bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of growth hormone action by sex steroids
Authors: Meinhardt Udo J. , Ho Ken K. Y.
Published: September 2006

Growth hormone (GH) is a major regulator of growth, somatic development and body composition. Sex steroids can act centrally by regulating GH secretion and peripherally modulating GH responsiveness. This review addresses data of potential clinical relevance on how sex steroids modulate GH secretion and action, aiming to increase the understanding of sex steroid/GH interactions and leading to improved management of patients. Sex steroids regulate GH secretion directly as well as indirectly through IGF‐I modulation. Testosterone stimulates GH secretion centrally, an effect dependent on prior aromatization to oestrogen. Oestrogen stimulates GH secretion indirectly by reducing IGF‐I feedback inhibition. Whether oestrogen stimulates GH secretion centrally in females is unresolved.

 Gonadal steroids modify the metabolic effects of GH. Testosterone amplifies GH stimulation of IGF‐I, sodium retention, substrate metabolism and protein anabolism while exhibiting similar but independent actions of its own. Oestrogen attenuates GH action by inhibiting GH‐regulated endocrine function of the liver. This is a concentration‐dependent phenomenon that arises invariably from oral administration of therapeutic doses of oestrogen, an effect that can be avoided by using a parenteral route.

 This strong modulatory effect of gonadal steroids on GH responsiveness provides insights into the biological basis of sexual dimorphism in growth, development and body composition and practical information for the clinical endocrinologist. It calls for an appraisal of the diagnostic criteria for GH deficiency of GH stimulation tests, which currently are based on arbitrary cut‐offs that do not take into account the shifting baseline from the changing gonadal steroid milieu. In the management of GH deficiency in the hypopituitary female, oestrogen should be administered by a nonoral route. In hypopituitary men, androgens should be replaced concurrently to maximize the benefits of GH. In the general population, the metabolic consequences of long‐term treatment of women with oral oestrogen compounds, including selective oestrogen receptor modulators, are largely unknown and warrant study.
Craniofacial growth and functional change in oligodontia with ectodermal dysplasia: a case report
Authors: SASAKI Y. , KAIDA C. , SAITOH I. , FUJIWARA T. , NONAKA K.
Published: September 2006

summary  A case of ectodermal dysplasia in a Japanese boy is presented in this report. After prosthetic treatment was performed with partial dentures in both jaws, mandibular movement, dental casts, and lateral and frontal cephalograms were taken at an initial visit (age 7 years 8 months), and at follow‐up 1 year and 8 months later (age 9 years 3 months) to evaluate the developmental changes in masticatory movement, dental arch width, and craniofacial morphology. Stability of the jaw movements improved during the follow‐up period both with and without dentures. The facial skeleton grew between the initial visit and follow‐up. Mandibular length remained long compared with the average value for Japanese children. A possible genetic marker for mandibular growth (growth hormone receptor), which is considered to be an important factor in mandibular growth and development, was analysed for the gene variant and the result supported the characteristic mandibular growth in the reported case. These results indicate the characteristic craniofacial growth in this disease and emphasize the potential ability of functional development of jaw movements with oligodontia.
Electromyographic activity of the masticatory and cervical muscles during resisted jaw opening movement
Authors: ARMIJO‐OLIVO S. , MAGEE D. J.
Published: September 2006

summary  One of the relaxation techniques that have been used by physical therapists when treating patients with temporomandibular disorders, is the agonist contract–antagonist relax technique (AC). When the AC technique is applied, a submaximal resistance to the jaw opening movement is necessary to cause relaxation of the masticatory muscles. No information about the effect of this technique on masticatory or cervical muscles has been found in the literature. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the electromyographic activity of the masseter and anterior temporalis and the upper trapezius and splenius capitis during resisted jaw opening movement. A convenience sample of 30 students was used. Electromyography activity of the superficial masseter, anterior temporalis, upper trapezius and splenius capitis was registered before, during and after the application of this resistive movement to jaw opening. A two‐way anova with repeated measures analysis was used to analyse data. The level of significance was at α = 0·05. The EMG activity of both the masticatory muscles and the cervical muscles increased during and after the application of resisted jaw opening (P < 0·05). Based on the results obtained from this study, the behaviour of all muscles analysed (masseter, anterior temporalis, splenius capitis and upper trapezius) was similar. All muscles increased their activity when the resistance to the jaw opening movement was applied. Complex muscular interactions of the supra‐ and infrahyoid muscles (jaw openers), masticatory muscles, and cervical muscles may exist to stabilize the craniomandibular system during resisted jaw opening.
The rice SPINDLY gene functions as a negative regulator of gibberellin signaling by controlling the suppressive function of the DELLA protein, SLR1, and modulating brassinosteroid synthesis
Authors: Shimada Asako , Ueguchi‐Tanaka Miyako , Sakamoto Tomoaki , Fujioka Shozo , Takatsuto Suguru , Yoshida Shigeo , Sazuka Takashi , Ashikari Motoyuki , Matsuoka Makoto
Published: September 2006

