bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of environmental gradients in non‐native plant invasion into burnt areas of Yosemite National Park, California
Authors: Klinger Rob , Underwood Emma C. , Moore Peggy E.
Published: February 2006

Fire is known to facilitate the invasion of many non‐native plant species, but how invasion into burnt areas varies along environmental gradients is not well‐understood. We used two pre‐existing data sets to analyse patterns of invasion by non‐native plant species into burnt areas along gradients of topography, soil and vegetation structure in Yosemite National Park, California, USA. A total of 46 non‐native species (all herbaceous) were recorded in the two data sets. They occurred in all seven of the major plant formations in the park, but were least common in subalpine and upper montane conifer forests. There was no significant difference in species richness or cover of non‐natives between burnt and unburnt areas for either data set, and environmental gradients had a stronger effect on patterns of non‐native species distribution, abundance and species composition than burning. Cover and species richness of non‐natives had significant positive correlations with slope (steepness) and herbaceous cover, while species richness had significant negative correlations with elevation, the number of years post‐burn, and cover of woody vegetation. Non‐native species comprised a relatively minor component of the vegetation in both burnt and unburnt areas in Yosemite (percentage species = 4%, mean cover < 6.0%), and those species that did occur in burnt areas tended not to persist over time. The results indicate that in many western montane ecosystems, fire alone will not necessarily result in increased rates of invasion into burnt areas. However, it would be premature to conclude that non‐native species could not affect post‐fire succession patterns in these systems. Short fire‐return intervals and high fire severity coupled with increased propagule pressure from areas used heavily by humans could still lead to high rates of invasion, establishment and spread even in highly protected areas such as Yosemite.
Biodiversity, host specificity, and dominance by eusocial species among sponge‐dwelling alpheid shrimp on the Belize Barrier Reef
Authors: Macdonald Kenneth S. , Ríos Ruben , Duffy J. Emmett
Published: February 2006

Alpheid shrimp represent an abundant and diverse, but poorly characterized, component of the cryptic biodiversity of coral reefs worldwide. Sponge‐inhabiting alpheids provide a promising model system for exploring patterns of cryptic reef biodiversity because their habitats (hosts) are discrete and qualitatively distinct units. We tabulated data from 14 years of collections at Carrie Bow Cay, Belize to quantify patterns of diversity, host specificity, and dominance among sponge‐dwelling shrimp (Synalpheus), with special attention to eusocial species. From > 600 sampled sponges of 17 species, we recognized at least 36Synalpheusshrimp species. Of these, 15 (42%) were new to science. Species accumulation curves suggest that we have sampled most of theSynalpheusdiversity at Carrie Bow Cay. Diversity of sponge‐dwellingSynalpheuswas slightly higher in shallow water, probably because of greater habitat diversity, than in deep water. Host specificity was surprisingly high, with > 50% of all shrimp species found in only a single sponge species each, although some shrimp species used as many as six hosts. Cohabitation of individual sponges by multiple shrimp species was rarer than expected by chance, supporting previous distributional and behavioural evidence that competition for hosts is strong and moulds patterns of host association. The fauna of most well‐sampled sponge species was dominated, both in numbers of individuals and in frequency of occurrence, by eusocial species. Eusocial shrimp species also inhabited a significantly greater number of sponge species than did non‐social shrimp. Consequently, > 65% of shrimp in our quantitative samples belonged to the four eusocial species, and on a per‐species basis, eusocial species were 17 times as abundant as non‐social species. Our data suggest that the highly diverse sponge‐dwelling shrimp assemblage of the Belize Barrier Reef is structured by competition, and that eusociality has allowed a small number of species to dominate the sponge resource.
Evaluating dominance as a component of non‐native species invasions
Authors: Crall Alycia W. , Newman Gregory J. , Stohlgren Thomas J. , Jarnevich Catherine S. , Evangelista Paul , Guenther Deb
Published: February 2006

Many studies have quantified plant invasions by determining patterns of non‐native species establishment (i.e. richness and absolute cover). Until recently, dominance has been largely overlooked as a significant component of invasion. Therefore, we re‐examined a 6‐year data set of 323 0.1 ha plots within 18 vegetation types collected in the Grand Staircase‐Escalante National Monument from 1998 to 2003, including dominance (i.e. relative cover) in our analyses. We specifically focused on the non‐native species Bromus tectorum, a notable dominant annual grass in this system. We found that non‐native species establishment and dominance are both occurring in species‐rich, mesic vegetation types. Therefore, non‐native species dominance may result despite many equally abundant native species rather than a dominant few, and competitive exclusion does not seem to be a primary control on either non‐native species establishment or dominance in this study. Unlike patterns observed for non‐native species establishment, relative non‐native species cover could not be predicted by native species richness across vegetation types (R2 < 0.001; P = 0.45). However, non‐native species richness was found to be positively correlated with relative non‐native species cover and relative B. tectorum cover (R2 = 0.46, P < 0.01; R2 = 0.17, P < 0.01). Analyses within vegetation types revealed predominantly positive relationships among these variables for the correlations that were significant. Regression tree analyses across vegetation types that included additional biotic and abiotic variables were a little better at predicting non‐native species dominance (PRE = 0.49) and B. tectorum dominance (PRE = 0.39) than at predicting establishment. Land managers will need to set priorities for control efforts on the more productive, species‐rich vegetation types that appear to be susceptible to both components of invasion.
A comparative analysis of the cross‐reactivity in the polcalcin family including Syr v 3, a new member from lilac pollen
Authors: Ledesma A. , Barderas R. , Westritschnig K. , Quiralte J. , Pascual C. Y. , Valenta R. , Villalba M. , Rodríguez R.
Published: February 2006

Background:  Polcalcins are pollen‐specific allergens with two EF‐hand calcium‐binding sites that exhibit strong cross‐reactivity. Our objective was to isolate and express the cDNA coding of the EF‐hand calcium‐binding allergen from lilac pollen and to study cross‐reactivity with other polcalcins from related and nonrelated pollen sources with different specific antibodies and sera from two different populations.

