bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Sera from Infertile Women with Sperm Immobilizing Antibodies on Fertilization and Embryo Development In Vitro in Mice
Authors: Taneichi Akiyo , Shibahara Hiroaki , Takahashi Kazuko , Sasaki Shino , Kikuchi Kumiko , Sato Ikuo , Yoshizawa Midori
Published: July 2003

PROBLEM: This study was performed to investigate if patients’ sera with anti‐human sperm antibodies show inhibitory effects on in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo development in mice.

METHOD OF STUDY: Patients’ sera were collected from eight infertile women having sperm immobilizing antibodies and 17 infertile women without the antibodies. Male ICR mice and female F1 mice (BALB/c X C57BL/6J) were used. In mouse IVF, pre‐incubated sperm were cultured in the medium containing patient's serum with or without sperm immobilizing antibodies, or bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a control. The fertilization rates and the incidences of blastocyst formation were compared.

RESULTS: A mouse sperm immobilization test was established. Five (62.5%) of eight serum samples with sperm immobilizing antibodies and nine (52.9%) of 17 serum samples without the antibodies showed sperm immobilizing activities in mice. There was no significant difference between the two groups. Five sera with sperm immobilizing activities in human and mice, and five sera without sperm immobilizing activities in human or mice were used for the further experiments. The fertilization rates in BSA, patient's serum with sperm immobilizing antibodies, and that without the antibodies were 82.5% (746/904), 43.6% (508/1165), and 64.5% (669/1037), respectively. There were significant differences between the groups. The incidences of blastocyst formation were 59.9% (447/746), 31.7% (161/508), and 47.7% (319/669), respectively. There were also significant differences between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS: Some of the patient's serum with and without sperm immobilizing antibodies could immobilize sperm with complement. However, as compared with control, sera with sperm immobilizing activities against human and mouse sperm significantly blocked IVF and inhibited embryo development in mice. Further studies are required to investigate the mechanisms of the blocking effects of antisperm antibodies on fertilization and embryo development using the mouse model.
Germ Cell Apoptosis in Autoimmune Orchitis: Involvement of the Fas–FasL System
Authors: Theas Susana , Rival Claudia , Lustig Livia
Published: July 2003

PROBLEM: The aim of this study was to determine the mechanism of germ cell death in experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) and the involvement of the Fas–FasL system in this process.

METHOD OF STUDY: The EAO was induced in rats by immunization with testis homogenate and adjuvants. Apoptosis was studied by light microscopy, in situ end labeling of apoptotic DNA and DNA fragmentation techniques. Fas, FasL and caspase 3 expression was detected by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS: In rats with orchitis the number of Fas+ and FasL+ apoptotic germ cells increased from day 50, when the lesion develops, to 150 days, and correlates with the degree of testicular damage. Most spermatocytes expressing Fas were apoptotic. Many Fas+ germ cells were also immunoreactive for FasL. Moreover, these cells also expressed caspase 3.

CONCLUSIONS: In rats with EAO germ cell death occurs through an apoptotic mechanism preceding germ cell sloughing. Immunohistochemical data suggest that the Fas–FasL system mediates germ cell apoptosis in an autocrine and/or paracrine way.
Orofacial trauma and rugby in France: epidemiological survey
Authors: Muller‐Bolla Michèle , Lupi‐Pegurier Laurence , Pedeutour Pierre , Bolla Marc
Published: July 2003

Abstract  – A stratified epidemiological survey was carried out among the best French rugby players to assess the prevalence of trauma to the lower or middle part of the face (TLMPF) and the frequency at which the mouthguards (MGs) were worn. The 1140 randomized players (elite 1, elite 2 and national 1 clubs) filled in the same form anonymously. The variables were first subjected to univariate analysis (Chi‐square, anova). Secondly, they were included in a multivariate model (logistic regression). Some 29.57% of players had already been affected by a TLMPF. The risk increased for the oldest forward players. It also increased with the number of yearly competitions and number of hours of weekly training. Some 64.3% of players used a MG. The frequency at which it was worn increased with the number of yearly competitions, for those who had experinced a previous trauma and for the pack players who had been playing for a long time.
The effect of a tooth gingival transplantation on periodontal healing
Authors: Tsubura Shuichi , Ikeda Yuichi
Published: July 2003

Abstract –  We investigated the effects of a tooth gingival transplantation (TGT) on autologous tooth transplantation using tooth with both periodontal ligament and gingiva. Stabilization period, degree of tooth mobility, and periodontal pocket depth (PPD) were compared with those of transplanted teeth using the conventional method (tooth with periodontal ligament). The subjects were 76 healthy adults (56 cases for the conventional method and 20 cases for TGT). Stabilization period of the tooth was shorter in the cases of TGT than that of the conventional method. Degree of tooth mobility was almost the same for TGT and the conventional technique. The value of PPD at 12 weeks after operation was better in the TGT group than in the conventional method group. The results for both stabilization period and PPD were better in TGT than in the conventional method, indicating low risk for periodontal disease in TGT.
Intentional replantation of a mandibular second molar with long‐term follow‐up: report of a case
Authors: Benenati Fred W.
Published: July 2003

