bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The multifunctional NS1 protein of influenza A viruses
Authors: Hale Benjamin G. , Randall Richard E. , Ortín Juan , Jackson David
Published: September 2008

The non-structural (NS1) protein of influenza A viruses is a non-essential virulence factor that has multiple accessory functions during viral infection. In recent years, the major role ascribed to NS1 has been its inhibition of host immune responses, especially the limitation of both interferon (IFN) production and the antiviral effects of IFN-induced proteins, such as dsRNA-dependent protein kinase R (PKR) and 2'5'-oligoadenylate synthetase (OAS)/RNase L. However, it is clear that NS1 also acts directly to modulate other important aspects of the virus replication cycle, including viral RNA replication, viral protein synthesis, and general host-cell physiology. Here, we review the current literature on this remarkably multifunctional viral protein. In the first part of this article, we summarize the basic biochemistry of NS1, in particular its synthesis, structure, and intracellular localization. We then discuss the various roles NS1 has in regulating viral replication mechanisms, host innate/adaptive immune responses, and cellular signalling pathways. We focus on the NS1–RNA and NS1–protein interactions that are fundamental to these processes, and highlight apparent strain-specific ways in which different NS1 proteins may act. In this regard, the contributions of certain NS1 functions to the pathogenicity of human and animal influenza A viruses are also discussed. Finally, we outline practical applications that future studies on NS1 may lead to, including the rational design and manufacture of influenza vaccines, the development of novel antiviral drugs, and the use of oncolytic influenza A viruses as potential anti-cancer agents.
Vaccinia virus protein C16 acts intracellularly to modulate the host response and promote virulence
Authors: Fahy Aodhnait S. , Clark Richard H. , Glyde Emily F. , Smith Geoffrey L.
Published: September 2008

The vaccinia virus (VACV) strain Western Reserve C16 protein has been characterized and its effects on virus replication and virulence have been determined. TheC16Lgene is present in the inverted terminal repeat and so is one of the few VACV genes that are diploid. The C16 protein is highly conserved between different VACV strains, and also in the orthopoxviruses variola virus, ectromelia virus, horsepox virus and cowpox virus. C16 is a 37.5 kDa protein, which is expressed early during infection and localizes to the cell nucleus and cytoplasm of infected and transfected cells. The loss of theC16Lgene had no effect on virus growth kinetics but did reduce plaque size slightly. Furthermore, the virulence of a virus lackingC16L(vΔC16) was reduced in a murine intranasal model compared with control viruses and there were reduced virus titres from 4 days post-infection. In the absence of C16, the recruitment of inflammatory cells in the lung and bronchoalveolar lavage was increased early after infection (day 3) and more CD4+and CD8+T cells expressed the CD69 activation marker. Conversely, late after infection with vΔC16 (day 10) there were fewer T cells remaining, indicating more rapid clearance of infection. Collectively, these data indicate that C16 diminishes the immune response and is an intracellular immunomodulator.
Structure of Ga2O3(ZnO)6: a member of the homologous series Ga2O3(ZnO)
m
Authors: Michiue Yuichi , Kimizuka Noboru , Kanke Yasushi
Published: September 2008

The structure of Ga2O3(ZnO)6 was determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction techniques in the space group Cmcm. The metal ion sublattice resembles some of the Zn ions in the wurtzite ZnO structure. The oxygen ion sublattice in Ga2O3(ZnO)6 also resembles some of the O ions in ZnO. Structural relationships between Ga2O3(ZnO)6 and ZnO are discussed, illustrating the process for obtaining the centrosymmetric Ga2O3(ZnO)6 structure from the noncentrosymmetric ZnO. Structures of phases in the homologous series Ga2O3(ZnO)
m
are predicted on the basis of the structural data for Ga2O3(ZnO)6. The structures of even m are constructed by simply extending the structure units seen in Ga2O3(ZnO)6, while those of odd m consist of structure units which are of different types from those used for even m.
[Rh(C7H8)(PPh3)Cl]: an experimental charge-density study
Authors: Sparkes Hazel A. , Brayshaw Simon K. , Weller Andrew S. , Howard Judith A. K.
Published: September 2008

In order to gain a deeper understanding into the bonding situation in rhodium complexes containing rhodium–carbon interactions, the experimental charge-density analysis for [Rh(C7H8)(PPh3)Cl] (1) is reported. Accurate, high-resolution (sin θ/λ = 1.08 Å−1), single-crystal data were obtained at 100 K. The results from the investigation were interesting in relation to the interactions between the rhodium metal centre and the norbornadiene fragment and illustrate the importance of such analyses in studying bonding in organometallic complexes.
Polymorphism of urea–barbituric acid co-crystals
Authors: Gryl Marlena , Krawczuk Anna , Stadnicka Katarzyna
Published: September 2008

The crystal structures of three polymorphs found for the addition complex of urea and barbituric acid are described and compared. Two polymorphs are monoclinic, space groups P21/c and Cc, whereas the third is triclinic, P\bar 1. The displacement of electron density towards the mesomeric forms, corresponding to the tautomeric forms of higher stability, of the barbituric acid molecule seem to influence the type of hydrogen bonds formed, which in turn determines the different packing topology in the polymorphs. While the polymorphic forms can be easily differentiated at the first-level graph-set analysis of their hydrogen-bonding patterns, a higher-level analysis enables important features of the mutual spatial arrangement of the structural components to be revealed.
From six- to five-coordinated SbIII in [(CH3)3PH]3[Sb2Cl9]: transition pathways from single-crystal X-ray diffraction
Authors: Gagor Anna , Wojtaś Maciej , Pietraszko Adam , Jakubas Ryszard
Published: September 2008