Methods:  Specific cDNA was amplified by PCR, cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. Purification was achieved by gel permeation and ion exchange chromatographies. ELISA titration and inhibition assays were performed using the recombinant forms of Syr v 3, Ole e 3, Che a 3 and Phl p 7 with sera from two Spanish regions with different sensitization profiles, as well as Phl p 7‐ and Ole e 3‐specific polyclonal rabbit antisera, and an Ole e 3‐specific monoclonal antibody.

Results:  Syr v 3 displays two EF‐hand consensus sites and 8863 Da of theoretical molecular mass. The allergen consists of 80 residues with identities ranging from 66 to 87% with polcalcins included in this study. Syr v 3, Ole e 3, Che a 3 and Phl p 7 showed a similar IgG‐ and IgE‐binding capacity although differences at quantitative level were observed depending on the population of patients’ sera.

Conclusion:  Syr v 3 is a polcalcin with structural and antigenic similarities to the members of this family. Diagnosis of polcalcin‐sensitized patients could be performed whatever polcalcin used, whereas for immunotherapy, primary sensitization to a particular allergenic source should be considered.
Day‐care attendance and increased risk for respiratory and allergic symptoms in preschool age
Authors: Hagerhed‐Engman L. , Bornehag C.‐G. , Sundell J. , Åberg N.
Published: February 2006

Background:  The reported impact of day‐care attendance on respiratory and atopic symptoms has varied between studies from different countries. Regarding to the ‘hygiene‐hypothesis’, day‐care attendance may lead to less sensitization later in life, but the question still is whether day‐care attendance and subsequent exposure to more frequent early infections is a risk or a protection against future allergic disease or asthma (atopic and nonatopic).

Methods:  A cross‐sectional postal questionnaire was replied by parents of 10 851 children, aged 1–6 years, in the year 2000 in a Swedish region (DBH‐phase 1). The questionnaire focused on respiratory and atopic symptoms, the home environment and information on day care of the children.

Results:  Children in day care were reported to have more symptoms than children in home care: adjusted odds ratio (AOR) for wheezing last 12 months, AOR 1.33 (CI 95%: 1.12–1.58), cough at night apart from colds last 12 months AOR 1.56 (CI: 1.17–2.07), doctor diagnosed asthma AOR 1.23 (CI: 0.88–1.71), rhinitis last 12 months AOR 1.15 (CI: 0.92–1.44), doctor diagnosed hay fever AOR 1.75 (CI: 0.94–3.23), eczema last 12 months, AOR 1.49 (CI: 1.24–1.79), allergic reactions to foods, AOR 1.27 (CI: 1.07–1.52), >6 colds last 12 months of 2.57 (CI: 2.12–3.12) and ear infection ever AOR 2.14 (CI: 1.87–2.45). The increased risks were mainly seen and reached significance in the youngest group of children, aged 1–4 years. Adjusting and stratification for the number of airway infections last year did not change the risk associated with day‐care attendance for allergic diseases.

Conclusions:  Attending day care was associated with an increased risk of symptoms related to airways infections as well with eczema and allergic reactions to food. No sign of protection from day‐care attendance for allergic diseases was found up to 6 years of age. Multiple airway infections and day‐care attendance were found to be independently associated with asthma and allergic symptoms.
Brassica oleracea pollen, a new source of occupational allergens
Authors: Hermanides H. K. , Laheÿ‐ de Boer A. M. , Zuidmeer L. , Guikers C. , van Ree R. , Knulst A. C.
Published: February 2006

Background:  Vegetable pollen is a rare source of occupational allergens. Occupational allergy has only been described in the case of paprika pollen and tomato pollen. We describe a new source of occupational pollen allergy.

Aim:  To study the incidence and the impact of broccoli and cauliflower pollen allergy in employees involved in classical plant breeding.

Methods:  Fifty‐four employees of five companies working with cauliflower (Brassica oleracea botrytis) and broccoli (B. oleracea italica/cymosa) pollen were eligible for complete evaluation. Allergy to cauliflower and broccoli pollen was evaluated by questionnaire and determination of sensitization by radioallergosorbent test (RAST) and skin‐prick tests (SPT). SPT and RAST were performed with a panel of commercial and homemade extracts from cauliflower and broccoli pollen.

Results:  Work‐related symptoms such as rhinitis, conjunctivitis, asthma and urticaria caused by B. oleracea pollen were reported by 44% of the participants (24/54), of whom all but one had positive SPT for cauliflower‐ and/or broccoli‐pollen/flower extracts and 58% (14/24) had positive RAST results. Symptoms had developed within the first 2 years in 33% of the patients. Six patients had to stop or change work.

