bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of growth hormone in determining birth size and early postnatal growth, using congenital growth hormone deficiency (GHD) as a model
Authors: Mehta Ameeta , Hindmarsh Peter C. , Stanhope Richard G. , Turton James P. G. , Cole Tim J. , Preece Michael A. , Dattani Mehul T.
Published: July 2005

Objective  The role of GH in early human growth is unclear. Congenital GH deficiency (CGHD) provides a useful tool to explore this putative role. We have assessed the effects of CGHD on birth size and early postnatal growth, and the further impact of the presence of additional pituitary hormone deficiencies and midline brain defects on these parameters.

Design, patients and measurements  Weight, length and BMI expressed as standard deviation scores (SDS), over the first two years of life, were retrospectively compared in 44 GH‐deficient children (M:F 26 : 18). Thirty‐eight of 44 patients underwent GH provocation testing and all patients had neuro‐imaging of the brain. The patients were divided into three groups of increasing phenotypic complexity {group A [n = 12, isolated GHD, no midline defects], group B [n = 10, combined pituitary hormone deficiency (CPHD); no midline defects], group C (n = 22, CPHD with midline defects)}.

Results  Mean birth weight, length and BMI SDS were −0·4, −0·9 and +0·1 SDS, respectively. The differences were significant for weight (P = 0·03) and BMI (P = 0·003), but not length (P = 0·3) SDS, between groups A and C. Of the three groups, group A had a lower weight and BMI SDS than group C. The prevalence of postnatal complications (n = 25) was significantly different in the three groups [group A (8%), group B (80%), group C (73%); P < 0·001] and particularly between patients with isolated GH deficiency (IGHD) (group A) and CPHD (groups B and C; P < 0·0001). No patients in group A presented with neonatal hypoglycaemia as compared with 70% of those in group B and 59% in group C (P = 0·001). A reduced length SDS was observed in all patients within 6 months of birth and the reduction was greatest in group B (P = 0·03). Group C remained significantly (P < 0·05) heavier at 12, 18 and 24 months compared to group A. BMI SDS was significantly (P < 0·05) greater at all study points in CPHD patients (groups B and C) as compared with IGHD. Serum GH concentrations at testing did not correlate significantly with birth length (r = −0·08, P = 0·7), birth weight (r = −0·08, P = 0·6) or the age at induction of GH treatment (r = 0·12, P = 0·5). There were no significant differences between peak serum GH concentrations in patients in groups A (7·8 ± 6·3 mU/l), B (3·9 ± 4·8 mU/l) or C (8·7 ± 5·4 mU/l).

Conclusions  Length, weight and BMI data from our study groups suggest that GH per se has a minimal effect on intrauterine growth but a significant effect during the infancy period. Early growth may also be influenced by the complexity of the hypopituitary phenotype reflected by the presence of additional pituitary hormone deficiencies and midline forebrain defects.
Neural tumours of the neck presenting as thyroid nodules: a report of three cases
Authors: Aron M. , Kapila K. , Verma K.
Published: July 2005

Objectives:  Neural tumours of the neck may at times secondarily involve the thyroid and manifest clinically as thyroid nodules. On cytological evaluation these nodules may be confused with other spindle lesions of the thyroid. We report two cases of schwannoma and one case of a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour (MPNST) of the neck, which presented as thyroid nodules and evaluate the role of cytology in identifying these tumours.

Methods:  The thyroid nodules in all the three cases were sampled by the non‐aspiration technique using a 23‐gauge needle. Both alcohol‐fixed and air‐dried smears were prepared and stained by the Papanicolaou and May–Grünwald‐Giemsa stains. Cytology smears and histology sections from the resected specimens were reviewed, and the findings noted.

Results:  Both the cases of schwannoma were correctly identified on cytology while the case of MPNST could only be typed as a spindle cell tumour. However, on cytology it was not possible to state whether the tumours were thyroidal or extrathyroidal in origin.

Conclusions:  Schwannomas of the neck are easily identifiable on cytology compared with MPNST. However, cytology alone is not helpful in identifying the origin of these tumours. As primary neural tumours of the thyroid are rare, the possibility of a soft tissue neural tumour extending into the thyroid should always be ruled out while evaluating these cases.
Human papillomavirus DNA detection in women with primary abnormal cytology of the cervix: prevalence and distribution of HPV genotypes
Authors: Beerens E. , Van Renterghem L. , Praet M. , Sturtewagen Y. , Weyers S. , Temmerman M. , Depypere H. , Claeys P. , Cuvelier C. A.
Published: July 2005

Objectives:  In this study, we focus on the prevalence and occurrence of different anogenital human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes in a first abnormal cervical screening test, and correlate HPV genotyping with the cytological diagnosis on thin‐layer liquid‐based preparations in routine gynaecological screening.

Methods:  Out of 780 abnormal smears, 513 tested positive for HPV. All 25 different HPV types were identified by Line Probe Assay.

Results:  The prevalence of high‐risk HPV types increased from 72% in atypical squamous cell of undetermined significance to 94.5% in high‐grade intra‐epithelial lesion (HSIL). Co‐infection with multiple HPV types was predominantly found in HSIL (35.8%). In the HSIL group the most common HPV types were 16, 52, 51 and 31; type 18 was rarely present.

