bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of total serum IgE levels on the in vitro detection of β‐lactams‐specific IgE antibodies
Authors: Vultaggio A. , Matucci A. , Virgili G. , Rossi O. , Filì L. , Parronchi P. , Romagnani S. , Maggi E.
Published: April 2009

Background
Allergic reactions to β‐lactams are a frequent cause of adverse drug reactions; the diagnosis is based on history, clinical examination, skin testing (prick and intradermal) and demonstration of serum‐specific IgE antibodies (Abs).

Objective
We compared the diagnostic performance of the Phadia CAP system for the detection of IgE to β‐lactams carried out using the new test with cut‐off limits of 0.10 kUA/L and the old test with cut‐off limits of 0.35 kUA/L for positive results; subsequently, we analysed the effect of total serum IgE values and of atopic phenotype on the diagnostic performance of the tests.

Methods
The study comprised a total of 34 patients with a history of immediate adverse reactions to β‐lactams, which were confirmed by positive skin testing, and 115 control subjects with tolerance to β‐lactams over the last year. The Phadia CAP System was used for the determination of serum total and specific IgE Abs towards penicilloyl G (c1), penicilloyl V (c2), ampicilloyl (c5) and amoxicilloyl (c6). The overall diagnostic performance was assessed as a diagnostic odds ratio (DOR).

Results
The new test showed a higher sensitivity (85% vs. 44%) than the old test and a lower specificity (54% vs. 80%) but the overall diagnostic performance was poor (DOR 6.78 vs. 3.16, P=0.333) in both tests. The total IgE value influences the DOR of both tests; DOR was better for values under 200 kU/L [DOR=66; 95% confidence interval (CI): 11.3–384.1] or 500 kU/L (DOR=45.7; 95% CI: 5.3–394.4) for the new and old tests, respectively.

Conclusions
The reduction in the positive cut off value has not significantly improved the overall diagnostic performance of the β‐lactams‐specific IgE assay. Because of the influence of serum total IgE on the detection of β‐lactam‐specific IgE Abs, the combination of both tests is mandatory in the in vitro diagnostic approach of β‐lactam allergy.
T regulatory cells and their counterparts: masters of immune regulation
Authors: Ozdemir C. , Akdis M. , Akdis C. A.
Published: April 2009

The interaction of environmental and genetic factors with the immune system can lead to the development of allergic diseases. The essential step in this progress is the generation of allergen‐specific CD4+ T‐helper (Th) type 2 cells that mediate several effector functions. The influence of Th2 cytokines leads to the production of allergen‐specific IgE antibodies by B cells, development and recruitment of eosinophils, mucus production and bronchial hyperreactivity, as well as tissue homing of other Th2 cells and eosinophils. Meanwhile, Th1 cells may contribute to chronicity and the effector phases. T cells termed T regulatory (Treg) cells, which have immunosuppressive functions and cytokine profiles distinct from that of either Th1 or Th2 cells, have been intensely investigated during the last 13 years. Treg cell response is characterized by an abolished allergen‐specific T cell proliferation and the suppressed secretion of Th1 and Th2‐type cytokines. Treg cells are able to inhibit the development of allergen‐specific Th2 and Th1 cell responses and therefore play an important role in a healthy immune response to allergens. In addition, Treg cells potently suppress IgE production and directly or indirectly suppress the activity of effector cells of allergic inflammation, such as eosinophils, basophils and mast cells. Currently, Treg cells represent an exciting area of research, where understanding the mechanisms of peripheral tolerance to allergens may soon lead to more rational and safer approaches for the prevention and cure of allergic diseases.
Fluvastatin/fenofibrate vs. simvastatin/ezetimibe in patients with metabolic syndrome: different effects on LDL‐profiles
Authors: Winkler K. , Schewe T. , Pütz G. , Ödünc N. , Schäfer G. , Siegel E. , Geisen U. , Abletshauser C. , Hoffmann M. M.
Published: April 2009

Background  Patients with metabolic syndrome (MS) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) show increased risk for coronary artery disease. Lipoprotein metabolism is characterized by elevated triglycerides (TG), low high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) and predominance of atherogenic small, dense low‐density lipoprotein (sdLDL), while low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is only slightly elevated.

Methods  Multicentre, randomized, open‐label cross‐over study investigating the effect of combination of fluvastatin/fenofibrate (80/200 mg) (F&F) on LDL‐subfractions compared with combination of simvastatin/ezetimibe (20/10 mg) (S&E) in patients with MS/T2DM.

Results  Seventy‐five patients were randomized, 69 completed the study and LDL‐subfractions of 56 patients were analysed. Thirty‐eight out of 56 patients (68%) showed a profile dominated by sdLDL. In these, TG and total cholesterol (TC) were elevated compared with non‐sdLDL patients. In all patients, reduction of TC and LDL cholesterol (LDL‐C) by S&E was stronger than by F&F. The increase of HDL‐C was stronger with S&E in the non‐sdLDL group, whereas in the sdLDL group, there was no difference between treatments. In non‐sdLDL patients, there was no effect on TG or LDL‐radius. However, in the sdLDL group, F&F was more effective in reducing TG and increased LDL radius, whereas S&E reduced LDL radius even further.

