bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Seasonal and Physiological Variations on the Serum Chemistry, Vitamins and Thyroid Hormone Concentrations in Sheep
Authors: Yokus B. , Cakir D. U. , Kanay Z. , Gulten T. , Uysal E.
Published: July 2006

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible effects of the reproductive status and seasonal variations on the serum chemistry and vitamin status and their relationships with the thyroid hormones in Sakiz‐Awassi crossbreed sheep. The sheep (n = 34) were divided into two groups. The first group (n = 22) was mated; the second group (n = 12) was not mated. Their serum samples were collected four times a year at the each season and under reproductive status. The periods are 1, early pregnancy (October); 2, late pregnancy (January); 3, lactation (April); and 4, dry season (July). The results of this study indicated that (1) total protein (TP), globulin, cholesterol, creatinine, uric acid and T4/T3 vary with reproductive status but not seasonal variations; (2) alanine aminotransferase, T4, fT4 concentrations in serum vary only with reproductive status; (3) the urea, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, amylase, albumin, triglyceride, VLDL, Vit A–E, T3 and fT3 concentration could vary with both reproductive status and seasonal variations; (4) the glucose,γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase, folate concentrations were altered neither season of the year nor the reproductive status; (5) a single reference interval for folate,γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), glucose, TP, globulin, cholesterol, creatinine, uric acid and T4/T3 can be used for both mated and non‐mated sheep because of no differences were found due to the reproductive status. Taking the results together suggests that reproductive status and seasonal variations have to be taken into consideration for a correct interpretation of the serum chemistry values of sheep. Nutritional supplements are required for sheep during certain periods to avoid a decline of their performance, which would then represent consequent economic, loses.
Effects of Age and Reproductive Stage on Certain Serum Biochemical Parameters of Chios Sheep Under Greek Rearing Conditions
Authors: Roubies N. , Panousis N. , Fytianou A. , Katsoulos P. D. , Giadinis N. , Karatzias H.
Published: July 2006

The aim of the present study was to determine the normal ranges of the most commonly used serum biochemical parameters of sheep reared under Greek breeding conditions, as well as to test for the effects of the age and reproductive status of the animals on the normal values of these parameters. In total, 200 clinically healthy Chios sheep from 10 farms were used in the experiment. For the determination of the effect of age 150 sheep were assigned in three groups. Group A consisting of 50 lambs aged 2–6 months (mean ± SD: 4.15 ± 1.08), group B of 50 non‐pregnant ewes into lactation aged 1–3 years (mean ± SD: 2.12 ± 0.86) and group C of 50 non‐pregnant ewes into lactation aged more than 3 years (mean ± SD: 5.98 ± 1.66). For evaluating the effect of reproductive status 50 pregnant ewes in dry period were used, 15–30 days before the expected day of lambing (group D), along with the 100 non‐pregnant ewes into lactation of groups B and C (group E). Blood sampling was performed once, in dry ewes from December to January, and in lambs and lactating ewes from March to May. The results showed that of the 14 biochemical parameters determined in serum, six were significantly affected by the age and eight by the reproductive stage of the animals.
Intestinal Cryptosporidiosis in Turkeys in Iran
Authors: Gharagozlou M. J. , Dezfoulian O. , Rahbari S. , Bokaie S. , Jahanzad I. , Razavi A. N. E.
Published: July 2006

Naturally occurring cryptosporidiosis is reported in turkey poults suffering from diarrhoea and unthriftness in Iran. Histological and ultrastructural studies revealed high number of Cryptosporidium developmental stages mainly located in the mid and terminal portions of small intestine of the poults. Other portions of the intestinal tract were less frequently infected. Oocyst shedding was detected only in 29% of the histologically positive birds. Based on host species, clinical signs, pathology and tissue location of the parasites, Cryptosporidium meleagridis was most likely responsible for these infections. This parasite was also reported recently in a child with diarrhoea in Iran.
Medial meniscus posterior root attachment injury and degeneration: MRI findings
Authors: Jones AO , Houang MTW , Low RS , Wood DG
Published: July 2006

The posterior root attachment of the medial meniscus is readily identifiable on MRI. Unless specifically reviewed, injuries involving this structure may be overlooked. Significant meniscal root pathology may cause functional incompetence of the meniscus, with consequent early onset cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis. This review article emphasizes the importance of positive identification of an intact meniscal root and illustrates the known association of meniscal root injury or tear with medial extrusion of the medial meniscus by greater than 3 mm beyond the joint margin.
Stratification of radiological test ordering: Its usefulness in reducing unnecessary tests with consequential reduction in costs
Authors: Phan TD , Lau KKP , De Campo J
Published: July 2006

This study examines the effectiveness of an automated, stratified system of radiological test ordering, known as ‘Traffic Lights’, in reducing the number of unnecessary tests and their associated costs. The system involves stratification of radiological tests into three groups, denoted by red, amber and green colours. ‘Red’ tests must be authorized by a consultant. ‘Amber’ tests must be signed by a registrar or authorized by a consultant. ‘Green’ tests can be ordered directly by residents or interns. In the 4 months after the introduction of ‘Traffic Lights’, each radiological method showed a reduction in both the number of tests and their associated costs. The reduction was consistent across both medical and surgical groups. Analysis of data 20 months immediately after the introduction of ‘Traffic Lights’ also showed a consistent reduction in the total number of tests, suggesting that the changes are sustainable and unlikely to be due to seasonal variation. Combined with evidence‐based medicine protocols, this stratified system of radiological test ordering should ensure the safety, quality and appropriateness of imaging tests and minimize overall patient radiation dose.
Diagnostic error due to vicarious excretion of rectal iodinated contrast
Authors: Low VHS , Chu BK
Published: July 2006

