bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA identification of the pathogen of candidal aspiration pneumonia induced in the course of oral cancer therapy
Authors: Yamamoto Tetsuya , Ueta Eisaku , Kamatani Takaai , Osaki Tokio
Published: April 2005

Aspiration of oropharyngeal bacteria and fungi is occasionally suspected in patients with pneumonia. A patient with oral carcinoma underwent chemoradioimmunotherapy and, about 4 weeks from the start of the therapy, the patient suffered from severe oral mucositis induced by chemoradiotherapy, and candidal pneumonia was subsequently induced. The candidal pneumonia was insufficiently improved by potent antifungal drugs, taking a lethal course. Randomly amplified polymorphic DNA analysis and DNA sequence examination of strains isolated from the oral cavity 1 week before the onset of pneumonia and autopsied lung revealed the identity of both strains as Candida albicans, and the DNA analysis supported aspiration of oral Candida. These results indicate that the pathogen of the pneumonia, C. albicans, was aspirated from the oral cavity and that oral Candida is easily aspirated and becomes the pathogen of pneumonia.
Isolation and characterization of provisional serovar Shigella boydii E16553 from diarrhoeal patients in Bangladesh
Authors: Ansaruzzaman M , Sultana Marzia , Talukder Kaisar A , Alam K , Matsushita S , Safa Ashrafus , Khajanchi Bijay K , Dutta Dilip K , Islam Zhahirul , Albert M John , Nair G Balakrish , Sack David A
Published: April 2005

In previous studies with strains of the Shigella dysenteriae provisional serovars E22383 and E23507 from diarrhoeal stools from patients in Bangladesh, two strains of Shigella species were identified as Shigella boydii provisional serovar E16553 by a reference laboratory. Further tests with an antiserum to an international type strain of the provisional serovar E16553 identified an additional 15 isolates. None of the isolates reacted with antisera to the established Shigella serovars or any other provisional serovars reported so far and all showed biochemical reactions typical of S. boydii. All of the isolates harboured the 140 MDa invasion plasmid, had the ipaH gene and produced keratoconjunctivitis in the guinea pig eye. All isolates were susceptible to ampicillin, sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim, nalidixic acid, ciprofloxacin and mecillinam but eight strains were resistant to tetracycline. A single PFGE type (type A) was shown for all 17 clinical isolates, indicating a common source of origin. The pulsotype of the Bangladeshi isolates was closely related to that of a Japanese strain but was different from that of the type strain. On the basis of these biochemical, serological and virulence markers, and diverse geographical origin, it is recommended that the provisional status of serovar E16553 be changed and that it be included in the international serotyping classification scheme as S. boydii 19.
Identification of two new Helicobacter pylori surface proteins involved in attachment to epithelial cell lines
Authors: Rubinsztein-Dunlop Sebastian , Guy Bruno , Lissolo Ling , Fischer Hans
Published: April 2005

Helicobacter pyloricauses the development of gastritis, gastric ulcers and adenocarcinomas in humans. The establishment of infection is influenced by adherence to the gastric epithelium, and several bacterial adhesins and host cell receptors have been identified.H. pylorirecognize the Lewisbreceptor through the BabA adhesin but also readily adhere to epithelia in the absence of the Lewisbepitope, demonstrating the relevance of additional adhesive interactions. This study presents a novel method of identifying bacterial adhesins. Nickel beads were coated withH. pylori-derived, recombinantly expressed ORF proteins, and epithelial cells from the human stomach, intestine or urinary tract were allowed to adhere to those beads. The binding of epithelial cells to the protein-coated nickel beads was confirmed by electron microscopy or flow cytometry using antibodies directed towards the His-tags. Among the five ORFs tested, two new adhesive proteins (HP1188 and HP1430) were identified. Both were expressed on the surface of virulentH. pylori, with the HP1188 protein being most abundant. The purified HP1188 and HP1430 proteins bound more strongly to gastric than to other epithelial cell lines, suggesting that they may be involved in the colonization of the human gastric mucosa. In conclusion, this method facilitates the identification of ORFs of microbial origin involved in cellular interactions such as adherence.
Diagnosis of human brucellosis caused by Brucella canis
Authors: Lucero Nidia E , Escobar Gabriela I , Ayala Sandra M , Jacob Nestor
Published: April 2005

