bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of the susceptibility of Atlantic halibut, Hippoglossus hippoglossus (L.), to viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus isolated from turbot, Scophthalmus maximus (L.)
Authors: Bowden T J
Published: December 2004

The susceptibility of Atlantic halibut, Hippoglossus hippoglossus (L.), to viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus (VHSV) was tested. Juvenile halibut of approximately 5 g weight were subjected to challenge by intraperitoneal injection, cohabitation and immersion to a VHSV isolate from an outbreak of the disease in turbot, Scophthalmus maximus (L.). The intraperitoneal injection gave the highest mortality rate of 28% after 50 days. The cohabitee group suffered 19% mortality rate and the immersion group only 2%. Control groups included turbot exposed either by intraperitoneal injection or immersion which suffered mortality rates of 93 and 50%, respectively. The results suggest that halibut are markedly less susceptible to VHSV than turbot.
CO2 laser therapy in a case of steatocystoma multiplex with prominent nodules on the face and neck
Authors: Rossi Riccardo , Cappugi Pietro , Battini MariaLuisa , Mavilia Luciano , Campolmi Piero
Published: December 2004

Background Steatocystoma multiplex is an uncommon disorder which usually begins in adolescence or early adult life. The condition can be hereditary, as an autosomal dominant trait, or nonhereditary, as in this case.

Methods A 40‐year‐old woman presented with a history of asymptomatic nodules that began around puberty on the face. There was no family history of similar lesions. Clinical examination revealed multiple nodules distributed on the face and neck. The histopathologic examination of a biopsy specimen showed the typical features of steatocystoma multiplex. CO2 laser therapy without anesthesia was employed, and the contents were evacuated by squeezing the cysts with a pair of forceps.

Results Very good results were obtained with rapid healing, minimal invasiveness, and without anesthesia. There was no evidence of scar formation and no signs of recurrence at 2‐year follow‐up.

Conclusions Different treatments have been reported for steatocystoma multiplex. We consider CO2 laser therapy to be an ideal technique for the treatment of steatocystoma multiplex, especially when the lesions are localized in aesthetically important areas.
Linear IgA dermatosis associated with chronic clonal myeloproliferative disease
Authors: Holló P. , Preisz K. , Nemes L. , Bíró J. , Kárpáti S. , Horváth A.
Published: December 2004

A 76‐year‐old (male) developed pruritic, widespread papules and plaques in a symmetrical arrangement. The disease proved to be linear IgA dermatosis with circulating IgA type antibasement membrane autoantibodies binding to the epidermal side of the salt‐split skin.
Newly available treatments for psoriatic arthritis and their impact on skin psoriasis
Authors: Galadari Hassan , Fuchs Brian , Lebwohl Mark
Published: December 2004

Far from being a “benign” arthropathy, as it was initially characterized, psoriatic arthritis (PsA) affects approximately 0.2% of the US population and can be associated with considerable joint damage, symptomatology, and quality of life impairment. PsA shares many characteristics with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and new, rationally designed drugs that are effective in RA also are proving active in PsA. Two such drugs, etanercept and infliximab, target tumor necrosis factor (TNF), a key component of the inflammatory response. This review discusses the rationale for and experience with the use of these agents in PsA. Etanercept is a dimeric fusion protein that binds specifically to TNF, blocking its interaction with cell surface TNF receptors. Infliximab is a chimeric (murine/human) monoclonal antibody that binds to TNF and inhibits its binding to its receptor. A randomized placebo‐controlled trial of etanercept in PsA found statistically significant benefits for this agent in measures of arthritic activity and psoriatic severity. There have been anecdotal reports of the efficacy of infliximab in PsA, but results from controlled clinical trials of this agent in PsA have not been reported. TNF inhibitors represent new therapeutic options for patients with PsA. The potential advantages of treatment with etanercept and infliximab early in the disease course are discussed.
Mycobacterium tuberculosis responsible for cutaneous disease after percutaneal inoculation of solutions: a case report
Authors: Lilia Maria , Díaz Betancourt MD  , Olano Alejandro Muñoz , Klinger Julio César
Published: December 2004

Tuberculosis continues to be a public health problem, especially in developing countries. It is responsible for 3 million deaths annually.1 Cutaneous infection is distributed worldwide, with an increased incidence in temple environments.2 In the USA, cutaneous tuberculosis comprises 0.14% of reported tuberculosis cases.3 Here we report a case of cutaneous tuberculosis in a woman undergoing neural therapy. The therapy included periumbilical injections of procainamide and a substance called ‘machura’, which formed part of an “antihomotoxic” homeopathic treatment whose composition is unknown.
Facial linear focal elastosis: a case report
Authors: Serhat Inaloz H. , Kirtak Necmettin , Karakok Metin , Ozgoztasi Orhan
Published: December 2004

Background  Linear focal elastosis is an uncommon disorder that clinically shows band‐like stria and a histological focal increase in elastic fibers. The disorder preferentially affects men after the age of 60 years and occurs on the lower back. The pathogenesis of linear focal elastosis is still somewhat of an enigma.

Method  A 50‐year‐old farmer presented with an unusual linear lesion on the left side of his chin. The patient was frequently exposed to sun because of fieldwork for a period of more than 40 years.