Introduction of iodinated contrast into the intact colon is not expected to result in imaging‐visible renal excretion of this contrast and is a phenomenon that has only rarely been described. We present a case in which such vicarious renal excretion was misinterpreted as a recto‐vesical fistula which resulted in unnecessary delay in the patient’s management.
Solid and cystic papillary epithelial neoplasm of the pancreas in an 11‐year‐old girl: Imaging features with pathological correlation
Authors: Thambugala GM , Pereira J , Sugo E , Henry G , Cohn RJ
Published: July 2006

Solid and cystic papillary epithelial neoplasms (SCPEN) of the pancreas are rare tumours seen in young women. Pancreatic masses in children are extremely rare and SCPEN should be considered in the radiological differential diagnosis. Although there have been many series of SCPEN reported in the published literature in adults, only two series have focused on paediatric patients. The radiological and histopathological features of SCPEN in a paediatric patient are presented.
Direct sac puncture and N‐butyl cyanoacrylate embolization of medial canthal arteriovenous malformation supplied by the external carotid artery and the internal carotid artery branches
Authors: Phadke RV , Diwakar H , Mohan S , Parihar A , Singh T
Published: July 2006

We report a periorbital arteriovenous fistula that was treated with direct sac puncture N‐butyl cyanoacrylate embolization under controlled inflow and outflow. The efficacy of this technique in a periorbital lesion is discussed.
Leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava
Authors: Bonura A , Saade C , Sharma P
Published: July 2006

Leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava is a rare primary tumour. We present a case report of a 67‐year‐old man with a long history of abdominal pain and gastroesophageal reflux, who was found to have a large retroperitoneal mass confirmed to be a leiomyosarcoma. The clinical and imaging features are outlined, and in addition the treatment and prognosis.
Nodding off or switching off? The use of popular media as a sleep aid in secondary‐school children
Authors: Eggermont Steven , Van den Bulck Jan
Published: July 2006

Aim:  To describe the use of media as a sleep aid in adolescents and relate this to their sleep routines and feelings of tiredness.

Methods:  A questionnaire about using media as a sleep aid, media presence in bedrooms, time to bed and time out of bed on average weekdays and average weekend days, and questions regarding level of tiredness in the morning, at school, after a day at school and after the weekend was completed by 2546 seventh and 10th grade children in a random sample of 15 schools.

Results:  Of the adolescents, 36.7% reported watching television to help them fall asleep. In total, 28.2% of the boys and 14.7% of the girls used computer games as a sleep aid. Music was used to fall asleep by 60.2% of the adolescents in this sample. About half of the adolescents read books to fall asleep. Except for reading books, using media as a sleep aid is negatively related to respondents’ time to bed on weekdays, their number of hours of sleep per week and their self‐reported level of tiredness.

Conclusion:  Using media as a sleep aid appears to be common practice among adolescents. Those who reported using music, television, and computer games more often as a sleeping aid slept fewer hours and were significantly more tired.
Methimazole‐induced toxic epidermal necrolysis in a 12‐year‐old girl
Authors: Ziora Katarzyna , Oswiecimska Joanna , Broll‐Waska Katarzyna , Szczepanska Maria , Szprynger Krystyna , Pieniazek Wojciech , Pindycka‐Piaszczynska Malgorzata , Sakiel Stanislaw , Kawecki Marek
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  We report a 12‐year‐old girl with hyperthyreosis who presented methamazole‐induced toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). The patient’s past history suggests a presence of autoimmune disease. To our knowledge it is the first report describing such an adverse effect of methimazole.
Desmoplastic infantile ganglioglioma with calcification
Authors: Bhardwaj Minakshi , Sharma Alok , Pal Hillol K.
Published: July 2006

Desmoplastic infantile gangliogliomas (DIGs) are rare intracranial, cystic tumors, usually detected within the first 2 years of life. Histologically, these tumors are characterized by intense desmoplasia and a divergent astrocytic and neuronal differentiation. Less than 60 well‐documented cases of this extremely rare tumor are reported in the literature. We present the case of a 10‐month‐old male child presenting with a large, cystic, intracranial lesion and having the characteristic histological features of a DIG. In addition, the lesion also showed focal areas of calcification within the tumor, not usually considered a feature of this entity. The present case extends the reported spectrum of this rare entity and describes the unusual occurrence of calcification within the lesion.
Acute motor and sensory neuronopathy associated with small‐cell lung cancer: A clinicopathological study
Authors: Nokura Kazuya , Nagamatsu Masaaki , Inagaki Toshiaki , Yamamoto Hiroko , Koga Hiroshi , Sugimura Kimiya , Yoshida Mari , Hashizume Yoshio
Published: July 2006

