bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alveolar macrophages from allergic lungs are not committed to a pro‐allergic response and can reduce airway hyperresponsiveness following ex vivo culture
Authors: Pouliot P. , Spahr A. , Careau É. , Turmel V. , Bissonnette E. Y.
Published: February 2008

Background
We already demonstrated that adoptive transfer of alveolar macrophages (AMs) from non‐allergic rats into AM‐depleted allergic rats prevents airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR). We also showed that AMs from non‐sensitized, but not from sensitized, allergy‐prone rats can prevent AHR following allergen challenge in sensitized allergic animals, establishing the importance of rat immunological status on the modulation of AM functions and suggesting that an allergic lung environment alters AM functions.

Objective
We investigated how the activation of allergic AMs can be modulated to reinstitute them with their capacity to reduce AHR.

Methods
AMs from sensitized Brown Norway rats were cultured ex vivo for up to 18 h in culture media to deprogram them from the influence of the allergic lung before being reintroduced into the lung of AM‐depleted sensitized recipient. AHR and cytokines in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) were measured following allergen challenge. AMs stimulated ex vivo with Bacillus Calmette‐Guerin (BCG) were used as positive controls as BCG induces a T‐helper type 1 activation in AMs.

Results
AMs ex vivo cultured for 4–18 h reduced AHR to normal level. Interestingly, pro‐allergic functions of AMs were dampened by 18 h culture and they reduced AHR even after spending 48 h in an allergic lung microenvironment. Furthermore, transfer of cultured AMs caused an increase in the levels of IFN‐γ and IL‐12 in BAL when compared with their ovalbumin control. After 18 h of ex vivo culture, AMs expressed reduced levels of TNF, IL‐1α, IL‐6, and Arginase‐2 mRNAs compared with freshly isolated AMs, suggesting that ex vivo culture exempted AMs from lung stimuli that affected their functions.

Conclusions
There is a significant crosstalk between lung microenvironment and AMs, affecting their functions. It is also the first report showing that sensitized AMs can be modulated ex vivo to reduce lung pro‐allergic environment, opening the way to therapies targetting AMs.
Soluble PD‐1 rescues the proliferative response of simian immunodeficiency virus‐specific CD4 and CD8 T cells during chronic infection
Authors: Onlamoon Nattawat , Rogers Kenneth , Mayne Ann E. , Pattanapanyasat Kovit , Mori Kazuyasu , Villinger Francois , Ansari Aftab A.
Published: February 2008

Phenotypic and functional studies of the programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) molecule on CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were performed on peripheral blood mononuclear cells from uninfected and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)‐infected rhesus macaques. These data demonstrated a rapid upregulation of PD‐1 expression on tetramer‐positive CD8+ T cells from MamuA.01+ SIV‐infected macaques upon infection. Upregulation of PD‐1 on total CD8+ T cells was not detectable. In contrast, CD4+ T‐cell PD‐1 expression was markedly higher in total CD4+ T cells during chronic, but not acute, infection and there was a correlation between the level of PD‐1 expression on naive and central memory CD4+ T cells and the levels of viral loads. Such association was emphasized further by a marked decrease of PD‐1 expression on tetramer‐positive CD8 T cells as well as on CD4+ T cells on longitudinal samples collected before and after the initiation of antiretroviral therapy and downregulation of viral replication in vivo. Cloning of PD‐1 and its two ligands from several non‐human primate species demonstrated > 95% conservation for PD‐1 and PD‐L2 and only about 91% homology for PD‐L1. Functional studies using soluble recombinant PD‐1 protein or PD‐1–immunoglobulin G fusion proteins induced marked increases in the SIV‐specific proliferative responses of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from rhesus macaques. The results of these studies serve as a foundation for future in vivo trials of the use of rMamu‐PD‐1 to potentially enhance and/or restore antiviral immune responses in vivo.
A complete genomic analysis of hepatitis B virus genotypes and mutations in HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B in China
Authors: Zhu L. , Tse C. ‐H. , Wong V. W. ‐S. , Chim A. M. ‐L. , Leung K. ‐S. , Chan H. L. ‐Y.
Published: February 2008

Summary.  We aimed to study the distribution of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes/subgenotypes in different parts of China and their clinical impact on the severity of hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg)‐negative chronic hepatitis B. Residual serum samples from a cohort of HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B patients in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing were studied. Complete HBV genomic sequencing was performed for phylogenetic tree analysis and determination of HBV mutations was carried out. Mutations associated with severe liver fibrosis (Ishak score 4 or more) were selected by computerized information gain criteria. Genotype B (all subgenotype Ba) HBV was present in 19 of 45 (42%), 12 of 31 (39%) and 5 of 25 (20%) patients in Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing, respectively (P = 0.16). Ninety‐seven per cent of genotype C HBV in Shanghai and Beijing belonged to subgenotype Ce whereas 69% of genotype C patients in Hong Kong belonged to subgenotype Cs (P < 0.001). Patients infected by subgenotype Cs had the lowest serum albumin and highest alanine aminotransferase levels compared with subgenotype Ce and Ba. Patients infected by subgenotype Cs also had more severe histological necroinflammation than subgenotype Ce. Two HBV mutations were identified to associate with severe liver fibrosis (G2858C and C2289A) and one mutation was protective against severe liver fibrosis (T2201C). The T2201C mutation was found exclusively among patients (21 of 46 patients, 45%) infected by HBV subgenotype Ce. The clinical differences in HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B in China may be influenced by different distribution of subgenotype C HBV.
Quantitative trait loci analysis of phytate and phosphate concentrations in seeds and leaves of Brassica rapa
Authors: ZHAO JIANJUN , JAMAR DIAAN C. L. , LOU PING , WANG YANHUA , WU JIAN , WANG XIAOWU , BONNEMA GUUSJE , KOORNNEEF MAARTEN , VREUGDENHIL DICK
Published: February 2008

