bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate social responsibility in the 1920s: an institutional perspective
Authors: Hoffman Richard C.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to better understand the origins of modern corporate social responsibility. The paper seeks to examine some factors that enabled the new industrial corporation to expand its role in society.

Design/methodology/approach

Using institutional theory, this paper describes how some of the institutional characteristics of the modern corporation itself provided some opportunities or challenges in terms of gaining social legitimacy.

Findings

The institutional features of the corporation, its technology and management created new demands on the corporation by society. These in turn led to the development of such concepts of corporate social responsibility as: public relations, service, trusteeship, and public welfare.

Research limitations/implications

Future research on social legitimacy should focus on demands placed by the institutional characteristics of new organizations. Other research might include comparative studies of corporate legitimacy in Europe or Asia or an examination of the evolving role of managers from the role of welfare capitalist to trusteeship.

Practical implications

Institutions that adapt to changing demands have the best chance to survive. Firms that adopt new social activities are likely to have to sustain them in the long run.

Originality/value

This study is the first to argue that the features of the modern corporation itself stimulated some of the social activities it undertook. Contributions of scientific management scholars to the shaping of the emerging corporate role are also noted.
Integrity: a systems theory classification
Authors: Nelly Trevinyo‐Rodríguez Rosa
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a meaningful framework for the classification of the integrity trait in the moral context (ethics), offering an understandable conceptualization of a notion that although identified as central in the literature has is not been defined in a clear and conventional way.

Design/methodology/approach

Grounding ideas on the person‐situation historical debate, and drawing on the insights of Luhmann's General System Theory, this paper develops a multileveled framework that categorizes the view of integrity.

Findings

The integrity framework presents three categories (levels) of integrity: personal integrity, moral integrity and organizational integrity (OI). This classification serves as a bridging mechanism when trying to link different academic areas (e.g. psychology and ethics) since it provides some agreement on the different meanings and perspectives of the concept of integrity present in the literature.

Practical implications

Practical application of the framework is foreseen within the organizational context, where managers could use it for articulating some of the more intangible aspects that compose their organizational cultures, and which in turn, impact their employees' behavior. In addition, the framework is useful to detect possible/future conflicts of interests that may arise due to different personal (employees) and organizational (company) views of integrity.

Originality/value

This paper alerts scholars and practitioners to the need of a sound classification of the concept of integrity, plus an agreement on its meaning, scope and uses. Consequently, it develops a multileveled framework to show an understandable conceptualization of the trait, paving the road for multidisciplinary research on the topic.
Strategy implications of business culture differences between Japan and China
Authors: Li Xinjian , Putterill Martin
Published: January 2007

Purpose

To identify characteristics of Japanese business culture that differ from China, particularly in the dimensions of ‘high context’ versus ‘low context’’ and collectivism versus individualism.

Design/methodology/approach

Application of the concepts in cross‐culture research suggested by Hall (1976), Hofstede (1980) and Trompenaar and Hampden‐Turner (1998) and on the base of comprehensive field visits and observation undertaken in China and Japan over the past several years.

Findings

The Japanese culture can be characterized as highly tacit and group‐centered, whereas Chinese culture is more explicit and individualistic.

Research limitations/implications

Arguably the absence of a large body of supporting data represents a limitation in the methodology of this article. Future survey based research and further conceptualization on different kinds of collectivisms and individualisms will supplement this article.

Practical implications

Very useful advice in aspects of communication, human relations management, recruitment, and management control systems for international business management developing business opportunities in Japan and China.

Originality/value

This article elucidates the differences in business culture between Japan and China and shows to the global business community that a differentiated view of international business management in Japan and China is necessary.
Pursuing three horizons of growth – three cases: Bombardier (Canada), Disney (US) and Hutchison Whampoa (China)
Authors: Matheson Connell Carol
Published: January 2007

Purpose

The article looks at how companies pursuing a three‐horizon growth strategy weathered the last economic downturn and what became of their growth initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines the financial performance and continued investment of three growing companies from 1996‐2004: Bombardier (Canada), Hutchison Whampoa (Hong Kong/China) and Disney (US).

Findings

The Bombardier, Disney and Hutchison Whampoa cases teach a powerful lesson about the importance of using investment in growth to manage uncertainty and limit downside risk.

Research limitations/implications

While the focus of this article is on three companies only, the financial performances of a dozen other growing firms are examined over the same period for purposes of comparison.

Practical implications

Following the last downturn, companies sought to preserve the core and outsource non‐critical functions to reduce the cost of business. Some chose to sideline growth initiatives during this period. This article analyzes the outcomes for three companies that continued to invest in growth during and after this period.