Conclusions  S&E is more efficient in reducing TC and LDL‐C. This is also true for HDL‐C increase in non‐sdLDL patients. However, in patients with sdLDL, F&F was more efficient in reducing TG and increasing LDL radius.
Spatio‐temporal patterns of fish assemblages in a large regulated alluvial river
Authors: RIFFLART RENAUD , CARREL GEORGES , LE COARER YANN , FONTEZ BENEDICTE NGUYEN THE
Published: April 2009

1. The River Durance, the last alpine tributary of the River Rhône, is a large, braided alluvial hydrosystem. Following large‐scale regulation, flow downstream of the Serre‐Ponçon dam has been maintained at 1/40th of previous annual mean discharge. To assess the effects of historical disturbances, fish assemblages and habitat use were analysed during five summers in a representative reach of the middle Durance.

2. Habitat availability and use were assessed with a multi‐scale approach including the variables water depth, current velocity, roughness height of substratum, amount of woody debris and lateral/longitudinal location. Eighteen fish species were sampled by electrofishing in 289 habitat sample units.

3. Partial least square (PLS) regression showed that taxa were mainly distributed according to relationships between their total length and water depth/velocity variables. Fish assemblage composition was also related to roughness height as well as distance from the bank or to the nearest large woody debris. However, PLS regression revealed no significant differences in habitat selection between two periods of varying hydromorphological stability.

4. Fish distribution patterns and density were related to proximity to the bank and cover, indicating that local scale variables need to be considered in conservation and restoration programmes.
The GRACE‐satellite gravity and geoid fields in analysing large‐scale, cratonic or intracratonic basins
Authors: Braitenberg Carla , Ebbing Jörg
Published: April 2009

The recently released gravity potential field development derived from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment satellite allows an unprecedented opportunity to use the gravity field to make global comparisons of structures of geological interest. The spatial resolution of the gravity field is sufficiently good to map large‐scale or intracratonic and cratonic basins, as the areal extent of these basins is 0.5 × 106 km2 and greater. We present the gravity anomaly, Bouguer, geoid and terrain corrected geoid fields for a selection of nine large‐scale basins and show that the satellite‐derived field can be used to successfully identify distinctive structures of these basins, e.g., extinct rifts underlying the basins and generally the isostatic state. The studied basins are the Eastern Barents Sea, West Siberian, Tarim, Congo, Michigan, Amazon, Solimões, Parnaiba and Paranà basins. We complete the mapping of the gravity field with a description of the basins in terms of areal extension and depth, sedimentary age and presence and age of volcanism. Interpretation of the satellite gravity anomalies and considerations regarding the crustal thickness as known from seismic investigations, allows us to conclude that for the greater part of the basins there is evidence for high‐density material in the lower crust and/or upper mantle. This density anomaly is, at least partly, compensating for the low‐density sedimentary infill instead of the crustal thinning mechanism. For our selection of basins, crustal thickness variations and Moho topography cannot be considered as mechanisms of compensation of the sedimentary loading, which is a clear difference to well‐defined rift basins.
Intestinal lymphocytic epithelioganglionitis: a unique combination of inflammation in bowel dysmotility: a histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of 28 cases
Authors: Veress Béla , Nyberg Björn , Törnblom Hans , Lindberg Greger
Published: April 2009

Aims:  Visceral inflammatory neuropathies are enteric disorders underlying various forms of bowel dysmotility. The aim was to analyse the microscopic characteristics of a unique combination of intraepithelial lymphocytosis and myenteric ganglioneuritis.

Methods and results:  Paraffin sections of full‐thickness proximal jejunal biopsy specimens from 28 patients, with proven disorders of gastrointestinal motility, were analysed following conventional and immunohistochemical staining. Serial transversal and tangential sectioning visualized large myenteric plexus areas. Between 1993 and 2005, 28 patients with inflammatory neuropathy (25 female and three male) showed this combination of lymphocytic infiltration. Two of the patients also had coeliac disease. The mean number of intraepithelial CD3+ lymphocytes was 36 per 100 epithelial cells (range 27–68; upper normal limit 25 lymphocytes). There was myenteric ganglionitis of variable severity (mean 4.6 myenteric lymphocytes per ganglion; upper normal limit two lymphocytes) with cytotoxic T‐cell predominance. Myenteric neurons showed signs of degeneration and an abnormal immunohistological pattern. Hyperplasia and hypertrophy of Cajal cells were observed. The longitudinal muscle layer was thickened in many cases.

Conclusions:  A subset of patients with gastrointestinal motility disorders exhibit the combination of intraepithelial lymphocytosis and myenteric ganglionitis in full thickness biopsy specimens of the small bowel. We suggest calling this entity ‘intestinal lymphocytic epithelioganglionitis’.
Postharvest Aloe vera gel‐coating modulates fruit ripening and quality of ‘Arctic Snow’ nectarine kept in ambient and cold storage
Authors: Ahmed Muhammad J. , Singh Zora , Khan Ahmad S.
Published: April 2009

