bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular relationships between populations of South African citrus thrips (Scirtothrips aurantii Faure) in South Africa and Queensland, Australia
Authors: Morris David C , Mound Laurence A
Published: November 2004

Abstract  In response to the recent establishment of a population of South African citrus thrips (Scirtothrips aurantii Faure) in Australia, we used DNA sequence data to examine whether this population is distinct from populations in South Africa. Mitochondrial and internal transcribed spacer (ITS2) DNA from populations from different host plants in Australia and South Africa showed no clear separation between populations that was entirely congruent with host plant or country of origin. Analysis of the ITS2 data was confounded by the presence of multiple different copies of the spacer in some populations. Neither the presence or absence, nor the sequence of these copies was clearly diagnostic for any one population. These preliminary data suggest that the Australian population is not a distinct species or subspecies from the populations of S. aurantii on either citrus or Bryophyllum in South Africa.
Artefacts in oral incisional biopsies in general dental practice: a pathology audit
Authors: Seoane J , Varela‐Centelles PI , Ramírez JR , Cameselle‐Teijeiro J , Romero MA
Published: November 2004

Objectives:  To investigate the artefacts in oral biopsies taken by general dental practitioners (GDP) and oral and maxillofacial surgeons (O&MF) and to assess the concordance of clinical and pathological diagnoses.

Design:  Cross‐sectional investigation.

Setting:  Primary care and hospital practice.

Material and methods:  A total of 354 randomly selected oral biopsy samples studied by the same pathologist.

Main outcome measures:  Clinical and pathological diagnoses – prevalence and location of surgical handling artefacts: crush, splits, haemorrhage and fragmentation.

Results:  Artefacts identified in GDPs biopsies: crush 27.1%; haemorrhage 19.8%; splits 11.3%; and fragmentation 6.2%. O&MSs biopsies showed: crush 10.2%; splits 13%; fragmentation 2.3%; and haemorrhage 8.5%. No differences in split or fragmentation were identified between GDPs and O&MSs. Crush (χ2 = 16.76; P = 0.000) and haemorrhage (χ2 = 9.31; P = 0.003) were more frequently identified in GDPs biopsies. Concordance between clinical and pathological diagnoses was excellent ( > 0.75) for both groups in all disorders considered.

Conclusions:  The elicited clinical knowledge, the quality of the samples sent to the pathologists seem to suggest the advisability for the GDPs to perform diagnostic biopsies.
Dentine structure and mineralization in hypocalcified amelogenesis imperfecta: a quantitative X‐ray histochemical study
Authors: Sánchez‐Quevedo MC , Ceballos G , García JM , Luna JD , Rodríguez IA , Campos A
Published: November 2004

Objective:  This study was undertaken in order to establish the structural and mineralization pattern of the response of dentine to alterations in enamel in hypocalcified amelogenesis imperfecta (AI).

Design:  The images and data obtained with scanning electron microscopy and electron probe X‐ray microanalysis in enamel and dentine specimens from control and affected teeth were compared in this study.

Patients and methods:  We compared 46 fragments of permanent teeth from patients with clinically diagnosed hypocalcified AI and 20 normal permanent teeth. All specimens were prepared for electron probe X‐ray microanalysis.

Results:  Dentine is characterized by thickening of the peritubular dentine and partial obliteration of the dentinal tubules that does not give rise to a compact sclerotic cast. In dentine, calcium levels were significantly higher in teeth with clinically hypocalcified AI in relation with control teeth (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:  Dentine is affected in hypocalcified AI increasing mineralization (narrower tubules and higher content of calcium) in response to enamel disorder.
Analysing Perceived Downside Risk: the Component Value‐at‐Risk Framework
Authors: Hallerbach Winfried G. , Menkveld Albert J.
Published: November 2004

Multinational companies face increasing risks arising from external risk factors, e.g. exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, which they have learned to hedge using derivatives. However, despite increasing disclosure requirements, a firm's net risk profile may not be transparent to shareholders. We develop the ‘Component Value‐at‐Risk (VaR)’ framework for companies to identify the multi‐dimensional downside risk profile as perceived by shareholders. This framework allows for decomposing downside risk into components that are attributable to each of the underlying risk factors. The firm can compare this perceived VaR, including its composition and dynamics, to an internal VaR based on net exposures as it is known to the company. Any differences may lead to surprises at times of earnings announcements and thus constitute a litigation threat to the firm. It may reduce this information asymmetry through targeted communication efforts.
The Comovement of US and UK Stock Markets
Authors: Engsted Tom , Tanggaard Carsten
Published: November 2004

US and UK stock returns are highly positively correlated over the period 1918–99. Using VAR‐based variance decompositions, we investigate the nature of this comovement. Excess return innovations are decomposed into news about future dividends, real interest rates, and excess returns. We find that the latter news component is the most important in explaining stock return volatility in both the USA and the UK and that stock return news is highly correlated across countries. This is evidence against Beltratti and Shiller's (1993) finding that the comovement of US and UK stock markets can be explained in terms of a simple present value model. We interpret the comovement as indicating that equity premia in the two countries are hit by common real shocks.
Diversity and locus specificity of chicken MHC B class I sequences
Authors: Livant E. J. , Brigati J. R. , Ewald S. J.
Published: November 2004

