bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acoustic alarm signalling facilitates predator protection of treehoppers by mutualist ant bodyguards
Authors: Morales Manuel A , Barone Jennifer L , Henry Charles S
Published: May 2008

Mutualism is a net positive interaction that includes varying degrees of both costs and benefits. Because tension between the costs and benefits of mutualism can lead to evolutionary instability, identifying mechanisms that regulate investment between partners is critical to understanding the evolution and maintenance of mutualism. Recently, studies have highlighted the importance of interspecific signalling as one mechanism for regulating investment between mutualist partners. Here, we provide evidence for interspecific alarm signalling in an insect protection mutualism and we demonstrate a functional link between this acoustic signalling and efficacy of protection. The treehopperPublilia concavaSay (Hemiptera: Membracidae) is an insect that provides ants with a carbohydrate-rich excretion called honeydew in return for protection from predators. Adults of this species produce distinct vibrational signals in the context of predator encounters. In laboratory trials, putative alarm signal production significantly increased following initial contact with ladybeetle predators (primarilyHarmonia axyridisPallas, Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), but not following initial contact with ants. In field trials, playback of a recorded treehopper alarm signal resulted in a significant increase in both ant activity and the probability of ladybeetle discovery by ants relative to both silence and treehopper courtship signal controls. Our results show thatP. concavatreehoppers produce alarm signals in response to predator threat and that this signalling can increase effectiveness of predator protection by ants.
Searching for candidate speciation genes using a proteomic approach: seminal proteins in field crickets
Authors: Andrés Jose A , Maroja Luana S , Harrison Richard G
Published: May 2008

In many animals, male seminal proteins influence gamete interactions and fertilization ability and are probably involved in barriers to gene flow between diverging lineages. Here we use a proteomic approach to identify seminal proteins that are transferred to females during copulation and that may be involved in fertilization barriers between two hybridizing field crickets (Gryllus firmusandGryllus pennsylvanicus). Analyses of patterns of divergence suggest that much of the field cricket genome has remained undifferentiated following the evolution of reproductive isolation. By contrast, seminal protein genes are highly differentiated. Tests of selection reveal that positive selection is likely to be responsible for patterns of differentiation. Together, our observations suggest that some of the loci encoding seminal proteins may indeed play a role in fertilization barriers in field crickets.
Warming, plant phenology and the spatial dimension of trophic mismatch for large herbivores
Authors: Post Eric , Pedersen Christian , Wilmers Christopher C , Forchhammer Mads C
Published: May 2008

Temporal advancement of resource availability by warming in seasonal environments can reduce reproductive success of vertebrates if their own reproductive phenology does not also advance with warming. Indirect evidence from large-scale analyses suggests, however, that migratory vertebrates might compensate for this by tracking phenological variation across landscapes. Results from our two-year warming experiment combined with seven years of observations of plant phenology and offspring production by caribou (
Rangifer tarandus
) in Greenland, however, contradict evidence from large-scale analyses. At spatial scales relevant to the foraging horizon of individual herbivores, spatial variability in plant phenology was reduced—not increased—by both experimental and observed warming. Concurrently, offspring production by female caribou declined with reductions in spatial variability in plant phenology. By highlighting the spatial dimension of trophic mismatch, these results reveal heretofore unexpected adverse consequences of climatic warming for herbivore population ecology.
Nonlinear instability of developing streamwise vortices with applications to boundary layer heat transfer intensification through an extended Reynolds analogy
Authors: Liu J.T.C
Published: May 2008

The intent of the present contribution is to explain theoretically the experimentally measured surface heat transfer rates on a slightly concave surface with a thin boundary layer in an otherwise laminar flow. As the flow develops downstream, the measured heat transfer rate deviates from the local laminar value and eventually
exceeds
the local turbulent value in a non-trivial manner even in the absence of turbulence. While the theory for steady strong nonlinear development of streamwise vortices can bridge the heat transfer from laminar to the local turbulent value, further intensification is attributable to the transport effects of instability of the basic steady streamwise vortex system. The problem of heat transport by steady and fluctuating nonlinear secondary instability is formulated. An extended Reynolds analogy for Prandtl number unity,
Pr
=1, is developed, showing the similarity between streamwise velocity and the temperature. The role played by the fluctuation-induced heat flux is similar to momentum flux by the Reynolds shear stress. Inferences from the momentum problem indicate that the intensified heat flux developing well beyond the local turbulent value is attributed to the transport effects of the nonlinear secondary instability, which leads to the formation of ‘coherent structures’ of the flow. The basic underlying pinions of the non-linear hydrodynamic stability problem are the analyses of J. T. Stuart, which uncovered physical mechanisms of nonlinearities that are crucial to the present developing boundary layers supporting streamwise vortices and their efficient scalar transporting mechanisms.
Crystal structures of Melanocarpus albomyces cellobiohydrolase Cel7B in complex with cello‐oligomers show high flexibility in the substrate binding
Authors: Parkkinen Tarja , Koivula Anu , Vehmaanperä Jari , Rouvinen Juha
Published: May 2008

