bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IL13 gene polymorphism association with cord serum immunoglobulin E
Authors: Sadeghnejad Alireza , Karmaus Wilfried , Hasan Arshad S. , Ewart Susan
Published: March 2007

Interleukin‐13 (IL‐13) has a pivotal role in the pathway of immunoglobulin E (IgE). Cord serum IgE has been suggested to be associated with allergy later in life, yet less affected by environmental exposures. We investigated the association of the interleukin‐13 gene (IL13) polymorphisms on cord serum IgE. In the Isle of Wight birth cohort (UK, 1989–1990), cord serum IgE was measured using the ULTRA EIA® kit and was dichotomized at 0.5 kU/l (n = 1358). Five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs: rs1800925 in promoter, rs2066960 in intron 1, rs1295686 in intron 3, rs20541 in exon 4 and rs1295685 in exon 4) in IL13 were genotyped by pyrosequencing method. Linkage analysis using Haploview software revealed that rs1295686, rs20541 and rs1295685 were in strong linkage disequilibrium. Logistic regression and Armitage‐Cochran test were used and gene association analysis included 798 children. Confounders were maternal age; maternal smoking, household dog, and household cat during pregnancy; season of birth; sex; position of child in family; and birth weight. SNP rs1295685 was associated with raised cord serum IgE (p = 0.031). This is the first report that shows an association between IL13 polymorphism and cord serum IgE.
Before‐birth climatologic data may play a role in the development of allergies in infants
Authors: Kuzume Kazuyo , Kusu Masahito
Published: March 2007

While an exacerbation in allergic symptoms corresponding to seasons has long been reported, few studies have investigated the association between the season of birth and allergic disorders. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the climatologic data before and after birth affected the incidence of atopic dermatitis (AD) and the results of allergy‐related blood tests in early infancy. From February 1995 to January 2000, 2136 infants were tested for AD and followed for 12 months. AD patients were tested by using allergy‐related blood tests. Data were compared according to the month of birth and the climatologic data using a computed statistical software package. Six hundred and thirty infants had AD before 12 months old, and significant differences were found according to the season of birth (p < 0.0001). Infants born in spring showed the lowest (22.3%) incidence, while those born in autumn showed the highest (34.6%). In 369 patients, total serum IgE levels, and serum specific IgE levels with egg white at 3 months old were also different according to the season of birth. All of these levels were lower in patients born in spring and summer, and higher in patients born in autumn and winter. Furthermore, the cumulative sunshine amount during the 3 months before and after birth was inversely correlated, while the average temperature over the 3 months before birth was positively correlated to the incidence of AD according to the month of birth. The climatologic data around birth may play an important role in whether an infant develops allergies.
Altered Fatty Acid Profile of Polar Lipids in Maize Seedlings in Response to Excess Copper
Authors: Chaffai R. , Elhammadi M. A. , Seybou T. N. , Tekitek A. , Marzouk B. , El Ferjani E.
Published: March 2007

A wide range of cellular responses occur when plants are exposed to heavy metal stress, including changes in the membrane fatty acid composition. In this study, we examined the effect of excess copper (100 μm) on the degree of unsaturation [double bond index (DBI) of 18‐C fatty acids] and the polar lipid profiles in maize (Zea mays L.). The level of unsaturation of total fatty acids decreased from 1.42 to 1.28 in maize roots. However, copper‐induced compositional changes of polar fatty acid composition show a general trend of increasing DBI. These responses suggest that individual 18‐C fatty acid classes may have specific roles in maintaining optimal membrane function, enabling plant growth under copper stress. The results also reveal key changes including marked decrease in total root phospholipid levels and consistent increase in the steryl lipid/phospholipid (SL/PL) ratio, as well as a decrease in monogalactosyldiacylglycerol/digalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG/DGDG) ratio, reflecting alteration of membrane permeability and fluidity. In shoots, the DBI obtained from phosphatidylcholine (PC), sulphoquinovosyldiacylglycerol (SQDG) and monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) was increased. In contrast, these indices were decreased in phosphatidylinositol (PI) and phosphatidylglycerol (PG). However, the PI, PC, PG, MGDG and DGDG contents in shoots were significantly decreased, suggesting alterations in the photosynthetic membranes.
Effects of Zinc Deficiency and Drought on Grain Yield of Field‐grown Wheat Cultivars in Central Anatolia
Authors: Bagci S. A. , Ekiz H. , Yilmaz A. , Cakmak I.
Published: March 2007