A 48‐year‐old Chinese woman developed ascending motor paralysis while visiting Japan, leading to tetraplegia and respiratory failure over 2 weeks. The patient’s course was complicated by anoxic encephalopathy. Nerve conduction studies revealed a severely decreased amplitude of compound muscle action potentials and a sural nerve biopsy specimen showed findings consistent with axonal‐form Guillain–Barré syndrome. An autopsy, excluding the brain, demonstrated small‐cell lung cancer that was not detected clinically, axonal‐dominant degeneration in the nerve roots and distal peripheral nerves, and the loss of both myelin and axons in the dorsal spinal column. The spinal anterior horn cells were severely decreased and were accompanied by astrocytic reaction in all spinal segments with lymphocytic infiltration. A limited examination of the dorsal root ganglia did not show Nageotte nodules, but the infiltration of T cells was observed. Although the clinical course mimicked axonal‐form Guillain–Barré syndrome, the autopsy demonstrated both sensory and motor neuronal involvement, as well as small‐cell lung cancer. Although anti‐Hu and antiganglioside antibodies were negative in the patient’s serum, the paraneoplastic mechanism might have damaged the anterior horn and dorsal root ganglia cells, which subsequently led to secondary axonal degeneration. There has been a report on a case of paraneoplastic subacute motor neuronopathy, but the acute course described here has not been reported before.
Vascular complications in dementia with Lewy bodies: A postmortem study
Authors: Isojima Daisuke , Togo Takashi , Kosaka Kenji , Fujishiro Hiroshige , Akatsu Hiroyasu , Katsuse Omi , Iritani Shuji , Matsumoto Toshihiko , Hirayasu Yoshio
Published: July 2006

The effects of cerebrovascular lesions on DLB are not yet fully understood, whereas the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is known to be associated with cerebrovascular lesions. In this study, we investigated the frequency of concomitant cerebrovascular pathologies in autopsy‐proven DLB cases (n = 25) in comparison with AD cases (n = 63). We also investigated the correlation between cerebrovascular pathologies and the clinical features of DLB cases. On gross inspection, five cases of DLB and seven cases of AD were complicated by cerebral hemorrhages and the difference was significant; most of the lesions in DLB were subdural hemorrhages, possibly related to trauma. Nine cases of DLB and 25 cases of AD had grossly identified infarctions, but no significant difference was observed. Three cases of DLB and four cases of AD had concomitant hemorrhages, while 10 cases of DLB and 43 cases of AD had infarcts on microscopic inspection. There was a significant difference in the frequency of microscopic infarcts between DLB and AD, whereas no significant difference was noted in the frequency of microscopic hemorrhages. In DLB cases without vascular complications, memory disturbance was common as the initial symptom, while parkinsonism was more common in those with vascular complications. However, no significant difference was observed between DLB cases with and without vascular complications with respect to the frequency of individual clinical symptoms over the whole clinical course. These findings suggest that grossly identified hemorrhages are more common in DLB because of trauma, while microinfarcts are less common in DLB than AD, although the reason remains unclear. Such vascular complications might affect the clinical manifestations, in particular, the initial symptom, of DLB.
Role of endoglin and transforming growth factor‐beta in progressive white matter damage after an ischemic stroke
Authors: Dziewulska Dorota , Rafałowska Janina
Published: July 2006

We morphologically examined human brains several years after a territorial ischemic stroke to assess the development of progressing white matter damage and its pathomechanisms. Our investigations focused on the role of TGF‐β, one of the factors whose expression increases after tissue damage, and its receptor endoglin in the propagation of postischemic injury. Examination of the white matter adjacent to the postapoplectic cavity revealed structural changes in the capillary vessels, disturbed microcirculation, and deep endothelial cell damage with DNA fragmentation in the TUNEL reaction. Many oligodendrocytes also revealed DNA damage and an increased expression of caspase‐3. In the rarefied white matter, the microvessel immune reaction to TGF‐β was diminished while the expression of endoglin was heterogeneous: absent in some capillaries but increased in others in comparison to the vessels located more peripherally from the cavity and in the control material. We conclude that endoglin and TGF‐β can be involved in the development of the microangiopathy responsible for the propagation of postischemic white matter injury in humans. We suggest that disturbances in endoglin expression can influence TGF‐β signaling and, consequently, vessel structure and function. Pronounced endoglin expression can lead to decreased vessel wall integrity while a lack of the constitutively expressed protein is probably a mirror of deep vessel damage.
Impacts of differential consumption by the grazing fish, Plecoglossus altivelis, on the benthic algal composition in the Chikuma River, Japan
Authors: Abe Shin‐ichiro , Kiso Katsuhiro , Katano Osamu , Yamamoto Satoshi , Nagumo Tamotsu , Tanaka Jiro
Published: July 2006

