bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic effects of a fermented soy product on peanut hypersensitivity is associated with modulation of T‐helper type 1 and T‐helper type 2 responses
Authors: Zhang T. , Pan W. , Takebe M. , Schofield B. , Sampson H. , Li X.‐M.
Published: August 2008

Background
ImmuBalance™ is a koji fungus (Aspergillus oryzae) and lactic acid fermented soybean product. This unique production process is believed to create a food supplement that helps to induce or maintain normal immune response.

Objective
To assess possible therapeutic effects of ImmuBalance™ on peanut (PN) hypersensitivity using a murine model of peanut allergy (PNA).

Methods
PN allergic C3H/HeJ mice were fed standard mouse chow containing 0.5% or 1.0% ImmuBalance (ImmuBalance 2X), radiation‐inactivated 1.0% ImmuBalance (I‐ImmuBalance 2X), or regular diet chow (sham) for 4 weeks, beginning 10 weeks after the initial PN sensitization, and then challenged with PN. Anaphylactic symptom scores, plasma histamine, serum PN specific‐IgE levels and splenocyte cytokine profiles were determined.

Results
While 100% of sham‐treated PNA mice developed anaphylactic reactions with a median score of 3.3 following PN challenge, only 50% of ImmuBalance, 30% of ImmuBalance 2X and 40% of I‐ImmuBalance 2X‐treated mice developed allergic reactions with median scores of 1.0, 0.4 and 0.5 respectively, which were significantly less than that in the sham‐treated mice (P<0.05). Plasma histamine and PN specific‐IgE levels were also significantly less in all treated mice than in sham‐treated mice (P<0.05). Furthermore, IL‐4, IL‐5 and IL‐13 production by PN‐stimulated splenocytes in vitro from ImmuBalance fed mice were markedly reduced compared with sham‐treated mice, whereas IFN‐γ production was moderately increased. TGF‐β and TNF‐α production were similar.

Conclusions
ImmuBalance protects against PN‐induced anaphylaxis when administered as a food supplement in this model. Protection was associated with down‐regulation of Th2 responses. This supplement may provide a potential novel therapy for PNA.
Detection of enterovirus RNA in postoperative thyroid tissue specimens
Authors: Desailloud Rachel , Goffard Anne , Page Cyril , Kairis Benoit , Fronval Stéphanie , Chatelain Denis , Strunski Vladimir , Dubreuil Alain , Hober Didier
Published: August 2008

Context  Autoimmune thyroiditis is a very common disease. A genetic predisposition and environmental factors such as viruses are thought to contribute to the development of autoimmune thyroiditis. Enteroviruses, which are involved in other autoimmune diseases, are attractive candidates.

Objective  To investigate the presence of enteroviral genome sequences in postoperative thyroid tissues with lymphocytic infiltration, a common histological feature of thyroiditis.

Subjects and methods  Postoperative thyroid specimens collected prospectively from 86 patients were blindly frozen at –80 °C. The presence of EV genome sequences in the samples was blindly investigated by real‐time RT‐PCR. Clinical data, histological findings and levels of anti‐TPO antibodies were collected.

Results  EV‐RNA detection was positive (up to 36 cycles) or weakly positive (37–39 cycles) in 22 out of 86 patients (25%). EV‐RNA (positive or weakly positive signal) was detected in 5 out of 27 (18·5%) thyroid specimens with lymphocytic infiltration, and in 17 out of 59 (29%) thyroid specimens without lymphocytic infiltration (P = 0·4). No correlation was observed between EV‐RNA detection in thyroid and the presence of anti‐TPOAb. EV‐RNA was detected in 3 out of 11 patients histologically diagnosed as thyroiditis (27·3%) and in 18 out of 74 patients (24·3%) with thyroid tumours (multinodular goitre, adenoma and carcinoma) (P = 0·5) and in one patient with a normal thyroid.

Conclusion  EV‐RNA can be detected in thyroid tissue from patients with various thyroid diseases, but there is no relationship between the presence of EV‐RNA and thyroiditis. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of EV in thyroid diseases.
Cancer incidence among persons with fragile X syndrome in Finland: a population‐based study
Authors: Sund R. , Pukkala E. , Patja K.
Published: August 2008

Background  Fragile X syndrome is a common inheritable cause of intellectual disability (ID) and is characterised by a large number of CGG repeats at the gene FMR1 located on the X‐chromosome. It has been reported that this genetic mechanism may protect against malignant transformations.

Methods  We extracted from the Finnish registry on persons with ID a cohort of 302 persons with a fragile X diagnosis during 1982–1986. Follow‐up for cancer incidence was performed in the Finnish Cancer Registry until the end of the year 2005.

Results  There were 11 reported cancers during the mean follow‐up of 21.4 years per person. The expected number of cancers based on the average Finnish population was 13.8 and no statistically significant protective effect was detected [standardised incidence ratios (SIR) 0.80, confidence interval (CI) 95% 0.40–1.4]. An increased risk for lip cancer was found (SIR 23, CI 95% 2.8–85).

