bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical Role of the Complement System in Group BStreptococcus-Induced Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Release
Authors: Levy Ofer , Jean-Jacques Rochelle M. , Cywes Colette , Sisson Richard B. , Zarember Kol A. , Godowski Paul J. , Christianson Jennifer L. , Guttormsen Hilde-Kari , Carroll Michael C. , Nicholson-Weller Anne , Wessels Michael R.
Published: October 2003

Group BStreptococcus(GBS) is a major cause of newborn sepsis and meningitis and induces systemic release of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), believed to play a role in morbidity and mortality. While previous studies have shown that GBS can induce TNF-α release from monocytes and macrophages, little is known about the potential modulating effect of plasma or serum on GBS-induced TNF-α release, and there are conflicting reports as to the host receptors involved. In a human whole-blood assay system, GBS type III COH-1 potently induced substantial monocyte TNF-α release in adult peripheral blood and, due to a higher concentration of monocytes, 10-fold-greater TNF-α release in newborn cord blood. Remarkably, GBS-induced TNF-α release from human monocytes was enhanced ∼1,000-fold by heat-labile serum components. Experiments employing C2-, C3-, or C7-depleted serum demonstrated that C3 activation via the alternative pathway is crucial for potent GBS-induced TNF-α release. Accordingly, whole blood from C3-deficient mice demonstrated significantly reduced GBS-induced TNF-α release. Preincubation with human serum enhanced the TNF-α-inducing activity of GBS in a C3- and factor B-dependent manner, implying deposition of complement components via the alternative pathway. GBS-induced TNF-α release was inhibited by monoclonal antibodies directed against each of the components of CR3 and CR4: the common integrin β subunit CD18 and the α subunits CD11b (of CR3) and CD11c (of CR4). Blood derived from CR3 (CD11b/CD18)-deficient mice demonstrated a markedly diminished TNF-α response to GBS. We conclude that the ability of plasma and serum to greatly amplify GBS-induced TNF-α release reflects the activity of the alternative complement pathway that deposits fragments on GBS and thereby enhances CR3- and CR4-mediated monocyte activation.
Forssman Synthetase Expression Results in Diminished Shiga Toxin Susceptibility
Authors: Elliott Sean P. , Yu Min , Xu Huaijin , Haslam David B.
Published: October 2003

Forssman glycolipid (FG), the product of Forssman synthetase (FS), is widely expressed among nonprimate mammalian species. Here, we describe a molecular and genetic relationship between FG expression and Shiga toxin (Stx) susceptibility. We have isolated the FS cDNA from human, canine, and murine cells. Whereas the murine and canine FS genes express a functional enzyme, the human FS cDNA was found to express a protein that lacks FS activity, despite a high degree of sequence identity with the enzymatically active murine and canine FS genes. In order to examine the relationship between FG expression and Stx susceptibility, Vero cells were transfected with the three FS orthologues or a vector control. Complementation with the human FS cDNA had no effect on Stx susceptibility, whereas stable expression of the canine and murine FS resulted in markedly decreased susceptibility to toxin. Among individual cells, an inverse correlation between FG expression and Stx binding was demonstrated. Moreover, only strongly FG-reactive cells were capable of growing in the presence of Stx. These cells were found to have high levels of FG expression and a correspondingly diminished GbO
3
content. We conclude that expression of a functionally active FS modifies Stx receptor glycolipids to FG and results in markedly decreased susceptibility to toxin. We speculate that inactivation of the FS gene during primate evolution may account, at least in part, for the marked susceptibility of human cells to Stx.
TheLeishmania infantumAcidic Ribosomal Protein P0 Administered as a DNA Vaccine Confers Protective Immunity toLeishmania majorInfection in BALB/c Mice
Authors: Iborra Salvador , Soto Manuel , Carrión Javier , Nieto Ana , Fernández Edgar , Alonso Carlos , Requena Jose M.
Published: October 2003

In this study, we examined the immunogenic properties of theLeishmania infantumacidic ribosomal protein P0 (LiP0) in the BALB/c mouse model. The humoral and cellular responses induced by the administration of the LiP0 antigen, either as soluble recombinant LiP0 (rLiP0) or as a plasmid DNA formulation (pcDNA3-LiP0), were determined. Also, the immunological response associated with a prime-boost strategy, consisting of immunization with pcDNA3-LiP0 followed by a boost with rLiP0, was assayed. Immunization with rLiP0 induced a predominant Th2-like humoral response, but no anti-LiP0 antibodies were induced after immunization with pcDNA3-LiP0, whereas a strong humoral response consisting of a mixed immunoglobulin G2a (IgG2a)-IgG1 isotype profile was induced in mice immunized with the prime-boost regime. For all three immunization protocols, rLiP0-stimulated production of gamma interferon (IFN-γ) in both splenocytes and lymph node cells from immunized mice was observed. However, it was only when mice were immunized with pcDNA3-LiP0 that noticeable protection againstL. majorinfection was achieved, as determined by both lesion development and parasite burden. Immunization of mice withLiP0-DNA primes both CD4+and CD8+T cells, which, with theL. majorchallenge, were boosted to produce significant levels of IL-12-dependent, antigen-specific IFN-γ. Taken together, these data indicate that genetic vaccination with LiP0 induces protective immunological effector mechanisms, yet the immunological response elicited by LiP0 is not sufficient to keep the infection from progressing.
Commensal Bacteria Increase Invasion of Intestinal Epithelium bySalmonella entericaSerovar Typhi
Authors: Lyczak Jeffrey B.
Published: October 2003

