bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micturitional disturbance due to labial adhesion as a cause of vaginal implantation of bladder urothelial carcinoma
Authors: OGISO SATOSHI , MAENO ATSUSHI , YAMASHITA MOTOKI , SOUMA TAKAHITO , NAKAMURA KENICHI , OKUNO HIROSHI
Published: November 2006

Abstract  Vaginal implantation of urinary tract urothelial carcinoma is a rare finding, with few cases reported in the literature. This is the first reported case of vaginal implantation of bladder urothelial carcinoma thought to be due to micturitional disturbances secondary to labial adhesion. The authors propose that implantation via pooled urine in the vagina may have occurred, and suggest that labial adhesion be treated in patients with urinary tract urothelial carcinoma, even if asymptomatic.
Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis associated with IgG4‐positive‐plasmacyte infiltrations and idiopathic chronic pancreatitis
Authors: MIYAJIMA NORIO , KOIKE HIROSHI , KAWAGUCHI MAKOTO , ZEN YO , TAKAHASHI KOTA , HARA NOBORU
Published: November 2006

Abstract  Idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis (IRPF) is an inflammatory fibrosclerosing condition, leading to renal failure by obstruction of the ureters. Idiopathic chronic pancreatitis associated with marked inflammatory infiltrates has recently been referred to as autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP), and infiltrating plasmacytes carrying immunoglobulin‐gamma type 4 (IgG4) are relevant to its pathogenesis. The case is described herein of IRPF associated with subclinical pancreatitis that was most probably AIP in a 70‐year‐old man. Biopsy specimens of the retroperitoneal pseudotumor revealed a marked lymphoplasmacytic infiltration with dense fibrosis. Infiltrating plasma cells were immunoreactive for anti‐IgG4 antibodies. Subsequent systemic examinations showed an extremely elevated serum IgG4 level and pancreatitis concordant with AIP. Following oral steroid administration, the serum IgG4 level normalized, although the appearance of the pseudotumor did not alter. Some AIP cases have been associated with idiopathic fibrosclerosing disorders including IRPF, but histological evidence of IgG4‐related IRPF has rarely been provided.
Urothelial carcinoma (clear cell variant) diagnosed with useful immunohistochemistry stain
Authors: YAMASHITA RYO , YAMAGUCHI RAIZOU , YUEN KEIJI , NIWAKAWA MASASHI , TOBISU KENICHI
Published: November 2006

Abstract  The case is reported of urothelial carcinoma (clear cell variant) that was diagnosed with useful immunohistochemistry stain. A 70‐year‐old man, who had undergone left radical nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma in August 2003 and partial lobectomy for pulmonary metastasis in May 2005, complained of hematuria in June 2005. On evaluation, a papillary pedunculated tumor was detected in the left wall of the urinary bladder. A transurethral resection of the bladder tumor (TUR‐Bt) was performed in July 2005. The pathological diagnosis was difficult due to diffuse clear cell appearance. Immunohistochemistry stain showed urothelial carcinoma, not metastasis of the renal cell carcinoma. Finally it was diagnosed as urothelial carcinoma clear cell variant. Urothelial carcinoma has many variants that show a variety of appearances and characteristics. These should be well known before medical therapy is initiated.
When is open ureterolithotomy indicated for the treatment of ureteral stones?
Authors: MUSLUMANOGLU AHMET YASER , KARADAG MERT ALI , TEFEKLI AHMET HAMDI , ALTUNRENDE FATIH , TOK ADEM , BERBEROGLU YALCIN
Published: November 2006

Aim: Improvements in extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) and ureteroscopy have almost eradicated the need for open surgery in ureteral stones. The aim of this study was to assess characteristics of patients who underwent open ureterolithotomy.

Methods: During a 5‐year period, a total of 654 patients with ureteral stones were treated. Initial management consisted of ureteroscopy in 524 patients, ESWL in 62 patients and percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in 12 patients. Open surgery was performed in 56 patients. Stone location, size and success rates were retrospectively analyzed.

Results: Ureteroscopy resulted in successful stone removal in 94%, 98% and 98.5% of proximal, mid and distal ureteral stones, respectively. A total of 14 patients with ureteroscopy failure were referred for open surgery. ESWL treatment resulted in success in 55 patients (88%), and those with ESWL failure were referred for either ureteroscopy (n = 3) or open surgery (n = 4). Open surgery was performed in a total of 56 patients, 38 of whom had been referred from other centers. Stone location was proximal ureter in 25 (44.6%) patients (stone size: 2–12 cm2), mid ureter in five (8.9%) patients (stone size: 2–6 cm2) and distal ureter in 26 (46.4%) patients (stone size: 4–9 cm2). A history of previous unsuccessful endourological procedure was observed in 33 (58%) of 56 patients. Children under age 16 (range 1–15 years) comprised 17.8% of patients undergoing open surgery.

Conclusion: Open surgery, which is nowadays being replaced with laparoscopic techniques, is generally indicated for failed endourological procedures (58%), particularly in centers that do not have flexible ureteroscopy or laser lithotriptor, and in patients with larger stones (>3 cm). Children (17.8%) are also candidates for open surgery, if specifically designed endourological equipment is not available.
Prevention of renal ischemia/reperfusion‐induced injury in rats by leflunomide
Authors: KARAMAN ABDURRAHMAN , TURKMEN EMINE , GURSUL CEBRAIL , TAS ERKAN , FADILLIOGLU ERSIN
Published: November 2006

Objective:There is increasing evidence to suggest that toxic oxygen radicals play an essential role in the pathogenesis of ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in the kidney. This study was designed to investigate the effects of leflunomide, an isoxazole derivative and a unique immunomodulatory agent, in I/R‐induced renal injury in rats.

