bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advantages of multiple markers and polar body analysis in preimplantation genetic diagnosis for Alagille disease
Authors: Renbaum P. , Brooks B. , Kaplan Y. , Eldar‐Geva T. , Margalioth E J. , Levy‐Lahad E. , Altarescu G.
Published: February 2007

Objective

The development of a preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) protocol for Alagille syndrome (AGS), a rare autosomal dominant disorder with hepatic, cardiac and ophthalmologic involvement.

Methods

We developed a polar body (PB)‐based multiplex fluorescent PCR reaction for a female affected with AGS. The protocol included analysis of the Jagged 1 (JAG1) familial mutation and five closely linked highly polymorphic markers (D20S162, D20S901, D20S894, and D20S186).

Results

In two cycles of PGD 9 of ten embryos were accurately diagnosed by assessment of first and second PBs, one embryo required additional blastomere biopsy.

Conclusions

This protocol takes advantage of the larger window of opportunity for transfer and the increased accuracy of diagnosis afforded by the combination of PB biopsy and multiple marker analysis. Two cycles resulted in the transfer of two and three mutation‐free embryos and a subsequent pregnancy as measured by the rising hCG levels. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Two‐way trafficking of Annexin V positive cells between mother and fetus: determination of apoptosis at delivery
Authors: Kolialexi A. , Tsangaris G.Th , Anagnostopoulos A. , Chondros D. , Bagiokos V. , Kitsiou S. , Kanavakis E. , Mavrou A.
Published: February 2007

Objectives

The aim of this study was to quantitate apoptosis in maternal circulation and umbilical cord blood (UCB) at delivery. The proportion of fetal cells in maternal blood as well as that of maternal cells in UCB was also determined.

Material and Methods

Three milliliters of peripheral blood was collected from nine women during labor. Five women delivered males and four delivered females. Immediately after delivery, 3 mL UCB was collected. Ten microliters was used to quantitate apoptosis by the ethidium bromide assay (EthBr) and from the remaining blood, Annexin V positive cells were isolated by MACS.

Results

The Median apoptosis rate in maternal samples was 25% (19–34) and in UCB 20% (16–28). Annexin V positive cells were present in all samples analyzed. As shown by Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in maternal samples, cells with an XY hybridization pattern were identified in cases with male newborns in a median concentration of 1.7% (1.6–2.1). On the corresponding UCB, a median of 1.2% (0.8‐1.6) XX cells were detected.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates the existence of a bidirectional transfer of fetal and maternal cells under apoptosis across the placenta and provides useful information regarding use of UCB for transplantation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Single umbilical artery and its siding in the second trimester of pregnancy: relation to chromosomal defects
Authors: Lubusky Marek , Dhaifalah Ishraq , Prochazka Martin , Hyjanek Jiri , Mickova Ivana , Vomackova Katherine , Santavy Jiri
Published: February 2007

Objectives

To determine the possible association between single umbilical artery (SUA) in the second trimester of pregnancy and the incidence of chromosomal abnormalities. To determine whether the presence of chromosomal defects in fetuses with SUA is related to the side of the missing artery.

Methods

Color flow imaging of the fetal pelvis was used to determine the number of umbilical arteries in 2147 fetuses immediately before amniocentesis for karyotyping in the second trimester of pregnancy.

Results

SUA was diagnosed in 102/2147 (4.8%) cases. The left umbilical artery was absent in 60/102 (58.8%) fetuses, compared with the 42/102 (41.2%) for the right artery. The rate of chromosome abnormalities was significantly higher among fetuses with SUA than among those with 2 umbilical arteries (19/102 or 18.6% versus 109/2045 or 5.3%; OR = 4.1, 95% CI 2.3–7.1, p < 0.0001). Among fetuses with SUA, there was no significant difference in the rate of chromosome abnormalities between those with absence of the left versus the right artery (11/60 or 18.3% versus 8/42 or 19.0%, p = 0.93). There was an SUA in 5/39 (12.8%) cases with trisomy 21, 8/16 (50%) with trisomy 18, 1/4 (25%) with trisomy 13 and 5/69 (7.2%) with other chromosomal defects. There were no chromosome abnormalities in fetuses where a single umbilical artery was an isolated sonographic finding. All fetuses with SUA and chromosomal defects had associated abnormalities detected by ultrasound.

Conclusion

A single umbilical artery (SUA) in the second trimester of pregnancy has a high association with trisomy 18, 13, 21 and other chromosomal defects, but all chromosomally abnormal fetuses had associated malformations detected by ultrasound. The absence of the left artery is more frequent than the absence of the right artery. The association with chromosomal abnormalities seems to be equal on each side. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Complete chorioamniotic membrane separation with fetal restrictive dermopathy in two consecutive pregnancies
Authors: Kim Young Nam , Jeong Dae Hoon , Jeong Su Jeon , Sung Moon Su , Kang Mi Seon , Kim Ki Tae
Published: February 2007

Objective

To describe an instance of complete chorion‐amnion membrane separation with fetal restrictive dermopathy in two consecutive pregnancies.

Methods

We performed prenatal ultrasounds in two consecutive pregnancies and evaluated gross and microscopic postnatal findings.

