bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BASIC FEATURES OF HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS CHINESE ISOLATE PROTEINS
Authors: Zhao Xiaodong , Lu Huang
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Human metapneumovirus (hMPV), initially described in 2001, is an enveloped RNA virus of the genus Metapneumovirus, subfamily Pneumovirinae, family Paramyxoviridae.

OBJECTIVE: We sought to clarify the basic features of hMPV proteins.

METHODS: Rabbits were immunized with inactivated virions of hMPV Chinese isolate, CHN05-01, to yield anti-hMPV antiserum. Antiserum was used as primary antibody to detect hMPV proteins by Western blotting. NetNglyc 1.0 server, NetOglyc 3.1 server, and the NetPhos 2.0 server were applied for predicting potential glycosylation and phosphorylation sites of proteins of prototype virus of subtype A, CAN97-83.

RESULTS: The highest reactive titer of the antiserum with hMPV antigens reached 1:500 in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Potential glycosylation sites of G protein and phosphorylation sites of P protein were greatest among all hMPV proteins. G protein was shown as a narrow band with molecular weight between 55 and 72 kd (∼68 kd), indicating that its glycosylation level is consistent and remarkably different from that of CAN99-80 and CAN99-81. F1 subunit of fusion protein displayed molecular weight between 40 and 55 kd (∼48 kd), which is consistent with previous reports.

CONCLUSIONS: Basic features of 2 major membrane proteins of Chinese hMPV isolate were clarified, which will benefit future studies on protein function and the pathogenesis of this virus.
PREDICTION OF CAPILLARY LEAKAGE IN PATIENTS WITH DENGUE VIRUS INFECTION: WHAT ELSE BESIDES HEMATOCRIT AND PLATELET COUNTS?
Authors: Khongphatthanayothin Apichai , Supachokechaiwattana Pentip , Pantcharoen Chitsanu
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Besides clinical examination, hematocrit and platelet counts are often used to predict if a patient with suspected dengue virus infection had dengue hemorrhagic fever.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we investigated the role of Doppler study of the portal vein as a predictor for capillary leakage in these patients.

METHODS: Doppler studies of the right portal vein blood flow velocity were performed for 61 patients (aged 10.2 ± 2.9 years; 34 boys and 27 girls) with serologically confirmed dengue virus infection at defervescence. Presence of right pleural effusion was detected by ultrasound in 32 patients 24 to 48 hours later. Binary logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed for the following variables as predictors of pleural effusion 24 to 48 hours after defervescence: age, gender, maximum hematocrit level, lowest platelet count, and the velocity of blood flow in the right portal vein (PVDPL).

RESULTS: Hematocrit level and PVDPL were independent predictors of pleural effusion. The area under the ROC curve, sensitivity, and specificity for these variables as predictors for right pleural fluid 24 to 48 hours after defervescence are shown in Table 1.

CONCLUSIONS: Doppler-derived portal venous blood flow velocity may be used to predict the clinical progression of patients with dengue virus infection.

TABLE 1.Variables as Predictors of Pleural EffusionVariablesArea Under ROC CurveCutoffSensitivity, %Specificity, %Hematocrit, %0.79>437283PVDPL, cm/s0.88<15.37279Hematocrit/PVDPL, s/cm0.93>2.668183
ASSOCIATION OF POLYMORPHISMS OF THE INTERLEUKIN 18 RECEPTOR: α GENE WITH SUSCEPTIBILITY TO TUBERCULOSIS IN CHONGQING, CHINA
Authors: Jiang Li-Ping
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: The interleukin 18 (IL-18) receptor complex is a heterodimer consisting of IL-18Rα and IL-18β. Both chains are required for IL-18 signaling transduction in T cells and natural killer cells.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to determine whether polymorphisms of the IL-18Rα gene promoter were associated with susceptibility to tuberculosis in Chongqing, China.

METHODS: In 123 patients (91 children and 32 adults) with tuberculosis and 249 normal controls (167 children and 82 adults) in Chongqing, we analyzed the polymorphisms at positions -69T/C and -638T/C in the promoter of IL-18Rα by using polymerase chain reaction with sequence-specific primers.

RESULTS: Allele and genotype frequencies at position -638 of the IL-18Rα gene polymorphisms were similar in patients with tuberculosis and normal controls (P > .05). However, the frequency of -69/CC was significantly lower in patients with tuberculosis than in controls (χ2 = 8.484; P = .004 < .05). The frequency of -69/TT was significantly higher in patients with tuberculosis than in controls (χ2 = 4.027; P = .045 < .05). The frequency of allele C at position -69 in tuberculosis was significantly lower that than in controls (χ2 = 9.816; P = .002 < .05). The frequency of allele C at position -69 in patients with severe tuberculosis was significantly lower than that in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (χ2 = 4.664; P = .031 < .05).

CONCLUSIONS: Polymorphisms of the IL-18Rα gene at position -69 were associated with susceptibility to tuberculosis in Chongqing. The people with allele C at position -69 may be protected against mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Moreover, the position -69 of IL-18Rα may be associated with a severe degree of tuberculosis.
PROTEOLIPID PROTEIN 1 GENE MUTATION IN CHINESE PATIENTS WITH PELIZAEUS-MERZBACHER DISEASE
Authors: Jiang Yuwu , Wang Jingmin , Wu Ye , Tong Tony M. F. , Lam Stephen T. S. , Yang Yanling , Qin Jiong , Wu Xiru
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease (PMD) is a rare X-linked recessive disorder that presents with nystagmus, impaired motor development, ataxia, and progressive spasticity.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to analyze the proteolipid protein 1 (PLP1) gene in 6 Chinese patients with PMD.

