bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CoVDB: a comprehensive database for comparative analysis of coronavirus genes and genomes
Authors: Huang Yi , Lau Susanna K. P. , Woo Patrick C. Y. , Yuen Kwok-yung
Published: October 2007

The recent SARS epidemic has boosted interest in the discovery of novel human and animal coronaviruses. By July 2007, more than 3000 coronavirus sequence records, including 264 complete genomes, are available in GenBank. The number of coronavirus species with complete genomes available has increased from 9 in 2003 to 25 in 2007, of which six, including coronavirus HKU1, bat SARS coronavirus, group 1 bat coronavirus HKU2, groups 2c and 2d coronaviruses, were sequenced by our laboratory. To overcome the problems we encountered in the existing databases during comparative sequence analysis, we built a comprehensive database, CoVDB (http://covdb.microbiology.hku.hk), of annotated coronavirus genes and genomes. CoVDB provides a convenient platform for rapid and accurate batch sequence retrieval, the cornerstone and bottleneck for comparative gene or genome analysis. Sequences can be directly downloaded from the website in FASTA format. CoVDB also provides detailed annotation of all coronavirus sequences using a standardized nomenclature system, and overcomes the problems of duplicated and identical sequences in other databases. For complete genomes, a single representative sequence for each species is available for comparative analysis such as phylogenetic studies. With the annotated sequences in CoVDB, more specific blast search results can be generated for efficient downstream analysis.
Relationship between menthol cigarettes and smoking cessation among African American light smokers
Authors: Okuyemi Kolawole S. , Faseru Babalola , Sanderson Cox Lisa , Bronars Carrie A. , Ahluwalia Jasjit S.
Published: October 2007

Aims  To determine whether African American light smokers who smoked menthol cigarettes had lower cessation when treated with nicotine replacement therapy and counseling.

Design  Data were derived from a clinical trial that assessed the efficacy of 2 mg nicotine gum (versus placebo) and counseling (motivational interviewing counseling versus Health Education) for smoking cessation among African American light smokers (smoked ≤ 10 cigarettes per day).

Participants  The sample consisted of 755 African American light smokers.

Measurements  The primary outcome variable was verified 7‐day point‐prevalence smoking cessation at 26 weeks follow‐up. Verification was by salivary cotinine.

Findings  Compared to non‐menthol smokers, menthol smokers were younger and less confident to quit smoking (P = 0.023). At 26 weeks post‐randomization, 7‐day verified abstinence rate was significantly lower for menthol smokers (11.2% versus 18.8% for non‐menthol, P = 0.015).

Conclusions  Among African American light smokers, use of menthol cigarettes is associated with lower smoking cessation rates. Because the majority of African American smokers use menthol cigarettes, a better understanding of the mechanism for this lower quit rate is needed.
Does early onset of non‐medical use of prescription drugs predict subsequent prescription drug abuse and dependence? Results from a national study
Authors: McCabe Sean E. , West Brady T. , Morales Michele , Cranford James A. , Boyd Carol J.
Published: October 2007

Aims  The present study examined the associations between early onset of non‐medical use of prescription drugs (NMUPD) (i.e. sedatives, tranquilizers, opioids, stimulants) and the development of prescription drug abuse and dependence in the United States.

Design  Data were collected from structured diagnostic interviews using the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual version IV (DSM‐IV).

Setting  National prevalence estimates were derived from the 2001–2002 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC, n = 43 093).

Participants  A nationally representative cross‐sectional sample of civilian non‐institutionalized adults aged 18 years or older in the United States, of whom 52% were women, 71% white, 12% Hispanic, 11% African American, 4% Asian and 2% Native American or of other racial background.

Findings  A higher percentage of individuals who began using prescription drugs non‐medically at or before 13 years of age were found to have developed prescription drug abuse and dependence versus those individuals who began using at or after 21 years of age. Multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that the odds of developing any life‐time prescription drug abuse among non‐medical users was reduced by approximately 5% with each year non‐medical use was delayed [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.94, 0.97], and that the odds of developing any life‐time prescription drug dependence were reduced by about 2% with each year onset was delayed (AOR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.96, 1.00) when controlling for relevant covariates.

Conclusions  The results of this study indicate that early onset of NMUPD was a significant predictor of prescription drug abuse and dependence. These findings reinforce the importance of developing prevention efforts to reduce NMUPD and diversion of prescription drugs among children and adolescents.
Correlates with the distribution and abundance of endangered Sclater’s monkeys (Cercopithecus sclateri) in southern Nigeria
Authors: Baker Lynne R. , Olubode Oluseun S.
Published: October 2007

A distribution survey of the endangered Sclater’s monkey (Cercopithecus sclateri) was conducted over a wide area in southern Nigeria using forest surveys and hunter interviews. Sclater’s monkey, Nigeria’s only endemic primate species, is restricted to a land area of about 28,500 km2 in the densely human‐populated, oil‐producing region of southern Nigeria. Results indicate that this species is not as rare as previously thought; we confirmed its presence in 27 formerly unknown sites. Based on encounter‐rate and distribution data, Sclater’s monkey is one of the two most abundant diurnal primate taxa across its range. However, the species primarily occupies isolated and degraded forest fragments. Although hunting is widespread, selective hunting of larger‐bodied primate taxa offers some respite for the smaller Sclater’s monkey. We encountered this species more frequently in forests with relatively high hunting pressure, possibly indicating competitive release in the heavily hunted forests of southern Nigeria. Long‐term persistence of Sclater’s monkey, which has no official protection throughout its range, depends on the willingness of hunters to target smaller‐bodied wildlife (effort‐profit trade‐off), local bushmeat demand and protection of key forest fragments and the few larger forests in the region.
The utility of fine needle aspiration in HIV positive children
Authors: Michelow P. , Meyers T. , Dubb M. , Wright C.
Published: October 2007

Objective:  To determine the spectrum of disease, diagnostic accuracy and adequacy of fine needle aspirates (FNA) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive children who present with mass lesions.