The transmission ofBrucella canisto man commonly occurs through contact with infected dogs or their secretions, or through direct laboratory exposure. The disease is underdiagnosed due to a general lack of serological testing facilities and misconceptions concerning its prevalence. This report shows the potential use of an indirect ELISA (IELISA) for the diagnosis of human brucellosis caused byB. canisin a population of patients negative by smooth-Brucellaantigen tests but positive by rapid slide agglutination test (RSAT). One hundred and ten sera from asymptomatic people found negative by tests using smoothBrucella abortusantigen and by RSAT showed an IELISA specificity of 100 % when a cut-off value of 27 % positivity (%P) was selected. For 17 sera from patients with positiveB. canisculture or in close contact with culture-positive dogs, the IELISA sensitivity was 100 % with the same cut-off value. The positive patients presented clinical symptoms similar to brucellosis caused by other species ofBrucellaand some of them received antibiotic treatment and made good progress. Using this cut-off value, we studied 35 patients with negative blood cultures but positive RSATs, and IELISA detected 18 as positive; of the 17 IELISA-negative, two were RSAT-positive at dilution 1 : 2 and 15 were weakly positive with pure serum. These samples were probably from patients at an early stage of infection or indicate false-positive results. No cross-reaction was observed among the sera from nine cases with a diagnosis other than brucellosis, but cross-reactivity was evident in sera from patients infected with smooth-Brucellaspecies. Since routine brucellosis diagnosis does not includeB. canisinvestigation, infection with this species may be more widespread than is currently suspected. The RSAT could be a suitable screening test for the diagnosis ofB. canishuman brucellosis, and a supplementary technique, such as IELISA, performed on all positive RSAT samples that were negative byB. abortusantigen could ensure diagnostic specificity and confirm the diagnosis.
Unusual clinical presentation of brucellosis caused by Brucella canis
Authors: Lucero Nidia E , Jacob Nestor O , Ayala Sandra M , Escobar Gabriela I , Tuccillo Patricia , Jacques Isabelle
Published: April 2005

Brucella canis is considered a rare cause of human brucellosis. The clinical importance of this infection may have been underestimated so far because of difficulties with presumptive diagnosis. The case described here presented symptoms compatible with brucellosis but the routine tests using Brucella abortus antigen were negative. The infection would have remained undiagnosed if culture had not been positive. This case illustrates the potential for a favourable outcome in Brucella canis diagnosis and supports recommendations for the use of B. canis serology. The infection should be suspected in patients with compatible symptoms and negative serology for B. abortus antigen.
Mandatory auditor rotation and retention: impact on market share
Authors: Comunale Christie L. , Sexton Thomas R.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To explore the effects of mandatory auditor rotation and retention on the long‐term market shares of the accounting firms that audit the members of the Standard and Poor's (S&P) 500.

Design/methodology/approach

A Markov model is constructed that depicts the movements of S&P 500 firms in the period 1995 to 1999 among Big 5 accounting firms. Auditor rotation and retention are reflected in the transition probabilities. The impacts of mandatory auditor rotation and retention policies are evaluated by examining the state probabilities after two, five, and nine years.

Findings

The paper finds that mandatory auditor rotation will have substantial effects on long‐term market shares, whereas mandatory auditor retention will have very small effects. It shows that a firm's ability to attract new clients, as opposed to retaining current clients, will be the primary factor in determining the firm's long‐term market share under mandatory auditor rotation.

Research limitations/implications

The paper assumes that S&P 500 firms will continue their reliance on Big 5 firms and that the estimated transition probabilities will remain stable over time.