Methods:Forty female Sprague–Dawley rats were divided equally into four groups: (I) control (only leflunomide 10 mg/kg, intragastrically treated); (II) sham operated (only unilateral nephrectomy); (III) I/R; and (IV) leflunomide (10 mg/kg for two doses prior to experiment) plus I/R groups. In groups III and IV, after unilateral nephrectomy, the rats were subjected to 60 min of left renal pedicle occlusion, followed by 6 h of reperfusion. At the end of the reperfusion period, rats were killed and kidneys and blood were removed. Catalase, myeloperoxidase and xanthine oxidase activities, and malondialdehyde, nitric oxide and protein carbonyl levels were determined in renal tissue. Serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and aspartate aminotransferase were measured for the evaluation of renal function. In histopathological examination, renal damage was scored 0–3.

Results:Group III animals demonstrated severe deterioration of renal function, renal morphology and a significant renal oxidative stress. Pretreatment of animals with leflunomide markedly attenuated renal dysfunction, morphological alterations, reduced elevated oxidative stress products levels and restored the depleted renal antioxidant enzyme.

Conclusion:The findings imply that oxygen radicals play a causal role in I/R‐induced renal injury, and leflunomide exerts renoprotective effects probably by the radical scavenging and antioxidant activities with immunomodulatory effect.
Percutaneous ultrasound‐guided radiofrequency ablation for kidney tumors in patients with surgical risk
Authors: SALAGIERSKI MAREK , SALAGIERSKI MACIEJ , SALAGIERSKA‐BARWIŃSKA ANNA , SOSNOWSKI MAREK
Published: November 2006

Objective: The aim of this study was to describe our experience with percutaneous ultrasound‐guided radiofrequency ablation of kidney tumors.

Methods: From July 2002 to August 2005, 45 radiofrequency ablations (RFA) in 42 selected patients with kidney tumor were performed. The patients had either contraindications to surgery procedures or had a solitary kidney. The average tumor size was 37.5 mm (range, 18–59 mm) with the mean age of 68 years (range, 28–83 years). RFA were performed based on radiographic findings. Needle biopsy was made only twice. Monopolar Cool‐tip Tyco or bipolar Celon Olympus radiofrequency devices were used. The procedure was performed under conscious sedation with local anesthesia. Treatment efficacy was assessed by computed tomography and by Doppler ultrasound. The absence of contrast enhancement on computed tomography was considered to be a successful treatment.

Results: The average follow up was 14 months (range, 3–36 months). In 42 tumors (93%), total absence of contrast enhancement was obtained after the initial RFA and in three tumors (7%) after the second ablation session. There were no complications following 41 procedures, including all ablations in small (<35 mm) renal masses. In four procedures, minor complications were observed. All patients are alive. There has been no need for chronic hemodialysis and, until now, we have not observed any local recurrences with the exception of one metastasis to an ipsilateral adrenal gland.

Conclusions: RFA of kidney tumors is a promising alternative treatment which could be considered for patients who are not suitable for surgery.
Differential thermal adaptation of clonal strains of a protist morphospecies originating from different climatic zones
Authors: Boenigk Jens , Jost Steffen , Stoeck Thorsten , Garstecki Tobias
Published: November 2006

Eco‐physiological variation and local adaptation are key issues in microbial ecology. Here, we investigated the thermal adaptation of 19 strains of the same Spumella morphospecies (Chrysophyceae, Heterokonta). In order to test for local adaptation and the existence of specific ecotypes we analysed growth rates of these strains, which originated from different climate regions. We applied temperature‐adaptation as an eco‐physiological marker and analysed growth rates of the different Spumella strains at temperatures between 0°C and 35°C. The temperatures allowing for maximal growth of strains from temperate and warm climatic zones ranged between 19.9°C and 33.4°C. Phylogenetically, most of these ‘warm’‐adapted strains fall into two different previously defined 18S rDNA Spumella clusters, one of them consisting of mostly soil organisms and the other one being a freshwater cluster. As a rule, the ‘warm’‐adapted strains of the soil cluster grew slower than the ‘warm’‐adapted isolates within the freshwater cluster. This difference most probably reflect different strategies, i.e. the formation of cysts at the expense of lower growth rates in soil organisms. In contrast, as expected, all isolates from Antarctica were cold‐adapted and grew already around melting point of freshwater. Surprisingly, optimum temperature for these strains was between 11.8°C and 17.7°C and maximum temperature tolerated was between 14.6°C and 23.5°C. Our data indicate that despite the relatively high optimal temperature of most Antarctic strains, they may have a relative advantage below 5–10°C only. Based on the thermal adaptation of the flagellate strains the Antarctic strains were clearly separated from the other investigated strains. This may indicate a limited dispersal of flagellates to and from Antarctica. Even if the latter assumption needs support from more data, we argue that the high levels of eco‐physiological and molecular microdiversity indicate that the current species concepts do not sufficiently reflect protist eco‐physiological differentiation.
Is there a ‘New Managerial Work’? A Comparison with Henry Mintzberg's Classic Study 30 Years Later*
Authors: Tengblad Stefan
Published: November 2006

