bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive equations and the reliability of the impulse oscillatory system in Japanese adult subjects
Authors: SHIOTA Satomi , KATOH Masako , FUJII Mitsuhiro , AOKI Shigeyuki , MATSUOKA Rokuro , FUKUCHI Yoshinosuke
Published: June 2005

Background:  The impulse oscillation system (IOS) measures respiratory impedance (Zrs) in terms of resistance (Rrs) and reactance (Xrs) at multiples of 5 Hz. These measurements can be used clinically to help diagnose and monitor respiratory disorders, independent of effort.

Methodology:  The predictive equation for resistance at 5 and 20 Hz and impedance at 5 Hz (R5, R20, X5), for the first time, in 299 Japanese adult subjects was determined. In addition, the within single day variation and between day variation were determined.

Results:  The predictive equation for R5, R20 and X5 revealed a clear difference with respect to the subject's smoking history (lifelong non‐smoker, n = 166, adjusted r = 0.55, 0.46 and 0.57, respectively, vs. smoker, n = 133, adjusted r = 0.47, 0.42 and 0.47, respectively). This difference was less obvious with respect to gender (female, n = 120, adjusted r = 0.42, 0.20 and 0.47, respectively, vs. male, n = 179, adjusted r = 0.46, 0.37 and 0.47, respectively). The predictive equations were dependent on the log of height (H) for both R5 and R20, and on age and log of height for X5. The equations were: R5 (KPa/L/s) = −3.841167 × logH + 8.671580; R20 (KPa/L/s) = −2.546561 × logH + 5.841867; and X5 (KPa/L/s) = −0.000097 × Age + 1.018597 × logH − 2.343672. For these parameters there were no statistically significant differences for within day repeatability or between day variations (P > 0.05), suggesting a high degree of reproducibility for IOS measurements.

Conclusion:  It was possible to determine a predictive equation and confirm a high degree of reliability of IOS parameters in Japanese adult subjects.
Addition of macrolide in treating adult hospitalized community‐acquired pneumonia
Authors: LOH Li‐Cher , QUAH Soong‐Yuen , KHOO Sert‐Kim , VIJAYASINGHAM Pillai , THAYAPARAN Tarmizi
Published: June 2005

Objectives:  Current clinical practice guidelines, including those in south Asia, recommend the addition of a macrolide to a broad‐spectrum antibiotic for the treatment of severe hospitalized community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP). The aim of this study was to observe the influence of macrolide addition on clinical outcomes of hospitalized adult patients with CAP.

Methodology:  Over a 16‐month period between 2002 and 2004, 141 eligible patients were prospectively recruited from an urban‐based teaching hospital in Malaysia.

Results:  Of the 141 patients, 63 (44.7%) patients (age (standard deviation (SD)) 56 (20.0) years; 50.8% male) received a macrolide‐containing antibiotic regimen, while 78 (55.3%; age (SD) 57 (20.2) years; 52.6% male) were on a single broad‐spectrum antibiotic only. In total, 39 (27.7%) and 102 (72.3%) patients had severe and ‘non‐severe’ pneumonia, respectively. Irrespective of whether they had severe or non‐severe pneumonia, there were no significant differences in mortality (non‐severe pneumonia, 6.5% vs. 5.4%, P = 0.804; severe pneumonia, 17.6% vs. 18.2%, P = 0.966), need of ventilation (non‐severe pneumonia, 8.7% vs. 3.6%, P = 0.274; severe pneumonia, 23.5% vs. 13.6%, P = 0.425) or median length of hospital stay (non‐severe pneumonia, 5.5 vs. 5 days, P = 0.954; severe pneumonia, 7 vs. 6 days, P = 0.401) between the two treatment regimens.

Conclusion:  This observational, non‐randomized study suggests that addition of a macrolide may not convey any extra clinical benefits in adult hospitalized patients with CAP.
Successful withdrawal of inhaled corticosteroids in childhood asthma
Authors: PERERA B. Jayasiri C.
Published: June 2005

Objective:  Although inhaled corticosteroids are useful and effective in the prophylaxis of childhood asthma, there is a dearth of information regarding the duration of treatment. The present study was undertaken to assess the possibility of successful withdrawal of inhaled corticosteroids in childhood asthma following good control of the disease.

Methodology:  The study was carried out at the Asiri Hospital, Colombo, Sri Lanka and was a prospective observational clinical study. The participants were consecutive children with documented moderately severe and severe asthma seen over a period of 4 years from January 1990 and followed up to December 2003. Patients were allocated randomly to receive either beclomethasone dipropionate or budesonide. Initial dose of the selected drug was 300, 400 or 600 µg/ day, depending on the child's age. After a period of stabilization, the dose was reduced from the starting dose to a maintenance level of 200, 300 or 400 µg/day, respectively. Once sustained control had been maintained for a period ranging from 9 to 18 months, gradual withdrawal was attempted. The dosage was reduced by 50–100 µg each time, at intervals of 3 months. Long‐term follow up was maintained following withdrawal of inhaled corticosteroids. Breakthrough wheezing, acute severe attacks, hospitalization for wheezing and absence from school were used to assess the response.

