bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bloodmeal digestion and Leishmania major infections in Phlebotomus duboscqi: effect of carbohydrates inhibiting midgut lectin activity
Authors: Volf P. , Svobodová M. , Dvoráková E.
Published: March 2003

Abstract. The carbohydrates galactosamine and heparin, previously shown to inhibit phlebotomine lectin activity in vitro, were fed to the sandfly Phlebotomus duboscqi Neveu‐Lemaire (Diptera: Psychodidae) with blood, and the effects on mortality, fecundity, protease activity and susceptibility to Leishmania major Yakimoff & Schokhor (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) were studied. Previous study revealed that galactosamine considerably enhanced the establishment of L. major infection in P. duboscqi and significantly increased parasite loads in late infections. This work demonstrates a similar but less pronounced effect of heparin. Heparin increased infection rates and parasite loads 3 and 9 days post‐feeding but did not affect the location of Leishmania promastigotes and their anterior migration. Galactosamine supplement caused pronounced changes in bloodmeal digestion. It abolished the activity of alkaline proteases and trypsin, caused premature defecation of bloodmeal, increased mortality of female sandflies in days 1–4 post‐feeding and decreased their fecundity. Heparin had a less pronounced effect on sandfly physiology. It lowered trypsin activity 12 and 72 h post‐bloodmeal but did not alter defecation, mortality and oviposition. The data suggest that the enhancing effect of these carbohydrates on Leishmania infections in sandfly midgut could be explained by their interference with midgut proteases. The study supports the hypothesis that proteolytic activities of midgut proteases strongly influence the vector competence of sandflies.
Accumulation and persistence of flea larvicidal activity in the immediate environment of cats treated with imidacloprid
Authors: Jacobs D. E. , Hutchinson M. J. , Stanneck D. , Mencke N.
Published: March 2003

Abstract.To investigate the persistence of flea larvicidal activity in the immediate environment of cats treated with imidacloprid, eggs of the cat fleaCtenocephalides felis felisBouché (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae), from untreated donor cats, were incubated on samples of fleece blanket taken from the floor of cages used by treated or untreated cats for a total of 10 or 20 6‐h periods over 2–4 weeks, respectively. Sufficient imidacloprid accumulated during these periods to reduce the emergence of adult fleas by 94.7–97.6% when the blankets were tested after 18 weeks' storage at room temperature. A typical laundry procedure (washing with detergent at 50°C and low temperature tumble drying) removed this biological activity. Unwashed control blankets did not support the flea life‐cycle as effectively as washed blankets or a sand substrate.
Comparative insecticidal power of three pyrethroids on netting
Authors: Adams K. J. , Chavasse D. C. , Mount D. L. , Carneiro I. A. , Curtis C. F.
Published: March 2003

Abstract Adult mosquitoes, Anopheles gambiae Giles and Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae), were exposed for 3 min to replicate samples of polyester netting cut from replicate bednets treated with pyrethroid insecticide formulations at the recommended concentration (alphacypermethrin SC at 40 mg ai/m2; cyfluthrin EW at 50 mg ai/m2; deltamethrin WT at 25 mg ai/m2), or treated with only a quarter of those dosages. After 4 months domestic use of the bednets in Malawi, chemical assays showed that pyrethroid deposits on the netting were somewhat less than the target concentrations. Comparing the pyrethroid bioassay results with Anopheles at both treatment concentrations, deltamethrin gave significantly higher mortality (99.7–100%) than the other compounds (alphacypermethrin 94–96%, cyfluthrin 80–89%). Culex bioassay mortality was lower (alphacypermethrin 56–74%; cyfluthrin 63–65%; deltamethrin 50–81%) and results with the three pyrethroid insecticides at their recommended doses did not differ significantly.
Contribution of HLA Class I Allele Expression to CD8+ T‐Cell Responses against Epstein–Barr Virus
Authors: Höllsberg P.
Published: March 2003

Most immune responses to viral infections involve CD8+ T cells recognizing viral peptides of typically 9–10 amino acids in the groove of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I. Importantly, CD8+ T‐cell responses appear to focus on few viral epitopes, a phenomenon termed immunodominance. While the understanding of this phenomenon has been based largely on experimental mice models, it is imperative to evaluate its contribution in humans, as the design of peptide‐based vaccines may be influenced by immunodomination. Here, we present evidence that immunodominance can be detected among Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) epitopes associated with two of the most frequent class I alleles in Western Europe, human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐A2 and HLA‐B7. CD8+ T‐cell responses to HLA‐A2‐associated EBV epitopes were significantly reduced in individuals coexpressing HLA‐B7. The impairment of HLA‐A2‐associated responses correlated with a dominant response to an HLA‐B7 epitope. The data demonstrate a hierarchy in the human cellular immune response to immunodominant EBV epitopes presented by separate HLA class I alleles. This may have implications for EBV vaccine development as well as for the interpretation of isolated analysis of immunodominant responses to EBV.
Recognition of IgG‐Derived Peptides by a Human IgM with an Unusual Combining Site
Authors: Yuriev E. , Ramsland P. A. , Edmundson A. B.
Published: March 2003

