bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship of eosinophilia to intravenous immunoglobulin treatment failure in Kawasaki disease
Authors: Kuo Ho‐Chang , Yang Kuender D. , Liang Chi‐Di , Bong Chin‐Nam , Yu Hong‐Ren , Wang Lin , Wang Chih‐Lu
Published: June 2007

To investigate the role of eosinophils in Kawasaki disease (KD) and the relationship to initial intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment failure. A retrospective analysis of all children who were admitted and met the criteria of KD between 1999 and 2005. The patients were divided into IVIG‐responsive and IVIG‐resistant groups. A total of 185 patients were enrolled during the study period. A series of blood eosinophils and biochemistry studies were correlated to the effectiveness of IVIG. The neutrophils percentage before IVIG treatment (pre‐IVIG), leukocyte counts within 3 days after IVIG treatment (post‐IVIG), liver enzyme, albumin levels, and post‐IVIG eosinophils percentage were all significantly different between the two groups in univariate analysis. Under multivariate analysis with logistic regression, post‐IVIG eosinophilia [peripheral blood (PB) eosinophils ≥4%] had an inverse correlation to KD patients with IVIG‐resistance (p = 0.003). Also, pre‐IVIG hypoalbuminemia (albumin ≤3.0 g/dl) was positively correlated to IVIG‐resistance (p = 0.018). Further analysis showed that the PB eosinophils was markedly increased in the acute stage and returned to normal 3 weeks after IVIG treatment (p < 0.001). Eosinophil levels are highly elevated in the acute stage of KD both before and after the IVIG treatment. Post‐IVIG treatment eosinophilia has an inverse correlation to KD patients with IVIG‐resistance and may indicate IVIG‐responsive. This may be a valuable factor to survey for the necessity of a second dose IVIG treatment.
Association analysis of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor gene polymorphisms in asthmatic children
Authors: Szczepankiewicz Aleksandra , Bręborowicz Anna , Skibińska Maria , Wiłkość Monika , Tomaszewska Marta , Hauser Joanna
Published: June 2007

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been described to modulate airway hyper‐responsiveness and inflammation and was involved in late allergic reaction in asthma and higher levels of circulating BDNF were present in allergic asthmatics. In BDNF gene, Val66Met and C‐270T polymorphisms were described. There were, however, very few studies analyzing BDNF gene polymorphisms in asthma. The aim of this study was to analyze the possible relationship between these two polymorphisms in the BDNF gene and asthma. Fifty‐six pediatric asthmatic patients were analyzed, aged from 6 to 18. The diagnosis of atopic asthma was based on clinical manifestation, lung function test and increased immunoglobulin E level, and/or positive skin prick tests. The control group consisted of 109 healthy subjects. The polymorphisms were genotyped with the use of polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism method. We did not observe an association of Val/Met polymorphism and the presence of asthma. However, we observed that Val allele is much more frequent in the male group of asthmatic patients (p = 0.06). For −270C/T polymorphism, we found significant differences between asthmatic patients and the control group (p = 0.041 for genotypes and p = 0.005 for alleles). The results may suggest a relationship between the BDNF gene and asthma and male gender of asthmatic children.
Behavioral characteristics in 3‐ to 12‐month‐old infant with atopic dermatitis: a case–control study
Authors: Pourpak Zahra , Sedighipour Leyla , Firooz Alireza , Afrooz Azadeh , Ghobari Bagher , Kazemnejad Anoushiravan , Bemanian Mohamad Hassan , Afrooz Gholam Ali
Published: June 2007

There have been reports that refer to the personality of the patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) especially adult patients but there are few studies regarding the behavioral characteristics in AD infants. The aim of this study was to compare behavioral characteristics of 30 AD infants (3–12 months old) with 40 controls. The infants with the definite diagnosis of AD (according to Hanifin and Rajka criteria) referring to children medical center were included in this study. For assessing behavioral characteristics we used revised version of Infant Behavior Questionnaire for measuring 11 scales of behavioral characteristics (Fear, Perceptual Sensitivity, Distress to Limitations, Sadness, High Pleasure, Low pleasure, Approach, Rate of Recovery from Distress, Soothability, Smiling and Laugher, and Duration of Orienting). Questionnaires were filled out by the physicians with the cooperation of the parents. The AD group showed significantly higher scores in Perceptual Sensitivity, Soothability, and High Pleasure compared with control group (p = 0.000). In other characteristics no significant difference were noticed between atopic and non‐patients. For eight characteristics, scores of atopic infants were similar healthy infants, but they tend to show more pleasure when subjected to an intense, novel or incongruity stimuli compared with healthy infants. Theoretically, higher scores in Perceptual Sensitivity, Soothability, and High Pleasure are concordant with the pervious studies about adrenomedullary system over activity.
Efficacy of RhD monoclonal antibodies in clinical trials as replacement therapy for prophylactic anti‐D immunoglobulin: more questions than answers
Authors: Kumpel B. M.
Published: June 2007

