bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical, pathologic, and ultrastructural studies of progressive macular hypomelanosis
Authors: Wu Xin‐gang , Xu Ai‐e , Song Xiu‐zu , Zheng Jun‐hui , Wang Ping , Shen Hong
Published: September 2010

Background  Progressive macular hypomelanosis (PMH), a condition of uncertain etiology, is characterized by asymptomatic hypopigmented macules, predominantly located on the trunk. To date, the study of this disease has been sporadic and there are still no clinical diagnostic criteria. The aim of this study was to investigate the histopathologic and ultrastructural characteristics of PMH, and propose the clinical diagnostic criteria of PMH.

Methods  The Wood’s lamp and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy were used to observe the lesions’ features. Skinbiopsies were used for hematoxylin and eosin staining, melanin staining, antibodies staining of S‐100 protein, tyrosinase‐related protein‐1(TRP‐1) and tyrosinase (T311), and also for ultra‐structural study. Melanocytes were isolated and cultured from the lesions.

Results  Under Wood’s lamp examination, the lesions of PMH showed punctiform red fluorescence. Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy observation of the lesion showed that its “pigmented ring” around the dermal papillae was intact, but its melanin content was decreased compared with the surrounding normal skin. Ferrous sulfate staining showed that melanin content in the lesion of PMH was significantly decreased compared with the normal skin (P < 0.05). S‐100 staining showed that the number of positive cells in the basal layer had no statistical significance (P > 0.05) between the lesion areas (8.25 ± 0.96) and the surrounding normal skin (8.75 ± 1.71). TRP‐1 staining showed no significant difference between lesion areas (4.25 ± 0.96) and the surrounding normal skin (4.50 ± 1.29) (P > 0.05), and T311 staining also showed no difference between lesion areas (4.01 ± 0.87) and the surrounding normal skin (4.30 ± 1.05) (P > 0.05). Ultra‐structural studies revealed a large reduction in the number of mature melanosome from PMH lesions. There were many membrane‐bound groups in PMH lesions with normal appearance the margin, which contained a number of smaller type II–IV melanosomes, which were distributed in clusters. No degradation of melanosomes was present in the lysosomal compartments of PMH lesions. When melanocytes from the PMH lesions were cultured in vitro, the morphology of those melanocytes showed no difference compared with normal melanocytes.

Conclusion  As a result of the above findings, we discussed and summarized the PMH’s clinical diagnostic criteria.
Crusted pink papule in a 20‐year‐old
Authors: Kobraei Katherina B. , Church Ann A. , Shigo Alexandra L. , Judge Kathleen W. , Glavin Frederick L. , Vincek Vladimir
Published: September 2010

What is your diagnosis?
Cutaneous manifestations associated with HTLV‐1 infection
Authors: Bittencourt Achiléa L. , Oliveira Maria de Fátima Paim de
Published: September 2010

Skin lesions are frequent in human T‐cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) infection and may constitute an alert for the diagnosis of this condition. The most severe skin diseases related to this virus are adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL), an aggressive form of leukemia/lymphoma that fails to respond to chemotherapy, and infective dermatitis associated with HTLV‐1 (IDH), a severe and recurrent form of eczema occurring in childhood. ATLL affects the skin in 43–72% of cases. In this review, the clinical, histopathological and immunohistochemical aspects of ATLL and IDH will be discussed, as well as the differential diagnoses, giving particular focus to the primary cutaneous ATLL. IDH may progress to HTLV‐1‐associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) and to ATLL. Adult onset IDH and reactional and inflammatory dermatoses found in carriers and also in patients with HAM/TSP will be considered. Other dermatological diseases that occur more frequently in HTLV‐1‐infected individuals such as xerosis, acquired ichthyosis, seborrheic dermatitis and infectious and parasitic dermatoses will also be discussed.
Modified gluteal‐fold flap for the reconstruction of vulvovaginal defects
Authors: Nakamura Yasuhiro , Ishitsuka Yosuke , Nakamura Yoshiyuki , Xu Xuezhu , Hori‐Yamada Enmi , Ito Michiko , Onizawa Saori , Kawachi Yasuhiro , Otsuka Fujio
Published: September 2010

Background  Reconstruction of vulvovaginal defects after tumor excision requires good‐quality skin cover because of the cosmetic and functional importance of this region. Although numerous techniques for vulvovaginal reconstruction have been described, an ideal approach has yet to be widely accepted.

Methods  Seven gluteal‐fold flaps advanced in a V‐Y fashion were used to cover vulvovaginal defects in five patients who underwent surgical treatment for extramammary Paget’s disease or carcinoma of the vulva.

Results  Each flap survived completely with no complication other than partial dehiscence in one case and temporary postoperative discomfort and pain upon sitting. None of the patients suffered from recurrence of the tumor.

Conclusions  In our experience, this flap is easily elevated, not bulky, and reliable because it is supplied by the internal pudendal artery and vein perforators without excessive skeletonization of the vascular pedicle, and it has matched local skin quality. In addition, it has minimal donor‐site morbidity as the scar is concealed in the gluteal fold. It can cover medium‐sized vulvovaginal defects after tumor excision.
Hyperkeratotic eruption, hand–foot skin reaction, facial erythema, and stomatitis secondary to multi‐targeted kinase inhibitor sorafenib
Authors: Sahai Seema , Swick Brian L.
Published: September 2010

Background  Sorafenib and sunitinib, novel anti‐tumor agents approved for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma, have been associated with multiple adverse cutaneous effects.

