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Frakturen des proximalen Radiusendes im Wachstumsalter weisen 3 Besonderheiten auf: Das Radiuskopfchen artikuliert mit 2 Gelenkpartnern und ist somit fur eine ungestorte Ellbogenfunktion unerlasslich. Die Versorgung des proximalen Radiusendes erfolgt durch periostale Gefase im Sinne einer Endstrombahn. Hieraus resultiert eine extreme Vulnerabilitat, sodass bei schweren Traumata – sei es durch Unfall oder Behandlung – Teil- oder Vollnekrosen mit Verplumpungen im Kopf-Hals-Bereich entstehen. Irreversible Komplikationen bilden die radioulnare Synostose und die chronische Epiphysenlosung, welche auch nach exzessiver Physiotherapie entstehen kann. Trotz einer niedrigpotenten Fuge zeigt das proximale Radiusende beim jungen Patienten eine enorme Spontankorrektur von Abkippungen. Seit-zu-Seit-Verschiebungen werden allerdings nicht remodelliert. Therapeutisch sollte moglichst atraumatisch vorgegangen werden. Wegen der Blutversorgungssituation sollten bei entsprechender Indikation unbedingt die Spontankorrektur und eine kurze Ruhigstellungszeit ohne Physiotherapie in ein Therapiekonzept integriert werden. Falls operiert werden muss, sind wiederholte traumatisierende Repositionsmanover zu unterlassen, im Zweifelsfall kann mit einem intramedullaren Nagel geschlossen oder schonend offen reponiert werden. Um den Besonderheiten des proximalen Radiusendes therapeutisch gerecht zu werden, mussen Vulnerabilitat und Korrekturpotenz gegeneinander abgewogen werden. Die Therapie muss so atraumatisch wie moglich sein. Das Spontankorrekturpotenzial sollte in die Primartherapie integriert werden, ohne dieses Potenzial in Bezug auf Ausmas und Alter der Patienten zu uberfordern.

Cassava chips were stored for 8 months in PICS bags, with half of the bags having a natural initial insect infestation, and the other half having this initial natural infestation augmented with 50 Prostephanus truncatus adults. Chips stored in traditional woven polypropylene bags served as controls. Oxygen levels varied during storage from 19.98 to 17.56%, 20.4 to 18.40%, and 20.24 to 19.92%, respectively, in PICS bags with augmented infestation (PICS-A), PICS bags under natural infestation levels (PICS-N) and polypropylene bags (WPP). Carbon dioxide levels varied from 0.73 to 3.90%, 0.65–3.56%, and 0.20–0.61%, respectively, in the three types of bags. P. truncatus populations were significantly higher in PICS-A reaching 98.66 ± 7.21 individuals/kg at the end of storage, compared to 92.66 ± 4.71 in PICS-N and 100.55 ± 3.56 in WPP. Dinoderus spp. density was significantly higher in WPP with 270.55 ± 20.59 individuals/kg after 8 months. The number of holes on chips and weight losses also increased with storage duration in all three treatments, but were significantly higher in WPP. Holes created by insects were noticed in PICS bags and were more important in the inner HDPE (high-density polyethylene) layer than in the outer HDPE layer. Up to 1913.00 ± 114.13 holes were observed on the inner HDPE layer of PICS bags and 1039.00 ± 29.40 in the outer HDPE layer. Hermetic storage bags prolong the storability of chips by approximately 1 month. PICS efficacy was probably affected by the large size of traditional cassava chips with large airspaces between individual chips, leading to a large oxygen store for insects which could not be used up through biotic activity, so that bags were not hermetic. In conclusion, PICS bags cannot be recommended for the storage of large sized traditional cassava chips.

A total of 420 samples were collected from agrarian households. Whereas 51% (215/420) of the samples were contaminated with one or more toxins, the contamination rates for maize, peanut, and cassava products were 74, 62, and 24%, respectively. The fumonisins (20-5412 μg/kg), aflatoxin B1 (6-645 μg/kg), roquefortine C (1-181 μg/kg), and deoxynivalenol (27-3842 μg/kg) were the most prevalent contaminants in maize. For peanut samples, aflatoxin B1 (6-125 μg/kg) and ochratoxin A (0.3-12 μg/kg) were the main contaminants, whereas aflatoxin B1 (6-194 μg/kg) and penicillic acid (25-184 μg/kg) were detected in the cassava products. Exposures calculated through maize intake for fumonisin B1 and aflatoxin B1 were several-fold higher (2-5 for fumonisin B1 and 10(4)-10(5) for aflatoxin B1) than the health-based guidance values of 2 μg/kg bw/day and 0.15 ng/kg bw/day, respectively. The study design constitutes a good model that can be implemented in other sub-Saharan African countries.

The purpose of this research is to screen different processes that could potentially decrease or even eliminate rotenone, a toxic isoflavonoid, from Pachyrhizus seeds. Yam bean seeds have very interesting nutritional characteristics, especially their high protein and lipid contents, and could potentially increase food security in under-nourished populations. However, they contain rotenone, a natural molecule previously used as an insecticide inhibiting the respiratory mitochondrial chain. It was also proven to be toxic to mammals as chronic exposure leads to the development of Parkinson-like symptoms in rats. As the thermosensitivity of rotenone had been reported, this study tested different processes (drying, roasting, boiling, frying, alcohol extraction), tegument removal, and traditional Beninese culinary recipes. Rotenone was then quantified in end-products by a validated method, associating microwave extraction, solid phase extraction (SPE), and HPLC-UV. With these processes a rotenone removal of up to 80% was obtained. The most effective methods were the drying and roasting of the seeds and the maceration of their flour in local alcohol. Rotenone degradation and elimination were confirmed by cytotoxic assays, effectively inducing a decrease in sample toxicity.

Study Design. Retrospective analysis of 1328 spinal radiographs of 57 patients after vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib (VEPTR) implantation with an average follow-up of 30 months. Objective. To evaluate the incidence, time of onset, as well as the underlying factors influencing the occurrence of ossifications in children treated with VEPTR. Summary of Background Data. Spontaneous spinal fusions and ossifications are well known in children treated with spinal implants. In theory, children with spinal deformity and VEPTR implantation are less likely to develop these complications because of either little or no implant contact to the spine. Methods. Fifty-seven patients had a primary VEPTR implantation due to spinal deformity and thoracic insufficiency syndrome and repeated lengthening procedures. The mean age at the time of primary surgery was 7.7 years, the mean duration of follow-up was 29.8 months, and the mean number of operations was 5.9. A total of 1328 spinal radiographs were analyzed with respect to the occurrence and growth of ossifications, implant migration, and other complications. Results. Overall, 24% of the patients (n = 13) had ossifications, which affected in 92% the main load sharing VEPTR implant. The fusions involved in 54% of cases the lumbar spine and in each 23% the ribs and the iliac crest. Ossifications developed in 11% of children within the first year of treatment and increased by about the same rate per annum. After 53 months, 48% of the radiographs showed some ossifications. There was a significant correlation to the stiffness of the deformity and the number of surgical procedures. Conclusion. Contrary to previous assumptions, it was shown that in children treated with the VEPTR system, 48% of children showed ossifications after 53 months. Ossifications were observed significantly more often in children with stiff deformities and after multiple surgical procedures. It is a much more common problem than previously thought. Conclusion. Level of Evidence: 3

Fungal contaminants in major food staples in Kenya have negatively impacted food security. The study sought to investigate peanut market characteristics and their association with levels of aflatoxin in peanuts from Western, Nyanza and Nairobi Provinces of Kenya. Data were collected from 1263 vendors in various market outlets using a structured questionnaire, and peanuts and peanut products from each vendor were sampled and analyzed for aflatoxin levels. Thirty seven per cent of the samples exceeded the 10 μg/kg regulatory limit for aflatoxin levels set by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). Raw podded peanuts had the lowest (χ2 = 167.78; P 10 μg/kg of aflatoxin. Over 70% of all storage structures were poorly ventilated and dusty. Sorting comprised 53% of the various crop protection measures used by traders post-harvest. To reduce aflatoxin exposure to consumers, set standards need to be complemented by strict monitoring systems and education of producers, processors and consumers in crop commodities other than maize, which has received the most attention in Kenya. Alternative uses of contaminated produce need to be explored.