Phytate, being the major storage form of phosphorus in plants, is considered to be an anti‐nutritional substance for human, because of its ability to complex essential micronutrients. In the present study, we describe the genetic analysis of phytate and phosphate concentrations in Brassica rapa using five segregating populations, involving eight parental accessions representing different cultivar groups. A total of 25 quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting phytate and phosphate concentrations in seeds and leaves were detected, most of them located in linkage groups R01, R03, R06 and R07. Two QTL affecting seed phytate (SPHY), two QTL affecting seed phosphate (SPHO), one QTL affecting leaf phosphate and one major QTL affecting leaf phytate (LPHY) were detected in at least two populations. Co‐localization of QTL suggested single or linked loci to be involved in the accumulation of phytate or phosphate in seeds or leaves. Some co‐localizing QTL for SPHY and SPHO had parental alleles with effects in the same direction suggesting that they control the total phosphorus concentration. For other QTL, the allelic effect was opposite for phosphate and phytate, suggesting that these QTL are specific for the phytate pathway.
Lack of an inverse association between tuberculosis infection and atopy: By T‐cell‐based immune assay (RD1–ELISpot)
Authors: Soysal Ahmet , Bahçeciler Nerin , Barlan Işıl , Bakir Mustafa
Published: February 2008

The association between mycobacterial exposure, vaccination with bacillus Calmette‐Guerin (BCG) in early life and atopy remains controversial. Distinguishing between environmental mycobacterial exposure, TB infection and BCG‐vaccination is not possible with the tuberculin skin test (TST) but new accurate blood‐tests for TB infection present an opportunity to differentiate TB infection from environmental mycobacterial exposure and BCG‐vaccination. We used a new blood test in parallel with TST to investigate whether Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and/or BCG vaccination are associated with development of atopy in children with prior household TB contacts. All children who had contact with adult active pulmonary TB during the last 6 months underwent TST, chest radiography, and RD1–ELISpot assay. The presence of a BCG scar was documented, and assessment of atopy was carried out by International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire, allergy skin prick testing (SPT) and evaluation of serum total IgE. Among 361 children enrolled 39 (11%) had a positive SPT, 236 (63%) positive TST, and 189 (52%) positive RD1–ELISpot. The frequency of SPT positivity, ever wheezing, allergic rhinitis, doctor‐diagnosed asthma, high serum IgE level, and median total serum IgE levels did not differ significantly different by TST or RD1–ELISpot status. On the other hand, presence of BGC scar was associated with lower median total serum IgE level (p = 0.01) and lower frequency of high IgE (p = 0.003). M. tuberculosis infection whether measured by TST or RD1–ELISpot, was not associated with atopy in children with household TB contact. Presence of a BCG vaccination scar was inversely associated with atopy, as measured by serum IgE.
Predictors of trait aggression in bipolar disorder
Authors: Garno Jessica L , Gunawardane Nisali , Goldberg Joseph F
Published: February 2008

Objectives:  Although aggressive behavior has been associated with bipolar disorder (BD), it has also been linked with developmental factors and disorders frequently found to be comorbid with BD, making it unclear whether or not it represents an underlying biological disturbance intrinsic to bipolar illness. We therefore sought to identify predictors of trait aggression in a sample of adults with BD.

Methods:  Subjects were 100 bipolar I (n = 73) or II (n = 27) patients consecutively evaluated in the Bipolar Disorders Research Program of the New York Presbyterian Hospital‐Payne Whitney Clinic. Diagnoses were established using the Structured Clinical Interview for the DSM‐IV (SCID‐I) and Cluster B sections of the SCID‐II. Mood severity was rated by the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS). Histories of childhood maltreatment were assessed via the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), while trait aggression was measured by the Brown‐Goodwin Aggression Scale (BGA).

Results:  In univariate analyses, significant relationships were observed between total BGA scores and CTQ total (r = 0.326, p = 0.001), childhood emotional abuse (r = 0.417, p < 0.001), childhood physical abuse (r = 0.231, p = 0.024), childhood emotional neglect (r = 0.293, p = 0.004), post‐traumatic stress disorder (t = −2.843, p = 0.005), substance abuse/dependence (t = −2.914, p = 0.004), antisocial personality disorder (t = −2.722, p = 0.008) and borderline personality disorder (t = −5.680, p < 0.001) as well as current HDRS (r = 0.397, p < 0.001) and YMRS scores (r = 0.371, p < 0.001). Stepwise multiple regression revealed that trait aggression was significantly associated with: (i) diagnoses of comorbid borderline personality disorder (p < 0.001); (ii) depressive symptoms (p = 0.001); and (iii) manic symptoms (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:  Comorbid borderline personality disorder and current manic and depressive symptoms each significantly predicted trait aggression in BD, while controlling for confounding factors. The findings have implications for nosologic distinctions between bipolar and borderline personality disorders, and the developmental pathogenesis of comorbid personality disorders as predisposing to aggression in patients with BD.
Efficacy of Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill. against the tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris L., in strawberries
Authors: Sabbahi R. , Merzouki A. , Guertin C.
Published: February 2008

