bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diverse mechanisms of anti‐androgen action: impact on male rat reproductive tract development
Authors: Wilson Vickie S. , Blystone Chad R. , Hotchkiss Andrew K. , Rider Cynthia V. , Gray L. Earl
Published: March 2008

Scientists have identified environmental chemicals that display anti‐androgenic activity via multiple mechanisms of action. Early studies focused on pesticides acting as androgen receptor (AR) antagonists but it soon became apparent that was not the only endocrine mode by which compounds affected the androgen signalling pathway. Classes of chemicals currently known to interfere with the androgen signalling pathway include dicarboximide fungicides (e.g. vinclozolin), organochlorine‐based insecticides (e.g. p,p′‐DDT and ‐DDE), conazole fungicides (e.g. prochloraz), plasticizers (phthalates) and urea‐based herbicides (linuron). Phthalate esters (PEs) and vinclozolin appear to act primarily via a single mechanism of action, while others such as linuron and prochloraz, appear to display dual mechanisms of action. Exposure to PEs decreases mRNA expression of key steroidogenic enzymes and also the peptide hormone insulin‐like peptide 3 (insl3) from the foetal Leydig cells. Hence, both androgen‐ and inls3‐dependent tissues are affected. Vinclozolin and procymidone act solely through binding to the AR as antagonists thus blocking the action of androgen at the cellular level but do not affect foetal testosterone synthesis or insl3 gene expression. The compounds linuron and prochloraz are AR antagonists but also inhibit foetal testosterone synthesis, although unlike the PEs, mRNA expression of steroidogenic enzymes and insl3 are not affected. All the above chemicals disrupt androgen signalling in the foetal male rat and produce some malformations in common, but the precise profiles of effects in the offspring are pathognomonic for each mode of action. For example, the ‘phthalate syndrome’ vs. the ‘vinclozolin syndrome’ each displays a profile of effects which is clearly different. In summary, as more and more molecular studies with anti‐androgenic compounds are conducted, the number of mechanisms by which compounds can affect the androgen signalling pathway is likely to increase. Furthermore, the effects of mixtures of these compounds are just beginning to be explored.
Combined exposure to anti‐androgens causes markedly increased frequencies of hypospadias in the rat
Authors: Christiansen S. , Scholze M. , Axelstad M. , Boberg J. , Kortenkamp A. , Hass U.
Published: March 2008

The incidence of hypospadias is increasing in young boys, but it remains unclear whether human exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals plays a role. Risk assessment is based on estimation of no‐observed‐adverse‐effect levels for single compounds, although humans are exposed to combinations of several anti‐androgenic chemicals. In a mixture (MIX) study with three androgen receptor antagonists, vinclozolin, flutamide and procymidone, rats were gavaged during gestation and lactation with several doses of a MIX of the three chemicals or the chemicals alone. External malformations of the male reproductive organs were assessed on PND 47 using a score from 0 to 3 (normal to marked) for hypospadias. Markedly increased frequencies were observed after exposure to a MIX of the three chemicals compared to administration of the three chemicals alone. Anogenital distance at PND 1, nipple retention at PND 13, and dysgenesis score at PND 16 were highly correlated with the occurrence of hypospadias, and MIX effects were seen at doses where each of the individual chemicals caused no observable effects. Therefore, the results indicate that doses of anti‐androgens, which appear to induce no hypospadias when judged on their own, may induce a very high frequency of hypospadias when they interact in concert with other anti‐androgens.
Emerging endocrine disrupters: perfluoroalkylated substances
Authors: Jensen Allan Astrup , Leffers Henrik
Published: March 2008

In recent years, polyfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) have increasingly been used as surfactants in various industry‐ and consumer products, because of their unique properties as repellents of dirt, water and oils. The most well‐known PFCs are perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and their derivatives belonging to the group of perfluoroalkylated substances. The PFCs are very persistent in the environment, and some of them have been discovered as global pollutants of air, water, soil and wildlife and even found in remote polar areas. Bioaccumulation occurs also in humans, and everybody in our society has traces of these PFCs in their blood and internal organs such as the liver, kidneys, spleen, gall bladder and testes. In the blood, PFOS and PFOA are bound to serum proteins. The acute toxicity of the polyfluorinated substances is moderate but some substances can induce peroxisome proliferation in rat livers and may change the fluidity of cell membranes. Some of these PFCs, such as PFOS and PFOA, are potential developmental toxicants and are suspected endocrine disruptors with effects on sex hormone levels resulting in lower testosterone levels and higher oestradiol level. Other PFCs have oestrogenic effects in cell cultures. The industrial production of PFOS and its derivatives stopped in 2000, and the European Union has banned most uses from the summer of 2008. However, hundreds of related chemicals: homologues with shorter or longer alkyl chain, PFOA and telomers, which potentially may degrade to perfluoroalkanoic (carboxylic) acids, are not regulated.
Dimensions of informal care in Greece: the family's contribution to the care of patients hospitalized in an oncology hospital
Authors: Sapountzi‐Krepia Despina , Raftopoulos Vasilios , Psychogiou Maria , Sakellari Evanthia , Toris Anastasios , Vrettos Anargyros , Arsenos Panagiotis
Published: March 2008

Aims and objectives.  This study aims to explore the kind and frequency of care provided to hospitalized cancer patients by relatives and the reasons for providing this care.

