bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Density dependence and the control of helminth parasites
Authors: CHURCHER THOMAS S. , FILIPE JOÃO A. N. , BASÁÑEZ MARÍA‐GLORIA
Published: September 2006

The transient dynamics and stability of a population are determined by the interplay between species density, its spatial distribution and the positive and negative density‐dependent processes regulating population growth.

Using the human–helminth parasite system as an example, we propose that the life‐stage upon which negative density dependence operates will influence the rate of host reinfection following anthelmintic chemotherapy, and the likely success of control programmes.

Simple deterministic models are developed which highlight how a parasite species whose population size is down‐regulated by density‐dependent establishment will reinfect a host population at a faster rate than a species with density‐dependent parasite fecundity.

Different forms of density dependence can produce the same equilibrium behaviour but different transient dynamics. Under‐representing the nature and magnitude of density‐dependent mechanisms, and in particular those operating upon establishing life‐stages, may cause the resilience of the parasite population to a control perturbation to be underestimated.
The role of group size and environmental factors on survival in a cooperatively breeding tropical passerine
Authors: BROUWER LYANNE , RICHARDSON DAVID S. , EIKENAAR CAS , KOMDEUR JAN
Published: September 2006

Variation in survival, a major determinant of fitness, may be caused by individual or environmental characteristics. Furthermore, interactions between individuals may influence survival through the negative feedback effects of density dependence. Compared to species in temperate regions, we have little knowledge about population processes and variation in fitness in tropical bird species.

To investigate whether variation in survival could be explained by population size or climatic variables we used capture–recapture models in conjunction with a long‐term data set from an island population of the territorial, cooperatively breeding Seychelles warbler (Acrocephalus sechellensis). The lack of migration out of the study population means that our results are not confounded by dispersal.

Annual survival was high, both for adults (84%) and juveniles (61%), and did not differ between the sexes. Although there was significant variation in survival between years, this variation could not be explained by overall population size or weather variables.

For territorial species, resource competition will work mainly on a local scale. The size of a territory and number of individuals living in it will therefore be a more appropriate measure of density than overall population density. Consequently, both an index of territory quality per individual (food availability) and local density, measured as group size, were included as individual covariates in our analyses.

Local density had a negative effect on survival; birds living in larger groups had lower survival probabilities than those living in small groups. Food availability did not affect survival.

Our study shows that, in a territorial species, although density‐dependent effects might not be detectable at the population level they can be detected at the individual territory level − the scale at which individuals compete. These results will help to provide a better understanding of the small‐scale processes involved in the dynamics of a population in general, but in particular in tropical species living in relatively stable environments.
Reproductive performance in grey seals: age‐related improvement and senescence in a capital breeder
Authors: BOWEN W. D. , IVERSON S. J. , MCMILLAN J. I. , BONESS D. J.
Published: September 2006

Three hypotheses have been advanced to account for age‐related improvement in performance: the selection hypothesis predicts improved due to the loss of lower quality phenotypes, the constraint hypothesis predicts individuals improve function, and the restraint hypothesis predicts younger individuals forego or reduce effort because of mortality risks. A decline in age‐related performance (i.e. senescence) is predicted by mutation accumulation, antagonistic pleiotropy and disposable soma (wear and tear) hypotheses.

Using five measures of performance − birth rate, maternal and pup birth mass, pup weaning mass, weaning success and lactation length − we tested these hypotheses concerning age‐related change in reproduction in 279 female grey seals (Halichoerus grypus), ages 4–42 years, over a 23‐year period between 1983 and 2005 on Sable Island, Nova Scotia. These females produced 2071 pups.

Although body mass of primiparous females increased with age (4–7 years) birth mass of their pups did not, but pup weaning mass did. Second‐ and third‐parity females of the same age as primiparous females gave birth to and weaned heavier pups. However, parity and age were dropped from models when maternal body mass was included.

The proportion of females giving birth varied significantly with maternal age, increasing in young females and then declining late in life. Weaning success rate also increased rapidly to about 8 years and subsequently declined in females > 32 years.

Generalized additive models indicated nonlinear changes in 3 day body mass (i.e. ∼ birth mass) and weaning mass of pups as a function of maternal age, after accounting statistically for the effects of maternal body mass. Mixed‐effects, repeated‐measures models fitted to longitudinal data further supported the conclusion that pup birth mass and weaning mass vary nonlinearly with maternal age and indicated nonlinear changes in lactation duration.

We found some support for the constraint hypothesis, but our findings were not consistent with the selection hypothesis or the restraint hypothesis as the basis for improvement in reproductive performance.

Senescence was evident in multiple female and offspring traits, indicating the degeneration in function of several physiological systems as predicted by the disposable soma hypothesis.
Effects of sampling regime on the mean and variance of home range size estimates
Authors: BÖRGER LUCA , FRANCONI NOVELLA , DE MICHELE GIAMPIERO , GANTZ ALBERTO , MESCHI FIORA , MANICA ANDREA , LOVARI SANDRO , COULSON TIM
Published: September 2006

Although the home range is a fundamental ecological concept, there is considerable debate over how it is best measured. There is a substantial literature concerning the precision and accuracy of all commonly used home range estimation methods; however, there has been considerably less work concerning how estimates vary with sampling regime, and how this affects statistical inferences.