A monoclonal immunoglobulin (Ig)M cryoglobulin (Mez) with interesting binding behaviour was isolated from a Waldenström's macroglobulinemia (WM) patient. It demonstrated very strong binding to peptides derived from the sequences of human IgG. However, when tested for binding to intact IgG, this antibody (Ab) did not show any rheumatoid factor (RF) activity. We propose several nonexclusive structural interpretations of the Mez‐binding propensities, based on the orientations and solvent accessibilities of ligand residues and the nature of the Ab‐binding site. To further characterize the structural features of Mez‐peptide binding, IgG‐derived octapeptides were docked into the Mez fragment variable (Fv)‐binding site, revealing additional reasons for Mez‐binding selectivity based on the interactions of the docked peptides with the Mez Fv. The problem was also approached from an immunological perspective. Comparisons of Mez variable region of the light chain (VL)/variable region of the heavy chain (VH) sequences with those of human germlines and known IgM RFs allowed us to provide a possible outline tracing the structural and functional origins of the Mez IgM. Coupled with examinations of interactions in docked complexes, this analysis led us to propose that the potential for RF activity, demonstrated through Mez binding to IgG‐derived peptides, was owing to the inherent sequence and structure of the Mez IgM, rather than to somatic mutations. Thus, Mez IgM may occupy an intermediate niche between IgMs with and without RF activity.
A new method to measure in vivo human skin hydrophobia
Authors: Elkhyat A. , Agache P. , Zahouani H. , Humbert Ph.
Published: March 2003

Synopsis

Until now, the wettability of the skin has been only estimated through the measurement of its critical surface tension (Zisman), or surface free energy. These methods give information on the behaviour of the surface with water, but cannot quantify its behaviour with other polar liquids.

In this paper we propose to express both the hydrophilia of the skin (Hi) by the ratio of its critical surface tension (γc) to the water surface tension (γH2O), and its hydrophobia (Ho) by the ratio of the difference between the critical surface tension (γc), and the value of the water surface tension (γH2O) normalized by the latter. By using this proposed parameter, it should be possible to classify skin surfaces according to their affinities to water, which is of major importance in Cosmetology as well as in biology. We also discuss the relationship between surface hydrophilia (Hi) and polarity (P) as defined by Wu, and water adhesion tension (τo) as described by Vogler.

The γc of untreated skin was 27.3 ± 3.6 mJ m−2, confirming previous data, and consequently basal Hi was 38%. Either cleaning with ether or hydration by occlusion induced a diminution of the wetting capacity of the surface and consequently a decrease of Hi to 29% and 33%, respectively. In contrast, washing the skin surface with soap and water increased surface Hi to 43%.
Early diagnosis of herpes zoster by polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Lilie HM , Wassilew SW , Wolff MH
Published: March 2003

Background Herpes zoster is a common disease caused by the varicella‐zoster virus. The use of virostatic agents as early as possible is necessary in shortening zoster‐associated pain.

Objectives Rapid diagnosis is necessary for the optimal efficacy of antiviral therapy. The diagnosis in the early stage of infection is often difficult.

Methods

In the present study skin biopsies of patients with herpes zoster and unclear skin changes were analysed by detecting viral DNA using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in order to amplify open reading frames (ORF) 14, 29 and 63.

Results Varicella‐zoster virus DNA could be detected with PCR of all three ORF not only from blisters but also from erythematous skin.

Conclusions PCR is the method of choice for the viral diagnosis in herpes zoster before blister eruption.
Usefulness of Lanoconazole (Astat®) cream in the treatment of hyperkeratotic type tinea pedis. Comparative study of monotherapy and combination therapy with 10% Urea Ointment (Pastaron®)
Authors: Tanuma H. , Tanuma M. , Abe M. , Kume H.
Published: March 2003

Summary  Hyperkeratotic type tinea pedis is a refractory type of superficial dermatomycosis. Treatment for hyperkeratotic type tinea pedis is mainly with oral antimycotics, such as griseofulvin, and healing is generally considered to be difficult with only topical antimycotics. In this randomized comparative study, the usefulness of a topical application of 1% lanoconazole cream (Astat®) monotherapy (group I) was compared with that of combination therapy with 1% lanoconazole cream and 10% urea ointment (Pastaron®) (group II) in a series of patients with hyperkeratotic type tinea pedis. The clinical improvement rates (percentage of ‘marked improvement’ plus ‘moderate improvement’) was 70.0% in group I and 95.7% in group II. The fungal eradication rate was 5.0% in group I and 43.5% in group II after 4 weeks of treatment, and was 70.0% and 95.7% after 12 weeks of treatment, respectively. The usefulness rate (percentage of ‘very useful’ plus ‘useful’) was 70% in group I and 95.7% in group II. Both lanoconazole monotherapy and the combination therapy with 10% urea ointment were highly effective and safe. Both treatments should be recommended for patients with hyperkeratotic type tinea pedis for whom an oral treatment is not appropriate or for whom a sufficient improvement with oral medications cannot be expected.
Double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over pilot study on the efficacy of zileuton for canine atopic dermatitis
Authors: Crow Dennis W. , Marsella Rosanna , Nicklin Constance F.
Published: March 2003

