bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE NORMALITY OF DOING THINGS DIFFERENTLY: BODIES, SPACES AND DISABILITY GEOGRAPHY
Authors: HANSEN NANCY , PHILO CHRIS
Published: September 2007

This paper reflects upon treatments of the body in both disability studies and disability geography, taking seriously the impaired body in its immediate materiality: in its flesh‐and‐boneness, in how it deals with everyday practices in everyday places, as this embodiment is ‘voiced’ by disabled people themselves. The paper discusses Hansen's in‐depth research with a sample of disabled women living in Scotland and Canada, teasing out their experiences of coping with impaired bodies in non‐disabled spaces. Particular attention is given to their own bodily practices, complete with ‘timings and spacings’ that may depart from what is supposedly normal for non‐disabled people. It is also shown how these women resist ableist accommodations that entail both modifying external spaces and ‘correcting’ bodily differences. The paper concludes by identifying a key but neglected step within the ‘politics’ of better accommodating disabled people: namely, shifting the emphasis from (aiding disabled people in) doing things ‘normally’ to (underlining for all of ‘us’) simply the normality of doing things differently.
Factors affecting the development of social work and its professionalisation process: the case of Greece
Authors: Koukouli Sofia , Papadaki Eleni , Philalithis Anastas
Published: September 2007

This article discusses some of the factors that have shaped the development of social work in Greece and analyses its present level of professionalisation. There were four main factors: (i) the familialist‐statist social care model in which social work operates in Greece; (ii) reluctant state support related to a complex set of specific political, social and economic conditions; (iii) the pressure of new needs in recent years as a result of the aging population, family changes and increasing numbers of immigrants; and (iv) the European Union's financial support and regulatory role in various social policy sectors. The present status of the profession indicates a satisfactory protection of professional rights, a slow but steady improvement in the educational process, but also limited occupational control.
Toenail abnormalities and onychomycosis in chronic venous insufficiency of the legs: should we treat?
Authors: Shemer A , Nathansohn N , Kaplan B , Trau H
Published: September 2007

Background  Toenail manifestations of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) may often mimic the nail changes of onychomycosis. The current study aims to determine the frequency of toenails deformations in patients with CVI, onychomycosis prevalence among deformed toenails and the outcome of itraconazole treatment.

Methods  Patients with clinical evidence of (CVI) were enrolled. All patients with toenails deformations and proven onychomycosis were treated by itraconazole pulse therapy for 4 months and then followed‐up for additional 5 to 6 months.

Results  Forty‐four patients with CVI entered the study. Thirty‐seven patients (84%) had nail deformations; 28 of 37 patients (75%) had onychomycosis; and 24 patients completed the follow‐up period. Total cure was achieved in 6 of 24 patients (25%), and 14 patients (58%) had no improvement. Patients’ age and CVI duration were significantly correlated to onychomycosis cure rate.

Conclusions  Nail deformations are more prevalent in CVI patients (84%) then in the general elderly population, and 75% of affected nails had also onychomycosis. In these patients, itraconazole achieved only 25% total cure rate compared with the 60% to 70% cure rate commonly cited in the literature, probably due to irreversible nail deformity caused by the CVI and due to the thickened nail that prevented penetrance of itraconazole into the nail plate. Therefore, before antifungal treatment is started for onychomycosis in patients with CVI, especially in older patients, the caregiver must stress out that the final outcome might not be as desirable as in pure onychomycosis patients.
Pigmented eccrine poromas: expression of melanocyte‐stimulating cytokines by tumour cells does not always result in melanocyte colonization
Authors: Hu SCS , Chen GS , Wu CS , Chai CY , Chen WT , Lan CCE
Published: September 2007

Background  Although eccrine poroma (EP) occurs preferentially in palmoplantar areas, pigmented variants of EP have not been documented on the palms and soles.

Objectives  We seek to confirm the notion regarding lack of pigmented EP on palmoplantar areas and determine whether the absence of pigmentation in palmoplantar EPs is due to lack of expression of melanocyte‐stimulating cytokines by tumour cells.

Methods  We searched the PubMed and Web of Science databases (1966–2006) for reports of pigmented EPs. In addition, a total of 17 EPs were collected from our pathology department. The presence of melanin was examined with haematoxylin‐eosin sections, and melanocyte colonization was shown by immunohistochemical stains for tyrosinase. In addition, immunohistochemical staining with antibodies to melanocyte‐stimulating cytokines, including endothelin‐1, stem cell factor, and nerve growth factor, was done on these tumours.

Results  A review of the literature revealed 15 pigmented EP reports, none of which were located in palmoplantar areas. Among 17 EPs collected from our pathology department, 7 occurred in palmoplantar areas and 10 in non‐palmoplantar areas. Three of the palmoplantar EPs and three of the non‐palmoplantar EPs showed positive staining with melanocyte‐stimulating cytokines. However, none of the palmoplantar EPs contained melanocytes or melanin pigment, wheras the three non‐palmoplantar EPs that stained positively with melanocyte‐stimulating cytokines were colonized with melanocytes and showed pigmentation clinically.

