bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bovine Lactoferrin and Lactoferricin, a Peptide Derived from Bovine Lactoferrin, Inhibit Tumor Metastasis in Mice
Authors: Yoo Yung–Choon , Watanabe Shikiko , Watanabe Ryosuke , Hata Katsusuke , Shimazaki Kei–ichi , Azuma Ichiro
Published: August 2005

We investigated the effect of a bovine milk protein, lactoferrin (LF–B), and a pepsin–generated peptide of LF–B, lactoferricin (Lfcin–B), on inhibition of tumor metastasis produced by highly metastatic murine tumor cells, B16–BL6 melanoma and L5178Y–ML25 lymphoma cells, using experimental and spontaneous metastasis models in syngeneic mice. The subcutaneous (s.c.) administration of bovine apo–lactoferrin (apo–LF–B, 1 mg/mouse) and Lfcin–B (0.5 mg/monse) 1 day after tumor inoculation significantly inhibited liver and lung metastasis of L5178Y–ML25 cells. However, human apo–lactoferrin (apo–LF–H) and bovine holo–lactoferrin (holo–LF–B) at the dose of 1 mg/mouse failed to inhibit tumor metastasis of L5178Y–ML25 cells. Similarly, the s.c. administration of apo–LF–B as well as Lfcin–B, but not apo–LF–H and holo–LF–B, 1 day after tumor inoculation resulted in significant inhibition of lung metastasis of B16–BL6 cells in an experimental metastasis model. Furthermore, in in vivo analysis for tumor–induced angiogenesis, both apo–LF–B and Lfcin–B inhibited the number of tumor–induced blood vessels and suppressed tumor growth on day 8 after tumor inoculation. However, in a long–term analysis of tumor growth for up to 21 days after tumor inoculation, single administration of apo–LF–B significantly suppressed the growth of B16–BL6 cells throughout the examination period, whereas Lfcin–B showed inhibitory activity only during the early period (8 days). In spontaneous metastasis of B16–BL6 melanoma cells, multiple administration of both apo–LF–B and Lfcin–B into tumor–bearing mice significantly inhibited lung metastasis produced by B16–BL6 cells, though only apo–LF–B exhibited an inhibitory effect on tumor growth at the time of primary tumor amputation (on day 21) after tumor inoculation. These results suggest that apo–LF–B and Lfcin–B inhibit tumor metastasis through different mechanisms, and that the inhibitory activity of LF–B on tumor metastasis may he related to iron (Fe3+)–saturation.
Comparative Study on Germ Cell Mutation Induced by Urethane (Ethyl Carbamate) Gas and X‐rays in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Nomura Taisei , Kurokawa Nobuo
Published: August 2005

Although its mutagenicity has not been confirmed in mouse germ cells, urethane (ethyl carbamate) gas induces a significant increase of X‐linked recessive lethal mutations in the germ cells of Drosophila melanogaster. The mutation frequency increased as the exposure time was changed from 3.5 to 5.5 h. Mutations were also induced by X‐rays (20 to 40 Gy) and N‐methyl‐N‐nitrosourea (MNU) (0.06 to 0.10%). However, no significant increase of chromosomal changes (partial loss of the Y chromosome, total loss of X or Y, and translations) was produced by urethane, although these were readily induced by X‐rays. There were large and significant increases in chromosomal changes caused by X‐rays (20 Gy) compared to urethane (5.5 h) or MNU (0.06%). In contrast, there were no substantial differences among these three treatments as regards recessive lethal mutations.” Urethane‐induced DNA lesions detected as recessive lethals appear to be intragenic mutations. Complementation analysis with 15 reference single‐site loci (cistrons) in the zeste‐white region of the X chromosome revealed that 29 of 723 urethane‐induced recessive lethals were located in the zeste‐white region and all were restricted to a single locus. However, among 28 of 890 X‐ray‐induced lethals, 2 were non‐complementary to 2 or 3 adjacent loci, indicating deletions encompassing 2 or 3 loci. In addition, 3 of these lethal chromosomes included mutations outside the zeste‐white region. Another difference between urethane and X‐rays was in the distribution of mutation sites. Urethane‐induced mutations were strikingly non‐random with two hot spots at zw‐1 and zw‐2, whereas the distribution of X‐ray‐induced mutations was more nearly random.
In vivo Retrovirus‐mediated Herpes Simplex Virus Thymidine Kinase Gene Therapy Approach for Adult T Cell Leukemia in a Rat Model
Authors: Murata Ken , Fujita Masatoshi , Yamada Yasuaki , Higami Yoshikazu , Shimokawa Isao , Tsukasaki Kunihiro , Tanaka Yuetsu , Maeda Michiyuki , Furukawa Koichi , Yoshiki Takashi , Shiku Hiroshi , Tomonaga Masao
Published: August 2005