Conclusion:  The role of types 31, 51 and 52 should be considered in future studies on vaccine development.
Differentiating keratoacanthoma from squamous cell carcinoma by the use of apoptotic and cell adhesion markers
Authors: Slater M , Barden J A
Published: July 2005

Aims : Keratoacanthomas (KA) are well‐differentiated squamoproliferative skin lesions that grow rapidly and regress spontaneously. In contrast, squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) can have variable differentiation, inexorably progress and on occasion metastasize. Distinguishing between KA and SCC using haematoxylin and eosin‐stained sections from an initial biopsy can often be difficult. There is also some debate as to whether KA is simply a variety of well‐differentiated SCC or a distinct entity.

Methods and results : Initial biopsy sections from 25 cases of SCC and 20 of KA were labelled with markers for both the initiation (the cytolytic receptor P2X7) and end‐stage (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase biotin–dUTP nick end labelling) of apoptosis, telomerase‐associated protein (TP1) and the cell adhesion protein E‐cadherin. As this was a retrospective study, the clinical outcome of each case was known. This resulted in a unique labelling pattern of each marker for SCC and KA, allowing a differential diagnosis between the two conditions. The simplest marker to use for this purpose was anti‐P2X7. Sections from five cases that were initially very difficult to diagnose were correctly identified as SCC using this method.

Conclusions : These results support the view that KA has a different pathogenesis and biochemistry from that of SCC, and is a distinct entity. Anti‐P2X7 labelling, using routine immunohistochemical techniques, provides a method for differentially diagnosing these conditions.
Pathological response following long‐course neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Ryan R , Gibbons D , Hyland J M P , Treanor D , White A , Mulcahy H E , O'Donoghue D P , Moriarty M , Fennelly D , Sheahan K
Published: July 2005

Aims : To standardize the pathological analysis of total mesorectal excision specimens of rectal cancer following neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced disease (T3/T4), including tumour regression.

Methods and results : Standardized dissection and reporting was used for 60 patients who underwent total mesorectal excision following long‐course chemoradiotherapy. Tumour regression was scored by two pathologists (K.S., D.G.) using both an established 5‐point tumour regression grade (TRG), and a novel 3‐point grade. Both scores were evaluated for interobserver variability. A complete or near‐complete pathological response (3‐point TRG 1) was found in 10 patients (17%). Using the 5‐point TRG, there was good agreement between both pathologists (κ = 0.64). Using the 3‐point grade, agreement was excellent (κ = 0.84). No disease recurrence has been reported in patients with a complete, or near complete pathological response (3‐point TRG 1), after a mean follow‐up of 22 months.

Conclusion : Tumour regression grade is a useful method of scoring tumour response to chemoradiotherapy in rectal cancer. TRG 1 and 2 can be regarded as a complete pathological response (ypT0). A modified 3‐point grade has the advantage of better reproducibility, with similar prognostic significance.
Usefulness of epithelial membrane antigen (EMA) to discriminate between perineural invasion and perineural indentation in prostatic carcinoma
Authors: Tsuzuki T , Ujihira N , Ando T
Published: July 2005

Aims : Perineural invasion (PNI) is one of the few unequivocal criteria to diagnose adenocarcinoma of the prostate. Distinguishing PNI from perineural indentation (PNIn), however, is sometimes difficult. The aim of this study was to discriminate between PNI and PNIn using EMA immunohistochemistry.

Methods and results : We selected representative sections from 87 prostatectomies with prostatic adenocarcinoma. Normal peripheral nerves were continuously encircled with perineurium, which was immunoreactive for EMA. We identified 1319 PNI by carcinomas, 368 PNIn by carcinomas, and 303 PNIn by benign glands. We categorized the EMA immunoreactivity patterns into three classes: samples that displayed discontinuity or complete loss of the perineurium (Type A), samples where there were carcinomas or benign glands in the perineural space or peripheral nerves (Type B) and samples that showed no changes in the perineurium (Type C). For PNI we observed Type A, Type B, and Type C patterns in 55.3%, 24.8% and 19.9% of carcinomas, respectively. The incidence of each of those patterns in PNIn by carcinomas was 32.1%, 14.9% and 53.0%, respectively. Cases of PNIn by benign glands showed Type A or Type C patterns. They did not, however, exhibit Type B patterns.

Conclusion : EMA immunostaining will aid the diagnosis of prostatic adenocarcinoma.
Expression of GCDFP‐15 and AR decreases in larger or node‐positive apocrine carcinomas of the breast
Authors: Honma N , Takubo K , Akiyama F , Sawabe M , Arai T , Younes M , Kasumi F , Sakamoto G
Published: July 2005

Aims : Apocrine carcinoma of the breast is typically, though not always, positive for gross cystic disease fluid protein‐15 (GCDFP‐15). In order to clarify the clinical significance of GCDFP‐15 in apocrine carcinomas, GCDFP‐15 expression was examined in apocrine carcinomas of different stages and compared with clinicopathological factors. Apocrine lesions reportedly exhibit an unusual immunohistochemical status, expressing androgen receptors (AR) instead of oestrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), or bcl‐2. Their expression was also examined.

Methods and results : Fifty‐two apocrine carcinomas were examined immunohistochemically. Thirty‐nine (75%) and 29 (56%) were positive for GCDFP‐15 and AR, respectively. GCDFP‐15 positivity was significantly lower in infiltrating carcinomas than intraductal carcinomas (P = 0.0111). In infiltrating carcinomas, GCDFP‐15 positivity was significantly low in tumours ≥ 15 mm (P = 0.0005) and node‐positive tumours (P = 0.0004). Similar phenomena were observed for AR. Rare cases were positive for ER (3.8%), PR (5.8%), and bcl‐2 (1.9%).

