bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Volumetric analyses of cerebral white matter hyperintensity lesions on magnetic resonance imaging in a Japanese population undergoing medical check‐up
Authors: Honda Yuko , Noguchi Akio , Maruyama Keisuke , Tamura Akira , Saito Isamu , Sei Kazumi , Soga Takamasa , Ushiba Katsuaki , Hirano Teruyuki , Sakurai Takashi , Shiokawa Yoshiaki
Published: December 2015

Aim

To clarify growth patterns, spatial distribution and risk factors of cerebral white matter hyperintensity (WMH) lesions on magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods

We analyzed volumes of cerebral WMH lesions in those who underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging as a hospital‐based health check‐up in 2012 and 2013 by using a computational quantitative image analysis software (Software for NeuroImage Processing in Experimental Research). After excluding subjects not suitable for volumetric analyses because of pathological brain conditions, a total of 1047 healthy participants (mean age 56.6 years) were included for the analyses. First, the relationship of computational volumetry and conventional qualitative visual evaluation by Shinohara grading was evaluated. Volumes of WMH lesions were analyzed according to age and the different cerebral lobes. Finally, clinical risk factors associated with WMH lesions were assessed.

Results

Volumes of WMH lesions were significantly correlated with Shinohara grading (P < 0.001). WMH lesions significantly enlarged with aging (P < 0.001) except for the occipital lobe, especially in participants aged 50 years or older. Age and systolic blood pressure were significantly related to volumes of WMH lesions in all the lobes, whereas diastolic blood pressure was not related only in the occipital lobe.

Conclusion

Based on computational quantitative volumetric analyses, cerebral WMH lesions increased with age, and were associated with blood pressure. However, the occipital lobe was the only exception to these findings. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15 (Suppl. 1): 43–47.
Potential of alpha‐fetoprotein as a prognostic marker after curative radiofrequency ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Dohi Chihiro , Nouso Kazuhiro , Miyahara Koji , Morimoto Yuki , Wada Nozomu , Kinugasa Hideaki , Takeuchi Yasuto , Kuwaki Kenji , Onishi Hideki , Ikeda Fusao , Nakamura Shinichiro , Shiraha Hidenori , Takaki Akinobu , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: December 2015

Aim

Recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is observed frequently, even after curative treatments. The aim of this study is to elucidate the risk factors for recurrence of HCC after radiofrequency ablation (RFA), focusing on the carcinogenic potential of the liver assessed by α‐fetoprotein (AFP).

Methods

We enrolled 357 consecutive patients who underwent complete ablation by RFA for primary HCC (≤3 cm, ≤3 tumors) and analyzed the correlation between 17 critical parameters, including AFP and HCC recurrence.

Results

Recurrence was observed in 236 patients during a mean observation period of 54.3 months. Multivariate analysis revealed that multiple tumors (risk ratio [RR] = 1.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.27–2.26, P < 0.001), high AFP (>10 ng/mL, RR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.09–1.94, P < 0.001) and high des‐γ‐carboxyprothrombin (>40 mAU/mL, RR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.13–2.02, P < 0.005) were significantly correlated with recurrence. AFP was selected as a significant factor even when the cut‐off level was set lower (≤5 ng/mL). The risk of recurrence increased linearly according to the increase of the lowest AFP level after RFA and the adjusted ratios relative to AFP less than 5 ng/mL were 1.56, 2.14, 2.57 and 3.13 in AFP 5–10 ng/mL, 10–20 ng/mL, 20–50 ng/mL and over 50 ng/mL, respectively. In addition, the recurrence rate was predicted by the AFP level after RFA, regardless of the level before the treatment.

Conclusion

AFP less than 5 ng/mL after curative RFA was an important predictor of a better prognosis and was considered to indicate the low carcinogenic potential of the non‐cancerous liver.
Predictive factors of pathological vascular invasion in hepatocellular carcinoma within 3 cm and three nodules without radiological vascular invasion
Authors: Masuda Toshiro , Beppu Toru , Okabe Hirohisa , Nitta Hidetoshi , Imai Katsunori , Hayashi Hiromitsu , Chikamoto Akira , Yamamoto Kenichiro , Ikeshima Satoshi , Kuramoto Masafumi , Shimada Shinya , Baba Hideo
Published: December 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the predictive factors of pathological vascular invasion as contra‐indicators for ablation therapy in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) within 3 cm and three nodules without radiological vascular invasion.

Methods

Two hundred and seventeen patients with HCC within 3 cm and three nodules without radiological vascular invasion who underwent hepatic resection were retrospectively investigated.

Results

Pathological vascular invasion was positive in 46 patients, consisting of 38 portal vein invasions, three hepatic vein invasions, two hepatic artery invasions, one hepatic duct invasion and two with portal and hepatic vein invasions. In univariate analysis, patients with α‐fetoprotein (AFP) of more than 100 ng/mL had higher rates of pathological vascular invasion than those without. In addition, patients with protein induced by vitamin K absence (PIVKA‐II) of more than 100 mAU/mL had higher rates of pathological vascular invasion than those without. Multivariate analysis revealed that AFP of more than 100 ng/mL and PIVKA‐II of more than 100 mAU/mL were independent predictive factors for pathological vascular invasion. As these patients were treated with hepatic resection, cumulative 5‐year recurrence‐free and overall survivals were not significantly different between the pathological vascular invasion negative and positive cases.