Methods:  Between January 1997 and December 2002, 95 FNAs were performed in 91 children aged 15 years and younger who were known to be infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Results:  Head and neck masses including salivary gland swellings were the most common presentation (58.9%) followed by axillary masses (25.3%). Groin masses were aspirated in six children, flank and abdominal masses in four children, buttock masses in three children, a chest wall mass in one child and a sonar guided FNA of a lung mass in one child. Eight FNAs (8.4%) proved inadequate. Reactive lymphadenopathy was diagnosed in 42 cases, mycobacterial infection in 22, four children were diagnosed with abscess, one child had a fungal infection and five were found to have non‐Hodgkin’s lymphoma. There were four cases each of lymphoepithelial lesion and Kaposi sarcoma. There was one case each of nephroblastoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, myeloma, melanotic progonoma and spindle cells, not otherwise specified.

Conclusion:  Fine needle aspiration in HIV positive children is a worthwhile procedure and in most instances allows a rapid diagnosis obviating the need for surgery and enabling swift treatment to be undertaken where necessary. Ancillary studies form an important diagnostic component. Universal safety precautions must be strictly adhered to.
Fine needle aspiration cytology of the testis as the first‐line diagnostic modality in azoospermia: a comparative study of cytology and histology
Authors: Mehrotra R. , Chaurasia D.
Published: October 2007

Objectives:  Male factors are responsible for about half of all infertility cases. Until recently, testicular biopsy was the standard method to ascertain the aetiology of azoospermia. Fine needle aspiration cytology has gained increasing popularity as a simple and minimally invasive procedure that can help in assessing testicular function accurately. This study was aimed at addressing the question whether testicular fine needle aspiration (FNA) may be used as a first‐line diagnostic modality in azoospermia and to assess its usefulness in the diagnostic protocol.

Methods:  The FNA was performed in 78 consecutive azoospermic patients. To obviate sampling errors both testes were aspirated, except when contraindicated. Routine haematoxylin and eosin as well as Romanowsky staining was performed on the smears.

Results:  The smears were categorized on cytological examination into normal spermatogenesis in 35 (50%) patients, Sertoli cells only syndrome in 22 (31.4%) and maturation arrest at the spermatocyte/spermatid level was seen in 13 (18.4%) patients. There were eight (10.2%) cases with scant smears where cytological diagnosis could not be made. A good correlation between cytological smears and histological sections was found in 54 of 58 testes (93.1%) in which histopathological confirmation was available.

Conclusions:  Testicular FNA may be utilized as a first‐line investigative modality in patients with azoospermia, provided the procedure is performed and interpreted by experts.
Cytological criteria of endometrial lesions with emphasis on stromal and epithelial cell clusters: result of 8 years of experience with intrauterine sampling
Authors: Kobayashi H. , Otsuki Y. , Simizu S. , Yamada M. , Mukai R. , Sawaki Y. , Nakayama S. , Torii Y.
Published: October 2007

Objective:  There are a number of unresolved issues in endometrial cytology. They include the significance of nuclear atypia for the diagnosis of grade1 adenocarcinoma (G1AC) and atypical endometrial hyperplasia (AEH), cytological criteria of endometrial hyperplasia without atypia, and recognition of stromal cell cluster (SC) and its distinction from epithelial cell cluster (EC).

Methods:  We examined nuclear atypia, SC and EC in typical cases of five categories: normal endometrium (NEM), simple endometrial hyperplasia without atypia (SEH), complex endometrial hyperplasia without atypia (CEH), G1AC and grade2 adenocarcinoma (G2AC). We classified EC into four types: simple EC (SPEC), large regular EC (LREC), large irregular EC (LIEC) and small irregular EC (SIEC). Based on the results, we developed criteria of endometrial cytology and have evaluated 13 639 cases over 8 years.

Results:  Nuclear atypia was significantly more frequent in G2AC than in any of the other four categories (P < 0.001). SC was significantly more frequent in NEM and SEH than in the other three categories (P < 0.001). G1AC and G2AC showed significantly higher frequency of LIEC than the other three categories (P < 0.001). CEH exhibited significantly higher frequency of LREC than the four categories (P < 0.001). The sensitivity and the specificity was 88.8% and 99.0% respectively.

