bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sesquiterpenoids of Laurencia majuscula (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta) from the Ryukyu Islands, Japan
Authors: Masuda Michio , Itoh Taiji , Matsuo Yoshihide , Suzuki Minoru
Published: February 2006

Two populations of the red alga Laurencia majuscula (Harvey) Lucas (Rhodomelaceae, Ceramiales) from Taketomi Island and Hateruma Island, the Ryukyu Islands, Japan, have been characterized on the basis of both morphological features and halogenated secondary metabolite content. These populations have smaller and more slender thalli than those of other regions. Furthermore, the populations contain two chamigrane‐type Sesquiterpenoids, (2R, 3R, 5S)‐5‐acetoxy‐2‐bromo‐3‐chlorochamigra‐7(14),9‐dien‐8‐one and (2R, 3R)‐2‐bromo‐3‐chlorochamigra‐7(14), 9‐dien‐8‐one, and a laurane‐type sesquiterpenoid, debromoisolaurinterol, as secondary metabolites which are different from those previously reported from other populations. These results are consistent with the concept of ‘chemical races’ within a single species of Laurencia.
Roscoffia minor sp. nov. (Peridiniales, Dinophyceae): A new, sand‐dwelling, armored dinoflagellate from Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Horiguchi Takeo , Kubo Fumiyasu
Published: February 2006

A new, sand‐dwelling, armored dinoflagellate, Roscoffia minor sp. nov., is described from Ishikari beach, Hokkaido, Japan. The dinoflagellate has been collected from sand samples taken both near the water's edge and further upshore (25 m from the water's edge at a depth of 1 m), indicating that it is a true sand‐dwelling species. Roscoffia minor is heterotrophic and lacks both a chloroplast and an eye‐spot. The cell consists of a flattened cap‐shaped epitheca and a large hemispheroidal hypotheca, and it is quite different from cells of the typical armored dinoflagellates. The thecal plate formula is: Po, 3′, la, 5″, 3c, 3s, 5″, 1″″. Its distinct cell shape and the thecal plate arrangement indicate affinity to the monotypic genus Roscoffia. Roscoffia minor is distinguished from Roscoffia capitata, the type species, by its smaller size and the possession of a finger‐like apical projection. The thecal arrangement of the epitheca is similar to those of the members of the family Podolampaceae, while the hypothecal arrangement is the same as that of members of the subfamily Diplopsalioideae (family Congruentidiaceae). The organism seems to be positioned somewhere intermediate between these two families, but the family to which this dinoflagellate should be affiliated could not be determined.
Glycolate metabolism and subcellular distribution of glycolate oxidase in Spatoglossum pacificum (Phaeophyceae, Chromophyta)
Authors: Iwamoto Koji , Ikawa Tomoyoshi
Published: February 2006

Seven enzymes participating in glycolate metabolism were demonstrated to be present in crude extract of the brown alga Spatoglossum pacificum Yendo. These were phosphoglycolate phosphatase, glycolate oxidase, glutamate‐glyoxylate aminotransferase, serine hydroxymethyltransferase, amino acid‐hydroxy‐pyruvate aminotransferase, hydroxypyruvate reductase and catalase. Malate synthase, which is involved in glycolate metabolism in the xanthophycean alga, could not be detected.

On demonstration of subcellular distribution of glycolate oxidizing enzymes by linear sucrose density gradient centrifugation, glycolate oxidase was detected in the same fraction at a density of 1.23 g cm−3 with catalase: that is, the marker enzyme of peroxisome and serine hydroxymethyltransferase was found in the same fraction at a density of 1.21 g cm−3 with isocitrate dehydrogenase, the marker of mitochondria. From the present data, it is proposed that the brown alga Spatoglossum possesses the ability to metabolize glycolate to glycerate via the pathway which may be similar to that of higher plants.
The effect of fertilizer application on farming of the seaweed Undaria pinnatifida (Laminariales, Phaeophyta)
Authors: Ogawa Hisao , Fujita Minoru
Published: February 2006

A slow‐release ammonium phosphate fertilizer coated with porous plastic was tested on Undaria pinnatifida (Harvey) Suringar as a possible solution to the nutrient deficiency in seawater that causes quality and yield deterioration in seaweed farming. The yield of U. pinnatifida within the fertilized area was 17–40% greater than that of the control area (unfertilized area). In addition, two harvests were possible per season and the quality of harvested U. pinnatifida was also better than that outside the fertilizer diffusion area. The released NH4‐N did not increase the concentration of NH4‐N outside the farming area. Therefore, this fertilizer increased yield and improved quality without causing water pollution.
Additional analysis of chemical diversity in Laurencia nipponica (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Abe Tsuyoshi , Masuda Michio , Kawaguchi Shigeo , Itoh Taiji , Suzuki Minoru
Published: February 2006

The red alga Laurencia nipponica Yamada (Rhodomelaceae, Ceramiales) is known to contain several chemical races, each of which is characterized by a particular, major halogenated secondary metabolite. Both field‐collected and cultured plants of a population of this species found recently at Shikanoshima Island, Fukuoka Prefecture, southern Japan, produced C15 bromoethers, (3E)‐laureatin and (3E)‐isolaureatin, and sesquiterpenoids, 2,10‐dibromo‐3‐chloro‐9‐hydroxy‐α‐chamigrene and 2,10‐dibromo‐3‐chloro‐α‐chamigrene. Laurencia nipponica can be referred to as a further chemical race that is characterized by the production of two C15 bromoethers, (3E)‐laureatin and (3E)‐isolaureatin, and a sesquiterpenoid, 2,10‐dibromo‐3‐chloro‐9‐hydroxy‐α‐chamigrene as major compounds.
Carbonic anhydrase is induced prior to arylsulfatase under the simultaneous deprivation of inorganic carbon and sulfate in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (Volvocales, Chlorophyta)
Authors: Sasaki Takayuki , Togasaki Robert K. , Shiraiwa Yoshihiro
Published: February 2006

