bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant breeding to control zinc deficiency in India: how cost-effective is biofortification?
Authors: Stein Alexander J , Nestel Penelope , Meenakshi JV , Qaim Matin , Sachdev HPS , Bhutta Zulfiqar A
Published: April 2007

Objective

To estimate the potential impact of zinc biofortification of rice and wheat on public health in India and to evaluate its cost-effectiveness compared with alternative interventions and international standards.

Design

The burden of zinc deficiency (ZnD) in India was expressed in disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost. Current zinc intakes were derived from a nationally representative household food consumption survey (30-day recall) and attributed to household members based on adult equivalent weights. Using a dose–response function, projected increased zinc intakes from biofortified rice and wheat were translated into potential health improvements for pessimistic and optimistic scenarios. After estimating the costs of developing and disseminating the new varieties, the cost-effectiveness of zinc biofortification was calculated for both scenarios and compared with alternative micronutrient interventions and international reference standards.

Setting

India.

Subjects

Representative household survey (n = 119 554).

Results

The calculated annual burden of ZnD in India is 2.8 million DALYs lost. Zinc biofortification of rice and wheat may reduce this burden by 20–51% and save 0.6–1.4 million DALYs each year, depending on the scenario. The cost for saving one DALY amounts to $US 0.73–7.31, which is very cost-effective by standards of the World Bank and the World Health Organization, and is lower than that of most other micronutrient interventions.

Conclusions

Not only may zinc biofortification save lives and prevent morbidity among millions of people, it may also help accommodate the need to economise and to allocate resources more efficiently. Further research is needed to corroborate these findings.
The infant feeding practices of mothers in the Maldives
Authors: Abdulraheem R , Binns CW
Published: April 2007

Objective

To document the infant feeding practices of Maldivian mothers.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of 251 Maldivian mothers recruited in 2004 from the ‘well baby’ or ‘well child’ clinics on the island of Male' and including 75 mothers from three other islands, Hura, Himmafushi and Thulusdhoo.

Results

The full breast-feeding rate at hospital discharge was 93% but declined to 41% at 4 months. Any breast-feeding rates were high among Maldivian mothers: 100% at 1 month and 85% were still breast-feeding at 6 months. The median duration of breast-feeding was 24 months.

Conclusion

Breast-feeding rates are high and the average duration of breast-feeding is more than 2 years in the Maldives. Health promotion activities should be directed towards maintaining the already high ‘any breast-feeding’ rates and increasing the proportion of infants exclusively breast-fed to 6 months.
Dependence of blood indices of selenium and mercury on estimated fish intake in a national survey of British adults
Authors: Bates Christopher J , Prentice Ann , Birch Maureen C , Delves H Trevor
Published: April 2007

Objective

Contributions of fish and other foods to variance of selenium and mercury status were studied in British adults.

Setting and design

Plasma and red-cell selenium and whole-blood mercury concentrations were measured during the National Diet and Nutrition Survey of Adults aged 19–64 years in mainland Britain, 2000–2001 (n = 1216). Food intake was weighed for seven consecutive days, and foods were combined in groups for data analysis. Four subsidiary groups characterised fish intakes: fried white fish, ‘other’ white fish, shellfish and oily fish.

Results

Geometric means and 5–95% ranges were: for whole-blood mercury, 5.61 (1.30–22.2) nmol l− 1; for plasma selenium, 1.09 (0.83–1.43) μmol l− 1; for red-cell selenium, 1.64 (1.14–2.40) μmol l− 1. Twenty-eight per cent had no fish intake recorded during 7 days; the remaining 72% had a median intake of 237 g over the 7-day period, 5–95% range 45–780 g. Total fish intake was strongly and directly correlated with blood mercury, and moderately with red-cell and plasma selenium. Thus, sqrt(total fish intake) was correlated with: loge(blood Hg), t = +19.7; loge(plasma Se), t = +9.8; and loge(red-cell Se), t = +9.6, all P < 0.0001. All three biochemical (mercury and selenium) indices were strongly correlated with oily fish intake, and moderately correlated with shellfish and ‘other’ ( = non-fried) white fish, but none was significantly correlated with fried white fish. Blood mercury was strongly and directly correlated with red-cell and plasma selenium, and both increased with age.

Conclusions

Dietary fish, especially oily fish, is a strong predictor of blood mercury and selenium in British adults.
Comparative validation of standard, picture-sort and meal-based food-frequency questionnaires adapted for an elderly population of low socio-economic status
Authors: Quandt Sara A , Vitolins Mara Z , Smith Shannon L , Tooze Janet A , Bell Ronny A , Davis Cralen C , DeVellis Robert F , Arcury Thomas A
Published: April 2007

Objective

To compare the validity of a modified Block food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ), a picture-sort administration of the FFQ (PSFFQ) and a meal pattern-based questionnaire (MPQ) in a multi-ethnic population of low socio-economic status (SES).

Design

Participants completed six 24-hour dietary recalls (24HR) over six months; the FFQ, PSFFQ and MPQ were completed in random order in the subsequent month. Instruments were interviewer-administered. The PSFFQ and MPQ were developed in formative research concerning difficulties for older adults in responding to standard food-frequency instruments.