Conclusions:  Brassica oleracea pollen is a new source of occupational allergen with strong allergenic potential leading to symptoms in almost half of the exposed employees.
Use of highly sensitive mitochondrial probes to detect microchimerism in xenotransplantation models
Authors: Soncini Maddalena , Signoroni Patrizia Bonassi , Bailo Marco , Zatti Daniela , Gregori Alessandra , Lombardi Guerino , Albertini Alberto , Wengler Georg S. , Parolini Ornella
Published: February 2006

Abstract: Chimerism, defined as the co‐existence of cells of different origin within the same organism, has received much attention in hematopoietic cell and organ transplantation because of the strict relationship between its establishment and the induction of specific tolerance. Traditional methods applied for chimerism detection, such as immunohistochemistry, cytogenetics, fluorescent‐activated cell sorter analysis, and serological and biochemical testing, are limited by their sensitivity.

We have established a highly sensitive molecular approach based on the amplification of the mitochondrial cytochrome B gene and tested its specificity and sensitivity level in six different mammalian species, including human, pig, mouse, rat, sheep and rabbit. Increased sensitivity of detection of specific amplification products was obtained by the non‐radioactive Southern blot technique. This novel approach allows the detection of one cell against the background of 1 to 4 × 106 xenogenec cells and will be helpful for high‐sensitivity analysis of donor cell engraftment after xenotransplantation procedures in these animal models.
Rat hepatocyte engraftment in severe combined immunodeficient × beige mice using mouse‐specific anti‐fas antibody
Authors: Wilson Jean H. , Paturzo Frank X. , Johnson Linda K. , Carreiro Marie P. , Hixson Douglas C. , A Mennone , Boyer J.L , Pober Jordan S. , Harding Martha J.
Published: February 2006

Abstract: Background: Hepatocyte transplantation holds promise as a treatment for acute and chronic liver failure; however, robust model systems needed to study xenogeneic hepatocyte transfer are lacking. Severe combined immunodeficient × beige (SCID/bg) hybrid mice readily accept foreign tissue. Repopulation of C.B‐17 SCID/bg mouse liver with rat hepatocytes was studied following induction of mouse hepatocyte apoptosis using an anti‐mouse agonistic fas monoclonal antibody (Jo2 mAb) that does not engage xenogeneic fas.

Methods: SCID/bg mice were transplanted with 1 × 106 fresh adult rat hepatocytes intrasplenically and treated with various doses, routes and frequencies of Jo2 mAb. Rat cell repopulation was characterized by quantitative immunofluorescent antibody (q‐IFA) staining specific for rat dipeptidyl peptidase type IV (DPP‐IV) and leucine amino peptidase, amplification of rat genomic DNA using polymerase chain reaction and histopathological and serum biochemistry analyses.

Results: Analysis of liver sections from mice treated twice weekly for 12 weeks with 0.4 mg/kg Jo2 mAb intraperitoneally consistently demonstrated >50% rat hepatocytes in the parenchymal mass by q‐IFA. Rat hepatocyte engraftment protected mice from Jo2 mAb‐mediated liver hemorrhage and hepatocyte apoptosis. Serum liver enzyme levels did not increase in Jo2 mAb‐treated mice that were highly engrafted with rat hepatocytes, in contrast to matched non‐engrafted mice. At 12 weeks post‐engraftment, minimal fibrosis and inflammation were apparent and liver architecture had returned to near normal. Jo2 mAb did not induce histopathological abnormalities in other tissues known to express fas antigen (i.e. heart, lung).

Conclusions: This novel model represents a simple and robust system of xenogeneic hepatocyte transplantation that could be applied to studies of liver biology, regeneration and hepatocyte transplantation.
Endothelial cell protection in xenotransplantation: looking after a key player in rejection
Authors: Banz Yara , Rieben Robert
Published: February 2006

Abstract: The endothelium, as an organ at the interface between the intra‐ and extravascular space, actively participates in maintaining an anti‐inflammatory and anti‐coagulant environment under physiological conditions. Severe humoral as well as cellular rejection responses, which accompany cross‐species transplantation of vascularized organs as well as ischemia/reperfusion injury, primarily target the endothelium and disrupt this delicate balance. Activation of pro‐inflammatory and pro‐coagulant pathways often lead to irreversible injury not only of the endothelial layer but also of the entire graft, with ensuing rejection. This review focuses on strategies targeted at protecting the endothelium from such damaging effects, ranging from genetic manipulation of the donor organ to soluble, as well as membrane‐targeted, protective strategies.
Age‐dependent expression of immune‐privilege and proliferation‐related molecules on porcine Sertoli cells
Authors: Lee Hak‐Mo , Oh Byoung Chol , Yang Ji‐Hye , Cho Jaejin , Lee Gene , Lee Dong‐Sup , Hwang Woo Suk , Lee Jeong Ryul
Published: February 2006

Abstract: Background: The immunoprotective nature of the testes has prompted numerous investigations into their supportive roles during allogeneic or xenogeneic cellular grafts. However, the optimal developmental stage of these cells in terms of maximum efficacy for cellular grafts has not been elucidated. In this study, the time‐dependent expressions of immune‐privilege‐ and proliferation‐related molecules in Sertoli cells were determined.

Methods: To investigate the time course of the expression of proteins related to immune privilege and proliferation, immunohistochemistry and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) were performed using testes of 18 Yorkshire pigs from birth to 20 weeks of age. We included fas ligand (FasL), transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) and clusterin as the immune‐protective molecules, and follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), p27Kip1, GATA‐4 and Wilm's tumor antigen (WT1) as Sertoli cell proliferation markers. RT‐PCR was used to complement histological assessment.