The activity of periplasmic arylsulfatase (Ars), which catalyzes the cleavage of sulfate from aromatic sulfur compounds, was detected in cells acclimated to the sulfate‐deficient conditions in a unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii Dangeard, but not in Chlorella, Scenedesmus, Dunaliella and Porphyridium. Upon the transfer of cells to sulfate‐deficient autotrophic media under high‐CO2 conditions, the induction of Ars was observed only in the light, but not in the light with dichlorophenyldimethylurea (DCMU) nor in the dark. However, Ars was induced in the light with DCMU or in the dark when acetate was present as an organic carbon source, but not citrate. Under similar high‐CO2 conditions, high‐CO2 requiring mutants of cia‐3 and cia‐5, whose photosynthetic activities are greatly limited under low CO2, showed much lower level of Ars activities than wild type cells. Under Iow‐CO2 conditions the induction of Ars was greatly suppressed even in wild type and no induction was observed in both mutants. These results suggest that the stimulation of photosynthetic or respiratory carbon metabolism are necessary for the induction of Ars. In contrast, the induction of periplasmic carbonic anhydrase (CA) which was synthesized de novo specifically under CO2‐limited conditions was strongly suppressed by the addition of organic carbon sources, such as acetate and citrate. When cells are subjected to CO2‐limitation and sulfate‐deficiency simultaneously, the induction of CA was initiated immediately, while that of Ars was initiated following the completion of CA induction with an about 4‐h lag. When the concentration of CO2 was suddenly lowered during the induction of Ars, the induction of Ars ceased quickly, and the induction of CA was initiated instead. From these results the induction of CA was suggested to have priority over that of Ars under the dual stress of CO2, and sulfate‐deprivation.
Isolation of organellar DNA from Codium fragile (Codiaceae, Codiales, Ulvophyceae)
Authors: Satoh Masaya , Sakai Atsushi , Hamazaki Shizue , Takashima Yuki , Kuroiwa Tsuneyoshi
Published: February 2006

Organellar DNA was isolated from Codium fragile (Suringar) Hariot (Codiaceae, Codiales, Ulvophyceae) by CsCI‐buoyant density centrifugation in the presence of Hoechst dye 33258. Three bands were formed by ultracentrifugation and each fraction of DNA was identified by Southern hybridization. The uppermost fraction was identified as chloroplast DNA, the middle fraction was nuclear DNA and the bottom fraction was mitochondrial DNA. Nuclear rDNA was isolated in the same fraction as mitochondrial DNA. The estimated genome size of mitochondrial DNA by analysis with restriction endonucleases was more than 141.6 kb, which was larger than that of microalgae but smaller than land plants. Restriction endonuclease analysis of the chloroplast DNA showed no difference with that known of C. fragile in New York.
Nucleotide sequence analysis of the phycoerythrin encoding genes in Porphyra yezoensis and Porphyra tenera (Bangiales, Rhodophyta)
Authors: Kim Beom‐Kyu , Fujita Yuji
Published: February 2006

The genes encoding the α and β subunits of the phycoerythrin (PE) from the red algae Porphyra yezoensis Ueda and Porphyra tenera K jell man were isolated by PCR amplification. The PE u subunit gene was located downstream (+ 74bp) of the PE β sub‐unit encoding gene. The PE amino acid sequences of P. yezoensis and P. tenera, as deduced from the nucleotide sequence of the cpeA and cpeB genes, were respectively, 83–89% and 84–87% identical to species in other red algal genera. They were also 64–73% (a subunit) and 61–71% (β subunit) identical to the cyanobacterial group. The high homology of the deduced ammo acid sequences of red algal and cyanobacterial PE supports the view that the red algal plastid originated from endosymbiotic cyanobacteria. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analysis confirmed that cpeA and cpeB are cotranscribed.
Life histories of Colpomenia sinuosa and Hydroclathrus clathratus (Scytosiphonaceae, Phaeophyceae) in culture
Authors: Kogame Kazuhiro
Published: February 2006

Life‐history studies in culture were carried out on Colpomenia sinuosa (Mertens ex Roth) Derbès et Solier and Hydroclathrus clathratus (C. Agardh) Howe (Scytosiphonales, Phaeophyceae) from Japan. These species showed a heteromorphic life‐history pattern with an alternation between erect thalli bearing plurilocular zoidangia and prostrate thalli bearing ectocarpoid plurilocular and unilocular zoidangia. Plurizoids released from erect and prostrate thalli developed into prostrate thalli. Unizoids, however, developed into erect thalli. Prostrate thalli produced plurilocular zoidangia in long‐day conditions and unilocular zoidangia in short‐day conditions at 10‐20°C. Prostrate thalli of C. sinuosa formed ascocysts. Germlings of both species did not grow at 5°C.
Effects of salinity on growth, photosynthesis and respiration in a freshwater alga Rhizoclonium riparium (Chlorophyceae, Cladophorales)
Authors: Imai Masae , Katayama Nobuyasu , Yamaguchi Yukuya
Published: February 2006