Practical implications

Excessive market share concentration resulting from such policies should not be a concern of regulators. The paper conjectures that, under mandatory rotation, accounting firms will reallocate resources to attract new clients rather than retain existing clients. This may result in lower audit quality.

Originality/value

Interestingly, over the past 25 years, several bodies have considered mandatory auditor rotation and retention. Surprisingly, the authors have found no studies of the effects of mandatory auditor rotation and retention on audit market share.
Corporate turnaround and financial distress
Authors: Smith Malcolm , Graves Christopher
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Drawing on variables cited in the turnaround literature, this study aims to explore whether information contained within annual reports is useful in distinguishing between distressed companies that enact a turnaround and those that fail.

Design/methodology/approach

This study develops a discriminant model to identify distressed companies that have turnaround potential.

Findings

Analysis of the results reveals that successful turnarounds are associated with the severity of the distressed state, its determinants, with the extent of change in the distressed state since the previous year, and firm size.

Originality/value

This article is of use in identifying what information is useful in annual reports.
Global leadership competencies: a review and discussion
Authors: Jokinen Tiina
Published: April 2005

Purpose

From the competency point of view, this article aims to review and discuss existing global leadership and other related literature, and to combine findings and suggestions provided in previous literature in a more integrative framework of global leadership competencies.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews and discusses the terminology used in the international global leadership literature. This is followed by a review of the main outcomes of previous research. Finally an attempt is made to combine these outcomes into a more integrative framework of global leadership competencies, offering suggestions for further research.

Findings

This paper provides information about previous research, integrating earlier findings into a more comprehensive framework of global competencies. It also discusses deficiencies in use of terminology and research methods used in earlier studies giving suggestions for further research.

Research limitations/implications

The references used for this review are not an exhaustive list and majority of them are drawn from American journals publishing within the topic area. Relevant sources of information may also exist in other domains of scientific inquiry.

Practical implications

The framework provided in this paper incorporates main findings of previous research and, as such, it may serve as a starting point for practitioners in planning of different selection, training, and career development activities, and for academics in starting their research.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified information/resource need.
The importance of training in operationalising HR policy
Authors: Bond Sue , McCracken Martin
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To understand how line managers make decisions about employee requests for time off at short notice and to consider the consequences for management training.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on evidence from case studies carried out in four financial sector companies in Scotland, this paper illustrates a model of line manager decision making in relation to employee requests for time off at short notice.

Findings

Factors that were found to have an impact on decisions of this kind included: organisational policies, the extent of devolution of personnel decisions and the role of the human resource function, operational constraints and the nature of the employee's request for time off and their previous commitment. Management experience and competence and the use of “common sense” mediated these factors. Managers received very little training in order to help them make appropriate decisions.

Research limitations/implications

Although the authors consider that the model of decision making is general enough to be applicable outside the financial services sector, further research testing in other industrial sectors would be welcomed.

Practical implications

While the use of management “discretion” can have advantages for employees, it could also have negative consequences resulting from inconsistent application, in terms of staff relations, company climate, morale, productivity and labour turnover. Therefore, effective training is important in order to deconstruct line managers’ notions of “common‐sense” decisions and make better decisions around these issues.

Originality/value

The paper outlines a model of line manager decision making for dealing with time off at short notice that can be used by HR professionals in designing management training programmes.
Development of a teleservice system for RP service bureaus
Authors: Lan Hongbo , Chin Kwai‐Sang , Hong Jun
Published: April 2005

Purpose

This paper aims to describe a teleservice system which can aid effectively the full implementation of a networked service for rapid prototyping (RP) service bureaus.

Design/methodology/approach

The overall architecture and detailed functional modules of the system are presented. The key technologies for developing the teleservice system which involve the deploying of the running platform, determining the system model, choosing a server‐side language, constructing a development platform as well as designing the database and application, are discussed in detail. A case study is given to demonstrate the use of the teleservice system. This system has been developed and employed in the Northwest Productivity Promotion Center in China.