Setting

Rural North Carolina, USA.

Subjects

One hundred and twenty-two African American, Native American and white adults aged ≥ 65 years, with approximately one-third in each ethnic group. Inclusion criteria included education ≤ 12 years and income ≤ 150% of national poverty level or Medicaid recipient.

Results

Comparing median intakes from the average of the 24HR with the three diet assessment instruments, the MPQ tended to overestimate intakes compared with the FFQ and PSFFQ. Correlations among nutrients obtained by the 24HR and the other three instruments were generally statistically significant and positive. Across nutrients, the PSFFQ was most highly correlated with the 24HR for women, while the FFQ was most highly correlated with the 24HR for men.

Conclusions

Dietary assessments using 24HR and FFQ were similar to results reported elsewhere, although correlations between 24HR and FFQ were somewhat lower. Interviewer-administered dietary assessments should be used with caution to evaluate dietary intake among older adults with low SES. Gender differences and the lower correlations should be investigated more thoroughly to assist in choosing dietary assessment instruments for this population.
Stabilization of wrist position during horseback riding at trot
Authors: Terada K , Clayton HM , Kato K
Published: April 2007

Kinematic analysis has been used to understand performance in many sports, but few objective studies of equestrian technique have been published. The objective was to describe movements of the rider's torso and arms relative to movements of the horse's pelvis and shoulder and the position of the bit during trotting. Six experienced female riders rode the same dressage horse at a sitting trot, with rider and horse kinematics collected. The trot is a symmetrical gait, which implies kinematic symmetry between the first and the second halves of the gait. Three trials of a half stride, from left forelimb lift-off to right forelimb lift-off, were analysed for each subject. In all riders, trunk angle was maximal (backward tilt) in early stance, at which time the rider's hips were closest to and the rider's shoulders were furthest from the bit. Trunk angle was minimal (forward tilt) at the end of stance when the shoulders were closest to and the hips were furthest from the bit. Range of motion of the rider's hips and shoulders varied greatly between subjects. Movements of the rider's shoulder joint and elbow joint were synchronized with the trunk oscillations, so the distance from the rider's wrist to the horse's bit changed by only 15 ± 3 mm during the stride. It is concluded that the six experienced riders were able to accommodate the motion of the horse's body while maintaining a consistent contact with the bit by minimizing changes in the distance from the wrist to the bit.
Changes in shape of the Standardbred distal phalanx and hoof capsule in response to exercise
Authors: Cruz CD , Thomason JJ , Faramarzi B , Bignell WW , Sears W , Dobson H , Konyer NB
Published: April 2007

The aims of this study were to determine whether the equine distal phalanx changes in shape in response to exercise and to relate any osseous changes to those in the hoof capsule. Eighteen mature Standardbred horses were randomly divided into exercise and control groups. Exercised horses were jogged on a straight track at individual mean speeds between 4 and 8 m s− 1for 10–45 min, 4 days per week for 16 weeks. Both groups were similarly shod and pastured on the same field. Before and after the training period, each horse had digital photographs and magnetic resonance images (MRI) made of the right forehoof. Five linear measurements of the distal phalanx were recorded from the MRI and 24 measurements of the hoof capsule were made on the digital photographs. Small but significant changes in bone width (P = 0.039) were found in the controls and in two sagittal measurements of bone length (P = 0.039, 0.001, respectively) for the exercise group. These changes were slight and did not correlate with changes in shape of the hoof capsule, suggesting that the bone acts as a stable platform for supporting the capsule and withstanding loads.
Tectonomorphic scenarios in the Southern Alps of New Zealand
Authors: Herman Frédéric , Braun Jean , Dunlap William J.
Published: April 2007

Temperature‐time histories of rocks are often used to constrain the kinematics of tectonic events, the evolution of landforms, erosion rates, and/or amount of faulting in tectonically active areas. However, interpretations based on thermal histories are not always straightforward as they rely on several interdependent mechanisms such as heat conduction, heat advection, or the presence of transient topography that must be taken into account. Using a three‐dimensional finite element code recently developed by one of the authors, we have calculated temperature‐time histories to interpret an existing thermochronological data set (K‐Ar and FT) complemented by new low‐T thermochronometer data ((U‐Th)/He and FT) from the Southern Alps of New Zealand. Combined with inversion methods (Genetic Algorithm and Neighbourhood Algorithm), the model is used to derive from the data information on the tectonomorphic development of the orogen during the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs. Assuming a quasi‐geomorphic steady state, we can constrain the rate of tectonic horizontal advection and vertical uplift as well as the geometry of the main structural boundary, i.e., the Alpine Fault. We can also explain the along‐strike geometry of the metamorphic isograds and thermochrons in relationship to surface topography. Furthermore, we show that if one assumes that the landscape has not been horizontally transported by tectonic movement, the relief on the west coast of the Southern Alps has increased. This relief increase could have been initiated at any time between 1.5 Ma and 100 ka. Any relief reduction during this period is ruled out by our modeling. Alternatively, if the landscape is advected horizontally in the direction normal to the trace of the Alpine Fault, a relief increase is not required to explain the thermochronological data.
On the sub‐grid‐scale variability of oceanic winds and the accuracy of numerical weather prediction models as deduced from QuikSCAT backscatter distributions
Authors: Suzuki Naoya , Donelan Mark A. , Plant William J.
Published: April 2007