Results: The expression of FasL in Sertoli cells gradually increased with age, whereas TGF‐β1 showed the reverse pattern, and clusterin expression showed no age‐related difference. p27Kip1 showed a gradual increase in its expression from week 12, but GATA‐4 showed earlier postnatal expression from birth to week 12. WT1 expression gradually increased from week 16.

Conclusion: We confirmed the age‐dependent expression of immune‐privilege‐ and proliferation‐related molecules in porcine Sertoli cells. These data may be useful for determining the optimal time for harvesting Sertoli cells with respect to maximal immunoprotection and proliferative activity.
Chronic pain following total hip arthroplasty: a nationwide questionnaire study
Authors: Nikolajsen L. , Brandsborg B. , Lucht U. , Jensen T. S. , Kehlet H.
Published: February 2006

Background:  Chronic post‐operative pain is a well‐recognized problem after various types of surgery, but little is known about chronic pain after orthopedic surgery. Severe pre‐operative pain is the primary indication for total hip arthroplasty (THA). Therefore, we examined the prevalence of chronic pain after THA in relation to pre‐operative pain and early post‐operative pain.

Methods:  A questionnaire was sent to 1231 consecutive patients who had undergone THA 12–18 months previously, and whose operations had been reported to the Danish Hip Arthroplasty Registry.

Results:  The response rate was 93.6%. Two hundred and ninety‐four patients (28.1%) had chronic ipsilateral hip pain at the time of completion of the questionnaire, and pain limited daily activities to a moderate, severe or very severe degree in 12.1%. The chronic pain state was related to the recalled intensity of early post‐operative pain [95% confidence interval (CI), 20.4–33.4%] and pain complaints from other sites of the body (95% CI, 20.7–32.1%), but not to the pre‐operative intensity of pain.

Conclusion:  Chronic pain after THA seems to be a significant problem in at least 12.1% of patients. Our results suggest that genetic and psychosocial factors are important for the development of chronic post‐THA pain.
Pregnancy Rates in Lactating Holstein–Friesian Cows after Artificial Insemination with Sexed Sperm
Authors: Andersson M , Taponen J , Kommeri M , Dahlbom M
Published: February 2006

Contents

The effects of artificial insemination (AI) using sexed sperm on pregnancy rates have seldom been studied in lactating dairy cows on commercial dairy farms. We evaluated pregnancy results after AI of 306 lactating dairy cows, of which 157 were inseminated with 2 × 106 frozen/thawed sexed sperm and 149 with 15 × 106 frozen/thawed unsexed sperm. The average pregnancy and calving rates were 21.0% and 20% for the sexed‐sperm AIs and 46% and 45% for the unseparated control‐sperm AIs respectively (p < 0.001). The proportion of female calves derived from sexed‐sperm AI was 82% compared with 49% for control AI (p < 0.01). The proportion of live and healthy calves in single births was 100% for sexed‐sperm AI and 97% for control AI (p > 0.05). Our results indicate that AI with low‐dose sexed sperm under field conditions in commercial dairy herds without oestrus synchronization results in significantly reduced pregnancy rates compared with normal‐dose AI. Improved insemination strategies combined with increased sperm doses are needed before the use of sexed sperm can be of any significant benefit for the dairy and beef industry.
Ovum Pick‐up in Sheep: a Comparison between Different Aspiration Devices for Optimal Oocyte Retrieval
Authors: Rodríguez C , Anel L , Alvarez M , Anel E , Boixo JC , Chamorro CA , de Paz P
Published: February 2006

Contents

In vivo ovum pick‐up (OPU) in sheep may be improved with a proper choice of aspiration elements (needle and tubing) and aspiration vacuum pressure. In the present study, two experiments were carried out. In Expt 1, visible follicles in ovaries of slaughtered ewes (treated separately according to their diameters: small <3 mm, medium 3–5 mm and large >5 mm) were aspirated using different combinations of the three studied factors such as aspiration flow rate (10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 ml water/min), needle gauge (18 and 20 G) and tubing inner diameter (1, 2 or 3 mm internal diameter). In Expt 2, a study with two 18 G needles of different lengths (18 G: 82 mm; 18 GL: 600 mm) was carried out, using ovaries obtained post‐mortem, and performing in vivo laparoscopic follicular aspiration on ewes. We considered good quality oocytes as those with both complete compact cumulus and a homogeneous cytoplasm. Recovery rate, proportion of good quality oocytes (good quality oocytes/100 oocytes recovered) and overall efficiency (good quality oocytes/100 follicles aspirated) were noted. In Expt 1, aspiration flow rate affect remarkable proportion of good quality oocytes (69.5%, 50.5%, 44.8%, 36.5% and 28.3% for flows from 10 to 50 ml/min respectively, p < 0.05). Needle gauge did not affect aspiration device efficiency. Thin and intermediate tubings were more effective (overall efficiency rates: 34.9%, 32.3% and 28.1% for 1, 2 and 3 mm respectively, p < 0.05). Follicle size did not affect recovery rate, but proportion of good quality oocytes was higher for large (77.9%) and medium (64.4%) follicles (p < 0.05). Finally, some combinations of the aspiration device showed greater effectiveness. In Expt 2, needle length did not influence recovery rate, but good quality oocytes rate was significantly modified both post‐mortem and in vivo (good quality rate for 18 G vs 18 GL needles: 69.5% vs 47.7% and 58.1% vs 25.4%, post‐mortem and in vivo respectively, p < 0.05). We conclude that low‐aspiration flow rates (10 and 20 ml/min) with thin or intermediate tubings (1 and 2 mm), and any short needle (18 G or 20 G) are the most adequate aspiration factors for OPU in sheep.
Fertilizing Ability of Electro‐Ejaculated Cryopreserved Semen in the Domestic Cat
Authors: Zambelli D , Merlo B , Iacono E , Prati F , Belluzzi S
Published: February 2006