Cellobiohydrolase from Melanocarpus albomyces (Cel7B) is a thermostable, single‐module, cellulose‐degrading enzyme. It has relatively low catalytic activity under normal temperatures, which allows structural studies of the binding of unmodified substrates to the native enzyme. In this study, we have determined the crystal structure of native Ma Cel7B free and in complex with three different cello‐oligomers: cellobiose (Glc2), cellotriose (Glc3), and cellotetraose (Glc4), at high resolution (1.6–2.1 Å). In each case, four molecules were found in the asymmetric unit, which provided 12 different complex structures. The overall fold of the enzyme is characteristic of a glycoside hydrolase family 7 cellobiohydrolase, where the loops extending from the core β‐sandwich structure form a long tunnel composed of multiple subsites for the binding of the glycosyl units of a cellulose chain. The catalytic residues at the reducing end of the tunnel are conserved, and the mechanism is expected to be retaining similarly to the other family 7 members. The oligosaccharides in different complex structures occupied different subsite sets, which partly overlapped and ranged from −5 to +2. In four cellotriose and one cellotetraose complex structures, the cello‐oligosaccharide also spanned over the cleavage site (−1/+1). There were surprisingly large variations in the amino acid side chain conformations and in the positions of glycosyl units in the different cello‐oligomer complexes, particularly at subsites near the catalytic site. However, in each complex structure, all glycosyl residues were in the chair (4C1) conformation. Implications in relation to the complex structures with respect to the reaction mechanism are discussed.
Systemic approach to improving treatment outcome in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Current and future directions
Authors: Ma Brigette B. Y. , Hui Edwin P. , Chan Anthony T. C.
Published: May 2008

Systemic therapy is an integral part of the management of non‐keratinizing nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The purposes of this review are to provide the latest results and future directions of clinical and translational research for this disease, and to illustrate how some of these new therapies have improved the treatment outcome for patients with NPC. Particular attention will be paid to the clinical application of chemotherapy in the adjunctive treatment of locoregionally advanced NPC, novel targeted drugs, Epstein–Barr virus‐targeted vaccine therapies, and the use of plasma Epstein–Barr virus DNA as a biomarker for selecting patients for adjunctive therapies. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 1311–1318)
Sitagliptin, an dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, does not alter the pharmacokinetics of the sulphonylurea, glyburide, in healthy subjects
Authors: Mistry Goutam C. , Bergman Arthur J. , Zheng Wei , Hreniuk David , Zinny Miguel A. , Gottesdiener Keith M. , Wagner John A. , Herman Gary A. , Ruddy Marcella
Published: May 2008

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• No data are available on the potential drug interaction of sitagliptin and glyburide.

• Sitagliptin belongs to a new class of drugs called DPP‐4 inhibitors recently approved for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• Glyburide is a commonly used sulphonylurea medication to treat Type 2 diabetes.

• Combination therapy is often required to achieve adequate glucose control in Type 2 diabetes.

• Sitagliptin does not appear to interfere with glyburide pharmacokinetics and therefore may be potentially co‐administered with glyburide for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes.

AIMS

Sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, is an incretin enhancer that is approved for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes. Sitagliptin is mainly renally eliminated and not an inhibitor of CYP450 enzymes in vitro. Glyburide, a sulphonylurea, is an insulin sensitizer and mainly metabolized by CYP2C9. Since both agents may potentially be co‐administered, the purpose of this study was to examine the effects of sitagliptin on glyburide pharmacokinetics.

METHODS

In this open‐label, randomized, two‐period crossover study, eight healthy normoglycaemic subjects, 22–44 years old, received single 1.25‐mg doses of glyburide alone in one period and co‐administered with sitagliptin on day 5 following a multiple‐dose regimen for sitagliptin (200‐mg q.d. ×6 days) in the other period.

RESULTS

The geometric mean ratios and 90% confidence intervals [(glyburide + sitagliptin)/glyburide] for AUC0–∞ and Cmax were 1.09 (0.96, 1.24) and 1.01 (0.84, 1.23), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Sitagliptin does not alter the pharmacokinetics of glyburide in healthy subjects.
The clinical pharmacology of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies in the treatment of malignancy; have the magic bullets arrived?
Authors: Newsome Barrett W. , Ernstoff Marc S.
Published: May 2008

Monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) are proteins in the immunoglobulin family that bind to specific protein epitope targets on cancer and stromal cells, allowing them to be successfully exploited as therapeutic agents. The prototype Mabs were produced from fusion of mouse B lymphocytes and mouse myeloma cells and were entirely murine in sequence. Subsequent advances in technology have allowed for humanized Mabs, which have different pharmacokinetic properties than murine Mabs in humans. Mabs antitumour activity is mediated through direct interaction with specific target molecules, deployment of immune cytotoxic pathways, or through chaperoning cytotoxic agents to tumour. Mabs are typically administered intravenously, are generally well tolerated and can have powerful anticancer activity. Humanized Mabs have a t1/2 in human sera of 2–3 weeks, which determines the frequency of administration. At present, nine clinically approved Mabs are used in the treatment of human cancer, and many others are in clinical trials. We discuss the pharmacology, clinical indications, and toxicity of the currently available anticancer Mabs in this review.
Analysis of a large multi‐generational family provides insight into the genetics of chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Fuller Stephen J. , Papaemmanuil Elli , McKinnon Leah , Webb Emily , Sellick Gabrielle S. , Dao‐Ung Lan‐Phuong , Skarratt Kristen K. , Crowther Dalemari , Houlston Richard S. , Wiley James S.
Published: May 2008