SPINDLY (SPY) encodes an O‐linked N‐acetylglucosamine transferase that is considered to be a negative regulator of gibberellin (GA) signaling through an unknown mechanism. To understand the function of SPY in GA signaling in rice, we isolated a rice SPINDLY homolog (OsSPY) and produced knockdown transgenic plants in which OsSPY expression was reduced by introducing its antisense or RNAi construct. In knockdown plants, the enhanced elongation of lower internodes was correlated with decreased levels of OsSPY expression, similar to the spindly phenotype of Arabidopsis spy mutants, suggesting that OsSPY also functions as a negative factor in GA signaling in rice. The suppressive function of OsSPY in GA signaling was supported by the findings that the dwarfism was partially rescued and OsGA20ox2 (GA20 oxidase) expression was reduced in GA‐deficient and GA‐insensitive mutants by the knockdown of OsSPY function. The suppression of OsSPY function in a GA‐insensitive mutant, gid2, also caused an increase in the phosphorylation of a rice DELLA protein, SLR1, but did not change the amount of SLR1. This indicates that the function of OsSPY in GA signaling is not via changes in the amount or stability of SLR1, but probably involves control of the suppressive function of SLR1. In addition to the GA‐related phenotypes, OsSPY antisense and RNAi plants showed increased lamina joint bending, which is a brassinosteroid‐related phenotype, indicating that OsSPY may play roles both in GA signaling and in the brassinosteroid pathway.
Isolation ofMicrosporum canisfrom the hair coat of pet dogs and cats belonging to owners diagnosed withM. canistinea corporis
Authors: Cafarchia Claudia , Romito Diana , Capelli Gioia , Guillot Jacques , Otranto Domenico
Published: September 2006

Microsporum canishas been frequently isolated from human cases of tinea capitis and tinea corporis. The infection may be acquired from infected animals with cutaneous lesions but also from asymptomatic carriers or from the environment. As asymptomaticM. caniscarriers are considered to be a critical factor in the epidemiology of dermatophytosis in humans, this study investigated the relationship between the presence of dermatophytes on the hair coats of dogs and cats without cutaneous lesions and the occurrence of the disease in their respective owners. A total of 136 dogs and 248 cats were sampled from January 1999 to January 2005. Seventy‐eight animals (22 dogs and 56 cats) belonged to individuals affected by tinea corporis caused byM. canisand 306 (114 dogs and 192 cats) to individuals without dermatophytosis. Age, sex, breed, habitat and season were recorded for each animal and examined as potential risk factors. Dermatophytes were isolated from 20.5% of the dogs and 28.2% of the cats.Microsporum caniswas isolated from 36.4% of dogs cohabiting with owners diagnosed with tinea corporis but it was never isolated from dogs whose owners had no lesions. By contrast,M. caniswas isolated from 53.6% of cats cohabiting with owners diagnosed with tinea corporis and from 14.6% of cats whose owners had no signs of the disease. These results clearly indicate that both cats and dogs should be considered as a major source of pathogenic dermatophytes for humans even when they do not present clinical signs of dermatophytosis.
Rapid detection of Arthroderma vanbreuseghemii in rabbit skin specimens by PCR–RFLP
Authors: Arabatzis Michael , Xylouri Eftihia , Frangiadaki Irene , Tzimogianni Aleka , Milioni Afroditi , Arsenis George , Velegraki Aristea
Published: September 2006

Three commercial rabbit farms independently reported suspected dermatophyte infections during 2004. Cultures confirmed that the infection was caused by the zoophilic Tricophyton mentagrophytes, while mating studies and sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS)1/4 polymerase chain reaction products, directly amplified from skin lesions and from pure culture isolates, established its Arthroderma vanbreuseghemii lineage. Subsequently, the corresponding DdeI restriction profiles of the ITS1/4 PCR products matched one of the two published T. mentagrophytes complex profiles. Sequence analysis of the published ITS sequences predicted distinct DdeI restriction sites for Arthroderma benhamiae and A. vanbreuseghemii, while all DdeI‐generated restriction fragment length polymorphisms of the rabbit isolates were identical to those of A. vanbreuseghemii. The proposed procedure can be used for rapid dermatophyte detection and presumptive T. mentagrophytes identification.
Screening ofStaphylococcus aureus,Staphylococcus intermedius, andStaphylococcus schleiferiisolates obtained from small companion animals for antimicrobial resistance: a retrospective review of 749 isolates (2003–04)
Authors: Morris Daniel O. , Rook Kathryn A. , Shofer Frances S. , Rankin Shelley C.
Published: September 2006

Companion animal staphylococcal isolate antibiograms were screened retrospectively to determine the frequency of methicillin‐resistant (MR) infection byStaphylococcus aureus,Staphylococcus intermedius, andStaphylococcus schleiferi. Rates of MR were:S. aureus35%,S. intermedius17%, andS. schleiferi40%. Frequency of isolation of methicillin‐resistantS. aureus(MRSA) from dogs and cats was similar, whereas methicillin‐resistantS. intermedius(MRSI) and methicillin‐resistantS. schleiferi(MRSS) were significantly more common in dogs. MRSS was more commonly associated with superficial (skin and ear canal) infections, whereas MRSA was more commonly associated with deep infections. The MR strain resistance pattern to other classes of antibiotics was also investigated. MRSA was resistant to the most classes of antibiotics, followed by MRSI, while MRSS maintained the most favourable susceptibility profile. MR staphylococci may pose a significant risk to animal and public health. Therefore, to avoid selecting for resistant strains in cases of suspected staphylococcal infection, clinicians should consider culture and susceptibility testing early in the course of treatment.
Objective measurement of pruritus in dogs: a preliminary study using activity monitors
Authors: Nuttall Tim , McEwan Neil
Published: September 2006