Conclusions  The expression of melanocyte‐stimulating factors by tumour cells is associated with melanocyte colonization in non‐palmoplantar EPs but not palmoplantar EPs. Therefore, the presence of melanocyte‐stimulating cytokines per se is not sufficient by itself to induce melanocyte colonization. Certain characteristics of palmoplantar skin, such as the dermal components of these anatomical sites, may play a role in inhibiting melanocyte colonization of EPs.
Developmental changes of mast cell populations in the cerebral meninges of the rat
Authors: Michaloudi Helen , Batzios Christos , Chiotelli Maria , Papadopoulos Georgios C.
Published: September 2007

It is known that both the dura and the pia mater attract and support the differentiation of mast cells. The present study shows that unevenly distributed mast cells in the cerebral meninges of the rat can be found in perivascular sites and vessel ramification points, but can also be unrelated to the meningeal vasculature. It also documents changes in the number, localization and staining preferences of the mast cells in the two meninges of the developing and mature rat brain. Quantitative examination of all types of histochemically differentiated meningeal mast cells reveals no major (although some exist) differences between right and left side subpopulations, but strongly suggests a different origin and fate of the dural and the pial mast cells. The number of dural mast cells, already high from postnatal day 0, although declining from postnatal day 21 onwards, remains conspicuous up to postnatal day 180. In contrast, pial mast cells are comparatively very few in the first day of the postnatal life, and despite a transient significant increase in the following two weeks, they reach almost zero levels from postnatal day 21.
Nanostructure of the aqueous form of lung surfactant of different species visualized by cryo‐transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Waisman Dan , Danino Dganit , Weintraub Zalman , Schmidt Judith , Talmon Yeshayahu
Published: September 2007

Cryogenic temperature transmission electron microscopy (cryo‐TEM) makes it possible to study the nanostructure of a wide range of fluid phases with a high degree of preservation. Most studies based on scanning electron microscopy or TEM employ specimen preparation techniques that give extraordinary results for tissues, but alter the native structure of complex fluid substances such as lung surfactant. In this paper, we evaluated direct‐imaging cryo‐TEM as a method to study the morphology of the aqueous form of lung surfactant. We compared the morphology of samples obtained from different species, and cryo‐TEM data to data obtained by staining‐and‐drying. We demonstrate that cryo‐TEM preserves and images much better sample morphology and fine details of the surfactant structures. We show that cryo‐TEM, a method based on physical fixation, which avoids chemical changes and aggregate rearrangement, is a most useful tool to further our understanding of lung surfactant and its function.
PETROGRAPHIC AND CHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF POTTERY PRODUCTION OF THE LATE MINOAN I KILN AT HAGHIA TRIADA, CRETE*
Authors: BELFIORE C. M. , DAY P. M. , HEIN A. , KILIKOGLOU V. , LA ROSA V. , MAZZOLENI P. , PEZZINO A.
Published: September 2007

Pottery from the Late Minoan I kiln at Haghia Triada in the Mesara Plain, southern Crete, was analysed by a range of techniques, comprising thin‐section petrography, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray fluorescence and neutron activation analysis. The project characterizes the ceramic fabrics and probable raw materials, correlates paste recipes with shape, reconstructs the firing conditions of the kiln and establishes a chemical reference group, taking into account post‐burial alteration and contamination. Comparison of the reference group formed with that from the neighbouring, broadly contemporary, kiln at Kommos shows an unexpected differentiation of the two kilns.
AN EVALUATION OF ANALYTICAL AND INTERPRETATIVE METHODOLOGIES FOR THE EXTRACTION AND IDENTIFICATION OF LIPIDS ASSOCIATED WITH POTTERY SHERDS FROM THE SITE OF SAGALASSOS, TURKEY*
Authors: ROMANUS K. , POBLOME J. , VERBEKE K. , LUYPAERTS A. , JACOBS P. , DE VOS D. , WAELKENS M.
Published: September 2007

Three lipid analysis methods were applied to extracts of archaeological potsherds from the ancient city of Sagalassos, south‐west Turkey. In the fatty acid methyl ester fraction, obtained by selective transesterification of acylglycerols, the ratio of methyl palmitate to methyl stearate was determined. Secondly, by means of gas chromatography– combustion–isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC–C–IRMS), stable carbon isotope ratios were measured for the same methyl esters. Finally, triglyceride composition was determined via high‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS). All three methods can be used to trace the origin of animal fat. Agreement between them is reasonable, especially in recognizing ruminant adipose fat. One sample was found to be of dairy origin using both GC–C–IRMS and HPLC–MS. The advantages of the various methods are discussed. Variations in lipid composition were observed between samples from different periods and excavated in diverse areas within the city of Sagalassos.
Suspected cross‐hepatotoxicity of flutamide and cyproterone acetate
Authors: Miquel Mireia , Soler Aina , Vaqué Anna , Ojanguren Isabel , Costa Joan , Planas Ramon
Published: September 2007