Conclusions : GCDFP‐15 positivity is transient and should not be considered a definitive marker of apocrine carcinomas. Cases which have apocrine features but lack GCDFP‐15 expression should rather be considered as advanced apocrine carcinomas. ER/PR/bcl‐2 negativity will sometimes be helpful to confirm the diagnosis of apocrine carcinoma, because it is more consistent than GCDFP‐15/AR positivity.
Serosal involvement in gastrointestinal cancer: its assessment and significance
Authors: Ludeman L , Shepherd N A
Published: July 2005

There is an increasing burden upon diagnostic histopathologists to identify accurately factors of prognostic and therapeutic implication in gastrointestinal cancer. It is perhaps partly because of the use of rigid sequential staging systems, such as the Dukes' classification, that some factors, perhaps most notably involvement of surgical margins (especially in rectal cancer) and serosal involvement (particularly in oesophageal, colonic and rectal cancer), have been relatively neglected until more recently. This is surprising and concerning because both of these pathologically derived parameters strongly correlate with subsequent locoregional recurrence and, ultimately, with prognosis. Whilst the occurrence and significance of serosal involvement have been well recognized in gastric cancer for many years, relatively little attention has been paid to the phenomenon in oesophageal cancer and yet both pleural and peritoneal involvement may be comparatively commonly identified in oesophageal cancer. Serosal involvement and transperitoneal spread are also of considerable prognostic importance in primary appendiceal carcinoma. Only more recently has the significance of serosal involvement been appreciated in colonic and rectal cancer. In the colon, the phenomenon is now recognized to be one of the most important factors in predicting transperitoneal spread and overall prognosis. Furthermore, there is increasing interest in alternative novel strategies, including intraperitoneal chemotherapy and radical peritoneal surgery, as legitimate therapeutic options in many gastrointestinal cancers.
Dermal non‐neural granular cell tumour (so‐called primitive polypoid granular cell tumour): a distinctive entity further delineated in a clinicopathological study of 11 cases
Authors: Chaudhry I H , Calonje E
Published: July 2005

Aims : Cutaneous and soft tissue granular cell tumour is a well‐characterized benign neoplasm of neural origin. However, there remains a subcategory of granular cell tumour, first described by Le Boit as ‘primitive polypoid granular cell tumour’, that shows no obvious line of differentiation. The aim of this study is to further the characterization of this lesion by undertaking a clinicopathological review.

Methods and results : Eleven cases of dermal non‐neural granular cell tumour were retrieved from one of the authors referral archives (E.C.) and both the histology and immunohistochemistry reviewed. Clinical data with follow‐up were obtained from the referring pathologists. The lesions most commonly occurred in young to middle‐aged adults (nine cases, median = 33 years, age range 6–56 years), with a slight female predominance. They presented as painless nodules, mainly on the extremities or face. Local excision was the treatment of choice and up to date follow‐up reveals no sign of recurrence. Histologically, eight cases were polypoid, while three cases were endophytic. The tumours were composed of elongated spindle‐shaped to polygonal or round cells with prominent granular cell change, and tumour nuclei showing mild focal atypia to rare moderate atypia. Mitotic activity ranged from one to nine mitoses per 10 high‐power fields (median = 2, mean = 3.8). Immunohistochemical labelling of the tumour cells demonstrated expression for NKI‐C3 (n = 11), focal, weak positivity for CD68 (n = 10) and FXIIIa (n = 2). There was negative staining for S100 protein, smooth muscle actin, Melan‐A, CD34, desmin and cytokeratin.

Conclusions : This analysis of 11 cases contributes to the characterization of this recently described entity, which despite some atypical histological features and no obvious line of differentiation, behaves in a completely indolent fashion.
Microvessel density for melanoma prognosis
Authors: Depasquale I , Thompson W D
Published: July 2005

Aims : Two‐hundred and four accessible cases of malignant melanoma from the Grampian region of Scotland, collected over a period of 4 years, were studied for standard prognostic indicators for comparison with microvessel density.

Methods and results : The range of tumour thickness varied from in‐situ melanoma to 14.8 mm. Microvessel density was assessed using the Chalkley technique on sections immunostained with CD31 antibody to identify endothelium. Vessel counts were performed in the peritumoral host tissue of all specimens. Strong correlation was observed between microvessel density at the tumour edge and tumour thickness (P < 0.001). Multifactorial regression analysis confirms Chalkley estimation as a reliable predictor of the risk of recurrence of melanoma (P < 0.005). The predictive value was found to be superior to the Breslow score, for tumours more than 2 mm thick.

Conclusions : Microvessel assessment of primary melanoma using the Chalkley score technique provides reliable prognostic information on the risk of recurrence of the tumour, particularly for melanomas deeper than 2 mm. It remains to be seen whether this methodology can predict response to novel anti‐angiogenic therapies currently entering trials.
Galectin‐3 expression in papillary microcarcinoma of the thyroid
Authors: Cvejic D , Savin S , Petrovic I , Paunovic I , Tatic S , Krgovic K , Havelka M
Published: July 2005

Aims : Galectin‐3 is a β‐galactoside binding protein, recently recognized as a promising molecular marker of thyroid malignancy. As reported in several studies, galectin‐3 is highly expressed in papillary thyroid carcinoma, but its expression has not been investigated in papillary microcarcinoma, which is a variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma.