A freshwater green alga, Rhizoclonium riparium (Roth) Harvey, was found to grow in diluted seawater with salinities (PSU) from 0.1 to 34.0 (0.1–34.0 S). It grew best at 13.6 S and least at 0.1 S which was the least salinity reported in its habitat. Net photosynthetic oxygen production of R. riparium rose with salinity up to 34.0. However, in the medium adjusted at pH 8.1. the net photosynthesis rose at low ranges of salinity and was almost at the same level in all ranges of salinities examined. The net photosynthesis was increased by the addition of bicarbonate in the medium. Respiratory oxygen consumption did not rise with the increase of external salinities from 0.1 to 34.0. The results indicate that R. riparium can grow by increasing net photosynthesis in diluted seawater in which the pH value is suitable for effective bicarbonate supply to photosynthesis.
A new species of Laurencia, L. omaezakiana (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta), from Japan
Authors: Masuda Michio
Published: February 2006

Laurencia omaezakiana Masuda, sp. nov. (Ceramiales, Rhodophyta) is described from Japan. It is characterized by the following set of features: (i) the production of four periaxial cells from each vegetative axial cell; (ii) a shift in branching from distichous to spiral; (iii) the presence of projecting superficial cortical cells near the apices of branches; (iv) the presence of longitudinally oriented secondary pit‐connections between contiguous superficial cortical cells; (v) the presence of lenticular thickenings in the walls of medullary cells; (vi) the occurrence of 1–2 corps en cerise in each superficial cortical cell and a single corps en cerise in each trichoblast cell; and (vii) a parallel arrangement of tetrasporangia. Furthermore, it produces a characteristic triterpenoid (enshuol), which has not been detected in other species of Laurencia, as a major halogenated secondary metabolite. A synoptical key to the 23 species of Laurencia growing in Japan is given. Laurencia ceytanica J, Agardh and Laurencia heteroclada Harvey are excluded from the Japanese marine algalflora. The latter is a distinct species from Laurencia filiformis (C. Agardh) Montagne.
A proteolytic enzyme, trypsin, for immunofluorescence observation of microtubules in algal cells
Authors: Aruga Hirotumi , Motomura Taizo , Ichimura Terunobu
Published: February 2006

The usefulness of a proteolytic enzyme, trypsin, in immunofluorescence microscopy was confirmed in algal ceils. Flagella of Umspora penicilliformis zoo‐spores were visible using an anti‐β tubulin antibody after trypsin treatment, and the cortical microtubules of vegetative cells could also be clearly detected. Interestingly, centrioles that were not detected in the control observation appeared in gametophyte cells of Acrosiphonia duriuscula and Monostroma angicava using the trypsin treatment.
Recruitment of two species of monostromatic blade‐like chlorophytes, Monostroma sp. and Ulvaria oxysperma (Ulvales, Chlorophyta), in São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: Braga Maria do Rosário de Almeida
Published: February 2006

Adult individuals of two morphologically similar species, Monostroma sp, and Ulvaria oxysperma (Kützing) Sliding co‐occur in the intertidal zone of the Cananéia estuary (25°S, 48°W), São Paulo State, Brazil. At an early stage, when seedlings are between 0.1 and 3 mm high, the two species can be distinguished as they have different thallus ontogeny. In order to detect (i) the possible differences in their vertical and horizontal distributions, (ii) the temporal differences in their recruitment and (iii) their substrate preferences, three experiments were performed. In general, recruitment of Monostroma sp. was more intense than that of U. oxysperma. Their pattern of distribution along transects was similar. Recruitment of both species occurs in the mid‐intertidal zone and throughout the year. There were significant monthly differences in the abundance of both species, but recruitment patterns were not persistent from 1 year to the next and between experiments. No marked preference was detected for the types of substrates tested for the two species. The frequency of neither species was correlated with other common co‐occurring organisms; only the presence of sediment showed a negative effect on plants, when recruiting on ropes. Monostroma sp. did not show any correlation between intensity of recruitment and meteorological parameters, salinity or water temperature. Recruitment of U. oxysperma decreased with the mean maximum temperature.
Some new species and new combinations of marine red algae from the central Pacific
Authors: Abbott Isabella A.
Published: February 2006