We report the genetic analysis of a large multi‐generational family composed of 144 individuals in which 11 members have been diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). The observation of a significant over‐representation of monoclonal B‐cell lymphocytosis (MBL) in unaffected family members strongly supports MBL being a surrogate marker of carrier status. A genome‐wide linkage scan of the family using high‐density 10K single nucleotide polymorphisms provided no significant evidence for a single gene model of disease susceptibility, inviting speculation that susceptibility to CLL has a more complex basis. The absence of a correlation in IGHV usage between affected family members does however argue strongly against exposure to a single super‐antigen in disease development.
The labile iron pool in human erythroid cells
Authors: Prus Eugenia , Fibach Eitan
Published: May 2008

Although most cellular iron is firmly bound (e.g. in haemoglobin), some, the labile iron pool (LIP), is bound to low‐affinity ligands. The LIP is regarded as the crossroads of cellular iron traffic. Using multi‐parameter flow‐cytometry of cells treated with the metal‐sensitive sensor calcein and the cell‐permeable chelator deferiprone, we studied LIP in various human erythroid cell populations in peripheral blood, bone marrow and culture. Erythroid maturation was found to be associated with a decrease in the LIP. In the peripheral blood, nucleated erythrocytes (normoblasts) had 5·8‐fold and 8·8‐fold greater LIP than reticulocytes and erythrocytes respectively. Early reticulocytes had 2·5‐fold more LIP than late reticulocytes. In the bone‐marrow and in culture, LIP decreased by c. 30‐fold as early erythroid precursors matured to late precursors. Adding holo‐transferrin to iron‐depleted cultures elevated LIP by 3·9‐fold. We also show that in β‐thalassaemia, a disease associated with iron‐overload, erythrocytes and reticulocytes in the blood and erythroid precursors in culture have a significantly greater LIP than their normal counterparts. In conclusion, the LIP in erythroid cells is altered under physiological (maturation) and pathological (thalassaemia) conditions. The methodology presented might be useful for evaluating the LIP in various diseases and for studying the efficacy of iron‐chelators.
Effects on erythropoiesis of alemtuzumab‐containing reduced intensity and standard conditioning regimens
Authors: Mijovic Aleksandar , Abdallah Atiyeh , Pearce Laurence , Tobal Khalid , Mufti Ghulam J.
Published: May 2008

Haemopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) with reduced‐intensity conditioning (RIC) has been associated with delayed disappearance of host anti‐A and anti‐B isohaemaglutinins and hindrance of donor erythropoiesis in major ABO mismatched transplants. Erythroid recovery, disappearance of recipient type and appearance of donor‐type isohaemaglutinins was compared in 84 patients undergoing RIC and 50 patients with standard‐conditioning (SCo) HCT. All patients received alemtuzumab as part of their conditioning. The incidence of immune‐mediated anaemia and red cell transfusion usage were also compared. Immune factors affecting post‐transplant erythroid kinetics showed little variance between different conditioning regimens. Disappearance of recipient isohaemaglutinins and emergence of donor red cells proceeded at similar rates in RIC and SCo transplants; the effects of ABO mismatch were marginal. Pure red cell aplasia, alloimmune haemolysis and autoimmune haemolytic anaemia were not more common in RIC transplants. We believe that alemtuzumab played a critical role in dampening immune reactions of both the host and the donor. Patients in both conditioning groups had similar post‐transplant erythroid burst‐forming unit (BFU‐E) counts; BFU‐E chimaerism analysis showed that 90–100% progenitors were of donor origin. However, transfusion requirements were significantly higher in the SCo group, due at least partly to earlier onset of bone marrow hypoplasia.
Expression of Concern: HSP70 inhibition reverses cell adhesion mediated and acquired drug resistance in multiple myeloma
Authors: Nimmanapalli Ramadevi , Gerbino Elvira , Dalton William S. , Gandhi Varsha , Alsina Melissa
Published: May 2008

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are a super family of highly conserved molecular chaperone proteins, which are induced in response to stress. HSP70 has been demonstrated to inhibit apoptosis induced by a number of chemotherapeutic agents. Previous investigations have suggested the development of drug resistance in multiple myeloma (MM) cells after adhesion to stroma. This study used MM cell lines and primary plasma cells to determine if HSP70 had a role in development of chemo resistance. Adhesion of MM cells to either bone marrow stromal cells or fibronectin (FN) enhanced HSP70 expression. Inhibition of the HSP70 expression decreased 8226 cell adhesion to stroma or FN and induced more apoptosis in FN‐adhered 8226 cells than in suspension cultures at 24 h. Further, HSP70 inhibitors enhanced melphalan‐induced apoptosis and reversed melphalan‐induced cell adhesion‐mediated drug resistance (CAM‐DR) phenotype. In addition, compared to parental cells, KNK‐437, a heat shock factor inhibitor caused more apoptosis in melphalan‐resistant 8226/LR5 cells and sensitized them to melphalan. Primary CD138 positive cells showed high expression of HSPA4 mRNA, and KNK‐437 caused apoptosis in these cells. In conclusion, our data suggest inhibition of HSP70, reduced adhesion and caused apoptosis of both acquired and de novo drug resistant MM cells.
South Asian chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patients have more rapid disease progression in comparison to White patients
Authors: Gunawardana Chaminda , Austen Belinda , Powell Judith E. , Fegan Christopher , Wandroo Farooq , Jacobs Abe , Pratt Guy , Moss Paul
Published: May 2008