METHODS: Six unrelated Chinese patients had PMD (P1–P6), and 14 individuals were from family P2. Of these 6 patients, 3 had transitional, 2 had classical, and 1 had connate PMD according to the clinical and MRI features. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples. Gene dosage was determined by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification. All 7 exons and exon-intron boundaries of PLP1 gene were amplified and analyzed by direct DNA sequencing.

RESULTS: PLP1 duplications were identified in patients 1 through 4 with PMD. Their mothers were PLP1 duplication carriers. Both duplication carriers and normal genotypes of PLP1 were identified in the family members of patient P2. A c.517C → T (p. P173S) hemizygous missense mutation in exon 4 was found in patient 5, and his mother was a heterozygote of this mutation.

CONCLUSIONS: We identified 4 gene duplications and 1 missense mutation (p. P173S) of PLP1 gene in 5 Chinese patients with PMD. This is the first report about PLP1 mutations in patients with PMD in China.
Local cortical function after uncomplicated subdural electrode implantation
Authors: Yoshor Daniel , Bosking William H. , Lega Bradley C. , Sun Ping , Maunsell John H. R.
Published: January 2008

Object

Although subdural electrodes are routinely used to map regional brain function, it is unknown if the presence of these implants hinders local cortical function. The authors used psychophysical methods to measure the effect of uncomplicated electrode implantation on local cortical function.

Methods

Local field potentials were used to map receptive fields (RFs) for subdural electrodes that were unilaterally implanted on early visual cortex in 4 patients. After electrode implantation, patients did a task that required them to detect an orientation change in a flashing visual stimulus that was presented either inside the mapped RF or outside the RF in the diametrically opposite portion of the other hemifield. The size of the orientation change was varied to span a wide range of behavioral performance. Psychometric curves were generated by fitting behavioral responses to a logistic function. The threshold was defined as the point at which the fitted function crossed 50% detection.

Results

Data were well fit by the logistic function in all 4 patients for both RF and non-RF conditions. None of the volunteers tested showed a statistically significant difference in detection threshold, reaction time, or in the slope of the psychometric function for stimuli presented inside or outside the RF.

Conclusions

Subdural electrodes implanted for extraoperative monitoring do not impair psychophysical performance for a task based on stimuli lying within the RF for recording electrodes. This finding suggests that these electrodes can be used reliably for accurate assessment of regional neurological function.
3,4‐Diaminobenzophenone Matrix for Analysis of Oligonucleotides by MALDI‐TOF Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Fu Yu , Xu Songyun , Pan Chensong , Ye Mingliang , Zou Hanfa
Published: January 2008

This unit contains procedures for analysis of oligonucleotides by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry with 3,4‐diaminobenzophenone (DABP) as a matrix. This new matrix has demonstrated advantages in the analysis of oligonucleotides. With DABP as a matrix, intact oligonucleotide ions can be readily produced with lower laser powers, resulting in better detection limits, less fragmentation, and fewer alkali‐metal ion adducts compared with results obtained using conventional matrices. Minimal fragmentation and fewer alkali‐metal ion adducts were seen even at low oligonucleotide concentrations. It was also found that samples prepared with DABP are highly homogenous, therefore reducing the need to find “sweet spots” in MALDI. Finally, excellent shot‐to‐shot reproducibility, resolution, and signal‐to‐noise ratio are observed using the DABP matrix. Curr. Protoc. Nucleic Acid Chem. 31:10.12.1‐10.12.6. © 2007 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Ethylene polymerization by 3‐oxa‐pentamethylene bridged asymmetric dinuclear titanocene/MAO system
Authors: Lin Feng , Zhu Bochao , Zhao Xutao , Li Xu , Sun Junquan
Published: January 2008

An asymmetric 3‐oxa‐pentamethylene bridged dinuclear titanocenium complex (CpTiCl2)2(η5‐η5‐C9H6(CH2CH2OCH2CH2)C5H4) (1) has been prepared by treating two equivalents of CpTiCl3 with the corresponding dilithium salts of the ligand C9H7(CH2CH2OCH2 CH2)C5H5. The complex 1 was characterized by 1H‐, 13C‐NMR, and elemental analysis. Homogenous ethylene polymerization catalyzed using complex 1 has been conducted in the presence of methylaluminoxane (MAO). The influences ofreaction parameters, such as [MAO]/[Cat] molar ratio, catalyst concentration, ethylene pressure, temperature, and time have been studied in detail. The results show that the catalytic activity and the molecular weight (MW) of polyethylene produced by 1/MAO decrease gradually with increasing the catalyst concentration or polymerization temperature. The most important feature of this catalytic system is the molecular weight distribution (MWD) of polyethylene reaching 12.4, which is higher than using common mononuclear metallocenes, as well as asymmetric dinuclear titanocene complexes like [(CpTiCl2)2(η5‐η5‐C9H6(CH2)nC5H4)] (n = 3, MWD = 7.31; n = 4, MWD = 6.91). The melting point of polyethylene is higher than 135°C, indicating highly linear and highly crystalline polymers. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Characterization of poly(vinyl alcohol)/sodium bromide polymer electrolytes for electrochemical cell applications
Authors: Bhargav P. Balaji , Mohan V. M. , Sharma A. K. , Rao V. V. R. N.
Published: January 2008