Conclusions  Confirmation of hypotheses about the mechanisms linking FXS and cancer needs further research.
Senescence progression in a single darkened cotyledon depends on the light status of the other cotyledon in Cucurbita pepo (zucchini) seedlings: potential involvement of cytokinins and cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenase activity
Authors: Ananieva Kalina , Ananiev Evguéni D. , Doncheva Snejana , Georgieva Katya , Tzvetkova Nikolina , Kamínek Miroslav , Motyka Václav , Dobrev Petre , Gajdošová Silvia , Malbeck Jiri
Published: August 2008

Darkness mediates different senescence‐related responses depending on the targeting of dark treatment (whole plants or individual leaves) and on the organs that perceive the signal (leaves or cotyledons). As no data are available on the potential role of darkness to promote senescence when applied to individual cotyledons, we have investigated how darkness affects the progression of senescence in either a single or both individually darkened cotyledons of young 10‐day‐old Cucurbita pepo (zucchini) seedlings. Strong acceleration of senescence was observed when both cotyledons were darkened as judged by the damage in their anatomical structure, deterioration of chloroplast ultrastructure in parallel with decreased photosynthetic rate and photochemical quantum efficiency of PSII. In addition, the endogenous levels of cytokinins (CKs) and IAA were strongly reduced. In a single individually darkened cotyledon, the structure and function of the photosynthetic apparatus as well as the contents of endogenous CKs and IAA were much less affected by darkness, thus suggesting inhibitory effect of the illuminated cotyledon on the senescence of the darkened one. Apparently, the effect of darkness to accelerate/delay senescence in a single darkened cotyledon depends on the light status of the other cotyledon from the pair. The close positive correlation between CK content and the activity of CK oxidase/dehydrogenase (CKX; EC 1.4.3.18/1.5.99.12) suggested that CKX was essentially involved in the mechanisms of downregulation of endogenous CK levels. Our results indicated that CKX‐regulated CK signaling could be a possible regulatory mechanism controlling senescence in individually darkened cotyledons.
Acquired Glanzmann's thrombasthenia caused by glycoprotein IIb/IIIa autoantibodies of the immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1), IgG2 or IgG4 subclass: a study in six cases
Authors: Porcelijn L. , Huiskes E. , Maatman R. , De Kreuk A. , De Haas M.
Published: August 2008

Background  Acquired Glanzmann's thrombasthenia (GT) is an uncommon bleeding disorder caused by glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa‐specific autoantibodies. Covering of the fibrinogen binding site of GPIIb/IIIa results in a moderate‐to‐severe bleeding tendency.

Materials and Methods  We performed a diagnostic evaluation and evaluated the underlying risk factors in six patients with a bleeding tendency caused by acquired GT.

Results  One patient, with GPIIb/IIIa autoantibodies of the immunoglobulin G2 (IgG2) subclass, used diclophenac and recovered after discontinuation of this drug. A second patient was primarily diagnosed with multiple angiodysplastic lesions. In this patient, the acquired GT was caused by GPIIb/IIIa autoantibodies of the IgG4 subclass that was treated with DDAVP and platelet transfusions. A third patient with Hodgkin's lymphoma and anti‐GPIIb/IIIa of the IgG2 subclass was treated for haemorrhagic diathesis with corticosteroids and azathioprin. A fourth patient, with IgG2 anti‐GPIIb/IIIa autoantibodies, diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma, responded well to treatment of an axillary mass with local radiotherapy. The fifth and sixth patients, with IgG1 anti‐GPIIb/IIIa autoantibodies, appeared to have GT after splenectomy because of autoimmune thrombocytopenia. They were treated with corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin and Rituximab.

Conclusion  Although it might be a rare event, one should be aware of acquired GT as a cause of an unexpected primary disorder of haemostasis in patients with lymphoma or autoimmune disease. The lack of platelet destruction in these cases of acquired GT can be explained, either by the subclass of the autoantibodies (i.e. IgG2 or IgG4) or by the arrested platelet destruction by IgG1 (or IgG3) autoantibodies after splenectomy.
Role of anti‐Naka antibody, monocytes and platelets in the development of transfusion‐related acute lung injury
Authors: Nakajima F. , Nishimura M. , Hashimoto S. , Okazaki H. , Tadokoro K.
Published: August 2008

Background and Objectives  Transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI) is one of the most serious side‐effects of transfusion. We report here the first two cases of TRALI caused by anti‐Naka (anti‐CD36) antibody from a single blood donor. The aim of this study was to clarify the role of the anti‐Naka antibody in TRALI development.

Materials and Methods  Human lung microvascular endothelial cells were co‐cultured with Naka‐positive monocytes and Naka‐positive platelets together with serum prepared from blood products of a TRALI‐caused anti‐Naka antibody‐carrying donor. Expressions of leukotriene B4 (LTB4) and tumour necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) in the co‐culture supernatants were determined.

Results  The expressions of LTB4 and TNF‐α were found to be markedly increased, particularly in the presence of both Naka‐positive monocytes and platelets. The expressions of these mediators were almost completed within 4 h after the initiation of co‐culture. Monocyte contribution seemed to be stronger than that of platelets. In the absence of human lung microvascular endothelial, no significant LTB4 or TNF‐α release was observed.