Ethnicity has a major impact on the prevalence of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and may also influence disease phenotype. We compared the clinical features of Southern Asian and White CLL patients managed within one UK region. Asians required treatment almost twice as often as Whites (HR, 1·94) and had a shorter time to first treatment (P = 0·0063). This difference remained significant after adjusting for stage, lymphocyte doubling time and IGHV status (P = 0·026). CLL was diagnosed at younger ages in Asians and racial‐specific variations in IGHV usage were demonstrated. Our findings indicate that Southern Asian race has a negative impact on CLL phenotype.
Retracted: A modified version of galectin‐9 induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of Burkitt and Hodgkin lymphoma cells
Authors: Makishi Shoko , Okudaira Taeko , Ishikawa Chie , Sawada Shigeki , Watanabe Toshiki , Hirashima Mitsuomi , Sunakawa Hajime , Mori Naoki
Published: May 2008

The identification of galectin‐9 as a ligand for T‐cell immunoglobulin‐ and mucin‐domain‐containing molecule‐3 (Tim‐3), expressed on T‐helper type‐1 (Th1) cells, has established the Tim‐3‐galectin‐9 pathway as a regulator of Th1 immunity. Whereas there is compelling evidence for the effects of galectin‐9 on T‐cell fate, limited information is available on the impact of galectin‐9 on B lymphocytes. We found that protease‐resistant galectin‐9, hG9NC(null), but not galectin‐1 or ‐8, prevented cell growth of malignant B cells, such as Burkitt lymphoma (BL) and Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). β‐galactoside binding was essential for galectin‐9‐induced cell growth suppression. hG9NC(null) induced cell cycle arrest by reducing the expression of cyclin D1, D2, B1, Cdk4, Cdc25C and c‐Myc, and apoptosis by reducing the expression of XIAP, c‐IAP2 and survivin. Most of the genes that encode these proteins are regulated by nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), and constitutive activation of NF‐κΒ is a common characteristic of both types of malignancies. hG9NC(null) inhibited IκBα phosphorylation, resulting in suppression of NF‐κB. AP‐1 has also been implicated in the control of cell survival. hG9NC(null) inhibited the expression of JunD, resulting in the suppression of AP‐1. Our results suggest that hG9NC(null) is a potentially suitable agent for the management of BL and HL.
Asp–Tyr–Leu–Lys tetrapeptide inhibits airway inflammation in toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate‐induced asthma mice
Authors: Ahn M‐H. , Park B‐J. , Kwon J‐H. , An S‐H. , Park J‐W. , Jang A. S. , Rhim T. , Park C‐S.
Published: May 2008

Background
Airway inflammation and remodelling contribute to chronic airway obstruction of asthma. Currently, no medication effectively controls airway remodelling and related vascular changes. Therefore, new strategies need to be developed. The kringle 5 domain has anti‐angiogenic activity resulting from the tetrapeptide Lys–Leu–Tyr–Asp (KLYD).

Objective
To investigate the therapeutic effect of KLYD and its inverse form Asp‐Tyr‐Leu‐Lys (DYLK) on the inflammation and remodelling of toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate (TDI)‐sensitization/challenged mice.

Methods
Cell numbers were measured in the presence of various concentrations of KLYD and DYLK using in vitro endothelial cell proliferation assay. The changes of cell number and the level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and response to methacholine (MCh) were measured using the in vivo TDI‐sensitized/challenged mice model. Muc5ac, smooth muscle actin (SMA) and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein expression was analysed on trachea and intrapulmonary bronchi using immunohistochemical stain.

Results
Compared with KLYD, DYLK had a greater inhibitory effect on endothelial cell proliferation (P<0.05). Pre‐treatment of DYLK showed dose‐dependent reduction in the response to MCh (P<0.05) and numbers of inflammatory cells in BAL fluids of TDI‐sensitized/challenged mice. TDI induced increases in Muc5ac, SMA and PCNA protein expression and VEGF levels, which were also abolished by DYLK treatment.

Conclusions
Local administration of DYLK effectively inhibits the airway inflammation and airway remodelling of TDI‐sensitized/challenged mice via down‐regulation of VEGF. These findings suggest that anti‐angiogenic peptide therapies, such as local administration of DYLK, are an effective strategy for the treatment of remodelling in asthma.
Specific allergy to Penaeus monodon (seawater shrimp) or Macrobrachium rosenbergii (freshwater shrimp) in shrimp‐allergic children
Authors: Jirapongsananuruk O. , Sripramong C. , Pacharn P. , Udompunturak S. , Chinratanapisit S. , Piboonpocanun S. , Visitsunthorn N. , Vichyanond P.
Published: May 2008

Background
Allergy to specific shrimp species has not been studied systematically by oral challenges. A comparison of allergy to different shrimp species, especially seawater or freshwater varieties treatment, would be useful in testing shrimp‐allergic subjects.

Objective
The aim of the study was to identify cases of specific allergy to seawater shrimp, Penaeus monodon (Pm), or freshwater shrimp, Macrobrachium rosenbergii (Mr), among shrimp‐allergic children. Comparisons of skin tests using commercial and crude shrimp extracts plus the prick‐to‐prick (PTP) method were investigated.