Originality/value

This article addresses a series of questions. Is a three‐horizon growth strategy sustainable in a downturn? Have companies that pursued a three‐horizon strategy actually grown? Do they continue to finance the growth of horizon two and horizon three businesses? Have any viable options matured?
Growth through mergers and acquisitions: how it won't be a loser's game
Authors: Papadakis Vassilis
Published: January 2007

Purpose

During the 1990s we have seen an unprecedented wave of mergers and acquisitions (M&As). Despite managerial over‐optimism, research consistently showed that 50‐75 percent of M&As fail to live up to expectations. The article, drawing from both academic evidence and accumulated experience of companies that seem to have mastered the game of M&As, aims to offer managers and understandable and practical set of tips on what to seek and what to avoid when making such major strategic moves.

Design/methodology/approach

The article draws from relevant research evidence.

Findings

Although there is no “one size fits all” solution to the effective management of M&As, past research has offered us an extensive body of knowledge. The article draws attention not only to mistakes that take place after the merger, but also to mistakes that usually take place before the merger. It seems that in many cases the seeds of an unsuccessful merger have been sown well before the deal is signed.

Practical implications

The article presents a series of questions managers should honestly answer themselves in order to avoid these mistakes.

Originality/value

Finally, the article ends with an optimistic view. In future more successful M&As will be seen, due to both the nature of current deals, as well as to the active involvement in the process by boards of directors and other stakeholders.
Utilizing simple rules to enhance performance measurement competitiveness and accountability growth
Authors: Dwyer Rocky J.
Published: January 2007

Purpose

This article aims to outline and discuss how to incorporate simple rules to guide strategic processes to enhance competitiveness and growth, while improving performance measurement and accountability of organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

An examination of the theorists' perspectives was undertaken to determine the relevancy of the theory to guide business flexibility and decision‐making to enhance competitiveness and growth, in a changing business environment.

Findings

Understanding the importance of flexibility, strategic processes would enable individuals and organizations to better respond to factors associated with changing business opportunities and customer demands.

Practical implications

The article advocates that an understanding of the simple rules concept can enable business leaders to create practical business strategies to build organizational flexibility, which in turn will lead to enhanced competitiveness and growth opportunities.

Originality/value

This article presents an overview of the literature which both enhances personal knowledge and understanding at the theoretical and practical levels enabling business leaders to gain insight on the inherent factors that may be influenced to advance organizational goals and objectives.
The nematode–arthropod clade revisited: phylogenomic analyses from ribosomal protein genes misled by shared evolutionary biases
Authors: Longhorn Stuart J. , Foster Peter G. , Vogler Alfried P.
Published: January 2007

Phylogenetic analysis of major groups of Metazoa using genomic data tends to recover the sister relationships of arthropods and chordates, contradicting the proposed Ecdysozoa (the molting animals), which group the arthropods together with nematodes and relatives. Ribosomal protein genes have been a major data source in phylogenomic studies because they are readily detected as Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs) due to their high transcription rates. Here we address the debate about the recovery of Ecdysozoa in genomic data by building a new matrix of carefully curated EST and genome sequences for 25 ribosomal protein genes of the small subunit, with focus on new insect sequences in addition to the Diptera sequences generally used to represent the arthropods. Individually, each ribosomal protein gene showed low phylogenetic signal, but in simultaneous analysis strong support emerged for many expected groups, with support increasing linearly with increased gene number. In agreement with most studies of metazoan relationships from genomic data, our analyses contradicted the Ecdysozoa (the putative sister relationship of arthropods and nematodes), and instead supported the affinity of arthropods with chordates. In addition, relationships among holometabolan insects resulted in an unlikely basal position for Diptera. To test for biases in the data that might produce an erroneous arthropod–chordate affinity we simulated sequence data on tree topologies with the alternative arthropod–nematode sister relationships, applying a model of amino acid sequence evolution estimated from the real data. Tree searches on these simulated data still revealed an arthropod–chordate grouping, i.e., the topologies used to simulate the data were not recovered correctly. This suggests that the arthropod–chordate relationships may be obtained erroneously also from the real data even if the alternative topology (Ecdysozoa) represents the true phylogeny. Whereas denser taxon sampling in the future may recover the Ecdysozoa, our analyses demonstrate that recent phylogenomic studies may be affected by as yet unspecified biases in amino acid sequence composition in the model organisms with available genomic data.

© The Willi Hennig Society 2007.
Biogeographical patterns of the avifaunas of the Caribbean Basin Islands: a parsimony perspective
Authors: Vázquez‐Miranda Hernán , Navarro‐Sigüenza Adolfo G. , Morrone Juan J.
Published: January 2007

We analyzed the avifaunas of the Caribbean islands and nearby continental areas and their relationships using Parsimony Analysis of Endemicity (PAE), in order to assess biogeographical patterns and their concordance with geological and phylogenetic evidence. Using distributional information of birds obtained from published literature, a presence/absence matrix for 695 genera and 2026 species of land and freshwater birds was constructed and analyzed. Three different analyses were performed: for species, for genera, and for species and genera combined. In the combined analysis, the Lesser Antilles appear paraphyletic at the base of the cladogram. Then, two major clades are identified: South America (Andes, Venezuelan lowlands, Dutch West Indies and Trinidad and Tobago) and North America, including the Greater Antilles in a clade that is the sister area to Yucatan and the Central American countries nested from north to south. PAE results support Caribbean vicariant models and cladistic biogeographical hypotheses on area relationships, and show relative congruence with available phylogenetic data. Bird biogeography on the Caribbean islands appears to have been caused by both vicariance and dispersal processes.