Conclusions:  We could diagnose G1AC, G2AC and CEH with high accuracy using the established criteria mainly based on SC and EC. We think that the criteria may facilitate an effective screening and an objective interpretation of endometrial samples.
Biological invasion alters regional nitrogen‐oxide emissions from tropical rainforests
Authors: HALL SHARON J. , ASNER GREGORY P.
Published: October 2007

We explored whether the invasion of an exotic, nitrogen (N) fixing tree into native Hawaiian tropical forests has altered regional emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O) and nitric oxide (NO), two atmospherically important trace gases produced by microorganisms in soils. Ecosystem processes, including nitrification and N‐oxide emissions, were not affected by Morella faya (formerly Myrica faya) invasion until it dominated the community with few native species in the overstory or understory. Remote‐sensing estimates of upper‐canopy leaf N concentration were strongly correlated to N‐oxide emissions in ecosystems at the mesic‐wet end of a precipitation gradient, where temperatures are warm, relatively constant, and N limits biological processes. In contrast, remotely sensed and field‐based canopy chemistry was not related to N‐oxide emissions in dry forest ecosystems where the seasonality of temperature and moisture exerted stronger control over soil gas fluxes. Thus, remote sensing of canopy N was useful for estimating the impact of M. faya on regional N‐oxide emissions only in regions receiving >1800 mm rainfall annually. Our estimates of N‐oxide emissions from M. faya are half as large and 35 times more precise than those made using traditional, plot‐level methods of extrapolation. Over the 40 years since its first occurrence in wet forests of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, M. faya has increased N‐oxide emissions 16‐fold, with its effects most pronounced in summer and at the N‐rich centers of dense, monospecific stands.
Water savings in mature deciduous forest trees under elevated CO2
Authors: LEUZINGER SEBASTIAN , KÖRNER CHRISTIAN
Published: October 2007

Stomatal conductance of plants exposed to elevated CO2 is often reduced. Whether this leads to water savings in tall forest‐trees under future CO2 concentrations is largely unknown but could have significant implications for climate and hydrology. We used three different sets of measurements (sap flow, soil moisture and canopy temperature) to quantify potential water savings under elevated CO2 in a ca. 35 m tall, ca. 100 years old mixed deciduous forest. Part of the forest canopy was exposed to 540 ppm CO2 during daylight hours using free air CO2 enrichment (FACE) and the Swiss Canopy Crane (SCC). Across species and a wide range of weather conditions, sap flow was reduced by 14% in trees subjected to elevated CO2, yielding ca. 10% reduction in evapotranspiration. This signal is likely to diminish as atmospheric feedback through reduced moistening of the air comes into play at landscape scale. Vapour pressure deficit (VPD)‐sap flow response curves show that the CO2 effect is greatest at low VPD, and that sap flow saturation tends to occur at lower VPD in CO2‐treated trees. Matching stomatal response data, the CO2 effect was largely produced by Carpinus and Fagus, with Quercus contributing little. In line with these findings, soil moisture at 10 cm depth decreased at a slower rate under high‐CO2 trees than under control trees during rainless periods, with a reversal of this trend during prolonged drought when CO2‐treated trees take advantage from initial water savings. High‐resolution thermal images taken at different heights above the forest canopy did detect reduced water loss through altered energy balance only at <5 m distance (0.44 K leaf warming of CO2‐treated Fagus trees). Short discontinuations of CO2 supply during morning hours had no measurable canopy temperature effects, most likely because the stomatal effects were small compared with the aerodynamic constraints in these dense, broad‐leaved canopies. Hence, on a seasonal basis, these data suggest a <10% reduction in water consumption in this type of forest when the atmosphere reaches 540% ppm CO2.
Climate change effects on organic matter decomposition rates in ecosystems from the Maritime Antarctic and Falkland Islands
Authors: BOKHORST S. , HUISKES A. , CONVEY P. , AERTS R.
Published: October 2007

Antarctic terrestrial ecosystems have poorly developed soils and currently experience one of the greatest rates of climate warming on the globe. We investigated the responsiveness of organic matter decomposition in Maritime Antarctic terrestrial ecosystems to climate change, using two study sites in the Antarctic Peninsula region (Anchorage Island, 67°S; Signy Island, 61°S), and contrasted the responses found with those at the cool temperate Falkland Islands (52°S). Our approach consisted of two complementary methods: (1) Laboratory measurements of decomposition at different temperatures (2, 6 and 10 °C) of plant material and soil organic matter from all three locations. (2) Field measurements at all three locations on the decomposition of soil organic matter, plant material and cellulose, both under natural conditions and under experimental warming (about 0.8 °C) achieved using open top chambers. Higher temperatures led to higher organic matter breakdown in the laboratory studies, indicating that decomposition in Maritime Antarctic terrestrial ecosystems is likely to increase with increasing soil temperatures. However, both laboratory and field studies showed that decomposition was more strongly influenced by local substratum characteristics (especially soil N availability) and plant functional type composition than by large‐scale temperature differences. The very small responsiveness of organic matter decomposition in the field (experimental temperature increase < 1 °C) compared with the laboratory (experimental increases of 4 or 8 °C) shows that substantial warming is required before significant effects can be detected.
Identification of an anti‐idiotypic antibody that defines a B‐cell subset(s) producing xenoantibodies in primates
Authors: Fischer‐Lougheed Jacqueline , Gregory Clare , White Zena , Shulkin Irina , Gunthart Mirja , Kearns‐Jonker Mary
Published: October 2007