Conclusion

AFP of more than 100 ng/mL and PIVKA‐II of more than 100 mAU/mL can predict pathological vascular invasion in patients with HCC within 3 cm and three nodules without radiological vascular invasion. In treating such cases, hepatic resection rather than local ablation therapy is recommended.
Perceived organizational support and intention to remain: The mediating roles of career success and self‐esteem
Authors: Liu Jingying , Liu Yan‐hui
Published: December 2015

The aim of this study was to explore the relationships among perceived organizational support, career success, self‐esteem and intention to remain. A cross‐sectional study was designed, and subjects were recruited from six nonprofit organizations in China in spring 2015. A convenience sample of 610 nurses answered a survey with questions related to their ideas about their work. Structural equation modelling analyses were conducted. The results revealed that perceived organizational support was positively associated with intention to remain and career success, which, in turn, mediated the relationship between perceived organizational support and intention to remain. We also found that self‐esteem mediated the relationships between perceived organizational support and career success and between career success and intention to remain. Higher perceived organizational support, career success and self‐esteem can increase intention to remain in Chinese nurses.
An evaluation of paediatric medicines reconciliation at hospital discharge into the community
Authors: Huynh Chi , Wong Ian Chi Kei , Tomlin Stephen , Halford Ellisha , Jani Yogini , Ghaleb Maisoon
Published: December 2015

Objective

A UK national survey of primary care physicians has indicated that the medication information on hospital discharge summary was incomplete or inaccurate most of the time. Internationally, studies have shown that hospital pharmacist's interventions reduce these discrepancies in the adult population. There have been no published studies on the incidence and severity of the discrepancies of the medication prescribed for children specifically at discharge to date. The objectives of this study were to investigate the incidence, nature and potential clinical severity of medication discrepancies at the point of hospital discharge in a paediatric setting.

Methods

Five weeks prospective review of hospital discharge letters was carried out. Medication discrepancies between the initial doctor's discharge letter and finalised drug chart were identified, pharmacist changes were recorded and their severity was assessed. The setting of the review was at a London, UK paediatric hospital providing local secondary and specialist tertiary care. The outcome measures were: – incidence and the potential clinical severity of medication discrepancies identified by the hospital pharmacist at discharge.

Key findings

142 patients (64 female and 78 males, age range 1 month – 18 years) were discharged on 501 medications. The majority of patients were under the care of general surgery and general paediatric teams. One in three discharge letters contained at least one medication discrepancy and required pharmacist interventions to rectify prior to completion. Of these, 1 in 10 had the potential for patient harm if undetected.

Conclusions

Medicines reconciliation by pharmacist at discharge may be a good intervention in preventing medication discrepancies which have the potential to cause moderate harm in paediatric patients.
Implementing oral chemotherapy services in community pharmacies: a qualitative study of chemotherapy nurses' and pharmacists' views
Authors: Butt Farida , Ream Emma
Published: December 2015

Objectives

Changes in health-care provision have led to cancer patients being offered oral chemotherapy in the community. Three levels of oral chemotherapy services have been proposed (levels 1, 2 and 3) with community pharmacies playing differing roles within them. This study aims to explore health-care professionals' views on oral chemotherapy services being delivered by community pharmacies and to gain insights into the barriers, facilitators and training/knowledge needs of community pharmacists with respect to providing them.

Methods

Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of three chemotherapy nurses, five oncology pharmacists and five community pharmacists. Data were analysed thematically using Framework Analysis.

Key findings

Findings for level 1 and 2 services included uncertainty on community pharmacists' professional responsibilities, the expertise of GPs in prescribing oral chemotherapy and the training and competency of community pharmacists. The lack of patient information, care and support provision was emphasised for all the models. Although level 1 was achievable in current practice, level 2 was considered the safest option, while level 3 was ideal but risky option.

For all levels, training and education for community pharmacists and inter-professional issues were facilitators to oral chemotherapy services. The service environment, dispensing process-related constraints (access to blood test results and protocols) were significant barriers for levels 2 and 3.

Advanced communication skills, patient education and counselling were identified as key areas for education and training for community pharmacists.

Conclusion

The study suggests there are significant concerns and challenges associated with community pharmacies implementing any of the proposed levels of oral chemotherapy services. Educational and training opportunities for community pharmacists and the careful development of safe infrastructures will be essential in the future planning and implementation of any community pharmacy oral chemotherapy service.
Prevalence of HIV infection among burn patients: is there a relationship with patients' outcomes?
Authors: Salehi Seyed Hamid , As'adi Kamran , Tabatabaeenezhad Seyedeh Azam , Naderan Mohammad , Shoar Saeed
Published: December 2015

The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection among acute burn patients and its impacts on patient's outcomes in an Iranian burn care hospital. A cross‐sectional study was conducted in a tertiary burn care hospital in Iran, retrospectively reviewing the data records of all patients admitted between February 2011 and February 2012. The HIV status of all the patients was assessed in relation to clinical outcomes and the patient's prognosis. A total of 969 patients were included in this study. Five patients (0·5%) were HIV positive, and all of them were male. Mean burn area was significantly larger in HIV‐positive patients than the healthy group (P < 0·05). HIV‐positive patients had a longer period of hospitalisation than HIV‐negative patients (23·2 ± 16·3 versus 13·1 ± 14·6, P = 0·008). Nonetheless, the average number of procedures and the mortality rate did not significantly differ between the study groups (P > 0·05). Comparison of age, sex and burn extent between HIV‐positive patients and HIV‐negative cases also revealed similar results. Prevalence of HIV infection among our burn population was 0·5%; thus, HIV status may be related with more extensive injuries and longer hospital stays.
Drug absorption during physical exercise.
Authors: Aslaksen A , Aanderud L
Published: December 2015