Background.  Informal care is a common phenomenon across many countries. In Greece, informal caring activities occur in most hospitals. Patients’ relatives stay by their bedside for long hours and assist with care. This phenomenon is highly correlated with the nursing staff shortage.

Method.  This study was carried out in a Greek oncology hospital. The sample consisted of 150 informal caregivers. We used a 37‐item questionnaire called In‐Hospital Informal Care Questionnaire Acute Care.

Results.  The participants provide substantial help to their patients daily. On average, they stay by their bedside for 20·23 hours in a 24‐hour period. Additionally, 104 participants stated that they hire a privately paid patient's helper.

The relatives stay by their patients’ bedside for various reasons such as: (1) severity of the condition; (2) providing psychological support; (3) family tradition; (4) because they do not believe their patients are safe in the hospital without their supervision; or (5) the nursing staff shortage.

Conclusions.  The participants offer informal care that reflects specific nursing duties. We could argue that Greek hospitals ‘use’ relatives as unpaid labour to compensate for the nursing shortage. It is disquieting that usually someone from the hospital staff suggests to the relatives to stay at the patient's bedside even after visiting hours or to hire a private paid patient's helper. This implies that the staff considers such contribution necessary.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The findings show that relatives perform daily tasks that nurses should be performing. They indicate that the hospital should introduce specific staffing policies for reducing families’ burden. Our findings could influence future staffing plans of nursing managers, policy makers or health authorities.
Patterns of quantitative food‐specific IgE‐antibodies and reported food hypersensitivity in 4‐year‐old children
Authors: Östblom E. , Lilja G. , Ahlstedt S. , Van Hage M. , Wickman M.
Published: March 2008

Background:  Diagnosis of food hypersensitivity (FHS) is difficult and interpretation of food allergy tests is complicated.

Objective:  To investigate the probability of reported FHS in relation to levels of food‐specific IgE‐antibodies (AB) in a population‐based setting of 4‐year‐old children (n = 2336).

Methods:  Information on FHS was obtained from a questionnaire and specific IgE‐AB to milk, egg, fish, peanut, soy and wheat were analysed.

Results:  Thirty‐one per cent of the children with reported FHS (n = 284) were sensitized (≥0.35 kUA/l) to at least one of the tested foods compared with 11% of children without FHS (n = 2052). Furthermore, the probability of reported symptoms to milk, egg and fish increased with increasing levels of food‐specific IgE‐AB to the same food allergens. A similar trend was seen for peanut and wheat, but not for soy. Increasing levels of specific IgE‐AB to milk or egg were also associated with an increasing risk of reported symptoms caused by other foods.

Conclusions:  Quantitative measurements of IgE‐AB to milk, egg and fish are useful to evaluate IgE‐associated FHS in preschool children also in a population based sample. Such measurements appear to be of limited value for soy bean and wheat, in particular as a screening method.
Anti‐proliferative and anti‐remodelling effect of beclomethasone dipropionate, formoterol and salbutamol alone or in combination in primary human bronchial fibroblasts
Authors: Descalzi D. , Folli C. , Nicolini G. , Riccio A. M. , Gamalero C. , Scordamaglia F. , Canonica G. W.
Published: March 2008

Background:  Bronchial asthma is characterized by lower airway inflammation and remodelling. Anti‐inflammatory treatment with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) provides the mainstay of asthma therapy together with bronchodilation induced by short‐ and long‐acting inhaled β2‐agonists. Lower airway fibroblasts may play a critical role in airway inflammation and remodelling, suggesting that they might represent an important target for the major anti‐asthmatic drugs. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP), salbutamol and formoterol either alone or in combination on in vitro cultures of human bronchial fibroblasts.

Methods:  Fibroblasts were cultured in the presence of pro‐inflammatory and proliferative stimuli, BDP, salbutamol and formoterol. The effects of drugs on cell proliferation were ascertained by 3H‐thymidine incorporation. CD90 and CD44 expression were detected by flow cytometry and fibronectin secretion using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay technique.

Results:  This study showed that BDP alone has significant anti‐proliferative effects on lung fibroblasts treated with basic fibroblast growth factor and the combination of BDP with formoterol or salbutamol strengthen these effects. Short‐acting β2‐agonist (SABA) or long‐acting β2‐agonist (LABA) by themselves did not show any significant effect on the different cultures. CD44 and CD90 expression and fibronectin production were modulated by pro‐inflammatory and proliferative stimuli; the addition of the drugs brought them back near to the basal level.

Conclusions:  From this in vitro study, we can conclude that BDP, when combined with salbutamol or formoterol, exhibits enhanced anti‐remodelling activity in bronchial fibroblasts, providing new insights on the additive effects of ICS and SABAs and LABAs for asthma therapy.
Distinct association of genetic variations of vascular endothelial growth factor, transforming growth factor‐β, and fibroblast growth factor receptors with atopy and airway hyperresponsiveness
Authors: Park H.‐K. , Park H.W. , Jeon S.G. , Shin E.‐S. , Gho Y.S. , Cho S.‐H. , Kim Y.‐Y. , Kim Y.‐K.
Published: March 2008

Background:  Recent studies showed that high levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β1 in the airways reduced airway responsiveness, which was reversed in conditions of basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF2) deficiency, whereas high levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) enhanced airway sensitization to allergens and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR).