Observed probability distributions of QuikSCAT scatterometer cross sections are matched to expected distributions calculated using a Geophysical Model Function (GMF) with a wind speed threshold and inherent wind variability on the subfootprint scale and also on grid scales of numerical weather prediction (NWP) models. Two independent approaches are taken: In one, the 3‐D sample size is 2° × 2° and 1 day, and the wind speed is assumed to be Rayleigh distributed while directions relative to QuickSCAT antenna directions are assumed to be uniform; in the other, the data are binned by NWP analyzed wind speeds into 1 m/s bins and sample sizes of the grid area of the NWP models. Using the results, the variability on these scales is mapped as a function of wind speed, latitude, and season in an effort to establish a global climatology of wind‐speed variability. On the basis of the stable calibration of QuikSCAT, the bias of surface winds produced by the National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) and the European Center for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) is shown to be substantial and strongly dependent on wind speed, latitude, and season. Changes in wind‐speed variability with changes in averaging scale are further explored and estimates of the kinetic energy spectra of the mesoscale to basin‐scale winds are determined.
Improved global simulations of gross primary product based on a separate and explicit treatment of diffuse and direct sunlight
Authors: Alton P. B. , Ellis R. , Los S. O. , North P. R.
Published: April 2007

For computational expediency, regional and global land‐surface models (LSMs), especially those coupled to climate simulations, adopt simple algorithms when calculating radiative transfer (RT) and canopy photosynthesis at the vegetated land surface. Nevertheless, the interaction of sunlight with vegetation is recognized as one of the most critical processes represented in LSMs. The present study calculates global, terrestrial Gross Primary Product (GPP) with a version of the land‐surface model JULES which has been modified to take explicit account of sunfleck penetration and leaf orientation within the canopy. A comparison with equivalent simulations adopting the Big Leaf (BL) or two‐stream (2ST) RT scheme, indicate that current regional/global LSMs may overestimate GPP by 10% globally and up to 25% regionally. Specifically, their use of average light profiles, and consequent neglect of the dispersion in leaf irradiance, at any given height in the canopy leads to both a general overestimation of canopy light‐use efficiency (LUE) and a failure to capture the LUE‐enhancement under diffuse sunlight (“diffuse fertilization effect”). We also examine the current limitations of regionally/globally implemented RT schemes with respect to canopy architecture. This is done by coupling JULES to the ray‐tracing numerical model FLIGHT, the latter simulating light transfer and photosynthesis in both uniform one‐dimensional (1‐D) canopies and 3‐D tree crowns. When the distribution of leaf nitrogen (N) is configured in a manner consistent with field measurements, output from the 3‐D and 1‐D FLIGHT simulations is fairly similar (predicted GPP differs by ≤5%). Similarly, both Leaf Angle Distribution (LAD), when restricted to its observed range, and leaf‐clumping appear to have a minor influence over canopy productivity. We conclude that current LSMs can radically improve their calculation of regional/global GPP by adopting a multilayer approach. This will allow the separate treatment of sunlit and shaded foliage, at discrete heights within the canopy, as well as the accurate representation of active leaf‐N.
On the duration of magnetochrons C24r and C25n and the timing of early Eocene global warming events: Implications from the Ocean Drilling Program Leg 208 Walvis Ridge depth transect
Authors: Westerhold Thomas , Röhl Ursula , Laskar Jacques , Raffi Isabella , Bowles Julie , Lourens Lucas J. , Zachos James C.
Published: April 2007

Five sections drilled in multiple holes over a depth transect of more than 2200 m at the Walvis Ridge (SE Atlantic) during Ocean Drilling Program (ODP) Leg 208 resulted in the first complete early Paleogene deep‐sea record. Here we present high‐resolution stratigraphic records spanning a ∼4.3 million yearlong interval of the late Paleocene to early Eocene. This interval includes the Paleocene‐Eocene thermal maximum (PETM) as well as the Eocene thermal maximum (ETM) 2 event. A detailed chronology was developed with nondestructive X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) core scanning records and shipboard color data. These records were used to refine the shipboard‐derived spliced composite depth for each site and with a record from ODP Site 1051 were then used to establish a continuous time series over this interval. Extensive spectral analysis reveals that the early Paleogene sedimentary cyclicity is dominated by precession modulated by the short (100 kyr) and long (405 kyr) eccentricity cycles. Counting of precession‐related cycles at multiple sites results in revised estimates for the duration of magnetochrons C24r and C25n. Direct comparison between the amplitude modulation of the precession component derived from XRF data and recent models of Earth's orbital eccentricity suggests that the onset of the PETM and ETM2 are related to a 100‐kyr eccentricity maximum. Both events are approximately a quarter of a period offset from a maximum in the 405‐kyr eccentricity cycle, with the major difference that the PETM is lagging and ETM2 is leading a 405‐kyr eccentricity maximum. Absolute age estimates for the PETM, ETM2, and the magnetochron boundaries that are consistent with recalibrated radiometric ages and recent models of Earth's orbital eccentricity cannot be precisely determined at present because of too large uncertainties in these methods. Nevertheless, we provide two possible tuning options, which demonstrate the potential for the development of a cyclostratigraphic framework based on the stable 405‐kyr eccentricity cycle for the entire Paleogene.
Investigating ENSO sensitivity to mean climate in an intermediate model using a novel statistical technique
Authors: Wang Faming
Published: April 2007

