bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytogenetics of Brassica juncea×Brassica rapa hybrids and patterns of variation in the hybrid derivatives
Authors: Choudhary B. R. , Joshi P. , Rao S. Rama
Published: March 2003

Interspecific hybridization is an important tool to elucidate intergenomic relationships, transfer characters across species and develop synthetic amphidiploids, and it has been widely applied for improving Brassicas. The objective of the present study was to create genetic variability in Brassica through interspecific hybridization. Crosses between Brassica juncea (AABB, 2n= 36), and Brassica rapa (AA, 2n = 20) vars toria, yellow sarson, and brown sarson were attempted, and the hybrid derivatives were advanced to the F4 generation. Hybrids were obtained from the crosses B. juncea× toria and B. juncea× yellow sarson. The F1 plants were vigorous and intermediate to the parents in many morphological traits. The meiotic study of AAB hybrids showed 10 II + 8 I in the majority (71.8%) of cells analysed. A maximum of 12 and a minimum of seven bivalents were also observed in a few cells. The occurrence of multivalent associations (trivalents to pentavalents) at diakinesis/metaphase I and a bridge‐fragment configuration at anaphase I were attributed to homoeology between A and B genomes. A high percentage of plants resembling B. juncea was observed in the F2 generation. Transgressive segregation in both directions was found for plant height, primary branches, main raceme length, siliquae on main raceme, siliqua intensity, seeds per siliqua and seed yield. There were significant differences for the 14 characters in the F4 derivatives. Moderate to high estimates of phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation, broad‐sense heritability, and expected genetic advance were found for seed yield, 1000‐seed weight, siliquae per plant, seeds per siliqua and days to flowering. Intergenomic recombination, reflected as wide variation in the hybrid progenies, permitted the selection of some useful derivatives.
Validation of a major QTL for scab resistance with SSR markers and use of marker‐assisted selection in wheat
Authors: Zhou W‐C. , Kolb F. L. , Bai G‐H. , Domier L. L. , Boze L. K. , Smith N. J.
Published: March 2003

The objectives of this study were to validate the major quantitative trait locus (QTL) for scab resistance on the short arm of chromosome 3B in bread wheat and to isolate near‐isogenic lines for this QTL using marker‐assisted selection (MAS). Two resistant by susceptible populations, both using ‘Ning7840’ as the source of resistance, were developed to examine the effect of the 3BS QTL in different genetic backgrounds. Data for scab resistance and simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers linked to the resistance QTL were analyzed in the F2:3 lines of one population and in the F3:4 lines of the other. Markers linked to the major QTL on chromosome 3BS in the original mapping population (‘Ning7840’/‘Clark’) were closely associated with scab resistance in both validation populations. Marker‐assisted selection for the QTL with the SSR markers combined with phenotypic selection was more effective than selection based solely on phenotypic evaluation in early generations. Marker‐assisted selection of the major QTL during the seedling stage plus phenotypic selection after flowering effectively identified scab resistant lines in this experiment. Near‐isogenic lines for this 3BS QTL were isolated from the F6 generation of the cross ‘Ning7840’/‘IL89‐7978’ based on two flanking SSR markers, Xgwm389 and Xbarc147. Based on these results, MAS for the major scab resistance QTL can improve selection efficiency and may facilitate stacking of scab resistance genes from different sources.
Maturation Status, Protein Synthesis and Developmental Competence of Oocytes Derived from Lambs and Ewes
Authors: Kochhar HPS , Wu B , Morris LHA , Buckrell BC , Pollard JW , Basrur PK , King WA
Published: March 2003

The efficacy of oocyte selection for in vitro embryo production depends on the abundance and diameter of follicles, cumulus layers around the oocytes and subsequent fertilization. Application of `ovum pick‐up' technique allows us to utilize partially matured oocytes for embryo production even from juvenile subjects. To compare their developmental competence, oocytes derived from lambs and ewes and cultured in maturation medium for up to 26 h were assessed at 2 h intervals by confocal microscopy after chromatin and microtubulin‐specific fluorochrome labelling. Lamb oocytes reached second meiotic metaphase (MII) at lower numbers at 24 h (60.0%) and 26 h (28.6%) whereas 85.7% of adult‐derived oocytes attained MII status by 24 h of maturation. Radiolabelling of oocyte proteins revealed higher incorporation of [35S‐]‐methionine and [35S]‐cysteine in adult‐derived oocytes compared to lamb oocytes. Although the cleavage rate of lamb oocytes was similar to that of ewe oocytes, the proportion reaching blastocyst stage was significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the lamb‐derived oocytes. However, blastocysts from both types of oocytes displayed similar cell lineage allocations to inner cell mass and trophectoderm.
Insemination of Susceptible Heifers with Semen from a Non‐Viraemic Bull with Persistent Bovine Virus Diarrhoea Virus Infection Localized in the Testes
Authors: Niskanen R , Alenius S , Belák K , Baule C , Belák S , Voges H , Gustafsson H
Published: March 2003

