bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Genome-Wide Scan for Loci Affecting Normal Adult Height in the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Nandita , Finegold David N. , Larson Martin G. , Cupples L. Adrienne , Myers Richard H. , Weeks Daniel E.
Published: October 2003

Objective: To map loci influencing normal adult height in 335 families from the Framingham Heart Study. Methods: We analyzed data consisting of 1,702 genotyped individuals who have been followed over time. The first height measurement for individuals between the ages 20–55 years was analyzed in a genome-wide scan using variance component linkage analysis. Sex, age, and cohort effects were removed before analysis. Results: Two regions (18pter-p11, 22q11.2) with multipoint LOD scores >1.0 (–log p values >2.0) were detected: we obtained LOD scores of 1.38 at D18S1364, and of 1.10 at D22S345. Analysis of height as a sex-limited phenotype revealed a peak in the 9p21 region near D9S319 with a maximum LOD score of 1.65 (–log p value >3.0) when only male height phenotypes were used. When only female phenotypes were used, a peak with a maximum LOD score of 1.85 (–log p value of 2.70) was observed in the 11q25-qter region near D11S2359. Conclusions: Our region of interest on chromosome 9 has been implicated by two prior studies. Variance components analysis appeared to be sensitive to pedigree structures as well as the method of IBD computation used.
Environmental Influences on Inflammatory Bowel Disease Manifestations
Authors: Timmer Antje
Published: October 2003

Environmental factors play an important role in the disease manifestation, course and prognosis of inflammatory bowel disease. Observations on temporal trends and geographical distribution point at risk factors associated with a Western lifestyle. A large number of studies have been performed on various factors such as diet, smoking, and several infectious agents. Childhood exposures modifying immune responses in later life form a particularly interesting field. However, so far, only smoking in Crohn’s disease, and smoking cessation in ulcerative colitis can be considered established as risk factors for the manifestation of the disease. Smoking is also associated with a poor prognosis in Crohn’s disease. A strong negative association of appendectomy with ulcerative colitis has been very consistent across many studies; however, the implications of this finding are still obscure.
Standard Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Gionchetti Paolo , Rizzello Fernando , Habal Flavio , Morselli Claudia , Amadini Cristina , Romagnoli Rossella , Campieri Massimo
Published: October 2003

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an idiopathic, chronic inflammation of the colon which may present with a range of mild to severe symptoms. The disease may be localized to the rectum or can be more extensive and involve the left side of the colon or the whole colon. Treatment in UC is directed towards inducing and maintaining remission of symptoms and mucosal inflammation. The key parameters to be assessed for the most appropriate treatment are the severity and extent of the inflammation. Meta-analyses of published trials have shown that topical treatment with 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) is the treatment of choice in active distal mild-to-moderate UC. Oral aminosalicylates are effective in both distal and extensive mild-to-moderate disease, but in distal disease, the rates of remission are lower than those obtained with topical 5-ASA. New steroids, such as budesonide and beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP), administered as enemas, constitute an alternative to 5-ASA therapy. In some studies, these have been shown to be as effective as conventional steroids but with significantly lower inhibition of plasma cortisol levels. Patients with unresponsive disease or those with more severe presentation will require oral corticosteroids and sometimes intravenous therapy. Approximately 10% of patients with unresponsive UC have severe attacks requiring hospitalization. Patients with severe disease should be managed jointly by a medical and surgical team, and intensive intravenous treatment should be started with high-dose steroids. Early recognition of failure of therapy will allow the introduction of immunosuppressive therapy with intravenous cyclosporine. Patients who respond are shifted to oral cyclosporine associated with azathioprine/6-mercaptopurine, whereas those who fail will require proctocolectomy. Oral aminosalicylates are the first-line therapy in maintenance of remission. Topical 5-ASA may play a role in distal disease. Patients who are steroid dependent can be started on azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine although it may take up to 3 months for the treatment to become effective. They may have reversible immediate side effects, such as pancreatitis or bone marrow suppression, which disappear upon discontinuation of therapy. Close monitoring of these hematologic and biochemical parameters will improve safety. The use of biologic therapy with infliximab in more severe disease has not been established.
Teaching Speech and Language Therapists in Sri Lanka: Issues in Curriculum, Culture and Language
Authors: Wickenden Mary , Hartley Sally , Kariyakaranawa Sunil , Kodikara Somadasa
Published: October 2003

This paper draws on the experiences of the authors in designing and teaching a new course to educate speech and language therapists in Sri Lanka. This was the first speech and language therapist course in the country and was the result of collaboration between two universities, one in the UK and one in Sri Lanka. Rather than replicating established programmes elsewhere it was more appropriate to design a new course, suited to providing a comprehensive model of service, encompassing both social and medical approaches to rehabilitation. Issues about developing teaching and learning approaches to match pre-existing knowledge and experience of both staff and students are addressed. The particular ways of designing the programme to take account of cultural and language aspects of the Sri Lankan context are discussed.
International and Cross-Cultural Issues: Six Key Challenges for Our Professions
Authors: Marshall Julie
Published: October 2003

