bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepatic dysfunction and insulin insensitivity in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a critical target for insulin‐sensitizing agents
Authors: Home P. D. , Pacini G.
Published: September 2007

The liver plays an essential role in maintaining glucose homeostasis, which includes insulin‐mediated processes such as hepatic glucose output (HGO) and uptake, as well as in clearance of insulin itself. In type 2 diabetes, the onset of hyperglycaemia [itself a potent inhibitor of hepatic glucose output (HGO)], alongside hyperinsulinaemia, indicates the presence of hepatic insulin insensitivity. Increased HGO is central to the onset of hyperglycaemia and highlights the need to target hepatic insulin insensitivity as a central component of glucose‐lowering therapy. The mechanisms underlying the development of hepatic insulin insensitivity are not well understood, but may be influenced by factors such as fatty acid oversupply and altered adipocytokine release from dysfunctional adipose tissue and increased liver fat content. Furthermore, although the impact of insulin insensitivity as a marker of cardiovascular disease is well known, the specific role of hepatic insulin insensitivity is less clear. The pharmacological tools available to improve insulin sensitivity include the biguanides (metformin) and thiazolidinediones (rosiglitazone and pioglitazone). Data from a number of sources indicate that thiazolidinediones, in particular, can improve multiple aspects of hepatic dysfunction, including reducing HGO, insulin insensitivity and liver fat content, as well as improving other markers of liver function and the levels of mediators with potential involvement in hepatic function, including fatty acids and adipocytokines. The current review addresses this topic from the perspective of the role of the liver in maintaining glucose homeostasis, its key involvement in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and the tools currently available to reduce hepatic insulin insensitivity.
Zopa: Web 2.0 meets retail banking
Authors: Kupp Martin , Anderson Jamie
Published: September 2007

If you want to lend or borrow money, Zopa is a much acclaimed peer‐to‐peer lending service. Martin Kupp and Jamie Anderson concede that, as a business, it's a Web 2.0 star. But can it last?
e‐Jamming
Authors: Birkinshaw Julian , Crainer Stuart
Published: September 2007

When IBM utilized technology to tap into the ideas of its employees, it discovered a way to shape its future direction. Julian Birkinshaw and Stuart Crainer share the story.
Motor drive
Authors: Vaghefi M. Reza , Van Deusen Cheryl , Woods Louis
Published: September 2007

It has been a not‐so‐quiet battle between two titans, General Motors and Toyota. Only one is winning. M. Reza Vaghefi, Cheryl Van Deusen and Louis Woods have researched Toyota's success and say it's no accident.
Falling off the Apple cart
Authors: Simmons Clarke
Published: September 2007

Apple is widely admired today, but its corporate history is decidedly chequered. One of its former CEOs provides a history lesson in the mis‐transfer of executive talent. Clarke Simmons reveals what your company can learn from John Sculley's fall.
Sponsoring renewal
Authors: Chakravarthy Bala , Lorange Peter
Published: September 2007

Entrepreneur‐managers are highly desired in the corporate world. But few are successful unless they have an executive sponsor. Bala Chakravarthy and Peter Lorange tell why.
Diamond in the rough
Authors: Zook Chris , Allen James
Published: September 2007

Too many companies are slow to respond when growth hits a wall. Chris Zook and James Allen believe you can renew your core business by tapping into hidden assets.
Value at the bottom of the pyramid
Authors: Martinez Juan Luis , Carbonell María
Published: September 2007

Juan Luis Martinez and María Carbonell refute common misconceptions about doing business with low‐income consumers and provide a model for doing well while doing good.
The way of the warrior
Authors: Danby Peter
Published: September 2007

There's no absence of leadership models in today's business world. But few think of military leadership as relevant to corporate success. Peter Danby thinks that's a big mistake.
REGIONAL INTEGRATION IN POST‐APARTHEID SOUTHERN AFRICA
Authors: GIBB RICHARD
Published: September 2007

Regional integration is a fashionable, but far from novel phenomenon, in southern Africa. This paper compares regional integration during the apartheid period with that which has occurred subsequently. South Africa's regional strategy has consistently been the single most important factor affecting the nature, character and evolution of regional integration. It was only after South Africa's successful all‐race election in April 1994 could southern African regionalism move away from the politics of separation to integration. Since 1994, all the regional institutions in southern Africa have changed their institutional structures and integrative ambitions in order to respond to changed national, international and regional environments. There is no doubt that the policy environment affecting regional integration in post‐apartheid southern Africa has changed beyond all recognition when compared to the late‐apartheid period. However, a central contention of this paper is that many of the key challenges facing southern African regionalism remain fundamentally the same as in the apartheid period; intra‐regional trade remains imbalanced and limited, regional inequalities continue to be intense and the institutional structure of regional integration is complex, confusing and contradictory.
ANOTHER LOST DECADE: THE FAILURES OF SOUTH AFRICA'S POST‐APARTHEID MIGRATION POLICY
Authors: CRUSH JONATHAN , DODSON BELINDA
Published: September 2007

