bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historical biogeography of lowland species of toads (Bufo) across the Trans‐Mexican Neovolcanic Belt and the Isthmus of Tehuantepec
Authors: Mulcahy Daniel G. , Morrill Benson H. , Mendelson Joseph R.
Published: July 2006

Aim In this study, we investigate phylogeographic structure in two different species groups of lowland toads. First, we further investigate strict parapatry of the Pliocene‐vicariantBufo valliceps/B. nebuliferspecies pair. Secondly, we test for similar phylogeographic structure in the distantly related toadB. marinus, a species we hypothesize will show a Pleistocene dispersal across the same area.

Location The eastern extension of the Trans‐Mexican Neovolcanic Belt (TMNB) contacts the Atlantic Coast in central Veracruz, Mexico. Although it is not a massive structure at this eastern terminus, the TMNB has nonetheless effected vicariance and subsequent speciation in several groups of animals. The Isthmus of Tehuantepec unites the North American continent with Nuclear Central America and is also known to be a biogeographic barrier for many taxa.

Methods We use sequence data from two mitochondrial DNA genes (c. 550 base‐pairs (bp) of 16S andc. 420 bp of cytb) from 58 individuals of theB. valliceps/nebulifercomplex, collected from 24 localities. We also present homologous sequence data from 23 individuals ofB. marinus, collected from 12 localities. We conduct maximum‐parsimony, maximum‐likelihood and Bayesian analyses to investigate phylogeographic structure. We then use parsimony‐ and likelihood‐based topology tests to assess alternative phylogenetic hypotheses and use a previously calibrated molecular rate of evolution to estimate dates of divergence.

Results Our results further define the parapatric contact zone across the TMNB between the Pliocene‐vicariant sister speciesB. vallicepsandB. nebulifer. In contrast, phylogenetic structure among populations ofB. marinusacross the TMNB is much shallower, suggesting a more recent Pleistocene dispersal in this species. In addition, we found phylogeographic structure associated with the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in both species groups.

Main conclusions The existence of a Pliocene–Pleistocene seaway across the Isthmus of Tehuantepec has been controversial. Our data depict clades on either side of the isthmus within two distinct species (B. vallicepsandB. marinus), although none of the clades associated with the isthmus, for either species, are reciprocally monophyletic. In theB. valliceps/B. nebulifercomplex, the TMNB separation appears to predate the isthmian break, whereas inB. marinusdispersal across the TMNB has occurred subsequent to the presence of a barrier at the Isthmus of Tehuantepec.
Unusual abundance–range size relationship in an Afromontane bird community: the effect of geographical isolation?
Authors: Reif Jiří , Hořák David , Sedláček Ondřej , Riegert Jan , Pešata Michal , Hrázský Záboj , Janeček Štěpán , Storch David
Published: July 2006

Aim To show that the frequently reported positive trend in the abundance–range‐size relationship does not hold true within a montane bird community of Afrotropical highlands; to test possible explanations of the extraordinary shape of this relationship; and to discuss the influence of island effects on patterns of bird abundance in the Cameroon Mountains.

Location Bamenda Highlands, Cameroon, Western Africa.

Methods We censused birds during the breeding season in November and December 2003 using a point‐count method and mapped habitat structure at these census points. Local habitat requirements of each species detected by point counts were quantified using canonical correspondence analysis, and the size of geographical ranges of species was measured from their distribution maps for sub‐Saharan Africa. We tested differences in abundance, niche breadth and niche position between three species groups: endemic bird species of the Cameroon Mountains, non‐endemic Afromontane species, and widespread species.

Results We detected neither a positive nor negative abundance–range‐size relationship in the bird community studied. This pattern was caused by the similar abundance of widespread, endemic and non‐endemic montane bird species. Moreover, endemic and non‐endemic montane species had broader local niches than widespread species. The widespread species also used more atypical habitats, as indicated by the slightly larger values of their niche positions.

Main conclusions The relationship detected between abundance and range size does not correspond with that inferred from contemporary macroecological theory. We suggest that island effects are responsible for the observed pattern. Relatively high abundances of montane species are probably caused by their adaptation to local environmental conditions, which was enabled by climatic stability and the isolation of montane forest in the Cameroon Mountains. Such a unique environment provides a less suitable habitat for widespread species. Montane species, which are abundant at present, may also have had large ranges in glacial periods, but their post‐glacial distribution may have become restricted after the retreat of the montane forest. On the basis of comparison of our results with studies describing the abundance structure of bird communities in other montane areas in the Afrotropics, we suggest that the detected patterns may be universal throughout Afromontane forests.
Historical biogeography ofRhododendronsectionVireyaand the Malesian Archipelago
Authors: Brown Gillian K. , Nelson Gareth , Ladiges Pauline Y.
Published: July 2006

Aim Vireya rhododendrons are distinctive and easily recognizable by their general form; however, they are virtually circumscribed geographically, predominantly distributed throughout the biogeographically intriguing Malesian Archipelago. Hypotheses of the evolutionary relationships of the group have been proposed but the biogeography of vireyas has not been analysed based on molecular phylogeny. Recently, the first detailed molecular phylogenetic investigation of sectionVireyawas completed based on cp‐ and nrDNA sequence data, therefore making this cladistic biogeographic study of vireya rhododendrons possible.