Drought stress and zinc (Zn) deficiency are serious abiotic stress factors limiting crop production in Turkey, especially in Central Anatolia. In this study, the effects of Zn deficiency and drought stress on grain yield of 20 wheat cultivars (16 bread wheat, Triticum aestivum; four durum wheat, Triticum durum cultivars) were investigated over 2 years under rainfed and irrigated conditions in Central Anatolia where drought and Zn deficiency cause substantial yield reductions. Plants were treated with (+Zn: 23 kg Zn ha−1, as ZnSO4·7H2O) and without (−Zn) Zn under rainfed and irrigated conditions. Both Zn deficiency and rainfed treatments resulted in substantial decreases in grain yield. Significant differences were determined between both bread wheat and durum wheat cultivars in terms of drought stress tolerance. Considering drought sensitivity indices over 2 years, the bread wheat cultivars Yayla‐305, Gerek‐79, Dagdas‐94 and Bolal‐2973 were found to be more drought‐tolerant than the other cultivars under both −Zn and +Zn treatments. Especially the durum wheat cultivars Cakmak 79 and Selcuklu 97 showed much greater drought susceptibility under Zn deficiency, and irrigation alone was not sufficient to obtain satisfying grain yield without Zn application. The results indicate that sensitivity to Zn deficiency stress became more pronounced when plants were drought‐stressed. The effect of irrigation on grain yield was maximized when Zn was adequately supplied, leading to the suggestion that efficient water use in Central Anatolia seems to be highly dependent on the Zn nutritional status of plants.
Soya Bean (Glycine max L. Merr.) Genotype Response to Early‐season Flooding: I. Root and Nodule Development
Authors: Henshaw T. L. , Gilbert R. A. , Scholberg J. M. S. , Sinclair T. R.
Published: March 2007

Soya bean is often grown in regions subject to periodic flooding, with the rooting zone most affected by flooding due to its proximity to the source of stress. Our objectives were to examine the effects of flooding soya bean on its primary roots, adventitious roots and root nodules, and to determine relationships between root morphological changes and early‐season flood tolerance. The experiment was conducted in Belle Glade, FL with 11 soya bean genotypes subjected to (i) no flood, (ii) 2‐week flood 21–35 days after sowing (DAS) or (iii) 4‐week flood 21–49 DAS. All plants were harvested 49 DAS. Flooding reduced soya bean primary root weight, length and volume across genotypes. Adventitious root length and volume were greater in the 4‐week than the 2‐week flood. Soya bean nodule dry weight was threefold higher in the non‐flooded treatments. Genotypic differences in root development and tolerance to flooding were noted, with early‐season flood tolerance correlated with primary root dry weight, length and surface area, and adventitious root dry weight. However, there was no correlation between this study's early‐season root development and late‐season flood tolerance based on seed yield from previous studies. Our results indicate that full season trials may be necessary to identify flood‐tolerant soya bean germplasm.
Dietary nucleotides improve the immune status of puppies at weaning
Authors: Romano V. , Martinez‐Puig D. , Torre C. , Iraculis N. , Vilaseca Ll. , Chetrit C.
Published: March 2007

Animals have a continuous requirement for nucleotides, especially for systems that present a high rate of cell turnover‐like the immune system. Nucleotides may become conditionally essential nutrients under certain circumstances (e.g. weaning period) because endogenous synthesis may be insufficient to sustain normal function. In this case the immune function depends upon dietary nucleotide sources. The aim of the present study was to test the impact of a nucleotide supplement, specifically designed to mimic nucleotide composition in bitch's milk, on the immune function of weaned puppies. A total of 21 beagle puppies weaned at 8 weeks of age were allocated to three balanced groups and fed one of the following diets: standard commercial puppy diet (control diet); control diet supplemented with 900 p.p.m. of nucleotides or control diet supplemented with 1350 p.p.m. of nucleotides. One week later weaning puppies were vaccinated with an heptavalent vaccine. During the study blood samples were taken in order to analyse plasmatic concentrations of C‐reactive protein (CRP), non‐specific immunoglobulins and antibody titre against parvovirus. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) stimulation test was also performed. Supplemented groups showed higher antibody titre against parvovirus 14 days after vaccination and higher unspecific immunoglobulin levels. PBMC stimulation test at 35 days also showed higher results in the supplemented groups. CRP 1 day after vaccination and haematocrit after 35 days showed better results for the supplemented groups. In conclusion, dietary supplementation with nucleotides mimicking nucleotide composition of bitch's milk, improved the immune response capacity of puppies at weaning.
Effects of periodic desiccation on the synthesis of the UV‐screening compound, scytonemin, in cyanobacteria
Authors: Fleming Erich D. , Castenholz Richard W.
Published: March 2007

Scytonemin is an ultraviolet radiation (UVR)‐screening compound synthesized by some sheathed cyanobacteria exposed to high solar and sky radiation. It is primarily produced in response to UVA radiation, but certain environmental stresses can enhance synthesis. This study focuses on the effects of periodic desiccation on scytonemin synthesis in three desiccation‐tolerant cyanobacterial strains, Nostoc punctiforme PCC 73102, Chroococcidiopsis CCMEE 5056 and Chroococcidiopsis CCMEE 246. Nostoc punctiforme and Chroococcidiopsis CCMEE 5056 exposed to UVA radiation produced more concentrated scytonemin screens when experiencing periodic desiccation (i.e. 1 day desiccated for every 2 days hydrated) than when continuously hydrated. A more concentrated scytonemin screen would reduce the amount of UVR damage accrued when cells are desiccated and metabolically inactive. This might allow the cyanobacteria to allocate more energy to systems other than UVR damage repair during rehydration, which would facilitate recovery. The scytonemin screen is extremely stable, remaining largely intact in the sheaths of desiccated N. punctiforme even when continuously exposed to UVA radiation for about 2 months. In contrast to the above findings, scytonemin synthesis in Chroococcidiopsis CCMEE 246, a strain that produces scytonemin constitutively under low visible light (no UVA), was partially inhibited by periodic desiccation.
Polyphyletic photosynthetic reaction centre genes in oligotrophic marine Gammaproteobacteria
Authors: Cho Jang‐Cheon , Stapels Martha D. , Morris Robert M. , Vergin Kevin L. , Schwalbach Michael S. , Givan Scott A. , Barofsky Douglas F. , Giovannoni Stephen J.
Published: March 2007

