bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shimazuella kribbensis gen. nov., sp. nov., a mesophilic representative of the family Thermoactinomycetaceae
Authors: Park Dong-Jin , Dastager Syed G. , Lee Jae-Chan , Yeo Soo-Hwan , Yoon Jung-Hoon , Kim Chang-Jin
Published: October 2007

A mesophilic strain, designated A 9500T, was isolated from a soil sample collected from Sobaek Mountain, South Korea, and its taxonomic position was investigated by using a polyphasic approach. The novel strain grew well on different ISP media and no diffusible pigments were produced. The optimum temperature for growth was 32 °C. The aerial mycelium was well developed, but not fragmented. The strain was Gram-positive, non-motile and formed endospores on vegetative and aerial hyphae with a spiny surface. Cell walls of strain A 9500T contained meso-diaminopimelic acid as the diagnostic amino acid, but no characteristic sugars or other amino acids were found (chemotype-III). The major menaquinone was MK-9(H4) and the minor menaquinone was MK-10(H4) and they were detected at a ratio of 7 : 3. Phosphatidylethanolamine was the diagnostic phospholipid. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 39.4 mol%. The major fatty acids were anteiso-C15 : 0 (43.34 %), iso-C16 : 0 (14.23 %) and C16 : 0 (7.90 %), a composition that differed from members of related genera of the family Thermoactinomycetaceae. The novel strain formed a distinct clade in a phylogenetic tree based on 16S rRNA gene sequences. On the basis of a range of phenotypic and genotypic data and on 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities (88.35–90.38 %), it is suggested that strain A 9500T represents a novel species in a new genus with the name Shimazuella kribbensis gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain of the type species is A 9500T (=KCTC 9933T=DSM 45090T).
Phylogenetic analysis of vibrios and related species by means of atpA gene sequences
Authors: Thompson Cristiane C. , Thompson Fabiano L. , Vicente Ana Carolina P. , Swings Jean
Published: October 2007

We investigated the use of atpA gene sequences as alternative phylogenetic and identification markers for vibrios. A fragment of 1322 bp (corresponding to approximately 88 % of the coding region) was analysed in 151 strains of vibrios. The relationships observed were in agreement with the phylogeny inferred from 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. For instance, the Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio
halioticoli, Vibrio
harveyi and Vibrio
splendidus species groups appeared in the atpA gene phylogenetic analyses, suggesting that these groups may be considered as separate genera within the current Vibrio genus. Overall, atpA gene sequences appeared to be more discriminatory for species differentiation than 16S rRNA gene sequences. 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities above 97 % corresponded to atpA gene sequences similarities above 80 %. The intraspecies variation in the atpA gene sequence was about 99 % sequence similarity. The results showed clearly that atpA gene sequences are a suitable alternative for the identification and phylogenetic study of vibrios.
Arenibacter echinorum sp. nov., isolated from the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus intermedius
Authors: Nedashkovskaya Olga I. , Kim Seung Bum , Lysenko Anatoly M. , Lee Kang Hyun , Bae Kyung Sook , Mikhailov Valery V.
Published: October 2007

Two marine, heterotrophic, aerobic, pigmented and gliding bacteria, isolated from the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus intermedius were subjected to a polyphasic taxonomy study. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that strains KMM 6032T and KMM 6047 formed a distinct branch within the genus Arenibacter, a member of the family Flavobacteriaceae. The level of sequence similarity between the novel isolates and members of the genus Arenibacter was 94.5–98.9 %. The DNA G+C content was 39–40 mol%. The dominant fatty acids were iso-C15 : 1, iso-C15 : 0, C15 : 0, C15 : 1
ω6c, iso-C15 : 0 3-OH, iso-C17 : 1
ω9c, iso-C17 : 0 3-OH and summed feature 3 (comprising iso-C15 : 0 2-OH and/or C16 : 1
ω7c). The results of DNA–DNA hybridization experiments supported by phenotypic data indicated that the isolates represent a novel species within the genus Arenibacter, for which the name Arenibacter echinorum sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is KMM 6032T (=KCTC 22013T=LMG 22574T).
Sensitization to human milk
Authors: Schulmeister U. , Swoboda I. , Quirce S. , De La Hoz B. , Ollert M. , Pauli G. , Valenta R. , Spitzauer S.
Published: October 2007

Background
Allergy to milk is one of the earliest manifestations of IgE‐mediated allergies and affects about 2.5% of newborn children. Several reports indicate that milk‐allergic patients may be sensitized also to human milk proteins.

Objective
To analyse the specificity and possible biological relevance of IgE reactivity to human milk antigens in milk‐allergic patients.

Methods
The specificity of IgE reactivity to cow's milk and human milk antigens was analysed with sera from milk‐allergic children and adults by IgE immunoblotting. IgE cross‐reactivity between milk antigens was studied by immunoblot inhibition experiments. That IgE reactivity to human milk antigens is not due to alloreactivity or due to the transmission of foreign antigens into mother's milk was demonstrated through the analysis of milk samples from genetically unrelated mothers before and after intake of dietary milk products. The biological relevance of IgE reactivity to human milk was confirmed by skin testing.

Results
IgE antibodies to human milk were found in more than 80% of the tested milk‐allergic patients. Cross‐reactive IgE‐reactive human antigens such as α‐lactalbumin and non‐cross‐reactive human milk antigens were identified. Immediate‐type skin reactions could be elicited with human milk samples in patients with IgE reactivity to human milk.