1 The effect of exercise on the absorption of quinidine sulphate, sodium salicylate and sulphadimidine was studied in healthy volunteers. 2 The study was a randomized cross‐over design with work and rest. The work load was 450 kpm/min for females and 600 kpm/min for males on a bicycle ergometer intermittently for 3 h. 3 The plasma concentrations of the drugs were followed during the entire experiment and their respective peak concentrations (Cmax) and time to peak (tmax) were determined. 4 No significant differences in the Cmax and tmax were found between rest and work for any of the drugs. 5 The results suggest that physical exercise is not a major source of variation in drug absorption.
A chronic dose‐ranging study of the pharmacokinetics of phenylbutazone in rheumatoid arthritic patients.
Authors: Higham C , Aarons L , Holt PJ , Lynch M , Rowland M
Published: December 2015

Phenylbutazone in doses of 200, 300 and 400 mg/day was administered chronically to six rheumatoid arthritic patients. At each steady‐state the plasma levels of phenylbutazone, oxyphenbutazone and gamma‐ hydroxyphenylbutazone as well as the extents of binding of phenylbutazone and oxyphenbutazone to plasma proteins were measured. 2 Plasma concentrations of phenylbutazone did not increase proportionally with dose but when corrected for protein binding unbound concentrations of phenylbutazone did show a proportional increase with dose. 3 Plasma concentrations of oxyphenbutazone decreased with an increase in phenylbutazone dose suggesting either that the elimination of oxyphenbutazone is stimulated or its formation inhibited after chronic administration of phenylbutazone. 4 Binding studies with human serum albumin demonstrated the ability of phenylbutazone and oxyphenbutazone to mutually displace one another. Neither saturation of the protein binding sites nor displacement interactions could account for the changes in binding shown by phenylbutazone with increased dose. 5 gamma‐ hydroxyphenylbutazone concentrations increased proportionally with phenylbutazone dose reaching 68% of the phenylbutazone concentration in one patient. There was a large inter‐subject variation in the gamma‐ hydroxyphenylbutazone concentrations.
Decreased systemic clearance of caffeine due to cimetidine.
Authors: Broughton LJ , Rogers HJ
Published: December 2015

1 Five normal subjects received pre‐treatment with cimetidine 200 mg three times daily and 400 mg at night for 6 days, or matching placebo. 2 Caffeine (300 mg) was given orally before any treatment and at the beginning of the last day of each treatment course. Treatments were randomly allocated and separated by at least one week. 3 A significant reduction occurred in the systemic clearance of caffeine and the half‐ life was prolonged as determined from measurement of caffeine in plasma and saliva. No change occurred in the apparent volume of distribution. 4 The oral bioavailability of caffeine was found to be complete in the one subject studied. 5 It is suggested that cimetidine inhibits the microsomal metabolism of caffeine. Although the steady state plasma caffeine would increase by approximately 70%, it is unlikely that this would produce adverse clinical effects.
Interaction of chlorpromazine with tea and coffee.
Authors: Cheeseman HJ , Neal MJ
Published: December 2015

1 The interaction between phenothiazine neuroleptics with tea and coffee was studied in vitro. 2 Filtered infusions of tea and coffee caused precipitation of all the neuroleptics studied. Tea always caused a heavier precipitate than coffee. 3 The constituent or constituents of tea and coffee responsible for precipitating the neuroleptics was not identified. Solutions of caffeine, caffeine citrate and sodium chloride did not form a precipitate with chlorpromazine but precipitates were formed by sodium salicylate, sodium benzoate and trisodium citrate. 4 The interaction between chlorpromazine (CPZ) and tea was studied quantitatively using radiolabelled drug and it was found that the precipitation of [3H]‐CPZ with a given quantity of tea was ‘saturable’. The proportion of CPZ precipitated by a ‘standard cup of tea’ was 80% at low doses of the drug (10‐40 mg) whilst at high doses (800 mg), the proportion of the drug precipitated was approximately 20%. 5 The interaction was further studied in vivo by the oral administration of tea and CPZ to rats. The cataleptic effect of CPZ was significantly reduced by the simultaneous administration of tea and this was apparently not due to the caffeine present in tea. 6 The results suggest that a substantial proportion of orally administered neuroleptic may be precipitated as a highly insoluble compound if coffee, or more especially tea, is taken close to drug administration. This interaction might affect the absorption of phenothiazines given orally to patients.
The effect of level of depression on the use of visual analogue scales by normal volunteers.
Authors: Peet M , Ellis S , Yates RA
Published: December 2015

