bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green products and corporate strategy: an empirical investigation
Authors: D'Souza Clare , Taghian Mehdi , Lamb Peter , Peretiatkos Roman
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine the influence of multiple factors on the green purchase intention of customers in Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is proposed and was subjected to empirical verification with the use of a survey of metropolitan and regional households in Victoria, Australia. The data were analyzed using both descriptive measures and exploratory factor analysis to identify and validate the items contributing to each component in the model. AMOS structural modeling was used to estimate the measure of respondents' overall perception of green products and their intention to purchase.

Findings

The results indicate that customers' corporate perception with respect to companies placing higher priority on profitability than on reducing pollution and regulatory protection were the significant predictors of customers' negative overall perception toward green products. The only positive contribution to customers' perception was their past experience with the product. Other factors including the perception of green products, product labels, packaging, and product ingredients did not appear to influence customers' perception. The results also indicate that customers are not tolerant of lower quality and higher prices of green products.

Research limitations/implications

The knowledge of the overall perception formation about green products and its predictors provides management with the facility to identify and implement strategies that may better influence the change of attitude by customers. Corporations can also benefit from the identification of the types of information required to enable management to influence this process of perception formation.

Originality/value

The present findings contributes to an understanding of the antecedents of green purchasing and highlight that green customers rely more on personal experience with the product than the information provided by the marketer.
Culture and transformational change with China's accession to the WTO
Authors: Yolles Maurice , Iles Paul , Guo Kaijun
Published: July 2006

Purpose

China is passing through transformational change from membership of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), and this requires an understanding of knowledge processes and of how action research approaches to organizational development (OD) can lead to effective knowledge migration. The paper seeks to provide an example of such an approach, based on social viable systems (SVS) theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Illustration of the problems of WTO will be indicated. Approaches to OD in China based on action research perspectives may be particularly suitable to helping Chinese organisations deal with transformational change.

Findings

A new model of action research that draws on SVS theory is discussed, and an illustration of a structured approach to inquiry is provided. It is hypothesised that such an approach may well be compatible with features of Chinese business culture (e.g. long‐term focus, pragmatism, collectivism, moderate masculinity, face, lack of comfort with face‐to‐face criticism).

Research/limitations/implications

This is a conceptual paper, developing a model for use/testing in the Chinese context. Further empirical research is need to validate the usefulness of the model.

Originality/value

Suggests that action research/action learning approaches are particularly useful in China to transfer/migrate knowledge and help organisations deal with transformational change, such as that consequent on globalisation and WTO accession. Approaches based on SVS theory are seen as particularly useful if dialogue is structured to enhance “semantic entanglement”.
Egypt and the investment development path
Authors: Bonaglia Federico , Goldstein Andrea
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Aims to analyze the process of internationalization of multinational corporations from emerging economies, and more broadly test the investment development path (IDP) hypothesis for Egypt.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of data analysis and company case studies to assess to what extent and how Egyptian companies are internationalizing. The theoretical background is the IDP hypothesis, according to which the net outward investment position of a country depends on its level of development.

Findings

The paper highlights how poor investment climate and broader geopolitical motives receive limited foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, while outward FDI limited in size and scope. Despite this climate, the two multinational corporations have successfully expanded abroad, following different strategies.

Research limitations/implications

Data limitations and the limited size of outward FDI prevent a statistical testing of the IDP hypothesis, for example, by regressing the net FDI position on GDP, utilizing a quadratic specification to allow for the non‐linearity in the relationship.

Practical implications

The paper concludes by pointing to the importance of promoting corporate internationalization throughout an active policy to make the business environment more conducive to risk‐taking, instead of rent‐seeking, behaviours.

Originality/value

This paper covers Egypt, an under‐researched country in an under‐researched area (North Africa).
Venture capital as a method of financing enterprise development in Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: Klonowski Darek
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper aims to increase the understanding of the venture capital industry in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) by examining the venture capital industry in Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia between 1998 and 2003. Even though the number of academic studies focusing on the venture capital activities in the CEE region has been increasing in recent years, the coverage of this industry is relatively weak and not well understood by individuals, businesses, and academics.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focuses on the analysis of secondary data available from the European Venture Capital Association on venture capital activities in the CEE region. The paper examines three key statistics that best describe the venture capital process, namely fundraising, investing, and exiting activities.

Findings

The study has three conclusions. First, venture capital financing continues to be a major source of capital to the developing firms in the region. Second, Poland is the market leader in the region in the venture capital activities as described by key statistics. Third, the countries of CEE cannot be treated as a homogeneous block.