To evaluate the role of Aloe vera gel coating on ripening and fruit quality of nectarine (Prunus persica L. Batch cv ‘Arctic Snow’), the uncoated and coated fruit were allowed to ripen at 20 ± 1 °C in first experiment and in the second experiment, the fruit were stored at 0 ± 0.5 °C and 90 ± 5% RH for 3 and 6 weeks prior to ripening at 20 ± 1 °C. Aloe vera gel‐coated fruit kept at ambient or 3 and 6 weeks cold storage reduced respiration rate, ethylene production (62, 37 and 43% respectively), retarded fruit softening, reduced electrolyte leakage (EL), weight loss (65%), levels of ascorbic acid and total antioxidants (24, 9 and 13%) during ripening than control. In conclusion, Aloe vera gel can be used for extending storage life at ambient or cold storage and maintaining quality of ‘Arctic Snow’ nectarine.
Methyl jasmonate coupled with modified atmosphere packaging to extend shelf life of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) during cold storage
Authors: Siripatrawan Ubonrat , Assatarakul Kitipong
Published: April 2009

The effects of methyl jasmonate coupled with modified atmosphere packaging (MJ+MAP) on the quality and shelf life of mature green tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) were investigated during cold storage at 5 °C. Tomatoes were treated with 10−4 m MJ and packaged under 5%O2/5%CO2/90%N2 in a plastic bag. The effects of MJ+MAP were compared with control as well as heat treated (HT) samples. Control samples were tomatoes packaged under atmospheric air. HT samples were prepared by dipping tomatoes in hot water at 50 °C for 3 min and packaged under atmospheric air. The results showed that MJ+MAP and HT could delay ethylene production during tomato ripening and consequently slowed down the softening rate. MJ+MAP tomatoes showed better quality and less chilling injury (CI) symptoms than HT and control samples. Based on a nine‐point score, shelf life criteria assumed that rejection would occur when the sensory attributes declined below 5. Control and HT overall acceptance scores were shown to fall below 5 scores after 3 and 6 weeks storage, while MJ+MAP had overall acceptance scores above 5 for up to 9 weeks. Control and HT samples could be stored for about 4 and 6 weeks, respectively, while MJ+MAP tomatoes could be stored for up to 9 weeks.
A seasonal shift in habitat suitability enhances an annual predator subsidy
Authors: Lewis Danny , Denno Robert F.
Published: April 2009

Entry of substantial numbers of natural enemies from outside a habitat can have profound impacts on food web structure in the recipient habitat, but underlying mechanisms are poorly understood, including the role of relative predator fitness in source and recipient habitats. We studied a naturally occurring annual movement of the salt‐marsh spiderPardosa littoralisacross habitats in an attempt to clarify factors enhancing and impeding movements of predator populations.

Marsh vegetation is dominated by two cordgrass species,Spartina patens, a complex‐structured grass with a well‐developed litter layer, andSpartina alterniflora, a sparse‐structured grass with little thatch accumulation.Pardosahunts across both habitats and can drastically reduce densities of planthoppers and leafhoppers, the most abundant marsh herbivores.

We found an annual subsidy ofPardosafromS. patens, extending hundreds of meters intoS. alternifloramade possible by a winter refuge provided byS. patens. As a result, the strength of the subsidy is correlated with the severity of the preceding winter, with the largest subsidies following the coldest winters.

HigherPardosafitness in the recipient habitat following winter, as indicated by higher growth rates associated with greater prey availability, enhanced the strength of this subsidy. Conversely, lower structural complexity inS. alterniflora, which is associated with higher rates of cannibalism in this spider, may impede the subsidy.

The mechanistic underpinnings of the predator subsidy demonstrated here can improve our understanding of subsidies in other contexts, such as conservation biological control. In addition, identifying such subsidies is key to preserving food webs in recipient habitats when source habitats are threatened.
An intervention program to promote health‐related physical fitness in nurses
Authors: Yuan Su‐Chuan , Chou Ming‐Chih , Hwu Lien‐Jen , Chang Yin‐O , Hsu Wen‐Hsin , Kuo Hsien‐Wen
Published: April 2009

Aims.  To assess the effects of exercise intervention on nurses’ health‐related physical fitness.

Background.  Regular exercise that includes gymnastics or aerobics has a positive effect on fitness. In Taiwan, there are not much data which assess the effects of exercise intervention on nurses’ health‐related physical fitness. Many studies have reported the high incidence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) in nurses However, there has been limited research on intervention programs that are designed to improve the general physical fitness of nurses.

Design.  A quasi‐experimental study was conducted at a medical centre in central Taiwan.

Methods.  Ninety nurses from five different units of a hospital volunteered to participate in this study and participated in an experimental group and a control group. The experimental group engaged in a three‐month intervention program consisting of treadmill exercise. Indicators of the health‐related physical fitness of both groups were established and assessed before and after the intervention.

Results.  Before intervention, the control group had significantly better grasp strength, flexibility and durability of abdominal muscles than the experimental group (p < 0·05). After the intervention, logistic regression was used to adjust for marital status, work duration, regular exercise and workload and found that the experimental group performed significantly better (p < 0·05) on body mass index, grasp strength, flexibility, durability of abdominal and back muscles and cardiopulmonary function.

Conclusions.  This study demonstrates that the development and implementation of an intervention program can promote and improve the health‐related physical fitness of nurses.

Relevance to clinical practice.  It is suggested that nurses engage in an exercise program while in the workplace to lower the risk of MSDs and to promote working efficiency.
Predictors of depression in Chinese community‐dwelling people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Yang Juan , Li Sijian , Zheng Yanling
Published: April 2009

Aims.  To examine levels of perceived social support and depression and to identify the related factors and predictors of depression among Chinese community‐dwelling people with type 2 diabetes.