Study design Case Series. Objective To describe the post-VEPTR (vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib) treatment changes in early-onset spinal deformity (EOSD), which may influence the final correction spondylodesis. Summary of background data The VEPTR device, originally developed for the treatment of congenital rib cage malformation, is nowadays more widely used in the treatment of EOSD. At present, only a few reports describe the possible complications that may occur with repeated lengthening procedures of the VEPTR, thereby making the final spondylodesis more complicated and less satisfactory. Methods X-rays of 5 children treated for EOSD with 2 unilateral VEPTR (each rib to rib and rib to lumbar lamina) were analyzed for curve patterns and Cobb angles before, during, and at the end of VEPTR treatment, and after the final spondylodesis. Intraoperative observations during the spondylodesis, which influenced the possibilities of the curve correction, were documented. Results All patients showed a marked decompensation of the frontal balance and a high degree of rigidity of the main curve and the compensatory curves after treatment with the VEPTR device. Because of this spontaneous autofusion of spinal segments, migration of the rib cradles and/or the laminar hook, and a change in the curve patterns, the final fusion had to be longer in all patients than the primary deformity would have intended. Conclusions If an EOSD is treated with VEPTR, the curve progression and, in particular, the development of a high thoracic hyperkyphosis or rotation of the main curve should be critically observed. Autofusion of ribs and vertebral bodies may make the final correction spondylodesis even more challenging and risky for the patient and the end result less satisfactory.

Maize was artificially infested with either 10 or 25 individual Prostephanus truncatus (Horn) and Sitophilus zeamais (Motschulsky) or a mixture of both, and stored in a hermetic grain bag (HGB) or a woven polypropylene bag (WPB) for 150 days. Population growth of P. truncatus and S. zeamais during storage was low in HGB, while in WPB, the insect population increased significantly with storage duration. Mortality rate during storage was significantly higher in HGB than in WPB. After 60 days of storage, the average mortality rate of 99.50% was observed in HGB infested with 25 P. truncatus, and 100% for S. zeamais at the same infestation density after 90 days of storage. Grain losses were significantly lower in HGB compared with WPB. Less than 0.5 and 6.0% losses were obtained, respectively, for S. zeamais and P. truncatus in HGB infested with 25 individual insects after 150 days of storage, whereas losses of 19.2% (infestation with S. zeamais) and 27.1% (infestation with P. truncatus) were observed in WPB. HGB seems to be resistant to the perforation of S. zeamais, but not to P. truncatus. The moisture content of maize grains stored in HGB remained practically the same during storage, compared with the levels in WPB, which reduced with storage time. WPB could be used for maize storage, protecting it against insect infestation without the need for insecticide use.

Mycotoxins contamination in some agricultural food commodities seriously impact human and animal health and reduce the commercial value of crops. Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by fungi that contaminate agricultural commodities pre- or postharvest. Africa is one of the continents where environmental, agricultural and storage conditions of food commodities are conducive of Aspergillus fungi infection and aflatoxin biosynthesis. This paper reviews the commodity-wise aetiology and contamination process of aflatoxins and evaluates the potential risk of exposure from common African foods. Possible ways of reducing risk for fungal infection and aflatoxin development that are relevant to the African context. The presented database would be useful as benchmark information for development and prioritization of future research. There is need for more investigations on food quality and safety by making available advanced advanced equipments and analytical methods as well as surveillance and awareness creation in the region.

In West Africa, the most damaging lepidopteran pest of maize ears is the pyralid Mussidia nigrivenella . Although it is mostly described as a field pest, it can be found feeding on maize stored for up to 4 months. A survey was conducted in Benin in 2006 to assess M. nigrivenella infestations in different maize storage systems in the Southern (SGS) and Northern Guinea Savanna (NGS). In SGS and NGS the percentage of infested stores decreased from 86.7% to 26.7% and from 51.4% to 14.3%, respectively, during the first 28 weeks of storage. During the same time, mean numbers of M. nigrivenella per cob decreased from 0.36 to 0.04 across both zones. All larval stages, but mostly 3rd–5th instars, were frequently found even after more than 12 weeks, indicating that M. nigrivenella may have reproduced in storage, although reinfestation or delayed development could also explain this observation. The highest M. nigrivenella incidences of 16.8% and 14.4% were found in the “Ava” and crib stores, respectively. Infestations were highest in “Ava” and lowest in maize grain stored in polyethylene bags or in mud silos. In a laboratory experiment, the presence of post-harvest beetles negatively affected the bionomics of M. nigrivenella , indicating strong interspecific competition.

Fungal infection and aflatoxin contamination was evaluated on 180 samples of dried vegetables such as okra, hot chilli, tomato, melon seeds, onion and baobab leaves from Benin, Togo and Mali collected in September to October 2006. These products are dried to preserve them for lean periods and decrease their perishability. Fungal contamination was evaluated after plating on selective media with a total of 561 fungal isolates identified, ranging from 18 in tomato and 218 in baobab leaves. Baobab leaves, followed by hot chilli and okra showed high incidence of fungal contamination compared to the other dried vegetables, while shelled melon seeds, onion leaves and dried tomato had lower levels of fungal contamination. Species of Aspergillus were dominant on all marketed dried vegetables irrespective of country. Mycotoxin assessment by Reversed-Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography showed that only okra and hot chilli were naturally contaminated with aflatoxin B(1) and aflatoxin B(2), at concentrations of 6.0 microg/kg on okra and 3.2 microg/kg on hot pepper. This is the first time that mycotoxigenic fungi and resultant toxins were found on dried vegetable products sampled from African markets. Previous reports have mostly highlighted the risk of mycotoxin exposure from staple crops in Africa, but such risks now need to be evaluated for other products such as dried vegetables.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often associated with increased cardiovascular risk. There is increasing evidence suggesting that dysfunction of the vascular endothelium with reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO) may be the pathogenetic link between ED and cardiovascular disease. The crucial importance of the NO-guanylatecyclase-cGMP-phosphodiesterase pathway for penile erection is mirrored by the efficacy of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors in the treatment of ED. In contrast to other currently available PDE5 inhibitors with a half-life time of about 4 h Tadalafil has a half-life time of about 17.5 h resulting in erectile responsiveness for up to 36 h after 1 single dose. Most clinical experience has been reported with on-demand use of PDE-5 inhibitors, but meanwhile several studies were able to demonstrate that Tadalafil given daily in low (2.5 and 5 mg) doses is both highly effective and well-tolerated. In three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multi-center trials, various validated measures of erectile function indicated that once daily Tadalafil at doses of 2.5, 5, and 10 mg was significantly superior to placebo.In another mono-center trial, once daily Tadalafil has shown significant efficacy even after failure of on-demand treatment. In a controlled cross-over study of on-demand versus daily Tadalafil treatment, 72% of the patients preferred once daily administration, mainly because of superior and longer efficacy allowing a more spontaneous sexual life. Interestingly in a pilot study of on-demand versus chronic administration of Tadalafil for 4 weeks, only regular dosing improved several markers of endothelial function.