Objective  To further investigate the constellation of possible adverse effects of sorafenib and sunitinib on the skin.

Subjects and Methods  Case report of a 62 year old male with history of renal cell carcinoma treated with adjuvant sorafenib.

Results  Our patient experienced a diffuse hyperkeratotic rash, hand‐foot skin reaction, facial erythema, and stomatitis within three weeks of initiation of sorafenib.

Conclusion  Further investigation regarding the possible adverse cutaneous effects of sorafenib and sunitinib, pathogenesis and risk factors for development, associated time course, and preventative and therapeutic methods, will allow for better patient and physician education.
Aquatic sports dermatoses: Part 3 On the water
Authors: Tlougan Brook E. , Podjasek Joshua O. , Adams Brian B.
Published: September 2010

The third of this three‐part series on water‐related sports dermatoses discusses skin changes seen in athletes who participate in sporting activities on top of or nearby water. While also susceptible to several of the freshwater and saltwater dermatoses discussed in parts one and two of the series, these athletes may present with skin changes unique to their particular sports. This updated and comprehensive review details those near‐water dermatologic conditions commonly seen in sailors, rowers, fishermen, surfers, windsurfers, rafters, and water skiers, and will serve as a guide for dermatologists, sports medicine physicians and other medical practitioners in recognition and treatment of these conditions.
Computational identification of microRNAs in apple expressed sequence tags and validation of their precise sequences by miR‐RACE
Authors: Yu Huaping , Song Changnian , Jia Qidong , Wang Chen , Li Fei , Nicholas Korir Kibet , Zhang Xiaoying , Fang Jinggui
Published: September 2010

Thirty‐one potential miRNAs that belong to 16 miRNA families were discovered from more than 324 000 EST sequences of apple (Malus domestica). In addition, precise sequences, especially terminal nucleotides of the 16 apple miRNAs (mdo‐miRNAs) in 16 families were validated by miR‐RACE, a newly developed method for the determination of the potential miRNAs predicted computationally. The expression of these 16 microRNAs could be detected in apple young leaf, old leaf, young stem, flower bud, flower and developing fruits by quantitative RT‐PCR (qRT‐PCR) and some of them showed tissue‐specific expression. Fifty‐six potential targets were identified for the 16 apple miRNAs, most of which were transcription factors that play important roles in apple development. Twelve target genes were experimentally verified by qRT‐PCR, with some exhibiting different expression trends from their corresponding microRNAs, indicating the cleavage mode of miRNAs on their target genes.
Overexpression of a novel soybean gene modulating Na+ and K+ transport enhances salt tolerance in transgenic tobacco plants
Authors: Chen Huatao , He Hui , Yu Deyue
Published: September 2010

Salt is an important factor affecting the growth and development of soybean in saline soil. In this study, a novel soybean gene encoding a transporter (GmHKT1) was identified and its function analyzed using transgenic plants. GmHKT1 encoded a protein of 419 amino acids, with a potential molecular mass of 47.06 kDa and a predicted pI value of 8.59. Comparison of the genomic and cDNA sequences of GmHKT1 identified no intron. The deduced amino acid sequence of GmHKT1 showed 38–49% identity with other plant HKT‐like sequences. RT‐PCR analysis showed that the expression of GmHKT1 was upregulated by salt stress (150 mM NaCl) in roots and leaves but not in stems. Overexpression of GmHKT1 significantly enhanced the tolerance of transgenic tobacco plants to salt stress, compared with non‐transgenic plants. To investigate the role of GmHKT1 in K+ and Na+ transport, we compared K+ and Na+ accumulation in roots and shoots of wild‐type and transgenic tobacco plants. The results suggested that GmHKT1 is a transporter that affected K+ and Na+ transport in roots and shoots, and regulated Na+/K+ homeostasis in these organs. Our findings suggest that GmHKT1 plays an important role in response to salt stress and would be useful in engineering crop plants for enhanced tolerance to salt stress.
Expression and phylogenetic analysis of two new lycopene β‐cyclases from Citrus paradisi
Authors: Mendes Amanda F. S. , Chen Chunxian , Gmitter Fred G. , Moore Gloria A. , Costa Marcio G. C.
Published: September 2010

Two new lycopene β‐cyclases (LCYBs) were cloned and characterized from grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.). During fruit ripening, CpLCYB1 expression did not show significant differences between ‘Flame’ (red flesh) and ‘Marsh’ (white flesh), and was much lower than CpLCYB2 and nearly constant; however, CpLCYB2 expression dramatically changed in a similar tendency in the pulp of both grapefruit cultivars, but the relative abundance of mRNA in ‘Flame’ was significantly lower than in ‘Marsh’. Phylogenetically and structurally, CpLCYB1 was a chloroplast‐specific member and CpLCYB2 a chromoplast‐specific member, the two subfamilies of all the LCYB genes. An intron was found in the 5′‐untranslated region of CpLCYB1 and in two other Citrus LCYB1 genes (CcLCYB1 and CsLCYB1‐2), resulting in an extra 20 amino acids, compared with all the other LCYB1s. It suggested that a different genomic event, in addition to gene duplication, has contributed to the evolution of these LCYB genes, and likewise, the change of their functions.
Classic predictions about sex change do not hold under all types of size advantage
Authors: KAZANCIOĞLU E. , ALONZO S. H.
Published: September 2010