© The Willi Hennig Society 2007.
What do we get for our money? Cost‐effectiveness of adding contingency management
Authors: Sindelar Jody , Elbel Brian , Petry Nancy M.
Published: January 2007

Aims To assess the relative cost‐effectiveness of lower versus higher cost prize‐based contingency management (CM) treatments for cocaine abuse.

Design Cost‐effectiveness analyses based on resource utilization, unit costs and outcomes from a previous CM efficacy trial.

Setting Two community‐based treatment centers.

Participants Patients (n = 120) enrolled in out‐patient treatment for cocaine abuse.

Intervention Random assignment to one of three 12‐week treatment conditions: standard treatment (STD) alone or two variants of STD combined with prize based CM. In CM, drawing for prizes was available to those submitting drug‐free urine samples and completing goal‐related activities. There were two levels of pay‐out (referred to as $80 versus $240) based on the potential value of prizes won.

Measurements Costs per participant associated with counseling utilization, urine and breathalyzer testing, and operation of the prize‐drawing procedure were derived from a survey conducted at 16 clinics that had participated in CM studies. The three measures of effectiveness were: (1) longest duration of consecutive abstinence; (2) percentage completing treatment; and (3) percentage of samples drug‐free.

Findings The higher magnitude CM produced outcomes at a lower per unit cost than did the lower magnitude prize CM treatment. This was the case for all three outcome measures examined and held across various assumptions in the sensitivity analysis.

Conclusions Cost‐effectiveness analyses can inform policy decisions regarding selection of one treatment model over another. Decisions on adoption of new evidence‐based treatments would be aided by more information on society's willingness to pay for incremental gains in effectiveness.
Prevalence and socio‐economic distribution of hazardous patterns of alcohol drinking: study of alcohol consumption in men aged 25–54 years in Izhevsk, Russia
Authors: Tomkins S. , Saburova L. , Kiryanov N. , Andreev E. , McKee M. , Shkolnikov V. , Leon D. A.
Published: January 2007

Aim  To estimate the prevalence of hazardous drinking and its socio‐economic distribution among Russian men.

Design  Participants were an age‐stratified, population‐based random sample of men aged 25–54 years living in Izhevsk, a city in the Urals, Russia. Interviewers administered questionnaires to cohabiting proxy respondents about behavioural indicators of hazardous drinking derived from frequency of hangover, frequency of drinking beverage spirits, episodes in the last year of extended periods of drunkenness during which the participant withdraws from normal life (zapoi), consumption of alcoholic substances not intended to be drunk (surrogates) and socio‐economic position. Logistic regression was used to examine associations between socio‐economic position and indicators of hazardous drinking in the past year.

Findings  Of 1750 men, 79% drank spirits and 8% drank surrogates at least sometimes in the past year; 25% drank spirits and 4% drank surrogates at least weekly and 10% had had an episode of zapoi in the past year. After adjustment for other socio‐economic factors, education was strongly associated with indicators of hazardous drinking. Men with the lowest level of education compared to the highest level of education had an odds ratio of surrogate drinking of 7.7 (95% CI 3.2–18.5), of zapoi of 5.2 (2.3–11.8) and of frequent hangover of 3.7 (1.8–7.4). These indicators of hazardous drinking were also independently strongly associated with being unemployed (versus employed) and with levels of household wealth/amenities. Associations of all these variables with daily consumption of beverage spirits were weaker.

Conclusion  Using a novel range of indicator variables of hazardous drinking, this paper shows that the prevalence of these behaviours is high among working‐age men in this Russian city. Moreover, these hazardous behaviours show very clear socio‐economic patterns, with particularly high prevalence among those who have had the least education and are not in employment. In contrast, more conventional measures of heavy drinking, based on frequency of consumption of beverage spirits, are less prevalent and show much weaker associations with socio‐economic position.
Exploring the relationship between genetic and environmental influences on initiation and progression of substance use
Authors: Fowler Tom , Lifford Kate , Shelton Katherine , Rice Frances , Thapar Anita , Neale Michael C. , McBride Andrew , Van Den Bree Marianne B. M.
Published: January 2007

Aims  To examine the genetic and environmental contributions to the initiation of use and progression to more serious use of alcohol, cigarettes and marijuana during adolescence, and to examine the relationship between initiation and progression of substance use.

Design  The study used a twin‐based design and a new theoretical model, the causal–common–contingent (CCC) model. This allows modelling of the relationship between initiation of use and progression to heavier use as a two‐stage model and the examination of genetic and environmental influences on both stages, while taking into account their relationship.

