bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review article: prevention of stress‐related mucosal bleeding with proton‐pump inhibitors
Authors: MATON P. N.
Published: November 2005

Stress‐related gastric mucosal bleeding occurs in a substantial number of critically ill patients, with clinically important gastrointestinal bleeding prolonging intensive care stay and increasing mortality. This paper reviews the role of proton‐pump inhibitors in the prevention of stress‐related mucosal bleeding.

Bleeding prophylaxis appears to be warranted in patients in intensive care units on mechanical ventilation or those who have coagulopathy. Intravenous histamine H2 receptor antagonists, particularly cimetidine, have demonstrated efficacy for the prevention of bleeding in critically ill patients. Standard delayed‐release proton‐pump inhibitors have not been extensively studied in this patient group, but there are some data to support their efficacy in increasing intragastric pH, and in the case of intravenous pantoprazole in preventing gastrointestinal bleeding. In a large, randomized controlled trial, immediate‐release omeprazole [(IR‐OME) Zegerid powder for oral suspension; Santarus Inc., San Diego, CA, USA] administered via gastric tube, was as effective as intravenous cimetidine in the prevention of clinically significant bleeding, and more effective in increasing gastric pH. Effective antisecretory therapy does not appear to increase the risk of nosocomial pneumonia.

In conclusion, immediate‐release omeprazole provides a safe and effective alternative to intravenous cimetidine for the prevention of stress‐related mucosal bleeding in critically ill patients.
Review article: the unmet needs in delayed‐release proton‐pump inhibitor therapy in 2005
Authors: HUNT R. H.
Published: November 2005

Proton‐pump inhibitors have been highly effective in managing acid‐related gastrointestinal disorders, but challenges remain. This paper reviews the challenges in the management of patients with gastro‐oesophageal symptoms who do not respond adequately to proton‐pump inhibitor therapy; the treatment of patients with non‐variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding; the prevention of stress‐related mucosal bleeding; the treatment and prevention of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐related gastrointestinal injury; and the optimal combination of antisecretory and antibiotic therapy for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection, all of which represent unmet clinical needs.

Antisecretory therapy with a rapid onset of action and sustained antisecretory effect may help to address some of the unmet needs discussed, especially in the management of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease, non‐variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug‐related gastrointestinal complications.
Diagnostic accuracy of the serum profile of gastric mucosa in relation to histological and morphometric diagnosis of atrophy
Authors: NARDONE G. , ROCCO A. , STAIBANO S. , MEZZA E. , AUTIERO G. , COMPARE D. , DE ROSA G. , BUDILLON G.
Published: November 2005

Background : Histology is the gold standard for diagnosis of atrophy but is hampered by observer variation. A reliable method to overcome this issue is morphometric analysis of gastric mucosa. Serum pepsinogens and gastrin have been proposed in the diagnostic work‐up of gastric atrophy although diagnostic accuracy of these tests is considered unsatisfactory.

Aim : To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of gastric serum profile in relation both to morphological and morphometric diagnosis of gastric atrophy.

Methods : Ninety‐four dyspeptic out‐patients underwent upper endoscopy and evaluation of serum levels of PGI, PGII and 17‐gastrin. Diagnostic accuracy of gastric serum profile was tested by receiver operating characteristic curves and by evaluation of sensitivity and specificity in relation to both histology and morphometric analyses.

Results : As far as concern to histological evaluation, only PGI/PGII ratio showed an acceptable diagnostic accuracy in discrimination of gastric atrophy, while, when morphometric analysis was considered as reference, both serum PGI level and PGI/PGII ratio showed an excellent performance. However, both PGI and PGI/PGII ratio showed low sensitivity and high specificity.

Conclusions : Serological gastric profile corresponds better with the morphometric diagnosis of atrophy, even if, because of the low sensitivity, today this could only be used as screening test of chronic atrophic gastritis.
White spotting in the domestic cat (Felis catus) maps near KIT on feline chromosome B1
Authors: Cooper M. P. , Fretwell N. , Bailey S. J. , Lyons L. A.
Published: November 2005

Five feline‐derived microsatellite markers were genotyped in a large pedigree of cats that segregates for ventral white spotting. Both KIT and EDNRB cause similar white spotting phenotypes in other species. Thus, three of the five microsatellite markers chosen were on feline chromosome B1 in close proximity to KIT; the other two markers were on feline chromosome A1 near EDNRB. Pairwise linkage analysis supported linkage of the white spotting with the three chromosome B1 markers but not with the two chromosome A1 markers. This study indicates that KIT, or another gene within the linked region, is a candidate for white spotting in cats. Platelet‐derived growth factor alpha (PDGFRA) is also a strong candidate, assuming that the KIT–PDGFRA linkage group, which is conserved in many mammalian species, is also conserved in the cat.
Resprouting of saplings following a tropical rainforest fire in north‐east Queensland, Australia
Authors: MARRINAN MATTHEW J. , EDWARDS WILL , LANDSBERG JILL
Published: November 2005