Abstract –  A case is reported of a mandibular second molar that underwent non‐surgical endodontic treatment and intentional replantation in an effort to relieve continued symptoms. A 15.5‐year follow‐up clinical examination revealed the patient to be asymptomatic, the tooth to be still functional, and a recall film showed no evidence of root resorption. The indications for and limitations of intentional replantation as well as recommended literature on the subject are discussed.
Knowledge and attitudes of coaches of secondary school athletes in Ibadan, Nigeria regarding oro‐facial injuries and mouthguard use by the athletes
Authors: Onyeaso C. O. , Adegbesan O. A.
Published: July 2003

Abstract  – The objective of this study was to assess the perceptions of secondary school sports' coaches about oro‐facial injuries and mouth protector usage in sports by the adolescent athletes. A 10‐item, self‐completion questionnaire was distributed to 42 coaches from 23 secondary schools randomly selected from different parts of Ibadan city in Nigeria between May and June, 2002. The questionnaire sought information on why a mouth protector (mouthguard) is used, when it is required; the types of mouth protector used, the major reasons for choosing a specific mouth protector, and personal feeling as to whether mouthguards prevent oral injury. Descriptive statistics were used for the data while the chi‐square statistic was employed to test the significance of association between variables. All the coaches, 25 (59.5%) males and 17 (40.5%) females with age range of 19–51 years and mean age of 38.07 ± 8.97 years (mean ± SD), completed and returned the forms (100% completion rate). 95.2% of the coaches believed that mouthguards prevent oral injuries and 95.2% of them also would like more information on different types of mouthguard, while 4.8% each felt otherwise. The main factor determining the choice of the type of mouthguard for athletes by the coaches was the quality of oral protection (57.1%), and the next was the cost (23.8%). Acceptance of mouthguard was scored as positive by 88.1% of the athletes. 81.0% of the coaches felt that mouthguard should be worn at all times (during practices and competitions) while 19.0% would prefer the use during competitions only. The majority of the coaches (71.4%) believed that boxing needs mouthguards, 2.4% each indicated football (soccer) and Judo while 11.9% of the coaches did not indicate any sport. The majority of these Nigerian coaches agreed on the protective effectiveness of mouthguard against sport‐related oro‐facial injuries, but they are yet to be adequately informed about mouthguards generally so as to correctly advise and influence these adolescent athletes in this regard.
Preservation of ridge dimensions following grafting with coral granules of 48 post‐traumatic and post‐extraction dento‐alveolar defects
Authors: Sàndor George K. B. , Kainulainen Vesa T. , Queiroz J. Olavo , Carmichael Robert P. , Oikarinen Kyösti S.
Published: July 2003

Abstract  – This prospective clinical analysis reports on the use of coral granules in alveolar ridge preservation procedures in a population of young, growing patients. The sample consisted of 21 patients, 12 females and 9 males, with a mean age of 13.6 years. These 21 patients had 48 dento‐alveolar defects suitable for augmentation with coral granules, and were followed clinically and radiographically for 3–7 years after augmentation. There were two areas of augmentation: 17 defects in the anterior maxilla resulted from traumatic tooth loss, and 31 defects in the posterior maxilla and mandible resulted from the extraction of ankylosed retained primary molars with no permanent succedaneous teeth. Between 1–2 ml of coral granules were implanted into the alveolar bone defects left by the extraction of teeth in both the areas. This was in order to preserve the remaining edentulous ridge from further alveolar ridge resorption. The goal of the procedure was to preserve the alveolus so that in the future, a dental implant could be placed to replace the missing tooth, after jaw growth had stopped, without the need for a bone graft. The coral granules appeared to be totally replaced by the host bone on follow‐up clinical and radiographic examinations. The two areas of the jaws behaved quite differently. In the anterior maxilla, where tooth loss was secondary to trauma, the coral granules restored the alveolar ridges temporarily. However, over the years of follow‐up in this study, the coral granules failed to provide sufficient bone to support the placement of a dental implant without using a bone graft in 14 of the 17 defects or 82.4% of sites. In the posterior maxilla and mandible, where tooth loss was due to the elective removal of ankylosed primary molars, 29 of the 31 defects or 93.5% of sites were successful as they were able to support the placement of an osseo‐integrated dental implant without the use of a bone graft. The alveolar sparing technique was more successful in maintaining an alveolar ridge sufficient for the placement of a dental implant without bone grafting in the posterior maxilla and mandible, where tooth loss was secondary to the elective removal of ankylosed deciduous molars than in the anterior maxilla, where tooth loss was secondary to trauma. Coral granules seem to be more suitable in the posterior maxilla and mandible where there were ankylosed deciduous teeth and congenitally absent permanent teeth than in the traumatized anterior maxilla. In successful sites, coral granules can spare the alveolus from residual ridge atrophy or resorption, obviating the need for a bone graft. This reduces patient morbidity, as a second surgical donor site is avoided because bone graft harvesting is made unnecessary.
The Periotest in traumatology. Part I. Does it have the properties necessary for use as a clinical device and can the measurements be interpreted?
Authors: Andresen Mary , Mackie Iain , Worthington Helen
Published: July 2003

