bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interleukin‐15 stimulates macrophages to activate CD4+T cells: a role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis?
Authors: Rückert René , Brandt Katja , Ernst Martin , Marienfeld Kathleen , Csernok Elena , Metzler Claudia , Budagian Vadim , Bulanova Elena , Paus Ralf , Bulfone‐Paus Silvia
Published: June 2008

Interleukin‐15 (IL‐15) is a proinflammatory cytokine that is overexpressed in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a disease characterized by activation of monocytes/macrophages (MΦ), and by expansion of autoreactive CD4+T cells. We hypothesized that IL‐15 plays a major role for this expansion of CD4+T cells and modulates the phenotype of monocytes/MΦ and their interaction with CD4+T cells. Here, we show that IL‐15 enhances the proliferation of CD4+T cells from patients with RA in peripheral blood mononuclear cell cocultures. To further dissect the underlying mechanisms, we employed MΦ from IL‐15−/−or IL‐15 transgenic mice. These were induced to differentiate or were stimulated with IL‐15. Here we show that addition of IL‐15 during differentiation of MΦ (into ‘IL‐15MΦ’) and overexpression of IL‐15 by MΦ from IL‐15tgmice leads to increased levels of major histocompatibility complex class II expression. This resulted in enhanced stimulation of antigen‐specific CD4+T cellsin vitroand was accompanied by reduced messenger RNA expression in MΦ for immunosuppressive SOCS3. The proliferation rates of IL‐15MΦ and IL‐15tgMΦ were high, which was reflected by increased p27Kip1and reduced p21Waf1levels. In view of high serum and synovial levels of IL‐15 in patients with RA, our data suggest the possibility that this excess IL‐15 in RA may stimulate monocytes/MΦ to activate the characteristic autoreactive CD4+T cells in RA.
Dynamic expression of protective CEACAM1 on melanoma cells during specific immune attack
Authors: Markel Gal , Seidman Rachel , Cohen Yifat , Besser Michal J. , Sinai Tali Cohen , Treves Avraham J. , Orenstein Arie , Berger Raanan , Schachter Jacob
Published: June 2008

An efficient immune response against tumours depends on a well‐orchestrated function of integrated components, but is finally exerted by effector tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL). We have previously reported that homophilic CEACAM1 interactions inhibit the specific killing and interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) release activities of natural killer cells and TIL. In this study a model for the investigation of melanoma cells surviving long coincubation with antigen‐specific TIL is reported. It is demonstrated that the surviving melanoma cells increase their surface CEACAM1 expression, which in turn confers enhanced resistance against fresh TIL. Furthermore, it is shown that this is an active process, driven by specific immune recognition and is at least partially mediated by lymphocyte‐derived IFN‐γ. Similar results were observed with antigen‐restricted TIL, either autologous or allogeneic, as well as with natural killer cells. The enhanced CEACAM1 expression depends, however, on the presence of IFN‐γ and sharply drops within 48 hr. This may be a mechanism that allows tumour cells to transiently develop a more resistant phenotype upon recognition by specific lymphocytes. Therefore, this work substantiates the melanoma‐promoting role of CEACAM1 and marks it as an attractive target for novel immunotherapeutic interventions.
Gamma irradiation of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) seeds: effect on colour, cooking quality and pasting characteristics
Authors: Abu Joseph O. , Minnaar Amanda
Published: June 2008

Cowpea seeds were treated to various gamma irradiation doses, and their colour, cooking quality and pasting properties studied. Irradiation at 50 kGy resulted in significant browning (indicated by decreases in L colour value) of cowpea seeds. At 2 and 10 (but not at 50) kGy, irradiation led to significant reduction in cooking time of cowpea seeds possibly through irradiation‐induced degradation of starch and pectic substances (indicated by decreases in peak and final viscosities) leading possibly to enhanced heat and mass transfer within the seed cotyledon and cell wall, respectively. At 50 kGy, the cooking time of cowpea seeds was prolonged significantly owing possibly to extensive polymer cross‐linking occurring within the seeds at this high dose. Splitting of cowpea cotyledons during cooking decreased significantly at 50 kGy, but was unaffected at 2 and 10 kGy. Irradiation resulted in significant leaching of nutrients from cowpea seeds during cooking in a dose‐dependent manner.
Effects of different maceration enzymes on yield, clarity and anthocyanin and other polyphenol contents in blackberry juice
Authors: Wang Wei‐Dong , Xu Shi‐Ying , Jin Moon‐Kim
Published: June 2008

Enzymatic maceration of blackberries was conducted with eight different pectinolytic enzyme preparations. Juice yields were increased greatly when macerated blackberries were treated with enzyme preparations (P < 0.05), but no significant difference in yield was found among different enzymes (P > 0.05). The amounts of anthocyanins and polyphenols in the juices as well as clarity of the juices were greatly varied because of different enzyme treatment. Juice prepared with Klerzyme 150 showed better clarity and greater amount of anthocyanins than the juices prepared with other enzyme preparations (P < 0.05). Studies on the uniform design for Klerzyme 150 enzyme revealed that the optimum conditions were 0.063% (v/w), 44 °C and 110 min for enzyme dosage, reaction temperature and reaction time, respectively.
Effect of different packaging systems on the quality of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum var. Rio Grande) fruits during storage
Authors: Sammi Shehla , Masud Tariq
Published: June 2008

