bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 4 year stability of psychopathic traits in non‐referred youth
Authors: Frick Paul J. , Kimonis Eva R. , Dandreaux Danielle M. , Farell Jamie M.
Published: December 2003

One significant limitation in research extending the construct of psychopathy to youth has been the absence of longitudinal studies testing the stability of psychopathic traits prior to adulthood. To begin to address this limitation, the current study estimated the stability of psychopathic traits over a 4 year period in a sample of non‐referred children in the third, fourth, sixth, and seventh grades at the first assessment. For parent ratings of psychopathic traits, stability estimates using intra‐class correlation coefficients ranged from 0.80 to 0.88 across 2–4 years, with a stability estimate of 0.93 across all four assessments. There were also distinct trends in the patterns of stability found in the sample. Specifically, children rated as being initially high on these traits were more likely to be rated lower at later assessments than was the case for children rated initially low on these traits. Finally, the child's level of conduct problems, the socioeconomic status of the child's family, and the quality of parenting the child received were the most consistent predictors of stability of psychopathic traits. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Amputation through the hip joint during the pre‐anaesthetic era
Authors: Kaufman M.H. , Wakelin S.J.
Published: December 2003

Even to the present day, hip disarticulation is one of the most radical orthopaedic operations. First carried out on the Continent in 1774 and in Britain in 1779, this procedure was only deemed necessary in circumstances where death was otherwise inevitable. George James Guthrie claimed to have undertaken the first amputation through the hip joint in which the patient survived. We describe some of these cases from the pre‐anaesthetic surgical literature in which amputation through the hip joint was undertaken, and we comment on the surgical techniques used. This information is complemented by the views of certain authorities on this procedure. Many surgeons during the first half of the 19th century, including Guthrie, sought alternative surgical operations to hip joint disarticulation. The removal of the head and neck of the femur was far less traumatic than disarticulation through the hip joint, and proved an extremely effective alternative procedure for lesions involving the proximal part of the femur where there was any possibility that the limb could be saved. Clin. Anat. 17:36–44, 2004. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Radial nerve in the radial tunnel: Anatomic sites of entrapment neuropathy
Authors: Konjengbam Mrinalini , Elangbam James
Published: December 2003

Common anatomical structures that can lead to radial nerve entrapment in the radial tunnel (radial tunnel syndrome) were studied in 46 embalmed cadaveric upper limbs. After dissecting the radial tunnel, we investigated: the radial nerve and its division into superficial and deep (DBRN) branches; the course of the DBRN in relation to the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) muscle; the presence of fat; fibrous adhesions between the anterior radiohumeral joint capsule and the DBRN; the nature of the superomedial margin of the ECRB; vascular arcades of the radial recurrent vessels; and the superior and inferior borders of the superficial layer of the supinator muscle. The locations of some of these structures were measured in reference to two fixed points: the radiohumeral joint line and a line joining the tips of medial and lateral epicondyles of humerus. Near the radiohumeral joint, fibrous adhesions were observed between the DBRN and underlying capsule in 23/46 (50%) cases; vascular arcades of the radial recurrent vessels were found in 33/46 (72%) cases; the superomedial margin of the ECRB was tendinous in 36/46 (78%) instances; the superior border of the superficial layer of the supinator muscle was noted to be tendinous (arcade of Frohse) in 40/46 (87%) specimens, and the inferior border of the superficial layer of the supinator muscle was tendinous in 30/46 (65%) cases. These anatomical features in the radial tunnel are significant enough to lead to entrapment neuropathy of the radial nerve. Anat. Clin. Anat. 17:21–25, 2004. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lipid peroxidation, vitamins C, E and reduced glutathione levels in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Vijayamalini M. , Manoharan S.
Published: December 2003

The present study examined the relationship between lipid peroxidation and vitamin C, vitamin E and reduced glutathione levels in plasma, erythrocytes and erythrocyte membranes of pulmonary tuberculosis patients and an equal number of age‐and sex‐matched healthy subjects. Enhanced plasma, erythrocytes and erythrocyte membrane lipid peroxidation with concomitant decline in vitamin C, vitamin E and reduced glutathione levels were found in pulmonary tuberculosis patients. The elevated lipid peroxidation and decreased vitamin C, vitamin E and reduced glutathione levels indicate the potential of oxidative damage to erythrocytes and erythrocyte membranes of pulmonary tuberculosis patients. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Free amino acids mimic the anabolic but not the proliferative effect of albumin in OK proximal tubular cells
Authors: Arici Mustafa , Brown Jeremy , Walls John , Bevington Alan
Published: December 2003

When plasma proteins leak from circulation into the renal tubular lumen in the proteinuric renal diseases, nephrotoxicity of filtered albumin (and/or molecules bound to it) may be important in the subsequent development of tubulo‐interstitial damage which contributes to the progression of the disease. When cultured opossum kidney (OK) proximal tubular cells were exposed to bovine serum albumin for 3 days in vitro, increased cell division ([3H]‐thymidine incorporation) and cellular hypertrophy (increased protein/DNA ratio) were observed. Both effects were halved if defatted albumin was used. A trivial explanation for the growth responses is that free fatty acids carried on the albumin, and amino acids generated by intracellular degradation of the albumin, are exerting a non‐specific growth effect as metabolic fuels which are oxidized to generate ATP. However, the water‐soluble free fatty acid octanoate (1 mmol l−1) had no significant effect on protein/DNA ratio and a very variable stimulatory effect on [3H]‐thymidine incorporation, whereas an essential amino acid mixture or 1 mmol/l−1 l‐Ala or l‐Phe only increased the protein/DNA ratio. Furthermore no carnitine was added to the culture medium. This absence would have impaired mitochondrial transport (and hence oxidation) of long‐chain free fatty acids derived from the albumin. l‐Phe is also a poor substrate for mitochondrial oxidation in kidney. It is therefore concluded that the growth effects of albumin in OK proximal tubular cells are specific effects of the albumin protein and of the free fatty acids and amino acids derived from it, and not a non‐specific effect on metabolic fuel supply. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liver denervation affects hepatocyte mitochondrial fatty acid transport capacity
Authors: Carreño Flávia R. , Seelaender Marília C. L.
Published: December 2003

