bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptional regulation by an NAC (NAM–ATAF1,2–CUC2) transcription factor attenuates ABA signalling for efficient basal defence towardsBlumeria graminisf. sp.hordeiin Arabidopsis
Authors: Jensen Michael K. , Hagedorn Peter H. , De Torres‐Zabala Marta , Grant Murray R. , Rung Jesper H. , Collinge David B. , Lyngkjaer Michael F.
Published: August 2008

ATAF1is a member of a largely uncharacterized plant‐specific gene family encoding NAC transcription factors, and is induced in response to various abiotic and biotic stimuli inArabidopsis thaliana. Previously, we showed that a mutant allele ofATAF1compromises penetration resistance in Arabidopsis with respect to the non‐host biotrophic pathogenBlumeria graminisf. sp.hordei(Bgh). In this study, we have used genome‐wide transcript profiling to characterize signalling perturbations inataf1plants followingBghinoculation. Comparative transcriptomic analyses identified an over‐representation of abscisic acid (ABA)‐responsive genes, including the ABA biosynthesis geneAAO3, which is significantly induced inataf1plants compared to wild‐type plants following inoculation withBgh. Additionally, we show thatBghinoculation results in decreased endogenous ABA levels in anATAF1‐dependent manner, and that the ABA biosynthetic mutantaao3showed increased penetration resistance toBghcompared to wild‐type plants. Furthermore, we show thatataf1plants show ABA‐hyposensitive phenotypes during seedling development and germination. Our data support a negative correlation between ABA levels and penetration resistance, and identify ATAF1 as a new stimuli‐dependent attenuator of ABA signalling for the mediation of efficient penetration resistance in Arabidopsis uponBghattack.
A semi‐dominant mutation in the ribosomal protein L10 gene suppresses the dwarf phenotype of the acl5 mutant in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Imai Akihiro , Komura Mio , Kawano Eri , Kuwashiro Yoshitaka , Takahashi Taku
Published: August 2008

Disruption of the Arabidopsis thaliana ACAULIS5 (ACL5) gene, which has recently been shown to encode thermospermine synthase, results in a severe dwarf phenotype. A previous study showed that sac51‐d, a dominant suppressor mutant of acl5‐1, has a premature termination codon in an upstream open reading frame (ORF) of SAC51, which encodes a putative transcription factor, and suggested the involvement of upstream ORF‐mediated translational control in ACL5‐dependent stem elongation. Here we report the identification of a gene responsible for sac52‐d, another semi‐dominant suppressor mutant of acl5‐1. SAC52 encodes ribosomal protein L10 (RPL10A), which is highly conserved among eukaryotes and implicated in translational regulation. Transformation of acl5‐1 mutants with a genomic fragment containing the sac52‐d allele rescued the dwarf phenotype of acl5‐1. GUS reporter activity under the control of a SAC51 promoter with its upstream ORF was higher in acl5‐1 sac52‐d than in acl5‐1, suggesting that suppression of the acl5‐1 phenotype by sac52‐d is attributable, in part, to enhanced translation of certain transcripts including SAC51. We also found that a T‐DNA insertion allele of SAC52/RPL10A causes lethality in the female gametophyte.
AGAMOUS‐LIKE24 and SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE determine floral meristem identity in Arabidopsis
Authors: Gregis Veronica , Sessa Alice , Colombo Lucia , Kater Martin M.
Published: August 2008

The formation of flowers starts when floral meristems develop on the flanks of the inflorescence meristem. In Arabidopsis the identity of floral meristems is promoted and maintained by APETALA1 (AP1) and CAULIFLOWER (CAL). In the ap1 cal double mutant the meristems that develop on the flanks of the inflorescence meristem are unable to establish floral meristem identity and develop as inflorescence meristems on which new inflorescence meristems subsequently proliferate. We demonstrate in contrast to previous models that AGAMOUS‐LIKE 24 (AGL24) and SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE (SVP) are also floral meristem identity genes since the ap1‐10 agl24‐2 svp‐41 triple mutant continuously produces inflorescence meristems in place of flowers. Furthermore, our results explain how AP1 switches from a floral meristem identity factor to a component that controls floral organ identity.
The airway smooth muscle CCR3/CCL11 axis is inhibited by mast cells
Authors: Saunders R. , Sutcliffe A. , Woodman L. , Kaur D. , Siddiqui S. , Okayama Y. , Wardlaw A. , Bradding P. , Brightling C.
Published: August 2008

Background:  Airway smooth muscle hyperplasia is a feature of asthma, and increases with disease severity. CCR3‐mediated recruitment of airway smooth muscle progenitors towards the airway smooth muscle bundle has been proposed as one possible mechanism involved in airway smooth muscle hyperplasia. Mast cells are microlocalized to the airway smooth muscle bundle and whether mast cells influence CCR3‐mediated migration is uncertain.

Methods:  We examined the expression of CCR3 by primary cultures of airway smooth muscle cells from asthmatics and nonasthmatics. CCR3 function was examined using intracellular calcium measurements, chemotaxis, wound healing, cell proliferation and survival assays. We investigated the recovery and function of both recombinant and airway smooth muscle‐derived CCL11 (eotaxin) after co‐culture with β‐tryptase and human lung mast cells.