Flutamide and cyproterone acetate (CPA) are both oral anti‐androgens commonly used to treat advanced prostatic cancer. We report a case of drug‐induced hepatotoxicity after consecutive treatment with flutamide and CPA. A 78‐year‐old male with advanced prostatic adenocarcinoma had been treated with flutamide 750 mg/day p.o. and leuproleride acetate 22.5 mg/3 months i.m. Three months later, the patient complained of choluria and jaundice. Laboratory examination revealed severe hepatocellular insufficiency. Flutamide‐induced hepatotoxicity was suspected and therefore flutamide was withdrawn. His liver function abnormalities resolved after drug discontinuation. He was subsequently started on CPA 150 mg/day and again developed hepatotoxicity with severe hepatocellular impairment, which completely recovered after drug discontinuation. Other causes of acute liver failure were appropriately ruled out in both episodes and there was no evidence of active prostate cancer or liver metastases in both episodes. The occurrence of hepatotoxicity associated with flutamide and CPA on separated occasions suggests the possibility of a common mechanism of injury. It may become necessary to reassess the common practice of switching to another anti‐androgen when hepatotoxicity appears. A closer monitoring of liver enzymes might be necessary in such cases, as an increased risk of a new severe hepatotoxicity event cannot be ruled out.
Examination, conservation and restoration of painted art
Authors: Dawson T L
Published: September 2007

To conserve or restore painted artwork, it is necessary to appreciate the nature of the basic materials used in its creation, to be able to identify the pigments and the application media that were originally – or have subsequently been – applied and to understand the nature of gradual chemical and physical degradation that occurs within the various components of the system. With information thus gained, one can determine how best a painting may be cleaned, restored and ultimately be better preserved. This review covers the range of analytical techniques (mostly spectrographic), which have often been specifically developed to aid the identification of the wide range of inorganic colours and organic binders (or their degradation products) that may be present in each paint layer of an old masterpiece. Although an art gallery or museum strives to conserve the artefacts it displays, over time there will be varying degrees of mechanical or chemical damage. Cleaning (and, more controversially, restoration work) therefore becomes necessary and the much‐improved methods now available for achieving this without associated adverse effects are reviewed.
Bordeaux‐R interactions with surfactants: thermochromic investigations of proton ionisation in cationic, nonionic and anionic surfactant solutions
Authors: Khamis Mustafa I , Jumean Fawwaz H , Savelieff Masha G
Published: September 2007

Apparent thermodynamic parameters for the hydroxy proton ionisation of Bordeaux‐R were obtained in micellar solutions using the thermochromic method. The effect of addition of the surfactants CTAB, TX‐100 and SDS was investigated in buffered solutions in the pH range of 6–13. Ionisation constants in water and in the presence of surfactants were determined spectrophotometrically and the pK′ of Bordeaux‐R in water was found to be 10.90 in the absence of surfactant. However, at concentrations above critical micelle concentration, pK′ dropped to 10.14 with CTAB, increased to 11.29 with TX‐100 but was insensitive to SDS addition. Standard enthalpies and entropies of ionisation were obtained using the thermochromic method. This method, in conjunction with pK and spectral measurements and comparison with different azo dyes, has been shown to provide detailed information on the mechanism of dye–surfactant interaction.
The dyeing of nylon with a microencapsulated disperse dye
Authors: Jun‐Ling Ji , Shui‐Lin Chen , Xu‐Jie Yang , Lu‐De Lu , Xin Wang , Li‐Min Yang
Published: September 2007

Melamine resin microcapsules containing CI Disperse Blue 56 were prepared by in situ polymerisation. The microcapsules were characterised by their thermal properties and morphology, such as particle size and particle size distribution. The dyeing behaviour of the microcapsules on nylon 6.6 was evaluated. The microencapsulated dye exhibited good build‐up, levelness and fastness properties. It has been demonstrated that microencapsulated disperse dye can be used to replace commercial disperse dyes in dyeing polyamide fabric without dyeing additives, and the resulting effluent can be easily recycled after filtration.
Decolorisation of H‐acid manufacturing process wastewater by anion exchange resin
Authors: Yuan Zhen , Yu Ping , Luo Yunbai
Published: September 2007