Grazing effects of ayu, Plecoglossus altivelis Temminck et Schegel, on the benthic algal assemblages were investigated in the Chikuma River, Japan. Comparison of the algal composition on boulders with and without intensively grazed patches indicated that fish grazing decreased the abundance of diatoms and prostrate filamentous cyanobacteria and caused upright filamentous cyanobacteria to predominate. Differential consumption by ayu was estimated by comparing the relative abundance of algae in the stomach contents of ayu and that in the algal assemblages within the grazed patches. The results showed that ayu consumed the prostrate filamentous cyanobacteria proportionally to their abundance, whereas they ingested diatoms and the upright filamentous cyanobacteria in a larger and lower quantity, respectively, than that expected from their abundance. Differential consumption would involve the change in the algal composition toward the predominance of upright filamentous cyanobacteria under fish grazing conditions.
Ultrastructural and immunocytological studies on the rhizoplast in the chrysophycean alga Ochromonas danica
Authors: Uemori Chihiro , Nagasato Chikako , Kato Atsushi , Motomura Taizo
Published: July 2006

The rhizoplast, a striated band elongating from the flagellar basal body to the nucleus, is conspicuous in cells of Ochromonas danica Prings. In interphase cells, it runs from the basal body of the anterior flagellum to the space between the nucleus and the Golgi body. In O. danica, the rhizoplast duplicates during mitosis and the two rhizoplasts serve as mitotic poles. In the present study, we reinvestigated mitosis of O. danica using transmission electron microscopy and immunofluorescence microscopy, especially focusing on the rhizoplast. The nuclear envelope became dispersed during metaphase, and the rhizoplasts from two sets of the flagellar basal bodies functioned as the mitotic poles. Immunofluorescence microscopy using anti‐α‐tubulin, anti‐centrin and anti‐γ‐tubulin antibodies showed that centrin molecules were localized at the flagellar basal bodies, whereas γ‐tubulin molecules were detected at the rhizoplast during the whole cell cycle.
Invasion of Argentine ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in South Australia: Impacts on community composition and abundance of invertebrates in urban parklands
Authors: WALTERS ANNE C.
Published: July 2006

Abstract The Argentine ant (Linepithema humileMayr) is a worldwide invasive pest species that has been associated with losses of native ant and non‐ant invertebrates in its introduced range. To date, few studies have investigated the effects of Argentine ants on native invertebrates in Australia. This study assessed the effects of Argentine ants on community composition of invertebrates, with particular focus on resident ant communities and functional groups. In this study, the author compared the composition and abundances of invertebrates between invaded and uninvaded locations at four paired sites in Adelaide, South Australia. The results showed that there were significantly fewer non‐Argentine ants at invaded sites than at uninvaded sites. In particular, ants from the two common and widespread generaIridomyrmexandCamponotusshowed decreased abundances at the invaded sites. Multidimensional scaling analyses revealed differences in the composition of ant communities at the invaded and uninvaded sites, with uninvaded sites characterized by a similar native ant species composition, while communities at the invaded sites displayed much greater variability in species composition. These results suggest that the presence of Argentine ants may have a negative effect on particular ant genera and functional groups, with likely disruptions to ecosystem processes.
Stable isotope analysis indicates microalgae as the predominant food source of fauna in a coastal forest stream, south‐east Brazil
Authors: BRITO ERNESTO FUENTES , MOULTON TIMOTHY P. , DE SOUZA MARCELO L. , BUNN STUART E.
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Stable isotope studies of food webs in floodplains, large rivers, mangroves, and seagrasses have shown that, although a large proportion of the biomass may come from higher plants, microalgae provide a disproportionate amount of carbon assimilated by metazoan consumers. Evidence is building that this may also be the case for streams, especially those in the tropics. At the level of individual consumer species we also see that the apparent diet may not be reflected in the carbon assimilated. Tropical streams commonly have omnivore‐detritivore species that potentially show this phenomenon. We tested these concepts in four moderately shaded sites in a stream in well‐preserved Atlantic rainforest at Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro. We sampled aquatic insects, shrimps and fish as well as potential terrestrial and aquatic primary food sources. Carbon stocks from terrestrial sources predominated over carbon of algal origin (>99% of total). The primary sources of carbon showed distinctly different isotopic signatures: terrestrial sources had δ13C values close to −30‰, microalgae were −20‰ and macroalgae were −25‰. All fauna had δ13C values consistent with a carbon source derived from microalgae. Baetid mayflies and atyid shrimps exert a strong grazing pressure on periphyton and organic sediments but appear to assimilate predominantly microalgae. The palaemonid shrimp Macrobrachium olfersi also ingests large amounts of detritus of terrestrial origin, but apparently assimilates animal prey with algal δ13C signatures. These results support the growing view that tropical stream food chains are primarily algal based.
Ultrasonographic guidance in pediatric regional anesthesia. Part 2: techniques
Authors: ROBERTS STEVE
Published: July 2006

The benefits of regional anesthesia are well documented. The downsides of such techniques have been a significant failure rate and a potential for serious complications. Nearly, all regional blocks were first described as essentially ‘blind’ techniques. The development of high‐resolution portable ultrasound (US) has made the use of US for regional anesthesia possible. Improved understanding of sonographic anatomy should lessen both the failure rate and the possibility of incurring serious complications. Natural caution has dictated that only a selection of blocks used in adults has been commonly used in pediatric practice, but with the aid of US, the repertoire of blocks for infants and children may be widened. The second part of this review will concentrate on the practice of both peripheral and central blocks.
The Source of Productivity Growth in Dutch Agriculture: A Perspective from Finance
Authors: Zhengfei Guan , Lansink Alfons Oude
Published: July 2006