Ecological studies indicate that aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria (AAP) that use bacteriochlorophyll to support phototrophic electron transport are widely distributed in the oceans. All cultivated marine AAP are alpha‐3 and alpha‐4 Proteobacteria, but metagenomic evidence indicates that uncultured AAP Gammaproteobacteria are important members of ocean surface microbial communities. Here we report the description of obligately oligotrophic, marine Gammaproteobacteria that have genes for aerobic anoxygenic photosynthesis. Three strains belonging to the OM60 clade were isolated in autoclaved seawater media. Polymerase chain reaction assays for the pufM gene show that these strains contain photosynthetic reaction centre genes. DNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis indicate that the pufM genes are polyphyletic, suggesting multiple instances of lateral gene transfer. Peptide sequences from six photosynthesis genes (pufL, pufM, pufC, pufB, pufA and puhA) were detected by proteomic analyses of strain HTCC2080 cells grown aerobically in seawater. They closely match predicted peptides from an environmental seawater bacterial artificial chromosome clone of gammaproteobacterial origin, thus identifying the OM60 clade as a significant source of gammaproteobacterial AAP genes in marine systems. The cell yield and rate of growth of HTCC2080 in autoclaved, aerobic seawater increased in the light. These findings identify the OM60 clade as a source of Gammaproteobacteria AAP genes in coastal oceans, and demonstrate that aerobic, anoxygenic photosynthetic metabolism can enhance the productivity of marine oligotrophic bacteria that also grow heterotrophically in darkness.
Assessing diversity and biogeography of aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria in surface waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans using the Global Ocean Sampling expedition metagenomes
Authors: Yutin Natalya , Suzuki Marcelino T. , Teeling Hanno , Weber Marc , Venter J. Craig , Rusch Douglas B. , Béjà Oded
Published: March 2007

Aerobic anoxygenic photosynthetic bacteria (AAnP) were recently proposed to be significant contributors to global oceanic carbon and energy cycles. However, AAnP abundance, spatial distribution, diversity and potential ecological importance remain poorly understood. Here we present metagenomic data from the Global Ocean Sampling expedition indicating that AAnP diversity and abundance vary in different oceanic regions. Furthermore, we show for the first time that the composition of AAnP assemblages change between different oceanic regions, with specific bacterial assemblages adapted to open ocean or coastal areas respectively. Our results support the notion that marine AAnP populations are complex and dynamic, and compose an important fraction of bacterioplankton assemblages in certain oceanic areas.
Ecophysiology of Defluviicoccus‐related tetrad‐forming organisms in an anaerobic–aerobic activated sludge process
Authors: Wong Man‐Tak , Liu Wen‐Tso
Published: March 2007

A group of uncultured tetrad‐forming organisms (TFOs) was enriched in an acetate‐fed anaerobic–aerobic sequencing membrane bioreactor showing deteriorated enhanced biological phosphorus removal capacity. Based on 16S rRNA gene clone library and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analyses, these TFOs were identified as novel members of the Defluviicoccus cluster in the Alphaproteobacteria, accounting for 90 ± 5% of the EUBmix FISH‐detectable bacterial cell area in the reactor biomass. Microautoradiography in combination with FISH and polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) staining revealed that these Defluviicoccus‐related TFOs could take up and transform acetate, lactate, propionate and pyruvate, but not aspartic acid and glucose, into PHA under anaerobic conditions. In contrast, under continuous anaerobic–aerobic cultivation, Defluviicoccus vanus, the only cultured strain from the cluster, was able to take up glucose with concurrent glycogen consumption and PHA production under anaerobic conditions. Under subsequent aerobic conditions, the accumulated PHA was utilized and the biomass glycogen levels were restored. These findings not only re‐confirmed these Defluviicoccus‐related TFOs as glycogen‐accumulating organisms, but also revealed unexpected levels of physiological, phylogenetic and morphological diversity among members of the Defluviicoccus cluster.
An Acanthamoeba sp. containing two phylogenetically different bacterial endosymbionts
Authors: Heinz Eva , Kolarov Irina , Kästner Christian , Toenshoff Elena R. , Wagner Michael , Horn Matthias
Published: March 2007

Acanthamoebae are ubiquitous free‐living amoebae and important predators of microbial communities. They frequently contain obligate intracellular bacterial symbionts, which show a worldwide distribution. All Acanthamoeba spp. described so far harboured no or only a single specific endosymbiont phylotype, and in some cases evidence for coevolution between the symbiotic bacteria and the amoeba host has been reported. In this study we have isolated and characterized an Acanthamoeba sp. (strain OEW1) showing a stable symbiotic relationship with two morphologically different endosymbionts. 16S rRNA sequence analysis assigned these symbionts to the candidate genus Procabacter (Betaproteobacteria) and the genus Parachlamydia (Chlamydiae) respectively. Fluorescence in situ hybridization and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the affiliation of the endosymbionts and showed their co‐occurrence in the amoeba host cells and their intracellular location within separate compartments enclosed by host‐derived membranes. Further analysis of this stable relationship should provide novel insights into the complex interactions of intracellular multiple‐partner associations.
Mobile colonoscopic surveillance provides quality care for hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal carcinoma families in South Africa
Authors: Anderson D. W. , Goldberg P. A. , Algar U. , Felix R. , Ramesar R. S.
Published: March 2007

Background  It is difficult to provide a colonoscopic surveillance service for at‐risk family members with hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal carcinoma when many of those family members live in a remote area of South African far from endoscopic services. A mobile surveillance programme was established to service these individuals.