Conclusion  Anti‐Naka antibody may be strongly implicated in lung microvascular endothelial dysfunctions that lead to TRALI in a monocyte‐ and platelet‐dependent manner.
Resistance in pepper plants induced by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici involves different defence‐related genes
Authors: Silvar C. , Merino F. , Díaz J.
Published: August 2008

Inoculation with Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (FOL) protects pepper plants from subsequent infection with Phytophthora capsici. In the present paper, the level of local and systemic protection achieved by plants induced with FOL was evaluated by quantifying the pathogen biomass and using real‐time PCR. Differences in the amount of pathogen were found in stems and roots between FOL‐treated and untreated plants, while pathogen biomass could not be detected in leaves of induced plants. Five defence‐related genes coding for a PR‐1 protein, a β‐1,3‐glucanase, a chitinase, a peroxidase and a sesquiterpene cyclase were up‐regulated 48 h after treatment in all the tissues studied, and maximal mRNAs levels were found in leaves.
An RNA Probe for the Detection of Grapevine virus A
Authors: Komínek Petr , Komínková‐Bryxiová Marcela , Jandurová Olga Mercedes , Holleinová Věra
Published: August 2008

A specific dot‐blot hybridization assay was developed using an in vitro‐transcribed non‐radioactive RNA probe for the routine detection of Grapevine virus A (GVA) for use as an alternative diagnostic tool for large‐scale surveys. GVA was detected in RNA isolated from infected vine plants, plant extracts and tissue prints using this probe however no reaction was observed with healthy plants of genus Vitis.
A fatal case of cutaneous zygomycosis in a patient with severe metabolic acidosis
Authors: Kosmidis C. , Katsogianni K. , Matsoukas S. , Tsagarakis M. , Georgiou P. , Giannopoulou P. , Liapi G. , Antonopoulos A.
Published: August 2008

We present a case of cutaneous zygomycosis in a patient with an ureteroileostomy and severe metabolic acidosis, but without diabetes. The patient died despite multiple aggressive surgical interventions and antifungal therapy with liposomal amphotericin B. Ureteroileostomy‐related acidosis can be a predisposing factor for zygomycosis. Metabolic acidosis can have a role in the severity of cutaneous disease.
Complement and fungal pathogens: an update
Authors: Speth Cornelia , Rambach Günter , Würzner Reinhard , Lass‐Flörl Cornelia
Published: August 2008

Fungal infections are a serious complication in immunocompromised patients such as human immunodeficiency virus‐infected individuals, patients with organ transplantations or with haematological neoplasia. The lethality of opportunistic fungal infection is high despite a growing arsenal of antimycotic drugs, implying the urgent need for supportive immunological therapies to strengthen the current inefficient antimicrobial defences of the immunocompromised host. Therefore, increasing effort has been directed to investigating the interplay between fungi and the host immunity and thus to find starting points for additional therapeutic approaches. In this article, we review the actual state of the art concerning the role of complement in the pathogenesis of fungal infections. Important aspects include the activation of the complement system by the fungal pathogen, the efficiency of the complement‐associated antimicrobial functions and the arsenal of immune evasion strategies applied by the fungi. The twin functions of complement as an interactive player of the innate immunity and at the same time as a modulator of the adaptive immunity make this defence weapon a particularly interesting therapeutic candidate to mobilise a more effective immune response and to strengthen in one fell swoop a broad spectrum of different immune reactions. However, we also mention the ‘Yin‐Yang’ nature of the complement system in fungal infections, as growing evidence assigns to complement a contributory part in the pathogenesis of fungus‐induced allergic manifestations.
Evaluation of Candida albicans allergens reactive with specific IgE in asthma and atopic eczema patients
Authors: Khosravi A. R. , Bandghorai A. Naseri , Moazzeni M. , Shokri H. , Mansouri P. , Mahmoudi M.
Published: August 2008

Candida albicans (C. albicans) produces important allergenic components which can induce allergic reactions in sensitised patients. The purpose of this study was to extract the C. albicans antigens for evaluating the specific anti‐Candida IgE in sera of atopic eczema (AE) and asthmatic patients (AS). 95 AE, 85 AS, and 70 non‐atopic cases were selected with sequential trials. Candida albicans antigens were prepared and then skin prick test (SPT), ELISA and IgE‐immunoblotting tests were performed for all patients. Positive SPT reactions were obtained on 52.6% of AE and 54.1% of AS patients and 4.3% of healthy controls (P < 0.05). Using ELISA, specific anti‐C. albicans IgE antibody was detected in 32.6% and 41.2% of patients with AE and AS, respectively. No specific IgE antibody was detected in healthy controls (P < 0.05). In SDS‐PAGE, protein bands with molecular weights between 13 and 135 kDa were detected, and some of them reacted with specific IgE in immunoblotting. In AE patients, the most important allergenic components were 25, 34, and 57 kDa protein bands, whereas in AS, 22, 25, and 34 kDa protein bands were observed as major allergens. Candida albicans produces different allergenic components that can induce allergic reactions and may be pathogenetically important in patients with AE and AS.
A real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay for quantitative detection of the human‐specific enterococci surface protein marker in sewage and environmental waters
Authors: Ahmed W. , Stewart J. , Gardner T. , Powell D.
Published: August 2008