abstract  This comparative study of top executives' work aimed at examining the stability of top managerial behaviour reveals a relatively different pattern of behaviour compared with the study by Henry Mintzberg. The main differences are a much larger workload, a contact pattern to a larger degree oriented towards subordinates in group‐settings, a greater emphasis on giving information, and less preoccupation with administrative work. One important finding is that fragmentation of time – in previous studies highlighted as a central tenet of managerial work – was not as prevalent in the new study. The different results can be attributed (with caution) to the impact of the management discourse about leadership and corporate culture, and to factors such as organizational structure and geographical dispersion of companies. However, there are also significant similarities between the two studies which indicate that claims of the emergence of a radically different managerial work are much exaggerated. Instead the empirical data shows that new work‐practices are combined with older practices, both in a complex and context‐specific ways. Therefore, there is a need for better integration between theoretical development and empirical investigations in this field of inquiry.
Alliance Research: Less is More*
Authors: Hennart Jean‐François
Published: November 2006

abstract  Bell et al. (2006) express dissatisfaction with academic research on alliances and suggest ways in which it could be improved. While much of the literature has delved on alliance structure, they think it should analyse processes by which alliances evolve, what they call the dynamics of cooperation. Unfortunately, they find that this literature lacks coherence and is useless to managers. I agree with them that the present dynamics of cooperation literature leaves much to be desired, but I am pessimistic as to its chances of ever providing parsimonious and managerially useful theories. Re‐visiting four cases of alliance evolution that have been featured in the dynamics of cooperation literature, I show that focusing instead on alliance structure, in the broad sense of the term, is likely to yield strong testable propositions and useful managerial prescriptions.
A conceptualisation of design context to explain design trade‐offs in the automotive industry
Authors: Belecheanu Roxana , Riedel Johann , Pawar Kulwant S.
Published: November 2006

The paper explores decision‐making rationale when making trade‐offs in design. A case study of a mass‐market car manufacturer was conducted using interviews, qualitative questionnaires and observation. It revealed that decision‐making practices in trade‐off situations depend on the way that decision makers perceive the relative importance of design targets and trade‐off criteria. These practices are unformalised and embedded in the larger processes of car development and often contradict the technical guidelines for making trade‐offs that exist in the company. The paper presents a conceptual framework to explain the rationale of trade‐offs in different design contexts. How to apply this framework to understand design trade‐offs is described with an illustration of its use in two real life examples.
Moral Realism and Kantian Constructivism
Authors: STIEB JAMES A.
Published: November 2006

Abstract. This paper questions nearly every major pointChristina Lafont (2004) makes about “the validity of social norms” and their relation to moral realism and Kantian constructivism. I distinguish realisms from theories of objective or subjective knowledge, then from cognitivism. Next, I distinguish Kant and constructivism from Rawls' political constructivism. Finally, I propose clues for an alternative theory of moral constructivism.
The Mental Path of Norms
Authors: CONTE ROSARIA , CASTELFRANCHI CRISTIANO
Published: November 2006

Abstract.  In this paper, we intend to re‐examine our view of norms as two‐fold objects, with a mental and social aspect, and a fundamental mechanism of the micro‐macro link. In the light of what has been said in Volume 1 of A Treatise of Legal Philosophy and General Jurisprudence (Pattaro 2005), some aspects of a theory developed elsewhere by the authors will be reconsidered. With regard to the mental aspect of norms, the main properties of normative beliefs will be reconsidered and some issues emerging from a reading of Pattaro will be addressed, in particular, (i) normative autonomy, (ii) norm acceptance, and (iii) the interplay between norms and goals. With regard to the external aspect, a unitary view, bridging the gap between conventions and norms, will be put forward, and some steps will be taken towards defining a notion of external (i.e., impersonal) commands, conceived of as a dimension in which both norms and conventions are situated. Finally the applicability of this notion to the study of norm innovation will be discussed.
The Age‐Length‐Onset Problem in Research on Second Language Acquisition Among Immigrants
Authors: Stevens Gillian
Published: November 2006

Studies investigating the possible effects of age at immigration (a proxy for age at onset of second language learning) on second language acquisition among immigrants often explicitly take the effect of length of residence in the destination country (a measure of exposure to opportunities to learn the second language) into account. A third variable, age at testing, recently has caught the attention of some scholars. However, the three variables “age at immigration,”“length of residence,” and “age at testing” are linearly dependent. The easiest and most common response to this problem is to ignore one or two of the variables. In this article I show that this strategy can result in potentially misleading conclusions and then suggest some strategies for dealing with the problem.
Responses to Recasts: Repetitions, Primed Production, and Linguistic Development
Authors: McDonough Kim , Mackey Alison
Published: November 2006