Food safety and compliance with international standards is a major challenging to achieve food security in sub-Saharan Africa. The present study evaluated the occurrence of Aspergillus flavus, Fusa...

Bei Kindern und Jugendlichen mit spastischer Hemiparese sind Torsionsdifferenzen an der unteren Extremitat bekannt, wahrend Torsionsverhaltnisse der oberen Extremitat weitgehend unerforscht sind. Die Torsionsanderungen der unteren Extremitat beeinflussen das Gangbild und Veranderungen der Drehverhaltnisse der oberen Extremitat (etwa nach Frakturen) fuhren zu Bewegungseinschrankungen der Arme bzw. zum geanderten Bewegungsradius der Arme. In der vorliegenden Studie wurde an Kindern und Jugendlichen mit spastischer Hemiparese untersucht, ob eine Torsionsdifferenz zwischen dem Humerus der gesunden und der erkrankten oberen Extremitat besteht, von welchen Faktoren eine mogliche Differenz abhangig ist und inwieweit diese sich auf die Beweglichkeit des Armes auswirken. Anamnestisch, klinisch, photographisch und mittels einer neuartigen sonographischen Methode wurden 33 Kinder und Jugendliche mit spastischer Hemiparese [Mittel 9,7 (3–16) Jahre] sonographisch untersucht. Eine Einteilung nach dem Grad der Spastik erfolgte in 3 Gruppen. Die Humerustorsionsmessungen wurden mit den Ergebnissen eines Normalkollektivs verglichen (n=149). Bei etwa der Halfte (n=16; 48,5%) der Kinder und Jugendlichen war die sonographisch gemessene Humerustorsion der erkrankten Seite mehr nach innen, bei 17 (51,5%) der Kinder war die Humerustorsion im Vergleich zur gesunden Seite mehr nach ausen gerichtet. Die Veranderung der Humerustorsion der erkrankten Seite im Vergleich zum gesunden Arm war mit p

BACKGROUND: Maize constitutes the main staple food and most important crop grown in Zambia. However, maize incurs considerable losses both in field and storage due to pathogens and insects. Some of the pathogens and resultant mycotoxins reduce the nutritional quality of the product. Mycotoxins are toxigenic fungal compounds that can cause cancer and suppress growth. In spite of this health hazard, there has been very little research to document their occurrence. Maize grains stored for human consumption were sampled from different agro-ecosystems (forest, valley and plateau areas) of three agroecological zones (high, mid and low altitude). RESULTS: Several fungal genera were recovered among which Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Fusarium verticillioides, F. solani, Rhizopus stolonifer and Penicillium spp. were prevalent. The weevil Sitophilus zeamais and the larger grain borer Prostephanus truncatus were the most damaging. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests yielded fumonisins and aflatoxins ranging between 0.02 and 21.44 ppm, and 0.7 and 108.39 ppb in 96.4% and 21.4% of samples, respectively. Fumonisin was more pronounced in villages in forest areas whereas aflatoxin was highest in valley and forest areas in Zone II. CONCLUSION: Strategic interventions to curtail fungal, mycotoxin and insect contamination should be directed towards improved agronomic and post-harvest practices of maize from fields to consumers. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry

AIM Inter- and intraobserver reliability and learning curve using Graf's ultrasonographic hip examination were assessed. MATERIAL AND METHODS 189 participants of the basic, advanced and final courses on hip ultrasound using the Graf method (DEGUM) were asked to answer a questionnaire and to measure 34 normal and pathological sonographic hip examinations. Measurement differences and the learning curve during the different courses were evaluated. RESULTS There was a significant (p = 0.001) improvement of the average angle between the basic (6.74 degrees [+/- 1.46 degrees ]) and the advanced course (6.22 degrees [+/- 1.17 degrees ]). However, there were no better results in the final course and no additional improvement. Participants had higher variations when measuring the beta-angle than the alpha-angle. A significant improvement was seen if the participants performed a large number of hip ultrasounds between the courses. Higher measurement differences were seen in pathological hip ultrasounds and in ultrasonographic examinations of poorer quality. CONCLUSIONS During the educational courses on hip ultrasound using the Graf method, a high intra- and interobserver variability was seen. These findings were most prominent in measurement of the beta-angle, in pathological hip ultrasounds and in ultrasonographic hip examinations of poorer quality. The best results were achieved by participants who had performed a large number of examinations between courses. For the improvement of ultrasonographic measurements, a large number of self-performed examinations and a training in potential mistakes seem to be of great importance.

The presence of fungi, aflatoxins and fumonisin B1 in cassava and yam chips (during 28 processing and storage) were evaluated during two consecutive seasons in two agroecological zones of Benin (Northern Guinea Savannah, NGS and Sudan Savannah, SS). The Benin samples were assessed for moisture content, fungal infestation and total aflatoxin and fumonisin B1 contamination. During the two seasons, samples collected from the NGS, had moisture contents ranging from 10.0 to 14.7% in cassava chips and from 11.4 to 15.3% in yam chips. In samples from the SS, moisture content ranged from 10.1 to 14.5% and 11.1 to 14.5% in cassava and yam chips, respectively. A. flavus was the predominant fungal species. The maximum cfu/g in cassava and yam chips was 8950 and 6030, respectively. Other fungal species isolated included P. chrysogenum, M. piriformis, Phoma sorghina, F. verticillioides, R. oryzae and Nigrospora oryzae. High performance liquid chromatography analysis of both cassava and yam chips showed no contamination by either aflatoxins or fumonisin B1.

In trials conducted in Benin, conidia of Beauveria bassiana were evaluated as a control method against the cowpea weevil, Callosobruchus maculatus, in stored cowpea. In the first trial using a high artificial infestation of C. maculatus in 8-kg batches of cowpea in jerry cans under typical conditions, concentrations of 1 x 10 9 and 1 x 10 11 conidia kg -1 were compared with lemon grass oil at 2 mL kg -1 and the synthetic pesticide mixture of 1.5% pirimiphos methyl + 0.05% deltamethrin at 0.5 g kg -1 . After 2 months of storage, seed losses (SD) were 20.63 (5.3)% in the untreated control, 8.04 (3.2)% in the low-dose B. bassiana group, 3.12 (1.3)% in the high-dose B. bassiana group, 2.52 (0.4)% in the lemon grass oil group and 0% in the pirimiphos methyl + deltamethrin group. In a second trial with natural infestations in 50-kg batches of cowpea in 200-L drums, treatment with B. bassiana 1 x 10 11 conidia kg -1 was compared with pirimiphos methyl + deltamethrin at 0.5 g kg -1 . After 6 months of storage on six farms, losses reached 30.76 (1.5)% in the control, 1.28 (0.2)% in the pirimiphos methyl + deltamethrin group and 3.69 (0.6)% in the B. bassiana group.

