bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of human serum on Balamuthia mandrillaris interactions with human brain microvascular endothelial cells
Authors: Matin Abdul , Jeong Seok Ryoul , Stins Monique , Khan Naveed Ahmed
Published: December 2006

Balamuthia mandrillaris is a free-living amoeba and a causative agent of fatal granulomatous encephalitis. In the transmission of B. mandrillaris into the central nervous system (CNS), haematogenous spread is thought to be the primary step, followed by blood–brain barrier penetration. The objectives of the present study were (i) to determine the effects of serum from healthy individuals on the viability of B. mandrillaris, and (ii) to determine the effects of serum on B. mandrillaris-mediated blood–brain barrier perturbations. It was determined that normal human serum exhibited limited amoebicidal effects, i.e. ∼40 % of trophozoites were killed. The residual subpopulation, although viable, remained static over longer incubations. Using human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMEC), which form the blood–brain barrier, it was observed that B. mandrillaris exhibited binding (>80 %) and cytotoxicity (>70 %) to HBMEC. However, normal human serum exhibited more than 60 % inhibition of B. mandrillaris binding and cytotoxicity to HBMEC. ELISAs showed that both serum and saliva samples exhibit the presence of anti-B. mandrillaris antibodies. Western blots revealed that normal human serum reacted with several B. mandrillaris antigens with approximate molecular masses of 148, 115, 82, 67, 60, 56, 44, 42, 40 and 37 kDa. Overall, the results demonstrated that normal human serum has inhibitory effects on B. mandrillaris growth and viability, as well as on their binding and subsequent cytotoxicity to HBMEC. A complete understanding of B. mandrillaris pathogenesis is crucial to develop therapeutic interventions and/or to design preventative measures.
Real-time TaqMan PCR for rapid detection and typing of genes encoding CTX-M extended-spectrum β-lactamases
Authors: Birkett Christopher I. , Ludlam Hugo A. , Woodford Neil , Brown Derek F. J. , Brown Nicholas M. , Roberts Mark T. M. , Milner Nicola , Curran Martin D.
Published: December 2006

The prevalence of CTX-M-producing members of the Enterobacteriaceae is increasing worldwide. A novel, multiplex, real-time TaqMan PCR assay to detect and type bla
CTX-M genes is described which is an improvement on previously described techniques with respect to reduced assay time, elimination of the need for protracted post-PCR processing and the convenience of a single reaction vessel. Based on β-lactam antibiogram and MIC data, 478 of 1279 Enterobacteriaceae isolates from clinical blood and urine culture specimens were selected and tested for extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) production using phenotypic methods. The new TaqMan assay detected and typed bla
CTX-M genes in 21 of 28 ESBL-producing isolates.
Hepatitis C virus p7 protein is localized in the endoplasmic reticulum when it is encoded by a replication-competent genome
Authors: Haqshenas G. , Mackenzie J. M. , Dong X. , Gowans E. J.
Published: December 2006

p7 protein is a small protein encoded by Hepatitis C virus (HCV) that functions as an ion channel in planar lipid bilayers. The function of p7 is vital for the virus life cycle. In this study, the p7 protein of genotype 2a (strain JFH1; the only strain that replicates and produces virus progeny in vitro) was tagged with either an enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) or a haemagglutinin (HA) epitope to facilitate tracking of the protein in the intracellular environment. The tagged viral polyprotein was expressed transiently in the cells after transfection with the recombinant RNA transcripts. Confocal microscopy revealed that the tagged p7 protein was localized in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) but not associated with mitochondria. Immunoelectron microscopy confirmed the p7 localization data and, moreover, showed that intracellular virus-like particles formed in the cells transfected with the wild-type, but not the recombinant, transcripts. Following a few passages of the transfected cells, the recombinant genome with the HA tag reverted to wild-type and the entire tag was deleted. Therefore, in this study, it has been demonstrated that the p7 protein in the context of the full-length polyprotein encoded by a replication competent genome is only localized to the ER and has a possible role in HCV particle formation.
Structure–function analysis of the ribosomal frameshifting signal of two human immunodeficiency virus type 1 isolates with increased resistance to viral protease inhibitors
Authors: Girnary Roseanne , King Louise , Robinson Laurence , Elston Robert , Brierley Ian
Published: December 2006

Expression of the pol-encoded proteins of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) requires a programmed –1 ribosomal frameshift at the junction of the gag and pol coding sequences. Frameshifting takes place at a heptanucleotide slippery sequence, UUUUUUA, and is enhanced by a stimulatory RNA structure located immediately downstream. In patients undergoing viral protease (PR) inhibitor therapy, a p1/p6gag L449F cleavage site (CS) mutation is often observed in resistant isolates and frequently generates, at the nucleotide sequence level, a homopolymeric and potentially slippery sequence (UUUUCUU to UUUUUUU). The mutation is located within the stimulatory RNA downstream of the authentic slippery sequence and could act to augment levels of pol-encoded enzymes to counteract the PR deficit. Here, RNA secondary structure probing was employed to investigate the structure of a CS-containing frameshift signal, and the effect of this mutation on ribosomal frameshift efficiency in vitro and in tissue culture cells was determined. A second mutation, a GGG insertion in the loop of the stimulatory RNA that could conceivably lead to resistance by enhancing the activity of the structure, was also tested. It was found, however, that the CS and GGG mutations had only a very modest effect on the structure and activity of the HIV-1 frameshift signal. Thus the increased resistance to viral protease inhibitors seen with HIV-1 isolates containing mutations in the frameshifting signal is unlikely to be accounted for solely by enhancement of frameshift efficiency.
Emergence of recent echovirus 30 lineages is marked by serial genetic recombination events
Authors: Mirand Audrey , Henquell Cécile , Archimbaud Christine , Peigue-Lafeuille Hélène , Bailly Jean-Luc
Published: December 2006