Anion exchange resin was employed to examine the feasibility to treat the H‐acid manufacturing wastewater by column experiment. Besides the acidity recovery, the decoloring efficiency and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency of the anion exchange resin was investigated in the experiments. The results revealed that the anion exchange resin was able to remove colourful pollutants and degrade a part of COD effectively, and at the same time reserve acidity in the wastewater solution. The resin regenerated by a 10% NaCl aqueous solution had the same ability to discolour and remove the COD from the wastewater as the new resin had. The resin regenerated by 3% w/w NaCl aqueous solution, which was the same concentration as seawater, also had, to some extent, the same effect on decolorisation and the removal of COD; however, its colour and COD removal performance was not as efficient as the resin regenerated by 10% w/w NaCl and the new resin. H‐acid (0.25%) was also successfully recovered from the regenerating solutions.
Placental Anomalies in Children with Infantile Hemangioma
Authors: López Gutiérrez Juan Carlos , Avila Luis Felipe , Sosa Grevelyn , Patron Mercedes
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Evaluation of the placenta provides some important insights into pathophysiologic changes that take place during the prenatal and intrapartum process. We investigated the pathogenic significance of placental features and their relationship to the development of infantile hemangioma in order to obtain a better understanding of its cause. Placental specimens were reviewed from 26 singleton pregnancies of women whose offspring weighed less than 1500 g. A group of 13 neonates who developed infantile hemangioma in the immediate neonate period were compared with 13 healthy preterm infants of comparable postconception age who had no infantile hemangioma. Pathologic placental changes were analyzed in both groups. Gross lesions with disturbance of the utero‐placental circulation were found in all placentas from children who developed infantile hemangioma, including massive retroplacental hematoma in two infants, extensive ischemic infarction in seven, and large dilatated vascular communications, severe vasculitis, chorioamnionitis and funiculitis in four. Placental features included percentages greater than 25% of avascular villi, platelet and fibrin aggregates, and multifocal disease involving more than one histologic section. Examination of 13 placentas of low‐birth‐weight infants without infantile hemangioma only showed abnormal placentation in one and isolated villous dismaturity in two. The higher ratio of placental pathologic findings in patients with infantile hemangioma suggests that reduced placental oxygen diffusive conductance contributes to fetal hypoxic stress and that hypoxic/ischemic changes in the placenta could be related to infantile hemangioma development via vascular endothelial growth factor and placental growth factor expression, among others, within the villious vessels and throphoblasts.
Focal Dermal Hypoplasia with Unusual Cutaneous Features
Authors: Maymí María A. , Martín‐García Rafael F.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Focal dermal hypoplasia (Goltz syndrome) is a rare genetic condition characterized by numerous malformations in different organ systems derived from the ectoderm and mesoderm. We present an infant with focal dermal hypoplasia who, besides having a constellation of anomalies commonly encountered in patients with this syndrome, manifested additional unusual features such as an early inflammatory vesicular stage and a cleft lip and palate. We emphasize that a prompt, well‐orchestrated and effective multidisciplinary intervention can help improve the quality of life in patients afflicted with this condition.
Persistent Linear Bands in Infancy Acquired After Local Pressure: A Consequence of Mast Cell Activation?
Authors: Ford Lara S , Rogers Maureen , Kemp Andrew S , Campbell Dianne E
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  A 10‐month‐old girl with marked symptomatic dermographism presented with linear bands at the sock line noted to have developed following an episode of localized urticaria and angioedema at the sock line. We speculate that release of mast cell mediators associated with the dermographism may have triggered the development of the linear bands.
A Randomized, Investigator‐Blinded, Time‐Ranging Study of the Comparative Efficacy of 0.5% Malathion Gel Versus Ovide®Lotion (0.5% Malathion) or Nix® Crème Rinse (1% Permethrin) Used as Labeled, for the Treatment of Head Lice
Authors: Meinking Terri L. , Vicaria Maureen , Eyerdam Deborah H. , Villar Maria Elena , Reyna Susan , Suarez German
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  One hundred seventy‐two subjects with head lice participated in a five‐way, investigator‐blinded, parallel‐group, active‐controlled study comparing 0.5% malathion gel (30, 60, and 90 minutes applications), Ovide® Lotion (0.5% malathion), and Nix® Crème Rinse (1% permethrin). All subjects were treated on day 1. Participants were reevaluated at day 8 ± 1 and those with live lice were retreated with the same product, for the same duration as day 1. Cure, defined as the absence of live lice, was evaluated 14 ± 2 days after the last treatment and 161 subjects completed the study according to the protocol. Compared to Nix, treatment success rates were statistically superior for all malathion gel and Ovide® groups. Retreatment rate for Nix was 70%, which was statistically more than the malathion groups. The highest treatment success rates were observed for the 30‐minute malathion gel (98% intent‐to‐treat and 100% per‐protocol [PP]) and the 8 to 12 hour Ovide® application (97% intent‐to‐treat and 100% PP). In conclusion, the 30‐minute malathion gel, which contains the same ingredients and concentrations as Ovide®, provides comparable efficacy, offers increased safety and is more cosmetically acceptable than Ovide®.
Treatment of Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum with Tocopherol Acetate and Ascorbic Acid
Authors: TAKATA TOMOYA , IKEDA MITSUNORI , KODAMA HAJIME , KITAGAWA NOBUKO
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Pseudoxanthoma elasticum is an inherited systemic disorder of connective tissue characterized by fragmentation of elastic fibers and calcification in cutaneous, ocular, and cardiovascular systems. Mutation in the ATP‐binding cassette subfamily C member 6 gene has recently been found in people with pseudoxanthoma elasticum (1). However, the precise mechanisms of elastic fiber fragmentation and calcification remain obscure. Recently, it has been reported that mild chronic oxidative stress affects pseudoxanthoma elasticum fibroblasts (2). This suggests that reactive oxygen scavengers might improve this disorder.
Stevens‐Johnson Syndrome Associated with Brucella Infection
Authors: BABAYIGIT ARZU , OLMEZ DUYGU , UZUNER NEVIN , CAGLAYAN SULE , KUMRAL ABDULLAH , ASILSOY SUNA KOSE , OZER ERDENER , KARAMAN OZKAN
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Stevens‐Johnson syndrome is a potentially fatal condition that manifests mainly on the skin and mucosal surfaces but also affects other vital organs. There are no report of Stevens‐Johnson syndrome caused by brucella infection in the literature. In this article, a previously healthy boy, diagnosed as Stevens‐Johnson syndrome associated with brucella infection, is reported.
Uncombable Hair Syndrome
Authors: JARELL ABEL D. , HALL MARK A. , SPERLING LEONARD C.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  A 4‐year‐old boy was noted to have unruly, spangled hair, which could not be combed flat. His mother reported that his hair had always had that texture and that it seemed to grow slowly. A hair pull test demonstrated that hairs could not be easily extracted, and light microscopic examination of the hair revealed pathognomonic characteristics of uncombable hair syndrome, including a triangular cross‐sectional shape and canal‐like longitudinal depressions.
Fucosidosis: A Therapeutic Challenge
Authors: BHARATI ARUN , HIGGINS CATHERINE , ELLIS IAN , WRAITH JAMES
Published: September 2007