Background.  People with type 2 diabetes have a high risk for depression. Depression is a serious issue that leads to poor metabolic control and increased health care costs. However, little is known about the factors contributing to depression in Chinese people with type 2 diabetes.

Design.  A cross‐sectional, descriptive correlation design was used.

Methods.  A convenient sample consisting of 148 people with type 2 diabetes participated. Personal information questionnaire was used to obtain socio‐demographic characteristics; Zung Self‐Rating Depression Scale and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support were used to measure depression and perceived social support, respectively. Spearman’s correlation and Stepwise multiple regression analysis were used in data analysis.

Results.  The mean index score for depression was 46·53 and 39·2% of the subjects reported depression. The mean score for perceived social support was 5·24. Age, education level, marital status, monthly family income, living status, work status, regular exercise, duration of diabetes, diabetic complications, other chronic diseases and perceived social support were significantly correlated with depression. The best predictors of depression were perceived social support, duration of diabetes, regular exercise, work status and other chronic diseases.

Conclusions.  Depression was common in people with type 2 diabetes. The people who had lower levels of perceived social support, longer diabetic duration, did not exercise regularly, were unemployed or retired and had other chronic diseases were more likely to report depression.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurses working in communities should assist people with type 2 diabetes in earlier detecting and treating their depression. Nurses should also design practical interventions to decrease depressive symptoms of those people through improving their diabetic conditions and perceived social support.
New measures of diabetes self‐care agency, diabetes self‐efficacy, and diabetes self‐management for insulin‐treated individuals with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Sousa Valmi D , Hartman Susan W , Miller Edith H , Carroll Michael A
Published: April 2009

Aims and objectives.  To develop and refine three new scales that measure diabetes self‐care agency, diabetes self‐efficacy and diabetes self‐management to reflect the American Diabetes Association current standards of diabetes care and the American Association of Diabetes Educators self‐care behaviours. And, to establish the clarity, consistency and content validity of the scales.

Background.  There is a need to have valid and reliable instruments or scales to assess an individual’s diabetes self‐care agency, self‐efficacy and self‐management to plan appropriate interventions that can be effective in improving glycaemic control and delaying or preventing diabetes‐related complications.

Design.  A methodological design was used to conduct this study.

Methods.  Ten clinicians and 10 insulin‐treated individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) from a diabetes care center in the southern USA participated in this study. Analysis consisted of inter‐rater agreement to determine clarity and consistency with standards of diabetes care and content validity of individual items on the scales (I‐CVI) and the overall scales (S‐CVI/Ave) to determine relevance for current diabetes care practice.

Results.  All I‐CVI and S‐CVI/Ave of the DSES exceeded the minimum acceptable criteria. All I‐CVI and the S‐CVI of the DSMS also exceeded the minimum accepted criteria, except for one item that had I‐CVI = 0·70. Evaluation of the items and the directions of the scales by the sample of insulin‐treated individuals with T2DM exceeded the minimum criteria of 80% inter‐rater agreement.

Relevance to research and clinical practice.  Further psychometric testing of the scales with samples of insulin‐treated individuals with diabetes is warranted and will lay the groundwork for further research and clinical practice to enhance the capability, confidence and actual performance of diabetes self‐management activities among insulin‐treated individuals with T2DM.

Conclusions.  The scales can be used by diabetes care providers to assess and follow‐up individuals with diabetes who need intense case management. They also can be the measures of choice to conduct future research to test the effects of interventions among insulin‐treated individuals with T2DM.
Phylogeographic and demographic effects of Pleistocene climatic fluctuations in a montane salamander,Plethodon fourchensis
Authors: SHEPARD DONALD B. , BURBRINK FRANK T.
Published: April 2009

Climatic changes associated with Pleistocene glacial cycles profoundly affected species distributions, patterns of interpopulation gene flow, and demography. In species restricted to montane habitats, ranges may expand and contract along an elevational gradients in response to environmental fluctuations and create high levels of genetic variation among populations on different mountains. The salamanderPlethodon fourchensisis restricted to high‐elevation, mesic forest on five montane isolates in the Ouachita Mountains. We used DNA sequence data along with ecological niche modelling and coalescent simulations to test several hypotheses related to the effects of Pleistocene climatic fluctuations on species in montane habitats. Our results revealed thatP. fourchensisis composed of four well‐supported, geographically structured lineages. Geographic breaks between lineages occurred in the vicinity of major valleys and a narrow high‐elevation pass. Ecological niche modelling predicted that environmental conditions in valleys separating most mountains are suitable; however, interglacial periods like the present are predicted to be times of range expansion inP. fourchensis. Divergence dating and coalescent simulations indicated that lineage diversification occurred during the Middle Pleistocene via the fragmentation of a wide‐ranging ancestor. Bayesian skyline plots showed gradual decreases in population size in three of four lineages over the most recent glacial period and a slight to moderate amount of population growth during the Holocene. Our results not only demonstrate that climatic changes during the Pleistocene had profound effects on species restricted to montane habitats, but comparison of our results forP. fourchensiswith its parapatric, sister taxon,P. ouachitae, also emphasizes how responses can vary substantially even among closely related, similarly distributed taxa.
IsCupressus sempervirensnative in Italy? An answer from genetic and palaeobotanical data
Authors: BAGNOLI F. , VENDRAMIN G. G. , BUONAMICI A. , DOULIS A. G. , GONZÁLEZ‐MARTÍNEZ S. C. , LA PORTA N. , MAGRI D. , RADDI P. , SEBASTIANI F. , FINESCHI S.
Published: April 2009

