bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Emotion‐Based Model of Risk Perception and Stigma Susceptibility: Cognitive Appraisals of Emotion, Affective Reactivity, Worldviews, and Risk Perceptions in the Generation of Technological Stigma†
Authors: Peters Ellen M. , Burraston Burt , Mertz C. K.
Published: November 2004

A study(N= 198)was conducted to examine hypotheses derived from an emotion‐based model of stigma responses to radiation sources. A model ofstigma susceptibilityis proposed in which affective reactions and cognitive worldviews activate predispositions to appraise and experience events in systematic ways that result in the generation of negative emotion, risk perceptions, and stigma responses. Results of structural equation modeling supported the hypotheses. Radiation sources that scored higher on a measure of stigma were included in the analyses (i.e., nuclear power plants, radioactive waste from nuclear power plants, radiation from nuclear weapons testing). Individual differences in negative reactivity and worldviews were associated with the strength of emotional appraisals that were associated, in turn, with negative emotion toward stigmatized radiation sources. As hypothesized, the model fit better with perceived risk as a function of negative emotion rather thanvice versa. Finally, a measure of stigma was associated with negative emotion and, to a lesser extent, with risk perceptions. Risk communication about stigmatized objects may benefit from a more complete understanding of how affective and emotional reactions are constructed and the routes through which they affect responses and behaviors.
Elicitation of Both CD4+ and CD8+ T‐Cell‐Mediated Specific Immune Responses to HCA587 Protein by Autologous Dendritic Cells
Authors: Li B. , He X. , Pang X. , Zhang H. , Chen J. , Chen W.
Published: November 2004

We recently cloned a new member of cancer/testis antigen named HCA587, which was highly expressed in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues. To investigate it as a potential tumour‐specific target for immunotherapy, the immunogenicity of this protein, especially the ability to induce specific cellular immune responses, was evaluated in the present study. As dendritic cells (DC) are the most potent antigen‐presenting cells, DC‐based vaccination has recently shown marked promise for the treatment of human malignancies by immunological intervention. Here, we demonstrate that autologous DC loaded with HCA587 protein could induce specific T‐cell responses in healthy individuals by in vitro stimulations. Enzyme‐linked immunospot analysis for interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) secretion demonstrated HCA587‐specific CD8+ T cells in the antigen‐stimulated peripheral blood lymphocytes, and the analysis of CD4+ T cells by proliferation assay also showed antigen‐specific reactivities in normal donors. Two‐colour flow cytometric analysis of surface markers and intracellular cytokine expression demonstrated that HCA587‐specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes exhibited a heterogeneous CD8+/CD56+ expression, and a striking T‐helper 1 cytokine bias (IFN‐γhigh/IL‐4low) was observed for both CD4+ and CD8+ HCA587‐specific lymphocyte populations. We conclude that HCA587 is a potent immunogen that can induce CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell‐mediated specific immune responses, and these findings propose HCA587 as a good candidate for the development of a therapeutic protein‐based DC tumour vaccine for the treatment of HCC patients.
Host‐Dependent Serum Specificity to the V3 Domain of HIV‐1
Authors: Nabatov A. A. , Masharsky A. E. , Verevochkin S. V. , Emelyanov A. V. , Kozlov A. P.
Published: November 2004

The previous studies of anti‐HIV‐1 humoral immune response have found the stable individual structural bias in the antibody production that reflects the changes in the immune functional network caused by HIV‐1. The correlation between antigen structure, in particular the V3 domain of HIV‐1, and the serum specificity to the structure remains unclear. To clarify the role of host individual factors in the serum specificity, we used the slightly modified HIV‐1 serotyping methodological approach for the sera of the patients infected with HIV‐1 with a different level of genetic similarity. Substantial discrepancy between serum specificities and antigen structure was found. Patients infected with HIV‐1 carrying similar and identical V3 sequences had significantly different serum specificities. The opposite situation was often observed as well. The results of the study suggest that the influence of the V3 loop structure in the development of humoral immune response to the V3 loop is substantially modified in a patient‐specific manner.
Release of TNF‐α From In Vitro‐Stimulated Monocytes is Negatively Associated with Serum Levels of Apolipoprotein B in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Zykova S. N. , Svartberg J. , Seljelid R. , Iversen H. , Lund Å. , Svistounov D. N. , Jenssen T. G.
Published: November 2004