Beauveria bassiana has a high insecticidal potential to control the tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris, a significant pest of strawberries. Screening experiments showed that L. lineolaris adults were susceptible to several B. bassiana isolates. Another screening test with Coleomegilla maculata, a natural enemy found in strawberries, was also performed in order to select the isolate having lower entomopathogenic impact on this insect. Based on data obtained from both insect species and on the ecozone origin of the B. bassiana isolates, INRS‐IP and INRS‐CFL isolates were selected for further experiments. The LC50 values of these two isolates against L. lineolaris adults were 7.8 × 105 and 5.3 × 105 conidia/ml, and average survival time (AST) values were 4.46 and 4.37 days at a concentration of 1 × 108 conidia/ml respectively. Results also indicated that L. lineolaris nymphs are susceptible to the selected isolates. During field experiments, using a randomized block design with four replicates, INRS‐IP and INRS‐CFL isolates were applied at two rates (1 × 1011 and 1 × 1013 conidia/ha) weekly during a period of 4 weeks. These multiple applications triggered a significant reduction of L. lineolaris nymphal populations in strawberries. Twenty‐four days after the first application, a significant difference was observed between the mean population densities of surviving nymphs in all B. bassiana‐treated plots (less than one insect per five plants) compared with those in control plots (four insects per five plants). During the field experiment, persistence of insecticidal activity and viability of B. bassiana conidia were also monitored. The results showed the presence of viable and infective conidia up to 6 days after each application on strawberry foliage. Moreover, the multiple applications of B. bassiana at the rate of 1 × 1013 conidia/ha triggered a significant reduction in strawberry fruit injuries induced by L. lineolaris feeding behaviour compared with the control plots.
Efficacy of Beauveria bassiana against the strawberry pests, Lygus lineolaris, Anthonomus signatus and Otiorhynchus ovatus
Authors: Sabbahi R. , Merzouki A. , Guertin C.
Published: February 2008

There are several insect species causing serious economic losses in strawberry, Fragaria vesca L., productions. In Quebec, Canada, the tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois), the strawberry bud weevil clipper, Anthonomus signatus (Say) and the strawberry root weevil, Otiorhynchus ovatus (L.) are the most important pests. We tested the susceptibility of these pests to the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana under laboratory conditions. Sixteen isolates were evaluated for their insecticide potential against these insects. Adults of each species were infected by the immersion method. All isolates were pathogenic to adults of all three species, causing mortality rates between 23.3% and 100% at a concentration of 1 × 107 conidia/ml. Based on the screening results, isolate INRS‐CFL was selected for its insecticide potential and then used for further analyses against L. lineolaris, A. signatus and O. ovatus adults. Bioassays were performed to evaluate the lethal concentration (LC50) and the average survival time (AST) of this isolate against both insect species. Results of dose–response mortality bioassays using four concentrations – 1 × 104, 1 × 106, 1 × 108 and 1 × 109 conidia/ml – indicated a LC50 values of 5.3 × 105, 1.8 × 107 and 9.9 × 107 conidia/ml at 7 days after inoculation for L. lineolaris, A. signatus and O. ovatus respectively. Using a dose of 1 × 108 conidia/ml, the AST values were estimated at 4.41, 7.56 and 8.29 days, respectively, at a concentration of 1 × 108 conidia/ml. This study demonstrated the potential of B. bassiana for the management of L. lineolaris, A. signatus and O. ovatus. Results also suggest that the heteropteran species is more susceptible than coleopteran species to B. bassiana.
Soil Salinity and Water Stress and Their Effect on Susceptibility to Verticillium Wilt Disease, Ion Composition and Growth of Pistachio
Authors: Saadatmand A. R. , Banihashemi Z. , Sepaskhah A. R. , Maftoun M.
Published: February 2008

The effects of soil salinity and water stress on Verticillium wilt, ion composition and growth of pistachio were studied in a greenhouse experiment (18–32°C). Treatments consisted of three levels of salinity (0, 1200 and 2400 mg NaCl/kg soil), three levels of water stress (3, 7 and 14 day irrigation regimes) and two Pistachio cultivars (Sarakhs and Qazvini, common rootstocks in Iran). Infested soil containing 50 microsclerotia/g of a pistachio isolate of Verticillium dahliae was used for all treatments and non‐infested soils were used as control. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design with three replications. Eight‐week‐old pistachio seedlings were transferred to infested and non‐infested soil and then exposed to salt stress and thereafter water stress. Shoot dry weights of both rootstocks were reduced significantly with increasing NaCl levels; however, increasing irrigation regimes reduced salt injury. Salt stress significantly increased shoot and root colonization by V. dahliae in both cultivars. Moreover, increasing of salinity level was positively correlated with increasing concentrations of Na+, K+ and Cl− in both cultivars, but negatively correlated with increasing irrigation regimes. Based on these results, Sarakhs and Qazvini were found to be sensitive and tolerant to the effect of irrigation regimes, salinity and Verticillium wilt disease, respectively. Although there were no interactive effects of irrigation and salinity on V. dahliae infection.
EFFECT OF CRACK SIZE ON DYNAMIC SCC BEHAVIOUR OF Ti‐6A1–4V ALLOY IN 3%NaCl SOLUTION
Authors: Nakajima M. , Shimizu T. , Tokaji K.
Published: February 2008