Contents

Bulls shedding bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) in semen and simultaneously having a high concentration of circulating antibodies may cause reproductive problems and spread the viral infection within cattle populations. To investigate this in detail, three heifers were inseminated with BVDV‐infected semen from a non‐viraemic, seropositive Holstein–Friesian bull, named `Cumulus'. One control heifer was inseminated with semen from a healthy bull that was free of BVDV. All four heifers remained clinically healthy throughout the experiment. The conception succeeded in the control animal and in two of the three heifers inseminated with semen containing BVDV. The heifer with the failed conception was the only one that became systemically infected with BVDV. This animal was deemed non‐pregnant by ultrasonic examination on day 34 after insemination and showed no signs of subsequent oestrus during the entire experimental period. At slaughter, 42 days after insemination, there were no histopathological changes in the ovaries and virus was not detected in ovarian tissue. The fact that seronegative dams served with semen from persistently infected bulls have occasionally produced persistently infected calves together with the present findings and the fact that non‐viraemic, seropositive bulls can constantly shed BVDV, suggest that the use of semen from such bulls in BVDV‐free herds could have far‐reaching consequences, especially if it led to the birth of persistently infected (P1) calves.
New Strategies to Prevent Mastitis
Authors: Pyörälä S
Published: March 2003

Contents

Bovine mastitis remains as the disease causing the biggest economic losses to the dairy industry, despite the intensive research and prevention measures at herd level carried out for decades. Antibiotics are widely used to combat mastitis, but focus should be shifted from treatment to more economical and efficient prevention. The bacteriological aetiology of mastitis has changed from contagious to environmental pathogens, which has reduced the efficacy of the traditional mastitis control strategies. Considerable progress in the understanding of epidemiology, immunology, diagnostics and pathogenesis of mastitis has been made. The modern molecular biological methods offer good possibilities for the research of the epidemiological and virulence aspects of bacteria, which may help in building‐up specific mastitis control strategies for dairy herds. Studies on the host response and relationship between somatic cell count and susceptibility to mastitis offer tools for genetic improvement of dairy cows. Biotechnological approaches for mastitis prevention are in the developmental stage, but many problems are associated, e.g. with vaccination of dairy cows against mastitis. Different methods of immunomodulation for the prevention of mastitis have shown promise in experimental trials, but the evidence is not yet enough to support commercial applications. Improving nutrition, housing and environment of dairy cattle are still crucial in the prevention of mastitis, especially during the most susceptible period after parturition. New milking techniques including robotic milking may provide better possibility for proper milking and improved udder health. Mastitis control should be part of the herd health programme in the dairy herds. In this paper, results from recent research and proposals for new prevention strategies in the field of mastitis are reviewed.
Owning their expertise: Why nurses use ‘no suicide contracts’ rather than their own assessments
Authors: Farrow Tony L.
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACT:

‘No suicide contracts’ (NSCs) are a tool commonly used by nurses in community crisis situations. At times this tool is utilized because the clinician believes that it is beneficial. However, there are other occasions when NSCs are introduced in a manner that runs counter to the clinical judgement of the crisis nurse. This paper discusses the results of a qualitative study that addressed the question of why nurses use NSCs in such situations, rather than relying on their own expertise. This analysis suggests that underlying concerns of clinicians can detrimentally affect decision‐making in such circumstances, and recommends that rather than subjugating nursing expertise, underlying issues be addressed directly.
The role of B7 costimulation in T‐cell immunity
Authors: Harris Nicola L , Ronchese Franca
Published: March 2003

CD4+ T cells are considered to be the major controlling element of the adaptive immune response. They recognize foreign peptides by interaction of the T cell receptor (TCR) with peptide complexed to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules on the surface of antigen presenting cells (APC). Once activated, CD4+ T cells orchestrate the various phases of the immune response. They are responsible for the production of numerous cytokines, which activate specific immune effector cell populations including B cells, eosinophils, mast cells and macrophages. Not surprisingly, the activation of CD4+ T cells needs to be tightly regulated and is subject to finely tuned control mechanisms. The requirement for a second or ‘costimulatory’ signal, in addition to the antigenic signal, provides a key element for the exquisite control of T cell activation. One of the major signalling pathways responsible for delivery of this costimulatory signal is induced by interaction of CD28 on T cells with B7 molecules found only on APC. The present review outlines our current understanding of the physiological role of B7 costimulatory signals in regulating CD4+ T cell responses.
Stimulation of TNF‐α, IL‐1β and nitrite release from mouse cultured spleen cells and lavaged peritoneal cells by mastoparan M
Authors: Wu Tzong‐Ming , Chou Tz‐Chong , Ding Yu‐An , Li Ming‐Liang
Published: March 2003

Chemically synthesized mastoparan M, a tetradecapeptide toxin of venom (INLKAIAALAKKLL), was used in the experiments described. After addition of mastoparan M to cultures of mouse macrophages in vitro, tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin 1β (IL‐1β) were detected in the culture fluids by 12 h and their highest accumulation was observed by 24 h. Mastoparan M induced increases in both TNF‐α secretion and mRNA level at the same time. Nitrite levels, which reflect nitric oxide synthesis, were also found to increase in the macrophage cultures at 24 h after mastoparan M addition. In vivo studies showed that mastoparan M induced the formation and accumulation of TNF‐α, IL‐1β and nitrite in the peritoneal exudates of mice much faster at 90 min, 120 min and 180 min after mastoparan M injection, respectively. Similarly, significant increases in myeloperoxidase activity, a marker for neutrophil and macrophage content, were observed in the peritoneal lavage cells after intraperitoneal injection of mastoparan M. However, induction of nitrite by mastoparan M was completely inhibited by simultaneous addition of antimouse TNF‐α antibody to the macrophage cultures. These results suggest that modulation of both neutrophil and macrophage influx by mastoparan M may be conveyed through TNF‐α and IL‐1β secretion accompanied by nitrite formation.
Migration of Langerhans cells and γδ+ dendritic cells from UV‐B‐irradiated sheep skin
Authors: Dandie Geoffrey W , Clydesdale Gavin J , Radcliff Fiona J , Muller H Konrad
Published: March 2003