This study represents the first large‐scale analysis using nuclear molecular markers to assess genetic diversity and structure ofCupressus sempervirensL.. Genetic and fossil data were combined to infer the possible role of human activity and evolutionary history in shaping the diversity of cypress populations. We analysed 30 populations with six polymorphic nuclear microsatellite markers. Dramatic reductions in heterozygosity and allelic richness were observed from east to west across the species range. Structure analysis assigned individuals to two main groups separating central Mediterranean and eastern populations. The two main groups could be further divided into five subgroups which showed the following geographical distributions: Turkey with the Greek islands Rhodes and Samos, Greece (Crete), Southern Italy, Northern Italy, Tunisia with Central Italy. This pattern of genetic structure is also supported bysamovaand Barrier analyses. Palaeobotanical data indicated thatCupressuswas present in Italy in the Pliocene, Pleistocene and Holocene. Furthermore, our molecular survey showed that Italian cypress populations experienced bottlenecks that resulted in reduced genetic diversity and allelic richness and greater genetic differentiation. Recent colonization or introduction may also have influenced levels of diversity detected in the Italian populations, as most individuals found in this range today have multilocus genotypes that are also present in the eastern range of the species. The data reveal a new interpretation of the history of cypress distribution characterized by ancient eastern populations (Turkey and Greek islands) and a mosaic of recently introduced trees and remnants of ancient, depauperate populations in the central Mediterranean range.
On the Critique by Colin Anderson of ‘A Reply to Dembic: On an End to the Beginning of Mis‐Understanding the Immune Response’
Authors: Cohn M.
Published: April 2009

My proposal of a set of postulates that can be used to guide computer modeling has understandably met with significant criticism at two levels, semantic and conceptual. The major source of contention is my assumption that the sorting of the paratopic repertoire is both necessary and sufficient to explain the evolutionarily selected mechanism for the self‐nonself discrimination. While `necessary' is agreed upon, `sufficient' is debatable as this commentary illustrates. My essay is in defense of `sufficiency'.
Association of KIR2DL2 polymorphism rs2756923 with type 1 diabetes and preliminary evidence for lack of inhibition through HLA‐C1 ligand binding
Authors: Ramos‐Lopez E. , Scholten F. , Aminkeng F. , Wild C. , Kalhes H. , Seidl C. , Tonn T. , Van der Auwera B. , Badenhoop K.
Published: April 2009

Killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIRs) on chromosome 19q13.4 regulate the function of not only human natural killer (NK) cells but also T cells. An increase in activating KIR– human leucocyte antigen ligand pairs has been associated with an additional risk to develop type 1 diabetes (T1D). T1D families [n = 184 (552 individuals); n = 176 (528 subjects)], unrelated T1D patients (n = 380; n = 394) and healthy controls (n = 315; n = 401) from Germany and Belgium, respectively, were genotyped for the rs2756923 polymorphism within the KIR gene cluster haplotype B in exon 8 of the KIR2DL2 gene. We observed in both Germans and Belgians an overtransmission of the allele ‘G’ of the KIR2DL2‐rs2756923 polymorphism (64.2% vs 35.8%, P = 3 × 10−4 and 60.0% vs 40.0%, P = 0.02, respectively). In addition, this allele was more frequent in German patients than in healthy controls (78.4% vs 21.6%, P = 1 × 10−3). Preliminary results from a cytotoxicity assay suggest that inhibition of NK‐cell cytotoxicity may be impaired in individuals carrying the rs2756923 G allele. These data suggest a potential role of the KIR2DL2‐rs2756923 polymorphism in T1D in Germans and Belgians.
MHC class I chain‐related gene A transmembrane polymorphism in Spanish women with breast cancer
Authors: Lavado‐Valenzuela R. , Benavides M. , Carabantes F. , Alonso A. , Caballero A.
Published: April 2009

The NKG2D–major histocompatibility complex class I‐related chain A (MICA) system plays a key role in the antitumoral immune response. We studied five alleles of a microsatellite in the MICA transmembrane region; one of which (MICA‐A5.1) gives rise to a truncated protein. The MICA‐A5 allele was reduced in breast cancer patients compared with healthy controls (P = 0.04). Given the association between the HLA‐B7 allele and the susceptibility to breast cancer in our area, we also analyzed the distribution of the frequency of the MICA alleles in human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐B7 patients compared with patients with the other alleles. The MICA‐A5.1 allele was increased in HLA‐B7 patients (P = 0.0003). These results suggest that the MICA‐A5 allele appears to confer protection against human breast cancer and that the MICA‐A5.1 appears to increase the susceptibility to breast cancer in HLA‐B7 patients in our area.
Rapid discontinuation of corticosteroids in pediatric renal transplantation
Authors: Barletta Gina‐Marie , Kirk Eric , Gardner John J. , Rodriguez Joshua F. , Bursach Sheri M. , Bunchman Timothy E.
Published: April 2009

