bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population structure and speciation in the genus Tursiops based on microsatellite and mitochondrial DNA analyses
Authors: Natoli Ada , Peddemors Victor M. , Rus Hoelzel A.
Published: December 2004

Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) have a world-wide distribution, and show morphotypic variation among regions. Distinctions between coastal and pelagic populations have been documented; however, regional patterns of differentiation had not been previously investigated in a wider geographic context. We analysed up to nine different populations from seven different areas of the world by mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite DNA markers, and found differentiation among all putative regional populations. Both mtDNA and microsatellite DNA data show significant differentiation, suggesting restricted gene flow for both males and females. Dolphins in coastal habitat showed less variability and were in most cases differentiated from a pelagic lineage, which could suggest local founder events in some cases. Two coastal populations recently classified as belonging to a new species, T. aduncus, were each highly differentiated from populations of the truncatus morphotype, and from each other, suggesting a possible third species represented by the South African aduncus type.
Plasticity in resource allocation based life history traits in the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas. I. Spatial variation in food abundance
Authors: Ernande B. , Boudry P. , Clobert J. , Haure J.
Published: December 2004

We investigated the quantitative genetics of plasticity in resource allocation between survival, growth and reproductive effort in Crassostrea gigas when food abundance varies spatially. Resource allocation shifted from survival to growth and reproductive effort as food abundance increased. An optimality model suggests that this plastic shift may be adaptive. Reproductive effort plasticity and mean survival were highly heritable, whereas for growth, both mean and plasticity had low heritability. The genetic correlations between reproductive effort and both survival and growth were negative in poor treatments, suggesting trade-offs, but positive in rich ones. These sign reversals may reflect genetic variability in resource acquisition, which would only be expressed when food is abundant. Finally, we found positive genetic correlations between reproductive effort plasticity and both growth and survival means. The latter may reflect adaptation of C. gigas to differential sensitivity of fitness to survival, such that genetic variability in survival mean might support genetic variability in reproductive effort plasticity.
What maintains noncytoplasmic incompatibility inducing Wolbachia in their hosts: a case study from a natural Drosophila yakuba population
Authors: Charlat S. , Ballard J. W. O. , Merçot H.
Published: December 2004

Cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) allows Wolbachia to invade hosts populations by specifically inducing sterility in crosses between infected males and uninfected females. In some species, non-CI inducing Wolbachia, that are thought to derive from CI-inducing ancestors, are common. In theory, the maintenance of such infections is not possible unless the bacterium is perfectly transmitted to offspring - and/or provides a fitness benefit to infected females. The present study aims to test this view by investigating a population of Drosophila yakuba from Gabon, West Africa. We did not find any evidence for CI using wild caught females. Infected females from the field transmitted the infection to 100% of their offspring. A positive effect on female fecundity was observed one generation after collecting, but this was not retrieved five generations later, using additional lines. Similarly, the presence of Wolbachia was found to affect mating behaviour, but the results of two experiments realized five generations apart were not consistent. Finally, Wolbachia was not found to affect sex ratio. Overall, our results would suggest that Wolbachia behaves like a neutral or nearly neutral trait in this species, and is maintained in the host by perfect maternal transmission.
Genetic variation, disequilibrium and natural selection on reproductive traits in Allium vineale
Authors: Ceplitis A. , Bengtsson B. O.
Published: December 2004

Bulbils and seeds collected from Allium vineale plants from natural populations were grown under uniform conditions. The bulbil-derived offspring represented the parental generation, whereas the seed-derived offspring represented the sexually produced offspring generation. Molecular markers were used to identify maternal genets. Variation in traits determining the allocation to sexual and asexual reproduction was partitioned among genets and ramet families in the parental and offspring generations. From observations of a release of genetic variation and slippage in the mean phenotype in the offspring generation, we inferred that there exists extensive genetic disequilibrium for reproductive traits in A. vineale populations, that most of the genetic variance is because of dominance effects, and that natural selection favours a reduced allocation to sexual reproduction. No genetic correlation between sexual and asexual allocation traits was found. We discuss the implications of these results with respect to the evolution of a mixed reproductive system in A. vineale.
Reduced frequency of wheezing respiratory illness in infants with perinatal human immunodeficiency virus‐type 1 infection: A model for immunologic and inflammatory mechanisms of airway obstruction?
Authors: Galli Luisa , Sabatino Giuseppe , Zappa Marco , Barbante Elisabetta , Chiappini Elena , De Martino Maurizio
Published: December 2004

A multivariate analysis using a logistic regression model evaluated odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence limits (95% CL) of pediatrician‐diagnosed wheezing respiratory illness in 75 infants with perinatal human immunodeficiency virus‐type 1 (HIV‐1) infection, 205 uninfected infants of HIV‐1 infected mothers, and 1780 infants of HIV‐1 uninfected mothers. Infants were prospectively followed‐up for the first 2 years of life. Covariates were risk factors for wheezing respiratory illness (preterm delivery, low birth weight, maternal smoking, formula feeding, and neonatal respiratory disorders). Maternal use of illicit drugs in pregnancy, antiretroviral treatment in pregnancy, maternal HIV‐1‐related clinical condition at the time of delivery were also included in the models when infants of HIV‐1 infected mothers were taken into account. Although the frequency of risk factors for wheezing respiratory illness was higher in infants of HIV‐1 infected than in those of uninfected mothers, HIV‐1 infection emerged as a protective factor [OR: 0.001 (95% CL: 0.0001–0.01); p < 0.001]. The frequency of risk factors was similarly high among infants of infected mothers, but OR was lower in HIV‐1 infected than in uninfected infants of infected mothers (0.005; 95% CL: 0.0004–0.06; p < 0.001). Finally, OR was higher in uninfected infants of HIV‐1 infected mothers (who evidenced a higher frequency of risk factors) than in infants of HIV‐1 uninfected mothers (9.97; 95% CL: 4.87–20.40; p < 0.001). Understanding the reason why HIV‐1 protects against wheezing respiratory illness could shed light on the immunologic and inflammatory mechanisms of airway obstruction.
Discrimination of cassava‐associatedBemisia tabaciin Africa from polyphagous populations, by PCR–RFLP of the internal transcribed spacer regions of ribosomal DNA
Authors: Abdullahi I. , Atiri G. I. , Thottappilly G. , Winter S.
Published: December 2004

Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of the ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer regions ofBemisia tabaciwas used to distinguish cassava‐associated populations from other host‐associated populations. Endonuclease restriction profile analysis indicated that cassava‐associated populations from Africa represent a distinct group, with a significant level of separation into subgroups that were not linked to geographical origin. Analysis of molecular variance (amova) revealed that a high proportion of the total genetic variation (47%) was attributable to among‐population differences within the host‐associated groups. Principal coordinate analysis supported the differentiation between the cassava and the non‐cassava group, a result which was in agreement with the cluster analysis of the restriction fragment profile. Internal transcribed spacer RFLP markers, especiallySmaI, identified in this study can be used to monitor the spread ofB. tabacibiotypes, especially of the more virulent biotype B that has so far not been reported in the cassava‐growing belt of Africa.
Evidences of non‐additive effects of multiple parasitoids on Diatraea saccharalis Fabr. (Lep., Crambidae) populations in sugarcane fields in Brazil
Authors: Rossi M. N.
Published: December 2004

Biological control is a relatively benign method of pest control. However, considerable debate exists over whether multiple natural enemies often interact to produce additive or non‐additive effects on their prey or host populations. Based on the large data set stored in the São João and Barra sugarcane mills (state of São Paulo, Brazil) regarding the programme of biological control of Diatraea saccharalis using the parasitoids Cotesia flavipes and tachinid flies, in the present study the author investigated whether the parasitoids released into sugarcane fields interfered significantly with the rate of parasitized D. saccharalis hosts. The author also observed whether there was an additive effect of releasing C. flavipes and tachinids on the rate of parasitized hosts, and looked for evidence of possible negative effects of the use of multiple parasitoid species in this biological control programme. Results showed that C. flavipes and the tachinids were concomitantly released in the Barra Mill, but not in the São Jão Mill. Furthermore, in the Barra Mill there was evidence that the parasitoids interacted because the percentage of parasitism did not increase after the release of either C. flavipes or tachinids. In the São João Mill, when both parasitoid species were released out of synchrony, both the percentage of parasitism by C. flavipes as well as that of the tachinids increased. When large numbers of tachinids were released in the Barra Mill, they caused a significant lower percentage of parasitism imposed by C. flavipes. The implications of the results as evidence of non‐additive effects of C. flavipes plus tachinids on D. saccharalis populations are discussed.
Effects of temperature on the post‐diapause embryonic development and the hatching time in three grasshopper species (Orth., Acrididae)
Authors: Hao S. G. , Kang L.
Published: December 2004

A study was conducted to determine the effects of six constant temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40°C) on the post‐diapause embryonic development and the hatching time in three grasshopper species –Omocestus haemorrhoidalis (Charp.), Calliptamus abbreviatus Ikonn. and Chorthippus fallax (Zub.) – from the Inner Mongolian steppe. The results indicate that the species differ in the developmental rates, survival curves and cumulative hatching probabilities. The eggs of O. haemorrhoidalis had the fastest developmental rate with a low developmental threshold temperature of 9.9°C and the sum of effective temperature (SET) 211.2 degree‐days (DD). The corresponding values were 10.9°C and 210.6 DD for C. abbreviatus, 10.5°C and 240.2 DD for Ch. fallax respectively. The SET at which 50% of post‐diapause eggs hatched were 252.0 DD for O. haemorrhoidalis, 262.8 DD for C. abbreviatus, and 273.3 DD for Ch. fallax. The predicted maximal hatch ability of O. haemorrhoidalis (91.17%), C. abbreviatus (75.67%) and Ch. fallax (94.07%) occurred at 23.7, 29.0 and 31.3°C, respectively. The thermal death points of each species were reached at 43.3, 45.0 and 48.6°C. The optimal temperature ranges were 12.2–35.2°C for O. haemorrhoidalis, 21.7–36.3°C for C. abbreviatus and 20.9–41.7°C for Ch. fallax respectively. These results suggest that O. haemorrhoidalis adapt to hatch at a lower temperature range, C. abbreviatus adapt to mid‐temperature range, while Ch. fallax adapt to hatch at a higher temperature range. Although the SET of Ch. fallax is more than that of the other two species, it is not sufficient to explain the hatching sequence of the species in springtime. The results also indicate that Ch. fallax and O. haemorrhoidalis have wider adaptive temperature range than C. abbreviatus.
Characterization of novel Brazilian Bacillus thuringiensis strains active against Spodoptera frugiperda and other insect pests
Authors: da Silva S. M. B. , Silva‐Werneck J. O. , Falcão R. , Gomes A. C. , Fragoso R. R. , Quezado M. T. , Neto O. B. O. , Aguiar J. B. , de Sá M. F. G. , Bravo A. , Monnerat R. G.
Published: December 2004