Results  Skin biopsy specimen revealed a massive abnormal collagen deposition extending from the subpapillary dermis to the lower dermis with numerous wavy bundles of fibers. Elastin van Gieson stain for elastic fibers showed that abnormal elastic fibers were increased within a massive abnormal collagen deposition. Diagnosis of facial linear focal elastosis was made after clinicopathological correlation.

Conclusion  Facial involvement of linear focal elastosis has not been reported previously in the literature. It has been suggested that sunlight has a minor role in the development of elastotic change in linear focal elastosis. However, our patient was a farmer and was exposed to sunlight frequently for a period of more than 40 years, suggesting that ultraviolet radiation may play a role in the pathogenesis of linear focal elastosis.
Wagner–Meissner neurilemmoma of the vulva
Authors: Ferrara Nicola , Di Marino Mariapia , Rossiello Luigi , Baldi Alfonso
Published: December 2004

A 24‐year‐old woman was seen in consultation for a painless tumor of 6 cm in diameter of the vulva. The excised oval tumor was situated in the lower part of the dermis and encapsulated (Fig. 1A). It was completely composed of multiple adjacent cell complexes, each containing 5–20 laminar cells and resembling Wagner–Meissner touch corpuscles (Fig 1B and 1C). The nuclei of the laminar cells were located at the periphery of the corpuscles or were arranged transversely to the long axis of these structures along the lamellae. The nuclei were oval or showed one or several nuclear invaginations. Mitoses were not observed. These corpuscles showed a positive immunohistochemical reaction for S‐100 (Fig. 1D), vimentin, and neuron‐specific endase (NSE) (not shown), but were negative for CD‐68, desmin, and α‐actin. The gross and microscopic morphology and the immunohistochemical findings were compatible with a diagnosis of Wagner–Meissner neurilemmoma of the vulva. The patient remained disease free for 2 years after surgery.

(A) Gross appearance of the excised oval tumor of the vulva, situated in the lower part of the dermis and encapsulated. (B) Histologic examination of the excised lesion revealed a monomorphous morphology with typical touch corpuscles with lamellar structures (hematoxylin and eosin; original magnification, × 50). (C) Higher magnification of (B). The nuclei are predominantly located at the periphery of the corpuscles (hematoxylin and eosin; original magnification, × 250). (D) The tactile corpuscles show a positive reaction for protein S‐100 (3‐amino‐9‐ethylcarbazide, × 250)

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Minocycline‐induced cutaneous pigmentation
Authors: Mehrany Khosrow , Kist Joseph M. , Ahmed Debra D. F. , Gibson Lawrence E.
Published: December 2004

A 76‐year‐old man receiving long‐term prednisone therapy for rheumatoid arthritis had a four‐part intertrochanteric fracture after a fall. The patient underwent an open reduction with internal fixation and dynamic hip screw placement. Two months later, when the patient presented with significant pain and difficulty ambulating, radiographs revealed dissociation of the compression screw from the femoral head. At the time of removal of failed hardware, a total hip replacement procedure was aborted when intraoperative findings were consistent with infection. Thorough irrigation and debridement were performed, with placement of antibiotic‐impregnated cement spacers. One month after a 4‐week course of intravenous cefazolin, the patient underwent left total hip arthroplasty. Intraoperative cultures grew methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Corynebacterium jeikeium. A 4‐week course of intravenous vancomycin was followed by long‐term antibiotic suppression with long‐term minocycline (100 mg twice daily).

Six months after starting minocycline, the patient noticed a blue‐gray discoloration of the forearms. During the next 4 months, the pigmentation progressed considerably. He was admitted to Mayo Clinic for a myocardial infarction. Three‐vessel coronary artery disease was discovered, necessitating bypass grafting. Before surgery, dermatology was consulted. A main concern of the primary service was the discoloration representing ecchymoses in a surgical candidate with a possible bleeding diathesis.

Cutaneous examination revealed slate gray, ill‐defined patches in the preauricular, flank, upper thigh, and shoulder areas. Similar patches coalesced on the upper and lower extremities (Fig. 1). There was no scleral or mucous membrane involvement. Histologically, minocycline pigmentation with pigment‐laden macrophages and free dermal pigment in the papillary and superficial reticular dermis stained positive with Prussian blue and Fontana‐Masson (Fig. 2). Minocycline was discontinued, and the patient was started on trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole double strength once daily for long‐term antimicrobial therapy.

Minocycline‐induced slate gray discoloration of the (a) arms and (b) shins

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Pigment‐laden macrophages and free dermal pigment. (Hematoxylin‐eosin; original magnification ×600)

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Minocycline‐induced central nervous system–pulmonary hypersensitivity syndrome
Authors: Settgast Ann M. , Groth Travis , Gertner Elie
Published: December 2004

Minocycline is widely used in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Reported side‐effects include hypersensitivity pneumonitis, drug‐induced lupus, Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA) ANCA‐positive vasculitis, and other autoimmune syndromes. We report the second case of severe central nervous system–pulmonary syndrome in a patient taking minocycline, which required high‐dose corticosteroid therapy. Clinicians should be aware of this potentially serious complication when prescribing minocycline, or when presented with a systemically ill patient taking this drug.
The contributions of programmed developmental change and phenotypic plasticity to within‐individual variation in leaf traits in Dicerandra linearifolia
Authors: Winn A. A.
Published: December 2004