Methods and results : Using a monoclonal antibody to galectin‐3 and the avidin–biotin–peroxidase complex (ABC) immunohistochemical technique, we analysed galectin‐3 expression in 63 cases of papillary microcarcinoma. The results showed immunohistochemical reactivity for galectin‐3 in 51 (80.9%) cases. Intensity of staining varied from strong or moderate to weak. Galectin‐3 localization was mostly cytoplasmic, but also membranous or nuclear in some cells. Immunohistochemical expression of galectin‐3 was not found in 12 (19.1%) cases. Most galectin‐3 negative microcarcinomas (10/12) were of the non‐classical type, i.e. without papillary architecture. Neither the frequency nor the intensity of a positive reaction was related to tumour size.

Conclusions : Galectin‐3 gene is expressed at the protein level in most papillary microcarcinomas, although with slightly lower frequency than that reported for clinically evident papillary thyroid carcinoma. The presence of galectin‐3 in clinically silent microcarcinomas may indicate that galectin‐3 is not related to growth or aggressiveness of papillary thyroid microcarcinomas but rather plays some other role in thyroid tumour biology.
Ki67 expression in different epithelial types in columnar lined oesophagus indicates varying levels of expanded and aberrant proliferative patterns
Authors: Olvera M , Wickramasinghe K , Brynes R , Bu X , Ma Y , Chandrasoma P
Published: July 2005

Aims : To evaluate proliferative patterns in metaplastic columnar epithelia of the oesophagus, classified as oxynto‐cardiac (n = 43), cardiac (n = 45) intestinal without dysplasia (n = 41), dysplastic intestinal epithelium (n = 25), and adenocarcinoma (n = 15) by Ki67 immunohistochemistry.

Methods and results : Abnormal patterns of Ki67 immunoreactivity were classified into (i) expanded proliferation, characterized by increased levels of Ki67 expression in the deep and mid third of the foveolar pit; and (ii) aberrant proliferation, characterized by positive staining in the surface epithelium and superficial third of the foveolar pit. A significant step‐wise increase in the frequency of expanded proliferation was seen in oxynto‐cardiac, cardiac, intestinal and dysplastic intestinal epithelium indicative of increasing levels of damage. Aberrant proliferation was absent in oxynto‐cardiac mucosa, present at a low and similar level in cardiac, intestinal and low‐grade dysplastic epithelia and at a significantly increased frequency in high‐grade dysplasia.

Conclusions : These findings suggest that oxynto‐cardiac mucosa occurs in a low damage environment and intestinal metaplasia in a high damage environment along the length of the columnar lined oesophageal segment. Aberrant proliferative patterns with Ki67 staining are not useful in differentiating reactive epithelia from low‐grade dysplasia, but may prove useful in the diagnosis of high‐grade dysplasia.
Immunohistochemical study of autoimmune pancreatitis using anti‐IgG4 antibody and patients' sera
Authors: Aoki S , Nakazawa T , Ohara H , Sano H , Nakao H , Joh T , Murase T , Eimoto T , Itoh M
Published: July 2005

Aims : Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP), characterized by raised serum IgG4 levels, is frequently complicated by disorders of extrapancreatic organs. The aim of the present study was to examine immunohistochemically which extrapancreatic organs are affected, and whether an autoantibody to such organs is present in the serum of AIP patients.

Methods : Various tissues/organs obtained from AIP patients were studied immunohistochemically with an anti‐IgG4 antibody. To examine the presence of an autoantibody in the serum of AIP patients, sera were incubated with various normal organs/tissues extracted for other diseases, followed by detection with an anti‐IgG4 antibody. Sera were also examined before and after glucocorticoid therapy.

Results : Marked infiltration of IgG4+ plasma cells was observed in the pancreas, liver, bile duct and salivary gland of many of the AIP patients examined. The normal epithelia of the pancreatic ducts, bile ducts, gallbladder and salivary gland ducts reacting with the patients' sera were detectable by the anti‐IgG4 antibody. Following glucocorticoid therapy the IgG4 antibody from the patients' sera showed decreased reactivity with these tissues.

Conclusions : AIP may also affect extrapancreatic organs, the serum of AIP patients may contain an IgG4 autoantibody to various organs and glucocorticoid therapy may improve such disorders.
The continued value of central histopathological review of testicular tumours
Authors: Delaney R J , Sayers C D , Walker M A , Mead G M , Theaker J M
Published: July 2005

Aims : Central histopathological review of testicular tumours prior to definitive treatment can have an important impact on patient management. This study was designed to assess the continued value of central review in the light of increasing subspecialization and increased numbers of consultant histopathologists.

Materials and results : The original and review reports of 291 testicular cancer specimens from 1998 to 2002 were analysed, looking particularly at major diagnosis, vascular invasion and the tumour elements within non‐seminomatous germ cell tumours (NSGCT). When a diagnosis was altered any effect on subsequent patient management was assessed. There was a discrepancy in tumour type in 11 cases (4%) compared with 6% in 1992–1997. The commonest change was from seminoma to NSGCT or combined germ cell tumour (5/11). There was also diagnostic difficulty with spermatocytic seminoma (3/11). The clinical management of all 11 cases was influenced as a result of the review diagnosis. Discrepancies in vascular invasion were noted in 13 of the 126 NSGCTs (10%) compared with 20% in 1992–1997. Differences in NSGCT tumour elements, though clinically less important, were frequent in both groups.