Conclusion
IgE reactivity to human milk in milk‐allergic patients can be due to cross‐ sensitization and genuine sensitization to human milk and may cause allergic symptoms. IgE‐mediated sensitization to human milk is common in milk‐allergic patients and may require diagnostic testing and monitoring.
Homocysteine threshold value based on cystathionine beta synthase and paraoxonase 1 activities in mice
Authors: Hamelet J. , Aït‐Yahya‐Graison E. , Matulewicz E. , Noll C. , Badel‐Chagnon A. , Camproux A‐C. , Demuth K. , Paul J‐L. , Delabar J. M. , Janel N.
Published: October 2007

Background  Hyperhomocysteinaemia is a metabolic disorder associated with the development of premature atherosclerosis. Among the determinants which predispose to premature thromboembolic and atherothrombotic events, serum activity of paraoxonase 1, mainly synthesized in the liver, has been shown to be a predictor of cardiovascular disease and to be negatively correlated with serum homocysteine levels in human. Even though treatments of hyperhomocysteinaemic patients ongoing cardiovascular complications are commonly used, it still remains unclear above which homocysteine level a preventive therapy should be started.

Materials and methods  In order to establish a threshold of plasma homocysteine concentration we have analyzed the hepatic cystathionine beta synthase and paraoxonase 1 activities in a moderate to intermediate murine model of hyperhomocysteinaemia. Using wild type and heterozygous cystathionine beta synthase deficient mice fed a methionine enriched diet or a control diet, we first studied the link between cystathionine beta synthase and paraoxonase 1 activities and plasma homocysteine concentration.

Results  Among the animals used in this study, we observed a negative correlation between plasma homocysteine level and cystathionine beta synthase activity (ρ = –0·52, P = 0·0008) or paraoxonase 1 activity (ρ = –0·49, P = 0·002). Starting from these results, a homocysteine cut‐off value of 15 µm has been found for both cystathionine beta synthase (P = 0·0003) and paraoxonase 1 (P = 0·0007) activities.

Conclusions  Our results suggest that both cystathionine beta synthase and paraoxonase 1 activities are significantly decreased in mice with a plasma homocysteine value greater than 15 µm. In an attempt to set up preventive treatment for cardiovascular disease our results indicate that treatments should be started from 15 µm of plasma homocysteine.
Platelet deposition in remote cardiac regions after coronary occlusion
Authors: Barrabés J. A. , Mirabet M. , Agulló L. , Figueras J. , Pizcueta P. , Garcia‐Dorado D.
Published: October 2007

Background  Activated platelets might contribute to endothelial dysfunction in non‐ischaemic territories during acute myocardial infarction. We assessed platelet deposition, coronary flow reserve and contractile function in remote cardiac regions after transient coronary occlusion and their association with systemic platelet activation.

Materials and methods  In 10 pigs (series A) subjected to 48‐min occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD), 99mTc‐platelet content in the right coronary artery (RCA) and its dependent myocardium was counted after reflow. In 10 pigs (series B) receiving the same occlusion of the RCA, the hyperaemic response at the LAD and systolic shortening in LAD‐dependent myocardium were monitored after reperfusion. P‐selectin expression on circulating platelets was assessed in both series by flow cytometry.

Results  In series A, platelet counts in the RCA and non‐ischaemic myocardium were correlated with platelet content, polymorphonuclear leukocyte infiltration and infarct size in the reperfused zone, as well as with the percentage of P‐selectin‐positive platelets after reflow. In series B, a transient reduction in peak hyperaemic response in the LAD and sustained contractile dysfunction in non‐ischemic myocardium were observed after releasing the RCA occlusion, these changes being also correlated with platelet activation status.

Conclusions  Ischaemic injury triggers macro‐ and microvascular platelet deposition and causes an impairment in coronary flow reserve and contractile function in distant regions of the heart, which are related to activation of circulating platelets.
High‐order kernels for Riemannian wavefield extrapolation
Authors: Sava Paul , Fomel Sergey
Published: October 2007

Riemannian wavefield extrapolation is a technique for one‐way extrapolation of acoustic waves. Riemannian wavefield extrapolation generalizes wavefield extrapolation by downward continuation by considering coordinate systems different from conventional Cartesian ones. Coordinate systems can conform with the extrapolated wavefield, with the velocity model or with the acquisition geometry.

When coordinate systems conform with the propagated wavefield, extrapolation can be done accurately using low‐order kernels. However, in complex media or in cases where the coordinate systems do not conform with the propagating wavefields, low order kernels are not accurate enough and need to be replaced by more accurate, higher‐order kernels. Since Riemannian wavefield extrapolation is based on factorization of an acoustic wave‐equation, higher‐order kernels can be constructed using methods analogous to the one employed for factorization of the acoustic wave‐equation in Cartesian coordinates. Thus, we can construct space‐domain finite‐differences as well as mixed‐domain techniques for extrapolation.