A real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay using SYBR Green I dye was developed to quantify the Enterococcus faecium enterococci surface protein (esp) marker in sewage (n = 16) and environmental waters (n = 16). The concentration of culturable enterococci in raw sewage samples ranged between 1.3 × 105 and 5.6 × 105 colony‐forming units (cfu) per 100 ml. The real‐time PCR detected 9.8 × 103−3.8 × 104 gene copies of the esp marker per 100 ml of sewage. However, the concentration of culturable enterococci and the esp marker in secondary effluent was two orders of magnitude lower than raw sewage. Surface water samples were collected from a non‐sewered catchment after storm events and the real‐time PCR was applied to quantify the esp marker. Of the 16 samples tested, 6 (38%) were PCR‐positive and the concentration of the esp marker ranged between 1.1 × 102 and 5.3 × 102 gene copies per 100 ml of water samples. The newly developed real‐time PCR method was successfully used to quantify the esp marker in samples collected from sewage and environmental waters. The presence of the esp marker in water samples immediately after storm events not only indicated human faecal pollution but also provided evidence of the degree of human faecal pollution. To our knowledge, this is the first study that reports the use of a real‐time PCR assay to quantify the esp marker in sewage and surface waters. Such study would provide valuable information for managers for the improved management of water quality.
Systematic evaluation of single mismatch stability predictors for fluorescence in situ hybridization
Authors: Yilmaz L. Safak , Bergsven Lindsey I. , Noguera Daniel R.
Published: August 2008

The mismatch discrimination potential of probes in fluorescence in situ hybridization can be defined as the difference between the melting formamide points of perfect complementary and mismatched duplexes (Δ[FA]m). Using a combined experimental and theoretical approach, Δ[FA]m was determined for a set of 35 mismatched probes targeting seven locations in the 16S rRNA of Escherichia coli. The mismatches were created by changing single nucleotides on the probes, while maintaining the target unmodified. Estimated Δ[FA]m values were used to systematically evaluate four predictors of mismatch stability: weighted mismatch (WM) scores from the software arb, published statistical summary of microarray hybridizations, free energy of mismatch stability (ΔΔG°1) and theoretical Δ[FA]m estimations obtained with a thermodynamic model. Based on the predictors' ability to explain variability in Δ[FA]m and to discriminate weak mismatches from strong ones, ΔΔG°1 and WM scores from arb (with an updated set of relative strength parameters) were demonstrated to be adequate estimators of mismatch stability, with ΔΔG°1 offering the benefit of capturing the variability associated with nearest‐neighbour effects and being compatible with thermodynamic models of in situ hybridization. The use of ΔΔG°1 and WM in probe design was illustrated as a tool that complements experimental design approaches.
Predominance of Gram‐positive bacteria in house dust in the low‐allergy risk Russian Karelia
Authors: Pakarinen Jaakko , Hyvärinen Anne , Salkinoja‐Salonen Mirja , Laitinen Sirpa , Nevalainen Aino , Mäkelä Mika J. , Haahtela Tari , Von Hertzen Leena
Published: August 2008

Simple living conditions and farming environment have been associated with reduced risk for allergic diseases such as atopy and asthma but the factors responsible for this effect remain unresolved. We examined the bacterial composition of house dusts obtained from Finnish and Russian Karelia, two adjacent areas with high and low occurrence of atopic diseases respectively. Two dust mixes, both composed of 10 randomly selected dust samples from 349 Finnish and 417 Russian Karelian households were studied for bacterial biomarkers (DNA, Limulus‐active endotoxin, 3‐OH fatty acids, muramic acid) and for 16S rRNA gene sequences. Overall, the DNA cloning revealed more taxons (94 different genera) of dustborne bacteria than seen in any previous study on residential environments. Majority (67%) of the bacterial DNA clones in house dust from the low‐allergy Russian Kareliarepresented Gram‐positive bacteria (Firmicutes and Actinobacteria), predominantly Staphylococcaceae and Corynebacteriaceae. Russian Karelian dust showed up to 20‐fold higher contents of muramic acid (marker of Gram‐positive bacteria) and a sevenfold higher number of clones of animal‐associated species, whereas in Finnish Karelian dust Gram‐negatives (mainly Proteobacteria) predominated. Clones of plant‐associated bacterial species and of chloroplast, indicating plant biomass, were more numerous in Finnish than in Russian Karelian dust. In conclusion, this study revealed major disparities between Finnish and Russian house dusts. The higher bacterial content and the predominance of Gram‐positive bacteria in Russian dust may have implications for occurrence of atopy.
Autonomous Motivation, Controlled Motivation, and Goal Progress
Authors: Koestner Richard , Otis Nancy , Powers Theodore A. , Pelletier Luc , Gagnon Hugo
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT
Although the self‐concordance of goals has been repeatedly shown to predict better goal progress, recent research suggests potential problems with aggregating autonomous and controlled motivations to form a summary index of self‐concordance (Judge, Bono, Erez, & Locke, 2005). The purpose of the present investigation was to further examine the relations among autonomous motivation, controlled motivation, and goal progress to determine the relative importance of autonomous motivation and controlled motivation in the pursuit of personal goals. The results of three studies and a meta‐analysis indicated that autonomous motivation was substantially related to goal progress whereas controlled motivation was not. Additionally, the relation of autonomous motivation to goal progress was shown to involve implementation planning. Together, the three studies highlight the importance for goal setters of having autonomous motivation and developing implementation plans, especially ones formulated in terms of approach strategies rather than avoidance strategies. The present research suggests that individuals pursuing goals should focus relatively greater attention on enhancing their autonomous motivation rather than reducing their controlled motivation.
A Framework for Profile Similarity: Integrating Similarity, Normativeness, and Distinctiveness
Authors: Furr R. Michael
Published: August 2008

