bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relation between serum Insulin‐like growth factor‐I and insulin‐like growth factor‐binding protein‐3 levels, clinical status and growth parameters in prepubertal cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Ozen Metehan , Cokugras Haluk , Ozen Naile , Camcioglu Yildiz , Akcakaya Necla
Published: August 2004

Abstract
Background
: This study aims to determine the relation between anabolic hormones, Insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) and IGF‐binding protein‐3 (IGFBP‐3), growth parameters, and clinical status in prepubertal cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. This prospective study comprises age/sex‐matched control subjects and was set in a tertiary care teaching hospital.

Methods: Serum concentrations of IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 were measured in 37 CF and 23 healthy subjects, whose mean ages were 5.02 ± 3.06 and 5.27 ± 2.82, respectively. The results were analyzed in relation to body mass index standard deviation scores (BMISD), height standard deviation scores (HSD), growth velocity standard deviation scores (GVSD), and clinical status assessed by Shwachman scores and pulmonary function parameters.

Results: Serum IGFBP‐3 of CF patients showed significantly lower concentrations than healthy subjects (2457 vs. 3249 ng/mL) (P < 0.05), whereas IGF‐I levels did not (123.35 vs. 149.8 ng/mL). There was significant positive correlation between IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 with HSD (r = 0.62; r = 0.79) and BMISD (r = 0.39; r = 0.50). The pulmonary function tests in 14 CF subjects were not statistically worse than in nine healthy cases. The mean HSD (−0.67, SD 1.06) and BMISD (−0.28, SD 0.71) of CF patients were not significantly lower than those of healthy subjects (−0.02, SD 0.86 and 0.03, SD 0.49), respectively.

Conclusion: Decreased serum IGF‐I and IGFBP‐3 levels may reflect growth retardation in CF. IGFBP‐3 seems like a more sensitive parameter than IGF‐I for growth monitoring in this study. Growth parameters of Turkish prepubertal CF patients are not markedly below national standards. Different genetic backgrounds of relevant populations certainly play an important role for the variable clinical course.
Pulse wave velocity and ankle brachial index in patients with Kawasaki disease
Authors: Ooyanagi Reiki , Fuse Shigeto , Tomita Hideshi , Takamuro Motoki , Horita Norihisa , Mori Mitsuru , Tsutsumi Hiroyuki
Published: August 2004

Abstract
Background
: Pulse wave velocity (PWV) and ankle brachial index (ABI) are a useful method to estimate atherosclerosis in adults, while a history of Kawasaki disease (KD) may be a risk factor for later atherosclerosis of systemic arteries. PWV and ABI in patients with a history of KD have not been reported.

Method
: In total, 90 patients ranging in age from 4 to 25 years who had a history of KD previously, any time from 1 month to 19 years ago, were studied. As a control group, 119 patients with other trivial cardiovascular diseases such as a small ventricular, an atrial septal defect or mild arrhythmias, were also evaluated. A high value of PWV was determined as ≥120% of normal predicted value of PWV, while a low value of ABI was determined as ≤0.9. Age, sex, height, weight, body mass index, blood pressure, ABI and PWV by t‐test, and univariate and multivariate analyses of a logistic‐regression model, were analyzed.

Results
: When a cut‐off point was set as per cent of normal predicted PWV (%N PWV) ≥ 120%, and ABI ≤ 0.9, patients with a history of KD had a higher PWV than the control group, while there was no significant difference in the ABI between the two groups. There was no significant difference in the PWV or the ABI between the KD patients with or without coronary aneurysms.

Conclusion
: Patients with a history of KD may have increased aortic stiffness for their age.
Investigation of DNA damage in lymphocytes exposed to benzathine penicillin G
Authors: Köseoglu Vedat , Kismet Erol , Soysal Yasemin , Ulucan Hakan , Dündaröz Rusen , Imirzahoglu Necat , Gökçay Erdal
Published: August 2004

Abstract
Background
: Benzathine penicillin G (BPG) is a widely used antibiotic for treatment or prophylaxis of certain infectious diseases. Previous in vivo studies using sister chromatid exchange (SCE) frequency and comet assay, had showed that long‐term administration of benzathine penicillin G may cause some degree of DNA damage in children with rheumatic fever.

Methods
: Because DNA damage has also been reported in various connective tissue disorders, to rule out the possible effects of underlying disease on DNA integrity, 3‐day‐cultured lymphocytes obtained from nine healthy individuals were exposed to BPG at different concentrations (0.002, 0.02 and 0.1 µg/mL), and sister chromatid exchange frequencies were studied. The mean SCE frequency per metaphase was calculated from 20 selected cells for each individual.

Results
: The incidence of SCE frequency did not differ when all groups were compared. Comparing between each concentration group, exposure to BPG did not cause a dose‐dependent increase in SCE frequency (Student's t‐test, P > 0.05).