A packaging system is designed in our laboratory and evaluated for its suitability to extend storage life and improve the quality of tomato (var. Rio Grande) fruits at ambient temperature (Patent App. No. 484/2005). Freshly harvested mature green tomatoes were packed in polyethylene packaging with or without treating with calcium chloride, boric acid and potassium permanganate. The fruits were then evaluated for changes in quality parameters within the different stages of ripening. The treatments improved the storage life up to 96 days when compared with that of control (32 days). The results showed that within each ripening stage, the treated fruits remained better than that of control and all the ripening stages and treatments are significantly different (P < 0.05) from each other. It can also be deduced that treated fruits showed lower weight loss (%), total soluble solids (TSS) contents, acidity and spoilage incidence while ascorbic acid contents, sugar to acid ratio, flavour, texture, colour and overall acceptability were higher in treated fruits when compared with control at the red stage of ripening. Total sugars (%) were low in fruits treated with calcium chloride and boric acid with or without potassium permanganate.
An investigation of rancidity inhibition during frozen storage of Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) fillets by previous ascorbic and citric acid treatment
Authors: Pourashouri Parastoo , Shabanpour Bahare , Aubourg Santiago P. , Rohi Javad Daghigh , Shabani Ali
Published: June 2008

The effect of preliminary ascorbic and citric acid (AA and CA, respectively) soaking treatments on the rancidity development in Wels catfish (Silurus glanis) fillets during further frozen storage (−18 °C; up to 6 months) was studied. Rancidity development was measured by biochemical quality indices (formation of free fatty acids, peroxides and secondary oxidation products) and compared with sensory analysis (appearance, rancid odour and consistency) and general chemical analyses (pH, expressible moisture and heme iron contents). When compared with control samples, AA‐ and CA‐treated samples showed a lower (P < 0.05) formation of primary and secondary lipid oxidation compounds that was corroborated by a longer (P < 0.05) shelf‐life time as a result of a lower rancid odour formation. According to these results, control samples showed a higher (P < 0.05) heme iron breakdown (months 3–6) and a lower (P < 0.05) water‐holding capacity (higher expressible moisture value) (month 6).
On the importance of adequately choosing the ingredients of yoghurt and enriched milk for their antioxidant activity
Authors: Jiménez Antonia M. , Murcia Maria Antonia , Parras Pilar , Martínez‐Tomé Magdalena
Published: June 2008

The antioxidant activity of several dairy products, yoghurt enriched with green tea and lemon, fermented milk, yoghurt with strawberry pulp, ‘low‐calorie’ yoghurt with inulin and milk enriched with vitamin E and their ingredients were analysed. Yoghurt enriched with green tea and lemon showed the best lipidic antioxidant capacity. All the dairy products analysed were very good OH· radical scavengers. The dairy products analysed were unable to scavenge H2O2 except green tea. The antioxidant activity of these samples resisted high temperatures in the Rancimat test; of the ingredients analysed, the best antioxidant activity was found for vitamin E followed by green tea, pectin, Lactobacillus acidophilus, lemon pulp and cornstarch. Antioxidant activity did not suffer variations during storage at an unfavourable temperature (40 °C), as demonstrated by the linoleic acid assay. Yoghurt enriched with green tea and lemon, yoghurt with strawberry pulp and low‐calorie yoghurt with inulin produced the best results in the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assay.
Developmental reorientation of transverse cortical microtubules to longitudinal directions: a role for actomyosin‐based streaming and partial microtubule‐membrane detachment
Authors: Sainsbury Frank , Collings David A. , Mackun Ken , Gardiner John , Harper John D.I. , Marc Jan
Published: June 2008

Transversely oriented cortical microtubules in elongating cells typically reorient themselves towards longitudinal directions at the end of cell elongation. We have investigated the reorientation mechanism along the outer epidermal wall in maturing leek (Allium porrum L.) leaves using a GFP‐MBD microtubule reporter gene and fluorescence microscopy. Incubating leaf segments for 14–18 h with the anti‐actin or anti‐actomyosin agents, 20 μm cytochalasin D or 20 mm 2,3‐butanedione monoxime, inhibited the normal developmental reorientation of microtubules to the longitudinal direction. Observation of living cells revealed a small subpopulation of microtubules with their free ends swinging into oblique or longitudinal directions, before continuing to assemble in the new direction. Electron microscopy confirmed that longitudinal microtubules are partly detached from the plasma membrane. Incubating leaf segments with 0.2% 1°‐butanol, an activator of phospholipase D, which has been implicated in plasma membrane–microtubule anchoring, promoted the reorientation, presumably by promoting microtubule detachment from the membrane. Stabilizing microtubules with 10 μm taxol also promoted longitudinal orientation, even in the absence of cytoplasmic streaming. These results were consistent with confocal microscopy of live cells before and after drug treatments, which also revealed that the slow (days) global microtubule reorientation is superimposed over short‐term (hours) regional cycling in a clockwise and an anti‐clockwise direction. We propose that partial detachment of transverse microtubules from the plasma membrane in maturing cells exposes them to hydrodynamic forces of actomyosin‐driven cytoplasmic streaming, which bends or shifts pivoting microtubules into longitudinal directions, and thus provides an impetus to push microtubule dynamics in the new direction.
Tapetum‐specific location of a cation‐dependent O‐methyltransferase in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Fellenberg Christin , Milkowski Carsten , Hause Bettina , Lange Peter‐Robert , Böttcher Christoph , Schmidt Jürgen , Vogt Thomas
Published: June 2008