Recent studies using general circulation models to project the response of ENSO to greenhouse warming find, despite a shift in the mean state toward a warmer climate, no significant change in the amplitude of ENSO. Here, an intermediate coupled model of tropical Pacific is shown to capture such insensitivity of ENSO to a change in mean climate. This is accomplished by systematically searching in the model parameter space for the configurations that enable the model to reproduce the observed variance, skewness, kurtosis, and autocorrelation of the Niño 3 index of the past 150 years. Three model configurations are identified to give similar approximation of Niño 3 index, which represent the realization of ENSO in different climate regimes.
Indian Hedgehog produced by postnatal chondrocytes is essential for maintaining a growth plate and trabecular bone
Authors: Maeda Yukiko , Nakamura Eiichiro , Nguyen Minh-Thanh , Suva Larry J. , Swain Frances L. , Razzaque Mohammed S. , Mackem Susan , Lanske Beate
Published: April 2007

Indian hedgehog (Ihh) is essential for chondrocyte and osteoblast proliferation/differentiation during prenatal endochondral bone formation. The early lethality of various
Ihh
-ablated mutant mice, however, prevented further analysis of its role in postnatal bone growth and development. In this study, we describe the generation and characterization of a mouse model in which the
Ihh
gene was successfully ablated from postnatal chondrocytes in a temporal/spatial-specific manner; postnatal deletion of
Ihh
resulted in loss of columnar structure, premature vascular invasion, and formation of ectopic hypertrophic chondrocytes in the growth plate. Furthermore, destruction of the articular surface in long bones and premature fusion of growth plates of various endochondral bones was evident, resulting in dwarfism in mutant mice. More importantly, these mutant mice exhibited continuous loss of trabecular bone over time, which was accompanied by reduced Wnt signaling in the osteoblastic cells. These results demonstrate, for the first time, that postnatal chondrocyte-derived Ihh is essential for maintaining the growth plate and articular surface and is required for sustaining trabecular bone and skeletal growth.
FAK Is Required for TGFβ-induced JNK Phosphorylation in Fibroblasts: Implications for Acquisition of a Matrix-remodeling Phenotype
Authors: Liu Shangxi , Shi-wen Xu , Kennedy Laura , Pala Daphne , Chen Yunliang , Eastwood Mark , Carter David E. , Black Carol M. , Abraham David J. , Leask Andrew
Published: April 2007

Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) plays a critical role in connective tissue remodeling by fibroblasts during development, tissue repair, and fibrosis. We investigated the molecular pathways in the transmission of TGFβ signals that lead to features of connective tissue remodeling, namely formation of an α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) cytoskeleton, matrix contraction, and expression of profibrotic genes. TGFβ causes the activation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), leading to JNK phosphorylation. TGFβ induces JNK-dependent actin stress fiber formation, matrix contraction, and expression of profibrotic genes in fak+/+, but not fak−/−, fibroblasts. Overexpression of MEKK1, a kinase acting upstream of JNK, rescues TGFβ responsiveness of JNK-dependent transcripts and actin stress fiber formation in FAK-deficient fibroblasts. Thus we propose a FAK-MEKK1-JNK pathway in the transmission of TGFβ signals leading to the control of α-SMA cytoskeleton reorganization, matrix contraction, and profibrotic gene expression and hence to the physiological and pathological effects of TGFβ on connective tissue remodeling by fibroblasts.
Par1b Promotes Hepatic-type Lumen Polarity in Madin Darby Canine Kidney Cells via Myosin II- and E-Cadherin–dependent Signaling
Authors: Cohen David , Tian Yuan , Müsch Anne
Published: April 2007

Kidney-derived Madin Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells form lumina at their apices, and target luminal proteins to an intracellular vacuolar apical compartment (VAC) when prevented from polarizing. Hepatocytes, by contrast, organize their luminal surfaces (the bile canaliculi; BC) between their lateral membranes, and, when nonpolarized, they display an intracellular luminal compartment that is distinct from the VACs of MDCK cells. Overexpression of the serine/threonine kinase Par1b/EMK1/MARK2 induces BC-like lateral lumina and a hepatic-type intracellular luminal compartment in MDCK cells, suggesting a role for Par1b in the branching decision between kidney- and hepatic-type epithelial phenotypes. Here, we report that Par1b promotes lateral lumen polarity in MDCK cells independently of Ca2+-mediated cell–cell adhesion by inhibiting myosin II in a rho kinase-dependent manner. Polarization was inhibited by E-cadherin depletion but promoted by an adhesion-defective E-cadherin mutant. By contrast, apical surface formation in control MDCK cells required Ca2+-dependent cell–cell adhesion, but it occurred in the absence of E-cadherin. We propose that E-cadherin, when in an adhesion-incompetent state at the lateral domain, serves as targeting patch for the establishment of lateral luminal surfaces. E-cadherin depletion also reverted the hepatic-type intracellular luminal compartment in Par1b-MDCK cells to VACs characteristic of control MDCK cells, indicating a novel link between E-cadherin and luminal protein targeting.
The European Convention on Human Rights and International Law
Authors: Wildhaber Luzius
Published: April 2007