Despite the political and social transformation set in motion by the collapse of apartheid and the advent of democracy in 1994, South Africa's migration policy remained mired in the past. The Aliens Control Act of 1991 continued to govern the country's policy until the passage of the Immigration Act of 2002. After amendment in 2004, the Act finally came into force in July 2005. This paper focuses on the implications for South Africa and the SADC region of persisting with a policy framework devised in the apartheid period. First, the mine migrant labour system has remained intact despite a prolonged economic crisis in the mining industry. Second, the national introspection of the first democratic government led to a major decline in legal migration and immigration to South Africa. Third, apartheid‐era tactics of migration enforcement intensified through a process of ‘violent othering’. Fourth, the old framework was sexist as well as racist, and while the new policy is gender neutral in language, it is not gender equal in effect. Finally, for a decade, South Africa successfully resisted SADC attempts to develop a regionally harmonised approach to cross‐border migration. Recent changes in South African Government policy, particularly the new JIPSA initiative, suggest that the ‘lost decade’ may finally be over. However, without major policy transformation, the unseemly history of post‐apartheid migration policy will continue.
BETWEEN NON‐RACIALISM AND MULTICULTURALISM: INDIAN IDENTITY AND NATION BUILDING IN SOUTH AFRICA
Authors: RAMSAMY EDWARD
Published: September 2007

The paper examines the rhetoric of nation‐building in South Africa with particular reference to the incorporation of South Africans of Indian descent into the post‐1994 political order. During its years as a protest movement, the ANC came to embrace ‘non‐racialism’, a doctrine emphasising a common South African identity, in order to provide a counter‐rhetoric to the racially exclusive doctrine of apartheid. However, the organisation had difficulty in garnering support from the Indian and Coloured communities during the transition to democratic rule. It increasingly adopted a multiculturalist conception of the South African nation and promoted the idea of the ‘rainbow nation’ in order to foster a sense of unity among South Africa's diverse population groups. This multicultural conception of the South African nation has met with some success. The majority of Indians voted for the ANC in the 2004 elections, shifting their political loyalties from the National and Democratic Parties in previous elections. This trend demonstrates an increasing identification among Indians with the African majority government. However, in spite of the ANC's success in courting the Indian vote in the 2004 elections, Indian‐African tensions have been fuelled by recent anti‐Indian rhetoric. The paper argues that a multiculturalism that does not address the material conditions that fuel class antagonisms will prove to be shallow in the present neo‐liberal policy climate.
MARKETING SUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTION IN EUROPE: CASE STUDY EVIDENCE FROM TWO DUTCH LABELLING SCHEMES
Authors: ILBERY B. , MAYE D.
Published: September 2007

Recent years have witnessed a proliferation of food labelling schemes that claim to promote sustainable forms of food production. Viewed as a process of reterritorialisation or, more specifically, ecological localisation, such initiatives potentially provide constructive tools to re‐address some of the environmental problems connected with agricultural restructuring and to re‐organise production and consumption relations in the food system. This paper first examines the approaches and motives behind 24 food labelling schemes in selected European countries. It then uses this empirical material to conceptualise two development rationales: ‘territorial’ (place‐based) and ‘critical’ (process‐based). The rationales are explored through a comparative assessment of two Dutch case studies – Waterland and Milieukeur strawberries. The paper argues that producer involvement requires a clear economic incentive and that most food labelling schemes need significant institutional support if participation in more sustainable modes of production is to be fully realised.
Grandparents raising grandchildren in Australia: exploring psychological health and grandparents’ experience of providing kinship care
Authors: Dunne Emer G. , Kettler Lisa J.
Published: September 2007

This study explores relationships between the psychological health of grandparents raising grandchildren and grandchildren's social, emotional and behavioural issues. Fifty‐two grandparents raising grandchildren (Caregiving) and an age‐matched sample (N = 45) of grandparents who were not the primary caregivers of their grandchildren (Non‐caregiving) participated in the study. All participants completed the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale Questionnaire (DASS21), and grandparents in the caregiving group completed the Caregiver form of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and a semi‐structured telephone interview. Grandparents in the Caregiving group scored higher on all three DASS21 subscales than the Non‐caregiving group. Statistically significant associations were found between grandparents’ DASS21 scores and grandchildren's SDQ scores. Qualitative analyses of interviews were conducted describing a priori themes of conflict, challenges and rewards, and emergent themes of no choice/option, duty and pride. Clinical implications of this study point to the importance of providing increased levels of psychological support for grandparents and grandchildren. Longitudinal studies are needed.
Regional distribution of psoriasis in Italy
Authors: Saraceno R , Mannheimer R , Chimenti S
Published: September 2007

Background  Psoriasis is a chronic disease affecting skin and joints; the prevalence varies considerably within ethnic groups and countries.

Objective  The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of psoriasis across Italy and to identify regional differences.

Methods  The study was conducted in February 2006. A questionnaire was created to survey the prevalence and the geographical distribution of psoriasis in Italy. A representative sample of 3500 families from the contiguous 20 Italian regions was interviewed by a telematic panel.

Results  A total of 4109 individuals were interviewed. The research showed that 2.9% of Italians declared suffering from psoriasis (regional range: 0.8–4.5%); that 52% knew somebody with psoriasis; that 33% knew well the meaning of psoriasis; and that 31% of individuals affected from psoriasis defined the effect on quality of life as high.