Although a number of studies have associated recasts with second language development, the actual mechanisms by which recasts work to impact learning are still little understood. In particular, researchers have sought to gain a deeper understanding of the connections among recasts, learners' responses to recasts, and subsequent development. To this end, the current study examines the impact of recasts and different types of responses on English as a second language (ESL) question development. In a pretest/posttest design, 58 Thai English as a foreign language university students carried out a series of communicative tasks with native English speakers and completed four tests over a 9‐week period. The learners' treatment task data were analyzed for the occurrence of recasts and responses to recasts that targeted developmentally advanced question forms. Their test data were examined for evidence of advancement to a higher stage in the developmental sequence for question formation. Results indicate that recasts were a significant predictor of ESL question development. Learners' responses in the form of primed production of the question forms targeted in the recasts were also predictive of ESL question development, but responses in the form of immediate repetitions of recasts were not associated with development.
Forecasting and Finite Sample Performance of Short Rate Models: International Evidence*
Authors: TREEPONGKARUNA SIRIMON
Published: November 2006

This paper evaluates the forecasting and finite sample performance of short‐term interest rate models in a number of countries. Specifically, we run a series of in‐sample and out‐of‐sample tests for both the conditional mean and volatility of one‐factor short rate models, and compare the results to the random walk model. Overall, we find that the out‐of‐sample forecasting performance of one‐factor short rate models is poor, stemming from the inability of the models to accommodate jumps and discontinuities in the time series data. In addition, we perform a series of Monte Carlo analyses similar to Chapman and Pearson to document the finite sample performance of the short rate models when β3 is not restricted to be equal to one. Our results indicate the potential dangers of over‐parameterization and highlight the limitations of short‐term interest rate models.
Memory in deaf signers and embodied cognition of sign languages
Authors: INOUE TOMOYOSHI
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  In the first half of this paper, the experimental investigations on memory and cognition in deaf signers are reviewed in order to reveal how deaf signers rely on sign‐based coding when they process linguistic information. It is suggested that deaf signers tactically employ a set of originally separate memory strategies relying on multiple components of working memory. In the second half of this paper, the author shows possible factors that could contribute to a sign language advantage. It is indicated that deaf signers’ cognitive activities are deeply rooted in the signers’ interaction with the environment. Some concrete examples of Japanese Sign Language signs and their use are provided to support this hypothesis.
BACE1 inhibition reduces endogenous Abeta and alters APP processing in wild‐type mice2
Authors: Nishitomi Kouhei , Sakaguchi Gaku , Horikoshi Yuko , Gray Audrey J. , Maeda Masahiro , Hirata‐Fukae Chiho , Becker Amanda G. , Hosono Motoko , Sakaguchi Isako , Minami S. Sakura , Nakajima Yoshihiro , Li Hui‐Fang , Takeyama Chie , Kihara Tsuyoshi , Ota Akinobu , Wong Philip C. , Aisen Paul S. , Kato Akira , Kinoshita Noriaki , Matsuoka Yasuji
Published: November 2006

Accumulation of amyloid beta peptide (Abeta) in brain is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Inhibition of beta‐site amyloid precursor protein (APP)‐cleaving enzyme‐1 (BACE1), the enzyme that initiates Abeta production, and other Abeta‐lowering strategies are commonly tested in transgenic mice overexpressing mutant APP. However, sporadic AD cases, which represent the majority of AD patients, are free from the mutation and do not necessarily have overproduction of APP. In addition, the commonly used Swedish mutant APP alters APP cleavage. Therefore, testing Abeta‐lowering strategies in transgenic mice may not be optimal. In this study, we investigated the impact of BACE1 inhibition in non‐transgenic mice with physiologically relevant APP expression. Existing Abeta ELISAs are either relatively insensitive to mouse Abeta or not specific to full‐length Abeta. A newly developed ELISA detected a significant reduction of full‐length soluble Abeta 1–40 in mice with the BACE1 homozygous gene deletion or BACE1 inhibitor treatment, while the level of x‐40 Abeta was moderately reduced due to detection of non‐full‐length Abeta and compensatory activation of alpha‐secretase. These results confirmed the feasibility of Abeta reduction through BACE1 inhibition under physiological conditions. Studies using our new ELISA in non‐transgenic mice provide more accurate evaluation of Abeta‐reducing strategies than was previously feasible.
Improving learning in hospital labour suites: an ethnographic approach to educational audit
Authors: Fraser Diane M.
Published: November 2006

A decision was taken that investigating the effectiveness of labour suites as learning environments for students is part of quality management rather than research. However, a traditional quality assurance model of audit was rejected in favour of an ethnographic approach because of the need to observe the culture of the setting as well as to understand teaching and learning from the perspectives of the teacher and the learner. Observation took place on six different labour suites over a 3‐year period. Data were coded and analysed using a constant comparative approach. Three key needs emerged: to improve the learning culture in the practice environment; to address the differing effectiveness of practice mentors teaching and learning strategies; and to develop students personally and professionally. Further research is recommended into the role of those coordinating areas of high stress such as a hospital labour suite, because the cultural differences they create can cause barriers to learning.
Salamander Abundance along Road Edges and within Abandoned Logging Roads in Appalachian Forests
Authors: SEMLITSCH RAYMOND D. , RYAN TRAVIS J. , HAMED KEVIN , CHATFIELD MATT , DREHMAN BETHANY , PEKAREK NICOLE , SPATH MIKE , WATLAND ANGIE
Published: November 2006