Conclusion
: Insignificant changes (P > 0.05) in SCE, within the 3‐day exposure to BPG, may suggest that DNA damage did not occur. Short‐term exposure to BPG does not have toxic effects on DNA. In contrast, this preliminary study should be supported by other genotoxicity assays, expanding the exposure time to longer periods, in order to exclude rapid DNA repair mechanisms. and a possible role of underlying disease on DNA integrity should not be ignored.
Oral fructose solution as an analgesic in the newborn: A randomized, placebo‐controlled and masked study
Authors: Akçam Mustafa
Published: August 2004

Abstract
Background
: Pain in the newborn child can be associated with various risks. For this reason, as well as for ethical reasons, it seems essential to find a simple and acceptable method for reducing pain. Pharmacological agents are not recommended because of their side‐effects. Glucose and sucrose solutions were administered, and were found effective for pain relief in minor procedures in previous studies. Fructose solution has not been tried in human neonates before now. For this study, fructose solution for pain relief was tried during heel lancing in term neonates, and to compare its effect with glucose and placebo, using a validated behavioral acute pain rating scale.

Methods
: In total, 34 healthy full‐term neonates were studied. Randomized, masked, placebo‐controlled and crossover trial were used. Each infant was assessed three times, receiving 0.5 mL of 30% fructose, 0.5 mL of 30% glucose or 0.5 mL of sterile water orally by syringe in random order, 2 min before heel lancing.

Results
: Pain scores were significantly lower in 30% fructose and 30% glucose groups as compared with the placebo group. No statistically significant difference in pain scores was found between 30% fructose and 30% glucose groups.

Conclusion
: A small dose of 0.5 mL of 30% fructose solution has an equal analgesic effect with 0.5 mL of 30% glucose solution.
Sample trial to assess the level of understanding of the mechanisms of drug action
Authors: Shikimi Tadahiro
Published: August 2004

Abstract The object of the present paper was to investigate whether or not the level of understanding of the mechanisms of drug action in nursing students is reflected in their descriptions of the factors in ineffective cases or adverse effects of prescribed medicines. The number of subcategories identified in the descriptions was closely connected with the test scores from the multiple‐choice and short‐answer written examination on ‘Pharmacology and Pharmaceutics’, and those from questions about the mechanisms of drug action. These results suggest that the number is useful for an estimated assessment of the level of understanding of the mechanisms of drug action.
Relationship between menopausal symptoms and menopausal status in Australian and Japanese women: Preliminary analysis
Authors: Anderson Debra , Yoshizawa Toyoko , Gollschewski Sara , Atogami Fumi , Courtney Mary
Published: August 2004

Abstract The main aim of the present study was to explore the midlife experience for women living in Australia and Japan. The specific objectives of the study included: (i) comparing menopausal symptoms between the two groups; and (ii) comparing the factor structure of symptoms and exploring their relationship to menopausal status. Postal questionnaires were distributed to two structured, random population based samples of midlife women aged 45–60 years; consisting of 712 women living in Australia and 1502 women living in Japan. Analysis showed significant differences in menopausal symptoms related to psychological symptoms (P < 0.001), including anxiety (P < 0.001) and depression (P < 0.001), somatic symptoms (P < 0.001), and vasomotor symptoms (P < 0.01). The analysis, which excluded hormone replacement therapy (HRT) users, found that there were significant differences seen across menopausal status in the following symptoms: difficulty in sleeping (P < 0.01), difficulty in concentrating (P < 0.01), feeling dizzy or faint (P < 0.001), loss of interest in most things (P < 0.01) and loss of feeling in hands or feet (P < 0.001). In the postmenopausal stage specifically, significant differences were seen in the areas of feeling tense or nervous (P < 0.01), feeling unhappy or depressed (P < 0.01), parts of body feeling numb or tingling (P < 0.05), headaches (P < 0.01), and sweating at night (P < 0.05). Our analysis revealed that the experience of menopause for women is different between Australian and Japanese women.
Moral conflict and collaborative mode as moral conflict resolution in health care
Authors: Jormsri Pantip
Published: August 2004

Abstract Moral conflict as a complex moral issue in health care has emerged from several causes that are related to different values, beliefs and opinions. Moral conflict can occur when duties and obligations of health care providers or general guiding ethical principles are unclear. Health care providers and institutions or agencies need to resolve or initiate appropriate methods for professional staff so they can recognize, discuss and resolve moral conflicts in the health care delivery system. Collaborative mode is a useful method for moral conflict resolution, because patient care is a complex phenomenon that results from the integrated knowledge and work of individuals with different professional training. In the process of collaborative practice, all members need to respect each other's opinions, values and responsibilities regarding patient care.
Development and validation study of the breast cancer risk appraisal for Korean women
Authors: Lee Chung Yul , Ko Il Sun , Kim Hee Soon , Lee Won Hee , Chang Soon Bok , Min Jin Sik , Ham Ok Kyung , Han Joo Hee
Published: August 2004

AbstractThe purpose of the present study was to develop and validate breast cancer risk factors, which can be used to identify women who are at a high risk of developing breast cancer. Fourteen risk factors for breast cancer were identified from extensive literature reviews and in consultation with a panel of experts. A case‐control study was conducted, which aimed to validate these 14 risk factors. Cases were selected from four university hospitals in Korea and controls were selected from health screening centers in Korea. Interviews were used to obtain exposure history of each participant to the 14 risk factors. Group differences between the cases and controls were analyzed using a chi‐squared test and a logistic regression method. Among the 14 risk factors, six were identified as significant: meat consumption more than once a week (odds ratio [OR] = 1.56, confidence interval [CI] = 1.32–1.85), breast disease experience (OR = 3.08, CI = 1.49–6.37), less than two children (OR = 1.61, CI = 1.09–2.35), family history of breast cancer (OR = 8.99, CI = 3.89–20.76), and no breast‐feeding experience (OR = 3.08, CI = 1.41–3.85). Based on the OR, the risk scores were calculated by the absolute size of the OR having a total of 100 points.
Consideration for legacies about diabetes and self‐care for the family with a multigenerational occurrence of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Scollan‐Koliopoulos Melissa
Published: August 2004