Abstract— Dynamic SCC (DSCC) behaviour of a Ti‐6A1–4V alloy has been studied for different microstructures and orientations, in 3%NaCl solution, and the effect of crack size on crack growth behaviour was discussed. Three microstructures were prepared by heat treatment, i.e. two annealed materials (AN705 and AN850) and a solution treatment and ageing (STA) material. Tests were performed at a cyclic frequency of 10 Hz and a stress ratio of 0.9 using CT specimens for long cracks (a≥ 24 mm) and surface‐cracked specimens for small cracks (a≥ 0.4 mm). The KDSCC values obtained for small cracks were considerably higher than those for long cracks in all the microstructures, that is a crack size effect in dynamic SCC behaviour was found in the Ti‐6A1–4V alloy. For small cracks, the KDSCC values for AN705 and AN850 were the same in the L and T orientations, while the KDSCC value for STA was higher in the L orientation than in the T orientation. The KISCC values were almost the same as, or higher than, the KDSCC values.
Applying climatically associated species pools to the modelling of compositional change in tropical montane forests
Authors: Golicher Duncan J. , Cayuela Luis , Alkemade J. Rob M. , González‐Espinosa Mario , Ramírez‐Marcial Neptalí
Published: February 2008

Aim  Predictive species distribution modelling is a useful tool for extracting the maximum amount of information from biological collections and floristic inventories. However, in many tropical regions records are only available from a small number of sites. This can limit the application of predictive modelling, particularly in the case of rare and endangered species. We aim to address this problem by developing a methodology for defining and mapping species pools associated with climatic variables in order to investigate potential species turnover and regional species loss under climate change scenarios combined with anthropogenic disturbance.

Location  The study covered an area of 6800 km2 in the highlands of Chiapas, southern Mexico.

Methods  We derived climatically associated species pools from floristic inventory data using multivariate analysis combined with spatially explicit discriminant analysis. We then produced predictive maps of the distribution of tree species pools using data derived from 451 inventory plots. After validating the predictive power of potential distributions against an independent historical data set consisting of 3105 botanical collections, we investigated potential changes in the distribution of tree species resulting from forest disturbance and climate change.

Results  Two species pools, associated with moist and cool climatic conditions, were identified as being particularly threatened by both climate change and ongoing anthropogenic disturbance. A change in climate consistent with low‐emission scenarios of general circulation models was shown to be sufficient to cause major changes in equilibrium forest composition within 50 years. The same species pools were also found to be suffering the fastest current rates of deforestation and internal forest disturbance. Disturbance and deforestation, in combination with climate change, threaten the regional distributions of five tree species listed as endangered by the IUCN. These include the endemic species Magnolia sharpii Miranda and Wimmeria montana Lundell. Eleven vulnerable species and 34 species requiring late successional conditions for their regeneration could also be threatened.

Main conclusions  Climatically associated species pools can be derived from floristic inventory data available for tropical regions using methods based on multivariate analysis even when data limitations prevent effective application of individual species modelling. Potential consequences of climate change and anthropogenic disturbance on the species diversity of montane tropical forests in our study region are clearly demonstrated by the method.
Mad Cows and Sick Birds: Financing International Responses to Animal Disease in Developing Countries
Authors: Winter‐Nelson Alex , Rich Karl M.
Published: February 2008

Because many animal diseases have strong transboundary attributes, their control can be reasonably characterised as an international public good. The potential for reservoirs of transboundary diseases to persist in developing countries that lack the capacity or incentives to control them implies a need for international financial transfers to fund control. However, the costs of control can be large compared with development assistance budgets, and the benefits small compared with the global benefits of control and the local benefits of other priority investments. This article outlines a framework for setting priorities for international development assistance for animal disease control based on the incidence of market and non‐market impacts and the context in which outbreaks take place in endemic and susceptible countries.
Equality and Human Rights Commission: A Decade in the Making
Authors: SPENCER SARAH
Published: February 2008

This article traces the origins of the Commission over the decade before it opened its doors in October 2007, and the contentious debates and political trade‐offs which led to its emergence in its current form; a history which throws light on the challenges it now faces. Inclusion of human rights in a 'single equality body’, concessions on disability, the promise of a single Equality Act and the Commission's third arm, community relations, were major fault lines in debates complicated by devolution and fragmentation of responsibility in Whitehall but strengthened by an unusual degree of engagement with external stakeholders and by the scrutiny of the Joint Committee on Human Rights in Parliament. The outcome extends beyond establishment of a Commission with a powerful mandate. A process that began with separate equality interests competing to ensure their constituency did not lose out, fostered enthusiasm for collaboration to achieve the vision of society the Commission is tasked, by S3 Equality Act 2006, to deliver.’
1. NARRATIVE EXPLANATION AND ITS MALCONTENTS
Authors: CARR DAVID
Published: February 2008