Objective  The aim of this study was to compare the quality of the mobile service to that provided in established endoscopy units.

Method  Ninety‐one asymptomatic subjects with known disease‐causing mutations underwent 259 colonoscopies. Of these, 171 colonoscopies were performed by a mobile colonoscopy service in small rural hospitals and 88 in established endoscopy units. The quality of the colonoscopic services was measured by completion rate, the rate of detection of colonoscopic abnormalities, histopathological analyses of biopsies, surgical intervention and colorectal cancer deaths.

Results  The caecum was reached in 96% of all colonoscopies. A significant lesion was detected in 8.8% of colonoscopies. There was no difference in the rate of complete colonoscopy and detection rate of lesions in the established units and the mobile service (both P = 0.6). The rate of detection of early adenocarcinomas was similar (P = 0.17). The colonoscopic screening/surveillance programme meets international standards with a high accuracy (95.75%) and negative predictive value (100%).

Conclusion  The mobile service provides access to colonoscopy in remote areas without compromising the quality of service.
Low anastomotic leak rate after colorectal surgery: a single‐centre study
Authors: Jones O. M. , John S. K. P. , Horseman N. , Lawrance R. J. , Fozard J. B. J.
Published: March 2007

Objective  Anastomotic leak after colorectal surgery is a serious event associated with significant morbidity and mortality. There is little consensus regarding ‘acceptable’ rates of leakage, however. This study describes the experience of anastomotic leakage after both elective and emergency colorectal surgery in a district general hospital.

Method  A prospectively collected database of all patients with a diagnosis of colorectal cancer in a single hospital formed the basis of the study. Leak was defined as breakdown of the anastomosis contributing to death or requiring reoperation or reintervention.

Results  A total of 949 patients underwent surgery with an anastomosis between 1996 and 2004, including 331 patients treated with anterior resection. Anastomotic leaks requiring reoperation occurred in eight patients (0.8%). Thirty‐day and in‐hospital mortality was 4%.

Conclusion  A very low rate of anastomotic leakage after colorectal surgery is possible in a district general hospital setting. Given the impact of anastomotic leakage on function, tumour recurrence and long‐term survival, it should be considered as a marker of surgical quality when evaluating surgical performance.
Laparoscopic colectomy is cheaper than conventional open resection
Authors: Ridgway P. F. , Boyle E. , Keane F. B. , Neary P.
Published: March 2007

Objective  International randomized trials have endorsed the routine use of laparoscopic techniques in colorectal surgery. The authors hypothesize that the overall care pathway in minimal access resection was cheaper than conventional open resection.

Method  This was a case‐matched study of consecutive patients undergoing laparoscopic resection between July 2005 and February 2006. Intraoperative (costs, duration, incision length) and postoperative [morbidity, length of stay (LOS), readmission] parameters were examined. Institutional retrospective open controls and national validated figures were used for costings.

Results  Thirty‐five laparoscopic and 53 open resections were evaluated. Median LOS was 5 days in the laparoscopic group vs 12 in the open group (P = 0.001). There were two conversions (5.7%) and two readmissions. Mean operative cost of laparoscopic resection was €1557.08, therefore 2.4 bed days need to be saved to recoup the increased cost compared with open resection. The actual median save is 7 days (P = 0.031). A mean of €4591.38 and 7 bed days per case is saved by performing the resection laparoscopically. Subgroup analysis of laparoscopic resections clearly demonstrates similar trends.

Conclusion  The institutional saving is over €150 000 and 245 bed days during the study period. Despite higher operative spending, laparoscopic colorectal resections are significantly cheaper than conventional open resections.
Sustained protein intake for bodyweight management
Authors: Westerterp‐Plantenga M. S. , Smeets A. , Nieuwenhuizen A.
Published: March 2007

Summary  Recent findings suggest that an elevated protein intake plays a key role in bodyweight management, through increased satiety (related to increased diet‐induced thermogenesis), and its effect on thermogenesis, body composition and decreased energy efficiency. These factors are related to protein metabolism. Supported by these mechanisms, larger weight loss and subsequent improved bodyweight maintenance have been observed after high‐protein diets. Increased insulin sensitivity may occur, but it is unclear whether this is owing to weight loss or type of diet. Under conditions of slight bodyweight regain (while aiming for weight maintenance), a high‐protein diet shows a reduced energy efficiency related to the composition of the bodyweight regained. A high‐protein diet during negative energy balance and during weight maintenance thereafter preserves, or increases, fat‐free mass and reduces fat mass, thus improving the metabolic profile. As protein intake is studied at different energy intakes, absolute and relative protein intakes need to be discriminated. In absolute terms (grams per day), a normal‐protein diet becomes a relatively high‐protein diet if combined with negative energy balance and at weight maintenance. Therefore, ‘high protein, negative energy balance diets’ aim to keep the amount (grams) of protein ingested at the same level as consumed at energy balance, despite lower energy intakes.
Dietary fibre and satiety
Authors: Slavin J. , Green H.
Published: March 2007