Synthetic anti‐idiotypic antibodies represent a potentially valuable tool for the isolation and characterization of B cells that produce xenoantibodies. An anti‐idiotypic antibody that binds to a subset of B cells producing antibodies encoded by the variable‐region heavy chain 3 (VH3) germline genes DP35 [immunoglobulin variable‐region heavy chain 3‐11 (IGHV3‐11)], DP‐53 and DP‐54 plus a small number of VH4 gene‐encoded antibodies in humans has recently been identified. These germline progenitors also encode xenoantibodies in humans. We tested whether the small, clearly defined group of B cells identified with this anti‐idiotypic antibody produce xenoantibodies in non‐human primates mounting active immune responses to porcine xenografts. Peripheral blood B cells were sorted by flow cytometry on the basis of phenotype, and cDNA libraries were prepared from each of these sorted groups of cells. Immunoglobulin VH gene libraries were prepared from the sorted cells, and the VH genes expressed in each of the sorted groups were identified by nucleic acid sequencing. Our results indicate that xenoantibody‐producing peripheral blood B cells, defined on the basis of binding to fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐conjugated galactose α(1,3) galactose–bovine serum albumin (Gal‐BSA) and the anti‐idiotypic antibody 2G10, used the IGHV3‐11 germline gene to encode xenoantibodies and were phenotypically CD11b+ (Mac‐1+) and CD5–. This novel reagent may be used in numerous applications including definition of xenoantibody‐producing B‐cell subsets in humans and non‐human primates and immunosuppression by depletion of B cells producing anti‐Gal xenoantibodies.
A bio‐molecular film ex‐vivo model to evaluate the influence of canal dimensions and irrigation variables on the efficacy of irrigation
Authors: Huang T.‐Y. , Gulabivala K. , Ng Y.‐L.
Published: October 2007

Aims  To devise an ex vivo model to test the efficacy of irrigation (static/dynamic) in removing a bio‐molecular film from root canal walls.

Methodology  Forty human teeth with single straight canals were randomly allocated to two groups for static (n = 20) or dynamic (n = 20) irrigation. The root canals were prepared to different apical sizes (20, 40) and tapers (0.04, 0.08). The teeth were split longitudinally into two, stained collagen was applied to the canal surfaces and the tooth reassembled in a silicone matrix for dynamic or static irrigation. Digital images of the canal surface were taken before and after irrigation with 9, 18, 27 and 36 mL solution. The percentage of canal surface covered with stained collagen was quantified (ipWin4®). The data were analysed using paired t‐tests and linear regression models.

Results  All the five explanatory variables: ‘volume of irrigant used’, ‘mode of irrigation’, ‘orientation of open port of needle’, ‘corono‐apical level of canal’ and ‘root canal dimension’ had a significant (P < 0.001) influence on outcome of irrigation. The corono‐apical level of canal was the most dominating factor. After irrigation, the apical third had 19.9% and 33.8% less area covered with the bio‐molecular film than the middle and coronal thirds respectively.

Conclusions  The stained collagen bio‐molecular film could not be removed completely by either static or dynamic irrigation. Factors influencing removal, in rank order of decreasing priority, were: corono‐apical level, apical size and taper of canal preparation, and dynamic/static irrigation.
Successful blind placement of nasojejunal tubes in paediatric intensive care: impact of training and audit
Authors: Meyer Rosan , Harrison Stephanie , Cooper Mehrengise , Habibi Parviz
Published: October 2007

Title.  Successful blind placement of nasojejunal tubes in paediatric intensive care: impact of training and audit

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to monitor continuing nasojejunal tube placement success rate and to evaluate a training programme for staff placing these tubes at the bedside.

Background.  Gastric delivery of enteral feeds is frequently poorly tolerated due to impaired gastric motility in critically ill children. Consequently, there has been an increased interest in the use of the nasojejunal feeding route. Nasojejunal tubes are both safe and well‐tolerated, but placements of these tubes are notoriously difficult and therefore often avoided. Consequently, a blind bedside technique was developed, with a placement success of 96%.

Method.  A training programme using this technique was developed for nursing staff on the unit. This included one‐to‐one training of key nurses of the nasojejunal tube placement technique and a supervised nasojejunal placement with either the senior nurse or dietitian. This practice was audited in 100 consecutive patients in 2001 and 2004. Patient demographics, diagnosis, time taken for placement and reasons for unsuccessful placements were documented.

Results.  The 2001 audit (n = 100) indicated that the nasojejunal route was used in 19% of all cases, with 1% and 80% of patients fed via the parenteral and nasogastric route respectively. In 2004 (n = 94), 18% of patients were fed via the nasojejunal route, 3% parenterally and 79% via the gastric route. Placement success continued to be between 94·5–95% in 2001 and 2004.

Conclusion.  Continued successful placement of blind nasojejunal feeding tubes can be achieved through a well‐monitored education programme, regular audit cycles and multidisciplinary team support.
The impact of team processes on psychiatric case management
Authors: Simpson Alan
Published: October 2007

Title. The impact of team processes on psychiatric case management

Aim. This paper is a report of a study to identify the structures and interactions within community mental health teams that facilitate or impede effective teamwork and psychiatric case management.

Background. Effective case management requires close collaboration between case managers or care co‐ordinators and other members of the multidisciplinary mental health team, yet there has been little research into this relationship.

Method. A multiple case study of seven United Kingdom community mental health teams was conducted between 1999 and 2001, using qualitative methods of participant observation, semi‐structured interviews and document review.

