bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural Identity and Acculturation Preferences Among South Asian Adolescents in Britain: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Robinson Lena
Published: August 2008

The study reported in this article is part of a wider research project on the adaptation of South Asians in Britain. It examines and compares the acculturation attitudes and cultural identity of Indian and Pakistani second‐generation adolescents Indian (Punjabi Sikh and Gujarati Hindu) and Pakistani (Muslim) in Britain. The research project integrates a social psychological approach to ethnic identity, Berry’s (Cross‐cultural Perspectives. Nebraska Symposium on Motivation, 1990) acculturation strategy and stress models, and Phinney’s (Journal of Early Adolescence, 9, 1989:34) model of ethnic identification. There were 240 adolescents, aged 13–18 years, with an even split between the genders. Results from this study suggested that the majority of Indian youth adopted integration strategies as opposed to Pakistani Muslims who adopted a separation strategy. Cultural identity is a term used to include both ethnic and national identities. Ethnic identity scores were high for Indian and Pakistani adolescents. National identity was more important for Indian adolescents but ethnic identity was more important than national identity for all groups. Perceived discrimination was related to acculturation strategies.
Adult’s Involvement in Children’s Participation: Juggling Children’s Places and Spaces
Authors: Wyness Michael
Published: August 2008

While children and young people’s participation is a well‐established research field, much less has been written about the roles that adults play in supporting this participation. This article examines the involvement of adults within participatory forums in English schools and local authorities. Drawing on empirical data from research on children’s participation in pupil and civic councils, the article discusses the complex and sometimes contradictory pressures on adults in their advisory roles with young participants. The article goes on to explore these roles within a broader conceptual framework that counterposes children’s ‘places’ with children’s ‘spaces’.
Fluctuations in numbers of great white pelicans at Lake St Lucia in response to changing water‐levels
Authors: Bowker Meyrick B. , Downs Colleen T.
Published: August 2008

In January 2004, Lake St Lucia, a major part of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, was reduced to a fraction of its normal capacity as a result of a severe drought in this region of KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa. After rains in the area, the lake level rose and then fluctuated considerably over the next 42 months. During the first 38 months the mouth of the estuary into the sea was closed. The area entered a second severe period of prolonged drought from mid 2005 through to the spring of 2006. Great white pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus Linnaeus, 1758) numbers and lake levels were monitored during these 42 months. Pelican numbers were highly variable ranging from 0 to 6000. When lake levels were very low or too high, no pelicans were present. Pelican numbers appeared more indicative of food availability. Implications of these trends to the management of the lake and the conservation of the avifauna are discussed. It is suggested that the great white pelican could be used as an indicator species for the fish dynamics of the lake at medium to low lake levels.
New perspectives on the origin and diversification of Africa’s forest avifauna
Authors: Fjeldså Jon , Bowie Rauri C. K.
Published: August 2008

The use of DNA sequence data in systematic studies has brought about a revolution in our understanding of avian relationships and when combined with digitized distributional data, has facilitated new interpretations about the origins of diverse clades of the African avifauna including its diversification up through the Tertiary until the present. Here we review recent studies with special reference to Africa’s forest avifauna and specifically comment on the putative origins of ‘hotspots’ of endemism in the Eastern Arc Mountains of Tanzania and in the Cape Region of South Africa. Intriguingly, both these areas appear to have retained populations of relict taxa since the mid‐tertiary thermal optimum and at the same time have been centres of recent species differentiation.
ORMDL3 – guilt by association?
Authors: Wjst M.
Published: August 2008

A recent British–German study described ORMDL3 as a new asthma gene. Although the association with chromosome 17q12 marker is plausible from earlier linkage data, it is far from being clear which gene caused the association signal, as it is derived from a large linkage disequilibrium (LD) block. Not only Aiolos and GSDML but also distant genes that are regulated by this site may be relevant. There may be even unidentified RNA transcripts requiring a much more detailed genetic and functional analysis before finding ORMDL3 guilty by association.
The allergen profile of beech and oak pollen
Authors: Egger C. , Focke M. , Bircher A. J. , Scherer K. , Mothes‐Luksch N. , Horak F. , Valenta R.
Published: August 2008

Background
 Beech and oak pollen are potential allergen sources with a world‐wide distribution.

Objective
We aimed to characterize the allergen profile of beech and oak pollen and to study cross‐reactivities with birch and grass pollen allergens.

Methods
Sera from tree pollen‐allergic patients with evidence for beech and oak pollen sensitization from Basel, Switzerland, (n=23) and sera from birch pollen‐allergic patients from Vienna, Austria, (n=26) were compared in immunoblot experiments for IgE reactivity to birch (Betula pendula syn. verrucosa), beech (Fagus sylvatica) and oak (Quercus alba) pollen allergens. Subsequently, beech and oak pollen allergens were characterized by IgE inhibition experiments with purified recombinant and natural allergens and with allergen‐specific antibody probes. Birch‐, beech‐ and oak pollen‐specific IgE levels were determined by ELISA.

Results
Beech and oak pollen contain allergens that cross‐react with the birch pollen allergens Bet v 1, Bet v 2 and Bet v 4 and with the berberine bridge enzyme‐like allergen Phl p 4 from timothy grass pollen. Sera from Swiss and Austrian patients exhibited similar IgE reactivity profiles to birch, beech and oak pollen extracts. IgE levels to beech and oak pollen allergens were lower than those to birch pollen allergens.

