bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of Testosterone on Lipid Peroxidation, Lipid Profiles and some Coagulation Parameters in Rabbits*
Authors: Aydilek N. , Aksakal M. 
Published: October 2005

SummaryThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of testosterone on some risk factors of atherosclerosis. Twenty‐four male New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into three groups of eight. The first group was used as control. Second group was injected with 10 mg of testosterone propionate. Third group was castrated bilaterally. At the end of 6 weeks, lipid peroxidation (LPO), lipid profile, fibrinogen (FBN) level and coagulation parameters were evaluated. Testosterone administration decreased the level of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), while castration increased this level (P < 0.05). Triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) levels in the castration group were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those in the testosterone group. The ratio of HDL‐C:low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) decreased, while TC:HDL‐C ratio increased (P < 0.05) in the testosterone group. No significant differences were found in the LDL‐C and FBN levels among groups. However, there was a tendency for higher FBN level in the testosterone group. Testosterone administration resulted in an increase in the level of LPO (P < 0.05). Clotting time and prothrombin time prolonged in the castration group compared with testosterone group (P < 0.05). As a result, testosterone has exacerbating effect on atherosclerosis risk factors including lipid profile, LPO, FBN and coagulation system.
Effect of ACTH Administration on Biochemical and Immune Measures in Boars
Authors: Bilandžić N. , ŠImić B. , ŽUrić M. , Lojkić M. 
Published: October 2005

SummaryThe effects of stress induced by adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) on biochemical and immune changes in Swedish Landrace boars aged approximately 6–7 months were observed during ACTH administration and for 16 days after the cessation of treatment. Adrenocorticotropic hormone treated animals (n = 7) were given intravenously 10 μg/kg body mass of ACTH for 3 days. Control group of animals (n = 7) received intramuscularly 1 ml of sterile 0.9% saline. Total protein and globulin levels were significantly elevated during the induced stress period and for the next 16 days (P < 0.01 to P < 0.0001, respectively). Also, serum immunoglobulin IgG concentration was significantly elevated during and after ACTH injection (P < 0.001 to P < 0.0001). Adrenocorticotropic hormone treatment had no effect on serum albumin, IgA and IgM concentrations. Glucose concentration was significantly decreased on the second day of ACTH administration (P < 0.001) and on day 9 after treatment (P < 0.001). Calcium level was significantly decreased only for 24 h after the last ACTH dosage (P < 0.01). Also, serum phosphorus level was significantly decreased on the first (P < 0.05) and third (P < 0.001) days of ACTH challenge but remained unaffected after the cessation of ACTH treatment. It is concluded that the administration of ACTH to boars results in immune humoral and biochemical changes during stress and the post‐stress period.
Emergence of Candida tropicalis as the major cause of fungaemia in India
Authors: Mathews Mary S. , Samuel Promila R. , Suresh Mercy 
Published: October 2005

Summary. The fungal isolates (n= 191) from 1970 consecutive blood cultures over a 9‐year period were identified. Candida tropicalis was the predominant isolate accounting for 66% of all isolates whereas Candida albicans ranked only a distant second with 21%. The difference was highly significant (P < 0.00001) The other isolates included C. parapsilosis (5.8%), C. glabrata (2.1%), C. pelliculosa (1.2%), C. lipolytica (1.0%) C. krusei (1.0%) and Trichosporon beigelii (2.6%). The isolates were obtained predominantly from postoperative patients on therapy with more than one antibiotic.Die Häufigkeit von Candida tropicalis als Fungämie‐Erreger in IndienZusamenfassung. Die Pilzisolate (n = 191) von 1970 fortlaufenden Blutkulturen einer 9‐Jahresperiode wurden differenziert. Candida tropicalis war mit einem Anteil von nur 66% am häufigsten, gefolgt von Candida albicans mit einem Anteil von 21%; die Differenz war hochsignifikant (P < 0.00001). Die übrigen Isolate waren C. parapsilosis (5.8%), C. glabrata (2.1%), C. pelliculosa (1.2%), C. lipolytica (1.0%) C. krusei (1.0%) und Trichosporon beigelii (2.6%). Die Isolate wurden hauptsächlich postoperativ von Patienten isoliert, die mehr als ein Antibiotikum erhielten.
Once daily treatment with terbinafine 1% cream (Lamisil®) for one week is effective in the treatment of tinea corporis and cruris. A placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Budimulja U. , Bramono K. , Urip K. S. , Basuki S. , Widodo G. , Rapatz G. , Paul C. 
Published: October 2005