[(CH3)3PH]3[Sb2Cl9] experiences four phase transitions which were found by means of calorimetry, thermogravimetry and X-ray diffraction. The crystal structure was solved in the space group P63/mmc at 382 K (phase I), Pnam at 295 K (phase II) and Pna21 at 175 K (phase V). We observed an unusual increase in symmetry from the monoclinic to the orthorhombic form at the IV\rightarrowV transition. The parent hexagonal high-temperature phase I consists of highly disordered [(CH3)3PH]+ cations and [Sb2Cl9]3− anions with an octahedral environment of SbIII. The transition from phases I to II is associated with the ordering of [(CH3)3PH]+ cations. Moreover, the successive transformations from phases I to V are related to the change in the arrangement of Cl atoms in [Sb2Cl9]3− anions from the discrete `face-sharing bioctahedra' (phase I) to two corner-sharing square pyramids. A mechanism for the phase transitions is proposed. It is observed that weak C—H...Cl interactions are responsible for the structure arrangement in low-temperature phases.
Physicochemical changes in phosphorylase kinase associated with its activation
Authors: Liu Weiya , Priddy Timothy S. , Carlson Gerald M.
Published: September 2008

Phosphorylase kinase (PhK) regulates glycogenolysis through its Ca2+‐dependent phosphorylation and activation of glycogen phosphorylase. The activity of PhK increases dramatically as the pH is raised from 6.8 to 8.2 (denoted as ↑pH), but Ca2+dependence is retained. Little is known about the structural changes associated with PhK's activation by ↑pH and Ca2+, but activation by both mechanisms is mediated through regulatory subunits of the (αβγδ)4PhK complex. In this study, changes in the structure of PhK induced by ↑pH and Ca2+were investigated using second derivative UV absorption, synchronous fluorescence, circular dichroism spectroscopy, and zeta potential analyses. The joint effects of Ca2+and ↑pH on the physicochemical properties of PhK were found to be interdependent, with their effects showing a strong inflection point at pH ∼7.6. Comparing the properties of the conformers of PhK present under the condition where it would be least active (pH 6.8 − Ca2+) versus that where it would be most active (pH 8.2 + Ca2+), the joint activation by ↑pH and Ca2+is characterized by a relatively large increase in the content of sheet structure, a decrease in interactions between helix and sheet structures, and a dramatically less negative electrostatic surface charge. A model is presented that accounts for the interdependent activating effects of ↑pH and Ca2+in terms of the overall physicochemical properties of the four PhK conformers described herein, and published data corroborating the transitions between these conformers are tabulated.
Molecular cloning and expression patterns of a putative olfactory diacylglycerol kinase from the noctuid moth Spodoptera littoralis
Authors: Chouquet B. , Bozzolan F. , Solvar M. , Duportets L. , Jacquin‐Joly E. , Lucas P. , Debernard S.
Published: September 2008

In the aim of the characterization of the molecular actors of insect olfactory transduction, we have cloned the full cDNA encoding a Spodoptera littoralis diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) named SlDGK. In male adults, SlDGK transcript was detected predominantly in the brain and in the olfactory sensilla trichodea located on the antennae. SlDGK expression was first detected at day 3 of the pupal stage, then reached a maximum at the end of this stage and was maintained at this level during the adult period. These data provide the first molecular characterization of a DGK potentially involved in the regulation of signalling pathways responsible for the establishment and/or the functioning of the olfactory system in Lepidoptera.
Environmental conditions impinge on dragline silk protein composition
Authors: Guehrs K.‐H. , Schlott B. , Grosse F. , Weisshart K.
Published: September 2008

The silk formed in the major ampullate (MA) gland of the orb weaving spiderNephila clavipesis composed of two silk fibroins, which are called major ampullate spidroins 1 (MaSp1) and 2 (MaSp2). Analysis of proteolytic peptides and reactivity to spidroin type specific antibodies indicated that MaSp2 constituted only a minor part in the spinning dope as well as in the spun filaments. Upon starvation, a change in the silk's characteristic features was observed that was concomitant of a decrease in the contribution of MaSp2. The silk became less elastic and stiffer, which will better tailor its usability for the safety line, albeit at the expense of its employment as the web frame threads. In addition, since MaSp2 production requires greater ATP consumption, such a shift in the protein ratio cuts down on the energy costs to produce the silk. From this change in protein composition the spider might therefore benefit twice, by synthesizing ‘cheaper’ silk that into the bargain has properties that potentially can better support foraging in times of food shortage.
Identification and characterization of multiple Spidroin 1 genes encoding major ampullate silk proteins in Nephila clavipes
Authors: Gaines IV W. A. , Marcotte Jr W. R.
Published: September 2008