Summary  Dietary fibres have different physiological effects and provide a variety of health benefits, including satiety. They are thought to impact on satiation (the satisfaction of appetite during feeding that marks the end of eating and satiety (inhibition of hunger as a result of having eaten), because of their properties of adding bulk (satiation) and producing viscosity (satiety). Pre‐absorptive factors, such as gastric distention, and the work and time required for chewing are important for satiation. For this reason, the bulking and textural properties of fibre make it an attractive ingredient for enhancing satiation. Adding bulk to the diet with fibre will also reduce the energy density of the diet. Satiety signals are generated both pre‐ and post‐absorptively. Viscous soluble fibres may be useful because they prolong the intestinal phase of nutrient digestion and absorption. This means that there is a longer time over which the macronutrients can interact with the pre‐absorptive mechanisms of satiation and satiety, as well as prolong the time course of post‐absorptive signals. Diets low in energy and fat, such as those typically recommended for obese people, are poorly satiating. Adding fibre to low‐calorie/low‐fat foods may enhance satiety, but because weight‐loss meals are low in energy and fat, satiety is likely to be short lasting. Not all dietary fibre has an impact on satiety. We review types of dietary fibre, whole foods that contain dietary fibre, and published studies on the effect of these fibres on satiety.
Is sweetness addictive?
Authors: Drewnowski A. , Bellisle F.
Published: March 2007

Summary  The notion that sweetness is ‘addictive’ endures in the scientific literature and in the popular press. The most common targets of food cravings and addictions are energy‐dense foods that are sweet, high in fat, or both. In clinical studies, the consumption of sweet and high‐fat foods has been selectively reduced by opiate antagonists, suggesting a link between hedonic pleasure response and the brain systems of reward. Recent brain imaging studies have further implicated the dopamine system in mediating the pleasure response to food as well as a range of addictive behaviours. However, suggestions that sugar and fat have a permanent impact on the neurobiology of food preference are in sharp contrast with the view that the vast majority of food addictions are simply a matter of misattribution. Dietary restraint, coupled with ambiguous attitudes towards good‐tasting but energy‐dense foods, may lead consumers to claim that some aspects of eating behaviour are beyond their control. This distinction between addiction and attribution has implications for obesity‐related lawsuits. The chief attraction of addiction theory for the plaintiff’s counsel lies in the claim of diminished personal responsibility and abrogation of free choice. However, sugar and sweets do not appear to meet the current criteria for substance dependence as formulated in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fourth Edition. Examining scientific literature on sweet food ‘addictions’ and their putative links to the obesity epidemic is the topic of this review.
How may refined carbohydrates affect satiety and mood?
Authors: Hammersley R. , Reid M. , Duffy M.
Published: March 2007

Summary  Effects of refined carbohydrates on satiety and mood remain controversial. After a brief review of findings, some conceptual distinctions underlying mood and satiety are discussed; the physiological processes, cognitive processes and behaviours involved all need to be considered. From recent research on emotion and mood, a two‐stage model is described of the psychological processes that mediate between carbohydrate ingestion, mood rating and food intake. This involves rapid non‐conscious appraisal and slower cognitive appraisal. It is concluded that the effects of carbohydrates on subjective state and eating behaviour are fragile and liable to alter as a function of the prior state of an individual and the setting of ingestion.
Caffeine, mood and mental performance in everyday life
Authors: Rogers P. J.
Published: March 2007

Summary Caffeine is the most popular drug in the world. After consumption, it is rapidly distributed throughout the body where it acts by blocking the action of endogenous adenosine at adenosine A1and A2areceptors, resulting in a variety of physiological effects. Although it is valued as a useful psychostimulant, recent evidence suggests that actually little or no acute benefit is gained from regular caffeine consumption. This is because withdrawal of caffeine (e.g.overnight) lowers alertness and mood and degrades performance, and while consumption of some more caffeine reverses these effects, it does not boost functioning to above ‘normal’ levels. It also tends to increase anxiety, particularly in susceptible individuals. In contrast, caffeine consumption may separately lower the risk of cognitive decline in older age, perhaps owing to effects involving neuroprotective functions of the adenosine system. Currently, however, not enough is known to do a full risk assessment on these or other potential health effects of dietary caffeine.
With and Without End
Authors: Cave Peter
Published: March 2007

Ways and words about infinity have frequently hidden a continuing paradox inspired by Zeno. The basic puzzle is the tortoise's – Mr T's – Extension Challenge, the challenge being how any extension, be it in time or space or both, moving or still, can yet be of an endless number of extensions. We identify a similarity with Mr T's Deduction Challenge, reported by Lewis Carroll, to the claim that a conclusion can be validly reached in finite steps. Rejecting common solutions to both challenges, we use a Wittgensteinian approach for dissolution, noting also that other paradoxes, such as the Surprise Examination and Yablo's, trap us inconsistently into similar endlessnesses. In so doing, we encounter a hopping flea, generate a proportionality paradox and consider the knight's move in chess.
Iris Murdoch's Mortal Asymmetry
Authors: Milligan Tony
Published: March 2007