Impaired course of inflammation is a likely mechanism behind a number of diabetic complications. The present study was undertaken to investigate lipopolysaccharide‐induced production of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α in monocytes from patients with type 2 diabetes and to assess its relationship with diabetes‐associated metabolic abnormalities. Monocytic TNF‐α mRNA production was lower in the diabetic participants compared to their corresponding controls. Diabetic subjects who had been receiving simvastatin treatment had TNF‐α mRNA production similar to that of the healthy participants. The release of TNF‐α from diabetic cells correlated negatively with serum levels of apolipoprotein B (apoB) (R = −0.755, P = 0.001), total plasma cholesterol (R = − 0.702, P = 0.002) and the presence of retinopathy (R = −0.572, P = 0.021). No such associations were found in the control subjects. In a multiple linear regression model, only the level of apoB and diabetes duration demonstrated significant effects on the release of TNF‐α, with apoB alone accounting for 57% of the variation. We conclude that production of TNF‐α mRNA in response to the bacterial stimulant is compromised in poorly controlled type 2 diabetes. Lipid abnormalities are associated with the observed defect. Impaired cytokine production represents a significant defect in the functioning of the immune system and may contribute to aberrations in the course of inflammation in the diabetic state.
Stock Market Valuation of Deferred Tax Assets: Evidence from Internet Firms
Authors: Bauman Mark P. , Das Somnath
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  We use the provisions of SFAS No. 109, Accounting for Income Taxes, to examine the extent to which stock prices of Internet firms were associated with expectations of future profitability before versus after the ‘market correction’ in early 2000. We find that the valuation of deferred tax assets of firms with business models reliant on the level of web site traffic was significantly greater after the market correction. In our view, this evidence is consistent with pre‐correction mispricing.
Who Owns Ideas? An Investigation of Employees’ Beliefs about the Legal Ownership of Ideas
Authors: Hannah David R.
Published: November 2004

When employees believe that they, and not their employers, have legal ownership of ideas, they may choose to keep their ideas from employers, thereby hindering their employers’ ability to produce new products and services. This research used a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods in order to investigate what factors influence employees’ beliefs about who legally owns ideas. The major findings were as follows. Employees’ beliefs about who owns ideas are influenced directly by employees’ beliefs about the strength of their own legal claim to ideas and the strength of the competing legal claim of their employers. Those two variables are in turn influenced by factors that are specific to each idea, including the degree of employer involvement in the origins of ideas and the nature of the ideas; and by general factors including employees’ beliefs about their job responsibilities and their familiarity with pertinent organizational procedures. Employers should try to strengthen their legal claims to ideas by ensuring they are involved when ideas are originally generated, by socializing employees to believe that their job responsibilities include assigning ownership of ideas to employers, and by ensuring that employees are familiar with relevant organizational procedures.
Rat models of skin wound healing: A review
Authors: Dorsett‐Martin Wanda A.
Published: November 2004

Rats have been widely used in the study of skin wound healing and the efficacy of different treatment modalities. This particular animal species is often selected for its availability, low cost, and small size. To define the current use of rat skin wound healing models, this manuscript provides a review of articles published between 2000 and 2003 that chose rats as their research animals. Of the 55 articles reviewed, it was found that 38.2% of the studies used incisional models and 38.2% used excisional models, with some studies using combinations. The majority of the studies (78.2%) used the rat's dorsum as the wound location. Male Sprague Dawley in the 250–300 gram weight range were the most preferred rats. Sodium pentobarbital/pentobarbitone was the most commonly used anesthetic choice. Similarities and differences in the selected experimental conditions are noted and questions are raised with regard to comparability between studies and the ability to transfer the data from the animal model to the human clinical situation. Attempts to compare studies for the advancement of wound healing knowledge are being hampered by the differences found between the studies. Standardization in reporting could facilitate comparisons and may instigate additional research that favors the inevitable comparisons between the studies. Thus, universal reporting requirements need to be developed for animal wound healing studies.
Expression of Δ12 fatty acid desaturase during the induced accumulation of the antifungal diene in avocado fruits
Authors: WANG XUEJUN , BENO‐MOUALEM DELILA , KOBILER ILANA , LEIKIN‐FRENKEL ALICIA , LICHTER AMNON , PRUSKY DOV
Published: November 2004

The preformed (Z,Z)‐1‐acetoxy‐2‐hydroxy‐4‐oxo‐heneicosa‐12,15‐diene (AFD) is the most active antifungal compound in avocado; it affects the quiescence of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides in unripe fruit. One of the genes encoding Δ12 fatty acid desaturase (avfad12) was hypothesized to take part in the biosynthesis of AFD, and its expression pattern and enzymatic activity were determined in relation to the content of AFD. Using avfad12‐3 as a probe, high levels of expression were detected in young fruits and leaves, where the level of AFD was highest. In contrast, Northern analysis of RNA from mature leaves and fruits showed no transcripts from the avfad12 gene family and lower AFD content. The transcripts from the avfad12 gene family, the enzymatic activity of Δ12 fatty acid desaturase, and the level of AFD in unripe‐resistant fruits increased transiently when the fruits were inoculated with C. gloeosporioides or exposed to ethylene (40 µL/L), low temperature (4 °C) or 1 mm H2O2, but ripe fruits were not affected. The effect of H2O2 on the transcripts from the avfad12 gene family is of specific importance, because reactive oxygen species were produced by unripe‐resistant host fruit soon after inoculation of C. gloeosporioides. In addition, the fungus itself produced H2O2 in culture medium at pH 5.0, which is similar to the pH of unripe‐resistant fruit, but not at pH 7.0. Treatments that enhanced Δ12 fatty acid desaturase activity increased the concentration of the AFD precursor, linoleic acid, and its incorporation into AFD; these treatments also caused a delay in decay development. The present results demonstrate temporal relationships among the transcripts from the avfad12 gene family, the synthesis of the precursor of AFD (linoleic acid), the AFD content and quiescence of C. gloeosporioides in unripe fruits.
Blumeria graminis secretes an extracellular catalase during infection of barley: potential role in suppression of host defence
Authors: ZHANG ZIGUO , HENDERSON CATHERINE , GURR SARAH JANE
Published: November 2004