Prophylactic anti‐D is a very safe and effective therapy for the suppression of D‐immunization and prevention of haemolytic disease of the foetus and newborn. The primary mode of action of anti‐D is rapid clearance of fetal D‐positive red cells from the maternal circulation, mediated by interactions with immunoglobulin G Fc receptors on macrophages in the spleen. Many anti‐D monoclonal antibodies (mAb) have been produced by a variety of methods. Twelve anti‐D mAbs were tested in eight studies for their ability to mediate clearance of autologous red cells, and 13 antibodies studied in seven trials of the clearance of D‐positive red cells injected into D‐negative subjects. Antibodies produced by human B‐cell lines, mouse–human heterohybridomas and Chinese hamster ovary cells varied in their activity with none being quite as effective as polyclonal anti‐D. However, clearance mediated by recombinant anti‐D produced by rat YB2/0 cells was extremely rapid, faster than polyclonal anti‐D, but with haemolysis and some hepatic accumulation of red cells observed in one study. Two human anti‐D mAbs prevented D‐immunization. In contrast, anti‐D mAbs from heterohybridomas increased the incidence and rapidity of anti‐D responses. It is hypothesised that unnatural glycosylation of monoclonal anti‐D produced by some cell lines may have caused these unexpected results. In some antibodies, unusual oligosaccharides on anti‐D may have affected binding to Fc receptors resulting in reduced red cell clearance. For others, non‐human glycoforms of anti‐D might have bound to innate immune recognition molecules promoting pro‐inflammatory reactions. These extensive data on the clinical activity of monoclonal anti‐D produced by cell lines derived from four species will inform the future development of monoclonal anti‐D for RhD prophylaxis.
THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN RETRACTED The impact of a medium molecular weight, low molar substitution hydroxyethyl starch dissolved in a physiologically balanced electrolyte solution on blood coagulation and platelet function in vitro
Authors: Boldt J. , Mengistu A. , Seyfert U. T. , Vogt A. , Hellstern P.
Published: June 2007

Background and Objectives  Hydroxyethyl starches (HES) may have the potential to impact negatively on haemostasis. Recent findings suggest that side‐effects on haemostasis stem not only from the physicochemical differences between HES, but also from the composition of the solvent. We compared the effects of a newly developed medium molecular weight (MW) and low molar substitution (MS) HES dissolved in a physiologically balanced electrolyte solution (MW 130, MS 0·42; B‐HES) with a commercially available non‐balanced HES (MW 130, MS 0·4; NB‐HES), and with Ringer's lactate (RL) solution in vitro.

Materials and Methods  Activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), factor VIII clotting activity (F VIII:C) and von Willebrand factor (vWF) activity were investigated in 48 healthy individuals. Platelet function as measured by turbidimetric platelet aggregometry and whole blood impedance aggregometry induced by adenosine diphosphate (ADP), collagen and thrombin receptor activating peptide (TRAP), and by ADP and TRAP‐induced expression of activated platelet fibrinogen receptor glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa was determined in 24 participants. Haemodilution (25% and 50%, v/v for blood coagulation analyses and 20% and 40%, v/v for platelet function studies) was performed using the two HES preparations and RL.

Results  APTT was significantly longer and F VIII and vWF significantly lower at 25% and 50% dilutions with NB‐HES compared to B‐HES and RL. At 20% and 40% dilutions, ADP and TRAP‐induced expression of activated platelet surface GP IIb/IIIa was significantly increased by B‐HES compared to NB‐HES and RL. Percentages of platelet GP IIb/IIIa expression were also significantly greater in samples diluted with B‐HES than in undiluted blood. Neither the diluent (B‐HES, NB‐HES and RL) nor the degree of dilution (undiluted, 20% and 40% dilution) had any significant influence on ADP, collagen or TRAP‐induced turbidimetric platelet aggregation or impedance platelet aggregation.

Conclusions  In contrast to a non‐balanced 130 kDa, MS 0·4 HES (NB‐HES), a 130 kDa, MS 0·42 HES preparation dissolved in a physiologically balanced electrolyte solution (B‐HES) does not affect APTT, F VIII:C and vWF in vitro. Both types of HES do not affect platelet aggregation induced by ADP, collagen or TRAP. B‐HES but not NB‐HES increases the expression of activated platelet GP IIb/IIIa induced by ADP or TRAP.
Seborrhoeic dermatitis‐like tinea faciei in an infant
Authors: Polat Muhterem , Artüz Ferda , Karaaslan Aydın , Öztaş Pınar , Lenk Nurdan , Allı Nuran
Published: June 2007

The patient we present herein is a 6‐month‐old infant who had erythema and scaling on the central part of the face for 4 months. Both the abundant scaling and the localisation, but also the low age of this infant led to suspect seborrhoeic dermatitis. Direct microscopic examination of scales showed septate hyphae and the cultural examination was also positive for dermatophyte. The found species was Trichophyton mentagrophytes. We describe this patient to highlight the importance of considering tinea faciei in the differential diagnosis of all facial eruptions and the value of mycological examination.
Neuroprotective effect of nicotine on dopaminergic neurons by anti‐inflammatory action
Authors: Park Hyun Jung , Lee Phil Hyu , Ahn Young Whan , Choi Yun Jung , Lee Gwang , Lee Da‐Yong , Chung Eun S. , Jin Byung Kwan
Published: June 2007