Brazilian strains of Bacillus thuringiensis, namely S701, S764 and S1265 were analysed regarding their cry gene and protein contents, crystal type, and activity against larvae of the lepidopteran fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda Smith), the velvet caterpillar (Anticarsia gemmatalis), the dipterans (Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti) and the coleopteran (Tenebrio molitor). The LC50 of the strains against second instar larvae of S. frugiperda or A. gemmatalis revealed a high potency against those insect species. The spore–crystal mixtures of the isolates were analysed by sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and showed similar protein pattern as the B. thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki strain HD‐1 (proteins approximately 130 and 65 kDa) for isolates S701 and S764, respectively, and only one major protein of approximately 130 kDa for isolate S1265. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using total DNA of the isolates and general and specific primers showed the presence of cry1Aa, cry1Ac, cry1Ia and cry2Ab genes in the two isolates serotyped as B. thuringiensis kurstaki (S701 and S764) and the presence of cry1D and cry2Ad in B. thuringiensis morrisoni S1265 strain. Scanning electron microscopy of strains S701 and S764, showed the presence of bipyramidal, cuboidal and round crystals, like in strain HD‐1 and bipyramidal and round crystals like in strain S1265.
Effect of Testosterone and Oestradiol‐17β on Canine Hair Follicle Culture
Authors: Robia C. B. , Mitteregger G. , Aichinger A. , Benesch M. , Bamberg E.
Published: December 2004

Skin biopsies were taken from four body sites (head, thorax, flank and perineum) of three male entire Beagles and the primary hair follicles were isolated. Culture conditions were established to keep the hair follicles growing for up to 7 days. Additionally, hair follicles were incubated in supplemented medium (containing insulin, transferrin, glutamine and sodium selenite) with or without the addition of testosterone (T) (1, 10 or 100 ng/ml) or oestradiol‐17β (E2β) (0.01, 0.1 or 1 ng/ml), respectively and the daily growth of hair follicles was measured. In vitro daily growth of hair follicles from the thorax was stimulated by the low concentration of both hormones, but the growth of those from the flank was inhibited by the high concentration of both hormones. Hair follicles from the head were positively influenced by the lowest concentration of T and the medium concentration of E2β. The daily growth of hair follicles from the perineum was not significantly influenced by either hormone.
Effect of Oral Enrofloxacin and Florfenicol on Pigs Experimentally Infected withActinobacillus pleuropneumoniaeSerotype 1
Authors: Herradora L. M. A. , Martínez‐Gamba R.
Published: December 2004

This study was carried out to compare the efficacy of two oral anti‐microbials as metaphylactic medication to pigs inoculated withActinobacillus pleuropneumoniaeserotype 1. Forty‐two pigs with an average weight of 22.64 kg were randomly assigned to three treatment groups: group F was given doses of 40 ppm of florfenicol, group E received 150 ppm of enrofloxacin and group C received no medication. Groups F and E received medicated feed 12 h before being inoculated and for 7 days after inoculation. All the pigs were inoculated by aerosol, with 2 × 107 CFU/ml ofA. pleuropneumoniaeserotype 1 each. The average body temperature was higher in group C than in groups E and F, between 12 and 96 h after inoculation (P < 0.05). No differences were found between groups F and E in respiration pattern, nasal secretion and general condition (P > 0.05); however, differences were found in group C for respiration pattern and general condition (P < 0.05), 12 h after inoculation. There was no mortality in groups F and E, whereas a 50% mortality was recorded in group C during the first 48 h after inoculation (P < 0.05). Necropsies and bacterial cultures were performed 12 days after inoculation. Lesions were observed in five pigs of group F (35.71%) with an average damage of 1.16%; in four pigs of group E (28.57%) with 1.24%; and in 13 animals in group C (92.85%) with 34.5% of affected lung tissue (P < 0.05). The infective agent was cultured from various organs of animals in groups F and C, but not from those in group E.
Cerebral High‐grade Astrocytoma (Glioblastoma) in a Cat
Authors: Sato T. , Nakamura A. , Shibuya H. , Shirai W. , Koie H.
Published: December 2004

A cerebral tumour was found in the right frontal lobe of a 7‐year‐old female mongrel cat. The mass showed infiltrative growth and caused deformation of the corpus callosum. Histopathologically, the tumour cells showed anaplasia, pleomorphism and mitotic figures. Necrosis and vascular proliferation were prominent. The neoplastic cells surrounded areas of necrosis, but as an indistinct pseudopalisade formation. Immunohistochemically, low numbers of tumour cells labelled positively for anti‐glial fibrillary acidic protein and anti‐S100 protein. Electron microscopically, the majority of tumour cells had no filaments and cytoplasmic processes, but the differentiated cells presented cytoplasmic filaments and glycogen granules. Based on these findings, the tumour was diagnosed as cerebral high‐grade astrocytoma, glioblastoma.
Effects of Nigella sativa L. and Urtica dioica L. on Lipid Peroxidation, Antioxidant Enzyme Systems and Some Liver Enzymes in CCl4‐Treated Rats
Authors: Kanter M. , Meral I. , Dede S. , Cemek M. , Ozbek H. , Uygan I. , Gunduz H.
Published: December 2004