We propose a new procedure, based on a variance components analysis using generalized mixed effects models to examine how estimates vary with sampling regime.

To demonstrate the method we analyse data from one study of 32 individually marked roe deer and another study of 21 individually marked kestrels. We subsampled these data to simulate increasingly less intense sampling regimes, and compared the performance of two kernel density estimation (KDE) methods, of the minimum convex polygon (MCP) and of the bivariate ellipse methods.

Variation between individuals and study areas contributed most to the total variance in home range size. Contrary to recent concerns over reliability, both KDE methods were remarkably efficient, robust and unbiased: 10 fixes per month, if collected over a standardized number of days, were sufficient for accurate estimates of home range size. However, the commonly used 95% isopleth should be avoided; we recommend using isopleths between 90 and 50%.

Using the same number of fixes does not guarantee unbiased home range estimates: statistical inferences differ with the number of days sampled, even if using KDE methods.

The MCP method was highly inefficient and results were subject to considerable and unpredictable biases. The bivariate ellipse was not the most reliable method at low sample sizes.

We conclude that effort should be directed at marking more individuals monitored over long periods at the expense of the sampling rate per individual. Statistical results are reliable only if the whole sampling regime is standardized. We derive practical guidelines for field studies and data analysis.
Gender differences and similarities in online courses: challenging stereotypical views of women
Authors: Price L.
Published: September 2006

Abstract
This paper considers gender differences in online contexts and examines current trends in women's performance, access and experience of online courses. It uses supportive case study examples and specific research into students' academic engagement, conceptions and perceptions of learning support in online environments. The analysis shows that women studying online are confident independent learners who may outperform their male counterparts. They do not have reduced computer and Internet access compared with men, nor are they disinclined to enrol on online courses. They attach greater value to the pastoral aspect of tutoring and have different interaction styles from men, which may have implications for online tutoring support. The gender debate needs to move on from access and performance to the differences and similarities in the degree of importance that men and women place on different interaction and tutoring styles online.
‘I totally agree with you’: gender interactions in educational online discussion groups
Authors: Guiller J. , Durndell A.
Published: September 2006

Abstract
This paper discusses findings from an extensive project examining gender, language and computer‐mediated communication (CMC) in the context of undergraduate psychology courses. The contributions of 197 introductory psychology students (148 females, 49 males) participating in asynchronous CMC as part of their course were collated and coded for their language content using a qualitative content analysis procedure in Atlas.ti 4.2. Nearly 700 postings were characterised according to gender on the basis of seven categories relating to language and communication style – attenuated, authoritative, traditional male and female language features, mixed language, positive socioemotional and negative socioemotional. Gender interactions were analysed in terms of positive and negative socioemotional content, focusing on explicit markers of agreement and disagreement. Gender‐related patterns in language use and interaction style were found. Females were more likely than males to make attenuated contributions and express agreement, whereas males were more likely than females to make authoritative contributions and express disagreement. These results are discussed in terms of the implications for the increasing use of CMC in education.
Gender and status effects in student e‐mails to staff
Authors: O'Neill R. , Colley A.
Published: September 2006

AbstractThis study aimed to examine gender and status effects in the kind of e‐mails used to manage course administrative issues in an educational setting. Students were asked to respond to an e‐mail presented as being from a member of staff, informing them of failure to submit coursework and asking for an explanation to be provided. The sex and status of the sender were varied. The data showed both gender and status effects. The men more frequently adopted an assertive stance, while the women more frequently referred to work‐related issues in a conciliatory way. A number of features of the e‐mails varied according to the sex of the participant, and the status and sex of the sender. There was evidence of a greater influence of status in features of the replies from the men, although the effect of this varied according to the sex of the sender. In addition, accommodation to the gender‐stereotypes of the senders was evident in features of the data from both men and women.
In the Ventral Tegmental Area, Cyclic AMP Mediates the Actions of Progesterone at Dopamine Type 1 Receptors for Lordosis of Rats and Hamsters
Authors: Petralia S. M. , Frye C. A.
Published: September 2006

Progesterone‐facilitated lordosis is enhanced by activation of, and inhibited by antagonism of, dopamine type 1 receptors (D1) in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Given that D1 activation leads to increases in cyclic AMP (cAMP), we hypothesised that, in the VTA, progesterone's actions on lordosis that involve D1 are mediated, in part, by cAMP. In Experiment 1, naturally receptive rats and hamsters were pretested for lordosis, infused with the cAMP analogue 8‐bromo‐cAMP (200 ng) or vehicle to the VTA, and tested again 30 min later. In Experiments 2 and 3, ovariectomised, oestradiol (10 µg) + progesterone (0 or 100 µg)‐primed rats and oestradiol (10 µg) + progesterone (0 or 200 µg)‐primed hamsters were pretested for lordosis and infused with 8‐bromo‐cAMP (200 ng), the adenylyl cyclase inhibitor 2′,5′‐dideoxyadenosine (12 µM) or vehicle to the VTA. Subjects were tested again 30 min later. In Experiment 4, oestradiol + progesterone‐primed rats and hamsters were pretested and infused with the D1 agonist SKF38393 (0 or 100 ng) to the VTA. Thirty minutes later, subjects were tested again and infused with 2′,5′‐dideoxyadenosine (12 µM) or vehicle. Subjects were tested again 30 min later. VTA infusions of 8‐bromo‐cAMP enhanced lordosis of naturally receptive or hormone‐primed rats and hamsters and 2′,5′‐dideoxyadenosine decreased lordosis of oestradiol + progesterone‐primed rats and hamsters. D1‐mediated increases in progesterone‐facilitated lordosis were reduced by 2′,5′‐dideoxyadenosine. These data suggest that progesterone‐facilitated lordosis of rats and hamsters may be modulated by D1 and cAMP activity in the VTA.
Association of tightly locked occlusion with temporomandibular disorders
Authors: WANG M.‐Q. , CAO H.‐T. , LIU F.‐R. , CHEN C. , LI G.
Published: September 2006