Theory predicts that the ‘size advantage’ (rate of increase in male and female fitness with age or size) determines the direction and the timing of sex change in sequential hermaphrodites. Whereas the size advantage is generated by the mating system and would be expected to vary within and between species, the shape or form of the size advantage has rarely been estimated directly. Here, we ask whether theoretical predictions about the timing of sex change hold under different types of size advantage. We model two biological scenarios representing different processes generating the size advantage and find that different types of size advantage can produce patterns that qualitatively differ from classic predictions. Our results demonstrate that a good understanding of sequentially hermaphroditic mating systems, and specifically, a direct assessment of the processes underlying the size advantage is crucial to reliably predict and explain within‐species patterns of the timing of sex change.
Does a trade‐off between current reproductive success and survival affect the honesty of male signalling in species with male parental care?
Authors: KELLY N. B. , ALONZO S. H.
Published: September 2010

Recent theory predicted that male advertisement will reliably signal investment in paternal care in species where offspring survival requires paternal care and males allocate resources between advertisement and care. However, the predicted relationship between care and advertisement depended on the marginal gains from investment in current reproductive traits. Life history theory suggests that these fitness gains are also subject to a trade‐off between current and future reproduction. Here, we investigate whether male signalling remains a reliable indicator of parental care when males allocate resources between current advertisement, paternal care and survival to future reproduction. We find that advertisement is predicted to remain a reliable signal of male care but that advertisement may cease to reliably indicate male quality because low‐quality males are predicted to invest in current reproduction, whereas higher‐quality males are able to invest in both current reproduction and survival to future reproduction.
Do insect pests perform better on highly defended plants? Costs and benefits of induced detoxification defences in the aphidSitobion avenae
Authors: CASTAÑEDA L. E. , FIGUEROA C. C. , NESPOLO R. F.
Published: September 2010

Induced defences are a typical case of phenotypic plasticity, involving benefits for ‘plastic’ phenotypes under environments with variable degree of stress. Defence induction, in turn, could be energetically expensive incurring costs on growth and reproduction. In this study, we investigated the genetic variation and induction of detoxification enzymes mediated by wheat chemical defences (hydroxamic acids; Hx), and their metabolic and fitness costs using five multilocus genotypes of the grain aphid (Sitobion avenae). Cytochrome P450 monooxygenases and glutathioneS‐transferases activities were seen to increase with Hx levels, whereas esterases activity and standard metabolic rate increased in wheat hosts with low Hx levels. Additionally, the intrinsic rate of increase (a fitness proxy) increased in highly defended hosts. However, we did not find significant genetic variation or genotype–host interaction for any studied trait. Therefore, aphids feeding on host plants with elevated chemical defences appeared to reduce their detoxification costs and to increase their reproductive performance, which we interpret as a novel adaptation to defended plants. In brief, this study supports the notion that aphids perform better on highly defended host plants, probably related to the selective pressures during the colonization of New World agroecosystems, characterized by highly defended host plants.
Prevalence of Clinical Endometritis and its Impact on Reproductive Performance in Grazing Dairy Cattle in Argentina
Authors: Plöntzke J , Madoz LV , De la Sota RL , Heuwieser W , Drillich M
Published: September 2010

Contents

The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of clinical endometritis and its impact on reproductive performance in grazing dairy cattle in Argentina to compare data with previous reports from herds kept in confinement housing systems. A total of 243 Holstein dairy cows from three commercial dairy farms in Buenos Aires Province (Argentina) were examined for the signs of clinical endometritis 18–38 days postpartum (dpp) by external inspection and manual vaginal examination. Vaginal discharge was scored into the categories VDS 0 (transparent, clear mucus), VDS 1 (mucupurulent discharge), VDS 2 (purulent discharge) and VDS 3 (purulent discharge with fetid odour). Cows diagnosed with VDS 1 to VDS 3 were regarded as affected with clinical endometritis and cows with VDS 0 as free of clinical endometritis. All cows were re‐examined 14 days later following the same examination protocol. Prevalence of clinical endometritis 18–38 dpp was 35% and decreased to 18% at re‐examination. Cows with no palpable ovarian structures or periparturient disorders were at higher risk for clinical endometritis. Hazard for pregnancy was significantly lower in cows with purulent or fetid odour discharge compared with reference cows with no discharge (HR = 0.49; p = 0.01), resulting in a lower proportion of cows pregnant by 360 dpp (66% vs 78%). Furthermore, the number of services per pregnancy was higher for cows with clinical endometritis than for cows without clinical endometritis (4.4 vs 3.1; p = 0.04). Cows with clinical endometritis were 1.6 times as likely to be culled as cows with no signs of clinical endometritis. In conclusion, the prevalence and the impact of clinical endometritis in a pasture‐based, extensive dairy production system in Argentina were similar to previously published data from dairy farms with confinement production systems.
Evidence that apoptotic signalling in hypertrophic cardiomyocytes is determined by mitochondrial pathways involving protein kinase Cδ
Authors: Xie Man‐Jiang , Chang Hui , Wang Yun‐Ying , Zhang Lin , Song Zhen , Guo Wan‐Gang , Wang Tao , Che Hong‐Lei , Yu Zhi‐Bin
Published: September 2010

1. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis plays an important role in the transition from cardiac hypertrophy to heart failure. Hyper‐trophic cardiomyocytes show an increased susceptibility to apoptotic stimuli, but the mechanisms remain unclear.