We have previously demonstrated that human T‐lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV‐tax‐expressing human T cell lines are selectively eliminated in the presence of aciclovir, using a retroviral vector carrying the herpes simplex virus thymidine kinasc (HSV TK) gene under the control of the long terminal repeat (LTR) of HTLV‐I. Based on these findingsin vitro, we investigated whether this system could also be effective in vivo, using a rat model. Following infection of the HTLV‐I‐trans‐formed and tot‐expressing rat T cell line TARS‐1 with this retrovirus (LNLTK virus), high levels of HSV TK expression were observed and resulted in increased susceptibility to ganciclovir (GCV). Tumors were generated by subcutaneous injection of TARS‐1 in newborn syngeneic WKA/H rats. While the tumors derived from infected TARS‐1 cells with control virus, as well as uninfected cells, continued to grow in all the rats with or without administration of GCV, those derived from LNLTK‐infected cells exhibited dramatic regression upon GCV treatment. These results indicate that the HTLV‐I LTR‐HSV TK system also causes selective elimination of HTLV‐I‐transformed, (ax‐expressing T cells in vivo. Therefore, our present study may provide a rationale for clinical gene therapy against adult T cell leukemia.
Second Primary Cancers Following Non‐Hodgkin's Lymphoma in Japan: Increased Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Tanaka Hideo , Tsukuma Hideaki , Teshima Hirofumi , Ajiki Wakiko , Koyama Yohko , Kinoshita Noriko , Masaoka Tohru , Oshima Akira
Published: August 2005

We evaluated the risk of development of second primary cancers, with particular reference to subsequent hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), in 592 patients diagnosed as non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL), at Osaka Medical Center for Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases. During 1978–1994, 2,163 person‐years of observation were accrued, and 27 of the patients developed a second primary cancer, yielding an observed‐to‐expected ratio (O/E) of 1.53 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.01–2.23]. Significant excess risk was noted for primary liver cancer (PLC; O/E=4.36, 95% CI=1.99–8.28; O =9) and non‐lymphocytic leukemia (O/E=26.17, 95% CI=5.26–76.46; O=3). The excess risk of PLC was relatively constant within the first 10 years after the NHL diagnosis. Patients who received chemotherapy as the NHL treatment had a significantly increased risk of PLC (O/E=5.91, 95% CI =2.70–11.23; O=9). Their clinical reports indicated that all nine patients with PLC were diagnosed as HCC, and eight of them had clinical and/or histologic evidence of cirrhosis at the time of HCC diagnosis. None of the nine patients had a history of blood transfusion between the first NHL treatment and the diagnosis of HCC. These findings suggested that Japanese NHL patients might have an increased risk of developing HCC, and they indicated the importance of medical surveillance for liver malignancies, as well as subsequent leukemias. Possible explanations for the excess risk of subsequent HCC are discussed.
Significance of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor and Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor Protein Expression in the Formation of Fibrotic Focus in Invasive Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast
Authors: Hasebe Takahiro , Imoto Shigeru , Ogura Tsutomu , Mukai Kiyoshi
Published: August 2005

A fibrotic focus (FF) is a scar‐like area within invasive dnctal carcinoma (IDC) of the breast, and has been shown to be a marker of high aggressiveness of IDC. In order to investigate the mechanism of FF formation in IDC, expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and flbroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) was studied. One hundred and forty‐nine IDCs were divided into solid tumors and scirrhous tumors. Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expression of bFGF and FGFR proteins in both tumor cells and fibroblasts forming FF. Scirrhous tumors with FF showed a significantly higher frequency of bFGF protein expression than those without (P=0.017), whereas, in solid tumors, the presence of FF was not significantly associated with the frequency of bFGF protein expression (P=0.143). In addition, scirrhous tumors showed a significantly higher frequency of FGFR protein expression than solid tumors (P=0.001). Among IDCs having FF and expressing bFGF protein, a significantly larger number of fibroblasts expressing FGFR protein within FF was observed in scirrhous tumors than in solid tumors (P=0.016). The results of this study suggest that in scirrhous tumors the interaction between tumor cells and stromal fibroblasts plays an important role in the formation of FF, and that there is a paracrine mechanism between bFGF protein from tumor cells and FGFR protein in fibroblasts.
Alpha‐toxin is produced by skin colonizing Staphylococcus aureus and induces a T helper type 1 response in atopic dermatitis
Authors: Breuer K. , Wittmann M. , Kempe K. , Kapp A. , Mai U. , Dittrich‐Breiholz O. , Kracht M. , Mrabet‐Dahbi S. , Werfel T.
Published: August 2005

Background
Staphylococcus aureus is a well known trigger factor of atopic dermatitis (AD). Besides the superantigens, further exotoxins are produced by S. aureus and may have an influence on the eczema.

Objective
To explore the impact of staphylococcal α‐toxin on human T cells, as those represent the majority of skin infiltrating cells in AD.

Methods
Adult patients with AD were screened for cutaneous colonization with α‐toxin producing S. aureus. As α‐toxin may induce necrosis, CD4+ T cells were incubated with sublytic α‐toxin concentrations. Proliferation and up‐regulation of IFN‐γ on the mRNA and the protein level were assessed. The induction of t‐bet translocation in CD4+ T cells was detected with the Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay.

Results
Thirty‐four percent of the patients were colonized with α‐toxin producing S. aureus and α‐toxin was detected in lesional skin of these patients by immunohistochemistry. Sublytic α‐toxin concentrations induced a marked proliferation of isolated CD4+ T cells. Microarray analysis indicated that α‐toxin induced particularly high amounts of IFN‐γ transcripts. Up‐regulation of IFN‐γ was confirmed both on the mRNA and the protein level. Stimulation of CD4+ T cells with α‐toxin resulted in DNA binding of t‐bet, known as a key transcription factor involved into primary T helper type 1 (Th1) commitment.