Findings. Factors were identified that impacted on the ability of care co‐ordinators to act effectively: ‘structure and procedures’; ‘disrespect and withdrawal’; ‘humour and undermining’; ‘safety and disclosure’. Care co‐ordination was enhanced when team structures and policies were in place and where team interactions were respectful. Where members felt disrespected or undermined, communication, information sharing and collaboration were impaired, with a negative impact on the care provided to service users.

Conclusions. Teams require clear operating procedures alongside interprofessional trust and respect to ensure that there is open, safe and reflective participation. Further research is required to identify how best to bring about collaborative, effective teamwork in mental healthcare.
DNA vaccine encoding ESAT‐6 enhances the protective efficacy of BCG against Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in mice
Authors: Fan X. , Gao Q. , Fu R.
Published: October 2007

ESAT‐6 is a protein produced by virulent Mycobacterium tuberculosis but absent in Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) and is considered as a promising vaccine subunit against tuberculosis. The protective efficacy of a new strategy based on the combination of DNA vaccine encoding ESAT‐6 (DNA‐E6) and BCG immunization was investigated in the present study. BALB/c mice were immunized with DNA‐E6, BCG, DNA‐E6 plus BCG, vector plus BCG or vector alone. Three weeks after the last immunization, antigen‐specific interferon (IFN)‐γ secreted upon stimulation with BCG‐PPD or ESAT‐6 protein by splenocytes of the different groups was determined by an ELISA. The immunized mice were challenged intravenously with low‐dose virulent M. tuberculosis H37Rv and bacterial load of the infected mice was measured in the spleen and lung 6 weeks later. Pathological changes in the lung were observed by haematoxylin–eosin (HE) or acid‐fast staining. Our study demonstrated that ESAT‐6‐specific IFN‐γ was improved in mice vaccinated with DNA‐E6 plus BCG, compared with those mice immunized with BCG alone. The combination of DNA‐E6 and BCG resulted in the maximum reduction in bacterial load in both the lung and spleen, and only slight pathological changes were detected in the lung. These results suggested that the combination of DNA‐E6 and BCG vaccination could be a better strategy against M. tuberculosis infections in human.
Worldwide diversity of hair curliness: a new method of assessment
Authors: Loussouarn Geneviève , Garcel Anne‐Lise , Lozano Isabelle , Collaudin Catherine , Porter Crystal , Panhard Ségolène , Saint‐Léger Didier , De La Mettrie Roland
Published: October 2007

Background  For many years, cosmetic scientists have attempted to measure the physical features of human hair, such as its shape and colour, as these can be artificially modified using cosmetic products. With regard to hair shape, previous anthropologic studies have emphasized its variability within and between human ethnic groups. Many studies have broadly distinguished three ethnic human subgroups: African, Asian, and Caucasian. Such a broad classification cannot account for the great complexity of human biological diversity, resulting from multiple, past or recent mixed origins. The verbal description of hair shape ranges from the classic to the more sophisticated, with terms such as straight, wavy, curly, frizzy, kinky, woolly, helical, etc. Although these descriptions evoke a global appearance, they remain confusing as their definitions and limits are unclear. Assessments are therefore required to more accurately define such verbal attributes.

Objective  The work reported here attempts to address the following issues: (i) to define hair types according to specific shape criteria through objective and simple measurements; and (ii) to define such hair types without referring to human ethnicity.

Methods  Measurements of four parameters related to hair curliness (curve diameter, curl index) or kinking of the hair (numbers of waves, numbers of twists) were performed on hair from 2449 subjects from 22 different countries. Principal components analysis and hierarchical ascendant classification were used to identify homogeneous groups of hair and to determine key variables for the assignment of group membership. Finally, a segmentation tree was prepared in order to establish simple rules for predicting group membership of new subjects.

Results and conclusions  This study has shown that it is possible to classify the various hair types found worldwide into eight main groups. The approach involves objective descriptors of hair shape, and is more reliable than traditional methods relying on categories such as curly, wavy, and kinky. Applied to worldwide human diversity, it avoids reference to the putative, unclear ethnic origin of subjects. Briefly, a straight hair type I is just that, and whether it originates from a Caucasian or an Asian subject is not at issue. The hair types defined here also more adequately reflect the large variation of hair shape diversity around the world, and may possibly help to trace past mixed origins amongst human subgroups.
Human hair keratin network and curvature
Authors: Thibaut Sebastien , Barbarat Philippe , Leroy Frederic , Bernard Bruno A.
Published: October 2007

Background  In human hair, very little is known about the substructures relating to the curl pattern. The interpretation of the macroscopic shape of the fiber at the molecular and cellular scales is still unclear.

Methods  A comparative and multiscale study was carried out on a set of human hair samples, ranging in shape from straight to tightly curled, in order to investigate structural elements that might be related to hair curl pattern.

Results  At the macroscopic level, the frequency and amplitude of cross‐sectional rotations were found to be crucial for an accurate description of curliness. At the cellular level, transmission electron microscopy experiments made it possible to confirm that macrofibril organization was strongly related to hair curliness. The curly hair follicles exhibited retrocurvature, independent of ethnic origin. A direct comparison of straight hair and curly hair highlighted an intrinsic asymmetry in the proliferative compartment that clearly extended above the Auber line on the convex side of the curvature. This phenomenon caused delayed differentiation of both inner and outer root sheaths. The hair cortex itself was elliptical and asymmetric, as evidenced by hHa8 keratin. In curly hair, this hair keratin accumulated on the concave side of the curvature, whereas, in straight hair, positive cortical cells were evenly distributed throughout the circular fiber.