Sodium‐ion conducting polymer electrolytes based on poly(vinyl alcohol) complexed with sodium bromide were prepared with a solution‐casting technique. The structure of these films was determined with X‐ray diffraction, and the complexation of the salt with the polymer was confirmed with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy studies. Electrical conductivity was measured with an alternating‐current impedance analyzer in the frequency range of 100 Hz to 1 MHz and in the temperature range of 303–373 K. It was observed that the magnitude of conductivity increased with the increase in the salt concentration as well as the temperature. The nature of the charge transport in these polymer electrolyte films was determined with both Wagner's polarization technique and the Watanabe technique. The dominant conducting species were found to be ions, particularly anions. Optical absorption studies were performed in the wavelength range of 200–600 nm, and the absorption edge, direct band gap, and indirect band gap values were evaluated. Electrochemical cells were fabricated, and their discharge characteristics were studied. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis and thermal stability of a novel cycloaliphatic epoxy resin system
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Hua , Xu Wei‐Jian , Chen Fan‐Cai , Liu Ya‐Li , Lu Ming‐Xia
Published: January 2008

A novel cycloaliphatic epoxy resin was synthesized from dicyclopentadiene, ethylene glycol, and nadic anhydride. The chemical structures of the resultant epoxy resin and its precursor were characterized with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, 1H‐NMR, and mass spectrographic analyses. The thermal stability of the cured polymer was investigated with differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. Compared with the thermal stability of the commercial cycloaliphatic epoxy resin 3,4‐epoxy cyclohexyl methyl‐3′,4′‐epoxy cyclohexyl carboxylate, a higher thermal stability for the cured polymer of the novel epoxy resin was observed. The results imply that the novel cycloaliphatic epoxy resin has good potential applications in electronic encapsulation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Encoding touch and the orbitofrontal cortex
Authors: Frey Stephen , Zlatkina Veronika , Petrides Michael
Published: January 2008

Lesion studies on nonhuman primates utilizing recognition memory tests have shown that the orbitofrontal cortex is critical for the encoding of novel information, and anatomical studies have shown that the orbitofrontal cortex forms part of a mnemonic circuit that connects limbic medial temporal areas with higher‐order lateral frontal cortical regions. Furthermore, functional neuroimaging studies have demonstrated increased activity in the orbitofrontal cortex of the human brain during the encoding of novel visual and auditory information. The present positron emission tomography study examined brain activity related to the encoding of tactile information. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) in normal human subjects during the tactile exploration of novel stimuli from a related set of textures and patterns, as well as from a set of aversive tactile stimuli, was compared with CBF during a control condition involving familiar tactile stimuli. The results demonstrate that the right rostral orbitofrontal cortex is involved in the active encoding of novel tactile information, while a more caudal region of the orbitofrontal cortex, which is more closely connected with limbic and autonomic regions of the brain, was activated when subjects explored novel aversive tactile stimuli. These results suggest that the orbitofrontal cortex, through its connections with the limbic areas of the medial temporal lobe, influences the processing of incoming information and thus contributes to its encoding. Hum Brain Mapp, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vitro gene expression analysis of nephrotoxic drugs in rat primary renal cortical tubular cells
Authors: Suzuki Hiromi , Inoue Tomoaki , Matsushita Tomochika , Kobayashi Kazuko , Horii Ikuo , Hirabayashi Yoko , Inoue Tohru
Published: January 2008

Rat primary renal cortical tubular cells were exposed to seven test substances, some with, and some without, known direct renal tubular cell toxicity. Cells were exposed to the substances at either one‐third or one‐tenth of the TC50 for cytotoxicity for 6 h or 24 h, so as not to induce cytotoxicity but to cause some transcriptional changes. Transcriptional profiles were investigated by using the Affymetrix Rat Toxicology U34 arrays, containing probes for more than 850 genes and ESTs. Four direct toxicants, cisplatin (CDDP), its less nephrotoxic analogue carboplatin (CBDCA), cephaloridine and gentamicin, were grouped together in a hierarchical clustering. In addition, the four direct toxicants affected more than 32 transcripts at their subcytotoxic concentrations at either 6 h or 24 h exposure. On the other hand, diclofenac, cyclosporine A and zinc, which are not considered to be directly toxic to tubules, affected less than 12 transcripts. Decreased Map3k12 and increased Hmox1 were commonly observed among the four direct toxicants, which appeared to be responses to cellular damage. Two platinum complexes, CDDP and CBDCA, induced similar changes, regardless of exposure duration or concentration. The types of transcriptional changes observed in this study were consistent with previously reported in vivo data, although there were some differences. These observations suggest that an in vitro gene expression analysis approach using GeneChip is feasible for screening for direct tubular toxicity of drugs and may help to clarify the underlying mechanisms of tubular toxicity. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adverse effect of tannery waste leachates in transgenic Drosophila melanogaster: role of ROS in modulation of Hsp70, oxidative stress and apoptosis
Authors: Siddique Hifzur R. , Gupta Subash C. , Mitra Kalyan , Bajpai Virendra K. , Mathur Neeraj , Murthy Ramesh C. , Saxena Daya K. , Chowdhuri Debapratim K.
Published: January 2008