Conclusion
α‐toxin is produced by S. aureus isolated from patients with AD. We show here for the first time that sublytic α‐toxin concentrations activate T cells in the absence of antigen‐presenting cells. Our results indicate that α‐toxin is relevant for the induction of a Th1 like cytokine response. In AD, this facilitates the development of Th1 cell dominated chronic eczema.
Birch pollen‐related food allergy to legumes: identification and characterization of the Bet v 1 homologue in mungbean (Vigna radiata), Vig r 1
Authors: Mittag D. , Vieths S. , Vogel L. , Wagner‐Loew D. , Starke A. , Hunziker P. , Becker W.‐M. , Ballmer‐Weber B. K.
Published: August 2005

Background
Recently allergic reactions to legumes mediated by Bet v 1‐homologous food allergens were described for soy and peanut. In this study we assessed allergic reactions to another legume, to mungbean seedlings, and identified its Bet v 1‐homologous allergen Vig r 1.

Methods
Ten patients were selected who had a history of allergic reactions to mungbean seedlings and a respiratory allergy to birch pollen. The Bet v 1 homologue in mungbean seedlings, Vig r 1, was cloned by a PCR strategy, expressed in Escherichia coli, and purified by preparative SDS‐PAGE. In all sera, specific IgE against birch pollen, Bet v 1, Bet v 2, Vig r 1, and the Bet v 1 homologues in soy (Gly m 4) and cherry (Pru av 1) was determined by CAP‐FEIA. Cross‐reactivity of specific IgE with Vig r 1, Bet v 1, Gly m 4, and Pru av 1 was assessed by immunoblot inhibition. Expression of Vig r 1 during development of mungbean seedlings and under wounding stress was analysed by immunoblotting. The Vig r 1 double band was analysed by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight and liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS).

Results
All patients were sensitized to birch pollen and Bet v 1, 20% to Bet v 2, and 90% to Gly m 4. Seventy percent of the patients showed IgE binding to a double band at 15 kDa in mungbean extract that was inhibited after pre‐incubation of sera with rBet v 1. PCR cloning revealed that the mungbean homologue of Bet v 1 had a molecular weight of 16.2 kDa, a calculated pI of 4.6% and 42.8% amino acid sequence identity with Bet v 1. MS analysis confirmed similarity of the double band with the deduced Vig r 1 sequence, but also indicated the existence of other Vig r 1 isoforms. ImmunoCAP analysis detected IgE against Vig r 1 in 80% of the sera. IgE binding to Vig r 1 was inhibited with Gly m 4 in six of six and with rPru av 1 in four of six patients. Vig r 1 expression occurred during development of seedlings and was increased by wounding stress.

Conclusions
Food allergy to mungbean seedlings can be caused by primary sensitization to birch pollen and is mediated by Vig r 1 in the majority of the patients with birch pollen‐related allergy to mungbean seedlings.
Microarray‐based survey of a subset of putative olfactory genes in the mosquito Anopheles gambiae
Authors: Biessmann H. , Nguyen Q. K. , Le D. , Walter M. F.
Published: August 2005

Female Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes respond to odours emitted from humans in order to find a blood meal, while males are nectar feeders. This complex behaviour is controlled at several levels, but is probably initiated by the interaction of various molecules in the antennal sensilla. Important molecules in the early odour recognition events include odourant binding proteins (OBPs), which may be involved in odour molecule transport, odourant receptors (ORs) that are expressed in the chemosensory neurones and odour degrading enzymes (ODEs). To obtain a better understanding of the expression patterns of genes that may be involved in host odour reception in females, we generated a custom microarray to study their steady state mRNA levels in chemosensory tissues, antennae and palps. These results were supported by quantitative RT PCR. Our study detected several OBPs that are expressed at significantly higher levels in antennae and palps of females vs. males, while others showed the opposite expression pattern. Most OBPs are slightly down‐regulated 24 h after blood feeding, but some, especially those with higher expression levels in males, are up‐regulated in blood‐fed females, suggesting a shift in blood‐fed females from human host seeking to nectar feeding.
The glass transition approach to determination of drying protocols for colour stability in dehydrated pear slices
Authors: Ling Hang‐Ing , Birch John , Lim Miang
Published: August 2005

Colour stability in dehydrated fruit is often attained by use of sulphite treatment to inhibit browning during processing and storage. However, colour stability may be able to be conferred on products by ensuring that the molecular mobility is restricted in dried fruit by drying to sufficiently low moisture to raise the glass transition temperature (under mild conditions). Pear slices were dehydrated at a low temperature (40 °C) to a low final moisture content (below 5%) after it was shown that, for a moisture content of 22% (which is the moisture content of commercial dehydrated pears) pretreatment with sulphite would be necessary to stabilise the colour. The use of longer drying regimes resulted in a moisture content where the food matrix would be closer to the glassy state and conferred colour stability on the dehydrated product compared to a product containing more moisture. For these low‐moisture products, pretreatment with sulphite would not be necessary to preserve colour stability.
The spatial pattern of air seeding thresholds in mature sugar maple trees
Authors: CHOAT BRENDAN , LAHR ELEANOR C. , MELCHER PETER J. , ZWIENIECKI MACIEJ A. , HOLBROOK N MICHELE
Published: August 2005