Participants  The participants consisted of 1214 twin pairs (69% response rate) aged 11–19 years sampled from the UK population‐based Cardiff Study of All Wales and North‐west of England Twins (CaStANET).

Measurements  Data on adolescent initiation and progression to more serious use of alcohol, cigarettes and marijuana were obtained using self‐report questionnaires.

Findings  Initiation of alcohol and progression to heavier alcohol use had separate but related underlying aetiologies. For cigarette and marijuana use the relation between initiation and progression to heavier use was stronger, suggesting greater overlap in aetiologies. For all three substances, environmental influences that make twins more similar (common environment) tended to be greater for initiation, while genetic influences were stronger for heavier use.

Conclusions  These findings have implications for policy decisions aimed at an adolescent and early adult age group. Specifically, these findings suggest that it may be more efficacious to focus alcohol interventions on risk factors for the development of heavier use rather than initiation of use. In contrast, interventions aimed at reducing the initiation of cigarettes and marijuana use may be more appropriate.
Harm minimization among teenage drinkers: findings from an ethnographic study on teenage alcohol use in a rural Danish community
Authors: Jørgensen Morten Hulvej , Curtis Tine , Christensen Pia Haudrup , Grønbæk Morten
Published: January 2007

Aim To examine strategies of harm minimization employed by teenage drinkers.

Design, setting and participants Two periods of ethnographic fieldwork were conducted in a rural Danish community of approximately 2000 inhabitants. The fieldwork included 50 days of participant observation among 13–16‐year‐olds (n = 93) as well as 26 semistructured interviews with small self‐selected friendship groups of 15–16‐year‐olds (n = 32).

Findings The teenagers participating in the present study were more concerned about social than health risks. The informants monitored their own level of intoxication, but in order to reduce alcohol consumption they depended upon support from their peers. The informants preferred drinking in the company of well‐known and trusted peers, and during drinking episodes they supervised and intervened in each others' drinking to the extent that they deemed it necessary and possible. In regulating the social context of drinking they relied on their personal experiences more than on formalized knowledge about alcohol and harm, which they had learned from prevention campaigns and educational programmes.

Conclusions In this study we found that teenagers may help each other to minimize alcohol‐related harm, and teenage peer groups should thus be considered a resource for health promotion.
A randomized controlled trial of Minnesota day clinic treatment of alcoholics
Authors: Grønbæk Morten , Nielsen Bent
Published: January 2007

Aim  To compare the Minnesota day clinic treatment with the traditional public psychosocial treatment.

Design  Randomized controlled trial.

Setting  Public out‐patient alcohol clinic and privately funded Minnesota day clinic in Denmark.

Participants  A total of 148 individuals with alcohol dependence were included in a 1‐year clinical trial.

Measurements  Self‐reported drinking pattern and the seven composite scores from the addiction severity index (ASI).

Findings  A total of 42 (57%) and 45 (61%) patients (P > 0.05) completed the Minnesota treatment and public treatment, respectively. Throughout the whole 12‐month follow‐up period, 35% of the patients treated at the Minnesota day clinic were abstainers, while this was the case for 20% of the patients treated in the public out‐patient alcohol clinic (P = 0.043). During the last month before the end of the 1‐year follow‐up, 53% of the patients treated according to the Minnesota model were abstainers, while this was the case for 43% of the patients treated in the public out‐patient alcohol clinic (P = 0.249). There were insignificant differences in the seven ASI scores.

Conclusions  Twelve months after onset of treatment, the Minnesota day clinic treatment does not differ in effect from the much cheaper ‘standard’ public treatment. However, patients in Minnesota treatment were total abstainers throughout a longer period.
Sediment compaction rates and subsidence in deltaic plains: numerical constraints and stratigraphic influences
Authors: Meckel T. A. , Ten Brink U. S. , Williams S. J.
Published: January 2007

Natural sediment compaction in deltaic plains influences subsidence rates and the evolution of deltaic morphology. Determining compaction rates requires detailed knowledge of subsurface geotechnical properties and depositional history, neither of which is often readily available. To overcome this lack of knowledge, we numerically forward model the incremental sedimentation and compaction of stochastically generated stratigraphies with geotechnical properties typical of modern depositional environments in the Mississippi River delta plain. Using a Monte Carlo approach, the range of probable compaction rates for stratigraphies with compacted thicknesses <150 m and accumulation times <20 kyr. varies, but maximum values rarely exceed a few mm yr−1. The fastest compacting stratigraphies are composed primarily of peat and bar sand, whereas the slowest compacting stratigraphies are composed of prodelta mud and natural levee deposits. These results suggest that compaction rates can significantly influence vertical and lateral stratigraphic trends during deltaic evolution.
Pharmacodynamics of T‐cell function for monitoring immunosuppression
Authors: Barten M. J. , Tarnok A. , Garbade J. , Bittner H. B. , Dhein S. , Mohr F. W. , Gummert J. F.
Published: January 2007