Depletion of dendritic cells from UV‐B‐irradiated sheep skin was investigated by monitoring migration of these cells towards regional lymph nodes. By creating and cannulating pseudoafferent lymphatic vessels draining a defined region of skin, migrating cells were collected and enumerated throughout the response to UV‐B irradiation. In the present study, the effects of exposing sheep flank skin to UV‐B radiation clearly demonstrated a dose‐dependent increase in the migration of Langerhans cells (LC) from the UV‐B‐exposed area to the draining lymph node. The range of UV‐B doses assessed in this study included 2.7 kJ/m2, a suberythemal dose; 8 kJ/m2, 1 minimal erythemal dose (MED); 20.1 kJ/m2; 40.2 kJ/m2; and 80.4 kJ/m2, 10 MED. The LC were the cells most sensitive to UV‐B treatment, with exposure to 8 kJ/m2 or greater reproducibly causing a significant increase in migration. Migration of γδ+ dendritic cells (γδ+ DC) from irradiated skin was also triggered by exposure to UV‐B radiation, but dose dependency was not evident within the range of UV‐B doses examined. This, in conjunction with the lack of any consistent correlation between either the timing or magnitude of migration peaks of these two cell types, suggests that different mechanisms govern the egress of LC and γδ+ DC from the skin. It is concluded that the depression of normal immune function in the skin after exposure to erythemal doses of UV‐B radiation is associated with changes in the migration patterns of epidermal dendritic cells to local lymph nodes.
Neuroendocrine properties of macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)
Authors: Fingerle‐Rowson Gunter R , Bucala Richard
Published: March 2003

The cytokine macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is produced by neuroendocrine and immune tissues and possesses several features that allow it to be characterized as a neuroendocrine mediator. Its pro‐inflammatory action and its pathogenic role in inflammatory diseases, such as septic shock, arthritis and other diseases, have clearly been demonstrated and may be based in part on neuroendocrine mechanisms. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor possesses glucocorticoid‐antagonist properties within the immune system and participates in the regulation of several endocrine circuits. This review summarizes the current state of MIF research and focuses on MIF expression and function in nervous and endocrine tissues.
1α,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 inhibits pro‐inflammatory cytokine and chemokine expression in human corneal epithelial cells colonized with Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Xue Mei‐Lang , Zhu Hua , Thakur Archana , Willcox Mark
Published: March 2003

The cytokines IL‐1β, IL‐6 and the chemokine IL‐8 are key mediators of host inflammation. 1α,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 (VD3) has been shown to regulate host immune responses in vivo and in vitro. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the addition of VD3 to human corneal epithelial cells colonized with Pseudomonas aeruginosa altered the expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐8. An immortalized human corneal epithelial (HCE) cell line was used in this study. After growth to confluency, HCE cells were challenged with P. aeruginosa strain 6294 in the presence or absence of 10−6 mol/L VD3 for 4 h, 8 h and 12 h. Gene expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐8 was detected by reverse transcription‐PCR (RT‐PCR) from total RNA extracted from HCE cells. Protein concentrations of IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐8 in culture supernatants were measured by ELISA. Addition of VD3 to HCE cells colonized with P. aeruginosa significantly inhibited the expression of IL‐1β and IL‐8 mRNA and protein (P < 0.05). Although the expression of IL‐6 mRNA was stimulated at 12 h post‐challenge (P < 0.05), the expression of IL‐6 protein was inhibited at all time points after the addition of VD3. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that VD3 inhibited the P. aeruginosa‐induced expression of IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐8 in HCE cells, suggesting that this vitamin may have the potential to become a novel anti‐inflammatory agent in ocular disease.
Telephone nursing: Calls and caller satisfaction
Authors: Wahlberg Anna Carin , Wredling Regina
Published: March 2003

To understand the function of telephone nursing, every call to the Medical Call Centre in Stockholm was recorded during one week (n = 2866). Every tenth caller (n = 203) was asked to answer a mailed questionnaire about consultation and satisfaction. The most common reason for calling was symptoms of infection. The predominant outcome was self‐care advice (49%). In the mailed questionnaire 85% of respondents stated that they had followed the advice and 95% were satisfied with their consultation. Compared to earlier studies of calls to health‐care centres and accident and emergency departments, a larger proportion of the callers were advised to see a physician. The Call Centre we examined proved to be more inclined to give self‐care advice than other health‐care settings.
The manifestation and nursing management of agitation in institutionalised residents with dementia
Authors: Keatinge Diana , Scarfe Carrol , Bellchambers Helen , McGee Janine , Oakham Randy , Probert Craig , Stewart Lee , Stokes Janice
Published: March 2003