The obligate biotrophic fungal pathogen of barley, Blumeria graminis f.sp. hordei (Bgh), elicits a burst of H2O2 in its host barley at sites of germ tube invasion. To evaluate whether this specialized pathogen has any antioxidant response to this oxidative burst, the Bgh catB gene was characterized and transcript‐profiled together with other genes implicated in the management of oxidative stress (catalase‐peroxidase, cpx; glutathione peroxidase, gpx; superoxide dismutase, sod1) and in comparison with the constitutively expressed Bghβ‐tubulin and elongation factor1 (ef1) genes. Gel‐based and real‐time RT‐PCR revealed enhanced numbers of catB transcripts at mature primary germ tube and appressorium germ tube (AGT) stages in a susceptible host. Moreover, an anti‐CATB polyclonal antibody, from Aspergillus fumigatus, which recognizes both native and recombinant Bgh CATB, revealed an intense circle of immunofluorescence at the host–pathogen interface at the AGT tip and within the halo area surrounding the host papilla. A new diaminobenzidine‐based ‘scavenger’ assay revealed areas of H2O2 clearing at sites of fungal invasion, provoking speculation that Bgh catalase activity may contribute to pathogenicity in Bgh.
The generational transmission of socioeconomic inequalities in child cognitive development and emotional health
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: November 2004

.
 
Najman, J.M.,
Aird, R.,
Bor, W.,
O'Callaghan, M.,
Williams, G.M. &
Shuttlewood, G.J.
(
2004
)

58
,
1147
–
1158
.

Socio‐economic inequalities in the health of adults have been largely attributed to lifestyle inequalities. The cognitive development (CD) and emotional health (EH) of the child provides a basis for many of the health‐related behaviours which are observed in adulthood. There has been relatively little attention paid to the way CD and EH are transmitted in the fetal and childhood periods, even though these provide a foundation for subsequent socio‐economic inequalities in adult health.

The Mater‐University of Queensland Study of Pregnancy (MUSP) is a large, prospective, pre‐birth cohort study which enrolled 8556 pregnant women at their first clinic visit over the period 1981–83. These mothers (and their children) have been followed up at intervals until 14 years after the birth.

The socio‐economic status of the child was measured using maternal age, family income, and marital status and the grandfathers’ occupational status. Measures of child CD and child EH were obtained at 5 and 14 years of age. Child smoking at 14 years of age was also determined.

Family income was related to all measures of child CD and EH and smoking, independently of all other indicators of the socio‐economic status of the child. In addition, the grandfathers’ occupational status was independently related to child CD (at 5 and 14 years of age). Children from socio‐economically disadvantaged families (previous generations’ socio‐economic status as well as current socio‐economic status) begin their lives with a poorer platform of health and a reduced capacity to benefit from the economic and social advances experienced by the rest of society
Age at first measles‐mumps‐rubella vaccination in children with autism and school‐matched control subjects: a population‐based study in metropolitan Atlanta
Authors: Reading Richard
Published: November 2004

.
 
DeStefano, F.,
Karapurkar Bhasin, T.,
Thompson, W.T.,
Yeargin‐Allsopp, M. &
Boyle, C.
(
2004
)

113
,
259
–
266
.

Objective  To compare ages at first measles‐mumps‐rubella (MMR) vaccination between children with autism and children who did not have autism in the total population and in selected subgroups, including children with regression in development.

Methods  A case–control study was conducted in metropolitan Atlanta. Case children (n = 624) were identified from multiple sources and matched to control children (n = 1824) on age, gender and school. Vaccination data were abstracted from immunization forms required for school entry. Records of children who were born in Georgia were linked to Georgia birth certificates for information on maternal and birth factors. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs).

Results  The overall distribution of ages at MMR vaccination among children with autism was similar to that of matched control children; most case (70.5%) and control children (67.5%) were vaccinated between 12 and 17 months of age. Similar proportions of case and control children had been vaccinated before 18 or before 24 months. No significant associations for either of these age cut‐offs were found for specific case subgroups, including those with evidence of developmental regression. More case (93.4%) than control children (90.6%) were vaccinated before 36 months [OR 1.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–2.14 in the total sample; OR 1.23, 95% CI 0.64–2.36 in the birth certificate sample). This association was strongest in the 3–5 years age group.