Air seeding threshold (Pa) of xylem vessels from current year growth rings were measured along the vertical axis of mature sugar maple trees (Acer saccharum Marsh.), with sampling points in primary leaf veins, petioles, 1‐, 3‐, and 7‐year‐old branches, large branches, the trunk and roots. The air seeding threshold was taken as the pressure required to force nitrogen gas through intervessel pit membranes. Although all measurements were made on wood produced in the same year, Pa varied between different regions of A. saccharum, with distal organs such as leaves and petioles having lower Pa than basal regions. Mean (SE) Pa ranged from 1.0 (± 0.1) MPa in primary leaf veins to 4.8 (± 0.1) MPa in the main trunk. Roots exhibited a Pa of 2.8 (± 0.2) MPa, lower than all other regions of the tree except leaf veins and petioles. Mean xylem vessel diameter increased basipetally, with the widest vessels occurring in the trunk and roots. Within the shoot, wider vessels had greater air seeding thresholds, contrasting with trends previously reported. However, further experimentation revealed that differences in Pa between regions of the stem were driven by the presence of primary xylem conduits, rather than differences in vessel diameter. In 1‐year‐old branches, Pa was significantly lower in primary xylem vessels than in adjacent secondary xylem vessels. This explained the lower values of Pa measured in petioles and leaf veins, which possessed a greater ratio of primary xylem to secondary xylem than other regions. The difference in Pa between primary and secondary xylem was attributed to the greater area of primary cell wall (pit membrane) exposed in primary xylem conduits with helical or annular thickening.
NO signalling in cytokinin‐induced programmed cell death
Authors: CARIMI FRANCESCO , ZOTTINI MICHELA , COSTA ALEX , CATTELAN IRENE , DE MICHELE ROBERTO , TERZI MARIO , LO SCHIAVO FIORELLA
Published: August 2005

Cell death can be induced by cytokinin 6‐benzylaminopurine (BA) at high dosage in suspension‐cultured Arabidopsis cells. Herein, we provide evidence that BA induces nitric oxide (NO) synthesis in a dose‐dependent manner. A reduction in cell death can be observed when the cytokinin is supplemented with the NO scavenger 2‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethylimidazoline‐1‐oxyl‐3‐oxide (cPTIO) or the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitors: 2‐aminoethyl‐isothiourea (AET) and NG.‐monomethyl‐ l‐arginine ( l‐NMMA), which suggests that NO is produced via a NOS and is a signalling component of this form of programmed cell death. In BA‐treated cells, mitochondrial functionality is altered via inhibition of respiration. This inhibition can be prevented by addition of either cPTIO or AET implying that NO acts at the mitochondrial level.
Climatic adaptation in Picea abies progenies is affected by the temperature during zygotic embryogenesis and seed maturation
Authors: JOHNSEN ØYSTEIN , FOSSDAL CARL GUNNAR , NAGY NINA , MØLMANN JØRGEN , DæHLEN OLA GRAM , SKRØPPA TORE
Published: August 2005

The temperature during maternal reproduction affects adaptive traits in progenies of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L) Karst.). Seed production in a cold environment advances bud set and cold acclimation in the autumn and dehardening and flushing in spring, whereas a warm reproductive environment delays timing of these traits. We repeated crosses between the same parents and produced seeds under contrasting temperatures. Elevated temperatures were applied at different time points from female meiosis to embryogenesis, followed by full‐sib progeny tests in common environments. We measured timing of terminal bud formation, cold acclimation in the autumn and transcription levels of conifer phytochromes PhyO, PhyN, PhyP, and the class IV chitinase PaChi4 in these tests. No progeny differences were found that could be related to temperature differences during prezygotic stages and fertilization. In contrast, progeny performance was strongly associated with the degree‐days from proembryo to mature seeds. Progenies with a warm embryonic history formed terminal buds later, were less hardy and expressed lower transcription levels of the Phy and PaChi4 genes. We hypothesize that temperature during zygotic embryogenesis and seed maturation regulates an ‘epigenetic memory’ in the progeny, involving differential expression of genes that may regulate bud phenology, cold acclimation and embryogenesis in Norway spruce.
The impact of overweight on the development of diabetes after heart transplantation
Authors: Kahn J , Rehak P , Schweiger M , Wasler A , Wascher T , Tscheliessnigg KH , Müller H
Published: August 2005

Abstract: Background: Overweight is defined with a body mass index (BMI) >25. A BMI >25 is known as an independent risk factor for increased morbidity and mortality. The influence of an increased BMI on the development of diabetes and on survival after heart transplantation (HTX) was investigated.

Methods: A total of 137 patients (116 men, 21 women), who underwent HTX at our Department from 1986 to 2002, were included in the study. For group stratification, the pre‐operative BMI values were taken (group I: BMI ≤25; group II: BMI > 25). Groups were compared for primary disease, age and sex, development of renal failure, development of diabetes, and survival. The probability of survival and the freedom‐from‐diabetes interval were calculated by the use of Kaplan–Meier method.

