bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recombining national variety: internationalisation strategies of American and European law firms
Authors: Quack Sigrid
Published: May 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to explore internationalisation strategies of service firms in sectors where markets become increasingly globalised while resource environments still remain distinctively shaped by national institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical framework is proposed that suggests that the more firms expand their business activities across borders by building up offices abroad or merging with firms from other countries, the more likely they are to embrace recombinant strategies to blend elements of different societal legacies. Subsequently, a comparative case study of internationalisation strategies, governance modes and organisational forms of European and US law firms is presented to illustrate the value of the framework, followed by the analysis of a novel data set on multi‐jurisdictional qualifications of partners in these international law firms.

Findings

By virtue of their integrative organisational model and mobilisation of versatile legal competences, large pan‐European law firms are challenging the dominance of US law firms in international legal markets, while the latter in response are revising their own previous export‐oriented internationalisation strategy.

Research limitations/implications

The present study provides a starting point for further research on internationalisation in service industries.

Originality/value

The framework is useful to expand effect societal analysis to dynamic international environments.
Stamping La Poste: an illustration of the influence of societal effects on strategic change
Authors: Riot Elen , de la Burgade Emmanuel
Published: May 2012

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to explain how the globalisation of services can be limited or enhanced by societal effects.

Design/methodology/approach

This analysis is based on a single case study. The authors use a qualitative and longitudinal approach, with in‐depth interviews and archives collected during a six‐year period of participant observation inside the firm.

Findings

The authors argue that societal dimensions are at play in the evolution of services activities, and that their influence is especially strong in ex‐public services monopolies. They illustrate the limits of strategic change due to the specific dynamics of societal effects. The authors first look at the evolution of strategic fit before and after multiple changes in La Poste. They then identify different types of reactions at local level. They conclude by insisting on the enduring influence of social patterns and traditions on the adoption of new technologies and modes of organisation.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this research is that a more thorough comparison with other European national leaders in postal services would have helped strengthen this analysis.

Practical implications

A first practical implication for services firms is that societal changes should be greatly considered in their globalisation process and that societal changes are often underestimated. Another practical implication is that a globalisation of services process must certainly be situated at a global level based on national and local specificities built in time.

Originality/value

While comparative studies on international management have often focused on the different modes of organisation depending on culture and institutions, the impact of globalisation on services have been left relatively under‐explored. This paper takes the example of the service industry to show that cultural reasons are not sufficient to explain why the internationalisation of services may encounter difficulties. Other factors such as societal effect should be included.
Parental training, anemia and the impact on the nutrition of female students in China's poor rural elementary schools
Authors: Shi Yaojiang , Chang Fang , Su Xiaoqing , Luo Renfu , Zhang Linxiu , Rozelle Scott
Published: May 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report the results of a randomized controlled trial designed to measure the impact of a parental training program on the nutritional status of primary school students in rural Shaanxi Province, in northwest China.

Design/methodology/approach

Using hemoglobin (Hb) levels as the outcome variable, the authors first measure the overall impact of a nutritional training program, then measure the impact separately by gender. Both descriptive and multivariate analyses are used.

Findings

The results for the descriptive and econometric results were robust and consistent with the literature. Overall, we find no impact on students' Hb levels when we trained their parents about undernutrition and anemia. In both the descriptive and multivariate results, there was no difference in the change of Hb levels between control and treatment students. Parents in the treatment group did learn more about anemia than parents in the control group, but this increased knowledge did not lead to sharp changes in behavior, in general. The authors did find, however, that there was a measurable impact of parental training on the Hb levels of female students. In both the descriptive and econometric results the authors found that the Hb levels of female students rose more than those of male students, and that this difference was statistically significant.

Originality/value

The paper reports the results of a randomized controlled trial that examined the effect of parental training on students in poor, rural schools in ten counties of Shaanxi province. Taken by itself, one of the policy implications of this study is that malnutrition is still a serious problem in China and it is worse among female students than male students. When parental training is given, the health status of girls improves but the health status of boys is unchanged. Parental training may not be the best way to fight anemia, but it can help narrow the nutrition gap between girls and boys.
Farmers' financial choices and informal credit markets in China
Authors: Yuan Yan , Gao Ping
Published: May 2012

Purpose

Informal credit markets are very active in many developing countries, including China. Informal financial associations have become a major channel of borrowing. Using data from the 2006 Rural Household Survey, the purpose of this paper is to investigate farmers' borrowing choices between banks, relatives/friends and informal associations.

Design/methodology/approach

A simultaneous equation system is estimated using three‐stage least squares to study the determinants of borrowing from varying sources and how they are related to each other.

Findings

The results show that the relationship between the probability of formal credit market participation and age follows an inverted U‐shaped pattern. Education, which serves an indicator of future income, is not significant in any setting. Borrowing from informal associations seems to stand alone and neither of the other two sources has an effect on its success rate. In addition, borrowing from informal associations works as a substitute for borrowing from relatives/friends but not vice versa.

