bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implication of (Mn)superoxide dismutase of Enterococcus faecalis in oxidative stress responses and survival inside macrophages
Authors: Verneuil Nicolas , Mazé Alain , Sanguinetti Maurizio , Laplace Jean-Marie , Benachour Abdellah , Auffray Yanick , Giard Jean-Christophe , Hartke Axel
Published: August 2006

The gene encoding the manganese-containing superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) ofEnterococcus faecaliswas characterized. It is transcribed monocistronically from an upstream promoter identified by rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE)-PCR. AsodAmutant was constructed and characterized. Growth of the mutant strain was not significantly different from that of its wild-type counterpart in standing and aerated cultures. However, the mutant was more sensitive towards menadione and hydroperoxide stresses. The response to H2O2stress was analysed in more detail, and the mode of killing of this oxidant was different under anaerobic and aerobic conditions. Cultures grown and challenged under anaerobic conditions were highly sensitive to treatment with 35 mM H2O2. They were largely protected by the iron chelator deferoxamine, which suggested that killing was mainly due to an enhanced Fenton reaction. In contrast, neither strain was protected by the iron chelators deferoxamine and diethylenetriaminepentaacteic acid when grown and challenged under aerobic conditions, which suggested that inactivation of the cells by H2O2was due to another killing mode. ThesodAmutant was more sensitive under these conditions, showing that MnSOD is also important for protecting the cells from damage under aerobic conditions. Finally, the MnSOD ofEnt. faecalismay be considered to be a virulence factor, since survival of the corresponding mutant strain was highly affected inside mouse peritoneal macrophages.
The effect of penicillin on Chlamydia trachomatis DNA replication
Authors: Lambden Paul R. , Pickett Mark A. , Clarke Ian N.
Published: August 2006

Chlamydia trachomatis L2 was used to infect BGMK cells at an m.o.i. of 1.0, and the developmental cycle was followed by transmission electron microscopy and quantitative PCR (QPCR) for both chromosomal and plasmid DNA. Samples were taken at sequential 6 h time points. Subsequent analysis by QPCR showed that there was an initial slow replication period (0–18 h), followed by a rapid phase (18–36 h) coinciding with exponential division when the DNA doubling time was 4.6 h. Chromosomal DNA was amplified 100–200-fold corresponding to 7–8 generations for the complete developmental cycle. Penicillin (10 and 100 units ml−1) was added to cultures at 20 h post-infection (p.i.). This blocked binary fission and also prevented reticulate body (RB) to elementary body transition. However, exposure to penicillin did not prevent chromosomal or plasmid DNA replication. After a short lag period, following the addition of penicillin, chlamydial chromosomal DNA replication resumed at the same rate as in control C. trachomatis-infected cells. C. trachomatis-infected host cells exposed to penicillin did not lyse, but instead harboured large, aberrant RBs in massive inclusions that completely filled the cell cytoplasm. In these RBs, the DNA continued to replicate well beyond the end of the normal developmental cycle. At 60 h p.i. each aberrant RB contained a minimum of 16 chromosomal copies.
KlRHO1 and KlPKC1 are essential for cell integrity signalling in Kluyveromyces lactis
Authors: Rodicio Rosaura , Koch Sabrina , Schmitz Hans-Peter , Heinisch Jürgen J.
Published: August 2006

Cell integrity in yeasts is ensured by a rigid cell wall whose synthesis is triggered by a MAP kinase-mediated signal-transduction cascade. Upstream regulatory components of this pathway inSaccharomyces cerevisiaeinvolve a single protein kinase C, which is regulated by interaction with the small GTPase Rho1. Here, two genes were isolated which encode these proteins fromKluyveromyces lactis(KlPKC1andKlRHO1). Sequencing showed ORFs which encode proteins of 1161 and 208 amino acids, respectively. The deduced proteins shared 59 and 85 % overall amino acid identities, respectively, with their homologues fromS. cerevisiae. Null mutants in both genes were non-viable, as shown by tetrad analyses of the heterozygous diploid strains. Overexpression of theKlRHO1gene under the control of theScGAL1promoter severely impaired growth in bothS. cerevisiaeandK. lactis. On the other hand, a similar construct withKlPKC1did not show a pronounced phenotype. Two-hybrid analyses showed interaction between Rho1 and Pkc1 for theK. lactisproteins and theirS. cerevisiaehomologues. A green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusion to the C-terminal end of KlPkc1 located the protein to patches in the growing bud, and at certain stages of the division process also to the bud neck. N-terminal GFP fusions to KlRho1 localized mainly to the cell surface (presumably the cytoplasmic side of the plasma membrane) and to the vacuole, with some indications of traffic from the former to the latter. Thus, KlPkc1 and KlRho1 have been shown to serve vital functions inK. lactis, to interact in cell integrity signalling and to traffic between the plasma membrane and the vacuole.
Climatic responses in spring migration of boreal and arctic birds in relation to wintering area and taxonomy
Authors: Rainio Kalle , Laaksonen Toni , Ahola Markus , Vähätalo Anssi V. , Lehikoinen Esa
Published: August 2006