Abstract. Objectives: Recent studies show that measuring pharmacodynamic (PD) effects offers a unique possibility to predict immunosuppression. Thus, in this study we have monitored the PD properties of immunosuppressants on diverse T‐cell functions in heart transplant (HTx) recipients.Materials: PDs and blood concentrations (PK) of three different basis‐immunosuppressive drugs were studied: cyclosporin A (CsA); tacrolimus (TRL) and sirolimus (SRL). T‐cell function was analysed by expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) labelling, expression of cytokines (IL‐2, IFN‐γ) and surface antigen (for example, CD25) by FACS analysis.Results: In group I, at time points C0 and C2, increased CsA‐PK significantly inhibited expression of IL‐2, IFN‐γ, PCNA and CD25 (P < 0.05). Correlations (r2) at C2 between inhibition of T‐cell functions (PD) with PK and with drug doses were: CsA‐PK: 0.71–0.91 and CsA‐dose: 0.73–0.87. In group II, increased TRL‐PK over time did not further inhibit expression of CD25, but inhibited PCNA expression more on day 3, and IL‐2 and IFN‐γ expression was significantly higher on days 2 and 3 compared to PD effects of CsA (P < 0.05). Blood SRL concentrations in C0 group III, increased on day 1 and remained stable at days 3 and 4. Expression of PCNA was not altered in the SRL‐PK category, whereas expression of CD25 was higher and expression of cytokines was lower than PD effects of CsA.Conclusions: Our results show that PD effects on T‐cell function can be used to monitor immunosuppression bringing potential to increase the efficacy and safety of immunosuppressive therapy after HTx.
Progression of astrocytomas and meningiomas: an evaluation in vitro
Authors: Maes L. , Kalala J. P. O. , Cornelissen M. , De Ridder L.
Published: January 2007

Abstract.  Objectives/Background: In biological terms, progression means that malignancy increases as genetic mutations accumulate leading to increased proliferation and invasion capacity. By verifying the proliferation capacity, human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) expression and in vitro invasion, in a group of highly malignant glioblastomas, benign meningiomas and astrocytomas, at the initial stage of progression, we have analysed putative progression in vitro for proliferation and telomerase expression. Materials and Methods: The relative proliferation status (visualized with Ki‐67 antibodies) and presence of hTERT protein was analysed in 27 intracranial tumours (6 astrocytomas, 8 glioblastomas and 13 meningiomas) by immunohistochemistry on paraffin‐embedded biopsy tissue, as well as on primary tumour‐derived cell cultures. A confrontation model was used to analyse invasiveness in vitro. Results: The mean proliferation indices were 22.3 (SD = 18.1) for glioblastomas and 2.1 (SD = 1.9) for low‐grade (LG) astrocytomas. The group of benign meningiomas had a labelling index of 2.2 (SD = 2.7). Mean percentages of staining for hTERT varied between 36.5 (SD = 28.4) for glioblastomas and 10.2 (SD = 8.6) for LG astrocytomas. The group of benign meningiomas had a labelling index of 12.4 (SD = 19.2) for hTERT. A significant difference was seen for Ki‐67 (P < 0.05) and hTERT (P < 0.001) in vivo versus in vitro. No difference was seen between the group of invasive and non‐invasive tumour‐derived cell cultures for the histopathological markers Ki‐67 and hTERT (P > 0.05) in vitro. Conclusions: The elevated expression of hTERT and Ki‐67 in vitro provides a potential prognostic tool for early detection of the progression of brain tumours. As tumour cells require telomerase for continued proliferation, the expression of hTERT may mark immortality, leading to indefinite life span. On the other hand, hTERT expression and cell proliferation are not linked directly to invasion in vitro.
Simulating mouse mammary gland development: cell ageing and its relation to stem and progenitor activity
Authors: Paguirigan A. , Beebe D. J. , Alexander C. M.
Published: January 2007

Abstract. Background: Somatic stem and progenitor cell division is likely to be an important determinant of tumor development. Each division is accompanied by a risk of fixing genetic mutations, and/or generating innately immortal cells that escape normal physiological controls. Aim: Using biological information, we aimed to devise a theoretical model for mammary gland development that described the effect of various stem/progenitor cells activities on the demographics of adult mammary epithelial cell populations. Results: We found that mammary ductal trees should develop in juvenile mice despite widely variant levels of activity in the progenitor compartment. Sequestration (inactivation) of progenitor cells dramatically affected the aging‐maturation of the population without affecting the total regenerative capacity of the gland. Our results showed that if stem and progenitor cells can be demonstrated in glands regenerated by serial transplantation, they originated in a canonical primary stem cell (providing a functional definition of mammary stem cells). Finally, when the probability of symmetric division of stem cells increased above a threshold, the mammary epithelial population overall was immortal during serial transplantation. Conclusions: This model provides, (1) a theoretical framework for testing whether the phenotypes of genetically modified mice (many of which are breast cancer models) derive from changes of stem and progenitor activity, and (2) a means to evaluate the resolving power of functional assays of regenerative capacity in mammary epithelial cell populations.
Photodynamic therapy combined with a cysteine proteinase inhibitor synergistically decrease VEGF production and promote tumour necrosis in a rat mammary carcinoma
Authors: Zsebik B. , Symonowicz K. , Saleh Y. , Ziolkowski P. , Bronowicz A. , Vereb G.
Published: January 2007