Pruritus is an important clinical sign and quality‐of‐life measure in canine dermatology, but can be difficult to assess objectively. Several studies in humans have used activity monitors to measure nocturnal scratching in patients with atopic dermatitis. The results correlate with observation of scratching, scoring in atopic dermatitis indices and levels of inflammatory chemokines. The aim of this study was to examine whether an activity monitor could be used to detect elevated interexercise (i.e. ‘resting’) activity in atopic dogs compared to healthy dogs. Five healthy dogs and six dogs with atopic dermatitis were fitted with a collar‐mounted activity monitor (Actiwatch®) that recorded the piezo‐electric voltage generated over 15‐s epochs for 7 days. Data from defined periods of exercise, playing, etc., were disregarded. Within each group, median (± interquartile range) epoch activity was similar during the day (atopic 21.0 [9.8–24.8]; healthy 5.1 [4.6–6.0]) and evening (atopic 19.1 [10.9–25.2]; healthy 5.8 [5.3–11.7]), and significantly lower overnight (atopic 5.8 [4.1–15.7]; healthy 2.5 [1.6–4.4]) (Mann–Whitney test; P < 0.05). The mean epoch activity, however, was significantly higher in atopic dogs compared to healthy dogs for all three time periods (P < 0.05). This study provides preliminary evidence that activity monitors could objectively assess canine pruritus in the normal home environment.
Information in mental health: qualitative study of mental health service users
Authors: Powell John , Clarke Aileen
Published: September 2006

Background  Despite the widespread proliferation of consumer health information provision, little is known about information needs or information‐seeking behaviour in mental health. A qualitative study was therefore undertaken to explore these issues for mental health service users.

Design  In‐depth interview study with purposive sample of 36 men and women with experience of mental health problems.

Results  Four main themes were identified. A general lack of information was equated with a lack of respect. People undertook their own research into their condition, and recognized the challenge to professionals. Stigma was widespread and inhibited information seeking. There was a desire for an explanation of mental health problems in physical terms. People particularly valued hearing other people's experience of mental health problems, for reasons of universality, instillation of hope, and understanding and empathy.

Conclusions  The findings provide support for a more equal partnership between patients and professionals. Information providers and health practitioners should take account of the value of other people's experience as an information source.
Exploring health‐related experiences of children and young people with congenital heart disease
Authors: Birks Yvonne , Sloper Patricia , Lewin Robert , Parsons Jonathan
Published: September 2006

Objective  To determine the health‐related experiences of children with congenital heart disease.

Design  Qualitative, semi‐structured interviews.

Participants  A purposive sample (N = 35) of children and young people, aged between 8 and 19 years, with a variety of congenital heart conditions recruited from one treatment care centre in the north of England.

Results  The main themes identified included: physical limitations of their condition; restrictions; attitudes of others; choices about information; coping with life and privacy.

Conclusions  This study suggests that while many of this sample of children said that they coped well with their condition some children did experience significant impact on their quality of life in several domains. Children and young people identified a need for improved strategies to help them communicate about their condition with peers, schoolteachers and health‐care professionals to allow a better understanding of what they are able to achieve.
Has patients’ involvement in the decision‐making process changed over time?
Authors: Van Den Brink‐Muinen Atie , Van Dulmen Sandra M. , De Haes Hanneke C.J.M. , Visser Adriaan Ph. , Schellevis François G. , Bensing Jozien M.
Published: September 2006

Objective  To get insight into the changes over time of patients’ involvement in the decision‐making process, and into the factors contributing to patients’ involvement and general practitioners’ (GPs) communication related to the Medical Treatment Act (MTA) issues: information about treatment, other available treatments and side‐effects; informed decision making; asking consent for treatment.

Background  Societal developments have changed the doctor–patient relationship recently. Informed decision making has become a central topic. Patients’ informed consent was legalized by the MTA (1995).

Design  Data of two cross‐sectional studies, the First (1987) and Second (2001) Dutch National Survey of General Practice, were compared.

Setting and participants  General practice consultations; 16 GPs and 442 patients in 1987; 142 GPs and 2784 patients in 2001.

Methods  Consultations were videotaped and rated using Roter's Interaction Analysis System and observer questionnaires; pre‐ and post‐consultation patient questionnaires; and GP questionnaires. Descriptive analyses and multivariate, multilevel analysis were applied.

Main results  Most patients reported to have received the information they had considered as important prior to the consultation. There were discrepancies in involvement in treatment decisions and in giving information about other available treatments, side‐effects and risks. GPs who were more affective and gave more information, more often involved their patients, especially younger patients, in decision making. In 2001, more informed decision making was observed and the GPs asked consent for a treatment more often, but they less often asked for the patients’ understanding.

