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Selected AbstractsSerum leptin correlates in infertile oligozoospermic malesANDROLOGIA, Issue 5 2007S. Hanafy Summary Leptin is an adipocyte-secreted protein that participates in the regulation of energy homeostasis. Eighty men were investigated; fertile normozoospermia as a control (n = 30) and infertile oligozoospermia (n = 50). The patients underwent estimation of body weight (kg), height (cm), calculation of body mass index (BMI), semen analysis, serum leptin and testosterone hormones. Mean body weight was significantly higher in infertile oligozoospermia compared with controls. Mean height, BMI and serum testosterone levels showed nonsignificant differences between the two groups. Infertile oligozoospermia had significantly higher mean serum leptin level than controls (mean ± SD; 6.88 ± 8.65, 16.3 ± 13.98 ng ml,1, P < 0.01). Serum leptin demonstrated significant positive correlation with age, body weight, BMI and significant inverse correlation with serum testosterone. It had nonsignificant correlation with the height and sperm concentration. These results are suggestive of a link between the adipocyte derived hormone, leptin and male reproduction. [source] 4263: Observation in choroidal melanomasACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 2010C GARCIA-ALVAREZ Purpose The management of suspected small choroidal melanomas is controversial. The purpose of the present study is to assess tumor growth, visual acuity changes, activity factors and survival on choroidal melanoma patients under observation in our Intraocular Tumors Unit. Methods Prospective, consecutive and non-interventional case series. Patients diagnosed with choroidal melanoma from 1990 to 2010 and with observation as therapeutic option were included. Criteria for observation were small size without risk factors for growing; medium and large size: no risk factors for growing (but size), advanced age, bad general health, only eye or treatment rejection. Demographic, tumoral and follow-up data were collected in a data base and analyzed. Results 118 out of 397 patients (29.7%) diagnosed with uveal melanoma were enrolled, with mean age of 66.4 years (SD 14.3). The mean follow-up time was 51.1 months (SD 4.5). Regarding the size, 91 (77.1%) tumors were small and 85 (72.%) were diagnosed in a routine examination. Main reason for observation was tumor small/inactive (80,5%) followed by treatment rejection (17.7%). Mean height was 2.8mm (SD 1.9) and mean base 7.6 (SD 2.8). Along the follow-up, 17 tumors grew; 11 were treated with brachytherapy, 5 with enucleation and one with brachytherapy and enucleation. Only 16 patients died during the follow-up, 2 by melanoma metastasis. Conclusion In our series with more than 4 years of follow up, observation seems to be a safe therapeutic option for selected small choroidal melanomas, allowing the patients to preserve visual function. [source] Nutritional status of children with coeliac diseaseACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 7 2010B Aurangzeb Abstract Aims:, The main aim of this study was to assess the nutritional status of children with newly diagnosed Coeliac disease (CD)with comparison to matched controls. A further aim was to assess relationships between presentation patterns and nutrition in childhood CD. Methods:, The nutritional status of newly diagnosed CD was assessed by anthropometry, Bioelectrical Impedance and serum leptin levels, and contrasted to age and gender matched controls. Results:, Twenty-five children with CD (mean age of 8.2 ± 4.5 years) and 25 control children (mean age 8.1 ± 4.4.) were enrolled. Thirteen (52%) children with CD had gastrointestinal symptoms with 14 having a family history of CD. At presentation 8.7% were wasted, 4.2% were stunted and 20.8% overweight, although none were obese. Mean height and weight for age, other nutritional parameters and serum leptin did not differ between the groups. Serum leptin correlated with BMI in both groups. Conclusions:, Children with CD more commonly present with atypical symptoms than with classical features. Variations in nutrition (under to overnutrition) may be seen at diagnosis, without relationship to the presence of symptoms. Leptin levels were not altered specifically in the setting of CD. Nutritional assessment remains important in the assessment and management of CD in children. [source] Anisogramma virgultorum on saplings of Betula pendula and Betula pubescens in a district of northern SwedenFOREST PATHOLOGY, Issue 4-5 2002J. WITZELL Summary During the autumn of 1999, the occurrence of the ascomycete Anisogramma virgultorum on saplings of Betula pubescens and Betula pendula was studied in two stands of B. pubescens, two stands