Originality/value

The study is important for two reasons. First, the study focuses on longitudinal data between 1998 and 2003, the most important period in the development of the industry. Shifts in trends in these key statistics can only be observed by analyzing longer‐term data series. Second, the evolution of the venture capital industry in the analyzed countries could be used as a blueprint for venture capital development in other countries in the region.
The tropical waste dilemma: waste management in Panama
Authors: Linowes Richard , Brown Hupert Mollie
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The Panamanian Government wants to spur economic development along the shores of the Panama Canal, but inadequate waste disposal capabilities discourage substantial investment. Squatters and scavengers now also live on the largest landfill in the area and their living conditions pose serious public health risks to the entire region. Unchecked trash disposal actually threatens the physical operation of the Panama Canal, essential to the country's and world economy, because clogged rivers and streams prevent the flow of water required to move ships through this passageway connecting Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. A governmental task force is charged with addressing these problems and they have summoned a team of American consultants to recommend an action plan for modernizing and improving the waste management system of the entire inter‐oceanic region. This paper aims to examine this.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through field research.

Findings

In their research, the IDG consultants found that the typical urban Panamanian had a casual attitude towards waste. Littering was common practice. The waste management industry all over the world seemed to have its share of shady deals, corruption and scavenger activity coupled with atrocious living conditions. The Panamanian situation was no different. The IDG team struggled with the issues and their recommendations for recycling and waste management along the Panama Canal. The four Panamanian governmental representatives would have ultimate authority in deciding whether to implement their recommended course of action.

Practical implications

This field‐based case study explores the range of public and private institutions that might play a role in resolving the waste management problems of the country.

Originality/value

The paper is case study of environmental issues in an emerging market.
Application of a simulation algorithm to a specific liquid propellant engine with experimental verification
Authors: Karimi Hassan , Nassirharand Amir
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply a new systematic simulation approach to an existing liquid propellant engine.

Design/methodology/approach

The simulation approach is based on following the liquids (oxidizer and fuel) in their respective paths. The nonlinear dynamic model of the engine is composed of implicit nonlinear algebraic equations coupled with a set of differential equations. The model is solved by placing the implicit nonlinear algebraic equations in a set of nested Newton‐Raphson loops followed by numerical integration of the differential equations using a first‐order Euler technique.

Findings

It is found that the simulation algorithm may successfully be applied to an operating point model to predict the steady‐state values with errors under 10 percent. These results indicate that such engine models may be used to design reiable robust engine control systems because a robust control system design would allow for about 20 percent discrepancy between the model and the actual case.

Research limitations/implications

At present, the research is limited to liquid propellant engines that are modeled by a set of implicit nonlinear algebraic equations coupled with a set of differential equations; engine models that are entirely modeled by differential equations are subject of future research.

Practical implications

The major outcome of this research is that verifies liquid engines may be simulated by the novel idea of following the engine liquids in their respective paths.

Originality/value

This is the first paper that adapts an existing simulation algorithm for simulation of the specific liquid engine under study with experimental verification.
Matters for judgement: some thoughts on method in management history
Authors: Lamond David
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper reflects on some aspects of method in management history and the importance of the self‐reflection on their world‐view that must accompany authors' endeavours, in order to be articulated in the matters they proffer for the reader's judgement.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the insights proffered by Evans about how to study, research, write about and read history, this paper offers some thoughts on the importance of giving due consideration to method in management history.

Findings

Thomas Hobbes observed that “Out of our conception of the past, we make a future.” It behoves us then, as managers and management scholars, to be satisfied that our conceptions of the past are developed in ways that, as far as possible, avoid the problems that would make them less than useful in creating that future. This paper identifies some of the issues of which those seeking to create the future must be cognisant.

Originality/value

If knowing accurately the history of management thought is of importance to scholars and practitioners, then this paper alerts practitioners and commentators to the need for a sound method in producing, and learning from, the lessons of management history.
Fadotomy – anatomy of the transformation of a fad into a management paradigm
Authors: Towill Denis R.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide a methodology for determining how and when a management fad has become an established paradigm.

Design/methodology/approach

The penticulation approach compares the outputs from the five separate research sources of horizontal surveys, experiential rules‐of‐thumb, theoretical models, quick scan audits, and vertical case studies.

Findings

The total cycle time compression (TCTC) paradigm is supported both individually and collectively by the five data sources which can be related to Kuhnsian requirements.

Research limitations/implications

Penticulation is a unique approach to establishing if a paradigm actually exists. However, this is its first known application.

Practical implications

It is manifest that TCTC can be used as both a business process engineering objective, and subsequently as a prime performance metric.

Originality/value

The output is twofold. Penticulation is a new approach to paradigm testing, and our understanding of the TCTC principle has been further strengthened.
Cytotoxicity of clove (Syzygium aromaticum) oil and its major components to human skin cells
Authors: Prashar A. , Locke I. C. , Evans C. S.
Published: July 2006

Abstract.  The essential oil extracted from clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is used as a topical application to relieve pain and promote healing in herbal medicine and also finds use in the fragrance and flavouring industries. Clove oil has two major components, eugenol and β‐caryophyllene, which constitute 78% and 13% of the oil, respectively. Clove oil and these components are generally recognized as ‘safe’, but the in‐vitro study here demonstrates cytotoxic properties of both the oil and eugenol, towards human fibroblasts and endothelial cells. Clove oil was found to be highly cytotoxic at concentrations as low as 0.03% (v/v) with up to 73% of this effect attributable to eugenol. β‐caryophyllene did not exhibit any cytotoxic activity, indicating that other cytotoxic components may also exist within the parent oil.
Allergen, bradykinin, and capsaicin increase outward but not inward macromolecular permeability of guinea‐pig tracheobronchial mucosa
Authors: ERJEFÄLT I. , PERSSON C. G. A.
Published: July 2006