Results:  Airway smooth muscle expressed CCR3. Airway smooth muscle CCR3 activation by CCL11 mediated intracellular calcium elevation, concentration‐dependent migration and wound healing, but had no effect on proliferation or survival. Co‐culture with β‐tryptase or mast cells degraded recombinant and airway smooth muscle‐derived CCL11, and β‐tryptase inhibited CCL11‐mediated airway smooth muscle migration.

Conclusions:  CCL11 mediates airway smooth muscle migration. However co‐culture with β‐tryptase or mast cells degraded recombinant and airway smooth muscle‐derived CCL11 and inhibited CCL11‐mediated airway smooth muscle migration. Therefore these findings cast doubt on the importance of the CCL11/CCR3 axis in the development of airway smooth muscle hyperplasia in asthma.
Evidence for an asthma risk locus on chromosome Xp: a replication linkage study
Authors: Brasch‐Andersen C. , Møller M. U. , Haagerup A. , Vestbo J. , Kruse T. A.
Published: August 2008

Background:  Asthma is a complex genetic disorder characterized by chronic inflammation in the airways. Identification of genetic risk factors for asthma has been complicated due to genetic heterogeneity and influence from environmental risk factors. Despite the fact that multiple genetic linkage studies have been carried out the results are still conflicting and call for replication experiments. A Danish genome‐wide scan has prior reported evidence for candidate regions for asthma susceptibility genes on chromosomes 1p, 5q, 6p, 12q and Xp. Linkage to chromosome 12q was later confirmed in the same replication sample as used in the present study. The aim of the study was to replicate linkage to candidate regions for asthma in an independent Danish sample.

Methods:  We performed a replication study investigating linkage to candidate regions for asthma on chromosomes 1p36.31‐p36.21, 5q15‐q23.2, 6p24.3‐p22.3, and Xp22.31‐p11.4 using additional markers in an independent set of 136 Danish asthmatic sib pair families.

Results:  Nonparametric multipoint linkage analyses yielded suggestive evidence for linkage to asthma to chromosome Xp21.2 (MLS 2.92) but failed to replicate linkage to chromosomes 1p36.31‐p36.21, 5q15‐q23.2 and 6p24.3‐p22.3.

Conclusions:  The replication results provide evidence for chromosome Xp21 to harbour a susceptibility gene for asthma in the Danish population. To our knowledge, the study is the first to replicate evidence for linkage to chromosome X. A susceptibility gene for asthma on chromosome X could potentially explain observed gender differences in asthma prevalence.
The effect of IVX‐0142, a heparin‐derived hypersulfated disaccharide, on the allergic airway responses in asthma
Authors: Duong M. , Cockcroft D. , Boulet L.‐P. , Ahmed T. , Iverson H. , Atkinson D. C. , Stahl E. G. , Watson R. , Davis B. , Milot J. , Gauvreau G. M. , O’Byrne P. M.
Published: August 2008

Background: IVX‐0142 is a heparin‐derived hypersulfated disaccharide devoid of anticoagulant activity while possessing anti‐allergic and anti‐inflammatory activity in preclinical studies. In a proof‐of‐concept study, the allergen inhalation challenge model was used to investigate the effect of IVX‐0142 in mild atopic asthma.

Methods: Nineteen subjects, not on controller medications, were randomized to an evaluator‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over study. The effect of a single nebulized dose of IVX‐0142 (80 mg) or placebo administered 30 min prior to allergen inhalation was evaluated on the allergic airway responses, airway responsiveness, and airway inflammation.

Results: When compared with placebo, 14 and 13 subjects experienced a relatively smaller maximum fall in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (maxFEV1%) for the early airway response (EAR) and late airway response (LAR) with IVX‐0142, respectively (P < 0.01). The degree of attenuation in the EAR [maxFEV1% (mean ± SE) 26.5 ± 2.8%vsplacebo 31.0 ± 2.8%,P = 0.059] and LAR (15.6 ± 2.9%vsplacebo 19.0 ± 2.9%,P = 0.24) with IVX‐0142, however, was small and did not reach statistical significance compared with placebo. Similarly, a trend in the attenuation of allergen‐induced increase in the absolute sputum cell counts was also observed. No difference in the allergen‐induced increase in airway hyper‐responsiveness and exhaled nitric oxide was noticed.

Conclusions: The majority of mild atopic asthmatics demonstrated a reduction in the EAR and LAR to IVX‐0142. However, the treatment effect observed with a single prechallenge dose of IVX‐0142 was small and heterogeneous. The potential anti‐allergic and anti‐inflammatory effects using multiple higher doses need to be evaluated.
Induced sputum and bronchial mucosal expression of interleukin‐13 is not increased in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Saha S. , Mistry V. , Siva R. , Parker D. , May R. , Bradding P. , Pavord I. D. , Brightling C. E.
Published: August 2008

Background:  The Th2 cytokine interleukin‐13 (IL‐13) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). We sought to examine IL‐13 expression in COPD subjects in induced sputum and bronchus specimens. We hypothesized that inflammatory cells expressing IL‐13 localize to the airway smooth muscle bundle and bronchial glands.

Methods:  Interleukin‐13 was measured in sputum samples from subjects with COPD (n = 34) across a range of severity (Global initiative for chronic Obstructive Lung Disease 2–4) and controls (n = 14) using ELISA. IL‐13+ cells and inflammatory cells were enumerated within surgically resected proximal airway using immunohistochemical techniques from subjects with COPD (n = 10), smoking (n = 10) and nonsmoking controls (n = 8).