The major histocompatibility complex B (MHC B) region in a standard haplotype of Leghorn chickens contains two closely linked class I loci, B‐FI and B‐FIV. Few sequences of B‐FI alleles are available, and therefore alleles of the two loci have not been compared with regard to sequence diversity or locus specificity. Here, we report eight new B‐Fα1/α2‐coding sequences from broiler chicken MHC B haplotypes, and a unique recombinant between the two B‐F loci. The new sequences were combined with existing B‐F sequences from Leghorn and broiler haplotypes for analysis. On the basis of phylogenetic analysis and conserved sequence motifs, B‐F sequences separated into two groups (Groups A and B), corresponding to B‐FIV and B‐FI locus, respectively. Every broiler haplotype had one B‐F sequence in Group A and the second B‐F sequence, if it existed, clustered in Group B. Group B (presumptive B‐FI locus) sequences identified in broiler haplotypes resembled the human MHC class I HLA‐C locus in their distinctive pattern of allelic polymorphism. Compared with B‐FIV, B‐FI alleles were less polymorphic and possessed a conserved locus‐specific motif in the α1 helix, but nevertheless demonstrated evidence of diversifying selection. One B‐FIα1/α2‐coding nucleotide sequence was completely conserved in four different broiler haplotypes, but each allele differed in the exon encoding the α3 domain.
Does routine child health surveillance contribute to the early detection of children with pervasive developmental disorders? – An epidemiological study in Kent, UK
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: November 2004

.
 
Tebreugge, M.,
Nandini, V. &
Ritchie, J.
(
2004
)

4
:

.
Available at: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471‐2431/4/4

Background  Recently changed guidelines for child health surveillance in the UK suggest targeted checks only, instead of the previously conducted routine or universal screening at 2 years and 3.5 years. There are concerns that these changes could lead to a delay in the detection of children with autism and other pervasive developmental disorders (PDD). Recent UK studies have suggested that the prevalence of PDD is much higher than previously estimated. This study establishes to which extent the routine checks contributed to the early detection and assessment of cases of PDD. Simultaneously we have evaluated the process involved and estimate the prevalence of PDD in our district.

Methods  Retrospective study design utilizing community medical files. Headteachers of schools (n = 75) within Maidstone district (Kent) were asked to report all children with an established diagnosis of autism or PDD attending year 4 (born in 1991 and 1992; n = 2536) in October 2000 based on educational records.

Results  Fifty‐nine schools (78.7%) took part in the study. A total of 33 children were reported. Twenty‐one fulfilled the inclusion criteria (12 falsely reported). The prevalences were (per 10 000): PDD 82.8 (male to female ratio 6 : 1), childhood autism 23.7, Asperger's syndrome 11.8 and autistic spectrum disorder 47.3. Coexisting medical conditions were noted in 14.3%; 52.4% were attending mainstream schools. In 63.2% of cases concerns – mainly in the area of speech and language development (SLD) – had been documented at the 2 years check. At the 3.5 years check concerns were noted in 94.1%– the main area was again SLD (76.5%), although behavioural abnormalities were becoming more frequent (47.1%). A total of 13 children (68.4%) were referred for further assessment as a direct result of the checks.

Conclusions  The prevalences for different types of PDD were similar to those published recently, but much higher than reported a few years ago. Analysis of our data suggests that routine surveillance is a valuable contributing factor for the early detection of PDD and thereby facilitates early intervention. Thus, if routine surveillance ceases, then an alternative method of early detection should be put in place.
Effects of lysed Enterococcus faecalis FK‐23 on allergen‐induced serum antibody responses and active cutaneous anaphylaxis in mice
Authors: Shimada T. , Cheng L. , Yamasaki A. , Ide M. , Motonaga C. , Yasueda H. , Enomoto K. , Enomoto T. , Shirakawa T.
Published: November 2004

Background
Our previous studies have presented evidence that lysed Enterococcus faecalis FK‐23 (LFK), a lysozyme and heat‐treated probiotic product, can inhibit allergen‐induced local accumulation of eosinophils in mice.

Objective
The purpose of this experimental study was to evaluate the influence of orally administrated LFK on the host immune responses.

Methods
BALB/c mice were sensitized subcutaneously, and challenged intraperitoneally by cedar pollen allergen. Blood and spleen samples were collected after oral administration of LFK 60 mg/day for 21 days. The serum levels of total and allergen‐specific IgE and IgG2a antibodies and the production of IL‐4, IL‐5 and IFN‐γ generated by allergen‐stimulated cultured splenocytes were determined. Additionally, the effect of LFK on active cutaneous anaphylaxis (ACA) induced by ovalbumin (OVA) challenge in mice was measured after 28 days LFK treatment.

Results
No significant differences in serum immunoglobulin levels, as well as in cytokine production of splenocytes were observed between LFK‐treated and control mice (P>0.05). There was, however, an increasing tendency of allergen‐specific IgG2a level in mice after LFK treatment for 21 days compared with controls (P=0.060). Furthermore, the serum ratio of specific IgE to IgG2a was found to be significantly decreased in the LFK group (P=0.005). In addition, a significant inhibition of OVA‐induced ACA reaction was observed in mice that had been fed for 28 days with LFK compared with control mice (P=0.008).