Large‐scale climate fluctuations, such as the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), have a marked effect on the timing of spring migration of birds. It has however been suggested that long‐distance migrants wintering in Africa could respond less to NAO than short‐distance migrants wintering in Europe, making them more vulnerable to climatic changes. We studied whether migratory boreal and arctic bird species returning from different wintering areas show differences in responses to the NAO in the timing of their spring migration. We used data on 75 species from two bird observatories in northern Europe (60°N). By extending the examination to the whole distribution of spring migration and to a taxonomically diverse set of birds, we aimed at finding general patterns of the effects of climate fluctuation on the timing of avian migration. Most species arrived earlier after winters with high NAO index. The degree of NAO‐response diminished with the phase of migration: the early part of a species’ migratory population responded more strongly than the later part. Early phase waterfowl responded strongest to NAO, but in later phases their response faded to non‐significant. This pattern may be related to winter severity and/or ice conditions in the Baltic. In the two other groups, gulls and waders and passerines, all phases of migration responded to NAO and fading with phase was non‐significant. The difference between waterfowl and other groups may be related to differences between the phenological development of their respective macrohabitats. Wintering area affected the strength of NAO response in a complicated way. On average medium distance migrants responded most strongly, followed by short‐distance migrants and partial migrants. Our results concerning the response of long‐distance migrants were difficult to interpret: there is an overall weak yet statistically significant effect, but patterns with phase of migration need further study. Our results highlight the importance of examining the whole distribution of migration and warrant the use of data sets from several sampling sites when studying climatic effects on the timing of avian life‐history events.
An investigation into the provenance of northern bullfinches Pyrrhula p. pyrrhula found in winter in Scotland and Denmark
Authors: Newton Ian , A. Hobson Keith , D. Fox Anthony , Marquiss Mick
Published: August 2006

The 2004 invasion of northern bullfinches into parts of western Europe was the largest on record. It also involved some birds that gave the normal piping call of the species, and others that gave a different ‘trumpet’ call, previously unknown to most observers in the invasion areas. This suggests that many birds in the 2004 invasion were drawn from areas outside the usual breeding range of immigrants to western Europe, and a summer sound‐recording of a similar trumpet call had previously been obtained from a bullfinch in the Komi Republic of northern Russia. Measurements of δD values in feather samples suggested that bullfinches in the 2004 invasion could have come from a wide area of northern Europe eastward into Russia. No difference in the range of δD values was apparent between the 2004 birds obtained in Scotland compared with Denmark, nor between birds obtained in the 2004 invasion and others from the 1910 invasion to Scotland. Northern birds obtained in autumn‐winter in Denmark and Scotland showed a wider spread in δD values than resident bullfinches from either Denmark or Scotland. In almost all the samples, females had generally lower δD levels than males. The reason for this sex difference is unknown, but could not be attributed to differences in moult timing, location or diet between the sexes.
Review article: the intestinal lumen as a therapeutic target in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: GASSULL M. A.
Published: August 2006

Undigested carbohydrates reaching the colon can act as competitors for epithelial bacterial receptors, making it difficult for noncommensal bacteria to adhere to them.

On the contrary, fermentation of these carbohydrates by anaerobic flora produces – among other substrates – butyrate that is involved in numerous important metabolic processes. These include the provision of energy to the colonocytes, the enhancement of sodium and water absorption and the synthesis of mucus and cell membranes. In addition, butyrate inhibits the nuclear translocation of the transcription factor NFκB, which exerts a potent anti‐inflammatory activity.

Clinical experience with probiotics in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is controversial. Whereas some probiotic preparations appear to be useful in ulcerative colitis (UC) and pouchitis, most attempts to use probiotics for treating or preventing recurrence in Crohn's disease have failed. It should be pointed out that – unlike in the small bowel – the colon and ileal pouches are well‐established microbiological ecosystems with increasing amounts of a wide variety of bacterial strains. These bacterial strains have a high degree of metabolic interaction with luminal nutrients and a greater probability of developing dysbiosis.

With this in mind, the rationale for using pre‐ and probiotics appears to be stronger for colonic IBD (UC or Crohn's colitis) and pouchitis than for IBD mostly involving the small bowel.
Review article: the management of achalasia – a comparison of different treatment modalities1
Authors: LAKE J. M. , WONG R. K. H.
Published: August 2006

Background

Achalasia is an uncommon primary oesophageal motor disorder with an unknown aetiology. Therapeutic options for achalasia are aimed at decreasing the lower oesophageal sphincter pressure, improving the oesophageal empting, and most importantly, relieving the symptoms of achalasia. Modalities for treatment include pharmacologic, endoscopic, pneumatic dilatation and surgical. The decision of which modality to use involves the consideration of multiple clinical and economic factors.

Aim

To review the management strategies currently available for achalasia.

Methods

A Medline search identified the original articles and reviews the published in the English language literature between 1966 and 2006.

Results

The results reveal that pharmacotherapy, injection of botulinum toxin, pneumatic dilatation and minimally invasive surgical oesophagomyotomy are variably effective at controlling the symptoms of achalasia but that each modality has specific strengths and weaknesses which make them each suitable in certain populations. Overall, pharmacologic therapy results in the shortest lived, least durable response followed by botulinum toxin injection, pneumatic dilatation and surgery, respectively.