This study was designed to investigate the effects Nigella sativa L. (NS) and Urtica dioica L. (UD) on lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzyme systems and some liver enzymes in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)‐treated rats. A total of 60 healthy male Sprague–Dawley rats were utilized in this study. The rats were randomly allotted into one of four experimental groups: A (CCl4‐only treated), B (CCl4 + UD treated), C (CCl4 + NS treated) and D (CCl4 + UD + NS treated), each containing 15 animals. All groups received CCl4 [0.8 ml/kg of body weight, subcutaneously, twice a week for 90 days starting day 1]. In addition, B, C and D groups also received daily intraperitoneal injections of 0.2 ml/kg NS or/and 2 ml/kg UD oils for 45 days starting day 46. Group A, on the other hand, received only 2 ml/kg normal saline solution for 45 days starting day 46. Blood samples for the biochemical analysis were taken by cardiac puncture from five randomly chosen rats in each treatment group at beginning, at 45th and at 90th day of the experiment. The CCl4 treatment for 45 days increased the lipid peroxidation and liver enzymes, and also decreased the antioxidant enzyme levels. NS or UD treatments (alone or combination) for 45 days starting day 46 decreased the elevated lipid peroxidation and liver enzyme levels and also increased the reduced antioxidant enzyme levels. Live weights of the rats decreased in group A, and increased in groups B, C and D. It is concluded that NS and UD decrease the lipid peroxidation and liver enzymes, and increase the antioxidant defence system activity in the CCl4‐treated rats.
Habitats and Characteristics of the Sea Urchins Lytechinus variegatus and  Arbacia punctulata (Echinodermata)  on the Florida Gulf‐Coast Shelf
Authors: Hill Sophie K. , Lawrence John M.
Published: December 2004

Abstract Lytechinus variegatus and Arbacia punctulata have been studied primarily in inshore, shallow‐water areas. However, they are abundant in deeper waters on the Florida gulf‐coast shelf and seem important components of the benthic communities there. Lytechinus variegatus occurs alone on sand bottoms and A. punctulata occurs alone on rubble bottoms in these deeper waters. The species also co‐occur there on ­heterogeneous bottoms, each in a distinct microhabitat with A. punctulata on rubble and L. variegatus on surrounding sand. Characteristics of the sea urchins in these different deeper‐water habitat types and at one nearshore site with a heterogeneous rubble‐sand bottom were compared. Over the 2‐year study, offshore individuals of both species had low gut and gonad indices and the maximum size of individuals did not change. This suggests food limitation and low production. Offshore, A. punctulata had a higher Aristotle's lantern index and lower gut and gonad indices in populations where it ­co‐occurred with L. variegatus compared to populations where it occurred alone. The ­Aristotle's lantern index of L. variegatus did not differ among the offshore sites. Neither species seemed food limited at the nearshore site. Although productivity is lower at the offshore sites, both species extend their distribution and reproduction potential by existing there.
Biological Evaluation of Marine ­Protected Area: Evidence of Crowding Effect on a Protected Population of Queen Conch in the Caribbean
Authors: Béné Christophe , Tewfik Alexander
Published: December 2004

Abstract This study provides a first evaluation of the biological impact of a marine fishery reserve on the stock of queen conch (Strombus gigas) in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The density and the shell length of the population living in the reserve are compared with those of the individuals living in the surrounding fished areas. The results show that the adult density is six times higher in the reserve than in the fished areas. The shell length analysis shows that both adults and juveniles are significantly smaller in the reserve than in the fished area. This unexpected result suggests the existence of a crowding effect (i. e. a high density‐induced reduction in growth rate) within the ­reserve. It is hypothesised that this crowding effect is due to the superimposition of two factors leading to very high density values in the reserve: (a) the reduced fishing mortality following the creation of the reserve, (b) the existence of natural barriers that impede the emigration of adults outside the reserve. These results are then discussed in relation to current considerations on marine fisheries reserves.
Lectin typing of five medically important Candida species
Authors: Muñoz A. , Alonso B. , Alvarez O. , Llovo J.
Published: December 2004

Summary  This study reports the patterns of agglutination of 93 clinical Candida isolates by 14 commercial lectins. The isolates were of the species Candida albicans (55), C. tropicalis (12), C. guilliermondii (10), C. glabrata (eight) and C. parapsilosis (eight). Hundred percent of isolates were agglutinated, at least, by a panel of three lectins: Canavalia ensiformis (ConA), Lens culinaris (LCA) and Pisum sativum (PSA), all of them with α‐d‐mannose specificity. In addition, another panel of three lectins could distinguish between C. glabrata, C. tropicalis and C. albicans. Lectin typing may be of potential value for taxonomic and epidemiological studies of yeasts in clinical laboratories.
Antifungal activity of human polymorphonuclear and mononuclear phagocytes against non‐fumigatus Aspergillus species
Authors: Akpogheneta O. , Gil‐Lamaignere C. , Maloukou A. , Roilides E. ,   The EUROFUNG Network
Published: December 2004

Human phagocytic defenses against non‐fumigatus aspergilli were compared with those against Aspergillus fumigatus. Monocyte‐derived macrophages exhibited lower phagocytic capacities against non‐fumigatus aspergilli, particularly A. nidulans and A. niger, compared with A fumigatus (P < 0.05). Non‐opsonized hyphae suppressed oxidative burst (as measured by superoxide anion production) of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs). Further, these cells responded with less vigorous oxidative burst to serum‐opsonized hyphae of non‐fumigatus Aspergillus species, particularly A. flavus and A. terreus, compared with A. fumigatus (P ≤ 0.05). Similarly, PMNs induced less hyphal damage assessed by XTT colorimetric assay to non‐fumigatus species, particularly A. flavus and A. nidulans, compared with A. fumigatus (P < 0.05). Thus, non‐fumigatus aspergilli are generally more resistant to mononuclear and polymorphonuclear phagocytes than A. fumigatus, a finding which should be considered during management of invasive aspergillosis caused by these species.
Glycosylphosphatidylinositols synthesized byTrichophyton rubrumin a cell‐free system
Authors: Pusch Ulrike , Effendy Isaak , Schwarz Ralph T. , Azzouz Nahid
Published: December 2004