In corporate finance, the impact of capital structure on firm performance has been widely studied. This article extends the capital structure study to the situation in agriculture, explicitly addressing the difference between family farms and corporate firms. We use the Malmquist productivity growth index as a proxy for performance to study the impact of capital structure (debt) on farm performance. We compare the results with those from the traditional performance model that uses profitability (e.g., return on equity (ROE)) as performance measure. Using data from Dutch arable farms, results show that debt has no effect on ROE, whereas it has a positive effect on productivity growth.
Pricing Weather Insurance with a Random Strike Price: The Ontario Ice‐Wine Harvest
Authors: Turvey Calum G. , Weersink Alfons , Chiang Szu-Hsuan Celia
Published: July 2006

Weather insurance within the agricultural sector has been limited by the difficulty in defining the appropriate weather event and in pricing the product. We develop a new pricing method for weather insurance under situations where returns depend not only on the occurrence of the weather event, but also its timing. The method is used to price weather insurance for ice wine. Because the harvest quantity of grapes for ice wine degrades over time, the strike value on the weather event measured as harvestable hours is random. We develop a Monte Carlo method to estimate the premium.
A geometric morphometric analysis of the shape of the first upper molar in mice of the genus Mus (Muridae, Rodentia)
Authors: Macholán M.
Published: July 2006

Phenotypic variation in the shape of the first upper molar among 595 mice, representing nine extant and three extinct taxa of the genus Mus, was studied with thin‐plate spline analysis. The reliability of classification of individual specimens into known groups based on their molars varied from 75 to 100%, depending on group and method used. Including 13 sliding semilandmarks to the analysis improved the detection of different kinds of size and shape variation as well as visualization of shape differences between studied groups. Correlation between phylogenetic and morphometric distances suggested about 80% contribution of phylogenetic inertia to the molar shape variation; moreover, the importance of localized versus global shape changes was similar in the detection of phylogenetic signals. Finally, shape changes along individual evolutionary lineages were revealed, suggesting a few cases of reversals, convergence and/or retention of ancestral shape. The evolution of mouse molars has thus been driven by random effects of drift together with stabilizing selection and convergence.
The peninsula effect on bird species in native eucalypt forests in a wood production landscape in Australia
Authors: Tubelis D. P. , Lindenmayer D. B. , Cowling A.
Published: July 2006

The peninsula effect – a decrease in species richness from the base to the tip of a peninsula – has been tested for a diverse range of taxa at continental and regional scales. We investigated the peninsula effect at a local scale by examining bird species occurrence in riparian strips (peninsulas) of native eucalypt forest within a radiata pine plantation in the Tumut region, south‐eastern Australia. Peninsulas were elongated but ‘blind’ extensions of a core area of native eucalypt forest. Birds were surveyed by the area search method, within 1.0‐ha quadrats established along peninsulas (n=14), in October and November 2002. Data were analysed using generalized linear mixed models. A significant decrease in bird species richness from the base towards the tip of the peninsulas was observed. The proportion of large bird species recorded per quadrat showed a significant decrease from the base towards the tip of the peninsulas. This pattern was not observed for small birds. Several species were more abundant at the base of the peninsulas than away from the core area of eucalypt forest. The peninsula effect can occur locally in landscape mosaics. Factors leading to the observed patterns of species occurrence may be distinct from those proposed in investigations of the peninsula effect with a biogeographical (macroscale) context. In our microscale study, foraging incursions of individual birds from the core area of native forest through peninsulas were a major factor giving rise to higher bird species richness in the more basal portions of peninsulas.
Development of SSR primers using ISSR–PCR in Diospyros kaki Thunb.
Authors: GUO D. L. , LUO Z. R.
Published: July 2006

Nine polymorphic single sequence repeat (SSR) primers were developed in Japanese persimmon using inter‐SSR (ISSR) suppression polymerase chain reaction (PCR). These primers were tested on 30 individuals from Japan and China. The number of alleles per locus ranged from five to 20. Expected (HE) and observed (HO) heterozygosities at each locus ranged from 0.42 to 0.77 and 0.27 to 0.59, respectively. The SSR primers developed herein could be applied to cultivar identification, estimation of genetic diversity and divergence in Diospyros spp.
Isolation and characterization of eight microsatellite loci for white hake (Urophycis tenuis)
Authors: SEIBERT J. , RUZZANTE D. E.
Published: July 2006

Eight tetranucleotide microsatellite loci were characterized for white hake, Urophycis tenuis, a commercially exploited demersal gadoid fish distributed in the Northwest Atlantic. The eight loci are polymorphic with number of alleles and observed heterozygosities ranging from seven to 40 and from 0.544 to 0.978, respectively, in samples of between 39 and 47 individuals collected from throughout the species range. These loci were developed for population genetic studies.
Isolation of six microsatellite markers from apterous grasshopper Podisma kanoi (Orthoptera: Podisminae)
Authors: YAO IZUMI , TATSUTA HARUKI , AKIMOTO SHIN‐ICHI
Published: July 2006