Abstract Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a familial disorder that is fast becoming epidemic in the USA. It is possible that nurses will care for entire families with diabetes in the near future. In multiple studies, family functioning, a family systems variable, has been correlated with self‐management and glycemic outcomes. Most persons with diabetes live with family members who might facilitate or inhibit self‐management tasks or skills. Multiple afflictions of family members with diabetes can further complicate matters relating to diabetes self‐management. Diabetes collectively affects over 16 million people in the USA, incurring healthcare costs in excess of $92 billion annually. Individuals engage in self‐management behavior for diabetes care in the context of their family's environment. It is imperative that nurses consider factors that might inhibit or facilitate self‐management efforts by individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Assessment of family determinants of adaptation to diabetes with appropriate interventions can improve clinical outcomes, subsequently preventing complications.
Nationwide study of environmental assessment for people with schizophrenia in Japan
Authors: Morita Takae , Matsumoto Hiroko , Ishikawa Yumiko , Hatashita Hiroyo , Yamazaki Hideo , Yamaguchi Shinobu
Published: August 2004

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to develop an environmental assessment tool related to the living of the mentally disabled and to examine the health care professionals’ perception of the current situations and its importance. The relationships between the current and ideal environmental situations were analyzed. The survey was conducted at 3310 municipalities nationwide by mailing self‐report questionnaires, which consisted of 52 items developed by specialists for the mentally disabled and their families. The 52‐item questionnaire was rated with a five‐point scale for both current and important environmental situations. The main findings included statistically significant differences between the mean scores of the current and important environmental situations, items perceived as important at a similar degree, and those suggesting the largest gap between the current and important situations related to learning opportunities. These results could be useful for implementation in community health nursing.
Ecotone delimitation: Epigean–hypogean transition in cave ecosystems
Authors: PROUS XAVIER , FERREIRA RODRIGO LOPES , MARTINS ROGÉRIO PARENTONI
Published: August 2004

Abstract  The ecotone zone between epigean and hypogean environments has been delimited for two limestone caves using a new method proposed herein. The richness and the diversity of the ecotone, epigean and hypogean environments and their similarities have also been determined. The ecotones were delimited using a similarity matrix between the inner and outer sectors of each cave. The ecotone of Dona Rita's cave was estimated to be 12 m long and the ecotone of Retiro's cave 16 m. The richness (S) of arthropods in Dona Rita's cave was higher in the ecotone (S = 131), intermediate in the epigean environment (S = 75) and lower in the hypogean system (S = 45). The invertebrate diversity (H′) was lower in the hypogean environment (H′ = 2.89) and not statistically different between the epigean environment and the ecotone (H′ = 3.56 and H′ = 3.76, respectively). The richness in Retiro's cave was higher in the ecotone (S = 86), intermediate in the epigean environment (S = 39) and lower in the hypogean system (S = 12). The invertebrate diversity was lower in the hypogean environment (H′ = 0.48), intermediate in the ecotone (H′ = 3.02) and higher in the epigean region (H′ = 3.29). Species migration patterns, differential environmental barriers and determination of accidental versus trogloxenes/troglophylous species are topics that are primarily approached by establishing ecotone zones in caves. The aim of the present paper is to establish the delimitation of theses zones.
Impact of the introduced honey bee (Apis mellifera) (Hymenoptera: Apidae) on native bees: A review
Authors: PAINI D. R.
Published: August 2004

Abstract  Interspecific competition for a limited resource can result in the reduction of survival, growth and/or reproduction in one of the species involved. The introduced honey bee (Apis mellifera Linnaeus) is an example of a species that can compete with native bees for floral resources. Often, research into honey bee/native bee competition has focused on floral resource overlap, visitation rates or resource harvesting, and any negative interaction has been interpreted as a negative impact. Although this research can be valuable in indicating the potential for competition between honey bees and native bees, to determine if the long‐term survival of a native bee species is threatened, fecundity, survival or population density needs to be assessed. The present review evaluates research that has investigated all these measurements of honey bee/native bee competition and finds that many studies have problems with sample size, confounding factors or data interpretation. Guidelines for future research include increasing replication and using long‐term studies to investigate the impact of both commercial and feral honey bees.
Colonization and extinction of ant communities in a fragmented landscape
Authors: SCHOEREDER JOSÉ H. , SOBRINHO TATHIANA G. , RIBAS CARLA R. , CAMPOS RENATA B. F.
Published: August 2004