When inflammatory stimuli are applied on the airway mucosa, plasma is promptly extravasated from the subepithelial microvessels. The plasma exudate distributes in the lamina propria and much of it is soon transmitted across the epithelial lining. The rapid luminal entry of large plasma solutes must reflect a dramatic change in mucosal permeability. Previously it has been thought that such a perviousness of the mucosal barrier would be bidirectional in nature. This study in anaesthetized guinea‐pigs examines whether absorption across the mucosa is increased (above control) during, and immediately after, the plasma exudation process. An oral catheter, introduced into the tracheal lumen, was used to superfuse the lower airways with 0.04 ml of a solution containing the absorption tracer 131I‐albumin and a selected dose of a provocating agent: allergen, 3 pmol (ovalbumin in IgE‐sensitized animals); bradykinin. 5 nmol; capsaicin, 0.4 nmol; or carbachol, 8 nmol. The superfusate had a desired distribution on the tracheobronchial mucosa so that specific airway and not bronchoalveolar exudation: absorption ratios could be determined. In separate experiments it was confirmed that the present provocations, except carbachol (P > 0.05), moved significant amounts of plasma into the airway lumen (P < 0.001). This was distinctly an increase in the outward mucosal permeability because the absorption of luminal 131I‐albumin into circulating plasma was not significantly different from control with any of the provocations (P > 0.05). The present data support our notion that unfiltered plasma exudates can operate on the mucosal surface, in first‐line defence reactions, without compromising the integrity of the epithelial lining as a barrier to luminal material.
Obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Barber T. M. , McCarthy M. I. , Wass J. A. H. , Franks S.
Published: July 2006

The aetiology of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is complex and multifactorial. There is much evidence, however, to suggest that adipose tissue plays an important role in the development and maintenance of PCOS pathology. There is a close correlation between adiposity and symptom severity in women with PCOS, and even modest reductions in weight generally translate into significant improvements in menstrual regularity, fertility and hyperandrogenic features. This review article considers the various mechanisms that might underlie this link between excess adiposity and PCOS – including the effects of differential insulin sensitivity, abnormal steroid hormone metabolism and adipocytokine secretion. Greater attention to the therapeutic options available to reduce the impact of excess adiposity on ovarian and metabolic function is essential to the management of PCOS.
Stocks and dynamics of SOC in relation to soil redistribution by water and tillage erosion
Authors: ZHANG JIANHUI , QUINE TIMOTHY A. , NI SHIJUN , GE FANGLONG
Published: July 2006

Soil organic carbon (SOC) displaced by soil erosion is the subject of much current research and the fundamental question, whether accelerated soil erosion is a source or sink of atmospheric CO2, remains unresolved. A toposequence of terraced fields as well as a long slope was selected from hilly areas of the Sichuan Basin, China to determine effects of soil redistribution rates and processes on SOC stocks and dynamics. Soil samples for the determination of caesium‐137 (137Cs), SOC, total N and soil particle size fractions were collected at 5 m intervals along a transect down the two toposequences.137Cs data showed that along the long slope transect soil erosion occurred in upper and middle slope positions and soil deposition appeared in the lower part of the slope. Along the terraced transect, soil was lost over the upper parts of the slopes and deposition occurred towards the downslope boundary on each terrace, resulting in very abrupt changes in soil redistribution over short distances either side of terrace boundaries that run parallel with the contour on the steep slopes. These data reflect a difference in erosion process; along the long slope transect, water erosion is the dominant process, while in the terraced landscape soil distribution is mainly the result of tillage erosion. SOC inventories (mass per unit area) show a similar pattern to the137Cs inventory, with relatively low SOC content in the erosional sites and high SOC content in depositional areas. However, in the terraced field landscape C/N ratios were highest in the depositional areas, while along the long slope transect, C/N ratios were highest in the erosional areas. When the samples are subdivided based on137Cs‐derived erosion and deposition data, it is found that the erosional areas have similar C/N ratios for both toposequences, while the C/N ratios in depositional areas are significantly different from each other. These differences are attributed to the difference in soil erosion processes; tillage erosion is mainly responsible for high‐SOC inventories at depositional positions on terraced fields, whereas water erosion plays a primary role in SOC storage at depositional positions on the long slope. These data support the theory that water erosion may cause a loss of SOC due to selective removal of the most labile fraction of SOC, while on the other hand tillage erosion only transports the soil over short distances with less effect on the total SOC stock.
Designing ubiquitous computing to enhance children's learning in museums
Authors: Hall T. , Bannon L.
Published: July 2006