Conclusions : There continues to be a small number of significant and clinically important errors identified following central histopathological review of testicular tumours. This study highlights the value of central review and supports its continued practice in the management of testicular tumours.
Observer variability in the histopathological reporting of core biopsies of papillary breast lesions is reduced by the use of immunohistochemistry for CK5/6, calponin and p63
Authors: Douglas‐Jones A , Shah V , Morgan J , Dallimore N , Rashid M
Published: July 2005

Aim : To investigate agreement on core biopsy diagnosis of papillary breast lesions, which is acknowledged as a difficult area, and to determine the effect of the use of immunohistochemistry (IHC) to assist diagnosis.

Study design : Haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) sections of 129 core biopsies of papillary breast lesions were circulated to four observers who categorized each case as: B2 (benign), B3a (epithelial proliferation, probably benign but requiring biopsy), B3b (epithelial proliferation with cytological or architectural atypia), B4 (probably malignant but insufficient material or artefact to allow diagnosis), B5 (malignant papillary lesion). In all cases (n = 127) IHC was performed for cytokeratin (CK) 5/6, calponin, p63 (myoepithelial markers), and slides recirculated.

Results : There was unanimous agreement in 44% of cases on H&E only which rose to 91% after the use of IHC. Overall, unweighted κ (Ku; five categories) rose from 0.54 to 0.91. The main effect of IHC was to reduce the use of intermediate categories (B3a, B3b and B4) and allow definitive diagnosis (B2 or B5).

Conclusion : Agreement on H&E sections alone in papillary core biopsies of breast is only 44% (Ku = 0.54) but is significantly increased to 91% (Ku = 0.91) by the use of IHC for CK5/6, calponin and p63.
Deletion of LTβR augments male susceptibility to Plasmodium chabaudi
Authors: KRÜCKEN J. , BRAUN J. V. , DKHIL M. A. , GRUNWALD A. , WUNDERLICH F.
Published: July 2005

Disruption of the lymphotoxin β receptor (LTβR) gene has been shown to result in enhanced resistance of female mice to blood‐stage Plasmodium chabaudi malaria. Here, we investigate the effect of LTβR deletion on host defence of males. In contrast to females, male LTβR−/– mice do not exhibit any increase in resistance. Conversely, they are even more susceptible than wild‐type C57BL/6 mice, which becomes evident after lowering circulating levels of testosterone by castration, which makes C57BL/6 males resistant, whereas LTβR−/– remain susceptible. Gene‐expression analysis using cDNA arrays revealed no differences in immunological responses in spleen of malaria‐resistant female and malaria‐susceptible castrated male LTβR−/– mice. In the liver, however, expression levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor PAI1, chemokine CXCL10, dual specificity phosphatase DUSP1, and hydroxysteroid‐specific sulfotransferases Sult2a1/2 were decreased 6‐ to 85‐fold in susceptible castrated male LTβR−/– mice in comparison to resistant female LTβR−/– mice at maximal parasitaemia, as evidenced by Northern blot analyses. The present data support our previous view that the liver is involved in the combat against malarial blood stages and that down‐regulation of the genes DUSP1 and Sult2a1/2 signals dysregulation of protective liver responses, thus possibly contributing to male susceptibility of LTβR−/– mice.
Genetic resistance to Teladorsagia circumcincta: IgA and parameters at slaughter in Churra sheep
Authors: MARTÍNEZ‐VALLADARES M. , VARA‐DEL RÍO M. P. , CRUZ‐ROJO M. A. , ROJO‐VÁZQUEZ F. A.
Published: July 2005

Previous experiments have shown that genetic resistance to infection by Teladorsagia circumcincta in sheep can be measured by the level of IgA in gastric mucus, jointly with other parameters. The aim of this study has been to observe the influence of IgA on adult worms. The experiment was carried out with Churra sheep experimentally infected with T. circumcincta. At slaughter, gastric content, gastric mucus, blood samples and faeces were recovered to determine the number of eggs in utero, length of adult females, worm burden, number of L4, titre of serum pepsinogen, peripheral eosinophilia and eggs per gram (epg). IgA activity in gastric mucus, serum, nasal secretions and saliva were tested against somatic antigen from fourth‐stage larvae (L4), somatic antigen from the adult stage and excretory–secretory (E/S) antigen from the adult stage. The results showed a significant correlation between serum IgA and gastric mucus (P < 0·01) as well as in nasal secretions (P < 0·01). We found negative correlations between IgA activity in gastric mucus with the eggs in utero and with adult female length. Furthermore there were also strong relationships between the peripheral eosinophilia with serum (P < 0·01) and gastric mucus IgA activity (P < 0·01). Moreover serum pepsinogen and the number of L4 at slaughter were related (P < 0·01).
Effect of a low protein diet on the resistance of Churra sheep to Teladorsagia circumcincta
Authors: MARTÍNEZ‐VALLADARES M. , VARA‐DEL RÍO M. P. , CRUZ‐ROJO M. A. , ROJO‐VÁZQUEZ F. A.
Published: July 2005