High‐order Riemannian wavefield extrapolation kernels improve the accuracy of extrapolation, particularly when the Riemannian coordinate systems does not closely match the general direction of wave propagation.
Hypogonadism in men receiving methadone and buprenorphine maintenance treatment
Authors: Hallinan R. , Byrne A. , Agho K. , McMahon C. G. , Tynan P. , Attia J.
Published: October 2007

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and investigate the aetiology of hypogonadism in men on methadone or buprenorphine maintenance treatment (MMT, BMT). 103 men (mean age 37.6 ± 7.9) on MMT (n = 84) or BMT (n = 19) were evaluated using hormone assays, body mass index (BMI), serological, biochemical, demographic and substance use measures. Overall 54% of men (methadone 65%; buprenorphine 28%) had total testosterone (TT) <12.0 nm; 34% (methadone 39%; buprenorphine 11%) had TT <8.0 nm. Both methadone‐ and buprenorphine‐treated men had lower free testosterone, luteinising hormone and estradiol than age‐matched reference groups. Methadone‐treated men had lower TT than buprenorphine‐treated men and reference groups. Prolactin did not differ between methadone, buprenorphine groups, and reference groups. Primary testicular failure was an uncommon cause of hypogonadism. Yearly percentage fall in TT by age across the patient group was 2.3%, more than twice that expected normally. There were no associations between TT and opioid dose, cannabis, alcohol and tobacco consumption, or chronic hepatitis C viraemia. On multiple regression higher TT was associated with higher alanine aminotransferase and lower TT with higher BMI. Men on MMT have high prevalence of hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism. The extent of hormonal changes associated with buprenorphine needs to be explored further in larger studies. Men receiving long term opioid replacement treatment, especially methadone treatment, should be screened for hypogonadism. Wide interindividual differences in methadone metabolism and tolerance may in a cross‐sectional study obscure a methadone dose relationship to testosterone in individuals. Future studies of hypogonadism in opioid‐treated men should examine the potential benefits of dose reduction, choice of opioid medication, weight loss, and androgen replacement.
Factors affecting the evaluation of biomonitoring data for human exposure assessment
Authors: Calafat Antonia M. , Needham Larry L.
Published: October 2007

Measuring trace levels of multiple environmental chemicals in biological tissues (i.e., biomonitoring) with a high degree of accuracy and precision is possible thanks to sophisticated analytical chemistry techniques and highly trained laboratory personnel. Selection and validation of biomarkers of exposure are critical. We present examples of the use of biomonitoring in exposure assessment for non‐persistent chemicals using phthalates as model compounds. We also discuss several factors relevant to interpreting and understanding biomonitoring data, including the impact of metabolism of the chemicals and matrix composition in the selection of biomarkers of exposure, as well as temporal stability considerations that may affect the biomarkers’ concentrations.
Endocrine effects of polycyclic musks: do we smell a rat?
Authors: Van Der Burg Bart , Schreurs Richard , Van Der Linden Sander , Seinen Willem , Brouwer Abraham , Sonneveld Edwin
Published: October 2007

Synthetic polycyclic musks are used extensively as fragrances and are released ubiquitously in our environment, particularly water. We have demonstrated that these compounds display very weak oestrogenic activity in vitro, although no obvious oestrogenic activity was found in young rats or zebrafish. We demonstrated, however, that the oestrogenic effect of these compounds is cell‐ and oestrogen receptor‐type specific, raising the possibility that the in vivo models may have underestimated some effects. In addition, polycyclic musks were found to possess antioestrogenic (ERβ‐selective), antiandrogenic and antiprogestagenic activity. As recent research clearly demonstrates the possibility of endocrine disrupting environmental compounds to act in concert, more research to these combined effects is important. We have developed efficient methods to measure such combined bioactivities in a range of matrices using human cell‐based reporter gene assays. So far, we found agonistic, rather than antagonistic, effects in water samples, suggesting a predominance of agonistic compounds in such samples.
Ecological corridors, connecting science and politics: the case of the Green River in the Netherlands
Authors: Van Der Windt Henny J. , Swart J. A. A.
Published: October 2007

During recent decades, the ecological corridor has become a popular concept among ecologists, politicians and nature conservationists. However, it has been criticized from a scientific point of view. In this paper we question why this concept has been accepted so readily in policy and practice.

We present a conceptual framework to analyse the rise of the concept, especially in the Netherlands. We have studied the Dutch literature from the period 1980–2005, including the main ecological journal Landschap (Landscape), policy documents and reports from the leading Dutch policy‐orientated ecology research centre.

Many actors, including politicians, stakeholders and scientists, were involved in the development of the ecological corridor and the related National Ecological Network on the national and regional levels. The involvement of these actors changed the character of the concept into the multifunctional ‘robust corridor’.

The ecological corridor was probably so influential because its vague and flexible character facilitated the coming together of various stakeholders and scientists. It also functions as a metaphor, applicable to well‐known entities such as construction and transport. Finally, scientists from the policy‐orientated research centre were able to link the concept to fundamental science, policy and practice. In some stages of the policy‐defining process, however, conflicts arose between the proponents of scientific soundness and those of social robustness that reduced the role of scientists.