Results:  Eighty‐six children were recruited into the study. Eighty children responded well. The initial period on a high dose of corticosteroid was 8.4 months (range 4–12 months) and the average period of maintenance dosing was 11.7 months (range 9–18 months). The average time taken for withdrawal was 12.6 months (range 9–18 months). Successful withdrawal was achieved in 73 children. In this group, the mean total duration of treatment was 27.4 months (range 20–44 months). Up to December 2003, the subjects had been observed for an average period of 97.1 months (range 86–121 months) following withdrawal of inhaled corticosteroids. Of the 73 children in whom corticosteroids were withdrawn, 57 (78%) have remained well without any episodes of wheezing, and 14 (19%) have had mild episodes of wheezing that were easily controlled by bronchodilators. No patient needed hospitalization, long‐term treatment or systemic corticosteroids. In two (3%) patients, it was necessary to restart inhaled corticosteroids because of troublesome recurrences.

Conclusion:  It is possible to gradually withdraw inhaled corticosteroids in a significant proportion of asthmatic children once good control has been sustained on a maintenance dose for a considerable period.
Prevalence and clinical features of cough variant asthma in a general internal medicine outpatient clinic in Japan
Authors: SHIRAHATA Kumiko , FUJIMOTO Keisaku , ARIOKA Hiroko , SHOUDA Ryousuke , KUDO Kouichirou , IKEDA Shu‐ichi
Published: June 2005

Objective:  The aims of the present study were to examine the prevalence and clinical features of cough variant asthma (CVA) among patients with chronic and persistent cough at an outpatient clinic in Japan, and the efficacy of treatment with an inhaled corticosteroid.

Methodology:  This prospective study was conducted at a general internal medicine outpatient clinic in Japan over a 12‐month period. CVA was diagnosed as chronic cough without wheezing or any apparent cause, that had persisted for more than 8 weeks, with a normal CXR and spirometry but with bronchial hyperresponsiveness to methacholine, and relief of cough after bronchodilator treatment. We also examined the effects of inhaled beclomethasone propionate on symptoms and differences in PEF between early morning and evening.

Results:  Of 55 patients suffering from chronic cough, 23 satisfied the criteria for CVA. Their cough occurred more frequently at night and early in the morning. Early morning PEF was significantly lower than evening PEF with a mean variability of 11.5 ± 4.1%. Treatment with beclomethasone propionate improved coughing and significantly increased early morning PEF, reducing variability to less than 10%.

Conclusions:  These findings suggest that CVA is most common among patients with chronic cough not due to any apparent cause. The efficacy of inhaled corticosteroid suggests that early intervention is effective in the treatment of CVA.
Serum IL‐18 levels in tuberculosis: Comparison with pneumonia, lung cancer and healthy controls
Authors: AKGUN Metin , SAGLAM Leyla , KAYNAR Hasan , YILDIRIM A. Kadir , MIRICI Arzu , GORGUNER Metin , MERAL Mehmet , OZDEN Kemalettin
Published: June 2005

Objective:  The aim of the present study was to document the serum IL‐18 levels in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (P‐TB), extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EP‐TB), pneumonia, lung cancer and in healthy controls, and to investigate whether it may assist in the differential diagnosis of P‐TB.

Methodology:  A total of 116 patients were included in the study. The study population consisted of patients with P‐TB, EP‐TB, pneumonia and lung cancer and controls. P‐TB patients were graded according to sputum positivity and extent of disease. Serum levels of IL‐18 (ELISA) were compared between groups and with other clinical measures of disease.

Results:  Compared with the controls, all groups of patients had increased serum levels of IL‐18. The highest mean concentration of IL‐18 was observed in P‐TB. Serum levels of IL‐18 in the patients with P‐TB correlated well with the extent of disease.

Conclusions:  Although increased serum levels of IL‐18 were not specific for TB, the increased levels may favour active TB in radiologically advanced disease where CXR findings are difficult to interpret, and sputum smears or cultures are not helpful.
Levels of tumour necrosis factor‐α and IL‐1α in newly diagnosed and multidrug resistant tuberculosis
Authors: ÇAĞATAY Tülin , KIRAN Bayram , YURT Sibel , GÜLBARAN Ziya , KOSAR Filiz , ÇAĞATAY Penbe
Published: June 2005

Background:  The pro‐inflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and IL‐1α play key roles in host defence against tuberculosis (TB) but there is little knowledge of their levels in multidrug resistant TB (MDR‐TB). The aim of the present study was to investigate the levels of TNF‐α and IL‐1α and their relationship with the levels of T helper (CD4+), T suppressor (CD8+) and total lymphocytes (CD45+) in newly diagnosed TB (N‐TB) and MDR‐TB.

Methodology:  This study assessed 19 N‐TB patients (M/F : 17/2) and 11 MDR‐TB patients (M/F : 10/1). Serum TNF‐α and IL‐1α were assessed by ELISA. Lymphocyte expression of CD45, CD4, CD8, CD3, CD23, CD19 and CD95 were determined by flow cytometry.

Results:  The levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1α, and CD4, CD4/CD8, CD45, CD19, CD23 and CD95 positive lymphocytes were lower in MDR‐TB than in N‐TB patients (P < 0.05). Statistically, there was a positive correlation between TNF‐α and IL‐1α (r = 0.92) for both MDR‐TB and N‐TB. For both groups, both TNF‐α and IL‐1α correlated with CD4+ lymphocytes (r = 0.48). TNF‐α and IL‐1α showed negative correlations with CD8+ lymphocytes (r = −0.81, r = −0.73) (P < 0.01) in MDR‐TB patients.