Abstract: Roads may be one of the most common disturbances in otherwise continuous forested habitat in the southern Appalachian Mountains. Despite their obvious presence on the landscape, there is limited data on the ecological effects along a road edge or the size of the “road‐effect zone.” We sampled salamanders at current and abandoned road sites within the Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina (U.S.A.) to determine the road‐effect zone for an assemblage of woodland salamanders. Salamander abundance near the road was reduced significantly, and salamanders along the edges were predominantly large individuals. These results indicate that the road‐effect zone for these salamanders extended 35 m on either side of the relatively narrow, low‐use forest roads along which we sampled. Furthermore, salamander abundance was significantly lower on old, abandoned logging roads compared with the adjacent upslope sites. These results indicate that forest roads and abandoned logging roads have negative effects on forest‐dependent species such as plethodontid salamanders. Our results may apply to other protected forests in the southern Appalachians and may exemplify a problem created by current and past land use activities in all forested regions, especially those related to road building for natural‐resource extraction. Our results show that the effect of roads reached well beyond their boundary and that abandonment or the decommissioning of roads did not reverse detrimental ecological effects; rather, our results indicate that management decisions have significant repercussions for generations to come. Furthermore, the quantity of suitable forested habitat in the protected areas we studied was significantly reduced: between 28.6% and 36.9% of the area was affected by roads. Management and policy decisions must use current and historical data on land use to understand cumulative impacts on forest‐dependent species and to fully protect biodiversity on national lands
Written Accounts of an Amazonian Landscape Over the Last 450 Years
Authors: PITMAN NIGEL C. A. , AZÁLDEGUI MARÍA DEL CARMEN LOYOLA , SALAS KARINA , VIGO GABRIELA T. , LUTZ DAVID A.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Books, articles, government documents, and other written accounts of tropical biology and conservation reach a tiny fraction of their potential audience. Some texts are inaccessible because of the language in which they are written. Others are only available to subscribers of developed‐world journals, or distributed narrowly within tropical countries. To examine this dysfunction in the tropical literature—and what it means for conservation—we tried to compile everything ever written on the biology and conservation of the department of Madre de Dios, Peru, in southwestern Amazonia. Our search of libraries, databases, and existing bibliographies uncovered 2,202 texts totaling roughly 80,000 pages. Texts date from 1553 to 2004, but 93% were written after 1970. Since that year the publication rate has increased steadily from fewer than 10 texts/year to nearly 3 texts/week in 2004. Roughly half of the Madre de Dios bibliography is in Spanish‐language texts written by Peruvian authors and mostly inaccessible outside Peru. Most of the remaining material is English‐language texts written by foreign authors and largely inaccessible in Peru. Foreign authors tended to write about ecological studies with limited relevance to on‐the‐ground conservation challenges, whereas Peruvian authors were more likely to make specific management recommendations. The establishment of a Web‐based digital library for Neotropical nature would help make the tropical literature a more efficient resource for science and conservation. Additional recommendations include investing in syntheses, translations, popular summaries, and peer‐reviewed journals in tropical countries, providing incentives for management‐relevant research in tropical protected areas, and reinforcing training of scientific reading and writing in tropical universities.
Tenascin expression in actinic keratosis
Authors: Lentini Maria , Schepis Carmelo , Cuppari Domenica Anna , Batolo Dario
Published: November 2006

Background:  Tenascin is an extracellular matrix protein frequently expressed around neoplastic and non‐neoplastic lesions of the skin. Actinic keratoses (AKs) are intraepidermal neoplastic lesions of the sun‐exposed skin. They are classified according to the extension of dysplasia in four stages; they also present different histological varieties.

Methods:  We performed an immunohistochemical study using tenascin monoclonal antibody diluted 1 : 50 on 150 cases of AKs classified, respectively, in histotypes (38 hypertrophic, 18 atrophic, 21 bowenoid, 19 acantolytic, and 40 mixed) and in stages (27 stage I, 46 stage II, 42 stage III, and 35 stage IV; 14 in tumoral progression).

Results:  Tenascin positivity was observed in all cases at the dermal level close to the epithelial lesion. The intensity of reaction increased from stage I to stage IV and, of course, also in tumoral progression. Its expression was not related to the histotypes. In very few cases, the atypical keratinocytes were positive.

Conclusions:  Tenascin expression in AKs is related to the stages of dysplasia. In fact, the immunostaining intensity corresponds to the degree of the dysplasia rather than the thickness of the involved epidermis. Tenascin plays a role in neoplastic progression working as an anti‐adhesive factor.
Primary chondroid melanoma of the nasal skin: a rare melanoma variant at a previously undocumented site
Authors: Slavik Tomas , Hannah Marius , Schroder Ralph A.
Published: November 2006

Heterologous differentiation is exceedingly rare in melanoma. Only four cases of melanoma demonstrating exclusive cartilaginous differentiation have been documented, all having occurred on the lower extremity. We report a chondroid melanoma involving the nasal skin and presenting clinically as a basal cell carcinoma. Both Melan‐A and microphthalmia transcription factor protein immunoperoxidase stains were positive in our case, demonstrating the potential utility of these two stains in chondroid melanoma. We also provide a succinct review of the literature on this rare melanoma variant.
Cytoid bodies in cutaneous direct immunofluorescence examination
Authors: Wu Yu‐Hung , Lin Yang‐Chih
Published: November 2006

Background:  The clinical significance of scattered or grouped cytoid bodies seen on direct immunofluorescence (DIF) examination has not been systematically analyzed in a variety of disorders.

