bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity to Tonality across the Pitch Range
Authors: Russo Frank A , Cuddy Lola L , Galembo Alexander , Thompson William Forde
Published: May 2007

Striking changes in sensitivity to tonality across the pitch range are reported. Participants were presented a key-defining context (do-mi-do-sol) followed by one of the 12 chromatic tones of the octave, and rated the goodness of fit of the probe tone to the context. The set of ratings, called the probe-tone profile, was compared to an established standardised profile for the Western tonal hierarchy. The presentation of context and probe tones at low and high pitch registers resulted in significantly reduced sensitivity to tonality. Sensitivity was especially poor for presentations in the lowest octaves where inharmonicity levels were substantially above the threshold for detection. We propose that sensitivity to tonality may be influenced by pitch salience (or a co-varying factor such as exposure to pitch distributional information) as well as suprathreshold inharmonicity.
Contrast and Depth Perception: Effects of Texture Contrast and Area Contrast
Authors: Ichihara Shigeru , Kitagawa Norimichi , Akutsu Hiromi
Published: May 2007

Many objects in natural scenes have textures on their surfaces. Contrast of the texture surfaces (the texture contrast) reduces when the viewing distance increases. Similarly, contrast between the surfaces of the objects and the background (the area contrast) reduces when the viewing distance increases. The texture contrast and the area contrast were defined by the contrast between random dots, and by the contrast between the average luminance of the dot pattern and the luminance of the background, respectively. To examine how these two types of contrast influence depth perception, we ran two experiments. In both experiments two areas of random-dot patterns were presented against a uniform background, and participants rated relative depth between the two areas. We found that the rated depth of the patterned areas increased with increases in texture contrast. Furthermore, the effect of the texture contrast on depth judgment increased when the area contrast became low.
Topology of the postperovskite phase transition and mantle dynamics
Authors: Monnereau Marc , Yuen David A.
Published: May 2007

The postperovskite (ppv) phase transition occurs in the deep mantle close to the core–mantle boundary (CMB). For this reason, we must include in the dynamical considerations both the Clapeyron slope and the temperature intercept,
T
int
, which is the temperature of the phase transition at the CMB pressure. For a CMB temperature greater than
T
int
, there is a double crossing of the phase boundary by the geotherms associated with the descending flow. We have found a great sensitivity of the shape of the ppv surface due to the CMB from variations of various parameters such as the amount of internal heating, the Clapeyron slope, and the temperature intercept. Three-dimensional spherical models of mantle convection that can satisfy the seismological constraints depend on the Clapeyron slope. At moderate value, 8 MPa/K, the best fit is found with a core heat flow amounting for 40% of the total heat budget (≈15 TW), whereas for 10 MPa/K the agreement is for a lower core heat flow (20%, ≈7.5 TW). In all cases, these solutions correspond to a temperature intercept 200 K lower than the CMB temperature. These models have holes of perovskite adjacent to ppv in regions of hot upwellings.
Genome-Wide Gene Expression Analysis Reveals a Critical Role for CRYPTOCHROME1 in the Response of Arabidopsis to High Irradiance
Authors: Kleine Tatjana , Kindgren Peter , Benedict Catherine , Hendrickson Luke , Strand Åsa
Published: May 2007

Exposure to high irradiance results in dramatic changes in nuclear gene expression in plants. However, little is known about the mechanisms by which changes in irradiance are sensed and how the information is transduced to the nucleus to initiate the genetic response. To investigate whether the photoreceptors are involved in the response to high irradiance, we analyzed expression of EARLY  LIGHT-INDUCIBLE PROTEIN1 (ELIP1), ELIP2, ASCORBATE PEROXIDASE2 (APX2), and LIGHT-HARVESTING CHLOROPHYLL A/B-BINDING PROTEIN2.4 (LHCB2.4) in the phytochrome A (phyA), phyB, cryptochrome1 (cry1), and cry2 photoreceptor mutants and long hypocotyl5 (hy5) and HY5 homolog (hyh) transcription factor mutants. Following exposure to high intensity white light for 3 h (1,000 μmol quanta m−2 s−1) expression of ELIP1/2 and APX2 was strongly induced and LHCB2.4 expression repressed in wild type. The cry1 and hy5 mutants showed specific misregulation of ELIP1/2, and we show that the induction of ELIP1/2 expression is mediated via CRY1 in a blue light intensity-dependent manner. Furthermore, using the Affymetrix Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) 24 K Gene-Chip, we showed that 77 of the high light-responsive genes are regulated via CRY1, and 26 of those genes were also HY5 dependent. As a consequence of the misregulation of these genes, the cry1 mutant displayed a high irradiance-sensitive phenotype with significant photoinactivation of photosystem II, indicated by reduced maximal fluorescence ratio. Thus, we describe a novel function of CRY1 in mediating plant responses to high irradiances that is essential to the induction of photoprotective mechanisms. This indicates that high irradiance can be sensed in a chloroplast-independent manner by a cytosolic/nucleic component.
Inhibitory effects ofN‐acetylcysteine on the functional responses of human eosinophilsin vitro
Authors: Martinez‐Losa M. , Cortijo J. , Juan G. , O'Connor J. E. , Sanz M. J. , Santangelo F. , Morcillo E. J.
Published: May 2007

BackgroundOxidative stress appears to be relevant in the pathogenesis of inflammation in allergic diseases like bronchial asthma. Eosinophils are oxidant‐sensitive cells considered as key effectors in allergic inflammation.