Conclusion:  The lower levels of cytokines and numbers of T helper lymphocytes in MDR‐TB compared with N‐TB implies that the immune profiles of the two groups are different, and may be important in the natural history of the disease.
Treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: Is there anything new?
Authors: ABDELAZIZ Muntasir M. , SAMMAN Yaseen S. , WALI Siraj O. , HAMAD Mahir M. A.
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a specific form of chronic fibrosing interstitial pneumonia of unknown aetiology and is associated with the histological picture of usual interstitial pneumonia. Treatment in most cases is unsatisfactory and the prognosis remains poor. There is insufficient evidence to suggest that any treatment, apart from lung transplantation, improves survival or halts disease progression for IPF patients. Data on treatment response are limited by the paucity of clinical trails, the lack of homogenous clinical features, the small number of patients, and the absence of histological and radiological documentation in many cases. Anti‐inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids, azathioprine and cyclophosphamide remain the commonly used medications. More recently, it has been proposed that IPF is a primary fibrotic disease rather than an inflammatory condition. Antifibrotic agents such as colchicine, pirfenidone and interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) have been tried. However, a recent placebo‐controlled trial has failed to demonstrate a significant effect of IFN‐γ on disease progression, lung function or quality of life in IPF patients, though a clinically significant survival benefit of the drug could not be ruled out.
Clinical usefulness of serum pyridinoline cross‐linked carboxyterminal telopeptide of type I collagen for diagnosis of bone metastases in patients with primary lung cancer
Authors: YOKOYAMA Toshihiko , YAMAMOTO Masashi , SHIMA Kouichiro , SUZUKI Katsuo , SAKO Chieko , ITO Genshi , KUME Mitsuyoshi , MAEDA Masao
Published: June 2005

Objective:  Recently, various blood and urine markers of bone metabolism have been developed and applied to the diagnosis of bone metastases. However, the cut‐off values for each parameter have not yet been completely defined. In this study, the usefulness of serum pyridinoline cross‐linked carboxyterminal telopeptide of type I collagen (I CTP) was assessed for detecting bone metastases from primary lung cancer and the most efficient cut‐off value for I CTP based on the receiver operating characteristic curve was calculated.

Methodology:  Over a 1‐year period, serum I CTP and serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were assayed for 87 primary lung cancer patients, including 21 bone metastases‐positive cases at Nagoya Ekisaikai Hospital, Nagoya, Japan.

Results:  I CTP was significantly higher in patients with bone metastases than in the group without bone metastases. In contrast, there was no significant difference in serum ALP between the two groups. The most efficient cut‐off value for I CTP computed in this study was 6.4 ng/mL. This was higher than the recommended value (4.5 ng/mL) based on the data from the summated values obtained for lung cancer, breast cancer and prostate cancer, as well as the maximum value for healthy controls (4.9 ng/mL).

Conclusion:  These results suggest that measurement of serum I CTP is a useful test for diagnosing bone metastases from lung cancer. Each type of cancer has a different pattern of bone turnover at the site of bone metastases. Considering that lung cancer mainly metastasizes to bone in an osteolytic pattern, it is proposed to set a higher cut‐off value for lung cancer patients than the currently recommended value.
Advances in the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: STERMAN Daniel H. , ALBELDA Steven M.
Published: June 2005

Abstract:  Malignant mesothelioma is an insidious neoplasm arising from the mesothelial surfaces of the pleural and peritoneal cavities, the pericardium, or the tunica vaginalis. A total of 80% of all cases are pleural in origin. The predominant cause of malignant mesothelioma is inhalational exposure to asbestos, although evidence is increasing to support the hypothesis that simian virus−40 virus plays a role in cocarcinogenesis. Immunohistochemical markers such as calretinin, WT‐1, and cytokeratin 5/6 are becoming established diagnostic markers. Preliminary data suggests that a soluble form of mesothelin could serve as a serum marker for established and early cases of mesothelioma. Positron emission tomography with 18‐fluorodeoxyglucose in conjunction with computed tomograhy scanning has improved preoperative imaging and staging. Prognostic factors have been identified and verified. Negative indicators include thrombocytosis, high leukocyte counts, poor performance status, and nonepithelial histology. For the first time, there is now evidence that some treatments are increasing the quality and quantity of life for patients with mesothelioma. Chemotherapy, with the new multitargeted antifolate drug Pemetrexed, combined with cisplatin, has shown superior survival rates in a large phase III trial when compared to cisplatin alone. High‐dose intensity‐modulated radiotherapy when administered after extrapleural pneumonectomy has resulted in excellent local control. Multimodality treatment programs that combine surgical cytoreduction with novel forms of radiation therapy and more effective chemotherapy combinations may offer significant increases in survival for certain subgroups of mesothelioma patients. Innovative palliative approaches have proved successful in alleviation of the significant symptoms experienced by many mesothelioma patients. Experimental treatments such as immunotherapy and gene therapy present a window of hope for all mesothelioma patients, and in the future, may be combined with ‘standard therapy’ in multimodality protocols. Patients with adequate performance status should be enrolled into clinical trials where possible. Over the past decade, significant advances have been made on several fronts that have improved the ability to diagnose a stage, define prognosis, and treat malignant pleural mesothelioma.
Patterns of care for COPD by Japanese physicians
Authors: FUKUHARA Shunichi , NISHIMURA Masaharu , NORDYKE Robert J. , ZAHER Carol A. , PEABODY John W.
Published: June 2005

Objective:  COPD treatment guidelines are available worldwide, yet it is not known how widely they are followed. This study evaluated the clinical care of COPD patients in Japan as compared to guideline recommendations.