Conclusion

The optimal treatment for achalasia remains an area of controversy given our lack of complete understanding about the pathophysiology of the disease as well as the high numbers of clinical relapse after treatment. Further research focusing on optimal dosing of botulinum toxin injection and optimal timing of repeated graduated pneumatic dilatations could add to our knowledge regarding long‐term therapy.
Impact of endoscopist withdrawal speed on polyp yield: implications for optimal colonoscopy withdrawal time
Authors: SIMMONS D. T. , HAREWOOD G. C. , BARON T. H. , PETERSEN B. T. , WANG K. K. , BOYD‐ENDERS F. , OTT B. J.
Published: August 2006

Background

In 2002, a U.S. Multi‐Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer recommended that the withdrawal phase for colonoscopy should average at least 6–10 min. This was based on 10 consecutive colonoscopies by two endoscopists with different adenoma miss rates.

Aims

To characterize the relationship between endoscopist withdrawal time and polyp detection at colonoscopy, and to determine the withdrawal time that corresponds to the median polyp detection rate.

Design

Procedural data from out‐patient colonoscopies performed at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester during 2003 were reviewed. Endoscopists were characterized by their mean withdrawal time for a negative procedure and individual polyp detection rate.

Results

A total of 10 955 colonoscopies performed by 43 endoscopists were analysed. Median withdrawal time was 6.3 min (range: 4.2–11.9); polyp detection rate was 44.0% (all polyps), 29.8% (≤5 mm), 5.9% (6–9 mm), 6.7% (10–19 mm), 2.1% (≥20 mm). Longer withdrawal time was associated with higher polyp detection rate (r = 0.76; P < 0.0001); this relationship weakened for larger polyps (r = 0.19 for polyps 6–9 mm, r = 0.28 for polyps 10–19 mm, r = 0.02 for polyps ≥20 mm). Overall median polyp detection rate corresponded to a withdrawal time of 6.7 min.

Conclusion

Our findings support a colonoscopy withdrawal time of at least 7 min, which correlates with higher colon polyp detection rates.
Injection of botulinum toxin before pneumatic dilatation in achalasia treatment: a randomized‐controlled trial
Authors: MIKAELI J. , BISHEHSARI F. , MONTAZERI G. , MAHDAVINIA M. , YAGHOOBI M. , DARVISH‐MOGHADAM S. , FARROKHI F. , SHIRANI S. , ESTAKHRI A. , MALEKZADEH R.
Published: August 2006

Background

Pneumatic dilatation is the first line therapy in achalasia, but half of patients relapse within 5 years of therapy and require further dilatations.

Aim

To assess whether botulinum toxin injection before pneumatic dilatation is superior to pneumatic dilatation alone in achalasia patients.

Methods

Newly diagnosed achalasia patients were randomly assigned to receive botulinum toxin 1 month before pneumatic dilatation (botulinum toxin‐pneumatic dilatation group: 27 patients with median age of 38) or to undergo pneumatic dilatation alone (pneumatic dilatation group: 27 patients with median age of 30). Response to therapy was assessed by clinical and objective methods at various intervals.

Results

One‐year remission rate of patients in botulinum toxin‐pneumatic dilatation group was 77% compared with 62% in pneumatic dilatation group (P = 0.1). In pneumatic dilatation group, the oesophageal barium volume significantly (P < 0.001) decreased at 1 month, but this reduction did not persist over 1‐year follow‐up. Botulinum toxin‐pneumatic dilatation group showed a significant (P < 0.001) reduction in barium volume at the various times intervals post‐treatment. In the botulinum toxin‐pneumatic dilatation group, 10/11 (91%) patients over 40 were in remission at 1 year, comparing with only five of nine (55%) cases in pneumatic dilatation group (P = 0.07).

Conclusion

Injection of botulinum toxin before pneumatic dilatation does not significantly enhance the efficacy of pneumatic dilatation.
Effect of serotonin on the differentiation of human monocytes into dendritic cells
Authors: Katoh N , Soga F , Nara T , Tamagawa-Mineoka R , Nin M , Kotani H , Masuda K , Kishimoto S
Published: August 2006

The local cytokine environment and presence of stimulatory signals determine whether monocytes acquire dendritic cell (DC) or macrophage characteristics and functions. Because enhanced platelet activation is reported in patients with many allergic disorders, such as atopic dermatitis, platelet-derived factors may influence monocytic differentiation into DC. In this study we examined the effect of serotonin, a prototypic mediator of allergic inflammation released mainly by activated platelets at the inflammatory site, on the granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interleukin (IL)-4-driven differentiation of monocytes into monocyte-derived DC. Monocytes from healthy adult donors were cultured with GM-CSF and IL-4 in the presence or absence of serotonin, and the phenotypes and function of these cells were analysed. In the presence of serotonin, monocytes differentiated into DC with reduced expression of co-stimulatory molecules and CD1a, whereas expression of CD14 was increased. These serotonin-treated DC exhibited significantly reduced stimulatory activity toward allogeneic T cells. However, these cells showed enhanced cytokine-producing capacity, including IL-10 but not IL-12. There was no significant difference between both types of DC in phagocytic activity. Experiments using agonists and antagonists indicated that serotonin 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) induced the alteration of their phenotype and reduction in antigen-presenting capacity were mediated via 5-HTR1/7. It is therefore suggested that serotonin-driven DC may have a regulatory function in the inflammatory process.
Innate immune peptide LL-37 displays distinct expression pattern from beta-defensins in inflamed gingival tissue
Authors: Hosokawa I , Hosokawa Y , Komatsuzawa H , Goncalves R B , Karimbux N , Napimoga M H , Seki M , Ouhara K , Sugai M , Taubman M A , Kawai T
Published: August 2006