Abstract –  The Periotest is a non‐invasive, electronic device which provides an objective measurement of the reaction of the periodontium to a defined impact load applied to the tooth crown. In order for a clinician to interpret Periotest readings, normal physiological values must be known. In traumatology, using the contralateral tooth as a control is impractical, as it too may be affected by injury. The main purpose of this research project was to establish the normal physiological Periotest readings for upper permanent incisor teeth at an age when trauma to teeth is at a peak. This was achieved by taking Periotest readings on healthy upper permanent incisors of 250 children aged between 8–12 years. Test–retest reliability was investigated by taking repeated Periotest readings on the teeth of 13 dental nurses at timed intervals over a 2‐h period. The practicality of using the device on children was examined by examiner observation and patient questionnaire. Results showed a wide variation of Periotest readings in healthy upper permanent incisor teeth in 8–12‐year‐olds, and thus it was felt that normal physiological measurements are best expressed as a range. The test–retest reliability of readings was good (R > 0.85) provided that the repeat reading was taken at least 15 min after the initial reading. The examiner found the equipment easy to use and taking measurement was readily acceptable by the sample group. It was concluded that Periotest could be utilised in traumatology, although the clinician needs to take into account the limitations of the device and the difficulty in interpreting the results.
The Periotest in traumatology. Part II. The Periotest as a special test for assessing the periodontal status of teeth in children that have suffered trauma
Authors: Andresen Mary , Mackie Iain , Worthington Helen
Published: July 2003

Abstract –  The research was carried out on the upper permanent incisor teeth of 101 children aged 8–12 years attending the trauma clinic at the University Dental Hospital, Manchester, UK. The double blind, cross‐over study involved Periotest readings being taken by one examiner and traditional special tests being carried out by another examiner. The traditional special tests chosen were mobility testing, percussion sounds and radiographs. The Periotest readings and special tests were then repeated at the child's recall appointment. The results revealed that there was a significant difference (P < 0.001) between the number of abnormalities detected by the Periotest and those detected by the traditional special tests. There was also found to be a significant difference (P < 0.001) in the detection of undesirable sequelae between the Periotest and the traditional special tests.
Endodontic retreatment of an autotransplanted lower first premolar: a case report
Authors: Koshy Sajeev , Love Robert Matthew
Published: July 2003

Abstract  – A 24‐year‐old female with no contributory medical history had been treated by orthodontic alignment and transplantation of the lower left first premolar to the upper left first premolar site to correct for congenitally missing upper premolars. Subsequently, the transplanted premolar was treated by conventional endodontics and apical surgery for persistent periapical periodontitis over a span of 12 years. A combination of conventional endodontic retreatment and periapical surgery resulted in periapical healing. This case outlines the need for careful preoperative case assessment.
Root resorption – diagnosis, classification and treatment choices based on stimulation factors
Authors: Fuss Zvi , Tsesis Igor , Lin Shaul
Published: July 2003

Abstract –  Etiology of different types of root resorption requires two phases: mechanical or chemical injury to the protective tissues and stimulation by infection or pressure. Injury can be similar in various types of root resorption. The selection of proper treatment is related to the stimulation factors. Intrapulpal infection is the stimulation factor in internal root resorption and external periradicular inflammatory root resorption. Adequate root canal treatment controls intrapulpal bacteria and arrests the resorption process. In cervical root resorption, infection originates from the periodontal sulcus and stimulates the pathological process. As adequate infection control in the sulcus is unlikely, removal of granulation tissue from the resorption lacuna and sealing are necessary for repair. Removal of the stimulation factor, i.e. pressure, is the treatment of choice in root resorption related to pressure during orthodontic treatment, or an impacted tooth or tumor. In ankylotic root resorption, there is no known stimulation factor; thus, no predictable treatment can be suggested. Therefore, various types of root resorptions can be classified according to the stimulation factors: pulpal infection resorption, periodontal infection resorption, orthodontic pressure resorption, impacted tooth or tumor pressure resorption, and ankylotic resorption.
Use of mouthguards by basketball players in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Cornwell Helen , Messer Louise Brearley , Speed Harriet
Published: July 2003

Abstract  – Basketball is a popular sport in Australia. Although orofacial injuries are common, mouthguard (MG) wear in basketball appears to be low. The purposes of this study were: to measure mouthguard wear by basketball players before and after a promotional intervention; to assess players' knowledge of the value of mouthguards for prevention of injury; and to describe their experience of orofacial injury. Two questionnaires (baseline and follow‐up) were administered to a convenience sample of 496 basketball players in Victoria, Australia. Players recruited were youths (12–15‐year olds, n = 208) and adults (18 years and over, n = 288), from all basketball levels (social to elite). Completion of the baseline questionnaire was followed immediately by an intervention comprising written and verbal information, a mouthguard blank and instructions on mouthguard construction. The follow‐up questionnaire was mailed to all respondents 10–12 weeks later; 135 youths (65%) and 157 adults (54%) completed this. Mouthguard wear at baseline was low but was more frequent at games (62%) than at training (25%). Despite 90% of players acknowledging the protective value of a mouthguard, wear by youths did not increase following the intervention, and wear by adults increased by only 14% for training and 10% at games. Previous orofacial injury was recorded at baseline by 23% of players, but few had requested compensation from Basketball Australia (youths, 17%; adults, 30%). Two predictor variables were statistically identified as related to mouthguard wear: previous orofacial injury and age group. Mouthguard wear was significantly more frequent amongst players with previous injury; such players were 2.76 times more likely to be wearers than those without previous injury. Youths were 2.31 times more likely to wear mouthguards than adults. Only 34 players (12% of respondents at follow‐up) had a mouthguard constructed from the blank provided. Although youth and adult groups differed, the overall extent of mouthguard use was disappointingly low. Despite wide recognition of mouthguard value, the intervention had little effect on promoting their use.
A crucial role for the Anaplastic lymphoma kinase receptor tyrosine kinase in gut development in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Lorén Christina E , Englund Camilla , Grabbe Caroline , Hallberg Bengt , Hunter Tony , Palmer Ruth H
Published: July 2003