The intestinal microflora consists of a heterogeneous population of microorganisms and has many effects on the health status of its human host. Here, it is shown that the products of certain strains of bacteria normally present in the intestinal microflora are able to trigger redistribution of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein in epithelial cells. CFTR is used bySalmonella entericaserovar Typhi as a receptor on epithelial cells which mediate the translocation of this microorganism to the gastric submucosa. Serovar Typhi-epithelial cell adhesion and CFTR-dependent invasion by serovar Typhi of epithelial cells were increased following commensal-mediated CFTR redistribution. These data suggest that commensal microorganisms present in the intestinal lumen can affect the efficiency of serovar Typhi invasion of the intestinal submucosa. This could be a key factor influencing host susceptibility to typhoid fever.
A CdtA-CdtC Complex Can Block Killing of HeLa Cells by
Haemophilus ducreyi
Cytolethal Distending Toxin
Authors: Deng Kaiping , Hansen Eric J.
Published: October 2003

The cytolethal distending toxin (CDT) of
Haemophilus ducreyi
is comprised of the CdtA, CdtB, and CdtC proteins, with the CdtB protein having demonstrated enzymatic (i.e., DNase) activity. Using a single recombinant
Escherichia coli
strain with two plasmids individually containing the
H. ducreyi cdtA
and
cdtC
genes, we purified a noncovalent CdtA-CdtC complex. Incubation of this CdtA-CdtC complex with HeLa cells blocked killing of these cells by CDT holotoxin. Furthermore, the addition of purified recombinant CdtB to HeLa cells preincubated with the CdtA-CdtC complex resulted in the killing of these human epithelial cells.
Differences in Host Susceptibility to Disease Progression in the Human Challenge Model ofHaemophilus ducreyiInfection
Authors: Spinola Stanley M. , Bong Cliffton T. H. , Faber Andrew L. , Fortney Kate R. , Bennett Stacy L. , Townsend Carisa A. , Zwickl Beth E. , Billings Steven D. , Humphreys Tricia L. , Bauer Margaret E. , Katz Barry P.
Published: October 2003

With human volunteers inoculated at two sites withHaemophilus ducreyi, outcomes for a subject were not independent. In a reinfection trial, 2 of 11 previous pustule formers and 6 of 10 previous resolvers resolved all sites of infection. There was no correlation between serum bactericidal or phagocytic activity and outcome in the trial. These data indicate that different hosts are differentially susceptible to disease progression versus resolution in the model.
Impaired Motor Speed, Visuospatial Episodic Memory and Verbal Fluency Characterize Cognition in Long-Term Stroke Survivors: The Tromsø Study
Authors: Engstad Torgeir , Almkvist Ove , Viitanen Matti , Arnesen Egil
Published: October 2003

The cognitive function after stroke is examined in acute and subacute phase, but poorly characterized in long-term stroke survivors. This paper discusses cognitive function among long-term stroke survivors, with matched stroke-free subjects, based on a population survey. General cognition, verbal, executive and visuospatial function, memory, attention, and motor speed were tested as well as motor function in upper extremities. Stroke survivors and controls were most effectively discriminated by means of motor speed, followed by visuospatial episodic memory and verbal fluency. This pattern of cognitive disturbances may be a consequence of cerebral lesions in frontal subcortical areas, and is different from Alzheimer’s disease.
Occupational Exposure to Metals and Solvents and the Risk of Motor Neuron Disease
Authors: Gait Rosalind , Maginnis Claire , Lewis Sarah , Pickering Neil , Antoniak Marilyn , Hubbard Richard , Lawson Ian , Britton John
Published: October 2003

Previous studies based on recalled occupational histories have implicated metal and solvent exposure in the etiology of motor neuron disease (MND). We have used death certificates held in pension fund archives and linked unbiased historical occupational records to investigate the effects of occupational exposure to metals or solvents on the risk of death from MND in 22 cases and 206 controls from 22,526 past employees of a major UK engineering company. We found no evidence of increased risk of death from MND in individuals who had worked with either metals (adjusted odds ratio = 0.88, 95% CI 0.35–2.22) or solvents (odds ratio = 1.12, 95% CI 0.45–2.78), and no relation between disease risk and either duration or intensity of exposure. We conclude that metal and solvent exposures are unlikely to be involved in the etiology of MND.
Exercise-Induced Human Coronary Collateral Function: Quantitative Assessment during Acute Coronary Occlusions
Authors: Pohl Tilmann , Wustmann Kerstin , Zbinden Stephan , Windecker Stephan , Mehta Haresh , Meier Bernhard , Seiler Christian
Published: October 2003