ABSTRACT
Many questions in personality psychology lend themselves to the analysis of profile similarity. A profile approach to issues such as personality judgment, personality similarity, behavioral consistency, developmental stability, and person‐environment fit is intuitively appealing. However, it entails conceptual and statistical challenges arising from the overlap among profile similarity and normativeness, which presents potential confounds and potential opportunities. This article describes the normativeness problem, articulating the need to evaluate profile similarity alongside normativeness and distinctiveness. It presents conceptual and psychometric foundations of a framework differentiating these elements for pairs of profiles. It derives two models from this framework, and it discusses the application of their components to a variety of research domains. Finally, it presents recommendations and implications regarding the use of these components and profile similarity more generally. This approach can reveal and manage potential confounds, and it can provide theoretical insights that might otherwise be overlooked.
Parents’ description of conduct problems in their children – A test of the Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory (ECBI) in a Swedish sample aged 3–10
Authors: AXBERG ULF , JOHANSSON HANSE JAN , BROBERG ANDERS G.
Published: August 2008

The Eyberg Child Behavior Inventory (ECBI) is a widely used 36‐item uni‐dimensional parent rating scale constructed to measure disruptive behavior problems in children. However, in an American sample a 22‐item version, including three subscales, has been suggested in order to increase the usefulness of the ECBI. Two studies were conducted to test the ECBI in a Swedish sample (N = 841). The aims of Study I were (a) examine the psychometric properties of the ECBI (b) to investigate the correspondence between mothers’ and fathers’ ratings, and (c) to obtain Swedish norms. The aim of Study II was to test the suggested three‐factor solution in the Swedish sample using a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The ECBI showed good psychometric properties also in the present study, and Swedish normative data is presented. The best‐fitting CFA‐model was identical to the previously suggested three‐factor model, which thus might be a useful alternative to the 36‐item version.
An fMRI study of phonological and spatial working memory using identical stimuli
Authors: LYCKE CHRISTINE , SPECHT KARSTEN , ERSLAND LARS , HUGDAHL KENNETH
Published: August 2008

The aim of the present fMRI study was to localize brain areas that were uniquely activated for phonological versus spatial working memory. Previous studies have reported inconsistent results, most likely because of methodological heterogeneity varying both stimuli and instructions in the same study. Here, identical consonant‐vowel‐consonant non‐words were visually presented to the subjects in a 2‐back paradigm under two different instructions; the subjects either had to memorize the non‐words per se or their location. The results give evidence for a hemispheric organization of working memory, with dominance for processing of phonological information in the left hemisphere and frontal cortex, and spatial information in the right hemisphere and parietal cortex. The results also reflect a certain overlap between the neuronal network for working memory and processing of verbal and spatial material. These findings are discussed with regard to processing specificity and the extent that activated areas also may reflect perceptual processes.
A wavelet‐Fisz approach to spectrum estimation
Authors: Fryzlewicz Piotr , Nason Guy P. , Von Sachs Rainer
Published: August 2008

Abstract. We propose a new approach to wavelet threshold estimation of spectral densities of stationary time series. Our proposal addresses the problem of heteroscedasticity and non‐normality of the (tapered) periodogram. We estimate thresholds for the empirical wavelet coefficients of the periodogram as appropriate linear combinations of the periodogram values similar to empirical scaling coefficients. Our solution introduces ‘asymptotically noise‐free reconstruction thresholds’ which parallels classical wavelet theory for nonparametric regression with independently and identically distributed Gaussian errors. Our simulations show promising results that clearly improve on existing approaches. In addition, we derive theoretical results on the near‐optimal rate of convergence of the minimax mean‐square risk for a class of spectral densities, including those of low regularity.
Assessing Time‐Reversibility Under Minimal Assumptions
Authors: Psaradakis Zacharias
Published: August 2008

Abstract. This article considers a simple procedure for assessing whether a weakly dependent univariate stochastic process is time‐reversible. Our approach is based on a simple index of the deviation from zero of the median of the one‐dimensional marginal law of differenced data. An attractive feature of the method is that it requires no moment assumptions. Instead of relying on Gaussian asymptotic approximations, we consider using subsampling and resampling methods to construct confidence intervals for the time‐reversibility parameter, and show that such inference procedures are asymptotically valid under a mild mixing condition. The small‐sample properties of the proposed procedures are examined by means of Monte Carlo experiments and an application to real‐world data is also presented.
The come back kid
Authors: Cresswell Amanda , Tuffrey‐Wijne Irene
Published: August 2008

Accessible summary

I had cancer, but I got better. This story is about what happened in my life, and about having cancer.

I was born with cerebral palsy and learning disabilities. My mum died of cancer when I was 14. It was difficult because she never told me that she was ill. It would have been better to know.

I went to my GP when my cancer started, but he kept saying there was nothing wrong. In the end, I was taken to hospital because I collapsed.

The first hospital never explained anything to me. I didn’t know what was going on, and I was very scared.

My doctor in the second hospital told me I had cancer. He explained everything. My doctor and carers helped me to decide what to do. I had chemotherapy (strong cancer medicine in a drip) and radiotherapy (a cancer treatment which is a bit like having an X‐ray). It was hard but I knew I didn’t want to die.