This article is an expanded and footnoted version of the lectur given at the British Institute of International and Comparative Law on Tuesday 21 March 2006, entitled ‘International Law in the European Court of Human Rights’.

The article begins with some comparative comments on the application of the European Convention on Human Rights in monistic and dualistic systems It then discusses in detail the European Court's case law which confirms that the Convention, despite its special character as a human rights treaty, is indeed part of public international law. It concludes that the Convention and international law find themselves in a kind of interactive mutual relationship. checking and buildine on each other.
The Role and Functioning of Mutual Recognition in the European Market of Financial Services
Authors: Ortino Matteo
Published: April 2007

In Europe part of the rule-making and the whole enforcement of financial services regulation still take place at national level. For this reason, mutual recognition of national financial laws remains an element of central importance in the creation and regulation of a European market in this field. This article seeks to contribute to the analysis of such legal instrument, as several aspects of its functioning often appear unclear. The article starts by analysing the principle of mutual recognition as developed by the European Court of Justice. An important distinction is drawn between such judicially created principle and the principle of mutual recognition applied by the EC legislator. The article then looks at the question of why mutual recognition has not succeeded as a regulatory mechanism of financial services market integration, and at the role of mutual recognition after the introduction of the so-called ‘Lamfalussy’ law-making process to the financial services sector.
Non-Discriminatory Tax Obstacles in Community Law
Authors: Snell Jukka
Published: April 2007

This article compares the approach of the Court of Justice in the area of taxation with its general case law on restrictions on free movement. It is argued that the Court, while sometimes referring to the same concepts as in the field of regulatory barriers, is in practice employing a narrower test. The possible reasons for the comparatively cautious approach are analysed and the issue of double taxation is examined, with reference also to the US case law. Finally, the connections to larger questions concerning the nature of the single market and the roles of the Community institutions are noted.
The Public—Private Distinction in the International Arbitration of Individual Claims against the State
Authors: Van Harten Gus
Published: April 2007

Does the rise of international arbitration signify a retreat of the State from classical adjudication? In examining this question, it is important to distinguish contract-based arbitration of individual claims against the State from arbitration pursuant to investment treaties. The former is broadly limited to the private sphere of the State's activity, whereas the latter gives arbitrators a comprehensive jurisdiction over public law. An elaboration of this distinction, and the grey area within it, demonstrates that the significance of international arbitration for juridical sovereignty is its privatization of the authority to define the very concept of the public sphere.
Functional Outcome of Vocal Fold Medialization Thyroplasty With a Hydroxyapatite Implant
Authors: Storck Claudio , Brockmann Meike , Schnellmann Elvira , Stoeckli Sandro J. , Schmid Stephan
Published: April 2007

Objectives: Unilateral vocal fold paralysis can cause a persistent incomplete glottal closure during phonation, resulting in impaired voice function. The aim of this study was to evaluate functional results of medialization thyroplasty using a hydroxyapatite implant (VoCoM).

Study Design: Prospective observational cohort study.

Methods: Between 1999 and 2003, a total of 26 patients (19 men, 7 women) undergoing medialization thyroplasty using a hydroxyapatite implant because of unilateral vocal fold paralysis were enrolled in the study. To evaluate voice function, the following parameters were measured preoperatively and postoperatively: mean fundamental frequency, mean sound pressure level, frequency and amplitude range (voice range profile), and maximum phonation time. A perceptual assessment of hoarseness was conducted using the Roughness, Breathiness, Hoarseness scale. Furthermore, the magnitude of voice related impairment of the patient's communication skills was rated on a 7‐point scale. A combined parameter called the Voice Dysfunction Index (VDI) was used to rate vocal performance.

Results: All patients showed a statistically significant improvement in the VDI, in perceptual voice analysis, in maximum phonation time, and in the dynamic range of voice. One patient experienced a postoperative wound hemorrhage as a minor complication. No further complications or implant extrusions were observed.

Conclusions: Medialization thyroplasty using a hydroxyapatite implant is a secure and efficient phonosurgical procedure. Voice quality and patient satisfaction improve significantly after treatment.
Utility of Lip Biopsy in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Sjogren's Syndrome
Authors: Langerman Alexander J. , Blair Elizabeth A. , Sweiss Nadera J. , Taxy Jerome B.
Published: April 2007

Objective: Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune disease involving primarily the salivary and lacrimal glands (“sicca” symptoms) with extraglandular features including joint and nervous system involvement. In patients with a questionable diagnosis of SS but severe extraglandular symptoms, a lip biopsy is often performed to firmly establish the diagnosis of SS. This study was undertaken to identify areas of uncertainty regarding the accuracy of biopsy interpretation and the diagnostic benefits of the procedure.