This paper discusses a number of key challenges facing professionals who work with people who have communication disabilities. The challenges are related to working internationally and in a cross-culturally competent way. Each challenge is discussed, drawing on material from a range of sources, including the papers in the final 2003 edition of Folia Phoniatrica et Logopaedica (‘International and Cross-Cultural Issues’). The challenges discussed cover how experiences from majority world countries can be used to benefit services elsewhere, ‘mainstreaming’ commitment to cross-cultural competence, learning from relationships with other professionals, influencing research practice, responding to requests to work internationally and finally, dealing with cultural differences that challenge working practices. Some solutions are suggested and additional questions posed.
Dissimilarity between Seasonal Changes in Airway Responsiveness to Adenosine-5’-Monophosphate and Methacholine in Patients with Grass Pollen Allergic Rhinitis: Relation to Induced Sputum
Authors: Beier Jutta , Beeh Kai Michael , Kornmann Oliver , Morankic Emila , Ritter Nicole , Buhl Roland
Published: October 2003

Background: In patients with allergic rhinitis, bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) and airway inflammation may increase during pollen exposure. BHR can be assessed by adenosine-5′-monophosphate (AMP) or methacholine challenge. It has been suggested that BHR to AMP is more closely related to airway inflammation than BHR to methacholine. Seasonal allergic rhinitis offers a dynamic model to study changes in BHR and airway inflammation during natural allergen exposure. Methods: We measured BHR [provocative concentration causing a 20% fall (PC20) in forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)] to AMP and methacholine, and induced sputum cells in 16 rhinitis patients before and during the 2001 grass pollen season. Results: There was a decrease in PC20 methacholine during pollen exposure (geometric mean PC20 from 3.22 to 1.73 mg/ml, p = 0.0023), whereas no reduction was observed for PC20 AMP (p = 0.11). There was no increase in sputum eosinophils [pre: 0.69% (95% confidence interval 0.22–2.07); during: 1.85 (0.55– 5.6), p = 0.31]. Although the correlation of log PC20 methacholine and log PC20 AMP at baseline was good (r = 0.76, p = 0.001), individual seasonal changes (doubling concentrations) in PC20 methacholine were not correlated with changes in PC20 AMP (ρ = 0.21, p = 0.44). There was no correlation between baseline log PC20 methacholine or seasonal changes in PC20 methacholine and sputum eosinophils (p > 0.12, all correlations). In contrast, there was a significant correlation between seasonal changes in PC20 AMP and changes in sputum eosinophils (ρ = –0.59, p = 0.025). Conclusions: These data show dissimilarity between seasonal changes in PC20 AMP and methacholine in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Moreover, PC20 AMP seems to be more closely related to sputum eosinophils than PC20 methacholine. The clinical significance of this discrepancy is unclear.
Topography of Photoreceptors and Retinal Ganglion Cells in the Spotted Hyena (Crocuta crocuta)
Authors: Calderone Jack B. , Reese Benjamin E. , Jacobs Gerald H.
Published: October 2003

The spatial distributions of photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells were examined in the spotted hyena (Crocuta crocuta). Two populations of cones were identified by immunocytochemical labeling. The hyena retina contains approximately 2.3 million middle- to long-wavelength sensitive (M/L) cones that reach peak densities of about 7,500/mm2 in the vicinity of the optic nerve head. A sparser population of short-wavelength sensitive (S) cones, totaling about 0.3 million, was also detected. There is a striking disparity in the spatial distributions of the two cone types with S cones achieving peak density in a region located well below the optic nerve head. The differences in the spatial distributions of the two cone types have implications both for visual sensitivity and for color vision. Hyena rods outnumber cones by about 100:1 with rod density falling off modestly along a central-peripheral gradient. Ganglion cells were identified in retinal wholemounts by Nissl staining patterns. Their distribution defines a prominent visual streak with highest spatial packing (approx. 4,200/mm2) in an area centralis that is located in the temporal retina. The total number of ganglion cells is estimated at about 260,000. Using standard assumptions the maximum spatial resolution of the spotted hyena is calculated to be about 8.4 cycles/degree, a value similar to estimates obtained for other terrestrial carnivores.
In vivo Effectiveness of Laser Fluorescence Compared to Visual Inspection and Radiography for the Detection of Occlusal Caries in Primary Teeth
Authors: Rocha R.O. , Ardenghi T.M. , Oliveira L.B. , Rodrigues C.R.M.D. , Ciamponi A.L.
Published: October 2003