The opportunistic fungiTrichophyton rubrumandT. mentagrophytes, are responsible for relatively non‐inflammatory chronic dermatophytes infections in immunocompromised patients but also in healthy individuals. This chronic infection is associated with immunosuppressive effects of the cell wall components particularly the polysaccharides secreted by these organisms. We have studied glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor biosynthesis in the pathogenic fungusT. rubrumand could demonstrate thatT. rubrumis able to synthesize GPI structures. Glycolipids synthesized in a cell‐free system prepared from the dermatophyteT. rubrumand labeled with [3H]mannose, and [3H]galactose using GDP‐[3H]mannose and UDP‐[3H]galactose, respectively, were identified and structurally characterized as GPIs. The evolutionary conserved backbone ofT. rubrumGPIs incorporates galactose. Further, all glycolipids lack the acyl group on the inositol which was shown forSaccharomyces cerevisiaeand mammalian GPIs. Our data suggest significant differences in the GPI biosynthetic pathway between mammalian andT. rubrumcells that could perhaps be exploited for the development of an antimycotic forTrichophytoninfection.
Postmortem isolation of Pseudotaeniolina globosa from a patient with aortic aneurysm
Authors: Kurzai O. , Keith P. , de Hoog S. , Abele‐Horn M , Frosch M.
Published: December 2004

Summary We describe the isolation of the melanized meristematic fungus Pseudotaeniolina globosa from the aortic wall of a patient who died while undergoing surgery for aortic aneurysm and aortic valve regurgitation as a result of dilated cardiomyopathy. Meristematic fungi related to P. globosa have until now been considered as environmental saprobes found predominantly in ecological niches with low water activity. The isolate was identified by phenotypic analyses and by sequencing of the rDNA internal‐transcribed spacer domain. The clinical significance of this isolation remains unclear but isolation of meristematic fungi from clinical specimen should be thoroughly evaluated in terms of their significance in future.
Identification of chlamydospore‐negative Candida albicans using CHROMagar Candida medium
Authors: Fotedar R. , Al‐Hedaithy S. S. A.
Published: December 2004

This study was undertaken to evaluate the utility of CHROMagar Candida medium for the identification of chlamydospore‐negative Candida albicans. A total of 60 isolates including 45 chlamydospore‐negative C. albicans, 10 chlamydospore‐positive C. albicans (positive controls) and five non‐C. albicans (negative controls) were investigated. On the basis of germ tube test, assimilation of trehalose (Tre), glucosamine (GlcN), N‐acetyl glucosamine (GlcNAc), secretory aspartyl production and serotyping, the 45 chlamydospore‐negative C. albicans isolates were assigned to the reported three groups. Eighteen isolates showing positive germ tube test, negative for the assimilation of Tre, GlcN/GlcNAc, strong producers of proteinase (2+) and assigned to serotype B belonged to group I. Whereas, the isolates in group II and group III showed common characteristics including assimilation of Tre, GlcN/GlcNAc, moderate production of proteinase (1+) and were serotype A, except for the fact that group II isolates were germ tube positive and group III isolates were negative. Using CHROMagar Candida medium, all the 45 chlamydospore‐negative and 10 positive control isolates were accurately identified on the basis of characteristic green color at 37 °C for 48 h of incubation. On the other hand at an optimum incubation temperature of 37 °C none of the non‐C. albicans (negative controls) showed characteristic green color thus yielding a 100% sensitivity and specificity. Isolates in group‐I showed a slow growth rate and no visible growth was observed at 24 h, whereas, groups II, III and the control isolates showed visible growth at 24 h. Besides differences in growth rates, these isolates also varied in their characteristic colony color which gradually changed over a period of time. The results of this study clearly suggest that CHROMagar Candida medium is not only a simple, reliable and cost effective method for the identification of chlamydospore‐negative atypical C. albicans, but can also be used to differentiate various groups of chlamydospore‐negative C. albicans.
Herbal medicines for treatment of fungal infections: a systematic review of controlled clinical trials
Authors: Martin Karen W. , Ernst E.
Published: December 2004

Traditional medicine has made use of many different plant extracts for treatment of fungal infections and some of these have been tested for in vitro antifungal activity. This systematic review evaluates antifungal herbal preparations that have been tested in controlled clinical trials. Four electronic databases were searched for controlled clinical trials of antifungal herbal medicines. Data were extracted in a standardized manner by two independent reviewers and are reviewed narratively. Seven clinical trials met our inclusion criteria. Tea tree oil preparations were tested in four randomized clinical trials and some positive outcomes were attributed to the intervention in all trials. Solanum species (two trials) and oil of bitter orange preparations (one trial) were compared with conventional treatments. In all cases encouraging results were reported. There are few controlled clinical trials of herbal antifungal medicines. The most thoroughly clinically tested is tea tree oil, which holds some promise. All herbal remedies require further investigation in rigorous clinical trials.
Sarcomatous hepatocellular carcinoma: A special reference to ordinary hepatocellular carcinoma1
Authors: NISHI HIDEHIRO , TAGUCHI KEN‐ICHI , ASAYAMA YOSHIKI , AISHIMA SHIN‐ICHI , SUGIMACHI KEISHI , NAWATA HAJIME , TSUNEYOSHI MASAZUMI
Published: December 2004

Background: Sarcomatous hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a worse prognosis than ordinary HCC. The relationship between the malignant potential of sarcomatous HCC and cell proliferation or cell adhesion is unknown. This study was undertaken to clarify this relationship.

