bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pain Treatment and Recovery After Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Kemppainen Tatu P , Tuomilehto Henri , Kokki Hannu , Seppä Juha , Nuutinen Juhani
Published: June 2007

Objectives/Hypothesis: Early recovery and pain management after endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) are largely unexplored regardless of the large number of ESSs performed by otorhinolaryngologists. In the present study, we evaluated whether scheduled administration of acetaminophen (paracetamol) for pain management after ESS would allow faster recovery to normal daily activities compared with acetaminophen administered on an as needed basis.

Study Design: Open, prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial with two parallel groups.

Methods: There were 78 patients who were undergoing ESS and were randomized into two groups. The “scheduled” group (n = 38) was instructed to take two acetaminophen 665 mg modified‐release tablets three times a day during the first five postoperative days, whereas the “as needed” group (n = 40) was given instructions to use acetaminophen 665 mg tablets only on an as needed basis. Patients filled in a questionnaire at the follow‐up visits on the 7th and 30th postoperative days. The main outcome measures were return to normal daily activities (primary endpoint) and pain during the first week after surgery and patients' satisfaction with pain management (secondary endpoints).

Results: Patients returned to their normal daily activities in 8.8 (SD 4.8) days in the “scheduled” group versus in 10.3 (SD 7.0) days in the “as needed” group (mean difference 1.5; 95% CI of the difference –1.3 to 4.2; P = .29). In the “scheduled” group, the mean of worst pain was 3.4 (2.9) compared with 5.2 (3.0) in the “as needed” group on an 11‐point scale (mean difference 1.7; 95% CI of the difference 0.4–5.2; P = .019). The patients in both groups were equally satisfied with pain management.

Conclusions: The present study suggests that patients recover in 9 to 10 days after ESS when provided with appropriate pain management. Our data indicate that by prescribing scheduled acetaminophen, postoperative pain after ESS can be controlled effectively without the need for opioid analgesics.
Vidian Canal: Analysis and Relationship to the Internal Carotid Artery
Authors: Vescan Allan D. , Snyderman Carl H. , Carrau Ricardo L. , Mintz Arlan , Gardner Paul , Branstetter Barton , Kassam Amin B.
Published: June 2007

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to describe the anatomy and relationships of the vidian canal to known endonasal and skull base landmarks. This will allow the endoscopic skull base surgeon to safely approach the anterior genu of the petrous carotid artery during expanded endonasal approaches to the skull base.

Study Design: The study is a prospective cohort study.

Methods: Axial, coronal, and sagittal computed tomography scans of the paranasal sinuses and skull base of 44 patients were examined. Individuals with known skull base pathology were excluded. Measurements included the length of the vidian canal, the relationship of the vidian canal to the anterior genu of the petrous carotid artery, and the type of pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus as it pertains to foramen rotundum and the vidian canal. In addition, we will focus on the relationship of the vidian canal to the sphenopalatine foramen and base of the medial pterygoid plate.

Results: The degree of pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus is highly variable. The mean length of the vidian canal is 18 mm (10–23 mm). The vidian canal is found entirely within bone in 27% to 30% of scans reviewed. The anterior genu of the petrous internal carotid artery is found superior‐medial to the vidian canal in 44 of 44 of the CT scans reviewed. The vidian canal runs medial to lateral in 93% to 98% of patients studied.

Conclusions: As a result of this study the endoscopic skull base surgeon has a number of anatomical landmarks and measurements that may be helpful insafely localizing the anterior genu of the petrous internal carotid artery during expanded endonasal approaches to the skull base.
Increased Communication Among Nasal Epithelial Cells in Air‐Liquid Interface Culture
Authors: Yeh Te‐Huei , Tsai Ching‐Hwa , Chen Yuh‐Shyang , Hsu Wei‐Chung , Cheng Chiung‐Hsiang , Hsu Chuan‐Jen , Lee Shiann‐Yann
Published: June 2007

Objective/Hypothesis: The retinoid acid (RA) sufficient air‐liquid interface (ALI) cell culture model, but not the classical submerged single layer (SSL) cell culture model, can achieve ciliary differentiation of nasal epithelial cells. Because gap junction mediated intercellular communication (GJIC) may contribute to differentiation in numerous cell types, this study compared the extent of GJIC and the expression of Connexin 43 (Cx43) in nasal epithelial cells in both SSL and ALI cultures.

Methods: Cell morphology was examined via optical and scanning electron microscope, and the number of cells with ciliary beating were counted. Lucifer Yellow dye transfer test using the scrape loading method was performed to assess the GJIC. Cx43 expression was measured with reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and quantitative (Q)‐PCR.

Results: Nasal epithelial cells in ALI culture exhibited increased numbers of ciliated cells compared with SSL culture during the 3‐week culture period. On day 20, GJIC was increased in ALI culture (ALI % ‐ SSL % = 9.6 ± 1.2%, n = 5). Accordingly, Cx43 expression was increased via RT‐PCR (4.22‐fold) and Q‐PCR (5.3 ± 1.1‐fold, n = 5) examination.