Synthesis and applications. To make ecological concepts both scientifically sound and socially robust, several changes must take place in current interactions between ecology and society. First, during concept development it requires the existence of extensive, largely interactive peer groups with clearly defined relationships between scientists and non‐scientists. Secondly, the concepts should be flexible and relatable to relevant knowledge, insights, values and practices. Thirdly, several feedback loops between science and non‐science should be set up during the various stages of concept development and implementation.
Does forest structure affect reproduction of northern goshawks in ponderosa pine forests?
Authors: Beier Paul , Rogan Erik C , Ingraldi Michael F , Rosenstock Steven S
Published: October 2007

Many management prescriptions are based on ecological hypotheses; evaluating empirical support for these hypotheses can improve management. There has been considerable dispute about the potential response of the northern goshawk to three management‐driven forest structures in ponderosa pine forests of the south‐western United States: (i) the structure recommended by US Forest Service's goshawk guidelines, designed to increase the abundance of 14 goshawk prey species and thus benefit goshawks; (ii) preferred foraging habitat as suggested by empirical evidence that goshawks forage selectively in areas with abundant large trees and dense canopy closure, rather than areas of highest prey abundance; and (iii) presettlement (i.e. prior to Euro‐American settlement) structure characterized by clumps of large trees, canopy closure < 40% and dense herbaceous understorey, which could have negative effects on goshawks.

To evaluate empirical support for hypotheses that goshawk reproduction is affected by each of these three forest structures, we measured forest structure in a 1215‐ha nest‐centred circular area in each of 13 goshawk breeding areas on the Apache–Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona. The breeding areas were selected to span the full range of productivity (fledglings per year monitored) over the previous 9‐year period.

Forest structure had a moderate effect on goshawk productivity (r2 ≤ 0·46). Contrary to expectation, goshawk productivity decreased with increasing similarity to the goshawk guidelines.

Goshawk reproduction was not correlated with resemblance of the breeding area to preferred foraging habitat or resemblance to presettlement forest conditions.

Synthesis and applications. Because the goshawk guidelines may not improve goshawk reproduction, the Forest Service should reconsider its decision to apply the guidelines to most forested lands in Arizona and New Mexico. Managers should evaluate empirical support routinely for the major ecological hypotheses that underlie forest prescriptions.
Hybrid origin of Baltic salmon‐specific parasite Gyrodactylus salaris: a model for speciation by host switch for hemiclonal organisms
Authors: KUUSELA JUSSI , ZIĘTARA MAREK S. , LUMME J.
Published: October 2007

Host switching explains the high species number of ectoparasitic, viviparous, mainly parthenogenetic but potentially hermaphroditic flatworms of the genus Gyrodactylus. The starlike mitochondrial phylogeny of Gyrodactylus salaris suggested parallel divergence of several clades on grayling (also named as Gyrodactylus thymalli) and an embedded sister clade on Baltic salmon. The hypothesis that the parasite switched from grayling to salmon during the glacial diaspora was tested using a 493‐bp nuclear DNA marker ADNAM1. The parasites on salmon in lakes Onega and Ladoga were heterozygous for divergent ADNAM1 alleles WS1 and BS1, found as nearly fixed in grayling parasites in the White Sea and Baltic Sea basins, respectively. In the Baltic salmon‐specific mtDNA clade, the WS/BS heterozygosity was maintained in 23 out of the 24 local clones. The permanently heterozygous clade was endemic in the Baltic Sea basin, and it had accumulated variation in mtDNA (31 variable sites on 1600 bp) and in the alleles of the nuclear locus (two point mutations and three nucleotide conversions along 493 bp). Mendelian shuffling of the nuclear alleles between the local clones indicated rare sex within the clade, but the WS/BS heterozygosity was lost in only one salmon hatchery clone, which was heterozygous WS1/WS3. The Baltic salmon‐specific G. salaris lineage was monophyletic, descending from a single historical hybridization and consequential host switch, frozen by permanent heterozygosity. A possible time for the hybridization of grayling parasite strains from the White Sea and Baltic Sea basins was during the Eemian interglacial 132 000 years bp. Strains having a separate divergent mtDNA observed on farmed rainbow trout, and on salmon in Russian lake Kuito were suggested to be clones derived from secondary and tertiary recombination events.
Candidate loci reveal genetic differentiation between temporally divergent migratory runs of Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
Authors: O'MALLEY KATHLEEN G. , CAMARA MARK D. , BANKS MICHAEL A.
Published: October 2007

Local adaptation is a dynamic process driven by selection that can vary both in space and time. One important temporal adaptation for migratory animals is the time at which individuals return to breeding sites. Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) are excellent subjects for studying the genetic basis of temporal adaptation because their high seasonal homing fidelity promotes reproductive isolation leading to the formation of local populations across diverse environments. We tested for adaptive genetic differentiation between seasonal runs of Chinook salmon using two candidate loci; the circadian rhythm gene,OtsClock1b,andOts515NWFSC, a microsatellite locus showing sequence identity to three salmonid genes central to reproductive development. We found significant evidence for two genetically distinct migratory runs in the Feather River, California (OtsClock1b: FST = 0.042,P = 0.02;Ots515NWFSC: FST = 0.058,P = 0.003). In contrast, the fall and threatened spring runs are genetically homogenous based on neutral microsatellite data (FST = –0.0002). Similarly, two temporally divergent migratory runs of Chinook salmon from New Zealand are genetically differentiated based on polymorphisms in the candidate loci (OtsClock1b: FST = 0.083,P‐value = 0.001;Ots515NWFSC: FST = 0.095,P‐value = 0.000). We used an individual‐based assignment method to confirm that these recently diverged populations originated from a single source in California. Tests for selective neutrality indicate thatOtsClock1bandOts515NWFSCexhibit substantial departures from neutral expectations in both systems. The largeFSTestimates could therefore be the result of directional selection. Evidence presented here suggests thatOtsClock1bandOts515NWFSCmay influence migration and spawning timing of Chinook salmon in these river systems.
Polygynandry, extra‐group paternity and multiple‐paternity litters in European badger (Meles meles) social groups
Authors: DUGDALE HANNAH L. , MACDONALD DAVID W. , POPE LISA C. , BURKE TERRY
Published: October 2007