This participatory action research study is the first formal research study undertaken by nurses in a nursing development unit. The study emerged as the result of nurses brainstorming issues that they perceived to be problematic in their nursing practice and their unit environment. The nurses of the psycho‐geriatric nursing development unit, Wallsend Aged Care Facility, New South Wales, Australia identified that the management of agitated behaviour manifested by their severely demented clients was a major challenge in their practice. As a result, a pilot participatory action research study was designed to measure how agitation manifested, to measure the severity of agitation and to identify current nursing practices used to manage it and their outcome. Results of the study demonstrated that nurse actions triggered the majority of most highly rated episodes of agitated behaviour in this group of elderly residents, and that the majority of these nurse actions related to those involved in carrying out activities of daily living for the residents.
The efficacy of cotton cover gowns in reducing infection in nursing neutropenic patients: An evidence‐based study
Authors: Kenny Heather , Lawson Elizabeth
Published: March 2003

This pilot study aimed to investigate the routine use of cotton cover gowns in the care of neutropenic patients and whether the rate of infection would increase if they were not used. Patients were randomly placed into alternate groups on admission and nursed with or without gowns. The patients’ rates of infection were noted with no significant difference in infection rates. Using evidence from a systematic review of the literature, cover gowns have now been removed as a method of protecting neutropenic patients. ‘Simple’ and effective hand‐washing, together with the use of broad‐spectrum antibiotics, has been shown to be sufficient protection for these patients.
Compliance of adolescents with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Rn Helvi Kyngäs
Published: March 2003

The purpose of this paper is to describe the compliance of adolescents with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) and some factors connected to compliance. Three hundred individuals aged 13–17 years were randomly selected from the Finnish Social Insurance Institution's register. The questionnaires were sent to the adolescents selected from the register, to be returned directly to the researcher in a self‐addressed envelope. Ninety‐one percent (n = 274) returned the questionnaire. Response rate was 91%. The data were analysed using the SPSS software. Frequencies and descriptive statistics were computed. The relationship between the variables was analyzed by cross‐tabulation, and the significances were tested with the chi‐squared test. Eleven percent of the adolescents with JRA felt that they complied fully with the health regimens, 42% placed themselves in the category of satisfactory compliance and the remaining 18% reported poor compliance. The lowest level of compliance was with medication; only 3% showed good compliance. The highest degree of compliance was observed for control visits to doctors or nurses. Variables such as exercise and smoking had statistically significant connections to compliance (P < 0.001). Good motivation; experience of results; a strong sense of normality; energy and willpower; support from the parents, physicians and nurses; a positive attitude towards the disease and treatment; no threat to social, physical and emotional well‐being; and no fears of complications or uncontrolled pain explained good compliance (P < 0.001).
Acute pain management: Implications of scientific evidence for nursing practice in the postoperative context
Authors: Bucknall Tracey , Manias Elizabeth , Botti Mari
Published: March 2003

Unrelieved acute pain remains prevalent in hospitalized patients despite advances in pain management. A decade after the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council called for improved pain management practices by health professionals, it released clinical guidelines to provide clinicians with current scientific evidence to augment their clinical decision‐making. This paper examines the implications of national guidelines on nursing practice and highlights the inadequacies of current implementation policies. Pain management guidelines have failed to decrease patients' postoperative pain because organizations and researchers have ignored the impact of contextual influences on clinicians' decision‐making. It is recommended that for successful implementation of national guidelines to occur at the local level of practice, organizations must assist clinicians to identify local influences on their decision‐making, to address the issues specific to their own work environment and to evaluate any changes in practice.
Effect of polarized light in the healing process of pressure ulcers
Authors: Iordanou Pangiota , Baltopoulos G , Giannakopoulou(Nurs) M , Bellou P , Ktenas E
Published: March 2003

A trial was conducted to examine the effect of polarized light on pressure ulcers of 1st, 2nd and 3rd grades. Patients with two pressure ulcers, one of which received the polarized light therapy (experimental ulcer) and the other acting as control, were included in the study. The experimental ulcers received treatments for 2 weeks consisting a 5 min therapy session each day, excluding weekends, for 10 days. Experimental and control ulcers were assessed as they appeared on admission and reassessed at the end of each week. Fifty‐five patients aged 37–85 years (67.1 ± 11.9 years were studied. Pressure ulcers of 1st, 2nd and 3rd grades receiving extra treatment with polarized light had increased values of epithelial tissue between the first and second assessments of 0–30.9% and between the second and third assessments of 30.9–21.7%. Values of the control pressure ulcers were, respectively, from 0 to 5.5% and from 5.5% to 3.1%. The mean pink/white colour values of the experimental ulcers, between the first and second measurements increased significantly compared with the control ulcers (P = 0.021) and also increased significantly between the second and third measurements (P = 0.003). The mean values of ‘no and minimal exudate’ of the experimental ulcers increased significantly between first and second measurements compared with the control ulcers (P = 0.001), and similarly, significantly between the second and third measurements (P = 0.002). Mean surface areas of the experimental ulcers decreased significantly between the first and second measurements from 2.84 to 2.54 cm2 (P≤ 0.001) and between the first and third measurements from 2.84 to 2.26 cm2 (P≤ 0.001). Mean surface areas of the control ulcers decreased between the first and second measurements from 2.10 to 2.08 cm2 (P≤ 0.42) and between the first and third measurements from 2.10 to 2.04 cm2 (P≤ 0.007). Pressure ulcers subjected to extra treatment with polarized light in the early stages (first to third measurements) showed improvement in the healing process than the control ulcers.
Parents’ perspectives of health‐care delivery to their chronically ill children during school
Authors: Notaras Elizabeth , Keatinge Diana , Smith James , Cordwell Judith , Cotterell Dianne , Nunn Elizabeth
Published: March 2003

