bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunity induced by the radiation‐attenuated schistosome vaccine
Authors: HEWITSON J. P. , HAMBLIN P. A. , MOUNTFORD A. P.
Published: August 2005

As a paradigm for the development of a vaccine against human schistosomiasis, the radiation‐attenuated (RA) vaccine has enabled the dissection of different immune responses as putative effector mechanisms. This review considers advances made in the past, and updates our knowledge with reference to recent studies that have provided new information relevant particularly to the early innate events after vaccination, and to the nature of the protective effector mechanism. Priming of a protective response by RA larvae is a highly co‐ordinated series of events starting in the skin, draining lymph nodes and lungs, leading to the development of various effector responses, ranging from Th1‐associated cell‐mediated activity, to anti‐parasitic antibodies, all of which contribute to the elimination of challenge larvae to varying extents. In this respect, the RA vaccine elicits a multifaceted immune response, from which we can derive valuable insights relevant to the future design of novel delivery systems and adjuvants for recombinant and subunit vaccines.
Molluscan and vertebrate immune responses to bird schistosomes
Authors: HORÁK P. , KOLÁŘOVÁ L.
Published: August 2005

There is a growing understanding of risks posed by human contact with the cercariae of bird schistosomes. In general, there are no fundamental biological differences between human and bird schistosomes in terms of their interactions with snail and vertebrate hosts. The penetration of host surfaces is accompanied by the release of penetration gland products and the shedding of highly antigenic surface components (miracidial ciliated plates and cercarial glycocalyx) which trigger host immune reactions. New surface structures are formed during transformation: the tegument of mother sporocysts and the tegumental double membrane of schistosomula. These surfaces apparently serve as protection against the host immune response. Certain parasite excretory–secretory products may contribute to immunosuppression or, on the other hand, stimulation of host immune reactions. Discovery of new species and their life cycles, the characterization of host–parasite interactions (including at the molecular level), the determination of parasite pathogenicity towards the host, the development of tools for differential diagnosis and the application of protective measures are all topical research streams of the future. Regularly updated information on bird schistosomes and cercarial dermatitis can be found at http://www.schistosomes.cz (web pages of Schistosome Group Prague).
Immunology of human schistosomiasis: off the beaten path
Authors: SECOR W. E.
Published: August 2005

Reviews of the immunology of human schistosomiasis generally address the host's protective responses against infection or the factors associated with development of severe pathology. However, there is a growing recognition that the high number of patients expressing moderate morbidity, rather than the few patients with severe morbidity, accounts for the greatest public health impact of schistosomiasis. Therefore, other aspects of the host immune response that have received relatively little attention may actually provide pivotal answers in our understanding and management of the morbidity associated with human schistosomiasis. This review highlights lines of investigation that focus on how immune responses to schistosomiasis may affect schistosomiasis‐associated anaemia, alter susceptibility or disease progression during co‐infections, and influence effective execution of mass treatment programmes.
Prospects for development of a transmission blocking vaccine against Schistosoma japonicum
Authors: McMANUS D. P.
Published: August 2005

Despite intensive long‐term control programmes, schistosomiasis japonica remains a serious public health problem in China and the Philippines. The termination of mass praziquantel‐treatment has seen a dramatic recent rebound in both its prevalence and associated morbidity. Schistosomiasis japonica is a zoonosis but, despite complicating control efforts, this feature provides a practical method for attacking Schistosoma japonicum through development and deployment of a transmission blocking veterinary vaccine. A recently completed bovine drug intervention trial and mathematical modelling of the transmission of S. japonicum underpin the concept that such a vaccine, targeting water buffalo, would have major implications for future integrated schistosomiasis control in China. A major block to success is the low ceiling efficacy achieved with current vaccine molecules. To solve this challenge, an antigen discovery pipeline needs to be established for identification of new vaccine targets that induce greater potency than the current anti‐S. japonicum candidate vaccines. Excretory–secretory products and molecules exposed on epithelial surfaces (including receptors) which interact directly with the host immune system warrant especial attention. Extensive schistosome genomics programmes currently underway coupled with new advances in proteomics and microarray technology provide an unparalleled opportunity to identify new molecules exploitable as vaccine targets. These will then need to be produced in quantity and rigorously tested first in the laboratory and then the field. If a transmission blocking veterinary vaccine developed for bovines can be put into practice in combination with other control strategies such as human chemotherapy, elimination of S. japonicum from China may be achievable.
Leaf internal diffusion conductance limits photosynthesis more strongly in older leaves of Mediterranean evergreen broad‐leaved species
Authors: NIINEMETS ÜLO , CESCATTI ALESSANDRO , RODEGHIERO MIRCO , TOSENS TIINA
Published: August 2005