Study Design: Retrospective review of clinical and pathologic data.

Methods: Clinical data from 47 patients referred to the otolaryngology–head and neck surgery service for lip biopsy were reviewed. Archival pathologic specimens were scored using the currently accepted grading system.

Results: The grading system was incorrectly applied during initial interpretation of 45% (n = 21) of specimens. This resulted in five (10%) pathologic misdiagnoses and 16 (34%) nondiagnoses. On re‐interpreting the specimens with consistent application of the grading system, 62% (n = 29) of the biopsies were definitely positive, and 36% (n = 17) were negative. Neither positive serology nor the presence of sicca symptoms predicted a positive biopsy (likelihood ratio = 0.95 and 0.96, respectively). Lip biopsy guided treatment in at least 65% (n = 31) of patients but was ignored in the presence of other clinical findings in 17% (n = 8) of patients.

Conclusions: Consistent application of the grading system is essential in avoiding incorrect diagnosis and aiding clinical decisions. However, not all patients undergoing lip biopsy will derive diagnostic benefit from the procedure. In this series, clinical symptoms and serology did not predict positive lip biopsy.
Emerging Trends in the Performance of Parathyroid Surgery
Authors: Terris David J. , Chen Nan , Seybt Melanie W. , Gourin Christine G. , Chin Edward
Published: April 2007

Objective: The management of hyperparathyroidism has evolved rapidly in the past decade with the introduction of intraoperative parathyroid hormone testing, radioguided surgery, and endoscopic surgery. Not surprisingly, there is a corresponding movement toward specialization of surgeons providing increasingly sophisticated treatments for head and neck endocrine disorders. We sought to identify trends in the disciplines performing parathyroid surgery.

Design: Nonrandomized, controlled comparison of surgical caseloads and publication volumes.

Methods and Materials: Two metrics designed to reflect the proportion of parathyroidectomies being performed by otolaryngologist–head and neck surgeons (OHNS) and general surgeons (GS) were chosen: the operative case logs of graduates from American training programs in OHNS and GS from 1996 through 2005 and the number of scientific papers published relating to parathyroid surgery during two timeframes (1991–1995 and 2001–2005).

Results: There was a gradual increase in the mean number of parathyroid surgeries performed by GS residents from 6.0 in 1996 to a peak of 9.2 in 2004; this volume has begun to decline (to 8.5 in 2005). During the same timeframe, the mean number of parathyroidectomies performed by OHNS residents rose sharply and steadily from 1.8 in 1996 to 10.9 in 2005. The number of American GS parathyroid publications from 1991 to 1995 was 41, compared with 108 in the period 2001 to 2005. During the same timeframe, the number of American OHNS parathyroid papers increased from 1 to 27. The relative proportion of parathyroid publications authored by American otolaryngologists rose from 2.4% to 20.0% (P = .006).

Conclusions: Increasingly, otolaryngologists are the primary surgeons in parathyroid operations as indicated by two surrogate metrics. Graduating chief residents in otolaryngology now perform more parathyroid procedures than chief residents in general surgery, and a growing proportion of parathyroid publications are being authored by otolaryngologists.
Analysis of gene expression in Lassa virus-infected HuH-7 cells
Authors: Müller Stefanie , Geffers Robert , Günther Stephan
Published: April 2007

The pathogenesis of Lassa fever is poorly understood. As the liver is a major target organ of Lassa virus, gene expression in Lassa virus-infected HuH-7 cells, a differentiated human hepatoma cell line, was studied. Cellular mRNA levels were measured at the late phase of acute infection, when virtually all cells expressed large amounts of nucleoprotein, and virus RNA concentration had reached >108 copies (ml supernatant)−1. Two types of transcription array were used: cDNA-based macroarrays with a set of 3500 genes (Atlas Human 1.2 arrays; Clontech) and oligonucleotide-based microarrays covering 18 400 transcripts (Human Genome U133A array; Affymetrix). Data analysis was based on statistical frameworks controlling the false-discovery rate. Atlas array data were considered relevant if they could be verified by U133A array or real-time RT-PCR. According to these criteria, there was no evidence for true changes in gene expression. Considering the precision of the U133A array and the number of replicates tested, potential expression changes due to Lassa virus infection are probably smaller than twofold. To substantiate the array data, beta interferon (IFN-β) gene expression was studied longitudinally in Lassa virus-infected HuH-7 and FRhK-4 cells by using real-time RT-PCR. IFN-β mRNA levels increased only twofold upon Lassa virus infection, although there was no evidence that the virus inhibited poly(I : C)-induced IFN-β gene expression. In conclusion, Lassa virus interferes only minimally with gene expression in HuH-7 cells and poorly induces IFN-β gene transcription.
Genetic determinants of Sindbis virus strain TR339 affecting midgut infection in the mosquito Aedes aegypti
Authors: Pierro Dennis J. , Powers Erik L. , Olson Ken E.
Published: April 2007