Objective:  We investigated the effect of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the VEGF, TGF‐β1, and FGF2 receptors on the expression of atopy and AHR in the general population.

Methods:  Atopy and AHR were evaluated in a cohort of 2055 children and adolescents. Direct sequencing was used to identify informative SNPs (minor allele frequency >5%) in the receptors of candidate genes. Tagging SNPs were scored using the high‐throughput single‐base pair extension method, and the statistical significance of these scores was assessed via haplotype analysis.

Results:  Informative SNPs were identified for VEGF receptors 1 (Flt‐1); TGF‐β receptor 3 (TGFBR3); and FGR receptors 1, 2, and 4 (FGFR1, FGFR2, and FGFR4), and 13 tagging SNPs were scored in the cohort. Atopy was significantly associated with haplotypes of TGFBR3, FGFR1, and FGFR2. Meanwhile, AHR was significantly associated with haplotypes of Flt‐1, FGFR1, and FGFR4. However, atopy was not associated with genetic variations of Flt‐1 and FGFR4, whereas AHR not associated with TGFBR3 and FGFR2.

Conclusion:  The expression of atopy and AHR is distinctly associated with genetic variations in VEGF, TGF‐β1, and FGFR in the Korean population.
Exosomes – nanovesicles with possible roles in allergic inflammation
Authors: Admyre C. , Telemo E. , Almqvist N. , Lötvall J. , Lahesmaa R. , Scheynius A. , Gabrielsson S.
Published: March 2008

Exosomes are nano‐sized membrane vesicles which are released extracellularly after fusion of multivesicular endosomes with the cell membrane. Despite their characteristic composition of proteins compared to the cell membrane, no exosome‐specific molecule has so far been characterized. Exosomes are found in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), urine, serum and breast milk, and are released from several cells implicated in allergy including mast cells, dendritic cells (DC), T cells and epithelial cells. Antigen‐loaded exosomes have been shown to be highly immunogenic and we propose that exosomes could be a modulating factor in allergic responses. Allergen‐presenting exosomes could transport allergen and stimulate allergen‐specific T cells, and possibly also biasing T cell responses depending on the molecules present on the exosome surface. Furthermore, exosomes from mast cells, highly active in allergic reactions, have been found to induce DC maturation and also to be able to transport functional RNA to recipient cells, suggesting a new pathway for cell communication. Reversely, tolerizing exosomes e.g. tolerosomes, from gut or breast milk, could block an allergic response or prevent allergy development. A better understanding of the role of exosomes in allergies could make us understand how allergy can be prevented or lead to the development of more efficient treatments.
Geohelminth infections: a review of the role of IgE and assessment of potential risks of anti‐IgE treatment
Authors: Cooper P. J. , Ayre G. , Martin C. , Rizzo J. A. , Ponte E. V. , Cruz A. A.
Published: March 2008

Geohelminth infections are major parasitic infections with a worldwide distribution. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is considered to play a central role in protective immunity against these parasites although the evidence from experimental animal models infected with helminth parasites and treated with anti‐IgE antibodies and from observational studies in human populations of the immunologic correlates of protective immunity against helminths do not support a critical role for IgE in mediating protection against helminths. Anti‐IgE treatment of human allergic disorders using a humanized monoclonal IgE antibody (omalizumab, Xolair) has been approved for clinical use in the USA and Europe and there is concern that this treatment may be associated with increased morbidity in populations exposed to helminth infections. A recently published randomized controlled trial investigating the risk of geohelminth infections in allergic patients receiving omalizumab in Brazil has provided some evidence that omalizumab may not be associated with increased morbidity attributable to these parasites. This review examines the evidence for a role of IgE in protective immunity against helminth parasites, discusses the findings of the randomized controlled trial, assesses the potential risks and provides recommendations for anti‐IgE treatment in groups of allergic patients with different exposure risks for helminth infections.
Identification of spore allergens from the indoor mould Aspergillus versicolor
Authors: Benndorf D. , Müller A. , Bock K. , Manuwald O. , Herbarth O. , Von Bergen M.
Published: March 2008

Background:  Indoor mould growth and dampness are associated with respiratory health effects and allergies and several studies demonstrated that mainly Aspergillus versicolor and Penicillium expansum are responsible for indoor mould exposure. In contrast, commercialized test systems to diagnose allergic reactions to this mould species are not available. In this study, allergenic proteins from spores of the indoor relevant species A. versicolor and P. expansum should get detected and identified.

Methods:  We used two‐dimensional (2D)‐gel electrophoresis of spore proteins and immunoblotting with sera from patients participating in an epidemiologic study about indoor exposure of moulds and their influence on the development of allergies (ESTERSPEGA). Sera were screened for IgE antibodies specific for proteins from A. versicolor, A. fumigatus and P. expansum in one‐dimensional blots and in 2D immunoblots. From the 2D gels, the corresponding spots were picked and identified by mass spectrometry.