Results

The first pregnancy ended at 32 weeks of gestation with spontaneous chorioamniotic membrane separation and preterm premature rupture of membranes. The mother delivered an abnormal male infant with generalized fixed joint contractures, rigid and shiny skin, skin laceration around the neck, a rounded and opened mouth, and palpebral conjunctival eversion. The subsequent pregnancy was also complicated by spontaneous complete chorioamniotic membrane separation, oligohydramnios, and fetal growth restriction at 26 + 3 weeks of gestation. A immaturely born second baby also carried multiple anomalies similar to those of the first. Both infants died shortly after birth. After microscopic examination of the skin, we diagnosed the infant as restrictive dermopathy.

Conclusions

Complete separation of the chorion‐amnion membrane may be regarded as a serious prenatal condition. Restrictive dermopathy or skin disorders caused by defects in collagen or elastic tissue metabolism may be one of the many causes of chorion‐amnion separation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vaccines and changes in coagulation parameters in adults on chronic warfarin therapy: a cohort study
Authors: Jackson Michael L. , Nelson Jennifer C. , Chen Robert T. , Davis Robert L. , Jackson Lisa A.
Published: February 2007

Purpose

Warfarin is commonly used among patients who receive influenza, pneumococcal, and tetanus and diphtheria toxoid vaccines, and persons on warfarin therapy may also receive Hepatitis A vaccine. There has been concern that vaccinations could potentially alter coagulation parameters in patients on warfarin therapy. We sought to determine whether vaccinations are associated with changes in International Normalized Ratio (INR) in persons on long‐term warfarin therapy.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 5167 members of Group Health, a health maintenance organization (HMO) in western Washington State, who were aged 18 years and older and who were on stable long‐term warfarin therapy between 1 January 1992 and 31 December 2003. We made within‐person comparisons between mean INR values in the 28 days after receipt of influenza, pneumococcal, tetanus, or hepatitis A vaccine versus mean INR values during other times.

Results

Receipt of influenza vaccine was not associated with a change in INR value (mean change, 0.01; 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.01 to 0.03); similar results were observed for pneumococcal (mean change 0.01; 95%CI −0.07 to 0.09), tetanus (mean change 0.03; 95%CI −0.03 to 0.10), and hepatitis A vaccines (mean change 0.03; 95%CI −0.10 to 0.14).

Conclusions

Our results do not suggest that vaccinations lead to clinically significant alterations in coagulation measures among adults on chronic warfarin therapy. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polypropylene/styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene thermoplastic elastomer nanocomposite films
Authors: Small Christopher M. , McNally Gerard M. , McShane Paul , Kenny Ian
Published: February 2007

Nanocomposite (polypropylene/styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene/organoclay) films were sheet‐extruded with differing clay concentrations. Blends were compounded using a high shear single screw reciprocating kneader. Results demonstrated that higher clay content increased the Shore A hardness of the films but induced a significant improvement in both O2 and CO2 barrier performance. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 13:46–52, 2007. © 2007 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Phospholipase a activity of cultured rat ventricular myocyte is affected by the nature of cellular polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Nalbone Gilles , Grynberg Alain , Chevalier Annick , Leonardi Jeannie , Termine Elise , Lafont Huguette
Published: February 2007

Fatty acid composition of membrane phospholipids of cultured cardiomycotes can be modified by the type of polyunsaturated fatty acids (n−3 or n−6 PUFA) constituting the culture medium. In this study, we investigated the effect of fatty acid modification on the activities of the key enzymes involved in the deacylation‐reacylation cycle of membrane phospholipids.

Results showed that cardiomyocytes grown in the presence of n−6 PUFA exhibited a higher specific alkaline phospholipase A (mainly A2) activity (+34%) and a moderately lower lysophospholipase activity(−17%) than when incubated with n−3 PUFA. AcylCoA:lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase, acid lysosomal phospholipase A1 and acylCoA synthetase activities were not significantly altered by changes in cellular PUFA composition. It was demonstrated that the differences between phospholipase A activities of the two types of cultured cells were linked neither to a differential leakage of enzyme nor to oxidative injury to the enzyme through blockage of essential sulfhydryl groups. One likely explanation is that the PUFA‐induced changes in membrane composition alter membrane physical properties which, in turn, affect membrane‐bound phospholipase A activity. Possible beneficial effects of the n−3 PUFA‐induced changes on membrane stability are discussed.
Identification of carrot inositol phospholipids by fats atom bombardment mass spectrometry
Authors: van Breemen Richard B. , Wheeler Jeffery J. , Boss Wendy F.
Published: February 2007

Inositol phospholipids from carrot cell membranes grown in suspension cultured were purified by thinlayer chromatography (TLC) or column chromatography and tentatively identified by co‐migration on TLC with animal inositol phospholipid standards. For more rigorous chemical characterization, carrot inositol phospholipids were then analyzed by negative ion fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry (FABMS). One phosphatidylinositol (PI), two lysophosphatidylinositols (LPI), and one phosphatidylinositol monophosphate (PIP) were identified in the carrot samples by the observation of ions [M‐H]− and numerous fragment ions in the negative FAB mass spectra. MS/MS analysis were carried out to obtain further structural information of these phospholipids using a double‐focusing mass spectrometer in which the magnetic sector (B) and the electrostatic analyzer (E) were scanned at a constant ratio (B/E). These B/E linked scans provided fragment ions of selected precursor ions while eliminating matrix and other contaminating ions. No molecular ions were detected for lysophosphatidylinositol monophosphate (LPIP) or phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate (PIP2), but fragment ions corresponding to these structures were observed. The primary fatty acids present in the carrot inositol phospholipids were linoleic (18∶2) and palmitic (16∶0) acids, whereas animal lipids contained arachidonic (20∶4), stearic (18∶0), linoleic, and palmitic acids. The only phosphatidylinositol found in carrot cells was palmitoyl linoleoyl PI.
Effect of dietary α‐linolenic acid on n−3 fatty acids of rainbow trout lipids
Authors: Sowizral Karen C. , Rumsey Gary L. , Kinsella John E.
Published: February 2007