Methods:  A sample of general and specialist physicians was selected from private outpatient clinics and public hospitals in Japan. Physicians were provided two clinical vignettes (COPD and asthma) and asked to make a diagnosis. They were next asked to define diagnostic tests and treatment recommendations specifically for a COPD patient. Responses were compared to recommendations from current COPD guidelines.

Results:  For the COPD unknown vignette, 6.2% of physicians diagnosed COPD while 54% diagnosed chronic bronchitis or emphysema. For COPD diagnosis, 81.9% of physicians recommended a CXR, 49.1% spirometry, and 17.7% a computed tomography scan. The most frequently recommended medication for a newly diagnosed COPD patient was theophylline (37.2%) followed by expectorants (32.1%) and inhaled anticholinergics (25.9%). Inhaled beta‐agonists were recommended by fewer than 20% of all physicians.

Conclusion:  Care for COPD patients by selected Japanese physicians diverges from published practice guidelines. COPD is an infrequently used diagnostic label; diagnostic evaluation is characterized by a high use of computed tomography scans, particularly by specialists; and bronchodilator use was low.
Outcomes and health‐related quality of life following hospitalization for an acute exacerbation of COPD
Authors: WANG Qiuyue , BOURBEAU Jean
Published: June 2005

Objective:  The purpose of this study was to understand the outcomes for patients admitted to hospital for an acute exacerbation of COPD, and to determine the factors influencing quality of life and health service utilization of patients with COPD.

Methodology:  Hospital outcomes of 282 patients with moderate and severe COPD, for an acute exacerbation, were retrospectively evaluated. After 24 months of follow up, health‐related quality of life (QoL) and health service utilization (emergency room (ER) visit and readmission) in 54 patients admitted previously, were surveyed by questionnaires.

Results:  Of 282 COPD patients admitted for an acute exacerbation, 28 patients (9.9%) died during hospitalization, 241 patients (85.5%) were discharged home, and only 13 patients (4.6%) needed long‐term care facilities. Although over 50% of the patients had survived over 2 years after discharge, their QoL was poor. Patients who frequently went to the ER or were admitted, were those with poor QoL, severe dyspnoea and frequent exacerbation. COPD exacerbation and dyspnoea were the main factors influencing QoL of the patients. Age, comorbidity, QoL, FEV1, frequency of COPD exacerbation, long‐term oxygen therapy, and family doctor were the factors determining the likelihood of patients visiting the ER. Frequency of COPD exacerbation, family doctor and living alone were the factors determining which patients were likely to be admitted to hospital.

Conclusion:  The outcomes and QoL of patients admitted for an acute exacerbation of COPD were poor. The major factors influencing QoL were frequency of COPD exacerbation and severity of dyspnoea. Improvement of social and medical networks (e.g. reducing the number of patients living alone and providing family doctors for patients) may reduce health care service utilization.
Inflammatory profile in nasal secretions of infants hospitalized with acute lower airway tract infections
Authors: PITREZ Paulo M. C. , BRENNAN Siobhain , SLY Peter D.
Published: June 2005

Objective:  The aim of this study was to determine whether the regulatory immune response (interleukin (IL)‐10 response) differed between children hospitalized with acute respiratory infections and wheezing.

Methodology:  Infants with signs and symptoms of acute viral respiratory infection, admitted during winter 2000 to Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Perth, WA, Australia, were enrolled in this study. Nasopharyngeal aspirates were collected in the first 48 h of admission. Total cell count and differential cell counts were assessed. Samples were tested for the presence of respiratory viruses. The concentrations of the anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐10, and pro‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐8, interferon‐γ, and IL‐11 were determined by ELISA.

Results:  Children with acute bronchiolitis (AB; n = 36), recurrent wheeze (RW; n = 17) and upper respiratory infection (URI; n = 18) were enrolled. Respitory syncytial virus was the most commonly detected virus in all groups. IL‐10 concentrations were significantly increased in AB (median, 0.019 ng/mL) when compared to URI (median, 0.006 ng/mL) or to RW (median, 0.007 ng/mL; P < 0.05). Neutrophils were the predominant cells in the cytological analysis in all subjects.

Conclusion:  These data argue that host‐response factors are important in determining the clinical phenotype, independent of the causative virus.
Cough symptoms in children aged 5–14 years in Sydney, Australia: non‐specific cough or unrecognized pertussis?
Authors: CAGNEY Michelle , MacINTYRE C. Raina , McINTYRE Peter , TORVALDSEN Siranda , MELOT Vincent
Published: June 2005

Objective:  The aim of this study was to estimate the community prevalence of coughing symptoms, consistent with surveillance definitions for pertussis, and doctor‐diagnosed pertussis in children aged 5–14 years.

Methodology:  A telephone survey of a cross‐sectional community sample of parents regarding their child's cough symptoms in the previous 12 months was undertaken in a representative Australian urban region.

Results:  In 2020 interviews, parents reported that 22% of children had a cough lasting 2 weeks or longer in the preceding 12 months, and 14% (283) had additional symptoms meeting the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) case definition for pertussis. A cough meeting the case definition was significantly more commonly reported by parents of children aged 5–9 years (17%; P < 0.001) but reported exposure to diagnosed pertussis in such cases was significantly more common in children aged 10–14 years (4.3%; odds ratio 12.8; P < 0.01). Parents of 90% of children meeting the CDC case definition sought medical advice. A diagnosis of pertussis was reported in only 1.2% of cases, which extrapolates to an annual incidence of doctor‐diagnosed pertussis of 347/100 000 (95% confidence interval, 140–714 per 100 000). This contrasts with 29/100 000 notified cases in the same age group, time period and geographic area.