Findings

The system, which includes the technology information platform, e‐commerce platform, and manufacturing service platform, provides a collaborative production environment for customers and service bureaus to implement networked service and manufacturing for RP, enhances the availability of rapid prototyping and manufacturing facilities and can improve the rapid product development of small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises.

Practical implications

The practical results from the engineering application indicate that both service bureaus and clients can benefit greatly from the teleservice system.

Originality/value

Provides information on the implementation of a networked service for RP service bureaus.
An integrated framework for e‐supply networks analysis
Authors: Caputo Antonio C. , Cucchiella Federica , Fratocchi Luciano , Marcello Pelagagge Pacifico
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The purpose of the present paper is to provide a comprehensive framework for analyzing relationships among economic actors interconnected through internet and constituting e‐supply networks (e‐SNs).

Design/methodology/approach

At first the main factors characterizing e‐SN pattern are identified (organizational structures, managerial criteria and critical activities), then two separate procedures are adopted for developing an integrated reference framework. The first based on the analysis of correlations among variables influencing the factors under investigation; the second based on the analysis of different types of physical and immaterial flows among actors involved in the e‐SN. On the basis of such evidence an integrated global framework is proposed, which is then used to classify and describe some relevant literature‐based case studies.

Findings

On the basis of two newly introduced variables, namely the internal integration degree and the decision‐making concentration degree, the framework identifies four sets of organizational structures, managerial criteria and critical activities, each one coherent with specific environmental contexts.

Research limitations/implications

The framework is restricted to describing and classifying different typologies of e‐SN.

Practical implications

The framework may be useful for assessing if the typology of organizational structure, managerial criteria and critical activities adopted for the management of a specific e‐SN, is coherent with e‐SN business environment. It may also provide useful guidelines for managers and practitioners involved in e‐SN design.

Originality/value

The paper provides an original integrated framework to classify e‐SNs.
Determinants of business‐to‐business e‐commerce implementation and performance: a structural model
Authors: Power Damien
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Seeks to test the relative importance of various drivers of information‐technology‐related performance, and compare these drivers in the context of using established and emerging technologies. Established technologies include those generally promoted as the European Article Numbering (EAN) system (electronic data interchange (EDI), barcoding, etc.), while the emerging ones are based on the use of the internet.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was designed based on previous research and a series of case studies conducted within the membership of EAN Australia. The method of analysis employed was structural equation modelling based on data collected from 553 members of the EAN organisation in Australia.

Findings

Use of technology enabling business‐to‐business (B2B) e‐commerce was found to provide a potential source of performance improvement, but such improvement is shown to be more a function of the process by which strategy is formulated, and organisational capability, than of the technologies per se. The adoption and use of emerging technologies (such as the internet) are not subject to the same restrictions and impediments traditionally associated with established technologies. Therefore, organisations will find emerging internet‐based technologies easier to implement and to use, but this will not necessarily mean that they will improve performance as a result. Performance will still be determined by effective strategy formulation, a clear understanding and knowledge of the technologies, appropriate application, and prudent change management.

Research limitations/implications

This research has been conducted in Australia, and restricted to the membership of the EAN organisation. This membership is largely representative of the fast‐moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry. Whether such results would be consistent in other countries and industries would need to be verified through further research.

Originality/value

Develops and tests an integrated model linking strategy formulation, knowledge, capability, use of technology and performance. Provides valuable insight into why and how technology implementations can be configured for success.
Strategic decisions in supply‐chain intelligence using knowledge management: an analytic‐network‐process framework
Authors: Raisinghani Mahesh S. , Meade Laura L.
Published: April 2005

Purpose

To investigate the linkage between organization performance criteria and the dimensions of agility, e‐supply‐chain drivers and knowledge management.

Design/methodology/approach

The analytic network process is applied as the research methodology in the context of executive decisions that include qualitative and quantitative attributes. The decision model is presented, along with a case study with an e‐supply chain of a global telecommunications company.