ObjectiveThe aim of this work was to study the effects of the clinically used antioxidantN‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine (NAC) on the functional responses of human‐isolated eosinophils.

MethodsHuman eosinophils were purified from the blood of healthy donors by a magnetic bead separation system. The effects of NAC were investigated on the generation of reactive oxygen species (chemiluminescence and flow cytometry), Ca2+signal (fluorimetry), intracellular glutathione (GSH; flow cytometry), p47phox–p67phoxtranslocation (Western blot) and eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) release (radioimmunoassay).

ResultsNAC (0.1–1 mm) inhibited the extracellular generation of oxygen species induced byN‐formyl‐l‐methionyl‐l‐leucyl‐l‐phenylalanine (fMLP) and eotaxin (in the presence of IL‐5) with −logIC50values of 3.61±0.03 and 3.36±0.09, respectively. Also, the intracellular generation of hydrogen peroxide was virtually abolished by NAC (0.5–1 mm). NAC (1 mm) did not alter the fMLP‐induced Ca2+signal but augmented the eosinophil content of reduced GSH and inhibited p47phox–p67phoxtranslocation. NAC inhibited the release of ECP (∼90% inhibition at 1 mm) from fMLP‐activated eosinophils.

ConclusionInhibition by NAC of human eosinophil functionsin vitrois potentially useful in the treatment of allergic inflammation.
Interference of methysergide, a specific 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor antagonist, with airway chronic allergic inflammation and remodelling in a murine model of asthma
Authors: Lima C. , Souza V. M. O. , Soares A. L. , Macedo M. S. , Tavares‐de‐Lima W. , Vargaftig B. B.
Published: May 2007

Background
Airway remodelling encompasses the structural changes observed in asthmatic airways. Mast cells, through the release of histamine and 5‐hydroxytryptamine (serotonin), are implicated in early asthmatic reactions, bronchoconstriction and mucosal oedema, and in the development of bronchial hyperresponsiveness. However, the association between serotonin and remodelling processes in murine model of airways inflammation remains to be elucidated.

Objective
As serotonin is released by murine mast cells upon antigen challenge, we tested the hypothesis of its involvement in the development of inflammatory and remodelling processes in a murine model of chronic airway inflammation following prolonged allergen challenge.

Methods
BALB/c mice were exposed to aerosolized ovalbumin for 20 min 2 days a week, for 4 consecutive weeks. Two hours before each challenge, they were treated with methysergide (intranasally, 40 μg/kg). Forty‐eight hours after the last aerosol challenge, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and lung tissue were collected for analysis.

Results
Methysergide inhibited the allergen‐induced increase in airway eosinophilia, reduced T helper type 2 (Th2) cytokines in lung, spleen or thoracic lymph nodes, and specific IgE levels. The extravasation of plasma and fibronectin production in the lung, and collagen deposition in the lung were also inhibited after methysergide treatment. Although methysergide treatment induced an increase in IFN‐γ levels, experiments with neutralizing antibody suggest that this is not responsible for inhibition. In addition, instillation of serotonin to immunized mice induced eosinophil recruitment to BAL, Th2 cytokine production and fibronectin release in lung as well as collagen deposition.

Conclusion
Serotonin may contribute to the development and maintenance of remodelling through the release of cytokines and of fibrogenic mediators. Serotonin should therefore be considered as relevant for the development and maintenance of airway remodelling.
Contribution of Ara h 2 to peanut‐specific, immunoglobulin E‐mediated, cell activation
Authors: McDermott R. A. , Porterfield H. S. , El Mezayen R. , Burks A. W. , Pons L. , Schlichting D. G. , Solomon B. , Redzic J. S. , Harbeck R. J. , Duncan M. W. , Hansen K. C. , Dreskin S. C.
Published: May 2007

Background
Ara h 2 is a potent peanut allergen but its contribution to the ability of a crude peanut extract (CPE) to cross‐link IgE and activate mast cells has not been rigorously evaluated.

Objective
To measure the contribution that Ara h 2 makes to the effector function of a CPE.

Methods
Ara h 2 was specifically removed from a CPE as demonstrated by immunoblots, 2D gels, and an inhibitory ELISA. Functional assays of sham‐treated and Ara h 2‐depleted CPEs were performed with RBL SX‐38 cells sensitized with IgE from highly peanut‐allergic subjects and with naturally sensitized basophils.

Results
Depletion of ∼99% of the Ara h 2 from the CPE led to an increase in the concentration of the CPE necessary to give 50% of maximal degranulation (EC50) of the SX‐38 cells following sensitization with sera that contain anti‐Ara h 2 IgE. Assays with a pool of 10 sera showed a small but significant increase in the EC50 following depletion of Ara h 2 (1.65±0.15‐fold; P<0.05) and assays of seven individual sera showed a similar increase in the average EC50 (1.7±0.2‐fold; P<0.02). The percent of the anti‐peanut IgE that binds Ara h 2 correlated with an increase in the EC50 of the CPE following depletion of Ara h 2 (r=0.83; P<0.02). On the other hand, data from three of these patients studied with a basophil histamine release assay did not show a significant effect of depletion of Ara h 2.