Contents

Semen collection and AI in the cat are still not routine procedures. The correlation between semen quality and fertility under natural conditions is a relatively unknown field in the cat. In the present study, functionalin vitrotests, such as the ability to bind and penetrate the zona pellucida or to fertilizein vitro, were used to determine fertilizing ability of sperm cryopreserved with a practical and efficient freezing protocol previously developed in our laboratory. Semen was collected by electroejaculation, evaluated for motility and diluted with Tris–glucose–citrate egg‐yolk extender supplemented with Equex STM paste (0.5% v/v). After equilibration and loading into 0.25 ml straws, semen was frozen at 3.85°C/min. Frozen‐thawed semen was co‐cultured within vitromatured cat oocytes. Penetration rate was recorded 30 h afterin vitrofertilization and cleaved zygotes were culturedin vitrountil day 7. A correlation was found between sperm motility index (SMI) after thawing and semen fertilizing ability (p < 0.05). In conclusion, it was demonstrated that the post‐thaw motility quality, expressed as SMI, of spermatozoa frozen using the protocol mentioned above can be considered an index of the sperm ability to penetratein vitromatured oocytes.
Role of Two Glycosidases (α‐Mannosidase and β‐N‐Acetylglucosaminidase) on In Vitro Bovine Embryonic Development*
Authors: Tsiligianni TH , Vandaele L , de Kruif A , Van Soom A
Published: February 2006

Contents

Glycosidases are enzymes that might play a role in embryonic development. The aims of the present project were to evaluate if bovine in vitro produced embryos: (1) release β‐N‐acetylglucosaminidase (β‐NAGASE) and α‐mannosidase in culture medium and (2) to investigate if these glycosidases may be used as markers of embryo quality. Bovine embryos were obtained using routine methods for IVM, IVF and IVC. Two experiments were done [(experiment 1: culture of embryos in the same droplet until day 7 and experiment 2: separation and transfer of embryos to new droplets at the morula stage (day 6)]. Samples were collected on day 7 (experiment 1) and on days 6 and 7 (experiment 2). The results of the present study are summarized as follow: (i) Embryos release both glycosidases. (ii) The activity of both glycosidases was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in droplets with degenerate embryos compared to droplets without degenerate embryos. (iii) The activity of β‐NAGASE was higher in droplets which contained morulae compared to droplets without morulae. In conclusion, embryos release both glucosidases during their development, while degenerate embryos release less β‐NAGASE and α‐mannosidase compared to good embryos. Furthermore, β‐NAGASE secretion seems to be related to retarded morulae.
Comparison between Cloprostenol‐induced and Spontaneous Oestrus Fertility in Dairy Cows
Authors: Cairoli F , Mollo A , Veronesi MC , Renaville B , Faustini M , Battocchio M
Published: February 2006

Contents

A short calving to conception interval is of main importance to achieve high economic efficiency in dairy cow industry. In order to reduce this interval, several hormonal treatments have been put on the market, in which cloprostenol, a synthetic analogue of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α). The aim of this study was to compare fertility of cloprostenol‐induced oestrus to that of spontaneous oestrus in dairy cows. In a group of 525 cows, 280 (treated group) were administered 0.5 mg cloprostenol i.m. after transrectal corpus luteum (CL) detection, and inseminated at detected oestrus during the following week. The other 245 cows (control group) were inseminated during spontaneous oestrus. Whey progesterone concentrations were checked at treatment and at insemination in order to remove from the study cows whose P4 levels indicate a non‐functional CL, or a lack of luteolysis respectively. Moreover, cows that were not inseminated due to genital problems were also excluded from this study. Conception (59% vs 54.5%) and calving rates (93.7% vs 93%) were not significantly different between the two groups.
Generalized skull vault thickening in association with a large arteriovenous malformation
Authors: Govender P , Byrne A , Lyburn ID , Torreggiani WC
Published: February 2006

Generalized thickening of the skull is unusual but has a number of recognized associations such as chronic severe anaemia, Paget disease and phenytoin therapy. We report a case of generalized skull vault thickening seen in association with a large arteriovenous malformation of the brain.
Retrospective diagnosis of chondrodysplasia punctata
Authors: Kozlowski K , Basel D , Beighton P
Published: February 2006

The diagnosis of punctate epiphyseal dysplasia (PED) after disappearance of puncta is problematical. In some instances, however, the phenotypic and radiographic characteristics may persist and permit a retrospective diagnosis of PED in persons with unclassified bone dysplasia or bone changes of unknown origin. We report a boy aged 8 years who presented with unusual bony abnormalities that were consistent with a diagnosis of PED.
Neuroenteric cyst of the craniocervical junction
Authors: Clare I , Kavar B , Dobie P
Published: February 2006

A neuroenteric cyst is a rare cause of an intradural, extramedullary mass. We report the MRI findings in a case of a neuroenteric cyst of the craniovertebral junction without associated abnormalities.
The value of a scientific writing training workshop for radiologists and radiation oncologists
Authors: Bydder S , Packer D , Semmens J
Published: February 2006