Spider dragline silk is primarily composed of proteins called major ampullate spidroins (MaSps) that consist of a large repeat array flanked by nonrepetitive N‐ and C‐terminal domains. Until recently, there has been little evidence for more than one gene encoding each of the two major spidroin silk proteins, MaSp1 and MaSp2. Here, we report the deduced N‐terminal domain sequences for two distinct MaSp1 genes from Nephila clavipes (MaSp1A and MaSp1B) and for MaSp2. All three MaSp genes are co‐expressed in the major ampullate gland. A search of the GenBank database also revealed two distinct MaSp1 C‐terminal domain sequences. Sequencing confirmed that both MaSp1 genes are present in all seven Nephila clavipes spiders examined. The presence of nucleotide polymorphisms in these genes confirmed that MaSp1A and MaSp1B are distinct genetic loci and not merely alleles of the same gene. We experimentally determined the transcription start sites for all three MaSp genes and established preliminary pairing between the two MaSp1 N‐ and C‐terminal domains. Phylogenetic analysis of these new sequences and other published MaSp N‐ and C‐terminal domain sequences illustrated that duplications of MaSp genes may be widespread among spider species.
A chitin deacetylase and putative insect intestinal lipases are components of the Mamestra configurata (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) peritrophic matrix
Authors: Toprak U. , Baldwin D. , Erlandson M. , Gillott C. , Hou X. , Coutu C. , Hegedus D. D.
Published: September 2008

One‐ and two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis coupled with liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) was used to identify cDNA encoding a chitin deacetylase (McCDA1) and three insect intestinal lipases (McIIL1, McIIL2 and McIIL3) associated with the Mamestra configurata (bertha armyworm) peritrophic matrix. Recombinant McCDA1 was active and chitin deacetylase activities were detected in the midgut. McCDA1 and the McIIL genes were expressed exclusively in the midgut; however, McCDA1 and McIIL2 were expressed in all larval stages, whereas McIIL1 was expressed mainly in feeding larvae and McIIL3 primarily during the moult.
Approaching risk analysis and risk management in the fertility laboratory and semen bank
Authors: Janssens Pim M. W. , Cheung Kin Sun
Published: September 2008

Present‐day quality consciousness, as reflected in the newest European Directives and guidelines, demands from laboratories working with human gametes and embryos that attention be paid to risk analysis and management. Using these Directives and guidelines as reference, while also aiming at accreditation, we have worked out an approach for risk analysis in the fertility laboratory and semen bank for the processing of semen to be used for intrauterine insemination and for the preservation of semen in the semen bank, based on the general principles of failure mode and effect analysis. In this overview, we describe how risk analyses and various aspects of risk management in the fertility laboratory and semen bank can be carried out.
Apoptotic cell death of human interstitial cells of Cajal
Authors: Gibbons S. J. , De Giorgio R. , Faussone Pellegrini M. S. , Garrity‐park M. M. , Miller S. M. , Schmalz P. F. , Young‐fadok T. M. , Larson D. W. , Dozois E. J. , Camilleri M. , Stanghellini V. , Szurszewski J. H. , Farrugia G.
Published: September 2008

Abstract  Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) are specialized mesenchyme‐derived cells that regulate contractility and excitability of many smooth muscles with loss of ICC seen in a variety of gut motility disorders. Maintenance of ICC numbers is tightly regulated, with several factors known to regulate proliferation. In contrast, the fate of ICC is not established. The aim of this study was to investigate whether apoptosis plays a role in the regulation of ICC numbers in the normal colon. ICC were identified by immunolabelling for the c‐Kit receptor tyrosine kinase and by electron microscopy. Apoptosis was detected in colon tissue by immunolabelling for activated caspase‐3, terminal dUTP nucleotide end labelling and by ultrastructural changes in the cells. Apoptotic ICC were identified and counted in double‐labelled tissue sections. They were identified in all layers of the colonic muscle. In the muscularis propria 1.5 ± 0.2% of ICC were positive for activated caspase‐3 and in the circular muscle layer 2.1 ± 0.9% of ICC were positive for TUNEL. Apoptotic ICC were identified by electron microscopy. Apoptotic cell death is a continuing process in ICC. The level of apoptosis in ICC in healthy colon indicates that these cells must be continually regenerated to maintain intact networks.
Constipation does not develop following elective hysterectomy: a prospective, controlled study
Authors: Sperber A. D. , Morris C. B. , Greemberg L. , Bangdiwala S. I. , Goldstein D. , Sheiner E. , Rusabrov Y. , Hu Y. , Katz M. , Freud T. , Neville A. , Drossman D. A.
Published: September 2008

Abstract  Although there have been reports that women develop constipation following hysterectomy, previous studies were either retrospective or uncontrolled. The aim of this prospective, controlled study was to assess whether constipation develops after elective hysterectomy. Women undergoing elective gynaecological surgery were compared to matched non‐surgery controls at enrolment and 3 and 12 months after surgery. The subset of women who underwent elective hysterectomy was the study group for the present report. Fifty‐eight of the 132 elective surgery patients underwent hysterectomy and were compared to 123 controls. There was no difference between the groups at any follow‐up point in functional constipation (P = 1.0), frequency of stools (P = 0.92), stool consistency (P = 0.42), straining (P = 0.43), feeling of obstruction (P = 0.6) or need to manually evacuate stool (P = 1.0). Significantly, more hysterectomy patients without baseline pain did develop abdominal pain at 3 or 12 months than non‐surgery controls (16.7%vs 3.6%, P = 0.008). We conclude that there was no significant change in bowel habit or stool characteristics in women undergoing hysterectomy even though many developed abdominal pain. This prospective, controlled study challenges existing data regarding the effect of hysterectomy on constipation.
Activation of MAP kinase (ERK1/2) in human neonatal colonic enteric nervous system
Authors: Rouleau C. , Matécki S. , Kalfa N. , Costes V. , De Santa Barbara P.
Published: September 2008