Cation‐ and S‐adenosyl‐l‐methionine (AdoMet)‐dependent plant natural product methyltransferases are referred to as CCoAOMTs because of their preferred substrate, caffeoyl coenzyme A (CCoA). The enzymes are encoded by a small family of genes, some of which with a proven role in lignin monomer biosynthesis. In Arabidopsis thaliana individual members of this gene family are temporally and spatially regulated. The gene At1g67990 is specifically expressed in flower buds, and is not detected in any other organ, such as roots, leaves or stems. Several lines of evidence indicate that the At1g67990 transcript is located in the flower buds, whereas the corresponding CCoAOMT‐like protein, termed AtTSM1, is located exclusively in the tapetum of developing stamen. Flowers of At1g67990 RNAi‐suppressed plants are characterized by a distinct flower chemotype with severely reduced levels of the N ′,N ′′‐bis‐(5‐hydroxyferuloyl)‐N ′′′‐sinapoylspermidine compensated for by N1,N5,N10‐tris‐(5‐hydroxyferuloyl)spermidine derivative, which is characterized by the lack of a single methyl group in the sinapoyl moiety. This severe change is consistent with the observed product profile of AtTSM1 for aromatic phenylpropanoids. Heterologous expression of the recombinant protein shows the highest activity towards a series of caffeic acid esters, but 5‐hydroxyferuloyl spermidine conjugates are also accepted substrates. The in vitro substrate specificity and the in vivo RNAi‐mediated suppression data of the corresponding gene suggest a role of this cation‐dependent CCoAOMT‐like protein in the stamen/pollen development of A. thaliana.
Involvement of hydrogen peroxide in leaf abscission signaling, revealed by analysis with an in vitro abscission system in Capsicum plants
Authors: Sakamoto Masaru , Munemura Ikuko , Tomita Reiko , Kobayashi Kappei
Published: June 2008

Although auxin and ethylene play pivotal roles in leaf abscission, the subsequent signaling molecules are poorly understood. This is mainly because it is difficult to effectively treat the intact abscission zone (AZ) with pharmacological reagents. We developed an in vitro experimental system that reproduces stress‐induced leaf abscission in planta. In this system, 1‐mm‐thick petiole strips, encompassing the AZ, were separated within 4 days of abscission at the AZ through cell wall degradation in an auxin depletion‐ and ethylene‐dependent manner. The system allowed us to show that hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is involved in abscission signaling. Microscopic analyses revealed continuous H2O2 production by AZ cells. H2O2 scavengers and diphenylene iodonium, an inhibitor of NADPH oxidase, suppressed in vitro abscission and cellulase expression. Conversely, the application of H2O2 promoted in vitro abscission and expression of cellulase. Ethephon‐induced abscission was suppressed by inhibitors of H2O2 production, whereas the expression of ethylene‐responsive genes was unaffected by both H2O2 and an H2O2 inhibitor. These results indicated that H2O2 acts downstream from ethylene in in vitro abscission signaling. In planta, salinity stress induced the expression of genes that respond to ethylene and reactive oxygen species, and also induced H2O2 production at the AZ, which preceded leaf abscission. These results indicate that H2O2 has roles in leaf abscission associated with ethylene both in vitro and in planta.
A proteomic and phosphoproteomic analysis of Oryza sativa plasma membrane and vacuolar membrane
Authors: Whiteman Sally‐Anne , Nühse Thomas S , Ashford David A , Sanders Dale , Maathuis Frans JM
Published: June 2008

Proteomic and phosphoproteomic analyses of rice shoot and root tonoplast‐enriched and plasma membrane‐enriched membrane fractions were carried out to look at tissue‐specific expression, and to identify putative regulatory sites of membrane transport proteins. Around 90 unique membrane proteins were identified, which included primary and secondary transporters, ion channels and aquaporins. Primary H+ pumps from the AHA family showed little isoform specificity in their tissue expression pattern, whereas specific isoforms of the Ca2+ pump ECA/ACA family were expressed in root and shoot tissues. Several ABC transporters were detected, particularly from the MDR and PDR subfamilies, which often showed expression in either roots or shoots. Ammonium transporters were expressed in root, but not shoot, tissue. Large numbers of sugar transporters were expressed, particularly in green tissue. The occurrence of phosphorylation sites in rice transporters such as AMT1;1 and PIP2;6 agrees with those previously described in other species, pointing to conserved regulatory mechanisms. New phosphosites were found in many transporters, including H+ pumps and H+:cation antiporters, often at residues that are well conserved across gene families. Comparison of root and shoot tissue showed that phosphorylation of AMT1;1 and several further transporters may be tissue dependent.
Molecular and immunological characterization of novel weed pollen pan‐allergens
Authors: Wopfner N. , Gruber P. , Wallner M. , Briza P. , Ebner C. , Mari A. , Richter K. , Vogel L. , Ferreira F.
Published: June 2008

Background:  Pan‐allergens like profilins, calcium‐binding proteins (CBPs), and nonspecific lipid transfer proteins have been suggested as possible specific markers for multiple pollen sensitizations, and could be used to predict cross‐sensitization/poly‐sensitization to several pollen allergens. Therefore, the purification and characterization of cross‐reacting allergens in pollen is an extremely important task towards correct allergy diagnosis.

Methods:  New pan‐allergens were identified by screening a ragweed pollen cDNA library with sera of patients allergic to mugwort pollen. Resulting proteins were cloned, expressed, purified and characterized.