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vivo effectiveness of laser fluorescence compared to visual inspection and radiography for the detection of occlusal caries in primary teeth. Fifty sites from 30 molars in 29 patients were selected and evaluated under standardized conditions by 2 previously trained examiners according to the 3 diagnostic methods. Histological examination served as gold standard after exfoliation or extraction. Values obtained for sensitivity, specificity and accuracy were 0.60, 0.90 and 0.73 for laser fluorescence, 0.82, 0.85 and 0.84 for visual inspection and 0.62, 0.73 and 0.67 for radiography, respectively. Considering only dentinal caries, values were 0.73, 0.95 and 0.90 for laser fluorescence, 0.61, 1.00 and 0.90 for visual inspection and 0.96, 0.81 and 0.85 for radiography, respectively. We conclude that for the detection of occlusal caries in primary molars laser fluorescence presents a similar accuracy when compared to visual inspection and radiography, although visual inspection showed better values for sensitivities for both enamel and dentin lesions.
How common are common fragile sites in humans: interindividual variation in the distribution of aphidicolin-induced fragile sites
Authors: Denison S.R. , Simper R.K. , Greenbaum I.F.
Published: October 2003

To obtain an estimate of the variation in common fragile sites (CFSs) among individuals, aphidicolin (APC)-induced chromosomal breakage data were analyzed for 20 karyotypically normal adult humans. As it is specifically designed to meet the analytical requirements for considering fragile sites as presence/absence characters in single individuals, the FSM methodology (Böhm et al., 1995) was used to statistically distinguish fragile from nonfragile sites. These analyses indicated that the APC-induced fragile sites are not ubiquitous but vary extensively among individuals; the per-individual number of fragile sites ranged from as few as seven to as many as 20. Of the 45 different sites identified as fragile, 19 (42%) occurred in more than half of the individuals, but only two sites (3p14 and 16q23) were fragile in all of the individuals; 12 (27% of the total) were fragile in single individuals only. Although these analyses provide statistical confirmation (and initial estimates of population variation) for 43 of the 88 APC-inducible fragile sites currently recognized as occurring among humans, they are consistent with the hypothesis that many of the currently recognized human CFSs have been erroneously identified. These results indicate the need for per-individual statistical identification of CFSs for larger samples of individuals and that studies of particular fragile sites should be conducted on individuals documented to be fragile at the loci under consideration.
Clarifications on breakpoints in HSAX and BTAX by comparative mapping of F9, HPRT, and XIST in cattle
Authors: Goldammer T. , Amaral M.E.J. , Brunner R.M. , Owens E. , Kata S.R. , Schwerin M. , Womack J.E.
Published: October 2003

The coagulation factor IX gene (F9), the hypoxanthine phosphoribosyl transferase 1 gene (HPRT1), and the X-inactive specific transcript gene (XIST) were physically assigned in cattle to analyze chromosomal breakpoints on BTAX recently identified by radiation hybrid (RH) mapping experiments. Whereas the FISH assignment of XIST indicates a similar location on the q-arm of the human and cattle X chromosomes, the locus of HPRT1 supported the assumption of a chromosome rearrangement between the distal half of the q-arm of HSAX and the p-arm of BTAX identified by RH mapping. F9 previously located on the q-arm of BTAX was assigned to the p-arm of BTAX using RH mapping and FISH. The suggested new position of F9 close to HPRT1 supports the homology between HSAXq and BTAXp. The F9 locus corresponds with the gene order found in the homologous human chromosome segment. XIST was assigned on BTAXq23, HPRT1 and F9 were mapped to BTAXp22, and the verification of the location of F9 in a 5000 rad cattle-hamster whole genome radiation hybrid panel linked the gene to markers URB10 and HPRT1.
Chromosome banding in Amphibia
Authors: Schmid M. , Steinlein C. , Haaf T.
Published: October 2003

The mitotic chromosomes of three anuran species, Scaphiopus holbrooki, Litoria infrafrenata and Odontophrynus americanus, were analyzed by means of the 5-bromodeoxyuridine/deoxythymidine (BrdU/dT) replication banding technique. These species exhibit large differences in their genome sizes: S. holbrooki possesses one of the smallest genomes among vertebrates, L. infrafrenata has a genome size near the modal DNA value of most Amphibia, whereas O. americanus is a tetraploid species. BrdU/dT labeling induces reproducible and reliable R- and G-replication bands along the metaphase chromosomes of all three species. Irrespective of the genome size of the species considered, the number of early (R-) and late (G-) replicating bands per haploid karyotype is nearly the same. The chromosomes of the autotetraploid O. americanus can be arranged into sets of four homologous chromosomes (quartets). C-bands and BrdU/dT replication bands reveal heterogeneity within the quartets 1, 3 and 4 that are interpreted as the initiation of a diploidization process.
Quality of Life in Anxiety Disorders: A Comparison of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Panic Disorder
Authors: Lochner Christine , Mogotsi Modise , du Toit Pieter L. , Kaminer Debra , Niehaus Dana J. , Stein Dan J.
Published: October 2003