Originality/value

In this paper, borrowing from various sources is incorporated in a system of equations; thereby contributing to a better understanding of credit markets in China by providing a bigger and complete picture.
Hog insurance adoption and suppliers' discrimination
Authors: Cao Ying , Zhang Yuehua
Published: May 2012

Purpose

This paper explored factors that impact insurance choices of demand (farmers) and supply (insurance companies) side, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

Specially designed survey questions allow one to fully observe the demand tendency from farmers and partially observe the supply tendency from insurance companies. Using bi‐vairate probit model, a joint estimation of insurance decisions of both supply and demand sides suggested that factors perform different roles in affecting insurance participation.

Findings

Farmer's age and education have positive impacts on insurance demand, but are indifference to insurance providers. Insurance suppliers care about farmers' experience in the fields when providing insurance services, however, on the demand side, farmers' experience occasionally results in overconfidence and hence, impedes farmers' insurance purchasing. Production scales, proxy by sow inventory, are put more weight by farmers than insurance suppliers when making decisions. Production efficiency measures perform as incentives for farmers to purchase insurance. While suppliers prefer customers who use vaccine, farmers tend to treat vaccine as a substitute for insurance to prevent disease risk.

Social implications

Results from bi‐vairate probit model offer deeper understandings about livestock insurance choices and provide further insights to improve policy design and promote participation.

Originality/value

The study designed a special questionnaire and firstly used bi‐vairate probit model to offer more understandings about demand and supply sides of livestock insurance.
Comparison of two parameterizations of the winner's curse model in a sample of Swedish Treasury auctions
Authors: Wang Xue
Published: May 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the underpricing effect in Treasury auctions.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper compares two winner's curse models using a dataset on multi‐unit auctions. The dataset is from Swedish Treasury auctions, which is under a discriminatory auction mechanism. One model is a single‐unit equilibrium model assuming that each bidder bids for 100 percent of the auctioned securities, which is described by Wilson and solved by Levin and Smith. The other model is a multi‐unit model calibrated by Goldreich using the US Treasury auctions data and assumes that each bidder bids for one unit of the auctioned securities.

Findings

The empirical results show that, although both models work well in predicting the bid‐shading, the multi‐unit model fits the Swedish Treasury auctions data better than the single‐unit model.

Research limitations/implications

The evidence implies that bidders rationally adjust their bids due to the winner's curse/champion's plague.

Originality/value

This study provides close quantitative predictions of the amount of bid‐shading using both single‐unit model of Wilson and multi‐unit model of Goldreich, and indicates that winner's curse or champion's plague worries bidders in countries other than the USA.
Propensity and comprehensiveness of corporate internet reporting in Egypt
Authors: Samaha Khaled , Dahawy Khaled , Abdel‐Meguid Ahmed , Abdallah Sara
Published: May 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of corporate governance attributes of listed Egyptian companies on the propensity (adoption) and comprehensiveness (quality) of corporate internet reporting (CIR) practices.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses archival data from the largest (top) 100 listed companies on the Egyptian Stock Exchange (EGX 100). Corporate governance attributes are captured by ownership structure (free float, managerial ownership, government ownership) and board of directors' structure (board size, board independence, CEO‐chair duality). Empirical models are used to estimate the effects of these attributes on the propensity, content, presentation, and overall comprehensiveness of CIR.

Findings

The results of this study indicate mixed effects of governance attributes on the choice to adopt CIR and its quality. The results from the Binary Logistic Regression suggest that Egyptian companies with greater (less) ownership dispersion, managerial ownership, governmental ownership, and (board independence) are more likely to adopt CIR. On the other hand – and as revealed by the seemingly unrelated regressions – among CIR companies those with greater (less) ownership dispersion, board size (governmental ownership), and (board independence) have more comprehensive CIR.

Originality/value

This study extends the relatively limited research on the effects of corporate governance and CIR in emerging markets. The study contributes to this literature by demonstrating how corporate governance attributes affects the choice to adopt CIR disclosure practices and the level of its quality in an emerging market such as Egypt.
The role of corporate governance in convergence with IFRS: evidence from China
Authors: Chen Yu , Rezaee Zabihollah
Published: May 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the important role played by corporate governance in de facto International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) convergence, and to provide empirical evidence that audit quality mediates the degree of IFRS convergence.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a model showing the role of corporate governance in converging national accounting standards with the IFRS, and empirically tests the model using a sample of Chinese listed companies with B‐shares. Both analysis of variance and multiple regressions are employed to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Effective internal corporate governance helps companies to be more aligned with IFRS and thus provide high quality financial information. Furthermore, audit quality as an external governance factor mediates the relationship between internal corporate governance and IFRS convergence.