Anti-microbial peptides produced from mucosal epithelium appear to play pivotal roles in the host innate immune defence system in the oral cavity. In particular, human beta-defensins (hBDs) and the cathelicidin-type anti-microbial peptide, LL-37, were reported to kill periodontal disease-associated bacteria. In contrast to well-studied hBDs, little is known about the expression profiles of LL-37 in gingival tissue. In this study, the anti-microbial peptides expressed in gingival tissue were analysed using immunohistochemistry and enxyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Immunohistochemistry revealed that neutrophils expressed only LL-37, but not hBD-2 or hBD-3, and that such expression was prominent in the inflammatory lesions when compared to healthy gingivae which showed very few or no LL-37 expressing neutrophils. Gingival epithelial cells (GEC), however, expressed all three examined anti-microbial peptides, irrespective of the presence or absence of inflammation. Moreover, as determined by ELISA, the concentration of LL-37 in the gingival tissue homogenates determined was correlated positively with the depth of the gingival crevice. Stimulation with periodontal bacteria in vitro induced both hBD-2 and LL-37 expressions by GEC, whereas peripheral blood neutrophils produced only LL-37 production, but not hBD-2, in response to the bacterial stimulation. These findings suggest that LL-37 displays distinct expression patterns from those of hBDs in gingival tissue.
Adiponectin levels and cardiovascular risk factors in hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism
Authors: Altınova Alev E. , Törüner Füsun B. , Aktürk Müjde , Bukan Neslihan , Çakır Nuri , Ayvaz Göksun , Arslan Metin
Published: August 2006

Objective  Adiponectin, an adipose tissue‐derived hormone, has been reported to have anti‐inflammatory and anti‐atherogenic effects. The physiological effect of adiponectin on the metabolic changes and its relation with cardiovascular risk factors in thyroid dysfunction states is still not clear. The aim of the study was to evaluate plasma adiponectin level and its relation to cardiovascular risk factors in patients with thyroid dysfunction.

Patients and measurements  Sixty‐seven patients with hypothyroidism, 56 patients with hyperthyroidism and 52 age‐ and sex‐matched euthyroid subjects were enrolled in the study. Adiponectin, C‐reactive protein (CRP), homocysteine (Hcy), lipid parameters, Lipoprotein(a) [Lp (a)], Apolipoprotein (Apo) A, Apo B and fibrinogen levels were measured in all subjects. Insulin sensitivity was determined using the Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA‐IR).

Results  Circulating adiponectin levels were not different between the groups (16·2 ± 5·0, 15·1 ± 3·7, 15·9 ± 4·8 ng/ml; hypothyroid, hyperthyroid, euthyroid group, respectively). Plasma adiponectin levels correlated negatively with body mass index (BMI) and HOMA‐IR index and positively with high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) in all groups. There was a significant correlation between adiponectin and CRP levels in both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid groups. In all groups, adiponectin levels did not correlate with age, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and thyroid hormones. Multiple regression analysis revealed BMI and HDL‐C levels to be the most important predictors of circulating adiponectin levels.

Conclusions  Plasma adiponectin levels are associated with BMI and HDL‐C levels in patients with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. But there is not a direct relation of adiponectin with thyroid hormones in these patients.
α‐enolase: a novel autoantigen in patients with premature ovarian failure
Authors: Sundblad Victoria , Bussmann Leonardo , Chiauzzi Violeta A. , Pancholi Vijay , Charreau Eduardo H.
Published: August 2006

Objective  Although controversial, the presence of circulating antiovarian antibodies (AOA) may be considered a marker of autoimmune premature ovarian failure (POF). The purpose of the present work was to evaluate the presence of AOA in POF patients, and to identify a possible autoantigen in order to develop a reliable diagnostic tool that might help to determine the real prevalence of autoimmune POF.

Design  Non‐randomised study. Blood sampling for determination of circulating AOA.

Patients  One hundred and ten patients with POF and 60 normally menstruating women with no record of autoimmune diseases (controls).

Measurements  Presence of circulating AOA was assessed by Western‐blot, using cytosolic fraction from human ovarian homogenate as antigen.

Results  Twenty‐one of 110 women with POF presented circulating antibodies directed toward an antigen of approximately 50 kD. Sixty control subjects proved negative. After purification and analysis by mass spectrometry, the antigen was identified as α‐enolase.