Abstract: Corticosteroid immunosuppression has permitted the development of successful allotransplantation; however, corticosteroids are associated significant post‐transplant complications. To circumvent these problems, we implemented a protocol of rapid discontinuation of corticosteroids in 19 consecutive pediatric primary kidney transplant recipients. Mean age at time of transplant was 13.4 (±4.5) yr, 52.6% were male, 63.2% underwent living donor transplantation. All patients were administered Thymoglobulin®[anti‐thymocyte globulin (rabbit)] as induction immunosuppression with a rapid tapering dose of corticosteroids (total of five daily doses), and maintained on mycophenolate mofetil and tacrolimus. Two patients had immediate recurrence of primary disease (FSGS), requiring further corticosteroid therapy. Otherwise, remaining 17 patients were maintained off corticosteroids, with excellent graft function; mean baseline eGFR of 112 mL/min/1.73 m2(±19) at 28 months (±14) post‐transplantation. There was 100% patient and rejection‐free graft survival at 27 months (range 5–58 months) post‐transplantation; 47% underwent renal transplant biopsy secondary to acute rise in serum creatinine with or without worsening hypertension. All biopsies had no evidence of acute rejection; 62.5% had findings consistent with tacrolimus toxicity. Renal transplantation utilizing a rapid discontinuation of corticosteroid protocol in pediatric patients appears to be safe and effective, without increasing the risk of acute rejection or graft loss.
Characterization of glutathioneS‐transferase in the saturniid moth,Samia Cynthia pryeri(Lep.: Saturniidae)
Authors: Yamamoto K. , Miake F. , Aso Y. , Teshiba S.
Published: April 2009

An enzyme, which possesses glutathioneS‐transferase (GST) activity, has been found in the midgut of the saturniid moth,Samia cynthia pryeri. The enzyme was initially purified into homogeneity by ammonium sulphate fractionation, affinity chromatography, and ion‐exchange chromatography. The resulting enzyme revealed a single band with a molecular mass of 23 kDa by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide electrophoresis under reduced conditions. When tested with 1‐chloro‐2,4‐dinitrobenzene, a universal substrate of GST, the purified remnants had an optimum pH of 8.0 for enzymatic activity, and was fairly stable at pH 5–9 and at temperatures below 40°C. The enzyme was also responsive to 4‐hydroxynonenal, a cytotoxic lipid‐peroxidation product. The present GST was inhibited by organophosphorus and pyrethroid insecticides including fenitrothion, permethrin and deltamethrin.
Neuroendocrine, Metabolic and Genomic Cues Signalling the Onset of Puberty in Females
Authors: Meza‐Herrera CA , Gonzalez‐Bulnes A , Kridli RT , Mellado M , Arechiga‐Flores CF , Salinas H , Luginbuhl JM
Published: April 2009

Contents

Puberty is the result of a dynamic interaction between genetic factors and environmental cues, all of which lead to the attainment of reproductive capacity. Thus, significant changes in hormone secretion occur from the pre‐pubertal to the pubertal stage. The objective of this review is to provide an update of some endocrine, physiological, metabolic and genetic concepts involved in the establishment of the hypothalamic‐hypophyseal‐gonadal axis function promoting the onset of the reproductive function during puberty. To achieve this purpose, basic aspects of the function of the hypothalamic‐hypophyseal‐gonadal axis, the control of the axis by neurotransmitters and the interaction between reproductive function and metabolic status will be considered. Finally, the role of the novel kisspeptin system and the GPR54 receptor as modulators of puberty will be considered, in addition to the hierarchical expression of the main genes acting as regulators of the onset of puberty.
Dissociable effects of cocaine‐seeking behavior following D1receptor activation and blockade within the caudal and rostral basolateral amygdala in rats
Authors: Mashhoon Yasmin , Tsikitas Lucas A. , Kantak Kathleen M.
Published: April 2009

Research with dopamine D1receptor antagonists or neuronal inactivating agents suggests that there is dissociable regulation of cocaine‐seeking behavior by the rostral and caudal basolateral amygdala. In the present study, discrete infusions of the D1receptor agonist SKF 81297 (0.0–0.8 μg per side) were compared with those of the D1receptor antagonist SCH 23390 (0.0–2.0 μg per side) to demonstrate directly the importance of D1receptor mechanisms within the rostral and caudal basolateral amygdala for their functional heterogeneity in regulating cocaine‐seeking behavior. Under a second‐order schedule, cocaine‐seeking behavior was studied during maintenance (cocaine and cocaine cues present) and reinstatement (only cocaine cues present). Food‐maintained responding was used to examine the specificity of maximal behaviorally effective doses of SKF 81297 and SCH 23390. The results demonstrated that the D1agonist (0.4 or 0.8 μg) increased and the D1antagonist (1.0 μg) decreased cocaine‐seeking behavior during maintenance when infused into the caudal but not the rostral basolateral amygdala. Cocaine intake was not affected by the agonist, and was decreased by the antagonist. During reinstatement, the D1agonist (0.4 μg) increased and the D1antagonist (1.0 μg) decreased cocaine‐seeking behavior when infused into the rostral but not the caudal basolateral amygdala. In tests for behavioral specificity, the above effective doses of SKF 81297 and SCH 23390 used in self‐administration experiments did not alter food‐maintained responding. However, the 2.0‐μg dose of SCH 23390 suppressed drug‐maintained and food‐maintained responding after infusion into both subregions. Collectively, these findings indicate dissociable sensitivity to D1receptor ligands within the caudal and rostral basolateral amygdala for altering cocaine‐seeking behavior under different conditions that model phases of addiction.
Geographical variation in predictors of mammalian extinction risk: big is bad, but only in the tropics
Authors: Fritz Susanne A. , Bininda‐Emonds Olaf R. P. , Purvis Andy
Published: April 2009