Iris Murdoch holds that the best sort of life is a figurative death of the self. This figurative death is informed by an acceptance of real mortality. A recognition of mortality is supposed to help redirect our attention away from self and towards others. Yet these others are also mortal but (unlike the self) remain worthy of love, care and consideration. That is to say, the significance of mortality for Murdoch depends on whose mortality is at issue, whether it is the mortality of the self or of the other that is in question. My rejection of two ways of making sense of this self/other asymmetry is used to motivate the view that her attitude towards death requires a prior commitment to unselfing. And this is a problematic moral project.
GROUNDING GOVERNANCE IN DIALOGUE? DISCOURSE, PRACTICE AND THE POTENTIAL FOR A NEW PUBLIC SECTOR ORGANIZATIONAL FORM IN BRITAIN
Authors: DAVIES CELIA
Published: March 2007

Drawing on debates about the nature and significance of quasi‐autonomous government organizations, this article asks what happens when trends towards agency creation by government and trends towards stakeholder participation in policy processes come together. Issues are considered through an examination of the National Institute for Clinical Excellence, one of a series of new regulatory bodies set up in Britain after 1997 and given the task of providing national guidance on treatments and care for people using the health service. The analysis points to the emergence of a new form – the dialogic intermediary organization. Such an organization, while maintaining close and informal links with government, attempts to build legitimacy for its activities through multiple and potentially competing engagements with diversely constituted publics. The potential theoretical and political importance of dialogic intermediary organizations, and some implications for their fuller empirical study are briefly explored.
WOMEN’S MOVEMENTS AND NEW PUBLIC MANAGEMENT: HIGHER EDUCATION IN SWEDEN AND ENGLAND
Authors: BARRY JIM , CHANDLER JOHN , BERG ELISABETH
Published: March 2007

This article considers change in academe in Sweden and England, focusing on gender equity and the new public management reforms. In drawing on social movement theory, it is argued that public sector agendas in these countries have been affected by the influences of their respective women’s movements as well as by the new public management. The article explores these developments through the experiences of a group of employees whose voices are heard infrequently in the literature, those in middle‐level academic positions in universities who are responsible for delivering change. It is argued that the rational, hierarchical, masculine discourses of the new public management offer challenges to women’s movement supporters, whose influences and responses are examined. It is contended that the use of social movement theory, as a vehicle through which to conceptualize change, offers a number of insights. These are: the contribution made to gender equity by women who are not self‐defined feminists or strongly committed to equal opportunities, known as femocrats; the contribution made by some supportive men to gender equity; and the potential for future collective opposition to the new public management from women’s movements.
DOES THE EU STIFLE VOLUNTARY POLICY TRANSFER? A STUDY OF THE INTRODUCTION OF FREEDOM OF INFORMATION IN PORTUGAL AND IRELAND
Authors: BUGDAHN SONJA
Published: March 2007

Traditionally, policy transfer within Europe has taken place in the form of bilateral voluntary transfer within ‘families of nations’. The creation of binding international regimes, in particular the adoption of binding EU policies, has increased instances of multilaterally obligated transfer in Europe. However, very little research has been carried out on the interaction between these two types of transfers. This paper starts from the assumption that a binding EU policy of ambiguous nature and/or with a limited scope of application creates policy space for additional voluntary transfers in member states. Evidence on the implementation of the 1990 Access to Environmental Information Directive in Portugal and Ireland is used to illustrate that three different modes of combining voluntary and obligated transfers may be used. There is, however, no ideal solution since the three modes (hybridization, fragmentation and sub‐regimes) create different types of costs and benefits.
INTERAGENCY COLLABORATION IN HUMAN SERVICES: IMPACT OF FORMALIZATION AND INTENSITY ON EFFECTIVENESS
Authors: NYLÉN ULRICA
Published: March 2007

Interagency collaboration in human services production, it has been claimed, contributes to improved quality and/or reduced costs, but previous research on effectiveness from collaboration has failed to recognize that collaboration could be arranged in a multitude of ways. This paper investigates the effectiveness consequences of alternative collaboration arrangements. From a literature review, the degree of formalization and intensity, respectively, stand out as major aspects of collaboration. The impact on effectiveness from intensity and formalization was investigated through an explorative case study of collaboration projects in Sweden. Results suggest that the particular combination of formalization and intensity determines the impact on effectiveness. Combining low intensity with medium high formalization into ‘an assignments reallocation strategy’ of collaboration appears to have modest impact, whereas medium high intensity in combination with low formality, that is, ‘a commitment‐based networking strategy’, has a high potential to increase effectiveness. High intensity in combination with high formalization produces ‘a formalized team‐building strategy’, which is simultaneously promising and risky.
MANAGING EUROPE FROM AN IRISH PERSPECTIVE: CRITICAL JUNCTURES AND THE INCREASING FORMALIZATION OF THE CORE EXECUTIVE IN IRELAND
Authors: LAFFAN BRIGID , O’MAHONY JANE
Published: March 2007