Abstract  The aim of this study was to examine mitogen‐activated protein kinase (ERK1/2) activation in the human neonatal colonic enteric nervous system. For this, we investigated by immunocytochemistry the cellular localization of phosphorylated ERK1/2 (P‐ERK) in a series of normal human colon samples removed from newborns and in patients with intestinal obstruction such as Hirschsprung’s disease (HSCR), stenosis and atresia. We checked the presence of P‐ERK in the three distinct histological layers of normal colon. Phosphorylated ERK was detected in the colonic mucosa, in the enteric nervous system and in endothelial cells. In the mucosa from normal colon, P‐ERK was detected at the upper part of the crypt, while P‐ERK activation in epithelial cells is altered in HSCR, stenosis and atresia. In the normal colon, strong P‐ERK staining was detected in myenteric and submucosal enteric plexuses. Using confocal microscopy analyses, we observed that P‐ERK staining was localized in enteric glial cells and not in enteric neurons. Strong P‐ERK staining was also observed in plexuses from stenosis and atresia whereas in HSCR, hypertrophic nerve fibres were not stained.
Altered arginine metabolism in the central nervous system (CNS) of the Cln3−/− mouse model of juvenile Batten disease
Authors: Chan C.‐H. , Ramirez‐Montealegre D. , Pearce D. A.
Published: September 2008

Background: Juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (JNCL) or juvenile Batten disease is a recessively inherited childhood neurodegenerative disorder resulting from a mutation in CLN3, which encodes a putative lysosomal protein of unknown function. Aim: Recent evidence suggests that a disruption in CLN3 function results in altered regulation of arginine transport into lysosomes, and may influence intracellular arginine levels. We sought to investigate the possible consequences of arginine dysregulation in the brain of the Cln3−/− mouse model of JNCL. Methods: Using a combination of enzyme assays, metabolite profiling, quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting, we analysed the activities and expression of enzymes involved in arginine metabolism in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum of Cln3−/− mice over several developmental time points. Results: We report subtle, but significant changes in the activities of enzymes involved in the citrulline‐NO recycling pathway, and altered regulation of neuronal nitric oxide synthase in the cortex and cerebellum of Cln3−/− mice. In addition, a significant decrease in arginine transport into cerebellar granule cells was observed, despite an apparent upregulation of the cationic amino acid transporter‐1 transporter at the cell surface. Our results provide further evidence that CLN3 function and arginine homeostasis are intricately related, and that cellular mechanisms may act to compensate for the loss of this protein. Conclusions: This and other studies indicate that CLN3 dysfunction in JNCL may result in multiple disturbances in metabolism that together contribute to the pathophysiological processes underlying this disease.
The E2 ubiquitin‐conjugating enzymes, AtUBC1 and AtUBC2, play redundant roles and are involved in activation of FLC expression and repression of flowering in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Xu Lin , Ménard Rozenn , Berr Alexandre , Fuchs Jörg , Cognat Valérie , Meyer Denise , Shen Wen‐Hui
Published: September 2008

Post‐translational modifications of proteins by addition of ubiquitin can regulate protein degradation and localization, protein–protein interactions and transcriptional activation. In the ubiquitylation system, substrate specificity is primarily determined by the E2 ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme (UBC) and the E3 ubiquitin ligase. The Arabidopsis thaliana genome contains 37 genes encoding UBC homologs. However, the biological functions of these genes remain largely uncharacterized. Here, we report reverse genetic characterization of AtUBC1 and AtUBC2. While the loss‐of‐function single mutants Atubc1‐1 and Atubc2‐1 only show weak phenotypes, the double mutant Atubc1‐1 Atubc2‐1 shows a dramatically reduced number of rosette leaves and an early‐flowering phenotype. Consistent with these results, the transcript levels of the floral repressor genes FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC), MADS ASSOCIATED FLOWERING 4 (MAF4) and MAF5 are reduced in the double mutant. Loss‐of‐function mutants of HISTONE MONOUBIQUITINATION 1 (HUB1) and HUB2, which were previously reported to encode an E3 involved in histone H2B ubiquitylation, also show an early‐flowering phenotype and reduced levels of FLC, MAF4 and MAF5 transcripts. In both Atubc1‐1 Atubc2‐1 and hub2‐2 mutants, H2B mono‐ubiquitylation is drastically reduced. Taken together, our results indicate that E2s AtUBC1/AtUBC2 and E3s HUB1/HUB2 together mediate H2B ubiquitylation, which is involved in the activation of floral repressor genes as well as in other processes as indicated by the pleiotropic phenotypes of the mutants.
Extracellular pyridine nucleotides induce PR gene expression and disease resistance in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Xudong , Mou Zhonglin
Published: September 2008