In this paper I look at narrative as a mode of explanation and at various ways in which the explanatory value of narrative has been criticized. I begin with the roots of narrative explanation in everyday action, experience, and discourse, illustrating it with the help of a simple example. I try to show how narrative explanation is transformed and complicated by circumstances that take us beyond the everyday into such realms as jurisprudence, journalism, and history. I give an account of why narrative explanation normally satisfies us, and how or in what sense it actually explains. Then I consider how narrative is challenged and rejected as a mode of explanation in many scientific and other contexts and why attempts are made to replace it with something else. I try to evaluate the nature and sources of these challenges, and I describe this controversy over narrative against the historical background of its emergence. My paper ends with a pragmatic defense of narrative explanation against these challenges.
Prediction of placental abruption by testing for C‐reactive protein and chlamydial antibody levels in early pregnancy
Authors: Tikkanen M , Surcel H‐M , Bloigu A , Nuutila M , Hiilesmaa V , Ylikorkala O , Paavonen J
Published: February 2008

Objective  Placental abruption may be a manifestation of acute and chronic inflammatory process. We wanted to assess the association of first‐trimester serum C‐reactive protein (CRP), Chlamydia pneumoniae antibodies, Chlamydia trachomatis antibodies or chlamydial heat‐shock protein 60 (CHSP60) antibodies to placental abruption.

Design  Retrospective case–control study.

Setting  University Hospital.

Population  A total of 181 women with subsequent placental abruption and 261 control women with normal pregnancy.

Methods  Serum samples collected at first trimester (mean 10.4 gestational weeks) were analysed for CRP levels, C. pneumoniae‐specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies and C. trachomatis‐specific IgG, IgA and CHSP60 antibodies.

Main outcome measure  Placental abruption.

Results  The levels of CRP showed no difference between the cases and the controls (median 2.35 mg/l [interquartile range {IQR} 1.09–5.93] versus 2.28 mg/l [IQR 0.92–5.01], not significant). C. pneumoniae‐specific IgG and IgA as well as C. trachomatis‐specific IgG, IgA and CHSP60 antibody frequencies were similar between the groups. There was no association between CRP levels and chlamydial antibodies.

Conclusion  These markers of inflammation in early pregnancy failed to predict subsequent placental abruption.
X‐Linked Nonsyndromic Sinus Node Dysfunction and Atrial Fibrillation Caused by Emerin Mutation
Authors: KARST MARGARET L. , HERRON KATHLEEN J. , OLSON TIMOTHY M.
Published: February 2008

Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a heritable disorder with male predilection, suggesting a sex chromosome defect in certain patients. Loss‐of‐function truncation mutations in EMD, encoding the nuclear membrane protein emerin, cause X‐linked Emery‐Dreifuss muscular dystrophy (EDMD) characterized by localized contractures and skeletal myopathy in adolescence, sinus node dysfunction (SND) in early adulthood, and atrial fibrillation as a variably associated trait. This study sought to identify the genetic basis for male‐restricted, nonsyndromic sinus node dysfunction and AF in a multigenerational family.

Methods and Results: Genealogical and medical records, and DNA samples, were obtained. Progressive SND and AF occurred in four males related through maternal lineages, consistent with X‐linked inheritance. Skeletal myopathy was absent, even at advanced ages. Targeted X chromosome genotyping mapped the disease locus to Xq28, implicating EMD as a positional candidate gene. DNA sequencing revealed hemizygosity for an in‐frame 3‐bp deletion in EMD (Lys37del) in affected males, disrupting a residue within the LEM binding domain critical for nuclear assembly but leaving the remainder of the protein intact. Buccal epithelial cell staining with emerin antibody demonstrated near‐total functional loss of emerin. Female relatives underwent prospective electrocardiographic and genetic testing. Those heterozygous for Lys37del had ∼50–70% emerin‐positive nuclei and variable degrees of paroxysmal supraventricular arrhythmia.

Conclusions: Mutation of EMD can underlie X‐linked familial AF. Lys37del is associated with epithelial cell emerin deficiency, as in EDMD, yet it causes electrical atriomyopathy in the absence of skeletal muscle disease. Targeted genetic testing of EMD should be considered in patients with SND‐associated AF and/or family history suggesting X‐linked inheritance.
Blood loss during vascular access cannulation: Quantification using the weighed gauze and drape method
Authors: AWOBUSUYI Jacob O. , MAPAYI Francis A. , ADEDOLAPO Akeem
Published: February 2008

Anemia is an important complication of chronic renal disease, with a significant impact on the morbidity, quality of life, and mortality in this group of patients. Inadequate erythropoietin production, reduced life span of erythrocytes in uremic serum, bone marrow suppression by uremic toxins, chronic inflammation, and contaminants in the water treatment unit are recognized etiological causes of anemia in chronic kidney disease patients. Little attention has been paid to possible contributions of small but continual loss of blood during vascular access cannulation for hemodialysis in these patients. The aim of this study is to quantify the volume of blood loss during femoral vein cannulation in patients on hemodialysis. The average volume of blood loss during femoral cannulation was evaluated using a simple and inexpensive procedure of deriving volume of blood lost, from the weights of soaked gauze and drape during the access cannulation procedure. The mean blood loss per procedure during femoral cannulation was 36.52 mL±2.70 SD, with a range of 6.47 to 100.20 mL. The calculated average weekly loss in patients on thrice‐weekly dialysis schedule is 109.56 mL of blood, with a monthly loss of 438.24 mL. Cumulative blood loss during femoral vein cannulation appears to be significant. Its contribution in the sustenance of anemia in hemodialysis patients deserves further evaluation.
Microwave Dielectric Properties of Low Firing Temperature Bi2W2O9 Ceramics
Authors: Feteira Antonio , Sinclair Derek C.
Published: February 2008