Conclusion
IgE reactivity to beech pollen is mainly due to cross‐reactivity with birch pollen allergens, and a Phl p 4‐like molecule represented another predominant IgE‐reactive structure in oak pollen. The characterization of beech and oak pollen allergens and their cross‐reactivity is important for the diagnosis and treatment of beech and oak pollen allergy.
Influence of land use (savanna, pasture,Eucalyptusplantations) on soil carbon and nitrogen stocks in Brazil
Authors: Maquere V. , Laclau J. P. , Bernoux M. , Saint‐Andre L. , Gonçalves J. L. M. , Cerri C. C. , Piccolo M. C. , Ranger J.
Published: August 2008

In Brazil, mostEucalyptusstands have been planted on Cerrado (shrubby savanna) or on Cerrado converted into pasture. Case studies are needed to assess the effect of such land use changes on soil fertility and C sequestration. In this study, the influence of Cerrado land development (pasture andEucalyptusplantations) on soil organic carbon (SOC) and nitrogen (SON) stocks were quantified in southern Brazil. Two contrasted silvicultural practices were also compared: 60 years of short‐rotation silviculture (EUCSR) versus 60 years of continuous growth (EUCHF). C and N soil concentrations and bulk densities were measured and modelled for each vegetation type, and SOC and SON stocks were calculated down to a depth of 1 m by a continuous function.

Changes in SOC and SON stocks mainly occurred in the forest floor (no litter in pasture and up to 0.87 kg C m−2and 0.01 kg N m−2in EUCSR) and upper soil horizons. C and N stocks and their confidence intervals were greatly influenced by the methodology used to compute these layers. C/N ratio and13C analysis showed that down to a depth of 30 cm, the Cerrado organic matter was replaced by organic matter from newly introduced vegetation by as much as 75–100% for pasture and about 50% for EUCHF, poorer in N forEucalyptusstands (C/N larger than 18 forEucalyptusstands). Under pasture, 0–30 cm SON stocks (0.25 kg N m−2) were between 10 and 20% greater than those of the Cerrado (0.21 kg N m−2), partly due to soil compaction (limit bulk density at soil surface from 1.23 for the Cerrado to 1.34 for pasture). Land development on the Cerrado increased SOC stocks in the 0–30 cm layer by between 15 and 25% (from 2.99 (Cerrado) to 3.86 (EUCSR) kg C m−2). When including litter layers, total 0–30 cm carbon stocks increased by 35% for EUCHF(4.50 kg C m−2) and 53% for EUCSR(5.08 kg C m−2), compared with the Cerrado (3.28 kg C m−2), independently of soil compaction.
Reduced fertility of mouse epididymal sperm lacking Prss21/Tesp5 is rescued by sperm exposure to uterine microenvironment
Authors: Yamashita Misuzu , Honda Arata , Ogura Atsuo , Kashiwabara Shin‐ichi , Fukami Kiyoko , Baba Tadashi
Published: August 2008

Although the acrosome reaction and subsequent penetration of sperm through the egg zona pellucida (ZP) are essential for mammalian fertilization, the molecular mechanism is still controversial. We have previously identified serine protease Tesp5 identical to Prss21 on the mouse sperm surface as a candidate enzyme involved in sperm penetration through the ZP. Here we show that despite normal fertility of male mice lacking Prss21/Tesp5, the epididymal sperm penetrates the ZP only at a very low rate in vitro, presumably owing to the reduced ability to bind the ZP and undergo the ZP‐induced acrosome reaction. The ability of Prss21‐null sperm to fuse with the egg in vitro was also impaired severely. Intriguingly, the reduced fertility of Prss21‐null epididymal sperm was rescued by exposure of the sperm to the uterine microenvironment and by in vitro treatment of the sperm with uterine fluids. These data suggest the physiological importance of sperm transport through the uterus.
Essential role of phosphoinositide 3‐kinase gamma in eosinophil chemotaxis within acute pulmonary inflammation
Authors: Thomas Matthew , Edwards Matthew J. , Sawicka Elzbieta , Duggan Nicholas , Hirsch Emilio , Wymann Matthias P. , Owen Charles , Trifilieff Alexandre , Walker Christoph , Westwick John , Finan Peter
Published: August 2008

We and others have established an important role for phosphoinositide‐3 kinase gamma (PI3Kγ) in the chemotactic responses of macrophages and neutrophils. The involvement of this lipid kinase in allergic inflammatory responses is, however, yet to be fully determined. Here we compare wild‐type (WT) and PI3Kγ−/− (KO) mice within a model of ovalbumin (OVA) ‐specific pulmonary inflammation. Upon OVA aerosol challenge, cell influx into the bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid consisted of neutrophils, macrophages and, more significantly, eosinophils – which are key effector cells in allergic inflammation. Each population was reduced by up to 80% in KO mice, demonstrating a role for PI3Kγ in cell infiltration into the airways. The mechanism of reduced eosinophilia was analysed within both development and effector stages of the immune response. Comparable levels of OVA‐specific T‐cell proliferation and immunoglobulin production were established in both strains. Furthermore, no significant differences between WT and KO chemokine production were observed. Having identified the critical point of PI3Kγ involvement, KO eosinophil chemotactic dysfunction was confirmed in vitro. These data are the first to demonstrate the vital role of PI3Kγ in acute allergic inflammation. The profound dependency of eosinophils on PI3Kγ for pulmonary influx identifies this lipid kinase as an attractive target for the pharmacological intervention of asthma.
The association of Brahma with the Balbiani ring 1 gene of Chironomus tentans studied by immunoelectron microscopy and chromatin immunoprecipitation
Authors: Botelho S. Calado , Tyagi A. , Hessle V. , Östlund Farrants A. K. , Visa N.
Published: August 2008