The aim of this study was to understand the influence of a low protein diet on the resistance of the Churra breed sheep to infection with Teladorsagia circumcincta. A previous experiment in our department demonstrated significant differences between resistant and susceptible sheep infected with T. circumcincta, in eggs per gram of faeces, serum pepsinogen, serum IgA and peripheral eosinophilia (unpublished). The sheep were fed with a balanced protein diet. In the current assay there were significant differences between the resistant and susceptible groups in egg output, serum pepsinogen and worm burden. The optical densities (OD) of the IgA in blood samples, nasal secretions and saliva were tested throughout the study and the differences between groups were not significant. At necropsy adult worm length, the number of eggs in utero in adult females, the number of fourth stage larvae and the OD of gastric mucus IgA did not differ between groups either. Moreover, due to diet there was a loss of weight in both groups but this was not significant. Our results support the view that low protein diets could influence immune function and as a result resistant genotypes do not show any superiority in comparison with susceptible ones.
Host humoral immune response to Leishmania lipid‐binding protein
Authors: MAACHE M. , AZZOUZ S. , DIAZ DE LA GUARDIA R. , ALVAREZ P. , GIL R. , DE PABLOS L. M. , OSUNA A.
Published: July 2005

We report on the use of Leishmania donovani lipid‐binding proteins (LBPs) as antigens capable of being recognized by serum from immunocompetent patients from southern Spain suffering from visceral leishmaniasis and from Peruvian patients with localized cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania braziliensis. The absorbance found by immunoenzymatic techniques gave significantly different results for the serum samples from patients with and without leishmaniasis. Specificity by ELISA testing was 93·2% and sensibility 100%. Dot blots from human patient serum samples or naturally infected dogs from Spain gave similarly significant results. All the human serum samples from individuals with visceral leishmaniasis and the Leishmania‐positive canine samples recognized two bands, with molecular weights of 8 and 57 kDa. The serum from individuals with cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by L. braziliensis recognized an additional band of 16 kDa. We discuss the role of Leishmania FABP and compare the immunological reactions found with serum samples from other protozoan infections such as toxoplasma and Chagas as well as bacterial infections such as tuberculosis and syphilis.
Antigens from Ascaris suum trigger in vitro macrophage NO production
Authors: ANDRADE M. AMPARO , SILES‐LUCAS MAR , LÓPEZ‐ABÁN JULIO , CARRANZA CRISTINA , PÉREZ‐ARELLANO JOSÉ L. , MURO ANTONIO
Published: July 2005