Epidemiological studies have reported that smoking is associated with a lower incidence of Parkinson's disease (PD), leading to theories that smoking in general and nicotine in particular might be neuroprotective. Recent studies suggested cholinergic anti‐inflammatory pathway‐regulating microglial activation through α7 nicotinic receptors. In the present study, we used lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐inducedin vitroandin vivoinflammation models to investigate whether nicotine has a protective effect on the dopaminergic system through an anti‐inflammatory mechanism. Nicotine pretreatment considerably decreased microglial activation with significant reduction of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α mRNA expression and TNF‐α release induced by LPS stimulation. In co‐cultures of microglia and mesencephalic neurons, nicotine pretreatment significantly decreased the loss of tyrosine hydroxylase‐immunopositive (TH‐ip) cells, approximately twice more than the LPS‐only treatment. α‐Bungarotoxin, an α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit‐selective blocker, considerably blocked the inhibitory effects of nicotine on microglial activation and TH‐ip neuronal loss. Chronic nicotine pretreatment in rats showed that TH‐ip neuronal loss induced by LPS stimulation in the substantia nigra was dramatically decreased, which was clearly accompanied by a reduction in the formation of TNF‐α. The present study demonstrated that nicotine has a neuroprotective effect on dopaminergic neurons via an anti‐inflammatory mechanism mediated by the modulation of microglial activation. Along with various neuroprotective effects of nicotine, the anti‐inflammatory mechanism of nicotine could have a major therapeutic implication in the preventive treatment of PD.
Individual differences in sequence learning and auditory pattern sensitivity as revealed with evoked potentials
Authors: Tubau Elisabet , Escera Carles , Carral Vanessa , Corral María‐José
Published: June 2007

Research on motor sequence acquisition has shown significant differences between learners. Learners who develop explicit knowledge respond faster than non‐explicit ones and they show larger amplitude in event‐related brain potentials to sequence deviants. There is evidence that memory span correlates with the amount of sequence learned, but the specific mechanisms subserving such differences are still unknown. Recently, it has been observed that performance of explicit learners, but not of non‐explicit ones, improves when presented with auditory action effects. Accordingly, differences between learners might be related to differences in auditory rhythm perception. To test this hypothesis, the mismatch negativity (MMN)‐evoked potential elicited to stimuli violating stimulus alternation (i.e. low pitch, high pitch) was recorded in explicit and non‐explicit sequence learners. Results confirmed our prediction: explicit learners showed larger amplitude of the MMN to the violation of the auditory rhythm, suggesting new theoretical implications to account for individual differences in sequential action control.
Molecular phylogeny and systematics of the pseudoxyrhophiine snake genusLiopholidophis(Reptilia, Colubridae): evolution of its exceptional sexual dimorphism and descriptions of new taxa
Authors: Glaw Frank , Nagy Zoltán T. , Franzen Michael , Vences Miguel
Published: June 2007

The pseudoxyrhophiine snake genusLiopholidophisMocquard, 1904 is endemic to Madagascar and consists of two distinct species groups. We performed molecular phylogenetic analyses using nucleotide sequences ofc. 2200 bp from two mitochondrial genes (16S rRNA, cytb) and one nuclear gene (c‐mos) to test the monophyly of the genusLiopholidophisand to investigate the relationships of the known species and an unidentifiedLiopholidophispopulation. Our phylogeny strongly supports the polyphyly of the genusLiopholidophis, confirms the monophyly of both species groups, and reveals that the unidentified population belongs to a new species. We therefore transfer the species of the formerL. stumpffigroup (L. epistibes,L. infrasignatus,L. lateralis,L. martae, andL. stumpffi) to a new genusBibilavagen. n. and describeLiopholidophis dimorphussp. n. from the rainforests of Montagne d’Ambre National Park in northern Madagascar. Finally, we compare our phylogeny with previous hypotheses and discuss the evolution of the extreme sexual dimorphism in tail length ofLiopholidophiss. str.
Molecular phylogeny of the fungus gnat tribe Exechiini (Mycetophilidae, Diptera)
Authors: Rindal Eirik , Søli Geir E. E. , Kjærandsen Jostein , Bachmann Lutz
Published: June 2007

The phylogenetic relationships within the fungus gnat tribe Exechiini have been left unattended for many years. Recent studies have not shed much light on the intergeneric relationship within the tribe. Here the first attempt to resolve the phylogeny of the tribe Exechiini using molecular markers is presented. The nuclear 18S and the mitochondrial 16S, and cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) genes were successfully sequenced for 20 species representing 15 Exechiini genera and five outgroup genera. Bayesian, maximum parsimony and maximum likelihood analyses revealed basically congruent tree topologies and the monophyly of Exechiini, including the genus Cordyla, is confirmed. The molecular data corroborate previous morphological studies in several aspects. Cordyla is found in a basal clade together with Brachypeza, Pseudorymosia and Stigmatomeria. The splitting of the genera Allodiopsis s.l. and Brevicornu s.l. as well as the sistergroup relationship of Exechia and Exechiopsis is also supported. The limited phylogenetic information provided by morphological characters is mirrored in the limited resolution of the molecular markers used in this study. Short internal and long‐terminal branches obtained may indicate a rapid radiation of the Exechiini genera during a short evolutionary period.
Propositions for a character‐state‐based biological taxonomy
Authors: Béthoux Olivier
Published: June 2007