Research limitations/implications

The paper extends research findings, as shown in the literature, by showing the role of corporate governance in the IFRS convergence, especially the mediating effect of audit quality. In addition to accounting standards, global convergence of auditing standards and corporate governance is imperative if de facto convergence of accounting standards is to be achieved.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the effect of corporate governance and the interaction between internal and external corporate governance in achieving IFRS convergence, which has been largely ignored in the literature. Based on the results, the paper proposes an explanation for the mixed results shown in the literature.
The Autism Strategy: implications for people with autism and for service development
Authors: Walsh Nick , Hall Ian
Published: May 2012

Purpose

The aim of this article is to critically review the Autism Strategy and to discuss its implications.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a summary and critical review of the Autism Strategy and its implementation. This includes discussion of the political context, reactions to the strategy by stakeholders, economic considerations, equity, integration across health and social care and the role of diagnostic services and specialist interventions.

Findings

The Autism Strategy Fulfilling and Rewarding Lives was published in 2010. It aimed to increase awareness of autism, establish clear pathways for diagnosis and needs assessment, promote independent living and access to work, and help the development of local services. It focuses on intended outcomes, is not prescriptive about how those aims are achieved, and relies on existing legislation such as the Disability Discrimination Act. The emphasis on accessing mainstream services may limit the development of appropriate specialist services, especially in the current economic climate. Specialist interventions that may follow diagnosis are not prioritised, even though the economic case for them has been well made by the Audit Commission. Although the Department of Health has produced “outcomes and ambitions” to measure implementation of the Strategy, local authorities are not required to measure themselves against these targets or publish their results. However, organisations such as the National Autistic Society have already developed training materials to help with implementation, and the NICE guidelines for adults with autism due in 2012 may help the development of better services.

Originality/value

This article provides new insights into the implications of the strategy for service users, service managers and healthcare professionals. Although the strategy applies to England only, the principles are of interest to stakeholders in other countries.
Diagnosis and assessment in autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Carpenter Peter
Published: May 2012

Purpose

The paper aims to provide an overview of the current situation with diagnosis and assessment in autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a review of literature combined with personal observation of practice.

Findings

Diagnosis cannot be determined by any one tool. It is a clinical judgement. A solo experienced clinician can make a diagnosis. Wider assessment is needed post diagnosis and needs a team.

Practical implications

Specialist multidisciplinary teams to assess people with ASD should be set up for adults as well as for children.

Originality/value

The paper is of value to those who are designing and providing diagnostic and assessment services. It provides a new review, covering a wider area.
England and Northern Ireland policy and law update relating to mental health and intellectual disability
Authors: Chaplin Eddie , Taggart Laurence
Published: May 2012

Purpose

This article aims to bring readers up to date with policy developments in England and Northern Ireland in the last two years since the journal first reported on these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

As well as looking at changes to policy and legislation, the paper highlights not only the differences but also the shared concerns for people with intellectual disability living in the two countries, e.g. equal access to healthcare as experienced by the general population.

Findings

In spite of shared visions of inclusion and equality in mental health care, there are major differences in how both countries approach these issues. Recently this has been highlighted by significant shifts in policy. In Northern Ireland strategies designed to inform the delivery of evidence based services for the future have been witnessed. Whilst in England there has also been a move towards public protection within mental health legislation and the reaffirmation of the need to move towards more individual services. Whilst policy initiatives in both countries have been encouraging; they need to be implemented so issues such as access to healthcare and geographical disparity are addressed by local providers.

Social implications

Although there is a desire for change, the reality is that the policies and legislation introduced to address issues such as accessing mental health care and service standards have still to make a significant impact to people's daily lives.

Originality/value

This paper offers an update of current practice and policy relating to mental health for people with intellectual disabilities in England and Northern Ireland.
Mental health placements in a general health setting: no substitute for the real thing!
Authors: Happell Brenda , Platania‐Phung Chris
Published: May 2012

Aim.  To determine effectiveness of clinical placements in non‐mental health facilities in producing improvement in attitudes toward people with a mental illness and toward mental health nursing in nursing students.

Background.  Clinical placements in mental health settings have favourably impacted students’ attitudes and confidence in mental health settings. Placement shortages have created discussion about using non‐mental health settings to gain this experience, as mental illness is common in all health settings. To date, no research findings support or refute the efficacy of non‐mental health settings in influencing confidence and attitudes.

Design.  A within‐subject design was used. Participants provided self‐report data soon after the beginning and at the conclusion of the mental health component.

Methods.  A questionnaire was administered to a cohort of undergraduate nursing students (n = 66) to measure attitudes, preparedness for practice and interest in mental health nursing as a career, using a pre‐ and post‐test design.

Results.  Only 25% of participants completed clinical experience in a mental health facility. Minor improvement in attitudes, confidence and appreciating the nursing role in mental health were identified, but the impact on attitudes was considerably less favourable than when clinical experience was undertaken in a mental health facility.