Results:  More than 20 allergens from A. versicolor were identified; in particular, seven major allergens were selected, which were detected by more than 90% of the positive sera. The most abundant allergen was glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase, followed by an unnamed protein, which displays a high homology to sobitol/xylose reductase. The other allergens were identified as catalase A, hypothetical protein AN6918.2, enolase, hypothetical protein AN0297.2 and a protein with homology to a fungal malate dehydrogenase.

Conclusions:  The results indicate an important role of spore proteins from A. versicolor for sensitization against indoor moulds and identification of the major allergens might enable species‐specific diagnosis of allergic reactions.
Comparison of expression profiles induced by dust mite in airway epithelia reveals a common pathway
Authors: Vroling A. B. , Jonker M. J. , Breit T. M. , Fokkens W. J. , Drunen C. M. van
Published: March 2008

Background:  Airway epithelial cells have shown to be active participants in the defense against pathogens by producing signaling and other regulatory molecules in response to the encounter.

Methods:  In previous manuscripts, we have studied the effect of house dust mite (HDM) extract on both an epithelial cell‐line (H292) and primary nasal epithelial cell. When we compare these responses we conclude that the H292 cells more closely resemble nasal epithelium of healthy controls (share 107 probe‐sets) than of allergic individuals (share 17 probe‐sets).

Results:  Interestingly, probably because of an absent intraindividual variation between samples, more probe‐sets (8280) change expression significantly in H292 than in either healthy (555) or allergic (401) epithelium.

Conclusions:  A direct comparison of all the responses in these epithelial cells reveals a core‐response to HDM of just 29 genes. These genes (CCL20, IL‐8, CXCL2, CXCL1, IL‐1B, AREG, TNFAIP3, HBEGF, PTGS2, BMP2, LDLR, PLAUR, PLAU, NFKB2, NFKB1, JUN, ATF3, EGR1, NPC1, TICAM1, EPHA2, CTGF, DUSP1, SPRY1, TLR‐3, complement factor C3, IVNS1ABP, SerpinB3, and PSAT1) have described links with allergy or inflammation and may even describe the well‐established relationship between viral infections and allergic exacerbations or allergy development.
Urban/rural differences in diet and atopy in South Africa
Authors: Hooper R. , Calvert J. , Thompson R. L. , Deetlefs M. E. , Burney P.
Published: March 2008

Background:  There are large differences in the prevalence of atopic disease between urban and rural areas of developing countries, without good explanation. Diet has been associated with atopic disease, but studies of specific nutrients are contradictory, cross‐sectional studies often being unsupported by trials. We investigated diet as an explanation for the difference in the prevalence of atopy between urban and rural areas in South Africa.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional analysis of food frequency questionnaires and allergen skin tests from 698 children aged 8–13 years, recruited from 24 schools in Cape Province, South Africa, who were taking part in a case–control study of exercise‐induced bronchospasm. Food frequency data were analysed with a principal components analysis (PCA).

Results:  The first two principal components of diet explained 25% of the variance, and discriminated almost perfectly between urban and rural subjects. The ‘urban’ component of diet was strongly associated with positive skin tests even after adjusting for urban residence. There were no significant associations between individual foods or nutrients and positive skin tests, allowing for multiple testing.

Conclusions:  Diet explains part of the difference in prevalence between urban and rural areas. The ability to demonstrate this using PCA, but not by exhaustive analysis of all foods, reflects the value of reducing the number of dietary dimensions. The number of foods and nutrients which can be assessed, and the possibility of confounding and effect modification, make it difficult to identify the features of diet most directly implicated in disease. This may explain inconsistencies in dietary studies.
Embolic aspergillus endophthalmitis in an immunocompetent patient from aortic root aspergillus endocarditis
Authors: Rana Mrinal , Fahad Badia , Abid Qamar
Published: March 2008

We report the first case of endogenous aspergillus endophthalmitis in an immunocompetent person with systemic aortic root aspergillus endocarditis.
Synergistic action of starch and honey against Aspergillus niger in correlation with Diastase Number
Authors: Boukraâ Laïd , Benbarek Hama , Ahmed Moussa
Published: March 2008

To evaluate the synergistic action of starch on the antifungal activity of honey, a comparative method of adding honey with and without starch to culture media was used. Aspergillus niger was used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of five varieties of honey. In the second step, lower concentrations of honey than the MIC were incubated with a set of concentrations of starch and then added to media to determine the minimum synergistic inhibitory concentration (MSIC). The MIC for the five varieties of honey without starch against A. niger ranged between 46% and 50% (v/v). When starch was incubated with honey and then added to media, an MIC drop was noticed with each variety and it ranged between 6% and 19.5%. Negative correlation has been established between the MIC drop and the Diastase Number.
Transcription factor AP‐1 regulates TGF‐β1‐induced expression of aldose reductase in cultured human mesangial cells
Authors: JIANG TAO , QU JIE J , NISHINAKA TORU , ZHANG NONG
Published: March 2008

Aim: The previous studies demonstrated that transforming growth factor‐β1(TGF‐β1) could upregulate the expression of aldose reductase (AR). The aim of this study is to clarify (investigate) the mechanism of TGF‐β1‐induced AR expression.

Methods: Real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blot were used to analyse the AR expression in mRNA and protein levels in human mesangial cells, and reporter assay was used to analyse the function of various sites within 5′‐flanking region of AR gene in AR expression.