In 50 patients undergoing percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty because of chronic angina pectoris, a collateral flow index (CFI) was determined at the start and the end of two 1-min coronary occlusions, randomly accompanied by a resting state or a 3-min dynamic handgrip exercise (DHE). CFI expressing collateral flow relative to normal antegrade flow was determined by simultaneous coronary occlusive pressure, mean aortic pressure and central venous pressure measurements. When comparing CFI without and with DHE at the start as well as at the end of balloon occlusions, a significant increase was observed with DHE (overall p < 0.0001); start: 0.18 ± 0.12 vs. 0.22 ± 0.13, respectively (p = 0.01); end of occlusion: 0.21 ± 0.14 vs. 0.25 ± 0.14, respectively (p = 0.007).
Subjective Visual Experience and Pain Level during Phacoemulsification and Intraocular Lens Implantation under Topical Anesthesia
Authors: Yaylalı Volkan , Yildirim Cem , Tatlıpınar Sinan , Demirlenk İbrahim , Arık Sevda , Özden Serap
Published: October 2003

Purpose: To investigate the subjective visual experiences and pain during the phacoemulsification and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation under topical anesthesia, and whether these parameters change according to the stage of phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Methods: Forty eyes of 40 patients with cataract undergoing phacoemulsification and IOL implantation under topical anesthesia were included in this study. The patients were told that they would be asked about their visual experiences and pain level, if any, during every stage of the surgery. As for degree of the pain, a 5-grade scale was used. The surgery was divided into 9 stages, i.e., clear corneal incision, continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis, side-port incisions at 3 and 9 o’clock positions, hydrodissection, nuclear rotation, phacoemulsification, bimanual irrigation and aspiration, IOL implantation, apposition of corneal incisions with stromal hydration. Results: All subjects (100%) reported that they had seen some kind of light during the operation. Thirty-eight patients (95%) said that they had seen one or more colors. In 32 patients (80%), the light intensity decreased, and colors blurred significantly following the hydrodissection. As for the pain level during surgery, the overall pain score was found to be 0.40. The highest mean pain score was noted during IOL implantation stage followed by phacoemulsification and bimanual irrigation-aspiration. Conclusion: Topical anesthesia is both a safe and effective method for small-incision clear corneal phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Patients may experience visual sensations, and the pain felt during the operation is low and tolerable. Visual experiences and pain level may change according to the stage of phacoemulsification cataract surgery.
Do Human Papillomaviruses Target Epidermal Stem Cells?
Authors: Egawa Kiyofumi
Published: October 2003

Little is known about the target cells of human papillomaviruses (HPVs). The clinical and histological analyses of very early lesions of palmoplantar warts indicate that not only the warts initially developed exclusively in the ridges of the skin, but also that the initial histological changes were restricted to the deep ridges of the epidermis, where epidermal stem cells are thought to exist in the palmoplantar skin. This suggests that HPV infection targets the stem cells.
Jessner’s Lymphocytic Infiltration of the Skin: A CD8+ Polyclonal Reactive Skin Condition
Authors: Poenitz N. , Dippel E. , Klemke C.-D. , Qadoumi M. , Goerdt S.
Published: October 2003

Background: Jessner’s lymphocytic infiltration of the skin (JLIS) is a clinically and histologically distinct disease entity. Conflicting results have been reported concerning its differentiation from cutaneous lupus erythematosus and polymorphous light eruption, its relationship to palpable migratory arciform erythema and its classification as a B-cell or a CD4+ T-cell lymphoproliferative disease. Objective: Our study was performed in order to re-evaluate JLIS clinically and by immunohistochemical and molecular analyses. Methods: Stringent inclusion/exclusion criteria were used to collect a cohort of 34 patients with JLIS that did not overlap with lupus erythematosus or polymorphous light eruption. Clinical data were analysed, and immunohistochemical and molecular studies were performed including TCR-γ PCR GeneScan software analysis of tissue and peripheral blood samples. Results: In the majority of the patients, the lesions consisted only of papules and plaques while in 12% annular lesions were also seen. The lesions were found on the face (38%), on the trunk and arms (50%) or at both sites (12%). Immunohistochemical analyses revealed a clear predominance of T cells in all patients, and of CD8+ T cells in 77% of the patients. As judged by TCR-γ PCR GeneScan analysis, 98 and 79% of the tissue and peripheral blood samples, respectively, showed a polyclonal T-cell population; identical T-cell clones were not detected concomitantly in both the skin and the peripheral blood of the same patient. Conclusions: JLIS occurs at 2 major predilection sites, that is the face and trunk. Therefore introduction of palpable migratory arciform erythema as a separate entity is not justified. The lymphoid infiltrates are dominated immunohistochemically by CD8+ T cells that do not show clonality on molecular analysis. Thus, JLIS represents a characteristic CD8+ polyclonal reactive skin condition.
Burkitt’s Lymphoma in the Base of the Tongue: Differential Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Manolopoulos L. , Nikolopoulos T.P. , Yiotakis J. , Karapatsas J. , Maris A. , Ferekidis E.
Published: October 2003