Summary. Duration of therapy is an important factor in determining patients' compliance in dermatomycosis. Terbinafine (Lamisil®) is an allylamine antifungal agent. Its fungicidal properties against dermatophytes should allow physicians to reduce treatment duration without affecting the cure rate. This study was carried out to determine the efficacy and tolerability of terbinafine 1% cream, applied once daily for 7 days, in adult patients with tinea corporis/cruris.In a multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group study, patients with a clinical diagnosis of tinea corporis/cruris confirmed by microscopy and culture received treatment with either terbinafine 1% cream (n = 57) or placebo cream (n = 60). The patients applied the cream once daily for 7 days, and were then observed for a further 7 weeks. The efficacy was assessed at the end of the study by comparing the rates of mycological cure in the two treatment groups. Total clinical signs and symptoms scores, clinical response, and overall treatment efficacy were also measured and compared between the two groups.A 7‐day once‐daily course of terbinafine was significantly more effective than placebo in achieving and maintaining mycological cure (84.2 versus 23.3%, P < 0.001). Terbinafine was also significantly more effective than placebo in terms of clinical response, reduction in signs and symptoms scores, and overall efficacy. The short treatment regimen and the sustained high cure rate should contribute to making terbinafine a valuable treatment option in tinea corporis/cruris.
Ultrastructural identification of the antennal gland complement in Siagona europaea Dejean 1826, a myrmecophagous carabid beetle
Authors: Giglio Anita , Ferrero Enrico Antonio , Brandmayr Tullia Zetto 
Published: October 2005

AbstractWe examined antennal exocrine glands in adults of a myrmecophagous carabid beetle, Siagona europaea Dejean 1826 (Coleoptera, Carabidae), by light and electron microscopy and we identified two types of integumentary glands. The first type includes glands formed by three cells (a secretory cell, an intercalary cell and a duct cell) known as class 3 of Noirot and Quennedey (1991). The secretory cell has several large multivesicular electron‐lucent bodies, indicating a glycoprotein product associated with lipids. We hypothesize that this secretion protects the surface of antennae and sensilla from wear. The second group of glands includes unicellular glands known as oenocytes (class 2 of Noirot and Quennedey, 1991), which secrete epicuticular hydrocarbons through epidermal cells.
Differentiation of the epidermis of scutes in embryos and juveniles of the tortoise Testudo hermanni with emphasis on beta‐keratinization
Authors: Alibardi L. , Dipietrangelo L. 
Published: October 2005

AbstractThe sequence of differentiation of the epidermis of scutes during embryogenesis in the tortoise Testudo hermanni was studied using autoradiography, electron microscopy and immunocytochemistry. The study was mainly conducted on the epidermis of the carapace, plastron and nail. Epidermal differentiation resembles that described for other reptiles, and the embryonic epidermis is composed of numerous cell layers. In the early stages of differentiation of the carapacial ridge, cytoplasmic blebs of epidermal cells are in direct contact with the extracellular matrix and mesenchymal cells. The influence of the dermis on the formation of the beta‐layer is discussed. The dermis becomes rich in collagen bundles at later stages of development. The embryonic epidermis is formed by a flat periderm and four to six layers of subperidermal cells, storing 40–70‐nm‐thick coarse filaments that may represent interkeratin or matrix material. Beta‐keratin is associated with the coarse filaments, suggesting that the protein may be polymerized on their surface. The presence of beta‐keratin in embryonic epidermis suggests that this keratin might have been produced at the beginning of chelonian evolution. The embryonic epidermis of the scutes is lost around hatching and leaves underneath the definitive corneous beta‐layer. Beneath the embryonic epidermis, cells that accumulate typical large bundles of beta‐keratin appear at stage 23 and at hatching a compact beta‐layer is present. The differentiation of these cells shows the progressive replacement of alpha‐keratin bundles with bundles immunolabelled for beta‐keratin. The nucleus is degraded and electron‐dense nuclear material mixes with beta‐keratin. In general, changes in tortoise skin when approaching terrestrial life resemble those of other reptiles. Lepidosaurian reptiles form an embryonic shedding layer and crocodilians have a thin embryonic epidermis that is rapidly lost near hacthing. Chelonians have a thicker embryonic epidermis that accumulates beta‐keratin, a protein later used to make a thick corneous layer.
Human impacts, energy availability and invasion across Southern Ocean Islands
Authors: Chown Steven L. , Hull Bruce , Gaston Kevin J. 
Published: October 2005