Background: There is growing recognition that the anxiety disorders are disabling disorders associated with substantial morbidity and impaired quality of life (QOL). Nevertheless, there have been few studies comparing QOL across these conditions. Sampling and Methods: 337 outpatients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD; n = 220), panic disorder (PD; n = 53), or social anxiety disorder (SAD; n = 64) were compared using a number of assessment scales to compare objective and subjective impairment in QOL. The association of QOL with symptom severity and comorbid depression was also assessed. Results: The extent of impairment due to OCD, PD or SAD appears to be similar across the QOL scales. However, various domains are differentially affected in each of the disorders; OCD patients had more impairment in family life and activities of daily living; SAD patients had more impairment in social life and leisure activities, and PD patients were less able to avoid the use of nonprescribed drugs. QOL was lower in patients with increased symptom severity as well as in those with comorbid depression. Conclusions: While the extent of impairment appears similar across a number of different anxiety disorders, characteristic symptoms of each disorder may be associated with differential impairment of various domains of function, and may require specifically tailored interventions.
The Interplay of Speech Perception and Phonology: Experimental Evidence from Turkish
Authors: Mielke Jeff
Published: October 2003

This study supports claims of a relationship between speech perception and phonology with evidence from a crosslinguistic perception experiment involving /h/ deletion in Turkish. Turkish /h/ is often deleted in fast speech, but only in a specific set of segmental contexts which defy traditional explanation. It is shown that /h/ deletes in environments where lower perceptibility is predicted. The results of the perception experiment verify these predictions and further show that language background has a significant impact on speech perception. Finally, this perceptual account of Turkish /h/ deletion points to an empirical means of testing the conflicting hypotheses that perception is active in the synchronic grammar or that its influence is limited to diachrony.
Cisplatin Ototoxicity Involves Organ of Corti, Stria Vascularis and Spiral Ganglion: Modulation by αMSH and ORG 2766
Authors: Hamers Frank P.T. , Wijbenga Jeroen , Wolters Francisca L.C. , Klis Sjaak F.L. , Sluyter Steven , Smoorenburg Guido F.
Published: October 2003

It has been shown that αMSH and the nonmelanotropic ACTH/MSH(4–9) analog ORG 2766 can ameliorate cisplatin-induced neurotoxicity and ototoxicity. Here, we investigated whether these peptides delay the occurrence of the cisplatin-induced shift in auditory threshold, and whether they affect the subsequent recovery of cochlear potentials. Chronically implanted round window electrodes were used to obtain daily recordings of auditory nerve compound action potentials (CAP) and cochlear microphonics at frequencies ranging from 2 to 16 kHz. Cisplatin (1.5 mg/kg i.p.) plus αMSH, ORG 2766 (75 µg/kg s.c.), or saline were injected daily until the 40-dB CAP threshold shift at 8 kHz was reached. Endocochlear potential (EP) was measured either 1–2 days or 28 days later, followed by morphometric analysis of the cochlea. Peptide cotreatment did not consistently delay the threshold shift; however, the CAP threshold recovered faster and to a greater extent, with the potency order being αMSH > ORG 2766 > saline. Significant recovery at the 2 highest frequencies was seen in the αMSH-treated animals only. CAP amplitude at high sound pressures, which depends more on nerve function than on outer hair cell (OHC) function, decreased severely in all groups but recovered significantly in the αMSH- and completely in the ORG-2766-cotreated group. EP was significantly lower in the first days after the threshold shift but had completely recovered at 28 days. Morphometric analysis of the spiral ganglion also indicated involvement of ganglion cells. OHC loss was most severe in the basal turn of saline-cotreated animals. These data suggest that the cisplatin-induced acute threshold shift might be due to reversible strial failure, whereas subsequent OHC survival determines the final degree of functional recovery. Both OHC loss and neuronal function were ameliorated by peptide cotreatment.
In situ Analysis of Coronary Terminal Arteriole Diameter Responses: Technical Report of a New Experimental Model
Authors: Goebel S. , Kuebler W.M. , Cornelissen A.J.M. , Kuppe H. , Pries A.R. , Habazettl H.
Published: October 2003

Introduction: To date, investigation of coronary arteriole vasomotor activity has been limited to arterioles >30– 40 µm. Here, we introduce a new experimental model to allow for in situ microscopy of terminal coronary arterioles. Methods: Rat hearts were perfused in a closed loop system (priming volume 20 ml) which was placed on a computer-controlled microscope stage. FITC-dextran and tetrodotoxin (TTX, 50 µM) were added. Tilting of the microscope by 90° allowed for visual access to the ventricular surface. Arterioles were identified by the flow direction of fluorescent beads (1 µm). Images were recorded on video tape, and arteriole diameters were measured offline. Stability of the preparation and maintenance of coronary flow reserve were analyzed. Responses of coronary flow and arteriole diameters to the vasodilators papaverine and Na-nitroprusside were recorded. Results: In TTX-arrested control hearts coronary flow and terminal arteriole diameters were stable for 2 h. Administration of papaverine and Na-nitroprusside increased coronary flow from 6.4 ± 0.7 to 13.3 ± 1.3 ml/min, decreasing coronary resistance by 52 ± 3%. Terminal coronary arteriole diameters increased from 12.0 ± 0.9 to 13.6 ± 1.0 µm, decreasing hindrance of this vessel segment by 45 ± 11%. Conclusion: Preservation of coronary terminal arteriolar tone and adequate responsiveness to vasodilators in the TTX-arrested isolated heart were demonstrated. Thus, this model may serve to complement our understanding of coronary microvascular control mechanisms by extending observations to the terminal arteriolar bed.
Polymorphisms of the HDL Receptor Gene Associated with HDL Cholesterol Levels in Diabetic Kindred from Three Populations
Authors: McCarthy Jeanette J. , Lewitzky Steve , Reeves Cynthia , Permutt Alan , Glaser Benjamin , Groop Leif C. , Lehner Thomas , Meyer Joanne M.
Published: October 2003