2. We hypothesized that activated protein kinase Cδ (PKCδ) associated with cardiomyocyte hypertrophy could move from the cytoplasm to mitochondria, and subsequently trigger the apoptotic signalling pathway.

3. Hypertrophy was induced in cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes using endothelin‐1 (ET‐1), insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1), thyroid hormone (T3) or angiotensin‐II (AngII). AngII at high concentrations (1 and 10 nmol/L) also induced apoptosis. Hypertrophic cells were then treated with AngII with or without specific inhibitors of the angiotensin receptors AT1and AT2(losartan and PD123319, respectively), endothelin receptor A (BQ‐123) and PKCδ (rottlerin). ET‐1 plus AngII had a threefold and significant increase in apoptosis in the hypertrophic cultures compared with AngII alone. In association with the increase in apoptosis, this treatment also promoted mitochondrial translocation of PKCδ, and increased expression of cleaved caspase 9 and activity of caspase 3. All of these increases were modulated by concurrent use of the PKCδ inhibitor, rottlerin.

4. The results suggest that apoptotic signalling in hypertrophic cardiomyocytes is determined by mitochondrial pathways involving PKCδ.
Downregulation of the circadian rhythm related gene Arntl2 suppresses diabetes protection in Idd6 NOD.C3H congenic mice
Authors: He Chen‐Xia , Avner Philip , Boitard Christian , Rogner Ute Christine
Published: September 2010

1. Our previous studies of the murine genetic locus Idd6 revealed the aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator‐like protein 2 (Arntl2) as a candidate gene for type 1 diabetes; and in Idd6 NOD.C3H congenic mice, Arntl2 upregulation is linked to decreased diabetes development.

2. In the present study, shRNA plasmids capable of suppressing Arntl2 expression were developed and given to diabetes resistant NOD.C3H congenic mice by hydrodynamic tail vein injection. The effects of Arntl2 suppression on diabetes incidence and immune cell numbers were investigated.

3. Diabetes incidence was increased by Arntl2 mRNA interference in the congenic strain and this was associated with an increase in CD4+ T cells and a decrease in regulatory T cells in the peripheral immune system.

4. These results provide additional support for the protective role of the Arntl2 gene located in locus Idd6 in diabetes progression in NOD.C3H congenic mice.
Tectonic implications of the geochemical data from the Makran igneous rocks in Iran
Authors: Shahabpour Jamshid
Published: September 2010

Makran is one of the largest accretionary prisms on Earth, formed by the closure of the Neotethys ocean which is now represented by its remnant, the Gulf of Oman. Tectonic evolution of the Makran island‐arc system is explored within the context of a north dipping subduction zone, with temporal variations in slab dip arrangement. In a Middle Jurassic–Early Paleocene steep slab dip arrangement, the Mesozoic magmatic arc and the Proto‐Jaz Murian depression, which was an intra‐arc extensional basin, were developed. This was associated with development of outer‐arc ophiolitic mélange and oceanward migration of the Bajgan–Durkan continental sliver, which is the continuation of the Sanandaj–Sirjan zone of the Zagros orogenic belt into the Makran region. In a Late Paleocene to Late Pliocene moderate to shallow slab dip arrangement, compression and tectonic inversion of the Proto‐Jaz Murian extensional basin into the Jaz Murian compressive basin was associated with the uplift of the southern part of the Jaz Murian Depression along the South Jaz Murian Fault, and emplacement of the Paleogene–Neogene magmatic arc, behind the Jaz Murian compressive basin. A shallow slab dip arrangement in the Quaternary led to the emplacement of a third magmatic arc inland, over the southern part of the Yazd–Tabas–Lut micro‐continental block. It is envisioned that the Makran island‐arc system will pass through similar tectonic events in the future, as the Zagros island‐arc system did in the past. However, a future remnant and/or residual basin similar to the present Gulf of Oman will continue to survive to the east.
Optimizing thiopurine therapy: More weight to the metabolite argument
Authors: Gibson Peter R , Gearry Richard B
Published: September 2010

See article in J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2010; 25: 1626–1630.
Persistent interferon‐β‐1b‐induced psychosis in a patient with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Manfredi Giovanni , Kotzalidis Giorgio D. , Sani Gabriele , Koukopoulos Alexia E. , Savoja Valeria , Lazanio Simone , Girardi Nicoletta , Tatarelli Roberto
Published: September 2010

Interferon‐β is used in patients with multiple sclerosis to reduce autoimmunity; although other psychiatric side‐effects are common, in contrast to interferon‐alpha, psychosis has been reported only once. A patient with multiple sclerosis developed auditory hallucinations, paranoid delusions, and increased aggressiveness after 16 months of treatment with interferon‐β‐1b, 250 µg every other day. He responded after about one month to antipsychotic treatment, but tended to relapse upon dose reduction, and after 2 years still needs antipsychotics to control his symptoms. Because there was no change in his magnetic resonance imaging between pre‐ and post‐treatment with interferon, we concluded that psychosis was more related to interferon treatment than to the underlying disease.
Reduced gray matter volume of dorsal cingulate cortex in patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder: A voxel‐based morphometric study
Authors: Matsumoto Ryohei , Ito Hiroshi , Takahashi Hidehiko , Ando Tomomichi , Fujimura Yota , Nakayama Kazuhiko , Okubo Yoshiro , Obata Takayuki , Fukui Kenji , Suhara Tetsuya
Published: September 2010

Aims:  Previous morphometric studies using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have revealed structural brain abnormalities in obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). The aim of the present study was to investigate the alterations in brain structure of patients with OCD using a voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) method.