Many steps of gene expression take place during transcription, and important functional information can thus be obtained by determining the distribution of specific factors along a transcribed gene. The Balbiani ring (BR) genes of the dipteran Chironomus tentans constitute a unique system for mapping the association of specific factors along a eukaryotic gene using immuno‐electron microscopy (immuno‐EM). The chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) technique has provided an alternative, more general method for studying the association of proteins with specific genomic sequences. The immuno‐EM and the ChIP methods suffer from different limitations, and thus a combination of both is advantageous. We have established optimal conditions for ChIP on chromatin extracted from the salivary glands of C. tentans, and we have analyzed the association of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodelling factor Brahma (Brm) with the BR1 gene by combined immuno‐EM and ChIP. We show that Brm is not restricted to the promoter of the BR1 gene but is also associated with sequences in the middle and distal portions of the gene, which suggests that Brm has additional roles apart from regulating transcription initiation.
Psychometric testing of the SF‐36 Taiwan version on older stroke patients
Authors: Lotus Shyu Yea‐Ing , Lu Jui‐fen Rachel , Chen Sien‐Tsong
Published: August 2008

Aim and objective.  To assess the psychometric properties of the SF‐36 Taiwan version on a sample of older stroke patients in Taiwan.

Background.  The Medical Outcomes Study Short Form‐36 (SF‐36) has proven to be a valid and reliable instrument in evaluating outcomes among stroke patients in western countries; however, less is known regarding its value for Asian stroke patients.

Design.  A descriptive correlational study design was used to explore the reliability and validity of the SF‐36 Taiwan version.

Method.  Older stroke patients (n = 87) from a medical centre in northern Taiwan were interviewed at the end of the first and sixth months after hospital discharge.

Results.  Items on each subscale of the SF‐36 Taiwan version had similar standard deviations, supporting the scaling assumption of equal‐item variance in measuring the same concept. Correlations between items and their subscale were generally ≥0·70 with a few being 0·50 or 0·60. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were >0·70 for almost all subscales, supporting internal consistency. At both the first and sixth months after discharge, participants had lower scores, especially on the physical‐ and social function‐related scales, than the norm for older people. At both times, patients with physical dependence had lower scores across subscales than those without physical dependence, supporting construct validity.

Conclusions.  The SF‐36 Taiwan version demonstrated good reliability and validity when applied to stroke patients at either a transitional or stable time point after hospital discharge. However, the SF‐36 Taiwan version has a potential to underestimate changes in certain domains due to floor or ceiling effects.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Health care providers who deal with Taiwanese/Chinese stroke patients can use the SF‐36 Taiwan version to assess health outcomes at either a transitional or a stable time point after hospital discharge.
A review of low and reduced carbohydrate diets and weight loss in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Dyson P. A.
Published: August 2008

Background  Recent evidence from randomized controlled trials of hypocaloric low carbohydrate diets in people without diabetes has shown that they promote significant weight loss over the short term. There is very little evidence for any effects of reduced carbohydrate intakes on body weight, glycaemia and cardiovascular risk in people with type 2 diabetes.

Methods  An electronic search was performed using MEDLINE (1966 to March 2007), EMBASE (1988 to March 2007) and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (1991 to March 2007) using the keywords low carbohydrate, type 2 diabetes and weight loss. Studies including subjects with type 2 diabetes who adopted a reduced carbohydrate weight loss diet were identified. Data were extracted on study design, weight loss, effects on glycaemia and cardiovascular risk and potential adverse effects.

Results  Six studies investigating the effects of hypocaloric reduced carbohydrate diets in people with type 2 diabetes were identified. The studies were heterogenous and most included small numbers, were short‐term and provided varying amounts of carbohydrate. No studies were identified that were both low carbohydrate (<50 g day−1) and also designed as randomized controlled trials. All studies reported reductions in both body weight and glycated haemoglobin, with no deleterious effects on cardiovascular risk, renal function or nutritional intake.

Conclusions  Conclusions are limited by study design and small numbers, but it appears that reduced carbohydrate diets are safe and effective over the short term for people with type 2 diabetes.
Increasing antioxidant intake from fruits and vegetables: practical strategies for the Scottish population
Authors: Haleem M. A. , Barton K. L. , Borges G. , Crozier A. , Anderson A. S.
Published: August 2008

Background  Increasing intakes of dietary antioxidants may help to reduce oxidative damage caused by free radicals and provide protection against the progression of a number of chronic diseases. The present study aimed to estimate the antioxidant intake from fruits and vegetables in the UK and Scottish population and to examine consumption models to identify potential strategies to optimize antioxidant intake from these foods.

Methods  This was a retrospective study of cross‐sectional data on fruit and vegetable intake in relation to antioxidant intake. Antioxidant capacity of individual fruits and vegetables was determined by the ferric reducing antioxidant power assay and data on quantity and frequency of consumption of fruits and vegetables determined from National Diet and Nutrition Survey 2000–2001.