The effects of α‐linolenic acid enriched diets on the lipid composition of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) muscle and liver were determined. Diets containing 0, 4, 10 or 20% (wt/wt) linseed oil were fed to 280 trout for up to 64 days. Linolenic acid levels in total lipid, neutral lipid and phospholipid of liver and muscle increased with duration of intake. The linolenic acid content of total lipid in muscle increased from 10 mg to 355 mg/100 g flesh. There was no significant increase in the elongated desaturated products, i.e., eicosapentaenoic or docosahexaenoic acids, in either tissue during the feeding period.
Fatty acid hydroxylase system in the Japanese harvest mouse,Micromys minutus
Authors: Miura Yoshiro , Hisaki Harumi , Oda Sen‐ichi
Published: February 2007

Liver microsomes of the Japanese harvest mouse (Micromys minutus), which is the smallest known mammal among rodents, catalyze the hydroxylation of various fatty acids (C8 to C18) to the corresponding ω‐hydroxy and (ω‐1)‐hydroxy derivatives. Although laurate is most effectively hydroxylated among saturated fatty acids by liver microsomes of other species, harvest mouse liver microsomes most effectively catalyze the hydroxylation of decanoate. From inhibitor and cofactor studies, and from the substrate specificity for hydroxylation, it was concluded that ω‐ and (ω‐1)‐hydroxylation of fatty acids are catalyzed by different cytochrome P‐450 species in the liver microsomes of the harvest mouse.
The economic justification for academic tenure
Authors: Carmichael H. Lorne
Published: February 2007

The ocean of academic knowledge is now so wide and so deep that university administrators must rely on the incumbents in their departments to identify and train new hires. This is in direct contrast to a sports team, where management can readily identify new talent. It follows that aging academics get to enjoy tenure, whereas older athletes do not.
Academic freedom: History trumps questionnaire
Authors: Flynn James R.
Published: February 2007

The fact that a right is unlikely to be exercised by most members of a group does not mean it has lost its social and justice-defending utility. Current attitudes can be revealed by a questionnaire, but the value of a tradition must be assessed in the light of history. Historically, academic freedom and tenure are inseparable and mutually reinforcing.
Tenure is fine, but rank is sublime
Authors: Peters Douglas
Published: February 2007

Does tenure serve its original purpose of promoting freedom of inquiry for academics in teaching and research? It seems not. Of concern is the finding that achieving tenure does not translate into a significant increase in exercise of freedom of inquiry either in teaching or research. Why? Promotion evaluation for associate professors by their senior colleagues has a continued inhibiting effect.
The rituals of explanation
Authors: Foss Jeffrey
Published: February 2007

Boyer & Lienard's (B&L's) explanation of ritualized behavior is plausible because it fits so well with elementary facts about evolution of plasticity in our behavioral repertoire. Its scope, however, may be broader than its authors explicitly admit. Science itself may be illuminated as ritual behavior. Science, like other rituals, can sustain both healthy and pathological forms.
How far will an account of ritualized behavior go in explaining cultural rituals?
Authors: McCauley Robert N.
Published: February 2007

The theory of ritualized behavior should offer insight about cultural rituals. Considering ritualized behaviors' scripted actions and both the frequent absence of anxiety and the routinization of many cultural rituals, questions remain about how much and what precisely gets explained. Among religious rituals, ritualized behaviors arise more strikingly in special agent rituals, but that might be because they usually include novices.
Associations of work–family conflicts with food habits and physical activity
Authors: Roos Eva , Sarlio-Lähteenkorva Sirpa , Lallukka Tea , Lahelma Eero
Published: February 2007

Objective

This study examines the relationship between family–work conflicts with food habits and physical activity, and whether the relationship is dependent on family structure and work-related factors.

Design and setting

Cross-sectional postal surveys were carried out in 2001 and 2002 among employees of the City of Helsinki, Finland, aged 40–60 years (n = 5346, response rate 66%; for women 70% and for men 60%). Dependent variables in logistic regression analyses were nationally recommended food habits and physical activity. Independent variables were work–family conflicts and family–work conflicts. Covariates included age, marital status, number of children, occupational class, working hours, time travelling to work, and physical and mental work load.

Results

Women reporting strong work–family conflicts were more likely to follow recommended food habits (odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals 1.49 (1.19–1.86)), but this relationship weakened when adjusting for work-related factors (OR 1.20 (0.93–1.55)). Women and men with strong family–work conflicts were less likely to report recommended food habits after adjusting for family structure and work-related factors (women OR 0.75 (0.61–0.92), men OR 0.57 (0.34–0.96)). Women and men with strong work–family conflicts were less likely to follow the recommended amount of physical activity (women OR 0.76 (0.60–0.96), men OR 0.54 (0.34–0.87)). Additionally, women with strong family–work conflicts were less likely to follow the recommended amount of physical activity (OR 0.77 (0.63–0.94)). Adjusting for family and work-related factors did not affect these associations.