Results: No significant differences between groups I and II were found concerning primary disease, age and sex, and occurrence of renal failure. There was a tendency towards increased survival (p = 0.18) in group I. Patients of group II developed diabetes after HTX more frequently than those of group I (p < 0.001). Cox regression revealed that pre‐operative BMI >25 is a highly significant independent risk factor for post‐operative development of diabetes mellitus (DM) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Overweight prior to HTX appears to negatively influence long‐term survival after HTX, although this difference did not reach statistical significance. Pre‐operative overweight is a significant and independent risk factor for the development of post‐transplant diabetes.
A T−786C polymorphism in 5′‐flanking region of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene and endothelium‐dependent arterial dilation in Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Guang‐da X. , Qiong‐shu W. , Wen J.
Published: August 2005

Objective  Several studies have shown that the T−786C polymorphism in 5′‐flanking region of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene is associated with coronary artery disease in non‐diabetic population. In the present study, we attempted to assess whether the T−786C polymorphism of eNOS gene is associated with endothelial dysfunction Type 2 diabetes.

Research design and methods  A total of 162 Type 2 diabetic men were studied. PCR/allele‐specific probes were used to analyse the T−786C polymorphism of eNOS gene, and high resolution ultrasound was used to measure brachial artery diameter at rest, after reactive hyperaemia and after sublingual glyceryltrinitrate.

Results  The flow‐mediated arterial dilation among subjects with T/C or C/C was 3.73 ± 0.50%, which was significantly lower than that in subjects with T/T (4.15 ± 0.49%) (P = 0.000). On multiple linear regression analysis, the presence of C allele, mean blood pressure, low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) and serum lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)] were independent determinants for reduced endothelium‐dependent arterial dilation (R2 = 0.175, P = 0.0021). The flow‐mediated arterial dilation in smokers with T/C or C/C was significantly lower than that in smokers with T/T (P < 0.001), but not in non‐smokers. In addition, the presence of C allele, LDL and Lp(a) were independent determinants for reduced endothelium‐dependent arterial dilation (R2 = 0.258, P = 0.0017) in smokers, but not in non‐smokers.

Conclusion  The C allele of T−786C polymorphism of eNOS gene is a genetic risk factor for endothelial dysfunction in Type 2 diabetic patients, especially among smokers.
Nocturnal neuropathic pain in diabetic patients may be caused by spinal stenosis
Authors: Goldman S. M.
Published: August 2005

Background  Nocturnal exacerbation of neuropathic symptoms (NENS) is a recognized symptom of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Symptoms are often worse in bed, may not be controlled with medication and disrupt sleep patterns. NENS can also be present in patients with spinal stenosis (SS), with or without concomitant peripheral neuropathy and may be related to sleep position. Extension position of the spine decreases the diameter of both the central canal and lateral recesses, which may compress or otherwise affect nerves controlling sensation from the feet and legs. Altering sleep position can reduce or eliminate symptoms. Modifications include sleeping in a recliner, with a pillow underneath the thighs if sleeping on the back, between the thighs if sleeping on the side, or under the stomach transversely if sleeping on the stomach. In addition, reducing nerve compression during the day by full‐time use of a wheeled walker set to induce lumbosacral flexion may reduce NENS.

Methods and results  Retrospective patient review identified patients presenting with DPN including NENS, who noted alteration of NENS by changing body position, who also had walking and standing limitations consistent with SS. They underwent ‘positional testing’, involving modification of sleep position, and full‐time 3‐day use of a rollator walker, which may reduce symptoms of SS. Most reported good or excellent improvement of NENS.

Conclusions  NENS, especially if affected by body position, or if accompanying a pattern of walking limitation improved with wheeled support, should lead to suspicion of SS. Positional testing should be considered in possible cases. Clinical use and further investigation are indicated.
The Corporate Management of Human Resources Under Conditions of Decentralization
Authors: Hendry Chris
Published: August 2005

This paper relates an aspect of recent corporate change – namely, decentralization – to the strategic management of human resources. Corporate attention to human resources in the decentralized organization is of particular interest because it represents a significant departure from decentralized norms, and signals a major revision of thinking about the role, status, and activities of the personnel function. At the centre of the argument is the notion of the internal labour market, a hitherto neglected theme in treatments of decentralization. The paper begins by outlining the circumstances that encouraged decentralization in the 1980s. It then sets out the influences on the operation of a corporate internal labour market, before identifying initiatives taken by some firms to offset the shortcomings of decentralization without overturning it. In the process, the shift in the centre of gravity of the corporate personnel function, away from industrial relations management and towards human resource development, has been reinforced.
Programmed Strategic Decision Making: The View From Mintzberg's Window1
Authors: Cray David , Haines George H. , Mallory Geoffrey R.
Published: August 2005

A class of decisions, asset mix decisions made by pension fund managers, which exhibit characteristics of both programmed and strategic choices is examined in this paper. The decisions are classified using the scheme developed by Mintzberg et al., (1976) to highlight the circumstances under which strategic decisions may be programmed. The types of strategic decisions which lend themselves to programming are considered. The advantages and disadvantages of programming strategic decisions are also discussed.
Systems Analysis of Failures as a Quality Management Tool
Authors: Fortune Joyce , Peters Geoff
Published: August 2005