Conclusion  Determination of the presence of circulating antiα‐enolase antibodies might be instrumental in identifying those patients who may present a putative defect in immunoregulation and therefore a possible autoimmune aetiolgy for POF.
The nuclear GTPase Gsp1p can affect proper telomeric function through the Sir4 protein in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Clément Martin , Deshaies Francis , de Repentigny Louis , Belhumeur Pierre
Published: August 2006

The small Ras‐like GTPase Ran/Gsp1p is a highly conserved nuclear protein required for the nucleocytoplasmic trafficking of macromolecules. Recent findings suggest that the Ran/Gsp1p pathway may have additional roles in several aspects of nuclear structure and function, including spindle assembly, nuclear envelope formation, nuclear pore complex assembly and RNA processing. Here, we provide evidence that Gsp1p can regulate telomeric function in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We show that overexpression of PRP20, encoding the Gsp1p GDP/GTP nuclear exchange factor, specifically weakens telomeric silencing without detectably affecting nucleocytoplasmic transport. In addition to this silencing defect, we show that Rap1p and Sir3p delocalize from their normal telomeric foci. Interestingly, Gsp1p was found to interact genetically and physically with the telomeric component Sir4p. Taken together, these results suggest that the GSP1 pathway could regulate proper telomeric function in yeast through Sir4p.
Expansins are involved in the formation of nematode‐induced syncytia in roots of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wieczorek Krzysztof , Golecki Bettina , Gerdes Lars , Heinen Petra , Szakasits Dagmar , Durachko Daniel M. , Cosgrove Daniel J. , Kreil David P. , Puzio Piotr S. , Bohlmann Holger , Grundler Florian M. W.
Published: August 2006

Parasitism of the cyst nematode Heterodera schachtii is characterized by the formation of syncytial feeding structures in the host root. Syncytia are formed by the fusion of root cells, accompanied by local cell wall degradation, fusion of protoplasts and hypertrophy. Expansins are cell wall‐loosening proteins involved in growth and cell wall disassembly. In this study, we analysed whether members of the expansin gene family are specifically and developmentally regulated during syncytium formation in the roots of Arabidopsis thaliana. We used PCR to screen a cDNA library of 5–7‐day‐old syncytia for expansin transcripts with primers differentiating between 26 α‐ and three β‐expansin cDNAs. AtEXPA1, AtEXPA3, AtEXPA4, AtEXPA6, AtEXPA8, AtEXPA10, AtEXPA15, AtEXPA16, AtEXPA20 and AtEXPB3 could be amplified from the library. In a semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR and a Genechip analysis AtEXPA3, AtEXPA6, AtEXPA8, AtEXPA10 and AtEXPA16 were found to be upregulated specifically in syncytia, but not to be transcribed in surrounding root tissue. Histological analyses were performed with the aid of promoter::GUS lines and in situ RT‐PCR. Results from both approaches supported the specific expression pattern. Among the specifically expressed genes, AtEXPA3 and AtEXPA16 turned out to be of special interest as they are shoot‐specific in uninfected plants. We conclude that syncytium formation involves the specific regulation of expansin genes, indicating that the encoded expansins take part in cell growth and cell wall disassembly during syncytium formation.
Fixed drug eruption in Nigeria
Authors: Nnoruka Edith N. , Ikeh V. O. , Mbah A. U.
Published: August 2006

Fixed drug eruption (FDE) causes cosmetic embarrassment in Nigerian patients, particularly when the characteristic hyperpigmented patches affect the face and lips. Drugs that have been implicated in the etiology of FDE, and the sites of lesions, may vary from country to country. Antimalarials, such as Fansidar, Fancimef, Maloxine, Amalar, and Metakelfin, were the most common offending agents, accounting for 38% of FDEs, followed by trimethoprim + sulfamethoxazole (co‐trimoxazole) (28%), dipyrones (10%), Butazolidin (6%), thiacetazone (6%), metronidazole (4%), paracetamol (3%), and naproxen (3%). Lesions induced by the combination of sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine (in antimalarials) mainly involved the face and lips. In most cases, patients took these sulfa‐containing antimalarials in combination with numerous other drugs, particularly analgesics. Unlike chloroquine‐induced pruritus, which affects most Africans, the association between antimalarials and FDE has not been well documented in our region. Co‐trimoxazole was associated more often than antimalarials with FDEs involving the mucocutaneous junctions of the genitalia and lips. Males with genital lesions on the glans penis represented 11 (48%) of those with co‐trimoxazole hypersensitivity. The trunk and limbs were affected mainly by pyrazoles and Butazolidin, respectively; however, solitary lesions on the trunk were usually due to co‐trimoxazole, whereas solitary lesions on the limbs were associated with Butazolidin.
Incidence of multiple myiases in breasts of rural women and oral infection in infants from the human warble fly larvae in the humid Tropic‐Niger Delta
Authors: Ogbalu Ogugua K. , Achufusi Ted‐George Ody , Adibe Chika
Published: August 2006

Twenty‐eight rural women of the Niger Delta were infected with the human warble fly (Tumbu fly) larva, Cordylobia anthropophaga, and of the women examined, 22 (78.5%) were nursing‐mothers. Among the percentage of women with cutaneous myiasis, 20 had multiple myiases in their breasts. Larvae were also extracted from the upper and lower lips of breast‐fed infants. A positive correlation was drawn between the incidence of breast and oral myiases.
Efficacy of sublingual immunotherapy in asthma: systematic review of randomized‐clinical trials using the Cochrane Collaboration method
Authors: Calamita Z. , Saconato H. , Pelá A. B. , Atallah Á. N.
Published: August 2006

Background:  Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is effective and safe in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. However, there is no meta‐analysis in asthma treatment.