Conclusion.  Participants who completed clinical experience in a non‐mental health facility did not demonstrate more favourable views about mental health nursing.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Clinical placements in mental health are essential preparation for undergraduate students to maximise improvement in attitudes to the care of people diagnosed with a mental illness and to mental health nursing.
Dependence of the Excitability of Pituitary Cells on Cyclic Nucleotides
Authors: Stojilkovic S. S. , Kretschmannova K. , Tomić M. , Stratakis C. A.
Published: May 2012

Cyclic 3′,5′‐adenosine monophosphate and cyclic 3′,5′‐guanosine monophosphate are intracellular (second) messengers that are produced from the nucleotide triphosphates by a family of enzymes consisting of adenylyl and guanylyl cyclases. These enzymes are involved in a broad array of signal transduction pathways mediated by the cyclic nucleotide monophosphates and their kinases, which control multiple aspects of cell function through the phosphorylation of protein substrates. We review the findings and working hypotheses on the role of the cyclic nucleotides and their kinases in the control of electrical activity of the endocrine pituitary cells and the plasma membrane channels involved in this process.
Rubisco activase is a key regulator of non‐steady‐state photosynthesis at any leaf temperature and, to a lesser extent, of steady‐state photosynthesis at high temperature
Authors: Yamori Wataru , Masumoto Chisato , Fukayama Hiroshi , Makino Amane
Published: May 2012

The role of Rubisco activase in steady‐state and non‐steady‐state photosynthesis was analyzed in wild‐type (Oryza sativa) and transgenic rice that expressed different amounts of Rubisco activase. Below 25°C, the Rubisco activation state and steady‐state photosynthesis were only affected when Rubisco activase was reduced by more than 70%. However, at 40°C, smaller reductions in Rubisco activase content were linked to a reduced Rubisco activation state and steady‐state photosynthesis. As a result, overexpression of maize Rubisco activase in rice did not lead to an increase of the Rubisco activation state, nor to an increase in photosynthetic rate below 25°C, but had a small stimulatory effect at 40°C. On the other hand, the rate at which photosynthesis approached the steady state following an increase in light intensity was rapid in Rubisco activase‐overexpressing plants, intermediate in the wild‐type, and slowest in antisense plants at any leaf temperature. In Rubisco activase‐overexpressing plants, Rubisco activation state at low light was maintained at higher levels than in the wild‐type. Thus, rapid regulation by Rubisco activase following an increase in light intensity and/or maintenance of a high Rubisco activation state at low light would result in a rapid increase in Rubisco activation state and photosynthetic rate following an increase in light intensity. It is concluded that Rubisco activase plays an important role in the regulation of non‐steady‐state photosynthesis at any leaf temperature and, to a lesser extent, of steady‐state photosynthesis at high temperature.
Arabidopsis VILLIN2 and VILLIN3 act redundantly in sclerenchyma development via bundling of actin filaments
Authors: Bao Chanchan , Wang Juan , Zhang Ruihui , Zhang Baocai , Zhang Hua , Zhou Yihua , Huang Shanjin
Published: May 2012

The organization of the actin cytoskeleton has been implicated in sclerenchyma development. However, the molecular mechanisms linking the actin cytoskeleton to this process remain poorly understood. In particular, there have been no studies showing that direct genetic manipulation of the actin cytoskeleton affects sclerenchyma development. Villins belong to the villin/gelsolin/fragmin superfamily and are versatile actin‐modifying proteins. Several recent studies have implicated villins in tip growth of single cells, but how villins act in multicellular plant development remains largely unknown. Here, we found that two closely related villin isovariants from Arabidopsis, VLN2 and VLN3, act redundantly in sclerenchyma development. Detailed analysis of cross‐sections from inflorescence stems of vln2 vln3 double mutant plants revealed a reduction in stem size and in the number of vascular bundles; however, no defects in synthesis of the secondary cell wall were detected. Surprisingly, the vln2 vln3 double mutation did not affect cell elongation of inter‐fascicular fibers. Biochemical analyses showed that recombinant VLN2 was able to cap, sever and bundle actin filaments, similar to VLN3. Consistent with these biochemical activities, loss of function of VLN2 and VLN3 resulted in a decrease in the amount of F‐actin and actin bundles in plant cells. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that VLN2 and VLN3 act redundantly in sclerenchyma development via bundling of actin filaments.
CML9, an Arabidopsis calmodulin‐like protein, contributes to plant innate immunity through a flagellin‐dependent signalling pathway
Authors: Leba Louis‐Jérôme , Cheval Cécilia , Ortiz‐Martín Inmaculada , Ranty Benoit , Beuzón Carmen R. , Galaud Jean‐Philippe , Aldon Didier
Published: May 2012