Letters to the Editor are welcomed for publication (subject to editing). Letters must be signed by all authors, typewritten double spaced, and must not exceed two pages of text including references. Two copies of all letters should be submitted along with one copy on disk. Letters should not duplicate material submitted or published in other journals. Prepublication proofs will not be provided.
Follicular Keratosis of the Chin Treated with 1.24R‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 Ointment
Authors: Yanagihara Makoto , Takeda Kiminobu , Tanabe Hiroshi , Abe Shinya , Ishizaki Hiroshi
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  In follicular keratosis of the chin, keratotic follicular papules occur on the chin and jaw due to localized prolonged pressure and friction on the naked skin. We present one patient with this disorder. The dermatoscopic examination revealed many well‐demarcated yellow spindle bodies in the patchy lesion. Therapy with 1.24R‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 ointment was effective during the treatment but had no residual positive effect.
Evaluation of a Congenital Erosive and Vesicular Dermatosis Healing with Reticulated Supple Scarring
Authors: Gonçalves Ricardo V. , Pessoa Osvania M. N. , Lowy Gabriela
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Congenital erosive and vesicular dermatosis healing with reticulated supple scarring is a rare disease first reported by Cohen et al in 1985. To date only 13 cases of this disease have been reported. This entity is characterized by the presence of erosions and vesicles at birth, usually affecting about 75% of the body which heals with reticulated scarring in weeks to months. We report a case of this disease related to a boy who was born with erosions affecting his head, trunk, and limbs. All lesions healed completely after 3 months with reticulated scarring without any clinical complications.
Improvement in the Temperature Stability of a BaTiO3‐Based Multilayer Ceramic Capacitor by Constrained Sintering
Authors: Lee Wen‐His , Su Chi‐Yi
Published: September 2007

In this study, a self‐constrained BaTiO3 material system, composed of a low‐fire BaTiO3‐based X7R (ΔC/C±15% within −55° to 125°C) MLCC dielectric and a high‐fire, BaTiO3‐based X7R MLCC dielectrics eliminated sintering aid that are laminated on both sides of the BaTiO3‐based X7R MLCC, has been developed. The temperature dependence of capacitance of the BaTiO3‐based X7R MLCC is significantly improved to satisfy X8R requirements over the entire temperature range studied (ΔC/C±15% within –55° to 150°C) using the self‐constrained sintering. The curie temperature of BaTiO3‐based X7R MLCC increases on increasing the thickness of the constraining layers. Compared with the specimen fired by free sintering, a substantial reduction in grain size, leading to a decrease in dielectric constant, was observed in the specimen fired by constrained sintering with the thickness of the constraining layer being 170 μm. The increase in Curie temperature and decrease in grain size of the specimen fired by constrained sintering can be explained in terms of the presence of in‐plane tensile stress. The in‐plane tensile stress that introduces a friction force between the multilayer matrix and the nonshrinkage constraining layers to suppress the in‐plane shrinkage and to inhibit the rate of grain growth was formed during constrained sintering.
Agonists of proteinase‐activated receptor‐2 affect transendothelial migration and apoptosis of human neutrophils
Authors: Shpacovitch Victoria M. , Seeliger Stephan , Huber‐Lang Markus , Balkow Sandra , Feld Micha , Hollenberg Morley D. , Sarma Vidya J. , Ward Peter A. , Strey Anke , Gerke Volker , Sommerhoff Christian P. , Vergnolle Nathalie , Steinhoff Martin
Published: September 2007

Abstract: Skin is the first barrier preventing microorganism invasion in host. Wounds destroy this defense barrier and, without an appropriate care, may lead to sepsis. Neutrophil activation and immigration plays an important role at the inflammatory stage of wound healing. Neutrophils are known to express proteinase‐activated receptors (PARs), which can be activated by serine proteases, also by enzymes involved in wound healing. We previously reported that PAR2agonists up‐regulate cell adhesion molecule expression and cytokine production by human neutrophils. Here, we demonstrate that PAR2agonists (serine proteases as well as synthetic peptides) reduce transendothelial migration of neutrophils and prolong their lifein vitro. Synthetic PAR2agonist also enhanced protective interferon (IFN)γ‐induced FcγRI expression at neutrophil cell surface. Of note, IFNγ is a cytokine, which was used in clinical trials to reactivate human neutrophil functions during sepsis. Moreover, we observed a significant increase of PAR2expression on cell surface of neutrophils from septic patients as compared with healthy volunteers. Together, our results indicate that PAR2may be involved in the pathophysiology of neutrophil‐endothelial interactions during wound healing or later during sepsis in humans, potentially by affecting neutrophil apoptosis, transendothelial migration and Fcγ receptor‐mediated phagocytosis.
Activation of insulin and IGF‐1 signaling pathways by melatonin through MT1 receptor in isolated rat pancreatic islets
Authors: Picinato M. C. , Hirata A. E. , Cipolla‐Neto J. , Curi R. , Carvalho C. R. O. , Anhê G. F. , Carpinelli A. R.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Melatonin diminishes insulin release through the activation of MT1 receptors and a reduction in cAMP production in isolated pancreatic islets of neonate and adult rats and in INS‐1 cells (an insulin‐secreting cell line). The pancreas of pinealectomized rats exhibits degenerative pathological changes with low islet density, indicating that melatonin plays a role to ensure the functioning of pancreatic beta cells. By using immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting analysis we demonstrated, in isolated rat pancreatic islets, that melatonin induces insulin growth factor receptor (IGF‐R) and insulin receptor (IR) tyrosine phosphorylation and mediates the activities of the PI3K/AKT and MEK/ERKs pathways, which are involved in cell survival and growth, respectively. Thus, the effects of melatonin on pancreatic islets do not involve a reduction in cAMP levels only. This indoleamine may regulate growth and differentiation of pancreatic islets by activating IGF‐I and insulin receptor signaling pathways.
A Membrane Protease is Targeted to the Relict Plastid of Toxoplasma via an Internal Signal Sequence
Authors: Karnataki Anuradha , DeRocher Amy E. , Coppens Isabelle , Feagin Jean E. , Parsons Marilyn
Published: September 2007