Six new species in five genera of Rhodophyta are described. A new combination for Polyopes hakalauensis is also proposed. These taxa were encountered while preparing a manual of marine red algae of the Hawaiian Islands. Among the Halymeniales, two blade‐like species of Halymenia, H. cromwellii sp. nov. and H. stipi‐tata sp. nov., are distinguished from other species by habit and anatomical differences, including the possession of a stipe by the second. Halymenia hakalauensis Tilden 1902 is transferred to Polyopes as P. hakalauensis (Tilden) Abbott, replacing P. hawaiiensis Kajimura which is considered a synonym. A new species of Prionitis, P. corymbifera sp. nov., shows a corymbose branching pattern different from the mostly pinnate to subdichotomous branching of Japanese and Californian species. In the Gigartinales, Chondracanthus okamurae Abbott is named for a specimen which Okamura included in his understanding of Gigartina (now Chondracanthus tenellus), but which has terete axes, differing from C. tenellus (Harvey) Hommersand which is com‐planate throughout. Chondracanthus intermedius (Sur‐ingar) Hommersand is placed in synonymy with C. tenellus. The occurrence of C. tenellus in Hawai'i is a new distribution record from Asia. Three new species are added to the Ceramiales, Ceramium tranquillum Meneses (Ceramiaceae), Dasya kristeniae sp. nov. and Dasya murrayana Abbott & Millar (Dasyaceae). Distinctive features of Ceramium tranquillum are internodes that are three to five times longer than the height of nodes, and nodes that never project beyond the diameter of the internodes, giving straight margins except when fertile. Dasya kristeniae is a diminutive epiphyte which is nearly ecorticate, with tetrasporangial stichidia that are rectangular having apices that are curved or nodding, and cystocarps that have flaring ostioles above a constricted pericarp. Dasya murrayana was earlier misidentified with Dasya iyengarii Børgesen, and re‐examination of those plants show continuous cortication throughout, where cortication is almost completely lacking in D. iyengarii except near the base. Dasya murrayana has a tufted habit, with indeterminate branches about the same sizes as the main axes, the plants growing on rock, whereas plants of D. iyengarii are not tufted, with indeterminate branches attenuate, and an epiphytic habit.
Growth and maturation of the ‘autumn‐fruiting type’ of Sargassum horneri (Fucales, Phaeophyta) and comparisons with the ‘spring‐fruiting type’
Authors: Yoshida Goro , Arima Satoshi , Terawaki Toshinobu
Published: February 2006

The growth and maturation period of the autumn‐fruiting population ot Sargassum horneri C. Agardh (Phaeophyta) was investigated in Hiroshima Bay, Seto Inland Sea. Surveyed traits were compared to those of the spring‐fruiting type and ecological features of this species were discussed. The annual lifetime of the autumn‐fruiting population could be divided into four phases according to the daily increase in thalius length:phase I from December to May (increase in length < 0.1 mm/ day), phase II from May to September (= 0.3–1.0 mm/ day), phase Ml (from September to December > 10 mm/day) and phase IV which was the senescence phase from December to March. Receptacle formation‘as observed in November and gamete release from November to February. Conversely, the spring‐fruiting type germinated in April and exhibited swifter growth in its early stage of development than the autumn‐fruiting type. Rapid increase in thalius iength in autumn was common in both fruiting types, although the spring‐fruiting type continued to grow during winter. Receptacle formation of the spring‐fruiting type started in February but gamete release was not observed until April and May. The difference in life‐history patterns of both types of S. horneri was in the overwintering period. The autumn‐fruiting type spent that season as germi‐ings or as young plants exhibiting slow‐paced growth, while the spring‐fruiting type overvwintered as adult thal‐li preparing for gamete release in spring.
The induction of reproductive cell formation of Ulva pertusa Kjellman (Ulvales, Ulvophyceae)
Authors: Hiraoka Masanori , Enomoto Sachito
Published: February 2006

Synchronous zooid formation in Ulva pertusa Kjellman was induced in excised disks maintained in sterilized seawater at 20°C, 12:12 h L:D cycle and fluorescent light at 100 μmol photons m 2s 1. Zooids were reieased from mature disk tissue on the morning of the second or the third day after excision. The degree of zooid formation was found to be dependent on disk size and the region of the mother thalius from which the disk tissue was excised. Zooid formation was induced in more than 90% of small disks (0.9 mm in diameter) which were taken from the margins of the Ulva thalli. When disks were incubated together with a perforated mother thalius, the disks remained sterile. The presence of maturation inhibitors in vegetative thalli is suggested.
Reconsideration of the taxonomy of ellipsoidal species of Chlorella (Trebouxiophyceae, Chlorophyta), with establishment of Watanabea sen. nov.
Authors: Hanagata Nobutaka , Karube Isao , Chihara Mitsuo , Silva Paul C.
Published: February 2006

Subcultures of SAG 211–9b and 1AM C‐211, ultimately derived from CCAP 211/9b, a strain isolated by Pringsheim in 1939 and identified as Chlorella sac‐charophila (Kruger) Migula were observed using light and electron microscopy. Their morphology proved to be basically identical. Both have two forms of cells, one (E‐form) narrowly to broadly ellipsoidal, the other (S‐form) ovoid to spheroidal. The cell wall of both forms is composed of a single smooth layer. The chloroplast of young cells is trough‐like or saucer‐shaped with a smooth margin, while that of mature cells is band‐ or cup‐shaped with deep incisions. The thylakoid lamellae are loosely stacked and neither form has a pyrenoid. Both types of cells are capable of producing autospores: eight to 16 in E‐form cells, two to four in S‐form cells. These morphological features are different from those of C. saccharophila, which has a pyrenoid and produces only one form of autospores. In the absence of any existing genus that includes Chlorella‐like algae with a simple cell wall, no pyrenoid, and two forms of mature cells and autospores, a new genus, Watanabea, is proposed with the type species W. reniformis.
Development of a database system useful for identification of Anabaena spp. (Cyanobacteria)
Authors: Hiroki Mikiya , Shimizu Akira , Li Renhui , Watanabe Masayuki , Watanabe Makoto M.
Published: February 2006

