bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct fluorophore conjugation to genomic DNA for microarray-based epigenomic profiling
Authors: Gupta Vineet
Published: July 2007

A methodology for microarray based epigenomic profiling is presented. The method relies on platinum-based fluorescence labeling reagents for direct (non-enzymatic) labeling of DNA and RNA. This is a work in progress and only preliminary data is presented here.
Scaling the incompressible Richtmyer-Meshkov instability
Authors: Cotrell David L. , Cook Andrew W.
Published: July 2007

We present a scaling relation for Richtmyer-Meshkov instability of incompressible fluids. The relation is tested using both numerical and experimental data. We obtain a collapse of growth rates for a wide range of initial conditions by using vorticity and velocity scales derived from the interfacial perturbations and the acceleration impulse. The scaling relation differs from previous models in that it does not require knowledge of the initial rate of growth of the instability. The new model is based solely on (presumably) known initial conditions and is valid for large-amplitude multimode perturbations.
Revisiting linear gyrokinetics to recover ideal magnetohydrodynamics and missing finite Larmor radius effects
Authors: Zheng L. J. , Kotschenreuther M. T. , Van Dam J. W.
Published: July 2007

The linear gyrokinetics theory in the axisymmetric configuration is revisited. It is found that the conventional gyrokinetic theory needs to be repaired in order to recover the linear magnetohydrodynamics from the gyrokinetics and to obtain the finite Larmor radius effect on the magnetohydrodynamic modes in an ordering-consistent manner. Two key inclusions are: (1) the solution of the equilibrium gyrokinetic distribution function is carried out to a sufficiently high order; (2) the gyrophase-dependent part of the perturbed distribution function is kept. The new gyrokinetic theory developed in this paper can be used to extend directly the magnetohydrodynamic stability analysis to the gyrokinetic one without invoking the hybrid kinetic-fluid hypothesis.
Two-dimensional conformal models of space-time and their compactification
Authors: Kisil Vladimir V.
Published: July 2007

We study geometry of two-dimensional models of conformal space-time based on the group of Möbius transformation. The natural geometric invariants, called cycles, are used to linearize Möbius action. Conformal completion of the space-time is achieved through an addition of a zero-radius cycle at infinity. We pay an attention to the natural condition of nonreversibility of time arrow in order to get a correct compactification in the hyperbolic case.
Generalized Eulerian-Lagrangian description of Navier-Stokes dynamics
Authors: Cartes Carlos , Bustamante Miguel D. , Brachet Marc E.
Published: July 2007

Generalized equations of motion for the Weber-Clebsch potentials that reproduce Navier-Stokes dynamics are derived. These depend on a new parameter, with the dimension of time, and reduce to the Ohkitani and Constantin equations in the singular special case where the new parameter vanishes. Let us recall that Ohkitani and Constantin found that the diffusive Lagrangian map became noninvertible under time evolution and required resetting for its calculation. They proposed that high frequency of resetting was a diagnostic for vortex reconnection. Direct numerical simulations are performed. The Navier-Stokes dynamics is well reproduced at small enough Reynolds number without resetting. Computation at higher Reynolds numbers is achieved by performing resettings. The interval between successive resettings is found to abruptly increase when the new parameter is varied from 0 to a value much smaller than the resetting interval.
Space charge contribution to the apparent enhancement of polarization in ferroelectric bilayers and multilayers
Authors: Misirlioglu I. B. , Alexe M. , Pintilie L. , Hesse D.
Published: July 2007

The authors study the effect of interfacial space charge in ferroelectric multilayers through a thermodynamic formalism. Using an electrostatic approach that takes into account the presence of trapped charges between the layers, the authors show that considerable modification in electrical properties can be exhibited, giving rise to polarization enhancement depending on the type of dopants and configuration of the layers. Space charge effect becomes more pronounced in structures with smaller ferroelectric layer fractions. It is shown that built-in polarization due to space charge can stabilize a switchable ferroelectric polarization at small fractions of the ferroelectric layer in a paraelectric matrix.
Recognition of polyadenosine RNA by zinc finger proteins
Authors: Kelly Seth M. , Pabit Suzette A. , Kitchen Chad M. , Guo Peng , Marfatia Kavita A. , Murphy T. J. , Corbett Anita H. , Berland Keith M.
Published: July 2007

Messenger RNA transcripts are coated from cap to tail with a dynamic combination of RNA binding proteins that process, package, and ultimately regulate the fate of mature transcripts. One class of RNA binding proteins essential for multiple aspects of mRNA metabolism consists of the poly(A) binding proteins. Previous studies have concentrated on the canonical RNA recognition motif-containing poly(A) binding proteins as the sole family of poly(A)-specific RNA binding proteins. In this study, we present evidence for a previously uncharacterized poly(A) recognition motif consisting of tandem CCCH zinc fingers. We have probed the nucleic acid binding properties of a yeast protein, Nab2, that contains this zinc finger motif. Results of this study reveal that the seven tandem CCCH zinc fingers of Nab2 specifically bind to polyadenosine RNA with high affinity. Furthermore, we demonstrate that a human protein, ZC3H14, which contains CCCH zinc fingers homologous to those found in Nab2, also specifically binds polyadenosine RNA. Thus, we propose that these proteins are members of an evolutionarily conserved family of poly(A) RNA binding proteins that recognize poly(A) RNA through a fundamentally different mechanism than previously characterized RNA recognition motif-containing poly(A) binding proteins.
Edge coloring models and reflection positivity
Authors: Szegedy Balázs
Published: July 2007