Abstract  In this paper we tested the assumption that smaller and more isolated remnants receive fewer ant colonizers and lose more species. We also tested hypotheses to explain such a pattern. We sampled ants in Brazil for 3 years in 18 forest remnants and in 10 grasslands between them. We tested the influence of remnant area and isolation on colonization rate, as well as the effect of remnant area on extinction rate. We tested the correlation between remnant area and isolation to verify the landscape design. Colonization rate was not affected by remnant area or isolation. Extinction rate, however, was smaller in larger remnants. Remnant area and isolation were negatively correlated. We tested two hypotheses related to the decrease in ant species extinction rate with increased remnant area: (i) small remnants support smaller and more extinction‐prone populations; and (ii) small remnants are more often invaded by generalist species, which suffer higher extinction inside remnants. The density of ant populations significantly increased with area. Generalist species presented a lower colonization rate in larger remnants, contrary to the pattern observed in forest species. Generalist species suffered more extinction than expected inside remnants. The lack of response of colonization rate to remnant area can be explained by the differential colonization by generalist and forest species. The decrease of ant population density in smaller remnants could be related to loss of habitat quality or quantity. The higher colonization by generalist ant species in the smaller remnants could be related to landscape design, because smaller remnants are more similar to the matrix than larger ones. Our results have important implications for conservation strategies because small remnants seem to be more affected by secondary effects of fragmentation, losing more forest species and being invaded more often by generalist species. Studies that compare only species richness between remnants cannot detect such patterns in species composition.
Stochastic frontier analysis of a classic self‐thinning experiment
Authors: BI HUIQUAN
Published: August 2004

Abstract  The classic experiment that gave rise to the self‐thinning rule 40 years ago was re‐analysed using stochastic frontier functions. The estimated slope of the self‐thinning boundary line was almost identical to the original proposed value. However, contrary to the original conclusion that the self‐thinning boundary line remained invariant across the soil fertility gradient, the intercept was found to increase with soil fertility. Stochastic frontier analysis also provided a more realistic estimate of the maximum asymptotic stand density than the original work, by separating the effects of density‐dependent and density‐independent mortalities during self‐thinning in a composed error term in the model specification. The time‐course of self‐thinning across the soil fertility gradient was described by a non‐linear function, which enabled the estimation of a minimum possible stand density that could still maintain full site occupancy (i.e. the maximum asymptotic stand density at the end of self‐thinning). The maximum asymptotic stand density decreased more rapidly on more fertile soils and the difference in maximum asymptotic stand density among the five levels of soil fertility increased non‐linearly with time. Site carrying capacity was defined as stand biomass shown by the point on the self‐thinning boundary line at the end of self‐thinning. This definition led to a direct functional link between the self‐thinning boundary line and site carrying capacity for even‐aged plant populations.
Habitat use by the inland carpet python (Morelia spilota metcalfei: Pythonidae): Seasonal relationships with habitat structure and prey distribution in a rural landscape
Authors: HEARD GEOFFREY W. , BLACK DENNIS , ROBERTSON PETER
Published: August 2004

Abstract  Squamate reptiles are significant components of woodland vertebrate communities in eastern Australia, but their ecology is poorly understood. We investigated seasonal variation in habitat use by the Inland Carpet Python, Morelia spilota metcalfei Wells and Wellington (Pythonidae), a threatened snake that inhabits the woodland environments of the Murray–Darling Basin. Nine pythons were radiotracked within and near the Mount Meg Flora and Fauna Reserve in north‐eastern Victoria to investigate how habitat structure and prey distribution (namely, that of the European Rabbit, Oryctolagus cuniculus L. (Leporidae)) influenced seasonal movement patterns. Data were analysed over three spatial scales to allow firm interpretations regarding resource selection. Pythons exhibited distinct seasonal trends in habitat use. During the cooler spring months, snakes chose warm, well‐insulated microhabitats, primarily rocky outcrops on north‐ and north‐west‐facing hillsides. Pythons moved widely during the summer months, apparently in search of prey. Snake localities could be readily linked to rabbit distribution at this time. Specifically, snakes moved to more open, disturbed habitats that contained a high density of rabbits, and consistently selected microhabitats in close proximity to rabbit burrows. In autumn, habitat use was transitional, as snakes progressively returned to the rocky hillsides where they overwintered. Thus, trends in habitat use were influenced by the snakes' thermoregulatory and foraging strategies. Careful management of specific habitats and feral prey populations is required to conserve populations of this endangered snake.
Community structure of polypores (Basidiomycota) in Andean alder wood in Argentina: Functional groups among wood‐decay fungi?
Authors: URCELAY CARLOS , ROBLEDO GERARDO
Published: August 2004

Abstract  The polypores (Aphyllophorales s.l., Basidiomycota) are very effective wood decayers. Different species differ in their capacity to decay wood; therefore, many functionally different species can be found decaying different substrate conditions (decay stages and log diameter). This study aimed to describe the structure of the wood‐decay polypore communities that occur on different states of wood of the Andean alder (Alnus acuminata) within Argentina and to identify groups of polypore species that share the same substrate condition, and thus might have a similar functional role in the decay processes. We found 16 polypore species, among which Trametes versicolor, Bjerkandera adusta and Trametes cubensis were dominant species, showing the highest relative frequency in alder wood. Species richness was lower on trunks of living trees and higher on dead branches. Based on preferential occurrence on different wood conditions, a cluster analysis distinguished three groups, each of them containing one of the three dominant species. This corresponds to the situation of other groups of organisms, where each functional type consists of a dominant species that accounts for most of the ‘function’ and several subordinate species with similar functions. Albeit preliminary, our results provide a formal classification of wood‐decay fungi into functional types.
Susceptibilities of some aquatic ferns to paddy herbicide bensulfuron methyl
Authors: AIDA MIKI , ITOH KAZUYUKI , IKEDA HIROAKI , HARADA NAOKUNI , ISHII YASUO , USUI KENJI
Published: August 2004