The effect of liver denervation on the activity of hepatic carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) system, which catalyses the transfer of long‐chain fatty acids into the mitochondria, was studied in rats. Noradrenaline content in phenol‐denervated liver (D) was reduced by 87%. CPT I and II activities (measured by radioassay after detergent separation of the enzymes) were decreased (p < 0.001) in D (2.6 ± 0.1 and 0.68 ± 0.2 nmol min−1 mg−1 protein, respectively) as compared with controls (4.7 ± 0.3 and 2.5 ± 0.2 nmol min−1 mg−1 protein, for CPT I and II, respectively). A less intense immunoreactive band for denervated liver CPT II was obtained after Western blotting. Concomitantly, long‐chain fatty acid incorporation (p < 0.001), evaluated after administration of [14C]‐oleate and total fat content (p < 0.001) were increased in D in relation to controls, while incorporation of exogenous [14C]‐oleate into secreted VLDL, was decreased (p < 0.01). The effect of sympathetic denervation on CPT activity was different from that evoked by adrenodemedullation, which caused an augmentation of CPT activity (p < 0.01), when compared with the liver of intact rats. The effects of denervation and adrenodemedullation on the other parameters of lipid metabolism studied, were similar. The results strongly suggest a role of liver sympathetic innervation in the regulation of liver lipid metabolism. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NBD‐cholesterol incorporation by rat macrophages and lymphocytes: a process dependent on the activation state of the cells
Authors: Portioli Silva Érica P. , Peres Carmem M. , Roberto Mendonça José , Curi Rui
Published: December 2003

The time‐course of incorporation of NBD‐cholesterol by macrophages (Ma) and lymphocytes (LY) obtained from untreated and thioglycollate‐injected (thio) rats was investigated. NBD‐cholesterol incorporation was also examined in Ma obtained from untreated rats and stimulated in vitro by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and phorbol‐myristate acetate (PMA). The same measurement was performed in LY from untreated rats stimulated by addition of LPS and concanavalin A (Con A) into the culture medium. Thio‐treated Ma showed high fluorescence intensity after 1 h of incubation with NBD‐cholesterol. Ma submitted concomitant to LPS and NBD‐cholesterol showed low fluorescence intensity, as well as Ma stimulated with PMA. Ma from untreated and LPS pre‐treated rats showed a similar time‐course of incorporation. LY from thio‐treated rats showed lower incorporation of NBD‐cholesterol in comparison to LY from untreated rats. Incorporation was reduced when LPS was added concomitantly with NBD‐cholesterol. On the other hand, LY pre‐treated with LPS for 48 h showed a very high incorporation of NBD‐cholesterol. Con A treatment did not cause a significant effect on NBD‐cholesterol incorporation. The findings presented herein led us to conclude that the uptake of NBD‐cholesterol by Ma and LY is markedly affected by the activation state of the cells. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The mediating role of cPLA2 in IL‐1 β and IL‐6 release in LPS‐induced HeLa cells
Authors: Wang X. H. , Yan G. T. , Wang L. H. , Hao X. H. , Zhang K. , Xue H.
Published: December 2003

Studies were conducted to characterize a HeLa cell model by which the roles of the 85‐kDa phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) in interleukin‐1 β (IL‐1 β) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) release could be evaluated. At first, untreated HeLa cells were compared with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐treated HeLa cells. The latter resulted in cPLA2 overexpression and an increased trend of IL‐1 β and IL‐6 release. The indicated doses of 85‐kDa cPLA2 antisense oligonucleotide directed against the initiation site were then used to block cPLA2 in LPS‐induced HeLa cells. The process led to a dose‐dependent decrease in cPLA2 protein with no noticeable change of cPLA2 mRNA. Compared with that of LPS added only, a reduction of IL‐1 β and IL‐6 levels in the supernatants of transfected cells following the repression of cPLA2 was observed. These results suggested that 85‐kDa cPLA2 may mediate the signalling cascades by which IL‐1 β and IL‐6 were released in LPS‐induced HeLa cells. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxic action of etoposide on mouse peritoneal macrophages and its modulation by interleukin 3
Authors: Olmos Gemma , Lotero L. Alfredo , Herráez Angel , Diez José C.
Published: December 2003

In the present work, we have studied the toxic action of etoposide on mouse peritoneal macrophages. First, we have determined the induction of DNA fragmentation by this antitumour compound. To study the possible influence of interleukin 3 on the effects of etoposide on mouse macrophages, we studied intracellular protein phosphorylation induced by interleukin 3. After incubation of the cells in the presence of interleukin 3, increased phosphorylation levels of proteins of estimated molecular weights of around 29 000, 34 000, 50 000 and 61 000 daltons were observed. We have also investigated a possible influence of interleukin 3 on DNA degradation induced by etoposide. The changes of Bax levels induced by etoposide that we have observed seemed to be modulated by this cytokine. From these results, a possible role of interleukin 3 can be suggested in the attenuation of some toxic effects produced by etoposide in mouse peritoneal macrophages. Thus, a therapeutic application of interleukin 3 on antitumour treatments in cells from the mononuclear phagocytic system might be proposed. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Plasma lipid peroxidation and antioxidant levels in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kamanlı Ayhan , Nazıroğlu Mustafa , Aydılek Nurettın , Hacıevlıyagil Cengiz
Published: December 2003