Conclusion  In association with the socio‐cultural data, this is the first study describing the variation in prevalence of psoriasis among Italian regions.
Parenting, attention and externalizing problems: testing mediation longitudinally, repeatedly and reciprocally
Authors: Belsky Jay , Pasco Fearon R.M. , Bell Brian
Published: September 2007

Background:  Building on prior work, this paper tests, longitudinally and repeatedly, the proposition that attentional control processes mediate the effect of earlier parenting on later externalizing problems.

Methods:  Repeated independent measurements of all three constructs – observed parenting, computer‐tested attentional control and adult‐reported externalizing problems – were subjected to structural equation modeling using data from the large‐scale American study of child care and youth development.

Results:  Structural equation modeling indicated (a) that greater maternal sensitivity at two different ages (54 months, ∼6 years) predicted better attentional control on the Continuous Performance Test (CPT) of attention regulation two later ages (∼6/9 years); (2) that better attentional control at three different ages (54 months, ∼6/9 years) predicted less teacher‐reported externalizing problems at three later ages (∼6/8/10 years); and (3) that attentional control partially mediated the effect of parenting on externalizing problems at two different lags (i.e., 54 months→∼6 years→∼8 years; ∼6 years→∼9 years→∼10 years), though somewhat more strongly for the first. Additionally, (4) some evidence of reciprocal effects of attentional processes on parenting emerged (54 months→∼6 years; ∼6 years→∼8 years), but not of problem behavior on attention.

Conclusions:  Because attention control partially mediates the effects of parenting on externalizing problems, intervention efforts could target both parenting and attentional processes.
The effect of social disadvantage on motor development in young children: a comparative study
Authors: McPhillips Martin , Jordan‐Black Julie‐Anne
Published: September 2007

Background:  Empirical research suggests that social disadvantage has a negative effect on the development of language, and related cognitive skills such as reading. There is, however, no corresponding body of research on the impact of social disadvantage on motor development. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of social disadvantage on motor development in young children. In addition, we explored a possible link between an early neuromotor indicator and attainments in language, and reading.

Methods:  The Northern Ireland Multiple Deprivation Measure was used to identify two contrasting districts based on a composite measure of social disadvantage. We investigated the effect of social disadvantage on the motor attainments of a sample of 239 children aged 4–5 years, and 276 children aged 7–8 years attending mainstream schools in each district using a standardised motor assessment battery, and a motor neurodevelopmental measure. We used standardised receptive language and reading assessments to evaluate possible associations between motor and language/reading attainments.

Results:  There was a significant negative effect of social disadvantage on motor skills, for both age groups, and for both males and females. A similar negative effect of social disadvantage on attainments in language, and reading was also found. Children from areas of social disadvantage had significant deficits in motor and receptive language attainments relative to their more advantaged peers. In addition, we revealed a significant predictive relationship between a neurodevelopmental measure of early motor development and reading attainment.

Conclusions:  Children growing up in socially disadvantaged areas may be at particular risk of motor, including neurodevelopmental, delay, as well as language and reading difficulties. The determinants of motor and neuromotor deficits in children from disadvantaged backgrounds should be explored, and the relationship between early neuromotor development and language/reading development requires further investigation.
MATHEMATICAL MODELLING OF THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN NEOLITHIC SITES AND THE RIVERS IN XI’AN (SHAANXI PROVINCE, CHINA)*
Authors: ZHANG H.‐Q. , ZHAO W.‐M. , LIU B.
Published: September 2007

Based on analyses of the ecological environments of the Neolithic sites along the Chan and Ba Rivers in the Xi’an area (Shaanxi Province, China), it was found that the characteristic factors of the sites had a very close relationship with the nearby river. The characteristic factors of Neolithic sites have been analysed and defined as mathematical parameters by statistical methods. A mathematical model of the human–land relationship between Neolithic sites and rivers has been established using the stepwise regression procedure REGRESS in SPSS®. The mathematical model is Y = 496.153 – 4.833X1 + 113.692X3 + 725.097X5 – 27.683X3X4. It shows that the distance (Y) from a site to a river has a marked relationship with the site area (X1), the river flux (X3), the site location (X5) and river ratio drop (X4). The model shows that the relationship between the sites and the river is in accordance with the conclusions of archaeological research. The mathematical model not only offers theoretical guidance for the archaeological excavation of Neolithic sites in Xi’an, but also contributes to the archaeological environmental research of Xi’an Neolithic sites.
Similar effects of recombinant interferon‐α‐2b and natural interferon‐α when combined with intra‐arterial 5‐fluorouracil for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Uka Kiminori , Aikata Hiroshi , Takaki Shintaro , Miki Daiki , Jeong Soo Cheol , Hiramatsu Akira , Kodama Hideaki , Shirakawa Hiroo , Kawakami Yoshiiku , Takahashi Shoichi , Toyota Naoyuki , Ito Katsuhide , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: September 2007

Aim: Intra‐arterial 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) plus interferon (IFN) combination therapy is effective against advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal vein tumour thrombosis. In this study, we compared the efficiency and safety of recombinant IFN‐α‐2b with natural IFN‐α as components of the combination therapy.