Conclusion  The curly shape of the hair shaft seems to result from the asymmetric differentiation of the precortex. Hair fiber can thus be considered as a shape memory material.
Skin cancers at the National University Hospital of Cotonou from 1985 to 2004
Authors: Adegbidi Hugues , Yedomon Hubert , Atadokpede Felix , Balley‐Pognon Marie‐Claire , Do Ango‐Padonou Florencia
Published: October 2007

Background  Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer occurring in adults in Europe and the USA. A low incidence has been reported in the black American population and in Africa, however. This study investigates the incidence of melanoma and epidermoid and basocellular carcinoma at Cotonou in Benin.

Methods  Over 20 years, 19 patient records were collected, 16 of which were the subject of a retrospective epidemiologic study.

Results  The main characteristic of skin cancer in the Department of Dermatology, Cotonou, Benin was its extreme rarity. The frequency was 0.00066%, with a male to female ratio of 1.28 and a mean age of 54.81 years. The mean ages at diagnosis for epidermoid carcinoma, melanoma, and basocellular carcinoma were 61.66, 59.40, and 54.56 years, respectively. The mean duration of epidermoid carcinoma was 6–10 times longer than that of melanoma and basocellular carcinoma. Of the 16 patients included in the study, five were albinos. In this group, the frequency was 31.25%.

Discussion  The extreme rarity of skin cancers in our series cannot be the result of recruitment bias alone. It reflects the actual situation. All of our cases of melanoma were in a plantar location. This inconsistency with other studies is probably a result of the size of our series. The duration of disease in our cases of carcinoma was comparable with the results obtained in a previous study in Dakar, Senegal. In our study, oculocutaneous albinism was the main preneoplastic factor.

Conclusion  This study confirms the low incidence of skin cancer in the black population, the fact that basocellular carcinoma affects a relatively young population, and the predilection of melanoma for acral locations in black individuals.
Kaposi's sarcoma in a hospital setting in Lomé (Togo): a study of 93 cases
Authors: Pitche Palokinam T. , Kombate Koussaké , Owono Françoise , Tchangai‐Walla Kissem
Published: October 2007

Aim  To define the epidemiologic and clinical profile and course of the disease in African Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)‐associated KS in Togo.

Methods  This was a retrospective study performed on the medical records of patients seen at the Department of Dermatology, University Hospital of Lomé, Togo from January 1994 to December 2004. The medical records of all patients with KS, who had undergone human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) serology, were included in the study.

Results  Ninety‐three files on 98 patients with KS, who had undergone HIV serology, were included in the study. The annual incidence during the study period was 8.5. HIV serology was positive in 73 patients (78.5%) and negative in 20 patients (21.5%). The mean age of the patients with AIDS‐associated KS was 33.8 ± 8.2 years, and 49.5 ± 15.8 years for African KS. The male to female ratio for AIDS‐associated KS was 1.4, and 9 for African KS. The mortality rate at 2 years for African KS was 5%, and 45% for AIDS‐associated KS.

Conclusion  The low level of access to antiretroviral drugs in HIV‐infected patients explains the morbidity and mortality from AIDS‐associated KS in Togo.
Strategy for allergenicity assessment of ‘natural novel foods’: clinical and molecular investigation of exotic vegetables (water spinach, hyacinth bean and Ethiopian eggplant)
Authors: Gubesch M. , Theler B. , Dutta M. , Baumer B. , Mathis A. , Holzhauser T. , Vieths S. , Ballmer‐Weber B. K.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Foods not commonly consumed in the European Union must be proven safe before being brought to market, including an assessment of allergenicity. We present a three‐stepwise strategy for allergenicity assessment of natural novel foods using three novel vegetables, namely, water spinach, hyacinth bean, Ethiopian eggplant.

Methods:  First, vegetable extracts were analyzed for the presence of pan‐allergens [Bet v 1 homologous proteins, profilins, nonspecific lipid transfer proteins (LTP)] by immunoblot analysis with specific animal antibodies. Secondly, the IgE‐binding of the food extracts was investigated by EAST (Enzyme‐allergosorbent test) and immunoblot analysis using sera with IgE‐reactivity to known pan‐allergens or to phylogenetically related foods from subjects (i) allergic to birch, grass and mugwort pollen, (ii) with food allergy to soy, peanut, tomato, multiple pollen‐related foods and (iii) sensitized to LTP. Thirdly, the clinical relevance of IgE‐binding was assessed in vivo by skin prick testing (SPT) and open oral food challenges (OFC).

Results:  Profilin and LTP were detected by animal antibodies in all vegetables, a Bet v 1 homologue selectively in hyacinth bean. IgE‐binding to LTP, profilin and a Bet v 1 homologue was proven by immunoblot analysis and EAST. Positive SPT and OFC results were observed for all vegetables in pollen‐allergic patients.