Conclusions  Similar proportions of case and control children were vaccinated by the recommended age or shortly after (i.e. before 18 months) and before the age by which atypical development is usually recognized in children with autism (i.e. 24 months). Vaccination before 36 months was more common among case children than control children, especially among children 3–5 years of age, likely to reflect immunization requirements for enrolment in early intervention programmes.
Autoantibodies to a collagen-specific molecular chaperone, heat-shock protein 47, in systemic sclerosis
Authors: FUJIMOTO M , HAMAGUCHI Y , YAZAWA N , KOMURA K , TAKEHARA K , SATO S
Published: November 2004

Heat-shock proteins are highly conserved and immunogenic proteins, which may be involved in the initiation and perpetuation of autoimmune diseases. Heat-shock protein 47 (HSP47) is expressed by collagen-secreting cells such as fibroblasts and serves as a collagen-specific molecular chaperone that plays a crucial role in collagen metabolism. Abnormal collagen accumulation and autoimmunity are characteristics of systemic sclerosis (SSc). We determined the presence and prevalence of autoantibodies to HSP47 in patients with SSc and also in tight-skin (TSK/+) mice, an animal model for SSc. Anti-HSP47 autoantibodies were present in SSc patients with a frequency of 26%, while patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, those with dermatomyositis, those with keloid and healthy subjects did not have anti-HSP47 antibodies. IgG1 and IgG2 were the major Ig isotypes of the autoantibodies. Patients positive for anti-HSP47 had a significantly shorter duration of disease than those who were negative. Anti-HSP47 autoantibodies were also positive in 79% of TSK/+ mice. Thus, autoantobodies to HSP47 were present in the sera from SSc patients as well as those from TSK mice, and may be associated with the pathogenesis of SSc.
Cellular and humoral immune responses to mycobacterial heat shock protein-65 and its human homologue in Takayasu's arteritis
Authors: KUMAR CHAUHAN S , KUMAR TRIPATHY N , SINHA N , SINGH M , NITYANAND S
Published: November 2004

Expression of heat shock protein (HSP)-65 as well as infiltration of T-cells in arterial lesions and raised levels of circulating antibodies against mycobacterial HSP65 (mHSP65) led us to the concept that mHSP65 or its human homologue (hHSP60) might be involved in the etiopathogenesis of Takayasu's arteritis (TA). Therefore, we investigated mHSP65 and hHSP60 reactive peripheral blood T-cell subsets by BrdU incorporation assay and flow cytometry as well as investigating the different isotypes of anti-mHSP65 and hHSP60 antibodies by ELISA. Eighty-four percent (22/26) of the TA patients were observed to show T-cell proliferation to mHSP65 and hHSP60 whereas only 16% (3/18) healthy controls showed such proliferation (P < 0·001). Both HSPs induced proliferation of exclusively CD4+ T-cells and not CD8+ T-cells. We also observed a significantly higher prevalence of only the IgG isotype reactive to mHSP65 and hHSP60 in TA as compared to HC (mHSP65: 92% TA versus 11% HC, P < 0·0001 and hHSP60: 84% versus 22%, P < 0·001). Our data show a significant correlation between mHSP65 and hHSP60 reactive T-cells (CD3+: r = 0·901; CD4+: r = 0·968) as well as anti-mHSP65 and anti-hHSP60 IgG antibodies (r = 0·814) suggesting an infection induced autoimmunity in TA, possibly induced by molecular mimicry between mHSP65 and hHSP60 or other tissue specific antigens.
Blockade of the C5a receptor fails to protect against experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in rats
Authors: MORGAN B P , GRIFFITHS M , KHANOM H , TAYLOR S M , NEAL J W
Published: November 2004

Complement activation contributes to inflammation and tissue damage in human demyelinating diseases and in rodent models of demyelination. Inhibitors of complement activation ameliorate disease in the rat model antibody-dependent experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and rats unable to generate the membrane attack complex of complement develop inflammation without demyelination. The role of the highly active chemotactic and anaphylactic complement-derived peptide C5a in driving inflammation and pathology in rodent models of demyelination has been little explored. Here we have used a small molecule C5a receptor antagonist, AcF-[OPdChaWR], to examine the effects of C5a receptor blockade in rat models of brain inflammation and demyelination. C5a receptor antagonist therapy completely blocked neutrophil response to C5a in vivo but had no effect on clinical disease or resultant pathology in either inflammatory or demyelinating rat models. We conclude that C5a is not required for disease induction or perpetuation in these strongly complement-dependent disease models.
Three‐dimensional crack monitoring by electrical resistivity measurement
Authors: Samouëlian A. , Richard G. , Cousin I. , Guérin R. , Bruand A. , Tabbagh A.
Published: November 2004

Soil cracks formed by natural processes play a key role in water and gas transfer. Patterns of soil cracks are, however, difficult to characterize. Our aim here is to assess the effectiveness of three‐dimensional electrical resistivity surveys in detecting soil crack networks. A three‐dimensional electrical survey was carried out by a square array quadripole with Cu–CuSO4 electrodes (electrode spacing of 3 cm). The measurements were made with two orientations (0° and 90°) on a block (26 cm × 30 cm × 40 cm) of soil while it dried for 18 days under controlled conditions. Two indexes, calculated from the apparent resistivity values, were evaluated to detect the degree of soil heterogeneity: (i) an anisotropy index based on the ratio between the apparent resistivity at 0° and that at 90°; and (ii) the angle‐array orientation corresponding to the preferential anisotropic orientation (maximum resistivity). The anisotropy index provided information on the presence of cracks and the orientation for crack width > 1 mm in the first pseudo‐depth (i.e. depth of investigation), while the angle‐array orientation provided information on crack extension for the whole pseudo‐depth. Information about the presence, position, orientation and extension of cracks can be obtained from an analysis of apparent resistivity obtained by a three‐dimensional electrical survey. Such direct analysis will help the resistivity inversion to detect the crack network.
Model‐based analysis using REML for inference from systematically sampled data on soil
Authors: Lark R. M. , Cullis B. R.
Published: November 2004

The general linear model encompasses statistical methods such as regression and analysis of variance (anova) which are commonly used by soil scientists. The standard ordinary least squares (OLS) method for estimating the parameters of the general linear model is a design‐based method that requires that the data have been collected according to an appropriate randomized sample design. Soil data are often obtained by systematic sampling on transects or grids, so OLS methods are not appropriate.