Although it is well known that the pyridine nucleotides NAD and NADP function inside the cell to regulate intracellular signaling processes, recent evidence from animal studies suggests that NAD(P) also functions in the extracellular compartment (ECC). Extracellular NAD(P) [eNAD(P)] can either directly bind to plasma membrane receptors or be metabolized by ecto‐enzymes to produce cyclic ADP‐ribose and nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate, and/or may ADP‐ribosylate cell‐surface receptors, resulting in activation of transmembrane signaling. In this study, we report that, in plants, exogenous NAD(P) induces the expression of pathogenesis‐related (PR) genes and resistance to the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. maculicola ES4326. Chelation of Ca2+ by EGTA significantly inhibits the induction of PR genes by exogenous NAD(P), suggesting that exogenous NAD(P) may induce PR genes through a pathway that involves Ca2+ signaling. We show that exogenous application of NAD(P) causes accumulation of the defense signal molecule salicylic acid (SA), and induces both SA/NPR1‐dependent and ‐independent PR gene expression and disease resistance. Furthermore, we demonstrate that NAD(P) leaks into the plant ECC after mechanical wounding and pathogen infection, and that the amount of NAD(P) leaking into the ECC after P. syringae pv. tobacco DC3000/avrRpt2 infection is sufficient for induction of both PR gene expression and disease resistance. We propose that NAD(P) leakage from cells losing membrane integrity upon environmental stress may function as an elicitor to activate plant defense responses. Our data provide evidence that eNAD(P) functions in plant signaling, and illustrate the potential importance of eNAD(P) in plant innate immunity.
Common variable immunodeficiency: 20‐yr experience at a single centre
Authors: Llobet Ma Pilar , Soler‐Palacin Pere , Detkova Drahomira , Hernández Manuel , Caragol Isabel , Espanol Teresa
Published: September 2008

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most common symptomatic primary immunodeficiency. It can present at any age in patients with a history of recurrent bacterial infections, with or without a family history of other primary immunodeficiencies (PID), and shows a wide range of clinical manifestations and immunological data. Diagnosis is based on low IgG, IgM and/or IgA levels. Delayed diagnosis and therapy can lead to bronchiectasis and malabsorption. The aim of this study was to describe a paediatric population diagnosed of CVID and its evolution in the population. Memory B‐cell (MB) classification carried out in these patients was correlated with clinical manifestations and outcome. Clinical and immunological data of 22 CVID children under 18 yr treated at our centre between 1985 and 2005 are presented. Immunological studies included those for diagnosis and MB quantification. Differences in form of presentation, familial incidence and MB classification were reviewed. A statistical descriptive analysis was made. Infections were the commonest manifestation, affecting mainly respiratory (19/22) and gastrointestinal (10/22) tracts. Bronchiectasis was present in seven cases, and detected prior to CVID diagnosis in five. Replacement therapy led to a significant reduction in the number of infections. Severe complications appeared mostly in patients without MB. Patients of the same family share the same MB group. Family members had also been diagnosed of CVID in seven cases. Early diagnosis and therapy are essential to improve outcome in these patients. MB studies are useful in children to orient prognosis and further genetic studies.
Discrepancy between sensitization to inhaled allergens and respiratory symptoms in pediatric patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tosca Maria Angela , Villa Elisa , Silvestri Michela , D’Annunzio Giuseppe , Pistorio Angela , Aicardi Marco , Minicucci Laura , Lorini Renata , Rossi Giovanni A.
Published: September 2008

According to the ‘Th1/Th2 paradigm’, children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) should have a lower risk of developing allergic sensitization and, because of the involvement of insulin in modulating airway inflammation, different frequency or severity in allergy‐related respiratory manifestations. This article aims at evaluating the frequency and type of allergic sensitization and its respiratory manifestation, asthma and/or rhinitis, in a group of pediatric patients with T1DM. Patients (112) with T1DM, 7.8–16.9 yr of age (63 males and 49 females) were evaluated. Skin prick test (SPT) reactivity to the most common classes of aeroallergens were performed and compared with data obtained in 709 school‐aged children. The frequency of sensitization was not different in the T1DM and in the control subjects (43.7% and 40.8%, respectively; p = 0.55), with similar proportions of individuals sensitized to one allergen (32.7% and 38.1%, respectively; p = 0.47). In both groups, sensitization to house dust mite allergens was the most frequently detected (69.4% and 65.4%, respectively; p = 0.59), with a higher proportions of individuals sensitized to Graminae (+Cynodon dactylon; p < 0.0001) and a lower, but weakly significant, proportion sensitized to Parietaria (p = 0.03) in the T1DM group, as compared with controls. No differences were found between T1DM and control groups in the proportion of individuals reporting rhinitis (26.8% and 29.2%; p = 0.60). However, comparing separately sensitized and non‐sensitized subjects, a lower proportion of rhinitis subjects was detected in the non‐sensitized T1DM patients, when compared with the non‐sensitized control subjects (p = 0.01). In addition, no differences were detected between T1DM and control groups in frequency of symptoms related to ‘lifetime asthma’, i.e., asthma episodes during life (14.3% and 16.5%, respectively: p = 0.55), also when sensitized and non‐sensitized subjects were evaluated separately (p = 0.12 and p = 1.00, respectively). However, no T1DM patient had ‘actual asthma’, i.e., asthma episodes in the last year, vs. 5.8% of the individuals in the control group (p = 0.009), the difference being mostly ascribed to sensitized subjects (p = 0.012). Finally, out of the 16 T1DM patients with ‘lifetime asthma’, 15 had mild intermittent disease and only one mild persistent disease. T1DM does not seem to play a downregulating role on the development of allergic sensitization to aeroallergens, but may lower the frequency or the severity of its clinical manifestations at respiratory level.
Dietary folate intake, use of folate supplements, lifestyle factors, and serum folate levels among pregnant women in Tokyo, Japan
Authors: Matsuzaki Masayo , Haruna Megumi , Ota Erika , Sasaki Satoshi , Nagai Yasushi , Murashima Sachiyo
Published: September 2008