Abstract
In recent years, novel paradigms of computing have emerged, which enable computational power to be embedded in artefacts and in environments in novel ways. These developments may create new possibilities for using computing to enhance learning. This paper presents the results of a design process that set out to explore interactive techniques, which utilized ubiquitous computer technology, to stimulate active participation, involvement and learning by children visiting a museum. Key stakeholders, such as museum curators and docents, were involved throughout the process of creating the exhibition, Re‐Tracing the Past, in the Hunt Museum, Limerick, Ireland. The paper describes aspects of the evaluation of the exhibition, which involved 326 schoolchildren (ages 9–12‐year‐old), and which exemplifies important features of the design and use of the novel technology in the museum. The paper concludes by articulating a series of design guidelines for developing ubiquitous computing to enhance children's learning in museums. These guidelines relate 12 experiential criteria to five supporting design informants and resources. The guidelines encompass important dimensions of children's educational experience in museums, including collaboration, engagement, active interpretation, and materiality. While developed in a museum context, these guidelines could be applied to the development of novel computing to enhance children's learning in other educational environments, both formal and informal.
Susceptibility of marine fish species to a megalocytivirus, turbot iridovirus, isolated from turbot, Psetta maximus (L.)
Authors: Oh M‐J , Kitamura S‐I , Kim W‐S , Park M‐K , Jung S‐J , Miyadai T , Ohtani M
Published: July 2006

Turbot iridovirus (TBIV), a member of the genus Megalocytivirus in the family Iridoviridae, was isolated from diseased turbot, Psetta maximus (L.), in Korea in 2003. In this study, experimental infection of turbot, Japanese flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus (Temminck & Schlegel), and rock bream, Oplegnathus fasciatus (Temminck & Schlegel), with TBIV was performed to evaluate the viral susceptibility of these fish species. After virus exposure, the mortalities of turbot reared at 22 and 25 °C were 60% and 100%, respectively, suggesting that TBIV is the causative agent of the mass mortality of turbot that occurred in Korea in 2003. Moreover, TBIV was detected in Japanese flounder and rock bream by polymerase chain reaction after experimental infection (26 days post‐inoculation) despite no viral pathogenicity in these fish, suggesting that these two fish species are also susceptible to the virus. It is possible that horizontal transmission of TBIV occurs among these three fish species because turbot is routinely cultured with Japanese flounder and rock bream in Korea.
Navigating uncharted water: research ethics and emotional engagement in human inquiry
Authors: KIDD J. , FINLAYSON M.
Published: July 2006

Sensitive research necessitates routine ethical practices of confidentiality, anonymity and worthiness. However, when co‐constructing narratives with participants, the nurse researcher also faces unexplored ethical issues that arise out of the emotional intensity and professional responsibility inherent in the relationship. Such issues may be recognized and managed using clinical supervision in addition to academic supervision. Researcher vulnerability adds depth and complexity to human inquiry.
Virus tropism, distribution, persistence and pathology in the corpus callosum of the Semliki Forest virus‐infected mouse brain: a novel system to study virus–oligodendrocyte interactions
Authors: Fazakerley J. K. , Cotterill C. L. , Lee G. , Graham A.
Published: July 2006

The temporal course of cellular pathology in virus‐infected oligodendrocytes in vivo is not well defined. Here we study these events in the mouse brain using a novel system in which large numbers of oligodendrocytes can be reproducibly infected. In the mouse, following extraneural inoculation, the A7(74) strain of the alphavirus Semliki Forest virus (SFV) is efficiently neuroinvasive and central nervous system (CNS) infection leads to predominantly perivascular lesions of immune‐mediated demyelination. This study demonstrates that direct intracerebral inoculation with SFV A7(74) or the SFV1 vector results in dramatic, selective and widespread infection of the major white matter tract of the brain, the corpus callosum. Mature oligodendrocytes are the predominant cell type infected. Subsequent events are complex; early virus‐induced necrotic death of infected cells is followed by apoptotic death of adjacent apparently uninfected cells. A strong inflammatory response and considerable myelin loss are evident from 10 days and virus‐positive cells are not observed after this time. In contrast, in athymic nu/nu mice, in the absence of T‐cell responses, no inflammatory infiltrates are observed and virus‐infected cells persist for over 30 days with extensive vacuolation but less demyelination. The change from an early destructive to a potentially persistent infection of oligodendrocytes is likely to reflect activation of innate immune responses. Activation of peripheral innate defences by inoculation of poly I : C prior to CNS virus infection abrogates the widespread corpus callosum infection. This widespread infection of the corpus callosum provides a novel in vivo system in which to study virus–oligodendrocyte interactions.
Worms and allergy
Authors: CARVALHO E. M. , BASTOS L. S. , ARAÚJO M. I.
Published: July 2006