Abstract In 2002, fire burnt areas of Mesophyll‐ and Notophyll Vine Forest in the Smithfield Conservation Park near Cairns, Australia. We assessed the ability of rainforest plant species to persist through fire via resprouting. Natural rates of mortality and resprouting in unburnt areas were assessed for all saplings (stems < 2 m) via 13, 2 × 50 m belt transects, and compared to estimates of mortality and resprouting in 26 transects in burnt areas. We also tested the resprouting ability per‐individual stem of each species against all other stems with which it co‐occurred. Totals of 1242 stems (138 species) were sampled in burnt transects and 503 stems (95 species) in unburnt transects (total number of unique species = 169). There was no difference in the number of stems existing prior to the fire in burnt and unburnt areas when expressed on a per‐sample area basis. Resprouting from basal shoots and root suckers was significantly greater in burnt than in unburnt areas, but rates of stem sprouting were not different. In burnt areas 72 species were tested for resprouting ability and most (65/72) resprouted at similar rates. All species analysed contained individuals that resprouted. The resprouting response of five species was significantly lower, and in two species was significantly higher. For these species especially, fire may act as a mechanism altering relative abundances. The fire coincided with an extreme El Niño event. Current predictions indicate El Niño conditions may become increasingly common, suggesting fire events within rainforest could become more frequent. Resprouting as a general phenomenon of rainforest species, and differential resprouting ability between species should therefore be an important consideration in assessing the potential path of vegetation change in rainforests after fire.
Consequences of soil compaction for seedling establishment: Implications for natural regeneration and restoration
Authors: BASSETT I. E. , SIMCOCK R. C. , MITCHELL N. D.
Published: November 2005

Abstract  Soil compaction can affect seedling root development by decreasing oxygen availability and increasing soil strength. However, little quantitative information is available on the compaction tolerances of non‐crop native species. We investigated the effects of soil compaction on establishment and development of two New Zealand native species commonly used in restoration programmes; Cordyline australis (Agavaceae) (cabbage tree) a fleshy rooted species, and Leptospermum scoparium (Myrtaceae) (manuka) a very finely rooted species. Seedlings were grown in a range of soil compaction levels in growth cabinet experiments. Low levels of soil compaction (0.6 MPa) reduced both the number and speed of C. australis seedlings penetrating the soil surface. In contrast, L. scoparium seedlings showed improved establishment at an intermediate compaction level. Root and shoot growth of both species decreased with increasing soil strength, with L. scoparium seedlings tolerating higher soil strengths than did C. australis. Despite these results, soil strength accounted for only a small amount of variation in root length (R2 < 0.25), due to greater variability in growth at low soil strengths. Soil strengths of 0.6 MPa are likely to pose a barrier to C. australis regeneration. This is consistent with adaptation to organic and/or soft, waterlogged soils. Active intervention may be necessary to establish C. australis from seed on many sites previously in farmland.
The effect of a dominant ant, Iridomyrmex purpureus, on resource use by ant assemblages depends on microhabitat and resource type
Authors: GIBB HELOISE
Published: November 2005

Abstract  Behaviourally and ecologically dominant ants are thought to structure ant communities through their monopolization of resources. Effects of a dominant ant, Iridomyrmex purpureus, on resource use by ant communities were tested using an exclusion experiment on sandstone outcrops near Sydney, in south‐eastern Australia. The success of functionally different ants at honey and mealworm baits placed in rock and vegetation microhabitats was measured in a series of surveys before and after exclusion. I. purpureus was successfully excluded from the outcrops and patterns of resource use following I. purpureus exclusion were consistent with those of sites without I. purpureus and procedural control sites. At sites with I. purpureus, resources were discovered more rapidly, however, other ants were less successful, particularly on rock substrates. Iridomyrmex spp. were more successful on rock than in vegetation, however, in the presence of I. purpureus, the success of other Iridomyrmex on rock substrates and at honey baits was reduced. Camponotine and myrmicine ants had low success at baits and tended to be less successful in the presence of I. purpureus. In contrast, the opportunist Rhytidoponera metallica was not affected by the presence of I. purpureus and was more successful in the vegetation habitat. These findings indicate that the dominant ant affects the success of other ants at baits, particularly the ecologically similar Iridomyrmex. However, effects of I. purpureus on other taxa differ between habitats differing in complexity and resources differing in composition and defensibility.
Adult free zones in small mammal populations: response of Australian native rodents to reduced cover
Authors: SPENCER R‐J. , CAVANOUGH V. C. , BAXTER G. S. , KENNEDY M. S.
Published: November 2005

Abstract  Cover provides shelter, food, nesting opportunities and protection from predators. The behavioural response of small mammals to reduced cover has been well documented. However, very little is known about the effect of cover on community and population dynamics. Australian small mammals generally inhabit extremely dynamic ecosystems, where cover and food supplies are greatly affected by fire. Species are described as early or late seral specialists, generally returning to a disturbed area once their habitat requirements are met. Habitat requirements have loosely been interpreted as cover and food supply, however, these factors are not mutually exclusive and few studies have attempted to determine the driving factors behind small mammal succession. In this study, we manipulated specific aspects of cover in the eucalypt forests of Fraser Island and show that the behaviour and population dynamics of small mammals were greatly affected. A reduction of cover from grass‐trees (Xanthorrhoea johnsonii) did not affect small mammal species composition, however, the abundance and size structure distribution of the dominant species (Rattus fuscipes) decreased. Patch use by rodents also decreased after cover was reduced. Rattus fuscipes must trade‐off remaining in an environment with increased risk of predation, or disperse to an area with greater cover but increased competition. Juveniles dominated (>60%) populations of R. fuscipes after cover was reduced, however, size distributions of control sites were relatively more even (<25% juvenile). While adult R. fuscipes are either killed by predators or disperse to other areas, juveniles that remained or immigrated to an area of reduced cover gained a selective advantage over those in control sites, because reduced competition with adults increased body condition of juvenile R. fuscipes.
Patterns in the diversity and distribution of epiphytes and vines in a New Zealand forest
Authors: BURNS K. C. , DAWSON JOHN
Published: November 2005