The Drosophila melanogaster gene Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (Alk) is homologous to mammalian Alk, which encodes a member of the Alk/Ltk family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs). In humans, the t(2;5) translocation, which involves the ALK locus, produces an active form of ALK, which is the causative agent in non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma. The physiological function of the Alk RTK, however, is unknown. In this paper, we describe loss‐of‐function mutants in the Drosophila Alk gene that cause a complete failure of the development of the gut. We propose that the main function of Drosophila Alk during early embryogenesis is in visceral mesoderm development.
Three‐dimensional interplay among the ligand‐binding domains of the urokinase‐plasminogen‐activator‐receptor‐associated protein, Endo180
Authors: Rivera‐Calzada Angel , Robertson David , MacFadyen John R , Boskovic Jasminka , Isacke Clare M , Llorca Oscar
Published: July 2003

Endo180, also known as the urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR)‐associated protein (uPARAP), is one of the four members of the mannose receptor family, and is implicated in extracellular‐matrix remodelling through its interactions with collagens, sugars and uPAR. The extracellular portion of Endo180 contains an amino‐terminal cysteine‐rich domain, a single fibronectin type II domain and eight C‐type lectin‐like domains. We have purified a soluble version of Endo180 and analysed it by single‐particle electron microscopy to obtain a three‐dimensional structure of the N‐terminal part of the protein at a resolution of 17 Å and reveal, for the first time, the interactions between non‐adjacent domains in the mannose receptor family. We show that for Endo180, the cysteine‐rich domain contacts the second C‐type lectin‐like domain, thus providing structural insight into how modulation of its several ligand interactions may regulate Endo180 receptor function.
Temperature‐dependent changes in energy metabolism, intracellular pH and blood oxygen tension in the Atlantic cod
Authors: Sartoris F. J. , Bock C. , Serendero I. , Lannig G. , Pörtner H. O.
Published: July 2003

The effect of acute increase in temperature on oxygen partial pressure (Po2) was measured in the gill arches of Atlantic cod Gadus morhua between 10 and 19° C by use of oxygen microoptodes. Oxygen saturation of the gill blood under control conditions varied between 90 and 15% reflecting a variable percentage of arterial or venous blood in accordance with the position of each optode in the gill arch. The data obtained suggested that arterial Po2 remained more or less constant and arterial oxygen uptake did not become limiting during warming. A progressive drop in venous Po2, however, was observed at >10° C indicating that excessive oxygen uptake from the blood is not fully compensated for by circulatory performance, until finally, Po2 levels fully collapse. In a second set of experiments energy and acid–base status of white muscle of Atlantic cod in vivo was measured by magnetic resonance (31P‐NMR) spectroscopy in unanaesthetized and unimmobilized fish in the temperature range between 13 and 21° C. A decrease in white muscle intracellular pH (pHi) with temperature occurred between 10 and 16° C (ΔpH per ° C = −0·025 per ° C). In white muscle temperature changes had no influence on high‐energy phosphates such as phosphocreatine (PCr) or ATP except during exposure to high critical temperatures (>16° C), indicating that white muscle energy status appears to be relatively insensitive to thermal stress if compared to the thermal sensitivity of the whole animal. The data were consistent with the hypothesis of an oxygen limitation of thermal tolerance in animals, which is set by limited capacity of oxygen supply mechanisms. In the case of Atlantic cod circulatory rather than ventilatory performance may be the first process to cause oxygen deficiency during heat stress.
Trophic ecology ofSquatina guggenheimon the continental shelf off Uruguay and northern Argentina
Authors: Vögler R. , Milessi A. C. , Quiñones R. A.
Published: July 2003

A total of 1280 (670 females and 610 males)Squatina guggenheim, an angel shark endemic to the south‐west Atlantic, was caught during five research cruises (1995, 1997 and 1998) carried out in the Argentine‐Uruguayan Common Fishing Zone (AUCFZ) at depths of 3·5–266 m. All angel sharks captured were sexed and measured. Of the 947 examined for stomach contents, 556 (58·7%) contained food and 391 (41·3%) were empty. Numerically, bony fishes were the principal dietary component (89·7%), followed by crustaceans (4·8%) and molluscs (4·4%). The most important prey species wereEngraulis anchoita(58·3%), shrimps (4·4%) andIlex argentinus(2·3%). Male and female diets were not found to differ significantly (P > 0·01), however, the diets of different size classes showed significant differences (P ≤ 0·01) (group 1, 23–44, group 2, 45–74 and group 3, 75–91 cmLT). Low rates of cannibalism were observed. The spatial and seasonal variability in the trophodynamics ofS. guggenheimis discussed.
The lagenar otoliths of teleosts: their morphology and its application in species identification, phylogeny and systematics
Authors: Assis C. A.
Published: July 2003

The general morphology of the asterisci from recent European teleosts is described, terminology for their parts is proposed, their three major morphological types are identified and the relevance of the morphology of these otoliths in species identification, and as a source of information for studies on fish phylogeny and systematics is discussed.
A review of theOmpok hypophthalmusgroup of silurid catfishes with the description of a new species from South‐East Asia
Authors: Ng H. H.
Published: July 2003