Results  Mean antioxidant intake in UK population from fruits and vegetables varied by region. In the Scottish sample (n = 123), mean antioxidant intake was estimated at 680 ± 689 μmol day−1 with 92% subjects consuming <400 g of fruits and vegetables per day. Consumption data showed that strawberries, apples, orange citrus fruits, purple broccoli and cauliflower were the top five sources of antioxidants from fruits and vegetables in the Scottish population.

Conclusions  Appropriate selection of fruits and vegetables would help to achieve a higher antioxidant intake with the potential to produce significant health benefits.
Factors associated with knowledge of genetics and nutritional genomics among dietitians
Authors: McCarthy S. , Pufulete M. , Whelan K.
Published: August 2008

Introduction  Knowledge of genetics and nutritional genomics is important for dietitians in the prevention and management of disease. The present study aimed to analyse data from a nationwide postal questionnaire survey in order to investigate the factors associated with knowledge of genetics and nutritional genomics among dietitians in the UK.

Methods  A nationwide postal questionnaire survey was conducted in a random sample of 600 dietitians in the UK. The questionnaire measured dietitians’ knowledge using 12 multiple choice questions relating to genetics and nutritional genomics. Factors that may impact upon such knowledge were also recorded. Knowledge scores were calculated and compared between dietitians using comparative statistics and univariate analysis of variance.

Results  A total of 389 (64.8%) usable questionnaires were returned. Overall, the mean ± SD total knowledge score was low at 41 ± 19%. Highest qualification (F2,372 = 9.1, P < 0.001), the genetics content of university education (F2,372 = 7.1, P = 0.001) and reading literature or attending a conference relating to genetics or nutritional genomics within the last year (F1,372 = 11.9, P = 0.001) were all associated with higher total knowledge scores.

Conclusion  Knowledge of genetics and nutritional genomics among dietitians is currently low, and better knowledge is associated with exposure to these in university education and continuing professional development.
Disposition and safety of zonisamide after intravenous and oral single dose and oral multiple dosing in normal hound dogs
Authors: BOOTHE D. M. , PERKINS J.
Published: August 2008

The purpose of this study was to determine an oral dosing regimen of zonisamide in healthy dogs such that therapeutic concentrations would be safely reached and maintained at steady‐state. Adult hound dogs (n = 8) received a single IV (6.9) and an oral (PO) dose (10.3 mg/kg) using a randomized cross‐over design. Zonisamide was then administered at 10.3 mg/kg PO every 12 h for 8 weeks. Zonisamide was quantitated in blood compartments or urine by HPLC and data were subjected to noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis. Comparisons were made among blood compartments (one‐wayanova;P ≤ 0.05). Differences among blood compartments occurred in all derived pharmacokinetic paramenters for each route of administration after single and multiple dosing. After single PO dosing, plasma Cmaxwas 14.4 ± 2.3 mcg/mL and elimination half‐life was 17.2 ± 3.6 h. After IV dosing, volume of distribution was 1.1 ± 0.25 L/kg, clearance was 58 ± 11 mL/h/kg and elimination t1/2was 12.9 ± 3.6 h. Oral bioavailability was 68 ± 12%; fraction of unbound drug approximated 60%. At steady‐state (4 days), differences occurred for for all parameters except Cmaxand Cmin.Plasma Cmaxat steady‐state was 56 ± 12 mcg/mL, with 10% fluctuation between Cmaxand Cmin.Plasma t1/2(h) was 23.52 ± 5.76 h. Clinical laboratory tests remained normal, with the exception of total T4, which was below normal limits at study end. In conclusion, 10 mg/kg twice daily results in peak plasma zonisamide which exceeds the recommended human therapeutic range (10 to 40 μg/mL) and is associated with suppression of thyroid hormone synthesis. A reasonable b.i.d starting dose for canine epileptics would be 3 mg/kg. Zonisamide monitored in either serum or plasma should be implemented at approximately 7 days.
The formation of aminorex in racehorses following levamisole administration. A quantitative and chiral analysis following synthetic aminorex or levamisole administration vs. aminorex‐positive samples from the field: a preliminary report
Authors: BARKER S. A.
Published: August 2008

Beginning in 2004, the horseracing industry experienced an epidemic of drug positives for the amphetamine‐like drug aminorex. Investigation of the therapeutic treatment of the horses called positive for this drug suggested that its source was from the administration of the anthelmintic levamisole. This study examines the urine concentrations of aminorex as a function of time following administration of synthetic, racemic aminorex. Confirmation of the presence of aminorex in urine samples from the horses known to be treated with levamisole is also presented as are data concerning the concentrations of aminorex in positives called from the field and the corresponding concentrations of levamisole found in the same samples. Furthermore, this study illustrates that the chiral isomer distribution of aminorex found in samples from the field is significantly different from that arising from the administration of synthetic, racemic aminorex and is similar to that observed from aminorex arising from levamisole administration. An examination of the chiral isomer distribution of aminorex and a determination of the presence of levamisole in a sample may be used to assess the source of an aminorex positive, distinguishing it from an intentional synthetic, racemic aminorex administration. The role of levamisole in aminorex formation is also discussed.
Has the time come to control hepatitis A globally? Matching prevention to the changing epidemiology
Authors: Hendrickx G. , Van Herck K. , Vorsters A. , Wiersma S. , Shapiro C. , Andrus J. K. , Ropero A. M. , Shouval D. , Ward W. , Van Damme P.
Published: August 2008