Methods: In 21 cases of sarcomatous HCC, including 16 surgically resected and five autopsy cases, immunohistochemistry was used to compare the sarcomatous component (s‐comp) and the ordinary component (o‐comp) within each sarcomatous HCC.

Results: We found 15 epithelial‐cadherin (E‐cadherin)‐positive cases in o‐comp (79%) and nine positive cases in s‐comp (43%). The difference between sarcomatous HCC and ordinary HCC in E‐cadherin‐positive tumor prevalence was significant (P < 0.05). The Ki‐67 (MIB1) labeling index ratio was 127 ± 40 in s‐comp and 80 ± 33 in o‐comp, and there was a greater tendency to have an ability to multiply in s‐comp than in o‐comp (P = 0.096).

Conclusion: This study indicated that the loss of E‐cadherin related to a morphological alteration in sarcomatous HCC; however, no relationship in respect to the malignant potential was found.

© 2003 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
Altered expression of epimorphin in ulcerative colitis
Authors: SHIRASAKA TOMOYUKI , IIZUKA MASAHIRO , YUKAWA MICHIHIRO , HIRAI YOHEI , HORIE YASUO , ITOU HIROAKI , KON‐NO SHIHO , FUKUSHIMA TSUNEO , WATANABE SUMIO
Published: December 2004

Background and Aim: Epimorphin is suggested to play a key role in the morphogenesis of epithelial cells. We focused on epimorphin and attempted to clarify the relationship between expression of this molecule and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Methods: Colonic specimens were taken from 23 patients with ulcerative colitis (UC), 15 with Crohn's disease (CD), six with non‐IBD colitis, and 10 normal controls. Distribution and expression of epimorphin protein were examined by immunohistochemistry and western blot analysis, and expression of epimorphin messenger (m)RNA by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. Distribution of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) was also examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results: In the normal colonic mucosa, epimorphin was observed around the epithelial cells, in some fibroblasts, vascular endothelial cells, and macrophages. In UC patients, epimorphin around epithelial cells disappeared or decreased, and the number of epimorphin‐containing cells (mean + standard error/mm2) was significantly increased in active UC patients (1550.8 ± 144.2) compared with patients in remission (692.8 ± 45.8), CD patients (790.0 ± 31.2), non‐IBD colitis patients (710.8 ± 29.2), and controls (664.8 ± 39.6) (P < 0.01). The number of bFGF‐containing cells was significantly increased in active UC and CD patients compared with UC patients in remission, CD and non‐IBD colitis patients, and controls (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Total expression of epimorphin protein and mRNA was increased in the active stage of UC. Expression of the 34 kDa epimorphin isoform decreased or disappeared in 20 out of 23 cases of UC.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that altered expression of epimorphin contributes to impaired healing and chronic inflammation in the colonic mucosa of UC patients.

© 2003 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
Deregulation of E‐cadherin–catenin complex in precancerous lesions of gastric adenocarcinoma
Authors: CHAN ANNIE ON‐ON , WONG BENJAMIN CHUN‐YU , LAN HUI‐YAO , LOKE SHEE‐LOONG , CHAN WAI‐KONG , HUI WAI‐MO , YUEN YUI‐HUNG , NG IRENE , HOU LAURENCE , WONG WAI‐MAN , YUEN MAN‐FUNG , LUK JOHN MOON‐CHING , LAM SHIU‐KUM
Published: December 2004

Background and Aim: Decrease in expression of the E‐cadherin–catenin complex is an important element in gastric carcinogenesis. However, the expression of the complex in gastric precancerous lesions has not been well studied. The present study aimed to examine the serial change in expression of E‐cadherin–catenin complex in the precancerous lesions of gastric cancer patients.

Methods: Gastrectomy specimens of 40 patients with gastric cancer were retrieved. Areas with chronic gastritis, atrophic gastritis, intestinal metaplasia and adenocarcinoma were identified and immunostained for α‐catenin, β‐catenin and E‐cadherin. The results were scored semiquantitatively by two independent pathologists using a validated scoring system.

Results: A significant decrease in score was observed in 5% (1/22) of α‐catenin, 0% (0/22) of β‐catenin and 9% (2/22) of E‐cadherin in chronic atrophic gastritis patients, and in 28% (5/18) of α‐catenin, 67% (10/15) of β‐catenin and 57% (8/14) of E‐cadherin in intestinal metaplasia patients. The scoring of α‐catenin, β‐catenin and E‐cadherin correlated with each other. Forty‐three percent of patients had concordant changes of scores along the gastritis–adenocarcinoma sequence. There was no association between Helicobacter pylori status and E‐cadherin–catenin complex expression.

Conclusion: Deregulation of the E‐cadherin–catenin complex was observed in the majority of precancerous lesions in patients with gastric adenocarcinoma, which has potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications.

© 2003 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
Inhibition of ileal bile acid absorption by colestimide
Authors: TAKEUCHI ATSUKO , SANO NAOYO , TAKIKAWA HAJIME
Published: December 2004

Background: Colestimide is a new type of anion‐exchange resin in Japan, but its effect on bile acid absorption in the ileum has not been studied.

Methods: Absorption of ursodeoxycholate, tauroursodeoxycholate, cholate, taurocholate and taurolithocholate‐sulfate in rat ileum was compared in the presence and absence of colestimide. Bile acid adsorption by colestimide in vitro was also studied.