Using the magnetic particles method, we isolated six polymorphic microsatellite loci from an apterous grasshopper, Podisma kanoi Strozhenko, which shows conspicuous structural variation in chromosomes. The isolated loci were polymorphic, with three to 10 alleles among 20 individuals. Expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.23 to 0.90. These loci can be used to examine the history of population fragmentation and the establishment of chromosomal variation.
hw‐quickcheck: an easy‐to‐use computer program for checking genotypes for agreement with Hardy–Weinberg expectations
Authors: KALINOWSKI STEVEN T.
Published: July 2006

Deviations from Hardy–Weinberg expectations are frequently a sign of genotyping error. hw‐quickcheck is an easy‐to‐use computer program for detecting departures from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. hw‐quickcheck uses exact tests for all of its calculations. These tests include a global test for heterozygote excess/deficiency and genotype‐specific tests.
Development of highly conserved primers for 12 new polymorphic microsatellite loci for the genus Rorippa Scop. (Brassicaceae), yellow‐cress
Authors: STIFT MARC , KUPERUS PETER , VAN TIENDEREN PETER H.
Published: July 2006

We isolated 12 highly conserved polymorphic microsatellite loci for the yellow‐cress species Rorippa amphibia and Rorippa sylvestris. We used a partial genomic library enriched for several repeat motifs. Obtained sequences containing repetitive elements were blasted and aligned with the Arabidopsis thaliana sequence. We evaluated the cross‐species compatibility of primers designed from sequences either aligning strongly or weakly with A. thaliana. The former proved much more efficient in obtaining primers that worked in both species. The developed conserved primers for microsatellite loci provide excellent markers for studying segregation, gene flow and hybridization in the genus Rorippa.
Immigrants and Employer‐Sponsored Health Insurance
Authors: Buchmueller Thomas C. , Lo Sasso Anthony T. , Lurie Ithai , Dolfin Sarah
Published: July 2006

Objective. To investigate the factors underlying the lower rate of employer‐sponsored health insurance coverage for foreign‐born workers.

Data Sources. 2001 Survey of Income and Program Participation.

Study Design. We estimate probit regressions to determine the effect of immigrant status on employer‐sponsored health insurance coverage, including the probabilities of working for a firm that offers coverage, being eligible for coverage, and taking up coverage.

Data Extraction Methods. We identified native born citizens, naturalized citizens, and noncitizen residents between the ages of 18 and 65, in the year 2002.

Principal Findings. First, we find that the large difference in coverage rates for immigrants and native‐born Americans is driven by the very low rates of coverage for noncitizen immigrants. Differences between native‐born and naturalized citizens are quite small and for some outcomes are statistically insignificant when we control for observable characteristics. Second, our results indicate that the gap between natives and noncitizens is explained mainly by differences in the probability of working for a firm that offers insurance. Conditional on working for such a firm, noncitizens are only slightly less likely to be eligible for coverage and, when eligible, are only slightly less likely to take up coverage. Third, roughly two‐thirds of the native/noncitizen gap in coverage overall and in the probability of working for an insurance‐providing employer is explained by characteristics of the individual and differences in the types of jobs they hold.

Conclusions. The substantially higher rate of uninsurance among immigrants is driven by the lower rate of health insurance offers by the employers of immigrants.
Identifying Affordable Sources of Medical Care among Uninsured Persons
Authors: Cunningham Peter J. , Hadley Jack , Kenney Genevieve , Davidoff Amy J.
Published: July 2006

Objective. To examine the effects of policy, health system, and sociodemographic characteristics on the likelihood that uninsured persons pay a lower price at their regular source of care, or that they are aware of lower priced providers in their community.

Data Sources. The 2003 Community Tracking Study household survey, a nationally representative sample of the U.S. population and 60 randomly selected communities.

Study Design. The survey asked uninsured persons if they paid full or reduced cost at their usual source of medical care, or if they were aware of providers in their community that charge less for uninsured people. We use binomial and multinomial logistic regression analysis to examine the effects of various policy, health system, and sociodemographic characteristics on use and awareness of lower priced providers. We focus especially on the effects of safety‐net capacity, measured by safety‐net hospitals, community health centers, physicians' charity care, and Community Access Program (CAP) grants.

Principal findings. Less than half of the uninsured (47.5 percent) reported that they used or were aware of a lower priced provider in their community. Multivariate regression analysis shows that greater safety‐net capacity is associated with a higher likelihood of having a lower priced provider as the regular source of care and greater awareness of lower priced providers. Lower incomes and racial/ethnic minorities also had a higher likelihood of having a lower priced provider, although health status did not have statistically significant effects.

Conclusion. Although increased safety‐net capacity may lead to more uninsured having a lower priced provider, many uninsured who live near safety‐net providers are not aware of their presence. Greater outreach designed to increase awareness may be needed in order to increase the effectiveness of safety‐net providers in improving access to care for the uninsured.
Does Ambulatory Process of Care Predict Health‐Related Quality of Life Outcomes for Patients with Chronic Disease?
Authors: Kahn Katherine L. , Tisnado Diana M. , Adams John L. , Liu Honghu , Chen Wen‐Pin , Hu Fang Ashlee , Mangione Carol M. , Hays Ronald D. , Damberg Cheryl L.
Published: July 2006

Objective. The validity of quality of care measurement has important implications for practicing clinicians, their patients, and all involved with health care delivery. We used empirical data from managed care patients enrolled in west coast physician organizations to test the hypothesis that observed changes in health‐related quality of life across a 2.5‐year window reflecting process of care.