The identities of the nominal species in theOmpok hypophthalmusgroup of silurid catfishes, namelyOmpok hypophthalmus,O. macronemaandO. urbainiare verified in this study.Ompok macronemais hypothesized to be a junior synonym ofO. hypophthalmus, andO. urbaini(previously considered a junior synonym ofO. hypophthalmus) is hypothesized to be valid, distinct species.Ompok hypophthalmusis restricted to Java and the Barito River drainage in southern Borneo, and the material previously identified asO. hypophthalmusfrom Sumatra, the Malay Peninsula and Borneo representsO. rhadinurus, a new species.
The reproduction, age and growth of the spotted rockling
Authors: Morato T. , Afonso P. , Santos R. S. , Krug H. M. , Nash R. D. M.
Published: July 2003

Biology of the Macaronesian endemic rockling Gaidropsarus guttatus was studied in the Azores. The overall sex ratio from the samples was highly in favour of females (1 : 6·33). The growth parameters were L∞ = 24·23, k = 1·219 and t0 = −0·059. Fish matured at 15 cm LT and the spawning season was strongly clustered in April.
Interspecific competition between stream‐dwelling brown trout and Alpine bullhead
Authors: Holmen J. , Olsen E. M. , Vøllestad L. A.
Published: July 2003

Density and composition of benthic invertebrates and the diet of brown trout Salmo trutta and Alpine bullhead Cottus poecilopus were studied at two sites in one Norwegian stream. The sites were separated by an impassable waterfall, and brown trout density was five to 10 times higher at the upper, allopatric site than downstream where it lived in sympatry with the Alpine bullhead. Benthic invertebrate communities did not differ between sites; however, the size distribution of chironomids and trichopterans were skewed towards lighter individuals at the sympatric site. Diet composition suggested that sympatric brown trout foraged more on invertebrate drift and from the surface than allopatric brown trout. Alpine bullhead diet did not differ significantly from brown trout diet, except that the Alpine bullhead fed on heavier individual prey within a few taxa and did not consume chironomid pupae or surface insects. The collected data support the hypothesis that brown trout living in sympatry with Alpine bullhead feed at locations with higher predation risk, which is a probable explanation for their lower population density.
Behavioural variation in juvenile Arctic charr in relation to body size
Authors: Benhaïm D. , Skúlason S. , Hansen B. R.
Published: July 2003

Young Arctic charrSalvelinus alpinus, derived from one male and one female only from Lake Ölvesvatn in northern Iceland (a stock that has been popular in Icelandic aquaculture), showed large variance in body size, primarily as a consequence of variable egg size. Shortly after the onset of exogenous feeding, large fish (0·11–0·14 g) were more active and fed mainly from the water surface. Small fish (0·06–0·09 g) moved less and made fewer foraging attempts. They spent most of the time on the bottom, and foraged equally on the bottom and surface. These findings can be used to improve growth and performance of juveniles in rearing tanks.
Revision of the Arctic cod genus Arctogadus
Authors: Jordan A. D. , Møller P. R. , Nielsen J. G.
Published: July 2003

Examination of 200 specimens (54–477 mm LS) of the high Arctic cod genus Arctogadus showed that A. borisovi should be considered a junior synonym of A. glacialis. The most important specific characters hitherto used, i.e. length of barbel, interorbital width, horizontal diameter of eye and number of rakers on the anterior gill arch, were shown to be strongly affected by allometric change and were not of specific diagnostic value. A redescription of A. glacialis is given with new information on its biology.
The relationships between mouth size and shape and body length for 18 species of marine fishes and their trophic implications
Authors: Karpouzi V. S. , Stergiou K. I.
Published: July 2003

In 18 marine fish species from the eastern Mediterranean, vertical mouth opening increased linearly with total length (LT) for 10 species and log‐linearly for eight species. Horizontal mouth opening was linearly related toLTfor 12 species and log‐linearly for six species, whereas mouth area was a log‐linear function ofLTfor all fish species examined. Mouth shape varied greatly covering the whole spectrum from a full circle to an extended oval. In addition, the trophic level of the 18 species could be expressed as an asymptotic function of mouth area. The results are discussed within the context of the trophic ecology of the species examined in the study area.
Effects of suture material on incision healing, growth and survival of juvenile largemouth bass implanted with miniature radio transmitters: case study of a novice and experienced fish surgeon
Authors: Cooke S. J. , Graeb B. D. S. , Suski C. D. , Ostrand K. G.
Published: July 2003

Juvenile largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, intraperitoneally implanted with microradio transmitters exhibited short‐term (5 days) inflammation around the incision and suture insertion points for both non‐absorbable braided silk and non‐absorbable polypropylene monofilament, but in the longer term (20 days) almost all sutures were shed and the incisions were completely healed. Cumulative mortality was higher for fish with braided silk sutures, however, post‐mortem analysis revealed that violations to the gastro‐intestinal tract from the surgical procedure were the usual cause of the mortality. Mortality was generally low in control fish. The two surgeons who performed the implantations differed substantially in experience. Despite receiving basic training, the novice surgeon took longer to complete the surgeries, had reduced suture precision and experienced more fish mortality relative to the experienced surgeon. For both surgeons, it took longer to complete suturing with polypropylene than with braided silk. During the surgery day, the experienced surgeon exhibited consistently rapid surgery times, whereas the novice surgeon exhibited significantly improved speed as the number of surgeries completed increased. This study suggests that microtransmitters can be successfully implanted in juvenile largemouth bass but some mortality can be expected. This mortality seems to be independent of suture material, but dependent upon the experience of the surgeon.
Effects of light on size‐selectivity of kokanee feeding on Daphnia
Authors: Koski M. L. , Johnson B. M. , Stecklein T. M.
Published: July 2003