Nine dogs meeting the diagnostic criteria for canine atopic dermatitis were enrolled in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over clinical trial. In this pilot study, zileuton (a 5‐lipoxygenase inhibitor) given orally at 2 mg kg−1three times daily for 4 weeks significantly decreased erythema in dogs with atopic dermatitis but had no effect on pruritus. Zileuton was well tolerated and no adverse clinical signs were noted. However, one dog developed mild alanine aminotransaminase elevation, which resolved within 1 week of discontinuation of therapy. Monitoring of alanine aminotransaminase may be necessary in dogs receiving zileuton. Further studies with larger number of dogs are needed to evaluate the efficacy of zileuton as treatment for canine atopic dermatitis.
Serum antibodies toMalasseziayeasts in canine atopic dermatitis
Authors: Nuttall Timothy J. , Halliwell Richard E. W.
Published: March 2003

Significant numbers of humans with atopic dermatitis developMalassezia‐specific IgE. Immediate skin‐test reactivity toMalasseziahas been demonstrated in atopic dogs. The aim of this study was to compare the serum IgG and IgE response toMalasseziain atopic dogs with and without clinical evidence ofMalasseziadermatitis and/or otitis, nonatopic dogs with clinical evidence ofMalasseziadermatitis and/or otitis and healthy dogs. Cytology was used to diagnose clinically significantMalasseziadermatitis and otitis. Contact plate cultures confirmed the validity of this technique. Reproducible enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assays forMalassezia‐specific IgG and IgE in canine serum were established. Atopic dogs had significantly higher serum IgG and IgE levels than either healthy dogs or nonatopic dogs with clinical evidence ofMalasseziadermatitis and/or otitis. There was no significant difference in IgG and IgE levels between atopic dogs with and without clinical evidence ofMalasseziadermatitis and/or otitis. The implications of these findings in the pathogenesis and management of canine atopic dermatitis are discussed.
Spongiotic vesicular dermatitis as a cutaneous reaction pattern in seven horses
Authors: Hargis Ann M. , Clark Edward G. , Duclos David D. , Leclerc Suzette , West Keith
Published: March 2003

Over a 6‐year period seven adult horses of different breeds and genders developed multifocal, exudative, oozing dermatitis characterized histologically by epidermal spongiotic vesicles and perivascular eosinophilic, neutrophilic and mixed mononuclear inflammation. Three horses were pruritic. Systemic disease was not noted. Two horses had a history of recurrent urticaria (hives) and one horse had nodules or welt‐type lesions that progressed to exudative, oozing lesions. Interepithelial immunoglobulin (Ig)G was detected by avidin–biotin complex–peroxidase staining, but the pattern of staining was more consistent with epithelial oedema than specific IgG deposition associated with pemphigus. The exudative oozing lesions developed under circumstances suggesting that dermal oedema progressed to intracellular and intercellular epidermal oedema, which in turn progressed to the spongiotic vesicular epidermal lesions.
ZmES genes encode peptides with structural homology to defensins and are specifically expressed in the female gametophyte of maize
Authors: Cordts Simone , Bantin Jörg , Wittich Peter E. , Kranz Erhard , Lörz Horst , Dresselhaus T.
Published: March 2003

All four members of a gene family, which are highly expressed in the cells of the female gametophyte (ZmES1–4: Zea mays embryo sac), were isolated from a cDNA library of maize egg cells. High expression of ZmES genes in the synergids around the micropylar region was detected in thin sections of maize ovaries. Single‐cell RT–PCR analyses with the various cells of the female gametophyte confirmed the expression in synergids and also showed expression in the egg cell and central cell, and low expression in the antipodals. The expression of the whole gene family is suppressed after fertilization of the embryo sac, and expression in two‐cell or later embryo stages or other tissues of maize could not be detected. In order to investigate ZmES mRNA gradients in the highly polarized and vacuolized cells of the maize embryo sac, a whole‐mount in situ protocol with isolated single cells was developed: as for total RNA, ZmES transcripts are uniformly distributed in the cytoplasm of egg cell, synergids and central cell. ZmES genes encode small, cysteine‐rich proteins with an N‐terminal signal peptide, probably for translocation into the embryo sac cell wall. The four ZmES proteins display high sequence identity with each other, and the proposed tertiary structure of the mature peptides is similar to that of plant and animal defensins. The function of ZmES1–4 during the fertilization process is discussed.
Microleakage of three sealants following conventional, bur, and air‐abrasion preparation of pits and fissures
Authors: Hatibovic‐Kofman S. , Butler S. A. , Sadek H.
Published: March 2003

Objectives.

The aim of this study was to compare the microleakage of a filled sealant with a drying agent (UltraSeal XT plus), a filled sealant (Prismashield) and an unfilled sealant (Delton), after conventional, bur, and air‐abrasion tooth preparation techniques.

Setting.

The study was completed in a clinical setting at the Simulated Practice Environment Clinic, School of Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.

Sample and methods.

One hundred and eighty extracted teeth were cleaned and divided randomly into three groups. Group 1 was prepared using acid etch only. Group 2 was prepared with a 1/4 round bur in a low‐speed handpiece followed by acid etching. Group 3 was prepared with high speed (120PSI) microabrasion using 27 µm α‐alumina particles in a Midwest Airtouch™ unit. The teeth in each group were randomly assigned to one of the three subgroups according to the sealant applied. Subgroup A was sealed with a filled sealant with drying agent, B with a filled sealant only, and C with an unfilled sealant. All teeth were stored in artificial saliva for 7 days at 37 °C. After this, the teeth were coated with nail varnish 1 mm from the sealant and immersed in 1% methylene blue dye for 48 h at 37 °C. Each tooth was sectioned at four locations buccolingually and a total of 665 sections were ranked (0–3) for microleakage. Statistical analysis was completed using the Chi‐squared test and Fisher’s exact test.