Worms and asthma are associated with a type 2 immune response, but evidence has accumulated that helminth infection is negatively associated with atopy, prevalence of allergic diseases and severity of asthma. One important difference between these polarized type 2 responses is that in allergy modulation of the immunological response is not appropriate, whereas in infection with helminths, several host mechanisms down‐regulate the host immune response. As a result, patients infected with worms have a decrease in both type 1 and type 2 responses. The main mechanism involved in this down‐modulation is increased production of IL‐10, but expansion of regulatory T cells and NKT cells may also participate. Regarding the interaction between worms and allergy, a few variables need to be taken in account: phase (acute or chronic) of helminth infection, parasite load and species of helminth. In animals and humans, acute helminth infection may increase manifestations of allergy, whereas chronic infection with parasites decreases atopy. The modulation of the immune response by helminths is dependent on having an adequate parasite load. Moreover, although several helminth species have been shown to modulate immune responses, most in vitro and in vivo studies have focused on the importance of Schistosoma mansoni in down‐modulating allergic reactions.
CD62L is Required for the Priming of Encephalitogenic T Cells but does not Play a Major Role in the Effector Phase of Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Li O. , Liu J.‐Q. , Zhang H. , Zheng P. , Liu Y. , Bai X.‐F.
Published: July 2006

CD62L (l‐selectin, mel 14) regulates naïve T cell homing into lymph nodes and the migration of leucocytes to sites of inflammation. The requirement of CD62L in the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis, has been demonstrated previously. However, it remains controversial as to whether CD62L is required for the induction or the effector phase of EAE. It is also unclear whether other non‐T effector cells need CD62L to enter the central nervous system (CNS) parenchyma and exert their damaging effects on myelin. We report that mice with a targeted mutation of CD62L are resistant to Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein peptide‐induced EAE. CD62L‐deficient mice had no peptide‐specific T cell responses in the draining lymph nodes and had lower levels of peptide‐specific T cell responses in spleens at a later time point. Adoptive transfer studies showed that CD62L‐deficient mice were fully susceptible to adoptive transfer EAE induced by either wildtype or CD62L‐deficient T cells. Moreover, CD62L‐deficient, F4/80+ macrophages can be efficiently recruited into the CNS parenchyma. These data suggest that CD62L is required for the induction of encephalitogenic T cells during EAE development, but is not required by T and non‐T effector cells to attack the CNS parenchyma.
Oestrogen receptor evaluation in Pomeranian dogs with hair cycle arrest (alopecia X) on melatonin supplementation
Authors: Frank Linda A. , Donnell Robert L. , Kania Stephen A.
Published: July 2006

The role of oestrogen receptors in dogs with hair cycle arrest (alopecia X) was investigated by immunohistochemistry. The purpose of this study was to determine if hair regrowth in dogs with hair cycle arrest treated with melatonin was associated with a decrease in follicular oestrogen receptors. Fifteen Pomeranians (excluding intact females) with hair cycle arrest were enrolled. Two biopsies were obtained from alopecic areas of the trunk before and after 3 months on melatonin. Haematoxylin and eosin‐stained tissues were examined and oestrogen receptor‐α was demonstrated immunohistochemically. Common histopathological findings included hyperkeratosis, follicular keratosis, excessive tricholemmal keratinization (flame follicles), thin epidermis, few small anagen bulbs, epidermal pigmentation and melanin aggregates within follicular keratin. Melanin aggregates within basal cells and hair were an occasional finding. After 3 months, 40% (six) dogs had mild to moderate hair regrowth. Biopsies from six dogs showed histological evidence of an increase in anagen hairs and eight dogs had a decrease in epidermal pigmentation. Moderate to marked staining intensity of oestrogen receptor‐α was noted in all sebaceous gland basal cells, all small hair bulbs and follicular epithelium of telogen hairs. There was no oestrogen receptor‐α staining of nuclei within the epidermis, apocrine glands or dermal fibroblasts. Large anagen hair bulbs had minimal to no oestrogen receptor staining. Hair regrowth was not associated with a change in oestrogen receptor‐α staining.
Efficacy of imiquimod 5% cream in the treatment of equine sarcoids: a pilot study
Authors: Nogueira Sandra A. F. , Torres Sheila M. F. , Malone Erin D. , Diaz Sandra F. , Jessen Carl , Gilbert Sophie
Published: July 2006

Imiquimod is an immune response modifier with potent antiviral and antitumour activity. The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the efficacy of an imiquimod 5% cream (Aldara™: 3M, Saint Paul, MN, USA) as a topical treatment for equine sarcoids. Fifteen horses with a total of 19 tumours were enrolled, including mixed (7), fibroblastic (5), flat (3), verrucous (2), and nodular (2) types. Baseline data included history, physical examination, tumour location, measurement and digital photography. Imiquimod was applied by the owners three times a week until complete resolution of the tumour or 32 weeks, whichever occurred first. Tumours were measured and photographed every 4 weeks. Treatment efficacy was defined as 75% or greater reduction of tumour size by the end of the trial. Four sarcoids were withdrawn from the study. Twelve of the remaining 15 tumours (80%) showed more than 75% reduction in size and nine (60%) totally resolved between 8 and 32 weeks. The most common adverse effects of exudation, erythema, erosions, depigmentation and alopecia were limited to the tumour and adjacent areas. The results suggest that topical imiquimod is a therapeutic option for the treatment of equine sarcoids, although more detailed studies are required to corroborate these initial findings.
CD34 glycoprotein identifies putative stem cells located in the isthmic region of canine hair follicles
Authors: Pascucci Luisa , Mercati Francesca , Gargiulo Anna Maria , Pedini Vera , Sorbolini Silvia , Ceccarelli Piero
Published: July 2006