A new procedure for defining taxa upon a single character state is developed. It is centred on the designation of two specimens, belonging to two distinct species, exhibiting the same given character state, as type material, and referred to as ‘cladotypes’. A taxon name/definition designates a monophyletic group until one of the following assumptions is falsified: (1) the character state typified by cladotypes is homologous in individuals that are designated as cladotypes, and (2) cohesion mechanisms isolated individuals exhibiting the type‐character‐state from those that do not. A taxon defined by a character state that is found to be a combination of several character states is to be redefined upon a character state shared by its cladotypes. If several character states are available, the character state that makes the taxon the least inclusive taxon including cladotypic species (i.e., species to which belong cladotypes) is to be preferred. Taxon names designate obsolete phylogenetic hypotheses if the first assumption is falsified (such names are to be kept for this purpose, i.e., they are not to be recycled in another definition). Rules governing adaptation of previously erected names are proposed. Main cases of taxa synonymy involve definitions based on different pairs of cladotypes but referring to the same type‐character‐state; and definitions based on the same character‐state initially hypothesised as acquired by convergence in cladotypic species pairs, but later demonstrated as originating from a unique ancestor. Taxa could be synonyms if a permanent splitting event did not segregate individuals exhibiting a new character state, qualified as type‐character‐state, from individuals already assigned to a previously erected taxon. This procedure accommodates potentially any species concept, but is not tied to any; it is an extension of the composite species concept. Species are treated in a different way than other taxa: they are defined as sets of individuals belonging to the same evolving (segments of) metapopulation lineages as a holotype specimen, and do not need a defining character state.
Dissecting obesogenic behaviours: the development and application of a test battery for targeting prescription for weight loss
Authors: Egger G. , Pearson S. , Pal S. , Swinburn B.
Published: June 2007

There are limited practical tools to help clinicians or public health workers manage obesity in their patients. We have previously developed a scanning technique for diagnosing environments leading to obesity (Analysis Grid for Environments/Elements Leading to Obesity). Here we describe the development of a tool for identifying behaviours in an individual most likely to lead to obesity. A questionnaire battery of five tests called the DAB‐Q (Diet, Activity and Behaviour Questionnaire) was developed, piloted and internally validated with overweight women from a commercial weight loss programme. Outcome from the tests, which are available free on the Internet, provides clinicians with a simple, effective and time‐saving tool for ranking foods, drinks and activities likely to be most effectively targeted for weight loss in an individual. This is based on total scores derived from measures of frequency, potential for change and potency of each item as a potential contributor to overweight.
IF MEN COULD GET PREGNANT: BETH SINGER AND CAROL GILLIGAN ON ABORTION
Authors: MAGADA‐WARD MARY
Published: June 2007

Abstract:I argue here that Beth Singer's analysis of rights as operative social norms allows us to make sense of the personal and political complexities of the abortion debate. In particular, I argue that it is only by means of Singer's analysis that we, as feminists, can reconcile our conviction that Carol Gilligan's celebration of empathy and partiality gestures toward something definitive of our moral experience with the need to avail ourselves of the politically efficacious language of rights.
ON WEAK POSTPOSITIVISM: AHISTORICAL REJECTIONS OF THE VIEW FROM NOWHERE
Authors: SCHARFF ROBERT C.
Published: June 2007

Abstract: Postpositivists have lately joined post‐Husserlians in arguing that the deepest problem with Descartes' legacy is that it fosters the objectivist illusion that philosophers might actually come to think “from Nowhere,” or at least that they can self‐consciously choose whatever presuppositions they do accept. Yet this argument is easier to express than to incorporate into one's own thinking. It is perfectly possible to oppose the View from Nowhere, and even to criticize others for failing to understand its impossibility, and still do so … as if from Nowhere. This article is concerned with such compromised opposition—that is, with critics who reject, in ahistorical terms and from an ahistorical standpoint, an ahistorical conception of philosophy. It focuses on two figures from the empiricist‐positivist side of the Cartesian legacy, Rorty and Taylor, but their story is in important ways typical. Though their criticisms are certainly more radical and considerably more successful than those of many of their analytic colleagues, each retains in his own thinking more of the ahistorical or standpointless ideal than he realizes.
VAN FRAASSEN ON THE NATURE OF EMPIRICISM
Authors: CRUSE PIERRE
Published: June 2007

Abstract: A traditional view is that to be an empiricist is to hold a particular epistemological belief: something to the effect that knowledge must derive from experience. In his recent book The Empirical Stance, and in a number of other publications, Bas van Fraassen has disagreed, arguing that if empiricism is to be defensible it must instead be thought of as a stance: an attitude of mind or methodological orientation rather than a factual belief. In this article I will examine his arguments for this claim in detail. I will argue that they do not succeed and that empiricism is, contrary to van Fraassen's claim, better thought of as a truth‐evaluable doctrine than as a stance.
GERT ON UNRESOLVABLE MORAL DEBATES
Authors: TRIPLETT TIMM
Published: June 2007

Abstract: Bernard Gert argues that, while the moral system contains a procedure for resolving most moral disagreements, it does not allow for such resolution in all cases. For example, it does not allow for the resolution of disputes about whether animals and human fetuses should be included within the scope of those to whom the moral rules apply. I agree with Gert that not all moral debates can be resolved, but I believe that Gert does not use all the argumentative resources available to philosophers to resolve them. I argue that considerations outside the moral system proper can be used to provide argumentative support favoring some positions over their rivals in moral controversies that Gert regards as intractable. I illustrate this with reference to the abortion debate. I also argue that reaching such conclusions about the superiority of one position over rivals need not result in moral arrogance.
EBERHARD BETHGE: INTERPRETER EXTRAORDINAIRE OF DIETRICH BONHOEFFER
Authors: De GRUCHY JOHN W.
Published: June 2007