Many stimuli such as hormones and elicitors induce changes in intracellular calcium levels to integrate information and activate appropriate responses. The Ca2+signals are perceived by various Ca2+sensors, and calmodulin (CaM) is one of the best characterized in eukaryotes. Calmodulin‐like (CML) proteins extend the Ca2+toolkit in plants; they share sequence similarity with the ubiquitous and highly conserved CaM but their roles at physiological and molecular levels are largely unknown. Knowledge of the contribution of Ca2+decoding proteins to plant immunity is emerging, and we report here data onArabidopsis thaliana CML9, whose expression is rapidly induced by phytopathogenic bacteria, flagellin and salicylic acid. Using a reverse genetic approach, we present evidence that CML9 is involved in plant defence by modulating responses to bacterial strains ofPseudomonas syringae. Compared to wild‐type plants, the later responses normally observed upon flagellin application are altered in knockout mutants and over‐expressing transgenic lines. Collectively, using PAMP treatment andP. syringaestrains, we have established that CML9 participates in plant innate immunity.
Induction of Disease Defensive Enzymes in Response to Treatment with acibenzolar‐S‐methyl (ASM) and Pseudomonas fluorescens Pf2 and Inoculation with Ralstonia solanacearum race 3, biovar 2 (phylotype II)
Authors: Abo‐Elyousr Kamal A. M. , Ibrahim Yasser E. , Balabel Naglaa M.
Published: May 2012

Ralstonia solanacearum (Rs) race 3 biovar 2, the cause of bacterial wilt, is an economically important pathogen in tropical, subtropical and temperate regions of the world. We investigated the induced defence responses against tomato bacterial wilt by the application of acibenzolar‐S‐methyl (ASM) and Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pf2) alone or in combination. Seedling treatments of tomato plants with either Pf2 or ASM significantly reduced disease severity of bacterial wilt (58 and 56% disease reduction, respectively) of tomato plants. The highest disease reduction (72%) resulted from a combined application of both Pf2 and ASM. The application of ASM alone increased seedlings biomass relative to infected control with 64.3%. Changes in the activities of polyphenol oxidase (PPO), ß‐glucosidase (ß‐GL) and peroxidase (PO) in tomato after the application of ASM and Pf2 and inoculation with Rs were studied. Significant changes (P ≤ 0.05) in the activities of PPO, ß‐GL and PO were found. These results indicate that the future integrated disease management programmes against tomato bacterial wilt may be enhanced by including foliar sprays and soil drench of ASM and P. fluorescens. This is the first report of the use of both ASM and Pf2 to control the tomato bacterial wilt disease under field conditions.
Impaired renal response to portal infusion of hypertonic saline in adriamycin‐treated rats
Authors: Jirakulsomchok Dusit , Napawachirahat Supitcha , Kunbootsri Narupon , Suttitum Tunda , Wannanon Panakaporn , Wyss James Michael , Roysommuti Sanya
Published: May 2012

The hepatorenal reflex plays an important role in water and salt homeostasis by matching renal excretion to gastrointestinal absorption. This homeostatic mechanism is impaired in nephrotic rats. The present study tested the hypothesis that, in nephrotic rats, the renal sodium excretion response to hypertonic saline infusion is impaired due to decreased sensitivity of the hepatoportal sodium‐sensing mechanism.

The present study was performed in control and adriamycin (ADR)‐induced nephrotic syndrome rats. After baseline data collection, urinary sodium (UNaV) and potassium (UKV) excretion responses were tested following continuous infusion of hypertonic NaCl solution (20 μL/min for 30 min) into either the femoral or mesenteric vein. A second series of experiments tested hepatic and renal nerve responses to continuous mesenteric vein infusion of hypertonic NaCl (10 μL/s for 30 s).

Compared with control rats, nephrotic rats displayed significantly lower baseline UNaV and UKV excretion. In control rats, mesenteric compared with femoral vein infusion of hypertonic NaCl produced a more rapid and greater increase in UNaV. In contrast, in nephrotic rats, femoral and mesenteric vein infusion caused similar increases in UNaV and the maximum increases in UNaV to either route of infusion were much lower in nephrotic than control rats. Furthermore, portal hypertonic saline infusion caused greater increases in hepatic nerve activity and greater decreases in renal nerve activity in control compared with nephrotic rats.

These data suggest that, in rats, adriamycin treatment decreases hepatoportal sodium‐sensing sensitivity, leading to marked impairment of hepatorenal reflex responses, potentially contributing to salt and water retention.
Do we have to stop anticoagulant and platelet‐inhibitor treatments during proctological surgery?
Authors: Pigot F. , Juguet F. , Bouchard D. , Castinel A.
Published: May 2012

Aim  This prospective observation study evaluated the incidence of secondary bleeding after proctological surgery without interruption of oral anticoagulant or platelet‐inhibitor treatments.

Method  The number of episodes of postoperative bleeding was identified prospectively from the day of surgery to the last follow‐up visit in consecutive patients operated on during 2010 in two units dedicated to proctology.