Abstract.  Objectives: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and inhibition of cathepsin B proteases by cystatin (cysteine proteinase inhibitor, CPI) are potential new tumour treatment modalities. We have investigated the efficacy of PDT and CPI alone and in combination on a solid mammary carcinoma transplanted into Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Intraperitoneally injected single doses of chlorine e6 or HpD as photosensitizers were excited at 630 nm (90 J/cm2). CPI (500 µg per animal) was injected around the tumour daily during the 8‐day treatment. Inoculation of tumour was either on day 1 of the protocol, or 8 days before. On day 8, tumour size was measured, tumour necrosis and vascularization were determined based on haematoxylin and eosin (H&E)‐stained sections and serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels measured using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit. Results: No differences (two‐way anova) were found for treatments started with various time lags. At doses where CPI or PDT alone had no or negligible effect, their combination caused a marked (P < 0.001) decrease in serum VEGF, paralleled by a significant decrease in tumour size and number of capillary vessels, and a significant increase in necrosis (up to 80% of the tumour tissue). Conclusions: The combination of PDT and CPI could be a useful approach in tumour therapy as the two agents appear to be synergistic and probably decrease VEGF production by the tumour tissue.
Generation of somatic cell hybrids for the production of biologically active factors that stimulate proliferation of other cells
Authors: Islam M. Q. , Panduri V. , Islam K.
Published: January 2007

Abstract.  Objective: Some normal somatic cells in culture divide a limited number of times before entering a non‐dividing state called replicative senescence and fusion of normal cells with immortal cells claimed to produce hybrid cells of limited proliferation. We reinvestigated the proliferative capacity of hybrid cells between normal cell and immortal cell. Materials and Methods: Normal pig fibroblast cells and cells of immortal mouse fibroblast cell line F7, a derivative of GM05267, were fused by polyethylene glycol treatment and subsequently the fused cells were cultured in a selective medium containing hypoxanthine‐aminopterin‐thymidine in order to enrich the hybrid cells. The hybrid cells were then monitored for chromosome content and proliferation. Results: Cytogenetic analysis revealed that the hybrid cells contained polyploidy chromosomes derived from normal pig fibroblasts. These hybrid cells exhibit no sign of replicative senescence after more than 190 population doublings in vitro. Instead, these hybrid cells have an accelerated growth and proliferate even in the complete absence of glutamine. In addition, these hybrids produce biologically active factors in the conditioned media, which not only can accelerate their own proliferation but also can reinitiate mitotic activity in the senescent–like normal fibroblast cells. Conclusions: Our results question the validity of cellular senescence as a dominant trait. Additionally, the generation of hybrid cells using the specific mouse cell line can be applied to the generation of hybrids with other normal cell types and can be used to produce tissue‐specific growth‐factor(s) to extend the lifespan and/or improve the proliferation of various normal cells, including adult stem cells.
Congenital anomalies in Iran: a cross‐sectional study on 1574 cases in the North‐West of country
Authors: Dastgiri S. , Imani S. , Kalankesh L. , Barzegar M. , Heidarzadeh M.
Published: January 2007

Background  At least one congenital anomaly is present in between 1% and 6% of all infants throughout the world. The aim of this study was to document some epidemiological features of congenital anomalies in the North‐West of Iran.

Methods  The study cases (n = 1574) comprised all births registered/notified to three university‐hospitals of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran, from 2000 to 2004.

Results  Total prevalence of congenital anomalies was 165.5 per 10 000 births [95% confidence interval (CI): 157–174]. Genito‐urinary tract and kidney defects, anomalies of nervous system and limb anomalies accounted proportionally for more than 65% of anomalies in the region. The total prevalence of congenital anomalies in the study area increased from 104.6 per 10 000 births in 2000 (95% CI: 90–119) to 170.1 per 10 000 births in 2004 (95% CI: 152–189).

Conclusions  It is concluded that the data from this cross‐sectional study of congenital anomalies in the North‐West of Iran may be used as the baseline information to establish a population‐based registry of birth defects in the area for health care and research purposes.
Attenuated pulse size, disorderly growth hormone and prolactin secretion with preserved nyctohemeral rhythm distinguish irradiated from surgically treated acromegaly patients
Authors: Van Der Klaauw A. A. , Pereira A. M. , Van Thiel S. W. , Frolich M. , Iranmanesh A. , Veldhuis J. D. , Roelfsema F. , Romijn J. A.
Published: January 2007

Background  Radiation induces time‐dependent loss of anterior pituitary function, attributed to damage of the pituitary gland and hypothalamic centres. The development of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in irradiated acromegaly patients is not well defined.