Burkitt’s lymphoma is the most common malignancy in African children but can occur sporadically in every country. It is one of the most aggressive malignancies in the human body, and in the past the prognosis was very poor. However, complex chemotherapy regimens can now cure approximately 50–80% of adult patients with Burkitt’s lymphoma or small noncleaved lymphoma, and in pediatric populations the cure rate is even higher. Although the African type has a preference to the head and neck region (whereas the sporadic type to the abdomen), involvement of the base of the tongue is extremely rare as only 1 case has ever been reported in the English literature. The present study describes a patient with Burkitt’s lymphoma presenting as a single mass in the base of the tongue without any abdominal or other extra-abdominal involvement. The patient was submitted to chemotherapy (intravenous and intrathecal) and skull radiotherapy. Today, 17 months after the diagnosis, the patient is disease free. Physicians should be aware of the extranodal manifestations of Burkitt’s lymphoma and their differential diagnosis in order to achieve early diagnosis and treatment.
Rationale for Probiotic and Antibiotic Treatment Strategies in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Schultz Michael , Schölmerich Jürgen , Rath Heiko C.
Published: October 2003

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), commonly referred to as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic aggressive disorders which share many similarities concerning pathomechanism and clinical course, but have very distinct features. Both entities are mainly located in areas with high bacterial concentrations, such as the terminal ileum and cecum in Crohn’s disease and the rectum in ulcerative colitis. In recent years, overwhelming evidence accumulated, supporting the hypothesis that IBD are characterized by a genetically determined, overly aggressive immune response towards ubiquitous luminal antigens, especially commensal bacteria and their products. Trials in both human IBD and experimental colitis have demonstrated that broad-spectrum antibiotics may influence the course of ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease and antibiotics with narrow activity against the anaerobic fraction of the flora can prevent relapse in Crohn’s disease after surgically induced remission. Since relevant antibiotic strategies can be associated with some side effects, the ongoing research recently focused on alternative methods to modify the intestinal flora in patients with IBD. Clinical observations including few controlled trials, basic research, and animal studies have suggested a potential role for probiotic bacteria within the treatment regimens for IBD. However, the mode of action of these organisms is still largely unclear and in vitro studies are inconclusive. This review summarizes recent in vitro and in vivo data regarding the role of the intestinal microflora in the pathogenesis of chronic intestinal inflammation and possible therapeutic mechanisms of probiotic bacteria relevant to IBD. Furthermore, we will review clinical trials examining the efficacy of antibiotic and probiotic treatment strategies in IBD.
Surgery for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: McLeod Robin S.
Published: October 2003

Surgery is required in many patients with inflammatory bowel disease at some point in their disease. In patients with ulcerative colitis, surgery is potentially curative whereas recurrence of Crohn’s disease following surgery is a common occurrence. As a result, the indications and surgical management of the two diseases may be quite different. Surgery is usually reserved for the management of complications or failure of medical treatment in Crohn’s disease. Resection of the diseased segment is the usual procedure performed. While surgery usually results in an improvement in quality of life, recurrence of disease occurs frequently with reported rates of 5–90% at 1 year, depending on the criteria used. To date, there have been no surgical maneuvers which have been shown to decrease the risk of recurrence. Over the past few decades, several advances have been made in the surgical management of Crohn’s disease: use of strictureplasty for extensive disease; use of laparoscopic techniques to perform surgery and the performance of the ileal pouch procedure in very selected patients. Significant advances in the surgical management of ulcerative colitis have been made in the past 50 years. Although there are several options available to patients, the preferred option now is the ileal pouch procedure. With technical modifications and with experience, this procedure can now be performed with a low complication rate, with good functional results and quality of life and excellent long-term outcome.
Interleukin-10 Influences the Expression of MRP8 and MRP14 in Human Dendritic Cells
Authors: Kumar Anita , Steinkasserer Alexander , Berchtold Susanne
Published: October 2003

Background: We investigated the differential gene expression of human dendritic cells (DC) under the influence of the cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10). Methods: The gene expression profiles of IL-10-treated DC and untreated DC (untreated control) were compared using cDNA expression array. Results: In this array, several differentially expressed transcripts could be identified. Two of them, the transcripts for the myeloid-related proteins (MRPs) MRP8 and MRP14, were examined more closely. The transcripts encoding for these proteins were expressed in mature untreated DC, and significantly induced in IL-10-treated DC. Conclusions: These data demonstrate that the genes for MRP8 and MRP14 are expressed in various DC subpopulations in different intensity, depending on their maturational status and are increased after the treatment with IL-10. Expression of the genes for MRP8 and MRP14 in DC has not been reported before. These results point to different, still unknown functions of these two proteins in DC: to a role in DC maturation, and possibly to an influence on the creation of tolerogenic T cells under the influence of IL-10.
Xylitol Inhibition of Acid Production and Growth of Mutans Streptococci in the Presence of Various Dietary Sugars under Strictly Anaerobic Conditions
Authors: Kakuta Hatsue , Iwami Yoshimichi , Mayanagi Hideaki , Takahashi Nobuhiro
Published: October 2003