In recent years, a great number of studies have investigated the possible role of reactive oxygen species in the aetiology and pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of this study was to investigate plasma concentrations of vitamin E, beta‐carotene, activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) and catalase, levels of lipid peroxidation (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) in 36 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and 22 healthy age‐matched controls. The plasma activity of GSH‐Px and catalase (p < 0.001), levels of GSH (p < 0.01), concentration of beta‐carotene (p < 0.05) and vitamin E (p < 0.001), haemoglobin and hematocrit (p < 0.05) were significantly lower in patients with RA than in controls. The MDA levels (p < 0.01), C reactive protein, rheumatoid factor, anti‐streptolysin‐o values (p < 0.001), platelet count (p < 0.05) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (p < 0.001) were higher in the patient group than in the control group. These results provide some evidence for a potential role of increased lipid peroxidation and decreased enzymic and non‐enzymic antioxidants in RA by its inflammatory character. These results suggested that oxidant stress plays a very important role in the pathogenesis of RA. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Potent hypolipidemic activity of mimetic amides of fibrates based on the 2‐methoxy‐4‐(2‐propenyl)phenoxyacetic scaffold
Authors: Hernández Dolores , Bernal Pablo , Cruz Adriana , Garciafigueroa Yesica , Garduño Leticia , Salazar María , Díaz Francisco , Chamorro Germán , Tamariz Joaquín
Published: December 2003

A series of bioisosteric analogues of fibrates, such as clofibrate (2) and bezafibrate (3), was designed, considering the pharmacophore potential of phenoxyacetic derivatives 4 related to α‐asarone (1) in their structure. Thus, the hypolipidemic activity of the series of amides 5a‐5j, 6a‐6d, and 7a‐7c, amines 8b‐8d, and amino acids 9a‐9e has been evaluated. A significant decrease in serum cholesterol was observed in mice for a number of these compounds. Some of them also showed a lowering of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and a few had an effect on increasing the high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and on reducing the triglyceride serum contents. Phenoxyacetic, phenoxyethyl‐amido and ‐amino moieties, as well as the presence of a chlorine atom in their aromatic rings, were identified as potential pharmacophores. Unexpectedly, derivatives 9a‐9e, bearing an amino acid group, did not exhibit any hypolipidemic activity under a similar pharmacological protocol. Drug Dev. Res. 61:19–36, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Knock‐in American options
Authors: Dai Min , Kwok Yue Kuen
Published: December 2003

A knock‐in American option under a trigger clause is an option contract in which the option holder receives an American option conditional
on the underlying stock price breaching a certain trigger level (also called barrier level). We present analytic valuation formulas for
knock‐in American options under the Black‐Scholes pricing framework. The price formulas possess different analytic representations,
depending on the relation between the trigger stock price level and the critical stock price of the underlying American option. We also performed
numerical valuation of several knock‐in American options to illustrate the efficacy of the price formulas. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Jrl Fut Mark 24:179–192, 2004
Intracellular pH regulation in isolated hepatopancreas cells from the roman snail (Helix pomatia)
Authors: Manzl Claudia , Krumschnabel Gerhard , Schwarzbaum Pablo J. , Chabicovsky Monika , Dallinger Reinhard
Published: December 2003

The mechanisms of intracellular pH (pHi) regulation were studied in isolated hepatopancreas cells from the Roman snail, Helix pomatia. The relationship between intracellular and extracellular pH indicated that pHi is actively regulated in these cells. At least three pHi‐regulatory ion transporters were found to be present in these cells and to be responsible for the maintenance of pHi: an amiloride‐sensitive Na+/H+ exchanger, a 4–acetamido–4'–isothiocyanostilbene–2,2'disulfonic acid (SITS)‐sensitive, presumably Na+‐dependent, Cl−/HCO3− exchanger, and a bafilomycin‐sensitive H+‐pump. Inhibition of one of these transporters alone did not affect steady state pHi, whereas incubation with amiloride and SITS in combination resulted in a significant intracellular acidification. Following the induction of intracellular acidosis by addition of the weak acid Na+propionate, the Na+/H+ exchanger was immediately activated leading to a rapid recovery of pHi towards the baseline level. Both the SITS‐sensitive mechanism and the H+‐pump responded more slowly, but were of similar importance for pHi recovery. Measurement of pHi recovery from acidification in the three discernible types of hepatopancreas cells with a video fluorescence image system revealed slightly differing response patterns, the physiological significance of which remains to be determined. J. Exp. Zool. 301A:75–84, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ion transport in the intestine of Gobius niger in both isotonic and hypotonic conditions
Authors: Trischitta Francesca , Denaro Maria Gabriella , Faggio Caterina
Published: December 2003