Phase stability, sinterability, and microwave dielectric properties of Bi2W2O9 ceramics and their cofireability with Ag, Cu, and Au electrodes have been investigated. Single‐phase Bi2W2O9 powder was synthesized by solid‐state reaction in air at 800°C for 3 days. X‐ray powder diffraction data show Bi2W2O9 to have an orthorhombic crystal structure described by the noncentrosymmetric space group Pna21, with lattice parameters a=5.4401(8), b=5.4191(8), c=23.713(4) Å. Ceramics fired at temperatures up to 865°C remain single‐phase but above this temperature ferroelectric Bi2WO6 appears as a secondary phase. The measured relative permittivity of Bi2W2O9 ceramics increases continuously from 28.6 to 40.7 for compacts fired between 860° and 885°C. The bulk relative permittivity of Bi2W2O9 corrected for porosity was calculated as 41.3. Bi2W2O9 ceramics fired up to 875°C exhibit moderate quality factors, Q×fr, ∼7500–7700 GHz and negative temperature coefficient of resonant frequency, ∼−54 to −63 ppm/°C. Chemical compatibility experiments show Bi2W2O9 ceramics to react with both Ag and Cu electrodes, but to form good contacts with Au electrodes.
Reduction in Ambulance Transports during a Public Awareness Campaign for Appropriate Ambulance Use
Authors: Ohshige Kenji
Published: February 2008

Objectives:  This study aimed to characterize the change in the upward trend in monthly ambulance transports that occurred during a citywide campaign for appropriate ambulance use. This study also investigated whether the number of ambulance transports for individuals with nonserious conditions decreased separately from the decrease in ambulance transports for individuals with serious conditions.

Methods:  A retrospective time series survey was carried out on the number of ambulance transports that occurred per month over a 10‐year period (1997–2006). This study focused on individuals transported by ambulance because of illness. Seasonal decomposition was applied to adjust for the seasonal effect on ambulance transport. The shift in the trend during the campaign period (April 2005–December 2006) was examined by means of linear regression analysis.

Results:  The number of individuals transported by ambulance decreased during the campaign period. A decrease in the number of ambulance transports was observed for both nonserious and serious conditions. During the campaign period, the number of ambulance transports per month was estimated to have decreased by 530 (approximately 7%; 95% confidence interval [CI] = −729 to −331) for individuals with nonserious conditions and by 37 (approximately 8%; 95% CI = −53 to −22) for individuals with serious conditions.

Conclusions:  A campaign to educate the public on appropriate ambulance use may reduce ambulance calls for both nonserious and serious conditions.
Clinical and microbiological analysis of subjects treated with Brånemark or AstraTech implants: a 7‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Renvert S. , Lindahl C. , Renvert H. , Persson G. R.
Published: February 2008

Aims: To assess the impact of different implant systems on the clinical conditions and the microbiota at implants, and whether the presence of bacteria at tooth sites was predictive of the presence at implant sites.

Materials and methods: Subjects with either AstraTech or Brånemark in function for 7 years were enrolled. Sub‐gingival bacterial samples at tooth and implant sites were collected with sterile endodontic paper points, and analyzed by the checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization method (40 species).

Results: Fifty‐four subjects, 27 supplied with AstraTech (n=132 implants) and 27 with Brånemark (n=102) implants, were studied. Test tooth sites had significantly less evidence of bleeding on probing (P<0.001) and presence of plaque (P<0.001) than implant test sites. Implant sites presented with deeper probing pocket depth than tooth sites (mean difference: 1.1 mm, standard error of differences: 0.08, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 0.9–1.3, P<0.001). Tannerella forsythia (P<0.05), Capnocytophaga sputigena (P<0.05), Actinomyces israelii (P<0.05) and Lactobacillus acidophilus (P<0.05) were found at higher levels at tooth surfaces. No differences in bacterial load for any species were found between the two implant systems. The odds of being present/absent at tooth and implants sites were only significant for Staphylococcus aureus [odds ratio (OR): 5.2 : 1, 95% CI: 1.4–18.9, P<0.01].

Conclusions: After 7 years in function, implants presented with deeper probing depths than teeth. S. aureus was commonly present at both teeth and implants sites. S. aureus at tooth sites was predictive of also being present at implant sites.
Intraguild predation of lynxes on foxes: evidence of interference competition?
Authors: Sunde Peter , Overskaug Kristian , Kvam Tor
Published: February 2008

There is a growing focus among ecologists on the importance of predatory interactions between competing species, but because of its mixed character. it is difficult to pinpoint the possible, competitive component of the interaction. We tested degree of prey consumption in intraguild predation of Eurasian lynxes on red foxes against assumed ‘pure’ predation. i.e, roe deer and mountain hares. The proportion of uneaten fox carcasses was highly significantly larger than the proportion of both other prey species, indicating that interference competition may play a role in the intraguild predation of lynxes on red foxes.
STRUCTURE–INFRASTRUCTURE ALIGNMENT: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TQM ORIENTATION AND THE ADOPTION OF SUPPLIER‐FACING ELECTRONIC COMMERCE AMONG MANUFACTURERS
Authors: HUANG XIAOWEN , GATTIKER THOMAS F. , SCHROEDER ROGER G.
Published: February 2008