The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effect of xylitol on the growth of and acid production by mutans streptococci in the presence of various dietary sugars, and the relationship between the inhibition and the accumulation of xylitol 5-phosphate (X5P) under strictly anaerobic conditions like those in the deep layers of dental plaque. Xylitol retarded the growth of mutans streptococci in the presence of glucose (G), galactose (Gal), maltose (M), lactose (L) or sucrose (S) as an energy source, though the inhibition of growth on fructose (Fr) was small. Xylitol inhibited acid production by washed cells of Streptococcus mutans from G, Gal, M, L or S (12–83% inhibition). S. mutans accumulated X5P intracellularly through activity of the phosphoenolpyruvate-xylitol phosphotransferase system (PEP-xylitol PTS) when they fermented these sugars in the presence of xylitol. However, in the presence of Fr, no inhibition of acid production was observed. In addition, the amounts of X5P during the fermentation of Fr were smaller than those of other sugars in spite of the presence of PEP-xylitol PTS activity. These results suggest that along with the intracellular accumulation of X5P, xylitol decreases the growth and acid production of mutans streptococci in the presence of various dietary sugars except Fr.
Eating Disorders and Body Image Disturbances among Ballet Dancers, Gymnasium Users and Body Builders
Authors: Ravaldi Claudia , Vannacci Alfredo , Zucchi Teresa , Mannucci Edoardo , Cabras Pier Luigi , Boldrini Maura , Murciano Loriana , Rotella Carlo Maria , Ricca Valdo
Published: October 2003

Background: Eating disorders are frequent among elite performers of certain sports or physical activities; however, little is known about non-professional performers. Method: 113 female non-elite ballet dancers, 54 female gymnasium users, 44 male non-competitive body builders, 105 female controls and 30 male controls were evaluated using the Body Uneasiness Test, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Beck Depression Inventory, and the Eating Disorder Examination 12th edition (EDE-12). Results: Non-elite ballet dancers reported the highest prevalence of eating disorders (anorexia nervosa 1.8%; bulimia nervosa 2.7%; eating disorders not otherwise specified 22.1%), followed by gymnasium users (anorexia nervosa 2.6%; eating disorders not otherwise specified 18%). Significant differences (p < 0.01) between athletes and their controls were found in the following parameters (median values): Beck Depression Inventory (female dancers 5.7, gymnasium users 6.1, female controls 2.8, body builders 1.6, and male controls 1.3), Body Uneasiness Test (female dancers 1.08, gymnasium users 0.62, female controls 0.54, body builders 0.35, and male controls 0.27), EDE total scores (female dancers 1.6, gymnasium users 1.7, female controls 1.0, body builders 1.0, and male controls 0.4), EDE – restraint subscale scores (female dancers 0.8, gymnasium users 1.6, female controls 0.0, body builders 0.8, and male controls 0.0), EDE – eating concern subscale scores (female dancers 0.4, gymnasium users 0.2, female controls 0.0, body builders 0.0, and male controls 0.0), EDE – weight concern subscale scores (female dancers 2.1, gymnasium users 2.1, female controls 1.6, body builders 1.4, and male controls 0.5), and EDE – shape concern subscale scores (female dancers 2.7, gymnasium users 2.8, female controls 2.0, body builders 2.1, and male controls 0.9). EDE scores were highly related to Body Uneasiness Test scores, especially in non-elite ballet dancers and in non-competitive body builders (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Non-professional performers of sports emphasising thinness or muscularity, such as ballet and body-building, show a high degree of body uneasiness and inappropriate eating attitudes and behaviours.
A Parametric Approach to the Phonetics of Postvocalic /r/ in Dutch
Authors: Plug Leendert , Ogden Richard
Published: October 2003

This paper describes the phonetic exponents of rhoticity in postvocalic position in the speech of 4 young adult speakers of Standard Dutch. In addition to describing aspects of the segmental realisation of /r/, the paper focusses on parametric differences between rhymes with and without postvocalic /r/ in the material under consideration, presenting both impressionistic observations and instrumental measurements. Results of the investigation suggest that parametric analysis is a crucial complement to segmental classification, in providing insights into the relation between segmental realisations and ‘contextual effects’ of /r/, the phonetics of /r/ deletion and similarities and differences between rhotics cross-linguistically.
The Effect of Local Speaking Rate on the Perception of Quantity in Estonian
Authors: Traunmüller Hartmut , Krull Diana
Published: October 2003

The Estonian language with its elaborate system of contrasts in quantity, whose essentials are described in the paper, is used to investigate human perception of distinctive contrasts in the duration of vowels, consonants and larger units. In the experiments reported, the speaking rate of a preceding or following syllable was manipulated in addition to that of a target V, C or VC sequence that carried a quantity distinction in disyllabic words. The results confirmed that the second syllable in such words, in particular the duration of its vowel, serves as a reference, but they showed segments of additional syllables to contribute in the same direction. The results provided no support for ascribing quantity to any larger units than phonetic segments. Speech rate effects of similar magnitude have been observed in Japanese, while effects of the same kind were found to be smaller in Dutch. These differences may be linked with the functions durational contrasts have in the different languages. It appears that listeners have to adapt more fully to variations in the local speaking rate when there are no additional cues and the functional load of quantity distinctions is high.
Intelligibility of Sentences Recorded from the Uterus of a Pregnant Ewe and from the Fetal Inner Ear
Authors: Smith Sherri L. , Gerhardt Kenneth J. , Griffiths Scott K. , Huang Xinyan , Abrams Robert M.
Published: October 2003