Methods:  The clinical efficacy of SLIT for asthma was evaluated through a systematic review with meta‐analysis. MEDLINE (1966–2005), EMBASE (1974–2005), LILACS (1982–2005), and the Cochrane Library were searched for related literature in any language. Randomized‐controlled clinical trials (RCT) on SLIT in asthma treatment for adults and children were selected. From 119 citations, 25 studies with 1706 patients were included in this meta‐analysis. For each report, quality scores were assigned and data were extracted in relation to the outcomes analyzed: asthmatic symptoms, use of asthma medications, lung function, and bronchial provocation.

Results:  According to the Jadad quality method, 64% of the studies were assigned scores of 4 or 5. Immunotherapy was seen to significantly reduce asthma severity when parameter compositions were all analyzed by categorical outcomes. There was a nonsignificant reduction in asthma symptoms when analyzed using standardized mean differences. No severe reactions were observed.

Conclusions:  This meta‐analysis found that SLIT is beneficial for asthma treatment albeit the magnitude of the effect is not very large. Moreover, it is a safe alternative to the subcutaneous route. More RCT with standardization of symptom scores and medications are needed in order to contribute further to this subject.
The use of three‐dimensional computed tomography for assessing patients before laparoscopic adrenal‐sparing surgery
Authors: Mitterberger Michael , Pinggera Germar‐Michael , Peschel Reinhard , Bartsch Georg , Pallwein Leo , Frauscher Ferdinand
Published: August 2006

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of three‐dimensional computed tomography (3D‐CT) in delineating the relationship of the adrenal mass to adjacent normal structures in preparation for laparoscopic partial adrenalectomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Multislice CT (1 mm slices, 0.5 s rotation time) was used to evaluate 12 patients before adrenal‐sparing surgery for aldosterone‐producing adenoma or phaeochromocytoma. The CT data were reconstructed using two rendering techniques; (i) volume rendering with the modified VOLREN software (Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, USA) which allowed interactive 3D examination of the whole data volume within a few minutes; (ii) surface representations only of the interesting structures (kidney, adrenal tumour, vessels) represented in different colours and depicted together in a 3D scene using the software package 3DVIEWNIX.

RESULTS

In all, 14 adrenal masses in 12 patients were evaluated with 3D‐CT; the number and location of lesions was accurate in all cases with both rendering techniques. The coloured surface‐rendered images showed a consistently better delineation of the adrenal tumour from the normal tissue than did the volume‐rendering technique. From this information all laparoscopic partial adrenalectomies could be completed as planned.

CONCLUSIONS

Interactive visualization of volume‐rendered CT images was helpful for the planning and successful performance of the procedure, but coloured surface‐rendered CT provided more convenient, immediate and accurate intraoperative information.
Investigating Emotions Philosophically1
Authors: McEachrane Michael
Published: August 2006

Among today's philosophers of emotion there are, on the one hand, those that do “conceptual analysis” and, on the other hand, those that oppose such an approach as empirically naïve, as sanctifying our ordinary use of words and as based on an analytic/synthetic distinction and an outmoded theory of meaning. This paper is an attempt to show why this critique is misplaced and to clarify how conceptual investigations of emotions relate to empirical investigations.
The Cultural Mainstreaming Clause of Article 151(4) EC: Protection and Promotion of Cultural Diversity or Hidden Cultural Agenda?
Authors: Psychogiopoulou Evangelia
Published: August 2006

Abstract:  The purpose of this article is to examine the cultural competences attributed to the Community, placing particular emphasis upon the cultural powers conferred by paragraph 4 of Article 151 EC, which entrusts the European institutions with the task of taking cultural aspects into account in their action under the various provisions of the EC Treaty, in order to respect and to promote cultural diversity. The cultural cross‐sectional clause of Article 151(4) EC, by calling for a reshaping of EC decision‐making in other policy areas, which have to give due consideration to the impact they might have on cultural matters, enables the attainment of cultural objectives under EC headings other than Article 151 EC. In an attempt to inquire into this less‐widely discussed facet of EC cultural action, the analysis highlights the principal characteristics of Article 151(4) EC and explores the influence it has exerted on both judicial and legislative Community practice.
The Islamic Headscarf: An Example of Surmountable Conflict between Sharî'a and the Fundamental Principles of Europe1
Authors: Gallala Imen
Published: August 2006

Abstract:  The demand by certain Muslims living in Europe to wear the Islamic headscarf has led to important cases, before the courts of the Member States of the Union as much as before the European Court of Human Rights, above all with regard to public education. The Court of Human Rights and the Member States have taken different positions concerning the licitness of wearing the headscarf. The solutions adopted are, in fact, strongly influenced by the classical concept of relations between Church and State. In schools in Germany, where a relationship of cooperation exists between Church and State, the wearing of the veil is allowed, but only for the pupils, not for their teachers. In France, which has a model of strict separation between Church and State, neither teachers nor pupils are allowed to wear the veil. The tensions linked to wearing of the headscarf are but one example of conflict between sharî'a and the fundamental principles of Europe. These conflicts are not insurmountable. However, they do require efforts from both sides. The EU and the Member States must break with discriminatory practices against Muslims. The Muslims of Europe must construct a ‘European Islam’, re‐reading sacred texts in light of the characteristics and the values of the European societies in which they live.
New Directions in EC Competition Policy: The Case of Merger Control
Authors: Vallindas Georges
Published: August 2006