of B. pendula and two mixed (B. pubescens and Pinus sylvestris) stands (age approximately 10 years, mean height 2,4 m, d.b.h. 10,20 mm) in a district in the vicinity of Umeå, northern Sweden. Stem and branch cankers associated with A. virgultorum were found on 54.8% of the investigated saplings, without significant difference between B. pendula and B. pubescens. Cankers were observed on 16.0% of stems and on branches of 54.2% of the saplings. Stem cankers appeared on the current year's shoot, as well as at the base of the trees. The mean diameter of the damaged saplings was significantly greater than the mean diameter of undamaged saplings. All samples of cankers with stromata examined in the laboratory showed perithecia with asci. Résumé Anisogramma virgultorum sur jeunes plants de Betula pendula et Betula pubescens dans un district du nord de la Suède Pendant l'été 1999, le développement de l'ascomycète Anisogramma virgultorum a étéétudié sur de jeunes plants de Betula pendula et Betula pubescens dans deux peuplements de B. pubescens, deux peuplements de B. pendula et deux peuplements mélangés (B. pubescens et Pinus sylvestris) (âge: environ 10 ans, hauteur moyenne: 2 à 4 m, dbh: 10 à 20 mm), dans un district près d'Umeå au nord de la Suède. Des chancres de tige et de branches associés àA. virgultorum ont été trouvés sur 54,8% des plants, sans différences significative entre B. pendula et B. pubescens. Les chancres de tige étaient présents sur 16% des plants, et les chancres de branches sur 54,2%. Les chancres de tige étaient situés sur les pousses de l'année en cours aussi bien qu'à la base des arbres. La diamètre moyen des plants attaqués était significativement plus grand que celui des arbres sains. Tous les chancres avec stromas examinés au laboratoire présentaient des périthèces avec des asques. Zusammenfassung Anisogramma virgultorum an Sämlingen von Betula pendula und Betula pubescens in einem Distrikt in Nordschweden Im Herbst 1999 wurde das Vorkommen des Ascomyceten Anisogramma virgultorum an Betula pubescens und Betula pendula in jeweils zwei Reinbeständen dieser Baumarten sowie in zwei Mischbeständen (B. pubescens und Pinus sylvestris) in einem Distrikt in der Nähe von Umeå, Nordschweden, untersucht (Alter ca. 10 Jahre, mittlere Baumhöhe 2,4 m, DBH 10,20 mm). Bei 54,8 % der untersuchten Bäumchen wurden an Stamm und Zweigen Krebse gefunden, die für A.virgultorum typisch sind. Zwischen B. pendula und B. pubescens gab es keine signifikanten Unterschiede. Bei 16 % der Pflanzen wurden Krebse an den Stämmen, bei 54,2 % an den Zweigen beobachtet. Die Stammkrebse traten sowohl am diesjährigen Gipfeltrieb auf als auch an der Stammbasis. Der mittlere Durchmesser geschädigter Pflanzen war signifikant grösser als derjenige von ungeschädigten Pflanzen. Alle Proben von Krebsen mit Stromata, die im Labor untersucht wurden, enthielten Perithecien mit Asci. [source] Stem hydraulics mediates leaf water status, carbon gain, nutrient use efficiencies and plant growth rates across dipterocarp speciesFUNCTIONAL ECOLOGY, Issue 4 2009Jiao-Lin Zhang Summary 1Stem vascular system strongly influences structure and functioning of leaves, life-history, and distribution of plants. Xylem structure and hydraulic conductivity of branches, leaf functional traits, and growth rates in 17 dipterocarp species in a mature plantation stand were examined to explore the functional relationships between these traits. 2Maximum hydraulic conductivity on the bases of both sapwood and leaf area (kL) were positively correlated with midday leaf water potential in the rainy season, stomatal conductance, area-based maximum photosynthetic rate, photosynthetic N (PNUE) and P use efficiencies (PPUE), and mean height and diameter growth rates. Moreover, kL was positively correlated with mesophyll thickness and mass-based maximum photosynthetic rate. These results revealed the mechanistic linkage between stem hydraulics and leaf photosynthesis through nutrient use efficiency and mesophyll development of leaves. 3A detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) using 37 traits showed that the traits related to stem hydraulics and leaf carbon gain were loaded on the first axis whereas traits related to light harvesting were loaded on the second axis, indicating that light harvesting is a distinct ecological axis for tropical canopy plants. The DCA also revealed a trade-off between photosynthetic water use efficiency and hydraulic conductivity along with PNUE and PPUE. 4The congeneric species were scattered fairly close together on the DCA diagram, indicating that the linkages between stem hydraulics, leaf functional traits, and plant growth rates are phylogenetically conserved. 