Abstract  Plants that rely on other plants for support (i.e. epiphytes and vines) are common in many forest ecosystems. However, they are poorly understood relative to terrestrial plants, especially in the Southern Hemisphere. To help bridge this gap, we evaluated the diversity and distribution of vascular epiphytes and vines on seven common tree species in a conifer‐broadleaf forest on New Zealand's North Island. Ground‐based surveys of 274 host trees were used to test whether epiphyte and vine diversity increased with tree diameter, and whether diversity‐diameter relationships differed among host tree species. Occurrence patterns of individual epiphyte and vine species were also assessed. We first evaluated the accuracy of ground‐based inventories by comparing surveys of trees made from the ground to those made from a canopy walkway. On average, 1 in 10 species of epiphytes and vines were unseen from the ground. However, sampling accuracy did not differ among the three host tree species growing along the walkway, suggesting unbiased comparisons could be made between hosts. Results from ground‐based surveys showed that species diversity of epiphytes and vines increased with host tree diameter. However, epiphytes showed stronger diversity‐diameter relationships than vines. Epiphyte diversity increased markedly in four host species and less strongly in the remaining three host species. Conversely, vines showed weak diversity‐diameter relationships in all host species. Occurrence patterns of individual species helped to explain diversity‐diameter relationships. All common epiphyte species occurred more frequently on large trees, regardless of host species, but occurrence patterns in most vine species were unrelated to tree size. Rather, the vines often showed strong host ‘preferences’. Overall results illustrate a rich diversity of distributional patterns in New Zealand's epiphytes and vines, and suggest that a similarly diverse set of ecological and evolutionary processes are responsible for them.
Structure and environmental relationships of insectivorous bat assemblages in tropical Australian savannas
Authors: MILNE D. J. , ARMSTRONG M. , FISHER A. , FLORES T. , PAVEY C. R.
Published: November 2005

Abstract  Patterns in the composition of assemblages of microbat species sampled during the late dry season (the ‘build‐up’) in north Australian savannas were assessed against a range of environmental factors as well as four a priori defined habitat types (riparian, escarpments, coastal and woodlands). Distinct species assemblages were most strongly associated with topographic and climatic variables. There were also limited associations with vegetation structure, fire and local roost potential but no associations with insects or water availability. Total species diversity at sample sites was associated with distance to rivers and rainfall. In general, species assemblages were not clearly defined and the number of significant environmental associations was relatively few. We compare these associations with those reported for bat assemblages elsewhere in Australia.
Evidence from traditional and new technologies for northward migrations of Australian plague locusts (Chortoicetes terminifera) (Walker) (Orthoptera: Acrididae) to western Queensland
Authors: DEVESON E. D. , DRAKE V. A. , HUNTER D. M. , WALKER P. W. , WANG H. K.
Published: November 2005

Abstract  The development of recent infestations of the Australian plague locust (Chortoicetes terminifera) (Walker) (Orthoptera: Acrididae) has been traced using traditional survey data combined with information from several modern technologies including simulation of windborne transport trajectories, direct observation with entomological radar and satellite imagery. The results indicate that migration from spring generations in the southern and eastern parts of the species range, including agricultural areas, to the summer rainfall areas in arid western Queensland (Qld) has contributed to the development of infestations on several occasions. Migration from swarm populations in New South Wales to western Qld in November and December 1999 contributed to a rapid population increase that, over a sequence of generations, led to the major infestation of agricultural areas in March and April 2000. There is evidence that northward migrations also occurred in 1995, 1997 and 2000. These contributed to the early summer populations in Qld, but did not result in large migrations to the south in autumn. These observations suggest that a pattern of exchange migration across much of the geographical range of the species between regions of winter and summer rainfall characterizes the spatial dynamics of this species. This pattern appears to be adaptive and suggests migration in C. terminifera is sustained by contemporary natural selection.
Overexpression of dopamine receptor genes and their products in the postnatal rat brain following maternal n‐3 fatty acid dietary deficiency
Authors: Kuperstein F. , Yakubov E. , Dinerman P. , Gil S. , Eylam R. , Salem N. , Yavin E.
Published: November 2005