My life is wonderful now. Having cancer made me stronger.

Doctors and nurses should know that it is really important people are told about their cancer. They should tell people in a way that they can understand.
Hospitalisation for cancer and co‐morbidities among people with learning disability in Australia
Authors: Sullivan Sheena G. , Hussain Rafat
Published: August 2008

Accessible summary

People with learning disability are just as likely as people in the general population to get cancer.

In this study we have looked at how often clients who get cancer are admitted to hospital.

We found that clients who get cancer are admitted to hospital much more often than clients who do not get cancer.

We also looked at the experiences of two clients to show what clients have to go through when they get cancer.

This research could help parents/carers and clients to know what to expect when people with learning disability need treatment and care for cancer.

In Australia, general health and medical services are subsidised by the government. This includes care for people with disabilities, screening and diagnostic services for common diseases, including cancer, and care and treatment for various medical conditions. In Western Australia, the majority of state‐provided health services are well documented in linkable databases. We have examined data from a large cohort of people receiving services for learning disability from the state and linked this with the state cancer registry and hospital records. While people with learning disability appear to be at similar risk for cancer, they may have poorer treatment outcomes as they already experience a range of health conditions which can exacerbate medical complications associated with treatment and/or other primary or secondary co‐morbid conditions. Our results show that the mean number of hospital admissions were higher for the cancer group, even when adjustments were made for conditions such as childhood leukaemia and renal dialysis both of which often require frequent hospitalisations. Multivariate regression analyses showed that younger age, female sex and severe or unspecified level of disability were significant contributors to the frequency of hospital admissions. Qualitative information gleaned from detailed chart reviews showed that in addition to considerable morbidity, some patients were admitted repeatedly either because of lack of supportive environments and/or lack of compliance with treatment. Issues in providing appropriate support services for individuals and their carers are discussed.
OCCURRENCES OF GREEN EARTH PIGMENT ON NORTHWEST COAST FIRST NATIONS PAINTED OBJECTS*
Authors: WAINWRIGHT I. N. M. , MOFFATT E. A. , SIROIS P. J.
Published: August 2008

An analytical study of First Nations painted objects from the Northwest Coast showed that green earth (celadonite) was used as a green pigment by Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian artists. Green earth appears to have been used less frequently by Heiltsuk and Kwakwaka’wakw artists and was not found on Coast Salish or Nuu‐chah‐nulth objects. Microscopical samples of green paint from 82 Northwest Coast objects, as well as several pigment sources and mineral specimens, were analysed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy or X‐ray diffraction. Green earth was the most frequently identified green pigment, found in approximately 40% of the samples.
Herding versus Hotelling: Market Entry with Costly Information
Authors: Ridley David B.
Published: August 2008

Why do businesses such as fast‐food restaurants, coffee shops, and hotels cluster? In the classic analysis of Hotelling, firms cluster to attract consumers who have travel costs. We present an alternative model where firms cluster because one firm is free riding on another firm's information about market demand. One consequence of this free riding is that an informed firm might forego a market that it knows to be profitable. Furthermore, an uninformed firm might earn higher profits when research costs are high, because it can credibly commit to ignorance.
Pricing Internal Trade to Get a Leg up on External Rivals
Authors: Arya Anil , Mittendorf Brian
Published: August 2008

The pricing of transfers from parent to subsidiary is an oft‐explored issue. Linking the cost of internal transfers with external market prices is one common approach, typically justified when the market for the good is perfectly competitive. This paper shows that imperfect competition may also justify market‐based transfer prices. Concern that transfer price will deviate from marginal cost and thereby distort subsidiary choices can lead a parent to undertake actions to influence the market price of the upstream good. Such efforts can provide a desirable strategic posture in the upstream market.
Strategic Disclosure of Intermediate Research Results
Authors: Gill David
Published: August 2008

We analyze the incentives to disclose intermediate research results during the course of a patent contest. Despite knowledge spillovers, the leading innovator sometimes discloses to signal commitment to the project, and so potentially inducing a rival's exit. Surprisingly, when development costs are low the leading innovator does not need to disclose to induce the same strategic deterrence effect as that which arises from disclosure. Taking into account wasteful duplication of R&D effort, a patent office can increase welfare by choosing the probability of granting a contested patent and so altering the proportion of rivals that the leading innovator deters.
THE EFFICACY OF REGULATORS' ESTIMATES OF LIFE INSURER PORTFOLIO RISK
Authors: Colquitt L. Lee , Cox Larry A.
Published: August 2008

Abstract: In recent years, state regulators have expended considerable effort and resources to better measure the asset portfolio risk of life insurers. Their estimates are both particularly important in determining reserve requirements and potentially useful for testing the agency costs of conflict between the fixed and residual claimants of insurers. In this study, we test the degree to which these regulator‐developed measures are related to the firm and environmental characteristics that financial economists have linked to managerial risk‐taking propensities. Our results provide insight into whether these measures effectively gauge the risk preferences of insurer managers.
FALLACY OF NONLIFE SAVINGS FROM INVESTED DIFFERENCE
Authors: Cho Dongsae
Published: August 2008