Conclusions: RA sufficient ALI culture manifested more differentiated nasal epithelial cell status with ciliogenesis. Cx43, being the responsible molecule for GJIC, increased in parallel. Consequently, as in primary cultured limbal epithelial cells, Cx43 expression and extent of GJIC may serve as markers for the differentiation status of nasal epithelial cells.
Detection of Parainfluenza Virus 3 in Turbinate Epithelial Cells of Postviral Olfactory Dysfunction Patients
Authors: Wang Jong Hwan , Kwon Hyun Ja , Jang Yong Ju
Published: June 2007

Objectives/Hypothesis: Postviral olfactory dysfunction (PVOD) develops after a common cold, but little is known about the viral pathogen inducing olfactory dysfunction. We hypothesized that human parainfluenza virus 3 (PIV3) may cause PVOD. We therefore assayed the nasal cavity mucosae of PVOD patients for the presence or persistence of PIV3.

Methods: We assessed 25 patients (5 men, 20 women), ranging in age from 31 to 85 (mean, 51) years, diagnosed with PVOD and 22 controls (18 men, 4 women) diagnosed with nasal septal deviation between July 2005 and August 2006. Inferior turbinate epithelial cells were collected using a Rhino‐probe mucosal curette, and PIV3 was assayed by seminested reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results: PVOD occurred most frequently between May and July. Hyposmia was observed in 60% of patients and anosmia in 40%. The most common clinical symptoms were rhinorrhea, sore throat, nasal obstruction, fever, myalgia, cough, and hoarseness. Patients usually visited the outpatient clinic within 3 months after the onset of olfactory dysfunction. Twenty‐two of 25 (88.0%) epithelial samples from PVOD patients were positive for PIV3 compared with 2 of 22 (9.1%) epithelial samples from controls.

Conclusions: The high detection rate of PIV3 in the turbinate epithelial cells of PVOD patients suggests that PIV3 may be the causative virus of PVOD.
Problematic clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa from the university hospitals in Sofia, Bulgaria: current status of antimicrobial resistance and prevailing resistance mechanisms
Authors: Strateva Tanya , Ouzounova-Raykova Vessela , Markova Boyka , Todorova Albena , Marteva-Proevska Yulia , Mitov Ivan
Published: June 2007

A total of 203 clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was collected during 2001–2006 from five university hospitals in Sofia, Bulgaria, to assess the current levels of antimicrobial susceptibility and to evaluate resistance mechanisms to antipseudomonal antimicrobial agents. The antibiotic resistance rates against the following antimicrobials were: carbenicillin 93.1 %, azlocillin 91.6 %, piperacillin 86.2 %, piperacillin/tazobactam 56.8 %, ceftazidime 45.8 %, cefepime 48.9 %, cefpirome 58.2 %, aztreonam 49.8 %, imipenem 42.3 %, meropenem 45.5 %, amikacin 59.1 %, gentamicin 79.7 %, tobramycin 89.6 %, netilmicin 69.6 % and ciprofloxacin 80.3 %. A total of 101 of the studied P. aeruginosa isolates (49.8 %) were multidrug resistant. Structural genes encoding class A and class D β-lactamases showed the following frequencies: bla
VEB-1 33.1 %, bla
PSE-1 22.5 %, bla
PER-1 0 %, bla
OXA-groupI 41.3 % and bla
OXA-groupII 8.8 %. IMP- and VIM-type carbapenemases were not detected. In conclusion, the studied clinical strains of P. aeruginosa were problematic nosocomial pathogens. VEB-1 extended-spectrum β-lactamases appear to have a significant presence among clinical P. aeruginosa isolates from Sofia. Carbapenem resistance was related to non-enzymic mechanisms such as a deficiency of OprD proteins and active efflux.
Distribution of the clpX gene in Brachyspira species and reactivity of recombinant Brachyspira pilosicoli ClpX with sera from mice and humans
Authors: Movahedi Abdolreza , Hampson David J.
Published: June 2007

Previously, aclpXgene encoding a predicted 67 kDa membrane-associated ATPase subunit of the Clp protease (ClpX) was identified in a porcine strain (95/1000) of the intestinal spirochaeteBrachyspira pilosicoli.In the current study, the distribution of this largeclpXgene was investigated in a collection of strains representing all sevenBrachyspiraspp. Using PCR with internal primers, an 878 bp portion of the gene was detected in 29 of 35 strains (83 %) ofB. pilosicoli, 6 of 24 strains (25 %) ofBrachyspira hyodysenteriae, 14 of 16 strains (88 %) ofBrachyspira intermedia, 6 of 17 strains (35 %) ofBrachyspira innocens, 1 of 6 strains (17 %) ofBrachyspira murdochii, 1 of 2 strains (50 %) ofBrachyspira aalborgiand not in the single strain ofBrachyspira alvinipulli. The whole gene was sequenced from 20Brachyspiraspp. strains and compared with theclpXgene fromB. pilosicoli95/1000 (GenBank accession no. AY466377). The genes had 99.3–99.7 % nucleotide sequence similarity and the predicted products had 99.7–100 % amino acid sequence similarity. TheclpXgene from WesB, a human strain ofB. pilosicoli, was cloned and expressed as a histidine-tagged fusion protein inEscherichia coliBL21. The purified protein was used to vaccinate mice and their sera were found to recognize the expected ∼67 kDa protein in whole-cell preparations of WesB. Sera from mice vaccinated with formalin-treated whole-cell proteins of WesB reacted with the recombinant protein. These results indicate that ClpX is both conserved and immunogenic and hence might be useful as a subunit vaccine component forBrachyspiraspp. infections. Sera from humans with no known exposure toB. pilosicolireacted with the recombinant ClpX protein, indicating that it is unlikely to be useful as a reagent for serological detection ofBrachyspiraspp. infections.
Comparative analysis of host-cell signalling mechanisms activated in response to infection with Rickettsia conorii and Rickettsia typhi
Authors: Rydkina Elena , Sahni Abha , Silverman David J. , Sahni Sanjeev K.
Published: June 2007