Leaf age‐dependent changes in structure, nitrogen content, internal mesophyll diffusion conductance (gm), the capacity for photosynthetic electron transport (Jmax) and the maximum carboxylase activity of Rubisco (Vcmax) were investigated in mature non‐senescent leaves of Laurus nobilis L., Olea europea L. and Quercus ilex L. to test the hypothesis that the relative significance of biochemical and diffusion limitations of photosynthesis changes with leaf age. The leaf life‐span was up to 3 years in L. nobilis and O. europea and 6 years in Q. ilex. Increases in leaf age resulted in enhanced leaf dry mass per unit area (MA), larger leaf dry to fresh mass ratio, and lower nitrogen contents per dry mass (NM) in all species, and lower nitrogen contents per area (NA) in L. nobilis and Q. ilex. Older leaves had lower gm, Jmax and Vcmax. Due to the age‐dependent increase in MA, mass‐based gm, Jmax and Vcmax declined more strongly (7‐ to 10‐fold) with age than area‐based (5‐ to 7‐fold) characteristics. Diffusion conductance was positively associated with foliage photosynthetic potentials. However, this correlation was curvilinear, leading to lower ratio of chloroplastic to internal CO2 concentration (Cc/Ci) and larger drawdown of CO2 from leaf internal air space to chloroplasts (ΔC) in older leaves with lower gm. Overall the age‐dependent decreases in photosynthetic potentials were associated with decreases in NM and in the fraction of N in photosynthetic proteins, whereas decreases in gm were associated with increases in MA and the fraction of cell walls. These age‐dependent modifications altered the functional scaling of foliage photosynthetic potentials with MA, NM, and NA. The species primarily differed in the rate of age‐dependent modifications in foliage structural and functional characteristics, but also in the degree of age‐dependent changes in various variables. Stomatal openness was weakly associated with leaf age, but due to species differences in stomatal openness, the distribution of total diffusion limitation between stomata and mesophyll varied among species. These data collectively demonstrate that in Mediterranean evergreens, structural limitations of photosynthesis strongly interact with biochemical limitations. Age‐dependent changes in gm and photosynthetic capacities do not occur in a co‐ordinated manner in these species such that mesophyll diffusion constraints curb photosynthesis more in older than in younger leaves.
Needle cell elongation and maturation timing derived from pine needle cellulose δ18O
Authors: WRIGHT WILLIAM E. , LEAVITT STEVEN W.
Published: August 2005

Estimates of the timing of Pinus arizonica Engelm. needle development in 1998 and 1999 were derived from the leaf‐cellulose δ18O of weekly growth increments. Significant correlations were noted between time series of local humidity and leaf‐cellulose δ18O for needles growing near Tucson, Arizona. Correlations with temperature were also significant, but much lower, suggesting these variations in cellulose δ18O were determined mostly by changes in humidity. The timing of all significant correlations lags the timing of the appearance of the new needle growth, and is interpreted as indicating 16–23 d were required for cell enlargement in 1998 and 13–17 d in 1999. Similarly, properties of the environmental time series, when significantly correlated, are interpreted as indicating the duration of cellulose deposition (7–27 d in 1998, 13–21 d in 1999). Variations in stable‐isotope back diffusion (the Péclet effect) and the synthesis of cellulose using stored photosynthate are discussed as explanations for departures from a Craig and Gordon‐type model of leaf water δ18O. The Péclet effect, use of stored photosynthate, and variations in the growing‐season source‐water δ18O, probably confound the development of a high‐resolution paleohumidity proxy from subfossil needle cellulose δ18O in this region.
JrSUT1, a putative xylem sucrose transporter, could mediate sucrose influx into xylem parenchyma cells and be up‐regulated by freeze–thaw cycles over the autumn–winter period in walnut tree (Juglans regia L.)
Authors: DECOURTEIX MÉLANIE , ALVES GEORGES , BRUNEL NICOLE , AMÉGLIO THIERRY , GUILLIOT AGNÈS , LEMOINE RÉMI , PÉTEL GILLES , SAKR SOULAIMAN
Published: September 2005

Sucrose has been reported to play multiple roles in the winter biology of temperate woody species. However, no report on the molecular basis of sucrose transport in xylem tissue has yet been made. In the walnut tree, it is demonstrated that during the autumn–winter period, active absorption of sucrose from xylem vessels to parenchyma cells (sucrose influx) is much higher when samplings were taken shortly after a period of freezing temperatures. Here, the question of whether this increased sucrose influx mirrors a regulation of sucrose transporters in xylem tissue was tested. A putative sucrose transporter cDNA (JrSUT1: Juglans regia sucrose transporter 1) was isolated. Over the autumn–winter period, JrSUT1 transcripts and respective proteins were present in xylem parenchyma cells and highly detected when samplings were performed shortly after a freeze–thaw cycle. This up‐regulation of JrSUT1 level was confirmed in controlled conditions and was not obtained in bark. Immunolocalization studies showed that JrSUT1 and plasma membrane H+‐ATPase (JrAHA) were colocalized to vessel‐associated cells (VACs), which control solute exchanges between parenchyma cells and xylem vessels. We propose that JrSUT1 could be involved in the retrieval of sucrose from xylem vessel. All these data are discussed with respect to the winter biology of the walnut tree.
Decreased SBPase activity alters growth and development in transgenic tobacco plants
Authors: LAWSON T. , BRYANT B. , LEFEBVRE S. , LLOYD J. C. , RAINES C. A.
Published: September 2005