Findings

The study develops a framework for measuring the relative importance of a particular dimension based on the application of theoretical concepts from the information systems and management science literature to the digital, knowledge economy. Since contextual factors play a critical role in the design of effective knowledge‐management (KM) systems, technical and process solutions need to be customized to fit the organization performance criteria, dimensions of agility and supply chain drivers.

Research limitations/implications

The model presented is dependent on the perceptual weightings provided by the decision‐maker and the generalizability of findings based on our model to other organizations may be limited.

Practical implications

This paper addresses the need for a strategic decision‐making tool to assist management in determining which knowledge management construct is most beneficial in the development of an agile supply chain.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified information need and offers practical help in a dynamic and competitive environment by providing a decision model that assists in determining which construct of KM is most important based on an organization's performance criteria, dimensions of agility and supply‐chain drivers.
Successful use of e‐procurement in supply chains
Authors: Puschmann Thomas , Alt Rainer
Published: April 2005

Purpose

Electronic support of internal supply chains for direct or production goods has been a major element during the implementation of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems that has taken place since the late 1980s. However, supply chains to indirect material suppliers were not usually included due to low transaction volumes, low product values and low strategic importance of these goods. Dedicated information systems for streamlining indirect goods supply chains have emerged since the late 1990s and subsequently have faced a broad diffusion in practice. The concept of these e‐procurement solutions has also been described broadly in the literature. However, studies on how companies use these e‐procurement solutions and what factors are critical to their implementation are only emerging. This research aims to explore the introduction of e‐procurement systems and their contribution to the management of indirect goods supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

Chooses a two‐part qualitative approach. First, summarizes the results of a benchmarking study that was conducted by a consortium of 12 multinational companies. During the benchmarking process 120 questionnaires were distributed, ten phone‐based interviews were conducted, and finally five successful practice companies were selected and analyzed in detail. Second, draws together the success factors identified in the benchmarking study and maps them against the successful practice companies.

Findings

Although e‐procurement has substantially streamlined the procurement and coordination processes for indirect goods, many companies operate multiple e‐procurement solutions. For integrated procurement solutions, the paper recognizes the need of an overall procurement strategy and organization, an alignment of various e‐procurement solutions along the procurement process and the need for integrated system architectures. Companies also have to realize that a no standardized e‐procurement solutions exists and that important success factors are “non‐technical” in nature.

Originality/value

This paper presents a first step towards a systematic analysis of factors that may guide companies in the implementation of e‐procurement solutions. Besides providing a direct contribution to the project work in companies it may stimulate further research in e‐procurement success factors.
Exploring the world of knowledge management: agreements and disagreements in the academic/practitioner community
Authors: Metaxiotis Kostas , Ergazakis Kostas , Psarras John
Published: April 2005

Purpose

During the last 15 years, knowledge management (KM) has changed from one generation to the next through constant improvements and new perspectives. A myriad researchers have presented methodologies, frameworks, technologies and have discussed various KM theoretical and practical issues. However, KM still needs extensive development – it is in its infancy. This paper aims to explore the world of KM in a different way; to review the current status quo and analyze the main agreements and disagreements among researchers and practitioners in order to highlight the key issues which need to be further researched.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors attempt to review and analyze in a coherent way the main agreements and disagreements among researchers and practitioners – in the field of KM – based on a wide range of published works, including papers, books, reports and web sites.

Findings

Based on the key agreements among researchers and practitioners and having in mind the remaining disagreements, the third KM generation should proceed to further investigation of several KM issues and to further research.

Research limitations/implications

The key issues highlighted here need to be researched further. Following on from the individual‐knowledge focus of the 1970s/1980s and the group‐knowledge focus of the 1990s/2000s, the third KM generation should: develop criteria for evaluating frameworks, methodologies and approaches, and systems for measuring knowledge, intellectual capital and other assets; include double‐loop learning; analyse investments and costs of KM Systems; use modern technologies for transfer of explicit knowledge; and apply KM to other areas of social life. There is also a need to clarify the meanings of differences between the various concepts discussed here.