Conclusion  Patients’ involvement in decision making has increased over time, but not in every respect. However, this does not apply for all patients, especially the older ones. It should be questioned whether they are willing or capable to be involved and if so, how they could be encouraged.
EAACI/GA2LEN Position paper: Present status of the atopy patch test*
Authors: Turjanmaa K. , Darsow U. , Niggemann B. , Rancé F. , Vanto T. , Werfel T.
Published: September 2006

A number of scientific reports have been published on patch tests with protein allergens performed on patients with atopic eczema (AE). Evaluation of eczematous skin lesions with an atopy patch test (APT) can be used as a diagnostic tool in characterizing patients with aeroallergen‐ and food‐triggered AE. Indications for testing with APT, choice of allergens (aeroallergens and foods), test materials and technique, including present knowledge on sensitivity and specificity, are reviewed on the basis of available literature. This position paper also points out the need for future research on the clinical use of the APT.
Incorporating a gender dimension in food allergy research: a review
Authors: DunnGalvin A. , Hourihane J. O'B. , Frewer L. , Knibb R. C. , Oude Elberink J. N. G. , Klinge I.
Published: September 2006

Sex and gender are the major determinants of health and disease in both men and women. The aim of this review paper was to examine differences in gender and sex in relation to the prevalence and effects of food allergy. There are still major gaps in our knowledge about the kinds of processes which shape men's and women's perceptions and experiences of food allergy. The expression and experience of health and illness may be moderated by variables such as biological vulnerability, exposure to health risks, perception of symptoms, evaluation of risk, information processing and role expectations. This review highlights the complex links between biological sex, gender, and health in general and offers a synthesis of how these may interact to produce sex and gender differences in biopsychosocial manifestations of food allergy. Implications for research and public health practice are discussed.
Molecular background of polyendocrinopathy–candidiasis–ectodermal dystrophy syndrome in a Polish population: novel AIRE mutations and an estimate of disease prevalence
Authors: Stolarski B , Pronicka E , Korniszewski L , Pollak A , Kostrzewa G , Rowińska E , Włodarski P , Skórka A , Gremida M , Krajewski P , Ploski R
Published: September 2006

Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy–candidiasis–ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) is an autosomal‐recessive autoimmune disease caused by autoimmune regulator gene mutations. The aim of this study was to examine the mutation profile of Polish APECED patients, determine the carrier rate of the most frequent mutation(s) and estimate disease prevalence. While studying 14 unrelated patients, we identified three novel mutations (c.1A>T, affecting the start codon; [IVS1 + 1G>C; IVS1 + 5delG], a complex mutation affecting splice site; c. 908G>C, p.R303P, a missense mutation in plant homeodomain (PHD) and three previously reported mutations (c.769C>T, p.R257X; c.967_979del13bp, C322fsX372; c.931delT, p.C311fsX376). Eleven patients had mutations on both chromosomes, whereas in three patients only a single alteration with proven or likely pathogenic effect was detected. The most frequent was the p.R257X mutation (71% of chromosomes); its carriage rate was assessed in the background population. Analysis of 2008 samples showed eight heterozygotes, indicating the frequency of 0.40% (1:250) and the disease prevalence – 1:129,000 (95% confidence interval: 1:555,000 to 1:30,000). Comparison with an epidemiological estimate (1:619,000, derived for women) suggested that in Poland, APECED is underdiagnosed. Among the patients, no genotype/phenotype correlations were found, but we noted that women had earlier onset of hypoparathyroidism (p < 0.02) and were younger at diagnosis (p < 0.05) than men.
Germline mosaicism for a MECP2 mutation in a man with two Rett daughters
Authors: Evans JC , Archer HL , Whatley SD , Clarke A
Published: September 2006

Rett syndrome is a severe neurodevelopmental disorder that is caused by mutations in the X‐linked gene, methyl‐CpG binding protein 2 (MECP2). The majority of cases are sporadic, but rarely germline mosaicism can lead to familial cases. Here, we report the first case where germline mosaicism for a MECP2 mutation has been shown in a man. He has two affected daughters who are half sisters, and both have the c.808delC mutation. We show that this mutation is present at a low level in DNA extracted from the patient’s semen. This case has implications for genetic counseling, and pre‐natal testing should be offered for the partners of men who have a daughter with Rett syndrome.
The burden of new‐onset diabetes mellitus after transplantation
Authors: Moore Richard , Ravindran Vinod , Baboolal Kesh
Published: September 2006

Abstract:  The clinical impact of new‐onset diabetes mellitus (NODM) is frequently underestimated by clinicians. NODM occurs in approximately 15–20% of renal transplant patients and 15% of liver transplant recipients. Diabetes after transplantation is a leading risk factor for cardiovascular events, with a higher prognostic value than in the non‐transplant population. NODM also appears to have a negative influence on graft function, and graft survival rates after renal transplantation are significantly lower in patients who develop diabetes than in controls. Patient mortality following renal transplantation is generally found to be higher in patients with NODM, due to increased cardiovascular and peripheral vascular disease, accelerated graft deterioration and diabetes‐related complications, notably infection. A renal registry analysis has reported an increase of 87% in risk of death following onset of NODM. There is also limited evidence that NODM is associated with increased risk of death in liver transplant patients. The relative incidence and severity of diabetic complications in transplant recipients have not been assessed rigorously in a clinical trial but registry data indicate that 20% of renal transplant patients with NODM experience at least one clinically significant diabetic complication within three years. Financially, the additional healthcare costs incurred over the first two years following onset of NODM amount to $21 500. Routine pre‐transplant assessment of diabetic risk, with requisite modification of lifestyle, glycaemic monitoring and immunosuppressive regimens, and coupled with standardized, aggressive hypoglycaemic management as necessary, offers an important opportunity to alleviate the burden of NODM for transplant patients.
Human leukocyte antigen class I and MICA haplotypes in a multicase family withCladophialophora carrioniichromoblastomycosis
Authors: Naranjo F. , Márquez I. , Gendzekhadze K. , Zhang S. , Fernández‐Mestre M. , Yegres F. , Richard‐Yegres N. , Navas T. , Montagnani S. , Ogando V. , Layrisse Z.
Published: September 2006