The costs and benefits of natal philopatry are central to the formation and maintenance of social groups. Badger groups, thought to form passively according to the resource dispersion hypothesis (RDH), are maintained through natal philopatry and delayed dispersal; however, there is minimal evidence for the functional benefits of such grouping. We assigned parentage to 630 badger cubs from a high‐density population in Wytham Woods, Oxford, born between 1988 and 2005. Our methodological approach was different to previous studies; we used 22 microsatellite loci to assign parent pairs, which in combination with sibship inference provided a high parentage assignment rate. We assigned both parents to 331 cubs at ≥ 95% confidence, revealing a polygynandrous mating system with up to five mothers and five fathers within a social group. We estimated that only 27% of adult males and 31% of adult females bred each year, suggesting a cost to group living for both sexes. Any strong motivation or selection to disperse, however, may be reduced because just under half of the paternities were gained by extra‐group males, mainly from neighbouring groups, with males displaying a mixture of paternity strategies. We provide the strongest evidence to date for multiple‐paternity litters, and for the first time show that within‐group and extra‐group males can sire cubs in the same litter. We investigate the factors that may play a role in determining the degree of delayed dispersal and conclude that the ecological constraints hypothesis, benefits of philopatry hypothesis, and life history hypothesis may all play a part, as proposed by the broad constraints hypothesis.
Differential gene flow of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA markers among chromosomal races of Australian morabine grasshoppers (Vandiemenella, viatica species group)
Authors: KAWAKAMI T. , BUTLIN R. K. , ADAMS M. , SAINT K. M. , PAULL D. J. , COOPER S. J. B.
Published: October 2007

Recent theoretical developments have led to a renewed interest in the potential role of chromosomal rearrangements in speciation. Australian morabine grasshoppers (genus Vandiemenella, viatica species group) provide an excellent study system to test this potential role of chromosomal rearrangements because they show extensive chromosomal variation and formed the basis of a classic chromosomal speciation model. There are three chromosomal races, viatica19, viatica17, and P24(XY), on Kangaroo Island, South Australia, forming five parapatric populations with four putative contact zones among them. We investigate the extent to which chromosomal variation among these populations may be associated with barriers to gene flow. Population genetic and phylogeographical analyses using 15 variable allozyme loci and the elongation factor‐1α (EF‐1α) gene indicate that the three races represent genetically distinct taxa. In contrast, analyses of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene show the presence of three distinctive and geographically localized groups that do not correspond with the distribution of the chromosomal races. These discordant population genetic patterns are likely to result from introgressive hybridization between the chromosomal races and range expansions/contractions. Overall, these results suggest that reduction of nuclear gene flow may be associated with chromosomal variation, or underlying genetic variation linked with chromosomal variation, whereas mitochondrial gene flow appears to be independent of this variation in these morabine grasshoppers. The identification of an intact contact zone between P24(XY) and viatica17 offers considerable potential for further investigation of molecular mechanisms that maintain distinct nuclear genomes among the chromosomal races.
FtsK and SpoIIIE: the tale of the conserved tails
Authors: Barre François‐Xavier
Published: October 2007

During Bacillus subtilis sporulation, the SpoIIIE DNA translocase moves a trapped chromosome across the sporulation septum into the forespore. The preferential assembly of SpoIIIE complexes in the mother cell provided the idea that SpoIIIE functioned as a DNA exporter, which ensured translocation orientation. In this issue of Molecular Microbiology, Becker and Pogliano reinvestigate the molecular mechanisms that orient the activity of SpoIIIE. Their findings indicate that SpoIIIE reads the polarity of DNA like its Escherichia coli homologue, FtsK.
Rhodolith‐bearing limestones as transgressive marker beds: fossil and modern examples from North Island, New Zealand
Authors: NALIN RONALD , NELSON CAMPBELL S. , BASSO DANIELA , MASSARI FRANCESCO
Published: October 2007

Rhodoliths are nodular structures composed mainly of the superimposed thalli of calcareous red algae. Because their development is controlled by an array of ecological parameters, rhodoliths are a valuable source of palaeoenvironmental information. However, despite their common use in palaeoecological reconstructions, the stratigraphic significance of rhodolith accumulations seldom has been addressed in detail. In a study of Cenozoic rhodolith‐bearing deposits from the North Island of New Zealand, rhodolithic units, usually of limited lateral extent, typically occur above major unconformities at the base of deepening upwards successions. Two types of transgressive rhodolith‐bearing deposits may be distinguished on the basis of texture and rhodolith internal structure: (i) type A deposits are clast‐supported rhodolithic rudstones containing abundant pebbles and cobbles reworked from the substrate, and are characterized by rhodoliths with a compact concentric to columnar internal structure and a high nucleus to algal cover ratio; (ii) type B deposits are rhodolithic floatstones with a matrix usually consisting of bryozoan fragments, benthic foraminifera and echinoid fragments or terrigenous silty fine sand. The rhodoliths of type B units usually have a loose internal framework with irregular to branched crusts. The two contrasting rhodolith‐bearing units are interpreted as characteristic facies of transgressive systems tract deposits, analogous to shell concentrations formed under conditions of low net sedimentation. Type A deposits are correlated with relatively high‐energy settings and/or narrow submerged palaeotopographic lows, whereas type B deposits are interpreted as forming in lower‐energy settings. The association between transgression and development of rhodolithic facies is confirmed by observations of a modern rhodolith production site at Whangaparaoa Peninsula in North Island, where algal nodules grow above a ravinement surface cut during the Holocene sea‐level rise, and also by a review of published fossil examples, many of which show stratigraphic and compositional attributes analogous to those of the New Zealand occurrences. The review indicates that transgressive rhodolith accumulations develop more commonly in, but are not restricted to, non‐tropical settings. It is suggested that a combination of factors, such as low net sedimentary input, nature of the substrate, sea‐level rise and inherited physiography contribute to determine the relationship between rhodolith‐bearing deposits and transgressive settings.
Low temperature behaviour of natural saline fluid inclusions in saddle dolomite (Paleozoic, NW Spain)
Authors: Lapponi Fabio , Bakker Ronald J. , Bechstaedt Thilo
Published: October 2007