Conclusion
These results suggest that LFK shows an anti‐inflammatory effect, which may be part of the mechanism for protection against IgE‐mediated allergy.
Reversibility of airway inflammation and remodelling following cessation of antigenic challenge in a model of chronic asthma
Authors: Kumar R. K. , Herbert C. , Kasper M.
Published: November 2004

Background
Asthma is associated with recruitment of eosinophils, accumulation of chronic inflammatory cells in the airway walls, subepithelial fibrosis and other structural changes of airway wall remodelling. The role of ongoing exposure to allergens in their pathogenesis remains unclear.

Objective
To examine whether changes of inflammation and remodelling were reversible following cessation of antigenic challenge in a mouse model of chronic asthma.

Methods
BALB/c mice sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) were chronically challenged by inhalation of a low mass concentration of antigen for 8 weeks, leading to development of acute‐on‐chronic airway inflammation, subepithelial fibrosis and other changes of airway wall remodelling. Epithelial injury was assessed by immunohistochemistry, while inflammation and remodelling were quantified by appropriate histomorphometric techniques. Regression of lesions was assessed in animals examined at 1, 2 and 4 weeks after exposure to OVA ceased.

Results
We did not find evidence of airway epithelial injury in this model of low‐level chronic inhalational exposure to antigen. Persistence of the recruitment of eosinophils and chronic inflammatory cells in the airway walls was dependent on continuing antigenic challenge, as was persistence of mucous cell hyperplasia/metaplasia. Subepithelial fibrosis and epithelial hypertrophy exhibited delayed reversibility following cessation of exposure to antigen, possibly related to matrix‐associated accumulation of transforming growth factor‐β1.

Conclusion
In chronic asthma, low‐level antigenic challenge may be required to maintain the inflammatory response in the airway wall, but airway remodelling may persist in its absence.
Glutathione S‐transferase P1 gene polymorphism and air pollution as interactive risk factors for childhood asthma
Authors: Lee Y.‐L. , Lin Y.‐C. , Lee Y.‐C. , Wang J.‐Y. , Hsiue T.‐R. , Guo Y. L.
Published: November 2004

Background
Polymorphisms at the glutathione S‐transferase (GST) P1 locus were associated with asthma‐related phenotypes and bronchial hyper‐responsiveness.

Objective
This study investigated whether GSTP1 genotypes and outdoor air pollution were interactive risk factors on childhood asthma.

Methods
Four hundred and thirty‐six subjects were recruited for oral mucosa samplings from 2853 fourth‐ to ninth‐grade schoolchildren from three districts with different air pollution levels in southern Taiwan. PCR‐based assays were performed by oral mucosa DNA to determine GSTP1 genotypes. We also conducted a nested case–control study comprising 61 asthmatic children and 95 controls confirmed by International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire results and methacholine challenge test. Multiple logistic regression was used to adjust for potential confounding factors.

Results
All participants were homozygous at the Ala‐114 locus. Although only a marginally significant association existed between the frequency of homozygosity at the Ile‐105 locus and asthma when air pollution was not considered, we found a significant gene–environmental interaction between GSTP1–105 alleles and air pollution after adjusting for confounders (P=0.035). Specifically, we found that compared with participants carrying any Val‐105 allele in low air pollution, those who are Ile‐105 homozygotes in high air pollution district had a significantly increased risk of asthma (adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=5.52, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.64–21.25). Compared with participants carrying any Val‐105 allele, in high air pollution district, children with Ile‐105 homozygotes had a significantly increased risk of asthma (AOR=3.79, 95% CI=1.01–17.08), but those who carried two Ile‐105 alleles in low or moderate air pollution districts did not show similar tendencies. The risk of asthma also revealed a clear dose–response relationship with outdoor air pollution in children with Ile‐105 homozygotes.

Conclusion
Our result suggests a gene–environmental interaction between GSTP1–105 genotypes and outdoor air pollution on childhood asthma.
Characterization of cross‐reactive bell pepper allergens involved in the latex‐fruit syndrome
Authors: Wagner S. , Radauer C. , Hafner C. , Fuchs H. , Jensen‐Jarolim E. , Wüthrich B. , Scheiner O. , Breiteneder H.
Published: November 2004

Background
Between 30% and 50% of individuals who are allergic to latex products are also allergic to specific plant foods, a fact that is well documented as the latex‐fruit syndrome. Simultaneous sensitization to latex and bell pepper has been previously reported. Although bell pepper fruits are frequently consumed raw, cooked or as a spice, little is known about the cross‐reactive allergens.

Objective
In this study we wished to identify bell pepper allergens involved in the latex‐fruit syndrome.

Methods
Sera of four patients who displayed clinical symptoms to latex and bell pepper were used in immunoblot studies on protein extracts of three different cultivars of fresh bell pepper and fresh Hevea latex. Cross‐reactive allergens were identified by inhibition experiments using recombinant Hev b 8 (latex profilin), and natural Hev b 2 (latex β‐1,3‐glucanase) in addition to the protein extracts. A novel cross‐reactive IgE‐reactive 30 kDa protein was subjected to sequence analysis.