The apicoplast is a secondary plastid found in Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium species and many other apicomplexan parasites. Although the apicoplast is essential to parasite survival, little is known about the protein constituents of the four membranes surrounding the organelle. Luminal proteins are directed to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) by an N‐terminal signal sequence and from there to the apicoplast by a transit peptide domain. We have identified a membrane‐associated AAA protease in T. gondii, FtsH1. Although the protein lacks a canonical bipartite‐targeting sequence, epitope‐tagged FtsH1 colocalizes with the recently identified apicoplast membrane marker APT1 and immunoelectron microscopy confirms the residence of FtsH1 on plastid membranes. Trafficking appears to occur via the ER because deletion mutants lacking the peptidase domain are retained in the ER. When extended to include the peptidase domain, the protein trafficks properly. The transmembrane domain is required for localization of the full‐length protein to the apicoplast and a truncation mutant to the ER. Thus, at least two distinct regions of FtsH1 are required for proper trafficking, but they differ from those of luminal proteins and would not be detected by the algorithms currently used to identify apicoplast proteins.
Migration Cues Induce Chromatin Alterations
Authors: Gerlitz Gabi , Livnat Idit , Ziv Carmit , Yarden Oded , Bustin Michael , Reiner Orly
Published: September 2007

Directed cell migration is a property central to multiple basic biological processes. Here, we show that directed cell migration is associated with global changes in the chromatin fiber. Polarized posttranslational changes in histone H1 along with a transient decrease in H1 mobility were detected in cells facing the scratch in a wound healing assay. In parallel to the changes in H1, the levels of the heterochromatin marker histone H3 lysine 9 tri‐methylation were elevated. Interestingly, reduction of the chromatin‐binding affinity of H1 altered the cell migration rates. Moreover, migration‐associated changes in histone H1 were observed during nuclear motility in the simple multicellular organism Neurospora crassa. Our studies suggest that dynamic reorganization of the chromatin fiber is an early event in the cellular response to migration cues.
Annexin A6‐Induced Alterations in Cholesterol Transport and Caveolin Export from the Golgi Complex
Authors: Cubells Laia , Vilà de Muga Sandra , Tebar Francesc , Wood Peta , Evans Rachael , Ingelmo‐Torres Mercedes , Calvo Maria , Gaus Katharina , Pol Albert , Grewal Thomas , Enrich Carlos
Published: September 2007

Annexin A6 (AnxA6) belongs to a family of Ca2+‐dependent membrane‐binding proteins and is involved in the regulation of endocytic and exocytic pathways. We previously demonstrated that AnxA6 regulates receptor‐mediated endocytosis and lysosomal targeting of low‐density lipoproteins and translocates to cholesterol‐enriched late endosomes (LE). As cholesterol modulates the membrane binding and the cellular location of AnxA6, but also affects the intracellular distribution of caveolin, we investigated the localization and trafficking of caveolin in AnxA6‐expressing cells. Here, we show that cells expressing high levels of AnxA6 are characterized by an accumulation of caveolin‐1 (cav‐1) in the Golgi complex. This is associated with a sequestration of cholesterol in the LE and lower levels of cholesterol in the Golgi and the plasma membrane, both likely contributing to retention of caveolin in the Golgi apparatus and a reduced number of caveolae at the cell surface. Further strengthening these findings, knock down of AnxA6 and the ectopic expression of the Niemann–Pick C1 protein in AnxA6‐overexpressing cells restore the cellular distribution of cav‐1 and cholesterol, respectively. In summary, this study demonstrates that elevated expression levels of AnxA6 perturb the intracellular distribution of cholesterol, which indirectly inhibits the exit of caveolin from the Golgi complex.
Value of Combined Clinical Information and Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies in Pregnancy for the Prediction of Postpartum Thyroid Dysfunction
Authors: Mamede da Costa Sheila , Sieiro Netto Lino , Coeli Claudia Medina , Buescu Alexandru , Vaisman Mario
Published: September 2007

Problem

To investigate the utility of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) in early pregnancy combined with clinical information for prediction of postpartum thyroid dysfunction (PPTD) within 1 year postpartum.