Methods:  We prospectively studied skin biopsy specimens obtained from July 2002 to December 2005 for which DIF examination using immunoglobulin (Ig) A, IgG, IgM, C3 and fibrinogen had been performed. Slides with cytoid bodies were further reviewed to assess the number, intensity and location of the cytoid bodies and for other specific findings. These data were compared with both clinical records in the medical charts and pathologic findings from concurrent skin biopsies.

Results:  Of 1080 DIF examinations performed during the study period, 117 (10.8%) had cytoid bodies. These specimens were from patients with 28 different cutaneous disorders, the most common of which were various forms of lupus erythematosus (29/117, 24.8%) and erythema multiforme (22/117, 18.8%). In 81 (69.2%) of these specimens, interface dermatitis was found histopathologically.

Conclusion:  Cytoid bodies are not infrequent on DIF examination and, in the absence of a clear diagnosis, might point toward several common disorders, particularly those involving interface dermatitis.
The Fugu tyrp1 promoter directs specific GFP expression in zebrafish: tools to study the RPE and the neural crest‐derived melanophores
Authors: Zou Jian , Beermann Friedrich , Wang Jianxin , Kawakami Koichi , Wei Xiangyun
Published: November 2006

In vertebrates, pigment cells account for a small percentage of the total cell population and they intermingle with other cell types. This makes it difficult to isolate them for analyzes of their functions in the context of development. To alleviate such difficulty, we generated two stable transgenic zebrafish lines (pt101 and pt102) that express green fluorescent protein (GFP) in melanophores under the control of the 1 kb Fugu tyrp1 promoter. In pt101, GFP is expressed in both retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells and the neural crest‐derived melanophores (NCDM), whereas in pt102, GFP is predominately expressed in the NCDM. Our results indicate that the Fugu tyrp1 promoter can direct transgene expression in a cell‐type‐specific manner in zebrafish. In addition, our findings provide evidence supporting differential regulations of melanin‐synthesizing genes in RPE cells and the NCDM in zebrafish. Utilizing the varying GFP expression levels in these fish, we have isolated melanophores via flow cytometry and revealed the capability of sorting the NCDM from RPE cells as well. Thus, these transgenic lines are useful tools to study melanophores in zebrafish.
Long‐term morphological and functional evaluation of the neuroprotective effects of post‐ischemic treatment with melatonin in rats
Authors: Letechipía‐Vallejo Graciela , López‐Loeza Elisa , Espinoza‐González Verónica , González‐Burgos Ignacio , Olvera‐Cortés María Esther , Moralí Gabriela , Cervantes Miguel
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Consensus on neuroprotection has pointed out the relevance of the long‐term morphological and functional evaluation of the effectiveness of putative neuroprotective procedures. In the present study, place learning (Morris water maze) and working memory (eight‐arm Olton radial maze) were evaluated in adult male rats 90 days after 15 min of global cerebral ischemia (four‐vessel occlusion) followed by continuous i.v. infusion (10 mg/kg/hr) of melatonin (Isch + Mel) or vehicle (Isch + Veh) for 6 hr, and the pyramidal neuron population of the cornus Ammoni (CA) of the hippocampus and layers III and V of the medial prefrontal cortex was assessed at the end of the behavioral testing period (120 days after ischemia). Impairment of place learning, a significant delay in working memory acquisition, and a significant loss of pyramidal neurons in the Ammon's horn (CA1: 23%, CA2: 52% CA3: 73%, hilus: 64% remaining neurons), were observed in the Isch + Veh group. By contrast, a similar performance of the Isch + Mel group to that in the Intact and Sham groups and better than that of the Isch + Veh group, besides a significant reduction of pyramidal neuron loss in the CA subfields (CA1: 79%, CA2: 88% CA3: 86%, hilus: 72% remaining neurons), documented that melatonin treatment led to a long‐term preservation of both the neural substrate, and the capability for integration of spatial learning and memory, mainly dependent on a normal hippocampal functioning. Overall the results emphasize the efficacy of melatonin in counteracting the pathophysiological processes induced by ischemia, by exerting its actions during a short but critical period early after the ischemic episode.
ADHESION TO LASER‐PREPARED TOOTH STRUCTURE
Authors: Hilton Thomas J. , Swift Edward J.
Published: November 2006

The use of Er:YAG (erbium : yttrium aluminum garnet and Er,Cr:YAG (erbium, chromium : yttrium scandium gallium garnet) lasers for tooth preparation has received much attention in recent years. Several advantages have been attributed to these devices, including a reduced need for local anesthesia for tooth preparation, less vibration to the patient, and more conservative cavity preparation. Another purported advantage has been the contention that adhesion to tooth structure is enhanced compared with other means of cavity preparation, even to the point of eliminating the need for conditioning and/or etching prior to adhesive system application. As the use of bonded, esthetic restorations has increased, it is important to know if this purported bonding advantage is valid. This Critical Appraisal examines evidence in the peer‐reviewed scientific literature that contradicts this contention, and discusses concerns regarding the use of lasers in cavity preparation.
Overexpression of putative topoisomerase 6 genes from rice confers stress tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis plants
Authors: Jain Mukesh , Tyagi Akhilesh K. , Khurana Jitendra P.
Published: November 2006