Bethge was Dietrich Bonhoeffer's closest friend and confidant during the last ten years of Bonhoeffer's life. Bonhoeffer held him in high esteem, and he regarded no one better able to understand and clarify his thought. Anticipating his own death, Bonhoeffer designated Bethge to care for his legacy and write his biography, responsibilities Bethge later fulfilled with remarkable dedication and erudition. In the process he produced a significant number of interpretative essays, becoming internationally respected for his historical and theological scholarship, as well as his own engagement with church and social issues. Without Bethge, Bonhoeffer's legacy would not have become as well or as widely known as it did, or interpreted in the way that it has.
“DEPRIVE THEM OF THEIR PATHOS”: KARL BARTH AND THE NAZI REVOLUTION REVISITED
Authors: RASMUSSON ARNE
Published: June 2007

The role of Karl Barth's theology during the church struggle after the Nazi revolution in 1933 has been endlessly debated. I argue, first, that there is more continuity between “1925”, “1933”, and “1938” than most commentators have granted and that Barth never promoted an apolitical option. Second, I maintain that his theological imagination was restrained by the practices and structures of German (and European) Protestantism and his own acceptance at this time of a Christendom order. The church that his theology presupposed did not really exist.
BETWEEN BARTH AND WITTGENSTEIN: ON THE AVAILABILITY OF HANS FREI’S LATER THEOLOGY
Authors: SPRINGS JASON A.
Published: June 2007

This paper explores the “cultural‐linguistic” dimensions of Hans Frei's theology. I make the case that several of the pragmatic and sociological concerns usually identified as distinctive marks of Frei's later theology of the 1980s are, in fact, central to his work as far back as the early 1960s. Moreover, I demonstrate that such “cultural‐linguistic” insights present important continuous threads in the development of his theology from early to late. Attending to this dimension illuminates the trajectory of Frei's thinking as consistently Wittgensteinian in sensibility, and deeply indebted to his career‐long conversation with Karl Barth's theology. If successful, this reading should clarify the ways in which Frei's early work is more innovative, and his later work less derivative, than is often recognized.
Making and maintaining the subject in call centre work
Authors: Winiecki Don , Wigman Bert
Published: June 2007

This article reports an ethnographic study of call centre work. Analytics are applied enabling study of relations between power and subjectivity. Findings indicate that organisational ‘truth’ claims about workers are produced in a constellation of architectural, technological and managerial apparatuses. Workers orient to and reify the power of these claims, even when resisting.
‘You gotta lie to it’: software applications and the management of technological change in a call centre
Authors: Russell Bob
Published: June 2007

This paper advances an extended material analysis to the study of technological change in a call centre. It shows how such an analysis is particularly apropos for understanding the distance that often separates managerial intentions in introducing a new technology from the outcomes associated with how workers utilise it.
Teleworkflow: supporting remote control with Workflow Management Systems
Authors: Limburg Diana , Jackson Paul J.
Published: June 2007

This paper explores the links between the management of remote workers and dispersed teams and the use of Workflow Management Systems. Using case studies, it demonstrates how such systems can support diverse control approaches independent of the location of employees and managers and thus enhance the success of distant working.
Broadcasting discontent—freelancers, trade unions and the Internet
Authors: Saundry Richard , Stuart Mark , Antcliff Valerie
Published: June 2007

This paper examines the potential of web‐based networks for representing the interests of freelance audio‐visual workers. It suggests that while such networks provide fora for the expression and mobilisation of interests, their ability to represent workers is limited. Consequently, they provide an opportunity for trade unions to extend organisation.
Revisiting technical workers: professional and organisational identities in the software industry
Authors: Marks Abigail , Scholarios Dora
Published: June 2007

This paper eradicates some of the myths of software workers as prototypes of the knowledge worker. Based on qualitative and quantitative research conducted in five Information Technology (IT) organisations, it examines how the factors of education, skill level and work role determine the opportunities presented to these workers, and how they are associated with differing levels of organisational identity. At the same time, the data reveal a consistently high professional identity, regardless of work role and qualifications.
Short-Lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform Headache Attacks with Conjunctival Injection and Tearing
Authors: Cohen AS
Published: June 2007

SUNCT (Short-lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform headache attacks with Conjunctival injection and Tearing) and SUNA (Short-lasting Unilateral Neuralgiform headache attacks with cranial Autonomic symptoms) are rare primary headache syndromes, classified as Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgias (TACs). Hypothalamic involvement in the TACs has been suggested by functional imaging data and clinically with deep brain stimulation.

Fifty-two patients (43 SUNCT, 9 SUNA) were studied to determine the clinical phenotype of these conditions and response to medications. A functional imaging study explored activation of the posterior hypothalamus in attacks of SUNCT/SUNA.

The clinical study characterised SUNCT and SUNA in terms of epidemiology, phenotype and clinical characteristics.

Indomethacin is ineffective on single-blind testing. Intravenous lidocaine was effective in all cases. Open-label trails showed the effectiveness of lamotrigine, topiramate and gabapentin.

On functional imaging there was hypothalamic activation bilaterally in 5/9 SUNCT patients, and contralaterally in two patients. Two SUNCT patients had ipsilateral negative activation. In SUNA the activation was bilaterally negative. There was no hypothalamic activation in a patient with SUNCT secondary to a brainstem lesion.