Managers and quality practitioners are familiar with the linkage of the words quality and systems to denote a systematic approach to quality, as in BS5750 Quality Systems, say. There is, however, a more specialized use of the word systems that indicates the application of systems thinking and which gives rise to the adjective systemic (of, or pertaining to a system) rather than systematic (carrying out in a planned and orderly fashion). This paper examines the potential for applying systems thinking to the management of quality with particular reference to one branch of systems work: the study of failures. The paper draws comparisons between quality and systems analysis of failures and points out that some failures could equally well be described as quality problems and vice versa. The paper argues that problems at the system level are frequently overlooked or avoided by those undertaking quality improvement programmes, partly because individuals within an organization may experience only different, smaller aspects of a systemic problem and partly because the problem solvers may lack the means or motivation to tackle complex, poorly defined problem messes. It then goes on to suggest that use of a meta–method for problem analysis would enable such problems to be addressed. One such method that has been widely applied in the study of failures, the failures method, is described in detail and its application to a failure/quality problem is outlined.
SELECTIVE UNEMPLOYMENT: THE CREEPING CRISIS
Authors: GISBY JOHN
Published: August 2005

“Machinery will go on developing, with the purpose of saving men labour, till the mass of the people attain real leisure enough to be able to appreciate the pleasures of life; till, in fact, they have attained such mastery over Nature that they no longer fear starvation as a penalty for not working more than enough…. They would soon find out that the less work they did, the more desirable a dwelling place the earth would be.”
THE POLITICS OF RETREAT
Authors: KEANE JOHN
Published: August 2005

All the past history of the world testifies against the immortality of state power, and the earth is covered with the ruins of the fallen.

[Johann K. Bluntschli, Lehre vom modernen Stat (1875).]
Literature review
Authors: Hay R
Published: August 2005

Onychomycoses have been divided into several categories depending on the site of nail penetration by the fungus. However, not all cases entirely fit with this classification, such as potentially the deep spread of superficial fungi, suggesting alternative penetration routes.

A recent European study showed that the prevalence of onychomycosis may be as high as 26.9%. The main causative agent varies according to climate; dermatophyte infections are common worldwide (70% in Europe).

Mycological examination is currently the preferred diagnostic method, despite a false‐negative rate of 30%. A clinical diagnostic aid that can be used alongside mycological tests is currently being developed. Newer diagnostic approaches include calcofluor, which stains fungi in nails, and molecular genetic techniques for species recognition (e.g. RFLP). Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) can also distinguish between failed treatment and reinfection.

Onychomycosis can be treated with numerous oral and topical agents alone or in combination. In some studies, combination therapy appears more effective than monotherapy.
The development and process evaluation of an information‐based intervention for pregnant women aimed at addressing rates of caesarean section
Authors: Walker Ruth , Turnbull Deborah , Pratt Nicole , Wilkinson Chris
Published: August 2005

Objective  Few strategies aimed at addressing rising rates of caesarean section have explicitly involved information‐based approaches for pregnant women. This study describes the development and evaluation of such an intervention for pregnant women, encompassing pamphlets and a peer support network (PSN).

Design  Process evaluation.

Setting  The study was undertaken at a metropolitan teaching hospital in Adelaide, South Australia.

Population  A consecutive sample of pregnant women attending the ultrasound clinic over a two‐month period, recruited at 18 weeks of gestation.

Methods  Participants received two pamphlets at 18 weeks of gestation and information on a PSN at around 28 weeks of gestation. A questionnaire was sent to women at seven weeks postnatal, asking them to evaluate the intervention.

Main outcome measures  The extent to which the intervention resources were used and participants were satisfied with the resources they received.

Results  Ninety‐two women returned questionnaires (response rate of 62%). Women generally resisted engaging with the informational resources, citing irrelevance to their situation, for example, 53% (49/92) read all of the pamphlets. None of the women used the PSN. Women who had experienced childbirth previously and those of higher education were significantly more likely to read the pamphlets. While generally satisfied with pamphlet content, one in five women reported feeling distressed by some of the information.

Conclusions  This exploratory study casts doubt on the notion of information provision for pregnant women as a panacea for addressing rising rates of caesarean section.
Prevalence ofLeucocytozoon marchouxiin the endangered Pink PigeonColumba mayeri
Authors: SWINNERTON K. J. , PEIRCE M. A. , GREENWOOD A. , CHAPMAN R. E. , JONES C. G.
Published: August 2005

The prevalence and density of infection with the haematozoan parasiteLeucocytozoon marchouxiwas studied in captive and free‐living Pink PigeonsColumba mayerion Mauritius between 1994 and 2002. Blood smears from adults, juveniles and squabs were screened. Overall prevalence ofL. marchouxiwas 30% and there were age class and year differences. Younger birds (≤ 1 year) were more often infected and had a higher density of infection than did older birds. High parasite levels were found in 6% of birds, all but one of which were less than 1 year old. Leucocytozoonosis has been recorded elsewhere in 20 out of 45 Pink Pigeons post‐mortem and was the primary cause of death in 15 birds. However, we detected no significant difference in the survival of infected and uninfected birds examined in this study, suggesting that only subclinical infections were detected and any mortality was probably due to additional contributing factors such as concurrent disease and food shortages. A smaller sample of smears from other columbid species was collected to examine their role as reservoir hosts. The parasite was probably introduced to Mauritius with exotic columbids, which may be partially resistant, but the Pink Pigeon has acquired sufficient immunity now to be a maintenance host for the parasite.
Mad tales from Bollywood: the impact of social, political, and economic climate on the portrayal of mental illness in Hindi films
Authors: Bhugra D.
Published: August 2005

Objective:  To study the portrayal of mental illness (especially psychosis) in Hindi films since 1950 and to study the influence of prevalent social, political and economic factors on each portrayal.