Location Malesia, Australia, Solomon Islands, Taiwan, Himalayas, north Vietnam and south China.

Methods Based on distribution maps, areas of endemism were determined for the biogeographic region of Malesia. Area relationships were analysed based on a recent molecular phylogeny of species in sectionVireya. The method of paralogy‐free subtree analysis was applied.

Results Individual distribution maps were produced for 74 species ofRhododendronsectionVireya. Species clades with bootstrap support proved to be biogeographically informative. Major clades correspond to three regions: eastern Malesia, western/middle Malesia and Taiwan/north Vietnam/south China. Within eastern Malesia, Australia, New Guinea, the Bismarck Archipelago and Solomon Islands are related. In western Malesia, northern Philippines, Borneo, southern Moluccas and north and west Sulawesi are related. These areas are more distantly related to Sumatra, the Malay peninsula, Java, Bali, Palawan, Lesser Sunda islands and the southern Philippines. The position of the Himalayas is equivocal and part of a basal polytomy in the summary area cladogram.

Main conclusions Two alternative hypotheses are proposed for the evolution of vireya rhododendrons based on the pattern of area relationships. The first hypothesis is that the vireyas are an old group, with ancestors present on Gondwana, rifting north in the Cretaceous. The second alternative hypothesis is that vireyas are a young group that has dispersed eastwards from India to Australia and the Solomon Islands since the current Malesian islands formed.
Vertical distribution of Culicoides larvae and pupae
Authors: USLU U. , DIK B.
Published: July 2006

Abstract This study was carried out in the northeast region of Konya in Turkey, between April and December 2004, to determine the vertical distribution of Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) larvae and pupae. Larvae and pupae were collected using the saturated sugar flotation technique in mud samples taken from a range of depths of up to 20 cm. In total, 282 adult Culicoides were obtained. The number of larvae and pupae decreased as the depth increased; at 2.5 cm, 97 Culicoides larvae and 73 Culicoides pupae were found. Larvae and pupae of C. nubeculosus (Meigen) and C. puncticollis (Becker) were mostly found in organic matter‐rich breeding sites, while larvae and pupae of C. gejgelensis Dzhafarov and C. festivipennis Kieffer were mostly found in organic matter‐poor breeding sites. Culicoides larvae and pupae were obtained largely in July and August.
Prevalence and intensity of Oestrus ovis in Akkaraman sheep in the Konya region of Turkey
Authors: USLU U. , DIK B.
Published: July 2006

Abstract Slaughterhouse surveys to determine the prevalence and intensity of larval Oestrus ovis Linnaeus (Diptera: Oestridae) in sheep, were conducted monthly for 1 year in Konya, Turkey. A total of 624 sheep, selected at random, were examined and 59% were found to be infested by O. ovis. A total of 8801 larvae were collected, of which 68.9% were first‐stage, 19.1% second‐stage and 12% third‐stage larvae. All three larval stadia were seen in each month of the year. The larval intensity for infected sheep was 23.9, with 16.48 L1, 4.55 L2 and 2.87 L3. The monthly prevalence ranged from 34.6% in January to 76.9% in October. The largest number of larvae (180) was obtained from a sheep in August (122 L1, 52 L2 and 6 L3). The infestation rate was higher in 4–6‐year‐old sheep, at 72.6%. The infestation rates were 64.4% in female and 47.5% in male sheep.
Fine‐scale genetic structure and dispersal in cooperatively breeding apostlebirds
Authors: WOXVOLD IAIN A. , ADCOCK GREG J. , MULDER RAOUL A.
Published: July 2006

In cooperatively breeding species, restricted dispersal of offspring leads to clustering of closely related individuals, increasing the potential both for indirect genetic benefits and inbreeding costs. In apostlebirds (Struthidea cinerea), philopatry by both sexes results in the formation of large (up to 17 birds), predominantly sedentary breeding groups that remain stable throughout the year. We examined patterns of relatedness and fine‐scale genetic structure within a population of apostlebirds using six polymorphic microsatellite loci. We found evidence of fine‐scale genetic structure within the study population that is consistent with behavioural observations of short‐distance dispersal, natal philopatry by both sexes and restricted movement of breeding groups between seasons. Global FST values among breeding groups were significantly positive, and the average level of pairwise relatedness was significantly higher for individuals within groups than between groups. For individuals from different breeding groups, geographical distance was negatively correlated with pairwise relatedness and positively correlated with pairwise FST. However, when each sex was examined separately, this pattern was significant only among males, suggesting that females may disperse over longer distances. We discuss the potential for kin selection to influence the evolution and maintenance of cooperative breeding in apostlebirds. Our results demonstrate that spatial genetic structural analysis offers a useful alternative to field observations in examining dispersal patterns of cooperative breeders.
Phylogeography of the Percichthyidae (Pisces) in Patagonia: roles of orogeny, glaciation, and volcanism
Authors: RUZZANTE DANIEL E. , WALDE SANDRA J. , CUSSAC VÍCTOR E. , DALEBOUT MEREL L. , SEIBERT JACOB , ORTUBAY SILVIA , HABIT EVELYN
Published: July 2006