Aim:  The aim of this study was to determine the folate status of pregnant women and how it is affected by dietary folate, use of folate supplements, and lifestyle factors (smoking and drinking habits).

Methods:  This cross‐sectional study involved 537 healthy, pregnant women attending an obstetric clinic in a Tokyo suburb. Morning blood samples were taken to determine serum folate levels. A brief, self‐administered diet history questionnaire and another questionnaire were used to obtain information about food intake and demographic data. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with a normal serum folate level (>6 ng/mL), taking women with a low serum folate level (≤6 ng/mL) as the reference group.

Results:  The median dietary folate intake was 207.2 µg/day; the median serum folate level was 3.9 ng/ml. A normal serum folate level was significantly associated with increased dietary folate intake (odds ratio = 1.003, P < 0.05), use of folate supplements (odds ratio = 8.152, P < 0.001), and more than four cups of green tea (odds ratio = 0.467, P < 0.05), but not with lifestyle factors in the adjusted analysis.

Conclusions:  Most pregnant women (79.3%) in the present study had a low serum folate level, reflecting a low dietary intake of folate and a low proportion of women taking folate supplements. Supplement use had a much stronger association with a normal serum folate level than dietary folate intake. Since this study was not population‐based, further studies are needed to confirm the results.
Testing for Lack of Fit in Inverse Regression—with Applications to Biophotonic Imaging
Authors: Bissantz Nicolai , Claeskens Gerda , Holzmann Hajo , Munk Axel
Published: September 2008

We propose two test statistics for use in inverse regression problems Y = Kθ+ε, where K is a given linear operator which cannot be continuously inverted. Thus, only noisy, indirect observations Y for the function θ are available. Both test statistics have a counterpart in classical hypothesis testing, where they are called the order selection test and the data-driven Neyman smooth test. We also introduce two model selection criteria which extend the classical Akaike information criterion and Bayes information criterion to inverse regression problems. In a simulation study we show that the inverse order selection and Neyman smooth tests outperform their direct counterparts in many cases. The theory is motivated by data arising in confocal fluorescence microscopy. Here, images are observed with blurring, modelled as convolution, and stochastic error at subsequent times. The aim is then to reduce the signal-to-noise ratio by averaging over the distinct images. In this context it is relevant to decide whether the images are still equal, or have changed by outside influences such as moving of the object table.
Good Climate Governance: Only a Fragmented System of International Law Away?
Authors: PIÑON CARLARNE CINNAMON
Published: September 2008

Fragmentation is the hallmark of international environmental law—it is both the key to its success and the pathway to its unraveling. Recognizing that law is an essential component of systems of supranational climate governance, addressing gaps between international legal systems is fundamentally important to the legitimacy of international law and to on‐going attempts to use international law as a central component in efforts to address climate change. This article analyzes developments in international environmental law with a view towards suggesting how efforts to develop an international climate change legal regime—and a broader system of global climate governance—highlight the pressing need to look more closely at the linkages between climate change and other areas of international law and to begin thinking about ways to minimize gaps and maximize cooperation among international environmental institutions and between international environmental law and other spheres of international law.
Power of Tests for Unit Roots in the Presence of a Linear Trend*
Authors: Nielsen Bent
Published: September 2008

Dickey and Fuller [Econometrica(1981) Vol. 49, pp. 1057–1072] suggested unit‐root tests for an autoregressive model with a linear trend conditional on an initial observation. TPower of tests for unit roots in the presence of a linear trendightly different model with a random initial value in which nuisance parameters can easily be eliminated by an invariant reduction of the model. We show that invariance arguments can also be used when comparing power within a conditional model. In the context of the conditional model, the Dickey–Fuller test is shown to be more stringent than a number of unit‐root tests motivated by models with random initial value. The power of the Dickey–Fuller test can be improved by making assumptions to the initial value. The practitioner therefore has to trade‐off robustness and power, as assumptions about initial values are hard to test, but can give more power.
‘Delivered By the Power of God’: Toward a Pentecostal Understanding of Salvation
Authors: COULTER DALE
Published: September 2008

Abstract:  The quest to find a doctrinal framework that faithfully reflects Pentecostalism continues among Pentecostal theologians. Among the variety of proposals offered, a consensus has emerged on the centrality of the doctrine of salvation for a Pentecostal theology. Using theological models as a methodological approach, the claim is made that a Pentecostal theology best functions within a model of salvation that can be expressed in terms of two dominant metaphors: acquisition of God's life and deliverance. Consequently, a Pentecostal understanding of salvation concerns the ongoing deliverance from sin in all of its permutations through the increasing acquisition of God's triune life.
Measuring the Impact of Headache in Children: A Critical Review of the Literature
Authors: Kernick D , Campbell J
Published: September 2008