Results:  We report complete cDNA sequences of two profilin isoforms (Amb a 8.01 and Amb a 8.02), two isoforms of a 2EF‐hand CBP (Amb a 9.01 and Amb a 9.02), a new 3EF‐hand CBP (Amb a 10) from ragweed pollen and a 2EF‐hand CBP from mugwort (Art v 5). All these proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli, purified to homogeneity and characterized by biochemical and immunological means.

Conclusions:  The identified proteins are novel pan‐allergens and can be used as diagnostic markers for polysensitization and used in component‐resolved diagnosis.
Prediction of challenge test results by flour‐specific IgE and skin prick test in symptomatic bakers
Authors: Van Kampen V. , Rabstein S. , Sander I. , Merget R. , Brüning T. , Broding H. C. , Keller C. , Müsken H. , Overlack A. , Schultze‐Werninghaus G. , Walusiak J. , Raulf‐Heimsoth M.
Published: June 2008

Background:  Wheat and rye flours are among the most important allergens causing occupational asthma. Usually, the diagnosis of baker’s asthma is based on inhalation challenge tests with flours.

Aims of the study:  To evaluate the relevance of flour‐specific serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) and skin prick test (SPT) in the diagnosis of baker’s asthma and to define flour‐specific IgE concentrations and wheal sizes that allow a prediction of the outcome of challenge testing.

Methods:  Bronchial and nasal challenge tests with wheat (rye) flour were performed in 71 (95) symptomatic bakers. Determinations of flour‐specific IgE as well as SPTs were performed in all subjects. Analyses included the calculation of sensitivity, specificity, positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) at different IgE concentrations and different wheal sizes, and receiver‐operating characteristics (ROC) plots with the challenge result as gold standard.

Results:  Thirty‐seven bakers were positive in the challenge with wheat flour, while 63 were positive with rye flour. Depending on the flour‐specific IgE concentrations (wheal size), PPV was 74–100% (74–100%) for wheat and 82–100% (91–100%) for rye flour, respectively. The minimal cut‐off values with a PPV of 100% were 2.32 kU/l (5.0 mm) for wheat flour and 9.64 kU/l (4.5 mm) for rye flour. The shapes of the ROC plots were similar for wheat and rye flour.

Conclusion:  High concentrations of flour‐specific IgE and clear SPT results in symptomatic bakers are good predictors for a positive challenge test. Challenge tests with flours may be avoided in strongly sensitized bakers.
Pasteurization of milk proteins promotes allergic sensitization by enhancing uptake through Peyer’s patches
Authors: Roth‐Walter F. , Berin M. C. , Arnaboldi P. , Escalante C. R. , Dahan S. , Rauch J. , Jensen‐Jarolim E. , Mayer L.
Published: June 2008

Background:  The underlying mechanisms responsible for allergic sensitization to food proteins remain elusive. To investigate the intrinsic properties (as well as the effect of pasteurization) of the milk proteins α‐lactalbumin, β‐lactoglobulin and casein that promote the induction of milk allergy.

Methods:  Alteration of structure and immune‐reactivity of native and pasteurized proteins was assessed by gel filtration and ELISA. Uptake of these proteins was compared in vitro and in vivo. The biological effect was assessed by orally sensitizing C3H/HeJ mice with milk proteins followed by a graded oral challenge. Required dose to induce anaphylaxis, symptoms and mean body temperature was recorded. Antigen‐specific antibodies and cytokine production by splenocytes were analyzed.

Results:  Soluble β‐lactoglobulin and α‐lactalbumin but not insoluble casein were readily transcytosed through enterocytes in vitro and in vivo. Pasteurization caused aggregation of β‐lactoglobulin and α‐lactalbumin inhibiting uptake by intestinal epithelial cells in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, aggregation redirected uptake to Peyer’s patches, which promoted significantly higher Th2‐associated antibody and cytokine production in mice than their native counterparts. Despite this only the soluble forms of β‐lactoglobulin and α‐lactalbumin elicited anaphylaxis (following priming) when allergens were administered orally. Aggregated β‐lactoglobulin and α‐lactalbumin as well as casein required systemic administration to induce anaphylaxis.

Conclusions:  These results indicate that triggering of an anaphylactic response requires two phases (1) sensitization by aggregates through Peyer’s patches and (2) efficient transfer of soluble protein across the epithelial barrier. As the majority of common food allergens tend to form aggregates, this may be of clinical importance.
Important research questions in allergy and related diseases: nonallergic rhinitis: a GA2LEN paper
Authors: Bousquet J. , Fokkens W. , Burney P. , Durham S. R. , Bachert C. , Akdis C. A. , Canonica G. W. , Dahlen S.‐E. , Zuberbier T. , Bieber T. , Bonini S. , Bousquet P. J. , Brozek J. L. , Cardell L.‐O. , Crameri R. , Custovic A. , Demoly P. , Van Wijk R. G. , Gjomarkaj M. , Holland C. , Howarth P. , Humbert M. , Johnston S. L. , Kauffmann F. , Kowalski M. L. , Lambrecht B. , Lehmann S. , Leynaert B. , Lodrup‐Carlsen K. , Mullol J. , Niggemann B. , Nizankowska‐Mogilnicka E. , Papadopoulos N. , Passalacqua G. , Schünemann H. J. , Simon H.‐U. , Todo‐Bom A. , Toskala E. , Valenta R. , Wickman M. , Zock J. P.
Published: June 2008

Nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) can be defined as a chronic nasal inflammation which is not caused by systemic IgE‐dependent mechanisms. It is common and probably affects far more than 200 million people worldwide. Both children and adults are affected. However, its exact prevalence is unknown and its phenotypes need to be evaluated using appropriate methods to better understand its pathophysiology, diagnosis and management. It is important to differentiate between infectious rhinitis, allergic/NAR and chronic rhinosinusitis, as management differs for each of these cases. Characterization of the phenotype, mechanisms and management of NAR represents one of the major unmet needs in allergic and nonallergic diseases. Studies on children and adults are required in order to appreciate the prevalence, phenotype, severity and co‐morbidities of NAR. These studies should compare allergic and NAR and consider different age group populations including elderly subjects. Mechanistic studies should be carried out to better understand the disease(s) and risk factors and to guide towards an improved diagnosis and therapy. These studies need to take the heterogeneity of NAR into account. It is likely that neuronal mechanisms, T cells, innate immunity and possibly auto‐immune responses all play a role in NAR and may also contribute to the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Exposure to furry pets and the risk of asthma and allergic rhinitis: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Takkouche B. , González‐Barcala F.‐J. , Etminan M. , FitzGerald M.
Published: June 2008

Background:  Exposure to pets has been implicated as a risk factor for asthma. However, this relation has been difficult to assess in individual studies because of the large potential of selection bias. We sought to examine the association between exposure to furry pets and asthma and allergic rhinitis by means of a meta‐analysis.

Methods:  We retrieved studies published in any language by searching systematically Medline (1966–March 2007), Embase, LILACS and ISI Proceedings computerized databases, and by examining manually the references of the original articles and reviews retrieved. We included cohort and case–control studies reporting relative risk estimates and confidence intervals of exposure to cats, dogs and unspecified furry animals and subsequent asthma and allergic rhinitis. We excluded cross‐sectional studies and those studies that did not measure exposure but rather sensitization to pets.

Results:  Thirty‐two studies were included. For asthma, the pooled relative risk related to dog exposure was 1.14 (95% CI 1.01–1.29), that related to exposure to any furry pet was 1.39 (95% CI 1.00–1.95). Among cohort studies, exposure to cats yielded a relative risk of 0.72 (95% CI 0.55–0.93). For rhinitis, the pooled relative risk of exposure to any furry pet was 0.79 (95% CI 0.68–0.93).

Conclusions:  Exposure to cats exerts a slight preventive effect on asthma, an effect that is more pronounced in cohort studies. On the contrary, exposure to dogs increases slightly the risk of asthma. Exposure to furry pets of undermined type is not conclusive. More studies with exact measurement of exposure are needed to elucidate the role of pet exposures in atopic diseases.
A EuroPrevall review of factors affecting incidence of peanut allergy: priorities for research and policy
Authors: Boulay A. , Houghton J. , Gancheva V. , Sterk Y. , Strada A. , Schlegel‐Zawadzka M. , Sora B. , Sala R. , Van Ree R. , Rowe G.
Published: June 2008

Peanuts are extensively cultivated around the world, providing a foodstuff that is both cheap to produce and nutritious. However, allergy to peanuts is of growing global concern, particularly given the severity of peanut‐allergic reactions, which can include anaphalaxis and death. Consequently, it is important to understand the factors related to the prevalence of peanut allergy in order to inform efforts to ameliorate or pre‐empt the condition. In this article we review evidence for the relevance of factors hypothesized to have some association with allergy prevalence, including both genetic and environmental factors. Although our analysis does indicate some empirical support for the importance of a number of factors, the key finding is that there are significant data gaps in the literature that undermine our ability to provide firm conclusions. We highlight these gaps, indicating questions that need to be addressed by future research.
Have the prevalence and incidence of occupational asthma and rhinitis because of laboratory animals declined in the last 25 years?
Authors: Folletti I. , Forcina A. , Marabini A. , Bussetti A. , Siracusa A.
Published: June 2008

Background:  Data for time trends in the prevalence of occupational asthma (OA) and rhinitis (OR) are not known.

Objective:  To investigate the prevalence and incidence of OA and OR over time.

Methods:  We chose to review studies on the prevalence and incidence of OA and OR due to laboratory animals (LA) as a marker of changing OA and OR patterns over time and analysed 15 cross‐sectional and 4 longitudinal studies published from 1980 to 2006.

Results:  The estimated prevalence of OA, defined as work‐related chest symptoms (WRCS), declined from 8.2% in 1976 to 4.2% in 2001 (P < 0.005). When defined by WRCS and positive skin prick test (SPT) to LA, the estimated prevalence of OA was 6.7% in 1977 and 2.9% in 1999 (P < 0.02). The prevalence of OR, defined by WRNS or WRNS and SPT to LA, was not related to study date but was inversely associated with mean exposure duration. In four longitudinal studies no clear trend emerged over time.