Conclusion:  Cough episodes meeting a clinical case definition for pertussis commonly used in surveillance are reported by a high proportion of carers of school‐aged children in Australia. The majority of children who met the CDC and Australian case definitions for pertussis and sought medical attention were not identified as potentially having pertussis, suggesting underdiagnosis of pertussis. Even if less than half of this is true pertussis, the potential impact in terms of transmission of pertussis in the community is likely to be high. The reported incidence of doctor‐diagnosed disease estimated from this survey was at least five and up to 20 times the official notification rate. More work needs to be done in raising awareness among medical practitioners of pertussis as a differential diagnosis in older children and adolescents with cough.
Patterns of habitat utilization of small rodents in an area of Araucaria forest in Southern Brazil
Authors: DALMAGRO ANABEL D. , VIEIRA EMERSON M.
Published: June 2005

Abstract  We investigated patterns of spatial distribution and microhabitat selection of rodents in a patch (26 ha) of mixed ombrophilous forest (or Araucaria forest), dominated by the Araucaria ‘pine’Araucaria angustifolia, in the National Park of Aparados da Serra, RS, in southern Brazil. We conducted monthly trapping sessions lasting 6 days (from June 2000 to June 2001) using a square grid of 121 trap stations, separated by 15 m (2.25 ha). We measured 10 microhabitat variables that could influence species distribution. These variables were related to the occurrence of mammals by using canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) and stepwise multiple regression. The distribution patterns of the three most common rodents differed significantly (χ2 = 38.6; P < 0.002), with Delomys dorsalis being more clumped than the other two species. Both CCA and multiple regression analysis showed a significant effect of microhabitat variables on species occurrence. The multiple regression parameters for Oligoryzomys nigripes were R2 = 0.142, P < 0.05, for Akodon montensis were R2 = 0.222, P < 0.01, and for D. dorsalis R2 = 0.323, P < 0.001. Variables that significantly influenced species distribution were vegetation density at 1 m height and length of fallen logs for O. nigripes, canopy cover for A. montensis, and vegetation density at 2 m height, quantity of leaves of Araucaria trees (negative relationship), tree density (except Araucaria trees), and number of potential shelters, for D. dorsalis. The results indicated that D. dorsalis is the most habitat specialist among the rodent species and that there are no apparent competitive interactions.
Temporal variation in bird assemblages: How representative is a one‐year snapshot?
Authors: MARON MARTINE , LILL ALAN , WATSON DAVID M. , NALLY RALPH MAC
Published: June 2005

Abstract  Bird assemblages generally are no longer regarded as stable entities, but rather as fluctuating in response to many factors. Australia's highly variable climate is likely to result in a high degree of dynamism in its bird assemblages, yet few studies have investigated variation on an inter‐annual temporal scale. We compared 2 year‐long samples of the bird assemblages of a series of highly fragmented buloke Allocasuarina luehmannii (Casuarinaceae) woodland remnants in south‐eastern Australia, the first sample taken in 1994–95 and the second in 2001–02. Bird densities were almost three times higher in the second period than in the first. Mean species richness also was significantly higher. Species richness of each individual site was unrelated between the 2 years. Minimum species turnover was 63% and was higher, on average, for migratory and nomadic than for sedentary species. Therefore, site‐level bird assemblage composition was markedly different between the two survey periods and, on average, the assemblage composition of each site bore greater resemblance to those of other sites in the same year than to that of the same site in the other survey period. Most species changed substantially in their distribution among remnants between the two periods. The change in distribution of most species did not differ significantly from that expected if the species had redistributed at random among the sites. This suggests that although the remnant vegetation of the area is highly fragmented with minimal interpatch connectivity, bird movements among remnants are relatively frequent. Inter‐annual variability in Australian bird assemblages may be higher than is commonly recognized. In such dynamic systems, we must be cautious when extrapolating from the findings of short‐term studies to longer temporal scales, especially in relation to conservation management. A greater understanding of the processes driving distributional patterns is likely to enable better predictions of species’ responses to habitat change.
Importance of large colony size for successful invasion by Argentine ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae): Evidence for biotic resistance by native ants
Authors: WALTERS A. C. , MACKAY D. A.
Published: June 2005

Abstract  The Argentine ant, Linepithema humile (Mayr), is a widespread invasive ant species that has been associated with losses of native ant species and other invertebrates from its introduced range. To date, various abiotic conditions have been associated with limitations to the spread of Argentine ants, however, competitive interactions with native ant fauna may also affect the spread of Argentine ants. Here, we experimentally manipulated colony sizes of Argentine ants in the laboratory to assess whether Argentine ants were able to survive and compete for resources with a widespread, dominant native ant, Iridomyrmex‘rufoniger’. The results showed that over 24 h, the proportions of Argentine ants that were alive, at baits, and at sugar water decreased significantly in the presence of Iridomyrmex. In addition, Argentine ant mortality increased over time, however, the proportion of the colony that was dead decreased with the largest colony size. Argentine ants were only able to overcome Iridomyrmex when their colony sizes were 5–10 times greater than those of the native ants. We also conducted trials in which colonies of Argentine ants of varying sizes were introduced to artificial baits occupied by Iridomyrmex in the field. The results showed that larger Argentine ant colonies significantly affected the foraging success of Iridomyrmex after the initial introduction (5 min). However, over the first 20 min, when the Argentine ants were present at the baits, and over the entire 50 min experimental period, the numbers of Iridomyrmex at baits did not differ significantly with the size of the Argentine ant colony. This is the first experimental study to investigate the role of colony size in the invasion biology of Argentine ants in Australia, and the results suggest that Iridomyrmex may reduce the spread of Argentine ants, and that Argentine ants may need to attain large colony sizes in order to survive in the presence of Iridomyrmex. We address the implications of these findings for the invasion success of Argentine ants in Australia, and discuss the ability of Argentine ants to attain large colony sizes in introduced areas.
Effects of inter‐fire intervals on the reproductive output of resprouters and obligate seeders in the Proteaceae
Authors: KNOX KIRSTEN J. E. , MORRISON DAVID A.
Published: June 2005