The data suggests that there should be revised classification for SUNCT and SUNA, with an increased range of attack duration and frequency, cutaneous triggering of attacks, and a lack of refractory period. The concept of ‘attack load’ is introduced. The lack of response to indomethacin and the response to intravenous lidocaine, are useful in diagnostic and therapeutic terms, respectively. Preventive treatments include lamotrigine, gabapentin and topiramate. The role of hypothalamic involvement in SUNCT and SUNA as TACs is considered.
Autoimmunity as an aetiological factor in vitiligo
Authors: Rezaei N , Gavalas NG , Weetman AP , Kemp EH
Published: June 2007

Vitiligo is a common dermatological disorder characterized by the presence on the skin of depigmented macules resulting from the destruction of cutaneous melanocytes. Autoimmunity is an important hypothesis with regard to vitiligo aetiology and the evidence for autoimmune responses being involved in the pathogenesis of this disorder will be discussed in the present review. All immune system compartments, including innate and adaptive immunity have been implicated in vitiligo development. Particularly relevant are autoantibodies and autoreactive T cells in vitiligo patients that have cytotoxic effects upon pigment cells. Furthermore, predisposition to vitiligo appears to be associated with certain alleles of the major histocompatibility complex class II antigens as well as with other autoimmune‐susceptibility genes. Moreover, the association of vitiligo with autoimmune disorders, the animal models of the disease, and the positive response to immunosuppressive therapeutic agents emphasize the role of autoimmunity in the development of this disorder.
Does dye laser treatment with higher fluences in combination with cold air cooling improve the results of port‐wine stains?
Authors: Hammes S , Roos S , Raulin C , Ockenfels H‐M , Greve B
Published: June 2007

Background and objective  The use of cold air cooling (CAC) and cryogen spray cooling during dye laser treatment of port‐wine stains (PWS) has become a standard in recent years. Still unsolved is the question of which fluences are necessary in combination with CAC in order to achieve an optimum clearance and the lowest possible rate of side‐effects.

Study design  In a prospective study, we treated 11 patients with PWS with pulsed dye laser (Photogenica V®, Cynosure, λ = 585 nm, ιp = 0.5 ms, spot size = 7 mm). Each PWS was partitioned into three areas: (area 1) 6 J/cm2 without CAC, (area 2) 6 J/cm2 with CAC (level 4), (area 3) 9 J/cm2 with CAC (level 4).

Results  Area 3 (mean, 59%) showed a slightly better clearance than area 1 (mean, 57%); in area 2, we observed a reduced clearance (mean, 45%). Compared with area 1, we achieved a reduction of pain through CAC in areas 2 and 3. The healing periods as well as the rate of side‐effects were comparable in all areas.

Conclusion  We observed a slight but not statistically relevant increase in clearance with the use of higher fluences and CAC compared with lower fluences without CAC. Because pain is lowered significantly when using CAC, and because this makes the treatment more comfortable for the patients, we tend to recommend the use of higher fluences (9 J/cm2) with simultaneous CAC for treating PWS.
Skin phototypes of a Maltese sample population
Authors: Aquilina S , Gauci AA , Boffa MJ
Published: June 2007

Background and aim  Skin phototyping is a clinical classification system based on a patient's historical reporting of the acute skin response to sunlight. We carried out a simple study to estimate the skin phototypes of the Maltese people in order to acquire more information on the relative risk of the general Maltese population to sun burning and to the more chronic effects of sun exposure, including photoaging and skin cancers.

Method  A consultant dermatologist and dermatology trainees determined the skin phototype of patients seen with skin infections or skin tags at dermatology outpatients in Malta by carrying out a short interview.

Results  Data were collected on 756 patients. The commonest reported skin phototype in both sexes was type III (48.0% overall; 52.4% in males, 43.8% in females); this was followed by type IV in males (30.4%) and type II in females (32.3%). Only 1.2% of the total was of skin type I.

Conclusion  Approximately one half of the Maltese population is at moderate risk of sun damage; about one quarter is at low risk; and the other quarter is at high risk, the latter group needing more thorough sun avoidance and better surveillance for skin tumours. Social desirability can influence responses to such questionnaires and might have contributed to the difference between males and females noted in our study.
The levels of depression, anxiety and quality of life in patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria
Authors: Engin B , Uguz F , Yilmaz E , Özdemir M , Mevlitoglu I
Published: June 2007

Background  Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is associated with severely impaired quality of life (QoL).

Objective  To determine the levels of depression, anxiety and QoL in CIU patients.

Patients and methods  This study included 73 patients with CIU, and 34 healthy subjects matched for age and sex were used as controls. The levels of depression, anxiety and QoL were assessed with the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Assessment‐Brief (WHOQOL‐BREF), respectively. The reliability and validity of the Turkish versions of these instruments have been examined.

Results  When compared with healthy controls, patients with CIU had significantly higher BDI and BAI scores and significantly lower physical health and psychological health subscale scores of the WHOQOL‐BREF. BDI, BAI and all domains of WHOQOL‐BREF were unrelated to age, duration of illness, urticaria activity score (UAS) and visual analogue score (VAS). There was a negative significant correlation between all domains of WHOQOL‐BREF and BDI and BAI.