Conclusion
Based on its ability to cross‐link IgE effectively, Ara h 2 is clearly an important peanut allergen. Its ability to cross‐link IgE effectively from a specific serum is related to the proportion of anti‐Ara h 2 in that serum but Ara h 2 does not account for a majority of the effector activity of the CPE for any of the sera studied.
Allergic rhinitis and asthma ad hoc survey: clinical and psychological perspectives
Authors: Braido F. , Baiardini I. , Brandi S. , Porcu A. , Canonica G. W.
Published: May 2007

Background
Several studies have provided evidence of a strong association between asthma and rhinitis, with consequences in terms of therapy and disease management.

Objectives
The aims of our study were to evaluate physicians' knowledge about rhinitis/asthma comorbidity, to note the patients' management behaviour and to assess the patients' experience about symptoms and expectations, and to investigate the clinical and psychological meaning of general practitioners' and patients' awareness.

Methods
One hundred and one general practitioners and 504 asthmatic patients participated in the study. General practitioners and patients filled in two different multiple choice questionnaires concerning asthma–rhinitis link and impact.

Results
34.7% of general practitioners are aware of the link between asthma and rhinitis, and 43.6% of them hypothesize the comorbidity on the basis of their clinical experience. 21.8% of physicians make the diagnosis autonomously. 27.8% of asthmatic patients experience three or less rhinitic symptoms, 41% from four to six symptoms and 31.2 more than six symptoms. These symptoms deeply interfere with daily life, causing sleep problems (87.3%), lack of concentration (78.9%), difficulties in spare time (71.8%) and sport (71.7%). Rhinitis symptoms are responsible for the worsening of asthma, with an increase in dyspnoea (86.3%), cough (73.9%), and wheezing (59%). Ninety‐three percent of patients expressed an interest in a combination therapy approach.

Conclusions
Asthma and rhinitis interact in the development of clinical burden and impact on quality of life. The survey results showed different perspectives when evaluated from clinical and psychological points of view.
A matrix effect in pectin‐rich fruits hampers digestion of allergen by pepsin in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Polovic N. , Blanusa M. , Gavrovic‐Jankulovic M. , Atanaskovic‐Markovic M. , Burazer L. , Jankov R. , Velickovic T. Cirkovic
Published: May 2007

Background
It is a general belief that a food allergen should be stable to gastric digestion. Various acidic plant polysaccharides, including pectin, are ubiquitous in fruit matrixes and can form hydrogels under low‐pH conditions.

Objective
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of hydrogel forming polysaccharide‐rich fruit matrixes on in vivo gastric and in vitro pepsic digestion of fruit allergens.

Methods
Fruit extract proteins (kiwi, banana, apple and cherry) and a purified major kiwi allergen Act c 2 were digested with simulated gastric fluid in accordance with the US Pharmacopeia. In vivo experiments on kiwi fruit digestion were performed on four healthy non‐atopic volunteers by examining the gastric content 1 h after ingestion of kiwi fruit. The Act c 2 and kiwi proteins were detected in immunoblots using monoclonal anti‐Act c 2 antibodies and rabbit polyclonal antisera.

Results
Crude fruit extracts were resistant to digestion by pepsin when compared with commonly prepared extracts. In the gastric content of all volunteers, following kiwi fruit ingestion and immunoblotting, intact Act c 2 was detected with anti‐Act c 2 monoclonal antibodies, while kiwi proteins of higher molecular weights were detected using rabbit polyclonal antisera. Addition of apple fruit pectin (1.5% and 3%) to the purified kiwi allergen was able to protect it from pepsin digestion in vitro.

Conclusion
The matrix effect in pectin‐rich fruits can influence the digestibility of food proteins and thereby the process of allergic sensitization in atopic individuals.
Cost‐effectiveness of grass allergen tablet (GRAZAX®) for the prevention of seasonal grass pollen induced rhinoconjunctivitis – a Northern European perspective
Authors: Bachert C. , Vestenbæk U. , Christensen J. , Griffiths U. K. , Poulsen P. B.
Published: May 2007

BackgroundThe prevalence of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis has increased dramatically. Seventeen million people in the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland suffer from grass pollen induced allergic rhinitis. Symptomatic therapy with antihistamines and topical steroids is partially effective but allergen‐specific immunotherapy by injection or sublingual routes is superior. The grass allergen tablet (GRAZAX®) is a new allergen‐specific immunotherapy for home administration.

ObjectiveTo assess the cost‐effectiveness of the grass allergen tablet compared with symptomatic medication in seven Northern European countries.

MethodsA prospective pharmacoeconomic analysis was carried out alongside a multinational clinical trial. Pooled data on resource use and health outcomes were collected. A societal perspective was adopted, and the analysis had a 9‐year time horizon. The outcome measure was Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs).

ResultsThe grass allergen tablet was clinically superior to symptomatic treatment, producing statistically significant differences for all efficacy end‐points, including the number of QALYs gained – 0.976 vs. 0.947 QALYs gained. There was a significantly higher usage of the rescue medications loratadine and budesonide, and more hours missed from work (production loss), in the symptomatic treatment group. The cost per QALY gained in the grass allergen tablet group was similar in the seven countries (€12 930 to €18 263 for an annual cost of the grass allergen tablet of €1500). The analysis showed that the grass allergen tablet was cost‐effective for all countries for an annual treatment cost below €2200.