Conclusions

Conflicts between paid work and family life are likely to constitute barriers for a physically active lifestyle and possibly also for healthy food habits. Improving the balance between work and family may provide a route for promoting health-related behaviours.
Dietary intake among under-, normal- and overweight 9- and 15-year-old Estonian and Swedish schoolchildren
Authors: Villa Inga , Yngve Agneta , Poortvliet Eric , Grjibovski Andrej , Liiv Krystiine , Sjöström Michael , Harro Maarike
Published: February 2007

Objectives

To determine the differences in macronutrient and food group contribution to total food and energy intakes between Estonian and Swedish under-, normal- and overweight schoolchildren, and to estimate the association between diet and body mass index (BMI).

Design

Cross-sectional comparison between Estonian and Swedish children and adolescents of different BMI groups.

Setting

Twenty-five schools from one region in Estonia and 42 in two regions of central Sweden.

Subjects

In total 2308 participants (1176 from Estonia and 1132 from Sweden), including 1141 children with a mean age of 9.6 ± 0.5 years and 1167 adolescents with a mean age of 15.5 ± 0.6 years.

Results

Overweight was more prevalent among younger girls in Sweden (17.0 vs. 8.9%) and underweight among girls of both age groups in Estonia (7.9 vs. 3.5% in younger and 10.5 vs. 5.1% in older age group of girls). Compared with that of normal- and underweight peers, the diet of overweight Estonian children contained more energy as fat (36.8 vs. 31.7%) but less as carbohydrates, and they consumed more milk and meat products. Absolute BMI of Estonian participants was associated positively with energy consumption from eggs and negatively with energy consumption from sweets and sugar. Swedish overweight adolescents tended to consume more energy from protein and milk products. Risk of being overweight was positively associated with total energy intake and energy from fish or meat products. In both countries the association of overweight and biological factors (pubertal maturation, parental BMI) was stronger than with diet.

Conclusion

The finding that differences in dietary intake between under-, normal- and overweight schoolchildren are country-specific suggests that local dietary habits should be considered in intervention projects addressing overweight.
Cloud detection in the upper troposphere‐lower stratosphere region via ACE imagers: A qualitative study
Authors: Dodion J. , Fussen D. , Vanhellemont F. , Bingen C. , Mateshvili N. , Gilbert K. , Skelton R. , Turnbull D. , McLeod S. D. , Boone C. D. , Walker K. A. , Bernath P. F.
Published: February 2007

Satellite‐based limb occultation measurements are well suited for the detection and mapping of polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs) and cirrus clouds. Usually, cloud signatures are detected on aerosol extinction profiles. In this paper, ACE two‐dimensional (2‐D) imager data are used to show PSCs and cirrus clouds. Clouds can be clearly seen, with a good vertical and horizontal resolution (1 km), during sunset and sunrise. In addition, we discovered significant differences between stratospheric (PSCs) and tropospheric (cirrus) clouds. PSCs appear as “symmetric” layers, no horizontal or vertical “structure” is detected within the PSC, suggesting that PSCs are uniform clouds with a very large horizontal extent. On the other hand, cirrus cloud image geometry is not well‐defined. In contrast to PSCs, cirrus clouds appear as irregular shaped clouds. These tropospheric clouds seem to have horizontal dimensions similar to the Sun on the image (25 km at the tangent point). The qualitative display of these different kinds of clouds, seen on the raw 2‐D imager data, proves the ability of the imagers to be an efficient cloud detector in the upper troposphere‐lower stratosphere (UTLS) region. Moreover, the structure of these clouds can be derived.
Highly oriented tunable wrinkling in polymer bilayer films confined with a soft mold induced by water vapor
Authors: Qian Weixian , Xing Rubo , Yu Xinhong , Quan Xinjun , Han Yanchun
Published: February 2007

The authors report the formation of highly oriented wrinkling on the surface of the bilayer [polystyrene (PS)/poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP)] confined by a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) mold in a water vapor environment. When PVP is subjected to water vapor, the polymer loses its mechanical rigidity and changes to a viscous state, which leads to a dramatic change in Young’s modulus. This change generates the amount of strain in the bilayer to induce the wrinkling. With a shape-controlled mold, they can get the ordered wrinkles perfectly perpendicular or leaned 45° to the channel orientation of the mold because the orientation of the resultant force changes with the process of water diffusion which drives the surface to form the wrinkling. Additionally, they can get much smaller wrinkles than the stripe spacing of PDMS mold about one order. The wrinkle period changes with the power index of about 0.5 for various values of the multiplication product of the film thicknesses of the two layers, namely, λ∼(hPShPVP)1∕2.
Spectral diffusion and drift: Single chromophore and en masse
Authors: Lubchenko Vassiliy , Silbey Robert J.
Published: February 2007