Method:  Using two encyclopaedias and one source book, films that had mental illness affecting one of the protagonists were identified. The social, economic and political factors were identified using history texts.

Results:  In the 1960s after India became a Republic, the political climate was one of idealism and as a result the portrayal of mental illness was gentle, more international in its outlook, and used psychoanalytic techniques. In the 1970s and 1980s, as a result of increased political and bureaucratic corruption and an unstable political climate, the portrayals became harder and psychopaths were portrayed more often. In the 1980s, the trend continued with female psychopaths, and avenging women emerged as a major force because the political and judicial systems were seen as impotent in delivering justice. In the 1990s, following economic liberalization, the women were seen and used as possessions in society and the cinema, and portrayals of stalking and morbid jealousy increased.

Conclusion:  Hindi films since the 1950s appear to have been influenced by changing cultural norms which in turn affected the way mental illness is portrayed.
Labour force activity by people with depression and anxiety disorders: a population‐level second‐order analysis
Authors: Waghorn G. , Chant D.
Published: August 2005

Objective: To identify the population‐level first‐ and second‐order effects among candidate correlates of labour force activity by people with ICD‐10 depression and anxiety disorders.

Method: Australian Bureau of Statistics multistage sampling strategies obtained a household sample of 37,580 individuals. Analyses were conducted using multiple binary logistic regression.

Results: The impact of depression and anxiety on labour force activity depended on the extent of employment restrictions, age and country of birth. Background second‐order effects help explain labour force participation and employment in the wider and predominantly healthy community. A significantly greater proportion of those receiving mental health treatment for anxiety and depression were not in the labour force.

Conclusion: These second‐order effects reveal the substantial impact of depression and anxiety disorders on labour force activity across the working life. Those with more severe employment restrictions appear to need more intensive and continuous forms of assistance.
Signal peptide hydrophobicity is critical for early stages in protein export by Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Zanen Geeske , Houben Edith N. G. , Meima Rob , Tjalsma Harold , Jongbloed Jan D. H. , Westers Helga , Oudega Bauke , Luirink Joen , van Dijl Jan Maarten , Quax Wim J.
Published: August 2005

Signal peptides that direct protein export in Bacillus subtilis are overall more hydrophobic than signal peptides in Escherichia coli. To study the importance of signal peptide hydrophobicity for protein export in both organisms, the α‐amylase AmyQ was provided with leucine‐rich (high hydrophobicity) or alanine‐rich (low hydrophobicity) signal peptides. AmyQ export was most efficiently directed by the authentic signal peptide, both in E. coli and B. subtilis. The leucine‐rich signal peptide directed AmyQ export less efficiently in both organisms, as judged from pulse‐chase labelling experiments. Remarkably, the alanine‐rich signal peptide was functional in protein translocation only in E. coli. Cross‐linking of in vitro synthesized ribosome nascent chain complexes (RNCs) to cytoplasmic proteins showed that signal peptide hydrophobicity is a critical determinant for signal peptide binding to the Ffh component of the signal recognition particle (SRP) or to trigger factor, not only in E. coli, but also in B. subtilis. The results show that B. subtilis SRP can discriminate between signal peptides with relatively high hydrophobicities. Interestingly, the B. subtilis protein export machinery seems to be poorly adapted to handle alanine‐rich signal peptides with a low hydrophobicity. Thus, signal peptide hydrophobicity appears to be more critical for the efficiency of early stages in protein export in B. subtilis than in E. coli.
Identifying the Potential Loss of Monitoring Wells Using an Uncertainty Analysis
Authors: Freedman Vicky L. , Waichler Scott R. , Cole Charles R. , Vermeul Vince R. , Bergeron Marcel P.
Published: August 2005

From the mid‐1940s through the 1980s, large volumes of waste water were discharged at the Hanford Site in southeastern Washington State, causing a large‐scale rise (>20 m) in the water table. When waste water discharges ceased in 1988, ground water mounds began to dissipate. This caused a large number of wells to go dry and has made it difficult to monitor contaminant plume migration. To identify monitoring wells that will need replacement, a methodology has been developed using a first‐order uncertainty analysis with UCODE, a nonlinear parameter estimation code. Using a three‐dimensional, finite‐element ground water flow code, key parameters were identified by calibrating to historical hydraulic head data. Results from the calibration period were then used to check model predictions by comparing monitoring wells’ wet/dry status with field data. This status was analyzed using a methodology that incorporated the 0.3 cumulative probability derived from the confidence and prediction intervals. For comparison, a nonphysically based trend model was also used as a predictor of wells’ wet/dry status. Although the numerical model outperformed the trend model, for both models, the central value of the intervals was a better predictor of a wet well status. The prediction interval, however, was more successful at identifying dry wells. Predictions made through the year 2048 indicated that 46% of the wells in the monitoring well network are likely to go dry in areas near the river and where the ground water mound is dissipating.
Delineating Alluvial Aquifer Heterogeneity Using Resistivity and GPR Data
Authors: Bowling Jerry C. , Rodriguez Antonio B. , Harry Dennis L. , Zheng Chunmiao
Published: August 2005