A substantial amount of radiological and radiation oncological research carried out in Australasia is not published. Therefore, a scientific writing skills training workshop was held in conjunction with the 2004 Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists Annual Scientific Meeting. Registration for the 3‐h‐long workshop was open to all conference attendees but numbers were limited. The workshop was led by an experienced facilitator who used content based on a literature review. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires rating their agreement with statements regarding their writing abilities and resources before the workshop. Those who attended the workshop repeated the questionnaire 6–8 weeks afterwards. Comparison of the paired preworkshop and postworkshop responses showed increases in the median category of agreement with statements regarding having the required skills, having advice available and understanding the structure of scientific articles. In addition, all participants reported that they found the workshop useful, said that they would recommend attendance to others and felt that such workshops should be available at future Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists Annual Scientific Meetings. Half the participants felt that the workshop made it more likely that they would publish. We have shown that even short workshops appear to have benefits and should be encouraged.
Paediatric and adult computed tomography practice and patient dose in Australia
Authors: Moss M , McLean D
Published: February 2006

The current practice for CT scanning of paediatric patients in Australia has been assessed through a survey sent to the site of all CT scanners licensed in New South Wales and all dedicated children's hospitals in Australia. The survey addressed demographic details, CT scanner details and scanning parameters for four imaging scenarios (brain CT, chest CT, abdomen/pelvis CT and high‐resolution chest CT for three different age groups (8 weeks, 5–7 years and adult patients). The effective dose for each imaging scenario and age group was calculated and compared for 52 sites representing 53 CT scanners. For any age group and imaging scenario, there was a large spread of effective dose. For comparable CT examinations, the effective dose varied by up to 36‐fold between centres. There was a clear trend for centres that frequently carry out CT scans on paediatric patients to have the lowest radiation doses. Four age group/imaging scenarios showed significantly lower effective doses for hospital‐based CT than for nonhospital sites. There was also a trend for doses to be lower at dedicated paediatric centres. Effective dose was closely associated with mAs, with most centres using lower mAs for younger patients, but few centres reduced the kVp for paediatric patients. The results of the survey emphasize the need for continuing education and protocol review, particularly in paediatric CT examinations, in a complex and fast changing environment.
Atrovirinone inhibits pro‐inflammatory mediator release from murine macrophages and human whole blood
Authors: Syahida A , Israf Daud A , Permana D , Lajis NH , Khozirah S , Afiza AW , Khaizurin TA , Somchit MN , Sulaiman MR , Nasaruddin AA
Published: February 2006

Many plant‐derived natural compounds have been reported previously to inhibit the production of important pro‐inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, TNF‐α and reactive oxygen species by suppressing inducible enzyme expression via inhibition of the mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway and nuclear translocation of critical transcription factors. This study evaluates the effects of atrovirinone [2‐(1‐methoxycarbonyl‐4,6‐dihydroxyphenoxy)‐3‐methoxy‐5,6‐di‐(3‐methyl‐2‐butenyl)‐1,4‐benzoquinone)], a benzoquinone that we have previously isolated from Garcinia atroviridis, on two cellular systems that are repeatedly used in the analysis of anti‐inflammatory bioactive compounds, namely, RAW 264.7 macrophage cells and whole blood. Atrovirinone inhibited the production of both nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2 from LPS‐induced and IFN‐γ‐induced RAW 264.7 cells and whole blood, with inhibitory concentration (IC)50 values of 4.62 ± 0.65 and 9.33 ± 1.47 μmol/L, respectively. Analysis of thromboxane B2 (TXB2) secretion from whole blood stimulated by either the cyclooxygenase (COX)‐1 or the COX‐2 pathway showed that atrovirinone inhibits the generation of TXB2 by both pathways, with IC50 values of 7.41 ± 0.92 and 2.10 ± 0.48 μmol/L, respectively. Analysis of IC50 ratios showed that atrovirinone was more COX‐2 selective in its inhibition of TXB2, with a ratio of 0.32. Atrovirinone also inhibited the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species and the secretion of TNF‐α from RAW 264.7 cells in a dose‐responsive manner, with IC50 values of 5.99 ± 0.62 and 11.56 ± 0.04 μmol/L, respectively. Lipoxygenase activity was also moderately inhibited by atrovirinone. Our results suggest that atrovirinone acts on important pro‐inflammatory mediators possibly by the inhibition of the nuclear factor‐κB pathway and also by the inhibition of the COX/lipoxygenase enzyme activity.
Neonatal exposure to UV‐B radiation leads to a large reduction in Langerhans cell density, but by maturity, there is an enhanced ability of dendritic cells to stimulate T cells
Authors: McGee Heather M , Scott Deborah K , Woods Gregory M
Published: February 2006

Australia has the highest incidence of skin cancer in the world and ultraviolet (UV)‐B radiation has been implicated as its major aetiological agent. Despite the link between melanoma and exposure to UV‐B radiation in childhood, little work has been carried out to determine the effects of UV‐B on neonatal skin. In this study, we investigated the response of adult and neonatal Langerhans cells (LC) to UV‐B radiation to determine whether exposure in the neonatal period impairs the development of the skin immune system, thus having implications for the immune response later in life. Neonatal and adult mice were irradiated with a single dose of UV‐B radiation and epidermal sheets prepared to determine the number of LC present. In addition, antigen carriage and T‐cell proliferation assays were carried out to assess the immune response when the mice reached maturity. Results showed that neonatal LC were more susceptible than adult LC to depletion at 2 kJ/m2 UV‐B exposure; however, there was similar susceptibility at lower doses. When mice that were irradiated as neonates were analysed at maturity, there was an increased ability to respond to cutaneously applied antigen as more antigen was transported to the lymph node and the lymph node dendritic cells had an enhanced ability to stimulate T‐cell proliferation. In addition, this response was skewed towards a Th2 type response. Thus, single high‐dose UV‐B exposure alters the development of neonatal LC, resulting in a short‐term reduction in the number of LC but an enhanced immune response when assessed at maturity.
Immunoregulatory effects of atorvastatin on experimental autoimmune myocarditis in Lewis rats
Authors: Li Wei‐Min , Liu Wei , Gao Cheng , Zhou Bao‐Guo
Published: February 2006

Experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) in rats is a T‐cell‐mediated disorder and has been shown to involve immune imbalance. The aim of this study was to examine the immunomodulatory effects of 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐glutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitor, atorvastatin, on the expression of MHC class II molecules in the myocardium of rats with EAM, and to examine its therapeutic potential for EAM. EAM was induced in Lewis rats by injection of porcine cardiac myosin. High‐dosage (10 mg/kg per day) or low‐dosage (1 mg/kg per day) atorvastatin or vehicle was given orally for 3 weeks. On day 21 after immunization, echocardiography was carried out and the severity of myocarditis was evaluated by histopathological investigations. Immunohistochemistry techniques were used to examine the expression of MHC class II molecules in the myocardium. Type I, III and IV class II transactivator (CIITA) promoter transcription was evaluated by reverse transcription–PCR. Cardiomyocytes were isolated and the expression of MHC class II molecules by them was detected using cytometry. Serum Th1/Th2 cytokines were examined on day 21 by ELISA. Cardiac function was improved in the two atorvastatin‐treated groups compared with the untreated one. In atorvastatin groups, the histopathological severity of myocarditis was attenuated and the expression of MHC class II molecules on the ‘nonprofessional’ APC, the cardiomyocytes, was reduced. mRNA level of type IV CIITA promoter was downregulated in the statin‐treated groups in a dosage‐dependent manner, but levels of type I and III CIITA mRNA did not differ between the groups statistically. Levels of IFN‐γ and IL‐2 increased, whereas levels of IL‐4 and IL‐10 decreased, in immunized rats from day three through day 21. Atorvastatin reversed these trends in the treated groups. Atorvastatin improves cardiac function and histopathology of the myocardium in EAM by inducing Th2‐biased immune responses, and thus 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐glutaryl coenzyme A reductase blockade may be a promising new strategy for the treatment of cardiac autoimmune impairments. The underlying mechanisms may be related to downregulation of MHC class II Ag expression due to silencing of the CIITA mRNA transcription.
Effect of CD14 −260C>T polymorphism on the mortality of critically ill patients
Authors: D'Avila Luiz C , Albarus Maria H , Franco Carolina R , Aguiar Bibiana B , Oliveira Jarbas R , Dias Fernando S , Alho Clarice S
Published: February 2006

The CD14 receptor seems to be an important part of the innate immune system. A mutant CD14 can produce a reduced signal in response to infection, as a result of which an adequate inflammatory innate response is not induced, leading to a systemic infection. Defects in the innate immunity increase patient susceptibility to systemic infections and can produce a deregulated inflammatory response causing sepsis, organ failure or death in critically ill patients. We evaluated the CD14 −260C>T polymorphism genotyping as a genetic tool for risk evaluation of critically ill patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) in Southern Brazil. We monitored the patients daily during their entire ICU and post‐ICU (hospital) stay (measured from the ICU admission day to a maximum of 224 days). A total of 85 patients, aged 19–95 years (mean = 56 years, median = 58 years), were included in this study. Patient mortality was 58.8%. The genotypic (TT = 0.27, TC = 0.41, CC = 0.32) and allelic (T = 0.48, C = 0.52) frequencies did not differ from the values expected by the Hardy–Weinberg model and genotype distribution was random for all clinical characteristics at ICU admission. We found a statistically significant difference favouring the survival of patients with TT genotype (P = 0.042), suggesting that this CD14 gene polymorphism could be a candidate for further study in the search for a complementary prognostic tool for patient risk evaluation. Our study describes, for the first time, the effect of the CD14 gene polymorphism in critically ill Brazilian patients. Our data suggest that patients carrying the TT genotype have a better survival outcome.
Spinal nerve sheath myxoma (neurothekeoma)
Authors: Lee Dakeun , Suh Yeon‐Lim , Han Joungho , Kim Eun‐Sang
Published: February 2006

Nerve sheath myxoma (NSM) is a rare, benign tumor of predominantly cutaneous location. They usually arise from small cutaneous nerves in the head, neck, and extremities, but exceptionally they arise from spinal nerve roots. Only three cases of intraspinal NSM have been reported. Herein is describe two additional cases of spinal NSM. The patients were 64‐year‐old and 31‐year‐old men who presented with low back pain. Spine magnetic resonance imaging showed small intradural extramedullary masses at the L2–3 level. Both tumors had typical histological features of myxoid‐type NSM. The tumors had a strong immunoreactivity for vimentin, S‐100 protein, and neuron‐specific enolase and focal expression of epithelial membrane antigen and phosphorylated neurofilament. Ultrastructural observation of tumor cells with perineurial, fibroblast‐like, and Schwann‐cell differentiation suggests an origin from nerve sheath precursor cells.
In situ expression of T‐helper type 2 immunoregulatory response in myofibroblast of a pediatric bladder inflammatory pseudotumor
Authors: Chiou Yuan‐Yow , Shieh Chi‐Chang , Cheng Hong‐Lin
Published: February 2006