The effects of reduced SBPase activity on growth and development were examined in a set of transgenic tobacco plants produced using an antisense construct driven by the ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase, small subunit promoter. Photosynthetic carbon assimilation rates and carbohydrate levels in source leaves were decreased in the antisense plants. Growth rate and total shoot biomass were reduced in the SBPase antisense plants, even in plants where SBPase activity was reduced by only 25%. Floral biomass also decreased in response to reductions in SBPase activity and the onset of flowering was delayed by 5–10 d. This is the first demonstration of a link between reproductive biomass and reductions in Calvin cycle enzyme activity using antisense plants. Furthermore, unexpected changes in the growth and development of the antisense plants were evident. Small reductions in SBPase activity (above 50% wild type) resulted in shorter plants with only a small decrease in stem biomass and specific leaf area. In contrast, plants with larger reductions in SBPase activity had an increase in specific leaf area and attained heights similar to that of the wild‐type plants but with a much reduced stem biomass, largely due to a decrease in xylem tissue. This bi‐modal response of growth to reductions in SBPase activity has similarities to changes in leaf and stem anatomy and morphology that accompany light acclimation.
Hydraulic redistribution in a Douglas‐fir forest: lessons from system manipulations
Authors: BROOKS J. RENÉE , MEINZER FREDERICK C. , WARREN JEFFERY M. , DOMEC JEAN‐CHRISTOPHE , COULOMBE ROB
Published: August 2005

Hydraulic redistribution (HR) occurs in many ecosystems; however, key questions remain about its consequences at the ecosystem level. The objectives of the present study were to quantify seasonal variation in HR and its driving force, and to manipulate the soil–root system to elucidate physiological components controlling HR and utilization of redistributed water. In the upper soil layer of a young Douglas‐fir forest, HR was negligible in early summer, but increased to 0.17 mm day−1 (20–60 cm layer) by late August when soil water potential was approximately −1 MPa. When maximum HR rates were observed, redistributed water replenished approximately 40% of the water depleted from the upper soil on a daily basis. Manipulations to the soil or to the soil/plant water potential driving force altered the rate of observed HR indicating that the rate of HR is controlled by a complex interplay between competing soil and plant water potential gradients and pathway resistances. Separating roots from the transpiring tree resulted in increased HR, and sap flow measurements on connected and disconnected roots showed reversal of water flow, a prerequisite for HR. Irrigating a small plot with deuterated water demonstrated that redistributed water was taken up by small understorey plants as far as 5 m from the watering source, and potentially further, but the utilization pattern was patchy. HR in the upper soil layers near the watering plot was twice that of the control HR. This increase in HR also increased the amount of water utilized by plants from the upper soil. These results indicate that the seasonal timing and magnitude of HR was strongly governed by the development of water potential differences within the soil, and the competing demand for water by the above ground portion of the tree.
Precipitation of dolomite using sulphate‐reducing bacteria from the Coorong Region, South Australia: significance and implications
Authors: WRIGHT DAVID T. , WACEY DAVID
Published: September 2005

Dolomite was successfully precipitated in culture experiments that simulated microbiogeochemical conditions prevailing during late stages of evaporation in ephemeral, hypersaline dolomitic lakes of the Coorong region, South Australia. Analyses of lake‐ and pore‐water samples document rapid geochemical changes with time and depth in both dolomitic and non‐dolomitic lakes. Extremely high sulphate and magnesium ion concentrations in lake waters decline rapidly with depth in pore waters throughout the sulphate‐reduction zone, whereas carbonate concentrations in pore waters reach levels up to 100 times those of normal sea water. Ultimately, sulphate is totally consumed and no solid sulphate is recorded in the dolomitic lake sediments. ‘Most probable number’ calculations of lake sediment samples record the presence of large populations of sulphate‐reducing bacteria, whereas sulphur‐isotope analyses of lake‐water samples indicate microbial fractionation in all the lakes studied. Viable populations of microbes from the lake sediments were cultured in anoxic conditions in the laboratory. Samples were then injected into vials containing sterilized clastic or carbonate grains, or glass beads, immersed in a solution that simulated the lake water. Falls in the levels of sulphate and rising pH in positive vials were interpreted as indicating active bacterial sulphate reduction accompanied by increased concentrations of carbonate. Within 2 months, sub‐spherical, sub‐micron‐size crystals of dolomite identical to those of lake sediments were precipitated. It is concluded that bacterial sulphate reduction overcomes kinetic constraints on dolomite formation by removing sulphate and releasing magnesium and calcium ions from neutral ion pairs, and by generating elevated carbonate concentrations, in a hypersaline, strongly electrolytic solution. The results demonstrate that bacterial sulphate reduction controls dolomite precipitation in both the laboratory experiments and lake sediments. It is proposed that dolomite formation, through bacterial sulphate reduction, provides a process analogue applicable to thick platformal dolostones of the past, where benthic microbial communities were the sole or dominant colonizers of shallow marine environments.
Integration of outcrop and borehole image logs for high‐resolution facies interpretation: example from a fluvial fan in the Ebro Basin, Spain
Authors: DONSELAAR MARINUS E. , SCHMIDT JASPER M.
Published: September 2005