We investigated the in vitro effect of total excretory/secretory and somatic antigens from Ascaris suum adults (ESA and SA) and larvae 3 (ESL3 and SL3), and of 10 purified protein fractions from ESA components on rat alveolar macrophage nitric oxide (NO) production. Our results showed that in vitro incubation of macrophages with SA and SL3 antigens of A. suum did not result in NO release from cells, whereas incubation with ESA or ESL3 antigens resulted in the stimulation of NO production by these cells, both in a specific (inhibited by l‐NAME and l‐canavanine) and dose‐dependent manner. In addition, we could demonstrate that a purified ESA fraction consisting of three Coomassie‐stained bands of approximately 37, 44 and 46 kDa is involved in the in vitro triggering of NO production by host cells. These three bands were subjected to MALDI‐peptide mass fingerprint, showing similarities with phosphoglycerate kinase, elongation factor Tu and enolase molecules, respectively. Future studies will focus on the characterization of these parasite‐derived molecules.
Influence of physico‐chemical traits of bitter gourd, Momordica charantia L. on larval density and resistance to melon fruit fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett)
Authors: Dhillon M. K. , Singh R. , Naresh J. S. , Sharma N. K.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  Melon fruit fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett) is one of the most important pests of bitter gourd, Momordica charantia L. Because of the difficulties associated with chemical control of this pest, it is important to identify the traits associated with resistance and their influence on pest multiplication. There were significant differences in test genotypes for fruit infestation and larval density/fruit. The wild accessions, IC 256185, IC 248256, IC 213311, IC 248282, IC 256110 and IC 248281 were identified as resistance sources to melon fruit fly. There was a significant and positive correlation (r = 0.96) between percentage fruit infestation and larval density/fruit. Percentage fruit infestation and larval density/fruit were positively correlated with depth of ribs, flesh thickness, fruit diameter and fruit length, and negatively associated with fruit toughness. Flesh thickness and fruit diameter explained 93.0% of the total variation for fruit fly infestation, and flesh thickness and fruit length explained 76.3% of the variation for larval density/fruit. Ascorbic acid, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, protein, reducing sugars, non‐reducing sugars and total sugars were negatively correlated, while the moisture content showed a positive association with fruit fly infestation and larval density/fruit. Moisture, potassium and reducing sugar content explained 97.4% of the total variation in fruit infestation, while moisture, phosphorus, protein, reducing and total sugars explained 85.7% variation for larval density/fruit.
Predator complex of the horse chestnut leafminer Cameraria ohridella: identification and impact assessment
Authors: Grabenweger G. , Kehrli P. , Schlick‐Steiner B. , Steiner F. , Stolz M. , Bacher S.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  The control of Cameraria ohridella Deschka and Dimic (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) by natural enemies in Europe is poor. Thus, in the past 15 years epidemic population densities of the moth regularly caused a continuous pre‐mature defoliation of horse chestnut trees, Aesculus hippocastanum L.. Whereas several studies investigated the parasitoid complex of the leafminer and revealed its inefficiency, only little is known about the predators of C. ohridella. The aim of this study was to identify the predator complex in European horse chestnut stands by visual observations and exposure experiments and to assess the impact of different predator guilds on C. ohridella populations by an exclusion experiment. Of all potential predators observed, only blue tits, Parus caeruleus L., great tits, Parus major L., marsh tits, Parus palustris L. and the southern oak bushcricket Meconema meridionale (Costa) were found to prey on the pre‐imaginal leafminer stages. Bushcrickets have to our knowledge never before been recorded preying on leafminers; moreover M. meridionale showed a measurable negative impact on the C. ohridella population. However, birds seem to be of greater importance as predators of C. ohridella than arthropods. Predation rates of birds ranged from 2 to 4% of leafminer populations, which is of the same order of magnitude as published parasitism rates. We conclude that the augmentation of tit densities, for example via nesting boxes in chestnut trees, should be considered as a component of an integrated control strategy against the horse chestnut leafminer.
Fast discrimination (RAPD‐PCR) of the species forming the pest complex Aleurodicus dispersus–Lecanoideus floccissimus (Hom: Aleyrodidae)
Authors: Callejas C. , Velasco A. , Gobbi A. , Beitia F. , Ochando M. D.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  The Aleurodicus dispersus–Lecanoideus floccissimus complex has become a very important agricultural pest in the Canaries. These species are not easily differentiated by their morphological characteristics. The aim of the present study was to obtain genetic markers to unambiguously distinguish both species of this complex. Thus, six random primers were employed to generate RAPD markers. Different RAPD profiles were observed for the different species. The analysis successfully identified 39 reproducible and specific markers for L. floccissimus and 51 for A. dispersus, i.e. bands present in all individuals of one species but never in the other. RAPD markers resulted a useful tool for discriminate both species. Early identification of species and also of biotypes is crucial when designing control strategies to avoid the spread of the pest and consequently the considerable economic losses it causes in tropical crops.
Sex pheromone for monitoring flight periods and population densities of the pine sawfly, Diprion jingyuanensis Xiao et Zhang (Hym., Diprionidae)
Authors: Zhang Z. , Wang H. , Chen G. , Anderbrant O. , Zhang Y. , Zhou S. , Hedenström E. , Högberg H.‐E.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  The pine sawfly, Diprion jingyuanensis Xiao et Zhang, is a serious pest of Chinese pine (Pinus tabulaeformis Carr.) in the northern parts of China. The general biology of this recently described sawfly species is little known and in the present study we used a synthetic pheromone to monitor its flight period and to evaluate the possibility to use pheromone traps as a tool for estimating and predicting population densities. The attractant pheromone of D. jingyuanensis is (1S,2R,6R)‐1,2,6‐trimethyldodecyl propionate and in this study we used a four‐isomer threo‐mixture containing the active attractant. Both doses tested, 1 and 2 mg/trap, revealed the same seasonal flight pattern, the higher dosage demonstrating more clear flight peaks. The first flight peak of D. jingyuanensis occurred in mid‐June during all 3 years, 1997–1999, and in 1997 and 1998 a second flight peak was also recorded in mid‐July. The flight period was similar in time for populations located at higher (1400 m) and lower altitude (1100 m), from early June to late July or early August. Temperature was the main weather factor‐affecting trap catches. Diurnal flight activity began at 9.00, peaked at 13.00 and lasted until 20.00. A series of tests with traps in different positions within stands and trees were conducted and the results demonstrated the importance of standardizing the trapping protocol in population monitoring studies. By using traps with 2 mg baits it is possible to detect sawfly occurrence at very low population densities, not detectable by other means. Strong positive correlations between trap catch and relative population density were found in 2000 and 2001, but not in 1998, when only few sites were monitored and the population was in a decreasing phase. The results are promising for future large‐scale use of pheromone‐based monitoring of D. jingyuanensis.
Pheromone trap catches of the olive moth, Prays oleae (Bern.) (Lep., Plutellidae) in relation to olive phenology and degree‐day models
Authors: Kumral N. A. , Kovanci B. , Akbudak B.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  The population dynamics of the olive moth, Prays oleae (Bern) (Lep., Plutellidae) was monitored using pheromone traps containing (Z)‐7‐tetradecenal, from 2000 to 2002 in abandoned and commercial olive groves of Bursa in north‐western Turkey. The carpophagous generation lasted significantly longer than the phyllophagous generation. The degree‐days required for the anthophagous generation were significantly shorter than that for the phyllophagous and carpophagous generations. The relationship between temperature accumulations and pheromone trap captures of male P. oleae in Bursa olive groves showed a significant sigmoid relationship for the phyllophagous and anthophagous flights. Although there was generally a linear relationship between cumulative male catch and olive tree phenology, the use of the prediction model for insecticide treatments was insufficient. Cumulative male catch–degree days together with the olive tree phenology model can be used as a forecasting method for proper timing of insecticide applications against anthophagous and carpophagous larvae in olive groves.
Economic damage by Limothrips denticornis in rye, triticale and winter barley
Authors: Larsson H.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  Limothrips denticornis is a common thrips infesting rye, triticale and winter barley in Sweden. Field experiments with insecticides were carried out 1983–1996 in farmers’ fields to investigate the damage to the plant and to evaluate the relationship between thrips density and crop yield losses. The total number of experiments was 99 in rye, 41 in triticale and nine in winter barley. The mean number of thrips per leaf sheath was around 8 in all three crops. The highest number found was 27 thrips per leaf sheath. The population density in the leaf sheath was correlated with the damage observed on the leaf sheath as percentage damaged surface. The effect on the leaf sheath alone contributed to a significant proportion of the yield loss. Thrips in the ear and aphids also contributed to the damage but with multiple regression methods it was possible to estimate the damage done solely by L. denticornis. The yield loss caused by L. denticornis was about the same in all three crops, with a variation between 21 and 26 kg per thrips per leaf sheath and hectare. Compared with the yield loss for aphids, which is about 40 kg per aphid per tiller and hectare, this is considerably lower. The economic injury level was found to be about 14 thrips per straw. The economic threshold for L. denticornis has to be decided when the females are flying into the crop and it was found to be 0.5 females per straw at earing. Economic damage by L. denticornis alone was estimated to be 20% of the total number of experiments for all three crops but economic damage for the three pests together was estimated at 40% of the total number of experiments.
Characterisation of Heterotrophic Microorganisms Isolated form the “Grotta Azzura” of Cape Palinuro (Salerno, Italy)
Authors: Canganella Francesco , Bianconi Giovanna , Gambacorta Agata , Kato Chiaki , Uematsu Katsuyuki
Published: July 2005