A combination of PCR‐Select cDNA subtraction and gene array hybridization was used to identify differentially expressed genomic markers in brains of rats fed for 3 weeks in utero and 2 weeks after birth on an n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)‐deficient diet supplied to dams. Total RNA was isolated, switch mechanism at 5′‐end of the RNA transcripts (SMART) applied and used for PCR‐Select subtraction of PUFA‐deficient and adequately‐fed control preparations. Subtracted and amplified ds‐cDNA end‐products were fragmented, terminally labeled with biotin‐ddUTP and hybridized with a RN‐U34A gene array. A 10‐fold increase in potential genes with log2(Tester/Driver) = 1.4 was found compared with traditional gene array technology when the same chip was tested using non‐subtracted targets. Reverse transcription–real‐time relative PCR confirmed 30% of the transcripts. Among the validated transcripts, D1 and D2 receptors for dopamine (DA), were most prominent among a number of over‐expressed neurotransmitter receptors and retinoic acid receptor (RXR α‐2 and α‐1). Immunohistochemical staining of brain sections from 2‐week‐old pups revealed a substantial enrichment of the D2 receptor in discrete regions of the mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways as well as in a large number of brain areas from the n‐3 PUFA‐deficient pups. Punches of the same areas run on western blots showed similar results. The overwhelming expression of D1 and D2 receptors may be attributed to a behavioral hypersensitivity caused by the possible impairment of DA production during brain development, which may have implications in certain disorders of the nervous system.
C‐terminal PAL motif of presenilin and presenilin homologues required for normal active site conformation
Authors: Wang Jun , Beher Dirk , Nyborg Andrew C. , Shearman Mark S. , Golde Todd E. , Goate Alison
Published: November 2005

The Alzheimer's disease‐associated β‐amyloid peptide is produced through cleavage of amyloid precursor protein by β‐secretase and γ‐secretase. γ‐Secretase is a complex containing presenilin (PS) as the catalytic component and three essential cofactors: Nicastrin, anterior pharynx defective (APH‐1) and presenilin enhancer‐2 (PEN‐2). PS and signal peptide peptidase (SPP) define a novel family of aspartyl proteases that cleave substrates within the transmembrane domain presumptively using two membrane‐embedded aspartic acid residues for catalysis. Apart from the two aspartate‐containing active site motifs, the only other region that is conserved between PS and SPP is a PAL sequence at the C‐terminus. Although it has been well documented that this motif is essential for γ‐secretase activity, the mechanism underlying such a critical role is not understood. Here we show that mutations in this motif affect the conformation of the active site of γ‐secretase resulting in a complete loss of PS binding to a γ‐secretase transition state analog inhibitor, Merck C. Analogous mutations in SPP significantly inhibit its enzymatic activity. Furthermore, these mutations also abolish SPP binding to Merck C, indicating that SPP and γ‐secretase share a similar active site conformation, which is dependent on the PAL motif. Exploring the amino acid requirements within this motif reveals a very small side chain requirement, which is conserved during evolution. Together, these observations strongly support the hypothesis that the PAL motif contributes to the active site conformation of γ‐secretase and of SPP.
The Impact of Questionnaire Administration Mode on Response Rate and Reporting of Consensual and Nonconsensual Sexual Behavior
Authors: Testa Maria , Livingston Jennifer A. , VanZile-Tamsen Carol
Published: November 2005

Computer-administered self-interviewing (CASI) has been advocated as a way of overcoming underreporting of sensitive sexual behaviors. The present study compared reports of consensual and nonconsensual sexual behaviors (including childhood and adulthood sexual victimization) among women using CASI ( n = 1014) versus a self-administered questionnaire (SAQ; n = 318). Women, ages 18-30 years old, were recruited through random-digit dialing in the community. Response rates were significantly higher for the SAQ, which was sent and returned by mail (87.6% of those eligible), than for the CASI, which involved in-person assessment at a central location (61.4%). There were a few modest differences in reports of consensual or nonconsensual sexual behavior according to mode of administration, suggesting greater willingness to report sexual experiences among the SAQ sample. Mailed SAQ following telephone contact and with financial incentive may be a cost-effective way of obtaining data on sexual behavior from a community sample.
An Exploratory Study of Rape Survivors' Prescription Drug Use As A Means of Coping With Sexual Assault
Authors: Sturza Marisa L. , Campbell Rebecca
Published: November 2005

In this study we examined rape survivors' postassault use of prescription drugs, including sedatives, tranquilizers, and antidepressants. In a community-based sample of 102 sexual assault survivors, 44% had used prescription drugs postrape. Consistent with prior research on alcohol as a postassault coping mechanism, the current study found evidence that some women were “self-medicating.” Fourteen percent of the women who had used prescription drugs postrape did so without a doctor's prescription and 50% obtained them through their physicians without disclosing the assault. Most of these women did not disclose the assault to their physicians because they feared how they would respond. For the remaining 36% of women using prescription drugs, there was evidence of the “medicalization” of rape. These victims disclosed the assaults to their doctors, who in many cases responded by giving them a prescription for medication, which made many of the survivors feel blamed and silenced. Implications for improving health care are discussed.
Sexual Assault Education Programs: A Meta-Analytic Examination of Their Effectiveness
Authors: Anderson Linda A. , Whiston Susan C.
Published: November 2005