In an earlier report, different variants of echovirus 30 (E-30), an enterovirus serotype, were identified during two outbreaks in 1997 and 2000. Here, the diversity of E-30 was investigated over a longer period (1991–2005) and the variations in four genomic segments were determined in 52 isolates involved in meningitis cases, to characterize the evolutionary processes underlying the emergence of lineages. Phylogenetic analysis of the VP1 sequences showed that five phylogenetic variants succeeded one another. When a partial 3CD segment was examined, the five variants split further into 10 lineages. Phylogenetic groupings observed with both the VP1 and 3CD sequences were clearly related to the calendar time of virus isolation. The rapid turnover of lineages during the study period was not associated with variations in amino acid residues in either the VP1 or the 3CD sequences, indicating major evolutionary contraints in E-30. The variation patterns were examined further along a subgenomic segment of 4878 nt in 13 virus isolates, representative of the 10 lineages. Breakpoints detected in the similarity profiles were investigated by bootscanning and maximum-likelihood phylogenetic analysis of virus genes. Evidence of several past recombination events was observed in the middle of the genome and predicted recombination crossover sites were mapped with precision. The contribution of recombination to the evolution of E-30 is substantial. It is associated tightly with the emergence of new genetic lineages and certain recombinants have undergone epidemic spread.
Characterization of the IκB-like gene family in polydnaviruses associated with wasps belonging to different Braconid subfamilies
Authors: Falabella Patrizia , Varricchio Paola , Provost Bertille , Espagne Eric , Ferrarese Roberto , Grimaldi Annalisa , de Eguileor Magda , Fimiani Giorgia , Ursini Matilde Valeria , Malva Carla , Drezen Jean-Michel , Pennacchio Francesco
Published: December 2006

Polydnaviruses (PDVs) are obligate symbionts of hymenopteran parasitoids of lepidopteran larvae that induce host immunosuppression and physiological redirection. PDVs include bracoviruses (BVs) and ichnoviruses (IVs), which are associated with braconid and ichneumonid wasps, respectively. In this study, the gene family encoding IκB-like proteins in the BVs associated withCotesia congregata(CcBV) andToxoneuron nigriceps(TnBV) was analysed. PDV-encoded IκB-like proteins (ANK) are similar to insect and mammalian IκB, an inhibitor of the transcription factor nuclear factorκB (NF-κB), but display shorter ankyrin domains and lack the regulatory domains for signal-mediated degradation and turnover. Phylogenetic analysis of ANK proteins indicates that those of IVs and BVs are closely related, even though these two taxa are believed to lack a common ancestor. Starting from a few hours after parasitization, the transcripts of BV ank genes were detected, at different levels, in several host tissues. The structure of the predicted proteins suggests that they may stably bind NF-κB/Rel transcription factors of the tumour necrosis factor (TNF)/Toll immune pathway. Accordingly, after bacterial challenge ofHeliothis virescenshost larvae parasitized byT. nigriceps, NF-κB immunoreactive material failed to enter the nucleus of host haemocytes and fat body cells. Moreover, transfection experiments in human HeLa cells demonstrated that a TnBV ank1 gene product reduced the efficiency of the TNF-α-induced expression of a reporter gene under NF-κB transcriptional control. Altogether, these results suggest strongly that TnBV ANK proteins cause retention of NF-κB/Rel factors in the cytoplasm and may thus contribute to suppression of the immune response in parasitized host larvae.
Improved growth of enteric adenovirus type 40 in a modified cell line that can no longer respond to interferon stimulation
Authors: Sherwood Victoria , Burgert Hans-Gerhard , Chen Yun-Hsiang , Sanghera Sandeep , Katafigiotis Socrates , Randall Richard E. , Connerton Ian , Mellits Kenneth H.
Published: December 2006

Human enteric adenoviruses propagate poorly in conventional human cell lines used to grow other adenovirus serotypes. As human enteric adenoviruses have a defect in counteracting the cellular interferon (IFN) response in cell culture, to aid in growth of the virus, a 293-based cell line defective in its ability to respond to IFN was constructed. This cell line (293-SV5/V) constitutively expresses V-protein of the paramyxovirus Simian virus 5, which degrades the signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) and thereby prevents the STAT1-mediated IFN response. Analysis of human enteric adenovirus type 40 (HAdV-40)-infected 293-SV5/V cells compared with parental 293 cells shows that the recombinant line allows more rapid production of virus and results in higher titres. These results suggest that the defect in HAdV-40 in counteracting the IFN response can be overcome at least partially through the use of 293-SV5/V cell lines.
Dramatic decline in population abundance of Salvelinus leucomaenis after a severe flood and debris flow in a high gradient stream
Authors: Sato T.
Published: December 2006