Paddy herbicides have the potential to cause adverse effects on non‐target plants. Susceptibilities of some aquatic ferns (Azolla japonica Franch. et Savat., Isoetes japonica A. Braun, Marsilea quadrifolia L. and Salvinia natans All.) and duckweeds (Lemna minor L. and Spirodela polyrhiza Schleid.) to paddy herbicide bensulfuron methyl (BSM) were evaluated with a 20 day exposure experiment using 200 cm2 pots. The BSM concentrations in the surface water of monitoring pots with no plants dissipated exponentially with half lives of 3.5 and 3.9 days at application rates of 15 and 150 g ha−1, respectively. The BSM concentrations in the surface water 1 day after application in the culture pots were comparable among plant species, and were lower than those in the monitoring pots. Bensulfuron methyl reduced the plant growth in all species. I. japonica showed the lowest intrinsic relative growth rate (RGR) and the lowest susceptibility with  an  effective  dose  resulting  in  50% growth  inhibition  (ED50)  of  21 g ha−1.  Except  for I. japonica, the RGR of the duckweeds was similar to the ferns, and ED50 for the duckweeds was  higher  than  the  ferns.  ED50 for  Sa.  natans,  A.  japonica and  M.  quadrifolia were  1.1,  1.8  and 1.2 g ha−1, respectively, which were smaller than 1/20 of the recommended field dose  (51–75 g ha−1) and ranged from 1/2 to 1/6 of ED50 for L. minor and Sp. polyrhiza (6.5 and 3.2 g ha−1, respectively). These results suggest that BSM application in paddy fields and its runoff in some localities is expected to have adverse effects on the growth of Sa. natans, A. japonica and M. quadrifolia.
Comparison of commercial glyphosate formulations for control of prickly sida, purple nutsedge, morningglory and sicklepod
Authors: MOLIN WILLIAM T. , HIRASE KANGETSU
Published: August 2004

The efficacy of the commercial glyphosate [(N‐phosphonomethyl) glycine] formulations Roundup Ultra, Touchdown and Engame were compared for the control of prickly sida (Sida spinosa L.), morningglory (Ipomeae hederacea var. integriuscula Gray), sicklepod (Senna obtusifolia L.) and purple nutsedge (Cyperus rotundus L.). Engame is a new formulation of glyphosate that contains glyphosate acid and 1‐aminomethanamide dihydrogen tetraoxosulfate (AMADS), a proprietary mixture of sulfuric acid and urea, other than glyphosate salt and surfactants. Injury by Engame differed from Roundup Ultra and Touchdown in that necrotic lesions formed on leaves several hours after treatment. Leaves of very susceptible species, such as prickly sida, were rapidly, although incompletely, desiccated and then became chlorotic and died in a manner typical of other glyphosate formulations. Engame was 2–3 times more active to growth inhibition than either the Roundup Ultra or Touchdown formulations, based on GR50 comparisons expressed on an acid equivalent basis. The GR50 estimates did not change over the 3 week evaluation period for prickly sida and purple nutsedge, and after 2 weeks after treatment for morningglory. The GR50 estimates for sicklepod decreased over the 3 week evaluation period indicating a slower response to glyphosate. The application of AMADS alone caused minute necrotic lesions on sicklepod and purple nutsedge, and lesions up to 3 mm in diameter on prickly sida and morningglory. Further injury from AMADS was not noted and plants resumed growth without apparent delay. At glyphosate rates above 1120 g ha−1, greater than 80% control was achieved at 7 days after treatment. These results demonstrate that glyphosate efficacy can be further enhanced by formulations that apparently improve uptake and translocation.
Aerial seed germination and morphological characteristics of juvenile seedlings in Commelina benghalensis L.
Authors: MATSUO MITSUHIRO , MICHINAGA HIDEKI , TERAO HIROYUKI , TSUZUKI EIJI
Published: August 2004

Seed germination, seedling emergence, and the morphological characteristics of juvenile seedlings of Commelina benghalensis L. were observed. For aerial seeds collected in September and October, seedling emergence peaked in April and June for large seeds and from June to August for small seeds, whereas seedling emergence for large seeds collected in November showed peaks in March and April under natural rainfall conditions, and in April and June under irrigation conditions. Seedlings from small seeds emerged intermittently over a longer period from April to August under both conditions. Aerial seeds of C. benghalensis germinated on wet filter paper on the second day after seeding (DAS) for large seeds and the fourth DAS for small seeds. The germination percentage for large seeds was higher than that for small seeds by the 14th DAS. The germination percentage for large aerial seeds showed no significant difference between light and dark conditions. However, the percentage for small aerial seeds was higher under light than under dark conditions. Seedlings from large aerial seeds emerged on the third DAS at 0–50 mm soil depths. The percentage of emergence at 0 and 1 mm soil depths increased until the 30th DAS, whereas those at soil depths of 5–50 mm showed no change after the 9th DAS. There was no emergence at a soil depth of 100 mm. Seedlings from small aerial seeds emerged on the 6th DAS at 0–1 mm soil depths, with the percentage increasing until the 30th DAS. Although seedlings at 5 and 10 mm soil depths also emerged on the 6th DAS, there was no change in the percentage after the 12th DAS. There was no emergence at soil depths of 20–100 mm. The hypocotyl and taenia (part of the cotyledon connected to the seed) in juvenile seedlings that emerged from soil depths of 50 mm were longer than those in seedlings emerging from a soil depth of 1 mm.
Chromosome analysis of human spermatozoa with morphologically abnormal heads by injection into mouse oocytes
Authors: WATANABE SEIJI
Published: August 2004

Aim:  The risk of chromosome aberrations in human spermatozoa with an abnormal head shape was examined using intracytoplasmic sperm injection into mouse oocytes.