Methods:  Sixteen patients with OCD free of comorbid major depression, and 32 sex‐ and age‐matched healthy subjects underwent MRI using a 1.5‐T MR scanner. OCD severity was assessed with the Yale–Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale (mean ± SD: 22 ± 7.6; range: 7–32). MR images were spatially normalized and segmented using the VBM5 package (http://dbm.neuro.uni‐jena.de/vbm/). Statistical analysis was performed using statistical parametric mapping software.

Results:  Significant reductions in regional gray matter volume were detected in the left caudal anterior cingulate cortex and right dorsal posterior cingulate cortex in the patients with OCD as compared to healthy controls (uncorrected, P < 0.001). No significant differences in white matter volumes were observed in any brain regions of the patients. No significant correlation between Yale–Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale score and regional gray matter or white matter volume was observed.

Conclusions:  Regional gray matter alteration in the dorsal cingulate cortex, which is suggested to play a role in non‐emotional cognitive processes, may be related to the pathophysiology in OCD.
Is breast‐feeding of infants advisable for epileptic mothers taking antiepileptic drugs?
Authors: Chen Lei , Liu Fang , Yoshida Shuichi , Kaneko Sunao
Published: September 2010

Epilepsy is a relatively common maternal complication affecting 0.3–0.5% of pregnant women. For most mothers with epilepsy, the use of antiepileptic drugs (AED) is unavoidable, even during pregnancy and lactation. Therefore, the fetus is indirectly exposed to AED via the placenta and breast milk. AED are also prescribed for female patients with other diseases, such as bipolar disorders. In clinical settings, physicians are frequently questioned whether or not women patients taking AED should breast‐feed their offspring. Thus, it is necessary to establish an optimum AED regimen for women taking AED, in particular for those with epilepsy during pregnancy and lactation. In this article, we critically review the effects of AED on infants via breast milk and attempt to provide suggestions for clinicians regarding these effects during breast‐feeding, based on the data of transplacental passage of AED, breast milk concentration/maternal serum concentration ratios, AED metabolism in infants and the effects of AED in breast milk on infants.
Increased N‐Acetylaspartate/creatine ratio in the medial prefrontal cortex among unmedicated obsessive–compulsive disorder patients
Authors: Fan Qing , Tan Ling , You Chao , Wang Jijun , Ross Colin A. , Wang Xuemei , Zhang Tianhong , Li Jianqi , Chen Kemin , Xiao Zeping
Published: September 2010

Aims:  Changes in the fronto‐striato‐thalamo‐cortical‐circuit loop have been suggested in the pathogenesis of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), and have been studied using 1H magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) with interesting findings. However, whether neural metabolites are abnormal in the medial prefrontal cortex in patients with OCD is unknown. The purpose of the present study was to investigate neural metabolites in this brain region in a sample of patients with OCD.

Methods:  Subjects were 21 unmedicated OCD patients, including 10 who were drug‐naïve, and 19 healthy controls. Single‐voxel 1H MRS was used to study the medial prefrontal cortex for each subject. Levels of N‐acetylaspartate (NAA), choline‐containing compounds and myoinositol were measured in terms of their ratios with creatine (Cr).

Results:  The NAA/Cr ratio was significantly higher among OCD patients than among healthy controls (F = 4.76, P = 0.037). However, it did not correlate with patients' symptoms or with their illness durations. The NAA/Cr ratio also did not differ between drug‐naïve and previously medicated patients. No significant group differences were found between OCD patients and normal controls for the choline‐containing compounds/Cr or myoinositol/Cr ratios. In addition, a significant correlation between the NAA/Cr ratio and trait anxiety scores on the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory was found among the controls (r = 0.639, P = 0.010).

Conclusions:  The N‐Acetylaspartate level relative to creatine in the medial prefrontal cortex was increased among unmedicated OCD patients. This cannot be attributed to the effect of medications. The possible significance of this finding in the pathophysiology of OCD is discussed.
Psychometric properties of the 10‐item Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale in Chinese earthquake victims
Authors: Wang Li , Shi Zhanbiao , Zhang Yuqing , Zhang Zhen
Published: September 2010

Aim:  Resilience refers to positive adaption in the face of stress or trauma. Assessing resilience is crucial in trauma‐related research and practice. The 10‐item Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD‐RISC) has been demonstrated to be a valid and reliable tool to achieve this goal. This study was designed to examine the psychometric properties of the 10‐item CD‐RISC in a sample of Chinese earthquake victims.

Methods:  A total of 341 participants (185 women, 156 men) aged 20–63 years were recruited from a psychological relief program supported by the Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences following the ‘Wenchuan’ earthquake. The participants were given the 10‐item CD‐RISC and the 17‐item post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) subscale of the Los Angeles Symptom Checklist (LASC) 4 months after the earthquake.

Results:  The results of exploratory factor analysis indicated that a single‐factor model consistent with the original design of the 10‐item CD‐RISC was support. The scale was also demonstrated to have good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.91) and test–retest reliability (r = 0.90 for a two‐week interval). Scores on the scale could reflect different levels of resilience in populations that are thought to be differentiated (probable PTSD vs healthy controls, t(339) = −7.60, P < 0.01, Cohen's d = 0.84). Moreover, the total resilience scores were significantly negatively correlated with scores on total PTSD scale and its three subscales for all participants.