We develop a systematic description of spectral diffusion of ideal chromophores interacting with incoherently relaxing two-state, localized environmental degrees of freedom (“spins”) for general initial environment configurations. We remedy the existing, incomplete treatments by formulating the problem in terms of the proper correlation function and by obtaining an accurate solution for generic aperiodic arrangements of environmental spins, nearly free of the customary simplifying assumptions on the multiparticle spin coordinate distribution. We report and estimate, for the first time, the effects of the drift and distortion of a narrow spectral line that arise when the line is not in the center of the inhomogeneous band. While the drift turns out to be modest in most ensemble measurements, accounting for its effects is imperative in analyzing single chromophore spectral jumps, to which end the authors propose a novel experiment. Further, we argue that by employing a sufficiently large chromophore one can decouple the concentration of the fluctuating centers from the strength of their interaction with the chromophore. Finally, the additional line broadening, owing to a distribution of the central chromophore frequencies, is evaluated. Upper estimates for an analogous broadening stemming from a nonequilibrium environment are made.
Quantum integrable systems, non-skew-symmetric r-matrices and algebraic Bethe ansatz
Authors: Skrypnyk T.
Published: February 2007

We prove the integrability of the general quantum Hamiltonian systems governed by an arbitrary non-skew-symmetric, so(3)-valued, nondynamical classical r-matrix with spectral parameters. We consider the most interesting example of these quantum integrable systems, namely, the so(3) “generalized Gaudin systems” in detail. In the case of an arbitrary r-matrix which is “diagonal” in the sl(2) basis we calculate the spectrum and the eigenvalues of the corresponding Hamiltonians using the algebraic Bethe ansatz technique.
Fabrication and low temperature thermoelectric properties of NaxCoO2 (x=0.68 and 0.75) epitaxial films by the reactive solid-phase epitaxy
Authors: Chang W. J. , Hsieh C. C. , Chung T. Y. , Hsu S. Y. , Wu K. H. , Uen T. M. , Lin J.-Y. , Lin J. J. , Hsu C.-H. , Kuo Y. K. , Liu H. L. , Hsu M. H. , Gou Y. S. , Juang J. Y.
Published: February 2007

The authors have fabricated NaxCoO2 thin films via lateral diffusion of sodium into Co3O4 (111) epitaxial films (reactive solid-phase epitaxy [Ohta et al., Cryst. Growth Des. 5, 25 (2005)]). The environment of thermal diffusion is key to the control of the sodium content in thin films. From the results of x-ray diffraction and in-plane ρab, the epitaxial growth and the sodium contents of these films were identified. The thermoelectric measurements show a large thermoelectric power similar to that observed in single crystals. The quasiparticle scattering rate is found to approach zero at low temperatures, consistent with the small residual resistivity, indicating high quality of the NaxCoO2 thin films.
Immune regulatory functions of human beta‐defensin‐2 in odontoblast‐like cells
Authors: Dommisch H. , Winter J. , Willebrand C. , Eberhard J. , Jepsen S.
Published: February 2007

Aim  To investigate the effects of human beta‐defensins on the expression of genes involved in the host immune response of the dental pulp.

Methodology  Human odontoblast‐like cells were cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium. Cells were stimulated by recombinant human beta‐defensins (rhBDs) up to 4 h. RNA was extracted followed by cDNA synthesis (oligo‐(dT)‐primer). Samples were analysed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology. Genes of interest were: human beta‐defensin‐1, ‐2, interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐8, tumour necrosis factor‐alpha, cyclooxygenase‐2, leukotriene‐A4‐hydrolase, cytosolic phospholipase‐A‐2 (cPLA2), and dentine sialophosphoprotein. Gene expression of beta‐actin served as internal standard for normalizing real‐time PCR data. Two‐way anova and the paired t‐test were applied for comparison of the gene expression.

Results  In odontoblast‐like cells rhBD‐2 stimulation led to a down‐regulation of the gene expression of hBD‐1 (P < 0.05), whilst the mRNA expression of IL‐6 (P < 0.05), IL‐8 (P < 0.05) and cPLA2 was increased in response to rhBD‐2.

Conclusion  The results of the present study suggest immune regulatory functions of human beta‐defensin‐2 in odontoblast‐like cells.
Allocation of substance use disorder patients to appropriate levels of care: feasibility of matching guidelines in routine practice in Dutch treatment centres
Authors: Merkx Maarten J. M. , Schippers Gerard M. , Koeter Maarten J. W. , Vuijk Pieter Jelle , Oudejans Suzan , De Vries Carlijn C. Q. , Van Den Brink Wim
Published: February 2007

Aims  To examine the feasibility of implementing evidence‐based guidelines for patient–treatment‐matching to levels of care in two Dutch substance abuse treatment centres.

Design  Multi‐centre observational follow‐up study.

Setting  Two large substance abuse treatment centres (SATCs).

Participants  All 4394 referrals to the two SATCs in 2003.

Measurements  Baseline patient characteristics needed for treatment allocation according to protocol, treatment allocation according to matching protocol, treatment allocation according to actual level of care (LOC) entered.

Analysis  Comparison of recommended and actual LOC entered. Evaluation of reasons for observed differences between recommended and actual LOC entered.

Findings  Data needed for treatment allocation according to protocol were available for 2269 (51.6%) patients. Data needed for evaluation of actual LOC entered were available for 1765 (40.2%) patients. Of these patients, 1089 (60.8%) were allocated according to protocol: 48.4% based on the guideline algorithm and 12.4% based on clinically justified deviations from this algorithm. The main reason for deviation was a different appraisal of addiction severity, made by the intake counsellor compared to the protocol.