This study sought to identify parents’ perspectives about issues relating to the provision of health care to their chronically ill children while they are at school. A survey of parents with school‐aged children attending the paediatric subspecialty outpatients clinic in a large teaching hospital was designed to collect both qualitative and quantitative data about this topic. Findings included that 48% (n =161) of parents participating in the study said their child required some form of care or attention while at school. Highest scoring areas of need included supervision of meals (36%), administering insulin (19%), and administering nebulizers/puffers (19%). In addition, 75% of parents with children requiring health care while in school said that special knowledge and skill was required to deliver this care; 56% of these parents did not feel that teachers had the knowledge that would enable them too look after their chronically ill child during school hours.
Geochemical characteristics of Carboniferous greenstones in the Inner Zone of Southwest Japan
Authors: Sano Sakae , Hayasaka Yasutaka , Tazaki Koichi
Published: March 2003

Abstract Greenstones, representing remnants of paleo‐oceanic crust, occur in Permian and Jurassic accretionary complexes of the Inner Zone in the Southwestern Japan arc. The formation age of most of the greenstones is early Carboniferous, based on fossil ages for overlying limestones and Sm‐Nd isotope ages of the greenstones themselves. The geochemistry of such greenstones is similar to those of present‐day oceanic islands. Greenstones of the Permian accretionary complex (Akiyoshi belt) are alkalic and tholeiitic in composition. Some alkali basalts show peculiar features from an EM‐1 mantle source, such as the Gough Island and Tristan da Chunha basalts in the South Atlantic. Greenstones of the Jurassic accretionary complex (Tamba belt) are also alkali and tholeiitic basalts with both basalt types in the northern part of the Tamba belt coming from strongly depleted characters similar to a mid‐ocean ridge basalt source mantle. The variable geochemistry of the oceanic basalts is explained by hypothesis on existence of a Carboniferous mantle plume below the spreading ridge which divides the Farallon and Izanagi plates. The Akiyoshi belt seamounts and/or oceanic islands of the Farallon plate and Tamba belt seamounts and/or oceanic islands of the Izanagi plate formed simultaneously by the upwelling of the thermal plume. Some part of the Akiyoshi belt basalts originated locally from an EM‐1 mantle source, while basalts from the northern parts of the Tamba belt have a normal‐type mid‐ocean ridge basalt (N‐MORB) source component. Existence of an N‐MORB signature is consistent with the presence of a spreading center in a Carboniferous ‘Pacific Ocean’ that caused separation of the Farallon and Izanagi plates. Disparity in accretion ages of the basaltic rocks in the Permian and Jurassic may have been caused by differences in the relative motion of the two plates.
Kinematic analysis of ultrahigh‐pressure–high‐pressure metamorphic rocks in the Chaglinka–Kulet area of the Kokchetav Massif, Kazakhstan
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroshi , Ishikawa Masahiro , Anma Ryo , Kaneko Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2003

Abstract The central part of the Kokchetav Massif is exposed in the Chaglinka–Kulet area, northern Kazakhstan. The ultrahigh‐pressure–high‐pressure (UHP–HP) metamorphic belt in this area is composed of four subhorizontal lithological units (Unit I–IV) metamorphosed under different pressure–temperature (P–T) conditions. The coesite‐ and diamond‐bearing Unit II, which consists mainly of whiteschist and eclogite blocks, is tectonically sandwiched between the amphibolite‐dominant Unit I on the bottom and the orthogneiss‐dominant Unit III on the top. Total combined thickness of these units is less than 2 km. The rocks of the UHP–HP metamorphic belt are affected by at least four deformational events post‐dating peak metamorphism: (i) The earliest penetrative deformation is characterized by non‐coaxial ductile flow in a NW–SE direction. The shear sense indicators in oriented samples from Unit I provide consistent top‐to‐the‐northwest motions and those from Unit III provide top‐to‐the‐southeast, south or south‐west motions; (ii) Upright folds with subhorizontal enveloping surface refold earlier foliations including shear‐indicators throughout the metamorphic belt; (iii) The third stage of deformation is denoted by large‐scale bending around a subvertical axis; and (iv) Late localized fault (or shear) zones cut all earlier structures. The fault zones have subvertical shear planes and their displacements are essentially strike‐slip in manner. The subhorizontal structure and opposite shear directions between Unit I and Unit III during the earlier deformation stage suggest north‐westward extrusion of UHP Unit II.
Metamorphic petrology of the Barchi–Kol metabasites, western Kokchetav ultrahigh‐pressure–high‐pressure massif, northern Kazakhstan
Authors: Masago Hideki
Published: March 2003