Conclusion:  The Chinese version of the 10‐item CD‐RISC has excellent psychometric properties, and is applicable for Chinese people.
Lipid peroxidation in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Dietrich‐Muszalska Anna , Kontek Bogdan
Published: September 2010

Aims:  There is evidence that dysregulation of free radicals metabolism associated with abnormal activities of antioxidative enzymes in schizophrenia can lead to lipid peroxidation in plasma, erythrocytes, blood platelets and cerebrospinal fluid. Injury to neurons in schizophrenia may affect their function, i.e. membrane transport, impairment of energy production in mitochondria, changes in membrane phospholipid composition, alteration of receptors and transporters as well as neurotransmission. The purpose of the present study was to assess the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and lipid peroxidation (expressed as the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances [TBARS]) in plasma from schizophrenic patients taking olanzapine or risperidone. The level of TBARS estimated according to the Rice–Evans method and TAC ([ABTS; 2,2′‐azinobis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) radical cation decolorization assay]) in plasma from schizophrenic patients (DSM‐IV criteria for schizophrenia, n = 30, age 18–36) taking olanzapine or risperidone and from healthy volunteers (n = 30) were measured.

Methods:  The level of TBARS in plasma from healthy volunteers after incubation with olanzapine or risperidone was also estimated.

Results:  Significantly lower plasma TAC (P < 0.05) and significantly increased level of TBARS (P < 0.001) in schizophrenic patients were observed. The in vitro study showed that after olanzapine or risperidone (at final concentrations corresponding to doses used in acute episodes of schizophrenia treatment) no changes of plasma lipid peroxidation were found (P > 0.05). The obtained results indicate that the pro‐oxidant disturbances occur in schizophrenic patients (acute episode) taking stable doses of olanzapine or risperidone.

Conclusion:  It seems that second‐generation antipsychotics (olanzapine and risperidone) are not responsible for increase of plasma lipid peroxidation.
New generation of diagnostic tests for infertility: Review of specialized semen tests
Authors: Samplaski Mary K , Agarwal Ashok , Sharma Rakesh , Sabanegh Edmund
Published: September 2010

The initial evaluation of the subfertile male includes a through history and physical examination, semen analyses, and hormonal evaluation. However, a normal spermiogram does not necessarily correlate with fertility potential, because it does not assess sperm function. For this reason, specialized semen tests have been developed to test various aspects of spermatozoal function. This article reviews basic male reproductive physiology, as well as clinically utilized advanced seminal tests, including their methodology and implications for reproductive technology outcomes and fecundity.
Exploitation of distant Antarctic waters and close neritic waters by short‐tailed shearwaters breeding in South Australia
Authors: EINODER L. D. , PAGE B. , GOLDSWORTHY S. D. , DE LITTLE S. C. , BRADSHAW C. J. A.
Published: September 2010

Identifying the primary foraging grounds of abundant top predators is of importance in marine management to identify areas of high biological significance, and to assess the extent of competition with fisheries. We studied the search effort and habitat selection of the highly abundant short‐tailed shearwater Puffinus tenuirostris to assess the search strategies employed by this wide‐ranging seabird. During the chick‐rearing period 52 individuals were tracked performing 39 short foraging trips (1–2 days), and 13 long trips (11–32 days). First‐passage time analysis revealed that 46% of birds performing short trips employed area‐restricted searches, concentrating search effort at an average scale of 14 ± 5 km. Foraging searches were more continuous for the other 54%, who travelled faster to cover greater distances, with little evidence of area‐restricted searches. The prey returned indicated that continuous searchers consumed similar prey mass, but greater prey diversity than area‐restricted search birds. On long trips 23% of birds travelled 500–1000 km to neritic (continental shelf) habitats, showing weak evidence of preference for areas of higher chlorophyll a concentration, and foraged at a similar spatial scale to short trips. The other 76% performed rapid outbound flights of 1000–3600 km across oceanic habitats commuting to regions with higher chlorophyll a. The spatial scale of search effort in oceanic habitat varied widely with some performing broad‐scale searches (260–560 km) followed by finer‐scale nested searches (16–170 km). This study demonstrates that a range of search strategies are employed when exploiting prey across ocean basins. The trade‐offs between different search strategies are discussed to identify the value of these contrasting behaviours to wide‐ranging seabirds.
Bromeliad architectural complexity and vertical distribution predict spider abundance and richness
Authors: GONÇALVES‐SOUZA THIAGO , ALMEIDA‐NETO MÁRIO , ROMERO GUSTAVO Q.
Published: September 2010