1 In two separate studies, 102 normal male volunteers were screened for level of depression using the Zung Self‐Rating Depression Scale (Zung, 1965). Eight high scorers and eight low scorers were selected for inclusion in each study. 2 There were marked differences in scores on the visual analogue mood scales of Bond & Lader (1974) between the high depressed (HD) and low depressed (LD) groups. 3 In the first study, subjects were given single doses of imipramine 50 mg and 100 mg, diazepam 10 mg, and placebo in a double‐blind randomized crossover design with 1 week between treatments. Drug effects as assessed on visual analogue scales were significantly more marked in the LD than in the HD group, to the extent that the sedative effects of imipramine 50 mg and diazepam 10 mg were minimal or absent in the HD groups whereas these effects were clear and highly significant in the LD group. 4 In a second study, LD and HD volunteers were given more objective items to rate using visual analogue scales. Ratings of the size of each of a series of ten circles, and of the weight of a ‘black box’, were consistently and significantly lower in the LD than in the HD group. Significant differences between LD and HD groups were also found on a series of visual analogue scales expressing attitudes not directly related to mood. 5 It is concluded that normal volunteers with varying levels of depression cannot be considered as homogeneous in their mode of expression on visual analogue scales, and that this should be taken into account in the design and interpretation of studies involving the use of such scales.
Radioimmunoassay for trifluoperazine in human plasma.
Authors: Midha KK , Hubbard JW , Cooper JK , Hawes EM , Fournier S , Yeung P
Published: December 2015

1 A new sensitive and rapid radioimmunoassay procedure for the determination of the plasma concentrations of the neuroleptic drug trifluoperazine is described. 2 The antiserum developed for trifluoperazine cross‐reacted with N‐desmethyltrifluoperazine and 7‐ hydroxytrifluoperazine to the extent of 26 and 24% respectively but its cross‐reactivity with commonly co‐administered tricyclic antidepressants and antianxiety agents tested was negligible. 3 The assay, based on the above antiserum, enabled the quantitation of 50 pg of the drug in 200 microliters of plasma with a coefficient of variation of about 2% and therefore should be applicable for singly dose pharmacokinetic and bioavailability studies. It should be applicable to therapeutic monitoring of the drug in patients.
Prognosis of treated hypertension 1951‐1981.
Authors: Bulpitt CJ
Published: December 2015

1 The 5 year survival of hypertensive patients in several studies was reviewed to demonstrate the adverse effects of increasing age, being male, having a higher untreated blood pressure of severe retinal changes. 2 The decrease in survival with increase in diastolic blood pressure was not linear, mortality being relatively constant below 90 mmHg. 3 The adverse effect of severe retinal changes was independent of the untreated blood pressure. 4 In patients selected with mild hypertension, 5 year survival can exceed 97% even when untreated. 5 Owing to the lack of suitable data we cannot conclude that treatment was more effective in prolonging life in the 1970s than in previous decades. 6 In the United States non‐white patients with hypertension fared worse than white patients. 7 The serum cholesterol was not positively related to mortality in treated hypertension patients. 8 Treated hypertensive patients who smoked had at least a two‐fold increase in mortality over those who did not. 9 Treated patients under the age of 50 years had a four‐fold increase in mortality compared with the general population. This was greater than any excess mortality observed in the elderly.
SIMPLIFIED TECHNIQUES FOR THE EMPLOYMENT OF FLUORESCENCE MICROSCOPY
Authors: King J.
Published: December 2015

SYNOPSIS.

A method is described for using the compact‐source high‐pressure mercury‐vapour lamp for fluorescence microscopy in place of the conventional monochromator, with the aid of compound filters consisting of glass and liquid filters, giving bands of frequencies through a range from 2652 Å. to 3655 Å. “Perspex” or one of the new high ultra‐violet transmission glasses may be used for the condenser lenses and the ends of the liquid filters, in place of quartz. The adaptation of a reflecting objective, or a modification of the Chapman and Aldrich illuminator, each having aluminized surfaces, enables a concentrated beam of ultra‐violet light to be used with a fairly high magnification. A new range of fluorescent dyes known commercially as “optical bleaches” has been used for fluorescent staining of fibres and plant sections.
A Minicomputer System for the Synthesis of Animal Vocalizations
Authors: Zoloth Stephen , Dooling Robert J. , Miller Richard , Peters Susan
Published: December 2015

A software system is described for the synthesis and modification of animal vocalizations using the PDP 11/10 laboratory minicomputer. The modification of part of a natural song is described.

Ein Satz von Computerprogrammen zur Veränderung natürlicher Lautäußerungen wird beschrieben. Diese Programme laufen auf einem Kleincomputer und ersetzen teilweise die Funktionen eines Spektrographen, den sie an Präzision übertreffen. Lautäußerungen können in einer Vielzahl akustischer Parameter verändert werden, während andere Kenngrößen des Komplex‐signals unbeeinflußt bleiben. Diese Möglichkeiten können genutzt werden bei der Untersuchung der akustischen Faktoren, die für das Erlernen des Gesanges bei Vögeln wichtig sind.
Evidence for Scavenging Behavior in the Western Diamondback Rattlesnake (Crotalus atrox)
Authors: GILLINGHAM JAMES C. , BAKER RANDY E.
Published: December 2015

The use of dead and decaying animals for food appears often as an adaptive strategy in birds and mammals but is apparently rare within the reptiles. Scanty evidence exists for the utilization of such a scavenging strategy by rattlesnakes but convincing data gathered under properly controlled circumstances in this regard have not been forthcoming.