Results:  Sputum IL‐13 was measurable in only 6/34 subjects with COPD and was not found in the smoking or nonsmoking control subjects. In subjects with COPD and controls there was a paucity of IL‐13+ cells. The distribution of inflammatory cells within different airway compartments was similar in COPD and controls except for an increase in CD3+ lymphocytes within bronchial glands in COPD (P = 0.04).

Conclusions:  Our findings do not support a role for IL‐13 in COPD. However, the tissue localization of inflammatory cells to airway compartments, particularly the increase of T cells in glands in COPD may be important in disease.
How epithelial cells detect danger: aiding the immune response
Authors: Vroling A. B. , Fokkens W. J. , Van Drunen C. M.
Published: August 2008

The epithelial layer occupies a strategic important location between an organisms’ interior and exterior environment. Although as such it forms a physical barrier between both environments, it became clear that the role of the epithelium extends far beyond this rather passive role. Through specialized receptors and other more general mechanisms, the epithelial layer is not only able to sense changes in its environment but also to actively respond to these changes. These responses allow the epithelium to contribute to wound and tissue repair, to the defense against micro‐organisms, and to the control and regulation of the locale immune response. In this review, we focus on signals acting on epithelium from the exterior environment, how these signals are processed and identify research challenges.
Interactions between epithelial cells and dendritic cells in airway immune responses: lessons from allergic airway disease
Authors: Van Tongeren J. , Reinartz S. M. , Fokkens W. J. , De Jong E. C. , Van Drunen C. M.
Published: August 2008

Micro‐organisms constantly invade the human body and may form a threat to our health. Traditionally, concepts of defence mechanisms have included a protective outer layer of epithelia and a vigilant immune system searching for areas where the integrity of the outer layer may be compromised. Instead of considering these elements as two independent mechanisms, we should be treating them as a single integrated system. This review will present and discuss the role of local immune‐competent cells and local epithelia in the recognition of potential pathogens and how the interaction between the two components may affect the initiation of the airway immune response. A concept emerges where airway mucosal dendritic cells act as integrators of both immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive signals that act within actively‐involved mucosal tissue.
A new method of concentrating hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA and HBV surface antigen: an application of the method to the detection of occult HBV infection
Authors: Satoh K. , Iwata‐Takakura A. , Yoshikawa A. , Gotanda Y. , Tanaka T. , Yamaguchi T. , Mizoguchi H.
Published: August 2008

Background  The risk of post‐transfusion hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection has been reduced after the implementation of HBV nucleic acid amplification technology (NAT). However, the problem of HBV DNA‐positive and HBV surface antigen (HBsAg)‐negative occult HBV infections remains to be solved. This is in part due to the HBV DNA load being too low to detect these occult HBV infections using mini‐pool NAT. In Japan, the assay for the antibody against the HBV core antigen (anti‐HBc) has not completely excluded occult HBV infection. To solve this problem, we have developed a new method of concentrating HBV DNA and HBsAg simultaneously to increase the sensitivity of detection tests.

Methods  Virus concentration is achieved by the enhancement of the agglutination of viruses using poly‐L‐lysine in the presence of a bivalent metal. Poly‐L‐lysine‐coated magnetic beads are used to shorten the time of each step of the concentration procedure. Seventy‐seven anti‐HBc‐positive and HBsAg‐negative donations were examined. HBsAg and anti‐HBc were tested by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) (AxSYM; Abbott) and haemagglutination inhibition test (Japanese Red Cross), respectively.

Results  HBV surface antigen and HBV DNA levels were concentrated up to four‐ to sevenfold. Using this method, 35 of the 77 anti‐HBc‐positive and HBsAg‐negative donors were HBV DNA‐positive by individual NAT and a further five donors became HBV DNA‐positive by HBV concentration. Twenty‐seven of 40 occult HBV infections became HBsAg‐positive by HBsAg concentration.

Conclusion  Our new method of concentrating HBV and HBsAg increased the sensitivities of EIA and HBV NAT, and enabled us to detect 27 of 40 occult HBV infections by HBsAg EIA.
Reproductive Performance of Gilts with Similar Age but with Different Growth Rate at the Onset of Puberty Stimulation
Authors: Kummer R , Bernardi ML , Schenkel AC , Amaral Filha WS , Wentz I , Bortolozzo FP
Published: August 2008

Contents

The aim of this study was to evaluate the reproductive performance of gilts that had a similar age but different weights at the onset of puberty stimulation by boar exposure at 144 days. Gilts were divided into two groups according to their lifetime growth rate from birth to approximately 144 days of age. Mean growth rates at this moment were 577 and 724 g/day for group 1 (G1; n = 58) and group 2 (G2; n = 58), respectively. After selection, gilts were weighed at approximately 155, 165 and 175 days of age, on the insemination day and at slaughter. Gilts were inseminated, on average, at 193 days of age and were slaughtered 32 days after insemination, when the number of corpora lutea and embryos were recorded. Higher growth rate gilts (G2) reached puberty earlier (155.3 vs 164.1 days; p < 0.01). More gilts of G2 group attained puberty by 190 days of age (p = 0.004) than G1 gilts (95%; 55/58 vs 76%; 44/58). The anoestrous rate, until 60 days after the onset of boar exposure was higher (p < 0.01) in G1 (19.0%; 11/58) than in G2 (3.4%; 2/58) group. However, there were no differences in the pregnancy rate (90.7 vs 94.5), ovulation rate (15.9 vs 16.5), total embryos (12.9 vs 11.7), viable embryos (12.0 vs 11.1) and embryo survival (73.7% vs 68.5%), between G1 gilts and G2 gilts, respectively (p > 0.05). High growth rate gilts attain puberty earlier and have a lower anoestrous rate than low growth rate gilts.
Enhancing Embryo Yield in Superovulated Holstein Heifers by Immunization Against Inhibin
Authors: Mei C , Li MY , Zhong SQ , Lei Y , Shi ZD
Published: August 2008