Results.

UltraSeal XT plus, the filled sealant with drying agent, showed significantly less microleakage than the other two sealants (P < 0.05). Delton, the unfilled sealant, showed significantly less microleakage than Prismashield, the filled sealant (P < 0.05). Air abrasion with acid etch showed significantly less microleakage than either bur with acid etch or acid etch alone. There was however, no significant difference between the bur and acid etch tooth preparations (P < 0.05).

Conclusions.

UltraSeal XT plus was the most effective sealant for preventing microleakage in this study. The most successful method of preparation was air abrasion with acid etch.
Patterns of normal change in cervical length and width during pregnancy in nulliparous women: a prospective, longitudinal ultrasound study
Authors: Bergelin I. , Valentin L.
Published: March 2003

Objectives

To determine what constitutes normal changes in the uterine cervix visible at transvaginal ultrasound examination from 24 gestational weeks until delivery in nulliparous women delivering at term.

Design

Cervical length and width were measured using transvaginal ultrasound, and the inner cervical os was assessed as being closed or open every 2 weeks from gestational week 24 until delivery in 19 healthy nulliparae delivering at term.

Results

In all but one woman cervical length decreased, and in all but one woman cervical width increased, with advancing gestation. Three patterns of change in cervical length were observed: a continuous decrease (n = 10), an accelerated shortening rate after approximately 30 gestational weeks (n = 5), or a sudden drop in length between the last two examinations (n = 3). The median rate of decrease in cervical length was 1 (range, 0.6–1.9) mm/week for women with continuous shortening of the cervix. For women with accelerated shortening the corresponding figure was 2.2 (range, 1.8–2.7) mm/week after the start of accelerated shortening. Two patterns of increase in cervical width (cervical broadening) were noted: a continuous increase (n = 12), or an accelerated broadening rate from around 32 weeks (n = 6). The median rate of increase in cervical width was 0.8 (range, 0.3–2.0) mm/week for women with continuous broadening of the cervix. For women with accelerated broadening rate the corresponding figure was 1.7 (range, 1.0–6.4) mm/week after the start of increased broadening rate. Opening of the internal cervical os was observed at least once in eight of the 19 women (42%) and was first observed at 30 gestational weeks. Dynamic changes (i.e. opening and closing of the inner cervical os during examination) were seen in six women (32%) and were first detected at 31 gestational weeks.

Conclusions

There are different patterns of normal change in cervical length and width during pregnancy in nulliparous women. This must be taken into account if repeated ultrasound examinations of the cervix during pregnancy are used to identify nulliparae at increased risk of preterm delivery. Copyright © 2001 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Unmanaged sexual reproduction and the dynamics of genetic diversity of a vegetatively propagated crop plant, cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), in a traditional farming system
Authors: Elias M. , Penet L. , Vindry P. , McKey D. , Panaud O. , Robert T.
Published: March 2003

Occurrence of intervarietal or interspecific natural crosses has been reported for many crop plants in traditional farming systems, underlining the potential importance of this source of genetic exchange for the dynamics of genetic diversity of crop plants. In this study, we use microsatellite loci to investigate the role of volunteer seedlings (plants originating from unmanaged sexual reproduction) in the dynamics of genetic diversity of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), a vegetatively propagated crop, in a traditional farming system in Guyana. A previous field study showed that farmers incorporate such plants into the germplasm for vegetative propagation, and that many of them are likely to be assigned by farmers to recognized varieties. Under strict vegetative propagation clonality of varieties is expected. The high proportion of polyclonal varieties observed suggests that incorporation of seedlings into the germplasm for propagation is a frequent event. The molecular variability assessed with microsatellite markers shows that there is high differentiation among heterozygous varieties, whereas populations of seedlings do not depart from the proportions expected under Hardy–Weinberg assumptions. Assignment of seedlings to a recognized variety on the basis of morphological similarity greatly increases genetic diversity within the variety. We argue that recombination and gene flow play a major role in the dynamics of genetic diversity of cassava in traditional farming systems. Documenting unmanaged sexual reproduction and its genetic consequences is a prerequisite for defining strategies of in situ conservation of crop plant genetic resources.
Post‐bottleneck genetic diversity of elephant populations in South Africa, revealed using microsatellite analysis
Authors: Whitehouse Anna M. , Harley Eric H.
Published: March 2003