summary  The association between teeth loss and temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is still inconclusive. A kind of secondary changes of the occlusion after teeth lose called the tightly locked occlusion (TLO), defined as the occluding contact that delivers angled occlusal force on the drifted neighbour and/or the tipped antagonists of the lost posterior teeth, was hypothesized to be association with TMD. The study aimed at investigating the association between the TLO and TMD. A total of 113 posterior‐teeth losing patients, 64 with TMD symptoms (group of TMD) and 49 without (group of TMD‐Free) were included. Study casts and joint radiographs were made to diagnose the TLO and joint morphological changes. The simultaneous contribution of the potential variables of gender, age, tooth losing number, the TLO, joint symmetry and signs of osteoarthrosis shown on radiographs were tested through binary logistic regression analysis. In women, the TLO entered into logistic model, and had an effect on the incidence of TMD (P = 0·008). The odds ratio of with‐TLO versus without‐TLO is 2·6 (95% CI: 1·2, 5·8) after controlling for the effect of gender. Age, tooth lose number, joint asymmetry or osseous changes had no effect on the incidence of TMD. The tightly locked occlusion is associated with some signs and symptoms of TMD. Randomized controlled trials will be needed in further studies to test the hypothesis that treatment of a TLO, as defined in the present study, will have a beneficial effect on the signs and symptoms of TMD.
Evaluation of a 3D digital photographic imaging system of the human face
Authors: KIMOTO K. , GARRETT N. R.
Published: September 2006

summary  The aim of this study was to investigate the accuracy of a 3D photographic imaging system for potential application in fabrication of maxillofacial prostheses. For validity estimates, computer digitized 3D photographic images of calibrated ruler attached to a model were analysed for linear and curvilinear distances in 1 mm increments (1–50 mm from the centre of the image). Distortion was evaluated from 1 mm distances measured 20, 40 and 60 mm from the centre of the field. To estimate reliability of measurements in vivo, two raters measured the right endocanthion–subnasale distance and the distance between right and left endocathion on images of 10 subjects, repeated three times (30 images total). From the digital file for one subject, a rapid prototyping (RP) machine produced a 3D model of the mid‐face. Measures from the model were compared with those of the 3D computer image to estimate error in fabrication. Mean error values for calibrated distances ranged from 0·07 to 0·26 mm for linear distances, 0·08–0·34 mm for curvilinear distances, and 0·06–0·12 mm for distortion from the centre. Intra‐ and interexaminer correlation ranged from 0·92 to 1·00 and 0·94–1·00 respectively. Measures of the endocanthion and subnasale distances on the RP fabricated mid‐face model were within 8% of the corresponding measures on 3D computer images. The accuracy of the photographic 3D imaging system tested was sufficient for clinical description of the mid‐face structures and may be potentially useful for rapid prototyping of facial prostheses.
Bite force and handgrip force in patients with molecular diagnosis of myotonic dystrophy
Authors: GUIMARAES A. S. , CARLSSON G. E. , MARIE S. K. N.
Published: September 2006

summary  Myotonic dystrophy is a multisystemic disease with varying symptomatology. The aim of this study was to compare the maximal bite force and handgrip force in patients with molecular diagnosis of myotonic dystrophy with those in a group of healthy individuals. It was hypothesized that these forces were reduced in the patients in comparison with the control subjects. The bite and handgrip forces of 37 patients with molecular diagnosis of myotonic dystrophy and 37 control subjects matched regarding age and gender were measured using an electronic dynamometer. The bite and handgrip forces were significantly lower in the myotonic dystrophy patient group when compared with the healthy controls (P < 0·0001). There were no significant force differences between genders, right‐ or left‐hand side of mastication or hands in the myotonic dystrophy patient group whereas such differences were found among the controls. There were moderate but significant correlations between bite and handgrip force in both groups (r = 0·43–0·59; P < 0·01). It was concluded that there were considerable differences between the myotonic dystrophy group and the control subjects regarding both bite force and handgrip force. The weakness of the masticatory and hand muscles may have various negative consequences for oral function and dental health in patients with myotonic dystrophy.
Retention and leakage of implant‐supported restorations luted with provisional cement: a pilot study
Authors: PAN Y.‐H. , RAMP L. C. , LIN C.‐K. , LIU P.‐R.
Published: September 2006