The Gram-negative intracellular bacteriaRickettsia conoriiandRickettsia typhiare the aetiological agents of Mediterranean spotted fever and endemic typhus, respectively, in humans. Infection of endothelial cells (ECs) lining vessel walls, and the resultant vascular inflammation and haemostatic alterations are salient pathogenetic features of both of these rickettsial diseases. An important consideration, however, is that dramatic differences in the intracellular motility and accumulation patterns for spotted fever versus typhus group rickettsiae have been documented, suggesting the possibility of unique and potentially different interactions with host cells. This study characterized and comparedR. conorii- andR. typhi-mediated effects on cultured human ECs. The DNA-binding activity of nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) and the phosphorylation status of stress-activated p38 kinase were determined as indicators of NF-κB and p38 activation.R. conoriiinfection resulted in a biphasic activation of NF-κB, with an early increase in DNA-binding activity at 3 h, followed by a later peak at 24 h. The activated NF-κB species were composed mainly of RelA p65–p50 heterodimers and p50 homodimers.R. typhiinfection of ECs resulted in only early activation of NF-κB at 3 h, composed primarily of p65–p50 heterodimers. WhilstR. conoriiinfection induced increased phosphorylation of p38 kinase (threefold mean induction) with the maximal response at 3 h, a considerably less-intense response peaking at about 6 h post-infection was found withR. typhi. Furthermore, mRNA expression of the chemokines interleukin (IL)-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in ECs infected with eitherRickettsiaspecies was higher than the corresponding controls, but there were distinct differences in the secretion patterns for IL-8, suggesting the possibility of involvement of post-transcriptional control mechanisms or differences in the release from intracellular storage sites. Thus, the intensity and kinetics of host-cell responses triggered by spotted fever and typhus species exhibit distinct variations that could subsequently lead to differences in the extent of endothelial activation and inflammation and serve as important determinants of pathogenesis.
Reconstructed interfollicular feline epidermis as a model for Microsporum canis dermatophytosis
Authors: Tabart Jeremy , Baldo Aline , Vermout Sandy , Nusgens Betty , Lapiere Charles , Losson Bertrand , Mignon Bernard
Published: June 2007

Microsporum canis is a pathogenic fungus that causes a superficial cutaneous infection called dermatophytosis. The complexity of mechanisms involved in dermatophytic infections makes relevant in vivo studies particularly difficult to perform. The aim of this study was to develop a new in vitro model of M. canis dermatophytosis using feline fetal keratinocytes in reconstructed interfollicular epidermis, and to investigate its relevance in studying the host–pathogen relationship. Histological analysis of reconstructed interfollicular feline epidermis (RFE) revealed a fully differentiated epidermis. A proliferation assay showed replicating cells only in the basal layer, indicating that RFE is a well-stratified living tissue, leading to the formation of a horny layer. Histopathological analysis of RFE infected by M. canis arthroconidia revealed that the fungus invades the stratum corneum and produces SUB3, a keratinase implicated in the infectious process. In view of these results, an M. canis dermatophytosis model on RFE seems to be a useful tool to investigate mechanisms involved in natural M. canis feline infections.
A rationale for using steroids in the treatment of severe cases of H5N1 avian influenza
Authors: Carter Marissa J.
Published: June 2007

Acute hypercytokinaemia represents an imbalance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, and is believed to be responsible for the development of acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple organ failure in severe cases of avian (H5N1) influenza. Although neuraminidase inhibitors are effective in treating avian influenza, especially if given within 48 h of infection, it is harder to prevent the resultant hypercytokinaemia from developing if the patient does not seek timely medical assistance. Steroids have been used for many decades in a wide variety of inflammatory conditions in which hypercytokinaemia plays a role, such as sepsis and viral infections, including severe acquired respiratory syndromes and avian influenza. However, to date, the results have been mixed. Part of the reason for the discrepancies might be the lack of understanding that low doses are required to prevent mortality in cases of adrenal insufficiency. Adrenal insufficiency, as defined in the sepsis/shock literature, is a plasma cortisol rise of at least 9 μg dl−1following a 250 μg dose of adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH), or reaching a plasma cortisol concentration of >25 μg dl−1following a 1–2 μg dose of ACTH. In addition, in the case of hypercytokinaemia induced by potent viruses, such as H5N1, systemic inflammation-induced, acquired glucocorticoid resistance is likely to be present. Adrenal insufficiency can be overcome, however, with prolonged (7–10 or more days) supraphysiological steroid treatment at a sufficiently high dose to address the excess activation of NF-κB, but low enough to avoid immune suppression. This is a much lower dose than has been typically used to treat avian influenza patients. Although steroids cannot be used as a monotherapy in the treatment of avian influenza, there might be a potential role for their use as an adjunct treatment to antiviral therapy if appropriate dosages can be determined. In this paper, likely mechanisms of adrenal insufficiency are discussed, drawing from a broad background of literature sources.
Identification of a gene encoding adaptin-like protein in the Paracoccidioides brasiliensis genome by random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis
Authors: Andreotti Patrícia Ferrari , Monteiro da Silva Juliana Leal , Teixeira Elaine Cristina , Bertolini Maria Célia , Soares Christiane Pienna , Benard Gil , Mendes-Giannini Maria José Soares
Published: June 2007