Widespread hunting had fragmented and severely reduced elephant populations in South Africa by 1900. Elephant numbers increased during the 1900s, although rates of recovery of individual populations varied. The Kruger National Park elephant population increased rapidly, to more than 6000 by 1967, with recruitment boosted by immigration from Mozambique. The Addo Elephant National Park population was reduced to 11 elephants in 1931 and remains relatively small (n = 325). Loss of genetic variation is expected to occur whenever a population goes through a bottleneck, especially when post‐bottleneck recovery is slow. Variation at nine polymorphic microsatellite loci was analysed for Kruger and Addo elephants, as well as museum specimens of Addo elephants shot prior to the population bottleneck. Significantly reduced genetic variation and heterozygosity were observed in Addo in comparison to Kruger (mean alleles/locus and HE: Addo 1.89, 0.18; Kruger 3.89, 0.44). Two alleles not present in the current Addo population were observed in the museum specimens. Addo elephants represent a genetic subset of the Kruger population, with high levels of genetic differentiation resulting from rapid genetic drift. The Kruger population is low in genetic diversity in comparison to East African elephants, confirming this population also suffered an appreciable bottleneck.
Multilocus nested haplotype networks extended with DNA fingerprints show common origin and fine‐scale, ongoing genetic divergence in a wild microbial metapopulation
Authors: Carbone Ignazio , Kohn Linda M.
Published: March 2003

Nested haplotype networks for three loci in a haploid, fungal plant pathogen, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, in two natural, Norwegian populations of the woodland buttercup, Ranunculus ficaria, were extended with DNA fingerprints to determine fine‐scale population divergence. To preserve the cladistic structure in the network for both nonrecombinant and postrecombinant haplotypes in highly recombinant clades, recombinant events were not removed (‘peeled off’), but instead were examined in alternative (marginal) networks. Fungi from both sampling locations share a common origin with subsequent genetic divergence, consistent with expectations for metapopulation structure. Evidence for divergence includes (i) lack of shared fingerprints between the two locations, (ii) evolution of new fingerprints, via transposition and recombination, within 2 years on a fine spatial scale within one sampling location, and (iii) increase in the size of the intergenic spacer (IGS) in both sampling locations. Sites of microsatellite repeat expansion and of an insertion were consistent with the boundaries of two recombination blocks in the IGS. Both alternative networks based on the recombination blocks were essential to finding all associations of DNA fingerprints with IGS size, sampling site, sampling year and mycelial compatibility group. Variation in the elongation factor 1α and calmodulin loci supported the topologies and the recurrent, ongoing polarity of change in fingerprints and IGS size inferred from the IGS.
Characteristics of sex‐biased dispersal and gene flow in coastal river otters: implications for natural recolonization of extirpated populations
Authors: Blundell G. M. , Ben‐David M. , Groves P. , Bowyer R. T. , Geffen E.
Published: March 2003

River otters (Lontra canadensis) were extirpated from much of their historic distribution because of exposure to pollution and urbanization, resulting in expansive reintroduction programmes that continue today for this and other species of otters worldwide. Bioaccumulation of toxins negatively affects fecundity among mustelids, but high vagility and different dispersal distances between genders may permit otter populations to recover from extirpation caused by localized environmental pollution. Without understanding the influence of factors such as social structure and sex‐biased dispersal on genetic variation and gene flow among populations, effects of local extirpation and the potential for natural recolonization (i.e. the need for translocations) cannot be assessed. We studied gene flow among seven study areas for river otters (n = 110 otters) inhabiting marine environments in Prince William Sound, Alaska, USA. Using nine DNA microsatellite markers and assignment tests, we calculated immigration rates and dispersal distances and tested for isolation by distance. In addition, we radiotracked 55 individuals in three areas to determine characteristics of dispersal. Gender differences in sociality and spatial relationships resulted in different dispersal distances. Male river otters had greater gene flow among close populations (within 16–30 km) mostly via breeding dispersal, but both genders exhibited an equal, low probability of natal dispersal; and some females dispersed 60–90 km. These data, obtained in a coastal environment without anthropogenic barriers to dispersal (e.g. habitat fragmentation or urbanization), may serve as baseline data for predicting dispersal under optimal conditions. Our data may indicate that natural recolonization of coastal river otters following local extirpation could be a slow process because of low dispersal among females, and recolonization may be substantially delayed unless viable populations occurred nearby. Because of significant isolation by distance for male otters and low gene flow for females, translocations should be undertaken with caution to help preserve genetic diversity in this species.
Effect of cycles of feed deprivation on growth and food consumption of immature three‐spined sticklebacks and European minnows
Authors: Wu L. , Xie S. , Cui Y. , Wootton R. J.
Published: March 2003

Individual juvenile three‐spined sticklebacks Gasterosteus aculeatus and European minnow Phoxinus phoxinus, from sympatric populations, were subjected to four cycles of 1 week of food deprivation and 2 weeks of ad libitum feeding. Mean specific growth rate during the weeks of deprivation was negative and did not differ between species. The three‐spined stickleback showed sufficient growth compensation to recover to the growth trajectory shown by control fish daily fed ad libitum. The compensation was generated by hyperphagia during the re‐feeding periods, and in the last two periods of re‐feeding, the gross growth efficiencies of deprived three‐spined sticklebacks were greater than in control fish. The expression of the compensatory changes in growth and food consumption became clearer over the successive periods of re‐feeding. The European minnow developed only a weak compensatory growth response and the mass trajectory of the deprived fish deviated more and more from the control trajectory. During re‐feeding periods, there were no significant differences in food consumption or gross growth efficiency between control and deprived European minnows. The differences between the two species are discussed in terms of the possible costs of compensatory growth, the control of growth and differences in feeding biology.
Compensatory growth response in three‐spined stickleback in relation to feed‐deprivation protocols
Authors: Zhu X. , Wu L. , Cui Y. , Yang Y. , Wootton R. J.
Published: March 2003