Methods: Consecutive HCC patients (n=31) with portal vein tumour thrombosis were enrolled in this prospective study. They received combination therapy of 5‐FU and either recombinant IFN‐α‐2b (R group, n=15) or natural IFN‐α (N group, n=16). We compared the two groups for the early response rate, adverse reactions, time to progression (TTP) and survival rates. In addition, we assessed the cost‐effectiveness of each protocol.

Results: The early response rate (R: 26.7%, N: 31.2%), median TTP (R: 5.8 months, N: 5.6 months) and median survival time (R: 7.5 months, N: 6.5 months) were not significantly different between the R and N groups. There were no differences in adverse reactions between the two groups. The estimated cost‐effectiveness ratio of recombinant IFN‐α‐2b was better than natural IFN‐α.

Conclusions: In our protocol of combination therapy, there were no significant differences between recombinant IFN‐α‐2b and natural IFN‐α with regard to early response to therapy, adverse effects, TTP and survival rates. 5‐FU could be combined with either recombinant IFN‐α‐2b or natural IFN‐α, although the cost‐effectiveness of the former warrants its use clinically.
Health‐related quality of life in patients with chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Bondini Silvia , Kallman Jillian , Dan Amy , Younoszai Zahra , Ramsey Lolita , Nader Fatema , Younossi Zobair M.
Published: September 2007

Although chronic hepatitis C (CH‐C) has consistently been shown to impair patients' health‐related quality of life (HRQL), the impact of chronic hepatitis B (CH‐B) on HRQL has not been fully explored.

Aim: Compare HRQL between patients with CH‐B, CH‐C, primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and healthy controls.

Design: Three HRQL questionnaires [Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ), Short Form 36 (SF‐36) and the Health Utility Index (HUI Mark‐2 and Mark‐3)] were administered prospectively. Additional clinical and laboratory data and normative data for healthy individuals, were available.

Analysis: Scores were compared using analysis of variance and multiple regression.

Results: One hundred and forty‐six patients with CH‐B, CH‐C and PBC were included [mean age 47.1 years (±11.6), 41% female, 33% cirrhosis]. CH‐C and PBC patients scored the lowest on all CLDQ, SF‐36 and HUI domains compared with CH‐B patients and healthy controls. CH‐B patients had scores similar to the healthy population, measured by most CLDQ and SF‐36 scales. However, the HUI scores for CH‐B patients showed more impairment than population norms. Having CH‐B and not having cirrhosis were predictive of utility and HRQL scores in multivariate models.

Conclusions: CH‐B patients have better HRQL than CH‐C, PBC and population norms. CH‐B patients' overall utility scores are lower than population norms.
Branched‐chain amino acids improve insulin resistance in patients with hepatitis C virus‐related liver disease: report of two cases
Authors: Kawaguchi Takumi , Taniguchi Eitaro , Itou Minoru , Sumie Shuji , Oriishi Tetsuharu , Matsuoka Hisako , Nagao Yumiko , Sata Michio
Published: September 2007

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection causes insulin resistance. Because increased insulin resistance is a risk factor for development of hepatocellular carcinoma and reduced long‐term survival, insulin resistance is a therapeutic target in patients with HCV infection. Branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs) are not only structural constituents of proteins but they are also considered as regulators of insulin signalling. We first describe two cases suggesting that administration of BCAAs improves insulin resistance associated with HCV‐related liver disease. Although there were no changes in body weight, plasma glucose concentration and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) value were decreased. Moreover, BCAAs caused a decrease in both fasting insulin concentration and the value of homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance. Thus, BCAAs are a potential therapeutic agent for improving insulin resistance in patients with HCV‐related liver disease.
Synthesis, absorption characteristics and solvatochromism of some novel heterocyclic cyanine dyes
Authors: Shindy H A
Published: September 2007

Novel heterocyclic monomethine, bis monomethine, trimethine and bis trimethine cyanine dyes incorporating benzo [2,3‐b; ,‐] bis furo [3,2‐d] pyrazole nuclei were synthesised. The absorption characteristics of the prepared cyanines were studied and determined through measuring their electronic visible absorption spectra in 95% ethanol. The solvatochromism of some of the synthesised dyes was investigated.
Dyeing of nylon 6 fabric with a bifunctional sulphatoethylsulphone reactive disperse dye
Authors: Youssef Y A , Mousa A A , Farouk R , Allam E E , El‐Kharadly E A
Published: September 2007

A bifunctional reactive disperse dye containing two temporarily anionic sulphatoethylsulphone groups was synthesised and applied to nylon 6 fabric by exhaust dyeing at a variety of pH levels and temperatures. A monofunctional reactive disperse dye containing one temporarily anionic sulphatoethylsulphone group was also synthesised, and its dyeing behaviour was compared with the bifunctional dye. The bifunctional reactive disperse dye exhibited high exhaustion and total fixation yield under alkaline conditions. The results also indicate that the introduction of two temporarily anionic sulphatoethylsulphone groups of the bifunctional dye gave an enhancement in dyeing performance compared with that of the monofunctional dye. The dyes also showed very good levelling and fastness properties on nylon 6 fabric.
On the roles of deformation and fluid during rejuvenation of a polymetamorphic terrane: inferences on the geodynamic evolution of the Ruker Province, East Antarctica
Authors: PHILLIPS G. , WHITE R. W. , WILSON C. J. L.
Published: September 2007