Mosquito midgut epithelial cells (MEC) play a major role in determining whether an arbovirus can successfully infect and be transmitted by mosquitoes. The Sindbis virus (SINV) strain TR339 efficiently infectsAedes aegyptiMEC but the SINV strain TE/5′2J poorly infects MEC. SINV determinants for MEC infection have been localized to the E2 glycoprotein. The E2 amino acid sequences of TR339 and TE/5′2J differ at two sites, E2-55 and E2-70. We have altered the TE/5′2J virus genome by site-directed mutagenesis to contain two TR339 residues, E2-55 H→Q (histidine to glutamine) and E2-70 K→E (lysine to glutamic acid). We have characterized the growth patterns of derived viruses in cell culture and determined the midgut infection rate (MIR) inA. aegyptimosquitoes. Our results clearly show that the E2-55 H→Q and the E2-70 K→E mutations in the TE/5′2J virus increase MIR both independently and in combination. TE/5′2J virus containing both TR339 E2 residues had MIRs similar to the parental TR339 virus. In addition, SINV propagated in a mammalian cell line had a significantly lowerA. aegyptimidgut 50 % infectious dose than virus propagated in a mosquito cell line.
Characterization of two novel cutaneous human papillomaviruses, HPV93 and HPV96
Authors: Vasiljević Nataša , Hazard Kristina , Eliasson Linda , Ly Hoang , Hunziker Andreas , de Villiers Ethel-Michele , Norrild Bodil , Dillner Joakim , Forslund Ola
Published: April 2007

Two novel human papillomaviruses (HPVs), HPV93 and HPV96, with genomes of 7450 and 7438 bp, respectively, are described. The L1 open reading frame of HPV93 showed highest identity to HPV24 (79 %) and that of HPV96 had highest identity to HPV92 (71 %). Real-time PCR for HPV92, 93 and 96 on stripped biopsies from tumours and healthy skin from 269 immunocompetent patients found HPV DNA in 2.6 % of tumours and in 0.4 % of healthy skin samples. Double infections were observed in two tumours. HPV92 was detected in four, HPV93 in two and HPV96 in three tumours. The range of viral loads spanned from one copy per 45 cells to one copy per 10 000 cells. The E7 proteins of HPV92, 93 and 96 were found to bind the retinoblastoma protein (pRb). These results suggest a possible role for these HPV types in skin carcinogenesis that deserves further study.
Cymbidium ringspot virus defective interfering RNA replication in yeast cells occurs on endoplasmic reticulum-derived membranes in the absence of peroxisomes
Authors: Rubino Luisa , Navarro Beatriz , Russo Marcello
Published: April 2007

The replication ofCymbidiumringspot virus (CymRSV) defective interfering (DI) RNA in cells of the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaenormally takes place in association with the peroxisomal membrane, thus paralleling the replication events in infected plant cells. However, previous results with a peroxisome-deficient mutant strain of yeast had suggested that the presence of peroxisomes is not a strict requirement for CymRSV DI RNA replication. Thus, a novel approach was used to study the putative alternative sites of replication by usingS. cerevisiaestrain YPH499 which does not contain normal peroxisomes. In this strain, CymRSV p33 and p92 accumulated over portions of the nuclear membrane and on membranous overgrowths which were identified as endoplasmic reticulum (ER) strands, following immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscope observations. The proteins were not released by high-pH treatment, but were susceptible to proteolytic digestion, thus indicating peripheral and not integrated association. ER-associated p33 and p92 proteins supportedin transthe replication of DI RNA. The capacity of plus-strand RNA viruses to replicate in association with different types of cell membranes was thus confirmed.
Analysis of the complete genomic sequence of an apparently avirulent strain of avian hepatitis E virus (avian HEV) identified major genetic differences compared with the prototype pathogenic strain of avian HEV
Authors: Billam P. , Sun Z. F. , Meng X.-J.
Published: April 2007

Avian hepatitis E virus (HEV) was identified from chickens with hepatitis–splenomegaly syndrome. In this study, the complete genomic sequence of an apparently avirulent strain of avian HEV was determined to be 6649 nt in length, excluding the poly(A) tail, which is 5 nt shorter than the prototype avian HEV. Sequence analyses revealed that the ORF1 has 89.6 % nucleotide sequence identity, with numerous non-silent mutations and deletions, compared to the prototype strain. The ORF2 capsid gene showed 90.7 % sequence identity with six non-silent mutations, and ORF3 had four non-silent mutations with 97 % sequence identity. Overall, the apparently avirulent strain shares only 90.1 % nucleotide sequence identity with the prototype strain. The identification of significant non-silent mutations in the capsid gene and other regions suggests that these mutations may play a role in HEV attenuation. This is the first report of the full-length sequence of an apparently avirulent strain of HEV.
In vivo fitness and virulence of a drug-resistant herpes simplex virus 1 mutant
Authors: Pesola Jean M. , Coen Donald M.
Published: April 2007