Summary.  For the first time a global meeting on hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection as vaccine preventable disease was organized at the end of 2007. More than 200 experts from 46 countries gathered to investigate the changing global HAV epidemiology reflecting the increasing numbers of persons at risk for severe clinical disease and mortality from HAV infection. The benefits of childhood and adult hepatitis A (HepA) vaccination strategies and the data needed by individual countries and international health organizations to assess current HepA prevention strategies were discussed. New approaches in preventing HAV infection including universal HepA vaccination were considered. This introductory paper summarizes the major findings of the meeting and describes the changing epidemiology of HAV infections and the impact of HepA vaccination strategies in various countries. Implementation of HepA vaccination strategies should take into account the level of endemicity, the level of the socio‐economic development and sanitation, and the risk of outbreaks. A stepwise strategy for introduction of HepA universal immunisation of children was recommended. This strategy should be based on accurate surveillance of cases and qualitative documentation of outbreaks and their control, secure political support on the basis of high‐quality results, and comprehensive cost‐effectiveness studies. The recognition of the need for increased global attention towards HepA prevention is an important outcome of this meeting.
Changing epidemiology of hepatitis A in Brazil: reassessing immunization policy
Authors: Vitral C. L. , Souto F. J. D. , Gaspar A. M. C.
Published: August 2008

Summary.  Recent studies have shown that the prevalence of antibody to hepatitis A virus (HAV) is decreasing in several Latin American countries. Brazil is a very large and heterogeneous country, showing striking regional differences. With regard to sanitary facilities, 81.7% of the districts in the south‐eastern region have sewage systems, compared with only 5.8% in the northern region. Results of sero‐epidemiological studies and reported hepatitis A outbreaks indicate a change in the epidemiological pattern of hepatitis A in the country. Individuals, especially those under the age of 10, are mostly unprotected from HAV infection, regardless of their socioeconomic status. During 2000–2005, approximately 14 000–21 000 cases of hepatitis A were reported annually in Brazil, a rate of 7.5–11 cases per 100 000 population. Nationwide, hepatitis A mortality rates declined progressively from 1980 to 2002. As fatal cases constitute a small, but predictable, portion of all acute hepatitis A cases, which are in turn part of the total number of HAV infections, these data suggest that there has been a decline in HAV circulation in all Brazilian regions over the last two decades. Taken together these facts point out that the epidemiological pattern of hepatitis A is changing in Brazil. Besides improvements in sanitary conditions in the poorest Brazilian regions, the introduction of hepatitis A vaccination of young children could be a strategy for controlling HAV infection in the country.
Hepatitis A seroprevalence in children and adults in Kiev City, Ukraine
Authors: Moisseeva A. V. , Marichev I. L. , Biloschitchkay N. A. , Pavlenko K. I. , Novik L. V. , Kovinko L. V. , Lyabis O. I. , Houillon G. , Rasuli A. M.
Published: August 2008

Summary.  Ukraine is a zone of moderate hepatitis A endemicity. The changing epidemiology of the disease because of improved hygiene has shifted the burden of Hepatitis A to older age groups where the disease is more severe. Outbreaks have also become more common as more of the population has become susceptible to hepatitis A virus (HAV). To help guide decisions regarding use of hepatitis A vaccine in Ukraine, we examined the presence of antibody to HAV (anti‐HAV) in 1001 persons aged 1 to 85 years, visiting four municipal healthcare centres in the Ukrainian capital, Kiev. Overall, the anti‐HAV prevalence was 31.9%. Anti‐HAV seropositivity increased with age from 9.2% among children aged 1–5 years to 81.7% among persons over 50 years, but less than 50% of subjects less than 50 years were HAV seropositive. No children under 2 years were seropositive. HAV seropositivity was twice as high in children aged 5–11 years old in the low socio‐economic status group (income less than 150 US$ per family member per month) than in the middle/high group (11.1% compared to 6.3%) but this disparity disappeared by adolescence. The prevalence of anti‐HAV antibodies in adults was not different with respect to district of residence within the city. Considering the proportion of HAV seronegative subjects in all age groups under 50 years, routine vaccination against HAV of children aged 1–2 years old would appear to be an effective schedule for hepatitis A prophylaxis in Kiev.
Epidemiology of hepatitis A before and after the introduction of a universal vaccination programme in Catalonia, Spain
Authors: Domínguez A. , Oviedo M. , Carmona G. , Jansá J. M. , Borrás E. , Salleras L. , Plasència A.
Published: August 2008

Summary.  A universal vaccination program for preadolescents, aged 12 years, with the hepatitis A + B vaccine was introduced in 1998 in Catalonia (Spain) with the aim of protecting the whole population against hepatitis A. The hepatitis A + B vaccine program replaced the hepatitis B vaccination program for preadolescent started in 1991. The impact of the hepatitis A + B vaccination program was studied by assessment of the trend of reported cases of hepatitis A. All cases of viral hepatitis reported from 1992 to 2006 were included in the study. To evaluate changes in the epidemiology of hepatitis A, two periods were considered: a prevaccination period (1992–1998) and a post‐vaccination period (2001–2006). The ratios of the rates were calculated according to age and sex. The comparison of rates and proportions was made by calculation of the normal z statistic. A total of 7536 cases of viral hepatitis were reported, of which 4109 (54.52%) were hepatitis A. The incidence rate of hepatitis A fell from 5.44 per 100 000 person‐years in the prevaccination period to 3.02 in the post‐vaccination period. In males, the rate fell from 6.85 to 3.89 and in females from 4.10 to 2.18. The male‐female ratio of incidence rates was lower in the post‐vaccination period. In males the global decline of incidence rate was 43.26% and in females 46.96%. The greatest decline occurred in the 15 to 19 years age group in both sexes (79.1% in men and 78.34% in women) but declines in the 10–14 years age group were also very important (69.21% and 67.88%, respectively). In conclusion, hepatitis A incidence fell in Catalonia in the post‐vaccination period in vaccinated adolescents and also in other unvaccinated groups who have benefited from the indirect effects of the vaccination program.
Back to the future: the new ICE age
Authors: Churchward Gordon
Published: August 2008