Methods
Sixty‐eight children with a history of shrimp allergy and skin tests positive to shrimp were orally challenged to both shrimp species. Reactivity to skin prick tests using extracts of Pm (PmSPT), Mr (MrSPT), commercial shrimp (ComSPT), and PTP tests (PmPTP, MrPTP) was compared.

Results
Food challenges identified specific allergy to Pm and Mr in 17.65% and 23.53% of the subjects, respectively. Positive and negative challenges to both shrimp species were found in 47.06% and 11.76% of the subjects, respectively. Correlations between the mean weal diameter (MWD) from ComSPT–PmSPT, ComSPT–PmPTP, ComSPT–MrPTP, PmSPT–PmPTP and MrSPT–MrPTP, but not ComSPT–MrSPT, were observed. The MWD from PmSPT and PmPTP were significantly larger in patients with positive than negative challenges to P. monodon (P<0.05). There was a trend that MWD from MrSPT were larger in patients with positive than negative challenges to M. rosenbergii (P=0.058). In the Pm allergy group, PmSPT with an MWD of 30 mm provided 80% predictive probability for positive challenges. PmPTP and ComSPT with an MWD of 22.5 and 20 mm provided 95% predictive probability, respectively. In the Mr allergy group, MrSPT with an MWD of 30 mm provided 95% predictive probability.

Conclusion
Specific allergy to Pm or Mr was confirmed by food challenges. SPT using crude extracts and the PTP test are useful tools for screening shrimp sensitization before a food challenge. The predictive probability of SPT is helpful where a food challenge is not feasible.
Human innate immune responses to hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) and HDI–albumin conjugates
Authors: Wisnewski A. V. , Liu Q. , Liu J. , Redlich C. A.
Published: May 2008

Background
Isocyanates, a leading cause of occupational asthma, are known to induce adaptive immune responses; however, innate immune responses, which generally precede and regulate adaptive immunity, remain largely uncharacterized.

Objective
The aim of the study was to identify and characterize the cellular, molecular and systemic innate immune responses induced by hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI).

Methods
Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were stimulated in vitro with HDI–albumin conjugates or control antigen, and changes in phenotype, gene and protein expression were characterized by flow cytometry, microarray, Western blot and ELISA. Cell uptake of isocyanate was visualized microscopically using HDI–albumin conjugates prepared with fluorescently labelled albumin. In vivo, human HDI exposure was performed via a specific inhalation challenge, and subsequent changes in PBMCs and serum proteins were measured by flow cytometry and ELISA. Genotypes were determined by PCR.

Results
Human monocytes take up HDI–albumin conjugates and undergo marked changes in morphology and gene/protein expression in vitro. The most significant (P‐values 0.007–0.05) changes in mircoarray gene expression were noted in lysosomal genes, especially peptidases and proton pumps involved in antigen processing. Chemokines that regulate monocyte/macrophage trafficking (MIF, MCP‐1) and pattern‐recognition receptors that bind chitin (chitinases) and oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (CD68) were also increased following isocyanate–albumin exposure. In vivo, HDI‐exposed subjects exhibited a drastic increase in the percentage of PBMCs with the same HDI–albumin responsive phenotype characterized in vitro (HLA‐DR+/CD11c+ with altered light scatter properties). An exposure‐dependent decrease (46±11%; P<0.015) in serum concentrations of chitinase 3‐like‐1 was also observed in individuals who lack the major (type 1) human chitinase (due to genetic polymorphism), but not in individuals possessing at least one functional chitinase‐1 allele.

Conclusions
Previously unrecognized innate immune responses to HDI and HDI–albumin conjugates could influence the clinical spectrum of exposure reactions.
Cow's milk protein sensitivity assessed by the mucosal patch technique is related to irritable bowel syndrome in patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Lidén M. , Kristjánsson G. , Valtysdottir S. , Venge P. , Hällgren R.
Published: May 2008

Introduction
Patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) are reported to have a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms partly attributed to an overrepresentation of celiac disease. We have observed that irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)‐like symptoms are frequent complaints in this patient group. Allergic manifestations to various drugs are also common in pSS. A role of food allergy in IBS has been proposed.

Objective
This study is aimed at evaluating the mucosal response to rectal challenge with cow's milk protein (CM) in patients with pSS and relates possible CM reactivity to their intestinal symptoms.

Methods
A rectal challenge with CM was performed in 21 patients with pSS and 18 healthy controls. Fifteen hours after challenge the mucosal production of nitric oxide (NO) and the release of myeloperoxidase (MPO) as signs of mucosal inflammatory reaction were measured using the mucosal patch technique.

Results
Eight out of 21 patients with pSS had a definite increase of mucosal NO synthesis and the luminal release of MPO after rectal CM challenge. This sign of milk sensitivity was not linked to IgG/IgA antibodies to milk proteins. The symptoms for IBS according to Rome III criteria were fulfilled in 13 patients. All patients who were CM sensitive suffered from IBS. In a small open study, patients reactive to CM reported an improvement of intestinal symptoms on a CM‐free diet.