Headache is the most frequent neurological symptom and commonest manifestation of pain in childhood. Measuring the impact of headache in terms of health status, functioning and quality of life can inform the prioritization of competing resource claims, screen for unmet need, improve communication between patient and physician and monitor response to treatment. We undertook a critical review of the literature measuring the impact of headache in children and identified 33 papers that contained relevant information. Findings reflected a wide range of settings, age groups, methodologies and outcome measures. Considerable methodological limitations affected all studies, including inadequate description of study design, methodology and data analysis. Nevertheless, although we found the existing literature to be of inconsistent quality, the impact of headache in children and adolescents is substantial. Rigorous studies are required to quantify this burden using measures that are valid and reliable and whose development has been informed by both theoretical and practical perspectives.
Testing Association with Interactions by Partitioning Chi‐Squares
Authors: Yang Y. , He C. , Ott J.
Published: September 2008

Gene‐gene interaction plays an important role in association studies for complex diseases. There have been different approaches to incorporating gene‐gene interactions in candidate gene or genome‐wide association studies, especially for those genes with no marginal effects but with interaction effects. However, there is no general agreement on how interaction should be tested and how main effects and interaction effects act on a significance signal. In this paper, we propose a test of the null hypothesis of no association in terms of interaction effects for two unlinked loci, which is a 4 degrees of freedom (df) chi‐square for two SNPs. The test, derived by contrasting inter‐locus disequilibrium measures between cases and controls, can be viewed as the interaction component of the total Pearson chi‐square. The remaining portion of the total chi‐square can also be used for association analysis, which emphasizes main effects. Simulation studies show that in most situations our interaction test is similar in power to the test based on a logistic regression model but has more power when the genes have no marginal effects. Results also show that single‐locus marginal tests can lose much power if interaction effects dominate main effects. For some specific genetic models, the interaction test may be further partitioned into four 1‐df chi‐squares for individual interaction effect. The interaction pattern can best be demonstrated by the 1‐df chi‐square components. Simulation results show that there is substantial power gain if interaction patterns are properly incorporated in association analysis.
A study of the occurrence of Listeria species in raw sheep milk
Authors: AL‐TAHIRI RIADH , OMAR SHARAF , REWASHDEH ABDULLAH
Published: September 2008

The occurrence of bacteria from the genus Listeria in raw sheep milk and traditional local cheese was studied in three regions of the Karak district of Jordan. Conventional plating methods for the detection of Listeria species were followed to determine the average and the percentage of the contaminated samples. The result shows that there were significant differences between the regions in the study concerning the average and the percentage of positive occurrences of Listeria species in raw sheep milk. The results also showed that mainly L. monocytogenes and, to a lesser degree, L. ivanovii and L. innocua were found in the milk samples, while the occurrence of L. monocytogenes in cheese samples was very low.
Nesting habitat preference of the African White‐backed Vulture Gyps africanus and the effects of anthropogenic disturbance
Authors: BAMFORD ANDREW J. , MONADJEM ARA , HARDY IAN C. W.
Published: September 2008

The African White‐backed Vulture Gyps africanus is widely distributed across sub‐Saharan Africa but populations are in decline. Loss of suitable habitat for foraging and breeding are among the most important causes, and future conservation will require identification of suitable remaining habitat and the threats to it and to the vultures in it. Like many large raptors, African White‐backed Vultures have a long breeding cycle and thus spend much of each year near their nest site, but ecological correlates of nest sites have not been quantified for any African vulture species. We use nest‐site data for African White‐backed Vultures collected during aerial and ground surveys and habitat data derived from a GIS to develop statistical models that estimate the probability of nest presence in relation to habitat characteristics, and test these models against an independent dataset. The models predicted that both direct and indirect disturbance by humans limit the potential distribution. Suitable habitat needs to be identified and receive adequate protection from poaching. Poaching of vultures is thought to be mainly for use in traditional medicine and does not target any particular species, so all vulture species can be considered equally at risk. We predict the likelihood of individuals nesting in currently unprotected areas should they become protected. These predictions show that readily available GIS data combined with relatively simple statistical modelling can provide meaningful large‐scale predictions of habitat availability.
Transgenerational immunity in a bird–ectoparasite system: do maternally transferred antibodies affect parasite fecundity or the offspring's susceptibility to fleas?
Authors: TSCHIRREN BARBARA , SIITARI HELI , SALADIN VERENA , RICHNER HEINZ
Published: September 2008