The intelligibility of sentences recorded from the uterus of a pregnant ewe and from the near-term fetal sheep inner ear was judged by 30 listeners. Sentences were presented to the ewe at 95 and 105 dB SPL while sequential recordings of sound with a hydrophone and a cochlear microphonic (CM) with electrodes were made. Recordings were randomized and presented to listeners to judge the intelligibility of sentences processed through the ewe and fetal inner ear. Intelligibility scores were nearly 99% for air and uterus conditions, dropped to 73% for CM ex utero and to 41% for CM in utero. Results indicated that filtering provided by the tissues and fluids of the maternal abdomen did not affect sentence intelligibility significantly, but the filtering effects as the signal passed into the fetal inner ear resulted in much poorer intelligibility.
Pregnancy Outcomes following the Diagnosis of Interstitial Cystitis
Authors: Onwude Joseph L. , Selo-Ojeme Daniel O.
Published: October 2003

Objective: To describe the outcome of pregnancy in patients treated for interstitial cystitis. Methods: Over a 4-year period, 12 patients with interstitial cystitis who had one course of intravesical dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO) therapy for interstitial cystitis were studied. Information on the effects of the treatment-to-conception interval, symptom control during pregnancy and immediately post partum, other pregnancy events and pregnancy outcome were collected. Results: The mean age was 32 years (SD = 5.4), and 6 (50%) were nulliparous. Fifty-eight percent of the women presented with combined urinary and pain symptoms, 25% with a pain symptom only and 17% with a urinary symptom only. Eleven women had 1 course (6 doses) of DMSO therapy. Symptom relief was maintained during pregnancy in almost all the women. The mean interval from diagnosis of interstitial cystitis to the first day of the last menstrual cycle preceding all pregnancies beyond 28 weeks was 19.3 months (SD = 14.7). This interval was 6 months or less for 2 pregnancies that were terminated on account of symptoms attributable to interstitial cystitis. Thirteen healthy babies were delivered. Conclusion: Pregnancy outcomes appear good following treatment for interstitial cystitis with 1 course of intravesical DMSO.
Reproductive Performance following Midtrimester Termination of Pregnancy
Authors: Debby A. , Glezerman M. , Sagiv R. , Sadan O. , Malinger G. , Golan A.
Published: October 2003

The aim of the study was to determine the impact of midtrimester abortion with extra-amniotic PGE2 on future fertility and reproduction. Two hundred and fifteen women were enrolled. The mean induction-to-abortion interval was 21.3 h. The complication rate was 11.7%. Twenty women (9.3%) were lost to follow-up, 82 patients (38.1%) used contraception. Spontaneous pregnancy occurred in 110 out of 113 women who desired fertility (97%). Three patients were defined as infertile but conceived following treatment. The average time between the abortion and the next conception was 15.9 months (range 1–77 months). Seventy patients (63.7%) delivered at term. Premature delivery occurred in 18 patients (16.4%). Eighteen women aborted spontaneously in the first and 3 in the second trimester. One extrauterine pregnancy occurred. Second-trimester abortion with extra-amniotic PGE2 is a safe procedure with a low rate of complication. Apparently it does not affect future fertility, but may be associated with an increased rate of premature deliveries in future gestations.
Management of Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease plus Cerebrovascular Disease: 12-Month Treatment with Galantamine
Authors: Bullock Roger , Erkinjuntti Timo , Lilienfeld Sean , GAL-INT-6 Study Group G
Published: October 2003

We evaluated the long-term cognitive effects and safety of galantamine 24 mg/day in patients with Alzheimer’s disease plus cerebrovascular disease (AD + CVD or mixed dementia). Subgroup analysis was performed of patients with AD + CVD who participated in a 6-month, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group study and a 6-month, open-label, active-treatment extension. Method: Two hundred and eighty-five patients with AD + CVD were randomized to receive either placebo (n = 97) or galantamine 24 mg/day (n = 188) for 6 months. Two hundred and thirty-eight (84%) patients continued with the open-label phase of the study (86 from the placebo group, 152 from the galantamine group) and were treated with galantamine 24 mg/day. The primary efficacy measure was cognitive performance as assessed using the eleven-item cognitive subscale of the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale (ADAS-cog/11). Standard safety evaluations and adverse-event monitoring were performed throughout the 12-month study period. Patients with AD + CVD treated with galantamine experienced statistically and clinically significant improvement in cognition at month 6 (mean change in ADAS-cog/11 score –1.1; p ≤ 0.05 vs. baseline) and maintained their cognitive function for the entire 12-month study (mean change in ADAS-cog/11 score +0.1). In contrast, the cognitive function deteriorated among those in the placebo group (mean change in ADAS-cog/11 at month 6 +2.0; p ≤ 0.001 vs. baseline). Patients with AD + CVD who were switched from placebo to galantamine for the open-label phase of the trial did show improvement in cognitive function; however, they never attained the same cognitive level as patients who had been treated with galantamine for the entire 12 months [mean (± SE) ADAS-cog/11 scores in the placebo/galantamine group 25.7 ± 1.32 and 24.2 ± 1.57 at months 6 and 12, respectively, and in the galantamine/galantamine group 21.5 ± 0.87 and 22.2 ± 1.06 at months 6 and 12, respectively]. The results of this subgroup analysis indicate that galantamine is effective for long-term maintenance of the cognitive function in patients with AD + CVD and is safe and well tolerated in this patient population.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Depression in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Lyketsos Constantine G. , Lee Hochang B.
Published: October 2003