Meta-analyses of the effectiveness of college sexual assault education programs on seven outcome measure categories were conducted using 69 studies that involved 102 treatment interventions and 18,172 participants. Five of the outcome categories had significant average effect sizes (i.e., rape attitudes, rape-related attitudes, rape knowledge, behavioral intent, and incidence of sexual assault), while the outcome areas of rape empathy and rape awareness behaviors did not have average effect sizes that differed from zero. A significant finding of this study is that longer interventions are more effective than brief interventions in altering both rape attitudes and rape-related attitudes. Moderator analyses also suggest that the content of programming, type of presenter, gender of the audience, and type of audience may also be associated with greater program effectiveness. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Understanding the Structure of Stereotypes of Women: Virtue and Agency as Dimensions Distinguishing Female Subgroups
Authors: DeWall C. Nathan , Altermatt T. William , Thompson Heather
Published: November 2005

A two-part study investigated the dimensional structure of stereotypes of women. In one sample ( n = 258), participants sorted traits according to the likelihood that they would co-occur in the same woman. In a separate sample ( n = 102), participants were given the same traits and were asked to judge the traits' desirability and to judge the moral virtue, sexual liberalism/conservatism, warmth, competence, and power of a woman who possessed high levels of each trait. Results from hierarchical cluster analysis indicated that participants perceived women in terms of six subgroups: professional, feminist, homemaker, female athlete, beauty, and temptress. Large differences among these subgroups were identified based on ratings of their moral virtue and sexual conservatism (i.e., virtue) and competence and power (i.e., agency). The implications of a virtue-agency model of female subgroups for gender stereotyping research are discussed.
Judgments of Sexism: A Comparison of the Subtlety of Sexism Measures and Sources of Variability in Judgments of Sexism
Authors: Swim Janet K. , Mallett Robyn , Russo-Devosa Yvonne , Stangor Charles
Published: November 2005

We compared the subtlety of four measures of sexism and sources of variation in male and female psychology students' judgments that beliefs from these scales and everyday behaviors were sexist. Participants judged traditional gender role and hostile sexist beliefs as more sexist than benevolent and modern sexist beliefs, indicating the latter were more subtle measures of sexism. Participants also judged traditional gender role behaviors as more sexist than unwanted sexual attention, suggesting the latter may less readily be identified as sexist. Variation in judgments of beliefs as sexist was related to differences in likelihood of endorsing such beliefs. This relation fully accounted for the tendency for men to be less likely to judge beliefs as sexist in comparison to women. Endorsement of Modern and Hostile Sexist beliefs was related to judgments of behaviors as sexist. The implications of the results for scale usage and identifying sexist behavior are discussed.
The Egalitarian Relationship in Feminist Therapy
Authors: Rader Jill , Gilbert Lucia Albino
Published: November 2005

Feminist therapy has revolutionized clinical practice and offered a model of empowerment for all therapy approaches. However, the long-assumed claim that feminist therapists are more likely to engage in power-sharing behaviors with their clients has not been supported by published quantitative research. In the current study, 42 female therapists who were asked whether or not they self-identified as feminist therapists completed measures assessing their use of feminist therapy behaviors (Feminist Therapy Behavior Checklist) and power-sharing behaviors (Therapy with Women Scale). One of each therapists' current female clients completed measures assessing her perceptions of both treatment collaboration (Working Alliance Inventory) and power-sharing behaviors (Client Therapy with Women Scale). As hypothesized, participants who identified as feminist therapists were more likely to report engaging in power-sharing behaviors when compared to participating therapists who did not. Furthermore, as hypothesized, clients of feminist therapists were more likely to report that their therapists engaged in power-sharing behaviors.
Tinea Faciei in an Infant Caused by Microsporum gypseum Simulating a Dry Impetigo
Authors: Criado Paulo Ricardo , Costa Alcyr Ribeiro , Vasconcellos Cidia , de Oliveira Ramos Rodrigo , Silva Cristiana Silveira , de Souza Simone Felizardo Rocha
Published: November 2005

Abstract:  We report a 14‐month‐old White boy who was referred to our dermatology unit for evaluation of a skin eruption on his nose. The initial examination led us to the clinical diagnosis of impetigo. The mycologic studies found an uncommon dermatophyte agent, Microsporum gypseum. The main differential diagnosis of tinea faciei is discussed.
Ichthyosis Associated with ARC Syndrome: ARC Syndrome is One of the Differential Diagnoses of Ichthyosis
Authors: Choi Hye‐Jin , Lee Mi‐Woo , Choi Jee‐Ho , Moon Kee‐Chan , Koh Jai‐Kyoung
Published: November 2005

Abstract:  The arthrogryposis, renal tubular dysfunction and cholestasis syndrome is rare. Novel identification of the mutation in VPS33B in this syndrome, which involves intracellular protein trafficking by regulation of vesicle‐to‐target sensory nerve action potential receptor (SNARE) family, might explain the consistent combination of membrane fusion defects. We can guess the defective lamellar body secretion mediated by the soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptor or SNARE protein pathway in the epidermis might result in the ichthyosiform phenotype. In the English‐language literature, half of the reported instances of this syndrome are associated with ichthyosis. We report an infant with ichthyosis in association with arthrogryposis, renal tubular dysfunction, and cholestasis syndrome, and review the literature. Our findings suggest that the differential diagnosis of ichthyosis during infancy should include this syndrome.
Agminated Spitz Nevi: Report of a Child with a Unique Dermatomal Distribution
Authors: Glasgow M. A. , Lain Edward L. , Kincannon Jay M.
Published: November 2005