Ion transport in the intestine of Gobius niger, a euryhaline teleost, was studied in both isotonic and hypotonic conditions. Isolated tissues, mounted in Ussing chambers and bilaterally perfused with isotonic Ringer solution, developed a serosa negative transepithelial voltage and a short circuit current indicating a net negative current in absorptive direction. Bilateral removal of Cl− and Na+ from the bathing solutions as well as the luminal removal of K+ in the presence of Ba2+(10−3 M) almost abolished both Vt and Isc. Similar results were obtained by adding bumetanide (10−5M) to the luminal bath while other inhibitors of Cl− transport mechanisms were ineffective. These observations suggest that salt absorption begins with a coupled entry of Na+, Cl−, and K+ across the apical membrane; a Ba2+inhibitable K+ conductance, demonstrated also by micropuncture experiments, recycles the ion into the lumen. Salt entry into the cell is driven by the operation of the basolateral Na+/K+‐ATPase since serosal ouabain (10−4M) completely abolished both Vt and Isc; this pump also completes the Na+ absorption. The inhibitory effect of both serosal bumetanide (10−4M) and SITS (5˙10−4M) suggests that Cl− would leave the cell via the KCl cotransport, the Cl/HCO3−antiport and/or conductive pathways. Bilateral exposure of tissues to hypotonic media produced a reduction of both the transepithelial voltage and the short circuit current probably due to the activation of homeostatic ionic fluxes involved in cell volume regulation. The results of experiments with both isolated enterocytes and intestine exposed to hypotonic solution suggested that the recovery of cell volume, after the initial cell swelling, involves a parallel opening of K+ and Cl− channels to facilitate net solute and water effluxes from the cell. J. Exp. Zool. 301A:49–62, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Active uptake and transport of protein by the intestinal epithelial cells in embryo of viviparous fish, Neoditrema ransonneti (Perciformes: Embiotocidae)
Authors: Nakamura Osamu , Tazumi Yoshimitsu , Muro Tomoaki , Yasuhara Youichi , Watanabe Tasuku
Published: December 2003

Neoditrema ransonneti is a matrotrophic viviparous fish. To clarify the site and process of protein uptake in the fetus of N. ransonneti, rabbit IgG and equine ferritin were administered into the ovarian cavity of pregnant females. Both proteins were absorbed by epithelial cells of hypertrophied intestine within 2h. Rabbit IgG appeared to be concentrated in large cytoplasmic vacuoles of which diameter sometimes reached more than 2µm. On the other hand, electron microscopy showed that ferritin was transported as middle‐sized granules (smaller than 1µm) and not accumulated in large vacuoles. The granules were transported through intra‐ and inter‐cellular pathways and released into submucosal spaces. Furthermore, a number of fine granules of ferritin were seen in the lumen of intravillus capillaries. Western blotting showed that absorbed the rabbit IgG reached the circulating blood intact. These findings suggest that fetuses of N. ransonneti actively absorb maternally supplied proteins via enterocytes, and exploit them not only as nutrients but also as physiologically active molecules. J. Exp. Zool. 301A:38–48, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Time‐course changes in the expression of Na, K‐ATPase and the morphometry of mitochondrion‐rich cells in gills of euryhaline tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) during freshwater acclimation
Authors: Lin Chia‐Hao , Huang Chao‐Lu , Yang Chi‐Hwa , Lee Tsung‐Han , Hwang Pung‐Pung
Published: December 2003

Changes in expression of Na, K‐ATPase (NKA) and morphometry of mitochondrion‐rich (MR) cells in gills of tilapia were investigated on a 96–hr time course following transfer from seawater (SW) to fresh water (FW). A transient decline in plasma osmolality and Na+, Cl− concentrations occurred from 3 hrs onward. Gills responded to FW transfer by decreasing NKA activity as early as 3 hrs from transfer. This response was followed by a significant decrease in the NKA isoform α1–mRNA abundance, which was detected by real‐time PCR at 6 hrs post transfer. Next, a decrease of α1–protein amounts were observed from 6 hrs until 24 hrs post transfer. Additionally, during the time course of FW transfer, modifications in number and size of subtypes of gill MR cells were observed although no significant difference was found in densities of all subtypes of MR cells. These modifications were found as early as 3 hrs, evident at 6 hrs (exhibition of 3 subtypes of MR cells), and mostly completed by 24 hrs post transfer. Such rapid responses (in 3 hrs) as concurrent changes in branchial NKA expression and modifications of MR cell subtypes are thought to improve the osmoregulatory capacity of tilapia in acclimation from hypertonic SW to hypotonic FW. J. Exp. Zool. 301A:85–96, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modulation of gill Na+,K+‐ATPase activity by ammonium ions: Putative coupling of nitrogen excretion and ion uptake in the freshwater shrimp Macrobrachium olfersii
Authors: Furriel Rosa Prazeres Melo , Masui Douglas Chodi , Mcnamara John Campbell , Leone Francisco Assis
Published: December 2003