We used molecular evidence to examine the roles that vicariance mechanisms (mountain‐building and drainage changes during the Pleistocene) have played in producing phylogeographical structure within and among South American fish species of the temperate perch family Percichthyidae. The percichthyids include two South American genera, Percichthys and Percilia, each containing several species, all of which are endemic to southern Argentina and Chile (Patagonia). Maximum‐likelihood phylogenies constructed using mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region haplotypes and nuclear GnRH3‐2 intron allele sequences support the current taxonomy at the genus level (both Percichthys and Percilia form strongly supported, monophyletic clades) but indicate that species‐level designations need revision. Phylogeographical patterns at the mtDNA support the hypothesis that the Andes have been a major barrier to gene flow. Most species diversity occurs in watersheds to the west of the Andes, together with some ancient divergences among conspecific populations. In contrast, only one species (Percichthys trucha) is found east of the Andes, and little to no phylogeographical structure occurs among populations in this region. Mismatch analyses of mtDNA sequences suggest that eastern populations last went through a major bottleneck c. 188 000 bp, a date consistent with the onset of the penultimate and largest Pleistocene glaciation in Patagonia. We suggest that eastern populations have undergone repeated founder‐flush events as a consequence of glacial cycles, and that the shallow phylogeny is due to mixing during recolonization periods. The area of greater diversity west of the Andes lies outside the northern limit of the glaciers. mtDNA mismatch analysis of the genus Percilia which is restricted to this area suggests a long‐established population at equilibrium. We conclude that patterns of genetic diversity in these South American genera have been primarily influenced by barriers to gene flow (Andean orogeny, and to a lesser extent, isolation in river drainages), and by glacial cycles, which have resulted in population contraction, re‐arrangement of some watersheds, and the temporary breakdown of dispersal barriers among eastern river systems.
Patterns of recurrent evolution and geographic parthenogenesis within apomictic polyploid Easter daises (Townsendia hookeri)
Authors: THOMPSON STACEY LEE , WHITTON JEANNETTE
Published: July 2006

Geographic patterns of parthenogenesis and the number of transitions from sexual diploidy to asexual (apomictic) autopolyploidy were examined for 40 populations of the Easter daisy, Townsendia hookeri. Analyses of pollen diameter and stainability characterized 15 sexual diploid and 25 apomictic polyploid populations from throughout the plant's western North American range. Sexual diploids were restricted to two Wisconsin refugia: Colorado/Wyoming, south of the ice sheets, and northern Yukon/Beringia. Chloroplast DNA sequencing uncovered 17 polymorphisms within the ndhF gene and trnK intron, yielding 10 haplotypes. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that five exclusively polyploid haplotypes were derived from four haplotypes that are shared among ploidies, conservatively inferring a minimum of four origins of apomictic polyploidy. Three of these apomictic polyploid origins were derived from southern sexual diploids, while the fourth origin was derived from northern sexual diploids. Analyses of regional diversity were suggestive of a formerly broad distribution for sexual diploids that has become subsequently fragmented, possibly due to the last round of glaciation. As sexual diploids were exclusively found north and south of the glacial maximum, while formerly glaciated areas were exclusively inhabited by asexual polyploids derived from both northern and southern sexual lineages, it is more likely that patterns of glaciation, as opposed to a particular latitudinal trend, played a causal role in the establishment of the observed pattern of geographic parthenogenesis in Easter daisies.
Genetic breeding system and investment patterns within nests of Dawson's burrowing bee (Amegilla dawsoni) (Hymenoptera: Anthophorini)
Authors: BEVERIDGE MAXINE , SIMMONS LEIGH W. , ALCOCK JOHN
Published: July 2006

Dawson's burrowing bee is a large solitary ground‐nesting bee endemic to the arid zone of Western Australia. In this study, we use microsatellite markers to analyse the genotypes of offspring from individual nests to determine the number of effective mates for each female. From these data we have determined that females almost certainly mate only once which is consistent with male reproductive tactics that include protandry and intense male–male competition for access to virgin females. We also use the molecular data to show that the nesting female is the mother of all the offspring of her nest and that brood parasitism is unlikely in this species. The data indicate that females make daughters at the beginning of the season followed by large sons in the middle, and then small sons at the end. Females often place one brood cell directly above another. The distribution of sex and morph in these doublets follows a pattern with most containing a female on the bottom and a minor male on the top, followed by almost equal numbers of female on top of female and minor male on top of major male. This pattern is likely favoured by emergence patterns, with males emerging before females and minor males emerging before major males. We suggest that although minor males have low reproductive success, their production may nonetheless be beneficial in that minor males open up emergence tunnels for their larger and reproductively more valuable siblings. In addition, minor males may be a best of a bad job product arising from changes in the costs to nesting females of gathering brood provisions over the course of the flight season.
Genetic structure and assignment tests demonstrate illegal translocation of red deer (Cervus elaphus) into a continuous population
Authors: FRANTZ A. C. , POURTOIS J. TIGEL , HEUERTZ M. , SCHLEY L. , FLAMAND M. C. , KRIER A. , BERTOUILLE S. , CHAUMONT F. , BURKE T.
Published: July 2006