Leachate is a complex chemical mixture of chemicals produced as a result of leaching of solid wastes. The potential toxicity of leachates is a major environmental health concern. The present study evaluated the role of ROS in tannery leachates induced Hsp70 expression, antioxidant enzymes and apoptosis in Drosophila. Different concentrations (0.05–2.0%) of leachates prepared from tannery waste at different pH (7.00, 4.93 and 2.88) were mixed with Drosophila food and fed to the larvae for 2–48 h to examine the different stress and apoptotic markers. A concentration‐ and time‐dependent significant increase in Hsp70 expression, ROS generation, antioxidant enzymes activities and MDA content were observed in the exposed larvae. Activities of antioxidant enzymes were delayed compared with Hsp70 expression and MDA level in the exposed organisms. Apoptotic cell death was observed in the exposed larvae at higher concentrations concurrent with a significant regression in Hsp70 along with a higher level of ROS generation. A positive correlation drawn between ROS generation and apoptotic markers and a negative correlation between apoptotic markers and Hsp70 expression at these concentrations indicated the important role of ROS in the induction of cellular damage in the exposed organisms. There was a significant generation of ROS in the larvae exposed to 0.5% of leachates which did not interfere with the protection of their cells by Hsp70 and antioxidant enzymes. However, generation of significantly higher levels of ROS in the larvae exposed to 1.0% and 2.0% leachates may decrease Hsp70 expression thus leading to mitochondria‐mediated caspase‐dependent apoptotic cell death. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transcriptional regulation of the murine 1‐cys peroxiredoxin gene by the B cell‐specific activator protein, Pax5
Authors: Lee In‐Seon , Choi Won Ho , Kim Ji Young , Jeong Jin‐Yong , Kim Mi‐Jung , Nam Joo‐Hyun , Kim Jong‐Hyeok , Seo Sang‐Beom , Pak Jhang Ho
Published: January 2008

Pax5, a member of the paired box gene family of transcription factors, is a B cell‐specific activator protein (BSAP) that plays important roles in controlling the expression of lineage‐ and differentiation‐stage specific genes during B lymphopoiesis. We identified two putative Pax5 binding sites in a 668 bp of the murine 1‐cys peroxiredoxin (1‐cysPrx) promoter region. These sites were located at positions −278 to −262 and −50 to −34 from the translation start site. Gel mobility shift assays showed that recombinant Pax5 protein bound specifically to the nucleotide regions −56 to −24 (MP1 probe) and −284 to −253 (MP2 probe). Furthermore, endogenous Pax5 protein from B lymphoblast cells (IM‐9) formed a DNA‐protein complex with MP1 and MP2 probes, indicating that Pax5 binding occurs specifically at these sequences in vivo. Transient transfection studies showed that expression of exogenous Pax5 resulted in dose‐dependent increases in 1‐cysPrx promoter activity, implying that Pax5 functions as a positive transcription factor for 1‐cysPrx expression. Further transient cotransfection studies showed that coexpression of Pax5 and histone acetyltransferases (HATs), such as p300, cAMP‐response‐element‐binding protein (CBP) and p300/CBP associated factor (PCAF) enhanced the Pax5‐mediated 1‐cysPrx promoter activity. Immunoprecipitation studies indicated that Pax5 directly binds to HATs. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed that the recruitment of Pax5 to the promoter induced histone H3 and H4 hyperacetylation of chromatin. Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) stimulation of murine splenocytes resulted in coordinated expression of Pax5 and 1‐cysPrx proteins. These findings suggest that Pax5 may function as a transactivator of 1‐cysPrx gene expression. J. Cell. Biochem. 104: 465–476, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression and modification of ARC (apoptosis repressor with a CARD domain) is distinctly regulated by oxidative stress in cancer cells
Authors: Zhang Yi‐Qiang , Herman Brian
Published: January 2008

Apoptosis repressor with a CARD domain (ARC), which has been shown to protect against oxidative stress‐induced apoptosis, was initially found to be highly expressed in terminally differentiated tissues like heart and skeletal muscle. Recently, we and others have found that ARC is also expressed at high levels in multiple cancer tissues and cell lines. Here, we compared the regulation of ARC in response to oxidative stress between cancer cells and other types of cells. Similar to cardiomyocyte cell line H9c2 cells, cancer cells with reduced ARC expression were significantly more sensitive to oxidative stress. However, oxidative stress did not down‐regulate ARC expression in cancer cells as it did in H9c2 cells. We further found that in H9c2 cells oxidative stress regulates ARC protein expression post‐translationally through proteasome‐mediated degradation. In cancer cell line HeLa, the majority of ARC exists in phosphorylated state in the absence of oxidative stress, whereas in H9c2 cells only marginal amount of ARC was phosphorylated under similar conditions. Our data suggest that the high level of ARC protein and the constitutive phosphorylation of ARC in cancer cells may play an important role in the protection of cancer cells against oxidative stress. J. Cell. Biochem. 104: 818–825, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Image noise variance estimation using the mixed Lagrange time‐delay autoregressive model
Authors: Sim K.‐S. , Tso C.‐P. , Law K.‐K.
Published: January 2008

The mixed Lagrange time‐delay estimation autoregressive (MLTDEAR) model is proposed as a solution to estimate image noise variance. The only information available to the proposed estimator is a corrupted image and the nature of additive white noise. The image autocorrelation function is calculated and used to obtain the MLTDEAR model coefficients; the relationship between the MLTDEAR and linear prediction models is utilized to estimate the model coefficients. The forward–backward prediction is then used to obtain the predictor coefficients; the MLTDEAR model coefficients and prior samples of zero‐offset autocorrelation values are next used to predict the power of the noise‐free image. Furthermore, the fundamental performance limit of the signal and noise estimation, as derived from the Cramer–Rao inequality, is presented. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of [3H]fenobam, a radioligand for the mGlu5 receptor
Authors: Hartung Thomas , Peters Jens‐Uwe , Wichmann Jürgen , Hubschwerlen Christian , Jaeschke Georg
Published: January 2008