Results: TGF‐β1(4 ng/mL) stimulation could upregulate AR expression. The cells pretreated with pharmacological inhibitors, U0126 and PD98059 for blocking extracellular signal‐related kinase (ERK) signalling pathway or SP6000125 for blocking c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) signalling pathway, respectively, showed reduced expression of AR after TGF‐β1stimulation. Similarly, the cells transiently transfected with pCMVTAM67, which is an expression plasmid for DN‐c‐Jun showed decreasing AR expression. Reporter assay revealed that the 5′‐promoter region of AR consisting of an AP‐1 site and two putative antioxidant response elements (ARE) was responsible for TGF‐β1stimulation. Mutation of either ARE did not affect the promoter activity in the reporter assay while mutation of AP‐1 site caused a significant decrease in the responsiveness to TGF‐β1.

Conclusion: TGF‐β1upregulate AR expression in both mRNA and protein levels. The results demonstrated that ERK and JNK are involved in the downstream signalling pathways and transcription factor AP‐1 plays an important role in the regulation of TGF‐β1‐induced AR expression in mesangial cells.
Indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase in transplantation (Review Article)
Authors: MULLEY WILLIAM R , NIKOLIC‐PATERSON DAVID J
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY:  Indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase (IDO) is an interferon‐γ‐inducible intracellular enzyme which catalyses the catabolism of tryptophan. The effects of its activity are tryptophan deficiency, excess tryptophan breakdown products (kynurenines) and consumption of reactive oxygen species. Tryptophan deficiency and kynurenine excess have immunodulatory effects including suppressing lymphocyte responses particularly by sensitizing them to apoptosis, which is of interest in many fields of research, particularly transplantation. In several transplant models, increased IDO activity in transplanted cells has been demonstrated to have antirejection properties both in vitro and in vivo. Recently, CTLA4, whether membrane bound or in the form of the costimulation blocking agent, CTLA4Ig, was determined to have much of its effect via increased IDO activity in dendritic cells. This finding, coupled with the capacity of IDO competent dendritic cells to induce T‐regulatory cells through high levels of IDO activity, suggest a possible peripheral tolerogenic pathway with important implications for transplantation. Many other areas of transplantation in which IDO activity may be of benefit remain unexplored. In concert with experiments examining increased IDO activity for prolonged graft survival, studies continue to better define the pathophysiologic role of IDO. Understanding more clearly the implications of IDO activity on different cell types is allowing a more focused approach to determining if IDO has a role in generating transplantation tolerance.
Total and high molecular weight adiponectin concentrations in plasma of patients with end‐stage renal disease before and after peritoneal dialysis
Authors: PARK JAE‐HO , GIL HYO‐WOOK , YANG JONG‐OH , LEE EUN‐YOUNG , HONG SAE‐YONG
Published: March 2008

Background:  Adiponectin is an antiatherogenic adipocyte‐derived proteins. The level of plasma adiponectin is inversely correlated to cardiovascular risk in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD). The aim of this study was to elucidate the changes of adiponectin concentrations in newly diagnosed ESRD patients after peritoneal dialysis.

Methods:  In 16 newly diagnosed ESRD patients, total concentrations of adiponectin and high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin, the HMW ratio (HMWR; ratio of the plasma level of HMW adiponectin to that of total adiponectin), the body mass index (BMI), insulin concentrations, blood glucose and estimation of the insulin sensitivity index by the homeostasis model assessment (HOMRIR) were compared before and after 1 year of peritoneal dialysis.

Results:  Plasma total adiponectin was decreased from 15.52 ± 9.35 μg/mL to 11.80 ± 6.84 μg/mL (P = 0.046), HMW adiponectin was decreased from 9.05 ± 6.48 μg/mL to 4.83 ± 4.15 μg/mL (P = 0.009), and HMWR was decreased from 0.51 ± 0.18 to 0.35 ± 0.20 (P = 0.008). Total and HMW adiponectin/BMI ratio was decreased. The BMI was increased from 25.2 ± 5.7 to 25.8 ± 6.2 (P = 0.036). The HOMRIR, insulin level and lipid profile were not changed.

Conclusion:  Total adiponectin, HMW adiponectin and HMWR were decreased in newly diagnosed ESRD patients after 1 year of peritoneal dialysis. The factors that influence the decrease of the level of adiponectin should be studied in a larger prospective study.
Urinary kallikrein excretion is related to renal function change and inflammatory status in chronic kidney disease patients receiving angiotensin II receptor blocker treatment
Authors: CHIANG WEN‐CHIH , LIN SHUEI‐LIONG , CHEN YUNG‐MING , WU KWAN‐DUN , TSAI TUN‐JUN
Published: March 2008

Aim:  This study was to evaluate the correlation of urinary kallikrein to renal function, proteinuria and urinary cytokines in chronic kidney disease patients in a longitudinal follow up.

Method:  We measured urinary kallikrein and cytokines in 50 patients who were followed up for 12 months.