ABSTRACTAim  Ongoing biological invasions will enhance the impacts of humans on biodiversity. Nonetheless, the effects of exotic species on diversity are idiosyncratic. Increases in diversity might be a consequence of similar responses by species to available energy, or because of positive relationships between human density, energy and propagule pressure. Here we use data from the Southern Ocean island plants and insects to investigate these issues.Location  The Southern Ocean Islands ranging from Tristan da Cunha to Heard Island and South Georgia.Methods  Generalized linear models are used to explore the relationships between indigenous and exotic species richness for plants and insects on two different islands. Similar models are used to examine interactions between indigenous and exotic species richness, energy availability and propagule pressure at the regional scale.Results  Positive relationships were found between indigenous and exotic species richness at local scales, although for plants, the relationship was partially triangular. Across the Southern Ocean Islands, there was strong positive covariation between indigenous and exotic plant species richness and insect species richness, even taking spatial autocorrelation into account. Both exotic and indigenous plant and insect species richness covaried with energy availability, as did human visitor frequency. When two islands with almost identical numbers of human visits were contrasted, it was clear that energy availability, or perhaps differences in climate‐matching, were responsible for differences in the extent of invasion.Conclusion  In plants and insects, there are positive relationships between indigenous and exotic diversity at local and regional scales across the Southern Ocean islands. These relationships are apparently a consequence of similar responses by both groups and by human occupants to available energy. When visitor frequency is held constant, energy availability is the major correlate of exotic species richness, though the exact mechanistic cause of this relationship requires clarification.
Thinking at the global scale
Authors: Turner David P. 
Published: October 2005

ABSTRACTThe noosphere concept was originally proposed as a sphere of mind or thought that has emerged from the biosphere over the course of human evolution. Two versions of the noosphere concept were developed in the 20th century and they differed with respect to whether the noosphere was to be considered separate from the biosphere or a new form of the biosphere. Both versions shared an assumption that collective human thought based on a scientific epistemology would achieve a benevolent relationship with the biosphere. Research in global ecology continues to reveal the growing influence of humanity on the biota and on the global biogeochemical cycles, but recent history has not confirmed humanity's ability to self‐regulate. Nevertheless, the noosphere concept remains useful because it acknowledges the uniquely subjective aspect of human brain functioning and the propensity for humans to share ideas and work collaboratively. Both of these features will be needed to develop a structured coupling of humanity and the biosphere that preserves the biophysical processes sustaining the ecosphere.
Reducing uncertainty in projections of extinction risk from climate change
Authors: Araújo Miguel B. , Whittaker Robert J. , Ladle Richard J. , Erhard Markus 
Published: October 2005