The effect of NH4+ ions on (Na+ ,K+)‐ATPase hydrolytic activity was examined in a gill microsomal fraction from M. olfersii. In the absence of NH4+ ions, K+ ions stimulated ATP hydrolysis, exhibiting cooperative kinetics (nH=0.8), to a maximal specific activity of V=556.1±22.2 nmol.min−1.mg−1 with K0.5=2.4±0.1 mmol.L−1. No further stimulation by K+ ions was observed in the presence of 50 mmol.L−1 NH4+ ions. ATP hydrolysis was also stimulated by NH4+ ions obeying Michaelian kinetics to a maximal specific activity of V=744.8±22.3 nmol.min−1.mg−1 and KM=8.4±0.2 mmol.L−1. In the presence of 10 mmol.L−1 K+ ions, ATP hydrolysis was synergistically stimulated by NH4+ ions to V=689.8±13.8 nmol.min−1.mg−1 and K0.5=6.6±0.1 mmol.L−1, suggesting that NH4+ ions bind to different sites than K+ ions. PNPP hydrolysis was also stimulated cooperatively by K+ or NH4+ ions to maximal values of V= 235.5±11.8 nmol.min−1.mg−1 and V=234.8±7.0 nmol.min−1.mg−1, respectively. In contrast to ATP hydrolysis, K+ ‐phosphatase activity was not synergistically stimulated by NH4+ and K+ ions. These data suggest that at high NH4+ ion concentrations, the (Na+, K+)‐ATPase exposes a new site; the subsequent binding of NH4+ ions stimulates ATP hydrolysis to rates higher than those for K+ ions alone. This is the first demonstration that (Na+, K+)‐ATPase activity in a freshwater shrimp gill is modulated by ammonium ions, independently of K+ ions, an effect that may constitute a fine‐tuning mechanism of physiological relevance to osmoregulatory and excretory processes in palaemonid shrimps. J. Exp. Zool. 301A: 63–74, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A firm level analysis of trade, technology and employment in South Africa
Authors: Edwards Lawrence
Published: December 2003

This paper uses two firm level surveys, the National Enterprise (NE) survey and the Greater Johannesburg Metropolitan Area (GJMA) survey, to explore the implications of globalization for employment in South Africa. These relationships are explored using cross‐tabulations and estimated labour demand functions. The paper finds that rising import penetration negatively affected employment in large firms, but not small firms. Relatively large declines in employment also occurred within export firms, despite improvements in export competitiveness and export growth through trade liberalization. Finally, the study finds that skill‐biased and trade‐induced technological change, as reflected in increased use of computers, foreign investment and the importation of raw material inputs, have raised the skill intensity of production. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of European market changes on employment in the Kenyan horticulture sector
Authors: Humphrey John , McCulloch Neil , Ota Masako
Published: December 2003

In Kenya, exports of fresh vegetables have grown rapidly in the past decade, but the employment impact of this business has been changing as a result of market conditions in the major export destination, the United Kingdom. Continued rapid growth in overall exports, an increase in post‐harvest processing, a switch from smallholder production to exporters' own plantations, and price shocks such as tariff changes and shifts in transport costs. A simulation exercise demonstrates that the positive impact on employment of continued export growth and increased post‐harvest processing is much greater than any likely reduction in employment resulting from the shift away from smallholder production. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Squaring the circle: global production and the informalization of work in South African fruit exports
Authors: Barrientos Stephanie , Kritzinger Andrienetta
Published: December 2003

South African fruit growers simultaneously face rising standards imposed within supermarket global value chains, falling market prices internationally, and increasing government legislation. These pressures are leading to falling permanent employment and increasing use of contract labour on fruit farms, tempered by the need to employ skilled workers to meet quality and labour standards. Informal contract employment provides some (male) workers with regular work at relatively good pay, but others (particularly women) work for short periods at low pay. None enjoy work security or employment benefits. The informality of work intensifies their risks and vulnerability to poverty. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vietnam in the global garment and textile value chain: impacts on firms and workers
Authors: Nadvi Khalid , Thoburn John T. , Thang Bui Tat , Ha Nguyen Thi Thanh , Hoa Nguyen Thi , Le Dao Hong , Armas Enrique Blanco De
Published: December 2003

Over the course of little more than a decade, Vietnam has become a significant exporter of garments to the EU and Japan, and now to the US too. Based on interviews with firms and buyers, and analysis of trade data, this paper traces how Vietnamese garment and textile firms are inserted into global garment and textile value chains. It considers ties between the Vietnamese garment and textiles industries. And, it reflects on how the nature of insertion into global value chains leads to differentiated gains for state owned and private enterprises, and for textile and garment workers. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Globalization and the South African textiles industry: impacts on firms and workers
Authors: Roberts Simon , Thoburn John T.
Published: December 2003

South Africa has been integrating into the global economy since the early 1990s through a rapid programme of trade liberalization. Its textile industry—an activity important in manufacturing value‐added in most developing countries—illustrates the effects of this policy on firms and their employment and wage payments, which are among the most important channels through which trade shocks affect poverty in an economy. Exporting has been driven by trade liberalization, but the restructuring of firms has involved substantial falls in total textile employment, while production has stagnated. Labour productivity has increased and average real wage payments have risen. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence of human T‐cell leukemia virus types I and II in Switzerland
Authors: Böni Jürg , Bisset Leslie R. , Burckhardt Johann J. , Joller‐Jemelka Helen I. , Bürgisser Philippe , Perrin Luc , Gorgievski Meri , Erb Peter , Fierz Walter , Piffaretti Jean‐Claude , Schüpbach Jörg
Published: December 2003