ConclusionThe pharmacoeconomic analysis illustrated that allergen‐specific immunotherapy with the grass allergen tablet is a cost‐effective intervention for the prevention of grass pollen induced rhinoconjunctivitis in Northern European countries, for a tablet price below €6. In Germany for example the price of the tablet is €2.95 corresponding to a yearly treatment cost of €358 – based on a 9‐year time horizon.
Rapid evolution of sexual signals in sympatricCalopteryxdamselflies: reinforcement or ‘noisy‐neighbour’ ecological character displacement?
Authors: MULLEN S. P. , ANDRÉS J. A.
Published: May 2007

Enhanced prezygotic isolation in sympatry is one of the most intriguing patterns in evolutionary biology and has frequently been interpreted as evidence for reinforcement. However, the frequency with which reinforcement actually completes speciation remains unclear. The Jewelwing damselflies (Calopteryx aequabilisandC. maculata) have served as one of the few classic examples of speciation via reinforcement outside ofDrosophila. Although evidence for wing pattern displacement and increased mate discrimination in this system have been demonstrated, the degree of hybridization and gene flow in nature are unknown. Here, we show that sympatric populations of these two species are the result of recent secondary contact, as predicted under a model of speciation via reinforcement. However, we found no phenotypic evidence of hybridization in natural populations and a complete association between species‐specific haplotypes at two different loci (mitochondrial CO I and nuclear EF1‐α), suggesting little or no contemporary gene flow. Moreover, genealogical and coalescent‐based estimates of divergence times and migration rates indicate that, speciation occurred in the distant past. The rapid evolution of wing colour in sympatry is recent, therefore, relative to speciation and seems to be better explained by selection against wasting mating effort and/or interspecific aggression resulting from a ‘noisy neighbour’ signalling environment.
Demand Constraints on Agricultural Growth in East and Southern Africa: A General Equilibrium Analysis
Authors: Diao Xinshen , Dorosh Paul
Published: May 2007

This article analyses demand constraints on agricultural growth in seven countries of East and Southern Africa using an applied general equilibrium framework. It finds that both traditional and non‐traditional export crops have limited potential to raise incomes because of demand constraints (for traditional exports) or a relatively small base (for non‐traditional exports). The best prospects for agriculture‐led growth remain in the food sector, where domestic demand represents a large and growing market. Improvements in market efficiency and simultaneous growth in the livestock sectors can help spur demand further and avert falls in prices. Achieving rapid gains in farm incomes, however, also requires investment in rural infrastructure to reduce marketing costs, and demand‐ enhancing growth in the non‐agricultural sector to spur demand.
Green Coffee? The Contradictions of Global Sustainability Initiatives from an Indian Perspective
Authors: Neilson Jeffrey , Pritchard Bill
Published: May 2007

The ‘Common Code for the Coffee Community’ (4C) was developed as a multi‐stakeholder initiative designed to embed sustainability principles in the mainstream coffee industry. It elicited widespread condemnation from producer countries during its initial ‘testing phase’. Focusing on Indian opposition, this article comes to the conclusion that, unless key issues as defined by producer‐country interests are addressed, any initiatives to advance the economic, social and environmental sustainability of the industry are likely to be seen as vehicles within a neo‐imperialist agenda seeking to establish consumer‐country control over the product supply chain.
Commercialisation of Non‐timber Forest Products: A Reality Check
Authors: Belcher Brian , Schreckenberg Kathrin
Published: May 2007

This article challenges the pervasive view that commercialisation of non‐timber forest products can (easily) achieve ecosystem and species conservation as well as improving livelihoods. Following a brief review of who and what is involved, it focuses on the main ecological and livelihood risks of unconsidered promotion of NTFP commercialisation, drawing on a wide range of case studies from around the world. It concludes with some recommendations, emphasising the lack of ‘magic‐bullet’ products, and the importance ‐ among other things ‐ of not ignoring national policy, taking an integrated view of the value chain, considering the implications of different production options, and improving both quality and quantity.
THE DESIRE OF GOD
Authors: DEVERELL GARRY J.
Published: May 2007

By exploring the contours of human longing and desire, particularly in its complex relationship with the body and material reality, the article shows that it is in the very nature of the humanum to seek after and promise the presence of a divinity whose arrival cannot be guaranteed (not from the human side, at least). Biblical poetry from the Psalms and the Song of Songs will be invoked and explored as exemplars of that psycho‐theological landscape. While human desire is not enough to guarantee God's arrival, desire perseveres on the basis of a mysterious sense of call or promise which, while experienced and apprehended within the self, nevertheless appears to emanate or broadcast as from another place.
Contraction‐induced [18F]‐fluoro‐deoxy‐glucose uptake can be measured in human calf muscle using high‐resolution PET
Authors: Kalliokoski Kari K. , Bojsen‐Møller Jens , Seppänen Marko , Johansson Jarkko , Kjaer Michael , Teräs Mika , Magnusson S. Peter
Published: May 2007

Contraction‐induced glucose uptake can be imaged and quantified by the use of positron emission tomography (PET). In the human extremities, such data may reveal important information regarding the in vivo mechanical function of e.g. the force transmitting tissues such as tendons. However, to investigate structures of limited size, a PET scanner with high resolution is required. We tested the potential of the recently developed high‐resolution brain PET scanner (ECAT HRRT) for imaging of human lower extremities. [18F]‐fluoro‐deoxy‐glucose uptake following voluntary and stimulated isometric muscle contractions was studied in a 30‐year‐old male. The results showed that the activated muscle or muscles are clearly delineated in the high‐resolution PET images. Furthermore, the load‐induced gain in tendon uptake was clearly visualized. In conclusion, the HRRT scanner is an appropriate tool for investigating physiological processes within the human extremities, and the very high resolution yields a potential for more accurate conclusions when target tissues are limited in size.
Diapause dynamics, seasonal phenology, and pupal color dimorphism of Papilio polyxenes in southern Florida, USA
Authors: Sims Steven R.
Published: May 2007