Electrical borehole image logs yield high‐resolution information about variations in micro‐resistivity along the borehole wall. To interpret these variations in terms of sedimentary structures and lithofacies types, calibration with real rock is needed. Normally, the only real rock available is core, and this only provides one‐dimensional information. In this paper, the interpretation of fluvial facies types from borehole image logs was established by direct comparison with outcrops. Four fluvial facies associations were established in an outcrop study of a low net‐to‐gross fluvial succession: (i) meandering rivers, (ii) braided rivers, (iii) crevasse deltas, and (iv) crevasse splays. The lithofacies characteristics and palaeocurrent distributions of each fluvial facies association were established. Two 200 m deep wells were drilled behind the cliff face outcrops. One well was cored to a depth of 150 m and borehole image logs were recorded in both wells. The wells were correlated with the outcrop. The borehole image logs were analysed by their vertical colour succession and the dipmeter pattern. Image log facies were established, and these were interpreted in terms of the fluvial facies associations encountered in the corresponding outcrops. The study of borehole image logs yields a set of diagnostic criteria for a detailed fluvial facies interpretation and the establishment of depositional trends, and thus provides a powerful tool for the direct interpretation of fluvial facies in a reservoir setting.
Evaluation of Taenia solium and Taenia crassiceps cysticercal antigens for the serodiagnosis of neurocysticercosis
Authors: Arruda G. C. , Da Silva A. D. T. , Quagliato E. M. A. B. , Maretti M. A. , Rossi C. L.
Published: August 2005

We evaluated the usefulness of seven cysticercal antigen extracts, four from Taenia solium cysticerci (whole parasite‐TsoW, membrane‐TsoMe, vesicular fluid‐TsoVF and scolex‐TsoSc) and three from T. crassiceps cysticerci (whole parasite‐TcraW, membrane‐TcraMe and vesicular fluid‐TcraVF), for serodiagnosis of neurocysticercosis with an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cysticercus‐specific IgG were screened in serum samples from 23 patients with neurocysticercosis, 32 patients with other infections and 48 healthy persons. The best results were obtained with the TsoVF‐ELISA (91.3% sensitivity; 96.2% specificity) and TcraVF‐ELISA (91.3% sensitivity; 95% specificity). The ELISA done with whole parasite and membrane extracts from cysts of T. solium and T. crassiceps and the scolex extract from T. solium cysts showed a low performance in terms of sensitivity, ranging from 47.8% to 73.9%. None of the antigen preparations from T. solium and T. crassiceps cysticerci used in this study showed outstanding performance for the serodiagnosis of neurocysticercosis. However, considering the results obtained with the seven antigen preparations, vesicular fluid from T. solium and T. crassiceps cysticerci may be useful for detecting specific antibodies in sera from patients with neurocysticercosis.
The extracellular deposition of mast cell products is increased in hypertrophic airways smooth muscles in allergic asthma but not in nonallergic asthma
Authors: Amin K. , Janson C. , Boman G. , Venge P.
Published: August 2005

Background:  Bronchial asthma is characterized by airways smooth muscle hypertrophy and infiltration of mast cells in the bronchial mucosa. The aim of this investigation was to study the distribution of mast cells in different compartments in the bronchial mucosa of allergic and nonallergic asthma in relation to airways remodeling.

Methods:  Bronchial biopsies were obtained from 29 subjects with allergic and nonallergic asthma and healthy controls. The biopsies were stained for mast cells by means of the tryptase specific antibody AA1. Extracellular deposition of mast cell products were judged on a semi‐quantitative scale. Mast cells per mm2 were counted in epithelium, lamina propria and the smooth muscle compartment. Smooth muscle was visualized by actin antibodies and the proportion of staining of the biopsy estimated. Laminin and tenascin layers were visualized by their respective antibodies.

Results:  Airways smooth muscle thickness was greater in allergic vs nonallergic asthma (P < 0.001). Mast cells were increased in all three compartments in both allergic and nonallergic asthma, with significantly higher numbers in smooth muscles in allergic asthma (P < 0.03). The extracellular deposition of mast cell products was more common in allergic than nonallergic asthma in lamina propria and smooth muscles (P = 0.025; P = 0.002, respectively). In patients with allergic asthma the numbers of mast cells with extracellular deposition of mast cell products were significantly correlated to the thickness of the laminin and tenascin layers.

Conclusion:  Our results suggest that there are large differences between allergic and nonallergic asthmatics as to mast cell activation and airways smooth muscle thickness. Our data implies that mast cells are causally involved in structural alterations in allergic asthma.
Nasal nitric oxide, the guardian of paranasal sinuses, is paradoxically increased by high doses of intravenous glucocorticoids
Authors: Degano B. , Têtu L. , Serrano E. , Didier A. , Arnal J. ‐F.
Published: August 2005

Background:  High concentrations of nitric oxide (NO) originating from a type‐2 nitric oxide synthase (NOS2) located within the paranasal sinuses are measured in nasal air in man. NO is believed to play a central role in nonspecific defense of paranasal sinuses. Glucocorticoids (GCs), a therapeutic often used for a wide range of diseases, is known to strongly downregulate NOS2.

Aims of the study:  To investigate the effect of very high intravenous doses of GCs on nasal NO in man.

Methods:  Nasal NO was measured in 15 patients without any history of allergy or chronic airway disorder who were treated for 3 days with a daily dose of 1000 mg methylprednisolone for an exacerbation of multiple sclerosis. Nasal NO was also measured in 30 matched control subjects.

Results:  In control subjects, the maximal value of nasal NO [mean (SE)] was 233 (8) part per billion (ppb), and did not differ from patients with multiple sclerosis [maximum value: 219 (13) ppb; left nostril: 214 (12) ppb; right nostril: 215 (12) ppb]. After GCs treatment, nasal NO increased in patients [maximum value: 250 (13) ppb (P < 0.0001); left nostril: 249 (12) ppb (P < 0.0001); right nostril: 244 (13) ppb (P < 0.0001)].