The retroviruses human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐1/2 and human T‐cell leukemia virus (HTLV)‐I/II share modes of transmission, suggesting that efforts to monitor the current HIV‐1 epidemic in Switzerland should be complemented by assessment of HTLV‐I/II prevalence. This study presents an updated evaluation of HTLV‐I/II infection among groups within the Swiss population polarized towards either low or increased risk of infection. Archived serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) samples were examined for evidence of HTLV‐I/II infection by enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA), type‐specific Western blot, type‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA sequence analysis, and virus culture. Among blood donations obtained from low‐risk Swiss donors, we report a complete lack of HTLV‐II infection and the occurrence of HTLV‐I infection limited to a prevalence of 0.079 per 100,000 (1/1,266,466). Among high‐risk HIV‐positive persons and HIV‐negative persons at increased risk of HIV‐infection, we report a focus of HTLV‐I and HTLV‐II infection at prevalence rates of 62 per 100,000 (1/1,620) and 309 per 100,000 (5/1,620), respectively. The finding of low HTLV‐I/II prevalence among Swiss blood donors and containment of HTLV‐I/II infection within known risk‐groups does not support initiation of HTLV‐I/II screening for Swiss blood, tissue, and organ donations. J. Med. Virol. 72:328–337, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intrahepatic CD8 T‐lymphocytes and HBV core expression in relation to response to antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B patients
Authors: Tang Thjon J. , de Man Robert A. , Kusters Johannes G. , Kwekkeboom Jaap , Hop Wim C.J. , van der Molen Renate G. , Schalm Solko W. , Janssen Harry L.A.
Published: December 2003

Recognition of HBV‐infected hepatocytes by CD8 T‐lymphocytes is important for viral clearance. Expression of hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAg) in HBV‐infected hepatocytes can trigger this antiviral T‐cell response. The intrahepatic CD8 T‐lymphocytes and HBcAg expression were investigated in relation to response to antiviral therapy. Forty chronic HBeAg‐positive patients treated with either lamivudine (n = 20) or interferon‐alpha (n = 20) were investigated. Ten patients from each treatment group exhibited a response. Liver biopsies were carried out before and after therapy. CD8 T‐lymphocytes and HBcAg expression were detected by immunohistochemistry. The number of pretreatment intrahepatic CD8 T‐lymphocytes was significantly higher in responders (P = 0.008). In responders baseline nuclear HBcAg expression tended to be lower (P = 0.09). Cytoplasmic expression was not significantly different between responders and non‐responders (P = 0.46). The number of CD8 T‐lymphocytes correlated with cytoplasmic HBcAg (rs = 0.31; P = 0.04); CD8 T‐lymphocytes were situated in clusters of hepatocytes with cytoplasmic HBcAg. Longitudinal analysis showed a significant reduction of CD8 T‐lymphocytes after treatment in responders (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed pretreatment CD8 T‐lymphocytes and age as independent prognostic factors for response (n = 40). The number of pretreatment CD8 T‐lymphocytes was the only independent prognostic indicator for response to interferon‐alpha (P = 0.03); it was of borderline significance for lamivudine therapy (P = 0.06). It is concluded that the number of pretreatment intrahepatic CD8 T‐lymphocytes is an important predictor of response to HBV therapy with either interferon‐alpha or lamivudine. Response to therapy led to a significant reduction of intrahepatic CD8 T‐lymphocytes. Co‐localisation of CD8 T‐lymphocytes and HBcAg‐positive hepatocytes suggests antiviral activity predominantly at the site of maximum HBV replication. J. Med. Virol. 72:215–222, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Virological significance of low‐level hepatitis B virus infection in patients with hepatitis C virus associated liver disease
Authors: Tanaka Takeshi , Inoue Kazuaki , Hayashi Yukiko , Abe Aki , Tsukiyama‐Kohara Kyoko , Nuriya Hideko , Aoki Yoshikazu , Kawaguchi Ryuji , Kubota Kiichi , Yoshiba Makoto , Koike Morio , Tanaka Satoshi , Kohara Michinori
Published: December 2003

The clinical and virological significance of low‐level viremia by hepatitis B virus (HBV) in hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐infected patients remains unclear. HBV‐DNA and HCV‐RNA were, therefore, quantitatively analyzed in livers and sera from co‐infected patients. HBV‐DNA and HCV‐RNA were quantitated using real‐time detection of polymerase chain reaction (RTD‐PCR), based on Taq‐Man chemistry, in 220 non‐HCV‐infected healthy volunteers and 93 HCV‐infected patients without detectable HBsAg. Serum HBV‐DNA was detected in 4 (1.8%) of 220 non‐HCV‐infected healthy volunteers and 32 (34.4%) of 93 HCV‐infected patients without detectable HBsAg. HCV‐infected patients displayed higher frequency of HBV infection than healthy volunteers (P < 0.0001). Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was more frequent among co‐infected patients than among HCV mono‐infected patients (P < 0.001). However, quantities of HBV‐DNA in sera from co‐infected patients were very low (8–19,000 copies/ml). HBV‐DNA was detected in liver tissue from co‐infected patients at 2–20 copies per 100 hepatocytes, accounting for 1/1,000 to 1/10,000 of HBsAg positive patients. In livers of patients with HCC and HCV or HBV mono‐infection, the viruses existed predominantly in non‐cancerous tissue, with levels 10‐ to 1,000‐fold and 1‐ to 100‐fold higher than in cancerous tissue, respectively. In contrast, patients co‐infected with HCV and HBV displayed decreased HBV levels in non‐cancerous tissue, but no change in cancerous tissue. These results indicate that low‐level HBV infection exists in HCV‐infected patients. HCC was more common among HCV/HBV co‐infected patients than among HCV mono‐infected patients. HCV might initiate hepatocarcinogenesis, but does not necessarily determine progression to HCC. J. Med. Virol. 72:223–229, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increased prooxidant production and enhanced susceptibility to glutathione depletion in HepG2 cells co‐expressing HCV core protein and CYP2E1
Authors: Wen Feng , Abdalla Maher Y. , Aloman Costica , Xiang Jinhua , Ahmad Iman M. , Walewski Jose , McCormick Michael L. , Brown Kyle E. , Branch Andrea D. , Spitz Douglas R. , Britigan Bradley E. , Schmidt Warren N.
Published: December 2003