DNA topoisomerase 6 (TOP6) belongs to a novel family of type II DNA topoisomerases present, other than in archaebacteria, only in plants. Here we report the isolation of full‐length cDNAs encoding putative TOP6 subunits A and B from rice (Oryza sativa ssp. indica), preserving all the structural domains conserved among archaebacterial TOP6 homologs and eukaryotic meiotic recombination factor SPO11. OsTOP6A1 was predominantly expressed in prepollinated flowers. The transcript abundance of OsTOP6A2, OsTOP6A3 and OsTOP6B was also higher in prepollinated flowers and callus. The expression of OsTOP6A2, OsTOP6A3 and OsTOP6B was differentially regulated by the plant hormones, auxin, cytokinin, and abscisic acid. Yeast two‐hybrid analysis revealed that the full‐length OsTOP6B protein interacts with both OsTOP6A2 and OsTOP6A3, but not with OsTOP6A1. The nuclear localization of OsTOP6A3 and OsTOP6B was established by the transient expression of their β‐glucuronidase fusion proteins in onion epidermal cells. Overexpression of OsTOP6A3 and OsTOP6B in transgenic Arabidopsis plants conferred reduced sensitivity to the stress hormone, abscisic acid, and tolerance to high salinity and dehydration. Moreover, the stress tolerance coincided with enhanced induction of many stress‐responsive genes in transgenic Arabidopsis plants. In addition, microarray analysis revealed that a large number of genes are expressed differentially in transgenic plants. Taken together, our results demonstrate that TOP6 genes play a crucial role in stress adaptation of plants by altering gene expression.
Activation of nematode G protein GOA‐1 by the human muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M2 subtype
Authors: Minaba Masaomi , Ichiyama Susumu , Kojima Katsura , Ozaki Mamiko , Kato Yusuke
Published: November 2006

Signal transduction mediated by heterotrimeric G proteins regulates a wide variety of physiological functions. We are interested in the manipulation of G‐protein‐mediating signal transduction using G‐protein‐coupled receptors, which are derived from evolutionarily distant organisms and recognize unique ligands. As a model, we tested the functionally coupling GOA‐1, Gαi/o ortholog in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, with the human muscarinic acetylcholine receptor M2 subtype (M2), which is one of the mammalian Gαi/o‐coupled receptors. GOA‐1 and M2 were prepared as a fusion protein using a baculovirus expression system. The affinity of the fusion protein for GDP was decreased by addition of a muscarinic agonist, carbamylcholine and the guanosine 5′‐[3‐O‐thio]triphosphate ([35S]GTPγS) binding was increased with an increase in the carbamylcholine concentrations in a dose‐dependent manner. These effects evoked by carbamylcholine were completely abolished by a full antagonist, atropine. In addition, the affinity for carbamylcholine decreased under the presence of GTP as reported for M2–Gαi/o coupling. These results indicate that the M2 activates GOA‐1 as well as Gαi/o.
Consumer Demand and Cost Factors Shape the Global Trade Network in Commodity and Manufactured Foods
Authors: Vollrath Thomas L. , Hallahan Charles B. , Gehlhar Mark J.
Published: November 2006

Multiple forces operate throughout the global economy and influence the direction, composition, and volume of agri‐food trade. The fundamental determinants that impede and foster bilateral trade in two food types, namely staple commodities and manufactured products, are identified using generalized gravity equations. Empirical evidence verified the importance of relative resource endowments and similarities in the structure of partner demand. Other socio‐geo‐political factors were also found to influence food trade, including the ability of governments to control corruption and curtail disequilibrium in financial markets.

L'économie mondiale est soumise à des forces multiples qui influencent l'orientation, la composition et le volume du commerce agroalimentaire. Les principaux facteurs qui entravent et favorisent le commerce bilatéral de deux types d'aliments, à savoir les matières de base et les produits manufacturés, ont été déterminés à l'aide d'équations de gravité généralisées. L'évidence empirique a vérifié l'importance des dotations relatives en ressources et des similarités dans la structure de la demande d'un partenaire commercial. D'autres facteurs sociaux et géopolitiques, y compris la capacité des gouvernements à combattre la corruption et à réduire le déséquilibre sur les marchés des capitaux, influenceraient aussi le commerce alimentaire.
Can Country‐of‐Origin Labeling Succeed as a Marketing Tool for Produce? Lessons from Three Case Studies
Authors: Carter Colin , Krissoff Barry , Zwane Alix Peterson
Published: November 2006

This paper draws on the theory of product differentiation in a trade context and uses three case studies to highlight the conditions necessary for a successful geographical‐origin branding strategy for farm produce in the United States. In so doing, the U.S. country‐of‐origin labeling (COOL) scheme as a branding strategy for produce is assessed. The paper argues that the use of geographic identifiers to achieve product differentiation is viable, but any claim that such differentiation will prove useful at the country level for farm produce seems likely to be misplaced. In order to raise prices, a key complement to branding is some restriction on the volume of product going out under the brand name. These restrictions may be accomplished by supply controls, quality controls, or entry barriers, but will not be available to all U.S. products currently hoping to gain from mandatory COOL.