Variation among modules of a single genet could provide a means of adaptation to environmental heterogeneity. Two mechanisms that can give rise to such variation are programmed developmental change and phenotypic plasticity. I quantified the relative roles of these two mechanisms in causing within‐individual variation in six leaf traits of an annual plant. Under controlled temperatures, morphological, anatomical, and physiological traits of leaves produced by the same individual differed as a function of both the node at which they were produced and the temperature they experienced during development. Temperature, node, and interactions between them all contributed significantly to the pattern of within‐individual variation in leaf traits, although the relative contributions of programmed developmental change and phenotypic plasticity differed for different traits. I hypothesize that these two mechanisms for generating within‐individual variation in module phenotype are favored by different patterns of environmental heterogeneity; when the sequence of environments encountered by modules of a single individual is predictable, programmed developmental change may be favored, and phenotypic plasticity may be favored when the sequence of environments is irregular with respect to individual ontogeny and therefore not predictable.
Behavioural discrimination among chromosomal races of the house mouse (Mus musculus domesticus)
Authors: Ganem G. , Searle J. B.
Published: December 2004

This work is concerned with the extent of behavioural discrimination between three chromosomal races of the house mouse (the standard 40‐chromosome race and a 32‐ and 36‐chromosome races) found in the vicinity of a hybrid zone in northern Scotland. Mice were investigated for several elements of their social behaviour. Within‐population dyadic encounters did not show consistent behavioural differences attributable to karyotype among five populations (two standard race, two 36‐chromosome race, one 32‐chromosome race). Between‐population dyadic encounters revealed significant differences between three populations. The standard population examined appeared to be the most “open” to foreigners, the 32‐chromosome population the most “closed” while the 36‐chromosome mice displayed an intermediate response. Differences in behaviour displayed during between‐population as compared to within‐population dyadic encounters revealed the occurrence of behavioural discrimination between populations. The implication of these results on the dynamics of the hybrid zone are discussed.
Heritable variation of sex ratio in a polychaete worm
Authors: Premoli M. C. , Sella G. , Berra G. P.
Published: December 2004

Ophryotrocha labronica is a gonochoristic polychaete worm whose sex determining mechanism and sex ratio control are supposed to be polygenic. From a lab population, whose sex ratio (i.e., proportion of males) was 0.5, the estimate of sex ratio heritability by offspring‐father regression was 0.54 ± 0.15 and by offspring‐mother regression was not significantly different from 0. Estimate of sex ratio repeatability between successive broods of a pair was 0.64 ± 0.33. Since female parents do not contribute in any way to the variability of sex ratio, sex ratio variation seems to be largely a paternal character. On the basis of these estimates we advance the hypothesis that in this species sex is determined by a multilocus genetic system, allowing the combined effects of a female major sex gene (which could give rise to a form of female heterogamety) and masculinizing modifiers. The hypothesis that the male sex has the least canalised sexual differentiation is supported by the observation that some old males developed oocytes.
A quantitative genetic competition model for sympatric speciation
Authors: Doebeli M.
Published: December 2004

I use multilocus genetics to describe assortative mating in a competition model. The intensity of competition between individuals is influenced by a quantitative character whose value is determined additively by alleles from many loci. With assortative mating based on this character, frequency‐ and density‐dependent competition can subdivide a population with an initially unimodal character distribution. The character distribution becomes bimodal, and the subpopulations corresponding to the two modes are reproductively separated because mating is assortative. This happens if the resource distribution is unimodal, i.e. even if selection due to phenotypic carrying capacities is not disruptive. The results suggest that sympatric speciation due to frequency‐dependent selection can occur in quite general ecological scenarios if mating is assortative. I also discuss the evolution of assortative mating. Since it induces bimodal phenotype distributions, assortative mating leads to a better match of the resources if their distribution is also bimodal. Moreover, in a population with a bimodal phenotype distribution, the average strength of frequency‐dependent competition is lower than in a unimodal population. Therefore, assortative mating permits higher equilibrium densities than random mating even if the resource distribution is unimodal. Thus, even though it may lead to a less efficient resource use, assortative mating is favoured over random mating because it reduces frequency‐dependent effects of competition.
Chemical Composition and Ruminal Dry Matter and Crude Protein Degradability of Spineless Cactus
Authors: Batista A. M. V. , Mustafa A. F. , Santos G. R. A. , De Carvalho F. F. R. , B. Dubeux J. C. , Lira M. A. , Barbosa S. B. P.
Published: December 2004

The objective of this study was to determine ruminal degradability of the dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) of 10 varieties of spineless cactus (Opuntia spp.) grown in north‐eastern Brazil. Two ruminally fistulated steers were used in a randomized complete block design. Ash, CP, acid detergent fiber, and acid detergent lignin levels ranged from 10.4 to 13.3 %, 6.2–7.7 %, 19.8–24.8 % and 3.4–5.4 %, respectively. Relative to the other cactus varieties, Redonda had the highest (P < 0.05) in situ soluble DM fraction and effective DM degradability. No differences in effective DM degradability were observed between the other cactus varieties. In situ soluble CP fraction ranged from 1.7 % of CP for the 69 IPA/UFRPE variety to 11.1 % of CP for the Gigante variety. Slowly degradable CP fraction and its rate of degradation were similar among the cactus varieties (average 90 % of CP and 9 % h−1, respectively). The cactus variety 69 IP/UFRPE had a lower (P < 0.05) effective ruminal CP degradability (ECPD) than the other varieties, which had a similar ECPD (average 66 % of CP). It was concluded that differences in ruminal degradability exist between cactus varieties, with more variations observed for ruminal DM than for CP degradability.
Nutrient Management Effects on Light Interception, Photosynthesis, Growth, Dry‐matter Production and Yield of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea)
Authors: Mandal K. G. , Sinha A. C.
Published: December 2004