Paracoccidioides brasiliensis isolates are not homogeneous in their patterns of pathogenicity in animals and adhesion to epithelial cells. During this investigation, genotypic differences were observed between two samples of P. brasiliensis strain 18 yeast phase (Pb18) previously cultured many times, one taken before (Pb18a) and the other after (Pb18b) animal inoculation. Random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis using the primer OPJ4 distinguished Pb18b from Pb18a by one 308 bp DNA fragment, which after cloning and sequencing was shown to encode a polypeptide sequence homologous to the protein β-adaptin. It is suggested, by comparison to other micro-organisms, that this protein might play an important role in the virulence of P. brasiliensis. This result demonstrates the influence of in vitro subculturing on the genotype of this organism.
A composite transposon associated with erythromycin and clindamycin resistance in group B Streptococcus
Authors: Puopolo Karen M. , Klinzing David C. , Lin Michelle P. , Yesucevitz Derek L. , Cieslewicz Michael J.
Published: June 2007

Group BStreptococcus(GBS) resistant to erythromycin and clindamycin has been isolated with increasing frequency since the mid-1990s. This work studied GBS isolates from three US cities to determine the genetic basis of the macrolide resistance phenotype.ermBgenes were amplified from five isolates collected in Boston, Pittsburgh and Seattle from infant and adult sources. Gene-walking methods were used to determine the chromosomal location ofermBand to identify associated genes. Southern mapping and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analyses were used to distinguish the isolates. TheermBgene was present on the chromosome within a composite Tn917/Tn916-like transposon similar to one identified inStreptococcus pneumoniae. Four strains from Boston and Pittsburgh were serotype V and identical by Southern hybridization and RAPD analysis. The Seattle isolate was serotype Ib, with different patterns on RAPD analysis and Southern mapping. The composite transposon was integrated at an identical chromosomal site in all five isolates. The presence of this composite transposon in both GBS and pneumococci suggests thatermB-mediated macrolide resistance in streptococci may be due to the horizontal transfer of a mobile transposable element, and raises concern for further dissemination of high-grade erythromycin and clindamycin resistance among streptococcal species.
Molecular characterization and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of Clostridium difficile strains isolated from hospitals in south-east Scotland
Authors: Mutlu Esvet , Wroe Allison J. , Sanchez-Hurtado Karla , Brazier Jon S. , Poxton Ian R.
Published: June 2007

Clostridium difficile isolates (n=149) collected in south-east Scotland between August and October 2005 were typed by four different methods and their susceptibility to seven different antibiotics was determined. The aims were to define the types of strain occurring in this region and to determine whether there were any clonal relationships among them with respect to genotype and antibiotic resistance pattern. Ribotyping revealed that 001 was the most common type (n=113, 75.8 %), followed by ribotype 106 (12 isolates, 8.1 %). The majority of the isolates (96.6 %, n=144) were of toxinotype 0, with two toxinotype V isolates and single isolates of toxinotypes I, IV and XIII. PCR and restriction analysis of the fliC gene from 147 isolates gave two restriction patterns: 145 of pattern VII and two of pattern I. Binary toxin genes were detected in only three isolates: two isolates of ribotype 126, toxinotype V, and one isolate of ribotype 023, toxinotype IV. S-types showed more variation, with 64.5 % (n=40) of the common S-type (4939) and 21 % (n=13) of S-type 4741, with six other S-types (one to three isolates each). All ribotype 001 isolates were of the same S-type (4939), with three isolates of other ribotypes being this S-type. No resistance was found to metronidazole or vancomycin, with resistance to tetracycline only found in 4.3 % of the isolates. A high proportion of isolates were resistant to clindamycin (62.9 %), moxifloxacin, ceftriaxone (both 87.1 %) and erythromycin (94.8 %). Resistance to three antibiotics (erythromycin, clindamycin and ceftriaxone) was seen in 66 isolates, with erythromycin, ceftriaxone and moxifloxacin resistance seen in 96 isolates. Resistance to all four of these antibiotics was found in 62 isolates and resistance to five (the above plus tetracycline) in one isolate: a ribotype 001, toxinotype 0 strain. Whilst ribotype 001 was the most commonly encountered type, there was no evidence of clonal relationships when all other typing and antibiotic resistance patterns were taken into account.
Repeated bacteraemia caused by Streptococcus mutans in a patient with Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Nomura Ryota , Hamada Masakazu , Nakano Kazuhiko , Nemoto Hirotoshi , Fujimoto Koji , Ooshima Takashi
Published: June 2007