Abstract In the Barchi–Kol area, located at the westernmost part of the Kokchetav ultrahigh pressure (UHP) to high‐pressure (HP) massif, northern Kazakhstan, metabasites from the epidote amphibolite (EA) facies to the coesite eclogite (CEC) facies are exposed. Based on the equilibrium mineral assemblages, the Barchi–Kol area is divided into four zones: A, B, C and D. Zone A is characterized by the assemblage: epidote + hornblende + plagioclase + quartz, with minor garnet. Zone B is characterized by the assemblage: garnet + hornblende + plagioclase + quartz + zoisite. Zone C is defined by the appearance of sodic–augite, with typical assemblage: garnet + sodic–augite + tschermakite–pargasite + quartz ± plagioclase ± epidote/clinozoisite. Zone D is characterized by the typical eclogite assemblage: garnet + omphacite + quartz + rutile, with minor phengite and zoisite. Inclusions of quartz pseudomorph after coesite were identified in several samples of zone D. Chemical compositions of rock‐forming minerals of each zone were analyzed and reactions between each zone were estimated. Metamorphic P‐T conditions of each zone were estimated using several geothermobarometers as 8.6 ± 0.5 kbar, 500 ± 30 °C for zone A; 11.7 ± 0.5 kbar, 700 ± 30 °C for zone B; 12–14 kbar, 700–815 °C for zone C; and 27–40 kbar, 700–825 °C for zone D.
Late Cenozoic volcanic activity in the Chugoku area, southwest Japan arc during back‐arc basin opening and reinitiation of subduction
Authors: Kimura Jun‐Ichi , Kunikiyo Tomoyuki , Osaka Isaku , Nagao Takashi , Yamauchi Seiki , Kakubuchi Susumu , Okada Shomei , Fujibayashi Norie , Okada Ryuhei , Murakami Hisashi , Kusano Takashi , Umeda Koji , Hayashi Shintaro , Ishimaru Tsuneari , Ninomiya Atusi , Tanase Atsushi
Published: March 2003

Abstract  Temporal–spatial variations in Late Cenozoic volcanic activity in the Chugoku area, southwest Japan, have been examined based on 108 newly obtained K–Ar ages. Lava samples were collected from eight Quaternary volcanic provinces (Daisen, Hiruzen, Yokota, Daikonjima, Sambe, Ooe–Takayama, Abu and Oki) and a Tertiary volcanic cluster (Kibi Province) to cover almost all geological units in the province. Including published age data, a total of 442 Cenozoic radiometric ages are now available. Across‐arc volcanic activity in an area approximately 500 km long and 150 km wide can be examined over 26 million years. The period corresponds to syn‐ and post‐back‐arc basin opening stages of the island arc. Volcanic activity began in the central part of the rear‐arc ca 26 Ma. This was followed by arc‐wide expansion at 20 Ma by eruption at two rear‐arc centers located at the eastern and western ends. Expansion to the fore‐arc occurred between 20 and 12 Ma. This Tertiary volcanic arc was maintained until 4 Ma with predominant alkali basalt centers. The foremost‐arc zone activity ceased at 4 Ma, followed by quiescence over the whole arc between 4 and 3 Ma. Volcanic activity resumed at 3 Ma, covering the entire rear‐arc area, and continued until the present to form a Quaternary volcanic arc. Adakitic dacite first occurred at 1.7 Ma in the middle of the arc, and spread out in the center part of the Quaternary volcanic arc. Alkali basalt activities ceased in the area where adakite volcanism occurred. Fore‐arc expansion of the volcanic arc could be related to the upwelling and expansion of the asthenosphere, which caused opening of the Japan Sea. Narrowing of the volcanic zone could have been caused by progressive Philippine Sea Plate subduction. Deeper penetration could have caused melting of the slab and resulted in adakites. Volcanic history in the Late Cenozoic was probably controlled by the history of evolution of the upper mantle structure, coinciding with back‐arc basin opening and subsequent reinitiation of subduction.
Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: ANGULO PAUL , LINDOR KEITH D
Published: March 2003

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease that affects a high proportion of the world’s population. Insulin resistance and oxidative stress play a critical role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Clinical, biochemical and imaging studies are of value in the diagnostic evaluation of patients with NAFLD, but liver biopsy remains the most sensitive and specific means of providing important diagnostic and prognostic information. Simple steatosis has the best prognosis within the spectrum of NAFLD, but NAFLD has the potential to progress to steatohepatitis, fibrosis and even cirrhosis. No effective medical therapy is currently available for all patients with NAFLD. In patients with diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidemia, appropriate metabolic control is always recommended, but rarely effective in resolving the liver disease. Weight reduction, when achieved and sustained, may improve the liver disease, although the results with weight loss have been inconsistent. Pharmacological therapy aimed at the underlying liver disease holds promise. Several medications with different mechanisms of action and potential benefit are currently being evaluated in clinical trials. Liver transplantation is a life‐extending therapeutic alternative for patients with end‐stage NAFLD, but NAFLD may recur after liver transplantation.
Paracetamol overdose in a liver transplantation centre: An 8‐year experience
Authors: Gow Paul J , Angus Peter W
Published: March 2003

Background
: Paracetamol is a readily available, widely used analgesic that can cause serious hepatic injury when taken in overdose. The aims of this study were to assess the frequency of attendance at the Austin and Repatriation Medical Centre for paracetamol overdose, the frequency of referral to the Victorian liver transplant unit after serious overdoses, the morbidity and mortality rates in all patients treated and the appropriateness of treatment.