5These results suggest that stem hydraulics mediates leaf water status, carbon gain, nutrient use efficiencies, and growth rates across the dipterocarp species. The wide variation in functional traits and growth rates among these dipterocarp species along with the trade-offs mentioned above provide a possible explanation for their co-existence in tropical forest communities. [source] Bone Mineral Content per Muscle Cross-Sectional Area as an Index of the Functional Muscle-Bone Unit,JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 6 2002Eckhard Schoenau M.D. Abstract Bone densitometric data often are difficult to interpret in children and adolescents because of large inter- and intraindividual variations in bone size. Here, we propose a functional approach to bone densitometry that addresses two questions: Is bone strength normally adapted to the largest physiological loads, that is, muscle force? Is muscle force adequate for body size? To implement this approach, forearm muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and bone mineral content (BMC) of the radial diaphysis were measured in 349 healthy subjects from 6 to 19 years of age (183 girls), using peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). Reference data were established for height-dependent muscle CSA and for the variation with age in the BMC/muscle CSA ratio. These reference data were used to evaluate results from three pediatric patient groups: children who had sustained multiple fractures without adequate trauma (n = 11), children with preterminal chronic renal failure (n = 11), and renal transplant recipients (n = 15). In all three groups mean height, muscle CSA, and BMC were low for age, but muscle CSA was normal for height. In the multiple fracture group and in renal transplant recipients the BMC/muscle CSA ratio was decreased (p < 0.05), suggesting that bone strength was not adapted adequately to muscle force. In contrast, chronic renal failure patients had a normal BMC/muscle CSA ratio, suggesting that their musculoskeletal system was adapted normally to their (decreased) body size. This functional approach to pediatric bone densitometric data should be adaptable to a variety of densitometric techniques. [source] Structure of Anogeissus leiocarpa Guill., Perr. natural stands in relation to anthropogenic pressure within Wari-Maro Forest Reserve in BeninAFRICAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY, Issue 3 2010Achille Ephrem Assogbadjo Abstract The present study focused on the analysis of the structure of the Anogeissus leiocarpa dominated natural stands in the Wari-Maro forest reserve which are under high and minimal anthropogenic pressures. These stands were considered for forest inventories after carrying out a random sampling scheme of 40 sample units of 30 m × 50 m. In each level pressure stand, the dbh and tree-height of identified tree-species were measured in each plot. Data analyses were based on the computation of structural parameters, establishment of diameter and height distributions and the floristic composition of the two types of stands. Results obtained showed higher values for the overall basal area (9.78 m2 ha,1), mean height (22.37 m) and mean diameter (36.92 cm) for A. leiocarpa in low-pressure stands. In high-pressure stands, some species like Afzelia africana had lower Importance Value Index and the frequency of A. leiocarpa trees in the successive diameter classes dropped rapidly and the value of the logarithmic slope of the height,diameter relationship was lower (9.77) indicating a lanky shape. Results obtained suggest that effective conservation is needed for A. leiocarpa stands under high pressure by limiting human interference and developing appropriate strategy for restoration purposes. Résumé Cette étude s'est focalisée sur l'analyse de la structure de peuplements naturels à dominance de Anogeissus leiocarpa, dans la forêt classée de Wari-Maro, qui subissent à certains endroits, des pressions anthropiques fortes et à d'autres endroits des pressions anthropiques minimes. Ces peuplements ont été inventoriés en considérant un échantillonnage aléatoire de 40 placeaux de 30 m × 50 m. Pour chaque niveau de pression, on a mesuré dans chaque placeau le diamètre à 1,3 m et la hauteur totale des arbres d'espèces identifiées. L'analyse des données s'est basée sur le calcul des paramètres structuraux, sur l'établissement de la distribution en diamètre et en hauteur et sur la composition floristique des peuplements des deux types de formation. Les résultats obtenus indiquent les plus grandes valeurs pour la surface terrière globale (9,78 m² ha,1), la hauteur moyenne (22,37 m) et le diamètre moyen (36,92 cm) chez A. leiocarpa dans les peuplements soumis à une faible pression. Dans les peuplements subissant une