A database system useful for the identification of plank‐tonic Anabaena species based on morphology was designed. The system consisted of two database files (sample database and reference database) and three subsystems (data editing, similarity calculation, and identification). In the reference database file, 19 plank‐tonic Anabaena species were registered with their morphological characteristics of 26 attributes. The sample database of the test strain was compared with the reference one by calculating the average (St) of the similarity values estimated by peculiar methods according to the attributes. The test strain was recognized to be the same as the reference species with the highest St value. Strains of Anabaena spp. which had previously been identified were examined to test the effectiveness of the identification system. Using a non‐weighted identification system, where each morphological attribute has equal importance for identification, St (total similarity) values for the reference species previously identified were more than 0.76; however, they were not always the highest value obtained. Using a weighted identification system, where trichome form, trichome shape and akinete morphology were given greater importance in the identification subsystem, St values for the reference species to which the test strains had previously been assigned were highest. This system proved useful for identification of Anabaena species, and has the additional advantage that there are no individual differences in the diagnosis when different users interrogate the system.
Photosynthetic activity of a temperate coral Acropora pruinosa (Scleractinia, Anthozoa) with symbiotic algae in Japan
Authors: Nakamura Eriko , Yokohama Yasutsugu , Tanaka Jiro
Published: February 2006

Physiological properties of the temperate hermatypic coral Acropora pruinosa Brook with symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) on the southern coast of the Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture, central Japan, were compared between summer and winter. Photosynthesis and respiration rates of the coral with symbiotic zooxanthellae were measured in summer and winter under controlled temperatures and irradiances with a differential gasvolumeter (Productmeter). Net photosynthetic rate under all irradiances was higher in winter than in summer at the lower range of temperature (12–20°C), while lower than in summer at the higher range of temperature (20–30°C). The optimum temperature for net photosynthesis was apt to fall with the decrease of irradiance both in summer and winter, whereas it was higher in summer than in winter under each irradiance. At 25/ 50/100 μmol photons nr2 s−1, it was nearly the sea‐water temperature in each season. Dark respiration rate was higher in winter than in summer, especially in the range from 20–30°C. In both seasons the optimum temperature for gross photosynthesis was 28°C under 400 μmol photons nr2 s−1 and lowered with decreasing irradiance up to 22°C under 25 μmol photons nr2 s−1 in summer, while 20°C under the same irradiance in winter. The optimum temperature for production/respiration (P/R) ratio was higher in summer than in winter under each irradiance. Results indicated that metabolism of coral and zooxanthellae is adapted to ambient temperature condition under nearly natural irradiance in each season.
CAPSULE ENDOSCOPIC FEATURES OF INTESTINAL LYMPHANGIECTASIA
Authors: Gupta Rajesh , Lakhtakia Sandeep , Tandan Manu , Benarjee Rupa , Rao Guduru Venkat , Anuradha Sekaran , Ramji Cheemalakonda , Reddy Duvvuru Bhaskar , Reddy Duvvuru Nageshwar
Published: February 2006

Intestinal lymphangiectasia is a rare disorder of the intestines resulting from obstruction of the lymphatics. We describe capsule endoscopic features of intestinal lymphangiectasia in five patients who were diagnosed by capsule endoscopy. The capsule endoscopy features were whitish spots or specks, yellowish white mucosal or submucosal nodules in the duodenum or jejunum. Intestinal lymphangiectasia was associated with bleeding in two out of five patients. Capsule endoscopy is a promising technique to diagnose intestinal lymphangiectasia.
ENDOSCOPIC SUBMUCOSAL DISSECTION FOR RECURRENT GASTRIC TUMORS
Authors: Kodashima Shinya , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Yahagi Naohisa , Kakushima Naomi , Nakamura Masanori , Omata Masao
Published: February 2006

Endoscopic resection has been accepted as the standard treatment for intramucosal gastric tumors of differentiated type. However, the indication was limited to small tumors to achieve en bloc resection and prevent local recurrence in cases of conventional endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) such as the strip biopsy and the cap technique. To avoid multi‐fragmental resection, we have developed endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) as a new endoscopic resection technique. ESD is a remarkable technique, because we make it possible to remove the lesions en bloc regardless of size, shape, coexisting ulcer, and location. However, it is difficult or impossible to resect recurrent tumors en bloc in conventional EMR owing to hard fibrosis, and some patients need laparotomy. Using ESD, we can dissect the submucosal layer as we directly look at the submucosa, and remove the lesion safely and reliably even in cases of hard fibrosis. The key to treatment of recurrent tumors in ESD are as follows: (i) using enough submucosal injection solution (we use a mixture of Glyceol and 1% 1900 kDa hyaluronic acid preparation); (ii) incising the mucosa without fibrosis; (iii) understanding characteristics of various cutting devices, and changing other devices in difficult situations. In these ways we can remove the majority of the recurrent tumors en bloc. Hence, we consider that ESD is a very effective treatment which achieves excellent en bloc and complete resection rates and enables patients with intramucosal gastric tumors to a recurrent‐free survival even in recurrent tumors.
NODULAR GASTRITIS AND GASTRIC CANCER
Authors: Kamada Tomoari , Hata Jiro , Tanaka Aki , Kusunoki Hiroaki , Miyamoto Masaki , Inoue Kazuhiko , Sadahira Yoshito , Haruma Ken
Published: February 2006

Nodular gastritis is defined as antral gastritis usually characterized endoscopically by a miliary pattern resembling gooseflesh and pathologically by prominent lymphoid follicles and infiltration of mononuclear cells. This physiological phenomenon was once considered particular to young women. Recent studies have shown that nodular gastritis is strongly associated with Helicobacter pylori infection and may be associated with gastric cancer. Reported cases of gastric cancer with nodular gastritis showed some features in common: all gastric cancers were diagnosed histologically as the diffuse‐type, and all were located in the corpus with Helicobacter pylori infection. Because nodular gastritis may be a risk factor for diffuse‐type gastric cancer, Helicobacter pylori may need to be eradicated to prevent gastric cancer in patients with nodular gastritis.
ENDOSCOPIC TRANSPAPILLARY CATHETERIZATION INTO THE GALLBLADDER FOR DIAGNOSIS OF GALLBLADDER CARCINOMA
Authors: Uchida Naohito , Tsutsui Kunihiko , Kamada Hideki , Ogawa Mutsumi , Hirabayashi Shuko , Nakatsu Toshiaki , Kuriyama Shigeki
Published: February 2006