Conclusions:  This review suggests a trend toward a progressive decline in the prevalence of occupational asthma due to laboratory animals, which may be due to the reduction of exposure since the early 1980s. A further reduction of exposure is needed to prevent the onset of occupational rhinitis.
Temperature‐dependent costs of parasitism and maintenance of polymorphism under genotype‐by‐environment interactions
Authors: VALE P. F. , STJERNMAN M. , LITTLE T. J.
Published: June 2008

The maintenance of genetic variation for infection‐related traits is often attributed to coevolution between hosts and parasites, but it can also be maintained by environmental variation if the relative fitness of different genotypes changes with environmental variation. To gain insight into how infection‐related traits are sensitive to environmental variation, we exposed a single host genotype of the freshwater crustacean Daphnia magna to four parasite isolates (which we assume to represent different genotypes) of its naturally co‐occurring parasite Pasteuria ramosa at 15, 20 and 25 °C. We found that the cost to the host of becoming infected varied with temperature, but the magnitude of this cost did not depend on the parasite isolate. Temperature influenced parasite fitness traits; we found parasite genotype‐by‐environment (G × E) interactions for parasite transmission stage production, suggesting the potential for temperature variation to maintain genetic variation in this trait. Finally, we tested for temperature‐dependent relationships between host and parasite fitness traits that form a key component of models of virulence evolution, and we found them to be stable across temperatures.
Red blood cell to plasma ratios transfused during massive transfusion are associated with mortality in severe multiply injury: a retrospective analysis from the Trauma Registry of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Unfallchirurgie
Authors: Maegele M. , Lefering R. , Paffrath T. , Tjardes T. , Simanski C. , Bouillon B. ,   the Working Group on Polytrauma of the German Society of Trauma Surgery (DGU)
Published: June 2008

Background  To test whether an acute transfusion practice of packed red blood cells (pRBC) : fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP) 1 : 1 would be associated with reduced mortality in acute bleeding multiply injury.

Methods  Retrospective analysis using the TR‐DGU database (Trauma Registry of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Unfallchirurgie 2002–2006) on primary admissions with substantial injury (Injury Severity Score > 16) and massive transfusion (> 10 pRBCs). Seven hundred thirteen patients were divided into three groups according to the pRBC : FFP ratio transfused, that is, (i) pRBC : FFP > 1·1; (ii) pRBC : FFP 0·9–1·1 (1 : 1); and (iii) pRBC : FFP < 0·9, and mortality rates were compared.

Results  Four hundred ninety‐seven (69·7%) of patients were male, the mean age was 40·1 (± 18·3) years. Injury characteristics and pathophysiological state upon emergency room arrival were comparable between groups. Out of 713, 484 patients had undergone massive transfusion with pRBC : FFP > 1·1, 114 with pRBC : FFP 0·9–1·1 (1 : 1), and 115 with pRBC : FFP < 0·9 ratios. Acute mortality (< 6 h) rates for pRBC : FFP > 1·1, pRBC : FFP 0·9–1·1 (1 : 1), and pRBC : FFP < 0·9 ratios were 24·6, 9·6 and 3·5% (P < 0·0001), 24‐h mortality rates were 32·6, 16·7 and 11·3% (P < 0·0001), and 30‐day mortality rates were 45·5, 35·1 and 24·3% (P < 0·001). The frequency for septic complications and organ failure was higher in the pRBC : FFP 0·9–1·1 (1 : 1) group, ventilator days and length of stays for intensive care unit and overall in‐hospital were highest in the pRBC : FFP < 0·9 ratio group (P < 0·0005).

Conclusions  An association between pRBC : FFP transfusion ratios and mortality to favour early aggressive FFP administration was observed. Further investigation is necessary prior to recommending routine 1 : 1 or more aggressive FFP use in exsanguinating patients.
Identification of site similarities in western and central Asia using CIMMYT international wheat yield data
Authors: Lage J. , Trethowan R. M. , Hernandez E.
Published: June 2008

Understanding the association among wheat growing locations allows plant breeders to better target crosses and identifies locations for germplasm exchange. To examine the relationship between yield testing sites in eight countries in western/central Asia, 291 data sets from CIMMYT's different international yield nurseries were combined into one analysis as no single nursery was well represented across the region; these nurseries represented wheat germplasm specifically developed for different agro‐ecological zones including irrigated, semi‐arid, high‐rainfall, autumn‐ and spring‐sown conditions. The shifted multiplicative model was used to group individual sites into clusters. Results revealed 18 site‐by‐site combinations as ‘similar’ to each other and 23 as ‘contrasting’ at a probability level of P < 15%. CIMMYT's main yield testing site in northern Mexico proved the best predictor for the region. Within the region two sites in Turkey and Iran were identified as possible sites for future regional testing. Overall the study showed that data from different yield nurseries can be combined to improve our understanding of site associations across western/central Asia to the benefit of both international and regional wheat breeders.
Use of ccSSR markers for the determination of the purity of alloplasmic wheat in different Hordeum cytoplasms
Authors: Martín A. C. , Atienza S. G. , Barro F.
Published: June 2008

We tested three different consensus chloroplast simple sequence repeat (ccSSR) primers to identify amplified polymorphic products in Hordeum chilense, Hordeum vulgare and other Triticeae species with a double aim. First, to use chloroplast‐specific primers as an indirect method for the assessment of wheat cytoplasmic male sterile purity in seedlings during multiplication and in the development of alloplasmic lines. Second, to analyse cytoplasmic relationships among H. chilense accessions and between H. chilense and other members of the Triticeae tribe. The products from primer ccSSR‐4 were easily discriminated using agarose gel electrophoresis. Based on the lengths of amplification products, three groups were identified: the first included almost exclusively H. chilense accessions, the second contained H. vulgare accessions and the third comprised the wheat and the rest of the analysed accessions. Sequencing of PCR products revealed point mutations and insertions/deletions in addition to the expansion/contraction of the microsatellite repeat length. Data analyses of sequenced fragments revealed six groups of accessions among the material studied. No significant differences were found among H. chilense accessions.
Allozyme diversity of Russian wildrye accessions
Authors: Yang Y. , Han J. , Berdahl J. D.
Published: June 2008