Objective: We examined polymorphisms in the HDL receptor, SR-BI, for association with plasma HDL cholesterol levels. Methods: Study subjects, including 847 women and 725 men, were from families originally ascertained for type 2 diabetes from Finland, Sweden and Israel. Four common polymorphisms were examined in linear regression analysis: an exon 1 missense (EX1), exon 8 silent (EX8), intron 5 (IVS5) and intron 10 (IVS10) variants. Results: Genotype combinations for the three polymorphisms in linkage disequilibrium (IVS5, EX8 and IVS10) were found to be associated with HDL-C among women from the Israeli (p = 0.01) and Swedish (p = 0.06) populations. In Finnish women, the association was only apparent after taking into account effect modification by triglyceride levels (p = 0.04). One specific pattern of genotypes, denoted by presence of the IVS5_T and EX8_C alleles, and absence of the IVS10_G allele, was consistently associated with the lowest mean levels of HDL-C in women from all three populations. These same associations were not found in men. Conclusions: Polymorphic variation of the SR-BI gene may influence HDL-C levels and act in a sex-dependent manner.
Pharmacologic Management of Agitation in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Profenno Louis A. , Tariot Pierre N.
Published: October 2003

A large body of evidence has accrued that neuropsychiatric disturbances, such as agitation, are extremely common in Alzheimer’s disease. These disturbances are associated with considerable morbidity including earlier nursing home admission, more rapid progression, exacerbation of functional and cognitive deficits, and increased caregiver distress. When attention to social or environmental causes, medical conditions, or other triggers of the behavioral disturbance fails to yield improvement, a role for medication may be indicated, whereby the most dominant behavioral target symptoms are matched to the most relevant medication class. Evidence is reviewed for various medication classes in treating agitation in the patient with Alzheimer’s disease, and future treatment strategies may be aimed at delaying or preventing such neuropsychiatric disturbances.
Cholinesterase Inhibitor Therapies and Neuropsychiatric Manifestations of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Wynn Zakiya J. , Cummings Jeffrey L.
Published: October 2003

Background: Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) occur throughout the course of AD. Behaviors include mood alterations, psychosis, agitation, and apathy. These symptoms are a major cause of diminished quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Evidence suggests that a cholinergic deficit resulting from a loss of cholinergic neurons is the biological basis of some NPS in AD and related dementias. The basal forebrain nuclei, the primary source of cholinergic projections to the cortex, become atrophied in AD. Cholinesterase inhibitors (ChE-Is) enhance neuronal transmission by increasing the availability of acetylcholine at the receptors. This effect is believed to be beneficial in improving or stabilizing many behavioral symptoms of AD. Preliminary studies of ChE-Is have shown mixed results; however, the results of more recent studies have been favorable. Objectives: To review major trials of ChE-Is and summarize effects on behavioral symptoms. Agents reviewed include donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine, tacrine, and metrifonate. Results: The review of the studies favors a benefit of the ChE-Is in reducing NPS. Of the three agents in current use, studies of all showed significant benefit in AD. Most studies showed a positive trend toward reduction of NPS on a scaled measuring tool in the treatment group even if statistical significance was not reached. In some studies, specific behavioral symptoms, particularly apathy and hallucinations, were reduced. Conclusions: Evidence suggests that ChE-Is have psychotropic effects and may be of value in managing neuropsychiatric behavioral symptoms in AD. Further studies will be necessary to fully understand the potential of these agents.
Are CD34+ Cells Found in Renal Interstitial Fibrosis?
Authors: Okon Krzysztof , Szumera Anna , Kuzniewski Marek
Published: October 2003

Background: The CD34 antigen is a marker of precursor myeloid cells and endothelial cells, but also of a subset of spindle cells. Methods: To establish the possible role of CD34+ cells in the progression of glomerulonephritis, 30 renal biopsies were investigated. Immunohistochemistry for CD34 and smooth muscle actin (SMA) were performed by standard methods. The results were assessed semiquantitatively. The relative interstitial volume (RIV) was evaluated by the point counting method. Clinical data such as sex, age, serum creatinine and urea levels were taken into account. Results: CD34+ spindle cells and SMA+ myofibroblasts were present in the renal interstitium in all but one case. In membranous, membranoproliferative and segmental-proliferative glomerulonephritis, CD34+ cells were seen in clusters, while in IgA nephropathy and in segmental and focal glomerulosclerosis, single, scattered cells were seen. The density of CD34+ cells showed a positive correlation with the myofibroblast density and the RIV. Serum creatinine and urea levels were associated with the RIV of the kidney and to a smaller degree with the number of myofibroblasts and CD34+ cells. Conclusion: These results show that in glomerulonephritis, CD34+ spindle cells appear in the interstitium. At present, their possible role can only be speculated.
The Significance of Clinical Signs and Blood Indices for the Diagnosis of Appendicitis during Pregnancy
Authors: Maslovitz Sharon , Gutman Guy , Lessing Joseph B. , Kupferminc Michael J. , Gamzu Ronni
Published: October 2003