Results  A total of 2513 procedures were performed in 2314 patients (1379 men), 46 ± 16 years of age. Secondary bleeding occurred after 115 (4.6%) procedures, no later than day 24 after surgery, requiring rehospitalization in 86% of cases and further surgery and/or transfusion in 36%. The highest frequency was noted after surgery for haemorrhoids (haemorrhoidopexy, 7.9%; haemorrhoidectomy, 6.2%) (P = NS and transanal excision of rectal tumours (6.5%). On multivariate analysis, the frequency was significantly increased by clopidogrel (15%) [relative risk (RR) = 10). In patients on oral anticoagulants, bleeding occurred in 23% (RR = 5.8) if the anticoagulants were not interrupted and in 57% (RR = 42) if the anticoagulants were discontinued and replaced with heparin.

Conclusion  During proctological surgery the overall risk of postoperative bleeding is low, but it can occur up to 3 weeks after surgery and is often severe. Maintenance treatment with oral anticoagulants is the most important risk factor, aggravated by a change to heparin. Clopidogrel also significantly increases the bleeding risk.
Transgenic tobacco plants as production platform for biologically active human interleukin 2 and its fusion with proteinase inhibitors
Authors: Redkiewicz Patrycja , Więsyk Aneta , Góra‐Sochacka Anna , Sirko Agnieszka
Published: May 2012

Transgenic plants offer a low‐cost approach for the production of pharmaceutically important and commercially valuable recombinant proteins. Our studies were focused on the plant‐based production of human interleukin 2 (hIL‐2) and its fusion with proteinase inhibitors, either SPI2 from Galleria mellonella or CMTI from Cucurbita maxima. Finally, five plant expression cassettes were obtained. Three of them contained the single cDNA encoding CMTI I, SPI2 and hIL‐2, respectively, while two of them contained the translational fusion, SPI2::hIL‐2 and CMTI::hIL‐2. In all cases, the transgenes were controlled by the RbcS1 promoter and terminator and the recombinant proteins were targeted to the endoplasmic reticulum. After tobacco transformation, five groups of transgenic plants were obtained and analysed. The level of recombinant proteins was estimated either by Western blot or by ELISA. The biological activity of plant‐produced hIL‐2 alone or in a fusion with SPI2 or CMTI was confirmed using the mammalian cells proliferation assay. The activities of proteinase inhibitors were confirmed in proteolysis assay using azocoll as a substrate. The usefulness of using proteinase inhibitor CMTI I in a fusion with hIL‐2 as a protective agent against trypsin digestion was demonstrated.
Correlation between anti‐interferon‐β binding and neutralizing antibodies in interferon‐β‐treated multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Jensen P. E. H. , Sellebjerg F. , Søndergaard H. B. , Sørensen P. S.
Published: May 2012

Background and purpose

Measurements of binding antibodies (BAbs), neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) and MX1 mRNA expression are used to analyse the immunological reactions in patients with MS treated with IFN‐β. The correlations between these are yet not fully understood.

Methods

We measured BAbs and NAbs to IFN‐β in 110 serum samples from 83 patients with MS treated with IFN‐β, and in a subgroup, antibody titre was compared with corresponding expressions of MX1 mRNA. The methods used were capture ELISA assay, luciferase reporter gene assay and mRNA RT‐PCR for MX1 gene expression.

Results

There were significant correlations between binding, neutralizing and MX1 results. Cut‐off values are suggested for the definition of samples of BAbs and NAbs as negative, positive and grey zones. Naturally occurring groups of low and high antibody titres were identified by the correlation between BAbs and NAbs, probably as a result of an immunological maturation process of antibodies. The low‐titre group had lower correlations between BAbs and NAbs than the high‐titre group.

Conclusions

High correlation is demonstrated between the results obtained by the three methods, and we suggest the possibility of using ELISA measurements of BAbs to identify patients with high titres of anti‐IFN‐β antibodies that block the biological response to IFN‐β. Ιn patients with low titres, we suggest to supplement ELISA with measurement of MX1 mRNA to establish whether the bioavailability of IFN‐β is preserved.
Lmx1a regulates dopamine transporter gene expression during ES cell differentiation and mouse embryonic development
Authors: Chung Sangmi , Kim Chun‐Hyung , Kim Kwang‐Soo
Published: May 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 122, 244–250.

Midbrain dopaminergic neurons are implicated in various neurological and psychiatric diseases as well as drug addiction. Thus, the study of their generation and maintenance is pivotal to further our understanding of these disease‐underlying mechanisms and development of novel therapeutics. Here, using an embryonic stem cell in vitro differentiation system and mutant dreher mouse, we showed that Lmx1a, an early regulator of midbrain dopamine neural progenitor phenotype specification, is also involved in the regulation of midbrain dopaminergic maturation by regulating gene expression of the dopamine transporter. Forced expression of Lmx1a induced dopamine transporter expression precociously in immature dopaminergic neurons, accompanied by significant increase in specific dopamine uptake. Lmx1a binds to well‐conserved sequences in the dopamine transporter promoter region, and this binding sequence directs Lmx1a‐dependent activation of reporter gene expression. Furthermore, during mouse embryonic development, dopamine transporter was more severely affected by Lmx1a mutation compared to other dopamine markers such as tyrosine hydroxylase and dopa decarboxylase, again supporting the role of Lmx1a in midbrain dopaminergic maturation in vivo. Thus, this study demonstrates that dopamine transporter is a direct target of Lmx1a and emphasizes a novel role of Lmx1a as one of regulators of mature midbrain dopaminergic neurotransmitter phenotypes.
Blood markers of oxidative stress in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Skoumalová Alice , Hort Jakub
Published: May 2012