Solving a conjecture of M. H. Freedman, L. Lovász and A. Schrijver, we prove that a graph parameter is edge reflection positive and multiplicative if and only if it can be represented by an edge coloring model.
Management of Soilborne Diseases in Strawberry Using Vegetable Rotations
Authors: Subbarao K. V. , Kabir Z. , Martin F. N. , Koike S. T.
Published: July 2007

The influence of crop rotation on soilborne diseases and yield of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) was determined at a site infested with Verticillium dahliae microsclerotia and at another with no known history of V. dahliae infestation during 1997 to 2000. The rotations studied at the V. dahliae-infested site were (i) broccoli-broccoli-strawberry, (ii) Brussels sprouts-strawberry, and (iii) lettuce-lettuce-strawberry; the treatments at the site with no history of V. dahliae were (i) broccoli-broccoli-strawberry, (ii) cauliflower-cauliflower-strawberry, and (iii) lettuce-lettuce-strawberry. The effects of rotation on V. dahliae and Pythium populations, strawberry vigor, Verticillium wilt severity, and strawberry fruit yield were compared with a standard methyl bromide + chloropicrin fumigated control treatment at both sites. Rotations did not alter total population levels of Pythium spp. at either study site. However, V. dahliae microsclerotia were significantly reduced with br occoli and Brussels sprouts rotations compared with lettuce rotations at the V. dahliae-infested site. Reduced propagules led to lower Verticillium wilt severity on strawberry plants in the broccoli and Brussels sprouts rotations than in lettuce-rotated plots. Strawberry vigor and fruit yield were significantly lower in lettuce-rotated plots than in broccoli- and Brussels sprouts-rotated plots. Despite no detectable microsclerotia at the other site, strawberry vigor and fruit yield were greatest in plots rotated with broccoli, intermediate with cauliflower, and lowest with lettuce. None of the rotation treatments were better than the fumigated control for all variables measured. In the absence of fumigation, rotation with broccoli and Brussels sprouts is an effective cultural practice for managing Verticillium wilt in strawberry production; whereas, in fields with no detectable V. dahliae, broccoli is also a feasible rotational crop that enhances strawberry growth and yield. According to a cost-benefit analysis, the broccoli-strawberry rotation system could be an economically viable option provided growers are able to alternate years for strawberry cultivation.
Sequential Sampling for Estimation and Classification of the Incidence of Hop Powdery Mildew I: Leaf Sampling
Authors: Gent David H. , Turechek William W. , Mahaffee Walter F.
Published: July 2007

Hop powdery mildew (caused by Podosphaera macularis) is an important disease of hops (Humulus lupulus) in the Pacific Northwest. Sequential sampling models for estimation and classification of the incidence of powdery mildew on leaves of hop were developed based on the beta-binomial distribution, using parameter estimates of the binary power law determined in previous studies. Stop lines, models that indicate that enough information has been collected to estimate disease incidence and cease sampling, for sequential estimation were validated by bootstrap simulations of a select group of 18 data sets (out of a total of 198 data sets) from the model-construction data, and through simulated sampling of 104 data sets collected independently (i.e., validation data sets). The achieved coefficient of variation (C) approached prespecified C values as the achieved disease incidence ([Formula: see text]) increased. Achieving a C of 0.1 was not possible for data sets in which [Formula: see text] < 0.10. The 95% confidence interval of the median difference between the true p and [Formula: see text] included zero for 16 of 18 data sets evaluated at C = 0.2 and all data sets when C = 0.1. For sequential classification, Monte-Carlo simulations were used to determine the probability of classifying mean disease incidence as less than a threshold incidence, pt(operating characteristic [OC]), and average sample number (ASN) curves for 16 combinations of candidate stop lines and error levels (α and β). Four pairs of stop lines were selected for further evaluation based on the results of the Monte-Carlo simulations. Bootstrap simulations of the 18 selected data sets indicated that the OC and ASN curves of the sequential sampling plans for each of the four sets of stop lines were similar to OC and ASN values determined by Monte Carlo simulation. Correct classification of disease incidence as being above or below preselected thresholds was 2.0 to 7.7% higher when stop lines were determined by the beta-binomial approximation than when stop lines were calculated using the binomial distribution. Correct decision rates differed depending on the location where sampling was initiated in the hop yard; however, in all instances were greater than 86% when stop lines were determined using the beta-binomial approximation. The sequential sampling plans evaluated in this study should allow for rapid and accurate estimation and classification of the incidence of hop leaves with powdery mildew, and aid in sampling for pest management decision making.
A New Begomovirus Species Causing Leaf Curl Disease of Radish in India
Authors: Singh A. K. , Chattopadhyay B. , Pandey P. K. , Singh A. K. , Chakraborty S.
Published: July 2007