Total Quality Management (TQM) is widely adopted in industry and well studied in academe. It includes a philosophy and set of practices for supply management. However, these elements evolved before widespread adoption of the Internet, which transforms the supply management landscape by presenting various tools for organizations to select and manage suppliers. Therefore an important research undertaking today is to understand how the Internet has affected manufacturers that embrace TQM. As part of this undertaking, we examine the relationship between TQM orientation and the adoption of eight supplier‐facing e‐commerce applications. We propose that certain supplier‐facing e‐commerce applications enhance competition among suppliers, while others enhance supplier relationships. Drawing upon strategic contingency theory, we hypothesize that TQM orientation is negatively associated with the adoption of the first category of application and is positively associated with the adoption of the second category. Logistic regression was used to test hypotheses using survey data collected from manufacturers located in six countries and three industries. The results show that organizations which have heavily embraced TQM do use e‐commerce somewhat differently from other organizations. However, the results also point out potentially troubling inconsistencies between e‐commerce adoption and other elements of strategy.
Properties of High‐Oleic Palm Oils Derived by Fractional Crystallization
Authors: Ramli M.R. , Siew W.L. , Cheah K.Y.
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACT:  High‐oleic palm oil (HOPO) with an oleic acid content of 59.0% and an iodine value (IV) of 78.2 was crystallized in a 200‐kg De Smet crystallizer with a predetermined cooling program and appropriate agitation. The slurry was then fractionated by means of dry fractionation at 4, 8, 10, 12, and 15 °C. The oil and the fractionated products were subjected to physical and chemical analyses, including fatty acid composition, triacylglycerol and diacylglycerol composition, solid fat content, cloud point, slip melting point, and cold stability test. Fractionation at 15 °C resulted in the highest olein yield but with minimal oleic acid content. Due to the enhanced unsaturation of the oil, fractionation at relatively lower crystallization temperature showed a considerable effect on fatty acid composition as well as triacylglycerol and diacylglycerol composition of liquid fractions compared to higher crystallization temperature. The olein and stearin fractionated at 4 °C had the best cold stability at 0 °C and sharper melting profile, respectively.
Nitrogen‐to‐Protein Conversion Factors for Some Cereal Products in Japan
Authors: Fujihara S. , Sasaki H. , Aoyagi Y. , Sugahara T.
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACT:  To evaluate a practical method of determining more accurately conversion factors for calculating the protein contents of foods from the total nitrogen content, 19 cereal products found in Japan were analyzed for total nitrogen, amino acid nitrogen, and amide nitrogen, and then the nitrogen‐to‐protein conversion factors were calculated. The average conversion factors were 5.75 for rice, 5.81 for wheat, and 5.95 for others. These values, corresponding to the proportion of the amino acid residue to amino acid nitrogen recovered from 20 amino acids, were lower than the currently applied factors to these foods, except for wheat flour and amaranth. The use of this factor for estimating the protein content results in a considerable difference from the estimate based on amino acid residue concentrations, due to the wide variations in amino acid composition and to the presence of a significant level of nonprotein nitrogen. The distribution of the protein nitrogen recovered from the amino acids to total nitrogen averaged 93%. Adjusted conversion factors corresponding to the proportion of the amino acid residue to total nitrogen averaged 5.26 for rice, 5.47 for wheat, and 5.54 for other cereal products. Protein contents estimated using these factors are in good agreement with the contents defined as amino acid residues.
A PHYSICAL BASIS FOR THE CHROMATIC S POTENTIALS IN COLOR VISION
Authors: Rosenberg B. , Heck R. J. , Aziz K.
Published: February 2008

Abstract— The photoelectric response S (photoconduction and the photovoltaic effect) of a β‐carotene cell are shown to replicate in detail the photoelectric color responses of animal retina — the chromatic S potentials, In both, short‐wavelength light generates a negative current flow with relatively fast time constants; long‐wavelength light generates a positive current flow with longer time constants; intermediate wavelength lights generate currents which are superpositions of these two currents and exhibit on/off peaks. A slight modification of the ‘primitive theory of the electroretinogram’ previously suggested, incorporates these color responses in the theory. The correlation between the physical detector and the retinal receptor unit suggested by this theory can explain the facts that agents which enhance the glial membrane potential increase the red response and decrease the blue response of the chromatic 5 potentials. The response changes due to adaptation can also be explained by the theory.
THEORY OF ULTRAVIOLET ERYTHEMA*
Authors: van der LEUN J. C.
Published: February 2008

Abstract— A quantitative theory of ultraviolet erythema has been developed on the basis of the diffusion equation of Fick. Relationships derived theoretically have been tested against observations. The 300 nm‐erythema shows reasonable agreement with the diffusion theory, the 250 nm‐erythema does not. The hypothesis is advanced that U.V. radiation has two distinct erythemal effects on the skin:one (200 — 400 nm) by action of the radiation on the dermis and one (300 nm) by action of the radiation on the epidermis.
SUBSTITUENT EFFECTS ON THE PROTOLYTIC DISSOCIATION OF ELECTRONICALLY EXCITED PHENOLS*
Authors: Bartok William , Hartman Richard B. , Lucchesi Peter J.
Published: February 2008

Abstract— The aqueous dissociation of electronically excited singlet states of a series of mono‐substituted phenols has been investigated spectroscopically. Apart from the greatly enhanced acidity of these species resulting from excitation, the electronic effects of substituents are similar for ground and excited singlet state reactions. The dissociation constants for the excited state appear to be correlated with ground state values of the substituent constants. The possible generality of the Hammett equation for correlating the effects of substituents on the reactivity of excited singlet states is discussed.
Diagnostics and staging procedures in non‐small cell lung cancer – is less more?
Authors: Heigener David Felix , Diemel Klaus‐Dieter , Reck Martin , Gatzemeier Ulrich
Published: February 2008

Introduction:  Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a common cancer with approximately 85% of patients dying of the disease. The only chance for cure is in the early stages, when surgery or definite chemoradiotherapy can be performed. Diagnosis and staging of lung cancer can sometimes be difficult, particularly because the intrathoracic structures are not easy to reach.