Different protocols of food deprivation were used to bring two groups of juvenile three‐spined sticklebacks Gasterosteus aculeatus to the same reduced body mass in comparison with a control group fed daily ad libitum. One group experienced 1 week of deprivation then 2 weeks on maintenance rations. The second group experienced 1 week of ad libitum feeding followed by 2 weeks of deprivation. The deprived groups were reduced to a mean mass of c. 80% of controls. The compensatory growth response shown when ad libitum feeding was resumed was independent of the trajectory by which the three‐spined sticklebacks had reached the reduced body mass. The compensatory response was sufficient to return the deprived groups to the mass and length trajectories shown by the control group within 4 weeks. There was full compensation for dry mass and total lipid, but incomplete compensation for lipid‐free dry mass. Hyperphagia and increased growth efficiency were present in the re‐feeding phase, but there was a lag of a week before the hyperphagia was established. The consistency of the compensatory response of immature three‐spined sticklebacks provides a potential model system for the analysis and prediction of appetite and growth in teleosts.
Implications of organizational learnin_g for nursing managers from the cultural, interpersonal and systems thinking perspectives
Authors: Chan Christopher‐Paul C A
Published: March 2003

Implications of organizational learnin_g for nursing managers from the cultural, interpersonal and systems thinking perspectives

This paper discusses the implications of organizational learnin_g to healthcare administrators, in particular nursing managers, from the cultural, interpersonal and systems thinking perspectives. In the various perspectives the reasons for organizational ineffectiveness and remedies are presented. There is little doubt that pressure for nurses to perform is escalating as healthcare institutions attempt to improve the quality of service through restructuring and change, which leads to greater job dissatisfaction, higher turnover, lower morale and increased industrial actions of nurses. An integrated approach to organizational learnin_g is arguably important for the effective management of nurses during periods of transition.
Role of new sono‐imaging technique ‘sonocolpography’ in the diagnosis and treatment of the complete transverse vaginal septum and other allied conditions
Authors: Thabet Saeed Mohamad Ahmad , Thabet Ahmed S.M.A.
Published: March 2003

Objective:

To evaluate the value of a newly suggested ultrasonographic technique ‘Sonocolpography’ in diagnosing the complete transverse vaginal septum and other allied conditions and planning their treatment.

Subjects and Methods:

Ten cases of complete vaginal septum, eight cases of atresia and four cases of vaginal aplasia seen at Kasr El Aini School of Medicine, Cairo University were selected for this study. Sonocolpography is done using a vaginal balloon and transabdominal ultrasonography. The efficacy of the latter is assessed in comparison to the conventional transabdominal technique. The different sonographic criteria in the conventional technique and in sonocolpography were determined for the studied cases. A cross‐over test was also suggested for anticipating the needed surgery. This is done by pushing the balloon maximally inward and determining the ability of the echoes of the vaginal pouch to accommodate the balloon to stretch and to cross over the defect, in turn determining the needed surgery.

Results:

Improved ultrasonographic images were successfully obtained for all cases studied. The diagnostic accuracy for these cases was 95.5% for septa, 86.4% for atresia and 90.9% for aplasia. The corresponding figures for the conventional techniques were 54.5, 68.2 and 77.2%, respectively. Sonocolpography was more sensitive and more specific for all cases studied compared to the conventional technique. Planning of the necessary surgery was successfully determined in 16 cases having positive cross‐over tests, where excision and direct anastomosis were performed. Surgery planning was also successful in two cases having negative tests and four cases of invalid tests, where more extensive surgery was needed.

Conclusion:

Sonocolpography is a new achievement that is essential for imaging cases of the complete vaginal septum and other allied conditions, and also in planning the associated treatment.
Pregnancy with acute intermittent porphyria: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Aggarwal Neelam , Bagga Rashmi , Sawhney Harjit , Suri Vanita , Vasishta Kala
Published: March 2003

Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is an inherited disorder characterized by partial defects in the heme biosynthetic pathway. Although its association with pregnancy is rare, it presents the obstetrician with challenging problems especially in labor management, as one of the obstetrical life line drugs (methergin) is contraindicated for use in these patients. We hereby present a case of AIP who had an uneventful pregnancy with a good neonatal outcome.
Sudden maternal deaths in Malaysia: A case report
Authors: Jegasothy Ravindran
Published: March 2003

We report on a retrospective study of maternal deaths in Malaysia that occurred within 24 hours of delivery, abortion or operative termination of the pregnancy (defined as sudden deaths) in the years 1995–1996. There were 131 sudden maternal deaths (20.6% of all maternal deaths); postpartum hemorrhage, obstetric embolisms, trauma and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were the main causes. There was a disproportionately increased risk of sudden maternal deaths in the Chinese and the ‘other bumiputra’ racial groups. The proportion of mothers who had no obstetric risk factors in the pregnancy that led to death was 16.8%. Fourteen mothers died in transit. Twenty mothers died after a cesarean section. The findings of this review emphasize the fact that caregivers in obstetrics need to be forever vigilant. All maternity staff need to be well trained in emergency care and there needs to be quick referral to centers that can provide expertise in handling these emergencies.
Analysis of aneuploidy in mini‐Percoll gradient centrifuged human sperm for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) using fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Kunathikom Somboon , Rattanachaiyanont Manee , Makemaharn Orawan
Published: March 2003

Aim:
 To study the aneuploidy rates of chromosomes 13, 18, 21, X and Y in Percoll gradient centrifuged sperm from infertile patients with male infertility factor treated by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) compared with healthy fertile donors and infertile patients with normal semen parameters.