Previous studies carried out in an endemic semiarid region northwest of Venezuela at Falcon State have shown a prevalence of 15.4/1000 of chromoblastomycosis following traumatisms with xenophile vegetation infected withCladophialophora carrionii.We performed high‐resolution DNA typing of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐A, ‐B and ‐C and major histocompatibility complex class I chain related gene A (MICA) alleles and segregation analysis in 49 members of one extended family with 12 affected individuals, who have lived for approximately 70 years in this endemic zone. None of the alleles, haplotypes or genotypes is shared by all the patients. No deviation from the expected HLA haplotype distribution or association of chromoblastomycosis with HLA‐A, ‐B and ‐C haplotypes was observed. Further, a haplotype‐sharing transmission/disequilibria testing of 11 nuclear families did not give enough evidence to claim linkage (P= 0.398), suggesting that genes located in the short arm of chromosome 6 may not be relevant in the immune response toward infection withC. carrioniiin this Venezuelan endemic zone. Deleted MICA alleles on HLA‐B*4802 haplotypes were present among several members of the extended family, but only two of them were affected.
IFNγ and CXCR‐1 gene polymorphisms in idiopathic bronchiectasis
Authors: Boyton R. J. , Reynolds C. , Wahid F. N. , Jones M. G. , Ozerovitch L. , Ahmad T. , Chaudhry A. , Jewell D. P. , Kon O. M. , Smith J. , Rose M. , Newman‐Taylor A. J. , Cole P. , Wilson R. , Altmann D. M.
Published: September 2006

Idiopathic bronchiectasis is a disease of chronic, bacterial lung infection, unresolving inflammation and progressive lung damage. Bronchiectasis can be associated with autoimmune diseases including ulcerative colitis. Defects of both innate and adaptive immunity have been proposed. The airway inflammation is characterized by interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) expression and infliltration by neutrophils and T cells. Here we investigated two candidate gene polymorphisms that may contribute to disease susceptibility: a CXCR‐1 (+2607 G/C) gene polymorphism that is implicated in IL‐8 binding and neutrophil trafficking as well as the interferon‐γ (IFNγ) (+874 T/A) polymorphism which is linked to levels of IFNγ production. These polymorphisms were distributed similarly in the idiopathic bronchiectasis group and controls, suggesting that these two candidate gene polymorphisms are not associated with disease susceptibility.
Class II HLA allele polymorphism: DRB1, DQB1 and DPB1 alleles and haplotypes in the New Zealand Maori population
Authors: Tracey M. C. , Carter J. M.
Published: September 2006

Class II alleles of interest to transplantation comprise the DRB1, DQB1 and DPB1 loci. Sequence‐based typing was used to determine the class II allelic variability present in New Zealand Maori, a population with close genetic ties to Polynesia and known anthropological and linguistic connections to mainland Asia. The most common DRB1 alleles identified were DRB1*1201, DRB1*110101, DRB1*0403 and DRB1*080302, with frequencies of 21.5%, 14%, 11.25% and 9.25%, respectively. Standard linkages between the DRB1 locus and the DRB3, 4 and 5 loci were maintained, with no novel patterns identified. The most common DQB1 alleles identified were DQB1*030101, DQB1*060101, DQB1*020101, DQB1*0602 and DQB1*050201, with frequencies of 29.5%, 8%, 7.8%, 6.4% and 6.2%, respectively. The most common DPB1 alleles identified were DPB1*0501, DPB1*040101 and DPB1*020102, with frequencies of 40.2%, 28.89% and 15.83%, respectively. A total of 80 estimated DRB1–DQB1 two‐locus haplotypes were detected. DRB1*1201–DQB1*030101 was the most frequent (15.40%) haplotype, followed by DRB1*110101–DQB1*030101 (9.97%), DRB1*0403–DQB1*030201 (7.37%) and DRB1*080302–DQB1*060101 (5.96%). The allelic variation determined is being used in further analysis of the requirement for bone marrow transplantation in the New Zealand Maori population and has implications for optimal ethnic donor distribution on the New Zealand Bone Marrow Donor Registry, anthropological studies and disease association.
Genetic association study between mbl2 and asthma phenotypes in Chinese children
Authors: Leung Ting Fan , Tang Nelson L. S. , Sung Ying Man , Li Chung Yi , Ma Suk Ling , Lam Christopher W. K. , Wong Gary W. K.
Published: September 2006