Methods
: A review of the Austin and Repatriation Medical Centre medical records and of the Vic‐torian liver transplant unit database of all patients attending because of paracetamol overdose from 1988–1995 was undertaken. One hundred and fifty‐two patients (103 females, 49 males) files were reviewed.

Results
: One hundred and thirty‐one patients presented directly from the community and 21 were referred specifically for consideration for possible tranplantation. The most important predictor of liver injury was time between overdose and arrival at hospital (P < 0.01). Thirteen patients developed fulminant hepatic failure, one of whom received a liver transplant; this patient died post‐transplantation and was the only death in the series.

Conclusions
: We found that serious liver injury following overdose was uncommon, liver transplantation was rarely needed and death was rare. Although inappropriate delay in instituting N‐acetylcysteine treatment after admission to hospital or failure to treat still occurred in a number of cases, delay in presentation to hospital was the main predictor of liver damage.
Duplex Doppler sonography in patients with Budd–Chiari syndrome
Authors: Chawla Yogesh , Kumar Sanjay , Dhiman Radha K , Suri Sudha , Dilawari Jang B
Published: March 2003

Background
: Angiography has been the mainstay for diagnosis of Budd–Chiari syndrome even though other modalities are increasingly being used. We have evaluated our findings of duplex Doppler sonography (DDS) in patients with Budd–Chiari syndrome.

Methods
: Duplex Doppler sonography was performed in 37 consecutive angiographically proven patients with Budd–Chiari syndrome.

Results
: Real time ultrasonography showed abnormalities of right, middle and left hepatic veins (HV) in 21, 15 and 18 patients, respectively. Duplex Doppler sonography showed abnormal flow patterns in 37, 22 and 31 patients in the right, middle and left HV, respectively, thereby increasing the diagnostic yield by 40%. An abnormal waveform in one or more HV was present in all 37 patients. Uniphasic flow was the commonest abnormality and was seen in 22, nine and 14 patients, respectively, in the right, middle and left HV, while there was no flow in five, four and seven patients in the right, middle and left HV, respectively. Intrahepatic collaterals were seen in 35 of 37 patients (94.6%). Hepatopetal flow was found in the portal vein of 21 of 23 patients (91.3%), while flow was hepatofugal in one and portal vein thrombosis was found in another.

Conclusion
: Duplex Doppler sonography is a useful procedure which helps in the diagnosis of patients with Budd–Chiari syndrome.
The haemochromatosis gene: A global perspective and implications for the Asia–Pacific region
Authors: Mortimore Marianne , Merryweather‐Clarke Alison T , Robson Kathryn Jh , Powell Lawrie W
Published: March 2003

Mutations in the haemochromatosis (HFE) gene cause most of the cases of hereditary haemochromatosis among people of Northern European ancestry while remaining a rare cause of iron overload among indigenous persons of the Asia–Pacific region. Advances in understanding of the role of the HFE protein product and other recently cloned iron transporters signify an exciting period, as previously unknown components of the iron metabolism pathway are revealed one by one. Epidemiological studies have shown that this gene is more widespread than its phenotypic expression would suggest and that the heterozygous state may be implicated in the expression of other diseases of the liver such as porphyria cutanea tarda, hepatitis C virus infection and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis. The diagnosis, management and ethical implications for clinical practice in the aftermath of this discovery are discussed.
Vaccination against hepatitis B: Current challenges for Asian countries and future directions
Authors: Safary Assad , Beck Janice
Published: March 2003

Aims
: To review the current status of hepatitis B immunization programmes as well as future issues concerning hepatitis B immunization in Asian countries.

Methods
: Pertinent literature was identified via in‐house and MEDLINE (1980–99) searches and references cited in published articles. Articles within the Proceedings of the IX Triennial International Symposium on Viral Hepatitis and Liver Disease provided valuable state‐of‐the‐art resource data.

Results
: Chronic hepatitis B infection is responsible for 75–90% of primary hepatocellular carcinoma, one of the 10 most common cancers worldwide. Hepatitis B and its chronic sequelae can potentially be eradicated through vaccines that have been shown to be 95–99% efficacious in preventing development of the disease or the carrier state in immunized infants. Approximately 75% of the world’s hepatitis B carriers live in Asian countries wherein wide variations in immunization strategies exist. Vaccination programmes in hyperendemic Asian countries have elicited decreases in the incidence of acute and chronic infections as well as a decrease in chronic carriers in the unvaccinated population. Decreases in the incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma have been recorded in Taiwan and Singapore after at least 10 years of universal hepatitis B immunization programmes.