A field experiment was conducted on sandy loam acidic soil to study the effect of nutrient managements on light interception, photosynthesis, growth, biomass production and yield of Indian mustard [Brassica juncea (L.) Czern & Coss.]. Plant height, number of branches per plant, number of siliqua per plant, number of seeds per siliquae, 1000‐seed weight, seed and oil yield of Indian mustard improved at 100 % recommended rates of NPK (N‐P‐K at 80‐17.2‐33.2 kg ha−1) + 10 t ha−1 farmyard manure (FYM) (T3) compared with 100 % NPK rate (T2). It was also at par with 100 % NPK + 10 kg ha−1 borax + 20 kg ha−1 ZnSO4 (T6) and 50 % NPK + 10 t ha−1 FYM +10 kg ha−1 borax + 20 kg ha−1 ZnSO4 (T10). The rate of photosynthesis increased due to appropriate nutrient management treatments (T3, T6 or T10) with concomitant increase in photosynthetically active radiation, internal CO2 concentration and rate of transpiration and decrease in stomatal resistance. Consequent upon the higher rate of photosynthesis, dry‐matter accumulation increased. The crop receiving nutrient treatment T3 or T6 maintained higher light interception ratio (LIR), leaf area index (LAI), biomass production, crop growth rate (CGR) and net assimilation rate (NAR) that resulted in greater rate of photosynthesis, harvest index and seed yield. Similarly, T10 was equally efficient in registering greater LIR, LAI, CGR, NAR and seed yield of mustard. The average seed yields were 1692, 1683 and 1668 kg ha−1 in T3, T6 and T10, respectively, and these three treatments were significantly superior to T2 (1332 kg ha−1), control (723 kg ha−1) and other treatments. Significantly greater seed oil contents of 41.30, 40.60 and 41.07 % were recorded in T3, T6 and T10, respectively. Thus, significant improvement due to appropriate combination of NPK, FYM, borax and ZnSO4 was observed for uptake of nutrients.
Microsatellite polymorphism and genetic distances between the dog, red fox and arctic fox
Authors: Klukowska J. , Strabel T. , Mackowski M. , Switonski M.
Published: December 2004

This study compared polymorphism of nine canine‐derived microsatellites (MS) (CPH1, CPH3, CPH6, CPH11, 2004, 2010, 2140, 2168 and 2319) in three species of the family Canidae. The DNA samples of 151 dogs, 53 arctic foxes and 91 red foxes were examined. The canine‐derived primers did not amplify two MS (CPH1 and CPH11) in genome samples of the arctic fox. The most polymorphic MS in the studied species was the one named 2319. For majority of the loci mean allele size was higher in the dog than in two fox species. The genetic distances between the species were estimated using three formulas: DS, Da and (σμ)2. The estimated distances between both fox species were the smallest, while those between the dog and the arctic fox were the largest.
Molecular markers in the LEP gene and reproductive performance of beef cattle
Authors: Almeida S. E. M. , Almeida E. A. , Moraes J. C. F. , Weimer T. A.
Published: December 2004

The present study investigated four restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) in the leptin gene and five short tandem repeats (STRs) in its vicinity in 160 females from a synthetic beef cattle breed (5/8 Aberdeen Angus and 3/8 Nelore), and evaluated possible associations between these markers and reproductive performance. A high level of genetic diversity was observed, STRs being more variable than RFLPs. Heterozygosities ranged from 0.67 to 0.87 in STRs and from 0.12 to 0.49 in RFLPs, suggesting that the selective process applied to the Brangus‐Ibage cattle had not affected the total genetic diversity expected for crossbreeds. Two alleles (IDVGA51*181 and LEPSau3A1*+) seem to increase calving interval (CI) by about 79 and 81 days, respectively. Therefore, selection against carriers of these mutations could improve CI by at least 2 months, despite the seasonality of the mating period employed here. LEPSau3AI system seems to influence weight at first calving (WFC). Heterozygotes (LEPSau3AI*+/LEPSau3AI*−) had higher WFC than LEPSau3AI*−/LEPSau3AI*− homozygote. Selection for animals with this genotype could result in some advantages for post‐calving recovery. CI and WFC are indirect measurements of reproduction reflecting also animal body conditions, and therefore it is difficult to determine whether or not IDVGA51*181 and LEPSau3A1*+ alleles directly affect the reproductive system. Although further analysis of other herds should be performed to confirm these data, the association of genetic markers with better reproductive performance is a very interesting finding and could be used in marker‐assisted selection to improve reproduction in beef cattle.
The 5′‐promoter and coding region of the macrophage expressed lysozyme encoding‐gene do not reveal variants associated with high serum lytic activity in Polish Black‐and‐White cattle
Authors: Pareek C. S. , Seyfert H.‐M. , Walawski K. , Pareek R. S. , Schwerin M.
Published: December 2004