Contents

Eight heifers, aged 16–17 months and showing normal oestrous cycles, were immunized against a recombinant porcine inhibin α subunit immunogen, together with another 10 heifers of the same age as controls and treated with placebo immunogen. Primary (1 mg immunogen) and two booster (0.5 mg immunogen each) immunizations were administered at 28‐day intervals. Ten days after the second booster immunization, both groups of heifers underwent a superovulation treatment. Each animal was given an intravaginal progesterone releasing sponge, which was withdrawn 7 days following an i.m. injection of 0.5 mg cloprostenol. Heifers were treated with FSH for 4 days and artificially inseminated after oestrus occurred. The embryos were flushed and evaluated 7 days after insemination. Immunization significantly (p < 0.01) increased blood antibody titres against recombinant porcine inhibin α subunit, from pre‐immunizaion and control values of approximately 0.06 of ELISA 450 nm reading to 0.6 to 0.7 after two or three immunizations. The immunized heifers produced on average 15.8 ± 2.8 embryos, significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the yield of 8.3 ± 1.5 in the controls. The number of transferable embryos were non‐significantly higher in immunized than in control heifers (9.6 ± 3.1 vs 5.8 ± 1.6, p > 0.05). The peak plasma oestradiol concentrations were significantly higher in immunized than in control heifers, both immediately after FSH treatment and 20 days thereafter. Plasma P4 concentrations after superovulation were in the range of 20 ng / ml in the immunized heifers, significantly (p < 0.05) higher than the values approximately 15 ng / ml in control heifers. These results indicated that prior immunization against inhibin α subunit stimulated production of antibodies against inhibin, which enhanced follicular developmental response to superovulation and lead to higher yield of total and transferable embryos. Therefore immunization combined with the conventional superovulatory gonadotrophin treatment, can be a simple and efficient method to produce low cost bovine embryos.
COX‐2 expression is unexpectedly high in viable colorectal mucosal cells: is there life for chemoprophylaxis after VICTOR?
Authors: McArthur D. R. , Leung E. , Morris A. , Williams N.
Published: August 2008

Introduction  Trials investigating colorectal cancer (CRC) chemoprophylaxis with cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibitors have been discontinued because of adverse cardiovascular effects. Nevertheless, identification of patients where beneficial, chemo‐prophylactic effects of COX‐2 inhibitors outweigh side‐effects may be possible; this study aimed to investigate whether such patient groups might exist.

Method  The COX‐2 status of viable epithelial and inflammatory cells in freshly disaggregated CRC and paired normal colonic samples was assessed by three‐colour flow cytometry.

Results  21/31 (67.7%) CRCs expressed COX‐2, with inflammatory cells positive in 19/31 (61.3%), epithelial cells in 12/31 (38.7%), and both positive in 10/31 (32.3%). 25/30 (83.33%) normal samples expressed COX‐2, with epithelial cells positive in 18/30 (60%), inflammatory cells in 15/30 (50%) and both positive in 10/30 (33.3%). Strength of expression by CRC and normal was similar. More advanced cancers had higher expression rates (COX‐2 in 12/13 (92.3%) with nodal disease vs 9/17 (52.9%) node‐negative; P = 0.04).

Conclusion  Investigation of ex‐vivo CRC cells by flow cytometry demonstrated COX‐2 expression rates comparable to that previously reported. However, expression by paired live normal colon was significantly greater, suggesting that COX‐2 may be expressed at higher rates in normal colonic cells in patients with CRC. Patients identified at resection as expressing COX‐2 in normal colon may benefit from Coxib chemo‐prophylaxis, thus potentially offering a refined approach to that adopted in the VICTOR trial.
Seminal plasma cotinine and insulin‐like growth factor‐I in idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermic smokers
Authors: Hassan Ashraf , Abo‐Azma Soad M. , Fayed Salah M. , Mostafa Taymour
Published: August 2008

OBJECTIVE

To assess seminal plasma insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I) levels in cigarette smokers with idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (iOAT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In all, 110 men were divided into fertile healthy non‐smokers, fertile smokers, infertile non‐smokers with iOAT and infertile smokers with iOAT. Semen was analysed, and seminal cotinine and seminal IGF‐I levels estimated.

RESULTS

There were significantly lower seminal IGF‐I levels in the smokers and in men with iOAT than in controls, and in both iOAT groups. Smokers, either fertile or with iOAT had significantly lower levels than in controls in mean semen volume, sperm production index, percentage of motile sperms, rapid linear forward progressive motility, linear velocity and sperm normal forms. Smokers with iOAT had significantly lower levels than non‐smokers with iOAT in mean sperm production index, rapid linear forward progressive motility and linear velocity. In smokers, seminal cotinine was significantly and negatively correlated with both seminal IGF‐I and sperm motility, while seminal IGF‐I was positively correlated with the percentage of motile spermatozoa.