Molecular forensic methods are being increasingly used to help enforce wildlife conservation laws. Using multilocus genotyping, illegal translocation of an animal can be demonstrated by excluding all potential source populations as an individual's population of origin. Here, we illustrate how this approach can be applied to a large continuous population by defining the population genetic structure and excluding suspect animals from each identified cluster. We aimed to test the hypothesis that recreational hunters had illegally introduced a group of red deer into a hunting area in Luxembourg. Reference samples were collected over a large area in order to test the possibility that the suspect individuals might be recent immigrants. Due to isolation‐by‐distance relationships in the data set, inferring the number of genetic clusters using Bayesian methods was not straightforward. Biologically meaningful clusters were only obtained by simultaneously analysing spatial and genetic information using the program baps 4.1. We inferred the presence of three genetic clusters in the study region. Using partial Mantel tests, we detected barriers to gene flow other than distance, probably created by a combination of urban areas, motorways and a river valley used for viticulture. The four focal animals could be excluded with a high certainty from the three genetic subpopulations and it was therefore likely that they had been released illegally.
Evidence of microsatellite hitch‐hiking selection in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua L.): implications for inferring population structure in nonmodel organisms
Authors: NIELSEN EINAR E. , HANSEN MICHAEL M. , MELDRUP DORTE
Published: July 2006

Microsatellites have gained wide application for elucidating population structure in nonmodel organisms. Since they are generally noncoding, neutrality is assumed but rarely tested. In Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua L.), microsatellite studies have revealed highly heterogeneous estimates of genetic differentiation among loci. In particular one locus, Gmo 132, has demonstrated elevated genetic differentiation. We investigated possible hitch‐hiking selection at this and other microsatellite loci in Atlantic cod. We employed 11 loci for analysing samples from the Baltic Sea, North Sea, Barents Sea and Newfoundland covering a large part of the species’ distributional range. The ‘classical’ Lewontin–Krakauer test for selection based on variance in estimates of FST and (standardized genetic differentiation) revealed only one significant pairwise test (North Sea–Barents Sea), and the source of the elevated variance could not be ascribed exclusively to Gmo 132. In contrast, different variants of the recently developed ln Rθ test for selective sweeps at microsatellite loci revealed a high number of significant outcomes of pair‐wise tests for Gmo 132. Further, the presence of selection was indicated in at least one other locus. The results suggest that many previous estimates of genetic differentiation in cod based on microsatellites are inflated, and in some cases relationships among populations are obscured by one or more loci being the subject to hitch‐hiking selection. Likewise, temporal estimates of effective population sizes in Atlantic cod may be flawed. We recommend, generally, to use a higher number of microsatellite loci to elucidate population structure in marine fishes and other nonmodel species to allow for identification of outlier loci that are subject to selection.
Awns play a dominant role in carbohydrate production during the grain‐filling stages in wheat (Triticum aestivum)
Authors: Li Xiaojuan , Wang Honggang , Li Hanbing , Zhang Lingyun , Teng Nianjun , Lin Qingqing , Wang Jian , Kuang Tingyun , Li Zhensheng , Li Bin , Zhang Aimin , Lin Jinxing
Published: July 2006

In wheat (Triticum aestivum L), the leaves particularly flag leaves have been considered to be the key organs contributing to higher yields, whereas awns have been considered subsidiary organs. Compared with extensive investigations on the assimilation contribution of leaves, the photosynthetic characteristics of awns have not been well studied. In this study, we investigated the ultrastructure of chloroplasts, oxygen evolution, and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase [phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPCase) EC 4.1.1.31)] activity in both flag leaves and awns during the ontogenesis of wheat. Transmission electron microscope observations showed initial increases in the sizes of grana and the degree of granum stacks from the florescence‐emergence stage both in flag leaves and in awns, followed by the breakdown of membrane systems after the milk‐development stage. The results of oxygen evolution assays revealed that in both organs, the rate of photosynthesis increased in the first few stages and then decreased, but the decrease occurred much earlier in flag leaves than in awns. A PEPCase activity assay demonstrated that the activity of PEPCase was much higher in awns than in flag leaves throughout ontogeny; the value was particularly high at the late stages of grain filling. Our results suggest that awns play a dominant role in contributing to large grains and a high grain yield in awned wheat cultivars, particularly during the grain‐filling stages.
Hormonal disturbances associated with obesity in dogs
Authors: Martin L. J. M. , Siliart B. , Dumon H. J. W. , Nguyen P. G.
Published: July 2006