Conclusions:  We conclude that GCs do not decrease but even increase nasal NO.
Specific oral tolerance induction with food in children: transient or persistent effect on food allergy?
Authors: Rolinck‐Werninghaus C. , Staden U. , Mehl A. , Hamelmann E. , Beyer K. , Niggemann B.
Published: August 2005

Background:  The standard treatment of food allergy is elimination of the incriminated food from the diet. Specific oral tolerance induction (SOTI) seems to be a promising approach for a causal treatment; however, it is unclear whether the tolerance achieved is transient or persistent. We report on a subset of three patients of a larger ongoing study who were treated successfully with SOTI treatment, but experienced a secondary loss of tolerance after a period of allergen avoidance.

Methods:  The patients suffered from IgE‐mediated allergy either to cow's milk (CM) (patient A) or hen's egg (HE) (patients B and C), confirmed by double‐blind, placebo‐controlled food challenge (DBPCFC). SOTI treatment was performed at home on a daily basis until tolerance to a maximum of 250 ml CM or 4.5 g lyophilized HE protein was achieved. The daily maintenance dose was 100 ml CM or 2.5 g HE protein.

Results:  Patients A, B and C reached tolerance to the maximum dose after 37, 41 and 52 weeks, respectively. According to the protocol, patients A and B performed a strict secondary elimination diet for 2 months prior to a follow‐up DBPCFC after a maintenance phase of 27 and 39 weeks, respectively. Patient C discontinued treatment for 2 days after 4 weeks on the maintenance dose. Despite previous tolerance, on re‐exposure to the allergen all patients experienced moderate systemic allergic reactions.

Conclusions:  We conclude that SOTI can induce transient tolerance in food allergy, but does not necessarily lead to its permanent abrogation. Regular allergen intake seems necessary to maintain the established tolerance.
The effect of Fel d 1‐derived T‐cell peptides on upper and lower airway outcome measurements in cat‐allergic subjects
Authors: Alexander C. , Tarzi M. , Larché M. , Kay A. B.
Published: August 2005

Background:  We previously showed that overlapping Fel d 1‐derived T‐cell peptides inhibited surrogate markers of allergy (i.e. early and late‐phase skin reactions and T‐cell function) in cat allergic subjects. The present pilot study was designed to determine whether this treatment affected clinically relevant outcome measurements such as the allergen‐induced nasal and bronchial reactions, and asthma/rhinitis quality of life (QOL).

Methods:  Sixteen cat‐allergic asthmatic subjects who gave a dual (early and late) asthmatic response (DAR) to inhaled cat allergen were randomly assigned to receive either Fel d 1 peptides (approximately 300 μg in increasing, divided doses) or placebo (8 active : 8 placebo). Twelve single early responders (SER) were also studied in an open fashion design. Allergen‐induced bronchial and nasal measurements as well as the QOL was measured at baseline, 4–8 weeks (follow‐up 1 (FU1)) and 3–4 months (FU2).

Results:  In the active, but not placebo, group there were significant decreases in the late asthmatic reaction (LAR) to whole cat dander (P = 0.03) at FU2 but with no between group difference. There were also significant improvements in asthma quality of life (QOL) scores [asthma‐activity limitation (P = 0.014); rhinitis‐sleep (P = 0.024), non‐nose/non‐eye symptoms (P = 0.031), nasal problems (P = 0.015)]. In the open study Fel d 1 peptide treatment resulted in significant decreases in number of sneezes (P = 0.05), weight of nasal secretions (P = 0.04) and nasal blockage (P = 0.01) following allergen challenge.

Conclusions:  Multiple, short, overlapping Fel d 1 T‐cell peptides have potential for inhibiting upper and lower airway outcome measurements in cat allergic patients. Larger, dose‐ranging, studies are required before firm conclusions on clinical efficacy of peptide allergen therapy can be made.
High prevalence of IgE antibodies among blood donors in Sweden and Norway
Authors: Johansson S. G. O. , Nopp A. , Florvaag E. , Lundahl J. , Söderström T. , Guttormsen A. B. , Hervig T. , Lundberg M. , Öman H. , van Hage M.
Published: August 2005

Background:  Reactions after a blood transfusion could be allergic because of passive transfer of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies from allergic donors.

Aims of the study:  To compare spectrum and prevalence of IgE antibodies in blood donors from Sweden and Norway.

Methods:  Using the ImmunoCAP method, serum samples from 1002 blood donors from Sweden and 500 from Norway were analysed for IgE antibodies to common inhalant and food allergens and allergens common in a hospital environment, such as penicilloyl G and latex.

Results:  As many as 23.6–27.3% of the donors had IgE antibodies to at least one of the 14 allergens tested. Of these 6.8–16.7% had extremely high concentrations, i.e. >35 kUA/l corresponding to 100 times the cut‐off for a positive allergy test. Most donors were sensitized to pollens, dander and mite but several had very high levels of IgE antibodies to penicilloyl G, latex and peanut. The pattern of sensitizing allergens differed between Sweden and Norway.