The origin of many dolomites is still a matter of debate because of many possible chemical and hydrological conditions of formation. Fluid inclusion studies have been applied in order to improve knowledge about paleofluids responsible for the precipitation of dolomite, and used to define temperatures and salinities. The combination of Raman Spectroscopy and microthermometry is tested here to improve the analytical method to identify the main ion species present in individual inclusions. Natural samples of saddle dolomite from the Cambrian Láncara Fm., Cantabrian Mountains (NW Spain), contain zoned crystals with two‐phase aqueous fluid inclusions (liquid‐rich). The most stable phase assemblage in these inclusions at −150 °C consists of ice, hydrohalite and an unknown salt hydrate. The latter melts between −47 and −41 °C, probably representing a eutectic temperature. Subsequently, ice melts in the range of −32.5 to −29 °C and, finally, hydrohalite melts between −9 and −3.5 °C. Salinities can be calculated in the fluid system H2O–NaCl with addition of another salt, either CaCl2 or MgCl2, and result in 7.5–10.6 eq. mass% NaCl and 17.0–21.0 eq. mass% CaCl2. Dependent on the rate of cooling runs, three different types of metastability may occur, i.e. the absence of hydrohalite, the unknown salt‐hydrate is not formed, and the nucleation of only ice. Salinity calculations from those melting temperatures differ substantially from equilibrium behaviour values. The unknown salt‐hydrate needs to be further specified by comparison to standard solutions. The method gives an opportunity to characterize the major compounds in complex fluid systems active during dolomitization, thus contributing to a better understanding of the ‘dolomite problem’.
Unique deformation processes involving the recrystallization of chrysotile within serpentinite: implications for aseismic slip events within subduction zones
Authors: Hirauchi Ken‐ichi , Yamaguchi Haruka
Published: October 2007

Serpentinite bodies within the Franciscan Complex, a Mesozoic accretionary prism located in California, USA, display a unique form of deformation that involves the recrystallization of chrysotile and the formation of a block‐in‐matrix structure. The phacoidal‐shaped blocks have a preferred orientation, and result from the local replacement of serpentine minerals by chrysotile grains that are aligned parallel to ductile shear planes such as S–C foliation; ultimately, some of the rocks evolved into chrysotile schist. The relic blocks are also fragmented into multiple parts, with the spaces between fragments being infilled by recrystallized chrysotile. The low coefficient of friction of chrysotile means that this deformation process acts to suppress the frictional properties of the entire serpentinite body within the forearc mantle. This phenomenon can be attributed to the slip style that occurs in aseismic regions of subduction zones in areas shallower than the stability field of antigorite.
Migration and shortening rates in the northern Apennines, Italy: implications for seismic hazard
Authors: Basili Roberto , Barba Salvatore
Published: October 2007

Is compression across the northern Apennine fold‐and‐thrust system (Italy) still active? To address this question, we quantified the long‐term rates of migration and shortening of the system along with the measurement errors. Our approach integrates structural geology, seismicity patterns, and statistical treatment of tectonic activity. On the basis of recently published surface and subsurface data, we found a migration rate of 8.85 ± 0.61 mm yr−1. The inception age of individual fold structures follow closely this average rate, indicating that the system has been migrating at a constant rate for the past 17 Myr. Cumulative shortening of the system also increases linearly through time at 2.93 ± 0.31 mm yr−1. The location of the youngest structures in the easternmost portion of the system coincides with a significant peak of seismic moment released by historical earthquakes. We conclude that not only these easternmost thrusts are still active, but also that they generate earthquakes.
Quality‐assessment of disease‐specific quality of life questionnaires for rhinitis and rhinosinusitis: a systematic review
Authors: Van Oene C. M. , Van Reij E. J. F. , Sprangers M. A. G. , Fokkens W. J.
Published: October 2007

The aim of this systematic review was to give a quality‐assessed review of the existing disease‐specific health related quality of life (QOL) questionnaires concerning rhinitis and rhinosinusitis for adults. The quality is assessed by defining the characteristics of a QOL questionnaire with assessment criteria. The results of the construction, description, feasibility, and the psychometric performance of the instruments are provided. We finally provide a clinician’s guide to choose a questionnaire based on the measurement goals, the discriminant validity, responsiveness and the points obtained in the quality assessment. Of the top scoring instruments regarding the overall quality assessment, only four health related QOL questionnaires for rhinitis and rhinosinusitis met our criteria for the discriminant validity and responsiveness.
Environmental determinants of atopic eczema phenotypes in relation to asthma and atopic sensitization
Authors: Karadag B. , Ege M. J. , Scheynius A. , Waser M. , Schram‐Bijkerk D. , Van Hage M. , Pershagen G. , Brunekreef B. , Riedler J. , Braun‐Fahrländer C. , Von Mutius E. ,   the PARSIFAL Study team
Published: October 2007

Background:  There is still uncertainty about the determinants of atopic eczema (AE). To explain the heterogeneity of the disease, different phenotypes of AE have been suggested.