Data Sources/Study Setting. Patient self‐report data as well as clinically detailed medical record review regarding 963 patients with chronic disease associated with managed care from three west coast states.

Study Design. Prospective cohort study of change in health‐related quality of life scores across 30 months as measured by change in SF‐12 physical component scores.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods. Patient self‐report and medical record abstraction.

Principal Findings. We found a positive relationship between better process scores and higher burden of illness (p<.05). After adjustment for burden of illness, using an instrumental variables approach revealed better process is associated with smaller declines in SF‐12 scores across a 30‐month observation window (p=.014). The application of the best quartile of process of care to patients currently receiving poor process is associated with a 4.24 increment in δ SF‐12‐physical component summary scores.

Conclusions. The use of instrumental variables allowed us to demonstrate a significant relationship between better ambulatory process of care and better health‐related quality of life. This finding underscores the importance of efforts to improve the process of care.
Spillover of Agriculturally Subsidized Predators as a Potential Threat to Native Insect Herbivores in Fragmented Landscapes
Authors: RAND TATYANA A. , LOUDA SVATA M.
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Habitat loss and fragmentation can have strong negative impacts on populations of some native species. Spillover of generalist natural enemies from the surrounding landscape matrix is one mechanism potentially generating such effects, yet this has been rarely studied in insects. We examined the influence of habitat conversion to agriculture on the abundance and potential effects of predatory coccinellid beetles on native insect herbivores within 12 grassland remnants in central Nebraska (U.S.A.). Results of sweep sampling revealed that coccinellids were three to six times more abundant at native grassland sites embedded within cropland‐dominated landscapes compared with control sites in grassland‐dominated landscapes over the 3 years of the study. Exclusion experiments further demonstrated that predation intensity was strongly related to coccinellid abundances across sites and that coccinellids can dramatically reduce densities of a native aphid herbivore. In contrast to studies of specialized insect parasitoids, which have generally found reduced enemy pressure in fragmented landscapes, our results suggest that native herbivores may in some cases experience increased consumer pressure in landscapes with increasing habitat loss because of spillover of generalist predators from surrounding cropland habitats.
Neuromodulation of the Centromedian Thalamic Nuclei in the Treatment of Generalized Seizures and the Improvement of the Quality of Life in Patients with Lennox–Gastaut Syndrome
Authors: Velasco Ana Luisa , Velasco Francisco , Jiménez Fiacro , Velasco Marcos , Castro Guillermo , Carrillo‐Ruiz José D. , Fanghänel Guillermo , Boleaga Bernardo
Published: July 2006

Summary:  Purpose: Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of ESCM (electrical stimulation of the centromedian thalamic nucleus) in treatment of generalized seizures of the Lennox–Gastaut syndrome (LGS) and improvement of patient disability.

Methods: Thirteen patients with LGS were studied. They had severe generalized tonic–clonic seizures (GTC) and atypical absences (AA). All patients had at least a 6‐month baseline before bilateral electrode implantation to the centromedian (CM) nuclei of the thalamus to undergo therapeutic ESCM. Once implanted, electrodes were temporally externalized through a retromastoid point for electrophysiologic confirmation of their placement. After target confirmation, stimulation parameters were set. Patients came for follow‐up assessment of seizures and neurophysiologic tests every 3 months during an 18‐month period of time; AED therapy was not modified.

Results: The surgical procedure as well as electrical stimulation was well tolerated by all patients. No side effects occurred with the therapeutic stimulation parameters used, and patients were not aware of device activation. Two patients were explanted because of repeated and multiple skin erosions that could not be controlled by plastic surgery procedures. Overall seizure reduction was 80%. The three patients with poorest outcomes for seizure control did not improve their ability scale score. In contrast, the two patients rendered seizure free are living a normal life at present. The remaining eight patients experienced progressive improvement, from being totally disabled to becoming independent in five cases and partially dependent in two. Patients with adequate electrode placement had a seizure reduction >87%. To consider that an electrode is correctly placed, both stereotactic placement and neurophysiologic responses are taken into account.