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HCV core protein are hypothesized to induce hepatic oxidative stress and exacerbate injury caused by other toxins such as ethanol that induce the cytochrome P450 enzyme, CYP2E1. In the current study, the effects of HCV core protein [sequence genotype 1b, (nt 342–915)] on parameters indicative of oxidative stress were evaluated in HepG2 cells stably over expressing CYP2E1 (E47), or vector controls (C34). Stable (>10 passages) expression of HCV core protein and CYP2E1 was confirmed in clonal cell lines at the level of mRNA and immunoreactive protein. Prooxidant production, as determined by cellular oxidation of dichlorodihydrofluorescin and dihydroethidium (HE), was increased by expression of HCV core protein in the presence or absence of CYP2E1. Depletion of glutathione (GSH) with buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) enhanced prooxidant production in both C34 and E47 cells. In addition, prooxidant production was greater in BSO‐treated cells expressing HCV core protein, and this effect was further enhanced in cells expressing both HCV core and CYP2E1. The CYP2E1 inhibitor, 4‐methylpyrazole, could suppress increased prooxidant production in E47 cells. Finally, cells co‐expressing both CYP2E1 and HCV core protein showed significantly decreased viability following GSH depletion. These studies show simultaneous expression of HCV core protein and CYP2E1 increases parameters indicative of oxidative stress as well as sensitization to cell injury induced by GSH depletion. These results support the hypothesis that enhanced injury in hepatocytes over expressing both HCV core protein and CYP2E1 is mediated by increases in oxidative stress. J. Med. Virol. 72:230–240, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hepatitis A vaccine: Indirect evidence of immune memory 12 years after the primary course
Authors: Van Herck Koen , Van Damme Pierre , Lievens Marc , Stoffel Michel
Published: December 2003

Vaccine‐induced hepatitis A antibodies persist up to 10 years in adults, with mathematical models estimating further persistence up to 20–25 years. Thirty‐one adults received booster inoculations 12 years after their initial vaccination (Havrix™ 720 El.U at months 0, 1, 6). At the time of booster inoculation, all still had detectable antibodies. All but one subject met pre‐defined criteria for anamnestic response 14 days after the booster, and all subjects did so after 30 days. The subjects' geometric mean titre (GMT) increased rapidly from 242 IU/L at baseline to 3,832 IU/L at day 14 and 5,282 IU/L at day 30. This study shows a substantial immune response to re‐exposure to hepatitis A antigen after 12 years, which occurs rapidly to ensure protection within the average incubation period of hepatitis A virus. J. Med. Virol. 72:194–196, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Seroprevalence of hepatitis A virus antibodies in Turkish and Moroccan children in Rotterdam
Authors: Richardus J.H. , Vos D. , Veldhuijzen I.K. , Groen J.
Published: December 2003

Seasonal fluctuations in hepatitis A have been observed in the Netherlands related to Turkish and Moroccan children after visiting their home countries. This study determined the prevalence and associated factors of hepatitis A virus (HAV) antibodies in Turkish and Moroccan children in Rotterdam. A random sample was taken of children in Rotterdam, aged 5–16 years, of Turkish and Moroccan origin, together with a random sample of native Dutch children aged 5–7 and 14–16 years. Blood was collected by finger prick on filter paper. IgG and IgM anti‐HAV was detected by an enzyme‐linked immunoassay (EIA). The 319 Turkish, 329 Moroccan, and 248 native Dutch children participated in the study. In Turkish children, IgG anti‐HAV increased from 2.2% to 22.2% over the age groups. In Moroccan children, IgG anti‐HAV increased from 10.2% to 57.7%. In native Dutch children, 0.8% had IgG anti‐HAV in the youngest and 3.1% in the oldest age group. The percentage IgG‐positive also having IgM anti‐HAV was 21% in Turkish, and 41% in Moroccan children. No IgG‐positive native Dutch children had IgM anti‐HAV. The prevalence of IgG anti‐HAV was associated with increased age, being Moroccan, longer stay in the country of origin before migrating to the Netherlands, and known contact to HAV. The majority of Turkish and Moroccan children aged 4–16 years in Rotterdam are not protected against HAV, but do have a high risk of becoming infected while visiting their native country. Active vaccination against HAV of these children is indicated, with as primary aim their own protection. Prevention of HAV‐transmission in the general community should be seen as a secondary benefit. In addition, possible Dutch contacts of nonvaccinated Turkish and Moroccan children, such as day care workers and teachers, should also be vaccinated against HAV. J. Med. Virol. 72:197–202, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Predictors of sustained response to therapy resumption after treatment interruption in HIV‐infected patients failing antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Gianotti Nicola , Soria Alessandro , Galli Laura , Castagna Antonella , Cernuschi Massimo , Hasson Hamid , Lazzarin Adriano
Published: December 2003