Consecutive outbreaks of acute aflatoxicosis in Kenya in 2004 and 2005 caused > 150 deaths. In response, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization convened a workgroup of international experts and health officials in Geneva, Switzerland, in July 2005. After discussions concerning what is known about aflatoxins, the workgroup identified gaps in current knowledge about acute and chronic human health effects of aflatoxins, surveillance and food monitoring, analytic methods, and the efficacy of intervention strategies. The workgroup also identified public health strategies that could be integrated with current agricultural approaches to resolve gaps in current knowledge and ultimately reduce morbidity and mortality associated with the consumption of aflatoxin-contaminated food in the developing world. Four issues that warrant immediate attention were identified: a) quantify the human health impacts and the burden of disease due to aflatoxin exposure; b) compile an inventory, evaluate the efficacy, and disseminate results of ongoing intervention strategies; c) develop and augment the disease surveillance, food monitoring, laboratory, and public health response capacity of affected regions; and d) develop a response protocol that can be used in the event of an outbreak of acute aflatoxicosis. This report expands on the workgroup’s discussions concerning aflatoxin in developing countries and summarizes the findings.

Mechanical shelling and dehulling methods were tested to evaluate their impact on Fusarium infection and fumonisin contamination in maize. All shelling methods which were tested were found to damage the grains. The IITA sheller caused the highest level (up to 3.5%) of damage. Fusarium populations were higher on damaged grains, the highest being recorded from grains damaged by the IITA sheller (2,533.3 cfu g(-1)). Fumonisin levels were higher in damaged grains, the highest being in maize shelled with the IITA sheller (2.2 mg kg(-1)). Fumonisin levels were positively and significantly correlated with the percentage of damage caused by the shelling methods, and with the number of Fusarium colonies in maize. Mechanical dehulling methods significantly reduced fumonisin levels in maize, resulting in a mean reduction of 62% for Mini-PRL, 65% for Engelberg, and 57% for the attrition disc mill. It is important for farmers to choose appropriate shelling methods to reduce mycotoxin contamination. Dehulling should be widely promoted for the reduction of mycotoxins in maize.

A trial was set up in northern Benin to evaluate the potential of Teretrius nigrescens to reduce the infestation and damage to cassava chips caused by storage insects. Cassava chips were stored for 5 months in mud silos and 50 adults of T. nigrescens were added when the stores were first filled. Stores where no predator was released were monitored as controls. The main storage insects observed were Prostephanus truncatus and Dinoderus spp. Initial chip weight varied between 102 and 246 g with no difference between treatments. Chip weight and number of holes on chips initially differed between treatments after 2 months of storage. After 3 months of storage, losses reached 40–50% without T. nigrescens and 30–40% when cassava chips were stored with T. nigrescens. A farmer can increase his profit by 1437 Fcfa/100 kg (1$=560 Fcfa, 1£=968 Fcfa; 1€=656 Fcfa, as on 2 December 2005) through the use of T. nigrescens because losses are reduced by 11%. Data analysis showed that there were significant differences ( P 0.0 0 0 1 ) between the two treatments for the number of holes, number of insects, weight of each chip as well as damage. There were twice as many P. truncatus and holes on chips in stores where T. nigrescens was not released. The addition of the predator to farmers’ stores is an economic option for controlling losses due to insects in cassava chips.

Background Children with congenital thoracic scoliosis associated with fused ribs and unilateral unsegmented bars adjacent to convex hemivertebrae will inevitably develop thoracic insufficiency syndrome and curve progression with hemithorax compression without treatment. It is assumed that the concave side of such curves and their unilateral unsegmented bars do not grow. In the past early spinal fusion was performed with consecutive short thoracic spines and loss of lung volume. Little attention has been paid to lung function. These patients often suffered from lung failure and early death due to a small thorax. Method A new surgical technique is based on an indirect deformity correction and enlargement of the thorax due to a longitudinal implant, the vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib (VEPTR). The spine is not fused, thus promoting growth of the spine, the thorax and the lungs. Elongation of the implant is done every six months. Since 2002 this method has been performed on fifteen children in Basel as the first European center. Results Patients (mean age 6 years; 11 months to 12 years) were suffering from thoracic insufficiency syndrome due to unilateral unsegmented bars with fused ribs (n = 4), absent ribs (n = 2), bilaterally fused ribs (n = 2), hemivertebrae (n = 3) or neuromuscular scoliosis (n = 6). Doing fifteen primarily implantations and thirteen elongations there were three complications (two hook dislocations, one skin breakage). All patients improved cosmetically, functionally and radiologically which was shown on X-rays as a reduction of the Cobb angle from an average of 76 degrees (40-110 degrees ) to 55 degrees (30-67 degrees ). Conclusions Expansion thoracoplasty and VEPTR implantation is a new treatment concept for children with thoracic insufficiency syndrome due to spinal deformities, which is based on distraction and expansion of the thorax thus allowing growth of the spine, the thorax and probably lungs. Presently it seems to be superior to any other method for the treatment of small children with progressive scoliosis and thoracic insufficiency syndrome.

Die Epiphyseolysis capitis femoris (ECF) wird definiert als nichttraumatische Epiphysenlosung in der Schenkelhalsepiphysenfuge wahrend des pubertaren Wachstumsschubes. Abhangig von der Anamnesedauer wird die akute von der chronischen und der akut auf chronischen Form unterschieden. Die Atiologie der Erkrankung ist bis heute nicht endgultig geklart, wobei von einem multifaktoriellen Geschehen ausgegangen wird. Die typische, in der Pubertat auftretende Form, wird von der atypischen ECF unterschieden. Letztere ist haufig mit endokrinologischen Erkrankungen oder Therapien assoziiert. Pradisponierende Faktoren fur die typische ECF in der Pubertat sind das mannliche Geschlecht, Hochwuchs und v. a. Ubergewicht. Wahrscheinlich findet haufig vor dem Abrutsch ein Wachstumsschub statt. Die Adipositas der Patienten ist mit einer verminderten femoralen Antetorsion assoziiert, welche zusatzlich durch Scherkrafte eine ungunstige mechanische Auswirkung auf die Epiphysenfuge hat. Die Therapie der ECF ist operativ und richtet sich nach der Erkrankungsform. Die akute ECF ist wegen der moglichen Gefahrdung der Huftkopfdurchblutung ein Notfall. Als Komplikationen sind nach ECF v. a. die Huftkopfnekrose und Chondrolyse gefurchtet.

The natural occurrence of Fusarium and fumonisin contamination was evaluated from 1999 to 2003 in both preharvest and stored maize produced by small-scale farmers in four agroecological zones of Benin. Mycological analyses revealed a predominance of both Fusarium and Aspergillus in maize samples compared to other genera. The two Fusarium species most commonly isolated from maize were Fusarium verticillioides (68%) and Fusarium proliferatum (31%). Atypical isolates of F. verticillioides with some characteristics of Fusarium andiyazi but apparently closer to F. verticillioides, because the isolates were all high fumonisin producers, were also found only on preharvest maize. Study of F. verticillioides strains showed the presence of extremely high fumonisin producers in Benin with total fumonisin levels ranging from 8240 to 16,690 mg/kg. Apart from 2002-2003, Fusarium occurrence was not significantly different from one zone to another, although a slight decrease was observed from south, humid, to north, drier. Fusarium occurrence varied somewhat from one season to another. It significantly decreased over the 6 months of storage. Widespread fumonisin occurrence in maize was observed. Most of the maize samples collected were found positive for fumonisin with levels ranging from not detected to 12 mg/kg in 1999-2000, 6.7 mg/kg in 2000-2001 and 6.1 mg/kg in 2002-2003. Fumonisin levels in maize were found to be significantly higher in the two southern zones during all the surveys. The highest mean total fumonisin level was detected in 1999-2000 in maize samples from the southern Guinea Savannah (SGS) (12 mg/kg), whereas in both 2000-2001 and 2002-2003, it was in samples from the forest mosaic savannah (FMS) (6.7 and 6.1 mg/kg, respectively). Fumonisin levels varied from one season to another and, throughout the storage time, showing a decreasing trend in each zone. However, this decrease was not significant every season. An increasing trend was observed during some seasons in the SGS and northern Guinea Savannah (NGS) zones. The results of this study emphasise that farmers and consumers, not only in Benin but also in other West African countries, should be alerted to the danger of fumonisin contamination in maize.