Conclusion
A rectal mucosal inflammatory response after CM challenge is seen in 38% of patients with pSS as a sign of CM sensitivity. IBS‐like symptoms were common in pSS, linked to CM sensitivity.
Histamine H1‐receptor antagonists inhibit nuclear factor‐kappaB and activator protein‐1 activities via H1‐receptor‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms
Authors: Roumestan C. , Henriquet C. , Gougat C. , Michel A. , Bichon F. , Portet K. , Jaffuel D. , Mathieu M.
Published: May 2008

Background
Histamine H1‐receptor antagonists are used to relieve the symptoms of an immediate allergic reaction. They have additional anti‐inflammatory effects that could result from an inhibition of the transcription factors activator protein‐1 (AP‐1) and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB). The implication of the H1‐receptor in these effects is controversial. Diphenhydramine is a first‐generation H1‐receptor antagonist while mizolastine and desloratadine are second‐generation compounds. Mizolastine is also an inhibitor of 5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LO), an enzyme that has been involved in NF‐κB activation.

Objective
We measured the ability of antihistamines to reverse histamine‐induced smooth muscle contraction, an effect that involves the H1‐receptor. We then investigated whether these drugs affect NF‐κB and AP‐1 activities in A549 lung epithelial cells, and whether this potential regulation involves H1‐receptor and 5‐LO.

Methods
Muscle tone was measured on tracheal segments of guinea‐pigs. The H1‐receptor was overexpressed by transfection and detected by Western blotting and immunofluorescence microscopy. NF‐κB and AP‐1 activities were assessed by reporter gene assays in cells overexpressing or not overexpressing the H1‐receptor. Production of regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed andsecreted (RANTES), a chemokine whose expression is induced through NF‐κB, was measured using an immunoassay.

Results
H1‐receptor antagonists reversed histamine‐induced contraction in a dose‐dependent manner. Induction of AP‐1 and NF‐κB activities by histamine and the down‐regulatory effect of antihistamines required overexpression of the H1‐receptor. In contrast, when tumour necrosis factor‐α and a phorbol ester were used to stimulate NF‐κB and AP‐1 activities, respectively, repression of these activities did not involve the H1‐receptor. Indeed, repression was triggered only by a subset of H1‐receptor antagonists and was not stronger after overexpression of the H1‐receptor. Mizolastine and desloratadine dose‐dependently decreased tumour necrosis factor‐α‐induced production of RANTES. Diphenhydramine, H2‐ and H3‐receptor antagonists as well as selective inhibitors of 5‐LO were ineffective in this assay.

Conclusion
Repression of NF‐κB and AP‐1 activities by H1‐receptor antagonists involves H1‐receptor‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms but not 5‐LO.
Evaluation of single‐pass backpack electric fishing for stream fish community monitoring
Authors: REID S. M. , YUNKER G. , JONES N. E.
Published: May 2008

Abstract  Data from Lake Ontario tributaries were used to evaluate the efficacy of single‐pass backpack electric fishing for stream fish monitoring by: testing the relationship between single‐pass catch‐per‐unit‐effort (CPUE) and multiple‐pass‐based population estimates; comparing species richness estimates derived from single‐pass and multiple‐pass data and assessing the concordance of fish assemblage patterns described using single‐pass and multiple‐pass data. Significant correlations were calculated between single‐pass CPUE and removal‐based population estimates for total catch, 15 species, six taxonomic families, five feeding and four reproductive guilds and tolerant/intolerant species. Strong correlations were more commonly associated with the abundance of individual species than other metrics. Capture probability was not affected by stream size or habitat complexity for most measures. Species accumulation curves and significant correlations (r2 = 0.9) between single‐pass and multiple‐pass electric fishing indicate that single‐pass surveys provide a representative index of species diversity. In addition, within and among‐site variation in fish community composition based on single‐pass and multiple‐pass data were similar.
The effects of mechanically reducing northern pike density on the sport fish community of West Long Lake, Nebraska, USA
Authors: JOLLEY J. C. , WILLIS D. W. , DEBATES T. J. , GRAHAM D. D.
Published: May 2008

Abstract  Removal of piscivores may affect population size structure, abundance and growth rates of the remaining fish community. A total of 572 northern pike, Esox lucius L., was removed from 25‐ha West Long Lake, Nebraska from 2003 to 2006. The northern pike population was reduced from 36 fish ha−1 and 22 kg ha−1 in 2002 to 20 fish ha−1 and 9 kg ha−1 in 2006. The northern pike population shifted to dominance by smaller individuals. Relative abundance increased for bluegill, Lepomis macrochirus Rafinesque, but remained similar between years for largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides (Lacepède), and yellow perch, Perca flavescens (Mitchill). Bluegill and yellow perch size structure increased probably because of reduced predation by northern pike. The effects of reduced northern pike density on largemouth bass were less evident. The largemouth bass population may be returning to higher density with smaller size structure observed before pike were introduced. The sport fish community responded positively to the removal of northern pike in this small lake.
Consequences of a biogeomorphic regime shift for the hyporheic zone of a Sonoran Desert stream
Authors: HEFFERNAN JAMES B. , SPONSELLER RYAN A. , FISHER STUART G.
Published: May 2008

1. Feedbacks between vegetation and geomorphic processes can generate alternative stable states and other nonlinear behaviours in ecological systems, but the consequences of these biogeomorphic interactions for other ecosystem processes are poorly understood. In this study, we describe the changes in the hydrological, geomorphic and biogeochemical characteristics of the hyporheic zone of a Sonoran desert stream (Sycamore Creek, Arizona, U.S.A.) in response to a transition from an unvegetated gravel‐bed state to densely vegetated wetlands (ciénegas).