Methods:

 This case‐controlled study was conducted in a university hospital. Semen samples were obtained from three healthy fertile donors, eight infertile patients with normal semen parameters, and 18 infertile patients with male infertility factor. All samples were subjected to mini‐Percoll gradient centrifugation before being processed through fluorescent in situ hybridization. The incidences of aneuploidy were compared using Chi‐squared test.

Results and Conclusions:
 A total of 64 949 spermatozoa were analyzed. The disomy rates for chromosomes 13, 18, 21, and X or Y of sperm from patients with male infertility factor were 0.21%, 0.37%, 0.36% and 0.63%, respectively, whereas the diploidy rate was 0.17–0.23%. These incidences were higher than those from men with normal semen parameters. The result suggested that the embryos of patients with male infertility factor treated by ICSI are at increased risk of chromosome abnormalities.
The masquerades of female pelvic tuberculosis: Case reports and review of literature on clinical presentations and diagnosis
Authors: Chow Teresa Wai Ping , Lim Boon Kiong , Vallipuram Sivanesaratnam
Published: March 2003

In this review, tuberculosis of the genital tract was diagnosed retrospectively in 11 females over 15 years. The presentations of nine cases are described. Seven of the nine cases presented with ascites, vague abdominal distension, weight loss and were misdiagnosed as ovarian carcinoma. Eight women had no relevant past history. A review on clinical presentations and diagnosis of pelvic tuberculosis is presented.

We conclude that although the incidence of tuberculosis is uncommon in developed countries, its prevalence appears to be increasing worldwide. Therefore, clinicians should consider tuberculosis as a differential diagnosis when encountering clinical presentations of pelvic mass and ascites.
Embryological evaluation of surface features of human embryos and early fetuses by 3‐D ultrasound
Authors: Yonemoto Hisashi , Yoshida Koyo , Kinoshita Katsuyuki , Takeuchi Hisaya
Published: March 2003

Objective:
 To visualize embryonal and early fetal surface features using transvaginal (3‐D) ultrasound.

Methods:
 Seventy patients at 5–11 weeks of gestation (10 at each week) were studied.

Results:
 3‐D ultrasound could visualize the surface morphology, showing its clinical applicability. From 5 to 6 weeks the embryo was observed in the shape of a ‘C’ in 70% of all embryos. At 7 weeks, the head could be distinguished from the trunk in all embryos. Until 9 weeks, the four extremities were observed in all fetuses and the formation of midgut herniation in 80%. From 10 to 11 weeks, the visualization rates of the ears, orbits and fingers were 40%, 30% and 40%, respectively.

Conclusion:
 3‐D ultrasound is useful to recognize the surface morphology of embryos and early fetuses.
In Vitro Studies on Angiogenic Factors Produced by Human Endometrial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Asakawa Yasuyuki
Published: March 2003

Objective:
 Endometrial growth and repair during the menstrual cycle are associated with angiogenesis. It is therefore important to understand which cells produce angiogenic factors and which factors regulate endometrial angiogenesis.

Methods:
 After a collagenase digestion, stromal and epithelial cells were separated by filtration. The epithelial cells retained on the filter were cultured and identified by cytokeratin staining. The stromal cells which passed through the filter were cultured and identified by vimentin staining. The angiogenic activity in the conditioned medium of both cells was assessed by the enhancement of tube forming activity in 3‐dimensional culture of bovine endothelial cells.

Results:
 The angiogenic activity in the epithelial cells was higher than that in the stromal cells and it was attenuated by the addition of the neutralized antibody to either b‐FGF (basic fibroblast growth factor) or VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) but, the b‐FGF content in the conditioned medium of the endometrial epithelial cells was less than that in the basal level of bovine endothelial cells used in this experiment. VEGF is therefore assumed to be the main angiogenic factor released from the epithelial cells. The amount of VEGF in the conditioned medium of the epithelial cells was higher than that of the stromal cells and significantly increased by the addition of pharmacological doses of 17 β‐estradiol.

Conclusion:
 These results suggest that VEGF expression in endometrial epithelial cells plays a role in normal endometrial repair during the menstrual cycle.
A comparison of 100 µg oral misoprostol every 3 hours and 6 hours for labor induction: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pongsatha Saipin , Sirisukkasem Suppachai , Tongsong Theera
Published: March 2003

Objective: To compare the efficacy and safety of 100 µg oral misoprostol for induction of labor between the regimen of 3 hour and 6 hour interval administration.

Methods: Singleton pregnancies indicated for induction of labor between 34 and 42 weeks of gestation in the condition of unfavorable cervix (Bishop score ≤ 4) and no contraindication for prostaglandins therapy were recruited into the study. All pregnant women were randomly assigned to receive 100 µg oral misoprostol every 3 hours or 6 hours until the cervix was favorable for amniotomy, spontaneous rupture of membranes or active labor occurred.