summary  Few data exist regarding cement failure load and marginal leakage of castings cemented to implant‐supported abutments subjected to load and thermal cycling, especially with newer cements. This study evaluated the cement failure load and marginal leakage of castings cemented to Steri–Oss abutment/analog assemblies with one of seven luting protocols (n = 5). Protocols consisted of a zinc phosphate control, zinc phosphate with petroleum jelly, TempBond, TempBond NE, ImProv, ImProv with petroleum jelly and Provilink. Cemented castings were subjected to cyclic axial compression of 75 N for 100 000 cycles, 1000 thermal cycles (5–55 °C), and immersed 24 h in 0·5% basic fuchsin. The castings were then loaded in tension until cement failure. Cement failure load was analysed using anova and Fischer's PLSD (α = 0·05). Marginal leakage on the intaglio of the casting was scored with the unaided eye on a scale of 0–2, and analysed with Duncan's multiple range (α = 0·05). Similar groups are noted by superscript. Cement failure load (from lowest to highest): ImProv with petroleum jellya, TempBonda, ImProva, Tempbond NEa, Provilinka, zinc phosphate with petroleum jellyb, zinc phosphatec (P < 0·0001). Marginal leakage scores (from lowest to highest): ImProva, Provilinka, ImProv with petroleum jellya, zinc phosphateab, zinc phosphate with petroleum jellyab, TempBondbc, and TempBond NEc (P = 0·01). Addition of petroleum jelly to zinc phosphate lowered cement failure load without affecting marginal leakage. ImProv and Provilink demonstrated relatively low cement failure load, as well as lowest marginal leakage.
Major histocompatibility complex and kin discrimination in Atlantic salmon and brook trout
Authors: RAJAKARUNA R. S. , BROWN J. A. , KAUKINEN K. H. , MILLER K. M.
Published: September 2006

Many species of salmonids can discriminate kin from unrelated conspecifics using olfactory cues. In this study, we determined the role of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) in kin discrimination by juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis). Genetic variation at the highly polymorphic exon coding for peptide‐binding region of an MHC class II gene was studied using polymerase chain reaction and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis. Experiments compared discrimination ability based on MHC haplotypes both within and among kin and non‐kin groups. Juveniles chose kin sharing both alleles over kin sharing no alleles. Juveniles also preferred non‐kin sharing both alleles to non‐kin sharing no alleles. These data suggest that the MHC class II gene influence kin discrimination in juvenile Atlantic salmon and brook trout. The influence of additional genes was also apparent in trials where juveniles were able to recognize kin sharing no alleles over non‐kin sharing no alleles. However, the inability of juveniles to discriminate between kin sharing no alleles and non‐kin sharing either one or both alleles indicates that MHC is as potent as the rest of the genome in producing distinguishable odours.
Evaluation of Th1‐like, Th2‐like and immunomodulatory cytokine mRNA expression in the skin of dogs with immunomodulatory‐responsive lymphocytic–plasmacytic pododermatitis
Authors: Breathnach Rory M. , Fanning Shay , Mulcahy Grace , Bassett Hugh F. , Jones Boyd R. , Daly Paul
Published: September 2006

The term immunomodulatory‐responsive lymphocytic–plasmacytic pododermatitis (ImR‐LPP) has previously been proposed to denote a subpopulation of dogs with idiopathic pododermatitis. The objective of this study was to quantify the expression of mRNA encoding Th1‐like [interferon (IFN)‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐2 and IL‐12], Th2‐like [IL‐4 and IL‐6] and immunomodulatory cytokines [IL‐10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β] in lesional ImR‐LPP, nonlesional ImR‐LPP and healthy control pedal skin. Gene transcripts were quantified using TaqMan real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction assays. The skin of dogs with ImR‐LPP had significant overexpression of IL‐6 mRNA (P < 0.05) and significant underexpression of IL‐12 mRNA (P < 0.01) compared to healthy controls. In addition, lesional ImR‐LPP skin had significantly higher levels of IL‐10 transcripts compared to healthy control pedal skin (P < 0.05). Although not attaining significance (P = 0.07), a trend towards reduced TGF‐β mRNA expression in lesional ImR‐LPP skin was also evident. There were no significant differences in the levels of IFN‐γ or IL‐2 mRNA transcripts among the three skin sample sources. IL‐4 mRNA was detected in only one lesional sample. These results suggest that the pathogenesis of ImR‐LPP may be associated with a T‐cell‐mediated inflammatory response characterized by impaired Th1‐like, but enhanced Th2‐like cytokine expression.
Comparison of clinical history and dermatologic findings in 29 dogs with severe eosinophilic dermatitis: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Mauldin Elizabeth A. , Palmeiro Brian S. , Goldschmidt Michael H. , Morris Daniel O.
Published: September 2006