CONCLUSION

Smoking effects on sperm variables could be mediated by decreased seminal IGF‐I.
Economic Partnership Agreements: A ‘Historic Step’ Towards a ‘Partnership of Equals’?
Authors: Meyn Mareike
Published: August 2008

This article argues that the EPAs initialled between the EU and less than half of the ACP countries do not represent a ‘historic step’ in EU‐ACP relations, but are the outcome of asymmetric power relations. Many ACP countries submitted hastily drawn up liberalisation schedules that did not consider whether their commitments were in line with those of their neighbours — with significant implications for regional integration processes. Further, the enforcement of EPAs is unlikely in some cases, given the decreasing attractiveness of the EU market and the Commission's dwindling capacity to sanction non‐compliance by withdrawing preferences. If the EU wants to see EPAs implemented, it is vital that the process and outcome are owned and supported by both sides.
The Economic Partnership Agreements: Rationale, Misperceptions and Non‐trade Aspects
Authors: Curran Louise , Nilsson Lars , Brew Douglas
Published: August 2008

The European Union and the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries entered a new era in 2008. The Cotonou trade regime and the WTO waiver legitimising it have expired, and the long anticipated, and much debated, move to Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) has begun. This article explains the background and analyses the ‘alternatives’ to EPAs, in order to tackle common misperceptions. Moving on from what has been the focus of debates, namely, the reciprocal liberalisation required under WTO rules, it sheds some light on the non‐goods trade aspects of EPAs which, while integral to economic policy, are inherently hard to quantify and often skimmed over in existing studies or addressed in ideological terms.
The Return of Non‐DAC Donors to Africa: New Prospects for African Development?
Authors: Kragelund Peter
Published: August 2008

This article examines the consequences of the return to Africa of donors that are not members of the OECD's Development Assistance Committee (DAC). It categorises these donors according to form, content, size and modality of their aid. It finds that their return increases external financial flows, in particular to countries not targeted by DAC donors. Moreover, for some donors like China and India the flows are closely related to other financial flow s such as trade and investment. Furthermore, it finds that the return of non‐DAC donors may conflict with plans to harmonise aid and may simultaneously raise transaction costs for recipients.
Smallholder Preferences for Agri‐environmental Change at the Bhoj Wetland, India
Authors: Hope Rob , Borgoyary Mamta , Agarwal Chetan
Published: August 2008

Incentive‐based approaches have gained policy interest in linking change in agricultural land management with environmental conservation. This article investigates how scheme design influences smallholder farmers' decisions to switch to organic farming to reduce water pollution, drawing on a study at a Ramsar wetland site providing water for the city of Bhopal. Results from a choice experiment suggest that transitional payments are necessary to overcome farmer constraints to adopt organic farming, and that effective land certification has the potential to act as a self‐enforcing mechanism linking farmer incomes with wetland conservation benefits.
A Country‐wide Study of Consumer Choice for an Emerging Supermarket Sector: A Case Study of Nicaragua
Authors: D'Haese Marijke , Van den Berg Marrit , Speelman Stijn
Published: August 2008

Studies portraying and quantifying supermarket clientele based on country‐wide survey data are scarce in development economics literature. This article studies the choice of outlet of Nicaraguan consumers in 1998 and 2001 when supermarkets started to emerge and gain in importance. It applies comparative statistics and a multinomial logit model to countrywide data on 4,000 households. The results show an emerging supermarket sector with a slowly growing clientele, especially among the better endowed and more highly educated families. Small grocery shops or pulperias and the daily and weekly markets continue to serve most clients.
Perceptions of social changes and social identity: Study focusing on Hong Kong society after reunification
Authors: Kim Jungsik , Ng Sik Hung
Published: August 2008

Based on the social identity theory and the need for closure theory, the present study investigates how Hong Kong people's perceptions of social changes after the reunification with China are related to their social identities. A randomly selected sample of 315 Hong Kong residents participated in a telephone survey to report their perceptions of major changes in five social areas, as well as their social identities. A series of logistic regression analyses confirmed, as predicted, that the perceived pace of social change was related to the participants’ preference for a single identity (‘Hongkonger’ or ‘Chinese’) over dual identities (‘Hongkonger and Chinese’, or ‘Chinese and secondarily Hongkonger’) through the mediation of social uncertainty. The results indicate that for individuals with dual social identities, perceptions and evaluations of social change are important factors contributing to social identity preference.
Social cues and framing effects in risky decisions among Chinese military students
Authors: Zhang Yinling , Miao Danmin
Published: August 2008

The present study examines how Chinese military undergraduates respond to social and verbal cues in making decisions. In Experiment 1, we used the ‘Asian disease’ problem and found that the framing effect was significant but without risk preference reversal. The participants were risk‐seeking under both framing conditions. In Experiment 2, we examined the robustness of the effects of social cues. Consistent with previous findings, the results showed that except for verbal description, the number of lives at risk was indeed a social cue which could affect the participants' risky preference, and that the participants were more sensitive to the small (vs large) group context. Moreover, in each task, balanced framing was designed, as an objective baseline of risk preference in different scenarios, to help us understand the mere effects of positive or negative framing on choice preference.
Dante, Bunyan and the Case for a Protestant Aesthetics
Authors: DYRNESS WILLIAM A.
Published: August 2008