Leaf curl disease of radish (RLCD) was observed for the first time in India in commercial fields and kitchen gardens of the Varanasi District and adjoining areas of eastern Uttar Pradesh during November 2003. Infected plants exhibited typical upward and downward leaf curling, leaf distortion, reduction of leaf area, and conspicuous enations on the underside of the leaves. Incidence of RLCD was estimated to be between 10 and 40% depending on the cultivars used. Electron microscopic observation revealed typical geminate particles in infected leaf samples. The causal virus could be transmitted to radish cv. Minu Early by whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci) and grafting. Inoculated plants developed symptoms similar to those observed in naturally infected radish plants. Viral DNA was isolated from artificially inoculated symptomatic radish plants (4) followed by concentration of super-coiled DNA by alkaline denaturation (1). The presence of a geminivirus was confirmed by PCR using DNA-A degenerate primers (3), and a 1.5-kb amplified product was obtained from six artificially and three naturally infected plants. Amplification of the full-length DNA-A was achieved using a primer combination derived from sequences obtained from a 1.5-kb amplicon. Amplification of 1.3-kb DNA-β sequences was achieved using specific primers (2) in three infected plants. Sequence analysis revealed that DNA-A (GenBank Accession No. EF 175733) contained 2,756 nt and DNA-β contained 1,358 nt (GenBank Accession No. EF 175734). DNA-A of the causal virus shares 87.7% identity with Tomato leaf curl Bangladesh virus (GenBank Accession No. AF 188481) and 62% identity with Mungbean yellow mosaic India virus (GenBank Accession No. AF126406). The begomovirus DNA-A sequence associated with RLCD contained seven open reading frames (AV1, AV2, AC1, AC2, AC3, AC4, and AC5). The DNA-β associated with RLCD shared the highest nucleotide sequence identity (84.9%) with DNA-β of Tobacco leaf curl virus isolate NIB 12-1 (GenBank Accession No. AJ316033) reported from Pakistan. Despite exhaustive attempts to amplify a putative viral B-component using degenerate primers based on the intergenic region sequence of the DNA-A or sequences that are highly conserved for other begomoviruses, no DNA-B component was detected. On the basis of DNA-A sequence analysis, the ICTV species demarcation criteria of 89% sequence identity, and genome organization, the virus causing RLCD should be considered a new Begomovirus species, for which the name Radish leaf curl virus (RLCV) is proposed. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the association of a Begomovirus with a disease of radishes in India.

References: (1) H. C. Birnboim and J. Doly. Nucleic Acids Res. 7:1513, 1979. (2) R. W. Briddon et al. Mol. Biotechnol. 20:315, 2002. (3) M. R. Rojas et al. Plant Dis. 77:340, 1993. (4) K. M. Srivastava et al. J. Virol. Methods 51:297, 1995.
First Report of Stem Bleeding and Trunk Rot of Kentia Palm Caused by Thielaviopsis paradoxa in Italy
Authors: Polizzi G. , Castello I. , Aiello D. , Vitale A.
Published: July 2007

The Kentia palm or Sentry palm (Howea forsteriana (C. Moore & F.v. Muell.) Becc.) is one of the most popular palms in the world. In Italy, it is suitable for growing indoors or outdoors. In September 2006, bleeding was found on the stem of a 20-year-old Kentia palm growing in a field nursery in eastern Sicily. The trunk began to bleed from cracks or fissures of the bark at 5 ft (1.5 m) from the ground level. Tissues surrounding the stem cracks were black. The plant canopy showed no symptoms. Cross-sections revealed brown rot confined to one side of the trunk where the rot was spreading inward from the surface. Infected tissues did not emanate odor of fermented fruit. Internal tissue adjacent to the rotted areas was placed on carrot agar amended with 500 μl of streptomycin sulphate and acidified (lactic acid; pH = 3.6) potato dextrose agar (PDA). A transverse section of affected palm tissues was maintained in a moist chamber for 6 days. Microscopic examinations of isolates obtained on media and sporulation from affected tissues yielded Thielaviopsis paradoxa (De Seyn.) Höhn (2). Endoconidia, measuring 3.9 (range 3 to 6) × 8.2 μm (range 6 to 14) (n = 50), were cylindrical to somewhat oval when mature, hyaline to brown, and smooth walled. Endoconiodophores were usually straight, colorless to pale brown, as much as 150 μm long, with a terminal spore-bearing cell through which spores are borne. Chlamydospores were smooth, thick walled, brown, in chains, and were 8.8 (range 5.5 to 15.0) × 15.8 μm (range 9.0 to 25.0) (n = 50). Koch's postulates were fulfilled by stem inoculation on a 20-year-old double-stem Kentia palm growing in the same field nursery. Ten mycelial plugs (5-mm diameter) obtained from 14-day-old single-spore colonies growing on PDA at 24°C were applied to 10 5-mm-diameter stem wounds. The same number of inoculations was used as a control in the other stem and treated with sterile agar plugs. Following inoculation, the mycelial plugs and the stems were wrapped with Parafilm. After 20 days, stem rots were detected only on the inoculated stem wounds, and stem bleeding was observed after 3 months. The pathogen was reisolated from symptomatic tissues. A Thielaviopsis sp. was previously reported in Florida on Kentia palm as being responsible for a frond necrosis (1). While stem bleeding seems to be a common symptom on coconut (Cocos nucifera L.), it is not commonly reported on other palm species. Only recently, T. paradoxa was detected for first time in Sicily on date palm imported from Egypt (3). To our knowledge, this is the first record of stem bleeding caused by T. paradoxa on palms in Italy, and the first record of stem bleeding and stem rot on Kentia palm.