Evaluating pressure–temperature (P–T) conditions through mineral equilibria modelling within an amphibolite facies polymetamorphic terrane requires knowledge of the fluid content of the rocks. The Archean‐Palaeoproterozoic basement rocks of the Ruker Province, East Antarctica, preserve evidence of three metamorphic events (M1–M3). Of particular interest is the M3 event, which is constrained to the early Palaeozoic (c. 550–480 Ma). Evaluation of the tectonic setting during this time is important because the Ruker Province is located within a critical region with respect to models of Gondwana assembly. Structural evidence of the early Palaeozoic event is preserved as large (up to ∼500 m wide) high strain zones that cut the orthogneiss‐metasedimentary basement (Tingey Complex) of the Ruker Province. Rocks within these zones have been thoroughly recrystallized and preserve a dominant shear fabric and M3 mineral assemblages that formed at P–T conditions of 4.0–5.2 kbar and 565–640 °C. Distal to these zones, rocks preserve more complex petrographic relationships with S1 and S2 foliations, being incompletely overgrown by M3 retrograde assemblages. We show that the mineral assemblages preserved during the M3 event are highly dependent on the availability of fluid H2O, which is strongly influenced by the structural setting (i.e. proximity to the high‐strain zones). P–T structural and fluid flow constraints support a model of basin inversion during early Palaeozoic crustal rejuvenation in the Ruker Province.
Sporotrichosis in Childhood: Clinical and Therapeutic Experience in 25 Patients
Authors: Bonifaz Alexandro , Saúl Amado , Paredes‐Solis Vanessa , Fierro Leonel , Rosales Alejandra , Palacios Carolina , Araiza Javier
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Sporotrichosis in an uncommon mycoses in childhood and is generally associated with injuries received as a consequence of farm work. We undertook a retrospective study of sporotrichosis in children and adolescents seen over a 10‐year period, focusing on their clinical, epidemiologic, and mycologic features as well as treatment. We included 25 children with a mean age of 9.3 years. Most of those affected were schoolchildren (84%) from rural areas. The main clinical variety of sporotrichosis seen was the lymphocutaneous form (64%), followed by the fixed cutaneous form (36%), and one instance of the disseminated cutaneous form. Most lesions were located on the upper limbs (40%) and the face (36%). Sporothrix schenckii was isolated in all patients and 24 of 25 had a positive sporotrichin skin test. Nineteen patients were treated and cured clinically and mycologically with potassium iodide, three were cured with itraconazole and one with heat therapy.
Congenital Curved Nail of the Fourth Toe—Three Different Clinical Presentations
Authors: Lin Yang‐Chih , Wu Yu‐Hung , Scher Richard K.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  A congenital curved nail of the fourth toe (NIM 219070) is a rare nail deformity with no other associated abnormalities. Three patients with this congenital anomaly are reported here. Radiologic examination in all three revealed distal symphalangism of the fourth toes bilaterally. The clinical manifestations in these patients included white discoloration of the proximal nails and hyperkeratotic tylosis.
Chronic Varicella‐Zoster Skin Infection Complicating the Congenital Varicella Syndrome
Authors: BOUSSAULT PIERRE , BORALEVI FRANCK , LABBE LAURENCE , SARLANGUE JEAN , TAÏEB ALAIN , LEAUTE‐LABREZE CHRISTINE
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Congenital varicella is a rare syndrome arising when a pregnant woman develops varicella before the 24th week of pregnancy. We report an occurrence of congenital varicella syndrome complicated by a chronic varicella zoster virus skin infection in an immunocompetent infant. The chronic verrucous skin infection is puzzling in our patient, as this disease is usually described in immunosuppressed patients.
‘‘Ectopic Eyelashes’’ (Ectopic Cilia) in a 2‐Year‐Old Girl: Brief Report and Discussion of Possible Embryologic Origin
Authors: CHEN TINA S. , MATHES ERIN F.D. , GILLIAM AMY E.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Cilia, or eyelashes, are unique hair follicles normally found at the eyelid margin. The spectrum of cilial anomalies includes cilial row duplication, agenesis, and ectopic placement. Ectopic cilia are the most rare of cilial anomalies. We report a case of a 2‐and‐a‐half‐year‐old girl with ectopic cilia of the anterior tarsal plate, an extremely rare, congenital anomaly that is most often not associated with other findings and likely results from an event during embryogenesis.
Subcutaneous Fat Necrosis of the Newborn and Lactic Acidosis
Authors: ISAIAH JOEL H. , CHAN ALICIA K. J.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn (SFN) is an uncommon, self‐limited condition of neonates and infants. However, hypercalcemia may be a potentially life‐threatening complication of the otherwise self‐healing process. Rare complications such as thrombocytopenia, hypertriglyceridemia, hypoglycemia, calcium deposits in the liver, inferior vena cava, atrial septum of the heart, and nephrocalcinosis have been reported. To our knowledge, this is the first description of a patient in whom lactic acidosis was encountered in an infant along with the other known complications of SFN.
Linear Connective Tissue Nevus
Authors: ASANO YOSHIHIDE , IHN HIRONOBU , TAMAKI KUNIHIKO
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Multiple connective tissue nevi in linear arrangements, which was previously described as zosteriform connective tissue nevus, is a rare variant of connective tissue nevus. We herein report the case of an 8‐year‐old Japanese boy with this disease. He developed a small mass on the upper region of his right inner ankle at the age of one‐half years. Then, other lesions had appeared on the inner side of his right lower leg, thigh, and groin within the next 2 years. Furthermore, multiple new lesions in linear arrangements had appeared on the right half of the abdomen and on the extensor side of the right forearm at the age of 8 years. A biopsy specimen revealed abnormalities in both the collagen bundles and the elastic fibers. Since the distribution was along Blaschko's lines, not dermatomes, we propose that the diagnosis “linear connective tissue nevus” is suitable for this clinical study.
Serum Estradiol Levels in Infants with and without Labial Adhesions: The Role of Estrogen in the Etiology and Treatment
Authors: Çağlar Musa Kazım
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  No strong evidence has been found that estrogen levels in girls with labial adhesions are lower than in girls without. Therefore, this study was based on the determination of estradiol levels in girls with and without labial adhesions in order to show whether a considerable difference exists between these two groups. Serum estradiol levels were measured in 59 infants with labial adhesions and in 60 healthy infants. No significant age difference was seen between affected infants and controls, with a mean age of 12.7 and 12.4 months, respectively. Serum estradiol levels ranged from 6.5 to 14.3 pg/ml (10.27 ± 1.897) in those with labial adhesions and from 6.4 to 15.1 pg/ml (10.47 ± 2.006) in controls, a statistically insignificant difference (p = 0.5764). When taking into consideration the effect of estrogen on wound healing and the fact that the difference in estrogen levels between the infants with and without labial adhesion is not significant, it is concluded that hypoestrogenism does not take place in the development of labial adhesions, but that creams containing estrogen might have a beneficial effect on healing after mechanical separation of the adhesion by enhancing wound reepithelialization.
Angioblastoma Showing Aggravation After Treatment with Long‐pulsed Nd:YAG Laser (1064 nm)
Authors: Na Jung‐Im , Cho Kwang‐Hyun , Kim Young‐Gull , Park Kyoung‐Chan
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  Angioblastoma usually develops in infancy or early childhood on the neck or upper trunk. It is known to be slowly progressive and benign in nature, but treatment guidelines have not yet been established. Spontaneous regression has been occasionally documented, and treatment with pulsed dye laser, excision, high‐dose steroids, and interferon alpha have been successful in individual patients. Our patient experienced partial response to interferon alpha injection, and for further treatment, long‐pulsed Nd:YAG laser (1064 nm) treatment was performed. However, unexpectedly, the tumor was rapidly aggravated. We report this occurrence to increase awareness of trauma‐induced aggravation phenomena in angioblastoma.
Reticular Infantile Hemangioma of the Limb Can Be Associated with Ventral‐Caudal Anomalies, Refractory Ulceration, and Cardiac Overload
Authors: Mulliken John B. , Marler Jennifer J. , Burrows Patricia E. , Kozakewich Harry P. W.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  We describe six patients with an uncommon variant of infantile hemangioma that we have termed reticular, occurring in the extremity, which were associated with intractable ulceration, anogenito‐urinary‐sacral anomalies, and sometimes cardiac overload. The extreme end of the spectrum is exemplified by a male neonate who presented with a stained, enlarged, pulsatile lower extremity, and cardiac failure. He also had hepatic hemangiomas and ambiguous genitalia. Progressive soft tissue necrosis and bony destruction necessitated amputation. The histopathologic features differed from those of typical infantile hemangioma: infiltrative (not lobular) and involving fascia, muscle, and bone.