Abstract:  This article examines two new directions of EC competition law, by taking the example of Merger Control. The first is factual, since the Commission has accepted an increased role for economic analysis under the new Regulation. The second examines the role that EC competition law could play in the achievement of the Lisbon Strategy objectives. At present, both directions interact with one another, as the importance and the aims of competition rules depend to a large extent on the economic theory when applying legal rules. Traditionally, the EU has rejected the creation of an industrial policy that is considered to be inefficient. But the intensification of international competition has to induce the EU to open up the debate in relation to the meaning to be attributed to a ‘European industrial strategy’. To accomplish a ‘dynamic and competitive’ European economy, current policies, mainly competition policy, should consider taking into account international competitiveness by resolving the question of the economic theoretical context used to review mergers.
Profile of 513 patients with alopecia areata: associations of disease subtypes with atopy, autoimmune disease and positive family history
Authors: Goh C , Finkel M , Christos PJ , Sinha AA
Published: August 2006

Background  Several lines of evidence support a genetic component to alopecia areata (AA), including differences in patients based on severity of AA, associated diseases and family history.

Objective  We aimed to examine clinical and genetic features of patients with AA with a focus on associated diseases, especially atopy, and family history of AA in the USA.

Methods  From 1998 to 2001, 513 patients with AA completed interviews consisting of demographic information, patient's medical history, and family history of AA.

Results  Forty per cent of respondents had alopecia totalis and/or universalis (AT/AU). These patients were younger at the age of onset than those with patchy AA (P < 0.001), were more likely to have associated autoimmune or atopic disease (P = 0.047), most notably atopic dermatitis (P = 0.021) and thyroid disease (P = 0.012). They also had a greater number of relatives affected by AA (P < 0.05).

Conclusions  Our findings show marked associations between severity of AA, atopic dermatitis, thyroid disease and other autoimmune diseases, and extensive family history of AA, suggesting two clinically distinct subtypes of AA with the severe subtype possibly associated with greater familial autoimmunity. Further research exploring the possibility of a genetic basis to explain these clinical findings will be helpful in clarifying our understanding of AA, leading to improvements in diagnosis and treatment.
Self‐advocacy in historical perspective
Authors: Buchanan Ian , Walmsley Jan
Published: August 2006

Accessible Summary

This paper looks at the history of self advocacy in England.

Self advocacy has helped many people with learning difficulties to speak up and gain more confidence.

But now it is associated with Government policy. After Valuing People, people expect self advocacy organizations to speak up for everyone with learning difficulties.

This might mean there is less time and space to help new people learn about speaking up as individuals.

It is important to find ways to support self advocacy groups, especially those run by people themselves, to avoid this happening.
Patterns of culture & power after ‘The Great Release’: the history of movements of subculture & empowerment among Danish people with learning difficulties
Authors: Bylov Frank
Published: August 2006

Accessible Summary

This article tells us about the history of self‐advocacy in Denmark.

It also gives some information about how services for people with learning difficulties in Denmark have changed over the past 100 years.

In this article, I talk about ‘movements’ of self‐advocacy, which means the different types of self‐advocacy groups that have grown in Denmark.

I also describe how these movements have developed in ‘generations’. Like families, I say that self‐advocacy goes through ‘generations’ where it has to change because the world around it is changing. Sometimes, self‐advocacy groups have helped to make these big changes.

I use theory in this article to help explain some of the very complicated developments that self‐advocacy groups in Denmark have been through during their history.
Netnography as a consumer education research tool
Authors: Sandlin Jennifer A.
Published: August 2006

‘Netnography’ is a research methodology in use since the late 1990s in the fields of consumer behaviour and marketing, but not fully utilized by researchers in the field of consumer education. This article argues that netnography is a helpful research tool for consumer education researchers who are interested in capturing and critically examining the education and learning occurring in informal sites of consumer education, especially in online communities. This article also presents an example of recent research conducted using netnography to understand how readers of the informal consumer education lifestyle magazine Budget Living created their own interpretations of meaning from the magazine.
Obesity among female adolescents in Vienna, Austria—the impact of childhood weight status and ethnicity
Authors: Kirchengast S , Schober E
Published: August 2006

Objective  The objective of the study was to analyse prevalence of overweight and obesity among migrant girls in Vienna, Austria, starting at the age of 6 years up to the age of 15 years.

Design  In a longitudinal study, the prevalence of overweight and obesity among migrant girls from Turkey and former Yugoslavia was documented and compared with that among Austrian girls in Vienna.

Setting  Medical investigation of medical school authority in Viennese schools.

Sample  Seven hundred and ninety girls of low socio‐economic status were included in the study.

Methods  Anthropometric data were collected at the age of 6, 10 and 15 years. Body mass was estimated by means of the body mass index (BMI), and percentile curves were used for determining the weight status.

Main outcome measure  Stature, body weight, BMI, weight status.