Habitat complexity is a main predictor of the distribution of arthropods on vegetation. However, it remains poorly known whether plant architecture and fine‐scale spatial distribution affect the species richness and composition of associated arthropod guilds. In this study, we extensively sampled bromeliad species with a variety of rosette architectures in a megadiversity region. The aims were to investigate whether (i) possible differences in spider species composition among bromeliad species are related to the distinct architectures of the plants, and (ii) bromeliad architectural complexity (an intrinsic feature) and vertical distribution (an extrinsic feature) are good predictors of spider abundance and richness. Contrary to our expectations, spider species composition did not vary significantly among bromeliad species with different architectures. We found a positive effect of the mean number of leaves on spider abundance and species richness, but it occurred indirectly through spider abundance; factoring out the indirect effect revealed a negative effect of leaf number on species richness. Bromeliad species with wider vertical distributions harboured more spider species. Our results suggest that the dominance of a few spider species and reduced space for orb‐web spiders to attach their webs are the main explanations for lower spider richness on bromeliad species with higher architectural complexity. Our findings highlight the importance of both intrinsic and extrinsic plant features as co‐determinants of predator arthropod diversity.
Are the patterns of regeneration in the endangeredEucalyptus gunniissp.divaricatashifting in response to climate?
Authors: SANGER JENNIFER C. , DAVIDSON NEIL J. , O'GRADY ANTHONY P. , CLOSE DUGALD C.
Published: September 2010

Increasing drought frequency is a major driver of changes in forest structure and has been implicated in the decline of the endangered tree species,Eucalyptus gunniissp.divaricata(McAulay & Brett) in the Central Plateau region of Tasmania, Australia. In this study, we examined patterns of regeneration, aspects of the water relations ofE. gunniissp.divaricataand its replacementEucalyptus paucifloraand, whether shifts in stand dominance have occurred where the subspecies co‐occurs withE. paucifloracould be related to recent changes in climate. SuccessfulE. gunniissp.divaricataseedling regeneration was restricted to micro‐sites with relatively deep soils within slight depressions. In contrast, poorE. gunniissp.divaricataregeneration and declining adult cohorts of this species all occurred on steeper, concave micro‐sites with shallow soils. This apparent shift in suitable regeneration micro‐site, from sites with shallow to deeper soils, may be linked to an observed 25% reduction in summer rainfall over the last 50 years. On slopes surrounding waterlogged depressions whereE. gunniissp.divaricataco‐occurs withE. pauciflora,E. pauciflorawas in higher abundance thanE. gunniissp.divaricatain small adult and sapling size‐classes, compared with the adult cohorts (>30 cm d.b.h.), a trend consistent with a shift in stand dominance. Despite existing paradigms related to differential drought tolerance between these two species as a driver of this shift in stand dominance, there were no differences in predawn (Ψpd) water potentials between species. Furthermore, pressure–volume analysis showed thatE. gunniissp.divaricatahad lower values for osmotic potential at turgor loss point (−2.33 ± 0.06 MPa) thanE. pauciflora(−2.13 ± 0.03 MPa), suggesting thatE. gunniissp.divaricatamay be more drought tolerant thanE. pauciflora, in contrast to the prevailing paradigm that it is more susceptible to drought thanE. pauciflora.
SUCCESSFUL ENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND‐GUIDED FINE‐NEEDLE ASPIRATION OF THE PELVIC LESION THROUGH THE SIGMOID COLON
Authors: Matsui Noriaki , Akahoshi Kazuya , Motomura Yasuaki , Kubokawa Masaru , Endoh Shingo , Matsuura Ryouhei , Oda Hiroyuki , Nakashima Yasuhiro , Oya Masafumi , Nakamura Kazuhiko
Published: September 2010

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) is a useful modality when the target is a lymph node located in the mediastinum, perigastric area or perirectum. Although it is difficult to carry out EUS‐FNA of the colon using an oblique view linear scope, we report two cases of successful EUS‐FNA of the lesions via the proximal sigmoid colon using a recently available new convex type EUS scope. Case 1 was a 77‐year‐old Japanese woman noted to have multiple lymph node swelling in the para‐aortic area and in the pelvis. Case 2 was a 60‐year‐old Japanese woman noted to have a large mass in the left lower abdomen. In case 1, oral EUS showed no lymph node swelling. In both cases, EUS with forward‐viewing radial echoendoscope was carried out via the anus, and multiple lymph‐node swelling or a large mass was observed near the proximal sigmoid colon. In the EUS‐FNA for these cases, we used a new convex‐type EUS scope that has an oblique view, but with a wide‐angled optical device giving a view similar to a forward one. EUS‐FNA was successfully carried out on the lesions. The pathological specimen revealed diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma in case 1 and gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) in case 2.
ENDOSCOPIC PANCREATIC SPHINCTEROTOMY PLUS LARGE‐BALLOON DILATION FOR REMOVAL OF A LARGE IMPACTED PANCREATIC DUCT STONE (WITH VIDEO)
Authors: Itoi Takao , Kurihara Toshio , Sofuni Atsushi , Itokawa Fumihide , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Ishii Kentaro , Tsuji Shujiro , Ikeuchi Nobuhito , Umeda Junko , Moriyasu Fuminori , Sakai Yoshihiro
Published: September 2010

Pancreatic duct stones are a common complication of chronic pancreatitis. We describe successful endoscopic removal of a large pancreatic duct stone using large‐balloon dilation in combination with pancreatic sphincterotomy. A 63‐year‐old woman was admitted for endoscopic treatment of acute on chronic pancreatitis with diabetes and epigastric pain with liver dysfunction due to a large impacted stone within the distal main pancreatic duct. Endoscopic pancreatic sphincterotomy was carried out using a wire‐guided pull‐type sphincterotome. Although we could carry out a relatively large incision, the stone could not be extracted. We therefore carried out papillary dilation using a large balloon (diameter 12 to 15 mm) to make room alongside the stone. A 10 × 20‐mm white pancreatic duct stone was extracted during the process of pulling a dilating balloon into the working channel of the endoscope. Eventually, the second stone was removed without any procedure‐related complication.
ENDOSCOPIC OCCLUSION OF CYSTIC DUCT USING N‐BUTYL CYANOACRYLATE FOR POSTOPERATIVE BILE LEAKAGE
Authors: Ganguly Eric K. , Najarian Kenneth E. , Vecchio James A. , Moses Peter L.
Published: September 2010