Conceptual geological models based on geophysical data can elucidate aquifer architecture and heterogeneity at meter and smaller scales, which can lead to better predictions of preferential flow pathways. The macrodispersion experiment (MADE) site, with >2000 measurements of hydraulic conductivity obtained and three tracer tests conducted, serves as an ideal natural laboratory for examining relationships between subsurface flow characteristics and geophysical attributes in fluvial aquifers. The spatial variation of hydraulic conductivity measurements indicates a large degree of site heterogeneity. To evaluate the usefulness of geophysical methods for better delineating fluvial aquifer heterogeneities and distribution of preferential flow paths, a surface grid of two‐dimensional ground penetrating radar (GPR) and direct current (DC) resistivity data were collected. A geological model was developed from these data that delineate four stratigraphic units with distinct electrical and radar properties including (from top to bottom) (1) a meandering fluvial system (MFS); (2) a braided fluvial system (BFS); (3) fine‐grained sands; and (4) a clay‐rich interval. A paleochannel, inferred by other authors to affect flow, was mapped in the MFS with both DC resistivity and GPR data. The channel is 2 to 4 m deep and, based on resistivity values, is predominantly filled with clay and silt. Comparing previously collected hydraulic conductivity measurements and tracer‐plume migration patterns to the geological model indicates that flow primarily occurs in the BFS and that the channel mapped in the MFS has no influence on plume migration patterns.
Column Studies of Anaerobic Carbon Tetrachloride Biotransformation with Hanford Aquifer Material
Authors: Niemet Michael R. , Semprini Lewis
Published: August 2005

Continuous‐flow and batch experiments were conducted using a column reactor system containing Hanford Aquifer material in order to assess the potential of in situ bioremediation of carbon tetrachloride (CT) at the Hanford site in south‐central Washington state. Benzoate and acetate were evaluated as primary substrates both in the presence and absence of nitrate as a potential electron acceptor. Each of the four resulting test conditions was first run under continuous‐flow mode until a pseudo–steady state was achieved and then switched to batch mode. The longer residence time of the batch portion of the test resulted in more complete transformations and helped elucidate zones of variable activity within the column. Reductions in CT concentration and chloroform (CF) production were observed in all test conditions. Benzoate generally supported faster and more complete CT transformations than acetate, even though substrate use and denitrification was more rapid for acetate. Sulfate was present in all cases; yet, sulfate reduction was never observed, even during extended absences of nitrate and nitrite. CT transformation was most rapid near the point of injection, with rates decreasing toward the effluent end of the column. These results indicate that the microbial population at Hanford is capable of transforming CT in the subsurface. However, methods to control the production of CF may be necessary before this technology can be successfully implemented in the field.
Presence of other species may counter seasonal decline in breeding success: a field experiment with pied flycatchersFicedula hypoleuca
Authors: Seppänen Janne‐Tuomas , Mönkkönen Mikko , T. Forsman Jukka
Published: August 2005

Seasonal decline in breeding success limits fitness in many bird species nesting in the temperate, boreal and arctic zones. Factors affecting this decline, especially if the decline is reduced, can thus have significant ecological and evolutionary importance. In an experiment designed to investigate fitness consequences of heterospecific attraction, no seasonal decline in breeding success was observed for pied flycatchersFicedula hypoleucabreeding in the presence of resident titmiceParusspp., whereas a pattern of steep decline was observed for birds breeding in areas where residents were removed. Randomisation of removal treatment and pied flycatcher territories with respect to arrival date leaves enhanced foraging that results from the presence of resident titmice during breeding as the best, albeit currently hypothetical, explanation for the observed absence of a seasonal decline. Among terrestrial vertebrates, reports of this kind of direct positive interactions are rare.
Extremely low electrical current generated by porcine small intestine smooth muscle alters bacterial autolysin production
Authors: Kruszewska Danuta , Podgurniak Paweł , Ljungh Åsa , Sebastian Aleksandra , Larsson Lennart , Zajdel‐Da̧browska Jolanta , Pierzynowski Stefan G.
Published: August 2005

The effect of extremely low electrical currents, identical to those generated by the gut smooth muscle, on bacterial autolysin production in vitro was tested in the present study. When stimulated with these electrical currents, the bacteria Pediococcus pentosaceus 16:1 produced groups of peptidoglycan hydrolases that differed from those produced by the unstimulated (control) bacteria. The autolysins synthesized by the P. pentosaceus 16:1 under extremely low electrical currents were effective against peptidoglycans from the cell walls of various lactic acid bacteria strains, whereas the autolysins from the control bacteria acted exclusively against P. pentosaceus 16:1 cell walls. Thus, it can be predicted that in vivo the electrical currents generated by the intestinal smooth muscles, which can be recorded as the myoelectrical migrating complexes, could regulate lactic acid bacteria strain growth in the gut.