Objective  Detailed analysis of spontaneous 24‐h GH and prolactin (PRL) secretion in relation to other pituitary functions and serum IGF‐I concentrations in an attempt to find criteria for GHD in acromegalic patients with a GH response < 3 µg/l during the insulin tolerance test (ITT).

Design  Plasma hormone profiles obtained by 10 min sampling for 24 h in postoperatively irradiated acromegalic patients, compared with patients cured by surgery only and matched healthy controls.

Setting/participants  University setting. Fifteen subjects in each group.

Outcome measures  GH and PRL secretory parameters quantified by deconvolution, cluster, cosinor and approximate entropy (ApEn) analyses, IGF‐I concentrations.

Results  Irradiation attenuated pulsatile secretion of GH and PRL, but total PRL secretion was unchanged. GH and PRL secretory regularity were diminished. Circadian timing remained intact. Pulsatile GH secretion and IGF‐I were correlated (R = 0·30, P = 0·04). Criteria of pulsatile GH secretion = 12 µg/l/24 h and ApEn = 0·800 separated 12 of 15 irradiated patients from all others.

Conclusion  Irradiated acromegaly patients with a subnormal GH response to ITT have very limited spontaneous GH secretion, with specific attenuation of the size of GH bursts and a highly irregular pattern, but with retained diurnal properties. These patients are thus likely GH‐deficient and might benefit from GH replacement.
Differential regulation of visfatin and adiponectin in pregnancies with normal and abnormal placental function
Authors: Fasshauer M. , Blüher M. , Stumvoll M. , Tönessen P. , Faber R. , Stepan H.
Published: January 2007

Objective   There is compelling evidence that insulin resistance may play a pivotal role in the development of pregnancy complications including pre‐eclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). As dysregulation of visfatin and adiponectin is found in insulin resistance, both adipokines might contribute to pregnancy disorders.

Patients and methods   Plasma levels of visfatin and adiponectin were quantified in second‐trimester pregnancies with abnormal uterine perfusion and in third‐trimester pregnancies with IUGR as compared to healthy controls.

Results   Mean plasma adiponectin levels were significantly increased in women with pathological perfusion (7078 ± 789 ng/ml) as compared to normal uterine perfusion (4481 ± 1183 ng/ml) (P < 0·05) whereas visfatin plasma concentrations were not different between these groups. Visfatin levels were significantly elevated in women with IUGR (140·1 ± 10 ng/ml) as compared to patients with normal outcome (65·5 ± 11 ng/ml) (P < 0·05). By contrast, adiponectin plasma concentrations were not significantly altered in women with IUGR.

Conclusions   Our data support the view that the adipokines visfatin and adiponectin are differentially regulated in pregnancy complications.
Thyroid disease and female reproduction
Authors: Poppe Kris , Velkeniers Brigitte , Glinoer Daniel
Published: January 2007

The menstrual pattern is influenced by thyroid hormones directly through impact on the ovaries and indirectly through impact on SHBG, PRL and GnRH secretion and coagulation factors. Treating thyroid dysfunction can reverse menstrual abnormalities and thus improve fertility. In infertile women, the prevalence of autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) is significantly higher compared to parous age‐matched women. This is especially the case in women with endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). AITD does not interfere with normal foetal implantation and comparable pregnancy rates have been observed after assisted reproductive technology (ART) in women with and without AITD. During the first trimester, however, pregnant women with AITD carry a significantly increased risk for miscarriage compared to women without AITD, even when euthyroidism was present before pregnancy. It has also been demonstrated that controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) in preparation for ART has a significant impact on thyroid function, particularly in women with AITD. It is therefore advisable to measure thyroid function and detect AITD in infertile women before ART, and to follow‐up these parameters after COH and during pregnancy when AITD was initially present. Women with thyroid dysfunction at early gestation stages should be treated with l‐thyroxine to avoid pregnancy complications. Whether thyroid hormones should be given prior to or during pregnancy in euthyroid women with AITD remains controversial. To date, there is a lack of well‐designed randomized clinical trials to elucidate this controversy.
Metabolic effects of growth hormone (GH) replacement in children and adolescents with severe isolated GH deficiency due to a GHRH receptor mutation
Authors: Gleeson Helena , Barreto Elenilde S. de A. , Salvatori Roberto , Costa Liana , Oliveira Carla R. P. , Pereira Rossana M. C. , Clayton Peter , Aguiar‐Oliveira Manuel H.
Published: January 2007

Background  The interpretation of the true effect of GH replacement therapy (GHRT) on metabolic status in GH deficiency (GHD) is often complicated by differing aetiologies of GHD and by the presence of additional hormone deficits.

Objective  To study the growth and response of the lipid profile and body composition to GHRT in a cohort of children with the same mutation in the GHRH receptor gene.