2. A survey of the entire length of Sycamore Creek indicated that ciénegas occupied c. 18% of the stream, and were disproportionately represented in constrained canyons rather than wide, unconstrained valleys.

3. Vegetated patches were characterized by low concentrations of dissolved oxygen (DO) and nitrate and high concentrations of carbon dioxide and methane in the hyporheic zone. In contrast to unvegetated areas, hyporheic DO in ciénegas exhibited no relationship with vertical hydraulic gradients.

4. Increases in hyporheic DO following removal of vegetation by floods supports the hypothesis that these reduced conditions were the result of biogeochemical and geomorphic changes associated with vegetation establishment. In locations where vegetation persisted, hyporheic DO exhibited no response to flooding; in sections where vegetation was removed hyporheic DO closely tracked post‐flood increases in surface stream DO.

5. Shallow sediments in vegetated patches were finer and more organic‐rich than in unvegetated patches, due to increased deposition during floods. Conservative tracer additions indicated that hydrological exchange between the surface stream and hyporheic zone was much lower in ciénegas than in gravel‐bed reaches.

6. Vegetation establishment in desert streams not only alters the physical and chemical characteristics of the hyporheic zone, but also the nature of interactions between surface and hyporheic subsystems.
General empirical models for predicting the release of nutrients by fish, with a comparison between detritivores and non‐detritivores
Authors: SEREDA JEFF M. , HUDSON JEFF J. , MCLOUGHLIN PHILIP D.
Published: May 2008

1. We derived models of nutrient release [nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P)] by fish based on studies that directly measured the release rates from 56 species across a broad range of fish mass, feeding histories and temperature.

2. We developed four separate models of nutrient release from multiple regression analysis: detritivore release rates of N and P, and non‐detritivore release rates of N and P.

3. Fish mass explained most of the variance (78–92%) in release rates.

4. Our predicted rates of release of P by fish (g ha−1 day−1) were similar to observed rates in the literature from other lakes.

5. The influence of a shift in diet (planktivory to detritivory) by a single species (gizzard shad, Dorosoma cepedianum, a facultative detritivore) on nutrient release rates was estimated. During periods of detritivory, gizzard shad accounted for on average 39% (<1–96%) of all nutrients released by the fish assemblage, and increased total fish assemblage release rates on average by 59% (<1–331%) compared to when gizzard shad were modelled as planktivores.

6. These models provide a rapid means for predicting the release of nutrients by fish assemblages and may facilitate more comprehensive comparisons of nutrient cycling by fish with other internal pathways.
Prevalence of von Willebrand disease in women with iron deficiency anaemia and menorrhagia in Taiwan
Authors: CHEN Y.‐C. , CHAO T.‐Y. , CHENG S.‐N. , HU S.‐H. , LIU J.‐Y.
Published: May 2008

Summary.  Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is a frequently encountered disease, which can be attributed to menorrhagia. Most female patients with von Willebrand disease (VWD) have menorrhagia. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of VWD in women with both IDA and menorrhagia in Taiwan. From January to December 2005 and November 2006 to January 2007, 56 consecutive patients with both IDA and menorrhagia were enrolled in this study. Their median age was 41 years (range 18–53). IDA was diagnosed by anaemia plus either low ferritin or transferrin saturation. Menorrhagia was evaluated by patient’s menses history. Both von Willebrand factor antigen (VWF:Ag) and ristocetin cofactor activity (VWF:RCo) were measured for each patient. Bleeding time (BT) and platelet function analyser (PFA)‐100 assay were determined as ancillary tests. The VWD diagnosis was established if: (i) both VWF:Ag (<50%) and VWF:RCo (<50%) were low; (ii) either VWF:Ag or VWF:RCo was low plus prolonged BT or prolonged PFA closure times. VWF multimer analysis was performed for subtype confirmation of VWD. Nine of the 56 (16.1%) patients were identified to have VWD. VWD patients with menorrhagia might develop IDA at younger age (34.3 vs. 39.7, P = 0.09) and had more IDA recurrence (75% vs. 16%, P = 0.03) than those patients without VWD. Of the eight VWD patients with VWF multimer analyses, all were revealed to have type I VWD. Our study demonstrates that VWD was not uncommon in women with both IDA and menorrhagia in Taiwan.
Changes in functional properties of shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) cartilage gelatin produced by different drying methods
Authors: Kwak Ki‐Seok , Cho Seung‐Mock , Ji Cheong‐Il , Lee Yang‐Bong , Kim Seon‐Bong
Published: May 2008

Fish gelatins extracted from shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) cartilage were dried by three different methods: freeze drying, hot‐air drying and spray drying; and their functional properties were investigated. Freeze‐dried gelatin was found to have the strongest gel strength, while gelatins made at high temperatures formed weaker gels. The 135‐kPa gel strength of freeze‐dried gelatin was relatively high. While foam formation ability of the freeze‐dried gelatin was the highest, its foam stability was the lowest. In addition, spray‐dried gelatin had the best emulsion capacities. Dynamic viscoelastic properties of shark cartilage gelatins prepared by these drying methods were closely correlated with their gel strength. Elasticity modulus (G’; Pa) and loss modulus (G”; Pa) of the freeze‐dried gelatin had higher values than those prepared by hot‐air drying and spray drying; viscoelastic properties of the freeze‐dried gelatin were maintained longer than those of other drying methods.
Enhanced β‐galactosidase production by supplementing whey with cauliflower waste
Authors: Oberoi Harinder Singh , Bansal Sunil , Dhillon Gurpreet Singh
Published: May 2008