Conclusion  The feasibility of guideline‐based treatment allocation is seriously limited due to inadequate data collection of patient characteristics and suboptimal guideline‐based treatment allocation. As a consequence, only 24.4% of the patients could be evaluated as being matched properly to the treatment planned. The results indicate several barriers which limit the adequate implementation of patient–treatment‐matching guidelines: problems in the infrastructure of data collection and storage and the inertia of intake staff who did not adhere to the guidelines for assessment and matching.
Caligus elongatus Nordmann genotypes on wild and farmed fish
Authors: Øines Ø , Heuch P A
Published: February 2007

Two mitochondrial genotypes have been described for Caligus elongatus Nordmann in Norway. This article reports on the distribution of C. elongatus mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase 1 genotypes from wild fish hosts from the SE Norwegian coast. For comparison, lice from areas with fish farming were included in the study. The genotype distribution of 841 lice from wild coastal (n = 535), wild North Sea pelagic (n = 26), farmed (n = 160) and wild hosts in areas of fish farming (n = 89) is presented. The genotype frequencies of C. elongatus on wild coastal hosts varied significantly between spring and autumn. Lice from these fish show a large proportion of genotype 1 lice in March–June every year. Genotype 2 lice were found more frequently in autumn. Genotype 1 was clearly associated with the lumpfish, Cyclopterus lumpus L. The genotype frequency appeared to be different in areas with aquaculture. Caligus elongatus from farmed fish and wild fish caught close to Atlantic salmon fish farms in Norway were predominantly genotype 1 in autumn. Genotypes of C. elongatus on the SE coast of Norway vary according to season and fish species. Factors involved in the encounter between fish and lice are important for the establishment of lice on their hosts.
Sex Differences in the Chloride Cotransporters, NKCC1 and KCC2, in the Developing Hypothalamus
Authors: Perrot‐Sinal T. S. , Sinal C. J. , Reader J. C. , Speert D. B. , McCarthy M. M.
Published: February 2007

In immature neurones, high basal [Cl–]i results in membrane depolarisation following GABAA receptor activation, which is critical for various developmental processes including steroid‐mediated sexual differentiation of the hypothalamus. Previously, we demonstrated that oestradiol enhances GABA‐mediated Ca2+ influx in neonate hypothalamus and that Ca2+ induced activation of the transcription factor, cyclicAMP response element binding protein (CREB), was higher in male (high oestradiol) relative to female neonate hypothalamus. Based on these results, we hypothesised that expression of developmentally regulated chloride cotransporters may be sexually dimorphic. Here, we investigate the expression of the chloride cotransporters, NKCC1 (Na‐K‐2Cl–) and KCC2 (K‐Cl–) in neonate mediobasal hypothalamus of male and female rats. The NKCC1 transporter moves Cl– into cells and helps maintain depolarising GABA action while the KCC2 transporter has the opposite effect by moving Cl– out of cells. NKCC1 mRNA levels were higher in males than females on the day of birth (postnatal day 0; PND 0) and total NKCC1 protein levels were significantly higher in males than females on embryonic day (ED) 20 and PND0. Levels of activated phosphorylated NKCC1 (pNKCC1) were not sexually dimorphic. Females were treated with a masculinising dose of oestradiol benzoate (EB; 100 µg; EB‐females) on PND0. Total NKCC1 protein levels in tissue processed on PND1 and PND2 were similar in EB‐females and oil‐treated PND0 males and females. However, pNKCC1 protein levels measured on PND2 (but not PND1) were significantly higher in EB‐treated females relative to oil‐treated males and females. By contrast, KCC2 mRNA levels were significantly lower in males relative to females on PND0. KCC2 protein was not detectable on ED20 or PND0 but was significantly lower in males relative to females on PND5. These results suggest a complex relationship between KCC2 and NKCC1 mRNA and protein in developing brain that is not easily linked to regulation by oestradiol.
Peptide immunotherapy for allergic diseases
Authors: Larché M.
Published: February 2007

Specific allergen immunotherapy has been widely practised for almost 100 years. Whilst this approach is disease‐modifying and efficacious, the use of whole allergen preparations is associated with an unacceptably high prevalence of allergic adverse events during treatment. Many approaches to reduce the allergenicity of immunotherapy preparations whilst maintaining immunogenicity are under development. One such approach is the use of short synthetic peptides which represent major T‐cell epitopes of the allergen. Major potential advantages of this approach include markedly reduced capacity to cross‐link immunoglobulin‐E and activate mast cells and basophils, and ease of manufacture and standardization. Promising results in preclinical studies have led to the translation of this approach to clinical studies in humans. Peptide immunotherapy is currently under development for allergic and autoimmune diseases.
Determination of the Genital Tubercle Migration Period in Morada Nova Sheep Foetuses by Ultrasonography
Authors: Santos MHB , Rabelo MC , Guido SI , Torreão JNC , Lopes Júnior ES , Freitas VJF , De Lima PF , Oliveira MAL
Published: February 2007