In order to evaluate whether a sustained virologic response to therapy resumption after treatment interruption can be achieved in the setting of virologic failure, we reviewed retrospectively the data relating to 56 human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐infected subjects selected from 3,145 patient charts. At the time of treatment interruption (study entry), the median (interquartile range) CD4+ counts and HIV‐RNA levels were respectively 247 (127–502) × 106 cells/L and 4.24 (3.68–5.02) log10 copies/ml, and the patients had been exposed to eight (5–9) antiretroviral drugs. After treatment interruption, the patients received at least three drugs depending on their treatment history. Forty‐eight weeks after the resumption of therapy, 19 of the 56 patients (34%) had HIV‐RNA levels of <400 copies/ml and, in comparison with study entry, the difference in the median increase in CD4+ counts between the virologic responders and non‐responders (83 vs. 8.5 × 106 cells/L) was statistically significant (P = 0.02). Multivariate analysis showed that higher peak HIV‐RNA levels before treatment interruption were independently predictive of virologic failure, whereas a longer treatment interruption period independently correlated with a virologic response. Four patients with CD4+ counts of <200 × 106 cells/L at study entry developed HIV‐related clinical events. A sustained virologic response to therapy resumption after treatment interruption can be achieved in the setting of virologic failure. An evaluation of clinical history may help to identify the patients who are more likely to respond. J. Med. Virol. 72:181–186, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Presence of specific viruses in the middle ear fluids and respiratory secretions of young children with acute otitis media
Authors: Nokso‐Koivisto Johanna , Räty Riitta , Blomqvist Soile , Kleemola Marjaana , Syrjänen Ritva , Pitkäranta Anne , Kilpi Terhi , Hovi Tapani
Published: December 2003

The purpose of the study was to investigate the presence of different viruses in middle ear fluids and nasopharyngeal aspirates in young children with acute otitis media. Two cohorts of children (N = 329 and 611) were followed from 2 to 24 months of age in Finland in two prospective studies (Finnish Otitis Media Cohort Study and Finnish Otitis Media Vaccine Trial). During the study period, nasopharyngeal and middle ear fluid specimens for each acute otitis media event were examined for eight (Cohort Study) or ten (Vaccine Trial) common respiratory viruses; adenoviruses, influenza viruses A and B, parainfluenza viruses 1, 2, and 3, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), enteroviruses, parechoviruses, and rhinoviruses. Picornaviruses (rhinoviruses, enteroviruses, and parechoviruses) were determined by reverse transcription PCR while antigen detection was used for the other viruses. A virus was present in either nasopharyngeal or middle ear specimen in 54% of events in the first cohort and in 67% of events in the second. Rhinoviruses formed the most common virus group detected (41–32%), followed by enteroviruses (25%, sought in the second cohort only) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (10%). All the other viruses represented jointly 8–10% of the events. In conclusion, using the methods described in this study, a specific virus infection was diagnosed in two thirds of all acute otitis media events in young children. Picornavirus RNA was detected in association with more than a half of all acute otitis media events. The use of PCR‐based methods for the other respiratory viruses might have increased further the overall virus detection rate in acute otitis media. J. Med. Virol. 72:241–248, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Knowledge management in the US army
Authors: Lausin Anthony , Desouza Kevin C. , Kraft George D.
Published: December 2003

Knowledge management has long been a staple activity of the United States Army. While there is a tendency to describe the US Army's knowledge management activities as a phenomenon made possible by technology, in fact knowledge management in the US Army is as old as the US Army itself. Drawing on secondary sources and personal experiences, the goal of this paper is to discuss the US Army knowledge management from the perspective of the US Army's organizational structure. We postulate that much can be learnt from how the US Army organizes for effective and efficient knowledge management. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A blueprint for the implementation of process‐oriented knowledge management
Authors: Remus Ulrich , Schub Stephan
Published: December 2003

Process‐oriented Knowledge Management aims at the integration of business processes and knowledge management. In order to provide knowledge for value adding activities within the business processes KM instruments and KM systems have to be adapted to business and knowledge processes. In detail, KM instruments such as content management, skill management, lessons learned, and communities have to be assigned to KM activities and processes. Models and patterns that describe generic pKM processes can build a blueprint for the implementation and support the stepwise integration of business processes into the knowledge life cycle. The introduction of a pKM becomes more efficient, as the flexibility is increased and the complexity is reduced. In this paper the authors show the essential elements of a blueprint developed during the implementation of a pKM in a large transaction bank. The blueprint describes the essential knowledge structures, activities, processes and instruments on different layers of abstraction in the context of a continuous knowledge life cycle. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experimental and theoretical NMR study of selected oxocarboxylic acid oximes
Authors: Malek Kamilla , Vala Martin , Kozłowski Henryk , Proniewicz Leonard M.
Published: December 2003

1H and 13C NMR spectra of the oxocarboxylic acid oximes 2‐hydroxyiminopropanoic acid (1), 2‐(4‐methylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2‐(hydroxyimino)acetic acid (2) and 2‐cyano‐2‐(hydroxyimino)acetic acid (3) were measured in DMSO‐d6, D2O and acetone‐d6 solutions. The data indicate the presence of hydrogen bonding in 1 and 2 and a strong electron‐withdrawing effect due to the cyano group in 3. The effect of intra‐ and intermolecular hydrogen bonding on the hydrogen and carbon chemical shifts in these molecules was studied theoretically. Total energy calculations of the stability of various hydrogen‐bonded species, in addition to equilibrium parameters and chemical shifts, were calculated using ab initio methods (RHF, MP2) and density functional theory (B3LYP), implemented in the Gaussian 98 software package. The gauge‐including atomic orbital (GIAO) method was used to predict magnetic shielding constants. Chemical shift calculations for the most stable species agree fairly well with the observed data, especially for the hydroxyl protons. Substituents adjacent to the α‐carbon show some influence of the oximic and carboxyl groups on the 13C chemical shifts, as expected for groups with different polar and anisotropic character. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.