Alzheimer′s disease (AD) represents a highly common form of dementia, but can be diagnosed in the earlier stages before dementia onset. Early diagnosis is crucial for successful therapeutic intervention. The introduction of new diagnostic biomarkers for AD is aimed at detecting underlying brain pathology. These biomarkers reflect structural or biochemical changes related to AD. Examination of cerebrospinal fluid has many drawbacks; therefore, the search for sensitive and specific blood markers is ongoing. Investigation is mainly focused on upstream processes, among which oxidative stress in the brain is of particular interest. Products of oxidative stress may diffuse into the blood and evaluating them can contribute to diagnosis of AD. However, results of blood oxidative stress markers are not consistent among various studies, as documented in this review. To find a specific biochemical marker for AD, we should concentrate on specific metabolic products formed in the brain. Specific fluorescent intermediates of brain lipid peroxidation may represent such candidates as the composition of brain phospholipids is unique. They are small lipophilic molecules and can diffuse into the blood stream, where they can then be detected. We propose that these fluorescent products are potential candidates for blood biomarkers of AD.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone contact sensitization: diverging trends in subgroups of IVDK patients in a period of 19 years
Authors: Uter Wolfgang , Gefeller Olaf , Geier Johannes , Schnuch Axel
Published: May 2012

Background. The preservative methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCI)/methylisothiazo‐ linone (MI) is an important allergen, and has thus been subject to regulation in some areas of exposure, mainly in cosmetics.

Objectives. To examine whether a decline in sensitization prevalence and intensity of elicitation (by the patch test) can be observed, either overall, or in certain subgroups defined by causative exposures.

Methods. On the basis of long‐term contact allergy surveillance data collected by the Information Network of Departments of Dermatology (www.ivkd.org), 1992–2010, in the course of 171 883 consultations, the time trend of (different grades of) positive patch test reactions to MCI/MI (0.01% aqua) was examined in an age‐stratified analysis.

Results. The overall frequency of positive patch test reactions was 2.33% (95% confidence interval 2.26–2.4%). No significant overall trend of positive reactions or of the distribution of +, ++ and + + + reactions (p > 0.05) was observed, similarly to what was found for patients in whom cosmetics were recorded as causative exposure (p = 0.55). In contrast, in patients with occupational contact dermatitis who were < 40 years of age, a significant increase in prevalence, by 0.87 percentage points per decade, was identified (p = 0.018).

Conclusions. Both applications of MCI/MI, cosmetic and industrial, should be the target of further preventive efforts.
Zoledronic acid suppresses mineralization through direct cytotoxicity and osteoblast differentiation inhibition
Authors: Patntirapong Somying , Singhatanadgit Weerachai , Chanruangvanit Chatvadee , Lavanrattanakul Kwankamol , Satravaha Yodhathai
Published: May 2012

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 713–720

Background:  Zoledronic acid (ZA) is prescribed to treat various metabolic bone diseases. Despite its efficacy in preventing bone loss, ZA has been linked to osteonecrosis of the jaw in several reports. However, a mechanism underlying this occurrence is still unclear.

Objective:  This study was to investigate causative roles of ZA on osseous cellular activities of pre‐osteoblastic cell line MC3T3‐E1 (MC3T3) and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC).

Methods:  Morphological analysis, RT‐PCR, annexin V/PI staining, together with mineralization, cell viability, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity assays were performed.

Results:  Zoledronic acid treatment decreased bone nodule formation at all concentrations tested (0.01–100 μM). Cell morphologies of both cell types were altered from their normal appearances after the addition of ZA (≥5 μM), and cell viability was significantly inhibited at concentrations ≥0.1 μM for MC3T3 and at concentrations ≥10 μM for MSC. ZA (100 μM) induced apoptosis in MC3T3 and MSC. Furthermore, ALP activity from both cells was strongly reduced when exposed to ZA (≥1 μM for MC3T3 and ≥5 μM for MSC). ZA also down‐regulated Runx 2 and Col I mRNA expressions.