Abstract:  This article argues that, despite common assumptions, Protestants possess a unique aesthetic framework. Building on seventeenth‐century ideas of the ‘Protestant reader’, aesthetic attitudes in Dante's Divine Comedy are contrasted with those in Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress. Dante's emphasis on images which spark desire is contrasted with Bunyan's hermeneutic of suspicion; the role of seeing in one replaced by reading in the other. This leads to an aesthetic framework emphasizing the brokenness of the world and a distrust of earthly beauty; a preference for aesthetic forms whose ‘beauty’ is hidden or allusive; and a prophetic engagement and resistance against the world's brokenness.
Crisis Communications Management on the Web: How Internet‐Based Technologies are Changing the Way Public Relations Professionals Handle Business Crises
Authors: Alfonso González‐Herrero , Suzanne Smith
Published: August 2008

This article analyses how Internet‐based technologies can help companies to: monitor their business environment online in search of potentially conflictive issues that need to be managed (issues management); to prepare a crisis communications plan that considers the Internet side of today's business landscape (crisis communications planning); to respond adequately to crises should they arise by using all available online tools (crisis response); and to establish appropriate Internet‐based actions once the crisis dies down (post‐crisis). The article also questions whether the traditional one‐way corporate approach and tone is still suitable in the new, more participative, online business environment, or whether companies should use a different tone, language, and attitude when engaging with their audiences on the Internet in a crisis situation.
Safety Cultural Preconditions for Organizational Learning in High‐Risk Organizations
Authors: Nævestad Tor‐Olav
Published: August 2008

The research on organizational accidents shows that both safety culture and complex technology make members of high‐risk organizations blind to hazards and signals of danger. I discuss how these forms of ignorance can be reduced by means of cultural redundancy, which I understand as the organizational promotion of several co‐existing frames of reference of equal standing. This approach is contrary to the main stream research on safety culture, which promotes the ideal of a ‘unitary safety culture’. Previous research shows that organizational learning occur trough comparison of perspectives and reflection upon practice. I argue that cultural redundancy is a precondition for processes of learning and culture change that may reduce ignorance to hazards and signals of danger in high‐risk organizations. Such processes are, however, contingent on a climate of trust and openness in which co‐existing safety cultures can meet and set forth processes of organizational learning.
Regional variability in secondary remodeling within long bone cortices of catarrhine primates: the influence of bone growth history
Authors: McFarlin Shannon C. , Terranova Carl. J. , Zihlman Adrienne L. , Enlow Donald H. , Bromage Timothy G.
Published: August 2008

Secondary intracortical remodeling of bone varies considerably among and within vertebrate skeletons. Although prior research has shed important light on its biomechanical significance, factors accounting for this variability remain poorly understood. We examined regional patterning of secondary osteonal bone in an ontogenetic series of wild‐collected primates, at the midshaft femur and humerus ofChlorocebus (Cercopithecus) aethiops(n = 32) andHylobates lar(n = 28), and the midshaft femur ofPan troglodytes(n = 12). Our major objectives were: 1) to determine whether secondary osteonal bone exhibits significant regional patterning across inner, mid‐cortical and outer circumferential cortical rings within cross‐sections; and if so, 2) to consider the manner in which this regional patterning may reflect the influence of relative tissue age and other circumstances of bone growth. Using same field‐of‐view images of 100‐µm‐thick cross‐sections acquired in brightfield and circularly polarized light microscopy, we quantified the percent area of secondary osteonal bone (%HAV) for whole cross‐sections and across the three circumferential rings within cross‐sections. We expected bone areas with inner and middle rings to exhibit higher %HAV than the outer cortical ring within cross‐sections, the latter comprising tissues of more recent depositional history. Observations of primary bone microstructural development provided an additional context in which to evaluate regional patterning of intracortical remodeling. Results demonstrated significant regional variability in %HAV within all skeletal sites. As predicted,%HAV was usually lowest in the outer cortical ring within cross‐sections. However, regional patterning across inner vs. mid‐cortical rings showed a more variable pattern across taxa, age classes, and skeletal sites examined. Observations of primary bone microstructure revealed that the distribution of endosteally deposited bone had an important influence on the patterning of secondary osteonal bone across rings. Further, when present, endosteal compacted coarse cancellous bone always exhibited some evidence of intracortical remodeling, even in those skeletal sites exhibiting comparatively low %HAV overall. These results suggest that future studies should consider the local developmental origin of bone regions undergoing secondary remodeling later in life, for an improved understanding of the manner in which developmental and mechanical factors may interact to produce the taxonomic and intraskeletal patterning of secondary bone remodelling in adults.
Moment arms of the muscles crossing the anatomical shoulder
Authors: Ackland David C. , Pak Ponnaren , Richardson Martin , Pandy Marcus G.
Published: August 2008