Methods:  Human spermatozoa with small, large, pointed or elongated head shape from a fertile donor were injected into mouse oocytes, and the hybrid oocytes were cytogenetically analyzed at the first cleavage metaphase.

Results:  The oocyte activation rate was significantly lower in hybrid oocytes injected with pointed (90.2%) or elongated spermatozoa (94.1%) than with normal spermatozoa (99.0%). However, the frequency of intracytoplasmic sperm injection oocytes at the first cleavage metaphase did not differ among the sperm groups (71.8–77.2%). No difference in the incidences of aneuploidy (1.8, 2.6 and 1.4%), diploidy (0, 0 and 0%) and structural chromosome aberrations (6.3, 10.4 and 8.6%) was observed between small or pointed spermatozoa and normal spermatozoa. Only a small population of large spermatozoa (3.7%) was diploidy. Elongated spermatozoa showed significantly frequent structural chromosome aberrations (33.3%) as compared with normal spermatozoa.

Conclusion:  The results reveal some interesting details of the mechanism of sperm nuclear condensation: small sperm size is attributed to the problem of nuclear condensation, not a decrease in chromosomes. Diploidy prevents sperm nucleus from condensing, resulting in a large sperm head. Elongation of sperm nucleus causes DNA lesions leading to structural chromosome aberrations. (Reprod Med Biol 2004; 3: 147–152)
Effect of repeated administration of clomiphene citrate at two different times on the endometrium in patients undergoing intrauterine insemination
Authors: WADA MAMIKO , KASAI TSUYOSHI , NAGAI SEIICHIRO , FUJIE MICHIKO , MIYAKE MAKI , SUZUKI KOHTA , SUZUKI MARIKO , HIRATA SHUJI , HOSHI KAZUHIKO
Published: August 2004

Background, Aims and Methods:  Clomiphene citrate (CC) has been widely used for induction of ovulation; however, despite the high rate of ovulation, the pregnancy rate is only 30%. The anti‐estrogenic effect of CC on the endometrium is one explanation for this finding. It is well known that repeated administration of CC enhances its anti‐estrogenic effect. To overcome this adverse affect, a number of techniques have been used. One technique is the early administration of CC, in an attempt to decrease the anti‐estrogenic effects of CC on the endometrium. The aim of the present study was to retrospectively evaluate if repeated administration of CC at varying times may affect the endometrium during preovulatory period; pregnancy rates were compiled for patients with unexplained infertility undergoing intrauterine insemination (IUI). The patients were divided into four groups based on the number of repeat administrations and the time of CC administration.

Results:  The endometrial thickness at the day of human chorionic gonadotropin administration was greater in early administration within three consecutive CC cycles than the others.

Conclusion:  When the endometrium is thin during classical administration of CC, it is worth attempting the early administration of CC in the CC/IUI treatment for patients with unexplained infertility. However, this effect disappeared over the duration of the three consecutive CC cycles. (Reprod Med Biol 2004; 3: 153–157)
Costs of maternal and neonatal medical care for triplet and quadruplet pregnancies in Japan
Authors: MOTOHASHI TAKASHI , HONDA TETSURO , HASEGAWA MASAAKI , UCHIDA TAKAFUMI , KANAMOTO NAOKAZU , KOIZUMI KOJI , BEPPU MICHIKO , NAKAHORI TAKASHI , TAKAHASHI AKIRA
Published: August 2004

Aims:  It is well documented that maternal morbidity and neonatal morbidity and mortality increase alike in high‐order multiple (HOM) births. There have, however, been few reports concerning the costs of maternal and neonatal medical care associated with HOM births. This is the first such report on the situation in Japan.

Materials and methods:  All triplet and quadruplet pregnancies managed at this institution from before 16 weeks’ gestation, and delivered at no earlier than 22 weeks’ gestation, between 1997 and 2002 were included. Prophylactic cervical ligature, hospitalization to prevent premature labor from 23 weeks’ gestation until delivery, and delivery by cesarean section, were all routine for HOM pregnancies. All women with singleton and twin pregnancies, who underwent in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and also delivered their babies at no earlier than 22 weeks’ gestation at this institution, between 1997 and 2002, were also examined as controls. Prophylactic cervical ligature, preventive hospitalization, and cesarean section were not routine in the control group.