Over 80% of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) develop ‘noncognitive’ neuropsychiatric symptoms at some point during the course of their illness. Depression is among the most frequent of such comorbidities. Affecting up to 50% of AD patients, depression is associated with severe negative consequences for patients and caregivers. Despite having a presentation in the context of AD that differs from typical ‘geriatric’ depression, it can be detected and quantified reliably, and can be differentiated from the other neuropsychiatric symptoms of AD. Several effective treatment modalities for depression in AD are available. In many cases, these reduce its adverse impact on patients and caregivers. This paper provides an overview of current knowledge regarding depression in AD for the clinician. It is followed by a practical discussion of the detection, evaluation, quantification, differential diagnosis and treatment of depression in AD.
Modified Hysteroscopic Myomectomy of Large Submucous Fibroids
Authors: Darwish Atef
Published: October 2003

Objective: To compare the efficacy, feasibility, operative time and possible complications of a modified technique of hysteroscopic removal of large submucus myomata versus traditional morcellation technique, and to assess the efficacy of preoperative sonohysterography (SHG). Design: A prospective comparative study. Setting: Gynecologic Endoscopy Unit, Assiut University Hospital, Assiut, Egypt. Subjects: One hundred forty-two women of childbearing age with a clinical and transvaginal sonographic diagnosis of large solitary submucous myomata (>3 cm in diameter) with or without an intramural element. Interventions: The patients were divided into two groups. In group A (65 patients), a modified resectoscopic technique was used where the base of the myoma was excised followed by ring forceps extraction after misoprostol priming. In group B (77 patients), the myoma was cut using traditional resectoscopic morcellation. Main Outcome Measures: For each patient, operating time, intra- and postoperative complications and feasibility of the procedure were recorded. The accuracy of preoperative SHG in localizing submucous myoma and detecting intramural extension was assessed by diagnostic hysteroscopy. Results: Transvaginal SHG showed good agreement with hysteroscopy in localizing submucous myomata and detecting intramural extension (k = 0.83). The operating time was significantly shorter in group A (15.6 ± 3.02 min) than in group B (28.9 ± 4.3 min). The procedure was completed in 60 (92%) and 51 patients (66%), whereas a second session was required in 2 (3%) and 20 patients (25.9%) in both groups respectively. Glycine volume was highly significantly less in group A (2.3 ± 0.86 vs. 6.3± 1.7 liters, p = 0.001). Intraoperative complications were encountered in 9 (13.8%) and 22 patients (28.5%) in both groups respectively (p = 0.03). Cervical laceration was diagnosed in 3 cases (4.6%) in group A. Postoperative visual disturbances were diagnosed in 4 cases (5%) in group B. Conclusions: Hysteroscopic resection of large submucous myomata with minimal intramural encroachment is feasible using a modified technique. It shows a minimal complication rate and fluid deficit and a shorter operative time than the standard morcellation technique. If the excised myoma is extracted as one mass, this carries a minimal risk of cervical lacerations and possible cervical incompetence in a subsequent pregnancy. Transvaginal SHG is a reliable diagnostic aid to assess submucous myomata.
Reliability and Validity of the Parental Control Scale
Authors: Rohner Ronald P. , Khaleque Abdul
Published: October 2003

Meta-analytic procedures from 11 cross-cultural and intracultural studies (26 effect sizes) along with factor analyses of data from five samples were used to assess the reliability and validity of the Parental Control Scale (PCS). The PCS is a 13-item self-report questionnaire assessing children's and adults' perceptions of the behavioral control they experience(d) as children (or control administered to children by their parents). Results of analyses support the conclusion that the PCS is a reliable and valid measure for cross-cultural research purposes, including among American ethnic groups.
Perceived Parental Acceptance and Emotional Empathy among University Students in Korea
Authors: Kim Sung-Il , Rohner Ronald P.
Published: October 2003

Drawing from a sample of 725 respondents, the hypothesis was tested that the level of emotional empathy reported by university students in Korea is positively associated with the extent to which youths perceive themselves to have been accepted by their parents in childhood. The question was also explored whether variation in the level of boys' versus girls' emotional empathy was associated with differences in maternal versus paternal acceptance. Results showed that the level of daughters' (but not sons') emotional empathy varied directly with the level of perceived maternal acceptance, whereas the level of sons' (but not daughters') emotional empathy varied directly with the level of perceived paternal acceptance. Moreover, daughters (but not sons) who perceived themselves to have been rejected by their mothers (but not fathers) tended to be significantly less emotionally empathic than did daughters who perceived themselves to have been accepted by their mothers.
Parent Care by Indian and Belgian Caregivers in their Roles of Daughter/Daughter-in-Law
Authors: Datta Prishnee , Poortinga Ype H. , Marcoen Alfons
Published: October 2003