A dramatic change in population abundance of Salvelinus leucomaenis following a catastrophic flood event was investigated. Population density declined by c. 98% after the flood in a river section affected by debris flow. The isolation of the affected population and habitat change caused by flooding may have impeded population recovery.
Activation of Notch signaling in tumorigenesis of experimental pancreatic cancer induced by dimethylbenzanthracene in mice
Authors: Kimura Kenji , Satoh Kennichi , Kanno Atsushi , Hamada Shin , Hirota Morihisa , Endoh Mareyuki , Masamune Atsushi , Shimosegawa Tooru
Published: December 2006

To establish pancreatic cancer in mice, dimethylbenzanthracene (DMBA) was administered into mice pancreata. The formation of tubular complex lesions was found in the pancreatic sections from 2 weeks after DMBA treatment. Abnormal tubular complex formations with ductal metaplasia were found from 1 month after the administration. By 3 months after DMBA injection into the pancreas, 6 of 10 mice showed visually recognizable tumors with precursor lesions of various types of cell atypia. In contrast, there were no visually or histologically detectable tumors in the placebo‐treated animals. The expression profiles of smad 4, cyclin D1 and p53 in the DMBA‐induced tumors were similar to those of human pancreatic cancer, suggesting that this would be a useful mouse model for studying the morphological and molecular mechanisms involved in pancreatic carcinogenesis. Immunohistochemical study using specific antibodies revealed that Notch‐1 and Hes‐1 were expressed in lesions ranging from tubular complexes to carcinoma in these chemically induced pancreatic tumors. Semiquantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction with microdissection demonstrated that Notch‐1 expression was continuous from precursor lesions to carcinoma cells, whereas Pdx‐1 expression was attenuated in carcinoma cells compared to precursor lesions. In addition, inhibition of the Notch signaling pathway by the γ‐secretase inhibitor N‐(N‐[3,5‐difluorophenacetyl]‐l‐alanyl)‐S‐phenylglycine t‐butyl ester reduced pancreatic cancer cell growth. Therefore, Notch signaling is required to form the tubular complexes and its continuous activation might lead to the transition from tubular complexes to premalignant or malignant lesions and carcinoma cell development in the pancreas. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 155–162)
Characterization of the short isoform of Helios overexpressed in patients with T‐cell malignancies
Authors: Tabayashi Takayuki , Ishimaru Fumihiko , Takata Minoru , Kataoka Itaru , Nakase Koichi , Kozuka Teruhiko , Tanimoto Mitsune
Published: December 2006

In an earlier report, we demonstrated overexpression of a short isoform of Helios, Hel‐5, which lacks three of four N‐terminal zinc fingers, in patients with adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma. Here, we characterized Hel‐5 using immunoprecipitation, and gel shift and luciferase promoter assays, and found that Hel‐5 lacks the repressor function observed with a full‐length isoform of Helios. Moreover, Hel‐5 associates with the full‐length isoforms of the Ikaros gene family, Ikaros, Aiolos and Helios, and inhibits their DNA binding activity when present in excess, leading to dominant‐negative effects on the full‐length isoforms of the Ikaros gene family. Our results suggest a critical role for Helios in the mechanism of leukemogenesis. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 182–188)
Infective disorders of the gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Lamps L W
Published: December 2006

Gastrointestinal infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Infectious organisms are often recovered by microbiological methods, but surgical pathologists may play a very valuable role in diagnosis. This review will focus on infective disorders of the gastrointestinal tract with an emphasis on enterocolitides caused by food‐ and water‐borne pathogens. Diagnostic histological features of selected enteric infections will be emphasized, including those that mimic other inflammatory conditions of the gut (such as ischaemia or idiopathic inflammatory bowel disease), along with available diagnostic methods that can aid in diagnosis.
A SCUBA survey of Orion – the low-mass end of the core mass function
Authors: Nutter D. , Ward-Thompson D.
Published: December 2006

We have re-analysed all of the Submillimetre Common User Bolometer Array (SCUBA) archive data of the Orion star-forming regions. We have put together all of the data taken at different times by different groups. Consequently, we have constructed the deepest submillimetre maps of these regions ever made. There are four regions that have been mapped: Orion A North and South, and Orion B North and South. We find that two of the regions, Orion A North and Orion B North, have deeper sensitivity and completeness limits, and contain a larger number of sources, so we concentrate on these two. We compare the data with archive data from the Spitzer Space Telescope to determine whether or not a core detected in the submillimetre is pre-stellar in nature. We extract all of the pre-stellar cores from the data and make a histogram of the core masses. This can be compared to the stellar initial mass function (IMF). We find the high-mass core mass function (CMF) follows a roughly Salpeter-like slope, just like the IMF, as seen in previous work. Our deeper maps allow us to see that the CMF turns over at, ∼1.3 M⊙ about a factor of 4 higher than our completeness limit. This turnover has never previously been observed, and is only visible here due to our much deeper maps. It mimics the turnover seen in the stellar IMF at ∼0.1 M⊙. The low-mass side of the CMF is a power law with an exponent of, 0.35 ± 0.2 which is consistent with the low-mass slope of the young cluster IMF of 0.3 ± 0.1. This shows that the CMF continues to mimic the shape of the IMF all the way down to the lower completeness limit of these data at ∼0.3 M⊙.
Control of shivering during regional anaesthesia: prophylactic ketamine and granisetron
Authors: Sagir O. , Gulhas N. , Toprak H. , Yucel A. , Begec Z. , Ersoy O.
Published: December 2006

Background:  The aim of the present study was to compare placebo, ketamine, granisetron and a combination of ketamine and granisetron in the prevention of shivering caused by regional anaesthesia.