Planktivory by fingerling kokanee Oncorhynchus nerka feeding on Daphnia became more size‐selective with increased illumination (0·1 v. 15 lux). The average difference in length of Daphnia (D. pulex and D. galeata) in trial arenas before and after kokanee feeding was 0·107 mm (P = 0·0007) at 0·1 lux and 0·371 mm (P < 0·0001) at 15 lux.
Reproductive morphology in relation to alternative male reproductive tactics in Scartella cristata
Authors: Neat F. C. , Locatello L. , Rasotto M. B.
Published: July 2003

The relationship between reproductive morphology and reproductive tactics was examined in Scartella cristata, a combtooth blenny, which exhibits three behaviourally distinct mature male types: nesters, big males that care for eggs; hole‐dwellers, medium‐sized, non‐reproducing males that are site‐attached to a hole; sneakers, small, vagrant males that release sperm in the nests of the big males. The anal fin gland was a densely folded, mucous‐secreting structure probably involved in pheromone synthesis. It was relatively larger in nesters than hole‐dwellers, and altogether rudimentary in sneakers. Sneakers invested more in sperm production than nesters or hole‐dwellers, suggesting adaptation to sperm competition. Approximately half of the testes of nesters and hole‐dwellers was comprised of a highly developed efferent duct system or ‘testicular gland’, but this was extremely reduced in sneakers. In nesters the gland was characterized by many large vacuoles. A pair of secretory blind pouches was present in nesters and hole‐dwellers, but barely visible in sneakers. In nesters, the sperm duct walls were thickened and highly secretory containing sperm dispersed in a granular matrix. In sneakers they were thin‐walled and packed with concentrated sperm. Such differences probably represent different priorities for sperm production in relation to sperm competition and sperm economy. Thus it appears the accessory structures are traits developed specifically for a nesting tactic, whereas the gonad of sneakers is simply organized to produce as much sperm as possible.
Primed in situ labelling detection of 5S rDNA sequences in normal and androgenetic rainbow trout
Authors: Ocalewicz K. , Babiak I.
Published: July 2003

Sex genotypes in mature androgenetic and control rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss were determined using primed in situ labelling (PRINS) detection of 5S rDNA sequences on the X chromosomes. Three sex genotypes, corresponding to phenotypic sex, were revealed: female XX, male XY and supermale YY.
Effects of gizzard shad on benthic communities in reservoirs
Authors: Gido K. B.
Published: July 2003

Effects of gizzard shad Dorosoma cepedianum on benthic communities in a large southern reservoir (Lake Texoma, U.S.A.) were examined during two field enclosure and exclosure experiments in which enclosures were stocked at high and low densities in 1998 and 1999, respectively. In both years, chironomid abundance significantly increased in treatments that excluded large fishes from foraging on sediments. Mean abundance of chironomids and ostracods were significantly higher (P < 0·05) in exclosures than enclosures stocked with gizzard shad at 1140–1210 kg ha−1. In 1999, benthic invertebrate abundances did not differ (P > 0·08) between exclosure and enclosures stocked at 175–213 kg ha−1. Per cent organic matter, algal abundance and abundance of other macroinvertebrates in sediments did not differ significantly among treatments in either year. Although chironomid abundance was reduced in gizzard shad enclosures in 1998, food habits from this and other studies showed that adult gizzard shad in Lake Texoma only consumed detritus and algae. It is likely that high sedimentation rates in Lake Texoma limit the ability of gizzard shad to regulate algae and detritus in benthic sediments. Thus, it is concluded that disturbance of benthic sediments by gizzard shad caused the observed reduction in chironomid abundance, rather than through consumption or competition for resources.
River flow and fish abundance in a South African estuary
Authors: Whitfield A. K. , Harrison T. D.
Published: July 2003

The ichthyofauna of the Thukela Estuary, a small (55 ha), shallow (<1·5 m) system on the KwaZulu‐Natal coast (mean annual river runoff of 3865 × 106 m3, from a large catchment of 29 000 km2, is seasonal: peak inputs occurring between November and March), was dominated by the juveniles of marine taxa that used the estuary as a nursery area. A striking feature of the above community was the decline in fish abundance with increasing river input, with flow values >100 m3 s−1 leading to increased loss of species from the system. This decline was linked to the lack of saline intrusion into the estuary and increased freshwater flooding through the system.
Plasma Ca2+ concentration limits melatonin night production in two fish species
Authors: Gozdowska M. , Sokołowska E. , Kulczykowska E.
Published: July 2003

In freshwater (FW) rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss of spontaneously low plasma calcium concentrations ([Ca2+]pl), plasma melatonin at night was significantly lower than that measured in FW fish with the highest [Ca2+]pl. In brackish water adapted rainbow trout with originally high [Ca2+]pl, plasma melatonin concentration at night was elevated. In cannulated flounder Platichthys flesus, night plasma melatonin increases (ΔMel) corresponded to [Ca2+]pl. It is postulated that in physiological steady‐state conditions, melatonin synthesis capacity is coupled to free calcium concentration in plasma of O. mykiss and P. flesus.
In vitro steroidogenesis of the gonads of the protogynous Pacific wrasse, Haliochoeres trimaculatus
Authors: Leatherland J. F. , Ogasawara K. , S. Rahman M. , Renaud R. , Yamashiro H. , Takemura A.
Published: July 2003