Objective: To evaluate the significance of clinical signs and blood indices for the diagnosis of appendicitis during pregnancy. Sample: Of the 40,112 women delivering at our institution (January 1995 to June 2002), 38 women (0.094%) were operated due to the suspicion of appendicitis during pregnancy. Methods: Body temperature, clinical examination, white blood cell counts and lag time from arrival to operation were obtained for each patient. All women were operated with the clinical diagnosis of appendicitis, and their appendices were removed and examined by a pathologist. Results: Inflammatory appendix was discovered in 19 (0.047%) of the pregnancies with subsequent deliveries while a normal appendix was found in 19 of the 38 (50%) appendices removed. The group with normal appendix did not significantly differ from women with inflamed appendix with regard to gestational age at presentation, signs of peritoneal irritation, body temperature, leukocyte count, time elapsed between arrival and surgery, gestational age at delivery and birth weight. Conclusions: The accurate diagnosis of appendicitis during pregnancy is a difficult task requiring a very high level of suspicion and clinical skills and not merely relying upon laboratory and classic signs.
Prevention of Hypertension Attenuates Albuminuria and Renal Expression of Fibronectin in Diabetic Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Pavan M.V. , Ghini B. , Castro M. , Lopes de Faria J.B.
Published: October 2003

Background/Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of preventing hypertension on renal disease in a model of genetic hypertension and diabetes. Methods:Four-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) with streptozotocin-induced diabetes were randomized for no treatment, or for treatment with captopril, losartan or triple therapy (hydrochlorothiazide, reserpine and hydralazine) for 16 weeks. Results: Increase in systolic blood pressure was equally prevented by captopril (128 ± 3 mm Hg), losartan (128 ± 2) and triple therapy (129 ± 2, p < 0.0001). Albuminuria was similarly reduced by captopril (499 (404–659)), losartan (622 (470–976)) and triple therapy (479 (362–600) µg/24 h (p < 0.0001)). Renal fibronectin expression increased in diabetic SHR (125 ± 13 densitometric unit) as compared to the controls (51 ± 9, p < 0.0001), and decreased (p < 0.0001 vs. diabetic SHR) with captopril (32 ± 8), losartan (27 ± 4) and triple therapy (35 ± 6). Conclusion: The prevention of hypertension in diabetic SHR by captopril, losartan or triple therapy was equally efficacious in impeding increase of albuminuria and the expression of renal fibronectin. Under these conditions, tight blood pressure control was the main determinant in attenuating nephropathy.
Concepts of Mother-Infant Interaction in Greece and Germany
Authors: Keller Heidi , Papaligoura Zaira , Kuensemueller Petra , Voelker Susanne , Papaeliou Christina , Lohaus Arnold , Lamm Bettina , Kokkinaki Theano , Chrysikou Evangelia , Mousouli Vicky
Published: October 2003

This study deals with parenting from a cultural perspective. Based on Kagitcibasi's model of the autonomous relational self, the authors analyzed Greek urban middle-class mothers' parenting strategies and compared them with German urban middle-class mothers' parenting styles. Interactional behaviors were assessed during videotaped, free-play home observations. It was assumed that urban middle-class Greek and German mothers do not differ in their display of face-to-face context and object stimulation, both considered as sup-porting an independent agency, that Greek mothers modulate the face-to-face context more with facial warmth than do German mothers who on the other hand, modulate their face-to-face behavior more with experiences of contingency than do Greek mothers. The data confirm our assumptions with the exception of baby talk as a second indicator of facial warmth. The data are interpreted in terms of foundations of socialization pathways of urban families in independent and interrelated societies without denying intracultural variability.
Migration Flows in Finland: Regional Differences in Migration Determinants and Migrant Types
Authors: Pekkala Sari
Published: October 2003

The present study analyzes interregional migration flows in Finland during 1985-96 using a large sample from the longitudinal census data file. The regional concentration of population has sped up in recent years, and most migrants now head to five urban growth centers. The empirical analysis reveals that it is particularly the human capital component (young, educated individuals) that moves to, and stays in, the growth centers. They are attracted by the higher expected wages and employment chances. Conversely, some individuals, mainly older and less educated ones, move back to their original home regions. This countermovement reduces the speed of population concentration. Declining regions are nevertheless rapidly losing their most productive human capital through interregional migration flows.
Implementing and project managing a new library management system
Authors: Pedley Paul
Published: October 2003