References: (1) S. A. Alfieri Jr. et al. Fla. Dep. Agric. Consum. Serv. Bull. No. 14. 1994. (2) A. R. Chase and T. K. Broschat, eds. Diseases and Disorders of Ornamental Palms. The American Phytopathological Society, St Paul MN, 1991. (3) G. Polizzi et al. Plant Dis. 90:972, 2006.
Action learning and action reflection learning: are they different?
Authors: Rimanoczy Isabel
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare action learning and action reflection learning (ARL), exploring the similarities and differences.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a bibliographic search through ProQuest to collect scholarly journal publications on the definition and evolution of action learning; scholarly dissertations on ARL and their bibliographic references applying to this comparison. The origins of both action learning and ARL are explored. Action learning is first compared with ARL, using the taxonomy of Rimanoczy of ARL's principles and elements. Then ARL is compared with the characteristics listed for action learning by Smith and O'Neil.

Findings

As a result of this double comparison, a list of commonalities and differences is established. The comparison indicates that, while there are action‐learning aspects in some of the ARL‐based interventions, the eclectic characteristics developed by practitioners convert ARL into a learning architecture that brings together best professional practices described in various theoretical lines.

Originality/value

This paper offers guidelines to designing and implementing learning interventions in a wide scope of contexts.
An interview with Bernard Rethore, Emeritus Chairman, Flowserve Corporation, USA
Authors: Kakabadse Andrew
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to capture a practitioner's view of board performance of US companies, especially under conditions of role duality. The paper also aims to ascertain the effects of USA governance regulation on US and international corporations.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative interview case study.

Findings

Sarbanes Oxley is unlikely to be repealed. Role duality is likely to continue. Emphasis is on ethical behaviour rather than structural board design in terms of determining the nature of high performing boards.

Research limitations/implications

A single interview needs empirical study to test the findings.

Practical implications

A clear outline of the key issues and challenges forcing USA board directors. The findings from the interview will benefit practitioners.

Originality/value

This paper is totally original.
An insight into the impact of a retailer's relationship efforts on customers' attitudes and behavioral intentions
Authors: Liang Chiung‐Ju , Wang Wen‐Hung
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to summarize existing evidence about the behavioral sequence of relationship marketing at the individual customer level, and also to offer a conceptual model of the impact of particular behaviors that signal whether customers remain with or defect from the company.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the SEM tool of Lisrel (Linear Structure Relation), This study develops and empirically tests a model for examination of the impact of different relationship efforts (financial bonding, social bonding, and structural bonding) made by a retailer on key relationship marketing outcomes (perceived relationship investment, customer satisfaction, trust, relationship commitment, and behavioral intentions). A cross‐department study in the financial services industry was conducted, based on three customer samples (from the departments of loans, deposits, and credit cards) drawn from XYZ bank, one of the most famous banks providing merchant banking services in Taiwan.

Findings

SEM results indicate that retailers who undertake relationship efforts with loyal customers can positively affect these customers' attitudes and behavioral intentions. The findings suggest that financial services with different attributes require different kinds and levels of customer treatments and relationship efforts. They support the contention that the aggregation of customer satisfaction from continuous exchange leads to trust between the two parties (retailers and customers). They also suggest the direction of resource reallocation. Consequently, managers and employees of retail banks need to be trained, motivated, and rewarded for making relationship efforts with regular customers.

Practical implications

According to the research, managers should segment their customers into several groups effectively and use different marketing programs for customers of various characteristics, so as to get correct and efficient results.

Originality/value

The research suggests that managers of financial services institute should be serious about targeting investment dollars to improve customer satisfaction, and know why customers buy what they sell.
ActewAGL: a genuine public‐private partnership?
Authors: Wettenhall Roger
Published: July 2007

Purpose

There are two connected purposes: to reflect on the widespread current use and abuse of the term “public‐private partnership”, and to present a case study of an unusual joint venture associating a public and a private enterprise in delivering a multi‐utility service in the Canberra region of Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

The article combines the case study method with a review of relevant discourse about PPPs.

Findings

On the case study evidence presented, the article concludes that this joint venture comes much closer to being a genuine public‐private partnership than many arrangements loosely described as PPPs today.

Practical implications

The article invites the practitioner/academic community to think more precisely about the factors that need to be considered before it is appropriate to claim that a PPP exists.

Originality/value

The joint venture that is the subject of this case study has not previously been analysed in this way. The article suggests that it has value in serving as a model for the development of better thinking about PPPs.
Future challenges in day‐care centre food services: will benchmarking help?
Authors: Hunter W. , Lumbers M. , Raats M.
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The aim of this study is to identify the methods used by providers to evaluate their food services and identify elements of their service that would benefit from adopting a benchmarking system.

Design/methodology/approach

In‐depth interviews were conducted with 26 food services providers and key informants in day‐care settings in Surrey.