Results: The mean time interval from induction to vaginal delivery was significantly shorter in the 3 hour interval group, compared with the 6 hour interval group (13.82 ± 6.98 h and 17.66 ± 7.48 h, P = 0.0019). There was no significant difference between the groups with regard to mode of delivery, analgesic requirement, maternal complication and neonatal outcome.

Conclusions: 100 µg oral misoprostol every 3 hours is more effective for labor induction than every 6 hours but there was no difference in mode of delivery, analgesic requirement, maternal complications and neonatal outcome. A dose of 100 µg misoprostol orally every 3 hours seems to be the optimum regimen and the new option for labor induction. However, further study should be performed.
Distribution of oxygenated blood flow at three different routes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in exteriorized fetal lambs
Authors: Fujimori Keiya , Murata Yuji , Quilligan Edward J. , Nagata Naoki , Hirano Takahiro , Sato Akira
Published: March 2003

Objective:
 The purpose of this study was to determine which extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) route best approximates the normal physiologic pattern of oxygenated blood distribution in fetal lambs submerged in warm saline solution.

Study Design:
 Six fetal lambs ranging from 113 to 129 days of gestation were delivered by cesarean section and oxygenated with ECMO in a warm saline solution bath. We compared the distribution of oxygenated blood flow during intact placental circulation with 3 routes of ECMO, from the right atrium to the carotid artery (V‐A), from the right atrium to umbilical vein (V‐UV), and from the right atrium with umbilical artery to umbilical vein [(V + UA)‐UVI], in exteriorized fetal lambs. Distribution of oxygenated blood flow was determined by non‐radioactive colored microspheres.

Results:
 The ECMO blood flow rate through the catheters during V‐A, V‐UV or (V + UA)‐UV ECMO ranged at 150–300 ml/min. Among the 3 different routes of ECMO, the oxygenated blood distribution in (V + UA)‐UV showed the best correlation with placental‐fetal blood flow, particularly in the brain and heart.

Conclusion:
 This study indicated that (V + UA)‐UV ECMO most closely approximates normal intact placental‐fetal blood flow distribution in fetal lambs.
Augmentation of apoptosis by the combination of bleomycin with trifluoperazine in the presence of mutant p53
Authors: Sullivan Gregory F. , Garcia‐Welch Adrienne , White Eileen , Lutzker Stuart , Hait William N.
Published: March 2003

A variety of anticalmodulin drugs can increase the cytotoxicity of bleomycin, a DNA damaging cancer chemotherapeutic. The combination has been shown to produce greater than expected DNA damage compared wot what was observed with either drug alone. Promising preclinical results led to Phase I and Phase II trials of trifluoperazine and bleomycin, which revealed activity in non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. Despite the unique activity of the combination, the mechanism underlying the DNA damaging effect remained poorly understood. In several systems, DNA damage leads to the induction of programmed cell death or apoptosis, which is characterized by interoligonucleosomal cleavage of DNA. To determine whether the activity of the combination of bleomycin with trifluoperazine was due to induction of apoptosis, we exposed L1210 leukemic lymphocytes to bleomycin in the presence or absence of trifluoperazine. The combination produced DNA laddering, cellular shrinkage, and chromatin condensation typical of programmed cell death. Cell cycle analyses revealed a blockade of cells in G2/M, suggesting the presence of mutant p53, which was confirmed by immunoanalysis. In addition, L1210 cells were found not to overexpress Bcl‐2 in the presence or absence of drugs. These results indicate that the enhancement of bleomycin induced DNA damage by trifluoperazine is mediated, at least in part, through the induction of apoptosis.
Parameters affecting the ex vivo cytotoxic drug sensitivity of human hematopoietic cells
Authors: Bosanquet Andrew G. , Burlton Alison R. , Bell Philip B.
Published: March 2003

The drug sensitivity of normal cells provides a baseline for determining the therapeutic index, and therefore the effectiveness, of cytotoxic drugs, yet little is known about the factors that affect normal cell chemosensitivity. Some parameters are known to have a profound effect on tumor cell sensitivity. The purpose of this study was to determine how cytotoxic drug sensitivity of hematopoietic cells isolated from cancer patients was affected by various parameters. These included previous chemotherapy (yes or no), sex, age, tumor type (leukemias or solid tumors), sample source (blood, bone marrow, serous effusions, or tumor biopsies) and predominant cell lineage (lymphoid, myeloid, macrophage, or mixed). Mononuclear cells isolated from blood, bone marrow, serous effusions, and tumor biopsies were incubated for four days with a median of 16 drugs. The differential staining cytotoxicity assay, an ex vivo apoptotic drug sensitivity test in which cell survival is determined morphologically, was used to assess normal hematopoietic and tumor cell response to cytotoxic drugs. One hundred forty‐six specimens yielded hematopoietic cell chemosensitivity results with 3–36 drugs. Compared with tumor cells, there was far less interpatient variation in chemosensitivity of hematopoietic cells. Mean hematopoietic cell drug sensitivity showed little variation due to previous chemotherapy, sex, age, tumor type, and sample source or cell lineage. We therefore concluded that cytotoxic drug sensitivity of hematopoietic cells from a variety of sources could be used for assessment of therapeutic index. Drug therapeutic index results are a valuable tool in identifying novel cytotoxic agents and individually tailored chemotherapy regimens.