Contents

The aim of this study was to determine the period of genital tubercle (GT) migration using ultrasonography in Morada Nova sheep foetuses (n = 117) from natural mating (NM) and frozen embryo transfer (ET) to determine the window when foetal sexing can be determined. The examinations were performed using transrectal ultrasonography with a dual‐frequency linear transducer (6.0 and 8.0 MHz) from day 30–54 of pregnancy at 48‐h intervals. The period of GT migration of foetuses produced by NM varied from 36 to 46 days of pregnancy, resulting in an average of 39.5 ± 2.9 days. For foetuses derived from ET, GT migration varied from 42 to 52 days of pregnancy with an average of 48.5 ± 3.3 days, being possible the GT of foetuses from ET start to migrate 96 h later even if they are of the same gender. Migration of the GT occurred earlier (p < 0.05) in foetuses produced by NM and sexing accuracy for triplet pregnancies (77.8%) was significantly inferior (p < 0.05) to single (100%) and twin (92.9%) pregnancies for foetuses derived by NM. The results allow one to conclude that foetal sexing can be done from the 50th day onwards in foetuses produced by NM and from the 55th day onwards in foetuses derived from ET, and that multiple pregnancies compromise the sexing accuracy by ultrasonography.
Changes in plasma B‐type natriuretic peptide after allograft renal transplantation
Authors: WEI TIE‐MIN , JIN LIE , LV LING‐CHUN , ZHANG BAO‐JIN , WANG LE‐XIN
Published: February 2007

Objective:  To investigate the dynamic changes in plasma B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) after allograft renal transplantation.

Methods:  Plasma BNP was measured in 17 patients before and after unilateral allograft renal transplantation (study group) and in 17 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy individuals (control group).

Results:  Average BNP level in the study group was significantly higher than in the control group before renal transplantation (P < 0.001). After transplantation, blood pressure was reduced and left ventricular ejection fraction was increased (P < 0.01). There was also a substantial reduction in plasma BNP and blood creatinine following the surgery (P < 0.001). Graft dysfunction accompanied by significant rebound in plasma BNP levels was detected in four patients within 2 weeks of the surgery.

Conclusion:  Plasma BNP levels are elevated in patients with chronic renal failure. Allograft renal transplantation significantly reduces BNP. Sudden increases in plasma BNP after the transplantation are associated with allograft dysfunction. Together with other biomarkers, plasma BNP may be used to predict the changes in renal function after transplantation.
Verosphacela silvae sp. nov. (Onslowiaceae, Phaeophyceae) from the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Alongi Giuseppina , Cormaci Mario , Furnari Giovanni
Published: February 2007

We describe Verosphacela silvae sp. nov., from the Mediterranean Sea. It consists of horizontal filaments living on the lower face of the red alga Peyssonnelia rubra (Greville) J. Agardh, from which erect filaments up to 1.5 mm high rise and grow upright after passing through the thallus of the supporting species. There are both horizontal and erect filaments growing by apical cells. In the subapical cells, 1–2 longitudinal divisions occur (more frequently in the erect filaments) but no secondary transverse divisions occur. Erect filaments bear lateral propagules on a stalk of one to three (rarely more) cells. Propagules, with neither apical cells nor arms, consist of seven cells. Zoidangia are borne at the apex of erect laterals. The new species differs from V. ebrachia Henry mainly in habit, propagules and zoidangia. In addition, distinct from V. ebrachia, filaments of V. silvae never penetrate between the cuticle and the cell wall of the supporting alga. Moreover, propagules of V. silvae consist of seven cells, whereas those of V. ebrachia consist of 9–13 cells, and zoidangia are terminal on laterals in V. silvae, whereas in V. ebrachia they are sessile on both axes and laterals.
Effects of short‐term cinnamon ingestion on in vivo glucose tolerance
Authors: Solomon T. P. J. , Blannin A. K.
Published: February 2007

Aims:  Various spices display insulin‐potentiating activity in vitro, and in particular, cinnamon spice and its phenolic extracts have been shown to exhibit these capabilities. In vivo study shows that cinnamon may have beneficial effects on glucose homeostasis; therefore the aim of this study was to further investigate this phenomenon in humans.

Methods:  Seven lean healthy male volunteers, aged 26 ± 1 years, body mass index 24.5 ± 0.3 kg/m2 (mean ± s.e.m.), underwent three oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT) supplemented with either a 5 g placebo (OGTTcontrol), 5 g of cinnamon (OGTTcin), or 5 g of cinnamon taken 12 h before (OGTTcin12hpre) in a randomized‐crossover design.

Results:  Cinnamon ingestion reduced total plasma glucose responses (AUC) to oral glucose ingestion [−13% and −10% for OGTTcin (p < 0.05) and OGTTcin12hpre (p < 0.05), respectively], as well as improving insulin sensitivity as assessed by insulin sensitivity index measures based on Matsuda’s model in both OGTTcin (p < 0.05) and OGTTcin12hpre (p < 0.05) trials compared with OGTTcontrol.

Conclusions:  These data illustrate that cinnamon spice supplementation may be important to in vivo glycaemic control and insulin sensitivity in humans, and not only are its effects immediate, they also appear to be sustained for 12 h.
Health Among Leaders: Positive and Negative Affect, Engagement and Burnout, Forgiveness and Revenge
Authors: Little Laura M. , Simmons Bret L. , Nelson Debra L.
Published: February 2007