The medical records and histopathological sections of 29 dogs diagnosed with a unique eosinophilic dermatitis resembling Wells’ syndrome were reviewed in an attempt to elucidate the pathogenesis of this syndrome. The medical records were reviewed for information on dermatological lesion appearance, systemic signs in other organ systems, clinical analyte abnormalities, and drug therapy. Histological sections of dogs with moderate to severe eosinophilic dermatitis without folliculitis and furunculosis were reviewed and evaluated for the presence of collagen flame figures. Three categories of patients were found. Category 1 consisted of 17 dogs treated for vomiting and/or diarrhoea (often haematochezia or haematemesis) prior (mean: 4.6 days) to the onset of skin lesions. Fourteen category 1 dogs had erythematous lesions (macules, papules or plaques) that were most pronounced on the abdomen. Sixteen of the 17 dogs received multiple classes of drugs, and 59% were hypoalbuminemic. Category 2 consisted of five dogs that had skin lesions and gastrointestinal signs at presentation and four of these dogs were hypoalbuminemic. Category 3 included seven dogs without enteric illness. A positive drug score was found in six category 1 dogs and one each from categories 2 and 3. Eighteen cases had eosinophilic dermatitis without flame figures, seven cases had early flame figures and four had well‐developed flame figures. These changes did not correlate with the categories of clinical presentation. More than 50% of the dogs developed eosinophilic dermatitis following treatment for severe gastrointestinal disease. The authors propose that this represents a unique syndrome that may have causal drug association.
A review of autoimmune skin diseases in domestic animals: I – Superficial pemphigus
Authors: Olivry Thierry
Published: September 2006

In humans, the pemphigus denomination encompasses a group of autoimmune blistering skin diseases with intraepidermal separation resulting from cell–cell detachment by acantholysis. Entities are classified based on the level of blistering in the epidermis, and both superficial (pemphigus foliaceus, IgA pemphigus) and deep (pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigus vegetans and paraneoplastic pemphigus) variants are recognized. In domestic animals, subsets of pemphigus have been recognized since the mid‐1970s, and the disease classification resembles that used for human patients. This article reviews up‐to‐date knowledge on the epidemiology, clinical signs, histopathology, immunopathology and treatment outcome of superficial pemphigus in domestic animals. Detailed information on canine, feline, equine and caprine pemphigus foliaceus, canine and feline pemphigus erythematosus and canine panepidermal pustular pemphigus is provided.
Studies on the role of routes of allergen exposure in high IgE‐producing beagle dogs sensitized to house dust mites
Authors: Marsella R. , Nicklin C. , Lopez J.
Published: September 2006

The current study aimed to investigate the role played by oral, epicutaneous, and inhalation routes of exposure to house dust mites (HDM). The colony of high IgE‐producing beagle dogs has been shown to develop pruritic dermatitis compatible with atopic dermatitis following environmental exposure (EE) to HDM. In crossover experiments, the response to EE was compared to two modified challenges, oral exposure (OE) and snood and muzzle exposure (SME). For OE, HDM were fed daily for 3 days. For SME, ingestion of allergen was prevented but there was inhalation and epicutaneous exposure to all body regions except to one ear. In all experiments, dogs were challenged for three consecutive days, and evaluated before, 6 h after exposure and daily thereafter, for 5 days. After a wash‐out period, groups were crossed‐over so that each dog was randomly challenged to all three protocols. Clinical scores were analysed using least squares analysis of variance. All dogs developed pruritic dermatitis regardless of the protocol. With OE, lesions developed in the same body regions as with EE although scores were lower. This difference became more evident after the first 3 days when OE scores decreased and EE scores continued to increase. The scores of covered and uncovered ears did not differ with SME. Scores for the remainder of the body were significantly lower than for EE. The development of lesions on covered ears supports the importance of inhalation or a systemic reaction to epicutaneous exposure in other areas. It is concluded that all routes are important and have additive effects, that route of exposure does not determine the distribution of lesions and that continuous epicutaneous exposure probably plays the most important role.
Atopic eczema in children: another harmful sequel of divorce
Authors: Bockelbrink A. , Heinrich J. , Schäfer I. , Zutavern A. , Borte M. , Herbarth O. , Schaaf B. , Von Berg A. , Schäfer T. ,   for the LISA Study Group
Published: September 2006

Background:  Different lifestyle factors seem to be associated with the risk for atopic diseases and some studies suggest that stress increases the risk of allergic sensitization, asthma and atopic eczema. Only few studies have investigated the association of early stressful life events and atopic eczema (AE) in children.

Subjects and Methods:  Parents of participants of the ongoing LISA birth cohort study were asked to give information on life events, such as severe disease or death of a family member, unemployment, or divorce of the parents. Lifetime prevalence of AE and incidence after the assessment period for life events were compared.

Results:  Prevalence of AE until the age of 4 years was 21.4%. Reported life events within the first 2 years were: severe disease (17.5%) or death (8.4%) of a family member, divorce/separation (3.4%), and unemployment (2.7%). Divorce/separation was associated with a significantly [odds ratio (OR) 3.59, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.69–7.66] increased and disease with a significantly (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.13–0.68) decreased incidence of AE for the subsequent 2 years of life. No effect was seen for unemployment.

Conclusions:  Divorce/separation of the parents and severe disease of a family member influence the risk of developing AE.
Reduced structural proteins in the conjunctival epithelium in allergic eye disease
Authors: Hughes J. L. , Lackie P. M. , Wilson S. J. , Church M. K. , McGill J. I.
Published: September 2006

Aims:  Allergic eye disease affects up to 20% of the population with varying severity. The conjunctival epithelium plays a key role in allergic eye disease. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the conjunctival epithelium is abnormal in allergic eye disease.

