in a Sydney Population*
Authors: Simons L. A. , Williams P. F. , Turtle J. R.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Type V hyperlipoproteinaemia re‐visited: Findings in a Sydney population.

The clinical and biochemical features of eleven patients with Type V hyperlipoproteinaemia have been reviewed. All patients were male, and there was a high incidence in the group of obesity, vascular disease, acute abdominal pain, gout, diabetes mellitus and alcoholism. Plasma cholesterol concentrations ranged from 212 to 1512 mg/100 ml and triglycerides from 708 to 7670 mg/100 ml. Lipaemia was associated with significant hyponatraemia, and also interfered with the determination of plasma glucose and serum amylase. Chylomicronaemia and hyperprebetalipoproteinaemia were accompanied by reduction in the pools of beta and alpha lipoproteins. All lipoprotein classes were relatively depleted of cholesterol compared to triglyceride.

There was a variable pattern of treatment response. In some patients alcohol withdrawal produced a rapid improvement in plasma lipids. In diabetes mellitus there were two types of response: a rapid one in chronic insulin deficiency, and secondly, a more gradual one in mild diabetes associated with hyperinsulinaemia. In other patients there was a rapid response to carbohydratecalorie restriction but the respective contributions of each of the steps remained unclear.
Community Control of Hypertension
Authors: Cullen K. J. , McCall M. G. , Stenhouse N. S.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Community control of hypertension.

The adequacy of treatment of hypertension in a community was monitored at triennial mass health examinations. Hypertensives were not adequately retained on treatment until a disease register was developed and a practice nurse given responsibility for maintaining contact with patients on the register. The advent of newer therapeutic agents and intensification of the interest of both doctor and patient in the results of treatment were associated with progressive improvement in the adequacy of control of blood pressure.
Behavioural Epidemiology and Coronary Heart Disease: Some Sources of Error and an Alternative Conceptual Model
Authors: Byrne D. G. , Henderson A. S.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Behavioural epidemiology and coronary heart disease: Some sources of error and an alternative conceptual model.

While the quantity of evidence relating behaviour and coronary heart disease is great, the quality is variable. It is possible to discern two broad categories of research error, the methodological and the conceptual, to account for this. The former may be corrected by sufficiently careful study design: the latter may require a complete re‐examination of hypotheses.

An alternative conceptual model is proposed in which three components (a) a surfeit of adversity in the absence of support, (b) consequent arousal and activation of the cardiovascular system, and (c) the coexistence of one or more of a well documented set of organic risk factors, allow the integrated and systematic testing of hypotheses relating behaviour and coronary heart disease. The authors are presently employing this conceptual model in the investigation of a number of such hypotheses.
Consensus Opinion and Observer Accuracy in Electrocardiography with Reference to Coronary Arteriographic Information
Authors: Weston M. J. , Bett J. H. N. , Over R.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Consensus opinion and observer accuracy in electrocardiography with reference to coronary arteriographic information.

In this study reader performance in resting electrocardiographic (ECG) reading and case summary interpretation was investigated. Eight cardiologists were asked to read independently 105 paired ECG–Case summary sheets on either two or four occasions. The order of ECG–Case summary inspection for each sheet was randomized over trials. The results show low levels of inter‐ and intra‐reader reliability when physicians report on ECG traces. Reference to coronary arteriographic information confirms that the resting ECG has limited utility in the detection of coronary artery disease.
Acute Myocardial Infarction: One Year Follow‐up of 1138 Cases from the Perth Community Coronary Register
Authors: Pole D. J. , Thompson P. L. , Woodings T. L. , McCall M. G. , Reader R.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Acute myocardial infarction: One year follow‐up of 1138 cases from the Perth Community Coronary Register.

The one year mortality of patients from the Perth Acute Myocardial Infarction Register surviving the acute episode (first 28 days) is presented. Of 1138 patients suffering definite or possible acute myocardial infarction in one year, 705 (62%) survived 28 days. There were 89 deaths (11‐5%) in the subsequent 11 months. One year mortality was related to age but not sex, previous symptoms of coronary heart disease, but not hypertension or diabetes, to tachycardia and congestive cardiac failure at first examination, but not arrhythmias in the acute episode.

These observations highlight the importance of protecting the myocardium in the acute phase of myocardial infarction.
New Approaches to the Management of the Wolff‐Parkinson‐White Syndrome
Authors: Tonkin A. M.
Published: March 2008

Summary: New approaches to the management of the Wolff‐Parkinson‐White syndrome.