Obesity is associated with multiple endocrine alterations and changes in the concentration of circulating hormones. However, few studies have explored such alterations in dogs with naturally acquired excess weight. In the present study, we investigated the effect of naturally acquired obesity on cortisol, insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐1 and prolactin secretion in dogs. Thirty‐one overweight dogs were enrolled in the trial. Blood samples were collected before and after adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) injection. Free thyroxine (fT4), cortisol, thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH), IGF‐1, prolactin and fructosamine were assayed. Body weight excess increased significantly with age and neutered dogs were more obese than entire ones. The ACTH stimulation test was within the normal range for 26 of 31 dogs. Prolactinaemia was increased in seven dogs and IGF‐1 in six dogs. Twenty dogs had a fructosamine concentration >340 μm. Interestingly, 18 of 31 dogs showed disturbances of thyroid function based on high TSH and/or low fT4 baseline concentration, with 11 dogs showing both. According to these parameters only six of 31 dogs were free of hormonal disturbances. These results revealed the high incidence of such disturbances, especially thyroid dysfunction, in obese, but otherwise apparently healthy dogs. They demonstrate the importance of examining endocrine function during the initial evaluation of obese dogs to avoid failure of any nutritional treatment.
The impact of antistigma education on the attitudes of general practitioners regarding schizophrenia*
Authors: ÜÇOK ALP , SOYGÜR HALDUN , ATAKLİ CEM , KUŞCU KEMAL , SARTORIUS NORMAN , DUMAN ZEKIYE ÇETINKAYA , POLAT ASLİHAN , ERKOÇ ŞAHAP
Published: July 2006

Abstract  The aim of this study was to examine the views and attitudes of general practitioners (GP) with respect to schizophrenia, and the changes in their attitudes after antistigma education. A total of 106 GPs working in 71 health institutions were included in the study. A questionnaire of 16 items, focussing on doctors’ views and attitudes towards schizophrenia, was applied. Questions were about the views and attitudes of doctors towards general myths related to schizophrenia. Doctors were asked to select one of two responses: ‘I agree’ or ‘I disagree’, for statements such as ‘schizophrenic patients cannot work’ and ‘schizophrenic patients are aggressive and dangerous’. After completing the questionnaire, all the GPs were given a single session of antistigma education. The questionnaire was repeated 3 months after training meetings in a subsample of 54 GPs which represented the whole sample in terms of gender, age, and years in medical practice. The authors found statistically significant, positive changes on five items out of the 16 items in the post‐test survey when compared to attitudes before training, including items about the treatability of schizophrenia, harmfulness and untrustworthiness of schizophrenic patients. The authors’ findings suggest that one antistigma education session, supported by the distribution of related documents, can improve GPs attitudes towards schizophrenia.
Long‐term clinical course of patients with acute polymorphic psychotic disorder without symptoms of schizophrenia
Authors: ABE TAKAAKI , OTSUKA KOICHIRO , KATO SATOSHI
Published: July 2006

Abstract  Few studies have investigated the long‐term course of patients with acute polymorphic psychotic disorder, despite the clinical relevance. The present study focused on the frequency of acute polymorphic psychotic disorder without symptoms of schizophrenia (F23.0) and the prognosis of patients with the disorder over a long period. A total of 388 inpatients with nonaffective psychosis were examined and cases with F23.0 were retrospectively investigated regarding clinical course over 12 years with reference to clinical charts. A total of 16 cases were diagnosed with F23.0 according to first episode. After 12 years, five cases were rediagnosed with schizophrenia, and one case with borderline‐type emotionally unstable personality disorder, although the diagnosis of F23.0 was not changed in 10 older patients. Of the four cases with >2 repeated episodes of F23.0, the same clinical picture as in the first episode was observed in three, while one case showed continuous residual symptoms. F23.0 does not represent a homogeneous clinical entity. In some cases, diagnosis changes to schizophrenia, but others display repeated episodes of F23.0.
Cognitive function and social abilities in patients with schizophrenia: Relationship with atypical antipsychotics
Authors: TYSON PHILIP J. , LAWS KEITH R. , FLOWERS KENNETH A. , TYSON AGI , MORTIMER ANN M.
Published: July 2006

Abstract Although atypical antipsychotics have been associated with improvements in cognitive function in schizophrenia, the neurochemical basis for such effects is not well understood. Candidate neurotransmitter systems primarily involve dopamine and serotonin. The current study explored this issue by examining the cognitive abilities, social function and quality of life in patients with schizophrenia who were medicated with atypical antipsychotics. Comparisons were done for matched schizophrenia patients who were on antipsychotics with (i) an affinity for multiple receptors (olanzapine, clozapine, quetiapine) versus those that have preferential affinity for dopamine receptors (risperidone, amisulpride); and patients on medication with (ii) a high affinity for serotonin (5HT‐2A) receptors (risperidone, olanzapine, clozapine) versus those with a low (or no) affinity for 5HT‐2A receptors (quetiapine, amisulpride). No differences emerged between groups on any cognitive or social variable when the groups were compared for the dopaminergic properties of antipsychotic medication. By contrast, differences did emerge when patients were compared on the 5HT‐2A affinity of their antipsychotic medications. Patients on low 5HT‐2A‐affinity antipsychotics exhibited a better performance on a measure of selective attention and adjustment to living. These findings accord with the notion that serotonergic mechanisms are important determinants of both the cognitive and the social effects of the atypical antipsychotics.
Adjusting the frequency of continuation and maintenance electroconvulsive therapy to prevent relapse of catatonic schizophrenia in middle‐aged and elderly patients who are relapse‐prone
Authors: SUZUKI KAZUMASA , AWATA SHUICHI , TAKANO TAKEHISA , EBINA YUKIO , SHINDO TSUYOSHI , HARADA NOBUHIKO , MATSUOKA HIROO
Published: July 2006