Results: All bile acids were efficiently absorbed by the ileum, and the cumulative absorption during 60 min was 25–78%. The absorption of ursodeoxycholate, tauroursodeoxycholate and taurocholate was inhibited by colestimide, whereas that of cholate and taurolithocholate‐sulfate was not inhibited by colestimide. Adsorption of bile acids by colestimide in vitro was higher with taurine conjugates than with the unconjugated forms.

Conclusions: Colestimide was shown to be useful to inhibit the physiologically important ileal absorption of bile acid amides in vivo.

© 2003 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
Enhanced somatostatin secretion into the gastric juice with recovery of basal acid output after Helicobacter pylori eradication in gastric ulcers
Authors: HAYAKAWA TOSHIHIKO , KANEKO HIROSHI , KONAGAYA TOSHIHIRO , SHINOZAKI KAORI , KASAHARA AKIHITO , FUNAKI YASUSHI , MORI SHOZABURO , YOKOI TAKIO , HIROOKA YOSHIFUMI , KUSUGAMI KAZUO , KAKUMU SHINICHI
Published: December 2004

Background and Aim: Antral somatostatin interacts with gastric acid secretion. We aimed to investigate the effect of eradication on gastric acid, somatostatin secretion and mucosal histology in gastric ulcer patients with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection.

Methods: Twenty‐eight patients (21 male, 7 female) with H. pylori‐positive gastric ulcer were treated with dual therapy. Before and 4–8 weeks after the therapy, the histology of biopsy specimens, basal acid output (BAO) and maximal acid output (MAO) after stimulation with tetragastrin were assessed. Somatostatin concentration in the gastric juice was measured by radioimmunoassay, and somatostatin output during either the basal or gastrin‐stimulated period was also examined.

Results: Eradication was successful in 22 patients. Before treatment, the acid and somatostatin output were inversely related to the severity of neutrophil infiltration in the corpus and antrum, respectively. After successful eradication, improvement of histological inflammation and an increase in BAO, basal and gastrin‐stimulated somatostatin output were observed. Eradication had no effect on atrophy and MAO. There was a positive correlation between gastric acid and somatostatin output in the basal or stimulated condition, irrespective of H. pylori infection.

Conclusions: The present results suggest that recovery of gastric BAO may be caused by an improvement in corpus neutrophil infiltration, but not by an increase in parietal cell volume or a change in atrophy. Also, there was an increase in basal and gastrin‐stimulated somatostatin‐containing cell activity accompanied by improved antral neutrophil infiltration in the early phase after H. pylori eradication in gastric ulcers.

© 2003 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
Hepatitis C virus genotypes and hepatic fibrosis regulate 24‐h decline of serum hepatitis C virus RNA during interferon therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: KARINO YOSHIYASU , TOYOTA JOUJI , SUGAWARA MASAAKI , MIYAZAKI KAYO , KUWATA YASUAKI , YAMAZAKI KATSU , SATO TAKAHIRO , OHMURA TAKUMI , MATSUSHIMA TAKASHI
Published: December 2004

Background and Aims:Recently, hepatitis C virus (HCV) dynamics during interferon (IFN) therapy have been studied in detail. We examined factors that regulate the viral kinetics and the relationship between the viral kinetics and clinical effect of IFN therapy.

Methods:Eighty‐eight patients with chronic hepatitis C entered this study. All patients had been treated with 3 MU of IFN‐β twice a day for the first 2–4 weeks, then IFN‐α for the next 20–22 weeks (three injections per week). The levels of serum HCV RNA were determined by Amplicor HCV Monitor version 1.0, before and 24 h after the first injection of IFN; then the decline of HCV was calculated. Liver inflammation and fibrosis were scored as 0 (none), 1 (mild), 2 (moderate) or 3 (severe) using biopsy specimens.

Results:The decline of serum HCV RNA was 1.42 ± 0.65 log copies/mL in genotype 1b and 1.83 ± 0.72 in genotype 2a or 2b (P < 0.01). By a logistic regression model, genotype (1b, 2a or 2b) and hepatic fibrosis (0 or 1, 2 or 3) associated with 24‐h decline of serum HCV RNA, independently. As the predictor of IFN therapy, the decline of serum HCV RNA and serum HCV RNA levels before IFN therapy were the independent significant factors (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:The decline of serum HCV RNA during the first 24 h of IFN therapy was regulated by genotypes and hepatic fibrosis. The decline of serum HCV RNA and initial HCV load were independent factors that can be the predictor of the subsequent sustained viral response to IFN therapy.

© 2003 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
The impact of tourism on dune lakes on Fraser Island, Australia
Authors: Hadwen Wade L. , Arthington Angela H. , Mosisch Thorsten D.
Published: December 2004

In view of the increasing tourism to Fraser Island, Queensland, a tourist pressure index (TPI) was developed to assess the potential threat of tourism to 15 of the most accessible dune lakes on the island. Tourist pressure index scores indicated that the two clear lakes on the island, Lake McKenzie and Lake Birrabeen, are most threatened by tourist activities owing to their accessibility, facilities and prominence in advertising campaigns. In addition, limnological investigations of the same 15 lakes were conducted in February 1999 to determine their current trophic status and potential susceptibility to adverse impacts from tourism, particularly with reference to eutrophication. On the basis of nutrient and chlorophyll a concentrations, the two water table window lakes, Ocean Lake and Lake Wabby, were classed as mesotrophic and oligo‐mesotrophic, while all of the perched dune lakes were oligotrophic. Lake McKenzie and Lake Birrabeen, the two most threatened lakes according to TPI scores, had the lowest nutrient concentrations of all of the lakes examined and, consequently, we suggest that nutrient additions might elicit rapid algal growth responses in these systems. Comparisons between current data and historical data from Arthington et al. (1990) indicate that increases in planktonic chlorophyll a concentrations were not always directly mirrored by increases in total phosphorus concentrations. We found that while chlorophyll a concentrations were significantly higher in the 1999 samples than in the 1990 samples for all lakes, total phosphorus concentrations were higher in Ocean Lake, lower in Lake Jennings and similar in lakes McKenzie, Birrabeen and Wabby.
Xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis with acquired cystic disease of the kidney in a haemodialysis patient
Authors: NAKATANI Tatsuya , UCHIDA Junji , IWAI Tomoaki , YOSHIDA Naomasa , KURATSUKURI Katsuyuki , TAKEMOTO Yoshiaki , SUGIMURA Kazunobu
Published: December 2004