Whereas previous studies have investigated correlates of extinction risk either at global or regional scales, our study explicitly models regional effects of anthropogenic threats and biological traits across the globe. Using phylogenetic comparative methods with a newly‐updated supertree of 5020 extant mammals, we investigate the impact of species traits on extinction risk within each WWF ecoregion. Our analyses reveal strong geographical variation in the influence of traits on risk: notably, larger species are at higher risk only in tropical regions. We then relate these patterns to current and recent‐historical human impacts across ecoregions using spatial modelling. The body–mass results apparently reflect historical declines of large species outside the tropics due to large‐scale land conversion. Narrow‐ranged and rare species tend to be at high risk in areas of high current human impacts. The interactions we describe between biological traits and anthropogenic threats increase understanding of the processes determining extinction risk.
N : P stoichiometry and protein : RNA ratios in vascular plants: an evaluation of the growth‐rate hypothesis
Authors: Matzek Virginia , Vitousek Peter M.
Published: April 2009

The growth‐rate hypothesis states that fast‐growing organisms need relatively more phosphorus‐rich RNA to support rapid rates of protein synthesis, and therefore predicts, within and among taxa, increases in RNA and phosphorus content (relative to protein and nitrogen content) with increased growth rate. Here, we present a test of this hypothesis in vascular plants. We determined nitrogen : phosphorus ratios and protein : RNA ratios in pines growing at different rates due to nutrient conditions. In general, when comparing leaves of the same species at low and high growth rates, the faster‐growing plants had higher RNA content, higher %N and %P, and lower protein : RNA ratios, but not consistently lower N : P ratios. We found no link between growth rate and foliar N : P or protein : RNA when comparing multiple species of different inherent growth rates. We conclude that plants adjust the balance of protein and RNA to favour either speed or efficiency of protein synthesis, but this balance does not alone dictate leaf stoichiometry.
Should We Be Teaching the Historical Critical Method?
Authors: Adam A.K.M. , Ascough Richard , Gravett Sandra , Hunt Alice , Martin Dale , Wimberly Edward , Yang Seung Ai
Published: April 2009

This manuscript is an edited transcript of a panel discussion held at a Society of Biblical Literature conference (Boston, Massachusetts, November 22 to 24, 2008). Alice Hunt begins the discussion by summarizing the content and significance of a new book by Dale Martin, The Pedagogy of The Bible (Westminster John Knox Press, 2008) in which he argues that biblical studies in seminaries and divinity schools give too much emphasis to teaching the historical critical method and not enough to preparing students for ministry by teaching them to be self‐reflective practioners of the improvisational skills of interpreting scripture. Then a panel of bible scholars, including the author, conduct a wide‐ranging discussion that raises questions about how biblical studies might better prepare students for ministry, as well as the proper role and appropriate pedagogies for introducing biblical studies in the undergraduate liberal arts curriculum.
Embodying Learning: Post‐Cartesian Pedagogy and the Academic Study of Religion
Authors: Lelwica Michelle Mary
Published: April 2009

This paper explores the concept and practice of “embodied pedagogy” as an alternative to the Cartesian approach to knowledge that is tacitly embedded in traditional modes of teaching and learning about religion. My analysis highlights a class I co‐teach that combines the study of Aikido (a Japanese martial art) with seminar‐style discussions of texts that explore issues pertaining to embodiment in the context of diverse spiritual traditions. The physicality of Aikido training makes it an interesting “case study” of embodied pedagogy and the lessons it offers both teachers and students about the academic study of religion. Ultimately, the questions and insights this class generates illustrate how post‐Cartesian pedagogies can expose, challenge, and correct epistemological assumptions that contribute to one‐dimensional views of religion and that fail to address our students as whole persons. A final part of the paper considers other possible venues for embodying teaching and learning in the academic study of religion.
Sustained Experiential Learning: Modified Monasticism and Pilgrimage
Authors: Oldstone‐Moore Jennifer
Published: April 2009

This article outlines a template for sustained experiential learning designed to provide a context for learning the affective and performative as well as intellectual power of religion. This approach was developed for a traditional academic framework, adapting pedagogies developed for experiential learning, aesthetic training, and study abroad, and draws on personal experiences of teaching East Asian religions. The approach integrates intellectual learning with out of class experience to stimulate and enrich the highly personal and often significant questions that may arise upon studying religion and encountering religious practices both in and out of the classroom.
Serious Leisure in the Home: Professional Quilters Negotiate Family Space
Authors: Stalp Marybeth C. , Conti Rachel
Published: April 2009