Conclusions:  High serum levels of IgE antibodies to various allergens are common among blood donors and the degree of sensitization and spectrum of involved allergen varies between geographical regions. Present routines to identify IgE sensitized, potential risk, donors are not satisfactory; the sensitivity of selection procedures is about 25%.
Desloratadine reduces systemic allergic inflammation following nasal provocation in allergic rhinitis and asthma patients
Authors: Reinartz S. M. , Overbeek S. E. , KleinJan A. , van Drunen C. M. , Braunstahl G.‐J. , Hoogsteden H. C. , Fokkens W. J.
Published: August 2005

Background:  Preclinical studies have demonstrated that some second‐generation antihistamines have anti‐inflammatory effects. It is not known whether these effects are also demonstrable in vivo. In this study we investigated the effect of treatment with desloratadine (DL) on systemic inflammation and on nasal and bronchial mucosal inflammation after nasal allergen provocation (NP) in subjects with grass‐pollen‐allergic rhinitis and asthma.

Methods:  Twenty‐six subjects with grass‐pollen‐allergic rhinitis and asthma were randomly allocated to 8 days of treatment with DL (n = 13) or placebo (n = 13) outside the grass pollen season. On day 7 they underwent nasal provocation with grass pollen allergen. Nasal and bronchial biopsies were taken for immunohistochemical evaluation, and blood samples were analysed. Rhinitis and asthma symptoms, peak nasal inspiratory flow and peak expiratory flow, were also measured at specified times.

Results:  The number of circulating eosinophils decreased during DL treatment, and there was a reduced increase in circulating eosinophils after NP in these subjects. There was also a significant reduction in early bronchial clinical response. There was no significant lessening in the severity of the nasal symptoms. Nasal and bronchial mucosal inflammation parameters did not alter under DL treatment.

Conclusion:  These data suggest that treatment with DL reduces systemic eosinophilia and prevents the increase in circulating eosinophils after NP. DL also significantly reduces the early bronchial clinical response to NP. However, airway mucosal inflammation is not altered by 1 week of treatment.
Frequency of truly cryptic subtelomere abnormalities – a study of 534 patients and literature review
Authors: Yu S , Baker E , Hinton L , Eyre HJ , Waters W , Higgins S , Sutherland GR , Haan E
Published: August 2005

Unbalanced subtelomere chromosome rearrangements are a significant cause of mental retardation with approximately 5% of over 3000 affected individuals tested worldwide having a chromosome rearrangement of this type. Many of these abnormalities are detectable using routine karyotyping at the 550 band level and therefore are not considered to be cryptic. The frequency of truly cryptic subtelomere abnormality should be less than 5% but has not been established. In this study, we defined ‘cryptic abnormality’ as one not detectable at the 550 band level on routine karyotyping. Using this as one of the selection criteria, we have studied 534 individuals with mental retardation/ developmental delay (MR/DD) and referred for subtelomere study by clinical geneticists. We have identified seven cases with cryptic subtelomere abnormalities. The clinical features of the seven abnormal cases are summarized. Literature review identified five publications on the identification of subtelomere abnormalities which used similar recruitment criteria: (a) normal karyotype at the 550 band level and (b) subjects were selected for subtelomere studies. Combining the data from these studies with those of the current study, 1154 patients were tested and 30 subtelomere abnormalities were identified. We estimate the frequency of truly cryptic subtelomere abnormality to be approximately 2.6% (30/1154) in children with MR/DD who are referred for subtelomere study.
Cytoskeleton‐associated, carbohydrate‐metabolizing enzymes in maize identified by yeast two‐hybrid screening
Authors: Holtgräwe Daniela , Scholz Anke , Altmann Bianca , Scheibe Renate
Published: September 2005

We have used yeast two‐hybrid screens and biochemical methods to identify glycolytic enzymes that interact with subcellular structures in hypoxic maize seedlings. As binding domain‐bait fusion constructs, we have cloned actin, cytosolic aldolase, the three sucrose synthase (SUS) isoforms SUS1, SUS3, and SH1 as well as the SNF1‐related protein kinase into yeast and identified cytosolic isoforms of glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), enolase, tubulin, and mitochondrial porin voltage‐dependent anion channel protein (VDAC) as well as protein kinases and proteins involved in ubiquitinylation and proteasome‐linked degradation as interacting activation domain‐prey clones. The results were further confirmed using overlay blots (VDAC) as well as co‐polymerization and co‐precipitation assays (tubulin and actin). Some results were obtained that support the idea of metabolite and modification effects on the association, namely guanosine triphosphate (GTP)/MgCl2 was necessary for the binding of enolase to actin. GAPDH is inactivated upon association with tubulin but then serves to stabilize the microtubules. The findings support the idea of the dynamic formation of locally associated complexes of enzymes involved in sucrose breakdown and glycolysis in plant cells depending on their metabolic state.
Osmotolerance and growth stimulation of transgenic tobacco cells accumulating free proline by silencing proline dehydrogenase expression with double‐stranded RNA interference technique
Authors: Tateishi Yoshiko , Nakagawa Tsuyoshi , Esaka Muneharu
Published: September 2005