The mid‐spectrum is illustrated by five females with reticular infantile hemangioma of the lower limb, buttock, and perineum. Four of these infants had a ventral‐caudal anomaly, including omphalocele, recto‐vaginal fistula, solitary/duplex kidney, imperforate anus, and tethered cord; one infant also had hepatic hemangiomas. Deep ulcerations healed following corticosteroid therapy; one patient required skin graft for closure of a thigh wound. The minor end of the spectrum is exemplified a patchy lesion in the distal limb.

The reticular variant of infantile hemangioma can be confused with other vascular anomalies in the limb, such as capillary malformation, cutis marmorata telangiectasia congenita, diffuse arteriovenous malformation (Parkes Weber syndrome) and capillary‐lymphatico‐venous malformation (Klippel–Trenaunay syndrome). The macular network‐like appearance of the tumor and coexisting ventral‐caudal structural anomalies is analogous to the association of posterior fossa brain malformations, hemangiomas, arterial anomalies, coarctation of the aorta and cardiac defects, and eye abnormalities association in the craniofacial region.
Intraoperative Ultrasound to Define Focal Cortical Dysplasia in Epilepsy Surgery
Authors: Miller Dorothea , Knake Susanne , Bauer Sebastian , Krakow Karsten , Pagenstecher Axel , Sure Ulrich , Rosenow Felix
Published: September 2007