Originality/value

The distinguishing feature of this study is that it emphasizes placing KM in a broader context of researchers/practitioners’ discussions so that the key issues can be better recognized and understood.
Knowledge management as competitive advantage: lessons from the textile and apparel value chain
Authors: Danskin Paula , Englis Basil G. , Solomon Michael R. , Goldsmith Marla , Davey Jennifer
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to investigate knowledge management in the textile industry specifically through the relationships and interconnections of knowledge management systems, strategy and firm performance across the value chain.

Design/methodology/approach

This research examines the process of acquisition, retention, maintenance, and retrieval of knowledge both within the firm through organizational memory and across the value chain. A series of case studies examines how Invista (a Du Pont subsidiary) manages knowledge internally and externally through relationships with downstream partners across a single value‐chain within the textile industry. Qualitative interviews assess the “state of the industry” regarding knowledge management systems.

Findings

Differentiation through knowledge is difficult in practice. Invista has taken the first steps to develop knowledge management systems that connect the internal and external knowledge base to gain competitive advantage. Establishing internal knowledge management systems for organizational memory creates opportunities to minimize knowledge isolation in functional departments and creates a greater base for tacit learning to be leveraged. External knowledge management systems bring value chain members closer together and add value to the product (i.e. increased quality, customer perceptions of brand platforms) throughout the value chain. Active external knowledge systems create opportunities to reap the full benefits of internal knowledge and knowledge from other firms within the network.

Originality/value

This paper describes the process of acquisition, retention, maintenance, and retrieval of knowledge within the firm by improving organizational memory and across the value chain through knowledge management systems to gain competitive advantage.
Knowledge management and growth in Finnish SMEs
Authors: Salojärvi Sari , Furu Patrick , Sveiby Karl‐Erik
Published: April 2005

Purpose

The impact of knowledge management on the financial success of companies has not yet been properly researched. This paper aims to make a contribution by examining the relationship between sustainable sales growth and knowledge management activities in 108 Finnish small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were generated from a questionnaire survey of 108 SMEs from different fields and thematic interviews with ten companies.

Findings

Higher levels of KM‐maturity were found to correlate positively with long‐term sustainable growth. Although Finnish SMEs display a surprisingly high awareness about KM, only a minor proportion of the sample firms has been able to benefit in terms of growth from their KM‐related activities. The results have implications for policy formulation in the field of SMEs, since half the Finnish SMEs in the sample do not grow. We found that the fast‐growing companies with high KM‐maturity are applying KM‐related activities in a comprehensive and balanced way, thereby raising question marks around the effectiveness of eclectic “KM implementations”.

Research limitations/implications

This research was carried out in only one country and the results cannot be generalised. Furthermore, this study does not provide any information concerning the causal relationship of knowledge management and SME performance. Therefore, further studies in the field are needed.

Practical implications

The results from this study also suggest that SMEs might be able to shift into higher growth by applying a comprehensive KM‐approach incorporating all intangible assets equally.

Originality/value

This study provides new information concerning the relationship between knowledge management and small business performance.
The factors affecting the relation between the menarcheal age of mother and daughter
Authors: Ersoy B. , Balkan C. , Gunay T. , Egemen A.
Published: April 2005

Background  Menarche is one of the most important biologic signals in the life of a woman. Menarche is a biological variable which has a significant genotypic component in girls. In recent years, many studies reporting the earlier onset of menarche owing to the improvement of socio‐economic conditions have been published.

Design  We asked some questions about menarche to 1017 female students studying in the high schools of Manisa region in order to determine the menarcheal age and the correlation of menarcheal age between the mothers and daughters in our region.