ABSTRACTAim  Concern over the implications of climate change for biodiversity has led to the use of species–climate ‘envelope’ models to forecast risks of species extinctions under climate change scenarios. Recent studies have demonstrated significant variability in model projections and there remains a need to test the accuracy of models and to reduce uncertainties. Testing of models has been limited by a lack of data against which projections of future ranges can be tested. Here we provide a first test of the predictive accuracy of such models using observed species’ range shifts and climate change in two periods of the recent past.Location  Britain.Methods  Observed range shifts for 116 breeding bird species in Britain between 1967 and 1972 (t1) and 1987–91 (t2) are used. We project range shifts between t1 and t2 for each species based on observed climate using 16 alternative models (4 methods × 2 data parameterizations × 2 rules to transform probabilities of occurrence into presence and absence records).Results  Modelling results were extremely variable, with projected range shifts varying both in magnitude and in direction from observed changes and from each other. However, using approaches that explore the central tendency (consensus) of model projections, we were able to improve agreement between projected and observed shifts significantly.Conclusions  Our results provide the first empirical evidence of the value of species–climate ‘envelope’ models under climate change and demonstrate reduction in uncertainty and improvement in accuracy through selection of the most consensual projections.
A climatic stratification of the environment of Europe
Authors: Metzger M. J. , Bunce R. G. H. , Jongman R. H. G. , Mücher C. A. , Watkins J. W. 
Published: October 2005

ABSTRACTAim  To produce a statistical stratification of the European environment, suitable for stratified random sampling of ecological resources, the selection of sites for representative studies across the continent, and to provide strata for modelling exercises and reporting.Location  A ‘Greater European Window’ with the following boundaries: 11° W, 32° E, 34° N, 72° N.Methods  Twenty of the most relevant available environmental variables were selected, based on experience from previous studies. Principal components analysis (PCA) was used to explain 88% of the variation into three dimensions, which were subsequently clustered using an ISODATA clustering routine. The mean first principal component values of the classification variables were used to aggregate the strata into Environmental Zones and to provide a basis for consistent nomenclature.Results  The Environmental Stratification of Europe (EnS) consists of 84 strata, which have been aggregated into 13 Environmental Zones. The stratification has a 1 km2 resolution. Aggregations of the strata have been compared to other European classifications using the Kappa statistic, and show ‘good’ comparisons. The individual strata have been described using data from available environmental databases. The EnS is available for noncommercial use by applying to the corresponding author.Main conclusions  The Environmental Stratification of Europe has been constructed using tried and tested statistical procedures. It forms an appropriate stratification for stratified random sampling of ecological resources, the selection of sites for representative studies across the continent and for the provision of strata for modelling exercises and reporting at the European scale.
Obesity and the electrocardiogram
Authors: Fraley M. A. , Birchem J. A. , Senkottaiyan N. , Alpert M. A. 
Published: October 2005

SummaryObesity is associated with a wide variety of electrocardiographic (ECG) abnormalities. Most of these reflect alterations in cardiac morphology. Some serve as markers of risk for sudden death. Key ECG abnormalities or alterations occurring with disproportionately high frequency in obese subjects include: leftward shifts of the P wave QRS and T wave axes, various changes in P wave morphology, low QRS voltage, various markers of left ventricular hypertrophy (particularly the Cornell voltage and product), T wave flattening in the inferior and lateral leads, lengthening of the corrected QT interval and prolonged QT interval duration. Alterations in the signal‐averaged ECG and in heart rate variability may be arrhythmogenic. Cardiac arrhythmias have been described in obese subjects, but are often accompanied by left ventricular hypertrophy or the sleep apnea syndrome. Many of these ECG abnormalities are reversible with substantial weight loss. Thus, obesity is associated with a wide variety of ECG abnormalities, many of which are corrected by weight loss.
Orlistat for the treatment of obesity: cost utility model
Authors: Foxcroft D. R. 
Published: October 2005