Mannose‐binding lectin (MBL), a member of the innate immune system, initiates complement deposition on microbial surfaces. MBL deficiency is associated with severe respiratory infections. Polymorphisms in the MBL gene (mbl2) were associated with the susceptibility and severity of autoimmune diseases. This study investigated whether mbl2 polymorphisms at positions ‐550 and ‐221 and at codon‐54 are associated with asthma phenotypes in Chinese children. Asthmatics aged 5–18 yr and non‐allergic controls were eligible, and their plasma total and allergen‐specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) concentrations were measured by micro‐particle immunoassay and fluorescent enzyme immunoassay. mbl2 polymorphisms were genotyped by restriction fragment length polymorphism. Three hundred and seventeen asthmatic children and 140 controls were recruited, with their mean (s.d.) log‐transformed plasma total IgE being 2.61 (0.61) and 1.77 (0.77), respectively (p < 0.0001). Polymorphisms at ‐550 and codon‐54 (p < 0.0001 for both) but not at ‐221 (p = 0.534) of mbl2 were significantly associated with plasma MBL concentrations. mbl2 genotypes were not associated with asthma, atopy, sensitization to individual aeroallergens or spirometric variable. Subjects with LYB haplotype had the lowest plasma MBL concentrations (p < 0.0001), but two‐ and three‐loci mbl2 haplotypes were also not associated with asthma diagnosis. However, patients with LY and LYB haplotypes were less likely to be atopic (p = 0.006 and 0.031). Subjects with LY and LYA were also less likely to be sensitized to cockroach (p = 0.035 and 0.047). The latter three associations became insignificant when adjusted for multiple comparisons. Despite the importance of MBL in innate immunity, our mbl2 polymorphisms only show weak association with asthma and atopy in children.
Human rhinoviruses in otitis media with effusion
Authors: Chantzi F. M. , Papadopoulos N. G. , Bairamis T. , Tsiakou M. , Bournousouzis N. , Constantopoulos A. G. , Liapi G. , Xatzipsalti M. , Kafetzis D. A.
Published: September 2006

Frequent viral upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) are considered to be risk factors for otitis media with effusion (OME). Atopy has also been associated with both OME and viral infections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of viruses in middle ear effusions (MEE) in children 2–7 yr old with OME, and to determine risk factors for virus detection in the MEE. MEE samples, collected at the time of myringotomy from 37 children with OME were assessed. Physical examination, skin prick tests and a standardized questionnaire on OME and allergy were also performed. Viral RNA was detected by the use of reverse transcription PCR (RT‐PCR). Fifteen samples (40.5%) were positive for rhinovirus (RV). One enterovirus and no other respiratory viruses were detected. Two out of five (40%), 3/7 (43%) and 10/25 (40%) were positive for RV in acute, subacute and chronic cases, respectively. Children with frequent episodes of OM, with early onset of OM (<2 yr old), and a positive family history of allergy had a statistically increased risk of RV detection. The two groups were comparable with respect to all other parameters examined. RV is the predominant virus recovered by RT‐PCR in the middle ear cavity of children with asymptomatic OME, especially those with a history of longstanding OME or repeated episodes, or children with a family history of allergy. Interactions between allergy and RV infections are likely to predispose to middle ear disease.
Relationship between maternal‐ and fetal‐specific IgE
Authors: Bertino Enrico , Bisson Carolina , Martano Claudio , Coscia Alessandra , Fabris Claudio , Monti Giovanna , Testa Tiziana , Conti Amedeo
Published: September 2006

Aim:  A positive correlation between maternal and cord‐blood IgE levels is well documented for total IgEs, but not for specific IgEs. The difficulty in detecting specific cord‐blood IgEs is due to their low concentrations, which hinder their dosage by low‐sensitivity methods. The study aimed to correlate maternal and foetal specific IgEs against individual cow's milk proteins, detected by highly sensitive and specific techniques.

Methods:  Cow's milk specific IgE detection was performed by chemiluminescence on 52 specimens of maternal and cord blood after cow's milk protein separation by 1D and 2D gel electrophoresis. Cow's milk protein (CMP) antigens were identified by mass spectrometry techniques.

Results:  Specific IgEs for CMPs were found in 25/52 (48.1%) of maternal sera and in 19/52 (37%) of cord‐blood sera. In order of decreasing frequency, the proteins found were BSA, IgG heavy chain, caseins and, in a single case, b‐lactoglobulin. Positive cord‐blood sera in all cases corresponded to a positive maternal result, and maternal and foetal immunoreactivity patterns were closely correlated. Moreover, in no case was there a positive cord‐blood response with a negative maternal response.

Conclusion:  The study demonstrates a close relationship between maternal and cord‐blood specific IgE patterns. The phenomenon observed could provide a model to elucidate the general production method of foetal IgEs, which might only be produced in the presence of both the corresponding maternal IgE and the related allergen.
Patterns of sensitization in infants and its relation to atopic dermatitis
Authors: Jøhnke Hanne , Norberg Lene Annette , Vach Werner , Høst Arne , Andersen Klaus Ejner
Published: September 2006

Longitudinal studies in infant populations using validated diagnostic criteria of atopic dermatitis and sensitization are rarely reported, and disease definitions, testing procedures, age of study population and evaluation of objective markers vary between countries and studies. The objectives of this prospective birth cohort study were to investigate: (i) the prevalence, the cumulative incidence and the pattern of transient and persistent sensitization to common food‐ and aeroallergens in unselected infants, (ii) the association between sensitization and the development of atopic dermatitis (AD) and (iii) the association between selected perinatal risk factors with respect to AD and post‐natal sensitization. During a one‐year period a cohort of 562 unselected newborns was established and followed up at the age of 3, 6, 9, 12 and 18 months of age. At all time points infants were examined clinically and by histamine release (HR), total‐ and specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) and skin prick test (SPT). Sensitization ever to ≥1 allergen at 18 months of age was 59%, 50% and 6% using HR, IgE and SPT, respectively. A transient sensitization to ≥1 allergen was found in 47%, 42% and 4% and a persistent sensitization in 17%, 10% and 3%, respectively. Sensitization to environmental allergens was frequently observed in infancy when testing with HR and IgE. Results of SPT gave much lower frequencies. Reactivity to foods was more frequent than to aeroallergens. The dominant pattern was low‐level transient sensitization. This is important to know when sensitization tests are used in the course of examination of infants with eczematous skin diseases. Specific definitions of sensitization like persistent reactivity, high‐level sensitization and poly sensitization were clearly associated with AD. A maternal history of AD was a valuable tool in predicting AD in early infancy; a similar finding was less obvious with regard to post‐natal sensitization. Cord‐specific IgE and cord‐HR positive reactivity did not prove better tools than cord‐total IgE in predicting AD within the first 18 living months.
Continuing food‐avoidance diets after negative food challenges
Authors: Eigenmann Philippe A. , Caubet Jean‐Christoph , Zamora Samuel A.
Published: September 2006