Abstract:  Spitz nevi most commonly present as solitary lesions. Multiple agminated Spitz nevi are a rare presentation, with 38 reported cases in the English language literature. We report a 2‐year‐old girl who presented with multiple Spitz nevi in a unique, dermatome‐like distribution and review the English‐language literature on agminated Spitz nevi.
Successful Acne Management in Apert Syndrome Twins
Authors: Benjamin Latanya T. , Trowers Andrea B. , Schachner Lawrence A.
Published: November 2005

Abstract:  Apert syndrome, or acrocephalosyndactyly, is characterized by craniosynostosis and early epiphyseal closure resulting in various deformities of the skull, hands, and feet. Typically a sporadic condition, autosomal dominant inheritance with complete penetrance has been known to occur. Most adolescents with the disorder are prone to the development of severe pustular facial and truncal acne, with extension to the upper arms and forearm. We report twin brothers with Apert syndrome who, after 2 years of standard management by their pediatrician, were referred for management of complicated acne. In our patients there were a constellation of findings consistent with the disorder and, of importance to this report, significant dermatological manifestations. On presentation, each brother was found to have acne vulgaris of a different stage. Our patients were refractory to conventional treatment for acne but one required and had a significant response to isotretinoin. The risk/benefit ratio in treating acne lesions with isotretinoin in a teenager with Apert syndrome is reviewed.
Computational Simulation of a Non‐Newtonian Model of the Blood Separation Process
Authors: De Gruttola Sandro , Boomsma Kevin , Poulikakos Dimos
Published: November 2005

Abstract:  The aim of this work is to construct a computational fluid dynamics model capable of simulating the transient non‐Newtonian process of apheresis. A Lagrangian–Eulerian model has been developed which tracks the blood particles within a two‐dimensional flow configuration. Within the Eulerian method, the fluid mass and momentum conservation equations within the separator are solved using the density and the viscosity is calculated from the blood particle concentrations. Subsequently, the displacement of the blood particles is calculated with a Lagrangian method. Hawksley's model for the density of supensions is used in the variable density calculation. The viscosity is calculated with two models based on Vand's rigid particle suspension viscosity concepts, followed by the flow field calculation in the separator. Simulations were performed for various inlet hematocrit values and separator lengths. The simulations are in satisfactory agreement with experimental results reported in literature, indicating a complete separation of plasma and red blood cells (RBCs), as well as nearly complete separation of red blood cells and platelets. No hemolysis was observed in the simulations because the shear rate remained under the critical value of 150 N/m2.
Left Atrionodal Connections in Typical and Atypical Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardias: Activation Sequence in the Coronary Sinus and Results of Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation
Authors: NAM GI‐BYOUNG , RHEE KYOUNG‐SUK , KIM JUN , CHOI KEE‐JOON , KIM YOU‐HO
Published: November 2005

Introduction: The presence of atrionodal connections and coronary sinus (CS) breakthrough in atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) has been suggested. However, the incidence, anatomic relationship with reentrant circuit, and results of catheter ablation are unknown.

Methods and Results: Fifty‐two patients with typical slow/fast AVNRT and 10 patients with atypical slow/intermediate or fast/slow AVNRT were included. Eccentric activation of the CS (EACS) was observed in 3 of 52 patients with typical and 8 of 10 patients with atypical AVNRT. The earliest CS activation in patients with an EACS was recorded at a site 10–20 mm inside the CS ostium. The postpacing interval after transient entrainment at the proximal CS in patients with EACS was 23 ± 21 msec longer than the pacing cycle length. Modification or ablation of the slow pathway was successful in all patients with typical slow/fast AVNRT and in 7 of 9 patients with atypical AVNRT by RF energy delivered at the right septal tricuspid annulus (TA). In 2 patients with atypical AVNRT and an EACS, RF delivery inside the CS targeting the earliest CS activation eliminated the sustained AVNRT.

Conclusion: Eccentric coronary sinus activation is observed in some rare cases of typical AVNRT, and in a majority of atypical AVNRT. Entrainment results suggest that the proximal coronary sinus may be part of the reentrant circuit. RF ablation of atypical AVNRT, if it fails from the standard right‐side approach, can be targeted at the site of earliest retrograde atrial activation inside the CS.
The Different Mechanisms Between Late and Very Late Recurrences of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients Undergoing a Repeated Catheter Ablation
Authors: HSIEH MING‐HSIUNG , TAI CHING‐TAI , LEE SHIH‐HUANG , LIN YUNG‐KUO , TSAO HSUAN‐MING , CHANG SHIH‐LIN , LIN YENN‐JIANG , WONGCHAOEN WANWARANG , LEE KUN‐TAI , CHEN SHIH‐ANN
Published: November 2005

Introduction: The mechanisms of late (<1 year after the ablation) and very late (>1 year after the ablation) recurrences of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) after catheter ablation have not been reported.