abstract  The health of an organization's leader has profound implications not only for the leader, but also for the organization itself and for its members. This study focused on three indicators (positive affect, engagement, forgiveness behaviours) of eustress, the positive stress response, and three indicators (negative affect, burnout, revenge behaviour) of distress, the negative stress response, in relation to the health of pastors, whose jobs closely parallel those of leaders in all types of organizations. Results indicated that both positive affect and revenge behaviour were significantly related to health. A post‐hoc analysis indicated that work–family conflict was negatively related to revenge behaviour, while family–work conflict was positively related to revenge behaviour, and that engagement was negatively related to revenge behaviour. These results are discussed in terms of their implications for future studies of leader health, and their practical applications for promoting leader health while preventing distress.
The Relationship Between Task Interdependency and Role Stress: A Revisit of the Job Demands–Control Model*
Authors: Wong Sze‐Sze , DeSanctis Gerardine , Staudenmayer Nancy
Published: February 2007

abstract  Drawing from Karasek's job demands–control model, this study investigated how perceived amount and clarity of interdependency in managers’ jobs affect role stress, and the extent to which job control moderates these relationships. Results show that amount of interdependency was positively associated with role conflict, and clarity of interdependency was negatively associated with role ambiguity. There was also support for the job demands–control model as greater job control reduced role ambiguity when clarity of interdependency was low. Although higher job control produced lower role ambiguity when both clarity and amount of interdependency were low, higher job control did not produce lower role ambiguity when clarity of interdependency was low and amount of interdependency was high, suggesting that the buffering value of job control on reducing role stress is contingent on the task interdependencies that managers confront.
Of fear and friendship: Amazonian sociality beyond kinship and affinity
Authors: Santos‐Granero Fernando
Published: February 2007

The article explores the nature of sociality and alterity in indigenous Amazonia. If native Amazonian sociality is all about predatory affinity or, alternatively, convivial consanguinity, why do native Amazonians constantly strive to establish social relationships with people with whom they are related neither as kin nor as affines? The comparative analysis of intertribal trading partnerships, shamanic networks, and mystical associations allows the author to examine the mechanisms by which hostile or potentially hostile relations between strangers – non‐relatives – are transformed into relations of amicability. Special emphasis is placed on the role played by ‘trust’ and ‘spaces of trust’ in the creation of non‐kin‐based social networks. In brief the article analyses the little‐studied issue of ‘friendship’, viewing it as an alternative to kinship and affinity in the construction of Amerindian societies and multi‐ethnic polities.
On religious ritual as deference and communicative excess
Authors: Feuchtwang Stephan
Published: February 2007

I shall argue that most religious ritual is a performance that not only invokes but also performs communication. The ethnographic material from which I derive this argument is from China, in particular the temple rituals of local festivals. My argument is that a deep obeisance of welcome and departure that is both like and not like the normal ritual of greeting marks a religious from a non‐religious ritual occasion and place. It is a ritual doubling that makes the honoured guest also a host. Religious ritual is a medium, and as a medium it is double in another sense. It is deference and deferral, a repeated transmission of obeisance to authority that has the authority of repetition. As well as doubling, religious ritual is excessively communicative. The medium is a performance not only of invitation and departure but also of communicative response, and it repeats this communication as a test of communicative response over and over again. Religious ritual performs both the opening and closing of communication, both the seeking and the responsive reciprocation of gift offerings with bounteousness. It is shadowed by the possibility of no response, of giving offence, of being abandoned. This possibility is acknowledged by being prevented, while the possibility that the performers are their own responders is disavowed.
Trade Policy and Productivity Growth in Indian Manufacturing
Authors: Milner Chris , Vencappa Dev , Wright Peter
Published: February 2007

This article explores the impact of trade policy reforms on total factor productivity (TFP) growth in the Indian manufacturing sectors. For a range of measures of TFP growth, it explores the pre‐ and post‐trade liberalisation performance at the two‐digit manufacturing industry level. The results indicate an increase in TFP growth on average and for the majority of manufacturing industries in the post‐trade reform period.
Multinational Enterprises: Their Private and Social Benefits and Costs
Authors: Casson Mark
Published: February 2007

Government policy‐makers in many countries compete to attract FDI because they believe that FDI will generate knowledge spillovers in the local economy. However, there is surprising little empirical evidence in favour of substantial spillovers. This raises the question of what benefits can be appropriated by host countries when spillovers are small. This paper analyses the issue using a simple model of the global strategy of a profit‐maximising MNE. It is based on a partial equilibrium model of the firm; although less sophisticated than the general equilibrium approach, it provides a sharper focus on fundamental policy issues. It shows that the principal social benefit conferred by an MNE is measured by the profit its subsidiary generates. This reflects the fact that, according to standard theory, the MNE is an institutional arrangement for appropriating rents from innovation. Other rents may also accrue to local factors of production. The model is used to appraise a range of alternative policy instruments for maximising national benefit from FDI.
INCOME DISTRIBUTION, TECHNICAL CHANGE AND THE DYNAMICS OF INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC INTEGRATION
Authors: Landesmann Michael A. , Stehrer Robert
Published: February 2007

This paper explores the features of a dynamic multisectoral model that focuses on the relationship between income distribution, growth and international specialization. The model is explored both for the steady‐state properties and the transitory dynamics of integrated economies. Income inequality affects the patterns of growth and international specialization as the model uses non‐linear Engel curves and hence different income groups are characterized by different expenditure patterns. At the same time income distribution is also reflected in the relative wage rates of skilled to unskilled workers, i.e. the skill premium, and hence the wage structure affects comparative costs of industries which have different skill intensities. The model is applied to a situation that analyses qualitatively different economic development strategies of catching‐up economies (a ‘Latin American’ scenario and a ‘East Asian’ scenario).