Results:  The average gestational ages at delivery in singleton (n = 58), twin (n = 21), triplet (n = 14) and quadruplet (n = 1) pregnancies, were 39.4, 35.6, 31.9 and 25.1 weeks, respectively (P < 0.001 by anova). Birthweights were 2886 ± 425 g, 2117 ± 623 g, 1430 ± 373 g, and 633 ± 77 g (mean ± SD), respectively (P < 0.001). The average inpatient medical care cost for mother and child(ren), from maternal admissions after 12 weeks’ gestation to the discharge of all family members from hospital, was ¥703 279 yen (∼US$5861), ¥4 903 270 (∼US$40 861), ¥11 810 327 (∼US$98 419), and ¥44 961 000 (∼US$374 675), respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:  The present study outlined the high costs of medical care for HOM pregnancies. Not only from a medical viewpoint, but also from the viewpoint of medical costs, it is important to avoid HOM pregnancies as a result of infertility treatment. (Reprod Med Biol 2004; 3: 159–164)
Changes in serum leptin concentrations in overweight Japanese men after exercise
Authors: Miyatake N. , Takahashi K. , Wada J. , Nishikawa H. , Morishita A. , Suzuki H. , Kunitomi M. , Makino H. , Kira S. , Fujii M.
Published: August 2004

Aim:  To investigate the link between serum leptin concentrations and exercise.

Design:  Cross‐sectional and longitudinal studies of an exercise intervention.

Subjects:  110 Japanese overweight men aged 32–59 years were recruited. At baseline, the average body mass index (BMI) was 28.5 ± 2.5 kg/m2. From this group, we used data of 36 overweight men (BMI, 28.9 ± 2.3) for a 1‐year exercise programme.

Measurements:  Leptin was measured at baseline and after 1 year. Fat distribution was evaluated by visceral fat (V) and subcutaneous fat (S) areas measured with computed tomography (CT) scanning at umbilical levels. Anthropometric parameters, aerobic exercise level, muscle strength and flexibility were also investigated at baseline and after 1 year.

Results:  In the first analysis, using cross‐sectional data, leptin was significantly correlated with total body fat (r = 0.760, p < 0.01), V (r = 0.383, p < 0.01) and S (r = 0.617, p < 0.01) areas. In the second analysis, using longitudinal data, leptin was significantly reduced after 1 year (pre 6.7 ± 4.0 ng/ml vs. post 5.1 ± 3.1 ng/ml, p < 0.01). Results showed that steps per day were increased, and aerobic exercise level, weight‐bearing index (WBI) and insulin resistance were significantly improved. Although, there was a positive correlation between Δ leptin(positive changes in leptin after 1 year) and anthropometric measurements such as Δ body weight, Δ BMI and Δ body fat, leptin/body weight, leptin/BMI and leptin/body fat ratios were significantly reduced during exercise intervention.

Conclusion:  The present study indicated exercise significantly lowers serum leptin concentrations, and thus it may improve the leptin resistance observed in overweight Japanese men.
Nateglinide alone or with metformin safely improves glycaemia to target in patients up to an age of 84
Authors: Weaver J. U. , Robertson D. , Atkin S. L. ,   on behalf of The Nateglinide Glycaemic Control Investigators
Published: August 2004

Aim:  To assess the effect of nateglinide on efficacy [fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) plasma glucose and HbA1c], tolerability and safety in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2Dm) on diet alone or on metformin in subjects up to an age of 84.

Methods:  In an open‐labelled 12‐week, parallel study of 358 patients, aged 35–84 years with T2Dm, nateglinide was given as either monotherapy in patients previously on diet alone or low‐dose sulfonylureas, which required washout before the study (group 1), or as an addition therapy in patients on steady dose of metformin (group 2). Nateglinide 120 mg was given before main meals. HbA1c, FPG and PPG values were taken at the time of breakfast at the beginning and the end of the study.

Results:  HbA1c fell by a mean of 0.83%, 95% confidence interval (CI) (−0.97, −0.69) (p < 0.001) in group 1, and 0.67%, 95% CI (−0.77, −0.58) (p < 0.001) in group 2. There was a significant improvement in PPG in group 1 by a mean reduction of −3.47 mmol/l, 95% CI (−4.08, −2.87) (p < 0.0001) and in group 2 of −2.41 mmol/l, 95% CI (−2.84, −1.99) (p < 0.0001). There was an improvement in FPG of −1.2 mmol/l, 95% CI (−1.49, −0.81) (p < 0.0001) and −0.8 mmol/l, 95% CI –(1.07, −0.53) (p < 0.0001) in group 1 and 2 respectively. 44% of patients in group 1 and 34% in group 2 achieved target of HbA1c <7.0 and 66% in group 1 and 59% in group 2 achieved of HbA1c <7.5%. Only one subject on nateglinide and metformin was withdrawn due to the side effect of hypoglycaemia. No patient required third‐party assistance nor was admitted to hospital due to hypoglycaemia.

Conclusion:  These data demonstrate that nateglinide is a safe and effective agent in treatment to target in patients with T2Dm up to an age of 84 years.
Characteristics of US adults with the metabolic syndrome and therapeutic implications
Authors: Jacobson T. A. , Case C. C. , Roberts S. , Buckley A. , Murtaugh K. M. , Sung J. C. Y. , Gause D. , Varas C. , Ballantyne C. M.
Published: August 2004

Background:  The third Adult Treatment Panel (ATP III) of the National Cholesterol Education Program defines clinical criteria for diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome, which increases cardiovascular risk and is a target for therapy.

Aim:  We analysed the third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III; 1988–94) to determine how many US adults meet these criteria and are recommended for lipid‐modifying drug therapy by ATP III.

Methods:  NHANES III data were used to estimate the number of individuals with the metabolic syndrome and the number recommended for treatment by ATP III, based on 1990 census data.