Follows on from an earlier article ( Business Information Review, 16 (4) 1999, pp. 197–202), which described the process used by the Economist Intelligence Unit when choosing a new library management system (LMS) to replace their existing, non-Year 2000 compliant (Y2K) system. Focuses on the issues involved in implementing a new system in terms of project management. Sets out the basic principles of project management, noting that some of the most frequent risks are: failure to finish the project on time; budget overspending; and lack of experience by either the project manager or by members of the project team. Considers the practical details of setting up a project team and sorting out who is going to coordinate the project and presents a number of clearly defined steps to ensure its success.
The knowledge society: the challenge of transition
Authors: Yapp Chris
Published: October 2003

Considers the rapid transition that is taking place from an industrial to a knowledge society and analyzes the components that are likely to comprise such a knowledge society. Explores the nature of that transition and how people will cope with this period of profound change. Points to the lead taken in mobile technologies and interactive TV in Europe compared to personal computer (PC) dominance in the USA; the affect on uptake of new technologies by income, race, gender and age; the emergence of the 24-hour society; the shift from large factories to small, medium and micro enterprises; and the blurring of the boundaries between different sectors of the economy and different institutions. Points to the fact that many of the countries that are making the fastest strides into the knowledge economy are small (Finland, Singapore, Sweden and Iceland). The major investments in ICTs in schools, libraries, colleges and universities is expected to be one of the most profound changes in the long run and the globalization of education will make learning the largest industry of the twenty-first century. Proposes a set of new values for this knowledge society comprising: economic competitiveness with social inclusion; lifelong learning for all; risk: management over minimization; ‘smallish’ is beautiful; social innovation over technological invention; participation over representation; interdependence over independence; value-added with values.
Six golden rules for marketing your information service successfully
Authors: Robinson Lesley
Published: October 2003

Offers advice on strategic and tactical approaches to marketing new business libraries or information services, based on the author’s personal experiences at KPMGin setting up a new information service. The focus is not restricted to the mechanics of marketing processes but is more concerned with ways of winning the hearts and minds of prospective clients and moving from a more traditional transactional relationship with users to a more consultative one. Suggests six rules to guide practitioners, with the proviso that these are the core ones that worked for the author and that there could be others equally valid: segment the service’s market; adapt the products to make them relevant; define and position the service; build relationships; understand how people work; and manage expectations and maintain momentum. Concludes that the underlying consideration governing all these rules is the shared values held throughout an organization and that these can provide a powerful driving force and focus for all its actions. Understanding this organizational culture and the critical business drivers is the key to how to adapt and develop the information service.
The art and science of Story or ‘Are you sitting uncomfortably?’
Authors: Snowden David J.
Published: October 2003

Part one of a two part article continuing the theme of a earlier article ( Business Information Review, 16(1) March 1999, 30–37) which outlined some of the uses of storytelling for communication and knowledge disclosure. Reports results of a study, based on over five years of research, experimentation and practice, of storytelling (‘Story’) as a form of ‘anecdote enhancement’: a useful technique in its own right but one which, if taken in isolation, fails to exploit the full richness and potential of Story. Covers basic language, some uses of storytelling principles in organizations and the techniques required to elicit anecdotes from communities. Describes also the extraction of archetype from anecdotes and hints at the extraction and use of organizing principles, the nature and function of which will be covered in Part 2.
Successful internationalizing UK firms’ information gathering activities
Authors: Crick Dave
Published: October 2003

This study provides empirical data concerning managers of ‘successful’ internationalizing UK firms’ perceived usefulness and their utilization of sources of overseas market information together with types of data required. Findings are primarily based on a postal survey of winners of the Queen’s Award for Export Achievement - arguably the premier award within the UK involving firms’ performance in overseas markets. Also reported are selected findings from a series of in-depth interviews. Analysis is employed to establish that few statistical differences exist between two groups of firms, namely those only involved in exporting and others involved in multiple forms of market entry strategies. Despite the limited statistical differences observed, the findings do, however, indicate that the two groups of firms have different practices that have implications for information providers.
Metadata - the substance behind the style
Authors: Pinder Andrew
Published: October 2003

Reviews the UK Government’s commitment to extending and encouraging the use of information and communication technology (ICT) as a means of improving communication between Government and citizens through the setting up of an appropriate regulatory and legislative environment to support electronic commerce (E-commerce), giving people and businesses the confidence to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the Internet, and making sure business and Government decisions are informed by the best information available. Describes the work of the Office of the e-Envoy, Cabinet Office, which has three core objectives: to make the UK the best environment in the world for E-Commerce by 2002; to ensure that everyone who wants it has access to the Internet by 2005; and to make all Government services available electronically by 2005, focusing on the e-Envoy’s efforts meet its own target of having 1 million small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) trading online by 2002. Pays particular attention to the work the Office of the e-Envoy in the fields of interoperability and metadata, tracing the Government’s plan to standardize metadata use across the UK public sector back as set out in two White Papers, in 1999 (“Modernising Government”) and 2000 (“E-Government Strategic Framework”). Outlines the development of the E-Government Metadata Framework (e-GMF), a central set of standards needed to allow computers to recognize and interpret electronic files, with special note taken of the core components involved such as the E-Government Metadata Standard. The draft E-Government Metadata Standard (e-GMS) will be thoroughly tested in a variety of practical situations, including: Government Web sites, intranets and document management systems.
Building an information service: how to change your life with technology
Authors: Capstick Anthony B
Published: October 2003