Abstract. Hydrothermal vent ecosystems have been extensively investigated during the last 20 years; shallow water hot springs (typically found below 50 m depth) have also been studied, and from these ecosystems many thermophilic and hyperthermophilic organisms were isolated and described.

The submarine caves of Cape Palinuro were discovered long ago, but only during the last decades were geological and biological investigations carried out, yielding a large number of reports on this fascinating environment. During the last two years, several samples of water, mud, and/or bacterial mat were collected within the “Grotta Azzurra”, and enrichment experiments were performed using peptone, starch, glucose or pullulan as main organic nutrients. Many heterotrophic strains were isolated and most of them grew optimally between 37 and 43 ° C with the addition of 0‐2 % NaCl. Growth was usually observed between 10 and 50 ° C the range of growth pH was 4 to 9, and NaCl concentrations up to 10–12 % were tolerated in most cases.

The analysis of 16S rDNA performed with the most representative isolates showed a close phylogenetic relationship with the genera Bacillus, Vibrio, Citrobacter and Escherichia. Moreover, an isolate showing morphological and physiological similarities with the genus Enterococcus was characterised and taxonomically described based on the 16S rDNA sequence.
An Assessment of Surface – Dynamics Observed Offshore Ancona with HF Radar
Authors: Budillon Giorgio , Grilli Federica , Ortona Annalisa , Russo Aniello , Tramontin Marco
Published: July 2005

Abstract. An assessment is made of the dominant processes governing the circulation in a 30 × 30 km area off the coast of Ancona, where surface current velocity vectors have been obtained using an HF Coastal Dynamics Applications Radar (CODAR). Throughout one year of measurements (September 1997–August 1998), certain aspects of the surface dynamics in this area have been analysed. In winter the surface circulation is intensified and mainly concentrated close to the coast (within 15–20 km from it); in the spring and summer months, surface currents are much weaker, and between summer and autumn, a single cyclonic eddy further offshore often dominates surface circulation. In this paper the CODAR velocity data have been used to compute the surface vorticity and divergence fields offshore Ancona. The vorticity field is shown to have generally well‐defined patterns that are trackable in time despite the influence of winds and tides. The divergence field tends to be more variable spatially and temporally. However, it is an important descriptor of the irrotational motion and it is used, together with vorticity of the rotational flow, to illustrate the regional dynamics. In order to better visualize the rotary nature of the semidiurnal currents over the whole first year of study, these are presented in terms of ellipses. The direction of the semi‐major axis shows a preferential behaviour parallel to the coastline over the entire study area.
Interaction between Climate Changes, Eustacy and Land Subsidence in the North Adriatic Region, Italy
Authors: Carbognin Laura , Tosi Luigi
Published: July 2005

Abstract. The North Adriatic coastal area has experienced a serious relative sea level rise whose main component is land subsidence. Geological regional subsidence is ascribable to compaction and to deformation of substratum. Anthropogenic subsidence, which is due to ground fluid removal, has been severe in the second half of the 19th century, reaching values in meters. It is without doubt the main factor responsible for the instability of the entire coastal ecosystem. Widespread retreat of shoreline, seawater invasion, decay of vegetation, changes in the habitat of the flora and fauna have occurred. Sea level rise alone is linked to climate changes, which exhibit fluctuations of the order of a few hundred years; here, cold‐wet periods alternated with warm‐dry periods and, within them, shorter cold‐wet and hot‐dry cycles lasting for decades also alternated.
Can Rock Composition Affect Sublittoral Epibenthic Communities?
Authors: Cattaneo‐Vietti Riccardo , Albertelli Giancarlo , Bavestrello Giorgio , Bianchi Carlo Nike , Cerrano Carlo , Chiantore Mariachiara , Gaggero Laura , Morri Carla , Schiaparelli Stefano
Published: July 2005

Abstract. Biomineralogy, as the complex of interactions at different levels (cell, organism, species, and community) between organisms and minerals, may play a significant role in the spatial distribution and structure of marine communities. For instance, a negative influence of quartz has been underlined on the Mediterranean benthic communities, which show a species‐poorer structure in quartz‐rich environments. Excluding the role of quartz, the aim of this work is to verify whether the composition of various mineralogical substrata can affect a hard‐bottom benthic community. In the Ligurian Sea, the Levanto area shows an astonishing complex of substrata with different petrographic characters: in a few kilometres, sandstones, serpentinites, gabbros, and basalts occur in geometric association. Consequently, this area represents a suitable frame for this type of study. Herein, algal photophilic assemblages growing on the four mineralogical substrata show significant differences in number of species and percentage cover or abundance. This suggests a significant influence of rock mineral composition on the hard bottom community. Therefore, rock composition must be taken into account for a better understanding of the processes at the basis of hard‐bottom community development and diversity.