Western diamondback rattlesnakes (Crotalus atrox) were cage and arena tested for putrescent mouse preference and putrescent mouse location ability. Adults and neonates readily accepted mice that had been aged up to 48 h while black rat snakes (Elaphe obsoleta) failed to accept putrescent mice and would accept fresh‐killed rodents only if the latter were moving. Adult rattlesnakes could locate putrescent mice buried in gravel but failed to find fresh‐killed animals. The results were used to document strong evidence for a scavenging feeding strategy for this species and perhaps for the viperids as a whole.
Extranidal Behaviour of Parischnogaster nigricans serrei (Du Buysson) (Hymenoptera, Stenogastrinae)1
Authors: Turillazzi Stefano
Published: December 2015

Abstract and Summary

Parischnogaster nigricans serrei (Du Buysson) forages almost exclusively on little arthropods that females, in flight, pick off of spider webs. The foundress performs such extranidal activities as foraging, pulp and water collection only in the pre‐emergence period, after which she leaves the nest only for defensive flights and to defecate. Males hover near forest landmarks that they defend against other males in ritualized aerial fights. The daily patrolling periods of male P. nigricans and P. mellyi (the only two species living in the observation area) do not overlap and occur in the central hours of the day. It is quite probable that this behaviour is related to reproduction.

Die Weibchen von Parischnogaster nigricans serrei (Du Buysson) erbeuten fast nur kleine Arthropoden, die sie während des Fluges aus Spinnennetzen reißen. Nur vor dem Schlüpfen der Nachkommen betreibt die Nestgründerin Außenarbeiten, z. B. Baumaterial‐ und Wassereintragen, Nahrungsammeln. Später verläßt sie das Nest nur zur Verteidigung und zum Koten. Die Männchen patrouillieren im Schwirrflug an bestimmten Stellen des Waldes und verteidigen sie in rituellen Flugkämpfen gegen andere Männchen. Die Tageszeiten, in denen die Patrouillierflüge von P. nigricans und P. mellyi stattfinden, greifen nicht ineinander. Dieses Verhalten könnte der Paarung dienen.
Dissecting Cowbird Song Potency: Assessing a Song's Geographic Identity and Relative Appeal
Authors: King Andrew P. , West Meredith J.
Published: December 2015

Abstract and Summary

To investigate the acoustic elements that constitute song potency in cowbirds, a playback experiment was carried out using the female cowbird's copulatory posture as a bioassay of song potency. Experimentally altered versions of the song of an Molothrus ater obscurus male were presented to M. a. ater and M. a. obscurus females. Song elements of special interest were those thought to communicate a male's geographic status and those indicating song quality. Several song elements were critical to the communication of inter‐ and intraspecific information. Moreover, the data demonstrate that the same semantic information (e. g., geographic identity or relative appeal) may be mediated through different song structures for the two subspecies. Finally, the data reveal a new song parameter relying upon the operation of the cowbird's two voices that contributes to song potency. This latter finding may represent the first functional test of the two voice phenomenon in passerines.

Die Begattungsreaktionen gefangengehaltener Weibchen der beiden Kuhstar‐Unterarten Molothrus ater ater und M. a. obscurus auf die Tonband‐wiedergabe eines M. a. obscurus‐Gesangs wurden untersucht. Der Gesang wurde experimentell verändert, um die Rolle verschiedener akustischer Elemente zu isolieren. Der Gesang des Kuhstars enthält mindestens zwei Informationen; eine betrifft die geographische Herkunft, die andere die Qualität oder Anziehungskraft des Gesangs. Weibchen der beiden Unterarten reagierten charakteristisch verschieden auf Veränderungen des Gesangs und sprachen auf verschiedene Gesangstrukturen an. Die Ergebnisse weisen darauf hin, daß der Gesang des Kuhstars hierarchisch aufgebaut ist und daß die Weibchen Gesänge an mehreren Merkmalen der Gesangsstruktur unterscheiden.
Untersuchungen zur Blütenaffinität der Schachbrettweibchen (Agapetes galathea L.)
Authors: SONNTAG GÜNTER
Published: December 2015

Rhopaloceran butterflies are well known to visit distinct species of flowers in order to extract nectar, normally leaving again after a short time to continue their foraging flights. Females of Agapetes galathea, however, often show a different behaviour, which is the subject of the following analysis. The dynamics of sugar production by flowers and the foraging pattern of the galathea‐ ♂♂ have been studied under natural conditions. Special consideration is given to the aggressive behaviour of the females towards approaching insects during their flower resting periods.
Spatial Dispersion and Agonistic Contacts of Male Bush Crickets in the Biotope
Authors: Schatral Andrea , Latimer William , Broughton Bill
Published: December 2015

Abstract and Summary

This study concerns the acoustic behaviour of the bush cricket Tettigonia cantans Fuess. (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae). Natural habitats with different population densities of stable singers have been selected. The dispersion patterns of singing males and the sound levels neighbouring insects receive from each other were investigated. The behavioural patterns of an established male elicited by the song of a conspecific were analysed and related to the population densities of constant singers in their biotope. The competition between males and its possible effect on female behaviour have been discussed.

Constantly singing males clump in areas with dense vegetation and within these clumps they are regularly spaced. Males seem to space themselves according to the song intensities (72–87 dB SPL) they receive from each other.

Between close neighbours rivalry behaviour is expressed either by males producing alternating songs, or in an approach towards a constantly singing insect, or in an aggressive encounter. Of these three behaviour patterns aggressive encounters are most common in high‐density populations. Rivalry does not influence the dispersion pattern of the males. A hypothesis is inferred from observations on female behaviour that rivalry itself constitutes an attractive stimulus for females.