Abstract  Fire is often used as a management tool in fire‐prone communities to reduce fuel loads with the intention of reducing the severity and extent of unplanned fires, often resulting in the increased occurrence of fire in the dry sclerophyll vegetation of Australia. This study examined the effects of fire frequency (length of the inter‐fire interval) on the reproductive output of seven plant species in the Proteaceae, including obligate seeding shrubs (Hakea teretifolia, Petrophile pulchella), resprouting shrubs (Banksia spinulosa, Isopogon anemonifolius, Lambertia formosa) and resprouting trees (Banksia serrata, Xylomelum pyriforme). Reproductive output (measured as either number of confructescences or follicles) and relative size were estimated for 100 individuals at each of five sample sites, covering a range of past fire frequencies over 26 years including repeated short inter‐fire intervals. Patterns in reproductive output (after standardizing for size) were related to the life‐history attributes of the species. In areas that had experienced short inter‐fire intervals, obligate seeders had greater reproductive output compared with longer intervals, and the reproductive output of resprouting shrubs was less. Fire frequency did not affect reproductive output of the resprouting trees. The decreased reproductive output of the resprouting shrubs could be due to the allocation of resources to regrowth following fire rather than to reproduction. It is less clear what process resulted in the increased reproductive output of obligate seeders in high fire frequency areas, but it could be due to the most recent fires being more patchy in the areas experiencing shorter inter‐fire intervals, or it may have resulted from the selection for early reproduction in the high fire frequency areas. These results highlight the need to take into account past fire frequency at a site, in addition to time since the last fire, when planning prescribed fires.
Total annual seed loss on a perennial legume through predation by insects: The importance of within‐season seed and seed feeder dynamics
Authors: VAN KLINKEN RIEKS D.
Published: June 2005

Abstract  Determining total annual seed loss from seed predators is an important step in quantifying the role they have in modifying plant populations. Total seed loss is typically estimated with a single, well‐timed survey. However, this overlooks the potential importance of within‐season patterns of seed availability and insect activity, particularly where seed gain and loss are not synchronous and where insects are multivoltine. In Australia the introduced legume weed, Parkinsonia aculeata L. (Caesalpinaceae) is one such example. A replicated survey was conducted throughout a single cropping season in two contrasting habitats (uplands and wetland) to estimate total annual seed loss from seed predation and to test the relative importance of seed availability, seed feeder abundance, seed feeder behaviour and parasitism in determining total seed loss. Two seed feeders were present, the introduced biological control agent Penthobruchus germaini (Pic) (Bruchidae) and the moth, Mesophleps palpigera (Walsingham) (Gelechiidae). Seed availability patterns differed with habitat, with a greater proportion of seeds being available for longer in uplands, and resulted in total seed consumption by the beetle being twice as high in the uplands (5.2%) and no difference between habitats for the moth. Total seed loss from beetle predation was restricted by the egg parasitoid Uscana sp. (Trichogrammatidae), which was abundant throughout the season, and also by unexplained larval mortalities. This study highlights the potential importance of within‐season interactions between plant, seed feeder, natural enemies and environment in determining total seed loss through predation. The possible population and evolutionary consequences of such interactions for both the plant and the seed feeder require further consideration.
Plasticity in photosynthetic response to nutrient supply of seedlings from a mixed conifer‐angiosperm forest
Authors: CARSWELL FIONA E. , WHITEHEAD DAVID , ROGERS GRAEME N. D. , MCSEVENY TONY M.
Published: June 2005

Abstract  We measured the plasticity of the response of photosynthesis to nutrient supply in seedlings of the dominant four conifer and broadleaved angiosperm tree species from an indigenous forest in South‐westland, New Zealand. We hypothesized that the response of conifers to differing nutrient supply would be less than the response for the angiosperms because of greater adaptation to low fertility conditions. In Prumnopitys ferruginea (D. Don) de Laub. the maximum velocity of electron transport, Jmax, doubled with a 10‐fold increase in concentration of nitrogen supply. In Dacrydium cupressinum Lamb. the maximum velocity of carboxylation, Vcmax, doubled with a 10‐fold increase in phosphorus supply. In contrast, photosynthetic capacity for the angiosperm species Weinmannia racemosa L.f. was affected only by the interaction of nitrogen and phosphorus and photosynthetic capacity of Metrosideros umbellata Cav. was not affected by nutrient supply. The response of the conifers to increasing availability of nutrient suggests greater plasticity in photosynthetic capacity, a characteristic not generally associated with adaptation to soil infertility, thus invalidating our hypothesis. Our data suggest that photosynthetic response to nutrient supply cannot be broadly generalized between the two functional groups.
Habitat requirements of the threatened snake species Hoplocephalus stephensii (Elapidae) in eastern Australia
Authors: FITZGERALD MARK , SHINE RICHARD , LEMCKERT FRANCIS , TOWERTON ALISON
Published: June 2005