Twelve indigenous and exotic isolates of Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae were evaluated for their virulence and their ability to suppress populations of Callosobruchus maculatus in stored cowpea. LT 50 values ranged from 3.11 to 6.12 days following immersion in aqueous suspensions containing 1×10 8 conidia ml −1 . Indigenous isolates that had been recovered from C. maculatus were more virulent in laboratory bioassays than exotic isolates from other insects. The two isolates with the shortest LT 50 values were compared in dose–response assays by immersion and by exposure to cowpea grains treated with dry conidia. In both assays B. bassiana 0362 was consistently more virulent than M. anisopliae 0351. By immersion, LC 50 values on day 6 post-treatment were 9.10×10 4 and 7.10×10 5 conidia ml −1 for B. bassiana 0362 and M. anisopliae 0351, respectively. Exposure to treated grains gave LC 50 values of 1.15×10 7 and 4.44×10 7 conidia g −1 grain for B. bassiana 0362 and M. anisopliae 0351, respectively. In 1 kg batches of cowpea stocked with 50 adult C. maculatus , B. bassiana 0362 at both 1×10 7 and 1×10 8 conidia g −1 grain led to significant adult mortality and reduced F 1 emergence relative to untreated populations. At 1×10 8 conidia g −1 the effect of the fungus persisted into the F 1 generation. The net reproductive rates, R 0 , measured 26 days after insects were released were 5.16 and 7.32 for the high and low doses compared to 9.52 for the untreated control.

Essential oils extracted by hydrodistillation from local plants in Benin, western Africa, and oil from seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica) were evaluated in vitro and in vivo for their efficacy against Fusarium verticillioides infection and fumonisin contamination. Fumonisin in corn was quantified using a fluorometer and the Vicam method. Oils from Cymbopogon citratus, Ocimum basilicum, and Ocimum gratissimum were the most effective in vitro, completely inhibiting the growth of F. verticillioides at lower concentrations over 21 days of incubation. These oils reduced the incidence of F. verticillioides in corn and totally inhibited fungal growth at concentrations of 8, 6.4, and 4.8 microL/g, respectively, over 21 days. At the concentration of 4.8 microL/g, these oils did not affect significantly fumonisin production. However, a marked reduction of fumonisin level was observed in corn stored in closed conditions. The oils adversely affected kernel germination at 4.8 microL/g and therefore cannot be recommended for controlling F. verticillioides on stored corn used as seeds, when used at this concentration. The oil of neem seeds showed no inhibitory effect but rather accelerated the growth of F. verticillioides.

Kinder mit kongenitaler thorakaler Skoliose, assoziiert mit Rippenfusionen, einseitigen unsegmentierten Spangen und kontralateraler Halbwirbelbildung, haben ohne Therapie eine massive Kurvenprogression. Aufgrund der Annahme, dass die unsegmentierten Spangen nicht wachsen, wurde in der Vergangenheit fruh operativ fusioniert, was eine verkurzte Wirbelsaulenlange und ein vermindertes Lungenwachstum zur Folge hatte. Durch ein neues Operationsverfahren mit einem an den Rippen verankerten Langsimplantat, dem „vertical expandable prosthetic titanium rib“ (VEPTR), erfolgt eine Aufrichtung der Deformitat und eine Vergroserung des Thorax.

A survey of the sanitary quality, particularly concerning aflatoxin contamination and practices of the dried yam chips food sub-sector was carried out in Benin. Producers and intermediaries of the yam chips food production sub-sector were interviewed and samples collected. Aflatoxin content was assessed by a biochemo-luminescence method on a total of 107 samples. Twenty-three per cent of the samples had aflatoxin contents over the 15 μg kg−1 CODEX standard value for total aflatoxin. Moisture content of whole tuber chips was around 20% when producers stopped drying after 3–6 days. Drying was thus not accomplished, but most producers were unaware of this problem. After storage for 7 months, mean moisture content was around 14%, but 41% of the samples stored in rooms had a moisture content over 15%, levels that are still favourable for mould growth. Most producers, wholesalers and retailers complained about storage problems and particularly about insect proliferation, but less than 15% mentioned mould growth as a problem. Mouldy chips are generally washed and dried again. Very rarely are mouldy chips discarded and lack of moulds is not a quality attribute for dried yam chips. Therefore, there is a risk of chronic exposure to aflatoxin for Beninese yam chips consumers.

BACKGROUND: Children with congenital thoracic scoliosis associated with fused ribs with a unilateral unsegmented bar adjacent to convex hemivertebrae will invariably have curve progression without treatment. Surgery has been thought to have a negligible growth-inhibition effect on the thoracic spine in such patients because it has been assumed that the concave side of the curve and the unilateral unsegmented bar do not grow, but we are unaware of any conclusive studies regarding this assumption. METHODS: The changes in the length of the concave and convex sides, anterior and posterior vertebral edges, posterior arch, and unilateral unsegmented bars of the thoracic spine were measured in the twenty-one children with congenital scoliosis and fused ribs after expansion thoracoplasty had been carried out with use of a vertical, expandable titanium prosthetic rib. Three of these children hadundergone posterior spinal fusion previously. Measurements were made with use of a three-dimensional software program that analyzed baseline and follow-up computed tomography scans. The technique was validated through measurement of the thorax of a small female adult cadaver. RESULTS: The patients without spine fusion had an average age of 3.3 years at the time of the baseline computed tomography scan, and the average duration of follow-up was 4.2 years. On the average, these patients showed significant growth (p < 0.0001) of the concave side of the thoracic spine (an increase in length of 7.9 mm/yr, or 7.1%/yr) and the convex side (8.3 mm/yr, or 6.4%/yr) compared with the baseline lengths. There was no significant difference in the increases in length (p = 0.38) between the concave and convex sides. Eleven patients with an unsegmented bar had an average 7.3% increase in the length of the bar (p < 0.0001). In the three children with prior spinal fusion, the increase in length averaged only 4.6 mm/yr (3%/yr) on the concave side of the thoracic spine and 3.7 mm/yr (2.2%/yr) on the convex side; both increases were significant (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Longitudinal growth of the thoracic spine in a normal child has been estimated to be 0.6 cm/yr between the ages of five and nine years. After expansion thoracoplasty, growth of the thoracic spine was approximately 8 mm/yr in our series of children with congenital scoliosis and fused ribs. After expansion thoracoplasty, both the concave and the convex side of the thoracic spine and unilateral unsegmented bars appeared to grow in these patients. When a thorax is already foreshortened by congenital scoliosis, control of spine deformity with expansion thoracoplasty allows growth of the thoracic spine, and it is likely that the longer thorax provides additional volume for growth of the underlying lungs with probable clinical benefit.