The analysis of bacterial genomes has revealed an extraordinary array of conjugal elements (integrative and conjugative element or ICE) that reside in bacterial chromosomes. These elements contribute to the pan‐genomes of individual species and confer a wide variety of properties on their bacterial hosts. ICEBs1 is a conjugal element found in Bacillus subtilis that has a remarkable regulatory mechanism that apparently favours conjugation when there are suitable recipient bacteria at high density or when the bacterial host is facing DNA‐damaging stresses. In the current issue, Bose et al. dissect the mechanism of induction of transfer of this element, and reveal a new, apparently widespread repressor anti‐repressor system and a new mechanism of repressor destruction by proteolysis.
Adequate phenylalanine synthesis mediated by G protein is critical for protection from UV radiation damage in young etiolated Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings
Authors: WARPEHA KATHERINE M. , GIBBONS JACK , CAROL ANDREW , SLUSSER JAMES , TREE ROGER , DURHAM WILLIAM , KAUFMAN LON S.
Published: August 2008

Etiolated Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings, lacking a functional prephenate dehydratase1 gene (PD1), also lack the ability to synthesize phenylalanine (Phe) and, as a consequence, phenylpropanoid pigments. We find that low doses of ultraviolet (UV)‐C (254 nm) are lethal and low doses of UV‐B cause severe damage to etiolated pd1 mutants, but not to wild‐type (wt) seedlings. Furthermore, exposure to UV‐C is lethal to etiolated gcr1 (encoding a putative G protein‐coupled receptor in Arabidopsis) mutants and gpa1 (encoding the sole G protein α subunit in Arabidopsis) mutants. Addition of Phe to growth media restores wt levels of UV resistance to pd1 mutants. The data indicate that the Arabidopsis G protein‐signalling pathway is critical to providing protection from UV, and does so via the activation of PD1, resulting in the synthesis of Phe. Cotyledons of etiolated pd1 mutants have proplastids (compared with etioplasts in wt), less cuticular wax and fewer long‐chain fatty acids. Phe‐derived pigments do not collect in the epidermal cells of pd1 mutants when seedlings are treated with UV, particularly at the cotyledon tip. Addition of Phe to the growth media restores a wt phenotype to pd1 mutants.
Early events in signalling high‐temperature stress in tobacco BY2 cells involve alterations in membrane fluidity and enhanced hydrogen peroxide production
Authors: KÖNIGSHOFER HELGA , TROMBALLA HANS‐WALTER , LÖPPERT HANS‐GEORG
Published: August 2008

Alterations in membrane fluidity are among the early events in plants that detect changes in ambient temperature. However, signal transduction downstream of the membrane‐associated processes is still not well understood. We have focused here on the role of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in high‐temperature signalling in relation to changes in membrane fluidity in cells of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) cv. Bright Yellow 2 (BY2). As final indicators of the heat‐signalling cascade, we have monitored the synthesis of small heat‐shock proteins (sHSPs). Elevation of temperature between 32 and 38 °C resulted in a fast, transient stimulation of H2O2 production in the tobacco cells. A similar H2O2 burst could be induced at lower temperatures (28–32 °C) by membrane fluidization using benzyl alcohol (BA). Diphenylene iodonium (DPI), a NADPH oxidase inhibitor, prevented both the heat‐ and BA‐triggered H2O2 rise. The synthesis of sHSPs (14.5 and 16 kDa) was shifted to lower temperatures by BA application and was suppressed by DPI treatment in the same way. The results indicate that H2O2 is an early component of the heat‐signalling pathway, which responds rapidly to changes in membrane fluidity and is required for the activation of sHSP synthesis.
Mesophyll freezing and effects of freeze dehydration visualized by simultaneous measurement of IDTA and differential imaging chlorophyll fluorescence
Authors: HACKER JÜRGEN , SPINDELBÖCK JOACHIM PAUL , NEUNER GILBERT
Published: August 2008

Infrared differential thermal analysis (IDTA) and differential imaging chlorophyll fluorescence (DIF) were employed simultaneously to study the two‐dimensional pattern of ice propagation in leaves and mesophyll freeze dehydration as detected by a significant increase of basic chlorophyll fluorescence (F0). IDTA and DIF technique gave different insights into the freezing process of leaves that was highly species‐specific. IDTA clearly visualized the freezing process consisting of an initial fast spread of ice throughout the vascular system followed by mesophyll freezing. While mesophyll freezing was homogeneously in Poa alpina, Rhododendron ferrugineum and Senecio incanus as determined by IDTA, DIF showed a distinct pattern only in S. incanus, with the leaf tips being affected earlier. In Cinnamomum camphora, a mottled freezing pattern of small mesophyll compartments was observed by both methods. In IDTA images, a random pattern predominated, while in DIF images, compartments closer to lower order veins were affected earlier. The increase of F0 following mesophyll freezing started after a species‐specific time lag of up to 26 min. The start of the F0 increase and its slope were significantly enhanced at lower temperatures, which suggest a higher strain on mesophyll protoplasts when freezing occurs at lower temperatures.
Protein tyrosine phosphatase non‐receptor type 22 gene variants at position 1858 are associated with type 1 and type 2 diabetes in Estonian population
Authors: Douroudis K. , Prans E. , Haller K. , Nemvalts V. , Rajasalu T. , Tillmann V. , Kisand K. , Uibo R.
Published: August 2008