Negative food challenges for follow‐up in patients previously diagnosed with food allergy should logically be followed by a normal diet. However, all patients do not reintroduce the food. The aims of the study were to define the proportion of negative food challenge not followed by a normal diet, and to identify possible reasons for not reintroducing the food. Patients with a negative food challenge were sent a questionnaire by mail. Items in the questionnaire included the symptoms at diagnosis, the duration of the diet, the fear of an accidental reaction during the avoidance diet and how it influenced the social life. Patients were also asked if the food was reintroduced after the negative food challenge, and if not, for which reasons. In 25.4% of the questionnaires (18/71) respondents reported that the food was not reintroduced. Patients with a previous diagnosis of peanut allergy tended to reintroduce the food less frequently than patients allergic to other foods. Girls were found to significantly less frequently reintroduce the food than boys. However, neither the severity of the initial reaction, the anxiety of an accidental reaction during the avoidance diet, nor a prolonged avoidance diet did influence the decision to reintroduce the food. Among other reasons listed, fears of persistence of allergies, with recurrent pruritus or non‐specific skin rashes after eating the food, were reported in 12.7% of the total number of questionnaires. Patients who reintroduced the food reported that their social life generally improved. One quarter of previously allergic patients continue a food avoidance diet despite a negative challenge. We suggest reassessing food consumption in all patients after a negative food challenge, and in those still avoiding the specific food to consider a repeated challenge test.
Short‐term growth and adrenal function in children with asthma treated with inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate hydroflouroalkane‐134a
Authors: Wolthers O. D.
Published: September 2006

Inhaled beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP) with the propellant hydrofluroroalkane‐134a (HFA) has been designed to be equivalent in terms of safety to chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)‐formulated metered dose inhalers (MDI). The aim was to assess whether BDP HFA MDI 100 μg twice daily was equivalent to BDP CFC MDI 100 μg twice daily in terms of effects on short‐term lower leg growth rate (LLGR) and measures of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) function. The study consisted of a randomized double‐blind cross‐over trial with three active, a run‐in and two wash‐out periods each consisting of 2 wk. The place of study was a secondary referral outpatient clinic. The subjects involved were 14 boys and 10 girls with asthma, aged 7–12 yr. They were all administered BDP HFA 100 μg, BDP CFC 100 μg and 200 μg twice daily. The outcome measures included LLGR and 24‐h urine‐free cortisol (UFC) and total cortisol metabolites (TCM). Mean (SD) LLGR during run‐in and BDP HFA 100 μg, BDP CFC 100 μg and 200 μg twice daily periods were 0.43 (0.23), 0.09 (0.29), 0.10 (0.45) and 0.08 (0.27) mm/wk. The one‐sided 97.5% confidence interval for the difference in LLGR between BDP HFA 100 μg and BDP CFC 100 μg was 0.24, thus, below the predefined criterion of 0.20 mm/week. Inter‐period comparisons of active treatments showed no differences between means of LLGR, UFC or TCM. Though non‐inferiority between BDP HFA and CFC 100 μg twice daily in terms of effects on LLGR was not found, equivalence was suggested by comparisons of LLGR during run‐in and active treatments and by HPA function measures.
The unusual inheritance pattern of the courtship songs in closely related grasshopper species of the Chorthippus albomarginatus‐group (Orthoptera: Gomphocerinae)
Authors: VEDENINA V. YU. , PANYUTIN A. K. , VON HELVERSEN O.
Published: September 2006

Sibling species of the Chorthippus albomarginatus‐group are exceptional among all European grasshopper species because they have an extremely elaborate courtship behaviour. Here, we present a genetic analysis of the courtship song differences between two closely related grasshopper species Ch. albomarginatus and Ch. oschei. Measurements of seven courtship song characters and one parameter of courtship visual display were compared among parentals, F1 and F2 hybrids, and backcrosses. Variation in one morphological character, the number of stridulatory pegs, was studied as well. The distributions of song phenotypes were more consistent with a type‐III genetic architecture, which involves complementary or duplicate pairs of loci. We suggest that this type of architecture may provide the novel elements of the hybrid songs, even more complex than the parental ones, which may offer a new starting point for sexual selection. One parameter of the visual display appeared to be controlled by a single locus, but differences in other characters of visual display could be explained by a more complex inheritance pattern. Inheritance of the peg number differences was consistent with a simple polygenic additive model. Sex linkage and/or maternal effects were not detected for any trait. We found a disproportionate influence of the Ch. albomarginatus parent on most hybrid song characteristics and the visual display, and this may support a previously suggested idea that Ch. albomarginatus is an ancestral form and Ch. oschei is a derived species.
Adaptation of the rumen microbial population to native potato starch degradation determined with the gas production technique and the nylon bag technique
Authors: Cone J. W. , Van Gelder A. H.
Published: September 2006