Summary

Focal cortical dyplasia (FCD) is a frequent cause of medication‐resistant focal epilepsy. Patients with FCD may benefit from epilepsy surgery. However, it is difficult to intraoperatively define lesion boundaries. In this case report we present a novel tool to identify FCD intraoperatively. A patient with frontal lobe epilepsy underwent resection of a left frontomesial FCD. Image guidance was achieved by intraoperative ultrasound, which depicted the lesion with a higher resolution than preoperative MRI. Postoperatively the patient remained seizure free. Intraoperative ultrasound may be helpful in identifying and targeting subtle epileptogenic lesions, which are difficult to visualize.
Effects of Carisbamate (RWJ‐333369) in Two Models of Genetically Determined Generalized Epilepsy, the GAERS and the Audiogenic Wistar AS
Authors: François Jennifer , Boehrer Any , Nehlig Astrid
Published: September 2007

Summary

Purpose: The antiepileptic effects of carisbamate were assessed in two models of genetic epilepsy, a model of absence seizures, the Genetic Absence Epilepsy Rat from Strasbourg (GAERS) and a model of convulsive seizures, the Wistar Audiogenic Sensitive (AS) rat.

Methods: GAERS were equipped with four cortical electrodes over the frontoparietal cortex and the duration of spike‐and‐wave discharges (SWD) was recorded for 20–120 min. In Wistar AS, the occurrence of, latency to, and duration of wild running and tonic seizures were recorded.

Results: In GAERS, carisbamate (10, 30, and 60 mg/kg) dose dependently reduced the expression of SWD that totally disappeared at the two highest doses by 40 min after injection. SWD duration returned to control levels by 100 min after the injection of 30 mg/kg carisbamate while SWDs were totally suppressed for 120 min after the injection of 60 mg/kg carisbamate. In Wistar AS, 10 mg/kg carisbamate increased the latency to the first running episode and induced the occurrence of a second running episode in three of eight rats. This episode was not present in untreated rats and was indicative of decreased sensitivity to the stimulus. This dose of carisbamate increased by 327% the latency to the tonic seizure that still occurred in the six of eight rats studied. At 20 and 30 mg/kg, no rats exhibited any wild running or tonic seizure.

Conclusions: The present results support the broad spectrum of antiepileptic activity of carisbamate confirming its efficacy in animal models of primary generalized seizures of both tonic–clonic and of the absence type.
Evidence for the Microwave Effect During the Annealing of Zinc Oxide
Authors: Binner J. , Wang J. , Vaidhyanathan B. , Joomun N. , Kilner J. , Dimitrakis G. , Cross T. E.
Published: September 2007

A microwave/conventional hybrid furnace has been used to anneal virtually fully dense zinc oxide ceramics under pure conventional and a microwave/conventional hybrid heating regime with a view to obtaining evidence for the “microwave effect” during the resulting grain growth. In each case it was ensured that each sample within a series had an identical thermal history in terms of its temperature/time profile. The results showed that grain growth was enhanced during hybrid heating compared with pure conventional heating; the greatest enhancement, a factor of ∼3 increase in average grain size, was observed in the range 1100°–1150°C. The grain growth exponent decreased from 3 during conventional heating to 1.4 during hybrid heating in this temperature range, suggesting an acceleration of the diffusional processes involved. Temperature gradients within the samples were found to be too small to explain the results. This suggests that clear evidence has been found to support the existence of a genuine “microwave effect.”
Pyrochlore Phase Formation in the System Bi2O3–ZnO–Ta2O5
Authors: Khaw C. C. , Lee C. K. , Zainal Z. , Miles G. C. , West A. R.
Published: September 2007

The subsolidus phase diagram of the system Bi2O3–ZnO–Ta2O5 in the region of the cubic pyrochlore phase has been determined at 1050°C. This phase forms a solid solution area that includes the ideal composition P, Bi3Zn2Ta3O14; possible solid solution mechanisms are proposed, supported by density measurements of Zn‐deficient solid solutions. The general formula of the solid solutions is Bi3+yZn2−xTa3−yO14−x−y, based on the creation of Zn2+, O2− vacancies in Zn‐deficient compositions and a variable Bi/Ta ratio.
Preparation of Highly Dense PZN–PZT Thick Films by the Aerosol Deposition Method Using Excess‐PbO Powder
Authors: Choi Jong‐Jin , Jang Joo‐Hee , Hahn Byung‐Dong , Park Dong‐Soo , Yoon Woon‐Ha , Ryu Jungho , Park Chan
Published: September 2007

Lead zinc niobate–lead zirconate titanate thick films with a thickness of 50–100 μm were deposited on silicon and alumina substrates using the aerosol deposition method. The effects of excess lead oxide (PbO) on stress relaxation during postannealing were studied. Excess PbO content was varied from 0 to 5 mol%. The as‐deposited film had a fairly dense microstructure with nanosized grains. The films deposited on silicon were annealed at temperatures of 700°C, and the films deposited on sapphire were annealed at 900°C in an electrical furnace. The annealed film was detached and cracks were generated due to the high residual compressive stress and thermal stress induced by thermal expansion coefficient mismatch. However, the film deposited using powder containing 2% of excess PbO showed no cracking or detachment from the substrate after the postannealing process. The PbO evaporation at elevated temperature during the postannealing process seemed to have reduced the residual compressive stress. The remanent polarization and relative dielectric constant of the 50 μm thick films annealed at 900°C were 43.1 μC/cm2 and 1400, respectively, which were comparable with the values of a bulk specimen prepared by a powder sintering process.
XANES Determination of Chromium Oxidation States in Glasses: Comparison With Optical Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Villain Olivier , Calas Georges , Gaioisy Laurence , Cormier Laurent , Hazemann Jean‐Louis
Published: September 2007