Rivalenverhalten und Verteilung konstant singender Männchen der Laubheuschrecke Tettigonia cantans sind im Freiland untersucht worden. Dazu wurden unterschiedlich dichte Populationen gewählt.

Konstant singende Männchen treten in Arealen mit dichter Vegetation gehäuft auf, sind aber innerhalb soldier Ansammlungen regelmäßig verteilt. Offenbar verteilen sich die Männchen nach gleichen Schalldruckpegeln (72–87 dB) im Gesang der Nachbarn.

Das Rivalenverhalten kann in abwechselndem Singen eng benachbarter Männchen bestehen, in bloßer Annäherung an einen konstanten Sänger oder kann eine aggressive Begegnung einschließen. Besonders in dichten Populationen kennzeichnen agonistische Kontakte das Rivalenverhalten. Das Rivalenverhalten beeinträchtigt jedoch nicht das regelmäßige Verteilungsmuster der Männchen.

Beobachtungen an Weibchen lassen vermuten, daß das Rivalenverhalten selbst einen stimulierenden Einfluß auf Phonotaxis und Auswahlverhalten der Weibchen ausübt.
Food Provisioning by Adult Maned Wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus)
Authors: Rasmussen Janet L. , Tilson Ronald L.
Published: December 2015

Abstract and Summary

A study of food provisioning in a captive family group of South American maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus) revealed a significant contribution by the adult male. The father was solicited by his two pups to regurgitate food nearly three times more frequently than was the mother and regurgitated to them twice as frequently as did the mother. These observations suggest that adult maned wolves may not be as asocial as previously thought, and that the adult male may contribute more to the fitness of his offspring than was previously known.

In einer gefangen gehaltenen Familiengruppe des südamerikanischen Mähnenwolfes (Chrysocyon brachyurus) wurde der Vater von seinen zwei Jungen dreimal häufiger als die Mutter um Futter angebettelt, und er würgte doppelt so häufig Futter vor wie die Mutter. Männliche Mähnenwölfe scheinen stärkere Familienbindung zu haben und mehr zur Fitneß ihrer Jungen beizutragen, als bisher angenommen wurde.
The Effects of Size on the Mating Decisions of Gammarus pulex (Crustacea, Amphipoda)
Authors: Ward Paul I.
Published: December 2015

Abstract and Summary

The breeding system of the freshwater amphipod, Gammarus pulex, has a precopulatory female guarding phase by which a male ensures his presence when the female moults and he can fertilize her brood and also prevent other males gaining access to her. The duration of the guarding phase is influenced by the sizes of the animals in a pair; larger males guard for longer than do smaller males and larger females are guarded for longer than are smaller females. Also, larger males guard more tenaciously than do smaller males and females are guarded more tenaciously as their moult approaches. Finally, larger females are found to be more active in precopula than smaller females.

Zur Paarung des Bachflohkrebses Gammarus pulex gehört eine längere Präkopula. So ist das Männchen sicher anwesend, wenn sich das Weibchen häutet, und kann die Eier besamen; außerdem hält es andere Männchen vom Weibchen fern. Die Dauer der Präkopula hängt von der Größe der Paarpartner ab; größere Männchen bewachen länger als kleine. Außerdem halten größere Männchen das Weibchen fester; auch werden Weibchen um so fester gehalten, je näher ihre Häutung bevorsteht. Größere Weibchen in Präkopula sind aktiver als kleine; welchen Vorteil sie davon haben, ist unklar.
Dyeing Properties of Monoazo Disperse Dyes Containing 5‐ and 6‐Aminoindazoles as Diazo Components
Authors: Nishida K , Ando Y , Aoki M , Koide M , Tazoe S , Iwamoto H
Published: December 2015

In this study the effects of various coupling components, used in conjunction with 5‐ and 6‐aminoindazoles as diazo components, on the spectral characteristics and dyeing properties of dyes for cellulose secondary acetate (acetate), nylon 6 and polyester have been investigated. Eight new disperse dyes suitable for acetate, nylon 6 and polyester were synthesised. In general, when disperse dyes are applied in the dyeing of nylon 6 the colour fastness to water is very low. However, we found that the new dyes synthesised showed good dyeing properties in all cases, on all three fibre types. Some of the dyes obtained using 5‐ and 6‐aminoindazoles gave bright dyeings of good fastness to light, washing, perspiration, dry cleaning and rubbing. Some bright dyeings on polyester were also obtained.
CEU Role of Human Papilloma Virus Testing in Cervical Cancer Prevention
Authors: Fey Molly C. , Beal Margaret W.
Published: December 2015

A clear causal relationship has been established between human papilloma virus (HPV) infection and the development of cervical cancer. Genital HPV infection is currently the most common sexually transmitted disease worldwide. The recent 2001 American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology Consensus Guidelines have included HPV testing for management of women with cervical cytological abnormalities. Clinicians now face the challenge of deciding when to use HPV testing in follow‐up of abnormal Pap tests. This article includes updates on HPV, cervical cancer screening, and HPV testing technology. Recommendations for integration of HPV testing into clinical practice are provided.
Do Birth Certificate Data Accurately Reflect the Number of CNM‐Attended Births? An Exploratory Study
Authors: Walker Deborah S. , Schmunk Susanne Brooks , Summers Lisa
Published: December 2015