Conclusions
: In Asian countries currently without nationwide hepatitis B programmes, utilization of the existing vaccination infrastructure for administration of other World Health Organization Expanded Programme on Immunization vaccines will provide the most economical and efficient means of administration of the hepatitis B vaccine.
Oesophageal cavernous haemangioma diagnosed histologically, not by endoscopic procedures
Authors: Tominaga Kazunari , Arakawa Tetsuo , Ando Kenji , Umeda Syugo , Shiba Masatsugu , Suzuki Noriko , Watanabe Toshio , Takaishi Osamu , Fujiwara Yasuhiro , Uchida Toshiyuki , Fukuda Takashi , Higuchi Kazuhide , Kuroki Tetsuo
Published: March 2003

Haemangioma of the oesophagus is uncommon in patients with benign oesophageal tumours. We present a patient with an oesophageal haemangioma detected during mass screening of the upper gastrointestinal tract. The patient, a 59‐year‐old man, had neither abdominal complaints nor a history of gastrointestinal diseases. Endoscopic examination revealed a blue‐coloured submucosal tumour (approximately 3 cm in diameter) at the middle portion of oesophagus. Endoscopic Doppler ultrasonography showed an homogeneous and hypoechoic mass without blood flow in the submucosal layer of the oesophagus. However, a magnetic resonance imaging scan did not give a typical image for oesophageal haemangioma. Therefore, partial resection of the tumour was performed to obtain a differential diagnosis using the procedures of endoscopic ligation and polypectomy. Histological examination of the resected tissue showed a cavernous haemangioma in the oesophagus. This endoscopic technique may be useful for the differential diagnosis of oesophageal haemangioma.
Autoimmune pancreatitis detected as a mass in the tail of the pancreas
Authors: Taniguchi Takao , Seko Shuji , Azuma Katsumi , Tamegai Michiko , Nishida Osamu , Inoue Fumihiko , Okamoto Motozumi , Mizumoto Takashi , Kobayashi Hisato
Published: March 2003

A mass in the tail of the pancreas was detected in a 62‐year‐old male patient who had hypergammaglobulinaemia, and was positive for antinuclear antigen and anti‐SS‐A antibody. Endoscopic retrograde pancreatography revealed focal irregular narrowing of the main pancreatic duct in the tail of the pancreas. Dynamic computed tomography showed swelling of the pancreatic tail, which was enhanced on delayed phase. Autoimmune pancreatitis was suspected and corticosteroid therapy was commenced. This led to significant resolution of the pancreatic stricture. It is important to recognize this clinical entity as corticosteroid therapy may avoid unnecessary surgery.
Natural history of chronic hepatitis B virus infection in adults with emphasis on the occurrence of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chu Chia‐Ming
Published: March 2003

The natural course of perinatally acquired hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has three phases. In the first ‘immune tolerance phase’, patients are HBeAg positive and have high serum levels of HBV DNA, but have no symptoms, normal ALT levels and minimal histological activity. The second ‘immune clearance phase’ usually occurs between 15 and 35 years of age, during which HBV replication declines, accompanied by increased serum ALT levels and inflammatory activity in the liver; HBeAg to anti‐HBe seroconversion is then observed, frequently preceded by a flare of the ALT level. The average rate of spontaneous HBeAg seroconversion is 10% per year. In the third ‘low‐replicative phase’, serum HBsAg persists, but HBeAg is no longer detectable and HBV DNA can only be detected by PCR assay. During this phase, patients are usually asymptomatic and liver disease is inactive; some patients, however, may progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The ultimate outcome of chronic HBV infection appears to depend on the duration and severity of liver injury during the immune clearance phase. About 2.1% of patients with chronic type B hepatitis develop cirrhosis each year. Patients who have a severe acute exacerbation complicated by subacute hepatic failure or who have recurrent episodes of acute exacerbations with bridging hepatic necrosis are more likely to develop cirrhosis. A significant proportion of those with HBsAg eventually develop HCC; they have a 100‐fold increased risk of HCC relative to those without. The development of HCC, however, is closely related to the severity of the underlying liver disease. The annual incidence of HCC is only 0.1% in asymptomatic HBsAg individual, 1% in patients with chronic hepatitis B, but increases to 3–10% in patients with cirrhosis. Some anti‐HBe‐positive patients continue to have active liver disease and they should be tested for HBV DNA by hybridization assay to determine whether the disease results from replicative precore mutant HBV infection or other causes of liver disease, such as superinfection with HCV and HDV. A substantial number of apparently healthy HBV‐infected individuals are first recognized when they present with episodes of acute hepatitis. About 30% of these cases could be attributed to other hepatotropic virus superinfection. Acute viral hepatitis in patients with concurrent HBV infection is associated with an increased risk of fulminant hepatic failure. Finally, HBsAg disappears from serum in about 1% of patients each year. HCV superinfection can enhance the termination of HBsAg positivity. HCV, however, replaces HBV as the dominant cause of chronic viral hepatitis. The outcome of HBV‐infected persons with ‘spontaneous’ seroclearance of HBsAg is usually favourable, though progress to cirrhosis and HCC is still possible.
Indications for liver transplantation for chronic viral hepatitis, and therapies for controlling hepatitis B virus infection before and after transplantation
Authors: M Geoffrey W
Published: March 2003

The general indications for liver transplantation in hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, and the issues surrounding treatment for HBV infection in the pre‐ and post‐transplant periods, are discussed. In general, transplantation is reserved for patients with end‐stage liver failure secondary to cirrhosis and a small population with acute liver failure. It is proposed that certain guidelines can be developed and that these should include any one of the following: a Child‐Pugh score ≥ 9, diuretic resistant ascites, recurrent portal hypertensive bleeding, recurrent encephalopathy, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and the development of a small hepatocellular cancer (≤ 5 cm in diameter). Treatment for HBV infection now includes lamivudine therapy pre and post transplantation together with hepatitis B immunoglobulin. Such an approach has virtually abolished recurrence of HBV infection following liver transplantation.