The author describes his own background in the information industry which culminated in his setting up his own business, Instant Search: a business information service to enable clients to call and Email from all parts of the UK and overseas to order reports and searches on companies which are faxed or Emailed back to them. Describes how the original idea for the business stemmed from the knowledge that users tend to find it difficult to get information technology (IT) to work reliably and find it particularly difficult to configure modems. Describes the main approach to the setting up of the business and the work undertaken to buy suitable computers and associated equipment, install telephone lines and some of the problems involved with credit card payment facilities (notably the reluctance of banks to deal with business other than well-established retailers with a satisfactory track record). Other features of the setting-up stage discussed include: the attitude to customers and service; marketing; advertising; keeping track of advertising and promotions; financial rewards; supplier negotiations; and the impact of the Internet on the business as a whole. Concludes that running one’s own information-based business has many benefits and unexpected outcomes and is perfect for those people who thrive on variety and continual challenges.
New disruptive technologies: the information professional’s role
Authors: Hallam Susan
Published: October 2003

It is noted how the traditional role of the information professional has been changed by the responsibility for assessing and introducing the wide range of new information technologies (IT). In addition to considering the content and value to the organization of new information resources, information professionals must also consider the readiness of the organization to accept their introduction and the willingness of employees themselves to adopt or experiment with IT and accept change. Information professionals are also directly involved in the introduction of new technologies which have the potential to change the market-place completely and to either displace existing products or services, or destroy the industries completely. Recommends the adoption of the Technology Life Cycle as the most suitable framework for enabling them to assess the value of new information technologies to their organization and the likelihood of their uptake. Ideally, the framework should enable them to identify suitable clients for a new product or service, as well as provide a benchmark for evaluating the impact of new, disruptive technologies on their business. Illustrates the argument with particular reference to disruptive technologies of the type which may cause cataclysmic changes, rendering obsolete many of the company’s existing products and processes: Internet applications; mobile information and communication (wireless handheld devices); electronic books; intelligent agents; and emerging technologies.
Electronic business information for higher and further education: building the DNER
Authors: Foster Allan
Published: October 2003

The UK higher and further education sector is engaged on a radical, world-leading project to create a vast menu of high quality electronic content covering all disciplinary areas and delivered via a seamless, standardized and integrated information infrastructure. This in turn will be supported by advisory, preservation and other services. The content includes commercial information products, but also resources created by higher and further education institutions themselves. The project is called the Distributed National Electronic Resource (DNER) and has been developed with substantial funding from UK higher education and further education’s Joint Information Systems Committee (JISC). The DNER is one of the foundation stones on which JISC’s view of the development of information, content and learning resources infrastructure for HE/FE in the next five years is built [1]. This article describes the evolving concept of the DNER and relates it to one disciplinary area, business and management studies.
Marketing information and library services: are people learning about it?
Authors: Webber Sheila
Published: October 2003

It is argued that the increasing trend for business schools to focus on marketing tangible products to consumers makes it increasingly important for future information professionals to learn about services and business-to-business (B2B) marketing. The degree to which marketing is taught in UK library schools was investigated in a survey, conducted in Summer 2001, of the extent to which library and information services (LIS) marketing and quality management were being taught as part of the curriculum. The study was a companion to ones covering the situation in North America (France Bouthillier at McGill University) and in Brazil (Sueli Mara S.P Ferreira of Sao Paulo University). The results from all three surveys were presented at the seminar held by the IFLA Management and Marketing Section, Quebec, August 2001. In the UK survey, all Library Association/ Institute of Information Scientists accredited courses (21 undergraduate and 37 postgraduate) were mailed. Questionnaires were sent to Heads of Department in each of the 17 institutions with relevant courses, where respondents were asked whether they regularly offered classes in marketing of library and information services and the management of service quality. Out of a total of 56 potential returns, 18 questionnaires were returned by eight institutions (32 per cent response rate) with eight related to undergraduate courses (38% response rate) and ten to Master’s (27% response rate). The key results of the survey are summarized. It is concluded that there has been steady improvement in the teaching of marketing to information professionals over the years, but that the change is taking place slowly.
Electronic trust services will inspire the next chapter of E-commerce in 2002
Authors: Travers Tim
Published: October 2003

This article describes core knowledge management techniques of the author, which he then uses to describe the ‘electronic trust services’ market. He explains why this market will be growing in 2002, and why it is important for every business, whether large, medium, small or micro, to take advantage of a combination of new legal and technological opportunities to promote ‘electronic commerce’ between each other by using these services. The article is a mix of knowledge management theory and practice, with an illustrative application of some of the key knowledge management principles to a real life business situation, namely an emerging market with its threats and opportunities for all.