Testicular and ovarian fragments of the protogynous Pacific wrasse Haliochoeres trimaculatus were incubated in vitro with [3H]pregnenolone ([3H]P5), [3H]17‐hydroxyprogesterone ([3H]17OHP4), non‐radioactive (nr) 17β‐oestradiol (nrE2) or nrP5 to identify the major gonadal steroidogenic pathways and steroid products in females and in the two male variants of this species, the terminal phase (TP) and initial phase (IP) males. Both testis and ovarian tissues exhibited 7 hydroxylase activity resulting in the formation of 7α‐hydroxypregnenolone (7OHP5) from [3H]P5, and many HPLC peaks were identified as products of testicular (c. 29) and ovarian (c. 23) steroidogenesis, and only c. 50% of these metabolites co‐eluted with authentic reference standards; only very small amounts of conjugated steroid were synthesized from any of the precursors. [3H]P5 was converted by testis mainly to 7αOHP5, and two unknown steroids, whereas [3H]17OHP4 metabolism gave rise to [3H]17,20β‐dihydroxy‐4‐pregnen‐3‐one (DHP), 11‐ketotestosterone (11KT), and two unknown steroids. For ovarian tissues, [3H]17OHP4 and [3H]P5 were metabolized to form E2, oestrone (E1), androstenedione (A4), 20α‐ and 20β‐dihydroprogesterone (20αDHP and 20βDHP), 7αOHP5 (from [3H]P5) and a major unknown. The HPLC steroid profiles for testis incubations for IP and TP males were similar, however, the steroidogenic response of the testis of TP males to human chorionic gonadotrophin, in vitro (determined by hormone assay), was significantly higher than that of IP males.
Post mortem shrinkage of four species of temperate and tropical marine fishes, without freezing or preservation
Authors: Morison A. K. , Brown I. W. , Jones G. K.
Published: July 2003

The present study indicated significant post mortem decreases in length for four Australian teleost species from temperate to tropical habitats: black bream Acanthopagrus butcheri, King George whiting Sillaginodes punctata, summer whiting Sillago ciliata and redthroat emperor Lethrinus miniatus. Shrinkage averaged 5·0 mm after 24 h (range 0–10 mm) for A. butcheri, 4 mm (0–8 mm) for S. punctata, 2·2 mm (0·7–3·7 mm) for S. ciliata and 5·4 mm (−2·5–15·0 mm) for L. miniatus. For A. butcheri held under three different post mortem treatments, the mean length of fish in all treatments decreased but there was no significant effect of treatment type on the extent of shrinkage. The rate of shrinkage of S. ciliata varied with treatment, but the ultimate extent did not. For A. butcheri shrinkage was most rapid (2·5 mm h−1) between 1 and 2 h postcapture. The results from these studies confirm that a post mortem decrease in length is a common phenomenon, even in fishes that are not frozen or preserved. Such shrinkage has implications for the enforcement of minimum legal length legislation, and may cause bias in biological investigations, including growth estimates from tag and recapture studies.
Effect of Tin‐mesoporphyrin, an inhibitor of haem catabolism, on intestinal iron absorption
Authors: Laftah Abas H. , Raja Kishor , Simpson Robert J. , Peters Timothy J.
Published: July 2003

Summary. Haem biosynthesis is the most important destination for absorbed iron, hence it can be hypothesized that iron absorption regulation should be integrated with haem metabolism. As an initial step to test this hypothesis, the effect on iron absorption of Tin‐mesoporphyrin (SnMP), inhibitor of haem oxygenase, altering haem and its biosynthetic intermediates, was studied. Mice injected with SnMP (5–25 µmol/kg daily for up to 3 d) showed dose‐dependent increases in intestinal iron absorption measured in vivo and in vitro. In order to investigate the effects of SnMP, enzymes and intermediates of haem metabolism were measured. Hepatic 5‐amino‐laevulinate (ALA) synthase activity (pmol/min/mg protein) was significantly reduced in SnMP‐treated mice (10 and 25 µmol/kg daily for 3 d) (mean ± standard deviation, control 11·2 ± 2·6; treated 6·3 ± 1·7; P < 0·01). Hepatic ALA dehydratase activity (pmol porphobilinogen/mg protein/min) showed significant reductions following SnMP treatment (control 180 ± 60, treated 130 ± 50; P < 0·05). The effect of SnMP on iron absorption was reversible, with absorption returning to normal after 3 d. Furthermore, the effect of SnMP on duodenal iron absorption was abolished by the simultaneous injection of ALA (6 µmol/l). ALA alone had no effect on iron absorption. In‐vitro studies using duodenal fragments isolated from mice treated with SnMP (10 μmol/kg daily for 3 d), showed significant increases (P < 0·05) in both mucosal iron uptake and Fe(III) reducing activity. We conclude that intermediates in haem metabolism, in particular levels of ALA, may play a role in duodenal iron absorption.
Interruption of p16 gene expression in adult T‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma: clinical correlation
Authors: Takasaki Yumi , Yamada Yasuaki , Sugahara Kazuyuki , Hayashi Tomomi , Dateki Natsuko , Harasawa Hitomi , Kawabata Shigeru , Soda Hiroshi , Ikeda Shuichi , Tomonaga Masao , Kamihira Shimeru
Published: July 2003