This study relates preharvest and harvest practises to postharvest quality of maize in Benin, West Africa. Fungal infection and aflatoxin levels were evaluated in 300 farmers' stores in four agro-ecological zones over 2 years (1993-1995), at the beginning of storage (sample A) and 6 months later (sample B). Aspergillus flavus infected 10-20% of the kernels in sample A (1993-1994). In sample B, 54-79% of the kernels were infected with A. flavus. In 1994-1995, A. flavus infection was higher in sample A (27-47%) than B (8-26%). Fusarium species were found in 38-58% of the kernels in sample A in both years, but decreased slightly to 29-51% in sample B. Significant agroecozonal effects existed within sampling, but were not consistent between samplings and years. Of the total number of samples collected (744), 38.8% were found to be aflatoxin-positive, with an average of 105 parts per billion (ppb) and 60% of the aflatoxin-positive samples having a contamination approximately 20 ppb, the intervention level recommended by the World Health Organization. Factors associated with increased aflatoxin were: planting local maize varieties in southern Benin, intercropping with cowpea, groundnut, or cassava, use of urea-fertilizer, damage to maize in the field, prolonged harvesting, long drying periods in the field, and winnowing. Practices that reduced aflatoxin contamination were: planting improved varieties in northern Benin, mixed cropping with vegetables, use of NPK-fertilizer, drying of harvested cobs for 60-90 days, drying ears without the husk, sorting out of poor quality ears.

Smac/Diablo and HtrA2/Omi promote apoptosis by binding to and antagonizing IAP proteins, including the 'X chromosome-linked inhibitor of apoptosis' (XIAP). Here we show that caspase-mediated proteolysis of a limited subset of cell death substrates exposes functional Smac/Diablo-like N-termini after cleavage, which are able to bind to and antagonize XIAP. We propose that this mechanism may establish a feedforward sensitization of the apoptotic pathway and contribute to the functional redundancy of IAP antagonism. In addition, this may be particularly relevant in Alzheimer's disease since the caspase-generated C31 peptide, an established cytotoxin, acquires Smac/Diablo-like properties after apoptotic processing.

Titanium (Ti) surfaces with rough microtopographies enhance osteogenic differentiation, local factor production, and response to osteogenic agents in vitro and increase pullout strength of dental implants in vivo. Estrogens regulate bone formation, resorption, and remodeling in females and may be important in implant success. Here, we tested the hypothesis that estrogen modulates osteoblast response to implant surface morphology. Primary female human osteoblasts were cultured to confluence on three Ti surfaces (pretreatment, PT - R(a) 0.60 microm; sandblasted and acid-etched, SLA - R(a) 3.97 microm; and Ti plasma-sprayed, TPS - R(a) 5.21 microm) and treated for 24 h with 10(-7) or 10(-8) M 17beta-estradiol (E(2)). Cell number decreased with increasing surface roughness, but was not sensitive to E(2). Alkaline phosphatase specific activity of isolated cells and cell layer lysates was lower on rough surfaces. E(2) increased both parameters on smooth surfaces, whereas on rough surfaces, the stimulatory effect of E(2) on alkaline phosphatase was evident only when measuring cell layer lysates. Osteocalcin levels were higher in the conditioned media of cells grown on rough surfaces; E(2) had no effect in cultures on the plastic surfaces, but increased osteocalcin production on all Ti surfaces. TGF-beta1 and PGE(2) production was increased on rough surfaces, and E(2) augmented this effect in a synergistic manner; on smooth surfaces, there was no change in production with E(2). The response of osteoblasts to surface topography was modulated by E(2). On smooth surfaces, E(2) affected only alkaline phosphatase, but on rough surfaces, E(2) increased levels of osteocalcin, TGF-beta1, and PGE(2). These results show that normal adult human female osteoblasts are sensitive to surface microtopography and that E(2) can alter this response.

Thermal treatment of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol on a magnesium silicate-based model fly ash in the temperature range between 250 degrees C and 400 degrees C leads predominantly to carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. The fraction of 2,4,6-trichlorophenol which is oxidized to CO and CO2 increases from 3% at 250 degrees C to 75% at 400 degrees C. Further products are polychlorinated benzenes, dibenzo-p-dioxins, dibenzofurans and phenols. The homologue and isomer patterns of the chlorobenzenes suggest chlorination in the ipso-position of the trichlorophenol. The formation of PCDD from 2,4,6-trichlorophenol and 2,3,4,6-tetrachlorophenol on municipal solid waste incinerator fly ashes and model fly ash were compared and the reaction order calculated.

In Africa the larger grain borer, Prostephanus truncatus (Horn) (Coleoptera : Bostrichidae) (Fig. 1) is a serious pest of stored commodities mainly of stored maize, dried cassava roots and to a lesser extent yam chips. This bostrichid pest of meso-American origin was accidentally introduced into Africa some 30 years ago and started to spread over the continent from two geographically disparate points. The first recognized outbreaks of P. truncatus were reported in the late 1970s from East Africa, in the Tabora, Shinyanga and Mwanza regions of western Tanzania. Subsequently P. truncatus was found to be established in Togo, West Africa, in 1984 (Farrell & Schulten 2002). From there the pest gradually spread in the neighboring countries of Benin, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria, reaching Guinea Conakry in 1988 and Guinea Bissau in 1998 (Aman et al. 2007).

Epstein-Barr virus is associated with several human malignancies including Burkitt’s lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and Hodgkin’s disease (HD). To examine the effect of Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA-1) in the pathogenesis of HD, we transfected the gene into the HD cell line L428. EBNA-1 expression was associated with significantly enhanced CD25 expression (interleukin 2 [IL-2]-receptor α chain) in transient and stably transfected L428 cells but did not affect the expression of IL-2 receptor β and γ chains. There was no up-regulation of the B-cell activation molecules CD23, CD30, CD39, CD40, CD44, CD71, and CD54 (intercellular adhesion molecule 1) or enhanced production of IL-6, IL-10, lymphotoxin alpha, and the soluble form of CD25. Stable EBNA-1-expressing L428 cells were nontumorigenic in SCID mice but showed enhanced lymphoma development in nonobese diabetic-SCID mice compared to mock-transfected cells.

A storage experiment was conducted in Bante, central Benin between autumn 1994 and spring 1995. The maize was harvested 1, 3, and 7 weeks after physiological maturity and stored for up to eight months. The main results were: (a) Leaving the maize in the field for extended periods after physiological maturity resulted in severe grain losses after eight months of storage; (b) Most of the grain losses were attributed to Prostephanus truncatus; (c) Early harvested maize had a higher proportion of mouldy grain; (d) Harvest date had no consistent effect on the level of aflatoxin contamination; (e) Based on a participatory evaluation of maize quality by local farmers, the economic value of maize stored for eight months was highest in maize harvested three weeks after physiological maturity.