forte pression, certaines espèces comme Afzelia africana avaient les plus faibles Indices d'importance, la fréquence de A. leiocarpa dans les classes de hauteurs successives diminuait rapidement et la valeur de la pente logarithmique de la relation hauteur/diamètre était plus faible (9,77), ce qui indique une forme élancée. Les résultats obtenus suggèrent que les peuplements de A. leiocarpa sous forte pressions anthropiques requièrent une conservation efficace, en limitant les pertubations humaines et en développant une stratégie appropriée en vue de leur restauration. [source] Effects of large herbivores and fire on the regeneration of Acacia erioloba woodlands in Chobe National Park, BotswanaAFRICAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY, Issue 4 2001Myra E. Barnes Abstract Acacia erioloba woodlands provide important forage and shade for wildlife in northern Botswana. Mortality of mature trees caused by browsing elephants has been well documented but the lack of regeneration of new trees has received little attention. Annual growth of new shoots and changes in height were measured to determine the influence of elephants and small ungulate browsers, rainfall and fire on the growth and survival of established A. erioloba seedlings from 1995 to 1997 in the Savuti area of Chobe National Park. All above-ground vegetation was removed from 40% of established seedlings in 1995 and 28% in 1997 by browsing elephants, and the mean height of remaining seedlings decreased from >550 mm to <300 mm. When seedlings browsed by kudu, impala and steenbok but not elephants are considered, mean seedling height increased <50 mm per year, even though mean new shoot growth remaining at the end of the dry season was 100,200 mm. Fires burned portions of the study area in 1993 and 1997, killing above-ground vegetation, but most established A. erioloba seedlings survived, producing coppice growth from roots. While elephants and fire caused the greatest reduction in established seedling height and number, small browsers suppressed growth, keeping seedlings vulnerable to fire and delaying growth to reproductive maturity. Résumé Les forêts d'Acacia erioloba procurent une nourriture et des abris importants pour la faune au nord du Botswana. On connaît bien la mortalité des grands arbres due aux éléphants mais on n'a accordé que peu d',attention au manque de régénération de nouveaux arbres. On a mesuré la croissance annuelle des jeunes pousses et le changement de hauteur pour déterminer l'influence des éléphants et des petits ongulés, des chutes de pluies et des feux sur la croissance et la survie des semis connus d',A. erioloba, de 1995 à 1997 dans la zone de Savuti au Parc National de Chobe. Toute la végétation au-dessus du sol a été supprimée sur 40% des semis connus en 1995, et 28% en 1997 par le broutage des éléphants, et la hauteur moyenne des plants restants a baissé de > 550 mm à < 300 mm. Lorsqu'on considère les pousses broutées par les koudous, les impalas et les steenbocks, mais pas par les éléphants, la hauteur moyenne des jeunes pousses augmentait de moins de 50 mm par an même si la croissance moyenne des nouvelles pousses subsistant à la fin de la saison sèche était de 100 à 200 mm. Les feux ont brûlé des portions de la zone étudiée en 1993 et en 1997, tuant toute la végétation au-dessus du sol, mais les pousses d',A. erioloba les mieux situées ont survécu, produisant de nouveaux taillis au départ des racines. Alors que les éléphants et les feux causaient les plus fortes réductions de la hauteur et du nombre des pousses établies, les petits ruminants en supprimaient la croissance, ce qui les laissait vulnérables aux feux et retardait la croissance jusqu'à la maturité. [source] The role of rainfall and predators in determining synchrony in reproduction of savanna trees in Serengeti National Park, TanzaniaJOURNAL OF ECOLOGY, Issue 1 2007SIMON A. R. MDUMA Summary 1We examined the factors determining synchrony in reproduction in nine Acacia and six other tree species in the Serengeti ecosystem. 2We test two hypotheses: (i) an abiotic hypothesis where the primary determinant of synchrony is an adaptation to water availability; and (ii) biotic hypotheses where these adaptations to water can be further refined by additional adaptations to avoid predators, or attract seed and fruit dispersers. 3Flowering and fruiting were recorded monthly for individually marked trees during 1997,2004. Flowering in different species occurs semi-annually, annually or, in the case of one species, once every 2 years. For most species synchrony of flowering was correlated with seasonal rainfall, with lags related to the mean height of the species; small species flowered during the rains while larger species flowered in the dry season. Fruiting seasons occurred at the end of the rains irrespective of the flowering season. 