Results
Three patients displayed IgE to profilins from bell pepper fruits and latex. Two patients possessed IgE to Hev b 2, a latex β‐1,3‐glucanase, and a homologous protein in bell pepper. One patient possessed IgE reactive with a protein of 30 kDa identified by N‐terminal sequencing as an l‐ascorbate peroxidase and another patient to a protein of 38 kDa. Additionally, IgE binding proteins in two higher molecular weight ranges showed cross‐reactive capacities.

Conclusion
Our findings show on the molecular level that bell pepper is part of the latex‐fruit syndrome. For the first time we have identified the major latex allergen Hev b 2, a β‐1,3‐glucanase, and the bell pepper l‐ascorbate peroxidase as cross‐reactive allergens. We were also able to show that profilins are responsible for some of the IgE cross‐reactivity.
Immunoglobulin E reactivity of native Blo t 5, a major allergen of Blomia tropicalis
Authors: Yi F. C. , Chua K. Y. , Cheong N. , Shek L. P. , Lee B. W.
Published: November 2004

Background
Blo t 5 is a major allergen of Blomia tropicalis and its complementary DNA (cDNA) has been expressed in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic expression systems. Although the recombinant Blo t 5 has been well characterized, relatively less is known about its native counterparts and the allergenicity comparison of the native and recombinant Blo t 5 allergens has not been reported.

Objective
The aims of this study are to characterize the native counterpart of Blo t 5, and compare the allergenicity of native and recombinant Blo t 5 by in vivo and in vitro assays.

Methods
Native Blo t 5 were purified by immuno‐affinity chromatography and characterized by proteomic means. The allergenicity of the allergen was evaluated by skin prick tests, human IgE ELISA, ELISA inhibition and histamine release assays.

Results
Native Blo t 5 consists of at least five distinct isoforms, ranging from pI 3 to 5.5. Allergenicity assessment of recombinant and native Blo t 5 based on skin reaction, IgE‐binding capacity and histamine release in allergic individuals indicated that there was a good correlation between both forms of Blo t 5 in general. However, data from IgE ELISA inhibition assay revealed the presence of additional unique IgE epitopes in native Blo t 5.

Conclusions
At least five distinct isoforms of Blo t 5 have been identified. Comparative assessment of native and recombinant Blo t 5 revealed that the allergenicity of these two forms was similar but not completely identical suggesting that the various isoforms of native Blo t 5 may exhibit additional unique IgE epitopes.
Cry j 1 isoforms derived from Cryptomeria japonica trees have different binding properties to monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Goto Y. , Kondo T. , Ide T. , Yasueda H. , Kuramoto N. , Yamamoto K.
Published: November 2004

Background
We identified five Cryptomeria japonica trees producing Cry j 1 isoforms that cannot be detected in a sandwich ELISA using two monoclonal antibodies, J1B01 and J1B07, suggesting that the binding affinity of these isoforms for both monoclonal antibodies is low.

Objectives
The binding properties of the Cry j 1 isoforms produced by five trees to J1B07 and J1B01 were examined. The complementary DNA (cDNA) sequences of the Cry j 1 isoforms were also determined.

Methods
To clarify the binding properties of these Cry j 1 isoforms to J1B01 and J1B07, Cry j 1 was quantified in pollen samples collected from each of the five trees, by sandwich ELISAs using polyclonal antibodies and either J1B01 or J1B07. The cDNA sequences of isoforms with different binding properties were determined. To test the assumption that amino acid substitutions affect the binding affinities of Cry j 1 isoforms for monoclonal antibodies, cleaved amplified polymorphic sequences (CAPS) markers representing the putative polymorphisms were used to analyse additional trees.

Results
Four of the five trees produced Cry j 1 isoforms with extremely low binding affinity for J1B07, whereas the other tree produced two different isoforms with low binding affinity for either J1B01 or J1B07. Cry j 1‐encoding cDNA sequences for one of the four trees and for the exceptional fifth tree indicate that amino acid substitutions at positions 55 and 352 in mature Cry j 1 affect its binding to J1B01 and J1B07, respectively. This was supported by the results of CAPS analysis.

Conclusion
The existence of Cry j 1 isoforms with low binding affinity for either J1B01 or J1B07 was established. Furthermore, a single amino acid substitution is involved in this difference in binding affinity for each monoclonal antibody.
Differential expression of receptors for advanced glycation end-products in peritoneal mesothelial cells exposed to glucose degradation products
Authors: LAI K N , LEUNG J C K , CHAN L Y Y , LI F F K , TANG S C W , LAM M F , TSE K C , YIP T P , CHAN T M , WIESLANDER A , VLASSARA H
Published: November 2004