Abstract: Usually nonlife savings with term life produce better investment results compared to the cash value in whole life insurance. This paper addressed a potential problem of the former that its balance may decrease during the later years, if the rate of return is relatively low. To fully reveal this declining property to the investors, it is recommended that the investment performance of nonlife savings be disclosed over a 50–year period at 5 and 8 percent returns. Further discussions are delivered regarding similarities and differences between nonlife savings and the cash values under universal and variable life insurance.
EFFECTS OF THE EUROPEAN MONETARY UNION ON INSURANCE BUSINESS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION
Authors: Theil Michael
Published: August 2008

Abstract: The European Monetary Union is intended to bring about a number of positive consequences, such as more effectiveness and lower cost in foreign trade, economic growth and – not least – an internationally competitive currency. In the short run, two of these effects are of particular interest, namely reduction of exchange rate risk and transaction cost. The paper first describes the scope of these problems, analyzing bid‐ask spreads for EU‐currencies and selected transaction costs. The particular prospects of insurance companies in EMU‐countries depend mainly on their activities in foreign markets. We will therefore look into present foreign business in insurance and the relevance of the single currency for acquisition of production factors and capital investment decisions.
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Tortuous Coronary Arteries: Associated Complications and Strategies to Improve Success
Authors: SAEED BILAL , BANERJEE SUBHASH , BRILAKIS EMMANOUIL S.
Published: August 2008

Percutaneous intervention of tortuous coronary arteries can be challenging. We describe four cases that illustrate complications associated with coronary tortuosity (coronary dissection and stent loss) and strategies that can improve procedural success (such as use of soft delivery catheters, deep guide intubation, meticulous vessel preparation, and use of short, thin‐strut stents).
Everolimus‐ and Zotarolimus‐Eluting Stents for Bare Metal Stent In‐Stent Restenosis Treatment: A Prospective Study
Authors: TOUTOUZAS KONSTANTINOS , PATSA CHRYSOULA , TSIAMIS ELEFTHERIOS , TSIOUFIS COSTAS , SPANOS ANASTASIOS , STEFANADI ELLI , TENTOLOURIS COSTAS , STEFANADIS CHRISTODOULOS
Published: August 2008

Background: Treatment of in‐stent restenosis (ISR) is a challenging clinical problem. Recent studies have verified the safety and efficacy of first‐generation DES for the treatment of ISR. The safety and effectiveness of new‐generation drug‐eluting stents (nDES) for ISR has not been previously investigated. The aim of the present study was to prospectively evaluate the clinical outcomes after treatment with nDES implantation in patients with bare metal stent (BMS) ISR.

Methods: Consecutive patients with ISR after BMS implantation were included. Primary end‐point was a major adverse cardiac event (MACE), defined as death, myocardial infarction (MI), or target vessel revascularization (TVR). The incidence of stent thrombosis was also evaluated.

Results: A total of 46 consecutive patients were enrolled for the treatment of ISR, 23 patients from ZES and 23 from EES group. There were two (8.7%) cases of TVR in ZES cohort due to proliferative ISR at 6 and 7 months after DES implantation, and none in EES. One (4.3%) patient underwent percutaneous coronary intervention and the other (4.3%) was treated surgically. Neither acute nor subacute thrombosis was observed during the 13.3±6.3 months follow‐up period. In all other patients, stress test was negative for ischemia at 6 months.

Conclusions: In this prospective study, we showed that direct nDES implantation is highly effective for ISR and seems to be a promising management for the treatment of ISR.
Performance of Coronary Procedures through the Transulnar Access without Assessment of the Integrity of the Deep Palmar Arch
Authors: DE ANDRADE PEDRO BERALDO , TEBET MARDEN , ANDRADE MONICA , MATTOS LUIZ , LABRUNIE ANDRE
Published: August 2008

Occurrence of ischemic complications after transulnar coronary procedures is virtually absent. The presence of a complete deep palmar arch in approximately 95% of the population as well as the great capacity of the collateral circulation of the hand might justify these findings. We report the occurrence of complications in 62 patients submitted to coronary procedures through the transulnar approach, without assessment of the integrity of the deep palmar arch by the inverse Allen's test. The rate of asymptomatic occlusion of the ulnar artery was 3%, without any ischemic complication. We believe the performance of Allen's test is not necessary when using transulnar access.
Mycobacteria‐induced granuloma necrosis depends on IRF‐1
Authors: Aly Sahar , Mages Jörg , Reiling Norbert , Kalinke Ulrich , Decker Thomas , Lang Roland , Ehlers Stefan
Published: August 2008

In a mouse model of mycobacteria‐induced immunopathology, wild‐type C57BL/6 (WT), IL‐18‐knockout (KO) and IFN‐αβ receptor‐KO mice developed circumscript, centrally necrotizing granulomatous lesions in response to aerosol infection with M. avium, whereas mice deficient in the IFN‐γ receptor, STAT‐1 or IRF‐1 did not exhibit granuloma necrosis. Comparative, microarray‐based gene expression analysis in the lungs of infected WT and IRF‐1‐KO mice identified a set of genes whose differential regulation was closely associated with granuloma necrosis, among them cathepsin K, cystatin F and matrix metalloprotease 10. Further microarray‐based comparison of gene expression in the lungs of infected WT, IFN‐γ‐KO and IRF‐1‐KO mice revealed four distinct clusters of genes with variable dependence on the presence of IFN‐γ, IRF‐1 or both. In particular, IRF‐1 appeared to be directly involved in the differentiation of a type I immune response to mycobacterial infection. In summary, IRF‐1, rather than being a mere transcription factor downstream of IFN‐γ, may be a master regulator of mycobacteria‐induced immunopathology.
Induction of hepatic differentiation of mouse bone marrow stromal stem cells by the histone deacetylase inhibitor VPA
Authors: Chen Ye , Pan Ruo‐Lang , Zhang Xiao‐Lei , Shao Jian‐Zhong , Xiang Li‐Xin , Dong Xue‐Jun , Zhang Guo‐Rong
Published: August 2008