Conclusions:  Our stepwise procedure confirmed the presence and IgE‐binding capacity of novel vegetable proteins homologous to known allergens in endemic vegetable foods. In vivo testing proved the potential of the novel vegetables to elicit clinical allergy. Hence, our described algorithm seems to be applicable for allergenicity testing of natural novel foods.
Interactions between mature Der p 1 and its free prodomain indicate membership of a new family of C1 peptidases
Authors: Zhang J. , Hamilton J. M. , Garrod D. R. , Robinson C.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Studies in vivo have shown that the cysteine peptidase activity of group 1 house dust mite allergens contributes to their allergenicity. These allergens are synthesized initially as proenzymes and removal of the propiece is necessary to unmask their proteolytic activity. In related C1 family cysteine peptidases of enzyme clan CA, liberated propieces continue to inhibit the mature peptidase as tight binding inhibitors. As it is not known whether mite peptidase allergens behave similarly, our objective was to investigate the effect of the Der p 1 propiece on the catalytic activity of Der p 1 and Der f 1.

Methods:  Enzymatic activity of natural Der p 1 and Der f 1 was assessed using a specific substrate and the effect of the recombinant propiece on its enzyme kinetics defined. The integrity of the propiece during these interactions was studied functionally and by analysis of the reaction mixtures.

Results:  Der p 1 propiece was a potent competitive inhibitor of Der p 1 and Der f 1. In contrast to other cysteine peptidase prodomains, which are cognate tight binding inhibitors, the Der p 1 propiece behaves as a substrate and is fully degraded during this interaction.

Conclusion:  Mature Der p 1‐prodomain interactions differ from other C1 family cysteine peptidases, suggesting that group 1 mite allergens are a new subgroup among C1 family cysteine peptidases. The rapid inactivation of Der p 1 prodomain is a newly identified mechanism that may contribute to the potency of this allergen.
The European LABDEL project and its relevance to the prevention and treatment of allergies
Authors: Daniel C. , Repa A. , Mercenier A. , Wiedermann U. , Wells J.
Published: October 2007

In March 2001, the European Commission funded a 3‐year project (contract no. QLK3‐CT‐2000‐00340) under the fifth Framework Programme to develop and test prototype products based on the oral delivery of vaccine and therapeutic agents using harmless lactic acid bacteria (LAB). The project, best known under its acronym LABDEL (for LAB delivery) also included research on LAB fermentation and technological innovations aimed at enhancing the efficiency of LAB delivery systems (1). One of the key scientific objectives was to investigate the possibility to prevent or treat a type I allergic disease using mucosal administration of LAB expressing the pollen allergen Bet v 1. The aim of this paper was to describe the background of the project with reference to a limited selection of articles and recent reviews as well as the results and major conclusions arising from this part of the project.
Randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG as treatment of atopic dermatitis in infancy
Authors: Grüber C. , Wendt M. , Sulser C. , Lau S. , Kulig M. , Wahn U. , Werfel T. , Niggemann B.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Some studies have suggested that supplementation of food with lactobacilli may prevent or improve atopic dermatitis in children. This study was designed to investigate the therapeutic effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) as a food supplement in infants suffering from atopic dermatitis.

Methods:  Infants aged 3–12 months suffering from mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis (severity scoring of atopic dermatitis or SCORAD index of 15–40) without current antiinflammatory treatment were randomized to receive LGG (5 × 109 colony forming units b.i.d.) or placebo as a food supplement for 12 weeks. Severity scoring of atopic dermatitis index and use of hydrocortisone 1% ointment as rescue medication (2 points per application) were recorded at 4, 8, and 12 weeks of treatment and combined as symptom load (SL).

Results:  Fifty‐four infants (LGG group, mean ± SD SCORAD index 24.6 ± 8.8) and 48 infants (placebo group, SCORAD index 23.6 ± 7.8) were randomized and completed the treatment period (intention‐to‐treat analysis). Symptom load generally improved over time at 4 weeks (LGG vs placebo, 23.8 ± 12.4 vs 20.6 ± 9.9), 8 weeks (22.5 ± 14.6 vs 17.9 ± 13.1), and 12 weeks (19.6 ± 15.4 vs 15.1 ± 12.1), without statistically significant group differences. When stratified for age, eczema severity or use of rescue medication, no statistically significant group differences, in improvement, were found. No significant group differences were found for the use of rescue medication (0.8 ± 45.0 g vs 3.5 ± 29.8 g), increase in mean logarithmic total serum IgE (0.17 ± 0.30 kU/l vs 0.26 ± 0.45 kU/l), and newly developed allergic sensitization against hen’s egg or cow’s milk (18.8%vs 10.0%).

Conclusion:  This placebo‐controlled trial showed no therapeutic effect of LGG against mild‐to‐moderate atopic dermatitis in infancy.
Islet autoantibodies are associated with HLA‐DQ genotypes in Han Chinese patients with type 1 diabetes and their relatives
Authors: Wang J.‐P. , Zhou Z.‐G. , Lin J. , Huang G. , Zhang C. , Yang L. , Yuan Y. , Zhou H.‐F. , Zhou M. , Hou C. , Zhou W.‐D. , Peng H. , Hagopian W. A.
Published: October 2007