Abstract The purpose of the present paper was to study the effect of continuation electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) on the prevention of relapse in middle‐aged and elderly patients with intractable catatonic schizophrenia. It was found that continuation ECT is efficacious to sustain remission for patients who suffer relapse after response to acute ECT despite continuation neuroleptics. However, three patients suffered relapse during continuation ECT, therefore the effect of adjusting the frequency of continuation ECT and maintenance ECT was investigated in these patients with catatonic schizophrenia who relapsed during continuation ECT. These patients with DSM‐IV catatonic schizophrenia who relapsed during continuation ECT were treated with more frequent continuation ECT and subsequent maintenance ECT after response to acute ECT. The patients’ Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) scores were prospectively evaluated until relapse. Patients were considered to be relapsers if they had a BPRS score ≥37 for 3 consecutive days. The three patients with catatonic schizophrenia who relapsed during continuation ECT were treated successfully with more frequent continuation ECT and subsequent maintenance ECT. No patient experienced a severe adverse effect from continuation or maintenance ECT. More frequent continuation ECT and maintenance ECT deserves consideration in middle‐aged and elderly patients with intractable catatonic schizophrenia who suffer relapse during continuation ECT. Large‐scale systematic studies are warranted to investigate the optimum use of continuation and maintenance ECT in patients with catatonic schizophrenia.
Reliability and validity of the Bangla version of WHOQOL‐BREF in an adult population in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: TSUTSUMI ATSURO , IZUTSU TAKASHI , KATO SEIKA , ISLAM MD. AKRAMUL , YAMADA HELENA SAYURI , KATO HIROSHI , WAKAI SUSUMU
Published: July 2006

Abstract  The aim of the present study was to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Bangla version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQOL‐BREF) in an adult population in Bangladesh. Approximately 200 adults in the Dhaka district were interviewed using a questionnaire containing the Bangla version of the WHOQOL‐BREF, as well as questions related to sociodemographic data. To assess the reliability of WHOQOL‐BREF, Cronbach’s α was calculated, and test–retest reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of the first and second administrations. For comparison, approximately 200 leprosy patients were also interviewed with the questionnaire to examine the discriminant validity between groups. On the whole, sufficient validity was observed, and the Bangla version of the WHOQOL‐BREF was deemed to be valid and reliable in assessing the quality of life of an adult population in Bangladesh.
Association between corticotropin‐releasing hormone receptor 2 (CRHR2) gene polymorphism and personality traits
Authors: TOCHIGI MAMORU , KATO CHIEKO , OTOWA TAKESHI , HIBINO HIROYUKI , MARUI TETSUYA , OHTANI TOSHIYUKI , UMEKAGE TADASHI , KATO NOBUMASA , SASAKI TSUKASA
Published: July 2006

Abstract  Corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) has been implicated in the pathophysiology of anxiety disorders and depression. Corticotropin‐releasing hormone receptor 2 (CRHR2) is one of the receptors that mediate CRH signal. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the association between the CRHR2 gene and personality traits, evaluated using the Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO PI‐R), in 243 healthy Japanese subjects. As a result, significant association was observed between the polymorphism in intron 2 (rs2267717) and Openness (P = 0.004, uncorrected, anova), while no relationship was observed concerning Neuroticism. The present result suggests an association between CRHR2 and the personality trait of Openness.
Treatment of partial seizures with gabapentin: Double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group study*
Authors: YAMAUCHI TOSHIO , KANEKO SUNAO , YAGI KAZUICHI , SASE SHINICHI
Published: July 2006

Abstract  This double‐blind study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of gabapentin 1200 mg/day and 1800 mg/day (t.i.d.) compared to placebo as an adjunctive therapy in patients with refractory epilepsy. Patients were included when they had partial seizures at least eight times during a 12‐week baseline period despite treatment with one to two antiepileptic drugs. After baseline, eligible patients were randomized to gabapentin 1200 mg/day, 1800 mg/day, or placebo for 12‐week treatment. The primary end‐point, response ratio, was derived from seizure frequencies during treatment and baseline period based upon the seizure daily record by a patient. Of the 209 randomized patients, 86 received gabapentin 1200 mg/day, 41 received gabapentin 1800 mg/day, and 82 received placebo. A statistically significant difference was found between each of the two gabapentin groups and placebo for the primary efficacy end‐point, response ratio (P < 0.005) with definite dose–response (P < 0.001). More gabapentin patients reported moderate to marked improvement in seizure frequency and intensity/duration of each seizure than placebo patients. Treatment‐related adverse events were reported by approximately 65% of patients receiving gabapentin compared to approximately 46% of patients receiving placebo; somnolence and dizziness were the most common events. Gabapentin 1200 mg/day and 1800 mg/day significantly reduced the frequency of refractory seizures compared to placebo. Favorable tolerability of gabapentin was confirmed also in a Japanese population, consistent with previous global studies.
Robotics in urologic surgery: An evolving new technology
Authors: ATUG FATIH , CASTLE ERIK P , WOODS MICHAEL , DAVIS RODNEY , THOMAS RAJU
Published: July 2006