Conclusion  Our data confirm that QoL is markedly reduced in CIU patients. Physical health and psychological health were found to be the areas QoL most affected in CIU patients. And also we have found that CIU patients frequently suffer from depression and anxiety. The severity of these parameters was found to be positively correlated with the extent of QoL decrease.
Adaptive diversity of incisor enamel microstructure in South American burrowing rodents (family Ctenomyidae, Caviomorpha)
Authors: Vieytes Emma C. , Morgan Cecilia C. , Verzi Diego H.
Published: June 2007

The aim of this study was to analyse the morphofunctional and adaptive significance of variation in the upper incisor enamel microstructure of South American burrowing ctenomyids and other octodontoid taxa. We studied the specialized subterranean tooth‐digger †Eucelophorus chapalmalensis (Pliocene – Middle Pleistocene), and compared it with other fossil and living ctenomyids with disparate digging adaptations, two fossorial octodontids and one arboreal echimyid. Morphofunctionally significant enamel traits were quite similar among the species studied despite their marked differences in habits, digging behaviour and substrates occupied, suggesting a possible phylogenetic constraint for the Octodontoidea. In this context of relative similarity, the inclination of Hunter–Schreger bands, relative thickness of external index (EI) and prismless enamel zone were highest in †Eucelophorus, in agreement with its outstanding craniomandibular tooth‐digging specialization. Higher inclination of Hunter–Schreger bands reinforces enamel to withstand high tension forces, while high external index provides greater resistance to wear. Results suggest increased frequency of incisor use for digging in †Eucelophorus, which could be related to a more extreme tooth‐digging strategy and/or occupancy of hard soils. Higher external index values as recurring patterns in distant clades of tooth‐digging rodents support an adaptive significance of this enamel trait.
Combining skin conductance and forced choice in the detection of concealed information
Authors: Meijer Ewout H. , Smulders Fren T. Y. , Johnston James E. , Merckelbach Harald L.G. J.
Published: June 2007

An advantage of the concealed information polygraph test (CIT) is that its false positive rate is determined on statistical grounds, and can be set a priori at arbitrary low levels (i.e., few innocents declared guilty). This criterion, however, inevitably leads to a loss of sensitivity (i.e., more guilty suspects declared innocent). We explored whether the sensitivity of a CIT procedure could be increased by adding an independent measure that is based on an entirely different psychological mechanism. In two experiments, we explored whether the accuracy of a CIT procedure could be increased by adding Symptom Validity Testing (SVT), a relatively simple, forced‐choice, self‐report procedure that has previously been used to detect malingering in various contexts. Results of a feigned amnesia experiment but not from a mock crime experiment showed that a combination measure of both tests yielded better detection than either test alone.
Timing of the earliest ERP correlate of visual awareness
Authors: Wilenius Maria E. , Revonsuo Antti T.
Published: June 2007

The earliest reliably occurring event‐related brain potential (ERP) correlate of visual awareness (visual awareness negativity, VAN) emerges after 100 ms and peaks between 200 and 300 ms from stimulus onset. In a study using low‐contrast stimuli, VAN was significantly delayed, peaking at 460 ms (V. Ojanen, A. Revonsuo, & M. Sams, 2003). In that study physical differences between the conscious and nonconscious stimuli may have confounded the results. Here we explored whether VAN is similarly delayed for physically identical stimuli. We presented low‐contrast stimuli near an individually determined subjective contrast threshold. A delayed VAN peaked at 400 ms at occipito‐temporal sites to subjectively perceived stimuli. Our results support the interpretation that VAN is the earliest ERP correlate of phenomenal visual awareness. The electrophysiological processes eliciting VAN may become delayed as a function of the difficulty of the early perceptual discrimination.
Development of microsatellite markers for bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea L. Verdc.) — an underutilized African legume crop species
Authors: BASU S , ROBERTS J. A. , AZAM‐ALI S. N. , MAYES S
Published: June 2007

Bambara groundnut is an indigenous African legume crop plant. It is largely grown by subsistence farmers, but can also be used as a cash crop to supplement family income. The fact that it is highly drought tolerant means that it has considerably potential to provide part of food security in regions of the world where water availability is a serious issue. As one part of the international effort to understand and improve this species, we report here the first 10 microsatellite markers derived from bambara groundnut.
Influence of dl‐alpha‐tocopherol acetate on indomethacin‐induced gastric mucosal injury in rats
Authors: Valcheva‐Kuzmanova S. , Krasnaliev I. , Galunska B. , Belcheva A.
Published: June 2007

There is an increasing body of evidence supporting the hypothesis that antioxidants are able to reduce gastric mucosal damage induced by stressors of different origin. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of dl‐alpha‐tocopherol acetate (TA) on indomethacin‐induced gastric mucosal injury in rats and a possible role for an anti‐oxidative mechanism in the response.

 TA (25, 50 and 100 mg kg−1) was applied intraperitoneally as a pretreatment 1 h before the subcutaneous administration of indomethacin (30 mg kg−1).

 TA reduced the area of indomethacin‐induced gastric ulcers, the effect being significant (P < 0.05) at the highest dose of 100 mg kg−1.

 Histopathological examination of rat stomach samples demonstrated that TA caused an increase in gastric mucus production and a reduction of the severity of mucosal lesions.

 The three doses of TA prevented indomethacin‐induced elevation of plasma and mucosal malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, which in TA‐pretreated rats were not significantly different from the control values. Neither indomethacin treatment nor TA pretreatment had a significant influence on the gastric mucosal levels of reduced glutathione or oxidized glutathione.