Results:  Using regression model we found that the kallikrein excretion (estimated by log kallikrein/creatinine) was positively correlated to log estimated glomerular filtration rate in the beginning and the end of follow up (P = 0.049 and 0.006, respectively). No correlation existed between kallikrein excretion and proteinuria. The kallikrein excretion decreased after 12 months of follow up, which was also associated with the decrease of log estimated glomerular filtration rate. There was a significant positive correlation between the log urinary kallikrein and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) concentration (correlation coefficient = 0.277; P = 0.049). Urinary kallikrein excretion was also positively correlated with serum MCP‐1 level (correlation coefficient = 0.431; P = 0.002). No correlation existed between urinary kallikrein and transforming growth factor β‐1 or tumour necrosis factor‐α concentration.

Conclusion:  Urinary kallikrein excretion is positively correlated to renal function, serum and urinary inflammatory mediator MCP‐1 in chronic kidney disease patients. These findings indicate that urinary kallikrein excretion may reflect the change of renal function and kidney inflammatory status.
Radiotherapy in rectal cancer: Is it time for change? A qualitative analysis of the national questionnaire survey of members of ACPGBI on preliminary CRO7 results
Authors: Srinivasaiah N. , Monson J. R.
Published: March 2008

Background  A national questionnaire survey on management of rectal cancer suggested that despite the evidence of the CRO7 trial supporting the use of neoadjuvant short‐course radiotherapy for operable rectal cancer, approximately two‐thirds of consultant surgeons in the UK still have to implement this treatment regime routinely. However, 39% of surgeons have changed their practice following the early dissemination of trial results. Change in clinical practice is driven by a number of factors.

Aim  To determine factors influencing changing clinical practice in the use of radiotherapy in rectal cancer.

Method  A 14‐item questionnaire was designed to inquire into the current management strategy of operable rectal cancer and the possible role of neoadjuvant radiotherapy. A postal questionnaire survey was sent to all the active consultant members of the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland. Data for this article have been drawn from the subset of results constituting the comments section in the questionnaire. Qualitative methodology was adopted to analyse the comments section.

Results  Of 400 questionnaires, 200 (50%) were returned completed. Of these, only 52 (26%) surgeons completed the comments section. Themes that emerged from thematic analysis were: Patient groups, Treatment, Evidence‐based practice (EBP), Professional consensus and Service provisions. The derived outcomes were: individualization of treatment, safer and less harmful treatment, increased role of multidisciplinary teams, need to increase awareness of the current evidence‐based literature, develop protocols and guidelines along with shortening the delay in implementing EBP and good service provisions.

Conclusion  In conclusion, change in practice is a slow and complex process influenced not only by data and scientific evidence, but also by a combination of other factors. Some of them are Clinical decision making, EBP/Education, Research Translation and Organizational factors with Infrastructure/Resources. Some of the above‐mentioned conclusions will aid the policy makers and the opinion leaders in the National Health Service (NHS).
Lessons for Sub‐Saharan Africa from Latin American Experience?
Authors: Helleiner G.K.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: There are many issue areas in which African policymakers and analysts may learn from Latin American experience. These include appropriate incentive structures, industrialization strategy, response to external shocks, anti‐inflation policies, policies on foreign direct investment, and economic integration. Comparisons of particular country experiences can also be useful if carefully made. Attention is called to the possibility of fruitful comparisons between specific Latin American countries' experiences and the current problems of Cameroun, Côte d'Ivoire, Kenya, Senegal, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Résumé: I1 y a maintenant de nombreux domaines oh les dirigeants et les analystes africains peuvent tirer des lecons de l'experience latino‐americaine. On peutciter, entre autres, des structures incitatives adoptees, une strategic del'industrialisation, une reponse aux chocs externes, les politiques de lutte contrel'inflation, les politiques concernant les investissements directs etrangers etl'integration economique. Des comparaisons des experiences particulieres de pays si elles sont soigneusement faites, peuvent egalement se reveler utiles.L'attention est attiree sur la possibilite de comparaisons fructueuses entre lesexperiences precises des pays dpmerique lathe et les problemes que connais‐sent actuellement le Cameroun, la C6te d'Ivoire, le Kenya, le Senegal, la Zambieet le Zimbabwe.
Reflections on the Market and the State in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Pickett James
Published: March 2008

Abstract:Until recently market forces were increasingly suspect and the economic role of the state was generally expanding. The state, however, is now suspect and the market resurgent. The question is still, however, one of balance. In sub‐Saharan Africa theory and the empirical evidence suggest that this should be struck in favour of the market. The state should look to the three duties Adam Smith assigned to the sovereign—defence, law and order, and the provision of public goods—and take seriously the task of enforcing competition. In this regard, good economics need not be bad politics.