Methods and Results: Fifty consecutive patients undergoing a repeated electrophysiologic study to investigate the recurrence of paroxysmal AF after the first ablation were included. Group 1 consisted of 12 patients with very late (26 ± 13 months) and group 2 consisted of 38 patients with late (3 ± 3 months) recurrence of paroxysmal AF. In the baseline study, group 1 had a lower incidence of AF foci from the pulmonary veins (PVs) (67% vs 92%, P = 0.048) and a higher incidence of AF foci from the right atrium (50% vs 13%, P = 0.014) than group 2. In the repeated study, group 1 had a higher incidence of AF foci from the right atrium (67% vs 3%, P < 0.001) and a lower incidence of AF foci from the left atrium (50% vs 97%, P < 0.001), including a lower incidence of AF foci from the PVs (50% vs 79%, P = 0.07) and from the left atrial free wall (0% vs 29%, P = 0.046) than group 2. Furthermore, most of these AF foci (64% of group 1, 65% of group 2) were from the previously targeted foci.

Conclusion: The right atrial foci played an important role in the very late recurrence of AF, whereas the left atrial foci (the majority were PVs) were the major origin of the late recurrence of AF after the catheter ablation of paroxysmal AF.
Synthesis of Biomorphous Nickel Oxide from a Pinewood Template and Investigation on a Hierarchical Porous Structure
Authors: Liu Zhaoting , Fan Tongxiang , Zhang Di
Published: November 2005

The hydrothermal synthesis of biomorphous nickel oxide (NiO) with pine template and nickel nitrate precursor is reported here. The morphology, porosity and connectivity of porous products in different length scales were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction and nitrogen adsorption measurements. Their porous structures were found to be hierarchical from 1 up to 25 μm (in micrometer scale) and from 2 nm to 60 nm (in nanometer scale). Furthermore, depending on the heat‐treatment temperatures, the porosity of the pine‐templated NiO can be designed.
Ferroelectric and Piezoelectric Properties of Fine‐Grained Na0.5K0.5NbO3 Lead‐Free Piezoelectric Ceramics Prepared by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Li Jing‐Feng , Wang Ke , Zhang Bo‐Ping , Zhang Li‐Min
Published: November 2005

Lead‐free piezoelectric ceramics have received attention because of increasing interest in environmental protection. Niobate ceramics such as NaNbO3 and KNbO3 have been studied as promising Pb‐free piezoelectric ceramics, but their sintering densification is fairly difficult. In the present study, highly dense Na0.5K0.5NbO3 ceramics were prepared using spark plasma sintering (SPS). Although the SPS temperature was as low as 920°C, the density of the Na0.5K0.5NbO3 solid solution ceramics was raised to 4.47 g/cm3 (>99% of the theoretical density). After post‐annealing in air, reasonably good ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties were obtained in the Na0.5K0.5NbO3 ceramics with submicron grains. The crystal phase of the Na0.5K0.5NbO3 has an orthorhombic structure. The Curie temperature is 395°C and the piezoelectric parameter (d33) of the Na0.5K0.5NbO3 ceramics reached 148 pC/N.
Synthesis and Characterization of Porous Single‐Crystal‐Like In2O3 Nanostructures Via a Solvothermal‐Annealing Route
Authors: Huang Jianhua , Gao Lian
Published: November 2005

A novel method has been developed to synthesize porous single‐crystal‐like In2O3 nanostructures with a high specific surface area of 62.6 m2/g without any template. The method, which can be described as facile, template free, and large scale in production, involves synthesizing the precursor through a simple solvothermal process and further annealing in a furnace. X‐ray diffraction, electron microscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption measurements, and other techniques were used to characterize the porous single‐crystal‐like In2O3 materials. The possible formation mechanism was discussed.
Enhanced α Phase Stability During Plasma Spraying of Alumina–13 mol% Titania
Authors: Venkataraman R. , Singh Paramanand , Krishnamurthy R.
Published: November 2005

Plasma spraying of pure alumina in almost all of the normal spraying conditions results in metastable γ phase only; in contrast titania‐stabilized alumina on spraying results in stable α phase in considerable quantities along with metastable γ phase. Formation of β‐Al2TiO5 and preferential evaporation of alumina leading to phase separated TiO2 have also been observed in as‐sprayed alumina‐titania samples. Preferential stabilization of the α phase in as‐sprayed samples can be attributed to the Ti4+ cationic substitution and formation of charge compensating defects in the α‐phased alumina lattice.
Attractiveness of year‐old polyethylene Isonet sex pheromone dispensers for Lobesia botrana
Authors: Anfora Gianfranco , Tasin Marco , Bäckman Anna‐Carin , de Cristofaro Antonio , Witzgall Peter , Ioriatti Clvaudio
Published: November 2005