In a previous study two bulls were identified in the Polish Black‐and‐White Lowland cattle population that inherited an increased serum lytic activity (LZM+) in a heterozygous fashion. The LZM+ phenotype shows in both half‐sib families a strong co‐segregation with a particular allele of the LysMic microsatellite localized within intron 2 of the immunorelevant macrophage expressed lysozyme encoding‐gene (mLYZ). No trait‐associated mLYZ promoter variant had previously been found. Here, we examine genetic polymorphisms within the entire coding region of this gene by comparative sequence analyses of all four exons in both bulls and two progenies exhibiting low serum lytic activity (LZM0). We found no mutations in the coding sequence of mLYZ gene. However, two single nucleotide polymorphisms were detected in introns 2 and 3 of this mLYZ gene at positions 8603 (C/T transition) and 9963 (C/A transversion). A polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism assay was developed to detect the C/T transition in intron 2, creating a polymorphic Sau3A restriction site. The ‘T’‐residue‐harbouring allele segregates with the LZM+ phenotype and is tightly linked to the previously reported diagnostic allele 7 of the LysMic microsatellite. Unaltered DNA sequences in both, promoter and coding region of mLYZ encoding gene in animals with high and low lytic activity indicates that this parameter is influenced by factors other than quantity or quality of the enzyme encoded by this gene.
Genetic structure of eighteen local south European beef cattle breeds by comparative F‐statistics analysis
Authors: Jordana J. , Alexandrino P. , Beja‐Pereira A. , Bessa I. , Cañon J. , Carretero Y. , Dunner S. , Laloë D. , Moazami‐Goudarzi K. , Sanchez A. , Ferrand N.
Published: December 2004

The genetic structure and relationships among 18 local Southwest European beef cattle breeds (10 from Spain, five from Portugal and three from France) have been inferred from 16 DNA microsatellite loci, by using F‐statistics, for conservation purposes. Level of apparent breed differentiation is considerable and multilocus FST values indicate that around 6.8% of the total genetic variation could be explained by breed differences and the remaining 93.2% by differences among individuals. For countries of origin, the French breeds were those that showed a higher genetic uniformity. All breeds, except the Portuguese breeds Barrosã and Mirandesa, showed a significant heterozygotes deficit. Several factors that could cause this deficit are discussed, and the within‐population inbreeding estimates obtained are compared with those from genealogical data. Gene flow could have played an important role for genetic uniformity in populations of narrow geographical vicinity. Neither isolation by distance and hierarchical structure associated with geography are detected. However, in sight of the obtained results, we suggest the genetic drift as the most important factor of genetic differentiation among the analysed populations. The apparent taxonomic distinctiveness of the breeds could be, in an important way, the result of a random drift, which can affect the genetic distances among populations.
Toxicity of two ecdysone agonists, halofenozide and methoxyfenozide, against the multicoloured Asian lady beetle Harmonia axyridis (Col., Coccinellidae)
Authors: Carton B. , Smagghe G. , Tirry L.
Published: December 2004

Abstract: The insecticidal activity of two ecdysone agonists, methoxyfenozide (RH‐2485) and halofenozide (RH‐0345), was tested against last‐instar larvae of the natural predator Harmonia axyridis (Col., Coccinellidae). In addition, the relative weight gain of the larvae after application was followed. Both products proved to be equally toxic at concentrations of 25, 50 and 100 mg/l. The ecdysteroidal activity of the compounds caused premature induction of larval moulting, cessation of feeding and incomplete pupation in affected larvae. Although, compared with previous results with methoxyfenozide and halofenozide in target pests such as the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, these compounds caused mortality only after application at relatively high concentrations.
Use of the parasitoid Diaeretiella rapae (McIntoch) to control the cabbage aphid Brevicoryne brassicae (L.)
Authors: Zhang W. Q. , Hassan S. A.
Published: December 2004

The parasitoid Diaeretiella rapae accepted all stages of the cabbage aphid Brevicoryne brassicae. The average number of mummies produced per female parasitoid was 42.8. Diaeretiella rapae did not show preference between young (first–second instars) and old (fourth instars) nymphs of the aphid. Nymph aphids younger than 4 days (third instars) produced no offspring after parasitism. The average number of offspring per aphid that was parasitized at day 5–6 (third–fourth instars) and day 7 (adults) were 3.1 and 15.3, respectively, which were much less compared with the aphid that was not parasitized (38.1). The average reproduction period for the aphids that were parasitized at day 5–6 and day 7 were 1.9 and 4.4 days, respectively and that for non‐parasitized aphids was 14.9 days. Cage experiments showed that at the ratio of 1.2 : 1 (six female wasps : five aphid adults), with three releases on day 1, 3 and 6, the percent parasitism of the offspring on day 20 was 88.9%, and the aphids were successfully controlled by the second generation of the released parasitoids. Release of cabbage plants that included both mummies and young aphids in a broccoli field, with a dose of about 2 mummies/m2, resulted in higher percentage of the broccoli plants with mummies in the treated plot compared with the control plot. The percent parasitism of the aphids on broccoli plants in the treated plot was also, with one exception, significantly higher. Seven weeks after the release of the parasitoid, the percentage of the broccoli plants with mummies was 93.3% in the treated plot and 56.7% in the control plot; the percent parasitism of the aphids were 6.7 and 1.4% in the treated and control plots, respectively. These results indicated that one release of the cabbage plants with mummies enhanced the spread of the parasitoid D. rapae and increased parasitism of the aphids in the field. More releases of the parasitoid are needed to control the aphid effectively.
Response of Monochamus (Col., Cerambycidae) and some Buprestidae to flight intercept traps
Authors: de Groot P. , Nott R. W.
Published: December 2004