Many higher plants accumulate free proline (Pro) to counteract osmotic stress. To examine the role of free Pro in salt resistance, we suppressed the tobacco Pro dehydrogenase (NtProDH) gene using a double‐stranded RNA interference technique in tobacco Bright Yellow 2 cells. Northern blot analysis showed reduced levels of the NtProDH transcripts in the transgenic line. The free Pro level in transgenic cells was about 1.2‐ to 3.0‐fold, and the Pro dehydrogenase activity was about 4.9–32.2% of those in wild‐type (WT) cells. The transgenic cells had an appearance markedly different from that of WT cells. Microscopic analysis revealed that the transgenic tobacco cells were mostly barrel shaped as in a filament, cylindrical and small. In synchronous cultures, transgenic cells showed more active cell division than WT cells. Hypersensitivity to exogenous Pro increased in the transgenic tobacco cells. The transgenic cells showed an increased osmotolerance, perhaps by free Pro accumulation.
Scanning Electron Microscopic Study of the Functional Anatomy of the Porcine Oviductal Mucosa
Authors: Yaniz J. L. , Lopez‐Gatius F. , Hunter R. H. F.
Published: August 2005

A three‐dimensional model has not been clearly established for the porcine oviductal mucosa. The oviducts of 12 cyclic sows were examined by Scanning Electron Microscopy to study the structure and nature of the mucosal arrangement of the oviduct. Epithelial cyclic changes were also studied. The oviductal infundibulum is an asymmetric funnel‐shaped structure surrounding the ostium, in which a wide and a narrow side can be distinguished. The mucosa is more complex in the narrow side, showing numerous and tortuous longitudinal primary folds, while the mucosa becomes simpler in the wide side. Around the ostium abdominale wide secondary folds form cul‐de‐sacs, with their opening pointing in ovarian direction. Areas between folds throughout the lumen of the oviduct show a high‐degree of complexity. Inter‐fold spaces are occupied by a system of irregular grooves and pockets, with the presence of basal crypts in the caudal oviduct. Marked variations were observed in the oviductal epithelium depending on the oviductal segment, basal or apical areas of the folds, and phase of the oestrous cycle. Cyclical changes were observed in the infundibulum and ampulla, so that prominent and numerous ciliated cells lined apical areas of the folds in the follicular phase; whereas secretary cells were predominant throughout all areas of epithelial surface in the luteal phase. The oestrous cycle phase appeared do not affect the epithelial population cells of the caudal segments of the oviduct: ciliated and secretory cells uniformly lined apical and basal areas of the folds. The topography of the oviduct provides a complex system of regulation, which may influence not only the passage of cells, but also movement of fluid within the oviductal canal.
Plasma lipids and fatty acid composition in parrots in relation to the intake of α‐linolenic acid from two feed mixtures
Authors: Bavelaar F. J. , van der Kuilen J. , Hovenier R. , Lemmens A. G. , Beynen A. C.
Published: August 2005

The main objective of this study was to find out whether the content of α‐linolenic acid (ALA) in plasma cholesteryl‐esters (CE) or triglycerides (TG) in parrots might serve as an index of ALA intake. The intake of ALA might be a risk factor for atherosclerosis, but on the basis of the fatty acid composition of seed mixtures the intake is difficult to assess due to selective eating of seeds. Parrots were fed two seed mixtures that differed in ALA content according to a cross over design. The macronutrient composition of the diets supplied differed from that of the diets consumed. The diets consumed had higher levels of dry matter, crude protein, crude fat and energy, and lower levels of crude fibre and crude ash. The ALA content, expressed as g/kg diet, was similar for the diet supplied and that consumed, irrespective of the type of diet. The diets had no systematic effect on plasma lipid concentrations. There were marked differences in plasma cholesterol concentrations between parrot species. When the diet with the low ALA content was fed (0.8 % ALA of total fatty acids consumed, 1.1 g ALA/kg of diet consumed), the plasma CE and TG did not contain detectable ALA amounts. When the diet with the high ALA content was fed (4.2 % ALA of total fatty acids consumed, 6.1 g ALA/kg of diet consumed), the plasma CE and TG contained about 1 % ALA of total fatty acids. It is suggested that the content of ALA in plasma CE and TG might be used as an indicator of ALA intake.
Suitability of different fluorescent powders for mass‐marking the Chrysomelid, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte
Authors: Toepfer S. , Levay N. , Kiss J.
Published: August 2005

Abstract:  The Western Corn Rootworm, Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte (Col., Chrysomelidae), is an invasive alien pest of maize, Zea mays, in Europe. The suitability of 14 fluorescent powders for mass‐marking the adults was studied in laboratory and in field cages. The visual discrimination between remaining spots of each colour on the beetles was investigated under ultraviolet (UV) light, as well as their retention time and the influences of those colours on the beetle survival and flight take‐off response. The two best recognizable orange colours (i.e. of Radiant Colour and of Fiesta Colours Swada) were proposed for field experiments in first priority, followed by an orange and a yellow (both Magruder Colour), another yellow (Fiesta) and a pink (Radiant), as all did not affect beetle survival and flight take‐off response and were recognizable under UV light for at least 10 days in the field. In contrast, the colours yellow and green (Radiant), red and blue (Magruder), yellow (Ciba Geigy) and pink (Fiesta) were unsuitable, because they either quickly disappeared from the beetles or adversely affected beetle survival or flight take‐off response. For mass releases with differently marked beetles, only the use of a single orange colour together with a single yellow colour or the use of a pink colour together with a yellow colour can be used since few spots can clearly be discriminated from each other under UV light.
Study on some bioecological aspects of Eldana saccharina Walker (Lep., Pyralidae) on Zea mays L. and alternative host plants
Authors: Atachi P. , Sekloka E. T. , Schulthess F.
Published: August 2005