Bone marrow stromal stem cells (BMSSCs) may have potential to differentiate in vitro and in vivo into hepatocytes. Here, we investigated the effects of valproic acid (VPA) involved in epigenetic modification, a direct inhibitor of histone deacetylase, on hepatic differentiation of mouse BMSSCs. Following the treatment of 2.5 mM VPA for 72 hrs, the in vitro expanded, highly purified and functionally active mouse BMSSCs from bone marrow were either exposed to some well‐defined cytokines and growth factors in a sequential way (fibroblast growth factor‐4 [FGF‐4], followed by HGF, and HGF + OSM + ITS + dexamethasone, resembling the order of secretion during liver embryogenesis) or transplanted (caudal vein) in mice submitted to a protocol of chronic injury (chronic i.p. injection of CCl4). Additional exposure of the cells to VPA considerably improved the in vitro differentiation, as demonstrated by a more homogeneous cell population exhibited epithelial morphology, increasing expression of hepatic special genes and enhanced hepatic functions. Further more, in vivo results indicate that the pre‐treatment of VPA significantly increased the homing efficiency of BMSSCs to the site of liver injury and, additionally, for supporting hepatic differentiation as well as in vitro. We have demonstrated the usefulness of VPA in the transdifferentiation of BMSSCs into hepatocytes both in vitro and in vivo, and regulation of fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFRs) and c‐Met gene expression through post‐translational modification of core histones might be the primary initiating event for these effects. This mode could be helpful for liver engineering and clinical therapy.
Reactive oxygen species and p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase induce apoptotic death of U937 cells in response to Naja nigricollis toxin‐γ
Authors: Liu Wen‐Hsin , Chang Long‐Sen
Published: August 2008

The aim of the present study is to elucidate the signalling components related to Naja nigricollis toxin‐γ‐induced apoptosis in human leukaemia U937 cells. It was found that toxin‐γ‐induced apoptotic cell death was attributed mainly to activation of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK), reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Subsequent modulation of Bcl‐2 family member and cytochrome c release accompanied with activation of caspase‐9 and ‐3 were involved in the death of U937 cells. SB202190 (p38 MAPK inhibitor) and N‐acetylcysteine (antioxidant) significantly attenuated toxin‐γ‐induced cell death and loss of ΔΨm, and completely abolished the production of ROS. In contrast to N‐acetylcysteine, degradation of Bcl‐2/Bcl‐XL and mitochondrial localization of Bax were notably decreased by SB202190. Inhibitors of electron transport (rotenone and antimycin A) or inhibitor of mitochondrial permeability transition pore (cyclosporine A) reduced the effect of toxin‐γ on ROS generation, loss of ΔΨm and cytochrome c release. Noticeably, pre‐treatment with N‐acetylcysteine or rotenone eliminated markedly ROS accompanied with reduction in p38 MAPK activation. Taken together, these results suggest that the cytotoxicity of toxin‐γ is initiated by p38‐MAPK‐mediated mitochondrial dysfunction followed by ROS production and activation of caspases, and that ROS further augments p38 MAPK activation and mitochondrial alteration.
The behavior of stem cells and progenitor cells in the periodontal ligament during wound healing as observed using immunohistochemical methods
Authors: Ohta S. , Yamada S. , Matuzaka K. , Inoue T.
Published: August 2008

Background and Objective:  The aim of this study was to identify stem cells or progenitor cells in the periodontal ligament and to investigate their behavior during wound healing of bone defects created experimentally in the alveolar process.

Material and Methods:  Intradentinal cavities were created in the mesial root of the first molar of 25 adult male rats that were killed 1, 3, 5, 7 and 14 d after surgery. At each time‐point, sections were stained immunohistochemically for CD44s (standard), CD34, c‐KIT, PCNA, Cbfa‐1 and 5‐bromo‐2‐deoxyuridine using primary antibodies. For morphometric analysis, the ratios of Cbfa‐1 and PCNA‐positive cells were calculated from the total number of positive cells/104 µm2 in the cavities.

Results:  5‐Bromo‐2‐deoxyuridine‐positive cells were observed in the periodontal ligament and had migrated into the wound areas. A small number of CD44s‐, CD34‐ and c‐KIT‐positive cells were observed in the bone marrow, but none were observed in the periodontal ligament. CD44s‐positive cells were only observed in the alveolar bone cavity at 5 d after surgery. CD34‐ and c‐KIT‐positive cells were only observed in the dentin cavity at 7 d after surgery. Cbfa‐1 and PCNA scores tended to show an increase 7 d after surgery.

Conclusion:  Mesenchymal stem cells and hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow are not involved in the regeneration of the periodontium. Cells that migrated from the residual periodontal ligament regenerated new alveolar bone at the early stage, and the regeneration around the dentin in the cavity was later than in other parts.