Streptococcus mutans, considered to be a pathogen for dental caries, is known to cause bacteraemia and infective endocarditis. Herein, an unusual case of repeated bacteraemia caused by S. mutans identified in a 71-year-old male is described. The patient visited Itami City Hospital with the major complaint of a fever, and a subsequent clinical examination led to a diagnosis of possible infective endocarditis without specific vegetation formation around the heart valve. A bacteriological examination of blood taken at the first visit showed the presence of S. mutans. Antimicrobial treatment was provided, which successfully eliminated the pathogenic bacteria from the blood. However, the patient returned and was hospitalized twice more with a recurrent fever, and S. mutans was again detected. Analyses of the biological properties of the S. mutans isolates showed that they possessed cariogenic properties and had a low susceptibility to phagocytosis by human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Since the patient had Sjögren's syndrome, in which a reduction of saliva secretion is a characteristic feature, a great number of dental caries lesions were identified. The findings indicated that S. mutans present in those dental caries lesions caused repeated bacteraemia in this case.
A botanical inventory and diversity assessment of Mt. Marsabit forest, a sub‐humid montane forest in the arid lands of northern Kenya
Authors: Githae Eunice W. , Chuah‐Petiot Mins , Mworia John K. , Odee David W.
Published: June 2007

A botanical inventory and diversity of trees, shrubs (≥5 cm diameter at breast height [dbh]), herbs, climbers and lianas was assessed in plots (154) of 20 × 5 m in Mt. Marsabit forest, northern Kenya. We recorded 52 species of trees and shrubs, twelve species of herbs and six species of climbers and lianas. They belonged to 35 families and 64 genera. Rubiaceae was the richest family with nine species followed by Euphorbiaceae (six), Oleaceae (five), Rutaceae (four), Capparaceae, Labiatae and Leguminosae (three each). The rest of the families were represented by one or two species. Rinorea convallarioides (Bak.f.) Eyles ssp. marsabitensis Grey‐Wilson (Violaceae), an endemic species, and Drypetes gerrardii Hutch. (Euphorbiaceae), were the two most important species, accounting for more than third of the combined importance value. Species diversity indices were 2.735 (Shannon–Wiener), 0.88 (Simpson's) and 0.296 (Evenness). There was a strong evidence of disturbance arising from anthropogenic and wildlife foraging activities. This inventory has affirmed Mt. Marsabit forest as a unique habitat for several endemic, rare, threatened or vulnerable plant species, which should be conserved.
Animal models of asthma
Authors: Zosky G. R. , Sly P. D.
Published: June 2007

Animal models of asthma are a tool that allows studies to be conducted in the setting of an intact immune and respiratory system. These models have highlighted the importance of T‐helper type 2 driven allergic responses in the progression of asthma and have been useful in the identification of potential drug targets for interventions involving allergic pathways. However, a number of drugs that have been shown to have some efficacy in animal models of asthma have shown little clinical benefit in human asthmatics. This may be due to a number of factors including the species of animal chosen and the methods used to induce an asthmatic phenotype in animals that do not normally develop a disease that could be characterized as asthma. The range of animal models available is vast, with the most popular models being rodents (inbred mice and rats) and guinea‐pigs, which have the benefit of being easy to handle and being relatively cost effective compared with other models that are available. The recent advances in transgenic technology and the development of species‐specific probes, particularly in mice, have allowed detailed mechanistic studies to be conducted. Despite these advances in technology, there are a number of issues with current animal models of asthma that must be recognized including the disparity in immunology and anatomy between these species and humans, the requirement for adjuvant during senitization in most models, the acute nature of the allergic response that is induced and the use of adult animals as the primary disease model. Some larger animal models using sheep and dogs have been developed that may address some of these issues but they also have different biology from humans in many ways and are extremely costly, with very few probes available for characterizing allergic responses in the airway in these species. As research in this area continues to expand, the relative merits and limitations of each model must be defined and understood in order to evaluate the information that is obtained from these models and to extrapolate these findings to humans so that effective drug therapies can be developed. Despite these issues, animal models have been, and will continue to be, vital in understanding the mechanisms that are involved in the development and progression of asthma.
Leukotriene B4 enhances tumour necrosis factor‐α‐induced CCL27 production in human keratinocytes
Authors: Kanda N. , Watanabe S.
Published: June 2007

Background
A chemokine CCL27 recruits skin‐homing T cells. CCL27 production by epidermal keratinocytes is dependent on nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) activity and is enhanced in lesions with atopic dermatitis or allergic contact dermatitis. A lipid mediator leukotriene B4 (LTB4) may be involved in the development of these allergic dermatoses. LTB4 acts on cell surface G‐protein‐coupled receptors, BLT1 and BLT2.

Objective
The aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro effects of LTB4 on CCL27 production in human keratinocytes.

Methods
Keratinocytes were incubated with TNF‐α and LTB4. CCL27 secretion and mRNA levels were analysed by ELISA and RT‐PCR, respectively. NF‐κB activities were analysed by luciferase assays. Protein levels or phosphorylation status were analysed by cell‐based ELISA.