Flight intercept traps of various designs (multiple funnel, panel or crossvane) were tested to determine their effectiveness in capturing Monochamus beetles. The retention of insects in crossvane traps with the collection receptacle left dry, dry with insecticide or partially filled with soapy water, and the efficacy of treating the crossvane panels with a slippery surfactant was investigated. Captures of female (but not male) Monochamus scutellatus scutellatus (Col., Cerambycidae) were significantly higher in custom‐made crossvane traps than two commercially available funnel or panel traps. Male and female M. mutator responded equally to traps of all designs, as did three species of Buprestidae (Buprestris maculativentris, Dicerca tenebrosa and Chalcophora virginiensis). Dry crossvane traps with or without insecticide were less effective than wet traps in retaining insects. Adding a surfactant to increase the slipperiness of the trap panels generally resulted in significantly higher trap catches than untreated traps.
Comparison of outcomes of three different surgical techniques performed for stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Kilicarslan Hakan , Guvenal Tevfik , Ayan Semih , Gokce Gokhan , Cetin Ali , Gultekin E Yener
Published: December 2004

Background: The aim was to compare the efficacy of Burch colposuspension, transvaginal four‐corner bladder neck suspension (FCBNS) and the vaginal wall sling (VWS) procedures in patients with stress urinary incontinence.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on 88 patients who underwent Burch colposuspension (n = 20), FCBNS (n = 29) and VWS (n = 39) for stress urinary incontinence. Objective and subjective cure rates at 3 months and annually after the operation were the primary outcome measures.

Results: The patients were similar in age, parity, menopausal status, grade of cystocel and preoperative residual urine volumes. Fourteen out of 20 (70%) patients showed improvement in the group undergoing Burch colposuspension, 29 out of 39 (74.4%) patients showed improvement in the FCBNS group, and 28 out of 29 (96.6%) patients showed improvement in the VWS group. The mean length of follow up was 3.8 years (range 3–5).

Conclusion: In this study, the VWS procedure had a higher long‐term cure rate of stress urinary incontinence when compared with the Burch colposuspension and the FCBNS procedures.
Diagnostic value of serum prostate‐specific antigen in hemodialysis patients
Authors: SUMURA MASAHIRO , YOKOGI HIROYUKI , BEPPU MASAKO , HONDA HIROSHI
Published: December 2004

Background: The value of serum prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) screening was examined to detect prostate cancer in men receiving hemodialysis.

Methods: Forty‐one male patients age 60–95 (median age, 70 years) receiving hemodialysis were investigated for PSA levels. We set the cut‐off point at 4 ng/mL (the usual reference range). Digital rectal examination (DRE) and transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) of the prostate were performed in patients whose PSA was more than 4 ng/mL and/or who expected further examination of the prostate. When prostate cancer was suspected, biopsy of the prostate was performed. In patients with prostate cancer, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and bone scintigraphy were performed to diagnose the clinical stage.

Results: The mean serum level of PSA was 2.10 ± 0.49 ng/mL. In this screening study, four of 41 men required further examinations for prostate cancer. Two of four refused further examinations. The other two were diagnosed with prostate cancer. The incidence of prostate cancer was at least 5% in our hemodialysis patients. One man, whose clinical stage was T2aN0M0, was treated with radical retropubic prostatectomy. Another man, whose clinical stage was T2bN0M0, was treated with luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone analogue.

Conclusion: In our preliminary study, prostate cancer screening with PSA was useful for the early detection of prostate cancer in hemodialysis patients. If possible, DRE and TRUS should be performed in conjunction with PSA tests.
Renal cell carcinoma with hemorrhagic cyst formation in a 4‐year‐old boy
Authors: ADACHI TAKAHISA , NAKATANI TATUYA , MINAMI HIDETOSI , IKEMOTO SINICHI , ESAKI KAZUYOSI , MORIMOTO HIROYUKI , TAKASE TOSIO
Published: December 2004

We report on a case of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with hemorrhagic cyst formation in a 4‐year‐old boy. The patient presented with asymptomatic macrohematuria. Abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a left renal complicated cyst, 18 mm in diameter. Renal malignancy was suspected, and left radical nephrectomy was performed. Pathological diagnosis was a complicated cyst filled with bloody clots, with a wall composed of RCC. No metastases to the regional lymph nodes or other organs were found. This is an extremely rare occurrence of such a small RCC that developed a hemorrhagic cyst in a boy of this young age. The boy is being followed‐up without any additional treatment.
Prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms in a community‐based survey of men in Turkey
Authors: TUNCAY AKI FAZIL , AYGUN CEM , BILIR NAZMI , ERKAN ILHAN , ÖZEN HALUK
Published: December 2004

Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine the frequency of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), assess the impact of LUTS on quality of life (QOL) and compare the results with recent reports from other population‐based studies.

Methods: A total of 266 men participated in the study. The men were stratified into 10‐year age groups between 40 and 79 years. All participants were asked to complete a questionnaire that included a Turkish translation of the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) with QOL questions, and void into a uroflowmeter to obtain voided urine volume, peak and mean flow rate.