Autoclaving peritoneal dialysate fluid (PDF) degrades glucose into glucose degradation products (GDPs) that impair peritoneal mesothelial cell functions. While glycation processes leading to formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGE) were viewed commonly as being mediated by glucose present in the PDF, recent evidence indicates that certain GDPs are even more powerful inducers of AGE formation than glucose per se. In the present study, we examined the expression and modulation of AGE receptors on human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMC) cultured with GDPs, conventional PDF or PDF with low GDP content. HPMC cultured with GDPs differentially modulated AGE receptors (including RAGE, AGE–R1, AGE–R2 and AGE–R3) expression in a dose-dependent manner. At subtoxic concentrations, GDPs increased RAGE mRNA expression in HPMC. 2-furaldehyde (FurA), methylglyoxal (M-Glx) and 3,4-dideoxy-glucosone-3-Ene (3,4-DGE) increased the expression of AGE–R1 and RAGE, the receptors that are associated with toxic effects. These three GDPs up-regulated the AGE synthesis by cultured HPMC. In parallel, these GDPs also increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in HPMC. PDF with lower GDP content exerted less cytotoxic effect than traditional heat-sterilized PDF. Both PDF preparations up-regulated the protein expression of RAGE and VEGF. However, the up-regulation of VEGF in HPMC following 24-h culture with conventional PDF was higher than values from HPMC cultured with PDF containing low GDP. We have demonstrated, for the first time, that in addition to RAGE, other AGE receptors including AGE–R1, AGE–R2 and AGE–R3 are expressed on HPMC. Different GDPs exert differential regulation on the expression of these receptors on HPMC. The interactions between GDPs and AGE receptors may bear biological relevance to the intraperitoneal homeostasis and membrane integrity.
Cl– channels are expressed in human normal monocytes: a functional role in migration, adhesion and volume change
Authors: KIM M-J , CHENG G , AGRAWAL D K
Published: November 2004

Increased adhesion and diapedesis of monocytes appear to be primary initiating factors in the pathophysiology of occlusive vascular diseases, including atherosclerosis and restenosis. However, the underlying mechanisms of transendothelial migration and invasion of monocytes into the blood vessels are not known. Alterations in ion channels on the cell membrane are generally involved in induced changes in shape and volume. In the present study, we investigated the expression and functional role of chloride channels in freshly isolated human blood monocytes. The Cl– currents in whole-cells were measured by the patch-clamp technique. We observed whole cell Cl– currents, which were time-independent and outwardly rectifying. The chloride channel blockers 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid (NPPB) and R(+)-[(6,7-dichloro-2-cyclopentyl-2,3-dihydro-2-methyl-1-oxo-1H-inden-5yl)-oxy]acetic acid 94 (IAA94) attenuated the Cl– currents. NPPB and IAA94 also inhibited chemotaxis of monocytes, as measured in Boyden chemotactic chambers, with the same sensitivity. NPPB but not IAA94, increased the cell volume as measured by shape change, and decreased tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced monocyte adhesion to endothelial cells. These results suggest that monocytes contain Cl– channels which regulate transendothelial migration of monocytes, due presumably to an alteration in cell volume.
Bovine respiratory syncytial virus infection influences the impact ofα4- andβ2-integrin-mediated adhesion of peripheral blood neutrophils
Authors: SOETHOUT E C , ANTONIS A F G , ULFMAN L H , HOEK A , VAN DER MOST R G , MÜLLER K E , RUTTEN V P M G
Published: November 2004

Neutrophil migration into the airways and pulmonary tissue is a common finding in bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) infections. Although neutrophil trans-endothelial migration in general depends on β2-integrins, alternative integrins such as the α4-integrins have been implicated. In this study, rolling and firm adhesion of peripheral blood neutrophils isolated from healthy and BRSV-infected calves to tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α activated pulmonary endothelium was investigated under flow conditions in vitro. For neutrophils obtained from healthy animals, inhibition of the β2-integrin reduced firm adhesion to 63% and inhibition of α4-integrin to 73% compared with untreated controls. Inhibition of both integrins reduced firm adhesion to 25%. Rolling velocity, which is used as a parameter for integrin involvement in neutrophil rolling, increased 1·7-fold by blocking β2-integrin and was significantly augmented to 2·5-fold by blocking both α4- and β2-integrins. For neutrophils obtained from BRSV-infected animals, however, rolling velocities at 10 days after infection (p.i.) were not influenced by blocking adhesion of α4- and β2-integrins, indicating that these integrins did not support neutrophil rolling. In addition, the inhibition of firm adhesion by blocking both α4- and β2-integrins was reduced significantly 9 days post-infection, resulting in a residual 68% neutrophil binding at 9 days p.i. Non-blocked firm adherence was not reduced, indicating that binding was achieved by other mechanisms than through α4- and β2-integrins. These results demonstrate an important function for α4- and β2-integrins in rolling and firm adherence of bovine neutrophils, to TNF-α-activated endothelium and show the dynamic use of these integrins for adhesion and migration by neutrophils in the course of BRSV infection.
Significantly increased levels of mannose-binding lectin (MBL) in rheumatic heart disease: a beneficial role for MBL deficiency
Authors: SCHAFRANSKI M D , STIER A , NISIHARA R , MESSIAS-REASON I J T
Published: November 2004