The seasonal phenology, pupal diapause, and pupal color dimorphism of a Papilio polyxenes Fabr. (Lepidoptera: Papilionidae: Papilionini) population from subtropical southern Florida, USA, were studied. Adult eclosion from field‐collected individuals indicated that this population is primarily active from the late dry season through the wet season (March–September). Most pupae entering diapause in April eclosed the same year but one pupa eclosed the following February. In laboratory tests, larval rearing under short days (L10:D14) induced 88.6% pupal diapause. Diapause responses to relatively longer (L12:D12–L16:D8) photoperiods ranged from 35.1–51.5%, and were statistically equivalent. These results indicate greater variability in the photoresponse of subtropical P. polyxenes compared to temperate populations that generally show little diapause under long‐day conditions and complete diapause under short days. The proportions of diapause pupae and brown pupal color, among broods reared at photoperiods ≥L12:D12, were both normally distributed. Diapause pupae were sensitive to photoperiods from L10:D14 to L16:D8. Diapause duration was inversely related to the photophase length to which the pupae were continuously exposed. Four generations of selection, at L10:D14, for non‐diapause reduced pupal diapause from 88.6 to 20.6%, indicating the existence of considerable additive genetic variance for this trait. Selection for non‐diapause increased the percentage of green pupae from 21.8 to 58.8% and decreased the incidence of diapause in both green and brown pupae. Brown pupal color and liability to diapause are linked, but this linkage is weaker than that documented in temperate populations. The overriding effect of short days (L10:D14) inducing only brown diapause pupae did not occur in southern Florida P. polyxenes.
Odour‐baited traps influence thrips capture in proximal unbaited traps in the field
Authors: Teulon David A.J. , Butler Ruth C. , James Dale E. , Davidson Melanie M.
Published: May 2007

Two field experiments examined the distance over which an attractant odour of a volatile chemical could influence thrips capture in proximal traps that were without the odour. In each experiment a star‐shaped array of water traps consisted of a centre trap with or without an odour surrounded by odourless traps at 0.5, 1, 2, 5, and 10 m in eight equally spaced radial arms 45° apart. Experiments ran for 47 h (centre trap: ethyl nicotinate) or 7 h (centre trap: ethyl isonicotinate). Each had four replicates. With ethyl nicotinate, more thrips were trapped in the centre‐baited traps than in the unbaited centre traps (63×, 7×, 98× and 200× for total thrips, Thrips tabaci Lindeman ♀, and Thrips obscuratus Crawford ♀and ♂, respectively) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae). More total thrips and T. tabaci♀ were trapped in the centre traps baited with ethyl isonicotinate than in unbaited centre traps (21× for both). For ethyl nicotinate, numbers of T. obscuratus in unbaited traps downwind from the baited centre trap declined by 50% within 0.4 m (♀) and 2 m (♂) and by 95% within 3 m (both ♀ and ♂) based on model predictions. For ethyl isonicotinate, numbers of T. tabaci in unbaited traps downwind from the baited centre trap declined by 50% within 1.3 m and by 95% within 10 m based on model predictions. Wind direction was an important factor in the degree and direction of thrips capture with the highest thrips capture downwind from the centre trap with odour. There was no increase in numbers of T. tabaci in any traps without odour in the ethyl nicotinate‐centred array. Differences in trapping patterns between thrips species and odours indicated that there were thrips species–odour specific interactions. Experiments examining differences between traps with and without a thrips attractant odour need to be designed very carefully to ensure meaningful results especially in enclosed and/or low‐wind indoor situations.
Imperfect preference for singly parasitized hosts over doubly parasitized hosts in the semisolitary parasitoid Echthrodelphax fairchildii: implications for profitable self‐superparasitism
Authors: Ito Emi , Yamada Yoshihiro Y.
Published: May 2007

Self‐superparasitism can be profitable (i.e., a fitness gain) when conspecific female adult parasitoids prefer singly parasitized hosts over doubly parasitized hosts. This preference is expected to evolve when the value (i.e., the fitness gain from oviposition) of doubly parasitized hosts is lower than that of singly parasitized hosts. We examined whether such a preference is found in the small brown planthopper, Laodelphax striatellus (Fallén) (Homoptera: Delphacidae), and its semisolitary infanticidal parasitoid Echthrodelphax fairchildii Perkins (Hymenoptera: Dryinidae). We compared the preferences and host values between each of four pairs of double and triple parasitism, each of which had the same time interval between the first and last oviposition bouts. Ovipositions on doubly and singly parasitized hosts occurred with similar frequencies in each of the four pairs, even though the doubly parasitized hosts were of lower value than the singly parasitized hosts. However, the value of doubly parasitized hosts with the first and second parasitoid offspring on the same side of the host was higher than that of hosts with the two offspring on different sides, and the value of the former did not differ significantly from that of singly parasitized hosts. The preferences between singly and doubly parasitized hosts with the two offspring on the same or different sides were as expected from differences in their values, except for one pair of double and triple parasitisms. This exception is considered attributable to an imperfect ability to evaluate hosts.
Effect of temperature on development, overwintering and establishment potential of Franklinothrips vespiformis in the UK
Authors: Larentzaki Eleni , Powell Glen , Copland Mike J. W.
Published: May 2007