Abstract:  In an attempt to set up habitat management strategy against Eldana saccharina Walker, an economically important graminaceous stem and cob borer, two laboratory experiments were carried out. The first experiment was designed to assess oviposition preference of E. saccharina for growth stages, plant parts and freshness of different host plants and between host plants species. Zea mays L., Sorghum arundinaceum (Desv.) Stapf, Andropogon gayanus Kunth, Panicum maximum Jacq., Pennisetum polystachion (Linn.) and Cyperus papyrus L. were assessed. Results showed that E. saccharina preferred wild grasses to maize for oviposition. More than 94% eggs were laid on wild grasses. Of all tested grasses, P. polystachion was the most attractive with more than 30% of collected eggs. For all plant species, post‐tasseling stage was more attractive than the tasseling and pre‐tasseling ones. More than 90% of total eggs were laid on dry leaves and sheaths and less than 10% on fresh leaves. Different characteristics relating to population dynamics of E. saccharina were assessed in the second experiment. Larval survival rate was 10% on Z. mays, 0.50% on S. arundinaceum and around 0% on the other wild grasses. Larval development length was longer on S. arundinaceum than on Z. mays. Females reared on Z. mays were three times more fecund than those reared on S. arundinaceum. Complete life table of females from larvae reared on Z. mays was studied.
Reproductive biology and small‐scale rearing of cherry bark tortrix and its candidate biological control agent
Authors: Jenner W. H. , Kuhlmann U. , Cossentine J. E. , Roitberg B. D.
Published: August 2005

Abstract:  The larval parasitoid, Campoplex dubitator (Hym.,: Ichneumonidae), is under consideration as an agent for classical biological control of cherry bark tortrix (CBT), Enarmonia formosana (Lep.,: Tortricidae), in North America. A comprehensive risk analysis of the candidate agent will require prosperous cultures of both the pest and its parasitoid. We present a rearing method for small‐scale production of both species using a bean‐based artificial diet, with additional information on the reproductive biology of C. dubitator. Based on estimated survivorship probabilities, a CBT egg had a 70% chance of developing completely to the adult stage under this system. The success of parasitism, however, was very dependent on the instar of the CBT host larva at the time of oviposition. All parasitised first instar larvae died shortly after the attack, rendering them unsuitable for oviposition, while 50% of parasitised second instar larvae died prematurely. In contrast, early mortality was 15–30% for larvae parasitised in the third to fifth instars. Regardless of the instar at oviposition, approximately 90% of the surviving hosts yielded parasitoids, showing a high acceptance by C. dubitator of second to fifth instars for oviposition.
Genetically modified potatoes expressing Cry 3A protein do not affect aphidophagous coccinellids
Authors: Kalushkov P. , Nedvěd O.
Published: August 2005

Abstract:  Field investigations showed that genetically modified Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) potato plants (‘New Leaf’ expressing Cry 3Aa toxic protein) were not damaged by the Colorado potato beetle (CPB) Leptinotarsa decemlineata and contained diverse populations of the aphidophagous coccinellids Coccinella septempunctata, Coccinula quatuordecimpustulata, Hippodamia variegata and Propylea quatuordecimpunctata. The insecticides, alpha‐cypermethrin and fipronil, were used for control of CPB in the fields with the non‐transgenic standard potatoes ‘Santana’ and ‘Arinda’. Both insecticides caused significant decrease in the abundance of aphidophagous coccinellids. Laboratory experiments revealed that Bt potatoes expressing Cry 3Aa had no effect on the aphid Myzus persicae and that the aphids fed on Bt potatoes had no effect on the larval development and mortality of C. septempunctata.
Determination of baseline susceptibility to Cry1Ab protein for Asian corn borer (Lep., Crambidae)
Authors: He K. , Wang Z. , Wen L. , Bai S. , Ma X. , Yao Z.
Published: August 2005

Abstract:  Although transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) corn can provide a new tool for control of the Asian corn borer (ACB), Ostrinia furnacalis (Guenée), concern has been raised regarding the possibility of the target insect evolving resistance to the Bt protein under intensive selection pressure from Bt corn. Therefore, it is necessary to establish baseline data to enable detection of changes in susceptibility in field populations after prolonged exposure to Bt corn. Susceptibility to purified Cry1Ab protein from Bt was determined for 10 populations of ACB from the major corn‐growing regions of China, ranging geographically from Heilongjiang Province in the northeast to Shaanxi Province in the east‐central part. Neonate ACB were exposed to semi‐artificial diet incorporated with increasing Cry1Ab protein concentrations, and mortality and growth inhibition were evaluated after 7 days. The range of LC50 (50% lethal concentration) among the populations was 0.10 to 0.81 μg/g (Cry1Ab protein/diet). Differences (P < 0.05) in susceptibility among the populations were significant. LC50s generated from the Huanghuaihai Summer Corn Region were higher than those from the Spring Corn Regions. Bt was one of the significant natural biomortality factors of overwintering generation ACB. There was a significant correlation between percentage of the larvae infected with Bt and their LC50 values to Cry1Ab protein in geographic distinct populations (r = 0.7350*, d.f. = 8, r0.05 = 0.632). Based on the background of Bt formulations used for corn insect pests control in these areas, these differences were not caused by prior exposure to Bt insecticides. Instead, the small differences likely reflect natural Bt selection pressure. Because the variation in susceptibility to Cry1Ab was small (<10‐fold), the ACB apparently is susceptible to Cry1Ab across its range within China.