Although mannose-binding lectin (MBL) is known to be involved in the primary defense against microorganisms, there are emerging lines of evidence for an active proinflammatory role for MBL in different chronic diseases. In this study we determined the circulating levels of MBL in patients with rheumatic heart disease (RHD). A total of 100 patients (77 women, 23 men; mean age 45·8 ± 11 years, range 19–76 years) with chronic RHD, and a previous diagnosis of rheumatic fever, were studied. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed in all patients to evaluate valvular heart disease. Ninety-nine healthy individuals matched for age, sex and ethnic origin were included as controls. MBL concentration was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and C3 and C4 levels by turbidimetry. MBL levels were significantly higher in patients with RHD than in healthy subjects (mean ± SEM: 3036·2 ± 298·9 ng/ml versus 1942·6 ± 185·5 ng/ml, P < 0·003). In addition, MBL deficiency was more prevalent in controls (17·1%) than in patients (9% P < 0·09). Concentrations of C4 were within the normal range (22·7 ± 0·8 mg/dl, normal: 10·0–40·0 mg/dl), while C3 concentrations were found to be elevated (109·2 ± 3·6 mg/dl, normal: 50·0–90·0 mg/dl). No correlation was observed between serum MBL levels and valve area or the type of surgical procedure. The significantly elevated circulating MBL levels in patients with RHD together with the greater prevalence of MBL deficiency in controls suggest that MBL may cause undesirable complement activation contributing to the pathogenesis of RHD.
Clinicopathological significance of borderline nuclear change – high grade dyskaryosis not excluded
Authors: Brodie C. , Kapur R. , Murray M. , Turner L. , Magee D. , Gibbons D.
Published: November 2004

During a recent discussion on classification of cervical cytology, the introduction of a ‘Borderline Nuclear Change – High Grade Dyskaryosis Not Excluded’ (BNCH) category was proposed. BNCH cases diagnosed prospectively were retrieved from laboratory records. Questionnaires were sent to referring practitioners regarding clinicopathological outcome. Cytopathological features resulting in the BNCH classification were recorded on slide review. A total of 103 reports on conventional cervical smears diagnosed as BNCH from 1999 to 2002 were retrieved, comprising 0.096% of 107 634 smears. Of 86/103 cases with clinical follow‐up, CIN2 or worse was present in 30 (35%); 15 (17%) showed a borderline/low‐grade abnormality and 41 (48%) were negative. No individual cytopathological feature was predictive of high‐grade disease on follow‐up. The yield of high‐grade abnormalities on follow‐up of BNCH supports the introduction of this terminology.
Total lipid extracts from characteristic soil horizons in a podzol profile
Authors: Naafs D. F. W. , Van Bergen P. F. , De Jong M. A. , Oonincx A. , De Leeuw J. W.
Published: November 2004

The podzolization process is studied through lipids in nine characteristic podzol horizons. Organic matter accumulates particularly with aluminium in the Bh horizon, while the hard, cemented Bs horizon below this is formed mainly by iron oxides. The low soil pH seems to have no great influence on the preservation of lipids as reflected by the absolute amounts present and the presence of bacterial lipid markers throughout the profile. Independent of soil pH, lipids accumulate in organically enriched horizons. Albeit, high molecular weight organic compounds accumulate to a relatively greater extent than lipids in these horizons. A lipid signal related to the aerial parts, i.e. leaves and flowers, of Calluna is observed only in the O horizon. This ‘n‐alkane, steroid and triterpenoids’ signal is quickly lost in the underlying Ah horizon due to (bacterial) oxidation. The other total lipid extracts obtained are dominated by root‐derived compounds. In subsoil horizons rich in organic matter, i.e. the Ahb and Bh horizons, root‐derived friedooleanan and steroid compounds dominate the total lipid signal. Degraded horizons, poor in organic matter, i.e. the E2, Bhs, Bs and B/C horizons, are dominated by C22 and C24ω‐hydroxy acids, long‐chain (> C20) n‐alkanoic acids with a strong even‐over‐odd predominance and C22 and C24n‐alkanols. Steroid and root‐derived triterpenoids with a friedooleanan structure have been removed from these horizons through degradation. Based on total organic carbon content and lipid composition, the formation of an E1 horizon has started, but is not yet complete. In the Ahb horizon, a contribution from buried vegetation to the total lipid signal is still present, although degradation and an input from roots have significantly altered the original signal. Overall, lipid data indicate that degradation (microbial oxidation) is an important process that should be taken into account, in addition to leaching, when describing podzolization processes in soils.
A transfer‐function method for analysing breakthrough data in the time domain of the transport process
Authors: Mojid M. A. , Rose D. A. , Wyseure G. C. L.
Published: November 2004

A transfer‐function method is proposed to determine transport parameters from solute breakthrough data. The method is based on the assumptions that a linear process governs the transport of solute through soil and that the soil is homogeneous. It needs breakthrough data at two different vertical locations from a pulse input of solute to the soil. The method predicts the response by convoluting the input with the transfer function in the time domain.

Solute breakthrough data were measured in unsaturated soil columns by time‐domain reflectometry (TDR). An experimental soil column was placed over a supporting column filled with sandy soil. A constant hanging water table, maintained in the lower column, created suction in the upper column and maintained unsaturated conditions. A solution of calcium chloride (CaCl2) was spread over the soil in the upper column during steady flow of water in the column. Resident concentrations of solute in terms of electrical conductivity were measured at two depths by TDR sensors.