Abstract  Rapid technological developments in the past two decades have produced new inventions such as robots and incorporated them into our daily lives. Today, robots perform vital functions in homes, outer space, hospitals and on military instillations. The development of robotic surgery has given hospitals and health care providers a valuable tool that is making a profound impact on highly technical surgical procedures. The field of urology is one area of medicine that has adopted and incorporated robotic surgery into its armamentarium. Innovative robotic urologic surgical applications and techniques are being developed and reported everyday. Increased utilization and development will ultimately fuel the discovery of newer applications of robotic systems in urologic surgery. Herein we provide an overview of the history, development, and applications of robotics in surgery with a focus on urologic surgery.
High incidence of and risk factors for metachronous bilateral upper tract urothelial carcinoma in Taiwan
Authors: HUANG PO‐CHIEN , HUANG CHAO‐YUAN , HUANG SHI‐WEI , LAI MING‐KUEN , YU HONG‐JENG , CHEN JUN , PU YEONG‐SHIAU
Published: July 2006

Aim:  Urothelial carcinoma (UC) can occur multifocally in the whole urothelium. A higher rate of bilateral metachronous upper tract (UT) UC was noted in Taiwan. The incidence and risk factors were largely unknown and hence were explored in the study.

Methods:  From January 1977 through June 2003, 462 patients with unilateral UT‐UC were studied retrospectively. The cumulative incidence of contralateral recurrence was analysed with the Kaplan–Meier analysis. Potential risk factors for contralateral recurrence including age, smoking, bladder cancer, renal function, diagnostic year etc. were evaluated with the log–rank test. Independent risk factors were identified by using the Cox regression analysis.

Results:  The median follow‐up time was 34 months (6–337). Among the 462 patients, 52 (11.3%) developed metachronous contralateral UC. The 2, 5, and 10‐year contralateral disease‐free survivals were 93.5%, 84.0%, and 75.7%, respectively. The median time to contralateral recurrence was 31.0 months. With the univariate analysis, only poor renal function (serum creatinine < or ≥2.0 mg/dL, P < 0.001) and late diagnostic year (before or after 1990, P < 0.001) were risk factors for contralateral recurrence. In the multivariate analysis, poor renal function (hazard ratio: 2.98; 95% confidence interval: 1.67–5.33; P < 0.001) and late diagnostic year (hazard ratio: 4.27; 95% confidence interval: 1.71–10.65; P = 0.002) remained independent risk factors.

Conclusions:  The incidence of metachronous UT‐UC is high in Taiwan. Patients who had either chronic renal insufficiency or a disease diagnosed after 1990 had a higher risk of contralateral recurrence.
Challenge of percutaneous nephrolithotomy in patients with spinal neuropathy
Authors: SYMONS STEPHANIE , BIYANI CHANDRA SHEKHAR , BHARGAVA SAURABH , IRVINE HENRY C , ELLINGHAM JEREMY , CARTLEDGE JON , LLOYD STUART N , JOYCE ADRIAN D , BROWNING ANTHONY J
Published: July 2006

Objective:  To assess the technical difficulties, associated complications and stone clearance rates in patients with spinal neuropathy undergoing percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

Methods:  Twenty‐nine patients with spinal neuropathy underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the two centers studied between October 1995 and January 2002. They were nine patients with traumatic spinal cord injury, 10 patients with spina bifida and 10 with other heterogeneous causes for their spinal neuropathy. The group included 12 men and 17 women, with an average age of 44 years (14–80). Patients’ medical records were reviewed retrospectively for data relating to their renal lithiasis.

Results:  A total of 39 percutaneous nephrolithotomy procedures were undertaken on 32 kidneys. Thirteen procedures were for staghorn calculi. Preoperatively, eight kidneys required nephrostomy and 5 J stent decompression. The average American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score was 3, and one patient had percutaneous nephrolithotomy performed under local anaesthetic as the risk of general anaesthetic was felt to be too high. The associated morbidity and mortality in this group is significant. There were two postoperative deaths. Major complications were associated with three procedures, and consisted of seizures, aspiration pneumonia and pressure necrosis. Nine patients experienced minor complications including fever, hypotension and nephrostomy site leakage. Nine patients required intensive therapy unit care postoperatively and the average hospital stay for the group was 13.32 days. Only 18 (62%) patients were rendered stone‐free from their initial percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Seven patients required a further procedure for stone clearance: four underwent extracorporeal shock‐wave lithotripsy, two ureteroscopy and one nephrectomy.

Conclusions:  Patients with spinal neuropathy and renal lithiasis pose a significant operative challenge. Technical difficulties and potential complications should be considered carefully before undertaking percutaneous nephrolithotomy in these patients.
Percutaneous cryoablation of renal cell carcinoma guided by horizontal open magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: MIKI KENTA , SHIMOMURA TATSUYA , YAMADA HIROKI , KISHIMOTO KOICHI , OHISHI YUKIHIKO , HARADA JUNTA , EGAWA SHIN
Published: July 2006

Background:  Cryoablation is a treatment option for some patients with small exophytic lesions of the kidney. The purpose of this study is to determine the feasibility, safety, and intermediate‐term treatment outcome of percutaneous cryoablation of renal cell carcinoma guided by horizontal open magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods:  We prospectively used cryoablation to treat 13 patients with radiographically confirmed enhancing small, solid renal tumors (≤4.8 cm). An argon gas‐based cryoablation system was used. One to four cryoprobes with 2 or 3‐mm diameters were placed percutaneously into the tumor under local anaesthesia and MRI guidance. Ice ball dimensions were monitored by 2‐D MR images. Double freeze‐thaw cycles were conducted throughout the procedure. After successful cryoablation, patients were followed on a regular basis to evaluate the treatment’s clinical outcome.