Results
LTB4 alone did not enhance CCL27 production and modestly enhanced NF‐κB activity in human keratinocytes. However, LTB4 potently enhanced TNF‐α‐induced CCL27 secretion and mRNA expression and NF‐κB activity. LTB4 alone or together with TNF‐α, induced phosphorylation and degradation of inhibitory NF‐κB α (IκBα) and phosphorylation of NF‐κB p65. These effects of LTB4 were suppressed by BLT1 antagonist U75302, pertussis toxin, phosphoinositide‐3 kinase (PI3K) inhibitor LY294002 and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) kinase inhibitor U0126, but not by BLT2 antagonist LY255283. LTB4 induced phosphorylation of ERK and Akt, downstream kinase of PI3K; LY294002 suppressed phosphorylation of both kinases while U0126 suppressed only the former.

Conclusion
These results suggest that LTB4 may enhance TNF‐α‐induced CCL27 production by activating NF‐κB via the BLT1/Gi/o/PI3K/ERK pathway in human keratinocytes. LTB4 may contribute to the enhanced CCL27 production of keratinocytes in lesions with atopic dermatitis or allergic contact dermatitis.
A pectin methylesterase as an allergenic marker for the sensitization to Russian thistle (Salsola kali) pollen
Authors: Barderas R. , García‐Sellés J. , Salamanca G. , Colás C. , Barber D. , Rodríguez R. , Villalba M.
Published: June 2007

Background
Chenopodiaceae pollen is considered the main cause of pollen allergy in desert countries and its incidence is world‐wide increasing by the desertization of extensive zones. Although the correlation between the sensitization to Chenopodium album and Salsola kali pollens of patients suffering from allergy to Chenopodiaceae pollens is high, a significant number of patients exhibited IgE sensitivity exclusively towards S. kali.

Objective
To analyse this differential reactivity and to purify, clone and characterize the putative responsible allergen.

Methods
Immunoblotting was used to analyse the IgE binding to pollen extract for S. kali and C. album. The protein was isolated by two chromatographic steps and characterized by Edman degradation, mass spectrometry, finger print analysis and Concanavalin A lectin staining. Specific cDNA was amplified by polymerase chain reaction, cloned in Escherichia coli and sequenced. Immunologic characterization was performed by immunoblotting, enzyme‐linked immunoassay detection and inhibition experiments using sera from 11 patients allergic to S. kali pollen.

Results
cDNA codifies for a mature protein of 339 amino acids plus a putative signal peptide of 23 residues and it belongs to the plant pectin methylesterase (PME) family. It is a mildly basic and polymorphic protein and was recognized by the IgE from all the patients allergic to S. kali included in the study, and was called Sal k 1. The protein was not recognized in the C. album pollen extract using the sera of these patients.

Conclusion
Sal k 1 is a protein from the PME family with a high allergenic relevance. Considering this allergen as responsible for the different sensitization between S. kali and C. album pollen, it may be a useful marker to classify patients allergic to Chenopodiaceae allowing a safer and more specific immunotherapy.
Diisocyanate conjugate and immunoassay characteristics influence detection of specific antibodies in HDI‐exposed workers
Authors: Campo P. , Wisnewski A. V. , Lummus Z. , Cartier A. , Malo J.‐L. , Boulet L. P. , Bernstein D. I.
Published: June 2007

Background
The structural characteristics of diisocyanate chemical protein antigens vary depending upon the methods of production, and may influence diisocyanate antigen immunoassays. The impact of different antigen preparation methods on immunoassay sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value for identifying workers with diisocyanate asthma (DA) has not been systematically evaluated.

Objective
Evaluate the influence of preparation methodology of hexamethylene diisocyanate human serum albumin (HDI–HSA) conjugates on the performance of specific antibody assays for identifying workers with confirmed HDI asthma.

Methods
Asthmatic reactions to HDI exposure were assessed in 80 autobody shop workers by specific inhalation challenge (SIC). HDI‐specific IgE and IgG in serum were measured by RAST and ELISA with seven different HDI–HSA conjugates prepared in liquid phase with monomeric or polymeric HDI, or vapour‐phase monomeric HDI. The HDI : HSA substitution ratios were determined by mass spectrometry.

Results
DA was confirmed by SIC in 23 subjects. The maximal sensitivity for detecting specific IgE among workers with positive SIC results was higher with RAST and with polymeric vs. monomeric HDI–albumin conjugates (21.7% vs. 8.7%) with a generally high specificity (95%). HDI–HSA specific IgG antibody was also detected in 22–43% of HDI asthmatics depending upon the conjugate used. The specificity of specific IgG varied from 88% to 96%, and it was higher for monomeric (vs. polymeric) HDI–albumin conjugates with low (vs. high) substitution ratios.

Conclusion
The test performance of specific IgE and IgG immunoassays for identifying a positive SIC response varied with different HDI–HSA conjugates. Standard test antigens and common immunoassays must be used to minimize inter‐laboratory variability.
Changes in bronchial hyperresponsiveness following high‐ and low‐sulphite wine challenges in wine‐sensitive asthmatic patients
Authors: Vally H. , Thompson P. J. , Misso N. L. A.
Published: June 2007

Background
Previous studies suggest that challenge of most wine‐sensitive asthmatic patients may not result in a reduction in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1).