We analysed breakthrough curves of CaCl2 in 81 experiments to determine the transport parameters in coarse sand, sandy loam soil and clay loam soil by the transfer‐function method. The transport parameters obtained were compared with those determined by the widely used deterministic equilibrium model of the CXTFIT program. The transfer‐function method provided a better fit between the measured and estimated breakthrough curves in almost all cases and resulted in stable values of the parameters. The method is robust against small errors in measurements. It is a mathematically sound and efficient method for analysing breakthrough data.
Calibrating soil respiration measures with a dynamic flux apparatus using artificial soil media of varying porosity
Authors: Butnor J.R. , Johnsen K.H.
Published: November 2004

Measurement of soil respiration to quantify ecosystem carbon cycling requires absolute, not relative, estimates of soil CO2 efflux. We describe a novel, automated efflux apparatus that can be used to test the accuracy of chamber‐based soil respiration measurements by generating known CO2 fluxes. Artificial soil is supported above an air‐filled footspace wherein the CO2 concentration is manipulated by mass flow controllers. The footspace is not pressurized so that the diffusion gradient between it and the air at the soil surface drives CO2 efflux. Chamber designs or measurement techniques can be affected by soil air volume, hence properties of the soil medium are critical. We characterized and utilized three artificial soils with diffusion coefficients ranging from 2.7 × 10−7 to 11.9 × 10−7 m2 s−1 and porosities of 0.26 to 0.46. Soil CO2 efflux rates were measured using a commercial dynamic closed‐chamber system (Li‐Cor 6400 photosynthesis system equipped with a 6400‐09 soil CO2 flux chamber). On the least porous soil, small underestimates (< 5%) of CO2 effluxes were observed, which increased as soil diffusivity and soil porosity increased, leading to underestimates as high as 25%. Differential measurement bias across media types illustrates the need for testing systems on several types of soil media.
Effects of glucose and rhizodeposits (with or without cysteine‐S) on immobilized‐35S, microbial biomass‐35S and arylsulphatase activity in a calcareous and an acid brown soil
Authors: Dedourge O. , Vong P.‐C. , Lasserre‐Joulin F. , Benizri E. , Guckert A.
Published: November 2004

Our aim was to study the effects of C (as glucose and artificial rhizodeposits) on S immobilization, in relation to microbial biomass‐S and soil arylsulphatase (ARS) activity, in contrasting soils (a calcareous and an acid brown soil). The glucose‐C and artificial rhizodeposit‐C with or without cysteine were added at six rates (0, 100, 200, 400, 600 and 800 mg kg−1 soil) to the two soils and then incubated with Na235SO4 for 1 week prior to analysis. The percentages of 35S immobilized increased when C as glucose and rhizodeposit (without cysteine) were added to both soils. With cysteine‐containing rhizodeposit, the percentages of 35S immobilized remained relatively stable (23.5% to 29.9%) in the calcareous soil, but decreased in the acid brown soil (52.7% to 31.5%). For both soils, cysteine‐containing rhizodeposit additions showed no significant correlation between immobilized‐35S and microbial biomass‐35S, suggesting that microorganisms immobilized cysteine‐S preferentially instead of 35S from the tracer (Na235SO4). In the calcareous soil, a positive and significant correlation was found between ARS activity and microbial biomass‐35S (r = 0.85, P < 0.05) when glucose was added. We also saw this correlation in the acid brown soil when rhizodeposit‐C without cysteine was added (r = 0.90, P < 0.05). Accordingly, the results showed the presence of extracellular arylsulphatase activity of 48.7 mg p‐nitrophenol kg−1 soil hour−1 in the calcareous soil and of 27.0 mg p‐nitrophenol kg−1 soil hour−1 in the acid brown soil.
Factors regulating diversity and abundance of fish communities in Pantanal lagoons, Brazil
Authors: Súarez Yzel Rondon , Petrere Miguel , Catella Agostinho Carlos
Published: November 2004

The factors effecting fish species richness, evenness and relative abundance in 19 floodplain lagoons in the Pantanal (Brazil) were examined. Richness and evenness were strongly correlated with the lagoon's: (i) isolation time from the main river; (ii) depth; and (iii) distance from the main river. Abundance of the five dominant fish species was correlated mainly with: (a) macrophyte cover; (b) the distance from the main river; and (c) piscivore abundance. These results suggest that the species select lagoons to avoid or minimize their confinement in inappropriate floodplain habitats. A combination of strategies, together with variations in the lagoon's connection period, determines the diversity and abundance of the fish species in the Nhecolândia Pantanal.
Gear‐based management of a tropical artisanal fishery based on species selectivity and capture size
Authors: McClanahan T. R. , Mangi S. C.
Published: November 2004

The population density, species composition and lengths of fish landed by artisanal fishermen using six types of gear: large and small traps, gill nets, hand lines, spears and beach seines were studied in the multi‐species fishery of southern Kenya. Selectivity and catch composition among gears were determined by studying the species richness, diversity, size and mean trophic level of the catches for each gear type, to develop gear‐based management recommendations for this artisanal reef lagoon fishery. One hundred and sixty‐three reef and reef‐associated species from 37 families were recorded in the catch. Beach seines and small traps accounted for the highest number of fish landed (34–35 individuals per fisherman per day). These gears also caught smaller fish than big traps, spears and gill nets. Beach seines caught the highest number of species (14 ± 7 species per day) while most other gears caught four to five species per day with no differences between gears. Predatory species with a mean trophic level of 3.6 dominated catches from hand lines, while the mean trophic level of the other gears was low and ranged from 2.6 to 2.9 with no differences between the gears. The high diversity and small size of fish caught in beach seines indicates that its selectivity overlapped most with large traps and gill nets. Spears and small traps also showed high similarity in species selectivity and small traps captured the smaller mean size of fish, indicating that they are likely to pre‐empt the resource of spears. Large traps, hand lines and spears catch the largest individuals and the species composition of the catch differed sufficiently such that their selectivity should overlap the least and may, therefore, be the preferred mix of gears. The elimination or reduction of beach seines and small traps should reduce the catch of small fish and overlap in selectivity among the existing gears.
Age‐specific patterns in density‐dependent growth of white crappie, Pomoxis annularis
Authors: Pope K. L. , Wilde G. R. , Durham B. W.
Published: November 2004