Abstract  Although forested habitats in eastern Australia have attracted significant conservation‐related research, this work has focused strongly on endothermic vertebrates. Threatened reptile taxa have received less attention, but information on their habitat requirements should be central to management planning. The arboreal elapid snake Hoplocephalus stephensii is largely restricted to remnant forests in eastern Australia, and is listed as a threatened species under wildlife legislation. We collated 84 records of the current New South Wales geographical distribution of H. stephensii, and compared attributes of these locations to those of randomly chosen points within the same forests, in adjacent forests, in timber plantations and on freehold land across the geographical range of the taxon. Data on climatic and topographic characteristics of these sites were obtained from Geographic Information Systems databases and entered into a principal components analysis. Unsurprisingly, locations where snakes were recorded differed from the random sites in several respects (e.g. rainfall, elevation, seasonality of precipitation). Within a given forest, H. stephensii was generally found in areas similar to randomly chosen points. Comparison of vegetation communities used with those available within forests provided no evidence for active habitat selection. Comparisons of Geographic Information Systems‐derived data for snake‐collection localities along roads versus those within the forest revealed significant biases, and we warn that such methodological errors could generate spurious conclusions about non‐random habitat use by threatened species. In combination with previous data from radio‐tracking, we conclude that although H. stephensii is highly specialized in its arboreality and dependence upon hollow trees, its broad tolerance with respect to other factors (climatic conditions, vegetation communities, food types, etc.) allows populations to persist so long as large areas of forest with high numbers of hollow‐bearing trees are available. These requirements are similar to those of many other components of the Australian forest fauna. Thus, the findings of this study support the idea that the same kinds of management programmes can effectively conserve a wide range of taxa, if such programmes protect critical habitat components at suitable spatial scales.
Biological invasions and scientific objectivity: Reply to Cassey et al. (2005)
Authors: BROWN JAMES H. , SAX DOV F.
Published: June 2005

Abstract  We disagree with the assertion that recent human‐caused invasions differ substantially from historic natural invasions in their magnitudes and impacts on ecological processes. The position that exotic species are inherently ‘bad’ and should be eradicated is an ethical judgement, usually based on the naturalist fallacy or xenophobic prejudice; it is not a scientific judgement. The role of scientists in studying invasive species should be to gather, interpret and communicate information as accurately and objectively as possible.
LONG‐TERM OUTCOME OF LAPAROSCOPIC SURGERY FOR COLORECTAL CANCERS
Authors: Chen Chou‐Chen , Yamada Hideo , Sato Masahiko , Nakajima Koichi , Kondo Juri , Chen Joe‐Bin , Wang Whei‐Ming
Published: June 2005

There are three types of laparoscopic surgery for colorectal disease, medial‐to‐lateral, lateral‐to‐medial and the retroperitoneal laparoscopic approach. The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the long‐term results of laparoscopic colectomy for colorectal cancer by the transabdominal and retroperitoneal laparoscopic approaches, to provide current status of clinical outcomes of laparoscopic surgery including acceptable ranges of complications, morbidity and survival rate. Many transabdominal operations have been reported the clinical outcomes either one surgical team or multiple center series in recent decades. However, only one journal reported retroperitoneal laparoscopic surgery, including data of 309 patients at Sakura National Hospital from June 1994 to March 2003. Ten cases (3.2%) were converted to open colectomy and nine of these were in the first 100 cases (1.9%) compared with only one within the other 209 patients (0.47%), this being within a reasonable range 0%−3.2%. There were no port site recurrences. Eight patients had lung and/or liver metastases and died of disease. The average survival time was 28.4 months. The 5‐year survival rates were 100%, 89.7%, 85.5% and 72.9% for stages I, II, IIIa and IIIb, respectively. In a literature review of journals for laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancers, the conversion rate is variable from 0 to 17%, and the local recurrence rate is generally usually below 6.8%. The 5‐year survival rates are approximately 97‐89%, 88‐78% and 67‐59% for stages I, II and III, respectively.
EFFECT OF ENDOSCOPIC VARICEAL LIGATION FOR ESOPHAGEAL VARICES: VASCULAR STRUCTURE IMAGES BY MINIATURE ULTRASOUND PROBE
Authors: Nakano Shigeru , Hachiya Akihiko
Published: June 2005

Background:  The effect of eradication of esophageal varices on the collateral veins beside the esophagogastric junction in portal hypertensive patients remains unclear.

Methods:  The intramural and extramural vascular structures of the cardia and lower esophagus of 35 patients with portal hypertension were examined by endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) before and after treatment of esophageal varices with endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL), in which ligations were repeatedly performed until complete obliteration of the varices. The vascular structures were classified into the gastric, palisade/perforating (p/p), and truncal zones, and were quantitatively evaluated.

Results:  No esophageal varices remained in the p/p nor in the truncal zones after EVL. EVL significantly reduced the total cross‐sectional area (CSA) of the submucosal vessels and number of perforating veins in the gastric zone (P < 0.01, P < 0.01), and the total CSA of the peri‐esophageal collateral veins (peri‐ECV) and number of perforating veins in the p/p zone (P < 0.001, P < 0.001). Furthermore, the total CSA of the peri‐ECV was larger among patients with perforating veins in the p/p zone than among those without, both before and after EVL.