Parameters of the general linear model can be estimated from systematically sampled data by model‐based methods. Parameters of a model of the covariance structure of the error are estimated, then used to estimate the remaining parameters of the model with known variance. Residual maximum likelihood (REML) is the best way to estimate the variance parameters since it is unbiased. We present the REML solution to this problem. We then demonstrate how REML can be used to estimate parameters for regression andanova‐type models using data from two systematic surveys of soil.

We compare an efficient, gradient‐based implementation of REML (ASReml) with an implementation that uses simulated annealing. In general the results were very similar; where they differed the error covariance model had a spherical variogram function which can have local optima in its likelihood function. The simulated annealing results were better than the gradient method in this case because simulated annealing is good at escaping local optima.
Effects of Neotyphodium endophytes on growth, reproduction and drought‐stress tolerance of three Lolium perenne L. genotypes
Authors: Hesse U. , Schöberlein W. , Wittenmayer L. , Förster K. , Warnstorff K. , Diepenbrock W. , Merbach W.
Published: November 2004

Three Lolium perenne L. genotypes collected from different natural habitats were tested for the effects of their fungal endophyte Neotyphodium spp. on plant growth and seed yield. Half the clones of the originally infected plants were subjected to fungicide treatment to eradicate the endophytes. In an experiment, the clones were planted separately into pots and were either watered adequately or subjected to drought stress. In the genotype collected from a dry site, the endophyte infection reduced plant growth at an adequate water supply, but increased regrowth under drought. In the genotype from a periodically either flooded or dry site, endophyte infection significantly promoted the development of reproductive tillers and seed production (effects which are associated with adaptation to drought). In contrast, the genotype that originated from a wet site showed higher sensitivity to drought stress when endophyte infection was present. The results suggest that environmental conditions in the original habitat of the plants may influence the symbiotic interaction between plant and fungus, probably through natural selection. However, endophyte‐induced increases in root dry weight and root/shoot ratio were recorded for all three genotypes. These features could be beneficial for plant persistence, especially on sites where water is the growth‐limiting factor.
An analysis of endodontic treatment with three nickel‐titanium rotary root canal preparation techniques
Authors: Peters O. A. , Barbakow F. , Peters C. I.
Published: November 2004

Aim  To investigate clinical results of root canal treatment performed with the aid of nickel‐titanium (NiTi) rotary instruments.

Summary  A total of 179 patients underwent root canal treatment with either (A) Lightspeed, or (B) ProFile .04 or (C) ProFile .04 and .06 or GT rotary instruments to create tapered preparations. In groups A and B, laterally condensed gutta‐percha and AH Plus were used. Canals in group C were obturated with System B, Obtura II and Roth's 801 sealer. Initial and recall radiographs were assessed using the periapical index (PAI). Outcomes were analysed using chi‐square tests, event‐time analyses and logistic regression models. Two hundred and thirty‐three teeth were radiographically assessed after a mean interval of 25.4 ± 11.8 months. Favourable outcome of treatment, defined as PAI < 3 at recall was 86.7%. Logistic regression analysis and univariate analyses indicated that teeth with preoperative PAI scores >2 and retreated teeth had a significantly lower chance of healing compared with periapically healthy teeth and primary treatments, respectively. Preparation technique, length of fill and the type of sealer did not significantly affect healing rates.

Key learning points

• Root canal treatment with NiTi root canal instrumentation systems renders favourable outcomes in more than 86% of the cases.

• Outcome is significantly affected by preoperative diagnoses but not by the specific choice of instrumentation system.
The influence of phytosterols on the encapsulation efficiency of cholesterol liposomes
Authors: Chan Yung‐Hsu , Chen Bing‐Huei , Chiu Chihwei P. , Lu Yi‐Fa
Published: November 2004

Lecithin vesicles, prepared by the dehydration‐rehydration (DR) method, were used to encapsulate bovine serum albumin (BSA). These were used to test the feasibility of making liposomes containing phytosterols, such as β‐sitosterol and stigmasterol, as a substitute for cholesterol. Their physicochemical properties such as encapsulation efficiency (EE), stabilities of storage, pH, and oxidization were investigated to assess substitutability. Liposomes prepared with phytosterols or cholesterol exhibited higher EE for BSA than those prepared without the addition of sterols. In addition, the EE of liposomes was increased with repeating a DR cycle five times. Liposomes at pH 6 or 7 were most stable, irrespective of phytosterols or cholesterol being added. Liposomes stored at 4 °C had a higher residual percentage than those stored at −20 °C or room temperature. The addition of sterols to liposomes was effective in decreasing thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) during storage periods; the antioxidation was more marked when α‐tocopherol was added to liposomes. The results indicate that replacing cholesterol with phytosterols in preparing liposomes is feasible and recommended.
Effect of irradiated chitosan on the rancidity of radiation‐processed lamb meat
Authors: Kanatt Sweetie R. , Chander Ramesh , Sharma A.
Published: November 2004