Results:  An estimated 36.3 million (23%) US adults have the metabolic syndrome. Of these, 84% met the criterion for obesity, 76% for blood pressure, 75% for HDL‐C, 74% for triglycerides and 41% for glucose. Most (54%) are in the higher risk categories of ATP III, yet only 39% overall are recommended for drug therapy by ATP III cutpoints; of these, most will achieve LDL‐C targets with reductions of 35–40%. Of the 15.3 million individuals with the metabolic syndrome and triglycerides ≥2.26 mmol/l (200 mg/dl), non‐HDL‐C is above ATP III recommendations in 11.6 million.

Conclusions:  Of the large number of Americans with the metabolic syndrome, ATP III recommends drug therapy for only a minority, because LDL‐C typically is not substantially elevated. Instead, high triglycerides and low HDL‐C are more common; clinical trial data are needed to determine whether optimal therapy should focus on reductions in LDL‐C or on comprehensive improvements to the lipid profile.
Outcomes of initiation of therapy with once‐daily combination of a thiazolidinedione and a biguanide at an early stage of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bell D. S. H. , Ovalle F.
Published: August 2004

Context:  Utilization of the biguanide metformin and a thiazolidinedione (TZD) with new onset diabetes has the benefit of lowering A1cs into the normal range without the problem of severe hypoglycaemia.

Objective:  To assess the effectiveness of once‐daily combined metformin and TZD therapy compared with other therapeutic regimens typically utilized at later stages of type 2 diabetes.

Methods:  A random chart review of 300 type 2 diabetic patients and extraction of data for body mass index (BMI), duration of diabetes and C‐peptide and A1c was performed. In the 210 type 2 diabetic subjects in whom this information was currently available, the data were analysed.

Results:  Eighty‐six patients on once‐daily metformin and rosiglitazone had an average A1c of 6.2% (group A), and 58 subjects on triple therapy (metformin, rosiglitazone and glimepiride) (group B) had an average haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) of 6.9%. The 22 subjects on one injection of insulin per day in addition to triple therapy (group C) had an average HbA1c of 7.6%, and the 44 subjects on more than one insulin injection per day plus metformin and/or rosiglitazone (group D) had an average HbA1c of 8.3%. HbA1cs below 7.0% were found in 91.9% of group A, 21.7% of group B, 36.4% of group C and 56.8% of group D. HbA1cs below 6.5% were found in 78.2% in group A, 15.5% in group B, 22.7% in group C and 31.8% in group D. HbA1cs below 6.0% were found in 41.9% in group A, 6.9% in group B, 9.1% in group C and 13.6% in group D. On univariate analyses, the HbA1c was positively associated with the duration of diabetes and the BMI and negatively associated with random C‐peptide levels. Alternatively, on multiple regression analysis, there was no statistical correlation between the duration of diabetes or BMI with the HbA1c. However, there was a strong statistical correlation between the random C‐peptide level and the HbA1c (p = 0.002).

Conclusion:  Early initiation of therapy for type 2 diabetes with a once‐daily combination of metformin and rosiglitazone provides the greatest opportunity to achieve A1cs within the normal range. The level of achieved glycaemic control is not dependent on the number or potency of the therapies utilized but is dependent on the level of endogenous insulin production. The use of a TZD as part of initial therapy of type 2 diabetes with its documented ability to preserve or improve β‐cell function has the potential to achieve prolonged normoglycaemia in the type 2 diabetic patient.
Atrial fibrillation and its association with type 2 diabetes and hypertension in a Swedish community
Authors: Östgren C. J. , Merlo J. , Råstam L. , Lindblad U. ,   for Skaraborg Hypertension and Diabetes Project
Published: August 2004

Aim:  To explore the prevalence of atrial fibrillation in patients with hypertension and type 2 diabetes and to identify possible mechanisms for the development of atrial fibrillation.

Methods:  A community‐based, cross‐sectional observational study was conducted in the primary health care in Skara, Sweden, and 1739 subjects (798 men, 941 women) were surveyed. Patients were categorized as those with hypertension only (n = 597); those with both hypertension and type 2 diabetes (n = 171), and those with type 2 diabetes only (n = 147). In the reference population, 824 normotensive subjects without diabetes were identified and used as controls. Participants were examined for cardiovascular risk factors including fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, blood pressure, lipids and anthropometric measures. Resting electrocardiogram (ECG) was recorded and Minnesota‐coded. Insulin resistance was measured by the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA).

Results:  Age‐adjusted prevalence of atrial fibrillation was 2% in patients with hypertension only, 6% in patients with both hypertension and type 2 diabetes, 4% in patients with type 2 diabetes only and 2% in controls, respectively. Age and sex adjusted odds ratios (OR) (95% CI) were; hypertension 0.7 (0.30–1.5), combined hypertension and type 2 diabetes 3.3 (1.6–6.7), and type 2 diabetes 2.0 (0.9–4.7). The association with combined hypertension and type 2 diabetes remained significant when adjusted for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and body mass index (BMI), was attenuated with adjustment for ischemic ECG; 2.4 (1.1–5.0) and lost significance with adjustment for insulin resistance; 1.3 (0.5–3.1).

Conclusions:  Atrial fibrillation is associated with the combined occurrence of type 2 diabetes and hypertension. Insulin resistance may be a common underlying mechanism.