Protein tyrosine phosphatase non‐receptor type 22 (PTPN22) is considered an important regulator of T‐cell activation. Polymorphisms within the PTPN22 gene have been suggested to confer susceptibility to autoimmune endocrine disorders. To evaluate the impact of a functional variation in the PTPN22 gene in type 1 (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D), the PTPN22 C1858T single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was studied in the population of Estonian origin, including 170 T1D patients, 244 T2D patients and 230 controls. Using two methods for PTPN22 C1858T detection in parallel, we found that not only T1D but also T2D is associated with the PTPN22 1858T allele. The role of PTPN22 gene in the pathogenesis of T2D is yet unclear and needs further investigation.
A novel HLA‐B*44 allele, HLA‐B*4459, identified in a renal patient with aberrant B44 serology and characterized by sequence‐based typing
Authors: Hammond L. , Dunn P. P. J.
Published: August 2008

Human leukocyte antigen‐B*4459 was first identified in a renal patient. The novel allele differs from B*44020101 by a single nucleotide change in exon 3 at nucleotide 453 (C→G), which changes codon 127 from asparagine (AAC) to lysine (AAG) explaining some aberrant B44 serology results in 2003.
Increased blood plasma concentrations of TGF‐β1 and TGF‐β2 after treatment with intravenous immunoglobulins in childhood autoimmune diseases
Authors: Rißmann Anke , Pieper Stefanie , Adams Ines , Brune Thomas , Wiemann Dagobert , Reinhold Dirk
Published: August 2008

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β), a multifunctional, immunosuppressive cytokine, is shown to be present in substantial amounts in commercially available intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) preparations. To assess whether TGF‐β isoforms are changed in the plasma of paediatric patients with childhood autoimmune diseases after IVIG infusion, 17 patients who received over a period of 12 months overall 56 IVIG infusions (Endobulin) were enrolled in a study. High levels of TGF‐β1 (16.95 ± 8.16 ng/ml) as well as TGF‐β2 (62.71 ± 9.50 ng/ml) were detected in the used 56 IVIG probes. TGF‐β1 and TGF‐β2 plasma concentrations were measured prior and 120 min after IVIG infusions by specific TGF‐β ELISA. Interestingly, significant increased TGF‐β1 and TGF‐β2 plasma levels were found in patients after treatment with IVIG. This data suggest that a TGF‐β‐mediated mechanism of action may accompany other molecular effects of IVIG therapy. The amount of the potent anti‐inflammatory TGF‐β isoforms within the IVIG preparations may exert a differentiated view regarding the manifold indications of IVIG therapy.
Laboratory rearing and biological parameters of the eulophid Pnigalio agraules, a parasitoid of Cameraria ohridella
Authors: Grabenweger G. , Hopp H. , Schmolling S. , Koch T. , Balder H. , Jäckel B.
Published: August 2008

Predators as well as parasitoids native to Europe accept the exotic horse chestnut leafminer, Cameraria ohridellaDeschka and Dimić 1986 (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), either as prey or as host. However, the influence of these antagonists on the populations of the pest insect is so far very low. Therefore, efforts to develop an integrated pest management system against C. ohridella should include methods which foster the natural enemy complex. In the present study we developed a laboratory rearing method and investigated several biological parameters of Pnigalio agraules (Walker 1839) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), a dominant species in the horse chestnut leafminer’s parasitoid complex in many European regions. This native parasitoid satisfies three basic requirements for successful use as a biocontrol agent with regard to C. ohridella. The parasitoid’s fecundity, longevity and the speed of juvenile development by far exceeds that of the leafminer, enabling the parasitoid population to increase faster than that of the host. Furthermore, our results show that the impact of this species on C. ohridella populations has been previously underestimated, because non‐reproductive killing (i.e. host‐feeding and host‐stinging) of the hosts, resulting in considerable larval mortality of the leafminer, has not been quantitatively assessed. However, naturally occurring parasitoid populations have negligible impact on C. ohridella populations. Further studies, including experimental releases of P. agraules, are necessary to understand the constraints limiting the parasitoid’s performance in the field and to assess the potential benefits of releases for the control of C. ohridella.
Insecticidal activity of Citrus aurantium peel extract against Bactrocera oleae and Ceratitis capitata adults (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Siskos E. P. , Konstantopoulou M. A. , Mazomenos B. E.
Published: August 2008