Methods:  Conjunctival biopsy samples were taken from patients with seasonal allergic conjunctivitis (SAC) ‘in’ and ‘out of season’ and nonatopic control subjects. Specimens were fixed in glycol methacrylate, 2 μm serial sections cut and Image‐J used to assess the sites and areas of immuno‐staining.

Results:  E‐cadherin, CD44, keratins K5/6, K8, K13, K14, K18 and pan‐keratin immuno‐staining were all significantly lower in patients ‘out of season’ compared with normal controls. No structural differences in the epithelium were observed between the two groups. The epithelium of patients ‘in season’ was thicker and immuno‐staining of the above markers similar to controls.

Conclusions:  The expression of a wide spectrum of epithelial cell adhesion proteins and cytoskeletal elements is downregulated in the conjunctiva of SAC patients ‘out of season’ compared with normal controls. We suggest that this could have an important impact on the ability of the epithelium to protect itself against allergen penetration, potentially influencing the development and course of allergic eye disease and offering a novel area for therapeutic control.
Effect of climatic change in children with atopic eczema
Authors: Byremo G. , Rød G. , Carlsen K. H.
Published: September 2006

Background:  Climate and sunlight (ultraviolet radiation) influence activity of atopic eczema.

Objective:  To evaluate the effect of moving from a subarctic/temperate climate to a sunny subtropical climate on children's atopic eczema.

Methods:  Children, 4–13 years, with severe atopic eczema were randomized to stay 4 weeks in Gran Canary (index patients = 30) and home in Norway (controls = 26), with a follow up of 3 months. SCORing of Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD) was primary variable, and secondary were Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI), Staphylococcus aureus skin colonization and pharmacological skin treatment.

Results:  SCORing of Atopic Dermatitis decreased from 37.2 (29.4–44.9) to 12.2 (9.0–15.4) [mean (95% confidence intervals)] after 4 weeks and 21.2 (17.2–25.1) 3 months thereafter in index patients (P < 0.0005), much less in controls.

Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index in the index group improved from 8.7 to 2.2 and 4.5 after 4 weeks and 3 months (P < 0.0005), not in controls. Bacterial skin colonization with S. aureus decreased in the index group from 23/30 (77%) to 12/30 (40%; P = 0.001) and 12/30 (40%; P = 0.005) after 1 month and 3 months, and the use of local steroids decreased in index patients but not in controls.

Conclusions:  The change from a subartic/temperate to a subtropical climate for 4 weeks improved significantly skin symptoms (SCORAD) and quality of life, even for 3 months after return.
Hereditary lymphedema type I associated with VEGFR3 mutation: the first de novo case and atypical presentations
Authors: Ghalamkarpour A , Morlot S , Raas‐Rothschild A , Utkus A , Mulliken JB , Boon LM , Vikkula M
Published: September 2006

Mutations in the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 3 gene, VEGFR3/FLT4, have been identified in a subset of families with hereditary lymphedema type I or Milroy disease (MIM 153100). Individuals carrying a VEGFR3 mutation exhibit congenital edema of the lower limbs, usually bilaterally and below the knees, sometimes associated with cellulitis, prominent veins, papillomatosis, upturned toenails, and hydrocele. In this study, we report the first de novo VEGFR3 mutation in a patient with sporadic congenital lymphedema. We also describe three other families with a VEGFR3 mutation. In each family, one individual had an atypical clinical presentation of hereditary lymphedema type I, whereas the others had the classical VEGFR3 mutation‐caused phenotype. The atypical presentations included pre‐natal pleural effusion, spontaneous resorption of lymphedema and elephantiasis. Three of the four identified mutations were novel. These data show that de novo VEGFR3 mutations may be present in patients without family history of congenital lymphedema. This has implications for follow‐up care, as such individuals have nearly a 50% risk for occurrence of lymphedema in their children. Our findings also indicate that although most patients with a VEGFR3 mutation have the well‐defined phenotype for hereditary lymphedema type I, there are exceptions that should be considered in genetic counseling. Because VEGFR3 mutation can cause generalized lymphatic dysfunction and can thus result in hydrops fetalis, VEGFR3 screening should be added to the investigation of cases of hydrops fetalis of an unknown etiology.
Heterozygosity for a Mendelian disorder as a risk factor for complex disease
Authors: Sidransky E
Published: September 2006

While genetic diseases are generally classified as being either ‘simple’ monogenic or ‘complex’ polygenic, the distinction between Mendelian and complex disorders is becoming increasingly blurred. Mendelian disorders may demonstrate qualities more typical of multifactorial diseases through shared clinical presentations, the effect of genetic modifiers, moonlighting proteins, synergistic heterozygosity, disease manifestations in heterozygotes and situations where heterozygosity for a ‘simple’ disorder proves to be a risk factor for seemingly unrelated complex diseases. A recent example of the last instance is the observation that mutations in glucocerebrosidase, the enzyme deficient in Gaucher disease, may be a risk factor for the development of Parkinson disease and other synucleinopathies. Insights gleaned from the study of Mendelian disorders may ultimately lead to a better understanding of factors influencing complex diseases.
CC chemokine receptor expression in childhood asthma is influenced by natural allergen exposure
Authors: Diego Peroni G. , Paola Panina Bordignon , Giorgio Piacentini L. , Alessandro Bodini , Michela Ress , Margherita Mariani , Francesco Sinigaglia , Attilio Boner L.
Published: September 2006