Two important issues regarding a virus mutant that is resistant to an antiviral drug are its ability to replicate in animal hosts (in vivo fitness) relative to other genetic variants, including wild type, and its ability to cause disease. These issues have been investigated for a herpes simplex virus 1 mutant that is resistant to thiourea compounds, which inhibit encapsidation of viral DNA. Following corneal inoculation of mice, the mutant virus replicated very similarly to its wild-type parent in the eye, trigeminal ganglion and brain. The mutant virus was as lethal to mice as its wild-type parent following this route of inoculation. Indeed, it exhibited increased virulence. Thus, unlike most drug-resistant virus mutants, this mutant retained in vivo fitness and virulence.
Silencing of latent membrane protein 2B reduces susceptibility to activation of lytic Epstein–Barr virus in Burkitt's lymphoma Akata cells
Authors: Rechsteiner Markus P. , Berger Christoph , Weber Matthias , Sigrist Jürg A. , Nadal David , Bernasconi Michele
Published: April 2007

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) latent membrane protein 2A (LMP2A) blocks B-cell receptor (BCR) signalling after BCR cross-linking to inhibit activation of lytic EBV, and ectopically expressed LMP2B negatively regulates LMP2A. Here, it is demonstrated that silencing ofLMP2Bin EBV-harbouring Burkitt's lymphoma Akata cells results in reduced expression of EBV immediate-early lyticBZLF1gene mRNA and late lytic gp350/220 protein upon BCR cross-linking. Similarly, reduction of lytic EBV activation was observed in Akata cells overexpressing LMP2A. In contrast, silencing ofLMP2Aexpression resulted in higher lytic EBV mRNA and protein expression in BCR cross-linked Akata cells. These observations indicate a role for LMP2B distinct from that of LMP2A in regulation of lytic EBV activation in the host cell and support the hypothesis that LMP2B exhibits a negative-regulatory effect on the ability of LMP2A to maintain EBV latency by preventing the switch to lytic replication.
Training of library and information science (LIS) professionals in Kenya
Authors: Kavulya Joseph M.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

First, to assess the status of the job market for library and information science (LIS) professionals in Kenya and the adequacy of current curricula and training resources in LIS training institutions in the country. Secondly, to identify priority areas of training and critical IT skills required by LIS professionals in relation to current job market and performance requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a survey research design data was collected from various categories of LIS stakeholders: students, lecturers, professionals and employers. In total 110 subjects were selected for this study using various sampling techniques and a response rate of 76.4 per cent was achieved. Questionnaires with closed and open‐ended questions were used to collect data. This was a descriptive study and therefore descriptive statistics were used.

Findings

A job market for LIS professionals in Kenya is perceived to exist. However, there is a general observation that the current LIS training programmes in the country do not sufficiently address current job market requirements due to: inadequate teaching resources in LIS training institutions; lack of adequate ICT content in the courses; courses that are irrelevant to the job market and inadequate length of industrial attachment.

Practical implications

The paper recommends review of the current LIS curricula in Kenya in order to enhance the suitability of graduates to the current labour market. This includes integration of modern ICT into training, recruitment of qualified teaching staff, ensuring adequate learning resources and facilities, and enhancement of industrial attachment.

Originality/value

The paper investigates some of the critical issues that planners of library and information science courses have to consider in the 21st century. These issues include: the emergence of the “information society”, the multidisciplinary heritage of LIS education, the choice between liberal vis‐à‐vis technical education, the emergence of the concept of digital library, and finally the need for thorough management and leadership competencies. These issues are part of the current discourse on LIS training in the sub‐Saharan Africa where communities are in transition to the “information economy”.
Do applicants fake? An examination of the frequency of applicant faking behavior
Authors: Griffith Richard L. , Chmielowski Tom , Yoshita Yukiko
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to empirically test whether applicants fake their responses to personality based employment inventories.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilized a within subjects design to asses whether applicants elevated their scores in an applicant conditions. Subjects who applied for a job were later contacted and asked to complete the same personality measure under an honest instructional set. The within subjects design allowed the researcher to examine faking behavior at the individual level of analysis rather than draw inferences between applicant and incumbent groups.

Findings

Results suggest that a significant number of applicants do fake personality based selection measures. Depending on the confidence interval used between 30 and 50 percent of applicants elevated their scores when applying for a job. The results also show that applicant faking behavior resulted in significant rank ordering changes that impacted hiring decisions.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation of the study is the exclusion of a job performance criterion measure. Without this measure definitive statements regarding the decay in the criterion validity of the measure cannot be made. While the study demonstrated rank ordering changes, decrements in criterion validity cannot be demonstrated without measuring job performance.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the paper are that personality measures should not be used alone. Rather they should be included in a test battery of measures that are less susceptible to faking behavior. In addition, applied researchers must continue research efforts to address the faking issue.

Originality/value

Empirical research has supported the notion that respondents can fake when instructed, however, other research has suggested that applicants do not fake in applied settings. This study is the first to provide substantial evidence that faking does occur in applicant settings and that is disrupts rank ordering of applicants.