Methods:  In this prospective, randomized, double‐blind study, 160 ASA I and II patients undergoing urological surgery were included. Subarachnoid anaesthesia was performed in all patients with bupivacaine 15 mg. The patients were randomly allocated to receive saline (group P, n= 40), ketamine 0.5 mg (group K, n= 40), granisetron 3 mg (group G, n= 40) or ketamine 0.25 mg + granisetron 1.5 mg (group KG, n= 40). Shivering was graded as 0 = no shivering, 1 = piloerection or peripheral vasoconstriction but no visible shivering, 2 = muscular activity in only one muscle group, 3 = muscular activity in more than one muscle group but not generalized, and 4 = shivering involving the whole body. If 15 min after spinal anaesthesia and concomitant administration of a prophylactic dose of one of the study drugs, the patients shivered according to at least grade 3, the prophylaxis was regarded as ineffective and intravenous (i.v.) pethidine 25 mg was administered.

Results:  After 15 min, the number of patients with observed shivering was 22 in group P, 6 in group G, 7 in group GK and 0 in group K. The difference between group K and all the other groups was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). The number of patients with a shivering score of 3 was statistically significantly higher in group P compared with the other groups.

Conclusion:  The prophylactic use of 0.5 mg/kg i.v. ketamine was effective in preventing shivering developed during regional anaesthesia.
Arterial oxygen tension increase 2–3 h after hyperbaric oxygen therapy: a prospective observational study
Authors: Ratzenhofer‐Komenda B. , Offner A. , Ofner P. , Klemen H. , Prause G. , Smolle‐Jüttner F. M. , Toller W.
Published: December 2006

Background:  Inhalation of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) has been reported to decrease arterial oxygen tension (PaO2) in the early period after exposure. The current investigation aimed at evaluating whether and to what extent arterial blood gases were affected in mechanically ventilated intensive care patients within 6 h after HBO treatment.

Methods:  Arterial blood gases were measured in 11 ventilated subjects [nine males, two females, synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (SIMV) mode] undergoing HBO therapy for necrotizing soft tissue infection (seven patients), burn injury (two patients), crush injury (one patient) and major abdominal surgery (one patient). Blood gases were obtained with the patients in the supine position under continuous analgesia and sedation before the hyperbaric session (baseline), during isopression, after decompression, after each transport, and 1, 2, 3 and 6 h after exposure. Heart rates and blood pressures were recorded. Intensive care unit (ICU) ventilator settings remained unchanged. Transport and chamber ventilator settings were adjusted to baseline with maintenance of tidal volumes and positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP) levels. The hyperbaric protocol consisted of 222.9 kPa (2.2 absolute atmospheres) and a 50‐min isopression phase. The paired Wilcoxon’s test was used.

Results:  Major findings (median values, 25%/75% quantiles) as per cent change of baseline: PaO2 values decreased by 19.7% (7.0/31.7, P < 0.01) after 1 h and were elevated over baseline by 9.3% (1.5/13.7, P < 0.05) after 3 h. SaO2, alveolar‐arterial oxygen tension difference and PaO2/FiO2 ratio behaved concomitantly. Acid‐base status and carbon dioxide tension were unaffected.

Conclusion:  Arterial oxygen tension declines transiently after HBO and subsequently improves over baseline in intensive care patients on volume‐controlled mechanical ventilation. The effectiveness of other ventilation modes or a standardized recruitment manoeuvre has yet to be evaluated.
From marrow oedema to osteonecrosis: Common paths in the development of post‐transplant bone pain (Review Article)
Authors: ELDER GRAHAME J
Published: December 2006

Summary:  Osteonecrosis, the calcineurin‐inhibitor‐induced pain syndrome and transient marrow oedema may occur after renal transplantation, are generally painful and can be diagnosed by X‐ray, radionuclide scan or magnetic resonance imaging. They share features of increased intraosseous pressure, compromised vascular supply, marrow oedema and the development of a ‘bone compartment syndrome’. Glucocorticoid dosage is the most commonly implicated risk factor for osteonecrosis. Mechanisms may include the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells to adipocytes causing increased intraosseous pressure and collapse of marrow sinusoids, as well as increased osteoblast and osteocyte apoptosis. Some of these effects may be ameliorated by lipid lowering drugs. Calcineurin‐inhibitors, particularly cyclosporine, may increase the risk of osteonecrosis because of vasoconstrictive effects and sirolimus may influence the development of osteonecrosis by potentiating the effects of calcineurin inhibitors or by influencing the lipid profile. For osteonecrosis, early stages are generally managed conservatively or with core decompression sometimes accompanied by bone grafting and more recently the injection of bone morphogenic protein. The use of iloprost to improve blood flow and bisphosphonates and RANK‐ligand inhibition to reduce osteoclastic resorption of remaining trabecular structures are as yet unproven strategies. Unfortunately, the rate of total hip arthroplasty remains high. For the calcineurin‐inhibitor‐induced pain syndrome and transient marrow oedema, calcium channel blockers, the reduction or withdrawal of calcineurin‐inhibitors and core decompression have been used. Although a lack of randomized controlled trials makes management decisions difficult, early recognition of these bone pain syndromes affords the best opportunity for avoiding prolonged pain or joint replacement surgery.
Undiagnosed renal impairment in patients with and without diabetes with normal serum creatinine undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: BACHORZEWSKA‐GAJEWSKA HANNA , MALYSZKO JOLANTA , MALYSZKO JACEK S , MUSIAL WLODZIMIERZ , DOBRZYCKI SLAWOMIR
Published: December 2006