Résumé:Jusque tout recemment, on faisait de moins en moins confiance auxforces du marche alors que le r6le economique de l'Etat s'accroissait de facon generale. Aujourd'hui, on soupconne toutefois 1'Etat. I1 s'agit cependant tou‐jours d'une question d'equilibre. En Afrique sub‐saharienne, la theorie et les faits empiriques indiquent que l'equilibre devrait s'etablir en faveur du marche.L'Etat devrait considerer les trois fonctions qu'Adam Smith a assignees au Souverain ‐ la defense, l'ordre public et la fourniture de biens publics ‐ etp rendre au serieux la tiche consistant a faire jouer la concurrence.
The Population Challenge in Africa and the Prospects for the African Development Bank's Intervention
Authors: Seya P.T.
Published: March 2008

Abstract:The paper advocates that unchecked population growth may lead to serious social and economic burdens in developing countries in general, and particularly in Africa. This position does not stem from the neo‐Malthusian perspective according to which population is mainly responsible for economic stagnation, nor does it derives from the «developmentalist» approach which perceives population as a neutral variable and development as the «best contraceptive». The theoretical stand advocated here is that population and development are intimately linked and strongly influence each other. Therefore, an attempt to foster economic growth and hopefully improve the standard of living of the people without taking into consideration the population factor would be as illusory as an attempt to control population without involving economic variables. Based on this epistemological perspective, prospects for the ADB's intervention in population sector have been assessed and suggestions for its sector policy made.

Résumé:Le document preconise que la croissance demographique non maitrisee peut imposer de lourdes contraintes sociales et economiques sur les pays en voie de developpement en general et l'Afrique en particulier. Cette attitude ne resulte pas de la perspective neo‐malthusienne selon laquelle la population est principalement responsable de la stagnation economique, ni de l'approche « developpementaliste » qui percoit la population comme une variable neutre et developpement comme le « meilleur contraceptif ». Le point de vue theorique exprime ici est que population et developpement sont intimement lies et exercent une grande influence l'une sur l'autre. En consequence, une action visant a promouvoir la croissance economique et ameliorer, peut‐Ctre, le niveau de vie des populations sans tenir compte du facteur demographique serait aussi illusoire qu'une action visant la regulation de la population sans prendre en consideration les variables economiques. Sur la base de cette perspective epistemologique, les perspectives pour l'intervention de la BAD dans le secteur de la population ont ete evaluees et des recommandations faites pour sa politique sectorielle.
L'essor de l'agriculture ivoirienne: Facteurs explicatifs, limites du modèle
Authors: Etounga‐Manguelle Daniel
Published: March 2008

Résumé: Les performances exceptionnelles de l'agriculture d'exportation en C6te‐d'Ivoire, notamment en ce qui concerne le cafe et le cacao, justifient, face a stagnation observee dans d'autres pays africains, que l'on s'interroge sur les raisons de ce succes. Pour ce faire, l'etude analyse les lignes de force de la politique agricole suivie par le pays depuis la colonisation et degage les facteurs explicatifs de la croissance fulgurante de la production enregistree sans discontinuite entre 1960 et 1988. Parallelement, l'etude souligne les aspects negatifs de cette politique dont les consequences sont importantes au niveau de la realisation de l'objectif d'autosuffisance alimentaire du pays et de la preservation du patrimoine forestier, et montre les limites d'un modele de developpement dont seuls quelques aspects sont exportables.

Abstract: Considering the stagnation in other African countries, it is worth looking for the reasons for the exceptional performance in cash crops production, particularly coffee and cocoa, in Côte d'Ivoire. In this regard, the study analyses the agricultural policy followed by the country since the colonial era and gives reasons for the spectacular and unbroken production growth between 1960 and 1988. The study also deals with the negative aspects of this policy, the consequencies of which are serious with regard to the attainment of the objective of food self‐sufficiency and preservation of the forest, and shows the limitations of a development model of which only a few aspects are exportable.
Optimal Hedging Under Price, Quantity and Exchange Rate Uncertainty
Authors: Kamgaing Moyo C.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: This paper derives an optimal hedging strategy for a primary producer under price, quantity and exchange rate uncertainty. In this model, it is assumed that the producer is a mean‐variance maximizer with an exponential utility function. The derived optimal hedge ratio for the commodity is proportional to the coefficient of the commodity futures prices bias in a linear regression where revenue uncertainty is the dependent variable. This ratio differs from the result that would have been obtained under price‐quantity uncertainty when revenues are significantly correlated with the exchange rate variability, thereby suggesting that the foreign exchange risk is relevant only when the commodity exposure is unhedged.

The model is empirically tested using Côte‐d'Ivoire, Ghana and Nigeria as cocoa producers and the US Dollar and the French Franc as currencies of numeraire to hedge UK Pound revenues. The resulting cocoa hedge ratios range from 78 to 57 percent. For Ghana and the Côte‐d'Ivoire, there is little correlation between revenue and exchange rate variability. Therefore, the cocoa ratio is not significantly affected by the introduction of this additional source of uncertainty and the currency ratio in the joint hedge is trivial for both the dollar and the franc. Nigeria's revenues are correlated to the dollar and the cocoa ratio is de facto lowered by the currency effect in a joint cocoa‐dollar hedge.

Résumé: Cet article presente un modele de couverture optimale a terme contre les risques conjoints de prix, de quantite et de change pour un producteur de matieres premieres dont l'objectif est de maximiser ses revenus. Le taux de couverture optimal est proportionnel au coeficent obtenu dans une regression simple des revenus ou le biais des prix a terme est la variable independente. Ce taux ne direre de celui obtenu dans un modele d'incertitude prix‐quantite que lorsque l'incertitude de quantite est correlee a celle de change. Ceci suggere a contrario qu'une couverture optimale du risque des prix de matieres premieres permet en meme temps de parer au risque de change.
Scientific Co‐Operation for Development in Africa
Authors: Bwisa Henry M.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: It is generally accepted that the developed nations of the world are readily distinguished from the developing nations by their higher levels of scientific and technological developments. In this particular respect Africa has yet to build a scientific and technological base that will see her solve economic problems now prevailing on the continent.