The oxidation state of chromium in glasses melted in an air atmosphere with and without refining agents was investigated by Cr K‐edge X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) and optical absorption spectroscopy. A good agreement in the relative proportion of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) is obtained between both methods. We show that the chemical dependence of the absorption coefficient of Cr(III) is less important in XANES than in optical absorption spectroscopy. The comparison of optical absorption and XANES spectra of glasses melted under different conditions provides an indirect assessment of the molar extinction coefficient of Cr(VI) in glasses.
Post‐traumatic inclusion cysts of the iris: a longterm prospective case series
Authors: Gupta Viney , Rao Aparna , Sinha Ankur , Kumar Neena , Sihota Ramanjit
Published: September 2007

Purpose:  Post‐traumatic cysts of the iris pose a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for ophthalmic surgeons. This prospective case series highlights the clinical spectrum and longterm outcomes of different modes of treatment in these cases.

Methods:  Eleven cases of post‐traumatic iris inclusion cysts, treated with Nd:YAG laser and/or surgical excision were evaluated prospectively over periods ranging from 6 months to 3 years. Ultrasound biomicroscopy features and postoperative outcomes in each were evaluated.

Results:  Laser iridotomy of the cyst offers a non‐invasive method of therapy in these cases but has a high rate of recurrence. The outcomes in most cases were poor, with worse results and more complications encountered in younger age groups.

Conclusions:  Iris inclusion cysts have overall poor surgical outcomes as the result of the extensive proliferation of epithelial cells, which may explain why the condition takes a rapid course in younger patients and why severe complications are encountered postoperatively in this age group.
Structural and functional alterations in the β2‐adrenoceptor are caused by a point mutation in patients with atopic eczema
Authors: Schallreuter Karin U. , Wei Yuwang , Pittelkow Mark R. , Swanson Norma N. , Gibbons Nicholas C. J. , Wood John M.
Published: September 2007

Abstract:  The density of β2‐adrenoceptors is significantly decreased in both keratinocytes and peripheral blood lymphocytes from patients with atopic eczema. Furthermore both cell types showed a sixfold increase in the KD for the specific binding of the non‐specific antagonists (–)‐[3H]CGP 12177 and [125 I]CYP to keratinocytes and lymphocytes respectively compared with healthy controls. Based on these results polymorphism in the β2‐adrenoceptor gene was suspected. Consequently the entire intronless β2‐adrenoceptor gene was isolated from whole blood and by RT‐PCR from keratinocyte extracts of nine patients with atopic eczema and four healthy controls. DNA sequence analysis of nine atopic eczema patients confirmed a substitution in codon (1618) GCC (Ala119) to GAC (Asp119). This point mutation is expressed on the third transmembrane helix only 13Å away from the established agonist/antagonist binding site at Asp113. Computer modelling of this third transmembrane helix revealed substantial structural changes in the mutant compared with the wild type. Epidermal keratinocytes were established from one patient with atopic eczema (homozygote), the mother (heterozygote) and one age‐matched healthy control. Cells were grown in media containing different concentrations of l‐phenylalanine and receptor densities were determined. The results showed that cells with atopic eczema showed an increased sensitivity to l‐phenylalanine concentrations with a narrow homeostasis compared with healthy controls. The heterozygous mother was only 50% as sensitive as the child. In summary, the results indicate that atopic eczema is associated with a single point mutation in the β2‐adrenoceptor gene leading to an impaired adrenergic response in the epidermis of these patients.
Hypoxia: dual effect on the expression of transferrin receptor in human melanoma A375 cell line
Authors: Tao Juan , Liu Ye‐qiang , Li Yan , Peng Ji‐ling , Li Li , Liu Jing , Shen Xin , Shen Guan‐xin , Tu Ya‐ting
Published: September 2007

Background:  Over‐expression of transferrin receptor (TfR) is a common feature of human malignancies. Therapeutic strategies designed to interfere with tumor iron metabolism have targeted TfR. In previous studies, our laboratory successfully constructed the human–mouse chimeric antibody against TfR and it displayed a tumor‐specificity distribution, and has a strong anti‐tumor effect. We also found that there were still some limitations to anti‐tumor effect in vivo. Oxygen and iron have a very tight relationship, and hypoxia is considered a fundamentally important characteristic of the tumor microenvironment. To exploit the target molecule TfR more rationally and effectively, we were prompted to explore TfR expression under hypoxia.

Objective:  To examine the expressing alteration of TfR of human melanoma A375 cell line under hypoxia at various time points (0, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 h).

Design:  The expressing alteration of TfR of A375 cell line under hypoxia at various time points (0, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 h) was assayed by flow cytometry, real‐time RT‐PCR and Western blot.

Results:  Hypoxia has dual effect on the expression of TfR in human melanoma A375 cell line.

Conclusions:  These findings may have important implications for more rational, individualized gene‐based therapy using TfR as target receptor in melanoma.