Chemokines and their receptors may play an important role for leukocyte trafficking in allergic inflammation. Aim was to evaluate whether expression of chemokine receptors CCR4 and CCR8 on cells obtained by sputum induction from asthmatic allergic children may be influenced by house dust mite (HDM) allergen natural exposure. Twenty‐one children (7–13 yr) with moderate asthma and sensitized to HDM were evaluated during a prolonged period of allergen avoidance (T0) and after a period of natural allergen exposure (T1). At each time point of sputum induction, lung function evaluation, exhaled nitric oxide (eNO) measurements were performed. At T1, CCR4 and CCR8 expression on sputum‐induced cells increased from 28.4% ± 2.9% and 25.8% ± 1.9%, to 41.1% ± 4.2% and 37.5% ± 2.0%, respectively (p < 0.05 and p = 0.01). After allergen exposure, both sputum eosinophils (from 5.2% ± 2.0% to 12.1% ± 4.1%, p < 0.01) and eNO (from 15.1 ± 2.2 ppb to 24.2 ± 5.8 ppb, p < 0.05) showed significant increase. Lung function tests presented significant deterioration of Forced Expiratory Flow at 25‐75% of Vital Capacity (FEF25−−75) (p < 0.05) and increase of residual volume (p = 0.002).

Significant changes in CC chemokine receptor expression in sputum‐induced cells in asthmatic children in response to HDM exposure have been observed leading to consider the relevance of CCR4 and CCR8 in allergic asthmatic inflammation.
Is affluence a risk factor for bronchial asthma and type 1 diabetes?
Authors: Tedeschi Alberto , Airaghi Lorena
Published: September 2006

In the last decades, an increase in bronchial asthma and type 1 diabetes occurrence has been observed in affluent countries, and a positive association between the two disorders has been demonstrated at the population level. This association could be explained by common risk factors predisposing to both disorders. Altered environmental and lifestyle conditions, possibly related to socio‐economic status, might account for the rising trend of the two disorders. To test this hypothesis, we calculated the correlation between the occurrence of type 1 diabetes and asthma, the gross national product (GNP) and the infant mortality rate, in several European and extra‐European countries. GNP was positively correlated with the incidence of type 1 diabetes and with symptoms of asthma in European (rsp: 0.53 and 0.69; p = 0.001 and p < 0.0001, respectively) and extra‐European countries (rsp: 0.44 and 0.46; p = 0.04 for both diseases). Infant mortality rate was inversely correlated with GNP and with the occurrences of the two diseases in Europe (rsp: −0.66, p < 0.0001 for type 1 diabetes; rsp:− 0.51, p = 0.01 for asthma). In extra‐European countries, a significant relationship was found between infant mortality and asthma (rsp: −0.46; p = 0.03); a trend towards a negative correlation between infant mortality and type 1 diabetes was also found, although no statistical significance was reached (rsp: −0.21; p = 0.31). This analysis indicates that type 1 diabetes and asthma are positively associated with the GNP at the population level. Similarly, countries with low infant mortality rates tend to have a higher incidence of these immune‐mediated diseases. Although GNP reflects many societal and lifestyle differences, it is notable that a high socio‐economic status implies a reduced or delayed exposure to infectious agents. The reduced pressure of infectious agents on the immune system throughout life might contribute to increase the susceptibility to bronchial asthma and type 1 diabetes.
Dietary insulin as an immunogen and tolerogen
Authors: Tiittanen Minna , Paronen Johanna , Savilahti Erkki , Virtanen Suvi M. , Ilonen Jorma , Knip Mikael , Åkerblom Hans K. , Vaarala Outi ,   the Finnish TRIGR Study Group
Published: September 2006

We have shown that exposure to bovine insulin (BI) in cow's milk (CM) formula induces an insulin‐specific immune response in infants. Here we studied the role of human insulin (HI) in breast milk as a modulator of the immune response to insulin. In a group of 128 children participating in the TRIGR pilot study, maternal breast milk samples were collected 3–7 days and/or 3 months after delivery. After exclusive breast‐feeding, the children received either CM formula or casein hydrolysate during the first 6–8 months of life. Insulin concentration in breast milk and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to BI in plasma samples were measured by EIA. The levels of insulin in breast milk samples were higher in mothers affected by type 1 diabetes than in non‐diabetic mothers (p = 0.007 and p < 0.001). The concentration of insulin in breast milk correlated inversely with the plasma levels of IgG antibodies to BI at 6 months of age in children who received CM formula (r = −0.39, p = 0.013), and at 12 months of age in all children (r = −0.25, p = 0.029). The levels of breast milk insulin were higher in the mothers of nine children who developed beta‐cell autoimmunity when compared with autoantibody‐negative children (p = 0.030); this holds true also when only children of diabetic mothers were included (p = 0.045). BI in CM induces higher levels of IgG to insulin in infants than does HI in breast‐fed children. Instead, HI in breast milk seems to be tolerogenic and may downregulate the IgG response to dietary BI. However, our results in infants who developed beta‐cell autoimmunity suggest that in this subgroup of children breast milk insulin does not promote tolerance.
ACE gene polymorphism might disclose why some Taiwanese children with allergic rhinitis develop asthma symptoms but others do not
Authors: Lue Ko‐Huang , Ku Min‐Sho , Li Ching , Sun Hai‐Lun , Lee Hong‐Shen , Chou Ming‐Chih
Published: September 2006