Methods:  The cross‐sectional PARSIFAL study included 14 893 school‐age children of farmers or children attending Steiner schools and their respective reference groups. A detailed questionnaire was completed, and house dust was collected for the measurement of endotoxin and glucans. Atopic sensitization was defined by allergen‐specific IgE levels in the serum.

Results:  In multivariate analyses, helping with haying was the only variable related to a farming environment having a consistent inverse association with both current symptoms and a doctor’s diagnosis of AE [aOR = 0.65 (95% CI: 0.46–0.93) and 0.73 (0.51–1.05)], respectively. Severe lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in the first 2 years of life and usage of antibiotics ever were found to be positively related only to asthma‐associated AE, whereas the effect of LRTI on AE without asthma had an opposite effect. Levels of β(1→3)‐glucans in mattress dust were inversely related to a doctor’s diagnosis of asthma‐associated AE [aOR = 0.75 (0.57–0.98)], and endotoxin levels to current symptoms of asthma‐associated AE [aOR = 0.73 (0.57–0.94)].

Conclusions:  The analyses of the PARSIFAL study revealed two different phenotypes of AE, depending on the association with asthma and wheezing ever. With regard to the hygiene hypothesis, help with haying, exposure to β(1→3)‐glucans and endotoxin were found to be inversely associated with the AE phenotype associated with asthma and wheezing.
Differential cytokine and transcription factor expression in patients with allergic reactions to drugs
Authors: Cornejo‐Garcia J. A. , Fernandez T. D. , Torres M. J. , Carballo M. , Hernan I. , Antunez C. , Blanca M. , Mayorga C.
Published: October 2007

Background: Allergic drug reactions (ADR) can be either immediate reaction (IR) (IgE mediated) or delayed reaction (DR) (T‐cell mediated). They follow the Th1/Th2 paradigm, with DR expressing interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) with down‐regulation of interleukin‐4 (IL‐4) and IR expressing IL‐4 with down‐regulation of IFN‐γ. We studied the extension of this polarization in DR and IR by examining the cytokine and transcription factor profile in T‐cell subpopulations during the acute phase of an ADR.

Methods: Expressions of cytokines [IL‐4, IFN‐γ and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)] and transcription factors (c‐maf, GATA‐3 and T‐bet) were analysed by semi‐quantitative real time‐polymerase chain reaction in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and in CD4 and CD8 subpopulations from ADR patients.

Results: In DR, IFN‐γ, TNF‐α and T‐bet increased significantly in both CD4 and CD8 subpopulations, depending on the clinical severity. In IR, IL‐4, c‐Maf and GATA‐3 were increased, but only significantly in CD4. A positive correlation existed between IFN‐γ and T‐bet in DR and between IL‐4 and c‐Maf and GATA‐3 in IR. In DR, IFN‐γ, TNF‐α and T‐bet were increased during the acute phase in CD4 and CD8. In IR, IL‐4, c‐Maf and GATA‐3 were all increased in the acute phase, but only in CD4.

Conclusions: These results support the Th1/Th2 paradigm in ADR, confirming previous findings that include the expression in both CD4 and CD8 T cells, and extending the observation to the transcription factors involved in the polarization of the immune response. Monitoring the reactions in the cell populations implicated, could be an important tool for assessing the mechanisms involved in ADR.
Health‐related quality of life in allergic rhinitis: comparing the short form ESPRINT‐15 and MiniRQLQ questionnaires
Authors: Valero A. , Alonso J. , Antépara I. , Baró E. , Colás C. , Del Cuvillo A. , Ferrer M. , Herdman M. , Marti‐Guadaño E. , Monclús L. , Navarro‐Pulido A. M. , Sastre J. , Izquierdo I. , Mullol J.
Published: October 2007

Background:  We compared the psychometric properties of the ESPRINT‐15, the short form of a new Spanish instrument to measure health‐related quality of life in allergic rhinitis (AR) patients, with those of the Mini‐Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (MiniRQLQ).

Methods:  The questionnaires were compared in Spanish patients with intermittent allergic rhinitis (IAR) or persistent AR in a prospective, observational study. Floor and ceiling effects, internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha), test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient; ICC), convergent and known groups validity, and sensitivity to change (standardized response means; SRMs) were compared.

Results:  In terms of content, while the MiniRQLQ has a dimension covering practical problems and places more emphasis on symptoms, the ESPRINT‐15 has two dimensions (Sleep and Psychological impact) which are not included in the MiniRQLQ. In the validation study, 400 patients were included and 59% of the sample had persistent AR. There were no significant floor or ceiling effects on any dimension on either questionnaire. Cronbach’s alpha values for the ESPRINT‐15 and MiniRQLQ overall scores were 0.92 and 0.90, respectively. In 48 clinically stable patients, ICCs were 0.80 and 0.77, respectively. Both instruments discriminated between patients with IAR and persistent AR. Correlations with symptom scores and generic measures were moderate to strong. SRMs for overall scores and individual dimensions on the two questionnaires in the 197 patients reporting a change in health status ranged from 0.7 to 1.3.