This paper uses detailed statistics to look at and analyse the major economic problems, in the opinion of the author, facing Africa today. One of the methods adopted by many nations on the continent to solve these problems, namely foreign aid, is briefly assessed. The author goes on to suggest that a long term solution could be investment in science and technology.

The general state of science and technology in Africa is reviewed. The author finally suggests a research organisational model for the development of a national technology base; and argues that a pre‐requisite for continental co‐operation in science and technology is national developments of the same.

Résume

II est généralement admis que les nations développées du monde se distinguent aisément des nations en développement par leur niveau de développement scientifique et technologique plus élevé. A cet égard notament, I'Afrique n'a pas encore posé le fondement scientifique et technologique qui lui permettra de résudre les problé le économiques qu'selle connait actuellement.

Le présent doucument se fonde sur des statistiques détaillées pour analyser les problémes économiques majeurs qui, de l'avis de l'auteur, se posent á I Afique aujourd'hui. L'une des solutions adoptees par nombre de pays africains pour résourdre ces probleémes, á savoir l'aide extérieure, est briévement évaluée. L'sauteur indique ensuite qu'une solutins à long terme pourrait étre l'investissement dans la science et la technologie.

L auteur procéde à l'exmen de la situation d'ensemble de la science et de la technogie en Afrique. II propose finalement un modéle organisationnnel de recherche pour le développement d'une base techonologique natinale; et que le développement de la science et de la technologie au niveau national est le preéalable à une coopération à l'echelkle du continent dans ces domaines.
Foreign Exchange Management and Allocation Systems in Developing Countries: Lessons of the African Experience
Authors: Mwase Ngila
Published: March 2008

Abstract:This paper reviews various foreign exchange management and allocation systems in developing countries, with particular reference to recent experiences in Africa. In view of these experiences, it proposes an administrative system of exchange rate determination and foreign exchange distribution, through a competitive bidding process.

Résumé:Cet aritcle qui passe en revue les différents systémes de gestion et d'allocation de devises ayant cours dans les pays en développement, a pour point focal l'expérience récente des pays africains dans ce domaine. En s'inspirant de cette expérience, l'auteur propose un systéme adiministratif permetant de déterminer le taus de change et de répartir les ressorces en devises parun processus d'appel à la concurrence.
Government Pay Policies and Structural Adjustment
Authors: Schiller Christian
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The paper provides an overview of the main elements of pay systems that are typically used to remunerate government employees and, with reference to the experience of developed and developing countries, discusses structural issues frequently arising in the formulation of government pay policies:

the role of fringe benefits in the compensation system;

the pros and cons of a greater merit orientation in the pay system and of special pay schemes designed to remunerate staff at the professional and managerial level; and

factors determining internal pay differentials with special emphasis on the compressig effect of flat amount cost of living adjustments.

Résumé: Le présent document fournit un apercu général des principaux éléments des systémes de paie qui sont habituellement utilisés pour rémunérer les fonctionnaires de l'Etat et avec une référence à l'expérience des pays développés et des pays en développement; il examine les problémes structurels souvent posés dans la foumulation des politiques de paie du gouvernement:(1)le rÔle des avantages de fonction dans le systéme de compensation(2) les avantages et inconvénients d'une plus grande orientaion du mérite dans le systéme de paie et des plans de paiements spéciaus en vue de rémunérer le personnel professionnel et de direction; et (3) les facteurs qui déterminent les différenciations de salaire interne, avec un accent particulier sur l'effet de réduction des ajustements forfaitaires du coÛt de la vie.
Structural Adjustment Programmes in Sub‐Saharan Africa: Evolution of Approaches
Authors: Quarcoo Philip K.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: This study examines the strategies and approaches adopted in SAPs in sub‐Saharan Africa over the 1980s in order to draw lessons for determining the feasible and desirable SAP over the 1990s in this sub‐region. It reviews the underlying theory and objectives behind such strategies and presents some evidence of actual programmes implemented. There are three main sections. Section I covers the visible symptoms of the structural imbalances and the corresponding policy implications. Section II examines the invisible structural constraints and their associated orthodox SAP prescriptions. The final section focuses on the case for adjustment with the human face and considers various alternative programmes initiated by different agencies to achieve that objective.

résumeacute;

Cette étude examine les stratégies et les approches adoptées dans les programmes d'ajustement structure] (PAS) en Afrique subsaharienne dans les années 80 afin de tirer des leçons pour établir les PAS qu'il est possible et souhaitable de mettre en application dans cette sous‐région dans les années 90. Elle comprend trois sections principales. la section I couvre les symptômes visibles des désétquilibres structurels et des incidences correspondantes au niveau des politiques suivies. La section I1 examine les contraintes structurelles invisibles et les remédes orthodoxes associés PAS qui sont prescrits. La dernière section met I'accent sur l'argument en faveur d'un ajustement a visage humain et considére diverses variantes de programmes initiés par différents organismes pour atteindre cet objectif.