Fenobam is a clinically efficacious anxiolytic that acts as metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGlu5) antagonist by binding to an allosteric site. Other mGlu5 receptor antagonists such as MPEP and MTEP bind to the same allosteric site and are efficacious in preclinical models of anxiety and depression. Consequently, the allosteric‐binding site of the mGlu5 receptor is an attractive target for the discovery of novel psychiatric therapies. Radioligands of this binding site can be used for in vitro and in vivo pharmacodynamic studies. We report here a short synthesis of such a radioligand for the allosteric mGlu5 receptor‐binding site, [3H]fenobam. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sterols, Fatty Alcohols, and Triterpenic Alcohols in Commercial Table Olives
Authors: López‐López Antonio , Montaño Alfredo , Ruíz‐Méndez Maria Victoria , Garrido‐Fernández Antonio
Published: January 2008

This work supplies information on the lipids, unsaponifiable matter, sterols, and fatty and triterpenic alcohols in table olives. The mean lipid contents, unsaponifiable values, concentration of sterols and total alcohols (aliphatic and triterpenic alcohols) were 16.15 g/100 g edible portion (e.p.), 4.53 g/100 g lipid, 28.68 mg/100 g e.p. and 13.28 mg/100 g e.p., respectively. The overall mean content of cholesterol was 0.5 mg/100 g e.p., with a minimum of 0.08 mg/100 g e.p. in Manzanilla olives stuffed with “piquillo” pepper, and a maximum of 4.9 mg/100 g e.p. in Manzanilla olives stuffed with marinated anchovy strips. Table olives contain higher concentrations of phytosterols than olive oil. The chemometric analysis showed that lipids, unsaponifiable matter, sterols, and fatty and triterpenic alcohol contents in table olives were slightly affected by processing and that some misclassification was possibly related to maturation. There were also noticeable differences between cultivars.
Characteristics of under- and over-reporters of energy intake among 18–20-year-old males: the Gothenburg Osteoporosis and Obesity Determinants (GOOD) study
Authors: Klingberg S , Hallenberg E , Lorentzon M , Mellström D , Ohlsson C , Hulthén L
Published: January 2008

Objective

To identify and describe characteristics of the bias of reported energy intake of participants in the Gothenburg Osteoporosis and Obesity Determinants (GOOD) study.

Design

A validated diet history with a detailed questionnaire and an interview was used. Body fat was analysed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The ratio of energy intake (EI) to BMR was used to define under-reporters (EI:BMR < 1·30), acceptable reporters (EI:BMR ≥ 1.30 to <2.64) and over-reporters (EI:BMR ≥ 2.64).

Setting

Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.

Subjects

A total of 695 males (18–20 years).

Results

Sixty-eight per cent were classed as acceptable reporters, 22 % as over-reporters and 10 % as under-reporters. The under-reporters had higher BMI and body fat percentage than acceptable reporters (P < 0·001), while over-reporters had lower BMI and body fat percentage (P < 0·001). Over-reporters had more frequent use of protein supplements than acceptable reporters and higher physical activity. Over-reporters had a more regular and under-reporters a less regular meal pattern compared with acceptable reporters.

Conclusions

Important knowledge of dietary reporting bias in a previously sparsely studied population has been provided. Over-reporting of energy intake was more common than under-reporting in the present population of young men and characteristics of under- and over-reporters were identified. The GOOD study was initiated with the central aim to determine environmental and genetic factors involved in the regulation of bone and fat mass, and the nutrient data of the acceptable reporters can be used for further investigation of the health effects of energy and nutrient intake.
Metals and Chemical Change
Authors:   The Open University
Published: January 2008

This book looks at how molecules react, and how the feasibility and outcome of chemical reactions can be predicted. Beginning with an introduction to the concept of an activity series of metals, Metals and Chemical Change then introduces chemical thermodynamics (enthalpy, entropy and free energy) and applies the concept to both inorganic and organic elements. A Case Study on batteries and fuel cells is also included. The accompanying CD-ROM includes video sequences of the reactions of metals with water, acid and aqueous ions, and gives the reader an opportunity to make experimental observations and predictions about chemical behaviour. A comprehensive Data Book of chemical and physical constants is included, along with a set of interactive self-assessment questions. The Molecular World series provides an integrated introduction to all branches of chemistry for both students wishing to specialise and those wishing to gain a broad understanding of chemistry and its relevance to the everyday world and to other areas of science. The books, with their Case Studies and accompanying multi-media interactive CD-ROMs, will also provide valuable resource material for teachers and lecturers. (The CD-ROMs are designed for use on a PC running Windows 95, 98, ME or 2000.)
Verification techniques for N2O emission at the paddock scale in New Zealand: FarmGas2006
Authors: Harvey Mike , Pattey Elizabeth , Saggar Surinder , Bromley Tony , Dow Dave , Kotkamp Michael , Martin Ross , Moss Rowena , Singh Jagrati
Published: January 2008

High-precision micrometeorological measurement with tunable diode laser (TDL)-based trace gas analysers provides a continuous spatially integrating and non-intrusive measurement technique that is capable of detecting and quantifying episodic N2O emission at the paddock scale. Results are presented from the FarmGas2006 measurement campaign conducted on a commercial dairy farm in North Canterbury, New Zealand, over 3 weeks in October 2006. This was the first field deployment of a TDL instrument for paddock-based N2O flux measurement in New Zealand. A goal of this campaign was assessment of a range of atmospheric N2O sensing technologies and micrometeorological approaches. In this paper the capabilities of TDL technology are compared with gas chromatography (GC) in flux-gradient measurements. Baseline emission was <100 ng N/m2.s and increased to <250 ng N/m2.s following grazing by the dairy herd. There was very good correlation between GC- and TDL-determined fluxes and also good agreement between the instruments in the mean emission in 10 days before (45–50 ng N/m2.s) and after (75–80 ng N/m2.s) paddock grazing. The flux was characterised by events of high emission lasting several hours such that half of the total N2O was emitted in ~10% of the time over the duration of the campaign. We discuss the implications of this and advantages of high-precision techniques as tools for ‘top-down’ verification and for the assessment of N2O emission mitigation options.
Methane emissions from grazing Jersey×Friesian dairy cows in mid lactation
Authors: Cavanagh A. , McNaughton L. , Clark H. , Greaves C. , Gowan J. M. , Pinares-Patino C. , Dalley D. , Vlaming B. , Molano G.
Published: January 2008