We report here the production of irradiated chitosan and its novel use as a natural antioxidant for minimising lipid peroxidation of radiation‐processed lamb meat. Antioxidant activity of chitosan isolated from shrimp waste was determined by the beta‐carotene bleaching assay and 1,1‐Diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity. Irradiation of chitosan at 25 kGy dose of gamma radiation resulted in a six‐fold increase in its antioxidant activity as compared to the non‐irradiated chitosan as measured by DPPH assay. Similarly the reducing power of irradiated chitosan was 6‐fold greater than autoclaved chitosan. The suitability of irradiated chitosan for controlling lipid oxidation of radiation‐processed meat was also investigated. Irradiated chitosan when added to meat before radiation processing was found to be more effective in minimising lipid perioxidation than non‐irradiated chitosan as measured by TBA number and carbonyl content. TBA values of irradiated meat containing irradiated chitosan decreased by 88% (leg) and 54% (rib) as compared to the corresponding sample without chitosan. Further development of post‐processing rancidity was reduced by 39% (leg) and 59% (rib) in the samples treated with chitosan as compared to non‐treated controls even after a week of storage at 0–3°C.
Microleakage of different cementation techniques in Class V ceramic inlays
Authors: Ozturk A. N. , Ozturk B. , Aykent F.
Published: November 2004

summary Microleakage between the restorative materials and the cavity walls of teeth remains a problem. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the microleakage around Class V ceramic inlay restoration using three different cementation techniques. Class V preparations were made on the buccal surfaces of 45 freshly extracted premolar teeth. The teeth were randomly divided into three groups of 15. In the first group, dentine bonding agent (DBA) (Clearfil Liner Bond 2V) was applied immediately after the tooth preparation (D‐DBA). In the second group, DBA was applied to the prepared cavities while luting ceramic inlays (I‐DBA). In the third group, DBA was not applied at either stage (No‐DBA). Impressions were made and ceramic inlays (Ceramco II) fabricated and cemented in the Class V cavities. The restorations were stored in water at room temperature for 24 h. All restorations were thermocycled and then subjected to a dye penetration test. After sectioning, leakage at cavity/restoration interface was scored. Statistical analysis was performed using Kruskal–Wallis, Mann–Whitney U and Wilcoxon's signed tests. Results showed no significant difference among three different cementation techniques (P > 0·05). Microleakage at the dentine margins was greater than that at the enamel margins (P < 0·05).
Bonding efficacy and side effects of the high purity glyceryl mono‐methacrylate
Authors: Takahashi Y. , Itoh K. , Manabe A. , Tani C. , Hisamitsu H.
Published: November 2004

summary  The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of experimentally developed high purity glyceryl mono‐methacrylate (GM) as a dentine primer and to evaluate the possibility of allergic reaction. The efficacy of experimental dentine primers was evaluated by measuring the polymerization contraction gap width and the tensile bond strength. Allergic reaction was evaluated by the guinea‐pig maximization test. The skin reaction was evaluated according to the criteria of the International Contact Dermatitis Research Group. Contraction gap formation was completely prevented and the tensile bond strength was not significantly affected by priming with GM on high‐purity GM. The allergic response decreased when high‐purity GM was employed as the challenger. It was concluded that the clinical use of the high‐purity GM is beneficial as the delayed allergic reaction could be avoided with no detrimental effect on the dentine bonding.
Specialist drug misuse nurse's motivation, clinical decision‐making and professional communication: an exploratory study
Authors: GRAFHAM E. , MATHESON C. , BOND C. M.
Published: November 2004

UK guidelines advocate a multidisciplinary shared care approach to manage drug‐related problems. While general practitioners (GPs), consultants and pharmacists have been researched, there has been little research into the role of nurses in this field. This study examined nurses specialized in the field of substance misuse. It specifically explored their motivation for entering this area, interaction with other health professionals and their role in clinical decision‐making. Seventeen face‐to‐face interviews were undertaken with nurses from the study population of the 21 nursing staff currently employed in one service. Responses were tape‐recorded, transcribed and analysed using qualitative methods. The majority of nurses entered this field because of a specific interest in its patients and their problems. Various professionals interacted with nurses: specialist medical staff, who served as an expert resource and pharmacists through the dispensing of substitute drugs. GP participation in services was inconsistent forcing some nurses to take undue responsibility for clinical decision‐making. It is essential that nurses entering this field have an interest in this field and positive attitudes towards drug users, and greater emphasis should be placed on this attribute when selecting new employees. If a shared care model is to be successful, it is important that all GPs accept their responsibilities and relieve pressure currently placed on specialist services. Alternatively, it may be necessary to adopt a new model of care.
Effect of accumulated night work during the working lifetime, on subjective health and sleep in monozygotic twins
Authors: Ingre Michael , Åkerstedt Torbjörn
Published: November 2004