The objective of the present study was to determine the instantaneous moment arms of 18 major muscle sub‐regions crossing the glenohumeral joint during coronal‐plane abduction and sagittal‐plane flexion. Muscle moment‐arm data for sub‐regions of the shoulder musculature during humeral elevation are currently not available. The tendon‐excursion method was used to measure instantaneous muscle moment arms in eight entire upper‐extremity cadaver specimens. Significant differences in moment arms were reported across sub‐regions of the deltoid, pectoralis major, latissimus dorsi, subscapularis, infraspinatus and supraspinatus (P < 0.01). The most effective abductors were the middle and anterior deltoid, whereas the most effective adductors were the teres major, middle and inferior latissimus dorsi (lumbar vertebrae and iliac crest fibers, respectively), and middle and inferior pectoralis major (sternal and lower‐costal fibers, respectively). In flexion, the superior pectoralis major (clavicular fibers), anterior and posterior supraspinatus, and anterior deltoid were the most effective flexors, whereas the teres major and posterior deltoid had the largest extensor moment arms. Division of multi‐pennate shoulder muscles of broad origins into sub‐regions highlighted distinct functional differences across those sub‐regions. Most significantly, we found that the superior sub‐region of the pectoralis major had the capacity to exert substantial torque in flexion, whereas the middle and inferior sub‐regions tended to behave as a stabilizer and extensor, respectively. Knowledge of moment arm differences between muscle sub‐regions may assist in identifying the functional effects of muscle sub‐region tears, assist surgeons in planning tendon reconstructive surgery, and aid in the development and validation of biomechanical computer models used in implant design.
Variations in sound‐producing mechanism in the pearlfish Carapini (Carapidae)
Authors: Parmentier E. , Lagardère J.‐P. , Chancerelle Y. , Dufrane D. , Eeckhaut I.
Published: August 2008

Sound production in Carapus boraborensis results from the action of different sonic muscles terminating in complex tendons, which have hooks that fit over a tubercle on the swimbladder wall. The primary sonic muscles (PSM) draw progressively the forepart of the swimbladder until the hook releases the tubercle. This allows the swimbladder to snap back to its resting position, which initiates the onset of the sound. In the present study, the morphology of the C. boraborensis sound‐producing apparatus and the resulting sounds were compared with Encheliophis gracilis and Carapus homei. The main difference concerns the direct insertion of the PSM on the swimbladder in C. homei and E. gracilis and, concurrent sonic characteristics. These morphological features also allow both fish to produce an additional kind of sound with more compact pulses, each being clearly composed of two parts and each having a different frequency. The sound‐producing system could be compared with a guitarist who makes a sound in releasing a guitar string and modulates it by moving his/her finger along the string. However, E. gracilis possess more filtered sounds than C. boraborensis and C. homei, probably because of the unusual shape of its swimbladder. This study highlights the diversity and plasticity of sonic mechanisms and their implication in the development of sonic repertoire in evolving species.
Prevalence of pigmentary disorders and their impact on quality of life: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Taylor Anne , Pawaskar Manjiri , Taylor Sarah L , Balkrishnan Rajesh , Feldman Steven R
Published: August 2008

Background  Pigmentary disorders are commonly seen in dermatology practice and can have a negative psychosocial impact on patients.

Objective  This study aims to examine the prevalence of pigmentary disorders and their level of psychological and physical impact on patients.

Methods  A prospective cohort study involved a sample of 140 patients undergoing skin exams at a private dermatology practice in North Carolina. Patient demographics and pigmentary diagnoses were obtained, and participants were asked to fill out a skin discoloration impact evaluation questionnaire. Descriptive and frequency analyses were performed.

Results  Around 80% of the participants were diagnosed with one or more pigmentary disorders. About 47.3% of patients admitted of feeling self‐conscious about their skin to some degree, 21.8% felt others focused on their skin, 32.7% felt unattractive because of their skin, 32.7% put effort into hiding pigment changes, and 23.6% felt their skin affected their activities. A limitation was the lack of diversity in the population studied (gender and skin type).

Conclusions  Pigmentary disorders such as melasma, vitiligo, and lentigo pose significant negative impact on a person's health‐related quality of life. Hence, there is a need for effective treatments of pigmentary disorders based on their prevalence and effect on quality of life. Healthcare providers should consider the impact of pigmentary disorders on health‐related quality of life and educate patients on possible treatments.
Hydrolysis of arbutin to hydroquinone by human skin bacteria and its effect on antioxidant activity
Authors: Bang Seo‐Hyun , Han Sang‐Jun , Kim Dong‐Hyun
Published: August 2008

Arbutin, the β‐d‐glucopyranoside of hydroquinone, is a skin whitening cosmetic ingredient. Compared with arbutin, hydroquinone is a more potent skin lightening agent, but shows cytotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, and genotoxicity. To evaluate whether skin microflora can hydrolyze arbutin to hydroquinone, we measured the hydrolytic activity of the main skin microflora: Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus. All strains hydrolyzed arbutin, with activities of 0.16–4.51 nmol/min/mg. The hydrolyzed hydroquinone showed more potent 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity and tyrosinase inhibition than arbutin. These findings suggest that normal skin microflora may increase the skin lightening effect of arbutin due to the antioxidant action of hydroquinone.
Effect of Cuscuta reflexa Roxb on androgen‐induced alopecia
Authors: Pandit Shweta , Chauhan Nagendra Singh , Dixit V K
Published: August 2008

Background  Alopecia is a psychologically distressing condition. Androgenetic alopecia, which affects millions of men and women, is an androgen‐driven disorder. Here, Cuscuta reflexa Roxb is evaluated for hair growth activity in androgen‐induced alopecia.