It is often difficult to determine the precise nature of lesions in the gallbladder by radiographic, endoscopic and ultrasonographic methods. The approach to the gallbladder by a percutaneous transhepatic route has been reported. However, there is a possibility of seeding tumor cells into the peritoneal cavity and liver in a percutaneous procedure. On the contrary, transpapillary route can be performed without a possibility of seeding. The double‐contrast cholecystography, intragallbladder sonography, direct biopsy of gallbladder lesions and cytology using gallbladder bile have been performed by the procedure of the transpapillary catheterization into the gallbladder. Confirming malignancy by histopathological diagnosis is desirous for determining therapeutic strategy in gallbladder carcinoma. Gathering gallbladder bile is comparatively easier than biopsy of the lesion using the transpapillary catheterization into the gallbladder. Examination of telomerase‐related molecules is useful for diagnosis of pancreatic carcinoma. Usefulness of combination assay of human telomerase reverse transcriptase mRNA (hTERT mRNA) and cytology using gallbladder bile obtained by transpapillary catheterization is reported here. However, it would appear that hTERT mRNA is less important in the diagnosis of gallbladder carcinoma than in that of pancreatic carcinoma. When the molecular biological substances with higher sensitivity are found, the reliance of the combination assay of the molecular biological substances and cytology will be established.
NEW METHOD OF STENTING TREATMENT FOR MALIGNANT DUODENAL STENOSIS: USING DOUBLE‐BALLOON ENTEROSCOPY
Authors: Hirayama Atsushi , Miyakawa Hiroyuki , Suga Toshihiro , Nagakawa Tatsuya , Matsunaga Takahiro , Okamura Keiya , Oohashi Hirokazu , Anpo Tomonori , Hasegawa Takashi
Published: February 2006

Recently, a self‐expandable metallic stent has been recognized for treatment of malignant duodenal stenosis. But the complications by stenting are important problems even now. In the present study, we report our new method of duodenal stenting by using of double‐balloon enteroscopy considered safe and effective.
IS HELICOBACTER PYLORI‐INDUCED ENLARGED FOLD GASTRITIS A HIGH‐RISK FACTOR FOR GASTRIC CARCINOMA?
Authors: Murayama Yoko , Shinomura Yasuhisa , Miyazaki Tamana , Tamura Shinji , Hayashi Norio
Published: February 2006

It is now a generally accepted fact that Helicobacter pylori is an important cause of gastric carcinoma. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classified H. pylori as a group 1 carcinogen. We previously reported that H. pylori‐positive subjects had enlarged folds (fold width = 5 mm); that is, ‘enlarged fold gastritis’. Helicobacter pylori‐induced enlarged fold gastritis is accompanied by a massive infiltration of inflammatory cells, profound production of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), which decrease gastric acid secretion and increase the proliferation rate of the gastric epithelial cells. In addition, there is increased mutagenicity of gastric juice, and mucosal 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8‐OhdG) levels. Fold width improves and these factors recover to within a normal range with the eradication of H. pylori. The odds ratio for gastric carcinoma and the prevalence of diffuse‐type early gastric carcinoma in the body region increased with an increase in fold width. Therefore, enlarged fold gastritis may be a major risk factor for gastric carcinoma among H. pylori‐infected people. We propose that H. pylori‐infected persons with enlarged fold gastritis are a potential population for the prevention of gastric carcinoma via the use of antibiotics.
Bank Equity Investments: Reducing Agency Costs or Buying Undervalued Firms? The Information Effects
Authors: González Francisco
Published: February 2006

Abstract:  This paper analyses the relevance of two different reasons for banks to acquire firms’ stock: the increase of agency costs in the lending relationship (the agency costs hypothesis), and participation in the expected profits of undervalued firms (the information asymmetry hypothesis). Results indicate not only that banks make equity investments for both reasons but also that the market exploits their lending decisions to learn which of the two motivations was in play. Bank equity investments concurrent with reductions in bank debt are consistent with the agency costs hypothesis, whereas bank equity investments concurrent with increases in bank debt are consistent with the information asymmetry hypothesis.
Effect of salmonid introduction and other environmental characteristics on amphibian distribution and abundance in mountain lakes of northern Spain
Authors: Orizaola G. , Braña F.
Published: February 2006

Amphibians are currently experiencing a severe worldwide decline. Several factors, such as habitat alteration, climate change, emerging diseases or the introduction of exotic species, have been signalled as being responsible for the reduction of amphibian populations. Among these, the introduction of fish predators has been repeatedly indicated as a factor affecting the distribution of many species. The present study was developed to examine the effect of fish presence and other environmental factors on the distribution and abundance of amphibian species in mountain lakes of the Cantabrian Range in northern Spain. We found no effect of salmonid presence on the distribution and abundance of two widespread anuran species Bufo bufo and Alytes obstetricans, whereas Rana temporaria showed a non‐significant tendency to be absent from salmonid‐occupied lakes. However, the presence of introduced salmonids was the main negative factor explaining the distribution of the newt species Triturus helveticus, Triturus alpestris and Triturus marmoratus. The effect on these species is likely to be due to increased larval mortality, as adult and egg predation by fish, or oviposition avoidance by female newts has rarely been recorded. Fish removal and the creation of alternative breeding habitats for amphibians are proposed as conservation measures to recover amphibian populations in the vicinity of fish‐stocked lakes.
The development of psychopathy
Authors: Blair R.J.R. , Peschardt K.S. , Budhani S. , Mitchell D.G.V. , Pine D.S.
Published: February 2006