The present study sought to investigate the effects of lifetime accumulated night work on subjective health and sleep in monozygotic twins discordant on the exposure to night work. A total of 169 twin pairs (83 males, 86 females) over 65 years of age were analyzed on variables that describe the presence or absence of complaints regarding subjective health, disturbed sleep, repeated awakenings and not being well rested. Significant (P < 0.05) risk ratios (RR) were found for subjective health (RR = 1.67) and disturbed sleep (RR = 2.83) indicating a higher risk of developing complaints to former night workers. There was neither a dose‐dependent effect of night work nor an interaction effect with gender observed.
Major histocompatibility complex variation and mate choice in a lekking bird, the great snipe (Gallinago media)
Authors: EKBLOM R. , SÆTHER S. A. , GRAHN M. , FISKE P. , KÅLÅS J. A. , HÖGLUND J.
Published: November 2004

Genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) play a major part in the activation of the vertebrate immune system. In addition, they also appear to function as cues for mate choice. In mammals especially, several kinds of MHC‐dependent mate choice have been hypothesized and observed. These include choice of mates that share no or few alleles with the choosing individual, choice of mates with alleles that differ as much as possible from the choosing individual, choice of heterozygous mates, choice of certain genotypes and choice of rare alleles. We investigated these different aspects of mate choice in relation to MHC in a lekking bird species, the great snipe (Gallinago media). We found no evidence for MHC disassortative mating, no preference for males with many MHC alleles and no preference for rare alleles. However, we did find that some allelic lineages were more often found in males with mating success than in males without mating success. Females do not seem to use themselves as references for the MHC‐dependent mate choice, rather they seem to prefer males with certain allele types. We speculate that these alleles may be linked to resistance to common parasites.
Mitochondrial DNA differentiation between two forms of trout Salmo letnica, endemic to the Balkan Lake Ohrid, reflects their reproductive isolation
Authors: SELL J. , SPIRKOVSKI Z.
Published: November 2004

Mitochondrial haplotype diversity in sympatric populations of Ohrid trout, Salmo letnica was investigated by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) analysis of the mtDNA control region and ND1, ND3/4, ND5/6 segments. A 310 bp fragment at the 5′ end, and a 340–572 bp fragment at the 3′ end of the control region were sequenced from representatives of the populations studied. Based on pairwise comparison of the sequences, five new haplotypes were identified plus one identical with the brown trout Andalusian haplotype from the southern Iberian Peninsula. The combination of both RFLP and sequence data sets yielded a total of 10 composite haplotypes. A high degree of genetic subdivision between S. letnica typicus and S. letnica aestivalis populations was observed. The notion of a sympatric origin for the two morphs is discussed. Length variation of the mtDNA control region due to the presence of an 82 bp unit, tandemly repeated one to four times, in the region between the conserved sequence block‐3 (CSB‐3) and the gene for phenylalanine tRNA is reported. Further, we demonstrate that a single duplication of the approximately 82 bp repeat unit is a common element of the salmonid mitochondrial control region. The unique genetic structure of Ohrid trout represents a highly valuable genetic resource that deserves appropriate management and conservation.
Divergence in gene expression related to variation in host specificity of an ectomycorrhizal fungus
Authors: LE QUÉRÉ ANTOINE , SCHÜTZENDÜBEL ANDRES , RAJASHEKAR BALAJI , CANBÄCK BJÖRN , HEDH JENNY , ERLAND SUSANNE , JOHANSSON TOMAS , TUNLID ANDERS
Published: November 2004

Ectomycorrhizae are formed by mutualistic interactions between fungi and the roots of woody plants. During symbiosis the two organisms exchange carbon and nutrients in a specific tissue that is formed at the contact between a compatible fungus and plant. There is considerable variation in the degree of host specificity among species and strains of ectomycorrhizal fungi. In this study, we have for the first time shown that this variation is associated with quantitative differences in gene expression, and with divergence in nucleotide sequences of symbiosis‐regulated genes. Gene expression and sequence evolution were compared in different strains of the ectomycorrhizal fungusPaxillus involutus; the strains included Nau, which is not compatible with birch and poplar, and the two compatible strains Maj and ATCC200175. On a genomic level, Nau and Maj were very similar. The sequence identity was 98.9% in the 16 loci analysed, and only three out of 1075 genes analysed by microarray‐based hybridizations had signals indicating differences in gene copy numbers. In contrast, 66 out of the 1075 genes were differentially expressed in Maj compared to Nau after contact with birch roots. Thirty‐seven of these symbiosis‐regulated genes were also differentially expressed in the ATCC strain. Comparative analysis of DNA sequences of the symbiosis‐regulated genes in different strains showed that two of them have evolved at an enhanced rate in Nau. The sequence divergence can be explained by a decreased selection pressure, which in turn is determined by lower functional constraints on these proteins in Nau as compared to the compatible strains.
Distribution of genetic variation in the growth hormone 1 gene in Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) populations from Europe and North America
Authors: RYYNÄNEN HEIKKI J. , PRIMMER CRAIG R.
Published: November 2004