Method of study

We studied 98 pregnant women by determining their TPOAb levels in early pregnancy, as well as their serum thyrotropin and free thyroid (fT4) levels at 6 and 12 months postpartum. Furthermore, they answered a questionnaire and physical examination was performed by only one examiner.

Results

Of the 98 women, 10 were positive TPOAb in early pregnancy. The overall risk of PPTD within 1 year of follow‐up was 10.2% (95% CI 4.1–16.3). Risk of PPTD was significantly higher among women with a family history of thyroid disease, TPOAb positive and presenting goiter in early pregnancy. The sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value of TPOAb in PPTD prediction were 60.0%, 95.5% and 60%. Restricting screening to women with a family history of thyroid disease or presenting goiter increases the positive predictive value from 60% to 82.4%.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that TPOAb could be used as a screening test for PPTD prediction at least among women who present a high risk of developing PPTD.
Human Leukocyte Antigen May Predict Outcome of Primary Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion Treated with Paternal Lymphocyte Alloimmunization Therapy
Authors: Kano Takashi , Mori Takahide , Furudono Masako , Ishikawa Hironobu , Watanabe Hirohiko , Kikkawa Eri , Warita Takayuki , Onizuka Makoto , Takahashi Megumi , Maeda Yutaka , Naruse Taeko , Inoko Hidetoshi , Kimura Akinori
Published: September 2007

Problem

Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is defined by at least three consecutive abortions in otherwise healthy couples. Paternal lymphocyte alloimmunization therapy (PLAT) is an effective therapy for RSA in some cases, but there are no predictive markers about the effectiveness of PLAT.

Method of study

Forty‐two consecutive cases with primary RSA treated by PLAT and 23 controls were the subjects. Polymorphisms of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐E, HLA‐G, HLA‐A, HLA‐B, HLA‐C and HLA‐DRB1 were investigated by sequenced based typing. Promoter polymorphism and a 14 bp ins/del polymorphism in exon 8 were also investigated for HLA‐G.

Results

Thirty‐eight RSA wives became pregnant within 1 year after PLAT. Among them, 27 obtained babies (succeeded PLAT cases), while 11 again aborted with no detectable chromosomal abnormalities in the aborted fetuses (aborted PLAT cases). The frequencies of HLA‐G*010401, A*2402, B*5201, and DRB1*1502 were significantly increased in the aborted cases than those in the succeeded cases or controls. Of note, HLA‐G*010401 was found in all aborted cases whereas it was found in 51.9% of succeeded cases (odds ratio = 21.4, P = 0.006, Pc = 0.03), and the presence of HLA‐G*010401 could predict the abortion after PLAT with sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 48.1%, respectively.

Conclusion

Human leukocyte antigen testing may be useful for predicting effectiveness of PLAT in RSA.
Distribution and Spatiotemporal Relationship of Activin A and Follistatin in Mouse Decidual and Placental Tissue
Authors: Candeloro L. , Zorn Telma M. T.
Published: September 2007

Problem

Cells responsible for the synthesis of follistatin and activin A in the pregnant mouse endometrium have not been characterized.

Method of study

Immunocytochemistry was used to determine the distribution of follistatin and activin A in the pregnant mouse uterus.

Results

Follistatin was detected in the endometrium prior to decidualization and embryo implantation. Follistatin was not seen in fully decidualized cells, being restricted to non‐decidualized fibroblasts and cells in the process of decidualization. In contrast, activin A was detected exclusively in mature antimesometrial decidual cells during involution. After day eleven of pregnancy, both substances were identified in the extracellular matrix of the spongiotrophoblast.

Conclusion

As previously described for decidual prolactin‐related protein and the proteoglycan perlecan, follistatin and activin A were detected in the extracellular matrix of the spongiotrophoblast, suggesting that this region acts as reservoir for these growth factors in the mouse placenta.
The Effect on Elderly Parents in Cambodia of Losing an Adult Child to AIDS
Authors: Knodel John , Zimmer Zachary , Kim Kiry Sovan , Puch Sina
Published: September 2007

Little systematic quantitative research is available on the parents of adults who become ill and die of AIDS despite their large number and the wide range of adverse consequences. This study, based on survey data from Cambodia, explores economic and social effects on parents in a country characterized by extreme poverty and a substantial AIDS epidemic. Results indicate that parents play a major role during the illness of an adult son or daughter, often sharing living quarters, providing care, and paying for illness‐related expenses. These contributions to the societal response to AIDS come at considerable cost to parents at advanced ages. Multivariate analysis suggests lasting negative consequences for parents’economic well‐being, and the consequences are more substantial if the adult child's death was from AIDS rather than from other causes. The study found little evidence of stigma associated with losing a grown child to AIDS: reactions from local community members are more likely to be sympathetic and supportive than negative. These results underscore the need for organizations dealing with AIDS to recognize the contributions older persons make in coping with the epidemic and to address the burden it imposes on them.
Taking the Lab to the Field: Monitoring Reproductive Hormones in Population Research
Authors: Valeggia Claudia R.
Published: September 2007