Le présent article s'appuie sur la théorie de la différenciation des produits dans un contexte commercial et utilise trois études de cas pour faire ressortir les conditions nécessaires pour réussir une stratégie de la marque distinctive selon l'origine géographique des produits agricoles aux États‐Unis. Nous avons examiné le programme états‐unien d'étiquetage du pays d'origine (COOL) comme stratégie de la marque distinctive. Le présent article soutient que l'utilisation d'identificateurs géographiques pour différencier les produits est viable, mais toute allégation voulant que ce genre de différenciation se révèle utile à l'échelle nationale pour les produits agricoles semble inappropriée. Pour hausser les prix, il faudrait, en plus d'utiliser la marque distinctive, imposer certaines restrictions quant au volume de produits emballés sous la marque du fabricant. Ces restrictions peuvent être imposées par le contrôle des approvisionnements, le contrôle de la qualité ou la mise en place de barrières à l'entrée, mais elles ne pourront toucher tous les produits états‐uniens qui espèrent actuellement tirer un gain du programme COOL obligatoire.
Catalytic Infrared Dehydration of Onions
Authors: Gabel Michael M. , Pan Zhongli , Amaratunga K.S.P. , Harris Linda J. , Thompson James F.
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  Dehydrated onions are commonly dried with convection heating, which is inefficient and costly. This study compared the drying and quality characteristics of onion dried with catalytic infrared (CIR) heating and forced air convection (FAC) heating. Sliced high‐solids onions were dehydrated under 9 conditions: CIR heating with and without air recirculation, and FAC each operated at 60, 70, and 80 °C. In general, CIR both with and without air recirculation had higher maximum drying rates, shorter drying times, and greater drying constants than FAC at moisture contents greater than 50% (d.b.). Dried onion quality, measured as pungency degradation, was similar for both the drying methods at 60 and 70 °C. The color analysis showed better product color (whiter and less yellow) at lower temperatures for CIR and higher temperatures for FAC. The browning could have been caused by the higher surface heat flux of the CIR heating and longer process times of FAC drying. Aerobic plate counts and coliform counts were not significantly different for either product from the CIR or FAC drying. However, samples dried by the CIR had significantly lower yeast and mold counts than those dried by the FAC. It is recommended that CIR be used in the early stages of onion drying.
Mouthfeel Detection Threshold and Instrumental Viscosity of Sucrose and High Fructose Corn Syrup Solutions
Authors: Kappes S. M. , Schmidt S. J. , Lee S.‐Y.
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  Significant mouthfeel differences between diet and regular cola carbonated beverages have been reported; however, the underlying cause of those differences is not well understood. One avenue explored here is the connection between mouthfeel differences and mouthfeel thresholds of model solutions containing sweeteners used in regular carbonated beverages. The objectives of this research were to (1) determine individual and group mouthfeel detection thresholds of sucrose and high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) solutions while suppressing sweet taste; (2) relate individual and group thresholds to viscosity and number of sweetener molecules in solution; and (3) measure and compare the viscosities of commercial carbonated beverages to the viscosities of sucrose and HFCS solutions formulated to the concentrations of individual and group thresholds. The R‐index measure by the rating method was used by 21 panelists to evaluate the thickness difference of sucrose and HFCS solutions compared to water using Gymnema sylvestre tea to supress sweet taste. The group mouthfeel detection threshold for sucrose was 16.78%± 8.72% (g/100 mL) and for HFCS was 11.48%± 8.67% (g/100 mL). The average viscosity of regular carbonated beverages is within the viscosity range associated with the group mouthfeel threshold concentrations of sucrose and HFCS solutions, but the average viscosity of diet carbonated beverages is lower than the viscosity range associated with the group mouthfeel detection threshold concentrations of sucrose and HFCS solutions. This research implies that consumers are sensitive enough to detect mouthfeel differences between diet and regular carbonated beverages, albeit the instrumental viscosity difference being small (0.527 mPa ⋅ s).
Eukaryotic Antimicrobial Peptides: Promises and Premises in Food Safety
Authors: Rydlo Tali , Miltz Joseph , Mor Amram
Published: November 2006

ABSTRACT:  There is a lack of efficient and safe preservatives in the food industry. Massive use of some common food preservation methods has led, over the years, to development of a resistance to different treatments by various food pathogens. Enteric bacteria are especially tolerant to adverse environmental conditions—such as low pH and high salt concentrations— which limits efficiency of some preservation methods. Consumers demand for natural, preservative‐free, and minimally processed foods and worldwide concern regarding disease outbreaks caused by food‐related pathogens have created a need for development of new classes of antimicrobial (AM) agents. The twentieth century revealed a massive array of new peptide‐based antimicrobials. Small ribosomally made compounds are found in practically all living species where they act as important component of host defense. Certain indubitable advantages of peptides—pertaining to simplicity, activity spectra, and bacterial resistance—over known preservative agents advocate their potential for food preservation. Nisin, an AM compound originating from bacteria, is so far the only FDA‐approved peptide. However, a growing number of reports describe the potential of animal‐derived antimicrobial peptides as food preservatives. These studies have yielded various native compounds and/or derivatives that possess markedly improved antimicrobial properties under a broad range of incubation conditions. The present work reviews the most investigated peptides and accounts for their potential use as alternatives to the preservatives used today. The focus is on research aspects aiming at understanding the mechanism of action of these peptides at extreme environments of various food systems. Collectively, the data accumulated are convincingly indicative of potential applications of these peptides in food safety, namely, with respect to fighting multidrug‐resistant pathogens.