Findings

Few providers formally evaluated their service provision and most had not considered benchmarking their services against other food service providers. Factors such as food variety, food quality, cost and environment have been identified as issues that could be benchmarked and may benefit from the adoption of this process.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted only in one country – in the UK – further research is needed into the evaluation practices of other local authorities. The benchmarking model that has been developed by the authors needs to be applied in a food service setting to establish its usefulness to food service managers.

Practical implications

A model has been developed from the outcome of this research, which could aid evaluation processes for food service providers to identify aspects of the service in need of improvement.

Originality/value

There has been little research conducted on the evaluation of food service provision for older people, especially for congregate meals. This paper provides a model, that food service providers may find useful, to identify areas of their food services that are suitable for benchmarking.
The dilemma of internal evaluation in higher education: a longitudinal case study
Authors: Mehralizadeh Yadollah , Jafar Pakseresht Mohamad , Baradaran Massoud , Shahi Sakineh
Published: July 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to report the process and outcomes of a case study which introduced internal evaluation procedures into academic departments of a university in Iran. The purpose of the study was to identify what benefits could arise from using internal evaluation, and what obstacles existed to its successful introduction.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reports a case study of internal evaluation within the academic departments of a university in Iran. The case study research used a range of methods to collect information on the operation of the intervention. This paper addresses the findings of a recent longitudinal research in relation to the issue of internal evaluation. A qualitative methodology was used to gain the perceptions of faculty members and department directors and reactions to the effects of the internal evaluation on their work and improvement of department quality. The methods of data collection included interviews, group discussions and workshops.

Findings

It was concluded in the study that internal evaluation processes are potentially valuable in Iranian universities but, if this value is to be realized on a continuous basis, particularly in the absence of external evaluation as an incentive, then it needs to become an integral part of each department, university, and the nationally accepted framework of quality assurance and management.

Research limitations/implications

The research was only conducted in 23 academic departments where the departmental heads and members of faculty were in agreement with the pilot introduction of internal evaluation.

Practical implications

There are considerable implications for the changes that would be needed in management and decision‐making structures if the internal evaluation is to be fully effective.

Originality/value

The paper is of value because there is considerable interest in systems of internal evaluation in universities, but there are few studies in developing countries and, in particular, there is no previous research in Iran.
LibQUAL+TM at Rhodes University Library
Authors: Moon Anne
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate how LibQUAL+™, as a “turn‐key” survey instrument, can provide the type of benchmarking information that can facilitate targeted service improvements.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper focuses on the Rhodes Library's implementation of the 2005 LibQUAL+™ survey. Results are looked at within the broader context of aggregate scores and score norms from the South African cohort. The library's first efforts to address areas where perceptions of service quality differed from users' expectations are described and plans for future efforts are indicated. The paper also details some lessons learnt by other LibQUAL+™ participants, as documented in published case studies.

Findings

The paper found that all groups of library users at Rhodes were very dissatisfied with their library building. Rhodes performed very well in the “Information Control” dimension but less well in the “Affect of Service” dimension.

Originality/value

The paper shows that other libraries implementing LibQUAL+™ for the first time could benefit by focusing on the lessons Rhodes learnt during the survey implementation.
Feasibility of oral health‐related quality of life assessment in prosthodontic patients using abbreviated Oral Health Impact Profile questionnaires
Authors: BABA K. , INUKAI M. , JOHN M. T.
Published: July 2007

Summary  To report about the feasibility of oral health‐related quality of life assessment using two short forms of the Oral Health Impact Profile – OHIP‐J14 and OHIP‐J5 – in prosthodontic patients. Using the item pool of the Japanese version of the OHIP, two short forms based on a 14‐item English‐language version and a 5‐item German‐language questionnaire were derived. To test construct validity, the associations between summary scores of two short versions and self‐reported oral health and self‐reported denture quality have been investigated. Responsiveness was tested in 30 patients treated for their removable partial denture. Test–retest reliability using a time interval of 2 weeks and internal consistency were also tested. Associations between the two short form summary scores and self‐reported oral health and denture quality supported construct validity of the instruments. Acceptable reliability for OHIP‐J14 and OHIP‐J5 was indicated by intra‐class correlation coefficients of 0·73 and 0·75 (test–retest reliability) and CRONBACH’S alpha of 0·94 and 0·81 (internal consistency) respectively. Responsiveness was sufficient for OHIP‐J14 and OHIP‐J5 indicated by ‘medium’ effect sizes (0·50 and 0·57 respectively). In addition to sufficient discriminative psychometric properties, the ability to measure change of perceived oral health make OHIP‐J14 and OHIP‐J5 suitable for outcomes research.
Intracellular ATP concentrations of CD4 cells in kidney transplant patients with and without infection
Authors: Sánchez‐Velasco Pablo , Rodrigo Emilio , Valero Rosalía , Ruiz Juan Carlos , Fernández‐Fresnedo Gema , López‐Hoyos Marcos , Piñera Celestino , Palomar Rosa , Leyva‐Cobián Francisco , Arias Manuel
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  In the field of organ transplantation, overimmunosuppression is associated with severe side effects, such as infection, drug toxicity, and cancer, whereas underimmunosuppression is associated with acute rejection. Intracellular adenosine triphosphate (iATP) concentration following CD4 cell activation provides an assessment of cellular immune function to help monitor the immune status of immunosuppressed patients. This assay has shown to be the first post‐transplant test related not only to the risk of acute rejection but also with the appearance of infection. The aim of our study was to compare the iATP concentrations of CD4 cells between healthy adults and kidney transplant recipients from a European population, analyzing the differences according to transplant clinical status. Samples from 81 kidney transplant patients who were admitted to our hospital over a nine‐month period were drawn. T‐cell activation was measured by determining the increase of iATP from CD4 cells. Results were compared with patient clinical status (rejection, infection, and stability). Three patients suffered an acute rejection episode and they were not included in the analysis (mean iATP concentration 247 ± 87 ng/mL). iATP concentrations differed significantly between stable and infected patients (313 ± 193 vs. 197 ± 114 ng/mL; p = 0.008). iATP concentration values were not related to the length of admission, age, peak and current panel reactive antibodies, mismatches, leukocytes, weight, creatinine, days after transplantation and blood levels of cyclosporin, tacrolimus, and sirolimus. This assay measures global immune responses of CD4 T cells from a whole‐blood sample, allowing for the assessment of the impact of immuno‐ suppressive drugs and of the patient’s underlying clinical conditions. This assay identifies transplant patients at risk for infection or rejection, providing information which can guide immunosuppressive therapy.
Thin basement membrane nephropathy and IgA glomerulonephritis: Can they be distinguished without renal biopsy?
Authors: PACKHAM DAVID K
Published: July 2007