It is widely documented that a pool of multipotent stem cells located in humans and mice hair follicle outer root sheath (bulge region) is involved in the restoration of the whole follicular unit during each anagen phase. To the authors’ knowledge, data regarding the location and characterization of hair follicle stem compartment in dogs have not been reported in the recent relevant literature. In this study, we investigated the haematopoietic stem and progenitor cell antigen CD34 as a marker of putative stem cells located in a bulge‐like region of canine hair follicles. The presence of CD34 mRNA and glycoprotein was assessed on formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded canine skin samples by in situ hybridization technique and by standard immunohistochemistry, respectively. A strong expression of CD34 mRNA and glycoprotein was observed in a well‐defined area of the hair follicle isthmic region and appeared uniformly concentrated at the level of the basal layer of the outer root sheath. These findings provide compelling support to the hypothesis that in dogs, a subpopulation of basal keratinocytes located in the hair follicle isthmic region and characterized by the selective expression of CD34 is potentially associated with the stem cell compartment of this skin appendage.
IL‐10 promoter and IL4‐Rα gene SNPs are associated with immediate β‐lactam allergy in atopic women
Authors: Guglielmi L. , Fontaine C. , Gougat C. , Avinens O. , Eliaou J.‐F. , Guglielmi P. , Demoly P.
Published: July 2006

Background:  Allergic reactions to β‐lactam antibiotics represent the most frequent cause of immunological drug reactions.

Objective:  This study evaluates the involvement of genetic susceptibility factors in patients with immediate allergic reactions to β‐lactams. We examined 15 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) of genes coding proteins implicated in immunoglobulin (Ig)E synthesis regulation.

Methods:  We performed a case–control study involving 44 patients with immediate β‐lactam allergy and 44 control subjects, all matched for sex and atopy. Interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐13, IL‐4Rα, signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6), interferon (IFN)‐γR1, IFN‐γR2 and FcɛRIβ gene polymorphisms were determined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) restriction fragment length polymorphism, and IL‐21R gene and IL‐10 promoter polymorphisms by direct sequencing.

Results:  Our analysis did not reveal differences in the distribution of the 15 SNPs between allergic patients and controls. However, among atopic subjects, we found two distinct significant associations between immediate β‐lactam allergy in women and the Ile75Val variant of IL‐4Rα gene (P = 0.012, OR = 5.4, CI: 1.16–27.7), and two linked IL‐10 promoter gene polymorphisms, −819C>T and −592 C>A (P = 0.023, OR = 17.5, CI: 1.26–533.07). In contrast, we observed no association in allergic male subjects in the atopic population. Interestingly, the IL‐4Rα Ile75Val variant could have a paradoxal protective effect in atopic male patients (P = 0.004, OR = 0.07, CI: 0.01–0.66).

Conclusion:  Our findings suggest that polymorphisms in the IL‐10 promoter and IL‐4Rα genes are genetic factors that favour β‐lactam immediate allergies in female patients with atopy.
The role of parasitic infections in atopic diseases in rural schoolchildren
Authors: Karadag B. , Ege M. , Bradley J. E. , Braun‐Fahrländer C. , Riedler J. , Nowak D. , Von Mutius E.
Published: July 2006

Background:  There is increasing evidence that the farming environment has a protective effect as regards allergic diseases. Exposure to animal parasites, particularly helminth infections, is common in the farming environment. However, the role of helminths in this environment is not well determined to date.

Methods:  This analysis focuses on 613 children 6–13 years of age from rural areas of Austria, Germany and Switzerland, who took part in the Allergy and Endotoxin (ALEX) study. Allergic diseases and farming characteristics were assessed by a standardized questionnaire and as a crude measure of possible exposure to helminths, IgG antibodies to Ascaris lumbricoides were measured.

Results:  Exposure to nematodes, as determined by the levels of antibody to A. lumbricoides, was more frequent among farmers’ children than non‐farmers’ children (39.8%vs 31.1%, P = 0.03). This positive serology was found to be significantly associated with high total IgE levels [odds ratio (OR) = 3.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.81–5.12] and eosinophilia (OR = 2.84, 95% CI = 1.66–4.84). However, no association between anti‐nematode serology and the prevalences of asthma, wheeze, hay fever or atopy was found. A weak association for atopy was observed after adjustment for total IgE.