Conclusions: ESCM provides a nonlesional, neuromodulatory method with improvement in seizure outcome and in the abilities of patients with severe LGS.
del(6)(p23) in two cases of de novo AML – a new recurrent primary chromosome abnormality
Authors: Anwar Iqbal M. , Al‐Omar Hamad M. , Owaidah Tarekh , Al‐Humaidan Hind , Bhuiyan Zahirul A. , Sahovic Entezam
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Objective: Previously, deletion 6p23 was generally reported in therapy‐related secondary acute myeloid leukemia (AML) as part of complex karyotypes. In this report, we present two young adult patients with de novo AML‐M2 and a terminal deletion 6p23 as a sole primary abnormality, confirmed by chromosome 6 specific subtelomeric probes. Methods: Two female patients 35 and 20 yr of age presented with anemia, but no bleeding, infections, lymphadenopathy or organomegaly. Morphological, immunophenotyping, chromosome and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis was performed on bone marrow aspirate cells. Results: A diagnosis of AML‐M2 was confirmed in both patients by morphological and immunophenotyping studies. Chromosome analysis in case no. 1 showed deletion 6p23 in 20% of metaphases whereas in case no. 2 the deletion 6p23 was present in 100% metaphases. FISH analysis confirmed the deletion as terminal in both cases. The DEK oncogene at 6p23 in both cases was found not to be deleted. Conclusion: To our knowledge, deletion 6p23 as a sole primary abnormality was reported in only one case. The common morphological, immunophenotypic, and cytogenetic features in our two patients strongly support a separate new entity of de novo AML with deletion 6p23.
Interleukin‐5 does not influence differential transcription of transmembrane and soluble isoforms of IL‐5Rα in vivo
Authors: Byström Jonas , Dyer Kimberly D. , Ravin Suk See Ting‐De , Naumann Nora , Stephany David A. , Foster Paul S. , Wynn Thomas A. , Rosenberg Helene F.
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Interleukin‐5 (IL‐5) promotes signal transduction and expansion of eosinophil colonies in bone marrow via interactions with its heterodimeric receptor (IL‐5R). Two variants encoding soluble forms of the alpha subunit (sIL‐5Rα) have been described, although the signals promoting and/or limiting differential transcription remain to be clarified. Objectives: Our intent was to explore the role of IL‐5 in regulating differential transcription of these splice variants in vivo. Methods: We have designed a quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction assay to detect transcripts encoding the transmembrane, soluble 1 and 2 forms of IL‐5Rα in two strains of wild‐type (BALB/c and C57BL/6) and corresponding IL‐5 gene‐deleted mice. Wild‐type mice respond to S. mansoni infection with a gradual increase in serum IL‐5 and eosinophilia, which is not observed in IL‐5 gene‐deleted mice. Results and conclusions: We find that IL‐5 is not necessary for differential splicing to occur in vivo, as all three forms of the IL‐5Rα are detected in both strains of IL‐5 gene‐deleted mice, with ratios of transcript expression (transmembrane : soluble 1 : soluble 2) that were indistinguishable from their wild‐type counterparts. Differential splicing does vary markedly between strains, potentially because of local effects of strain‐specific polymorphisms.
Antifungal therapy in patients with hematological malignancies: how to avoid overtreatment?
Authors: Cherif Honar , Kalin Mats , Björkholm Magnus
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Historically, treatment of invasive fungal infections (IFI) has consisted of amphotericin B. However, new therapeutic agents have recently been introduced. At the same time, the relatively low incidence of IFI and the progress in the diagnostic accuracy of IFI have made routine use of empirical antifungal therapy questionable. Objectives and methods: With the aim to define the present trends in the use of antifungal agents for the treatment of IFI, we prospectively observed type, safety, and efficacy of given antifungal treatment in patients with hematological malignancies during a recent 18‐month period. We also analyzed the impact of restricted use of empirical antifungal therapy on IFI‐related mortality. Results: A total of 279 episodes of neutropenia and fever following the chemotherapy were recorded. Treatment of IFI was given during the management of 41 (14%) episodes. Voriconazole (27 episodes) and caspofungin (14 episodes) were the only antifungal agents used as initial therapy. The rate of antifungal therapy success outcome was 78%. The overall 4‐week mortality rate was 8%. Two patients died of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. Empirical antifungal therapy was given in 13 episodes with persistent febrile neutropenia (PFN) and resulted in successful outcome in 92% of cases. In general, antifungal agents were well tolerated and only two patients had to discontinue treatment because of severe adverse event. In 127 episodes of PFN, antifungal therapy was deemed unnecessary and accordingly was not administered. In this subgroup of patients, no IFI‐related mortality occurred. Conclusion: A better tolerability and efficacy of voriconazole and caspofungin together with the availability of an oral formulation of voriconazole most probably contributed to the observed shift in the use of antifungal agents. A restricted use of empirical antifungal therapy was, in this setting, not associated with an increased IFI‐related mortality.
Abdominal vein thrombosis in essential thrombocythemia: prevalence, clinical correlates, and prognostic implications
Authors: Gangat Naseema , Wolanskyj Alexandra P. , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Among 460 consecutive patients with essential thrombocythemia (ET) seen at our institution, 19 cases (4%) of abdominal vein thrombosis (AVT) were documented either at (n = 9) or after (n = 10) diagnosis. Women (P = 0.03) and the young (P = 0.002) were preferentially affected. Accordingly, clinical comparisons were performed among three groups of female patients: those with AVT (group A; n = 17), a control group without AVT but closely matched to group A in terms of age and year of diagnosis (group B; n = 34), and all female patients without AVT (group C; n = 288). As expected from the consequences of AVT‐associated portal hypertension and anticoagulant therapy, patients in group A experienced significantly higher rates of hemorrhage, palpable splenomegaly, and anemia. Unexpectedly, however, compared with group B, group A displayed both a higher conversion rate into myelofibrosis/acute leukemia (P = 0.0008) and a shorter median survival (116 vs. 156 months; P = 0.0012). Multivariable analysis including all female patients with ET identified AVT, along with advanced age, leukocytosis, and tobacco use, as an independent risk factor for inferior survival. Groups A, B, and C did not differ in either JAK2V617F mutational frequency or incidence of non‐abdominal thrombosis. We conclude that AVT in ET is a marker of aggressive disease biology.