SummaryThis study aimed to assess the cost utility of orlistat treatment based on (i) criteria from recent guidance from the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) for England and Wales (treatment discontinued if weight loss < 5% at 3 months; and < 10% at 6 months); and (ii) alternative criteria from the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products (EMEA) licence for orlistat prescription in the European Community (treatment discontinued if weight loss < 5% at 3 months). Subjects were 1398 obese individuals who participated in three large European Phase III trials of orlistat treatment for adults (BMI: 28–47 kg m−2). Measures were: response to treatment in orlistat and placebo treatment groups; health benefit expressed as quality adjusted life years (QALYs) gained associated with weight loss; costs associated with orlistat treatment. In the cost utility model with multiway sensitivity analysis, the cost/QALY gained using the NICE criteria was estimated to be £24 431 (sensitivity analysis range: £10 856 to £77 197). The cost/QALY gained using the alternative EMEA criteria was estimated to be £19 005 (range: £8840 to £57 798). In conclusion, NICE guidance for the continued use of orlistat was supported in this updated cost utility model, comparing favourably with a previously published estimate of £45 881 per QALY gained. Moreover, the value for money of orlistat treatment is improved further if EMEA treatment criteria for continued orlistat treatment are applied. The EMEA criteria should be considered in any future changes to the NICE guidance or in guidance issued by similar agencies.
PYY3‐36 as an anti‐obesity drug target
Authors: Boggiano M. M. , Chandler P. C. , Oswald K. D. , Rodgers R. J. , Blundell J. E. , Ishii Y. , Beattie A. H. , Holch P. , Allison D. B. , Schindler M. , Arndt K. , Rudolf K. , Mark M. , Schoelch C. , Joost H. G. , Klaus S. , Thöne‐Reineke C. , Benoit S. C. , Seeley R. J. , Beck‐Sickinger A. G. , Koglin N. , Raun K. , Madsen K. , Wulff B. S. , Stidsen C. E. , Birringer M. , Kreuzer O. J. , Deng X. Y. , Whitcomb D. C. , Halem H. , Taylor J. , Dong J. , Datta R. , Culler M. , Ortmann S. , Castañeda T. R. , Tschöp M. 
Published: October 2005

SummaryThe neuropeptide Y (NPY)/peptide YY (PYY) system has been implicated in the physiology of obesity for several decades. More recently, Batterhamet al.2002 ignited enormous interest in PYY3‐36, an endogenous Y2‐receptor agonist, as a promising anti‐obesity compound. Despite this interest, there have been remarkably few subsequent reports reproducing or extending the initial findings, while at the same time studies finding no anti‐obesity effects have surfaced. Out of 41 different rodent studies conducted (in 16 independent labs worldwide), 33 (83%) were unable to reproduce the reported effects and obtained no change or sometimes increased food intake, despite use of the same experimental conditions (i.e. adaptation protocols, routes of drug administration and doses, rodent strains, diets, drug vendors, light cycles, room temperatures). Among studies by authors in the original study, procedural caveats are reported under which positive effects may be obtained. Currently, data speak against a sustained decrease in food intake, body fat, or body weight gain following PYY3‐36 administration and make the previously suggested role of the hypothalamic melanocortin system unlikely as is the existence of PYY deficiency in human obesity. We review the studies that are in the public domain which support or challenge PYY3‐36 as a potential anti‐obesity target.
Diagnosis and management of the metabolic syndrome in obesity
Authors: Liberopoulos E. N. , Mikhailidis D. P. , Elisaf M. S. 
Published: October 2005

SummaryThe metabolic syndrome is a constellation of interrelated abnormalities that increase the risk for cardiovascular disease and progression to type 2 diabetes. The prevalence of this syndrome is increasing because of the ‘obesity epidemic’. The National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III defined practical criteria for the diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome and established the basic principles for its management. Also, the International Diabetes Federation recently proposed another definition. The metabolic syndrome is a secondary target for cardiovascular risk reduction. Clinicians should identify individuals with this condition, assess their cardiovascular risk and treat them by an aggressive and multifaceted approach. The most effective therapeutic intervention in patients with the metabolic syndrome should focus on modest weight reduction and regular physical activity. Adoption of a healthier diet and smoking cessation are necessary. Drug therapy may be needed to achieve recommended goals if therapeutic lifestyle changes are not sufficient. Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol is the primary target of therapy (new aggressive goals should be achieved). Statins are probably the drugs of choice. Fibrates and nicotinic acid are also useful options. Hypertension should be managed aggressively probably starting with an inhibitor of the renin‐angiotensin system or a calcium channel blocker and adding a low dose of a thiazide diuretic if necessary. Aspirin should be administered if the cardiovascular risk is high. In the future acarbose, metformin, meglitinides and thiazolidinediones may be used in patients with the metabolic syndrome to delay the onset of type 2 diabetes and reduce cardiovascular risk. Such an intense and multifactorial approach is likely to reverse the bad prognosis associated with the metabolic syndrome.