Results: While 14.8% of men had no symptoms (IPSS = 0), 24.9% had moderate to severe symptoms (IPSS> 7). Severity of symptoms increased with age (P= 0.0018). There was a strong relationship between bother score and IPSS (rs= 0.79, P= 0.0001). Fifty‐five percent of moderately symptomatic and 78% of severely symptomatic men reported poor QOL (QOL score ≥ 3). The results of the survey provide a general picture of the symptomatology and urinary flow profiles of elderly men living in Turkey.

Conclusion: The prevalence of LUTS in the Turkish community is fairly high, it increases with age and has an impact on QOL that is not negligible.
Leiomyoma of the urinary bladder during pregnancy
Authors: MIZUNO KENTARO , SASAKI SHOICHI , TOZAWA KEIICHI , KOJIMA YOSHIYUKI , HAYASHI YUTARO , KOHRI KENJIRO
Published: December 2004

We present a rare case of leiomyoma of the urinary bladder that was diagnosed during pregnancy. To our knowledge, this is the fourth case of its kind to be reported in the literature. Ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging and biopsy were useful for making an accurate diagnosis in this case. The diagnosis was confirmed by suprapubic transcutaneous needle biopsy. The tumor was resected approximately 3 years after diagnosis, during which period the patient delivered a normal baby by caesarian section.
Pathological findings of radical prostatectomy specimens in Japanese men diagnosed on single core positive prostate biopsy in eight with a Gleason score less than 4
Authors: MIYAKE HIDEAKI , ONO YOSHIHARU , PARK SOO‐JEON , HARA ISAO , ETO HIROSHI
Published: December 2004

Background: The objective of the present study was to analyze the pathological findings of radical prostatectomy specimens diagnosed on single core positive prostate biopsy in eight systematic transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)‐guided biopsies with a Gleason score ≤ 4.

Methods: Between January 1993 and March 2001, 975 patients underwent TRUS‐guided prostate biopsy, and 32 patients were diagnosed as having prostate cancer based only on one positive core with a Gleason score ≤ 4. In this study, 14 of the 32 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy without any neoadjuvant therapies were enrolled, and the pathological findings of their radical prostatectomy specimens were evaluated.

Results: The clinical stage of the 14 patients was T1c in 10 and T2 in four. Cancer was detected in the prostate apex in seven patients, the middle in two, the base of the peripheral zone (PZ) in three, the lateral horn of the PZ in one and the transitional zone (TZ) one. Pathological stage of the 14 patients was pT2a in four, pT2b in six, pT3a in three and pT3b one. Gleason score of the radical prostatectomy specimens in 11 patients was also ≤ 4. Of the 10 patients diagnosed with cT1c, extraprostatic disease was found in only one radical prostatectomy specimen. All three patients whose cancer was detected from the base of the PZ showed pT3 disease. During the median follow‐up period of 47.5 months, all patients were alive with no evidence of disease.

Conclusion: The prognosis of patients who were diagnosed with one core positive prostate biopsy with a Gleason score ≤ 4 is generally favorable; however, advanced disease tended to be observed in patients who were diagnosed with cT2a and/or whose cancer was detected from the base of PZ.
Trends in mortality rates for infectious and parasitic diseases in Australia: 1907−1997
Authors: Bi P. , Whitby M. , Walker S. , Parton K. A.
Published: December 2004

Aims:  To characterize long‐term mortality trends for infectious and parasitic diseases in Australia during the twentieth century, explore influencing factors and provide suggestions to health policy‐makers.

Methods:  A descriptive study was conducted. Deaths due to communicable diseases from 1907 to 1997 were tallied, according to the International Classifi­cation of Diseases version 9 (ICD‐9). Trends in infectious disease mortality in overall population and in the 0−4 years age group were examined and standardized by sex. Death rates were also studied for: (i) diarrhoea/enteritis, (ii) pneumonia and all respir­atory diseases and (iii) tuberculosis.

Results: There has been a substantial decline in ­mortality from communicable diseases over the study period. The death rate dropped from 258.9 per 100 000 population in 1907 to 7.2 per 100 000 pop­ulation in 1997. Six phases of the decline were observed.

Conclusions: A combination of improved living conditions and access to readily available treatments over the twentieth century played an important role in the reduction of infectious disease mortality in Australia. (Intern Med J 2003; 33: 152−162)
Humanism and the suffering of the people
Authors: Mackay I. R.
Published: December 2004

Abstract

Humanism includes, among its many contexts, the ideal of the universal perfection of health. Procedures for alleviation of disease existed through all epochs of human history, but efficacy was mostly lacking. The prototypic humanism of the Renaissance (ad 1300−1600) scarcely involved the medical ­sciences other than human anatomy. The Enlightenment of the seventeenth century included discovery of the circulation of the blood, and applications of microscopy. Discoveries relevant to medical practice began in the nineteenth century, ushered in by vaccination and the germ theory of disease. This 200‐year period saw a transformation of human health according to the surrogate marker of increased life‐­expectancy. This has been variously attributed to: (i) increased prosperity following the industrial revolution, (ii) efforts of humanistic social and public health reformers and, more recently, (iii) advances in medical science. Yet the beneficiaries remain a minority of the world's population. The nexus between poverty, illness and low life‐expectancy between and within nations is the major challenge for the future. Contemporary science is providing ever‐expanding knowledge on means to achieve the goal of perfection of human health, but the need for humanism is as great as at any previous age. Fortunately, however, the targets are more clearly visible than during the periods of poverty, plagues and pestilence of the past. (Intern Med J 2003; 33: 195−202)
Prophylactic nasopharyngeal tube insertion prevents acute hypoxaemia due to upper‐airway obstruction during flexible bronchoscopy
Authors: Chhajed P. N. , Aboyoun C. , Malouf M. A. , Hopkins P. M. , Plit M. , Grunstein R. R. , Glanville A. R.
Published: December 2004