In this study, we have compared the release of sex pheromone from mating disruption dispensers exposed in the field for 12 months and from calling females. The main pheromone component of the grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana (D. and S.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is (E)‐7,(Z)‐9‐dodecadienyl acetate, and a minor component is (Z)‐9‐dodecenyl acetate. Aged dispensers from two different years emitted a much higher amount of both pheromone components than calling females. However, the summer temperature during field exposure influenced the release from mating disruption dispensers the following year. In the wind tunnel, male L. botrana were equally attracted to 12‐month, field‐exposed dispensers, a standard monitoring pheromone lure, and to synthetic (E)‐7,(Z)‐9‐dodecadienyl acetate sprayed at the rate of 0.6–60 ng h−1. Field trapping tests confirmed that aged dispensers from both years were at least as attractive to L. botrana males as a standard monitoring pheromone lure. The possible contribution of previously applied dispensers to the mating disruption efficacy during following applications is discussed.
Using hosts of mixed sizes to reduce male‐biased sex ratio in the parasitoid wasp, Diglyphus isaea
Authors: Chow Andrew , Heinz Kevin M.
Published: November 2005

Overproduction of males in mass rearing of parasitic Hymenoptera contributes to higher costs for biological control because only females directly kill pests. We present a technique, based on manipulating host composition, to generate less male‐biased sex ratios in parasitoid species that adjust their sex allocation in response to relative host size. Our system consisted of chrysanthemum, Dendranthema grandiflora Tzvelev var. ‘Miramar’; a leafminer, Liriomyza langei Frick (Diptera: Agromyzidae); and a commercially available parasitoid, Diglyphus isaea (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae). We compared the offspring sex ratios of D. isaea females presented with different compositions of L. langei larvae on chrysanthemum. Presenting individual females with only large hosts increased mean sex ratio from 32 to 67% male over 2 days. However, presenting individual females with progressively larger hosts over 1 or 2 days reduced mean sex ratio from 90 to 100% male to less than 30% male. Groups of females produced sex ratios around 58% male if presented with both plants infested by only small hosts and plants infested by only large hosts. In comparison, groups of females produced sex ratios around 48% male if presented with plants infested by both small hosts and large hosts. We compared the use of both small hosts and large hosts to only large hosts for simulated mass rearing of wasps over 8 weeks. Using both small hosts and large hosts produced similar numbers of wasps as using only large hosts, but reduced mean sex ratio of weekly cohorts from 66% male to 56% male. The two techniques produced females of similar size, but using both large hosts and small hosts produced slightly smaller males than using only large hosts. The use of both small hosts and large hosts for mass rearing of D. isaea could reduce actual costs of females by 23%.
Apple pollen as a supplemental food for the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis: response of individuals and populations
Authors: Zhi Junrui , Fitch Greg K. , Margolies David C. , Nechols James R.
Published: November 2005

Experiments were performed to investigate the influence of apple pollen, plant diet, and relative humidity on the individual life‐history traits and on the population growth of the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae). In experiments with individual thrips, availability of bean pods plus a mixture of apple pollen and lycopodium shortened larval development time, and hence time from egg to adult, compared to bean pods alone. Similarly, the total number of eggs laid and the mean number of eggs laid per female per day were greater in the presence of pollen plus bean pods than on bean pods alone. Diet did not affect survival or length of the pre‐oviposition and oviposition periods. A diet including bean pods plus pollen shortened the generation time and population‐doubling time, and increased the net reproductive rate and the intrinsic rate of increase, compared to bean pods alone. In experiments on populations, growth was measured with different amounts of pollen on bean pods under two relative humidities, ca. 38% and 66%, and separately on two bean substrates, pods or leaves, at ca. 45% r.h. The presence or amount of pollen had no effect on population growth regardless of the other variables. Greater population growth occurred under the higher relative humidity regardless of substrate. Population growth was greater on bean pods than on bean leaves. Despite reports on the nutritional benefit of pollen for F. occidentalis, this benefit may be affected by pollen type, host plant, and other factors. In situations in which pollen has little influence on the growth of F. occidentalis populations, pollen that benefits a thrips predator could be used in an integrated management plan for controlling thrips.
Interactions between a fungal pathogen, foliar properties, and generalist herbivores
Authors: Kellogg S.K. , Hebard F.V. , Rieske L.K.
Published: November 2005

American [Castanea dentata (Marsh) Borkh.] × Chinese [Castanea mollissima Blume] chestnut (Fagac, ae) hybrids are a novel system in which to study influences of phytopathogenic fungi and woody plant hybridization on herbivore susceptibility, as the hybrids are well characterized with regard to resistance to the chestnut blight fungus [Cryphonectria parasita (Murr) Barr (Endothia) Diaporthales: Valsaceae] and variability is present. We chose two groups of resistance‐rated backcross chestnut that shared an F1 parent and had different American parents. Foliage from both backcross groups and the parent trees was sampled on three dates for use in feeding assays with gypsy moth larvae [Lymantria dispar (L.) [Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae], adult Japanese beetles [Popillia japonica Newman (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)], and fall webworm larvae [Hyphantria cunea Drury (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae)], respectively. Foliar analyses were performed concurrently and included carbohydrate, tannin, and nitrogen content, toughness, and density. Blight resistance had almost no effect on herbivore performance or foliar chemistry. When the parent trees and backcross groups were compared, however, significant differences in gypsy moth performance and Japanese beetle consumption were evident. There were no differences in fall webworm consumption. Most foliar characteristics measured differed among chestnut genotypes at some point in the season, and all varied seasonally. No clear pattern emerges with respect to the relationship among blight resistance, herbivore susceptibility, foliar properties, and plant genotype, and more research is needed to separate these effects.