The incorporation of biological measures in social science research allows for the development of robust models, with greater explanatory power. By analyzing the underlying proximate causes of fertility and mortality, biodemographers have been able to model demographic patterns more accurately. Recent technological advances are making possible the analysis of biological samples collected using minimally invasive methods. Methods and techniques are discussed that can be used for estimating hormonal, particularly reproductive hormone, levels in large‐scale population studies in which thousands of samples could be collected. Sample collection methods and techniques reviewed include blood spots, urine samples, and saliva samples. The collection of biological samples is associated with serious ethical concerns. The article discusses the issue of asymmetries in technology between developing and developed countries, emphasizing the need for capacity building and information transfer. Illustrative contributions of biological data are presented.
Mortality of American Troops in the Iraq War
Authors: Buzzell Emily , Preston Samuel H.
Published: September 2007

We estimate the death rate of United States troops deployed to Iraq from the beginning of the US invasion through 30 September 2006. Eighty percent of the deaths in Iraq were combat‐related. The death rate in Iraq is lower than that of the civilian population of the United States but substantially higher than that of young adults. It is much lower than the death rate of US troops in Vietnam, in part because a much smaller fraction die among those wounded in Iraq. We also estimate relative mortality levels for US troops according to numerous demographic variables through 30 November 2006. The risk of death in Iraq per deployment is shown to be highest for Marines; Naval and Air Force personnel in Iraq have lower death rates than the civilian population of comparable age. Other categories with above‐average mortality in Iraq are enlisted troops, males, younger persons, and Hispanics.
Modeling the Process Leading to Abortion: An Application to French Survey Data
Authors: Rossier Clémentine , Michelot François , Bajos Nathalie ,   the COCON Group
Published: September 2007

In this study, we model women's recourse to induced abortion as resulting from a process that starts with sexual intercourse and contraceptive use (or nonuse), continues with the occurrence of an unintended pregnancy, and ends with the woman's decision to terminate the pregnancy and her access to abortion services. Our model includes two often‐neglected proximate determinants of abortion: sexual practices and access to abortion services. We relate three sociodemographic characteristics—women's educational level, their relationship status, and their age—step by step to the stages of the abortion process. We apply our framework using data from the COCON survey, a national survey on reproductive health conducted in France in 2000. Our model shows that sociodemographic variables may have opposite impacts as the abortion process unfolds. For example, women's educational level can be positively linked to the probability of practicing contraception but negatively linked to the propensity to carry the unintended pregnancy to term. This conceptual framework brings together knowledge that is currently dispersed in the literature and helps to identify the source of abortion‐rate differentials.
Families, Urban Neighborhood Youth Centers, and Peers as Contexts for Development
Authors: Anderson Stephen A. , Sabatelli Ronald M. , Kosutic Iva
Published: September 2007

Abstract: Three social contexts—family, neighborhood youth centers, and peer relationships—were examined in relation to several measures of adjustment among 1,406 mostly minority, inner‐city adolescents. Family and center involvement were directly related to 3 of the 4 adjustment measures (i.e., achievement orientation, emotion regulation, attitudes toward school). Peer connections interacted with family and center involvement to also predict these variables. Substance use, the fourth adjustment measure, was related only to family involvement. Significant 3‐way interactions suggested that within urban settings, favorable attitudes toward school may best be achieved when family, neighborhood youth center, and peer involvement are all strong. The combined effects of these 3 contexts appear to be greater among younger adolescents. Implications for promoting urban youth development programs are discussed.
Enculturation of Korean American Adolescents Within Familial and Cultural Contexts: The Mediating Role of Ethnic Identity*
Authors: Kim Park Irene J.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:The purpose of the present study was to test a socialization model in which ethnic identity mediated the relationship between 3 domains of family processes and 1 key aspect of enculturation: native language fluency. Data from a sample of 112 Korean American adolescents living in the Midwest revealed that adolescent ethnic identity partially mediated the influence of family cohesion on their Korean language fluency. Findings suggest that ethnic identity may serve as a mechanism through which family relations influence adolescents’ native language fluency. Implications for adolescent and family adaptation are discussed within an ecological framework, including potential strategies for strengthening ethnic identity.
Dynamic boundaries of event horizon magnetospheres
Authors: Punsly Brian
Published: September 2007

This Letter analyses three-dimensional (3D) simulations of Kerr black hole magnetospheres that obey the general relativistic equations of perfect magnetohydrodynamics (MHD). Particular emphasis is on the event horizon magnetosphere (EHM) which is defined as the the large-scale poloidal magnetic flux that threads the event horizon of a black hole. (This is distinct from the poloidal magnetic flux that threads the equatorial plane of the ergosphere, which forms the ergospheric disc magnetosphere.) Standard MHD theoretical treatments of Poynting jets in the EHM are predicated on the assumption that the plasma comprising the boundaries of the EHM plays no role in producing the Poynting flux. The energy flux is electrodynamic in origin and it is essentially conserved from the horizon to infinity; this is known as the Blandford–Znajek (B–Z) mechanism. In contrast, within the 3D simulations, the lateral boundaries are strong pistons for MHD waves and actually inject prodigious quantities of Poynting flux into the EHM. At high black hole spin rates, strong sources of Poynting flux adjacent to the EHM from the ergospheric disc will actually diffuse to higher latitudes and swamp any putative B–Z effects. This is in contrast to lower spin rates, which are characterized by much lower output powers, and where modest amounts of Poynting flux are injected into the EHM from the accretion disc corona.