Conclusion:  With this in vitro study, ZA mediated defective bone mineralization by directly disrupting osteoblast/osteoprogenitor cellular activities at several levels, that is, cell proliferation, osteoblast differentiation, and osteoblast function of both pre‐osteoblastic cells and MSC.
Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulation, Receptor‐based Hypothesis: Application to Identify Novel Sirtuin 2 Inhibitors
Authors: Sakkiah Sugunadevi , Thangapandian Sundarapandian , Park Chanin , Son Minky , Lee Keun W.
Published: May 2012

Sirtuin, NAD+‐dependent histone deacetylase enzyme, emerged as a potential therapeutic target, and modulations by small molecules could be effective drugs for various diseases. Owing to the absence of complex structure of sirtuin 2 (SIRT2), sirtinol was docked in the NAD+ binding site and subjected to 5‐nseconds molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. LigandScout was used to develop hypotheses based on 3‐representative SIRT2 complex structures from MD. Three structure‐based hypotheses are generated and merged to form dynamics hypothesis. The dynamics hypothesis was validated using test and decoy sets. The results showed that dynamic hypothesis represents the complementary features of SIRT2 active site. Dynamic hypothesis was used to screen ChemDiv database, and hits were filtered through ADMET, rule of five, and two different molecular docking studies. Finally, 21 molecules were selected as potent leads based on consensus score from LigandFit, Gold fitness score, binding affinity from VINA as well as based on the important interactions with critical residues in SIRT2 active site. Hence, we suggest that the dynamic hypothesis will be reliable in the identification of SIRT2 new lead as well as to reduce time and cost in the drug discovery process.
The effects of disclosure of sequential rhinomanometry scores on post‐septoplasty subjective scores of nasal obstruction: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Manestar D. , Braut T. , Kujundžić M. , Malvić G. , Velepič M. , Donadić Manestar I. , Matanić Lender D. , Starčević R.
Published: May 2012

Clin. Otolaryngol. 2012, 37, 176–180

Objective:  We sought to evaluate the effects of awareness of rhinomanometric results on subjective sensation of nasal breathing in patients after septoplasty.

Design:  Prospective randomised study.

Setting:  Clinical Hospital Rijeka.

Participants:  A study of 60 patients (45 M, 15 F) who underwent septoplasty was performed at the ENT Clinic, Clinical Hospital Rijeka. The patients were randomised into two groups; group A was shown their rhinomanometry scores at 3 months postoperatively, while group B remained unaware of their rhinomanometry results.

Main outcome measure:  The assumption is that in the same settings patients aware of their rhinomanometric results have better performances of their Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scale and thereby a better quality of life (QOL) after septoplasty.

Results:  The differences in rhinomanometric results and NOSE scale prior and after septoplasty were statistically significant (P < 0.001), all patients achieving better results after the operation. There was no statistically significant difference in resistance (F = 0.004; P = 0.948) and improvement of rhinomanometry results in postoperative measurements (F = 0.110; P = 0.896) between groups A and B. The symptoms measured by the NOSE scale were the same in both groups preoperatively and 1 month after septoplasty (F = 2.906; P = 0.094). Three months postoperatively in group A, the NOSE scale score was lower (M = 11.67; sd = 12.34) than in group B (M = 27.50; sd = 18.04).

Conclusions:  The results suggest that disclosing information to patients about their post‐septoplasty rhinomanometry results may improve subjective nasal breathing, and thus improve their QOL.
Computer‐assisted quantitative upper airway analysis following modified uvulopalatal flap and lateral pharyngoplasty for obstructive sleep apnoea: a prospective case‐controlled study
Authors: Hsu P.P. , Tan A.K.L. , Gan E.C. , Chan Y.H. , Goh M.M. , Lu P.K.S. , Howe W.L.
Published: May 2012

Clin. Otolaryngol. 2012, 37, 188–196

Objectives:  The study aims to perform static and dynamic quantitative assessment of the anatomical changes of the upper airway before and after modified uvulopalatal flap and lateral pharyngoplasty and comparison of the improvement in airway dimensions, collapsibility and extent of normalisation to that of control patients.

Design:  Prospective case‐controlled study.

Setting:  Computer‐assisted quantitative measurement is used to compare upper airway parameters before and after modified uvulopalatal flap and lateral pharyngoplasty in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).

Participants:  Patients with obstructive sleep apnoea diagnosed on sleep study and failed positive airway pressure therapy.

Main outcome measures:  Sleep study results, upper airway parameters and symptom score following surgery and its comparison to normal patients to assess the degree and extent of normalisation.

Results:  Thirty‐five study and 32 control subjects were recruited and completed the study. All the retropalatal airway dimensions like area, transverse diameter, longitudinal diameter and collapsibility showed statistically significant improvement following surgery. The success rate of this surgery is 43% (15 of 35) overall, 58% (14 of 24) for patients with isolated palatal obstruction and only 9% (1 of 11) for patients with multi‐level obstruction. Comparing obstructive sleep apnoea to the control subjects, there are obvious and logical differences in their biostatistics, sleep study parameters and airway dimensions. The postoperative obstructive sleep apnoea retropalatal longitudinal diameter has a higher tendency of normalising to be comparable to those of control patients.

Conclusions:  Modified uvulopalatal flap and lateral pharyngoplasty is an effective surgical technique for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea. The surgery increases the resting retropalatal dimensions and reduces the retropalatal collapsibility.