The number of midwife‐attended births is increasing as reported on birth certificates in the United States. However, there is some evidence that births attended by certified nurse‐midwives (CNMs) may not be accurately recorded. In this exploratory study, data on birth attendants for those clients giving birth during the study period were compared by using four sources: the client's hospital chart, the CNM birth log, hospital birth certificate records, and state vital statistics records. Researchers sought to determine the accuracy of birth attendant data as reflected in these four sources and whether other providers were listed as the birth attendant for actual CNM‐attended births. During the study period, the CNM birth log showed that CNMs attended 97 vaginal births, whereas the client hospital charts for these same births noted 92 births as attended by CNMs (the other five were operative vaginal births). Hospital birth certificate and state vital statistics data during the study time period credited 88 and 82 of the client's births, respectively, to the CNMs. Exploration of the inaccurately reported birth attendant data, implications for practice, and recommendations for accurately recording birth certificate data are discussed.
Problem‐Based Learning in Reproductive Physiology
Authors: Lobb Derek K. , Inman David R. , Butler Richard G.
Published: December 2015

One of the most misunderstood concepts in progressive educational curricula is that of problem‐based learning (PBL). Often confused with problem solving, the two are quite different. Courses conducted in a PBL format use problems as a launch pad for resulting study. This article reviews a course designed to enable students to learn and understand the principles of human reproductive physiology using PBL. The learning process is situation based, student directed, and takes place in small groups. The rationale for some of these innovations is discussed and the way in which they were implemented is described.
Presence of Gc (Vitamin D‐Binding Protein) and Interactions With Actin in Human Placental Tissue
Authors: EMERSON DAVID L. , WERNER PHILLIP A. , CHENG MING H. , GALBRAITH ROBERT M.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The distribution of Gc protein and actin and their interactions were studied in normal full‐term human placentae. Both Gc and actin were detected by physicochemical analysis of isolated trophoblast membranes. Immunofluorescence of native placental sections showed fluorescence for both proteins on smooth muscle cells lining the fetal stem vessels, intervillous fibrin, villous fibrinoid, trophoblast membrane, and cytoplasm of villous stromal cells. Binding of Gc was demonstrated by prior incubation of sections with purified Gc which led to a striking increase in intensity of Gc fluorescence, but actin fluorescence was unaffected by this procedure and by preincubation with actin. Endogenous Gc and actin could also be removed by washing of tissue sections with chaotrope—3 M KCl or 3 M NH4SCN, denaturant‐6 M urea, or glycine‐HCl pH 3.8, as judged by fluorescence and SDS‐PAGE of the wash supernatant. Phenotypic analysis of Gc eluted from trophoblast membranes and of corresponding matched maternal and fetal cord sera by isoelectric focusing indicated that trophoblast Gc was of predominantly maternal origin. Although the roles of Gc and actin in the placenta are unknown, these results indicate that Gc may be another maternal protein for which specific binding sites are expressed on the membrane of placental trophoblast.
Antigen‐Presenting Capacity of Mouse Decidual Tissue and Placenta
Authors: ELCOCK J.M. , SEARLE R.F.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The antigen‐presenting capacity of cells within mouse decidual tissue and the fetal placenta was assessed using the antigen‐presenting cell assay to measure immune T cell proliferation stimulated by a second presentation of antigen. Cells within decidual tissue bind and present the soluble antigen dinitrophenylated ovalbumin in an antigen‐specific and major histocompatibility complex‐restricted manner. Antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) were detected in decidual tissue from day 8 until day 15 of pregnancy, in deciduoma and in fetal placental tissues. These findings show that cells within decidual tissue may serve as APCs with the ability to process and present fetal antigens to the maternal immune system and may therefore determine the direction of the maternal immune response of pregnancy.
Detection of Sperm Antibodies in Semen Using the Immunobead Test: A Survey of 813 Consecutive Patients
Authors: CLARKE G.N. , ELLIOTT P.J. , SMAILA C.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The aims of this investigation were to determine the incidence of sperm‐bound antibodies in an unselected infertile population and also to further evaluate the immunobead test (IBT) with respect to specificity and reproducibility. The results of the survey showed that 7.8% of 813 men had antibodies of IgG and/ or IgA class bound to the surface of at least 20% of their motile spermatozoa. The results of crossed‐inhibition tests with purified human immunoglobulins and comparison of the IBT results with the sperm‐immobilization test (SIT) in serum and sperm agglutination in semen suggested that the IBT is an immunologically specific test for sperm antibodies. Comparison of repeat tests on 123 patients showed that the IBT is reproducible in 97.5% of cases. There was no difference in mean count, percentage motile, or morphology between the groups of patients with positive or negative IBT results. The incidence of sperm agglutination was significantly (Chi‐squared, p < 0.001) higher in the positive IBT group. The results of this investigation therefore suggest that the IBT is an excellent test for routine screening of men for sperm antibodies.
Immunoactive Products of Placenta: VIII. Translation Products of Messenger RNA Extracted From Murine Placenta or A6B9IC5 Teratocarcinoma Are Immunosuppressive In Vitro