Conclusions:  Both questionnaires performed well in psychometric terms. The ESPRINT‐15 is particularly recommended for use in Spanish‐speaking populations.
Utility of the lymphocyte transformation test in the diagnosis of drug sensitivity: dependence on its timing and the type of drug eruption
Authors: Kano Y. , Hirahara K. , Mitsuyama Y. , Takahashi R. , Shiohara T.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Lymphocyte transformation test (LTT) is a safety and reproducible test to assess activation of drug‐specific T cells in vitro; however, there are several practical concerns such as the time of testing and the influence of treatment. Our aim was to define the right timing to perform LTT for determining the causative agent in various types of drug reactions.

Methods:  Lymphocyte transformation test was performed at different time points during the evolution of three types of drug reactions, maculo‐papular type of drug eruptions (MP), Stevens–Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN), and drug‐induced hypersensitivity syndrome/drug rash and eosinophilia with systemic symptoms (DIHS/DRESS).

Results:  Positive LTT reactions were obtained when the test was performed at the acute stage but not the recovery stage in MP and SJS/TEN, while positive LTT reactions were obtained at the recovery stage but not the acute stage in DIHS/DRESS, regardless of treatment with systemic prednisolone.

Conclusions:  Lymphocyte transformation test is a reliable method to define the causative agent, when LTT is performed at the right timing depending on the type of drug reactions. Lymphocyte transformation test should be performed within 1 week after the onset of skin rashes in patients with MP and SJS/TEN; and 5–8 weeks after in patients with DIHS/DRESS, respectively.
Pholcodine exposure raises serum IgE in patients with previous anaphylaxis to neuromuscular blocking agents
Authors: Harboe T. , Johansson S. G. O. , Florvaag E. , Öman H.
Published: October 2007

Background:  Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs) can cause anaphylaxis through immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies that bind quaternary ammonium ion epitopes. These epitopes are present in numerous common chemicals and drugs, exposure to which, theoretically, could be of importance in the development and maintenance of the IgE sensitization promoting allergic reactions. Pholcodine is one such drug, which in a recent pilot study was shown to induce a remarkable increase in serum IgE levels in two IgE‐sensitized individuals. The present study explores the effect of pholcodine exposure on IgE in a population with previously diagnosed IgE‐mediated anaphylaxis towards NMBAs.

Methods:  Seventeen patients were randomized to 1 week’s exposure with cough syrup containing either pholcodine or guaifenesin. The primary variables serum IgE and IgE antibodies towards pholcodine, morphine and suxamethonium were measured before and 4 and 8 weeks after start of exposure.

Results:  Patients exposed to pholcodine had a sharp rise in levels of IgE antibodies towards pholcodine, morphine and suxamethonium, the median proportional increases 4 weeks after exposure reaching 39.0, 38.6 and 93.0 times that of the base levels respectively. Median proportional increase of IgE was 19.0. No changes were observed in the guaifenesin group.

Conclusion:  Serum levels of IgE antibodies associated with allergy towards NMBAs increase significantly in sensitized patients after exposure to cough syrup containing pholcodine. Availability of pholcodine should be restricted by medical authorities because of the potential risk of future allergic reactions to muscle relaxants.
Ovum Pick‐up in Dairy Heifers: Does it Affect Animal Well‐being?
Authors: Petyim S , Båge R , Madej A , Larsson B
Published: October 2007

Contents

The aim of the present study was to assess the effects of the ovum pick‐up (OPU) technique on animal well‐being. Eight dairy heifers were subjected to 4 months of twice‐weekly OPU. The physiological response to OPU was recorded in four heifers at two sessions, at the beginning (time 1) and at the end (time 2) of the 4‐month period. Heart rates were measured and blood was analysed for cortisol, vasopressin and PG‐metabolite before, during (every 5 and 2 min), and after the OPU sessions. Reactions to each subprocedure of OPU (‘restraint’, ‘epidural’, ‘device in’ and ‘puncture’) were closely observed. In all heifers, reactions to the OPU procedures were also noted throughout the experimental period, and changes in routine behaviour, oestrous behaviour, body temperature, or other clinical traits were recorded. Subsequent to the experiment, the ovaries and tails were carefully inspected. At time 1, there was an insignificant increase in heart rate and cortisol throughout the OPU procedure. At time 2, these two parameters increased significantly, but both parameters declined to pre‐OPU levels 10 min after completion of the procedure. No significant changes were seen in vasopressin or PG‐metabolite at time 1 and time 2. Behaviourally, the heifers showed the strongest response to epidural anaesthesia, with a tendency for more intense response during the late 4‐month sessions. The response to ‘device in’ and ‘puncture’ varied among individuals independently of time. There were no changes in the routine or oestrous behaviour throughout the experiment and no signs of clinical disorders. No major pathological changes were macroscopically seen in the ovaries and tails subsequent to the 4 months of OPU. In conclusion, the heifers showed a response to OPU, mostly to administration of epidural anaesthesia. However, we demonstrated that epidural anaesthesia can be administered in a way causing less discomfort.