Abstract

Insertion of a nasopharyngeal tube (NT) is a highly effective approach to the management of acute hypox­aemia during flexible bronchoscopy (FB) in lung ­transplant recipients. We noted that lung transplant recipients undergoing FB who had been treated previously with NT insertion had further episodes of oxygen desaturation (<90%), despite supplemental oxygen therapy. Prophylactic NT insertion prevented acute hypoxaemia in the majority of lung transplant recipients, with previously documented FB‐related oxygen desaturation secondary to UAO. Additional jaw support may be needed in some patients with severe upper‐airway obstruction. (Intern Med J 2003; 33: 317−318)
Dietary fibre: a roughage guide
Authors: James S. L. , Muir J. G. , Curtis S. L. , Gibson P. R.
Published: December 2004

Abstract

The concept of dietary fibre is a complex one that incorporates the physical and physiological functions of fibre and its effects both systemically and local to the gastro­intestinal tract. Dietary fibre can be usefully classified according to its solubility and fermentability, which allows rational clinical application. Fibres may act in several ways including by gel‐forming effects in the stomach and small intestine, by its fermentation by colonic bacteria, by a ‘mop and sponge’ effect, and via concomitant changes in other aspects of the diet. These actions lead to potentially beneficial effects in the gastro­intestinal tract and systemically, such as lowering serum cholesterol and improving glycaemic control. Dietary fibre has been implicated in multiple clinical situations but, although an extensive literature on putative actions and proposed physiological bases is available, high‐level evidence of efficacy is limited. Nevertheless, encouraging the intake of a high‐fibre diet is likely to have a range of health benefits and physicians are encouraged to follow simple practical guidelines in their everyday practice. (Intern Med J 2003; 33: 291−296)
Role of intravenous immunoglobulin in severe steroid‐dependent asthma
Authors: Haque S. , Boyce N. , Thien F. C. K. , O'Hehir R. E. , Douglass J.
Published: December 2004

Abstract

Background:  Subgroups of asthma patients have extremely severe respiratory symptoms that require chronic use of steroids for disease control. These patients are at risk of significant side‐effects from chronic exposure to high doses of oral steroids. Intra­venous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has immunomodulatory properties as shown by its use in some immune disorders. A few trials have suggested a possible benefit in individuals with severe asthma.

Aims:  To evaluate the role of IVIG as an adjunctive therapy in steroid‐dependent asthma, monitoring the outcomes of lung function and measured reduction in oral steroid requirement

Method:  Seven patients with severe steroid‐dependent asthma were given IVIG at a dose of 1 g/kg each month for 6 months. Baseline pulmonary function tests and immunoglobulin levels were obtained. At the end of 6 months, the end‐points observed were lung function and the degree of reduction in the dose of oral steroids. The number of hospital admissions during the 12 months following commencement of IVIG was compared with the preceding 12 months.

Results:  There was a significant reduction in daily prednisolone dose from 56 ± 31 mg to 39 ± 35 mg (P = 0.04, Wilcoxon rank sum test) and a decrease in the number of hospital admissions from 5.9 ± 2.9 to 3.6 ± 3.5 (P = 0.04). No significant improvement occurred in lung function.

Conclusion:  IVIG provides a potentially important adjunctive therapy in severe steroid‐dependent asthma, reducing steroid requirement and decreasing hospital admissions, but not improving lung function. (Intern Med J 2003; 33: 341−344)
Expectations of the child health nurse in Sweden: two perspectives
Authors: Fägerskiöld A. , Ek A. ‐C.
Published: December 2004

Background: the child health service exists to support and stimulate parents in order to reduce stress and to encourage an advantageous development of the preschool child. Aim: To explore and describe similarities and differences in expectations of the child health nurse, from the perspective of the recently delivered first‐time mother, as compared to an expression of what the child health nurse believed mothers of infants expected of them. The data consisted of 15 interviews with child health nurses and 20 interviews with first‐time mothers. Thematic content analysis resulted in seven categories of expectations. The child health nurse was expected to be someone to approach, who could assess the child's development and give immunizations and to be a supporter, counsellor, safety provider and a parent group organizer with knowledge. Similarities between the mothers’ and the nurses’ statements occurred more frequently than differences, which is suggested to depend on the Swedish tradition among new mothers of visiting the child health clinic. The mothers expected participation in parent groups to a higher degree than the nurses thought they did. Child health nurses who fulfil the mothers’ expectations appear to require a good relationship with the mother in order to find out what she desires, which the allocation of sufficient time for regular meetings, will facilitate. Moreover, the nurse requires knowledge about children's requirements and the transition to motherhood as well as the father's important role.