Background:  Thin basement membrane nephropathy (TBMN) and IgA glomerulonephritis (IgA gn) are the most common primary glomerular conditions diagnosed on renal biopsy, performed for microscopic haematuria or microscopic haematuria with proteinuria. While up to 50% of patients with IgA gn will develop chronic renal failure, most patients with TBMN enjoy an excellent prognosis. Because TBMN is estimated to occur in up to 1% of the general population, differentiation between the two conditions without resort to renal biopsy is desirable.

Methods:  This retrospective analysis of 248 patients diagnosed on renal biopsy as having either TBMN or IgA gn, sought to identify clinical or biochemical factors which would have enabled confident differentiation between the two conditions to be made without resort to renal biopsy.

Results:  No single clinical or pathological variable adequately discriminated between the two conditions. Impaired renal function and heavy proteinuria were highly specific for IgA gn but lacked sensitivity in differentiating from TBMN. Isolated microscopic haematuria (IMH) was a more common finding in patients diagnosed with TBMN but, as a discriminator between TBMN and IgA gn, lacked sufficient specificity. However, if assumptions were made based on the differing incidence of a positive family history between IgA gn and TBMN, then specificity of >99% could be achieved.

Conclusion:  TBMN and IgA gn cannot be distinguished on the basis of clinical or pathological variables alone. However, in patients with IMH and a positive family history of either IMH or biopsy‐proven TBMN, there is usually no need for renal biopsy.
Dermoscopy of lichen planus‐like keratosis: a model of inflammatory regression
Authors: Bugatti L , Filosa G
Published: July 2007

Background  Lichen planus‐like keratosis (LPLK) or benign lichenoid keratosis is an involuting cutaneous entity where regressing features are the histologic hallmark. Most authors consider LPLK as an heterogeneous spectrum of intraepithelial epidermal or melanocytic lesions, mainly pigmented, involuting by inflammatory regression.

Objective  The authors review the clinico‐histologic definition and correlate with the dermoscopic features of LPLK.

Methods  Sixteen LPLK were clinically distributed into three types: plaque‐like (PL), flat erythematous (FE) and flat pigmented (FP) type and evaluated with conventional dermoscopy. Dermoscopic features of regression were recorded as the presence of blue‐white structures and vascular structures. The predominant distribution, size and colour of pigmented granules were also recorded. All cases were excised and submitted to histopathologic examination and subdivided into three groups according to the early, classic and atrophic subtypes.

Results  The FP (44%) and the FE (37%) types are diagnosed more frequently than the PL type (19%). PL type correlates better with the classic type. FE correlates mainly with early/atrophic types, while the FP nearly exclusively with the late atrophic type. Regressive features are present in all but one case with a predominance of blue areas (94%). Localized (55%) and diffuse (37.5%) granular pattern are presenting in all but one case. The diffuse granular pattern correlates with the FP type (5/6 cases), while the localized granular pattern is mainly present (6/9 cases) in the FE type. Vascular structures can be found in half of the cases and white scar‐like depigmentation is just present in four cases. BWS and vascular structures present together are observed in four cases (25%).

Conclusions  Our results show a large correlation among clinical, histologic and dermoscopic aspects of LPLK may be interpreted as a spectrum of cutaneous lesions going into inflammatory regression, showing different clinical and dermoscopic patterns according to the involuting stage. The early type of LPLK (FE) shows a localized granular pattern where regression is at the very early stage. The classic dermoscopic features of regressing lesion for LPLK (pigmented granular pattern) apply to the most frequent encountered pigmented atrophic flat type or classic pigmented type, where sometimes regression is advanced or almost complete and no clear diagnosis of a previous benign/malignant ‐ epithelial or melanocytic lesion can often be given. Regressive dermoscopic features must be evaluated in the context of global and clinical pattern of the lesion. Nonetheless dermoscopy can close correlate with clinical incipient or complete regression and must prompt the need for eventual prophylactic surgical removal.
Painless Transient Monocular Loss of Vision Resulting From Angle‐Closure Glaucoma
Authors: Abe Arata , Nishiyama Yasuhiro , Kitahara Isao , Komatsu Daisuke , Katayama Yasuo
Published: July 2007