Hypothesis:  The recent Dialysis Outcome Quality Initiative publication on the evaluation, classification and stratification of chronic kidney disease (CKD) states that individuals with a reduced glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is at greater risk for cardiovascular diseases and cardiac deaths.

Aim:  To determine the prevalence of kidney dysfunction in a cohort of 1390 patients with and without diabetes with normal serum creatinine undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods:  Kidney function was estimated using simplified MDRD, Cockcroft‐Gault and Jeliffe formulas.

Results:  Normal serum creatinine was observed in 93% patients. Mean estimated GFR in 1068 non‐diabetic patients was significantly higher than in 322 diabetic patients (all formulas). Diabetic females had significantly lower creatinine and estimated GFR, higher high‐density lipoprotein and platelet count than diabetic males. A very high prevalence of CKD up to 77% was found in studied diabetic patients. Clinically significant CKD (as defined by GFR < 60 mL/min) was found in 13.0–33.8% patients depending on the formula used to estimate GFR.

Conclusion:  The prevalence of CKD (stages 2–3) is high in diabetic patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention despite normal creatinine. The risk of contrast nephropathy with worse outcomes is enhanced in these patients, particularly in elderly and females. Evaluation of renal function is important in order to select the appropriate strategy to reduce the cardiovascular risk.
Gene expression profile of Vibrio cholerae in the cold stress‐induced viable but non‐culturable state
Authors: Asakura Hiroshi , Ishiwa Akiko , Arakawa Eiji , Makino Sou‐ichi , Okada Yumiko , Yamamoto Shigeki , Igimi Shizunobu
Published: December 2006

Vibrio cholerae is an aetiological agent of cholera that inhabits marine and estuarine environments. It can survive harsh environments by entering the viable but non‐culturable (VBNC) state, but the related changes in gene expression have not been described. Here, we experimentally induced the VBNC state in V. cholerae O1, by incubation in artificial seawater at 4°C. Bacterial cells that were incubated for 70 days retained their membrane integrity and were pathogenic, colonizing the gut of iron‐dextran‐treated mice, even though they formed no colonies on tryptic soy agar (TSA) or TSA amended with pyruvate. We therefore used this stage of cells as the VBNC bacteria. We compared the global transcription pattern of the VBNC cells with that of stationary‐phase cells grown in rich medium. A total of 100 genes were induced by more than fivefold in the VBNC state, and the modulated genes were mostly those responsible for cellular processes. Furthermore, real‐time RT‐PCR analysis verified the changes in the expression levels, showing that the VC0230 [iron(III) ABC transporter], VC1212 (polB), VC2132 (fliG) and VC2187 (flaC) mRNAs were increased in the non‐culturable state. Thus, these genes may be suitable markers for the detection of VBNC V. cholerae. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a comprehensive transcriptome analysis of V. cholerae in the VBNC state. The significance of this gene expression profile compared with those of in vivo isolates and non‐stressed bacteria (culturable in vitro) is its potential to provide information about the public health risk from dormant bacteria.
DOES INFORMATION UNDERMINE BRAND? INFORMATION INTERMEDIARY USE AND PREFERENCE FOR BRANDED WEB RETAILERS*
Authors: WALDFOGEL JOEL , CHEN LU
Published: December 2006

Investments in brand, and third‐party information, provide alternative methods for convincing potential customers that vendors will deliver as promised. This study uses a 13‐month panel dataset on 1998–99 Internet shopping behavior and use of information intermediaries by over 30,000 households to examine whether information use undermines brand. Individuals using price comparison sites substantially increase their level of shopping at unbranded retail sites, while they shop less at Amazon. The results have possible implications for both firm strategy and the evolution of market structure. If information weakens the pull of brand, then Internet retailing may grow less concentrated over time.
THE RANGE OF TRADED OPTION PRICES
Authors: Davis Mark H. A. , Hobson David G.
Published: December 2006

Suppose we are given a set of prices of European call options over a finite range of strike prices and exercise times, written on a financial asset with deterministic dividends which is traded in a frictionless market with no interest rate volatility. We ask: when is there an arbitrage opportunity? We give conditions for the prices to be consistent with an arbitrage‐free model (in which case the model can be realized on a finite probability space). We also give conditions for there to exist an arbitrage opportunity which can be locked in at time zero. There is also a third boundary case in which prices are recognizably misspecified, but the ability to take advantage of an arbitrage opportunity depends upon knowledge of the null sets of the model.
A case series of alopecia areata in children: impact of personal and family history of stress and autoimmunity
Authors: Kakourou T , Karachristou K , Chrousos G
Published: December 2006

Background  The epidemiology of alopecia areata (AA) is well documented in adults but has not been studied adequately in children.