Citrus aurantium (L.) peel extracts in petroleum ether were evaluated for toxicity against olive fruit fly, Bactrocera oleae (Gmelin) and medfly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) adults. Bactrocera oleae flies were more susceptible to the extract than C. capitata in contact and residual bioassays. Fumigation bioassay had no effect. Both sexes of B. oleae were equally susceptible in both types of bioassays. However, males of C. capitata were more susceptible than the conspecific females. LD50 values (concentration causing 50% mortality) after 96 h for the males and females of B. oleae were 44.8 and 40.1 μg/insect in contact bioassay through topical application. Whereas, LD50 values for the males and females of C. capitata were 38.8 and 67.8 μg/insect respectively. LC50 values after 96 h for the males and females of B. oleae were 18.8 and 17.8 μg/cm2 in Petri dish residual bioassay. Whereas, LC50 values for the males and females of C. capitata were 70.6 and 147.1 μg/cm2 respectively. Fractionation of the extract on a silica gel column with three different polarity solvents resulted in three fractions with only the intermediate polarity solvent fraction having substantial insecticidal activity. Toxicity of the mixtures of active and inactive fractions was equal to the original extract. Our results indicate that C. aurantium has potential for controlling insect pests.
Assessing larval rootworm behaviour after contacting maize roots: impact of germplasm, rootworm species and diapause status
Authors: Prischmann D. A. , Dashiell K. E. , Hibbard B. E.
Published: August 2008

Current methods of screening maize (Zea mays L.) germplasm for susceptibility or resistance to corn rootworms (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) rely primarily on information from large‐scale field experiments. Due to labour and cost constraints associated with field trials, alternative evaluation methods are desirable. We used a previously developed behavioural bioassay to: (1) investigate the host search behaviour of rootworm larvae after contact with 14 maize genotypes, (2) compare the behaviour of non‐diapausing Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, diapausing D. v. virgifera, and diapausing D. barberi Smith & Lawrence and (3) determine if this technique can be used to separate susceptible vs. resistant maize genotypes. The majority of rootworm larvae engaged in intensive (local search) behaviour after exposure to maize roots, whereas larvae continued to exhibit extensive (ranging) behaviour after contact with negative controls. Even though a transgenic hybrid with resistance to D. v. virgifera was included in analyses, quantitative path measurements were similar among genotypes and only differed between specific maize lines and controls. Notably, there were differences in host search behaviour among rootworm groups, with non‐diapausing D. v. virgifera having more convoluted paths and engaging in intensive search more frequently than diapausing rootworms. Correlations between larval path measurements and historic root damage ratings were not significant, although there were weak positive correlations between historic adult emergence densities and measures of path linearity. However, due to the lack of significant behavioural differences among maize lines with a range of susceptibility levels, we concluded that this bioassay is not useful in screening maize germplasm for rootworm resistance.
Historical biogeography of Phymaturus (Iguania: Liolaemidae) from Andean and patagonian South America
Authors: Díaz Gómez Juan Manuel
Published: August 2008

Establishing the ancestral area of a group of organisms is one of the central objectives of historical biogeography. I applied three methods of ancestral area analysis, Fitch optimization, weighted ancestral area analysis and dispersal‐vicariance analysis (DIVA) to establish the ancestral area of the iguanian lizard genus Phymaturus. I then extended the analysis to hypothesize the ancestral area for Liolaemidae (Ctenoblepharys, Liolaemus and Phymaturus). The ancestral area for Phymaturus is Patagonia Central or Patagonia Central‐Cordillera Andina and Valle Central. For Liolaemidae, the ancestral area is Patagonia Central‐Coastal Perú, or Patagonia Central‐Patagonia Occidental‐Cordillera Andina and Valle Central‐Coastal Perú. The ancestral area of Phymaturus is congruent with previous studies, but the inclusion of Ctenoblepharys poses some questions regarding the distribution of the ancestor of the family.
Australian equity mutual fund size effects
Authors: Heaney Richard
Published: August 2008

Berk and Green propose a model of a superannuation fund industry, with a limited population of superior fund managers and a competitive investor market. In this market, superior fund managers capture the value they generate, leaving investors with a normal return on their investment. Furthermore, it is argued that previous period returns, age of the fund and management costs explain variation in net cash flow paid into a fund over time. The Berk and Green predictions find some support in empirical tests, reported in the present paper, based on Australian Morningstar retail and wholesale equity fund data over the period 1995–2005.
“Are We Afrikaners Getting too Rich?”1 Cornucopia and Change in Afrikanerdom in the 1960s
Authors: GRUNDLINGH ALBERT
Published: August 2008

Abstract  This article attempts to correlate the unprecedented economic growth of the 1960s in South Africa with shifts in patterns of consumption, attendant lifestyle changes and forms of status identification among Afrikaners. Moreover the subsequent divergences in Afrikaner nationalist politics and the demise of apartheid are explored in terms of the rise of the Afrikaner middle‐class as one, hitherto largely unexamined, factor in the political transition in South Africa during the 1990s.
The Fletcher Report 1930: A Historical Case Study of Contested Black Mixed Heritage Britishness
Authors: CHRISTIAN MARK
Published: August 2008

Abstract  This article examines a controversial report that focused negatively on mixed heritage children born and raised in the city of Liverpool. The official title was: Report on an Investigation into the Colour Problem in Liverpool and other ports. The social researcher was Muriel E. Fletcher, who had been trained in the Liverpool School of Social Science at The University of Liverpool in the early 1920s. The report was published in 1930 amid controversy for its openly stigmatizing content of children and mixed heritage families of African and European origin. It could be deemed the official outset in defining Liverpool's ‘half castes’ as a problem and blight to the “British way of life” in the city.