As part of a large quantitative trait loci trial, methane emissions were measured on 698 second and third lactation dairy cows which were the progeny of six bulls. The trial ran over two 4-week periods in January 2004 and 2005. Methane samples were collected over 24 h on each of four consecutive days in 2004 and three consecutive days in 2005. Methane emissions were measured using the sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) tracer dilution technique. During measurement periods, all cows grazed grass–clover pasture with ad libitum herbage allowances. Herbage dry matter intakes (DMI) were calculated using Australian Feeding Standards based on individual cow data of milk yield, liveweight, liveweight change and cow body condition. The average DMI was estimated to be 17.1 kg/day (s.d. = 2.0). Daily methane emissions ranged from 151 to 497 g/day with an average of 311 g/day (s.d. = 43.8) or 18.2 g/kg DMI (s.d. = 2.8); this is 15.7% lower than the figure currently used in the New Zealand national inventory. This study also indicates that there are large differences between cows in methane emissions per kg DMI when estimated using the SF6 tracer technique.
The genus Numicia from economic plants in the Oriental Region (Homoptera: Fulgoroidea)
Authors: GHAURI M. S. K.
Published: January 2008

The Oriental genus Kusuma Distant is synonymized with Numicia Stal which was formerly considered to be African. Tambinia maculosa Distant is transferred to Numicia and Kusuma carinata Distant synonymized with it. Numicia maculosa pusana ssp.n. from sugar cane, Numicia graminivora sp.n. from golf club grass and Numicia graminivora sinensis ssp.n. are described. N.maculosa (Distant) is redescribed and all forms are illustrated and keyed.
A putative hybrid in nature betweenChorthippus brunneus and C. biguttulus(Orthoptera: Acrididae)
Authors: RAGGE D. R.
Published: January 2008

The characteristics of the song and morphology of a probable natural hybrid between the two grasshoppers Chorthippus brunneus (Thunberg) and C. biguttulus (L.) are described and compared with those of the parent species. The status of C. eisentrauti (Ramme) is briefly discussed.
The species of Ardeicola (Phthiraptera) on Threskiornis (Aves)
Authors: TANDAN B. K.
Published: January 2008

The species of Ardeicola parasitic on the Ibis genus Threskiornis are reviewed‐clayae Brelih, freemani sp.n., ibis Le Souef & Bullen, indicus Brelih, intermedia sp.n., nippon Hajela & Tandan‐and a key for their identification is presented. Notes on the affinities of the species and a discussion on the distribution of Ardeicola on Threskiornis are included.
The larvae of the Madagascar genus Cheirogenesia Demoulin (Ephemeroptera: Palingeniidae)
Authors: McCAFFERTY W. P. , EDMUNDS GEORGE F.
Published: January 2008

Generic characteristics of the larval stage of Cheirogenesia Demoulin are described and illustrated in detail for the first time. Fontainica josettae McCafferty is shown to be a junior synonym of Cheirogenesia decaryi (Navas) syn.n., and a specific description of the larvae is given. Notes on the probable relationships of this Madagascar genus and on the biology and habitat of the larvae are included.
A description and classification of some final—instar larvae of the Mesochorinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae)
Authors: SHORT J. R. T.
Published: January 2008

The characters of the final–instar larvae of the Mesochorinae are reviewed on knowledge of species belonging to four genera. Relationships indicated by larval characters, within the Mesochorinae, and between the Mesochorinae and other groups of rchneumonidae, are outlined. Evidence is given that the larval characters of Cidaphus indicate this genus to be the least specialized of the Mesochorinae.
A new species of parasitic midge (Forcipomyia (Pterobosca)) from Aldabra, with descriptions of its presumed larva and pupa and systematic notes on the subgenera of Forcipomyia (Ceratopogonidae)
Authors: WIRTH WILLIS W. , RATANAWORABHAN NIPHAN CHANTHAWANICH
Published: January 2008

Forcipomyia (Pterobosca) hutsoni n.sp. is described and figured from adults of both sexes and from putatively identified larvae and pupae. The species is common on Aldabra Atoll in the Indian Ocean. Most adult females were taken from the wings of Odonata. Immature stages were found in Pandanus leaf axils and are the first to be described for the subgenus Pterobosca. Characters of the three stages show that biting midges of this subgenus are most closely related to the subgenera Phytohelea, Trichohelea and Rhynchoforcipomyia. The subgenera Thyridomyia, Synthyridomyia and probably Blantonia fall in a second section of the genus, while Lasiohelea forms a third and intermediate section.
The ichneumonid genus Pseudanomalon (Hymenoptera)
Authors: Gauld I. D. , Mitchell P. A.
Published: January 2008

The genus Pseudanomalon is defined and a key provided to the four known species, gracile Szepligeti, rectum (Morley), hugin sp.n., munin sp.n. A lectotype is designated for gracile. Biological aspects of the genus and its relationship with other genera are discussed.
Geographical variation in the genitalia of three species of Cicadellidae (Hemiptera)
Authors: LE Quesne W. J. , Woodroffe G. E.
Published: January 2008