This study investigated the effect of temperature on the development and overwintering potential of the predatory thrips Franklinothrips vespiformis (Crawford) (Thysanoptera: Aeolothripidae), a biological control agent used against glasshouse pests in continental Europe and Israel. Developmental rates increased linearly with rearing temperatures. It was estimated that 304.9 degree days, above a lower threshold temperature of 11.9 °C, were required for F. vespiformis to complete development from egg to adult eclosion. The effect of low temperatures (–5, 0, and 5 °C) was examined on adult female and larval survival. Subsequent reproductive and developmental attributes of survivors were also investigated. Lethal time experiments indicated that larval stages are more cold tolerant than adult F. vespiformis females. Surviving larvae increased their developmental times to adults with decreasing temperature and increasing exposure periods and second instars were significantly more successful than first instars in reaching adulthood. Surviving adult females decreased their oviposition rate with decreasing temperature and increasing exposure periods, and exposures to low temperatures affected the number of viable eggs produced. The results are discussed in the context of overwintering and establishment potential of F. vespiformis in the UK in the event of introducing the predatory thrips as a biological control agent against glasshouse pests.
Skin2®– an in vitro human skin model: the correlation between in vivo and in Vitro testing of surfactants
Authors: Demetrulias Janis , Donnelly Tracy , Morhenn Vera , Jessee Bret , Hainsworth Sharon , Casterton Phil , Bernhofer Lauren , Martin Katharine , Decker Denise
Published: May 2007

Abstract: The availability of an in vitro test system to replace animal testing of potential irritants is becoming more and more urgent especially in Europe as a consequence of the European Community Cosmetics Directive. To evaluate the ability of Advanced Tissue Sciences'(ATS) ZK1301 skin model to predict the skin irritation potential of surfactants, we performed a pilot validation study utilizing four different laboratories. The in vitro protocol was designed as a quantitative pre‐screen for the clinical patch studies. Sixteen substances, representing various surfactant categories and ranges of irritation potential, were tested. The 3‐[4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl]‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to quantitate viability in vitro. we documented the viability of tissues exposed to unknown substances for specific periods. The in vtiro results were calcuslated as percent distilled water controls (DWC). The time required to reduce the viability of each tissue to 50% of the distilled water controls (T50) was compared to men erthema and edema scores from the clinical studies by Pearson's correlation. The individual laboratories demonstrated coefficients of 072. The results indicated that the 30 min percent untreated control values best predicted the 24 h clinical patch scores. No statistically significant interlab variability was found. Only one false negative was seen when non/mild and moderate/severe irritant categories were assigned according to the in vitro scores. These results demonstrate that the skin2®in vitro test system may serve as a good screening method prior to clinical patch studdies.
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis of severe inherited skin diseases
Authors: McGrath J. A. , Handyside A. H.
Published: May 2007

Abstract: Considerable progress has been made recently in elucidating the molecular pathology underlying several forms of inherited skin diseases. One of the most immediate benefits of these discoveries has been the development of DNA‐based prenatal diagnosis in pregnancies at risk for recurrence of a particular disorder. In less than 2 decades, prenatal testing has progressed from mid‐trimester fetal skin biopsies or protein analysis in a limited number of conditions to first trimester chorionic villus sampling in a much broader range of genodermatoses. Advances in in vitro fertilization protocols and embryo manipulation techology have further led to the feasibility of even earlier prenatal diagnosis through preimplantation genetic diagnosis. This article details some of the recent advances in genetic skin disease research relevant to prenatal diagnosis and explores the possibilities and practicalities of preimplantation genetic diagnosis in the prevention of these conditions.
Neuropeptides and Langerhans cells
Authors: Lambert R. W. , Granstein R. D.
Published: May 2007

Abstract: The immune system and nervous system are intimately related. In addition to neuroendocrine mechanisms, neuropeptides have a variety of effects on immune cells and are responsible at least in part for neurogenic inflammation. The presence of neuropeptides in the skin has been well documented. The influence of neuropeptides on Langerhans cells is the focus of this paper. The physical presence and effects of calcitonin gene‐related peptide on Langerhans cells is emphasized. Discussion also includes the putative inflammatory and immunologic roles of vasoactive intestinal peptide, substance P, neurotensin, neuropeptide Y, and somatostatin in the skin.
Neuropeptides in the skin: interactions between the neuroendocrine and the skin immune systems
Authors: Scholzen T. , Armstrong C. A. , Bunnett N. W. , Luger T. A. , Olerud J. E. , Ansel J. C.
Published: May 2007