The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between islet autoantibodies of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GADA), islet antigen‐2A (IA‐2A), insulin autoantibody (IAA), and human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DQ genotypes in type 1 diabetes (T1D) patients and their first‐degree relatives (FDRs). Cross‐sectional and case–control study. Four hundred and ninety‐five T1D patients, 419 FDRs, and 376 control subjects in Han Chinese populations were recruited and tested for GADA and IA‐2A, while 71 cases, all FDRs and 300 controls were tested for IAA. The 338 T1D patients (including 187 antibody‐positive and 151 antibody‐negative patients), 173 FDRs and 278 controls were genotyped for HLA‐DQ with polymerase chain reaction sequencing‐based method. Compared with the control, the frequency of DQA1*03‐DQB1*0303, DQA1*05‐DQB1*0201, and DQA1*03‐DQB1*0401 haplotypes was higher (P < 0.05–0.01) but DQA1*0102‐DQB1*0602 haplotype was lower (P < 0.01) in T1D patients. DQA1*03 allele was less in the FDRs than in their probands (P < 0.05). GADA was more prevalent in T1D patients carrying DQA1*05‐DQB1*0201 or DQA1*03‐DQB1*0401 haplotype (55.8% vs 41.0%, 65.5% vs 40.3%, P < 0.05–0.01), whereas IA‐2A presented more in the patients carrying DQA1*03‐DQB1*0303 haplotype (27.0% vs 7.9%, P < 0.05–0.01), both GADA and IA‐2A showed frequently in the patients with DQA1*03‐DQB1*0303/DQA1*05‐DQB1*0201 haplotypes (34.5% vs 9.7%, P < 0.01). GADA positivity was lower in the patients with DQA1*0102‐DQB1*0602 haplotype (16.7% vs 45.9%, P < 0.05). The frequency of IAA was not different between patients with and without susceptible DQ haplotypes (P > 0.05). GADA, IA‐2A or IAA presented frequently in FDRs with DQA1*03‐DQB1*0303 haplotype. The findings in the study indicate that some of specific HLA‐DQA1/‐DQB1 genotypes and haplotypes not only confer susceptibility to T1D but also are associated with the presence of the islet autoantibodies in the Han Chinese population.
Cell transplantation in the treatment of liver diseases
Authors: Smets F. , Najimi M. , Sokal E. M.
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  The liver performs multiple functions that are essential for life, the most crucial being its role in the body metabolism. Impairment of this function, because of liver insufficiency, can be partially restored by medical management but OLT remains the ultimate therapeutic treatment. Because not always indicated or available, other alternatives are proposed such as LCT. Compared to OLT, this procedure is less invasive, less expensive, and fully reversible. More than 50 patients have thus far benefited of this technique and are reviewed here. Indications were multiple including inborn errors of metabolism, FHF, acute on chronic diseases, and decompensated end‐stage cirrhosis. Documented results were encouraging, especially for metabolic disorders, with medium‐term efficacy up to two yr. Related complications were exceptional. On this basis, LCT has entered its phase of clinical application and current indications and protocols are detailed. Ongoing lines of research are discussed, including cell quality, stem cell field, and rejection prevention. Further improvement of the procedure is therefore expected and should lead to broader applications of LCT.
Lymphocyte subset reconstitution in pediatric liver recipients induced with steroid‐free rabbit anti‐human thymocyte globulin
Authors: Talukdar Anjan , AshokKumar Chethan , Farrar Jennifer , Wilson Patrick , Janakiramanan Arun , Tregaskes Mary , Sindhi Rakesh
Published: October 2007

Abstract:  Multiple measurements of lymphocyte subsets in 91 children treated with steroid‐free tacrolimus, and rabbit anti‐human thymocyte globulin induction demonstrate early reconstitution of T‐cytotoxic cells, and gradual reconstitution of all other subsets, which is complete after one yr. Rejection‐prone children demonstrate significantly higher counts of lymphocytes and all subsets prior to liver transplantation, and may exemplify one basis for enhanced baseline immunocompetence.
Outcomes for women in a flexible sigmoidoscopy‐based colorectal cancer screening programme
Authors: Viiala C. H. , Olynyk J. K.
Published: October 2007

Background:  There are concerns that technical and anatomical factors can reduce the potential benefit of flexible sigmoidoscopy (FS) as a colorectal cancer (CRC) screening tool in women compared with men. Our aim was to review the outcomes for female participants in a community‐based CRC screening project using FS.

Methods:  In 1995, a programme of unsedated FS‐based screening of asymptomatic average‐risk individuals aged 55–64 years was established at Fremantle Hospital, Western Australia. Insertion depths, pathological findings and site of adenomas and subject‐rated pain scores have been prospectively recorded. Later diagnoses of malignancy were determined by linkage of the cohort with the West Australian Cancer Registry.

Results:  Between 1995 and 2005, 3402 primary screening FS examinations had been carried out (women 41%). Mean age of participants was 59.6 years. Women were more likely to undergo a FS with insertion depth less than 40 cm (17 vs 6%, P < 0.0001). Mean pain score was 2.9 for men and 4.0 for women (P < 0.0001). Women were less likely to have any neoplasia detected, independent of pain score or insertion depth (odds ratio 0.5, 95% confidence interval 0.4–0.6). Increasing insertion depth from 50 to 60 cm in a woman would only have a 0.4% chance of detecting any additional neoplasia. An insignificant trend to higher incidence of later interval CRC was observed in women with normal sigmoidoscopy.

Conclusion:  Women probably undergo FS with more discomfort and lesser insertion depth than men. It is unlikely that moderate increases in insertion depth would have a substantial benefit.