The relationship between growth in white crappie, Pomoxis annularis Rafinesque, and climate, lake morphometry and population density was studied in 103 Texas reservoirs. Growth of age‐0 through age‐3 white crappie was significantly (P≤0.05) related to latitude, growing season and surface area. Growth of age‐1 through age‐5 white crappie also was related to annual precipitation. Multiple linear regression models with precipitation and mean catch per unit effort (CPUE) of white crappie as independent variables explained 14–22% of the variation in growth of age‐0, ‐1 and ‐2 white crappie. By contrast, growth of age‐3, ‐4 and ‐5 white crappie was unrelated to CPUE. Apparently, between age 2 and 3, the density of white crappie in Texas reservoirs falls below a density‐dependent growth threshold beyond which growth is no longer related to density. This density‐dependent threshold was most likely related to angler harvest of larger, older white crappie.
Temperature and depth associations of porbeagle shark (Lamna nasus) in the northwest Atlantic
Authors: Campana S. E. , Joyce W. N.
Published: November 2004

The porbeagle (Lamna nasus) is a large fast‐swimming pelagic shark found at high latitudes in both hemispheres. To examine the influence of temperature on porbeagle distribution, a detailed analysis of the relationship between catch rate, temperature, depth and location was carried out based on 420 temperature profiles taken during commercial fishing operations. More than half of the porbeagle were caught at temperatures of 5–10°C (at the depth of the hook); the mean temperature at gear of 7.4°C differed very little among seasons. Most of the spring fishing took place near fronts, although the affinity with fronts was not evident in the fall. Temperature at depth was a significant modifier of catch rate when included in a generalized linear model controlling for the effects of location, fishing vessel, month and year. However, sea surface temperature was a poor predictor of catch rate. The similarity between environmental and catch‐weighted cumulative distribution functions confirmed suggestions that fishers sought out the most appropriate temperature range in which to set their gear. As porbeagle are among the most cold tolerant of pelagic shark species, we suggest that they have evolved to take advantage of their thermoregulating capability by allowing them to seek out and feed on abundant coldwater prey in the absence of non‐thermoregulating competitors.
Thermal habitat experienced by Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) kelts in coastal Newfoundland waters
Authors: Reddin David G. , Friedland Kevin D. , Downton Peter , Brian Dempson J. , Mullins Conrad C.
Published: November 2004

Thermal habitat was recorded by data storage tags (DSTs) applied to Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) kelts during their seaward migration in the spring of 1998 at enumeration facilities in Highlands River, Humber River, Western Arm Brook, and Campbellton River, Newfoundland. In total, 139 DSTs were applied and data were downloaded from eleven of the recovered tags. The recovered tags had been applied at Highlands, Campbellton and Western Arm rivers and recovered in the coastal waters of Newfoundland and Québec and at the enumeration facilities at Highlands and Campbellton rivers. Water temperatures experienced by the fish were recorded for periods of 62–118 days at resolutions of 15–30 min. The data from the sea record on the DSTs were analysed for temperature patterns in relation to migration behaviour and diurnal movement of the fish. A variety of patterns were exhibited on the temperature records suggesting that the fish were behaving in various ways at different times. For Campbellton and Highlands fish over the course of some 24 h periods, night‐time temperatures changed little and were among the highest daily temperatures experienced by the fish, whereas daytime temperatures often showed dramatic and frequent shifts in temperature presumably as the fish rapidly and frequently changed depth. For the Western Arm Brook fish, rapid fluctuations in temperature occurred sometimes during the day and night without a consistent diurnal pattern. We also considered large‐scale aspects of the data by examining oceanographic conditions in relation to the temperatures recorded by the tags.
Studying spatial and temporal dynamics of sward structure at low stocking densities: the use of an extended rising‐plate‐meter method
Authors: Correll O. , Isselstein J. , Pavlu V.
Published: November 2004

An extended rising‐plate‐meter method was used to study the spatial and temporal variability of the sward structure of extensively managed pastures over a grazing season. Two treatments of a long‐term grazing experiment with heifers were investigated: extensive continuous grazing (EG) with a target sward height of 10 cm and intensive continuous grazing (IG) with a target sward height of 5 cm. Compressed sward height and related herbage mass (HM), dominant plant species and stage of development of phenology were determined at weekly or twice weekly intervals at fixed measuring points. The results demonstrated a strong variability in sward height and HM, especially on the EG treatment. The botanical composition of the standing herbage differed between treatments and between patches of different heights within the same treatment. In areas with a short sward, the herbage was predominantly composed of Agrostis capillaris, Festuca rubra and Trifolium repens. It was more evenly composed and also included taller growing species, such as Alopecurus pratensis and Galium mollugo, in areas with a tall sward. The area potentially available for reproductive development was high in the EG treatment and low in the IG treatment. The method employed proved suitable to provide a detailed description of the dynamics of the sward structure.