Analysis of genetic diversity among plant accessions plays an important role in developing strategies for plant breeding and the conservation of genetic resources. Therefore, we sought to estimate the extent of genetic diversity present among and within 29 Russian wildrye accessions, which were collected from widespread geographic sites. We assessed the genetic diversity of eight enzymes found in 29 Russian wildrye accessions using vertical polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The genetic diversity of each accession was estimated from standard genetic parameters that included (1) the number of polymorphic loci; (2) the average number of alleles per locus; (3) the observed and expected heterozygosity. The eight enzymes were encoded by 13 putative loci and 46 alleles. Allozyme analyses revealed a large number of polymorphic loci among the 29 accessions and some of the accessions carry rare alleles and trace their origin to sites in Xinjiang, China, where Russian wildrye is indigenous. The accessions with rare alleles require additional evaluation to determine whether they possess unique phenotypic traits which would be useful in applied plant breeding.
Development of markers for the use of the PEF1 cytoplasm in sunflower hybrid breeding
Authors: Schnabel U. , Engelmann U. , Horn R.
Published: June 2008

The use of the new cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) source PEF1 in sunflower hybrid breeding requires markers closely linked to the restorer gene Rf_PEF1 necessary for fertility restoration of hybrids based on the PEF1 cytoplasm as well as diagnostic markers to distinguish the PEF1 cytoplasm from other cytoplasms. Bulked segregant analyses of 256 AFLP primer combinations identified 35 polymorphic primer combinations with 1–3 polymorphisms, resulting in 40 polymorphisms. Eighteen AFLP markers mapped together with the Rf_PEF1 gene covering 119.9 cM. The closest markers, E39M51_300R and E44M56_112A, mapped 3.9 and 6.0 cM to the Rf_PEF1 gene, respectively. Six SSR markers, which belong to the linkage group 13, were screened for polymorphisms between the parental lines. Only ORS630 was polymorphic, but did not map to the same linkage group as Rf_PEF1, indicating that Rf_PEF1 is not located on linkage group 13 where the restorer gene Rf1 for the PET1 cytoplasm is located. Diagnostic markers to distinguish the PEF1 cytoplasm from the PET1 and the fertile cytoplasm in sunflower were obtained using primer combinations for the atp9 gene and orfH522.
Extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase‐producing Klebsiella pneumoniae in paediatric wards: A nested case‐control study
Authors: Demir Serap , Soysal Ahmet , Bakir Mustafa , Kaufmann Mary E. , Yagci Aysegul
Published: June 2008

Aim:  A high rate (48.6%) of extended spectrum beta‐lactamase production among Klebsiella pneumoniae (ESBL‐KP) clinical isolates in the paediatric wards of our hospital prompted the introduction of enhanced infection control measures, and after the implementation of these measures, we instituted a prospective surveillance programme, with a nested case‐control study to determine the risk factors for rectal colonisation by ESBL‐KP.

Methods:  Over a 1‐year period, rectal swabs from patients and samples from the environment and the hands of health‐care workers were cultured. Strain typing of ESBL‐KP isolates was performed using pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis. Characteristics of patients who were colonised with ESBL‐KP during hospital stay were compared with those of patients who remained negative for ESBL‐KP. Multivariate analysis was performed with model‐building using stepwise logistic regression to determine independent risk factors for ESBL‐KP acquisition.

Results:  Forty (18.5%) of 216 patients became colonised with ESBL‐KP. The strongest independent predictors of ESBL‐KP colonisation were mechanical ventilation (odds ratio (OR): 4.28) and hospitalisation for longer than 14 days (OR: 6.97). Genotyping of the isolates indicated probable patient‐to‐patient transmission; however, we could not determine the route of this spread. During the study period, a 1.6% rate of ESBL‐KP clinical infection per 500 patient admissions was observed, in contrast to a 7% rate in the previous year.

Conclusions:  Prolonged length of stay and mechanical ventilation were independent predictors of ESBL‐KP colonisation. Enhanced infection control measures, antimicrobial stewardship and screening for rectal carriage were associated with a substantial decrease in paediatric units.
Children with physical disability: Gaps in service provision, problems joining in
Authors: Clark Phillipa , MacArthur Jude
Published: June 2008

Aim:  To describe the reported experiences of the estimated 14 500 New Zealand children with a physical disability and those of their families and whanau (extended families).

Method:  We have used data from the Household Disability Survey conducted in 2002 to obtain this information.

Results:  These children and their carers reported a number of perceived unmet needs in all areas covered in the survey: service and assistance, transport, accommodation and education. Thus an estimated 24% reported an unmet need for equipment, and 10% an unmet need for home modification. Around 9% reported having to fund respite care themselves. Of particular note was the proportion of children who had difficulties joining in games and sport at school (59%), going on school outings or camps (28%), playing at school (47%), and or making friends (35%). In all, an estimated 67% of children had one or more problems taking part at school.

Conclusion:  More could be done to help such families and to facilitate the full participation of these children.
Paediatric treadmill friction injuries
Authors: Jeremijenko Luke , Mott Jonathan , Wallis Belinda , Kimble Roy
Published: June 2008

Aim:  The aim of this study was to report on the severity and incidence of children injured by treadmills and to promote the implementation of safety standards.