Although allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis have recently been considered to be a single disease, many questions remain unanswered. Why do some atopic patients develop asthma symptoms and others develop allergic rhinitis symptoms? Which factors play a role in the development of different allergic phenotypes? We hypothesized that angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) gene polymorphism might play a role in the development of asthma phenotypes in children with allergic rhinitis. The study sample included 106 children with allergic rhinitis, but no asthma, and 105 age‐ and gender‐matched children with allergic rhinitis and asthma. Subjects of both groups exhibited the same systemic immunologic changes and allergen sensitivities. Controls consisted of 102 healthy children. The ACE genotype was determined by polymerase chain reaction. The serum total immunoglobulin E (IgE) level, allergen‐specific IgE sensitivity, and eosinophil count were also measured. The frequencies of the DD genotype were significantly higher in the children with both allergic rhinitis and asthma than in the children with allergic rhinitis but no asthma [p = 0.018; odds ratio (OR) = 3.257; (1.222–8.680)]. Results of this study suggest that ACE gene polymorphism DD genotype might play a role in the development of the asthma phenotype in children with allergic rhinitis.
Isolated IgG3 deficiency in children: to treat or not to treat? Case presentation and review of the literature
Authors: Meyts Isabelle , Bossuyt X , Proesmans M , De Boeck
Published: September 2006

Immunoglobulin G3 (IgG3) subclass deficiency has received rather little attention thus far. In this report, the clinical and immunologic characteristics of six children with isolated IgG3 deficiency are discussed. The currently available literature on IgG3 deficiency is reviewed with specific emphasis on the peculiarities of the IgG3 subclass, the clinical relevance of IgG3 deficiency as well as the therapeutic options.
Sublingual desensitization in children with congenital malformations and latex allergy
Authors: Nucera E. , Schiavino D. , Pollastrini E. , Rendeli C. , Pietrini D. , Tabacco F. , De Pasquale T. , Ausili E. , Sabato V. , Roncallo C. , Patriarca G.
Published: September 2006

The frequency of latex allergy in children requiring multiple surgery ranges from 16.7% to 65%. The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of latex desensitization in a group of 10 patients with a history of multiple surgical procedures and clinically manifested allergy to latex. We selected 10 children (female–male ratio = 5:5), aged 4–16 yr (mean ± s.d.: 9 ± 4), with a history of multiple surgical procedures, adverse reactions to latex and positive skin test to latex and/or specific immunoglobulin E (IgE). Latex allergy diagnosis was confirmed by specific provocation tests (cutaneous, sublingual, mucous, conjunctival tests). Rush (4‐day) sublingual desensitization was performed with increasing doses of latex extract (ALK Abellò) under patients’ tongue until the highest dose of 500 μg of latex. A maintenance therapy (10 drops of undiluted solution three times a week) was recommended. During the 2‐yr follow‐up mean values of specific IgG4 and IgE, eosinophilic cationic protein and total IgE did not show significant variations. Patients did not manifest any adverse effect during the rush phase and only two patients manifested mild local symptoms during the maintenance therapy. All the challenges showed a reduction in terms of percentage of positivity and mean scores. All the patients showed a reduction of the mean individual score (p < 0.001). Furthermore patients who needed dental examination or surgery underwent such procedures without the occurrence of symptoms. Our preliminary results show sublingual desensitization to latex can be an important therapeutic tool in the management of young allergic patients requiring multiple operations.
Haplotypes of surfactant protein C are associated with common paediatric lung diseases
Authors: Puthothu Beena , Krueger Marcus , Heinze Jessica , Forster Johannes , Heinzmann Andrea
Published: September 2006

Surfactant protein C is part of the surfactant complex lining up the alveoles and thereby inhibiting collapse of the airways. In addition it is involved in innate immune responses. Rare polymorphisms within surfactant protein C have been linked to sporadic paediatric lung diseases, like proteinosis or interstitial lung diseases. One study in the Finnish population described association of common polymorphisms with neonatal respiratory syndrome. Other common lung diseases have not yet been investigated for association with this gene. The aim of this study was to test surfactant protein C for association with bronchial asthma and with severe respiratory syncytial virus associated diseases in infancy. The two common amino acid variants Asn138Thr and Asn186Ser were genotyped on 322 children with asthma, 131 children with severe respiratory syncytial virus associated diseases and 270 controls. Statistical analyses of single polymorphisms made use of the Armitage's trend test; haplotypes were calculated with FAMHAP and FASTEHPLUS. Polymorphisms were in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium and in tight linkage equilibrium in all populations. Single polymorphisms showed no association with the diseases, however, surfactant protein C haplotypes were associated with severe respiratory syncytial virus associated diseases (p = 0.013). Furthermore, an inverse haplotype distribution was found between children with asthma and respiratory syncytial virus infection (p = 0.00025). The results of our study might suggest opposing roles of surfactant Protein C in the genetic predisposition for respiratory syncytial virus associated diseases vs. asthma. The causal mechanism for this observation has still to be shown.