Results  The prevalence of overweight and obesity was significantly higher among migrant girls at all age groups. The highest percentage of overweight was found among 10‐year‐old girls from Yugoslavia (nearly 35%) and the lowest percentage of overweight was exhibited in 6‐year‐old Austrian girls (20%). Being overweight or obese at the age of 6 years increased the risk of being overweight at 10 and 15 years significantly (P < 0.001). Among migrants, this risk was significantly higher than among Austrian girls (P < 0.001). Only 64.8% of Austrian girls, who were overweight/obese at the age of 6 years, were still classified as overweight at the age of 15 years. Among migrant girls, who were overweight at the age of 6 years, 72.0% (Turkish girls) and 78.3% (Yugoslavian girls) remained overweight until the age of 15 years.

Conclusions  Especially girls from former Yugoslavia but also Turkish girls exhibited high rates of overweight and obesity. Prevention should start as early as possible since overweight tends to persist from childhood into adolescence.
Explaining Direct Care Resource Use of Nursing Home Residents: Findings from Time Studies in Four States
Authors: Arling Greg , Kane Robert L. , Mueller Christine , Lewis Teresa
Published: August 2006

Objective. To explain variation in direct care resource use (RU) of nursing home residents based on the Resource Utilization Groups III (RUG‐III) classification system and other resident‐ and unit‐level explanatory variables.

Data Sources/Study Setting. Primary data were collected on 5,314 nursing home residents in 156 nursing units in 105 facilities from four states (CO, IN, MN, MS) from 1998 to 2004.

Study Design. Nurses and other direct care staff recorded resident‐specific and other time caring for all residents on sampled nursing units. Care time was linked to resident data from the Minimum Data Set assessment instrument. Major variables were: RUG‐III group (34‐group), other health and functional conditions, licensed and other professional minutes per day, unlicensed minutes per day, and direct care RU (wage‐weighted minutes). Resident‐ and unit‐level relationships were examined through hierarchical linear modeling.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods. Time study data were recorded with hand‐held computers, verified for accuracy by project staff at the data collection sites and then merged into resident and unit‐level data sets.

Principal Findings. Resident care time and RU varied between and within nursing units. RUG‐III group was related to RU; variables such as length of stay and unit percentage of high acuity residents also were significantly related. Case‐mix indices (CMIs) constructed from study data displayed much less variation across RUG‐III groups than CMIs from earlier time studies.

Conclusions. Results from earlier time studies may not be representative of care patterns of Medicaid and private pay residents. New RUG‐III CMIs should be developed to better reflect the relative costs of caring for these residents.
The Complementarity and Substitution between Unconventional and Mainstream Medicine among Racial and Ethnic Groups in the United States
Authors: Tom Xu K. , Farrell Tommie W.
Published: August 2006

Objectives. To describe racial and ethnic differences in the utilization patterns of 12 common types of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and mainstream medicine (MSM) and to test whether a specific CAM type is a substitute for or a complement to MSM among five racial and ethnic groups in the United States.

Methods. The Medical Expenditure Panel Survey in 1996 and 1998 were used. The sample of 46,673 respondents was stratified into non‐Hispanic whites (NHW), Hispanics, blacks, Asians, and other races. Twelve types of CAM visits and visits to office‐based and outpatient physicians were used to describe the pattern of CAM and MSM use. Utilization patterns among each racial and ethnic group were established and compared. Multivariate analyses were conducted to test whether each type of CAM and MSM were complements or substitutes within a racial and ethnic group, controlling for respondents' sociodemographics and health.

Results. Significant intergroup differences in the prevalence rates of using various types of CAM were found. In particular, for some racial and ethnic groups, CAM can be either a substitute for or a complement to MSM visits, depending on the CAM type. More complementary relationships between CAM and physician visits were found in NHW and Asians than in other groups. All significant relationships between CAM types and physician visits among Hispanics and other races (predominantly Native American Indians) were substitution.

Conclusions. Complementarity and substitution of CAM and MSM varied by racial and ethnic groups and by type of CAM. Culturally sensitive approaches are needed in successful integration of CAM in treatment management.
Why Research on Women Entrepreneurs Needs New Directions
Authors: Ahl Helene
Published: August 2006

Research articles on women's entrepreneurship reveal, in spite of intentions to the contrary and in spite of inconclusive research results, a tendency to recreate the idea of women as being secondary to men and of women's businesses being of less significance or, at best, as being a complement. Based on a discourse analysis, this article discusses what research practices cause these results. It suggests new research directions that do not reproduce women's subordination but capture more and richer aspects of women's entrepreneurship.
The Normative Context for Women's Participation in Entrepreneruship: A Multicountry Study
Authors: Baughn C. Christopher , Chua Bee–Leng , Neupert Kent E.
Published: August 2006

Building on Global Entrepreneurship Monitor research, this study examines the impact of specific norms supporting women's entrepreneurship on the relative rates of women to men engaged in entrepreneurship in different countries. These specific norms are themselves related to both a country's general support for entrepreneurship and its level of gender equality. Countries with higher overall levels of entrepreneurial activity also tended to evidence higher relative proportions of female participation. These findings are still seen when controlling for the substantial effect of countries’ economic development in shaping patterns of entrepreneurial activity.