Authors: CHAOUAT G. , KOLB J.P. , RIVIERE M. , LANKAR D. , PROVOST M.A.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: RNA was extracted from placentae of syn‐pregnant C3H mice (day 14 of gestation) and from A6B9IC5 teratocarcinoma. After isolation of poly‐(A)+ RNA on an oligo d(T) cellulose column, putative messenger RNA was injected into Xenopus laevi oocytes. Supernatants and homogenates from the oocytes were assayed for immunoregulatory activity in MLR, CML, and NK assays and found to be immunosuppressive. These data indicate that immunomodulators could be obtained from the placenta by molecular biology technology in sufficient quantities for eventual clinical applications.
Reversible Immunosuppression of Fertility in the Rat Following Immunization by a Liposome Incorporated Spermatozoal Polypeptide Fraction
Authors: METTLER L. , CZUPPON A.B.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A rat spermatozoal polypeptide with 40 amino acid residues and an N‐terminal amino acid residue of Lys was purified to homogeneity by recycling high pressure liquid chromatography. Following incorporation of the peptide into pure phosphatidylcholine liposomes and immunization of female Wistar rats, a significant reduction in fertility rate occurred (x2 = 6.4, p < 0.01). Following a 4‐month recovery period after immunization, fertility rates returned to normal. No adverse effects of the immunization on vital organs could be detected.
Human Cord Blood Suppressor T Lymphocytes: I. Phenotype and Target of the Inducer of Suppressor Cell Factor
Authors: CHENG HENRY , SEHON ALEC H. , DELESPESSE GUY
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: The present study examines the characteristics of the cord suppressor T cells and their targets. When an inducer of suppressor T cell factor (TisF) from culture supernatant of alloantigen‐activated cord lymphocytes was used as a source of suppression, adult lymphocyte response to soluble antigen candidin, alloantigens, and pokeweed mitogen were all suppressed. These results suggest that TisF acts primarily on T cells in an antigen‐nonspecific fashion. Furthermore, pre‐culture T cell irradiation, but not T8+ cell depletion, of adult lymphocytes abrogated the suppressive effect of TisF on the PWM‐stimulated IgG production, suggesting that the target of TisF belongs to the radiosensitive T8−(T4+) T cell subset. When different cord T cell subsets were tested for suppressor activity, only radiosensitive T4+ cells were capable of suppressing IgG production by adult lymphocytes. Neither preculture T8+ cell depletion nor irradiation of adult T cells affected the suppression. Taken together, these results suggest that the suppressor activity of cord T cells originated from an inducer of suppressor ceils that activates radiosensitive T4+ suppressor effector cells through TisF. In turn, these effector cells act on either radioresistant T4+ helper T cells or B cells or both.
Morphological and Immunological Observations in Experimentally Induced Torsion of Testis in Rats
Authors: KURPISZ MACIEJ , MAZURKIEWICZ IRENA , FERNANDEZ NELSON
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: In an experimentally established model of torsion of the testis, morphological and immunological observations were evaluated on 180 Wistar rats. Torsion of the testis was carried out to observe in animals the biological phenomenon that naturally occurs in man. The effect of the twisted testis on the contralateral testis was carefully checked. The morphological observations revealed serious damage to the seminiferous tubules in the contralateral testis. In four rats, persistent infertility was observed as an effect of torsion. The infertility was confirmed by total atrophy of seminiferous epithelium in testis section. The cell‐binding abilities of sera obtained from rats at different times after torsion were studied by cell‐binding radioimmunoassay with different types of germinal cells. The presence of autoantibodies to epididymal spermatozoa was revealed in most cases, being a secondary effect of the thus‐far unknown, nonspecific factors responsible for damage of the contralateral testis.
An Enzyme Immunoassay for the Detection of Antisperm Antibodies
Authors: HAREL W. , NELKEN D.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: A simple and reliable enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of antisperm antibodies has been developed in our laboratory. The antigen for the solid phase was produced by sperm sonication while antihuman globulin conjugated to alkaline phosphatase was used as the developing reagent. The conditions and reagents of the assay were chosen to give a mild treatment of the antigen, simple manipulation during washing steps, and nontoxic and readily available reagents. The results were compared to a conventional microscopical method routinely used in our laboratory that detects agglutinating antibodies to human spermatozoa. In 96% of all cases antibodies detected by the microscopical method were also detected by ELISA. Moreover there were some cases where no antisperm antibodies could be demonstrated by microscopy, but gave a positive reaction with ELISA. These were usually cases of unexplained oligospermia, agglutinates in the ejaculate, and bad motility or low viability of the sperms. These results, and also titration experiments of positive samples demonstrate the higher sensitivity of the ELISA by comparison with microscopical methods.
Induction of the Shaking Phenomenon by IgA Class Antispermatozoal Antibodies From Serum
Authors: CLARKE G.N.
Published: December 2015

ABSTRACT: Serum was obtained from a woman with a high (> 1000) titre of antispermatozoal antibody of IgA immunoglobulin class determined by the indirect immunobead test (IBT). It was found that the serum could sensitize normal sperm to give a strong shaking reaction in the semen‐cervical mucus contact test (SCMCT). The capacity to induce shaking was retained after absorption of the serum with protein A‐sepharose, but lost after absorption with rabbit antihuman IgA. The results therefore suggest that antispermatozoal antibodies of IgA class from serum can induce shaking, and are consistent with the possibility that the Fc fragment (rather than secretory component or J‐chain) may be important for induction of shaking in the conventional SCMCT.