Objective:  This review discusses the diagnosis and staging of lung cancer.

Results:  When performing lung cancer diagnostics, both invasive and noninvasive procedures, such as computed tomogram of the chest, bronchoscopy and abdominal ultrasound, are mandatory. Suspected mediastinal involvement should be differentiated: bulky disease, contralateral or high mediastinal nodes need further clarification by endoscopic ultrasound, endobronchial ultrasound or mediastinoscopy. In opposition to current guidelines, in all other cases, surgery should be performed. Positron emission tomography will gain even more importance when becoming widely accessible and might replace other imaging techniques in the future. In case of advanced disease, staging should be limited to those examinations with impact on symptom control.

Conclusion:  The diagnosis and staging of lung cancer should involve both invasive and noninvasive diagnostic procedures. In the case of advanced disease, staging should be limited to those examinations with impact on symptom control, whereas early stages call for rapid and thorough diagnosis.

Please cite this paper as: Heigener DF, Diemel K‐D, Reck M and Gatzemeier U. Diagnostics and staging procedures in non‐small cell lung cancer – is less more? The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2008; 2: 67–73.
Treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma with liposomized doxorubicine: prolonged time to progression and good survival. A Nordic study
Authors: Hillerdal Gunnar , Sorensen Jens Benn , Sundström Stein , Vikström Anders , Hjerpe Anders
Published: February 2008

Introduction:  Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) has a poor prognosis and there is limited effect of treatment. Lately, pemetrexed and cisplatin have been established as the standard treatment.

Objectives:  The present study was planned in 1998, when there was no standard treatment. Single‐dose doxorubicine had, in small studies, accomplished remissions, and the Scandinavian Mesothelioma Groups therefore decided to test a liposomized form of this drug, which had shown limited toxicity but good efficacy in a few small studies.

Methods:  Fifty‐four evaluable patients with histologically verified and inoperable MPM were treated with liposomized doxorubicine 40 mg/m2, every 4 weeks for six cycles.

Results:  In all, 29 patients (54%) received at least six treatments. The quality of life remained good during the study. Hematologic toxicity was very low. Palmo–plantar erythema occurred in 11 patients (20%), thereof 7 grade II but none was severe and none was dose‐limiting. There were four partial responses (7%). The median time to progression (TTP) was 5 months, the median survival was 12 months, and at 24 months, 22% were still alive.

Conclusion:  Liposomized doxorubicine has a low toxicity and is well tolerated; there were a remarkably long TTP and a good survival. Thus, despite the low response rate, liposomized doxorubicine remains an interesting drug for the treatment of malignant mesothelioma.

Please cite this paper as: Hillerdal G, Sorensen JB, Sundström S, Vikström A and Hjerpe A. Treatment of malignant pleural mesothelioma with liposomized doxorubicine: prolonged time to progression and good survival. A Nordic study. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2008; 2: 80–85.
Root-gap dynamics in a lodgepole pine forest: ectomycorrhizal and nonmycorrhizal fine root activity after experimental gap formation
Authors: Parsons William FJ. , Miller Steven L. , Knight Dennis H.
Published: February 2008

Belowground responses to aboveground disturbance were studied in experimental gaps created in a 95-year-old Pinuscontorta ssp. latifolia (Engelm. ex Wats.) Critchfield stand, southeastern Wyoming. We hypothesized that active fine root densities within the canopy gaps would remain comparable with densities in undisturbed forest and would not decline abruptly until a threshold number of trees had been killed, after which the root gap would be recolonized gradually and centripetally. One-, 5-, 15-, and 30-tree clusters were felled to create a series of gaps in the root mat of lodgepole pine forest soil. For 2 years, densities of ectomycorrhizal (ECM) root tips were determined by intensive soil coring in the experimental gaps and in a nearby 8-year-old clearcut. Data on fine-root activity were obtained using mesh screens inserted into the soil and incubated for up to 5 years. The results were consistent with the original hypothesis, but no clear threshold gap size was observed for ECM root tips. Densities of active ECM root tips measured along transects through one of the 30-tree gaps decreased quickly within 5–6 m of the forest edge, and did not significantly differ from zero at the center of the gap; in contrast to the 2-year-old gap, active ECM densities were fairly constant across the 8-year-old clearcut. Moreover, root-tip densities declined gradually with increasing gap size, while fine root penetrations of the mesh screens were significantly lower in the 30-tree gaps than in the smaller gaps. During the first 3 years, fine roots intercepting the screens were nonmycorrhizal; at the final removal, root screens that had been incubated for 1837 days in the gaps, including the 30-tree gaps, contained ectomycorrhizal root tips. The root screen removal data suggested that belowground gaps persisted 5 years after initial clear-felling of the 30-tree clusters, but the screens also provided evidence for closure from the edges of these gaps.