The main symptoms of acute primary angle‐closure glaucoma (PACG) include pain in the head and/or the eyes in addition to the characteristic halo and blurred vision. When loss of vision is accompanied by such pain, PACG is usually suspected. However, no information has been available regarding painless acute angle‐closure glaucoma. Recently, we treated a patient with painless acute PACG mimicking amaurosis fugax as a type of transient ischemic attack. Generally, amaurosis fugax causes transient monocular loss of vision due to occlusion of the ophthalmic artery. The formation of microemboli derived from the heart or carotid artery and/or the occurrence of some hemodynamic abnormality due to arteriosclerosis is closely related to amaurosis fugax, and most cases are complicated by intracranial or extracranial arterial lesions. In the present case, we provisionally diagnosed transient amaurosis fugax which, however, was shown by additional ocular testing to be painless PACG. Herein we describe our diagnostic process and the outcome.
Molecular transduction mechanisms of cytokine–hormone interactions: role of gp130 cytokines
Authors: Gerez Juan , Bonfiglio José , Sosa Sebastian , Giacomini Damiana , Acuña Matias , Carbia Nagashima Alberto , Perone Marcelo J. , Silberstein Susana , Renner Ulrich , Stalla Günter K. , Arzt Eduardo
Published: July 2007

Highly sophisticated mechanisms confer on the immune system the capacity to respond with a certain degree of autonomy. However, the final outcome of an immune response depends on the interaction of the immune system with other systems. The immune and neuroendocrine systems have an intimate cross‐communication that makes possible a satisfactory response to environmental changes. Part of this interaction occurs through cytokines and steroid hormones. The last step of this cross‐talk is the molecular level. As a model of interaction, this review focuses on the gp130 cytokine family. These cytokines, as well as their receptors, are expressed in pituitary cells. They regulate hormone production as well as growth of pituitary cells. During acute or chronic inflammation or infection, systemic, hypothalamic and hypophyseal gp130 cytokines act on anterior pituitary cells, integrating the neuroendocrine–immune response. Disruptions of these pathways may lead not only to abnormal growth of pituitary cells but also to immune disorders, for which, based on recent findings, targeting these cytokines might be a novel therapeutic approach.
The ACE deletion allele is associated with Israeli elite endurance athletes
Authors: Amir Offer , Amir Ruthie , Yamin Chen , Attias Eric , Eynon Nir , Sagiv Moran , Sagiv Michael , Meckel Yoav
Published: July 2007

An Alu insertion (I)/deletion (D) polymorphism in the angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) gene has been associated with ACE activity. Opposing effects on elite athletic performance have been proposed for the I and D alleles; while the D allele favours improved endurance ability, the I allele promotes more power‐orientated events. We tested this hypothesis by determining the frequency of ACE ID alleles amongst 121 Israeli top‐level athletes classified by their sporting discipline (marathon runners or sprinters). Genotyping for ACE ID was performed using polymerase chain reaction on DNA from leucocytes. The ACE genotype and allele frequencies were compared with those of 247 healthy individuals. Allele and genotype frequencies differed significantly between the groups. The frequency of the D allele was 0.77 in the marathon runners, 0.66 in the control subjects (P= 0.01) and 0.57 in the sprinters (P= 0.002). The ACE DD genotype was more prevalent among the endurance athletes (0.62) than among the control subjects (0.43, P= 0.004) and the power athletes (0.34, P= 0.004). In the group of elite athletes, the odds ratio of ACE DD genotype being an endurance athlete was 3.26 (95% confidence interval 1.49–7.11), and of ACE II genotype was 0.41 (95% confidence interval 0.14–1.19). We conclude that in Israeli elite marathon runners the frequency of the ACE D allele and ACE DD genotype seems to be higher than in sprinters, suggesting a positive association between the D allele and the likelihood of being an elite endurance athlete in some ethnic groups.
Prefrontal Regions Orchestrate Suppression of Emotional Memories via a Two-Phase Process
Authors: Depue Brendan E. , Curran Tim , Banich Marie T.
Published: July 2007

Whether memories can be suppressed has been a controversial issue in psychology and cognitive neuroscience for decades. We found evidence that emotional memories are suppressed via two time-differentiated neural mechanisms: (i) an initial suppression by the right inferior frontal gyrus over regions supporting sensory components of the memory representation (visual cortex, thalamus), followed by (ii) right medial frontal gyrus control over regions supporting multimodal and emotional components of the memory representation (hippocampus, amygdala), both of which are influenced by fronto-polar regions. These results indicate that memory suppression does occur and, at least in nonpsychiatric populations, is under the control of prefrontal regions.
Response to Comment on "Maternal Oxytocin Triggers a Transient Inhibitory Switch in GABA Signaling in the Fetal Brain During Delivery"
Authors: Tyzio Roman , Cossart Rosa , Khalilov Ilgam , Represa Alfonso , Ben-Ari Yehezkel , Khazipov Rustem
Published: July 2007