 Our results suggest that the gastroprotective effect of TA is likely to be due to increased mucus production and interference with oxidative stress development as evidenced by the decreased plasma and gastric mucosal MDA.
α1A‐Adrenoceptors predominate in the control of blood pressure in mouse mesenteric vascular bed
Authors: Martínez‐Salas S. G. , Campos‐Peralta J. M. , Pares‐Hipolito J. , Gallardo‐Ortíz I. A. , Ibarra M. , Villalobos‐Molina R.
Published: June 2007

The pressor action of the α1A‐adrenoceptor agonist, A61603 (N‐[5‐(4,5‐dihydro‐1H‐imidazol‐2‐yl)‐2‐hydroxy‐5,6,7,8‐tetrahydronaphthalen‐1‐yl] methanesulfonamide) or the α1‐adrenoceptor agonist phenylephrine, and their blockade by selective α1‐adrenoceptor antagonists in the mouse isolated mesenteric vascular bed were evaluated.

 A61603 showed a ≈ 235‐fold higher potency in elevating perfusion pressure in mesenteric bed compared to phenylephrine.

 The α1A‐adrenoceptor selective antagonist RS 100329 (5‐methyl‐3‐[3‐[4‐[2‐(2,2,2,‐trifluoroethoxy) phenyl]‐1‐piperazinyl] propyl]‐2,4‐(1H)‐pyrimidinedione), displaced with high affinity agonist concentration–response curves to the right in a concentration‐dependent manner.

 The α1D‐adrenoceptor selective antagonist BMY 7378 (8‐[2‐[4‐(2‐methoxyphenyl)‐1‐piperazinyl]ethyl]‐8‐azaspiro[4.5] decane‐7,9‐dione), did not displace A61603 nor did it block the phenylephrine‐induced pressor response.

 The α1B/D‐adrenoceptor alkylating antagonist chloroethylclonidine (CEC), caused a rightward shift of the phenylephrine concentration–response curve and reduced its maximum response; however, CEC only slightly modified A61603 evoked contraction.

 The results indicate that the isolated mouse mesenteric vascular bed expresses α1A‐adrenoceptors and suggest a very discrete role for1B‐adrenoceptors.
Nitrergic and purinergic interplay in inhibitory transmission in rat gastric fundus
Authors: Vetri T. , Bonvissuto F. , Marino A. , Postorino A.
Published: June 2007

This study was undertaken to analyse the involvement of ATP in non‐adrenergic non‐ cholinergic (NANC) relaxation and possible interplay between nitrergic and purinergic systems in rat gastric fundus.

 Experiments were performedin vitroon strips of longitudinal muscle from rat gastric fundus, recording the mechanical activity as changes in isometric force. In addition, NO release induced by different experimental conditions was assayed.

 Under NANC conditions in serotonin‐precontracted strips, electrical field stimulation (EFS) elicited a tetrodotoxin (TTX)‐sensitive relaxation accompanied by nitric oxide (NO) release. This effect was antagonized by pretreatment with the NO synthase antagonistNω‐nitro‐l‐arginine (l‐NA) or by desensitization of purinergic receptors. Purinergic desensitization was also able to further antagonize the residual EFS‐induced relaxation remaining afterl‐NA treatment. Exogenously applied NO [delivered as sodium nitroprusside (SNP)] or ATP (and related purines) induced concentration‐dependent, TTX‐insensitive relaxant responses. ATP also induced the release of NO. A reduction in the responses to ATP was observed in the presence ofl‐NA. In contrast, SNP‐induced relaxation remained unchanged after desensitization of purinergic receptors. Finally, apamin, a blocker of the small conductance Ca2+‐dependent K+channels, reduced the amplitude of the muscular relaxation evoked by either EFS, ATP or SNP.

 In conclusion, this study provides evidence that in rat gastric fundus, ATP is one of the inhibitory transmitters released from NANC intramural neurones acting directly on the muscle, through receptors coupled to apamin‐sensitive Ca2+‐dependent K+channels and, indirectly, through the stimulation of NO production.
Molecular systematics and historical biogeography of the Black‐browed Barbet species complex (Megalaima oorti)
Authors: FEINSTEIN JULIE , YANG XIAOJUN , LI SHOU‐HSIEN
Published: June 2007

Although Southeast Asia is a global biodiversity hotspot, the tempo and mode of avian diversification there has not been well studied. We investigated the history of the diversification of an endemic Asian tropical bird, the Black‐browed BarbetMegalaima oorti, by reconstructing its intraspecific molecular phylogeny with mitochondrial cytochrome‐bgene sequences. Our molecular phylogeny suggests that the five subspecies of this montane barbet comprise four deeply divergent clades with strong geographical associations:M. o. oortiin the Malay Peninsula and Sumatra,M. o. annamensisin Vietnam,M. o. nuchalisin Taiwan andM. o. faber/M. o. siniin Hainan and the southeastern Chinese mainland, respectively. Climate changes from the mid‐Pliocene to the Pleistocene may have influenced their diversification through repeated contraction and expansion of Asian tropical forest. Moreover, our data indicate that the Black‐browed Barbet complex is not monophyletic:M. asiaticais embedded in our phylogeny as the sister taxon toM. o. annamensis. The present taxonomic treatment has combined evolutionarily distinct taxa into a single paraphyletic species. Based on our molecular data and previously published plumage characters, we suggest a revision of traditionalM. oortiinto four monophyletic species:M. oorti,M. nuchalis,M. annamensisandM. faber.