Conclusions:  EVL obliterated esophageal varices, and indirectly influenced the intramural and extramural vascularities in the region of the esophagogastric junction, which may contribute to prevention of variceal recurrence.
GASTRIC FUNDIC VARICES: HEMODYNAMICS AND NON‐SURGICAL TREATMENT
Authors: Hayashi Seishu , Saeki Shunichi , Ushini Takashi
Published: June 2005

The hemodynamics and non‐surgical treatment of gastric fundic varices (FV) are reviewed. FV are more frequently supplied by the short and posterior gastric veins than esophageal varices (EV), and are formed mostly by large spontaneous shunts in which the gastric or splenic vein is continuous with the left renal vein via the inferior phrenic veins and the suprarenal vein (so‐called gastric‐renal shunt). Concomitant collaterals such as EV, para‐esophageal vein, and para‐umbilical vein were also observed in nearly 60% of FV. Endoscopic injection sclerotherapy (EIS) with Histoacryl is thought to be the most approved treatment for hemorrhage from FV, but repeated treatment for residual FV and care for ensuing hepatic failure are required. Balloon‐occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (B‐RTO) is a notable interventional radiological procedure specially developed for the elective or prophylactic treatment of FV. If the procedure is technically successful, long‐term eradication of treated FV is found in most patients without recurrence. B‐RTO includes another significance, obliteration of the unified portal‐systemic shunt. Follow‐up abdominal CT scan revealed a high incidence of long‐term obliteration of the gastric‐renal shunt after B‐RTO. Benefits such as elevation of serum albumin, improvement in 15‐min retention rate of indocyanine green, decrease in blood ammonia levels, and improvement of encephalopathy are sometimes observed.
STUDY OF THE TUMOR VESSELS IN DEPRESSED‐TYPE EARLY GASTRIC CANCERS USING NARROW BAND IMAGING MAGNIFYING ENDOSCOPY AND CDNA ARRAY ANALYSIS
Authors: Endo Takao , Nosho Katsuhiko , Arimura Yoshiaki , Yamashita Kentaro , Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Itoh Hideto , Shimumura Yasuhisa
Published: June 2005

Background:  Since endoscopic mucosal resection has been applied to differentiated gastric cancers with invasion limited to the mucosal layer, the diagnosis of their differentiation is important. The degree of differentiation varies depending on the size and location of the tumors. Correct diagnosis by biopsy can be difficult because depressed‐type early gastric cancers sometimes contain mixed histology.

Methods:  Fifteen patients with depressed‐type early gastric cancers were observed by magnifying endoscopy with a narrow band lighting system. The fine mucosal vascular pattern was recorded and compared with the histological differentiation and features of vessels by staining with CD34. In some patients, cDNA array analysis was performed to determine differences among histological types.

Results:  Tumor vascular patterns were classified into two categories. Grid‐like network patterns not only characterized differentiated type but were also associated with high microvascular density. Short twig‐like patterns typified the undifferentiated type and a low vascular density. Differentiated types highly expressed some angiogenic factors, such as VEGFc and Flt‐4.

Conclusions:  Tumor vessel pattern of depressed‐type early gastric cancer obtained by narrow band imaging magnifying endoscopy reflects both the histological features and the degree of expression of angiogenic factors.
COVERED WALLSTENT FOR PALLIATION OF MALIGNANT COMMON BILE DUCT STRICTURE: PROSPECTIVE MULTICENTER EVALUATION
Authors: Kubota Yoshitsugu , Mukai Hidekazu , Nakaizumi Akihiko , Tanaka Kiyohito , Okabe Yoshihiro , Sakagami Takashi , Kitano Masayuki , Mitsufuji Shoji , Shirasaka Daisuke , Kikuchi Eiryo , Koyama Shigeki , Yazumi Shujiro , Shiba Masatsugu , Yasuda Kenjiro
Published: June 2005

Background:  Occlusion due to tumor ingrowth is a major drawback in self‐expandable metallic stents. Covering the stent is a probable solution to prevent tumor ingrowth. A manufactured covered self‐expandable metallic stent, Covered Wallstent, has become commercially available. We evaluated the Covered Wallstent in a prospective uncontrolled multicenter setting.

Methods:  Between October 2001 and October 2003, 97 patients with common bile duct strictures deemed unfit for surgical resection underwent placement of a single Covered Wallstent, and were followed prospectively until April 2004.

Results:  Placement of the stent was successful in all the patients attempted. As a procedure‐related complication, acute pancreatitis developed in four patients, in one of whom obstruction of the pancreatic duct orifice with the stent body seemed to be a major cause. The 30‐day mortality was 9.3% (nine patients). Stent occlusion occurred in 22 patients as a late (greater than 30 days) complication, due to either tumor overgrowth (14 patients) or encrustation (eight patients). Distal migration of the stent was demonstrated in two other patients. No stent occlusions due to tumor ingrowth were observed. Patency rates of the stent for 3‐, 6‐, and 12‐month periods were, respectively, 90.7, 82.5, and 45.9%.

Conclusions:  The present results in a large series suggest that placement of the Covered Wallstent is feasible and effective in the palliation of patients with malignant common bile duct strictures. The Covered Wallstent seems to be reliable in eliminating tumor ingrowth. The role of stent covering in promoting stent function should be examined in a prospective comparative study between covered‐ and uncovered Wallstents.