Experiments were conducted to investigate the influence of the adaptation of rumen micro‐organisms on the degradation of native potato starch (PS) in the rumen. Cows were fed with rations used for gas production (GP) analysis (dry cows, 1.6% starch) and for the nylon bag (NB) technique (lactating cows, 23% starch, mainly maize starch) and a ration containing 19% native PS (lactating cows). Fermentation characteristics of 13 samples were investigated with the GP technique using rumen fluid from cows fed each of the three rations. The same samples were investigated with the NB technique in the cows obtaining the NB ration and the PS ration. The results showed that the rate of GP was influenced by the source of the rumen fluid. The fermentation rate of PS was considerably enhanced by using rumen fluid adapted to the fermentation of native PS instead of using the other rumen fluids. Incubating in cows fed the PS ration, the rate of PS degradation determined with the NB technique, was higher compared with cows fed other rations. Using the PS ration the observed lag period for PS was shorter. The results show a clear influence of ration on the degradation characteristics of starch, determined with both the GP technique and the NB technique. However, these changes in behaviour did not explain observed differences in amounts of rumen escape PS measuredin vivoin animal experiments andin situ, using the NB technique.
Effects of dietary energy intake and cold exposure on kinetics of plasma glucose metabolism in sheep
Authors: Sano H. , Sawada H. , Takenami A. , Oda S. , Al‐Mamun M.
Published: September 2006

An isotope dilution method using [U‐13C]glucose injection was applied to determine the effects of dietary energy intake and cold exposure on plasma glucose metabolism in sheep. The sheep were assigned to two dietary treatments and were fed on diets containing either 100% or 160% of ME and both containing 150% of dietary crude protein intake for maintenance. The sheep were exposed from a thermoneutral environment (23°C) to a cold environment (2–4°C) for 5 days. The isotope dilution method was performed on the 18th day in the thermoneutral environment and on the fifth day of cold exposure. Plasma concentrations of glucose and NEFA increased (p < 0.05) during cold exposure for both diets. Plasma glucose pool size remained unchanged (p = 0.67), but plasma glucose turnover rate tended to increase (p = 0.07) with increased energy intake. Both pool size and turnover rate of plasma glucose increased (p = 0.01 and p = 0.0001, respectively) during cold exposure. No significant diet × environment interaction was detected. It is concluded that plasma glucose metabolism was influenced by both dietary energy intake and cold exposure, and plasma glucose metabolism in response to cold exposure was not modified by energy intake in sheep under the conditions (2–4°C on the fifth day) of the present experiment.
Regional differences in the effects of various doses of cerulein upon the small‐intestinal migrating motor complex in fasted and non‐fasted sheep
Authors: Romański K. W.
Published: September 2006

There are no precise data concerning the effect of cerulein on the small‐intestinal migrating motor complex (MMC) in sheep. Thus, the effort was directed towards the elucidation of the role of cerulein, a cholecystokinin (CCK) amphibian analogue, in the regulation of MMC cycle in conscious fasted and non‐fasted sheep in various regions of the small intestine. In six sheep, equipped with bipolar electrodes in the entire small intestine and with one duodenal strain gauge force transducer in four of these animals, the continuous myoelectric and motor activity recordings were performed. During control period, two normal consecutive MMC cycles were recorded in fasted and non‐fasted animals and then cerulein was slowly injected at the dose 1 (during 30 s), 10 (during 30 s or 60 s) or 100 ng/kg (during 30 s, 60 s or 120 s) or infused at the dose 0.5 or 1.5 ng/kg/min during 60 min. After cerulein administration at least two consecutive MMC cycles were also recorded. It was found that cerulein in moderate and higher doses injected in both fasted and non‐fasted animals, especially during phase 2a or 2b MMC, inhibited phase 3 in the duodenum in at least one‐third of the experiments and significantly increased the MMC cycle duration. The application of 100 ng/kg of cerulein during 120 s in the course of phase 2b MMC prolonged cycle duration from 70 ± 21 to 113 ± 19 min (p < 0.05) or from 51 ± 18 to 113 ± 19 min (p < 0.01) in fasted and non‐fasted sheep respectively. The first phase 3 MMC arriving after cerulein administration at the highest dose was usually abnormal in approximately 60% of the experiments. The second phase 3 observed following the hormone injection was abnormal much less frequently and to the lesser extent. Furthermore, both cerulein doses significantly shortened the duration of phase 3 MMC either in fasted (from approximately 5.5–6.5 cpm to 4–5 cpm) or in non‐fasted sheep (from approximately 4.5–5.5 to 3–4.5 cpm). The effects of cerulein exhibited the dose–response character. They were more pronounced when cerulein was injected during phase 2b or 2a MMC when compared with phase 1 MMC. The effects of cerulein on the ileal MMC were less evident, although the inhibition of the ileal phase 3 in response to both higher injected doses was observed occasionally. Infusions of cerulein in non‐fasted sheep exerted similar effects as cerulein injections. It was stated that cerulein exerts marked regulatory effect upon the small‐intestinal MMC in sheep. Although it remains uncertain whether the efficient doses of cerulein used in the present study correspond to physiological or pharmacological doses of CCK it seems likely that most of these doses were physiological. Thus, it is concluded that cerulein participates in the control of MMC cycles in the digestive and interdigestive states in sheep. It is possible that CCK is a physiological regulator of the ovine small‐intestinal MMC.