The current review focuses on the construct of psychopathy, conceptualized as a clinical entity that is fundamentally distinct from a heterogeneous collection of syndromes encompassed by the term ‘conduct disorder’. We will provide an account of the development of psychopathy at multiple levels: ultimate causal (the genetic or social primary cause), molecular, neural, cognitive and behavioral. The following main claims will be made: (1) that there is a stronger genetic as opposed to social ultimate cause to this disorder. The types of social causes proposed (e.g., childhood sexual/physical abuse) should elevate emotional responsiveness, not lead to the specific form of reduced responsiveness seen in psychopathy; (2) The genetic influence leads to the emotional dysfunction that is the core of psychopathy; (3) The genetic influence at the molecular level remains unknown. However, it appears to impact the functional integrity of the amygdala and orbital/ventrolateral frontal cortex (and possibly additional systems); (4) Disruption within these two neural systems leads to impairment in the ability to form stimulus–reinforcement associations and to alter stimulus–response associations as a function of contingency change. These impairments disrupt the impact of standard socialization techniques and increase the risk for frustration‐induced reactive aggression respectively.
Development of the adolescent brain: implications for executive function and social cognition
Authors: Blakemore Sarah‐Jayne , Choudhury Suparna
Published: February 2006

Adolescence is a time of considerable development at the level of behaviour, cognition and the brain. This article reviews histological and brain imaging studies that have demonstrated specific changes in neural architecture during puberty and adolescence, outlining trajectories of grey and white matter development. The implications of brain development for executive functions and social cognition during puberty and adolescence are discussed. Changes at the level of the brain and cognition may map onto behaviours commonly associated with adolescence. Finally, possible applications for education and social policy are briefly considered.
Continuities and discontinuities in psychopathology between childhood and adult life
Authors: Rutter Michael , Kim‐Cohen Julia , Maughan Barbara
Published: February 2006

The possible mechanisms involved in continuities and discontinuities in psychopathology between childhood and adult life are considered in relation to the findings from systematic, prospective, long‐term longitudinal studies. Findings on schizophrenia, neurodevelopmental disorders, emotional disturbances, antisocial behaviour and substance abuse are used as conditions illustrating the key issues. The overarching themes are then discussed in relation to heterotypic continuity and psychopathologic progression, early age at onset and a range of possible mediating mechanisms – including genetic mediation, ‘kindling’ effects, environmental influences, coping mechanisms and cognitive processing of experiences. Some of the key research challenges that remain concern the testing of competing hypotheses on mediating processes, the changes involved in adolescence, the transition from prodromal phase to overt schizophrenia and the emergence of adolescent‐limited antisocial behaviour. Greater use needs to be made of genetic research strategies and of the testing of possible cognitive processing mediation effects.
Adolescent suicide and suicidal behavior
Authors: Bridge Jeffrey A. , Goldstein Tina R. , Brent David A.
Published: February 2006

This review examines the descriptive epidemiology, and risk and protective factors for youth suicide and suicidal behavior. A model of youth suicidal behavior is articulated, whereby suicidal behavior ensues as a result of an interaction of socio‐cultural, developmental, psychiatric, psychological, and family‐environmental factors. On the basis of this review, clinical and public health approaches to the reduction in youth suicide and recommendations for further research will be discussed.
Common emotional and behavioral disorders in preschool children: presentation, nosology, and epidemiology
Authors: Egger Helen Link , Angold Adrian
Published: February 2006

We review recent research on the presentation, nosology and epidemiology of behavioral and emotional psychiatric disorders in preschool children (children ages 2 through 5 years old), focusing on the five most common groups of childhood psychiatric disorders: attention deficit hyperactivity disorders, oppositional defiant and conduct disorders, anxiety disorders, and depressive disorders. We review the various approaches to classifying behavioral and emotional dysregulation in preschoolers and determining the boundaries between normative variation and clinically significant presentations. While highlighting the limitations of the current DSM‐IV diagnostic criteria for identifying preschool psychopathology and reviewing alternative diagnostic approaches, we also present evidence supporting the reliability and validity of developmentally appropriate criteria for diagnosing psychiatric disorders in children as young as two years old. Despite the relative lack of research on preschool psychopathology compared with studies of the epidemiology of psychiatric disorders in older children, the current evidence now shows quite convincingly that the rates of the common child psychiatric disorders and the patterns of comorbidity among them in preschoolers are similar to those seen in later childhood. We review the implications of these conclusions for research on the etiology, nosology, and development of early onset of psychiatric disorders, and for targeted treatment, early intervention and prevention with young children.
Genetics and animal domestication: new windows on an elusive process
Authors: Dobney K. , Larson G.
Published: February 2006