Objective
The aim of this study was to assess whether changes in bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) occur following wine challenge of asthmatic patients who report sensitivity to wine, and whether such changes could help clarify the role of sulphite additives in wine‐induced asthmatic responses.

Methods
Eight self‐reporting wine‐sensitive asthmatic patients completed double‐blind challenges with high‐ and low‐sulphite wines on separate days. FEV1 and histamine PC20 were measured before and after consumption of 150 mL of wine.

Results
None of the eight subjects demonstrated a clinically significant (≥15%) reduction in FEV1 following challenge with either high‐ or low‐sulphite wine. In contrast, one patient demonstrated clinically significant increase in BHR following challenge with both high‐ and low‐sulphite wines, and a smaller increase in BHR following placebo challenge. A second patient showed a significant increase, while another showed a significant decrease in BHR following challenge with low‐sulphite wine. A fourth patient showed borderline increases in BHR following challenge with both high‐ and low‐sulphite wines.

Conclusions
Although changes in BHR, in the absence of reductions in FEV1, were observed in some asthmatic patients following wine challenge, these changes were not consistent with a single aetiology. Consequently, this study did not support a major role for the sulphite additives in wine‐induced asthmatic responses in the patients studied. The aetiology of wine‐induced asthma is likely to be complex and appears to vary among individuals who are sensitive to these drinks.
Fish, climate and the Gulf Stream: the influence of abiotic factors on the recruitment success of cyprinid fishes in lowland rivers
Authors: NUNN A. D. , HARVEY J. P. , BRITTON J. R. , FREAR P. A. , COWX I. G.
Published: June 2007

1. Climatic effects are increasingly being recognised as an important factor causing inter‐annual variability in organism abundances in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This study investigated the relationships between water temperature (cumulative degree‐days >12 °C), river discharge (cumulative discharge‐days above basal discharge rate), the position of the North Wall of the Gulf Stream (NWGS), and the 0+ growth (September mean length) and recruitment success (year‐class strength, YCS) of three species of cyprinid fishes in two contrasting English lowland rivers, using a 21‐year dataset.

2. Contrary to the majority of studies on 0+ fishes, growth in the Yorkshire Ouse was most significantly correlated with river discharge, with water temperature of less importance. By contrast, temperature was more influential than discharge in the River Trent, possibly because of its regulated hydrological regime, although none of the relationships were statistically significant for this river.

3. Year‐class strength of roach (Rutilus rutilus) was positively correlated with the position of the NWGS, and there was evidence of synchrony in recruitment success between rivers, but the relationships were poorer for chub (Leuciscus cephalus) and dace (Leuciscus leuciscus). The strongest relationships between YCS and discharge during specific time periods were for when the fish were in their early (especially larval) developmental stages, although none of the relationships were statistically significant because of inter‐annual variations in river discharge relative to the timing of fish hatching.

4. Fishes are key predators in the majority of aquatic ecosystems and, as such, fluctuations in their abundances can have implications for ecosystem functioning as a whole. This study has demonstrated an underlying influence of broad‐scale climatic effects on the recruitment of riverine fishes, in spite of local variations in biotic and abiotic conditions. The relative importance of various abiotic factors on the recruitment success of riverine cyprinid populations varies spatially and temporally. For example, river discharge is likely to be of relatively greater importance in poorly‐structured rivers or those that are prone to large and rapid fluctuations in flow, while temporal variations occur because of inter‐annual differences in river discharge relative to the timing of fish hatching. Biotic factors may also be important determinants of fish recruitment success, especially in rivers with stable and predictable flow regimes.
Herbs and grasses as an allochthonous resource in open‐canopy headwater streams
Authors: MENNINGER HOLLY L. , PALMER MARGARET A.
Published: June 2007

1. The organic matter dynamics of streams dominated by herbs and grass on their banks are poorly understood, despite the fact that such streams are common worldwide. Further, herbs and grasses can provide large quantities of detritus to stream food webs, and particularly small streams can be heavily shaded by overhanging vegetation, perhaps limiting in‐stream primary production.

2. We quantified the standing crop of edge vegetation and associated macroinvertebrate communities along three headwater streams with herbaceous and grass riparian vegetation on agricultural land in the Piedmont of Maryland, U.S.A., measured the decomposition of four common species of herbs and grasses using experimental leaf packs, and removed edge vegetation experimentally to determine the effect of shading on benthic algal production.

3. Large standing crops of plant material (average range: 68–276 g ash‐free dry mass per m−2), composed largely of monocotyledons, were found at all three study streams. These values are similar to those for coarse particulate organic matter in deciduous forested streams in the eastern U.S.A. In addition, diverse assemblages of shredding macroinvertebrates were observed at all three study sites.

4. Decomposition of the herbs was faster than that of the grasses, and both decomposed faster than most deciduous tree leaf litter. The decomposition rates of the herbs and grasses were significantly related to leaf quality as measured by leaf nitrogen content. Macroinvertebrate shredders colonized all experimental leaf packs, and the colonization of the herbs was faster than that of the grasses.

5. The accrual of chlorophyll‐a after the removal of shading vegetation was faster than that measured prior to removal as well as that in an unmanipulated control reach.