4Most species showed flowering synchrony greater than expected from the distribution of rainfall. This may be related to avoidance of insect seed predators through predator satiation. Two Acacias showed multi-annual fruiting (masting), possibly as a predator avoidance mechanism. Acacia tortilis has two flowering seasons: a dry season flowering with early abortion of pods and a wet season flowering producing successful fruits. 5Two species of Commiphora appeared to be synchronized so as to attract birds that disperse seeds. Acacia tortilis produced indehiscent pods attractive to ungulates, possibly to kill bruchid beetles during digestion and so increase seed viability. 6Our results suggest that synchrony in these trees is caused by a strong interaction between abiotic and biotic factors. Closely related species have different reproductive patterns of synchrony that seem to be adapted to different combinations of rainfall, predators and dispersers. Rainfall is the primary determinant but the activities of predators and dispersers increase the degree of synchrony. [source] Breeding biology of White-rumped Tanagers in central BrazilJOURNAL OF FIELD ORNITHOLOGY, Issue 3 2010Luane R. Dos Santos ABSTRACT White-rumped Tanagers (Cypsnagra hirundinacea) are widely distributed in northern Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay, and are classified as vulnerable in the state of Paraná and as endangered in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Little is currently known about their breeding biology. We studied the breeding behavior of White-rumped Tanagers in the Cerrado (Neotropical savanna) in central Brazil from 2002 to 2007. The breeding period extended from mid-August to mid-December. Nests were cup-shaped and located mainly in trees of the genus Kielmeyera at a mean height of 3.7 ± 0.3 m (SE). Clutch sizes varied from one to three eggs and the incubation period lasted an average of 16.0 ± 0.3 d. Incubation was by females only and started with the laying of the first egg. Mean nest attentiveness (percent time on nests by females) was 64 ± 0.08%. Nestlings were fed by males, females, and, when present, helpers. The mean rate of food delivery rate to nests was 5.2 ± 0.4 items/h, with rates similar for males (mean = 2.7 ± 0.3 items/h) and females (mean = 2.4 ± 0.3 items/h). The mean duration of the nestling period was 12.1 ± 0.5 d. Compared to many temperate species of tanagers, White-rumped Tanagers in our study had relatively small clutches, low nest attentiveness, and long incubation periods. As with other tropical species, such characteristics might be due to food limitation or high rates of nest predation. RESUMEN Cypsnagra hirundinacea está ampliamente distribuida desde el norte de Brasil, Bolivia y Paraguay, y está clasificada como vulnerable en el estado de Paraná y en peligro en el estado de São Paulo, Brasil. Actualmente poco es conocido sobre su biología reproductiva. Estudiamos el comportamiento reproductivo de C. hirundinacea en el cerrado (Sabana Neotropical) en la región central de Brasil desde el 2002 hasta el 2007. El periodo reproductivo se extiende desde mediados de agosto hasta mediados de diciembre. Los nidos en forma de copa estaban localizados principalmente en arboles del genero Kielmeyera a una altura promedio de 3.7 ± 0.3 (ES) m. El tamaño de la nidada vario entre uno y tres huevos y el periodo de incubación duro en promedio 16 ± 0.3 días. La incubación fue realizada exclusivamente por la hembra y comenzó después de la puesta del primer huevo. El promedio de atención al nido (porcentaje del tiempo en el nido por parte de la hembra) fue de 64 ± 0.08%. Los polluelos fueron alimentados por el macho, la hembra y, cuando estaban presentes, ayudantes. El promedio de la tasa de alimentación al nido fue de 5.2 ± 0.4 viajes/hr, con tasas similares entre el macho (promedio = 2.7 ± 0.3 viajes/hr) y la hembra (promedio = 2.4 ± 0.3 viajes/hr). El promedio de duración del periodo de polluelos fue de 12.1 ± 0.5 días. Comparado con muchas especies de tangaras de la zona temperada, C. hirundinacea tiene una nidada relativamente pequeña, baja atención al nido y un periodo largo de incubación. Pero las diferencias con otras especies tropicales en estas variables se pueden deber a variación en la disponibilidad de alimento o altas tasa de depredación. [source] Obesity in adults with Down syndrome: a case,control studyJOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH, Issue 2 2005C. A. Melville Abstract Background Obesity has a negative impact upon mortality and morbidity. Studies report that obesity is more prevalent in individuals with Down syndrome than individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) not associated with Down syndrome. However, there have been no studies using a methodology of matched comparison groups and findings from previous studies are contradictory. Methods A detailed method was used to identify all adults with ID in Leicestershire. Individuals were invited to participate in a medical examination , that included measurement of their height and weight, from which body mass index (BMI) was calculated. For each person with Down syndrome, an individual matched for gender, age and accommodation type was identified, from the Leicestershire ID database. Results The data for 247 matched pairs is reported. Women with Down syndrome had lower mean height and weight, but greater mean BMI than the matched pairs. Men with Down syndrome had a lower mean height and weight but there was no statistical difference in BMI compared to the matched pairs. Using World Health Organization categories of BMI, women with Down syndrome were more likely to be overweight or obese than their matched pairs (odds ratio = 2.17). Men with Down syndrome were more likely to be in the overweight category than their matched pairs but were less likely to be obese (odds ratio = 0.85). Conclusions This study demonstrates that, compared to a matched sample, there is a greater prevalence of obesity amongst women with Down syndrome but not men. As the impact on the health of people with Down syndrome of being overweight or obese is uncertain, this is an area that requires further study. [source] Histomorphometric characteristics and expression of epidermal growth factor and its receptor by epithelial cells of normal gingiva and hereditary gingival fibromatosisJOURNAL OF PERIODONTAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2003C. S. A. Araujo Objective:, The objective of this study was to examine the histomorphometric features and evaluate the expression of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and transmembranic receptor (EGFr) and the proliferative potential of epithelial cells from normal and hereditary gingival fibromatosis (HGF) gingival tissues. Background:, EGF is a multifunctional cytokine with a variety of biological effects including stimulation of cell proliferation by binding to its specific EGFr. Methods:, Immunohistochemistry was performed to measure EGF and EGFr expression and the epithelial cell proliferation was determined by measuring proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Results:, Histomorphometric evaluation indicated that in HGF the mean height of the epithelial papillae was higher compared to the normal gingiva (NG), whereas mean epithelial area and number of epithelial papillae were quite similar in both groups. The EGF and EGFr positive cells were observed in the basal, spinous and granular cell layers of both normal and HGF tissues, with a gradual reduction from the basal layer. Although the expressions of EGF and EGFr in the control group were significantly higher than those from HGF, in HGF the epithelial papilla tips showed increased number of proliferating cells and elevated expression of EGF and EGFr. There was a correlation between the proliferative potential of epithelial cells and the expression of EGF or EGFr only in the epithelial papilla tips of HGF gingiva. Conclusion:, Our data suggest that EGF and EGFr in the oral epithelium of HGF gingiva may stimulate epithelial cell proliferation, with the resultant apical migration of the oral epithelium and formation of the slender deep epithelial papillae; however, without hyperplastic alterations. [source] Kinematic structure in the Galactic halo at the North Galactic Pole: RR Lyrae and blue horizontal branch stars show different kinematicsMONTHLY NOTICES OF THE ROYAL ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY, Issue 4 2007T. D. Kinman ABSTRACT Radial velocities and proper motions (derived from the GSC-II data base) are given for 38 RR Lyrae (RRL) stars and 79 blue horizontal branch (BHB) stars in a ,200 deg2 area around the North Galactic Pole (NGP). Both heliocentric (UVW) and galactocentric (VR, V,, Vz) space motions are derived for these stars using a homogeneous distance scale consistent with (m,M)0= 18.52 for the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC). An analysis of the 26 RRL and 52 BHB stars whose height (Z) above the plane is less than 8 kpc shows that this halo sample is not homogeneous. Our BHB sample (like that of Sirko et al.) has a zero galactic rotation (V,) and roughly isotropic velocity dispersions. The RRL sample shows a definite retrograde rotation (V,=,95 ± 29 km s,1) and non-isotropic velocity dispersions. The combined BHB and RRL sample has a retrograde galactic rotation (V) that is similar