Abstract:The interaction between components of the nervous system and multiple target cells in the cutaneous immune system has been receiving increasing attention. It has been observed that certain skin diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis have a neurogenic component. Neuropeptides released by sensory nerves that innervate the skin and often contact epidermal and dermal cells can directly modulate functions of keratinocytes, Langerhans cells (LC), mast cells, dermal microvascular endothelial cells and infiltrating immune cells. Among these neuropeptides the tachykinins substance P (SP) and neurokinin A (NKA), calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP), vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and somato statin (SOM) have been reported to effectively modulate skin and immune cell functions such as cell proliferation, cytokine production or antigen presentation under physiological or pathophysiological conditions. Expression and regulation of their corresponding receptors that are expressed on a variety of skin cells as well as the presence of neuropeptidespecific peptidases such as neutral endopeptidase (NEP) or angiotensinconverting enzyme (ACE) determine the final biological response mediated by these peptides on the target cell or tissue. Likewise, skin cells like keratinocytes or fibroblasts are a source for neurotrophins such as nerve growth factor that are required not only for survival and regeneration of sensory neurons but also to control responsiveness of these neurons to external stimuli. Therefore, neuropeptides, neuropeptide receptors, neuropeptidedegrading enzymes and neurotrophins participate in a complex, interdependent network of mediators that modulate skin inflammation, wound healing and the skin immune system. This review will focus on recent studies demonstrating the role of tachykinins, CGRP, SOM and VIP and their receptors and neuropeptide‐degrading enzymes in mediating neurogenic inflammation in the skin.
The influence exerted by cutaneous ligands in subjects reacting to nickel sulfate alone and in those reacting to more transition metals
Authors: Santucci B. , Cannistraci C. , Cristaudo A. , Camera E. , Picardo M.
Published: May 2007

To study the influence exerted by cutaneous ligands in nickel reactions we have evaluated the patch tests responses to 4 aqueous nickel salts (sulfate, chloride, nitrate, acetate) able to form different complexes with different geometry. Two groups of respectively 71 subjects who previously reacted only to nickel sulfate 5% petrolatum (pet) and of 30 subjects who previously reacted to nickel sulfate 5% pet and to at least 1 other transition metal, were simultaneously repatch‐tested to 200 μg of Ni++ contained in nickel sulfate in pet and to 47 μg of Ni++ contained in 4 different aqueous nickel salts. Another 2 groups of 25 subjects with the same characteristics were simultaneously repatch tested to 200 μg of Ni++ in pet and to 12μg of aq Ni++ as in the first 2 groups. Visual score, total score, and mean value of the reactions were utilized in evaluating the degree of the responses. On testing to 200 μg of Ni++ in pet all the subjects were able to give positive responses. Whilst a higher percentage of the responses of 2+ degrees was found in subjects reacting to nickel sulfate 5% pet alone, a higher percentage of responses of 3+ degrees was observed in subjects reacting to more transition metals. On testing to 47 and 12 μg of aqueous Ni++ a large variability of responses to the single salts was observed in all the subjects. However, in subjects reacting to more metals there were either a greater number of multiple responses to 3 or 4 salts or responses stronger than those found in subjects reacting to nickel sulfate alone. Although patch testing cannot give us complete information about the degree of previous exposure, the results arising from the tests seem to demonstrate that the subjects allergic to nickel and other transition metals are more reactive than the subjects allergic only to nickel to the application of the same amounts of Ni++ contained in different salts. When considering the QSAR model, the difference in the sensitizing potential of the metal at the same penetration properties can depend on the possibility of combining with specific ligands. Therefore, it is likely that in subjects reacting to more metals there is a more uniform availability of cutaneous ligands which conditions the formation of complexes more immunogenic. The arising inflammatory reaction in these cases leads to a stronger but less specific response.
Camptothecin induces differentiation, tissue transglutaminase and apoptosis in cultured keratinocytes
Authors: Lin Xi‐ran , Wilkinson David I. , Farber Eugene M.
Published: May 2007

Abstract: Cultured normal human adult keratinocytes were exposed to (S)‐(+)‐ camptothecin over the concentration range 10‐5 to 10‐10 M. The dose‐dependent inhibition of growth was recorded using cell counting. The induction of terminal differentiation was demonstrated by the relative increase in squamous and cornified cells, and the concomitant decrease in small, proliferative cells, with an overall decrease in total cell numbers on going from 10‐10 to 10‐6 M concentration of the drug. The induction of apoptosis was studied by assay of two types of transglutaminase, “tissue” and “keratinocyte”, and by assay of histonelinked mono‐ and oligonucleosomes. Induction of apoptosis was accompanied with increase in “tissue” transglutaminase and in the amount of nucleosomes, the latter being indicative of endonuclease activity. This activity was sharply increased at a camptothecin concentration of 10‐5 M, and may have been faciliated by “tissue” transglutaminase at lower concentrations. The data suggest that camptothecin restricts keratinocyte growth by several mechanisms including apoptosis and emphasize its possible use in topical therapy for psoriasis.
Human tyrosinase related protein‐1 (TRP‐1) does not function as a DHICA oxidase activity in contrast to murine TRP‐1
Authors: Boissy Raymond E. , Sakai Chie , Zhao Huiquan , Kobayashi Takeshi , Hearing Vincent J.
Published: May 2007

Abstract: Tyrosinase related protein‐1 is a melanocyte specific protein and a member of the tyrosinase gene family which also includes tyrosinase and TRP‐2 (DOPAchrome tautomerase). In murine melanocytes, TRP‐1 functions as a 5,6‐dihydroxyindole‐2‐carboxylic acid [DHICA] oxidase during the biosynthetic conversion of tyrosine to eumelanin and mutations affecting TRP‐1 result in the synthesis of brown rather than black pelage coloration. In this study, we examined the putative DHICA oxidase activity of TRP‐1 in human melanocytes using several approaches. We first utilized a line of cultured melanocytes established from a patient with a form of oculocutaneous albinism completely lacking expression of TRP‐1 (OCA3). This line of melanocytes endogenously exhibited the same amount of DHICA oxidase activity as control melanocytes expressing TRP‐1. In other experiments, cultured human fibroblasts were transfected with a cDNA for TRP‐1, in either the sense or antisense direction, or with the retroviral vector alone. TRP‐1 expression was induced in fibroblasts transfected with the TRP‐1 cDNA in the sense direction only. Although TRP‐1 was expressed by sense‐transfected cells, there was no significant DHICA oxidase activity above controls. These results demonstrate that human TRP‐1 does not use DHICA as a substrate for oxidation.
Increased sensitivity to peroxidizing agents is correlated with an imbalance of antioxidants in normal melanocytes from melanoma patients
Authors: Grammatico P. , Maresca V. , Roccella F. , Roccella M. , Biondo L. , Catricalà C. , Picardo M.
Published: May 2007