6. Given that the standing crop of organic matter in streams with herbs and grass along their banks was similar to that in forested streams, that the organic matter was rich in nitrogen and used by detritivores, and riparian shading limited algal growth, we suggest that herbaceous and grass plant material may be an important allochthonous food resource in such systems.
Ecological traps for dragonflies in a cemetery: the attraction of Sympetrum species (Odonata: Libellulidae) by horizontally polarizing black gravestones
Authors: HORVÁTH GÁBOR , MALIK PÉTER , KRISKA GYÖRGY , WILDERMUTH HANSRUEDI
Published: June 2007

1. We observed that the dragonfly species Sympetrum flaveolum, S. striolatum, S. sanguineum, S. meridionale and S. danae were attracted by polished black gravestones in a Hungarian cemetery.

2. The insects showed the same behaviour as at water: (i) they perched persistently in the immediate vicinity of the chosen gravestones and defended their perch against other dragonflies; (ii) flying individuals repeatedly touched the horizontal surface of the shiny black tombstones with the ventral side of their body; (iii) pairs in tandem position frequently circled above black gravestones.

3. Tombstones preferred by the dragonflies were in the open and had an area of at least 0.5 m2 with an almost horizontal, polished, black surface and with at least one perch in their immediate vicinity.

4. Using imaging polarimetry, we found that the black gravestones, like smooth water surfaces, reflect highly and horizontally polarized light.

5. In double‐choice field experiments with various test surfaces, we showed that the dragonflies attracted to shiny black tombstones display positive polarotaxis and, under natural conditions, detect water by means of the horizontally polarized reflected light. This, and the reflection‐polarization characteristics of black gravestones, explain why these dragonflies are attracted to black tombstones.

6. If females attracted to the black gravestones oviposit on them, the latter constitute ecological traps for dragonflies that are not close to water.
Fish community responses to drying disturbances in an intermittent stream: a landscape perspective
Authors: DAVEY ANDREW J. H. , KELLY DAVID J.
Published: June 2007

1. Refugia are critical to the persistence of individuals, populations and communities in disturbed environments, yet few studies have considered how the position of refugia within the landscape interacts with the behavioural responses of component species to determine the influence of disturbance events on mobile animals.

2. An 18‐month quantitative electrofishing survey was undertaken on the Selwyn River, a stream that is intermittent in its middle reaches, to determine how the direction and distance to refugia affect the response of fish populations to drying, and how landscape context interacts with flow permanence to produce spatial patterns in communities.

3. Overall, the propensity of fish to take refuge in perennial reaches during drying episodes, and the rate and extent of recolonization from these refugia upon rewetting, depended upon the direction and distance to refugia and the behaviour of component species.

4. In the upper river, Canterbury galaxias (Galaxias vulgaris), upland bullies (Gobiomorphus breviceps) and brown trout (Salmo trutta) migrated upstream to permanent water as the stream dried from the bottom up, but frequent drying and slow recolonization by most species combined to produce a fish community in intermittent reaches that was quantitatively and qualitatively different to that in neighbouring perennial reaches.

5. In the lower river, fish did not appear to migrate downstream to permanent water as the stream dried from the top down, but a lower frequency of drying episodes and faster recolonization by upland bullies and eels (Anguilla spp.) from downstream refugia allowed the fish community in intermittent reaches to converge with that in neighbouring perennial reaches during prolonged wetted periods.

6. Longitudinal patterns of increasing fish density and species richness with flow permanence are interpreted as the product of species‐specific responses to drying events and the spatial position of refugia within the riverscape.
Physicochemical stream bed characteristics and recruitment of the freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera)
Authors: GEIST JUERGEN , AUERSWALD KARL
Published: June 2007

1. The freshwater pearl mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) is endangered and of conservation importance. We used its survival/mortality during the critical post‐parasitic phase as a biological indicator for the habitat quality of the stream substratum.

2. We established and tested biological, physical and chemical methods of assessing the stream bed in 26 streams from seven European countries. We analysed penetration resistance, texture, the concentrations and ratios of C, N, S, P, Fe, Mn in fine material <100 μm, and redox, pH and electric conductivity at the surface and at 5 and 10 cm into the substratum.

3. Sites with high stream bed quality (promoting pearl mussel populations with good juvenile recruitment) had coarser and better sorted substrata with significantly lower quantities of fines, and a higher Mn concentration in the fines, than poor quality sites. Redox potential (Eh) at sites without recruitment differed markedly between the free‐flowing water at the surface and at 5 and 10 cm in the bed, whereas no differences were detectable at good quality sites. This was also true of electric conductivity and, to a lesser extent, pH. The stream bed at sites lacking pearl mussel recruitment had a more variable and higher penetration resistance, indicating clogging of the interstitial macropore system by the deposition of mud and compaction of the stream bed.

4. Our results show that habitat quality for pearl mussels depends strongly on the exchange between the surface and the interstices, which is governed by physicochemical characteristics of the stream substratum. Combined measurements of penetration resistance, depth gradients of Eh and texture were most suitable for assessing stream bed quality, while water chemistry was insufficient because of the decoupling of interstitial and free‐flowing water at poor quality sites.