Domesticated animals are universally familiar. How, when, where and why they became domesticated is less well understood. The genetic revolution of the past few decades has facilitated novel insights into a field that previously was principally the domain of archaeozoologists. Although some of the conclusions drawn from genetic data have proved to be contentious, many studies have significantly altered or refined our understanding of past human animal relationships. This review seeks not only to discuss the wider concerns and ramifications of genetic approaches to the study of animal domestication but also to provide a broader theoretical framework for understanding the process itself. More specifically, we discuss issues related to the terminology associated with domestication, the possibility of domestication genes, and the promise and problems of genetics to answer the fundamental questions associated with domestication.
Cryptic species identification: a simple diagnostic tool for discriminating between two problematic bumblebee species
Authors: ELLIS J. S. , KNIGHT M. E. , CARVELL C. , GOULSON D.
Published: February 2006

Distinguishing between cryptic species is a perennial problem for biologists. Bombus ruderatus and Bombus hortorum are two species of bumblebee, which can be indistinguishable from their morphology. The former species is in decline, whereas the latter is ubiquitous. In the UK, isolated records of B. ruderatus occur amongst many for B. hortorum. For ecological studies of B. ruderatus to be feasible, the two species need to be reliably distinguishable. We present a diagnostic tool for quick and reliable identification of problematic individuals based on a restriction enzyme digest of the cytochrome b region of mitochondrial DNA.
optibin: a computer program to bin alleles similarly distributed across populations
Authors: BROMAGHIN JEFFREY F.
Published: February 2006

Genetic studies of fish and wildlife populations are increasingly based on highly polymorphic DNA loci. The large number of alleles, and particularly the large number of alleles that are observed in low frequency, have led many researchers to bin alleles. However, most strategies for binning alleles are subjective and may lead to loss of discriminatory power. A computer program that implements the allele‐binning algorithm of Bromaghin and Crape (2005) is described.
Development of microsatellite markers for the tropical moss, Acanthorrhynchium papillatum
Authors: LEONARDÍA ALFREDO AMIEL P. , KUMAR PRAKASH P. , TAN BENITO C.
Published: February 2006

We isolated and characterized microsatellite loci for the palaeotropic moss, Acanthorrhynchium papillatum. Eight loci tested on 98 gametophytic samples generated four to 26 alleles per locus with genetic diversities ranging from 0.578 to 0.936. These microsatellite loci are now being used as genetic markers for studies on the effects of deforestation on moss populations in South‐East Asia.
Isolation and characterization of microsatellite markers in the southern emu‐wren (Stipiturus malachurus: Aves)
Authors: MAGUIRE G. S. , GUAY P.‐J. , MULDER R. A.
Published: February 2006

We isolated and characterized eight novel microsatellite loci in the southern emu‐wren (Stipiturus malachurus). We used nonradioactive polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based techniques to screen an enriched genomic DNA library. Based on genotypes from a single population, six loci showed no evidence of null alleles and were polymorphic (allele range = 2–9, mean heterozygosity = 0.57), and one locus was sex‐linked (NA = 4). These loci were variable and had different allele size ranges in three other populations of southern emu‐wrens, and are therefore useful for determining levels of genetic diversity within and between populations of the species.
Epistemic modality markers in research articles: a cross‐linguistic and cross‐disciplinary study
Authors: Vold Eva Thue
Published: February 2006

Research on the use of hedging strategies in research articles has received increasing attention during the last few decades, but few have compared the use of hedges across languages and disciplines. This article explores the use of epistemic modality markers – an important and frequently used type of hedges – in research articles written in three different languages (English, French and Norwegian) and belonging to two different disciplines (linguistics and medicine). Gender differences are also examined. The material is compiled within the electronic corpus of the KIAP project (Cultural Identity in Academic Prose). Statistical analyses of the data (Kruskar‐Wallis and Mann‐Whitney tests) show that Norwegian‐ and English‐speaking researchers use significantly more of these hedges than their French‐speaking colleagues. Disciplinary affiliation and gender seem to have little influence on the proportion of epistemic modality markers in a text, but there are interesting differences between disciplines as regards the type of markers used. These findings may have implications for the teaching of academic writing as well as for cross‐cultural understanding between academics.
Rearing conditions determine offspring survival independent of egg quality: a cross‐foster experiment with Oystercatchers Haematopus ostralegus
Authors: VAN DE POL MARTIJN , BAKKER TRINEKE , SAALTINK DIRK‐JAN , VERHULST SIMON
Published: February 2006

Variation in rearing conditions, due either to parental or to environmental quality, can result in offspring of different quality (e.g. body condition, immune function). However, evidence is accumulating that egg size and composition can also affect offspring quality. In Oystercatchers Haematopus ostralegus, high‐quality rearing conditions result in a higher quantity as well as quality of offspring. This is thought to be caused by increased parental food provisioning to the chicks in high‐quality environments. However, variation in egg quality between rearing conditions could also affect the quantity and quality of offspring. Determining the mechanism and ontogeny of quality differences is important in unravelling the causes of variation in reproductive success. To disentangle the effects of egg quality, and quality of the rearing conditions, on the future survival of offspring, we cross‐fostered complete clutches between nests. When reared under conditions of similar environmental quality, chicks originating from eggs laid in low‐quality environments survived as well as chicks originating from eggs laid in a high‐quality environment. However, chicks reared in high‐quality environments survived twice as long as chicks reared in low‐quality environments, independent of the environmental quality in which the eggs were laid. This suggests that variation in the future survival of offspring is primarily caused by differences in environmental and/or parental quality, with no clear effect of egg quality (size).