The level and hierarchical distribution of genetic variation in complete sequences of the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) growth hormone (GH1) gene were investigated in populations from Europe and North America with a view to inferring the major evolutionary forces affecting genetic variation at this locus. Seventeen polymorphic sites were identified in complete sequences from nine populations, with levels of noncoding (intron and untranslated region sequences) nucleotide diversity being similar to those observed in other species. No variation, however, was observed in exonic sequences, indicating that nucleotide diversity in the Atlantic salmon GH1 gene is three and 25 times less than that estimated for human and Drosophila coding sequences, respectively. This suggests that purifying selection is the predominant contemporary force controlling the molecular evolution of GH1 coding sequences. Comparison of haplotype relationships within and between populations indicated that differentiation between populations from Europe and North America was greater than within‐continent comparisons. However, several haplotypes observed in the northernmost European populations were more similar to those observed in North American than to any other haplotypes observed in Europe. This is most likely to be a result of historical, rather than contemporary, gene flow. Neutrality test statistics, such as Tajima's D, were significantly positive in the European populations in which North American‐like haplotypes were observed. Although a positive Tajima's D is commonly interpreted as the signal of balancing selection, a more likely explanation in this case is that either historical migration or ascertainment bias, rather than within population local adaptation, has given rise to an excess of intermediate frequency alleles.
Neurotrophin receptor immunoreactivity in the hippocampus of patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Özbas‐Gerçeker F. , Gorter J. A. , Redeker S. , Ramkema M. , Van Der Valk P. , Baayen J. C. , Özgüç M. , Saygi S. , Soylemezoglu F. , Akalin N. , Troost D. , Aronica E.
Published: November 2004

Recent evidence supports a critical role of neurotrophins in the regulation of both neuronal survival and synaptic transmission during epileptogenesis. We have examined the immunohistochemical expression of high‐ (tyrosine kinase receptors, trk) and low‐affinity (p75) neurotrophin receptors (NTRs) in the hippocampal specimens from 18 patients with chronic temporal lobe epilepsy [TLE; 14 patients with hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and four with focal lesions (tumours) not involving the hippocampus proper]. Nonepileptic autopsy brains (n = 6) and surgical specimens from tumour patients without epilepsy (n = 3) were used as controls. Immunoreactivity (IR) for the trk receptors (trkA, trkB, trkC) was detected in normal human brain within the pyramidal neurones of hippocampal cornus ammoni (CA) regions and in the dentate gyrus. There were no detectable differences in the neuronal trk IR patterns in the hippocampus between control and TLE cases with HS, except for a decrease in neuronal density in regions where cell death had occurred (CA1, CA3 and CA4). In contrast, a consistent increase in trkA IR was observed in reactive astrocytes in CA1 and dentate gyrus. The low‐affinity p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) was expressed in low levels in postnatal normal hippocampus. In contrast, neuronal p75NTRIR was detected in 10/14 cases of HS in spared neurones within the CA and hilar regions of the hippocampus. Double labelling revealed that p75NTR‐positive neurones also contain trk receptor IR. In six cases with prominent glial activation strong p75NTRIR was observed in microglial cells within the sclerotic hippocampus. The present results indicate that changes in NTR expression are still detectable in the hippocampus of patients with chronic TLE and involve both glial and neuronal cells. Reactive astrocytes were immunoreactive for trkA, whereas activated microglia cells were reactive for p75NTR,  suggesting  different  functions  for  specific  NTRs in the development of reactive gliosis. Moreover, the increased expression of p75NTRin hippocampal neurones of TLE patients may critically influence the neuronal survival during the epileptogenic process.
How does trust affect patient preferences for participation in decision‐making?
Authors: Kraetschmer Nancy , Sharpe Natasha , Urowitz Sara , Deber Raisa B.
Published: November 2004

Objective Does trust in physicians aid or hinder patient autonomy? We examine the relationship between trust in the recipient's doctor, and desire for a participative role in decisions about medical treatment.

Design We conducted a cross‐sectional survey in an urban Canadian teaching hospital.

Setting and participants A total of 606 respondents in three clinics (breast cancer, prostate cancer, fracture) completed questionnaires.

Variables studied The instrument included the Problem Solving Decision Making (PSDM) Scale, which used two vignettes (current health condition, chest pain) to categorize respondents by preferred role, and the Trust‐in‐Physician Scale.

Results Few respondents preferred an autonomous role (2.9% for the current health condition vignette and 1.2% for the chest pain vignette); most preferred shared decision‐making (DM) (67.3% current health condition; 48.7% chest pain) or a passive role (29.6% current health condition; 50.1% chest pain). Trust‐in‐physician yielded 6.3% with blind trust, 36.1% with high trust, 48.6% moderate trust and 9.0% low trust. As hypothesized, autonomous patients had relatively low levels of trust, passive respondents were more likely to have blind trust, while shared respondents had high but not excessive trust. Trust had a significant influence on preferred role even after controlling for the demographic factors such as sex, age and education.

Conclusions Very few respondents wish an autonomous role; those who do tend to have lower trust in their providers. Familiarity with a clinical condition increases desire for a shared (as opposed to passive) role. Shared DM often accompanies, and may require, a trusting patient–physician relationship.