Patterns of scores on measures of the strength of current caregiver/care receiver relationship quality (adult attachment, closeness, and conflict) and measures of parent care (filial concern, caregiver burden, and amount of parent care given) were examined in India and Belgium (Flanders) with middle-aged women looking after their mother and/or mother-in-law. Patterns of scores in care receivers' ratings of current bonds with their daughters and daughters-in-law were also investigated. The results suggested that the relationship between daughter-in-law and mother-in-law is relatively less close in India than in Belgium. In contrast, pat-terns of variables related to actual behavior follow cultural prescriptions, with Indian daughters-in-law pro-viding more care for their mothers-in-law. It is concluded that cultural demands will determine actual behavior but have, at most, a limited influence when it comes to deep-rooted interpersonal relations, such as the attachment between mother and daughter.
Local Wishes vs. Social Costs: The Karur Industrial District
Authors: Corsi Marco
Published: October 2003

Karur district has been traditionally committed to the production of textiles. Nowadays the local economy totally depends on this mainly export-oriented sector. The production is organized on a sub-contracting basis and collective efficiency is obtained through the job-working system. The impact of the growing industrialization is strong. Many agriculturists are becoming entrepreneurs. But the economic loss caused by the decline of the agricultural sector seems to be offset by the gains of industrial development. The industrialization process has been providing full employment and, apparently, has generated widespread well-being, although labour is unorganized, with no guarantees except for the daily wages. The caste system is undergoing secularization. Industrialization is undermining the environment. The hypothesis of the research is as follows. The industrial development pattern offered by the `Industrial District Model' is defined as a local process; that is, not directly generated or influenced by external factors but rather by local cultural/historical factors. The sociological objective of the research is the analysis of Karur district's industrial development through the empirical use of the theoretical field of reference provided by Eisenstadt. Its analytical categories allow us to overcome the traditional dichotomy (namely tradition/modernity) of the prevailing modernization theories. The overall objective of the research is the analysis of the social and cultural impact of the industrial development. In order to reach the overall objective and to test the hypothesis of the research, two specific objectives have been fixed: 1) the analysis of the development process of the Karur district through the Industrial District Model; 2) the analysis of the impact of the market liberalization on the local society.
Six trends that will shape the financial information industry
Authors: Raeburn Vicki
Published: October 2003

Focuses on six key trends likely to shape the financial information industry in the short term. Consolidation of many smaller publishing companies in fewer, larger companies will be inevitable and be driven by the imperative to maximize profits. The drive to consolidate will be a key force in leading Internet publishing to success. Financial information is likely to develop along two lines: free, advertising sponsored financial information on the Internet; and quality, subscription based solutions that guarantee the accuracy of what they supply. Information vendors may begin adding more and better information integrated around some compelling application in order to retain users and attract advertisers. Despite the dominance of the Internet, there will still room for printed and data downloaded products. Libraries will continue to play an important role. Finally, all the work that has ensured success in avoiding the worst effects of the Year 2000 (Y2K) problem will have knock-on benefits through IT upgrades, more flexible systems, greater management acceptance and availability of more computer programmers too complete postponed projects.
Fair, fast and immediate: electronic reporting and the dawn of the private investor
Authors: Reynolds Paul
Published: October 2003

The ongoing changes that are taking place in the publishing of company reports are discussed with particular reference to the rapid trend towards the replacement of printed reports by online electronic reports. Notes the ways in which these developments in electronic reporting over the previous four years have changed the relationship between companies and their shareholders. Traces some of the milestones from the time when Citigate-MARCHCom put its first annual report online in 1996, through the development of CAROL (Company Annual Report On Line) and EDGAR (Electronic Data Gathering And Reporting) to the emergence of CAROL UK and CAROLWorld, with almost 4000 companies in Europe, Asia and the USA linking their hypertext published reports to theWebsite (http://www.carolworld.com). Discusses the implications of electronic reporting and the potential it offers for communicating corporate information in terms of: the impact on the reporting process itself; the legal implications of the developments; the further developments of financial reporting techniques; and the impact on shareholder communication.
Personal information in UK public registers: its availability and use
Authors: Boguscz Barbara , Davies J. Eric , Oppenheim Charles
Published: October 2003

Focuses on concerns in the UK regarding the possible abuse of personal information that can be found in lists that are required to be made available to the public under statute or regulation. Cites examples of such possible abuse including a murder case where the victim was allegedly identified as a target by the murderer by means of the Electoral Register (which shows details of people living alone) and directors of pharmaceutical companies targeted by animal rights activists. Describes research undertaken to identify the scale of such public registers, the nature of the information held within them, the use to which they were put (often in addition to their intended function) and interviews with a number of the controllers and users of such registers. A taxonomy of registers was derived in which the criteria applied were: size of list, in terms of number of records; distribution of list, in terms of statutory outlets; sensitivity of list, judged on a scale of 1 to 4 and subjectively determined.
Breeding the racing camel - or handy hints on knowledge management projects
Authors: Wright Tim
Published: October 2003

Describes the knowledge management project undertaken by Egon Zehnder International (EZI), a large and highly respected executive search and management consultancy firm operating in 33 countries, to re-examine and enhance its knowledge coding structure to cope with its rapidly expanding core databases of candidate, client and individual assignment details. The many challenges faced by the Coding Project are reviewed, including: the need for the scheme to be as comprehensive as possible; the differing levels of resource resources available office-to-office to drive the project; the level of local autonomy; the varied work processes between offices; and the danger of the project appearing too London-centred. An indexing taxonomy was compiled that was unique to EZI, articulating the firm’s understanding of its business experience and this taxonomy formed the core of the coding structure to be used for structuring the databases.