Conclusion:  Immunoglobulin G antibodies to A. lumbricoides, as a crude measure of possible exposure to helminths, did not indicate any protective effect against allergic diseases in this population. Although farmers’ children had increased antibody levels reactive to helminth parasites indicating exposure, this did not explain the protective effect of farming against atopic diseases.
Inflammation, heat shock proteins and periodontal pathogens in atherosclerosis: an immunohistologic study
Authors: Ford P. J. , Gemmell E. , Chan A. , Carter C. L. , Walker P. J. , Bird P. S. , West M. J. , Cullinan M. P. , Seymour G. J.
Published: July 2006

Background:  Inflammation is a significant component of atherosclerosis lesions. Bacteria, including periodontopathogens, have been demonstrated in atherosclerotic plaques and cross‐reactivity of the immune response to bacterial GroEL with human heat shock protein 60 has been suggested as a link between infections and atherosclerosis.

Methods:  In this study, the nature of the inflammatory infiltrate and the presence of human heat shock protein 60 and GroEL were examined in 31 carotid endarterectomy specimens. Additionally, monoclonal antibodies were used to detect the presence of six bacteria, including those implicated in periodontal disease.

Results:  The inflammatory cell infiltrate of the lesions was dominated by CD14+ macrophages and CD4+ T cells. Most cells of the infiltrate as well as the endothelium were HLA‐DR+, indicating activation; however, there was an absence of CD25 expression, demonstrating that the activated T cells were not proliferating. Few CD1a+ and CD83+ cells were noted. Human heat shock protein 60 expression was evident on endothelial cells and cells with the appearance of smooth muscle cells and lymphocytes. GroEL and bacteria were detected within intimal cells. Chlamydia pneumoniae, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Tannerella forsythia, Prevotella intermedia, and Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans were found in 21%, 52%, 34%, 34%, 41%, and 17% of arteries, respectively.

Conclusion:  These results give evidence for a specific immune response associated with atherosclerosis. Whether bacteria initiate the observed inflammation in atherosclerotic lesions is not clear; however, the present study shows that maintenance of inflammation may be enhanced by the presence of periodontopathic bacteria.
Incidence and behaviour of Tn916‐like elements within tetracycline‐resistant bacteria isolated from root canals
Authors: Rossi‐Fedele G. , Scott W. , Spratt D. , Gulabivala K. , Roberts A. P.
Published: July 2006

Introduction:  Tetracycline resistance is commonly found in endodontic bacteria. One of the most common tetracycline‐resistance genes is tet(M), which is often encoded on the broad‐host‐range conjugative transposon Tn916. This study aimed to determine whether tet(M) was present in bacteria isolated from endodontic patients at the Eastman Dental Institute and whether this gene was carried on the transferable conjugative transposon Tn916.

Methods:  The cultivable microflora isolated from 15 endodontic patients was screened for resistance to tetracycline. Polymerase chain reactions for tet(M) and for unique regions of Tn916 were carried out on the DNA of all tetracycline‐resistant bacteria. Filter‐mating experiments were used to see if transfer of any Tn916‐like elements could occur.

Results:  Eight out of 15 tetracycline‐resistant bacteria isolated were shown to possess tet(M). Furthermore, four of these eight were shown to possess the Tn916‐unique regions linked to the tet(M) gene. Transfer experiments demonstrated that a Neisseria sp. donor could transfer an extremely unstable Tn916‐like element to Enterococcus faecalis.

Conclusions:  The tet(M) gene is present in the majority of tetracycline‐resistant bacteria isolated in this study and the conjugative transposon Tn916 has been shown to be responsible for the support and transfer of this gene in some of the bacteria isolated.
Rabbit antithymocyte globulin related decrease in platelet count reduced risk of pediatric renal transplant graft thrombosis
Authors: Kamel M. H. , Mohan P. , Conlon P. J. , Little D. M. , O'Kelly P. , Hickey D. P.
Published: July 2006

Abstract:  Graft thrombosis is a serious complication in pediatric renal transplantation. We assess a potential protective effect for the decrease in platelet count associated with RATG therapy against pediatric renal transplant graft vascular thrombosis. Between January 1986 and December 1998, 120 kidney transplants were performed in 95 pediatric recipients. Patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 (n = 61), non‐RATG group received cyclosporine, azathioprine and steroids, while group 2 (n = 59), RATG group, received in addition, RATG at day 1 and continued for 4–10 days postoperatively. Platelet count prior to transplant, median change in absolute platelet count at 1 and 3 days post‐transplant was recorded. Graft thrombosis incidence was examined. Six grafts (5%) developed thrombosis. All were in group 1 (p = 0.028). Median pretransplant platelet count (×109/L) in group 1 was 283 vs. 280 in group 2 (p = 0.921). Median decrease in absolute platelet count (×109/L) from pretransplant levels at one and three days post‐transplant for group 1 and 2 was 18 vs. 83 (p ≤ 0.001) and 39 vs. 105 (p ≤ 0.001), respectively. Graft thrombosis risk factors were similar in both groups. RATG use was statistically significant (p = 0.044) for reduced risk of graft thrombosis in multivariate analysis. Patients receiving RATG showed significant decrease in both platelet count and graft thrombosis incidence. A role for RATG related effect on platelet count is assumed.
Chronic post‐thoracotomy pain: a retrospective study
Authors: Pluijms W. A. , Steegers M. A. H. , Verhagen A. F. T. M. , Scheffer G. J. , Wilder‐Smith O. H. G.
Published: July 2006

Background:  Chronic pain is common after thoracotomy. The primary goal of this study was to investigate the incidence of chronic post‐thoracotomy pain. The secondary goal was to identify possible risk factors associated with the development of chronic post‐operative pain.