This article analyses the management of European Union (EU) business by the Irish core executive. More specifically, it investigates the demands placed by EU membership on the Irish system of public administration and how the system has responded to these demands. Employing an institutionalist analytical framework, the article maps the formal and informal organizational and procedural devices or structures used to manage EU affairs in Ireland, as well as dissecting the key relationships that govern this management process and the role of the domestic agents actively involved in the EU’s governance structure, the cadre or boundary managers. The article also explores in a dynamic way the development of the capacity for the management of EU affairs in Ireland over time. Using the concepts of path dependence and critical junctures, we illuminate how key system‐management decisions became locked‐in over time and we isolate the triggers for significant adaptational change, be they domestic or external. Adaptation to EU business in Ireland was path‐dependent and consisted of gradual incremental adjustment. This system of flexible adaptation generally served Ireland well as the EU’s policy regime expanded and evolved, but in response to the shock rejection of the Nice Treaty by the electorate in 2001, significant formalization of the Irish system occurred with the establishment of new processes and rules for managing relations between the core executive and the EU.
CONTROLLING SERIOUS FINANCIAL CRIME: A JAMAICAN PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Ali Shazeeda
Published: March 2007

This paper examines the approach taken by Jamaica to control money laundering, terrorist financing and market abuse. With respect to money laundering and terrorist financing, the discussion involves a review of the statutory offences, the confiscation/forfeiture regime and the reporting obligations imposed on the financial sector. The analysis of market abuse focuses on both insider dealing and market manipulation.
Deprivation and Social Exclusion
Authors: BOSSERT WALTER , D'AMBROSIO CONCHITA , PERAGINE VITO
Published: March 2007

Social exclusion manifests itself in the persistent relative lack of an individual's access to functionings compared with other members of society, and we model it as being in a state of deprivation over time. We view deprivation as having two basic determinants: the lack of identification with other members of society, and the aggregate alienation experienced by an agent with respect to those having fewer functioning failures. Using an axiomatic approach, we characterize new individual and aggregate measures of deprivation and social exclusion. The aggregate measures are then applied to EU data for the period 1994–2001.
Long‐term survival of HIV‐infected patients treated with highly active antiretroviral therapy in Serbia and Montenegro
Authors: Jevtović DO , Salemović D , Ranin J , Pešić I , Žerjav S , Djurković‐Djaković O
Published: March 2007

Background

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has dramatically changed the prognosis of HIV disease, even in terminally ill patients. Although these patients may survive many years after the diagnosis of AIDS if treated with HAART, some still die during treatment.

Methods

A retrospective study in a cohort of 481 HIV‐infected patients treated with HAART between January 1998 and December 2005 was conducted to compare subgroups of long‐term survivors (LTSs) and patients who died during treatment.

Results

A total of 48 patients survived for more than 72 months (mean 83.8±standard deviation 5.6 months). Thirty patients died during treatment (mean 35.3±25.0 months), of whom nine died from non‐AIDS‐related causes, 18 died from AIDS‐related causes, and three died as a result of HAART toxicity. Although LTSs were significantly (P=0.015) younger at HAART initiation, age below 40 years was not a predictor of long‐term survival. The subgroups did not differ in the proportion of clinical AIDS cases at HAART initiation, in the prevalence of hepatitic C virus (HCV) coinfection, or in pretreatment and end‐of‐follow‐up CD4 cell counts. In contrast, the viral load achieved during treatment was lower in the survivors (P=0.03), as was the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) coinfection (P=0.03). Usage of either protease inhibitor (PI)‐containing regimens [odds ratio (OR) 9.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.2–35.98, P<0.001] or all three drug classes simultaneously (OR 7.4, 95% CI 2.2–25.1, P<0.001) was associated with long‐term survival. Drug holidays incorporated in structured treatment interruption (STI) were also associated with a good prognosis (OR 14.9, 95% CI 2.9–75.6, P<0.001).

Conclusions

Long‐term survival was associated with PI‐based HAART regimens and lower viraemia, but not with the immunological status either at baseline or at the end of follow up. STI when CD4 counts reach 350 cells/μL, along with undetectable viraemia, was a strong predictor of long‐term survival.
Limitation of exercise capacity in nucleoside‐treated HIV‐infected patients with hyperlactataemia
Authors: Duong M , Dumas JP , Buisson M , Martha B , Piroth L , Grappin M , Waldner A , Chavanet P , Portier H
Published: March 2007

Background

Inhibition of DNA polymerase γ by nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) can cause mitochondrial dysfunction and cellular toxicity. Hyperlactataemia, which is a consequence of a shift in the metabolism of pyruvate, is an indicator of nucleoside‐related mitochondrial toxicity.

Methods

We evaluated exercise and oxidative capacities as well as circulatory and ventilatory responses to exercise in 24 HIV‐infected patients on NRTIs presenting hyperlactataemia [mean (±standard deviation) fasted lactate=3.5±1.1 mmol/L]; 27 NRTI‐treated patients with normal baseline lactate concentrations were used as controls (mean fasted lactate=1.6±0.3 mmol/L).

Results

In the patients with hyperlactataemia, the average peak work capacity (1.7±0.6 W/kg) and peak oxygen consumption (VO2) (21±4 mL/kg/min) were significantly lower (P<0.01) than in control subjects (work, 2.1±0.4 W/kg; VO2, 25±4 mL/kg/min). The capacity to increase oxygen extraction during exercise was significantly diminished in the hyperlactataemia group, as shown by a low peak systemic arteriovenous oxygen difference (a‐vO2) difference compared with controls (11±3 vs 14±3 mL/dL; P=0.008), and as indicated by a linear correlation between VO2 and systemic a‐vO2 difference (r2=0.76). During exercise, the increases in cardiac output relative to VO2 (mean Δ cardiac output (Q)/ΔVO2=8±3.6) and ventilation (mean Δ ventilation (VE)/ΔVO2=48.6±13.2) were significantly higher in hyperlactataemia patients compared with controls (mean cardiac output Δ(Q)/ΔVO2=6±2; mean ΔVE/ΔVO2=42±12.7; P=0.03).