Results:  Median follow up from time of procedure is 35 months (range, 28–42). In all cases the entire procedure was accomplished without significant morbidity or complications. A mild retroperitoneal hematoma, which subsided spontaneously, was noted in one patient. Follow‐up dynamic computed tomography (CT) at 3 months after operation confirmed the absence of enhancement in resolved tumor masses for 11 of 13 cases. None of these 11 patients had clinical evidence of recurrent disease at last follow up. The remaining two patients had lesions with some enhanced areas. Subsequent partial nephrectomy histologically confirmed the presence of vital tumor in, respectively, the center and the periphery of the residual masses. One of these patients developed multiple lung and ipsilateral adrenal metastases 13 months after surgical resection.

Conclusions:  Percutaneous cryoablation of small renal cell carcinomas under horizontal open MRI guidance appears to be safe and feasible. An intermediate‐term follow up continues to demonstrate efficacy in most patients; however, a few patients experience incomplete ablation with risk of treatment failure. The ideal candidates for this procedure still need to be determined in longer follow up with diligent observation.
Stenting versus non‐stenting after non‐complicated ureteroscopic manipulation of stones in bilharzial ureters
Authors: HUSSEIN ALAYMAN , RIFAAT EHAB , ZAKI AHMED , ABOL‐NASR MAMDOUH
Published: July 2006

Background:  Stents were used routinely after ureteroscopy to prevent postoperative ureteral obstruction. However, because of the recognized complications of stents, non‐stenting is the new trend after uncomplicated ureteroscopy. The wall of the bilharzial ureter is characteristically thick and may be calcified. The aim of this study is to see if the non‐stenting trend could be applied to ureteroscopic manipulation of stones in bilharzial ureters.

Patients and Methods:  In this prospective study, 56 patients, with evidence of bilharzial lesions in the urinary tract, undergoing ureteroscopy for distal ureteral stones were included. After successful uncomplicated stone fragmentation and extraction, patients were randomized into two groups. Group A includes 28 patients in whom double J 6‐Fr polyurethane stents were placed for 3 weeks. Group B includes 28 non‐stented patients. Postoperative fever, loin pain, lower urinary tract symptoms and change in the degree of hydronephrosis were reported.

Results:  There was no significant difference in the mean age of patients and stone size in both groups. The mean operative time was 43 ± 14 min in group A and 38 ± 11 in group B. There was no significant difference in the mean loin pain score, in the first postoperative 48 h, in both groups (4.4 ± 0.8 in group A and 4.9 ± 0.5 in group B). Patients in group A had, significantly, more flank pain with voiding (P < 0.01), voiding pain (P = 0.04), frequency (P = 0.01) and urgency (P = 0.04). Radiologic follow‐up was available for 24 patients in group A and 23 patients in group B at the 3‐month visit. Hydronephrosis had improved in all patients, in both groups, with no evidence of ureteral stricture.

Conclusion:  Routine placement of stents after uncomplicated ureteroscopy for distal ureteral stones is unnecessary in bilharzial ureters. Moreover, it might be unadvisable because lower urinary tract symptoms and voiding loin pain are more in patients with ureteral stents and hydronephrosis is equally improved in stented and non‐stented patients.
Clinical outcome of tubeless cutaneous ureterostomy by the Toyoda method
Authors: TERAI AKITO , YOSHIMURA KOJI , UEDA NOBUFUMI , UTSUNOMIYA NORIAKI , KOHEI NAOKI , ARAI YOICHI
Published: July 2006

Aim:  Cutaneous ureterostomy is the least invasive method of urinary diversion, but it carries a risk of stomal stenosis. We retrospectively examined the long‐term outcome of tubeless cutaneous ureterostomy by the Toyoda method.

Methods:  Since 1983, the Toyoda cutaneous ureterostomy has been performed in 97 patients (169 renal units) with a minimum follow up of 3 months. The ureteral patency rate was reviewed according to whether the stomal type was single (one ureter, one stoma) or double‐barrel (two ureters, one stoma).

Results:  After a median follow up of 23 months (range 3 to 169), a tubeless condition was achieved in 102 (82%) of 124 renal units associated with double‐barrel stoma and in 35 (78%) of 45 renal units associated with single stoma. Although mild to moderate hydronephrosis was observed in 19% of patients, serum creatinine levels did not change after a minimum of 12 months after surgery (median 35).

Conclusions:  A high ureteral patency rate was achieved with cutaneous ureterostomy using the Toyoda method. This procedure, especially double‐barrel stomal creation, is a reasonable alternative to other forms of urinary diversion in patients at high risk.