SUMMARY:  A 54‐year‐old‐female patient who had received regular haemodialysis therapy for 12 years was referred to our hospital for evaluation of a left renal mass. Imaging examinations revealed acquired cystic disease of the kidney (ACDK) and a tumour‐like lesion in the left kidney. Because of the preoperative diagnosis of the left renal cell carcinoma, the patient underwent a left nephrectomy. Pathological examination revealed xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis. It was difficult to distinguish xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis from renal cell carcinoma in our case, because it is very rare for xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis to occur in ACDK.
Glomerular expression of connective tissue growth factor mRNA in various renal diseases
Authors: SUZUKI Daisuke , TOYODA Masao , UMEZONO Tomoya , UEHARA Goro , ZHANG Shao‐Yu , SAKAI Takako , NISHINA Makoto , SUGA Takao , ENDOH Masayuki , YAGAME Mitsunori , SAKAI Hideto
Published: December 2004

SUMMARY:  Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a cysteine‐rich member of a new family of growth regulators. It is an important factor in the pathogenesis of mesangial matrix accumulation and progressive glomerulosclerosis. The present study was designed to elucidate the role of CTGF in diabetic nephropathy (DN), immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgA‐N), membranous nephropathy (MN), and minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS). We evaluated the expression and localization of CTGF mRNA in surgically excised renal tissue samples from 10 patients with DN, 10 with IgA‐N, 10 with MN, 10 with MCNS, and 10 normal human kidney (NHK) tissue samples, by using high‐resolution in situ hybridization with digoxigenin‐labelled oligonucleotide. To quantify CTGF mRNA expression, we counted all nuclei, and nuclei surrounded by CTGF‐positive cytoplasm, in at least 10 randomly selected cross‐sections of non‐sclerotic glomeruli, and expressed the results as a percentage of total glomerular cells. In all glomeruli, CTGF mRNA was expressed mainly in glomerular intrinsic cells, including glomerular mesangial and epithelial cells and some cells of Bowman's capsule. The percentage of cells positive for CTGF mRNA was significantly higher in DN and IgA‐N than in MN, MCNS and NHK. However, there was no significant difference in the percentage of CTGF mRNA‐positive cells between DN and IgA‐N. Our study indicates that CTGF may play an important role in the development and progression of glomerulosclerosis in DN and IgA‐N, which are both accompanied by mesangial matrix expansion and comprise two major causes of end‐stage renal failure.
Reversible acute renal failure associated with hypothyroidism: Report of four cases with a brief review of literature
Authors: MOORAKI Ahmad , BROUMAND Behrooz , NEEKDOOST Fatemeh , AMIRMOKRI Parham , BASTANI Bahar
Published: December 2004

SUMMARY:   We present four adult cases of acute renal failure associated with hypothyroidism. All patients presented with symptoms suggestive of moderate to severe hypothyroidism, such as cold intolerance, constipation, muscle weakness, and lower extremity oedema. Initial serum creatinine levels ranged between 115 and 203 µmol/L (1.3 and 2.3 mg/dL), with creatinine clearances (CrCl) ranging between 0.58 and 0.97 mL/s (34.5 and 58 mL/min). After 6–12 weeks of treatment with levothyroxin, serum creatinine levels decreased to the range of 80 and 124 µmol/L (0.9 and 1.4 mg/dL) and CrCl increased to 0.74–1.64 mL/s (44–98 mL/min). One patient had proteinuria of 800 mg/day, which decreased to the normal range (<200 mg/day) after levothyroxin treatment. One patient developed acute gouty arthritis before normalization of thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH), which was successfully managed with prednisone therapy. All of our patients had increased creatine kinase (CK), ranging between 1000 and 2360 U/L (normal range, 22–165 U/L), which normalized after 6 weeks of levothyroxin treatment.
Outcomes of day care: A pilot study on changes in cognitive function and agitated behaviors of demented elderly in Korea
Authors: Kim Nam‐Cho , Kim Hee‐Seung , Yoo Yang‐Sook , Hahn Suk‐Won , Yeom Hye‐A
Published: December 2004

Abstract This study examined outcomes of Korean day care for demented elderly Koreans. Changes in the cognitive function and agitation of demented elderly individuals were assessed over time. A one‐group repeated measures design was used. The data were collected on a sample of 13 individuals from March to August 1999. The cognitive function of the subjects remained stable during the 10‐week study period, while their level of agitation increased over time, indicating a need for the examination of factors that affect problematic behaviors of the demented elderly. This pilot study showed that day‐care programs in Korea may be an effective way to maintain the stability of cognitive function in elderly Koreans with mild‐ to moderate‐stage dementia. Further investigation of effective behavioral modifications within day‐care settings could justify additional government support of Korean day‐care programs for those suffering from dementia.