Specimens of three species of Cicadellidae, Agallia laevis Ribaut, Eupteryx stachydearum Hardy and E.urticae Fabricius, are examined from different parts of their distribution in Europe and differences in genital characters are recorded. Variation in Agallia laevis suggests a dine or stepped cline from S.E. to N.W. in the shape of the anal appendages and aedeagus, while E. stachydearum shows a N–S cline, and a similar altitudinal cline, in the length and curvature of the apical processes of the aedeagus. In E.urticae geographical variation in the size and direction of the same processes also clearly occurs, though the exact pattern is not yet clear.
Aspects of variation in the stag beetle Lucanus cervus (L.) (Coleoptera: Lucanidae)
Authors: CLARK J. T.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Variation in external dimensions of Lucanus cervus (L.) has been studied using 573 specimens of both sexes from one area over a period of 3 years. Allometric relationships between various parts of the body are calculated. The taxonomy of this very variable population is discussed.
The genus Antillothrips Stannard, with descriptions of two new species (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae)
Authors: PITKIN BRIAN R.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The genus Antillothrips Stannard (Elatea Faure, syn.n.) is redefined with a key to the ten species: australis sp.n.; exastis (Ananthakrishnan & Kudo) stat.n. comb.n.; cingulatus (Hood) (=Haplothrips (Hindsiana) sakimurai Moulton syn.n.; Xenothrips opacus Ananthakrishnan & Kudo syn.n.); graminellus Ananthakrishnan & Jagadish; hartwigi sp.n.; malabaricus (Ananthakrishnan); micropterus Pitkin; nayari (Ananthakrishnan); stannmdi (Faure) comb.n.; varius (Ananthakrishnan & Jagadish). Lectotypes are designated for opacus and exastis.
Brachyp tery and wing‐polymorphism among the Coccinellidae (Coleoptera)
Authors: POPE R. D.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Wing‐reduction among the Coccinellidae occurs in less than 100 species. Wing‐polymorphism in Rhyzobius lirura (F.), R.chrysorneloides (Herbst) and Subcoccinella 24‐punctuta (L.) varies throughout the geographical ranges of the species. The incidence of wing‐polymorphism in British Subcoccinella has varied markedly over the last 160 years. Wing‐polymorphism in Subcoccinella is not sex‐linked and is under complex control, influenced in some way by environmental or population stability.
Book Review
Authors: Rainey R. C.
Published: January 2008

INSECT FLIGHT.edited by R.C.Rainey.
Two new termites (Isoptera) from the United Republic of Cameroon
Authors: COLLINS N. M.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Two new termites (Isoptera) from the Apicotermes branch of the Apicotermitinae (Termitidae) are described. One, Phoxotermes cerberus, is the type‐species of a new genus and the other is a species of Machadotermes Weidner, namely M.rigidus. The affinities and habits of the two species are discussed and a key to the three known species of Machadotermes given.
Classification and evolution of the Central American beetle genus Colyphus (Cleridae)
Authors: EKIS GINTER
Published: January 2008

Abstract The neotropical genus Colyphus (= Cleronomus and Clerosoma) is redefined to include sixteen species in four species‐groups as follows: beltoides‐group, beltoides sp.n., strongylioides spa., rasilis sp.n.; signaticollis‐ group, signaticollis Spinola, gracilis Gorham (ex Clerosoma), echinatus spn., prolatus sp.n., devexus sp.n., stramineus sp.n.; cylindricus‐group, cylindricus (Gorham) (ex Enoclems), irazu sp.n., artus spa., guptai sp.n.; copiipictus group, copiipictus sp.n., hispidus sp.n., varius (Gorham) (ex Placoptents). A neotype is designated for signaticollis. Also included are a discussion of natural history, key and descriptions of species groups and species, distributional maps, table of character analysis, and a diagram of the inferred phylogeny of the species groups. Species level discussions of phylogeny and zoogeography are presented in accordance with available data.
The Neotropical genus Anaisus (Elateridae) and its relationship to the Pyrophorinae
Authors: CALDER ANDREW A.
Published: January 2008

Four species of the genus Anaissus Candeze are recognized and described or redescribed and a key for their identification is given; anandra sp.n., aurantium spn., fuscipes sp.n. and tarsalis Candeze (=spinipennis syn.n.). A new subgenus Auctumnalis is erected with aurantium as type‐species. Two possible species from Brazil and French Guiana respectively are also reported. The systematic position of the genus is discussed in relation to the Neotropical Pyrophorinae, and on the basis of adult characters Anaissus is here assigned to the subfamily Pyrophorinae.
Scanning electron microscope study of the palar pegs of three species of Corixidae (Hemiptera)
Authors: FURTH DAVID , ALBRECHT RENATA , MURASZKO KARIN , HUTCHINSON G. EVELYN
Published: January 2008

Scanning electron microscope studies were performed on the palar pegs of male forelegs of Trichocorixa sexcincta, Sigara alternata and Hesperocorixa interrupta. The studies showed the pegs to be basically conical and chevron‐ridged, with a wide base that tapered of to a narrow apex. Clear species differences were apparent with respect to the size of the peg, the number of ridges on an individual peg, and the number and arrangement of the pegs on the pala. The possible behavioural and evolutionary significance of the palar pegs is discussed in relation to mating.
Taxonomy, phylogeny and distribution of the genus Trichomyia (Diptera, Psychodidae) in Australia and New Guinea
Authors: DUCKHOUSE D. A.
Published: January 2008