Maize infection by Aspergillus flavus Link and subsequent aflatoxin contamination as affected by insect damage to maize ears before harvest was studied with surveys in farmers' fields and in a field trial in the Republic of Benin, West Africa. The most important pest species was the lepidopteran earborer Mussidia nigrivenella Ragonot. Percentage of grain infected by A. flavus and of samples contaminated with aflatoxin, as well as the mean aflatoxin content of samples, increased with increasing borer damage. Ears with 10% damage) had an average aflatoxin of 514.6 and 388.2 ppb in 1994 and 1995, respectively. In 1994 only, coleopteran species such as Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky and Carpophilus sp. significantly increased levels of aflatoxin in grain samples. In a field trial using M. nigrivenella infestation and A. Flavus inoculation treatments, the presence of the insect feeding resulted in increased kernel infection and aflatoxin contamination. Artificial infestation with M. nigrivenella larvae increased aflatoxin content of maize by an average of 45 ppb, whereas inoculation with A. flavus spores increased the toxin level by 517 ppb. The significant interaction between infestation and inoculation indicated that higher levels of aflatoxin B1 were found when the fungus was associated with borers than with the fungus alone. M. nigrivenlla was the major field pest connected with A. flavus infection and subsequent aflatoxin production in preharvest maize in Benin.

After insects, mites are the major arthropod pests that inhabit stored agricultural products worldwide. To determine the acarofauna that infests cowpea, maize, paddy rice and sorghum in Benin (West Africa), surveys were conducted in some principal markets (Dantokpa, Glazoue and Parakou) of this country. A total of 555 samples of grains and debris were collected in May and September 2011. More than 56 species belonging to 24 mite families were recorded in the four products. These mite species included predators, parasites, fungivorous, phytophagous and other groups whose feeding habits are not well known. The family Cheyletidae was the most prevalent and the most diverse predatory mite family encountered, in which Cheyletus malaccensis Oudemans was the most abundant species. Several families of mite pests and mites responsible for allergies (Acaridae, Glycyphagidae, Pyroglyphidae, Pyemotidae and Saproglyphidae) were also detected. The three most dominant and frequent species were C. malaccensis, Suidasia nesbitti (Hughes) and Suidasia sp. Statistical analysis showed that densities of these three mite species were higher in Parakou than in Glazoue and Dantokpa, on one hand, and higher in debris than in grains, on the other hand. The densities of S. nesbitti and Suidasia sp. decreased significantly during the dry season, whereas C. malaccensis remained stable throughout the two samplings. Of all grains, sorghum was the least infested with mites. This study shows that in Benin mites are present in stored agricultural products to which they cause serious damage, and may cause various allergies to people.

Ellipse MAGEC rod implantation in combination with a bilateral VEPTR fixation from rib to pelvis is a sufficient method in treating flexible scoliosis in children with SMA without instrumentation of the spine.

WOS: 000386205400008, PubMed ID: 27768708, In a previous study, raw cashew kernels were assayed for the fungal contamination focusing on strains belonging to the genus Aspergillus and on aflatoxins producers. These samples showed high contamination with Aspergillus section Nigri species and absence of aflatoxins. To investigate the diversity of secondary metabolites, including mycotoxins, the species of A. section Nigri may produce and thus threaten to contaminate the raw cashew kernels, 150 strains were isolated from cashew samples and assayed for their production of secondary metabolites using liquid chromatography high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). Seven species of black Aspergilli were isolated based on morphological and chemical identification: A. tubingensis (44%), A. niger (32%), A. brasiliensis (10%), A. carbonarius (8.7%), A. luchuensis (2.7%), A. aculeatus (2%) and A. aculeatinus (0.7%). From these, 45 metabolites and their isomers were identified. Aurasperone and pyranonigrin A, produced by all species excluding A. aculeatus and A. aculeatinus, were most prevalent and were encountered in 146 (97.3%) and 145 (95.7%) isolates, respectively. Three mycotoxins groups were detected: fumonisins (B-2 and B-4) (2.7%) ochratoxin A (13.3%), and secalonic acids (2%), indicating that these mycotoxins could occur in raw cashew nuts. Thirty strains of black Aspergilli were randomly sampled for verification of species identity based on sequences of beta-tubulin and calmodulin genes. Among them, 27 isolates were positive to the primers used and 11 were identified as A. niger, 7 as A. tubingensis, 6 as A. carbonarius, 2 as A. luchuensis and 1 as A. welwitschiae confirming the species names as based on morphology and chemical features. These strains clustered in 5 clades in A. section Nigri. Chemical profile clustering also showed also 5 groups confirming the species specific metabolites production., EEC project MycoRed [KBBE-2007-222690-2], The first author (YL) gratefully thanks Wageningen University, the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture in Benin, and the EEC project MycoRed (KBBE-2007-222690-2). The DTU Metabolomics Platform, Department of Systems Biology, Technical University of Denmark is acknowledged for access to UHPLC-QTOF instrument.

Der Morbus Hodgkin ist auch heute, mehr als 160 Jahre nach seiner Erstbeschreibung durch Thomas Hodgkin, insbesondere hinsichtlich Biologie und Pathogenese, Gegenstand vieler kontroverser Diskussionen. Im Vordergrund zahlreicher Untersuchungen stand die Frage nach der Natur der Hodgkin-Zellen sowie ihrer Klonalitat. Diese Fragestellungen liesen sich bislang mit den zur Verfugung stehenden Techniken, wie Immunhistochemie, Southern blotting und Polymerasekettenreaktion (PCR) nicht schlussig beantworten. Erst der Einsatz von Einzelzell-PCR-Verfahren erlaubt es, die Natur der Hodgkin-Zelle aufzuklaren. Mit Hilfe eines Mikromanipulators konnen einzelne Hodgkin-Zellen aus Gewebsschnitten entfernt und fur B-Zellen spezifische Genumlagerungen (VDJ) amplifiziert werden. Durch diese Technik last sich die B-Zellherkunft von Hodgkin-Zellen und deren Klonalitat nachweisen. Mutierte Immunglobulingene in Hodgkin-Zellen des lymphozytenreichen Typs sind Hinweis auf deren Keimzentrumszellgenese. Die bislang gewonnenen Daten schliesen jedoch nicht aus, das auch Morbus Hodgkin-Falle existieren, deren Tumorzellen von T-Lymphozyten abstammen.

The effects of soil inoculation with A. flavus, variety and cropping system on the level of aflatoxin in stored maize were investigated under crop storage conditions in Benin. The experiment was organized in a factorial scheme (two varieties x two cropping system x with or without A. flavus soil inoculation) with eight treatments carried out in a completely randomized block design with three replications. A. flavus incidence in the plots soil was assessed both before and after soil inoculation. The harvested maize was stored for four months and cobs were sampled in a monthly interval and analyzed for the determination of Fusarium spp. colonization, Penicillium spp. and A. flavus cfu levels, insect pests population size and aflatoxin content. Multi-factorial analysis of variance and linear regression analyses with dummy variables were used to compare treatments. The concentrations of aflatoxin B1 and B2 in the kernels tended to increase with time during storage. Variety and fungal inoculation were the main factors influencing the levels of aflatoxins in stored maize. The improved variety showed a higher number of A. flavus cfu and aflatoxin B1 and B2 levels as compared to the local variety. Intercropping with Vigna unguiculata decreased the aflatoxin concentration in the improved variety but not in the local variety. The local variety had higher levels of Penicillium spp. and lower levels of Fusarium spp. than the improved variety. The treatments had no effect on the populations of the most common storage insect pests, but their levels were positively correlated with aflatoxin content. Both the initial inoculum level and the variety effect on the water content of the kernels after harvest played a significant role in A. flavus infection.