to that found by Majewski for his sample of subdwarfs in Selected Area (SA) 57. The velocity dispersion of the RRL stars that have a positive W motion is significantly smaller than the dispersion of those ,streaming down' with a negative W. Also, the ratio of RRL to BHB stars is smaller for the sample that has positive W. Our halo sample occupies 10.4 kpc3 at a mean height of 5 kpc above the Galactic plane. In this volume, one component (rich in RRL stars) shows retrograde rotation and the streaming motion that we associate with the accretion process. The other component (traced by the BHB stars) shows essentially no rotation and less evidence of streaming. These two components have horizontal branch (HB) morphologies that suggest that they may be the field star equivalents of the young and old halo globular clusters, respectively. Clearly, it is quite desirable to use more than one tracer in any kinematic analysis of the halo. [source] Pterygopalatine Fossa Infiltration Through the Greater Palatine Foramen: Where to Bend the NeedleTHE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 7 2006FRACP, FRACS, Richard Douglas MD Abstract Objective: In the literature, there has been controversy regarding the length of the greater palatine canal. If the pterygopalatine fossa is infiltrated in an attempt to reduce bleeding during sinus surgery, this information is important to be able to place local anesthetic with maximal effect and the least likelihood of complications. Study Design: The authors conducted a prospective cadaver-based study using high-definition computed tomography (CT) scans. Methods: Twenty-two cadaver heads were CT scanned and the greater palatine canal length, pterygopalatine fossa height, and thickness of the soft tissue in the roof of the mouth were measured on parasagittal images using the CT scanner workstation. Results: The mean length of the greater palatine canal was 18.5 mm (95% confidence interval [CI] = 17.9,19.1) and the mean height of the pterygopalatine fossa was 21.6 mm (95% CI = 20.7,22.5). The mean thickness of the soft tissue in the roof of the mouth overlying the foramen of the greater palatine canal was 6.9 mm (95% CI = 6.2,7.6). Conclusion: To perform an effective infiltration of the pterygopalatine fossa, the needle should be bent at 25 mm from the tip at an angle of 45°. [source] Willow (Salix spp.) and aspen (Populus tremula) regrowth after felling by the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber): implications for riparian woodland conservation in ScotlandAQUATIC CONSERVATION: MARINE AND FRESHWATER ECOSYSTEMS, Issue 1 2009Kevin Jones Abstract 1.A proposed trial reintroduction of the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber L.) to Scotland has recently been approved (May 2008). A previous proposal was turned down by the licensing authority, partly over the perceived risks to woodland within a Special Area of Conservation. 2.This paper presents data on two years of willow (Salix spp.) and aspen (Populus tremula L.) regrowth following tree felling by captive beavers within two large semi-natural enclosures in eastern Scotland. Both willow and aspen are highly preferred by beavers. 3.Regrowth of willow stems was quantified from cut stumps, felled logs and partially severed (,incompletely felled') trees, and compared with growth of stems in the canopies of untouched willows. 4.Maximum annual regrowth was observed in incompletely felled trees, followed by cut stumps and then unfelled control trees. Mean regrowth rates were ca 18 m regrowth per metre of measured tree section per year in incompletely felled trees. This was approximately 12 times more annual regrowth than that observed in unfelled trees, despite apparently selective browsing of the regrowth of incompletely felled trees by roe deer. 5.Although incompletely felled willows represent a relatively small component of felling activity (9% of all felled willow), they contribute disproportionately to the biomass of beaver-engineered riparian woodlands, creating a more multi-layered habitat structure. 6.Willow regrowth in inundated areas was avoided by deer, and harvesting of regrowth by beavers was rare. 7.Significant regrowth from 11 stumps of aspen in 2 years post-felling occurred by suckering, with 85 suckers of mean height 2.1 m being recorded, all of which were subsequently avoided by browsing deer and beavers. 8.These data suggest that rapid regeneration of willow and aspen will occur in riparian woodlands in the event of major felling activity by Eurasian beaver, even in the presence of low to moderate levels of roe deer browsing, and that the conservation status of both these trees or the wider habitats that they form would not be threatened by a well planned and managed reintroduction of beavers to Scotland. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Clinics of coeliac disease in children in the 2000sACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 7 2010E Savilahti Abstract Objective:, To describe the clinical picture of patients with coeliac disease (CD) and the change in its presentation over the past decades. Study design:, Patients with CD were identified and clinical data collected from hospital records over a 6-year period (2000,2005). Results:, Altogether 197 patients aged 0.6,15.9 (mean 7.2) years were identified. They were found amongst the child population served by the hospital, the mean number of children at age 0.5,16 years was 268 000 during 2000,2005. The presenting symptom amongst the youngest patients (<3 years) was chronic diarrhoea (in 67%), and amongst older patients, abdominal pain. At the time of diagnosis, growth was severely retarded (height <2 SD for age) in 6.6%; mean height was ,0.06 SD and weight + 1% for height. After diet treatment for a mean of 6 months, both height and weight increased significantly. Anaemia and iron deficiency were present in 25% and 43% of patients respectively. Intraepithelial T-cell receptor gamma/delta cells were pathologic in all 150 specimens studied. Conclusions:, The presentation of CD depends on age. Even when we found six times more patients than during years 1976,1985 in the same hospital, published data on the prevalence of CD suggest that we found only a small minority of children with CD. [source] Low cerebral blood flow velocity and head circumference in infants with severe hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy and poor outcomeACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 3 2009Pilvi Ilves Abstract Aims: To evaluate long-term changes in cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) and head circumference in asphyxiated infants. Methods: CBFV was measured in 83 asphyxiated and 115 healthy term infants in anterior and middle cerebral, basilar and internal carotid artery (ICA) up to the age of 60,149 days. The psychomotor development and head circumference was followed for 18 months. Results. Mean CBFV was increased (p < 0.05) during the first days after asphyxia in infants with severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) (n = 25) compared to control group or infants with mild to moderate HIE (n = 58) with maximum values found at the age of 36,71.9 h: in ICA (mean [95% CI]) 31.2 (25.5,36.6) cm/s in severe HIE infants compared to 13.0 (12.2,13.9) cm/s in controls. Decreased (p < 0.0001) mean CBFV developed in severe HIE infants by the age of 21,59 days: in ICA 14.1 (11.5,16.8) cm/s compared to 22.9 (21.4,24.4) cm/s in controls. Infants with severe HIE had similar mean height but lower head circumferences compared to controls (p < 0.05) at the age of 21,59 days. Conclusion: The high mean CBFV found in infants with severe HIE during the first days after asphyxia is temporary and low CBFV and head circumference develops by the age of 21,59 days. [source] Improved final height with long-term growth hormone treatment in Noonan syndromeACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 9 2005Deborah Osio Abstract Aim: To assess whether children with Noonan syndrome on long-term growth hormone (GH) therapy improve their final height to near mid-parental height. Methods: Twenty-five prepubertal children (13 girls) with Noonan syndrome (NS) were studied. A single clinician made the diagnosis based on clinical criteria. GH treatment started at an age ranging from 3.1 to 13.8 y and was continued for at least 2 y. Improvement or "gain" in final height (FH) was defined as either the difference between adult height SD scores (SDS) and pre-treatment height SDS (the childhood component of the Swedish reference) or height SDS compared to the Noonan reference. Results: Ten children received a GH dose of 33 ,g/kg/d (mean age at start 7.7±2.1 y, mean age at stop 17.6±1.7 y) and 15 received a dose of 66 ,g/kg/d (mean age at start 8.6±3.3 y, mean age at stop 18.4±2.1 y). Eighteen out of 25 patients reached FH. A substantial improvement in FH of 1.7 SDS, equivalent to 10.4 cm compared to pre-treatment height, was observed. No significant difference was seen between the two GH doses. Females gained a mean height of 9.8 cm and males 1,13 cm (FH 174.5±7.8 cm vs mean adult height of 162.5±5.4 cm for males with NS) at final height. Moreover, 60% reached a mid-parental height of±1 SD. Conclusion: GH treatment improves final height in patients with Noonan syndrome, with a mean gain of 1.7 SDS. The prepubertal height gain is maintained to final height and the children achieve a height close to their mid-parental height. [source] | |||||||||||||