Conclusions

The degree of exercise limitation in patients with nucleoside‐related mitochondrial toxicity correlates directly with the severity of impaired muscle oxidative phosphorylation, as indicated by the capacity for muscle oxygen extraction. Exaggerated circulatory and ventilatory responses to exercise are direct consequences of the level of impaired muscle oxidative phosphorylation.
Construct Validity and Reliability of Hartman's Color Code Personality Profile1
Authors: Ault John T. , Barney Steve T.
Published: March 2007

The three reliability and two construct validity studies presented here represent the first psychometric research on the commercially successful and popular Hartman Color Code Personality Profile. The reliability studies found high reliability after 3 and 6 weeks. The construct validity studies substantiated that the Color Code assesses some personality traits. The magnitude of the error variance suggests caution, however, in using the Color Code classifications at the individual level.
The G1246A Polymorphism in the Hypocretin Receptor 2 Gene is not Associated with Treatment Response in Cluster Headache
Authors: Schürks M , Kurth T , Geissler I , Tessmann G , Diener H-C , Rosskopf D
Published: March 2007

The risk of cluster headache (CH) is associated with the G-allele of the G1246A polymorphism in the hypocretin receptor 2 ( HCRTR2) gene. First-line medication is effective in only about 70-80% of CH patients. We hypothesized that the HCRTR2 G1246A polymorphism is also of pharmacogenetic relevance in CH and may affect treatment response. We performed a prospective cohort study among 184 unrelated White CH patients. While the HCRTR2 1246G allele was significantly associated with CH in this group, treatment outcomes with triptans, oxygen, verapamil and corticosteroids remained unaffected. Our results do not support a role of the HCRTR2 G1246A polymorphism in drug responses in CH.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study of The Morphometry of Cervical Extensor Muscles in Chronic Tension-Type Headache
Authors: Fernández-de-las-Peñas C , Bueno A , Ferrando J , Elliott JM , Cuadrado ML , Pareja JA
Published: March 2007

This study analyses the differences in the relative cross-sectional area (rCSA) of several cervical extensor muscles, assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), between patients with chronic tension-type headache (CTTH) and healthy controls. MRI of the cervical spine was performed on 15 CTTH females and 15 matched controls. The rCSA values for the rectus capitis posterior minor (RCPmin), rectus capitis posterior major (RCPmaj), semispinalis capitis and splenius capitis muscles were measured from axial T1-weighted images using axial MR slices aligned parallel to the C2/3 intervertebral disc. A headache diary was kept for 4 weeks in order to substantiate the diagnosis and record the pain history. CTTH patients showed reduced rCSA for both RCPmin and RCPmaj muscles ( P < 0.01), but not for semispinalis and splenius capitis muscles, compared with controls. Headache intensity, duration or frequency and rCSA in both RCPmin and RCPmaj muscles were negatively correlated ( P < 0.05): the greater the headache intensity, duration or frequency, the smaller the rCSA in the RCPmin and RCPmaj muscles. CTTH patients demonstrate muscle atrophy of the rectus capitis posterior muscles. Whether this selective muscle atrophy is a primary or secondary phenomenon remains unclear. In any case, muscle atrophy could possibly account for a reduction of proprioceptive output from these muscles, and thus contribute to the perpetuation of pain.
Accounting for Genotyping Errors in Tagging SNP Selection
Authors: Liu W. , Yang T. , Zhao W. , Chase G. A.
Published: March 2007

One limitation of the existing tagging SNP selection algorithms is that they assume the reported genotypes are error free. However, genotyping errors are often unavoidable in practice. Many tagging SNP selection methods depend heavily on the estimated haplotype frequencies. Recent studies have demonstrated that even slight genotyping errors can lead to serious consequences with regard to haplotype reconstruction and frequency estimation. Here we present a tagging SNP selection method that allows for genotyping errors. Our method is a modification of the pair‐wise r2 tagging SNP selection algorithm proposed by Carlson et al. (2004). We have replaced the standard EM algorithm in Carlson's method with an EM that accounts for genotyping errors, in an attempt to obtain better estimates of the haplotype frequencies and r2 measure. Through simulation studies we compared the performance of our modified algorithm with that of the original algorithm. We found that the number of tags selected by both methods increased with increasing genotyping errors, though our method led to smaller increase. The power of haplotype association tests using the selected tags decreased dramatically with increasing genotyping errors. The power of single marker tests also decreased, but the reduction was not as much as the reduction in power of haplotype tests. When restricting the mean number of tags selected by both methods to be similar to the baseline number, Carlson's method and our method led to similar power for the subsequent haplotype and single marker tests. Our results showed that, by accounting for random genotyping errors, our method can select tagging SNPs more efficiently than Carlson's method. The computer program that implements our modified tagging SNP selection algorithm is available at our web site: http://www.personal.psu.edu/tuy104/.