Bile leak after cholecystectomy is well described, with the cystic duct remnant the site of the leak in the majority of cases. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) with biliary stent placement has a high success rate in such cases. When ERCP fails, options include surgery, and percutaneous and endoscopic transcatheter occlusion of the site of bile leak. Here, we describe a case of endoscopic transcatheter occlusion of a persistent cystic duct bile leak after cholecystectomy using N‐butyl cyanoacrylate glue. A 51‐year‐old man had persistent pain and bilious drainage following a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The bile leak persisted after endoscopic placement of a biliary stent for a confirmed cystic duct leak. A repeat ERCP was carried out and the cystic duct was occluded with a combination of angiographic coils and N‐butyl cyanoacrylate glue. The patient's pain and bilious drainage resolved. A follow‐up cholangiogram confirmed complete resolution of the cystic duct leak and a patent common bile duct.
Genetic variants of the insulin receptor substrate‐1 are influencing the therapeutic efficacy of oral antidiabetics
Authors: Seeringer A. , Parmar S. , Fischer A. , Altissimo B. , Zondler L. , Lebedeva E. , Pitterle K. , Roots I. , Kirchheiner J.
Published: September 2010

Aim: The therapeutic efficacy of oral hypoglycaemic drugs varies between individuals, and pharmacogenetic factors contribute to this variability. The Gly972Arg polymorphism in the insulin receptor substrate‐1 (IRS‐1) has been shown to play a role in insulin signal transduction and therapeutic failure to sulphonylurea drugs.

Methods: We studied the association between the IRS‐1 polymorphism and the haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level in diabetic patients treated with insulinotropic versus non‐insulinotropic hypoglycaemic drugs as a marker for the efficacy of an antidiabetic treatment. Genotyping of the IRS‐1 Arg972 variant was performed in type 2 diabetes patients treated with either sulphonylurea drugs, glinides or insulin or with metformin, acarbose or glitazones using the polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) method.

Results: Significantly higher HbA1c levels were observed in carriers of the Arg972 variant after treatment with insulinotropic drugs compared to wild‐type carriers (8.3 vs. 7.6%, p = 0.005, independent t‐test). Furthermore, patients with secondary failure to insulinotropic hypoglycaemic drugs switching finally to insulin showed even higher HbA1c levels in carriers of Arg972 compared to wild‐type (8.7 vs. 7.6%, p = 0.005, independent t‐test).

Conclusions: Thus, we were able to replicate the earlier findings of an association between the IRS‐1 Arg972 variant and secondary failure to sulphonylurea drugs, and further observed a general association between HbA1c and this polymorphism in type 2 diabetes patients treated with insulinotropic hypoglycaemic drugs but not with metformin.
A multicenter, randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind phase II trial evaluating the optimal dose, efficacy and safety of LC 15‐0444 in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Rhee E. J. , Lee W. Y. , Yoon K. H. , Yoo S. J. , Lee I. K. , Baik S. H. , Kim Y. K. , Lee M. K. , Park K. S. , Park J. Y. , Cha B. S. , Lee H. W. , Min K. W. , Bae H. Y. , Kim M. J. , Kim J. A. , Kim D. K. , Kim S. W.
Published: September 2010

Aim: The objective of this study was to evaluate the optimal dose, efficacy and safety of a novel dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐IV) inhibitor, LC15‐0444, in Korean subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus treated by diet and exercise.

Methods: This study was a double‐blind, randomized, multicenter and parallel‐group, dose‐range finding study. We enrolled 145 patients (91 men and 54 women) with a median age of 53 years and a median body mass index of 25.1 kg/m2. The median baseline fasting plasma glucose (FPG) was 8.1 mmol/l, the median HbA1c was 7.9% and the median time since the diagnosis of diabetes was 3 years. After 2 weeks of an exercise/diet programme followed by 2 weeks of a placebo period, the subjects were randomized to one of the four following groups for a 12‐week active treatment period: placebo and 50, 100 or 200 mg of LC15‐0444.

Results: All three doses of LC15‐0444 significantly reduced the HbA1c from baseline compared to the placebo group (−0.06 vs. −0.98, −0.74 and −0.78% in the placebo and 50, 100 and 200 mg groups, respectively), without a significant difference between the doses. Subjects with a higher baseline HbA1c (≥8.5%) had a greater reduction in HbA1c. Insulin secretory function, as assessed using homeostasis model assessment‐beta cell, C‐peptide and the insulinogenic index, improved significantly with LC15‐0444 treatment. Insulin sensitivity, as assessed using homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance, also improved significantly after 12 weeks of treatment. The 50 and 200 mg groups had significantly reduced total cholesterol and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels at 12 weeks compared to the placebo group. No dosage of LC15‐0444 affected weight or waist circumference. The incidences of adverse events were similar in all study subjects.

Conclusions: LC15‐0444 monotherapy (50 mg for 12 weeks) improved the HbA1c, FPG level, oral glucose tolerance test results, β‐cell function and insulin sensitivity measures, and was well tolerated in Korean subjects with type 2 diabetes.