Objective  To evaluate the clinical and epidemiological profile of AA in children and assess the significance of thyroid screening.

Methods  One hundred and fifty‐seven children (83 boys, 74 girls, aged 1–16 years) who visited our clinic with a first episode of AA from 1996 to 2000 were retrospectively studied. One hundred children served as clinical controls.

Results  The age of peak incidence of AA was 0–5 years. The youngest child was 1 year old. In the majority of the cases (131/157, 83.4%) the disease was mild or moderate (less than 50% hair loss). In 15 patients (9.5%), AA was preceded by a stressful event. Five patients had a personal history of autoimmune disease (3.2 vs. 5% of the controls, (P = not significant [NS]) while 18 patients had a personal history of atopy (11.4 vs. 18% of the controls, P = NS). Twenty‐one patients had a family history of autoimmune disease other than thyroiditis (13.4 vs. 5% of the controls, P = 0.04), while 23 patients had a family history of thyroid disorder (14.6 vs. 3% of the controls, P = 0.006). In eight patients (5%) subclinical hypothyroidism of autoimmune aetiology (Hashimoto's thyroiditis) was revealed at the time of investigation. Six out of the eight patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis had a family history of thyroid disorder, which was statistically significant when compared to AA patients without thyroiditis (P < 0.001). The severity of AA was associated with early age of onset of the disease (P = 0.02).

Conclusion  The age of peak incidence of AA in children is 0–5 years. Children with AA have an increased family history of autoimmunity, and, among children with a first episode and short duration of AA (< 6 months), thyroid screening might be restricted in those with a positive family history of thyroid disorder. Thyroid screening should be routinely performed in all children with long‐standing AA.
Patch test results with patients’ own perfumes, deodorants and shaving lotions: results of the IVDK 1998–20021
Authors: Uter W , Geier J , Schnuch A , Frosch PJ
Published: December 2006

Objective  Assessment of the value of patch testing patients’ own perfumes, eau de toilette, deodorants and shaving lotions with regard to diagnosing contact allergy to fragrances, and an analysis of the spectrum of concurrent patch test reactions to single fragrance allergens.

Study design  Data of the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (IVDK; http://www.ivdk.org) regarding patch test results with above products brought in by the patient, considered as possible cause of contact dermatitis, were retrospectively analysed. Between 1998 and 2002, 1468 patients were patch tested with 2557 single products (deodorants, n = 1094; eau de toilette, n = 598; perfume, n = 530; and pre‐ or after‐shave, n = 325; remainder not classifiable), mostly ‘as is’.

Results  Positive reactions were observed in 129 patients (to 191 products). In 58 of these patients, no further patch test reactions to the fragrance mix (FM‐I), Myroxylon pereirae resin (balsam of Peru) or 4‐(4‐hydroxy‐4‐methyl‐pentyl)‐3‐cyclohexencarboxaldehyde (e.g. Lyral®) were found. A strong association between contact sensitivity to the above commercial allergens and positive reactions to products was observed. Some single compounds such as ylang‐ylang oil, propolis and especially oak moss absolute are important allergens in the ‘perfume‐positive’ subgroup, but less in a subgroup positive to own deodorants.

Discussion  Patch testing this scope of products, brought in by the patient, can be regarded as a simple, safe and effective method to diagnose clinically relevant contact sensitization – the more so, as the composition of such products is ever‐changing, and the sensitivity of established ‘screening allergens’ is thus insufficient.
The Change in the Daily Knowledge of Madness in Turkey
Authors: NARTER MELTEM
Published: December 2006

The transformation and change of social knowledge in Modern Turkish Republic has begun with the fall of the Ottoman Empire. Whilst the transformation of knowledge took place in daily knowledge, the change that took place in the political structures had a broad influence in the language, religion and tradition. The appearance of a new form of daily knowledge created a new common sense and this has opened the road towards the possibility of investigating social representations of various phenomena. Among these the social representations of madness in daily knowledge have already existed in common sense knowledge for a long time. With this in mind, the main goal of this paper is to explore contemporary urban Turkish social representations of madness. This study has shown that both scientific and common sense knowledge exist at present in citizens’ daily knowledge and practices.
Epistemology of Transformative Material Activity: John Dewey's Pragmatism and Cultural‐Historical Activity Theory
Authors: MIETTINEN REIJO
Published: December 2006