During egg formation, female birds deposit antibodies against parasites and pathogens they were exposed to before egg laying into the yolk. In captive bird species, it has been shown that these maternal immunoglobulins (maternal yolk IgGs) can protect newly hatched offspring against infection. However, direct evidence for such benefits in wild birds is hitherto lacking. We investigated (1) if nestling Great TitsParus majororiginating from eggs with naturally high levels of maternal yolk IgG are less susceptible to a common, nest‐based ectoparasite, (2) if maternal yolk IgGs influence nestling development and in particular, their own immune defence, and (3) if there is a negative correlation between levels of maternal yolk IgG in host eggs and the reproductive success of ectoparasitic fleas feeding on the nestlings. Counter to expectations, we found no indication that maternally transferred yolk IgGs have direct beneficial effects on nestling development, nestling immune response or nestling resistance or tolerance to fleas. Furthermore, we found no negative correlation between host yolk IgG levels and parasite fecundity. Thus, whereas previous work has unequivocally shown that prenatal maternal effects play a crucial role in shaping the parasite resistance of nestling birds, our study indicates that other egg components, such as hormones, carotenoids or other immuno‐active substances, which bird females can adjust more quickly than yolk IgG, might mediate these effects.
Intrasurgical Implant Position Transfer and Interim Restoration Placement
Authors: Sava Cosmin N. , Kamposiora Phophi , Papavasiliou George , Orfanou Alexandra V.
Published: September 2008

In the esthetic zone, the placement of an interim prosthesis is an important stage in implant treatment for gingival contouring. This article presents a simple procedure for making an intraoperative implant position transfer to construct an interim prosthesis with optimal shape and emergence profile. This prosthesis, inserted at stage II surgery, guides soft tissue healing and aids in the fabrication of a definitive prosthesis with optimal gingival contours.
Effect of Compromised Cortical Bone on Implant Load Distribution
Authors: Akça Kıvanç , Fanuscu Mete I. , Caputo Angelo A.
Published: September 2008

Purpose: To investigate photoelastically the difference in load distribution of dental implants with different implant neck designs in intact and compromised bone.

Materials and Methods: Composite photoelastic models were fabricated using two different resins to simulate trabecular bone and a 1‐mm thick layer of cortical bone. The following parallel‐sided, threaded implants were centrally located in individual models representing intact and compromised cortical bone: Straumann (4.1‐mm diameter × 12‐mm length), AstraTech (4.0‐mm diameter × 13‐mm length), and 3i (3.75‐mm diameter × 13‐mm length). The compromised cortical bone condition was simulated by contaminating a 1‐mm neck portion with Vaseline to impair the implant–resin interface. Vertical and oblique static loads were applied on the abutments, and the resulting stresses were monitored photoelastically and recorded photograhphically.

Results: For the fully intact condition, the highest stresses were observed around the crest and apical region for all implant designs under vertical and inclined loads. There were no appreciable differences in magnitude or distribution between implant types. With compromised cortical bone, for all designs and load directions, higher stresses in the supporting structures were observed. Increased stresses were noted especially at the cortical bone–trabecular bone interface. Somewhat lower stress levels were observed with the 3i implant.

Conclusions: The condition of implant–cortical bone contact has considerable influence on stress distribution. A compromised cortical bone condition caused higher level stresses for all implant designs tested.
When Toys and Ornaments Come into Play: The Transformative Power of Miniatures in Canadian Inuit Cosmology
Authors: Laugrand Frédéric , Oosten Jarich
Published: September 2008

Inuit have been making miniatures for thousands of years, and they are still very attractive to many Inuit today. In this paper, we explore the intrinsic ambiguity of Inuit miniatures. They seem like innocent toys or ornaments, but turn out to have great transformative power. As toys, they are instrumental in transforming children into adults; as ornaments, they may be charms or amulets; as amulets, they may be weapons against enemies; and as weapons or offerings, they may take life or generate it. Appearing as images of the world, they are in fact at its origin. Every living being traditionally derived its existence from a miniature image (thetarniq). Miniatures evoke a play of deception, transforming what appears to be real into an image of the miniature.
Knowledge and Artifacts: People and Objects
Authors: Svensson Tom G.
Published: September 2008

In the study of material culture, the connection between artifacts and knowledge is discernible. The knowledge derives primarily from people, the indigenous voice. To elucidate the inter‐relationship between knowledge and objects, a narrative approach will be emphasized. The main argument relates to the connection of oral history, material culture, and ethnographic museums. My empirical frame of reference is the Sámi culture in Northern Fennoscandia and its basketry tradition, and the general focus will emphasize adequate knowledge‐generating processes. One single object, a so‐calledmini kisa, collected in 2003, will be used as a case in point. The body of knowledge discussed contains both tangible and intangible heritage, thereby making the object speak for culture. And, in my view, museums have an obligation to master these demands.
Effect of Lithium Nitrate on the Alkali‐Silica Reaction Gel
Authors: Schneider José F. , Hasparyk Nicole P. , Silva Denise A. , Monteiro Paulo J. M.
Published: September 2008

Lithium nitrate has been used to prevent and to mediate the expansion caused by alkali‐silica reaction (ASR). However, there is limited information on how it affects the existing reaction products caused by ASR. The aim of the present work is to determine the modifications caused by the LiNO3 treatment on the structure of the gel produced by ASR. ASR gel samples obtained from a concrete dam were exposed to an aqueous solution of lithium nitrate and sodium hydroxide with molar LiNO3/ NaOH=0.74, and the resulting products were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance of 29Si, 23Na, and 7Li. The treatment of the gel samples produces significant structural modifications in ASR products. A new amorphous silicate compound incorporating Li+ ions is formed, with an average silicate network that can be described as linear in contrast with the layered structure of the original gel. This elimination of the layered structure after the Li‐based treatments may be related to the reduction of the tendency of the gel to expand. Also, several crystalline compounds containing potassium indicate the release of this species from the original ASR gel.