Among the five Kluyveromyces marxianus strains tested for β‐galactosidase production, K. marxianus NCIM 3465 showed maximum enzyme activity of 1.62 IU mg−1 dry weight. Different levels (5–25%, w/v) of dried cauliflower waste were incorporated into whey to evaluate the effect of its supplementation on enzyme production. Although a marginal increase in enzyme production was seen by incorporating 5% and 10% cauliflower waste in whey, nearly 15% increase in β‐galactosidase production was observed when cauliflower waste level was increased to 20% compared with whey alone. Supplementing whey with 20% cauliflower waste also decreased the production time. Lactose concentration in whey, mainly responsible for increasing the biological oxygen demand load of the effluent water, decreased from 4.2% to nearly 0% at 24 h. Thus, this study demonstrated that both these by‐products/residues could be effectively used for β‐galactosidase production at commercial scale.
The middle‐range theory of nursing intellectual capital
Authors: Covell Christine L.
Published: May 2008

Title.  The middle‐range theory of nursing intellectual capital

Aim.  This paper is a report of the development of the middle‐range theory of nursing intellectual capital.

Background.  Rising healthcare costs and advances in technology have contributed to the need for better understanding of the influence of nurses’ knowledge, skills and experience on patient and organizational outcomes.

Method.  The middle‐range nursing intellectual capital theory was developed using the strategies of concept and theory derivation. The principles of research synthesis were used to provide empirical support for the propositions of the theory.

Findings.  The middle‐range nursing intellectual capital theory was derived from intellectual capital theory to make it relevant and applicable to a specific aspect of nursing, continuing professional development. It proposes that the nursing knowledge available in healthcare organizations is influenced by variables within the work environment, and influences patient and organizational outcomes.

Conclusion.  The middle‐range nursing intellectual capital theory should be tested in different healthcare systems and in different settings and countries to determine its effectiveness in guiding research.
Benefits of nurse prescribing for patients in pain: nurses’ views
Authors: Stenner Karen , Courtenay Molly
Published: May 2008

Title.  Benefits of nurse prescribing for patients in pain: nurses’ views.

Aim  This paper is a report of a study to explore nurses’ views on the benefits of adopting the role of prescribing for patients with acute and chronic pain.

Background.  It was envisioned that the advent of nurse prescribing would be beneficial to the efficiency and effectiveness of the United Kingdom National Health Service. Research to date does indeed indicate that nurse prescribing can be beneficial to patients, nurses and the health service in general. Despite the expansion of nurse prescribing, there is little evidence of its impact according to nurses working in specialist areas, such as with patients in acute and chronic pain.

Method.  Interviews were conducted during 2006 and 2007 with 26 nurses qualified to prescribe medicines for patients in acute and chronic pain. This was a qualitative study and a thematic analysis was conducted.

Findings.  Nurses reported a number of benefits, including faster access to treatment, improved quality of care, more appropriate prescribing of medication, improved safety, improved relations and communication with patients, greater efficiency and cost effectiveness. Nurses benefited from increased job satisfaction, credibility with patients and healthcare professionals and also gained knowledge through prescribing.

Conclusion.  There is potential for the benefits of nurse prescribing to be expanded beyond the United Kingdom in settings where nurses hold similar roles in the treatment of pain, although further research using a wider range of research methods is recommended to substantiate these findings.
Decision‐making about artificial feeding in end‐of‐life care: literature review
Authors: Bryon Els , Gastmans Chris , De Casterlé Bernadette Dierckx
Published: May 2008

Title.  Decision‐making about artificial feeding in end‐of‐life care: literature review.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a review of nurses’ roles and their perceptions of these roles in decision‐making processes surrounding artificial food and fluid administration in adult patients.

Background.  Of all caregivers, nurses have the closest and most trusting relationship with severely ill patients and their families during the entire end‐of‐life care process. As a result, nurses become closely involved in complex ethical decision‐making processes concerning artificial administration of food or fluids for these patients.

Data sources.  We searched seven electronic databases (1990–2007) and examined the reference lists of relevant papers.

Review methods.  This mixed methods review was conducted with guidance of the United Kingdom Centre for Reviews and Dissemination guidelines on systematic reviews.

Results.  Although their direct impact is limited, nurses play a significant indirect role during decision‐making processes. Because of their unique position, they often initiate decision‐making processes, function as patient advocates and provide guidance, information and support to patients and families. Although nurses considered their role to be very valuable, they felt that their role was not always defined clearly or appreciated. Whether nurses experience decision‐making processes positively depended on several contextual factors.

Conclusion.  Given their knowledge and practice skills, nurses are in a prime position to contribute valuably to decision‐making processes. Nevertheless, they remain sidelined. For nurses to receive sufficient recognition, their decision‐making tasks and responsibilities need to be clarified and made manifest to other participants.