Lectins from Erythrina cristagalli (EGA) and Erythrina corallodendron (ECorA) are well-known to detect type 2 chain oligosaccharides (Gal beta 1-4GlcNAc). These carbohydrate moieties are the biosynthetic precursors of various ABH and Lewis blood group antigens and are therefore also related to tumor-associated carbohydrate antigens. For this reason, we investigated the expression of ECA and ECorA binding sites in a series of gastric, colorectal and pancreatic carcinomas as well as corresponding normal tissues. Additionally, a series of hyperplastic and adenomatous colorectal polyps was analyzed. According to our results, both lectins exhibited a strong reactivity with the great majority of gastrointestinal carcinomas. Regarding gastric carcinomas, a stronger reactivity with intestinal-type compared to the diffuse-type species could be observed. Some poorly differentiated tumors were not or only very faintly stained. In the case of colorectal carcinomas, liver metastases which were investigated comparatively, exhibited the same binding pattern as the primary tumors. Colorectal adenomas were stained in about half of the cases without significant relation to the grade of cellular atypia. Positivity observed in normal epithelia (i.e, gastric superficial epithelia, fundus neck cells and deep pyloric mucous glands, pancreatic acini and ductal structures) is in keeping with histogenetic relations between these normal histological structures and corresponding neoplasms. In areas exhibiting intestinal metaplasia, various portions showed cytoplasmic staining of columnar cells and/or of goblet cell vacuoles. On the other hand, columnar and goblet cells in normal colorectal tissue were only weakly stained in a number of specimens. Therefore, it can be concluded that Gal beta 1-4GlcNAc is overexpressed in neoplastic colorectal tissues. Summarized, ECA and ECorA are suitable tools to analyze the expression of Gal beta 1-4GlcNAc, the common precursor substance of various tumor-associated type 2 chain antigens in neoplastic tissues.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often associated with increased cardiovascular risk. There is increasing evidence suggesting that dysfunction of the vascular endothelium with reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO) may be the pathogenetic link between ED and cardiovascular disease. The crucial importance of the NO-guanylatecyclase-cGMP-phosphodiesterase pathway for penile erection is mirrored by the efficacy of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) inhibitors in the treatment of ED. In contrast to other currently available PDE5 inhibitors with a half-life time of about 4 h Tadalafil has a half-life time of about 17.5 h resulting in erectile responsiveness for up to 36 h after 1 single dose. Most clinical experience has been reported with on-demand use of PDE-5 inhibitors, but meanwhile several studies were able to demonstrate that Tadalafil given daily in low (2.5 and 5 mg) doses is both highly effective and well-tolerated. In three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multi-center trials, various validated measures of erectile function indicated that once daily Tadalafil at doses of 2.5, 5, and 10 mg was significantly superior to placebo.In another mono-center trial, once daily Tadalafil has shown significant efficacy even after failure of on-demand treatment. In a controlled cross-over study of on-demand versus daily Tadalafil treatment, 72% of the patients preferred once daily administration, mainly because of superior and longer efficacy allowing a more spontaneous sexual life. Interestingly in a pilot study of on-demand versus chronic administration of Tadalafil for 4 weeks, only regular dosing improved several markers of endothelial function.

Torsional deformity in the lower extremities is well known in children and adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy, however, little or nothing is known about possible differences in torsional behavior of the upper extremities. Alterations of torsion in the lower extremities influence the gait, alterations in the rotation behavior of the upper extremities, for example after fractures, lead to limited movement of the arms or to an altered movement radius. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a difference in humeral torsion between affected and non-affected arms in children and adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy and which factors play a decisive role.A total of 33 children and adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (mean age 9.7 years, range 3-16 years) answered a questionnaire and were examined clinically, photographically and with a new ultrasound method. Severity of cerebral palsy was classified into three levels. Ultrasound measurements of humeral torsion were compared with the results from a normal collective (n=149).In approximately half (n=16, 48.5%) of the 33 children investigated, humeral torsion was directed more internally, in 17 (51.5%) children humeral torsion was directed more externally compared to the healthy side. The difference in humeral torsion between the affected and non-affected sides was significant (p0.05) in both groups. Differences in humeral torsion between the affected and non-affected sides in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy were significantly increased (p0.00001) compared to differences in humeral torsion between left and right arms in healthy children. A correlation with the level of severity of hemiplegic cerebral palsy was observed but there was no correlation with age. Children and adolescents with external torsional deformity had a smaller range of rotation, a larger muscle force deficit of the affected upper extremity and did less sport using the affected arm than children and adolescents with internal torsional deformity.Humeral torsion deformity in children and adolescents with hemiplegic cerebral palsy was proven to exist in addition to the already well known difference in torsion of the lower extremities. Analogous to increased activity of external or internal rotator muscles codetermined by the palsy, increased external or internal humeral torsion occurs. External torsion deformity was associated with a smaller range of motion and seemed to have a greater importance for routine daily activities (e.g. muscle force, sports ability) than internal torsion deformity.

Natural insect infestation in cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz subspecies esculenta) and yam (Dioscorea spp.) chips was evaluated during two consecutive storage seasons (2003-2004 and 2004-2005) in two agroecological zones of Benin (Northern Guinea Savanna [NGS] and Sudan Savanna [SS]). The insects infesting chips were collected, identified, and counted, they included Prostephanus truncatus (Horn) (Coleoptera: Bostrychidae), Cathartus quadricollis (Guerin) (Coleoptera: Silvanidae), Carpophilus dimidiatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae), Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), and Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). P. truncatus and C. quadricollis were observed with a higher prevalence on cassava than on yam chips. During both seasons after 3 mo of storage, all (100%) cassava chip samples were infested with P. truncatus and C. quadricollis in both agroecological zones, whereas yam chips only showed lower infestation rates of 59.5 and 19.1% for P. truncatus and C. quadricollis, respectively, at the end of storage in 2003-2004. During the 2004-2005 season after 3 mo of storage infestation rate in yam chips was 66 and 24% in NGS and 100 and 0% in SS for P. truncatus and C. quadricollis, respectively, showing that insect infestation levels vary significantly with commodity, year, and fluctuate during the storage season.

Inter- and intraobserver reliability and learning curve using Graf's ultrasonographic hip examination were assessed.189 participants of the basic, advanced and final courses on hip ultrasound using the Graf method (DEGUM) were asked to answer a questionnaire and to measure 34 normal and pathological sonographic hip examinations. Measurement differences and the learning curve during the different courses were evaluated.There was a significant (p = 0.001) improvement of the average angle between the basic (6.74 degrees [+/- 1.46 degrees ]) and the advanced course (6.22 degrees [+/- 1.17 degrees ]). However, there were no better results in the final course and no additional improvement. Participants had higher variations when measuring the beta-angle than the alpha-angle. A significant improvement was seen if the participants performed a large number of hip ultrasounds between the courses. Higher measurement differences were seen in pathological hip ultrasounds and in ultrasonographic examinations of poorer quality.During the educational courses on hip ultrasound using the Graf method, a high intra- and interobserver variability was seen. These findings were most prominent in measurement of the beta-angle, in pathological hip ultrasounds and in ultrasonographic hip examinations of poorer quality. The best results were achieved by participants who had performed a large number of examinations between courses. For the improvement of ultrasonographic measurements, a large number of self-performed examinations and a training in potential mistakes seem to be of great importance.