The paper compares John Dewey's pragmatism and cultural‐historical activity theory as epistemologies and theories of transformative material activity. For both of the theories, the concept of activity, the prototype of which is work, constitutes a basis for understanding the nature of knowledge and reality. This concept also implies for both theories a methodological approach of studying human behavior in which social experimentation and intervention play a central role. They also suggest that reflection and thought, mediated by language and semiotic artifacts, serve the reorientation of activity and is vital in the development of new, alternative ways of action. That is why Dewyan pragmatism and activity theory supply means of understanding organizational behavior and change in human activities better than the concepts of practice based on rule following, routines or embodied skills.
The Use of Intonation to Communicate in Pervasive Developmental Disorders
Authors: Fine Jonathan , Bartolucci Giampierro , Ginsberg Gary , Szatmari Peter
Published: December 2006

Abstract– The objective of this paper was to employ a functional linguistic approach to explore pragmatic failure in the spontaneous speech of subjects with pervasive developmental disorders (PDD). Patterns of intonation use were compared among subjects with Asperger's syndrome (AS), high‐functioning autism (HFA), and psychiatric out‐patient controls (OPC) with a variety of non‐specific social problems. Written transcripts and audio‐recordings were used to measure rates of various intonation types relative to the amount of speech produced. The major finding of the study was that the HFA subjects less often tend to employ useful patterns of intonation for communication than the AS or OPC groups. This suggests that HFA either send random intonation signals to hearers or else demonstrate systematic misuse of the linguistic system. AS subjects differed little from the controls. The implications of these results for understanding the communicative failure of PDD subjects is discussed.
Clinic Observations in the Assessment of Pervasiveness of Childhood Hyperactivity
Authors: Luk S. L. , Leung P. W. L. , Yuen J.
Published: December 2006

Abstract– Sixty‐one boys, 6–12 years old, met both the diagnostic criteria of ADHD of DSM‐III‐R and hyperkinetic syndrome of ICD‐9. They could be subdivided into two groups: 43 showed hyperactive symptoms in the clinic situation and 18 did not. The former group were younger and showed significantly poorer performance in measures of general intelligence, attention, cognitive styles, motor clumsiness and minor neurological deficits. Controlling for age and intelligence attenuated the differences, but significant differences remained in activity level, attention, and minor neurological deficits. This result suggests that direct observation is important in the assessment of pervasiveness of childhood hyperactivity.
Differences in the Structure of Social Behaviour of Autistic Children and Non‐Autistic Retarded Controls
Authors: Buitelaar Jan K. , van Engeland Herman , de Kogel Kathy H. , Vries Han de , van Hooff Jan A. R. A. M.
Published: December 2006

Abstract– Social and task‐oriented behaviours of autistic children were compared to those of individually age‐ and IQ‐matched non‐autistic retarded controls. Autistic children showed deficits in visual reciprocity, in indicating joint attention and referential head gestures, and in the integration of gaze and gestures when reacting to tasks. The findings confirmed the notion of social and pragmatic communicative deficits in autism. The implications of these findings for theories of social behaviour in autism (avoidance, facial perception, theory of mind) are discussed.
Adversities in Childhood: Siblings' Experiences, and their Relations to Self‐Esteem
Authors: Beardsall Lynn , Dunn Judy
Published: December 2006

Abstract The prevalence and negative impact of life events and adversities over a 3‐year period on 80 children participating in a longitudinal study of siblings was examined. The scenarios of 256 events were rated by a child psychiatrist for negative impact on both siblings (aged 6 and 8–10 years, respectively). Only one of the 80 children had not experienced at least one major event. The majority (69%) of life events with negative impact and adversities were not shared by siblings. The relations between the impact of these adversities and children's perceived self‐competence, temperament, and their mothers' mood were examined. The number of life events with negative impart was negatively correlated with children's perceived self‐competence. an association apparently not mediated by children's temperament nor by maternal mood.
Hyperactivity and Delay Aversion—II. The Effect of Self versus Externally Imposed Stimulus Presentation Periods on Memory
Authors: Sonuga‐Barke E. J. S. , Taylor E. , Heptinstall E.
Published: December 2006

Abstract The‐ memory of hyperactive and non‐hyperactive children for “attended” and “unattended” picture cards was compared under two conditions, Under Self Imposed Presentation (SI) conditions children set their own limits on presentation time while under Externally Imposed Presentation (EI) conditions children were encouraged 10 spend 30 seconds attending to the cards. Hyperactive children selected shorter presentation limes that non‐hyperactive children and recognized fewer “attended” cards under SI conditions, while die two groups performed equally well under EI conditions, These findings suggest that a major determinant of memory deficits in hyperactivity is a self imposed limitation on presentation time rather than more specific cognitive process limitations.
Parent‐Teacher Agreement on Kindergarteners' Behavior Problems: a Research Note
Authors: Gagnon Claude , Vitaro Frank , Tremblay Richard E.
Published: December 2006

Abstract The present study investigated parameters of agreement as well of disagreement among mothers and teachers ratings of the behavior of kindergarten boys and girls. Findings indicated a generally low to moderate level of agreement between these two types of informants. They also suggested that demographic and background characteristics can effect size and direction of level of agreement. Although proportions of children rated as having the listed behavior problems varied in magnitude according 10 mothers and teachers, the rank order of the proportion of children with those behavior problems was rather similar for both informants. Such similar rankings of prevalence rates may reflect parents' and teachers' agreement on the consistency of children's behavior across the home and school settings.
Do Young Calendrical Calculators Improve with Age?
Authors: O'Connor N. , Hermelin B.
Published: December 2006