Descriptions are given of a new species of Trichomyia Group A of uncertain affinities from northern Queensland, and twenty‐nine new species of Group B, almost equally divided between New Guinea and eastern Australia north of lat. 34° S. The general biology, structure, genealogical relationships and distribution of Group B are discussed. Previously known species are redescribed as necessary, three new subgenera are erected within Group B, and synoptic keys are provided for the Trichomyia fauna of this entire area, which, with forty out of eighty‐one known recent species, is now the world's largest.
The egg, repagulum, and larva of Byas albistigma (Neuroptera: Ascalaphidae): morphology, behaviour and phylogenetic significance
Authors: Henry Charles S.
Published: January 2008

Abstract The external morphology and habits of the larval instars of the Central American ascalaphid Byas albistigma (Walker) are described for the first time, and its eggs and repagula (abortive eggs) are compared to those of a Brazilian Byas sp. described by New (1971). In most respects, all immature stages of Byas are shown to be much like those of another neuroptyngine (entire‐eyed) owlfly, Ascaloptynx furciger (McLachlan). However, larvae of Byas are arboreal rather than terrestrial and possess a number of important morphological characters that are more primitive than those seen in Ascaloptynx Shared features of the two genera that may constitute the ground plan of the Neuroptynginae are discussed in some detail and are weighted according to their primitive or derived status.
An appraisal of the Thyrsophorinae stat.nov. (Psocoptera, Psocidae) and of its constituent genera from the Neotropics
Authors: New T.R.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Thyrosophoridae is reduced to a subfamily (Thyrsophorinae) of the Psocidae, and a revised key to genera given. Dictyopsocus is allied with Poecilopsocus as a subgenus of Thyrsopsocus. Thyrsophorus anticus and T.leucotelus are transferred to Thyrsopsocus (Poecilopsocus). Augmented descriptions, including figures of genitalia, are given for eight described species of Thyrsophorinae (Thyrsophorus speciosus, Thyrsopsocus (Dictyopsocus) pennicornis comb.n., T.(P.)caloroides, T.(P.)iridescens, T.(Thyrsopsocus)bellus and T.(T.)psocoides).
A new species of Phlebotomus subgenus Euphlebotomus (Psychodidae) from Afghanistan
Authors: ARTEMIEV M. M.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. A new species of sandfly Phlebotomus (Euphlebotomus) caudatus sp. n. is described from three males captured at two points in mountains near Farah‐Rud, Western Afghanistan.
Structural variation in the genitalia of the Panorpa alpina‐complex (Mecoptera)
Authors: WARD P. H.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The genitalia of both males and females of the P.alpina‐complex are highly variable, both within and between sites, and sometimes bilaterally asymmetric. On the basis of this variation five species are placed in synonymy with Panorpa alpina Rambur: antiporum Nagler; plitvicensis Lauterbach; pseudoalpina Nagler; pura Klapalek; susteri Nagler. The sub‐genus Aulops is placed once again in synonymy with Panorpa.
A taxonomic study of the soft‐scale genus Kilifia (Coccidae)*
Authors: BEN‐DOV Y.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. The generic diagnosis of Kilifia De Lotto, a genus of soft‐scale insects, is presented together with a key and description of the five species included: acuminata (Signoret), americana sp.n., deltoides De Lotto, diversipes (Cockerell), and sinensis sp.n. A neotype is suggested for K.acuminata, and a lectotype designated for K.diversipes. Inter‐ and intraspecific variations in several morphological characters are tabulated.
Key to the genera of the subtribe Aphidina (Homoptera)
Authors: EASTOP V. F.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. A key is provided for the identification of the twenty‐four genera of the world‐wide subtribe Aphidina and for a few similar genera of uncertain taxonomic position.
West African species of Macromia (Odonata: Corduliidae) belonging to the picta and sophia groups
Authors: GAMBLES R. MOYLAN
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Macromia amicorum spji., a member of the picta species‐group, is described from Nigeria and the Ivory Coast, and is compared with both sexes of the closely related species flavimitella. A key is provided to members of the sophia species‐group.
Aberrant wing venation in twelve British species of Psocoptera
Authors: CLARK J. T.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. In a sample of 1760 British specimens of Psocoptera 7.8% had aberrant wing venation. Twenty species were examined, twelve of which showed aberration. The aberrations were usually dyssymmetric, in the apical part of the forewing, and least common in brachypterous forms.
Relationships of the Musca domestica subspecies calleva and curviforceps (Diptera: Muscidae) in Rhodesia
Authors: HULLEY P. E.
Published: January 2008

Abstract. Field investigations on Musca domestica houseflies in Rhodesia demonstrate a greater degree of contact than previously reported between domestic M. d. curviforceps and feral M. d. calleva at their habitat interface. There was no evidence of any seasonal disappearance of hybrid flies; stable, intermediate, largely domestic populations are a feature of areas of sympatry. The existence of almost pure calleva feral populations in these areas was verified, though a slight degree of introgression with curviforceps was demonstrated for the first time. Gene‐flow between the subspecies was studied and a new explanation for the one‐way gene‐flow, based on habitat choice of hybrid flies, is advanced.

Frons ratio, widely used in distinguishing different forms of housefly, showed serious limitations as a taxonomic character. The ratio, intended as a size‐adjusted measure of frons width, is not independent of size, and frons width and head width (shown to be a good measure of size) are at best weakly correlated. It was confirmed that the frons width of male calleva×curviforceps hybrids is stabilized at the fronJ width characteristic of curviforceps although laboratory breeding results indicate that intermediate frons widths are to be expected. The stabilization is due to selection for broader frons width in the domestic habitat. The nature of the selection is explained, and evidence is produced regarding its basis.