Inflammatory pseudotumor (IP) is generally considered to be a non‐neoplastic, inflammatory response despite its gross and microscopic features of spindle cell neoplasm. Reported herein is a case arising from the muscularis propria of the urinary bladder in a 14‐year‐old girl who presented with gross hematuria and impending hypovolemic shock. The tumor consisted of proliferating myofibroblastic cells and various types of inflammatory cells. The immunoregulatory responses and reactions were investigated with regard to infiltration of inflammatory mononuclear cells being a documented finding in IP. Immunhistochemical and in situ hybridization studies for cytokines showed that the myofibroblastic cells were positive for interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5 and negative for interferon (IFN)‐γ, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α expression. The patient has been free of disease since excision of the tumor 34 months ago. Thus, cytokine production in IP suggests that it is reactive in nature and myofibroblasts may be the source of cytokines in the pathogenic process.
Prevalence of Epstein–Barr virus in Japan: Trends and future prediction
Authors: Takeuchi Kengo , Tanaka‐Taya Keiko , Kazuyama Yukumasa , Ito Yoichi M. , Hashimoto Shuji , Fukayama Masashi , Mori Shigeo
Published: February 2006

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis and some malignancies including EBV‐associated‐lymphomas. A large portion of adults all over the world are infected with EBV. In children, however, there are geographic variations. Most of the children in Asia and in other developing countries are infected in their early life, before 1 year of age (>90% of 5–9‐year‐old children are infected), while the age of primary infection is delayed in Western countries (approx. 50% of 5–9‐year‐old children are infected). The purpose of the present paper was to investigate the recent time trend of the EBV seropositivity among 5–7‐year‐old children living in Tokyo and its neighboring prefectures. Indirect immunofluorescein study for IgG antibody to viral capsid antigen was performed on 442 archival sera. Before the early 1990s, >80% of 5–7‐year‐old children were found to be seropositive, while the positivity rate decreased to 59% (P < 0.001) for the years 1995–1999. These results also showed that the delay in the age of primary infection is continuing and that the rate is estimated to be <50% in 2006. This result suggests that the delay will affect the incidence of EBV‐associated disorders in Japan.
Observations on Bostrychia radicosa comb. nov. (Rhodomelaceae, Rhodophyta)
Authors: West John A. , Zuccarello Giuseppe C. , Hommersand Max , Karsten Ulf , Görs Solvig
Published: February 2006

Only two genera in the Rhodomelaceae share the morphological character of transverse division of periaxial cells into two or more tier cells in which the pit connection is retained between the lower cell and the axial cell: Bostrychia and Rhodolachne. One species, Rhodolachne radicosa Itono, has been reported from mangroves, a common habitat for Bostrychia. Many collections of an entity similar to Rhodolachne radicosa have been made from localities around the Indo‐Pacific. Culture observations show a Polysiphonia‐type sexual life history in Malaysia and New Caledonia isolates that produce self‐compatible bisexual gametophytes. The New Caledonia isolate also has unisexual gametophytes. An isolate from New South Wales (Australia) reproduces asexually through successive generations of tetrasporophytes. The Thailand isolate has successive generations of mixed‐phase tetrasporophytes. The tetrasporangial stichidia also bear male spermatangial sectors, but female structures are lacking. Western Australia and Madagascar isolates do not reproduce in culture. Molecular evidence, based on sequencing of the rbcL and the large subunit ribosomal RNA genes, shows that these isolates belong to the genus Bostrychia. Low molecular weight carbohydrate analysis reveals high levels of digeneaside in all isolates. The sugar hexitol sorbitol, an osmolyte characteristic of Bostrychia, occurs in all isolates, whereas the Madagascar and New Caledonia isolates have very low levels of dulcitol. Molecular, low molecular weight carbohydrate and morphological evidence show that Rhodolachne radicosa belongs within the genus Bostrychia. We transfer Rhodolachne radicosa to Bostrychia radicosa (Itono) West, Zuccarello and Hommersand.
Increased plasma monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 level in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: ITOH Takefumi , NAGAYA Noritoshi , ISHIBASHI‐UEDA Hatsue , KYOTANI Shingo , OYA Hideo , SAKAMAKI Fumio , KIMURA Hiroshi , NAKANISHI Norifumi
Published: February 2006

Objective:  Monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1), a pro‐inflammatory chemokine, has potent chemoattractant activity for monocytes/macrophages. We sought to investigate the clinical significance of MCP‐1 in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH).

Methods:  This study included 28 patients with IPAH, seven patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) related to collagen vascular disease, and 13 healthy subjects. Plasma MCP‐1 levels were measured together with serum IL‐6 and tumour necrosis factor‐α (ΤΝF‐α) levels.

Results:  Circulating levels of MCP‐1, IL‐6 and ΤΝF‐α were significantly higher in patients with IPAH than in healthy controls, although they were lower than in patients with PAH related to collagen vascular disease. Plasma MCP‐1 did not significantly correlate with any haemodynamic variables. However, plasma MCP‐1 levels correlated negatively with the disease duration (time from symptom onset).

Conclusions:  Plasma MCP‐1 levels were elevated in patients with IPAH, and this elevation was particularly marked in the early stage of disease. Taking into account the chemoattractant activity of MCP‐1, these results imply a contribution of MCP‐1 to the development of pulmonary hypertension.