Pre‐excitation has been defined as “a condition in which all or some portion of the ventricular muscle is activated earlier in relation to atrial events, than would be expected had the impulse reached the ventricle by way of the normal atrioventricular conduction system”.‘1 The susceptibility of patients with pre‐excitation to paroxysmal tachycardias had been described many years previously.2 The Wolff‐Parkinson‐White syndrome was initially thought to have a relatively benign prognosis. Subsequently, it was recognised that some patients were prone to life‐threatening arrhythmias and sudden death.3,
4
This recognition has given impetus to sophisticated electrophysiological study of the pre‐excitation syndromes by recently developed techniques of catheterization5
6’7, epicardial mapping8 and surgery.3 The purpose of this review is to highlight the recent advances in management of the Wolff‐Parkinson‐White syndrome which have been based upon these electrophysiological techniques.
Scleroderma (Progressive Systemic Sclerosis) with Severe Bowel Involvement. Treatment by Extensive Resection of the Small Intestine
Authors: Barnett A. J. , Taubman I. , Poon S. K. , Strangward R. W.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Scleroderma (progressive systemic sclerosis) with severe bowel involvement. Treatment by extensive resection of the small intestine.

A 48‐year‐old man with previously diagnosed scleroderma with bowel involvement was admitted to hospital with severe malnutrition attributed to malabsorption. Shortly after this, he developed features of intestinal obstruction followed by paralytic ileus.

Due to failure to respond to medical treatment, operation was carried, out. On two occasions adhesions were divided, but the bowel failed to function. At a third operation the proximal half of the small bowel below the duodeno‐jejunal flexure was excised. Following this the patient made a good recovery.

Small bowel involvement in scleroderma is discussed. Ma/absorption is probably related to bacterial proliferation in the small bowel secondary to stasis and may be helped by antibiotic drugs. Other disturbances resulting in inability of the bowel to propel its contents may comprise syndromes of obstruction and paralytic ileus. A/though management of scleroderma bowel involvement is usually medical, surgical treatment may be indicated under certain circumstances. It may be life‐saving.
Watery Diarrhoea (WDHA) Syndrome Associated with Carcinoma of the Lung
Authors: Luey K. , Scobie B. A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Watery diarrhoea (WDHA) syndrome associated with carcinoma of the lung.

A patient with bronchial carcinoma presented with profuse watery diarrhoea, hypokalaemia and hypochlorhydria. Laparotomy appeared to exclude the usual cause, a pancreatic islet‐cell tumour. Relief of the diarrhoea was achieved only with prednisone therapy. Evidence is adduced to implicate a humoral factor produced by the tumour, a/though in this case, the serum VIP level was not elevated.
Diazoxide‐induced Benin Release in Diagnosis of Remediable Renovascular Hypertension*
Authors: Stokes G. S. , Weber M. A. , Gain Judith , Scott A. J. , Roberts B. A. , Sheil A. G. R.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Diazoxide‐induced renin release in diagnosis of remediable renovascular hypertension.
Evaluation of an Enteric Coated Aspirin Preparation
Authors: Day R. O. , Paull P. D. , Champion G. D. , Graham G. G.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Evaluation of an enteric coated aspirin preparation.
Changes in Plasma Lipoproteins in Subjects Treated with the Bile Acid‐Sequestering Resin Polidexide (Secholex®)
Authors: Simons L. A. , Williams P. F.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Changes in plasma lipoproteins in subjects treated with the bile acid‐sequestering resin polidexide (Secholex®). L. A. Simons and P. F. Williams, Aust. N.Z. J. Med., 1976, 6, pp. 1 27–130

The effects of a new anion‐exchange resin, polidexide, 3–30 grams/day, on plasma lipids and lipoproteins have been studied in one normal subject and in three hyperlipidaemic patients. Plasma cholesterol concentrations were significantly reduced in all subjects over 80–120 days of therapy by amounts ranging from 14 to 20%. Plasma triglyceride concentrations increased in two patients with pre‐existing hypertriglyceridaemia. Plasma apolipoprotein‐B concentrations were reduced in all subjects. Cholesterol and apo‐B concentrations in low density lipoproteins were reduced in all subjects, while triglyceride concentrations in very low density lipoproteins were increased in 3/4 subjects. Changes in high density lipoproteins were quite variable.