Abstract— The calendrical calculation performance of two 10‐year‐old children of the same intelligence level (IQ.90) but different calendrical ability, was compared with the performance of eight adult idiot‐savant calculators. The calculating speeds of the two 10‐year olds fell within the range of the reaction times of the adult savants. No improvement was detectable in a series of successive trials over time, either in speed or accuracy. It is concluded that the young calculators have already inferred rules about calendrical structure and that their performance cannot be accounted for by practice alone, but these savants use cognitive strategies to aid their performance.
The Effect of Family Counselling on the Mental Health of 10–11–Year‐Old Children in Low‐ and High‐Risk Families: a Longitudinal Approach
Authors: Aronen Eeva
Published: December 2006

Abstract This study investigated the effect of family counselling on the child's mental health in low‐and high ‐risk families. The material consisted of 160 families with a baby born in 1975–76. First, the families were classified with a weighted risk index into low ‐and high ‐risk families. Eighty of the families attended a five‐year‐long family counselling made a statistically significant contribution to the 10–11‐year‐old child's mental health. The counselling had a positive effect both in low‐and high‐risk families
Causal Attributions and Post‐Traumatic Stress in Adolescents
Authors: Joseph Steve A. , Brewing Chris R. , Yule William , Williams Ruth
Published: December 2006

Abstract The aim of the present study was to explore the relationship between causal attributions made by adolescent survivors of the Jupiter cruise ship sinking, and post‐traumatic symptomatology in the year following disaster. Evidence is presented that more internal causal attributions for negative and uncontrollable events during the incident are associated with greater post‐traumatic stress one year later. The findings are discussed with reference to an attributional model of shame.
The Evaluation and Treatment of Sleep Disturbances in Young Children
Authors: Minde Klaus , Popiel Karen , Leos Niki , Falkner Suki , Parker Kevin , Handley‐Derry Mark
Published: December 2006

Abstract This study examines the accuracy of parents' reports about their children's sleep behavior and their response to a behavioral treatment. Twenty‐eight sleep‐disordered and thirty control children aged 12–36 months were filmed during three nights using an infrared camera and their sleep behavior compared with parental reports. That: wore significant differences among the groups with parents of good sleepers being less accurate in repenting OH their childrens sleep behavior. Poor sleepers also had more behavior problems, a marc difficult temperament and more adverse early medical histories. The good sleepers woke up as frequently as the poor sleepers. However, they managed to soothe themselves back to sleep without disturbing anyone. Virtually all poor sleepers showed significant improvement following treatment.
Cerebral‐palsied Children's Interactions with Siblings—II. Interactional Structure
Authors: Dallas Evy , Stevenson Jim , McGurk Harry
Published: December 2006

Abstract The interactions between 64 cerebral‐palsied children and their siblings were compared to those of matched control dyads Disabled children displayed pronounced deficits in initiating and directing social interactions. Their siblings, regardless of their age or birth order, took on the leadership role and maintained the positive but controlling stance which was also displayed by mothers of the disabled. Though hierarchical organization allowed the disabled dyads to function effectively, the siblings failed to experience the frequent challenges and the close, reciprocal style of interaction developed by control dyads.
Depressive Symptomatology, Perceptions of Attractiveness, and Body Image in Children
Authors: McCabe Marcia , Marwit Samuel J.
Published: December 2006

Abstract— Fifty‐seven children, aped 9–12 completed the Children's Depression Inventory, rated their bodies on dimensions of attractiveness, effectiveness and vulnerability, and rated themselves and three other children on global attractiveness. Dysphoria was significantly correlated with both measures of dissatisfaction of own attractiveness. No significant correlations occurred between CDI scores and effectiveness or vulnerability. Stepwise regression showed dysphoria to be predicted by dissatisfaction with the body's attractiveness and by age with the former being the most powerful. No subject differences were found on rating the attractiveness of other children. Results are compared to research with adult subjects.
Bottle, Tulip and Wineglass: Semantic and Structural Picture Processing by Savant Artists
Authors: Pring Linda , Hermelin Beate
Published: December 2006

Abstract— Semantic and structural aspects of picture processing were investigated with graphically gifted mentally handicapped subjects and intellectually normal children. The results suggest that savants as well as controls rely primarily on semantically organised memory schemata when reproducing pictures. A semantically determined strategy also determines picture sorting. The findings indicate that within the domain of expertise there appears to be no difference between savants and normals regarding the nature of the mental structures underlying specific talents. The mental structures on which such talents: are based, should therefore be regarded as being relatively independent of the level of general cognitive functioning.
Executive Function Deficits And The Pretend Play Of Children With Autism: A Research Note
Authors: Jarrold Christopher , Boucher Jill , Smith Peter K.
Published: December 2006

Abstract The failure to produce pretend play seen in autism may arise from executive deficits associated with the syndrome. This experiment investigated the ability of children with autism to use various objects in pretence, the prediction being that they would have particular difficulty using props with a clear function (e.g. a pencil) to perform a different pretend function (e.g. to act as a toothbrush). However, children with autism were as likely as controls to select a prop with an inappropriate function from amongst other, nonfunctional props, suggesting that executive deficits of this particular kind cannot readily explain an absence of pretend play in autism.