Although quilting has become more popular in the USA since its re‐emergence in 1976, with 15 per cent of households participating at the time of writing, quilting is still thought by many to be a frivolous, quaint or silly feminized activity. Those who quilt professionally, or for profit have difficulty legitimating their efforts as ‘real work’. Our focus is on one aspect of the quilting industry — professional quilters — and their negotiation of legitimacy for quilting work that is done in the home. We conduct secondary qualitative data analysis of 147 interviews of mostly women professional quilters from the Quilters' Save Our Stories Oral History Project. Professional quilters have more legitimacy and more claim to home‐based resources such as time and space than do amateur quilters but their work is still devalued as a gendered activity in the home. Despite achieving objective indicators of professional success (e.g., money, prizes and international recognition), professional quilters still have difficulty defending their home‐based employment activities and acquiring resources to carry it out.
Physical and mechanical properties of washed sediment mixed with organic matter
Authors: Vidal‐Beaudet L. , Charpentier S. , Rossignol J. P.
Published: April 2009

Soil from cleaning and washing of sugar beet during processing is collected and decanted in tanks each year over a period of several months. Instead of spreading it on agricultural land, another option is to reuse the sediment for crop growth. The physical and mechanical properties of the non‐structured washed soil (WS) and the efficiency of added organic matter (peat and green waste compost) were evaluated by comparison with an arable silt loam soil (AS). Water retention data were expressed in a double‐exponential function which characterized soil structural and matrix pore space. The effects on saturated hydraulic conductivity and pore space morphology from applying loads of 60 and 200 kPa on two initial volumetric water contents (12 and 25%) were investigated using image analysis. WS was a silt loam with no plasticity, and its void ratio and water retention were higher than the AS before compression. However, WS had a very small amount of structural pore space and despite its higher void ratio, its hydraulic conductivity was always lower than AS after compression. Organic matter improved all the WS properties by increasing structural porosity and vertical stress resistance. Organic matter created elongated and tortuous pores and increased Ks values by changing pore size distribution. During compression large pores with a radius >1500 μm disappeared in WS mixtures but were still observed in AS and were maintained by aggregate stability.
Differential effects of acute and repeat dosing with the H3antagonist GSK189254 on the sleep–wake cycle and narcoleptic episodes in Ox−/− mice
Authors: Guo RX , Anaclet C , Roberts JC , Parmentier R , Zhang M , Guidon G , Buda C , Sastre JP , Feng JQ , Franco P , Brown SH , Upton N , Medhurst AD , Lin JS
Published: April 2009

Background and purpose: Histamine H3receptor antagonists are currently being evaluated in clinical trials for a number of central nervous system disorders including narcolepsy. These agents can increase wakefulness (W) in cats and rodents following acute administration, but their effects after repeat dosing have not been reported previously.

Experimental approach: EEG and EMG recordings were used to investigate the effects of acute and repeat administration of the novel H3antagonist GSK189254 on the sleep–wake cycle in wild‐type (Ox+/+) and orexin knockout (Ox−/−) mice, the latter being genetically susceptible to narcoleptic episodes. In addition, we investigated H3and H1receptor expression in this model using radioligand binding and autoradiography.

Key results: In Ox+/+ and Ox−/− mice, acute administration of GSK189254 (3 and 10 mg·kg−1p.o.) increased W and decreased slow wave and paradoxical sleep to a similar degree to modafinil (64 mg·kg−1), while it reduced narcoleptic episodes in Ox−/− mice. After twice daily dosing for 8 days, the effect of GSK189254 (10 mg·kg−1) on W in both Ox+/+ and Ox−/− mice was significantly reduced, while the effect on narcoleptic episodes in Ox−/− mice was significantly increased. Binding studies revealed no significant differences in H3or H1receptor expression between Ox+/+ and Ox−/− mice.

Conclusions and implications: These studies provide further evidence to support the potential use of H3antagonists in the treatment of narcolepsy and excessive daytime sleepiness. Moreover, the differential effects observed on W and narcoleptic episodes following repeat dosing could have important implications in clinical studies.
Histamine H1 receptor knockout mice exhibit impaired spatial memory in the eight‐arm radial maze
Authors: Zlomuzica A , Ruocco LA , Sadile AG , Huston JP , Dere E
Published: April 2009

Background and purpose:  In the mammalian brain, histaminergic neurotransmission is mediated by the postsynaptic histamine H1 and H2 receptors and the presynaptic H3 autoreceptor, which also acts as a heteroreceptor. The H1 receptor has been implicated in spatial learning and memory formation. However, pharmacological and lesion studies have revealed conflicting results. To examine the involvement of histamine H1 receptor in spatial reference and working memory formation, H1 receptor knockout mice (KO) were tested in the eight‐arm radial maze. Previously, we found that the H1 receptor‐KO mice showed reduced emotionality when confronted with spatial novelty. As it is known that emotions can have an impact on spatial learning and memory performance, we also evaluated H1 receptor‐KO mice in terms of emotional behaviour in the light–dark box.

Experimental approach:  Mice lacking the H1 receptor and wild‐type mice (WT) were tested for spatial reference and working memory in an eight‐arm radial maze with three arms baited and one trial per day. Emotional behaviour was measured using the light–dark test.

Key results:  The H1 receptor‐KO mice showed impaired spatial reference and working memory in the radial maze task. No significant differences between H1 receptor‐KO and WT mice were observed in the light–dark test.

Conclusions and implications:  The spatial memory deficits of the H1 receptor‐KO mice might be due to the reported changes in cholinergic neurochemical parameters in the frontal cortex and the CA1 subregion of the hippocampus, to impaired synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus, and/or to a dysfunctional brain reward/reinforcement system.