Method:  This retrospective review of children with treadmill friction injuries was conducted in a single tertiary‐level burns centre in Australia between January 1997 and June 2007.

Results:  The study revealed 37 children who sustained paediatric treadmill friction injuries. This was a presentation of 1% of all burns. Thirty‐three (90%) of the injuries occurred in the last 3.5 years (January 2004 to June 2007). The modal age was 3.2 years. Thirty‐three (90%) injuries were either full thickness or deep partial friction burns. Eleven (30%) required split thickness skin grafts. Of those who became entrapped, 100% required skin grafting.

Conclusion:  This study found that paediatric treadmill friction injuries are severe and increasing in incidence. Australian standards should be developed, implemented and mandated to reduce this preventable and severe injury.
Coverage of the Victorian newborn screening programme in 2003: A retrospective population study
Authors: Jaques Alice M , Collins Veronica R , Pitt James , Halliday Jane L
Published: June 2008

Objective:  To assess the coverage of the newborn screening (NBS) program in Victoria, Australia, and identify potential predictors of not being screened.

Setting:  Victoria, Australia, 2003. The Victorian NBS program screens for phenylketonuria (PKU), cystic fibrosis, congenital hypothyroidism and more than 20 metabolic conditions, such as medium chain acyl‐coenzyme A dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency.

Methods:  Victorian birth records (n = 63,018) were linked to Victorian NBS records (n = 62,876) using probabilistic record linkage. Binary logistic regression was used to identify potential predictors of not being screened.

Results:  Uptake of NBS was 99.4% (62,643/63,018), resulting in 0.6% (375) of livebirths not matched to a NBS test. Neonatal death was the most significant factor associated with not being screened (relative risk (RR) = 407, 95%Cl = 314 to 526). After adjustment, surviving livebirths had an increased likelihood of not being matched to a NBS record if they: were transferred between hospitals (odds ratio (OR) = 2.4, 95% confidence interval (Cl) 1.5 to 3.9); were born at home (OR = 12.1, 95%Cl 6.3 to 23.3); resided in rural Victoria (OR = 2.6, 95%Cl 1.5 to 4.3); stayed in hospital for one day or less (OR = 4.6, 95%Cl 2.8 to 7.6); or whose mothers were primiparous (OR = 1.5, 95%Cl 1.1 to 2.1).

Conclusion:  NBS uptake is extremely high in Victoria with over 99% of livebirths screened. Particular risk factors for not having NBS have now been identified, which could lead to changes around monitoring neonates who are not born in a hospital, or leave/transfer hospital, before the NBS period (48–72 hours). Future studies could determine whether those not screened had opted‐out or were not offered NBS.
The reliability of 2D and colour Doppler ultrasound in localising longline position
Authors: Kuschel Carl A , Bach Kitty P , Webster Nicola J , Page Bernadette , Groves Alan M , Battin Malcolm R
Published: June 2008

Background:  The position of percutaneously inserted central venous catheters (longlines) in neonates is critical, as malpositioned longlines are associated with potentially fatal complications.

Aim:  To determine if cardiac ultrasound (two‐dimensional (2D) and colour Doppler) is useful in evaluating longline position, when compared with the position identified by contrast radiography.

Setting:  Single level 3 neonatal unit.

Participants:  Forty‐four neonates undergoing insertion of 24‐gauge silastic longlines between July 2004 and September 2005.

Methods:  Infants who had a longline inserted underwent echocardiography by a novice and an experienced operator. Operators identified longline position using a 2D then colour Doppler echocardiography during a rapid bolus infusion of saline. The position was identified from contrast radiography by two independent observers.

Results:  Using 2D echocardiography, the novice and experienced operators could identify 41 and 59% of longlines, respectively. However, only 34% of longlines were identified by both operators. In 15 infants whose longline positions were identified by both operators, there was agreement in only eight infants (53%). Colour Doppler improved the experienced operator's success but did not assist the novice operator. For radiographs, there was 68% agreement on longline position between observers. The experienced echocardiographer located three (7%) longlines within the heart that from radiographs were thought to be in a proximal central vessel.

Conclusions:  This technique is experience‐dependent and complements rather than replaces the use of contrast radiography. However, some infants with an apparently acceptable longline position on contrast radiography have longlines located within the heart on echocardiography.
Antifungal prophylaxis in adult stem cell transplantation and haematological malignancy
Authors: Slavin M. A. , Heath C. H. , Thursky K. A. , Morrissey C. O. , Szer J. , Ling L. M. , Milliken S. T. , Grigg A. P.
Published: June 2008

Antifungal prophylaxis can be recommended in patients undergoing induction chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia and treatment for grade 2 or greater or chronic extensive graft versus host disease. The evidence for prophylaxis is less clear in other clinical settings although certain groups such as patients with prolonged neutropenia after stem cell transplants using bone marrow or cord blood sources and with impaired cell mediated immunity secondary to treatments such as Alemtuzumab are at high risk. The decision to use prophylaxis and which agent to use will be influenced by effectiveness, number needed to treat and the likelihood of toxicity and drug interactions. The availability of rapid diagnostic tests for fungal infection and institutional epidemiology will also influence the need for and choice of prophylaxis. Whilst prophylaxis can be beneficial, it may impede the ability to make a rapid diagnosis of fungal infection by reducing the yield of diagnostic tests and change the epidemiology of fungal infection. As non‐culture based diagnostic tests are refined and become more available there may be a shift from prophylaxis to early diagnosis and treatment.