Abstract: We have previously shown an imbalance of the antioxidant system in some cultures of normal melanocytes from patients with melanoma. In order to evaluate if the alteration of the antioxidants could be the basis of an increased sensitivity to exposure to peroxidative agents, in cultured melanocytes from normal individuals (n=11) and from patients with melanoma (n=11), superoxide dismutase and catalase activities were evaluated by spectrophotometer, and the levels of vitamin E and of the polyunsaturated fatty acid of cell membranes were determined by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. In 5 out of the 11 cultures of melanocytes from melanoma patients, with respect to those from normal individuals, a significant decrease of catalase activity (Cat) associated with an increase of vitamin E (Vit E) concentration was found, whereas no significant modification of superoxide dismutase activity (SOD) was observed. A wide range of variablity was detected in the percentage of the polyunsaturated fatty acids of the cell membranes and a correlation was found between the ratio SOD/Cat and the percentage of linoleic acid, indicating that the imbalance of the enzymatic antioxidants leads to a lipoperoxidative process. The electron microscopic examination of these cultures revealed many microvilli in the plasma membranes and nuclear infoldings and in the cytoplasm light vacuoles. Moreover some cells contained several dense bodies with a round shape and numerous spherical lamellae possibly representing immature melanosomes. Treatment with cumene hydroperoxide between 0.66 and 20 μM did not produce a significant modification of cell viability in melanocytes from normal individuals. On the contrary in melanocytes from melanoma patients correlated with the ratio Vit E/Cat, considered as a parameter of the antioxidant imbalance, a stimulatory effect was observed at 0.66 μM CUH and a cytotoxic effect at 20 μM. In conclusion our results suggest that a constutional alteration of the scavenger system could be present in normal melanocytes from melanoma patients and that this could be the basis for an increased sensitivity to pro‐oxidant agents.
New insights into the immunoultrastructural organization of cutaneous basement membrane zone molecules
Authors: Shimizu Hiroshi
Published: May 2007

Abstract: The epidermal basement membrane zone (BMZ) is composed of various molecules, each of which plays an important role in dermo‐epidermal adhesion. Genetic abnormality of certain BMZ molecules leads to an inherited group of skin diseases collectively referred to as epidermolysis bullosa, whose hallmark is skin fragility of varying degrees. Furthermore, development of autoantibodies to certain BMZ molecules leads to the onset of a number of acquired autoimmune blistering diseases in which dermo‐epidermal separation occurs, including bullous pemphigoid and epidermolysis bullosa acquisita. The ultrastructural location of each BMZ molecule has been studied using a range of immunoelectron microscopy (immuno‐EM) techniques. Recent technical advances in immuno‐EM and in molecular engineering for production of epitope‐specific antibodies have enabled a more correct and precise elucidation of the native ultrastructural molecular organization of the respective molecules and their relationship to each other. These recent studies have also revealed several misinterpretations in the previously established model of the immunoultrastructural organization of BMZ molecules. In response to these findings, this review focuses on three major BMZ‐related molecules, type VII collagen, BPAG2 and laminin 5, for which recent immuno‐EM studies have produced a revision in the accepted dogma on their ultrastructural distribution at the BMZ.
In Vivo human melanoma cytokine production: Inverse correlation of GM‐CSF production with tumor depth
Authors: Hensley C. , Spitzler S. , McAlpine B. E. , Lynn M. , Ansel J. C. , Solomon A. R. , Armstrong C. A.
Published: May 2007

Abstract: Melanomas produce multiple cytokines which may influence their growth in vivo. Experimental evidence suggests that granulocyte macrophage‐colony stimulating factor (GM‐CSF) can induce a potent anti‐melanoma response, whereas interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) may act as a growth factor in human melanoma. Little is currently known regarding the production of these cytokines by human melanoma in vivo. In this study we tested the hypothesis that endogenous production of GM‐CSF and IL‐8 can be correlated with the depth of human malignant melanoma surgical specimens. We examined 45 melanocytic human tissue samples consisting of 27 primary cutaneous melanomas, 9 metastatic melanomas, and 9 dysplastic nevi for in vivo GM‐CSF and IL‐8 production using immunohistochemistry. The majority of thin melanomas (≤0.76 mm) stained highly positive for GM‐CSF with little or no staining for IL‐8 whereas the medium (≤0.76 –≤4.0 mm) and thick (>4.0 mm) melanoma specimens showed little or no staining for GM‐CSF and significant amounts of IL‐8 staining. Metastatic melanoma as well as dysplastic nevi specimens had little or no GM‐CSF and IL‐8 staining. These results support the hypothesis that endogenous melanoma cytokines such as GM‐CSF and IL‐8 with opposing effects on tumor progression play an important role in melanoma growth and regulation.