Methods  Petroleum ether extract of C. reflexa was studied for its hair growth–promoting activity. Alopecia was induced in albino mice by testosterone administration for 20 days. Its inhibition by simultaneous administration of extract was evaluated using follicular density, anagen/telogen ratio, and microscopic observation of skin sections. To investigate the mechanism of observed activity, in vitro experiments were performed to study the effect of extract and its major component on activity of 5α‐reductase enzyme.

Results  Petroleum ether extract of C. reflexa exhibited promising hair growth–promoting activity as reflected from follicular density, anagen/telogen ratio, and skin sections. Inhibition of 5α‐reductase activity by extract and isolate suggest that the extract reversed androgen‐induced alopecia by inhibiting conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone.

Conclusions  The petroleum ether extract of C. reflexa and its isolate is useful in treatment of androgen‐induced alopecia by inhibiting the enzyme 5α‐reductase.
The effect of topical caffeine on the morphology of swine hypodermis as measured by ultrasound
Authors: Pires‐de‐Campos Maria Silvia Mariani , Leonardi Gislaine Ricci , Chorilli Marlus , Spadari‐Bratfisch Regina Célia , Polacow Maria Luiza Ozores , Grassi‐Kassisse Dora Maria
Published: August 2008

Background  Cellulite or lipodystrophy involves the modification of the subcutaneous adipose tissue. A wide variety of topical products is available to combat cellulite, but these have difficulties in being absorbed through the skin. One option is the therapeutic use of the ultrasound to enhance the transdermic transport of these drugs.

Aim  The objective of this study was the analysis of the effect of caffeine on the morphology of the swine hypodermis, both when applied topically and in combination with ultrasound treatment.

Methods  The following treatments were applied to the dorsal areas of five pigs (Landrace × Large White, 35 days old, weighing 15 kg each): gel, gel + ultrasound, gel + caffeine (5%, w/w), and gel + caffeine + ultrasound, daily for 15 days. A fifth area received no topical application and was used as a control. Continuous ultrasound of 3 MHz with an intensity of 0.2 W/cm2 was applied at a rate of 1 min/cm2. After histological processing (hematoxylin and eosin), morphometric analyses were conducted to determine the thickness and numerical profile of the hypodermis. A one‐way analysis variance using a Kolmogorov–Smirnov test was conducted, with a Tukey test used to identify significant differences. A confidence level of P ≤ 0.05 was adopted.

Results  Caffeine treatment was effective only when associated with ultrasound therapy; the combination resulted in a significant reduction in the thickness of the subcutaneous adipose tissue, as well as damage to the adipocytes, consequently decreasing the number of cells.

Conclusion  Ultrasound treatment was effective in increasing the cutaneous permeation of caffeine, as evidenced by the reduction in thickness of the hypodermis and number of adipocytes.
Epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori Infection
Authors: Bruce Michael G. , Maaroos Heidi Ingrid
Published: August 2008

This review summarizes studies on the epidemiology of Helicobacter pylori published in peer‐reviewed journals between April 2007 and March 2008. Infection with H. pylori often occurs in childhood, and once established, can persist lifelong if untreated. Prevalence of H. pylori infection is higher in developing countries when compared to developed countries, and can vary by ethnicity, place of birth, and socioeconomic factors even among persons living in the same country. Prevalence of infection is decreasing in many countries due to improvements in sanitation and living standards and the relatively recent movement of populations from rural to urban settings; however, post‐treatment recurrence rates of H. pylori infection remain high in developing countries, and in given populations within developed countries. In addition, a number of recent studies have begun to explore the possible link between childhood infection with H. pylori and protection against asthma and allergy.
Extragastric Manifestations of Helicobacter pylori Infection: Other Helicobacters
Authors: Moyaert Hilde , Franceschi Francesco , Roccarina Davide , Ducatelle Richard , Haesebrouck Freddy , Gasbarrini Antonio
Published: August 2008

The finding that Helicobacter pylori is the main cause of gastritis and peptic ulcer disease has opened a new era in the gastrointestinal world. Today there is evidence that H. pylori may also play a role in different nongastric diseases, opening the new “extragastric manifestations of H. pylori infection” field. Concerning this, several studies have been published in the last year. The most convincing data arise from those investigating idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura and sideropenic anemia, while there is also an increasing evidence for a possible association with atherosclerotic disease. Furthermore, the discovery of a number of other novel Helicobacter species has stimulated the research in different extragastric diseases, in which an infectious hypothesis is plausible. In particular, several species have been studied for a potential role in different liver and intestinal diseases with interesting findings.
Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Granstrom Marta , Lehours Philippe , Bengtsson Carina , Mégraud Francis
Published: August 2008

The different invasive and noninvasive diagnostic tests for Helicobacter pylori have been applied mainly in emerging countries. Molecular methods have been developed, especially a test for detection of H. pylori and its clarithromycin resistance directly from stools. The long‐term effects of eradication on histologic lesions have been studied in a meta‐analysis and the prognostic value of post‐treatment in gastric mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma has been assessed. An operating link for gastritis assessment (the OLGA staging) has also been published. Attempts to simplify the urea breath test protocol have been made, and new stool antigen tests have been proposed and compared to those previously available.