Summary. We previously reported that p16 gene deletion is involved in the development and progression of adult T‐cell leukaemia/lymphoma (ATLL). To further investigate the significance of this gene in ATLL, we examined its expression status in 63 patients. Samples were analysed at DNA, mRNA and protein levels using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), reverse transcription (RT)‐coupled real‐time PCR and Western blot respectively. Twenty‐four patients (38·1%) were p16 gene negative, and they showed significantly shorter survival than p16‐gene‐positive patients. The expression of p16 mRNA in p16‐gene‐positive patients varied greatly, and cells from some patients showed up to several hundredfold higher expression than normal lymphocytes. Surprisingly, among 17 patients examined for p16 protein expression, all four patients with unusually high mRNA lacked p16 protein expression, indicating that p16 protein production in these patients was interrupted at the translational level. Moreover, these patients showed significantly shorter survival than p16‐protein‐positive patients. These results indicate that the presence of p16 gene and p16 mRNA do not necessarily indicate the production of p16 protein in ATLL, and that loss of p16 protein function is involved in progression of ATLL.
Comparison of flow cytometry and enzyme cytochemistry for the detection of myeloperoxydase in acute myeloid leukaemia: interests of a new positivity threshold
Authors: Peffault de Latour Régis , Legrand Ollivier , Moreau Delphine , Perrot Jean‐Yves , Blanc Claude Marie , Chaoui Driss , Casadevall Nicole , Marie Jean‐Pierre
Published: July 2003

Summary. Following the recommendations of the European Group for the Immunological Characterization of Leukaemias (EGIL) in 1995, few reports have been published comparing enzyme cytochemistry (EC) and flow cytometry (FC) for the detection of myeloperoxydase (MPO) in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). The EGIL guidelines defined MPO positivity in FC, by the presence of this enzyme in 10% or more of the blast cells. We studied 136 adult patients with the systematic use of both EC and FC, using a 3% threshold for positivity for EC, and 10% and 3% consecutively for FC. FC was less sensitive than EC using the currently recommended threshold of 10%, but a 3% cut‐off showed more sensitivity and was superior to EC. The joint use of both techniques identified 14 discordant patients (positive in FC/negative in EC or vice versa), all of whom displayed at least one poor‐prognosis biological factor, which correlated with a mediocre clinical result. In conclusion, we recommend that the cut‐off for a positive MPO value should be lowered to 3%, and suggest that the concomitant use of FC and EC is a fast clinically relevant prognostic tool.
Direct binding of antithymoctye globulin to haemopoietic progenitor cells in aplastic anaemia
Authors: Flynn Julie , Cox Charlotte V. , Rizzo Sian , Foukaneli Theodora , Rice Katherine , Murphy Matthew , Welsh Jonathan , Rutherford Theodora R. , Gordon‐Smith Edward C. , Gibson Frances M.
Published: July 2003

Summary. Antithymocyte globulin (ATG) is widely used in the treatment of aplastic anaemia (AA) and a response occurs in 60–80% of patients. However, its exact mechanism of action in the treatment of AA has yet to be determined. Previously, we have shown that ATG increases colony growth from purified bone marrow CD34+ cells of AA patients in vitro, and decreases stem cell apoptosis and the expression of soluble Fas receptor after ATG therapy in vivo. The aim of this study was to further examine the association of ATG with AA haemopoietic progenitor cells. We describe here that ATG bound directly to CD34+ cells. Forty‐six patients and 20 normal control subjects were studied. ATG bound to CD34+ cells in normal control subjects (mean 90·38%) as determined by flow cytometry. The mean percentage of CD34+ cells binding to ATG was 59·90% in untreated aplastic patients, 83·24% in partial responders, 58·3% in non‐responders and 62·73% in relapsed patients. In completely recovered patients, ATG binding was indistinguishable from control subjects. The functionality of AA patients' haemopoietic progenitor cells was assessed using colony assays. These results demonstrate the direct binding of ATG to CD34+ cells and suggest that differences in its binding to AA CD34+ cells could reflect functional differences in the haemopoietic stem cell compartment throughout the disease process.
European collaborative study of the antenatal management of feto‐maternal alloimmune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Birchall Janet E. , Murphy Kaplan Michael F., Cecile , Kroll Hartmut ,   on behalf of the European Fetomaternal Alloimmune Thrombocytopenia Study Group
Published: July 2003

Summary. The aims of this study were to determine whether the severity of fetomaternal alloimmune thrombocytopenia (FMAIT) in the current pregnancy could be predicted from the history of FMAIT in previous pregnancies, and to assess the effects of different types of antenatal intervention. Fifty‐six fetuses were studied that all had a sibling affected by FMAIT due to human platelet antigen 1a (HPA‐1a) alloimmunization. Cases with a sibling history of antenatal intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) or severe thrombocytopenia (platelet counts of < 20 × 109/l) had significantly lower pretreatment platelet counts than cases whose siblings had less severe thrombocytopenia or postnatal ICH. Maternal therapy resulted in a platelet count exceeding 50 × 109/l in 67% of cases. None of the fetuses managed by serial platelet intrauterine transfusions (IUT) suffered ICH following treatment. However, several serious complications arose with fetal blood sampling (FBS). Overall, intervention improved outcome, as three study cases suffered from antenatal ICH and three others died whereas 15 study cases had a sibling with an ICH, eight of whom died. The results of this study suggest that the start of therapy can be stratified on the basis of the sibling history of FMAIT, and support the use of maternal therapy as first‐line treatment.