Design  Nine GH‐deficient subjects (mean age 12·8 years, range 5–17·5 years; three male) in a rural community in Northeast Brazil were treated with GHRT for 2 years and compared with indigenous normal controls.

Main Outcome Measures  Total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), triglycerides (TG) and body composition were measured at baseline and after 3, 12 and 24 months of GHRT.

Results  At baseline, the subjects with GHD had an adverse lipid profile, including elevated TC, elevated LDL‐C and elevated TG. GHRT normalized TG in 3 months, LDL‐C in 12 months and TC in 24 months. At baseline, older pubertal subjects with GHD had adverse body composition, including higher percentage fat mass (%FM), and GHRT induced a reduction in %FM that was maintained after 24 months. By contrast, younger prepubertal subjects did not have an adverse body composition.

Conclusions  Lipid profile was abnormal at baseline, while abnormal body composition was only seen in older subjects in late puberty, indicating that body composition is less sensitive to the effect of GHD than lipid profile. GHRT improves lipid profile at all ages, while it affects body composition only towards the end of growth, emphasizing its importance in achieving normal somatic development in the transition period.
Clinical insights into adipsic diabetes insipidus: a large case series
Authors: Crowley R. K. , Sherlock M. , Agha A. , Smith D. , Thompson C. J.
Published: January 2007

Objective  Adipsic diabetes insipidus (DI) causes significant hypernatraemia. Morbidity and mortality data for patients with adipsic DI have been previously published as single case reports, rather than as formal trials or case series from units with established management protocols. Our objective was to describe morbidity and mortality in patients with adipsic DI attending a tertiary referral centre, representing the largest reported series of adipsic DI, and to suggest management protocols for such patients, based on our extensive experience of this condition.

Design  Arginine vasopressin (AVP) responses to hypotension were recorded during trimetaphan infusion. Sleep abnormalities were identified using overnight oximetry or polysomnography. Case‐note analysis defined other clinical abnormalities including seizures and thrombotic episodes. Important clinical points for the management of these patients are highlighted.

Patients  Thirteen patients with adipsic DI defined by thirst and plasma AVP responses to hypertonic saline infusion.

Results  All patients had absent AVP and thirst responses to osmotic stimulation, with subnormal water intake. Five patients had absent AVP responses to hypotension; the remainder had normal responses. Eight patients were obese [body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2], and three were overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2). Seven patients had sleep apnoea, of whom three died at 36 years or younger. Four patients developed venous thrombosis during episodes of hypernatraemia. Two patients had thermoregulatory dysfunction and seven patients had seizure activity.

Conclusion  Adipsic DI is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Physicians should be aware of associated, treatable hypothalamic abnormalities such as obesity, sleep apnoea, seizures and thermoregulatory disorders when managing adipsic DI.
Intra‐adipose sex steroid metabolism and body fat distribution in idiopathic human obesity
Authors: Wake Deborah J. , Strand Magnus , Rask Eva , Westerbacka Jukka , Livingstone Dawn E. W. , Soderberg Stefan , Andrew Ruth , Yki‐Jarvinen Hannele , Olsson Tommy , Walker Brian R.
Published: January 2007

Objective  Causes of visceral fat accumulation include glucocorticoid excess or decreased oestrogen/androgen ratio either in plasma or within adipose tissue. In obese subjects, the intra‐adipose cortisol‐generating enzyme 11β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11β‐HSD1) is increased, but information on sex steroid signalling is sparse. We aimed to test associations between body fat or fat distribution and mRNA transcript levels for androgen and oestrogen receptors and for enzymes metabolizing sex steroids in adipose tissue.

Design  A cross‐sectional study.

Patients  Forty‐five healthy men and women with body mass index (BMI) 21–36 kg/m2.

Measurements  In subcutaneous adipose biopsies we measured mRNAs for enzymes metabolizing local oestrogens (aromatase) and androgens [5α‐reductase type 1; AKR1C2 (3α‐HSD3); AKR1C3 (17β‐HSD5, 3α‐HSD2)] and for sex steroid receptors [oestrogen receptor (ER)‐α and androgen receptor (AR)]. We related these to body fat mass and distribution.

Results  Generalized obesity (BMI) was associated with increased aromatase mRNA (r = 0·35, P < 0·05). Central obesity (waist : hip ratio) was associated with mRNA for AKR1C2 (r = 0·28, P < 0·05) and AKR1C3 (r = 0·38, P < 0·01) but not aromatase (r = 0·06). 5α‐Reductase type 1, ER and AR mRNA levels did not predict fat amount or its distribution.

Conclusion  These data on transcript levels suggest that, in idiopathic obesity, increased intra‐adipose oestrogen generation by aromatase predicts peripheral fat distribution, while androgen metabolism by AKR1C isoforms predicts central fat distribution, supporting the hypothesis that intra‐adipose sex steroid metabolism is a determinant of gynoid vs. android patterns of body fat.