We tested the hypothesis that cortisol-induced release of fetal oxytocin triggers a perinatal inhibitory switch in γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) signaling. The cortisol analog methylprednisolone did not modify GABA driving force and intracellular chloride concentration in 1-day-old rat hippocampal neurons. Together with the immaturity of the fetal rat hypothalamo-neurohypophysial system, these results suggest that oxytocin in the rat fetal brain is mainly provided by the mother.
Anti-16-Kilodalton Mycobacterial Protein Immunoglobulin M Levels in Healthy but Purified Protein Derivative-Reactive Children Decrease after Chemoprophylaxis
Authors: Sireci Guido , Dieli Francesco , Di Liberto Diana , Buccheri Simona , La Manna Marco Pio , Scarpa Francesco , Macaluso Pasquale , Romano Amelia , Titone Lucina , Di Carlo Paola , Singh Mahavir , Ivanyi Jurayi , Salerno Alfredo
Published: July 2007

Serum responses against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
HSP16 were determined for children with tuberculosis (TB) and for healthy purified protein derivative (PPD)-positive and PPD-negative children. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM responses were higher for TB patients than for other groups. After chemotherapy, IgM and IgG responses decreased for TB patients and PPD-positive subjects. Monitoring of anti-
M. tuberculosis
HSP16 responses could assist in the management of pediatric TB.
Follow-Up Study of Tuberculosis-Exposed Supermarket Customers with Negative Tuberculin Skin Test Results in Association with Positive Gamma Interferon Release Assay Results
Authors: Franken Willeke P. J. , Koster Ben F. P. J. , Bossink Ailko W. J. , Thijsen Steven F. T. , Bouwman John J. M. , van Dissel Jaap T. , Arend Sandra M.
Published: July 2007

We report a follow-up study of 29 subjects with negative tuberculin skin test (TST) results in association with positive gamma interferon release assay (IGRA) results, mainly due to responses to CFP-10 in the T-SPOT.
TB
assay, during a contact investigation. One year later, 12/29 subjects (41%) had converted to positive TST results in association with negative IGRA results.
Revised Approach for Identification of Isolates within the
Burkholderia cepacia
Complex and Description of Clinical Isolates Not Assigned to Any of the Known Genomovars
Authors: Turton Jane F. , Arif Nazia , Hennessy Daneeta , Kaufmann Mary E. , Pitt Tyrone L.
Published: July 2007

One hundred thirty-eight clinical isolates of the
Burkholderia cepacia
complex (Bcc) were identified using a modified strategy that involved PCR detection of the
cblA
gene for the ET12 lineage simultaneously with detection of the Bcc
recA
PCR product;
recA
sequence cluster analysis also was part of the strategy. Four strains could not be assigned to any of the known genomovars.
Differential Type I Interferon Induction by Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Influenza A Virus In Vivo
Authors: Jewell Nancy A. , Vaghefi Negin , Mertz Sara E. , Akter Parvis , Peebles R. Stokes , Bakaletz Lauren O. , Durbin Russell K. , Flaño Emilio , Durbin Joan E.
Published: July 2007

Type I interferon (IFN) induction is an immediate response to virus infection, and very high levels of these cytokines are produced when the Toll-like receptors (TLRs) expressed at high levels by plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) are triggered by viral nucleic acids. Unlike many RNA viruses, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) does not appear to activate pDCs through their TLRs and it is not clear how this difference affects IFN-α/β induction in vivo. In this study, we investigated type I IFN production triggered by RSV or influenza A virus infection of BALB/c mice and found that while both viruses induced IFN-α/β production by pDCs in vitro, only influenza virus infection could stimulate type I IFN synthesis by pDCs in vivo. In situ hybridization studies demonstrated that the infected respiratory epithelium was a major source of IFN-α/β in response to either infection, but in pDC-depleted animals only type I IFN induction by influenza virus was impaired.
Modulation of Retroviral Restriction and Proteasome Inhibitor-Resistant Turnover by Changes in the TRIM5α B-Box 2 Domain
Authors: Diaz-Griffero Felipe , Kar Alak , Perron Michel , Xiang Shi-Hua , Javanbakht Hassan , Li Xing , Sodroski Joseph
Published: July 2007

An intact B-box 2 domain is essential for the antiretroviral activity of TRIM5α. We modeled the structure of the B-box 2 domain of TRIM5α based on the existing three-dimensional structure of the B-box 2 domain of human TRIM29. Using this model, we altered the residues predicted to be exposed on the surface of this globular structure. Most of the alanine substitutions in these residues exerted little effect on the antiretroviral activity of human TRIM5α
hu
or rhesus monkey TRIM5α
rh
. However, alteration of arginine 119 of TRIM5α
hu
or the corresponding arginine 121 of TRIM5α
rh
diminished the abilities of the proteins to restrict retroviral infection without affecting trimerization or recognition of the viral capsid. The abilities of these functionally defective TRIM5α proteins to accelerate the uncoating of the targeted retroviral capsid were abolished. Removal of the positively charged side chain from B-box 2 arginines 119/120/121 resulted in diminished proteasome-independent turnover of TRIM5α and the related restriction factor TRIMCyp. However, testing of an array of mutants revealed that the rapid turnover and retroviral restriction functions of this B-box 2 region are separable.