Methods:  We contacted 255 patients who had undergone a classic postero‐lateral thoracotomy at our institution in the period between January 2001 and December 2003. All patients received a letter requesting participation; a questionnaire was included with the letter. One week later patients were contacted by telephone to obtain the answers to the questionnaire.

Results:  We ultimately obtained results from 149 patients (58% of all thoracotomies, 84% of survivors). The overall incidence of chronic post‐operative pain was 52% (32% mild, 16% moderate and 3% severe chronic post‐operative pain). Patients with chronic post‐operative pain reported acute post‐operative pain more frequently than those without (85% vs. 62%, P = 0.01), had more severe acute post‐operative pain (P = 0.0001), underwent more extensive surgical procedures (P = 0.01), had more constant acute pain (vs. fluctuating pain or pain in attacks) (P = 0.0004) and reported less absence of pain during the first post‐operative week (P = 0.0001). There was no significant decrease in chronic pain with time after thoracotomy.

Conclusion:  Our study confirms that chronic post‐thoracotomy pain is a common problem. The results from our study suggest that chronic post‐thoracotomy pain may be associated with more intensive and extensive nociceptive input due to thoracic surgery.
Recurrence pattern for superficial bladder cancer
Authors: AKAGASHI KEIGO , TANDA HITOSHI , KATO SHUJI , OHNISHI SHIGEKI , NAKAJIMA HISAO , NANBU AKIHITO , NITTA TOSHIKAZU , KOROKU MIKIO , SATO YOSHIKAZU , HANZAWA TATSUO
Published: July 2006

Aim:  Patients with superficial bladder tumors sometimes have long recurrence‐free intervals. We evaluated whether patients with long recurrence‐free periods had subsequent recurrences. We also clarified how these patients should be followed.

Materials and methods:  We enrolled 244 patients with superficial bladder cancer (62 pTa and 182 pT1) treated by transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) and adjuvant chemotherapy with pirarubicin. Median follow up was 75.5 months. Patients were stratified by the length of their recurrence‐free interval.

Results:  Recurrences occurred in 124 patients (50.8%). Of 185 patients who did not have a recurrence for the first 3 years, subsequent recurrences occurred in 65 patients; in more than half the first recurrence developed after 5 years or more. Ta tumors had a low recurrence rate (14.5%) with the first recurrence often developing after a long recurrence‐free period. Of 40 patients who remained recurrence‐free for 3 years or more after at least one recurrence occurred, 16 patients (40%) had subsequent recurrences. Furthermore, most of these patients who remained free of recurrence for more than 5 years eventually had a recurrence. The overall progression rate was 15.6%, and this did not relate to the length of the recurrence‐free interval.

Conclusion:  When patients did not have a recurrence for the first 3 years, tumors subsequently often recurred, even in pTa tumors. In patients with at least once recurrence, subsequent recurrences appear to occur irrespective of the length of the recurrence‐free period. Thus, we recommend that all patients with superficial bladder tumors be followed for as long as possible.
Pseudo‐tumoral renal actinomycosis
Authors: SALLAMI SATAA , NOUIRA YASSINE , HMIDI MOHAMED , MEKNI AMINA , HENDAOUI LOTFI , HORCHANI ALI
Published: July 2006

Abstract  Actinomycosis is a rare granulomatous chronic infection that is localized most frequently in the cranio‐cervical region. Renal localization is exceptional. The authors report a new case of pseudo‐tumoral actinomycosis and discuss diagnostic and treatment issues of this disease.
SQUAMOUS DYSPLASIA AND CARCINOMA IN SITU OF THE ESOPHAGUS IN JAPAN
Authors: Takubo Kaiyo , Arai Tomio , Iwakiri Katsuhiko , Kato Mototsugu , Goda Ken‐ichi
Published: July 2006

In this paper, the authors review recent topics of interest in relation to squamous dysplasia and squamous cell carcinoma in situ in Japan, and also the differences in diagnostic criteria for squamous cell carcinoma in situ between Japanese and Western pathologists. Photomicrographs of high‐grade squamous dysplasia in Western textbooks of surgical pathology are judged in Japan to be squamous cell carcinoma in situ. Squamous cell carcinoma in situ can be histologically subdivided by the appearance of the basement membrane into the simple replacement type, showing a linear pattern, and the bulky outgrowth type, showing a wavy pattern. Squamous cell carcinoma in situ may also be classified into a total layer type, in which the entire epithelium is replaced by tumor cells, and a basal layer type in which the basal half is replaced by tumor cells. It is frequently observed that minute squamous cell carcinomas of the basal layer type, but not the total layer type, show signs of early stromal invasion into the lamina propria mucosae. These histologic findings strongly indicate that the basal layer type is not low‐grade dysplasia but squamous cell carcinoma in situ.