Results  The mean age at menarche for the girls was 12.82 ± 1.07 years and for the mothers was 13.6 ± 1.39 years. The mean menarcheal age of the mothers was higher than the mean menarcheal age of the girls (P < 0.001). This difference persisted independent of the socio‐economic status, nutritional state and physical activity of the girls. There was a significant correlation between the menarcheal age of the girls and their mothers (r = 0.262, P < 0.001). This correlation existed in all the girls with different socio‐economic status, nutritional state and physical activity. However, this correlation disappeared in girls with body mass index (BMI) > 25 (r = 0.04, P = 0.813). In girls with BMI < 25, there was a correlation between the menarcheal age of the girls and mothers (r = 0.282, P < 0.001).

Conclusion  These results suggest that the menarche occurs earlier in the daughters than their mothers. The correlation between the menarcheal age of the girls and their mothers persists under all circumstances except in obesity. The mother's menarcheal age is a good predictor of the daughter's menarcheal age in non‐obese girls and the BMI is an important factor.
Standardization of the motor scales of the Griffiths Test II on children aged 3 to 6 years in Greece
Authors: Giagazoglou P. , Tsimaras V. , Fotiadou E. , Evaggelinou C. , Tsikoulas J. , Angelopoulou N.
Published: April 2005

Aims The present study aimed at the standardization of the motor scales (A – locomotor and D – eye–hand co‐ordination) of the Griffiths Test II on Greek preschool‐aged children.

Participants Nine hundred and thirty children living in Northern Greece were assessed (455 boys and 475 girls), aged from 37 to 72 months (3–6 years old).

Results Percentile ranks were determined depending on the developmental quotient and the chronological age of the child. Through the present application of the Griffiths Test to the children in our country, we showed that the average developmental quotients of the two scales were higher than the relevant published quotients of the Griffiths Test II.

Discussion Some of the factors that may have contributed to faster motor development are passage of time and the environmental and cultural differences between countries. The findings reinforce the need for standardization of a test before it is applied to the population of a country, and its re‐standardization on the population of the country where it was first applied.
Going to the doctors: the views of mothers of children with recurrent abdominal pain
Authors: Smart S. , Cottrell D.
Published: April 2005

Objectives  to explore how mothers of children with recurrent abdominal pain view seeking medical help on behalf of their children.

Design  qualitative interview study.

Setting  paediatric clinics and schools.

Participants  purposive sample of 28 mothers of children with recurrent abdominal pain.

Main outcome measures  Beliefs concerning recurrent abdominal pain, the respective roles of doctors and mothers and the nature and quality of interactions with doctors.

Results  Mothers of children with recurrent abdominal pain reported shaping the way they discussed the child's problem with doctors according to their beliefs about their own roles and the beliefs they perceived doctors to hold about recurrent abdominal pain. Where they were seeking help in managing the pain, they often felt undermined and threatened and responded to this by stressing the physical aspects of the child's presentation.

Conclusions  Doctors may need to acknowledge actively mothers’ competence in order to establish a therapeutic alliance.
Adolescents’ and their parents’ views on the acceptability and design of a new diabetes education programme: a focus group analysis
Authors: Waller H. , Eiser C. , Heller S. , Knowles J. , Price K.
Published: April 2005

Background  The present study was conducted as part of an ongoing project to develop an innovative educational intervention for young people with type 1 diabetes. We aimed to seek the views of children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes and their parents regarding (i) the acceptability of the new programme and (ii) practical aspects regarding course design and delivery.

Methods  Twenty‐four children and 29 parents attended one of eight separate focus groups. Semi‐structured interview schedules were developed around two main areas of discussion: views on the education programme; and views on the design and delivery of current and future education. Discussions were tape‐recorded and transcribed, before undergoing systematic qualitative analysis.

Results  Participants agreed that the proposed intervention was feasible, and were enthusiastic that it could improve quality of life and ‘normality’. Potential problems included self‐management during school‐time and parental anxiety. In terms of course design/delivery, participants emphasized the need to maximize enjoyment on the course (e.g. integrating fun and practical sessions, holding parts of the course outside of the clinic setting), and encourage effective learning and adherence to the regimen (e.g. including separate parent education, and using IT‐based reference material).

Conclusions  The qualitative methodology proved an effective way of eliciting child and parent views and informing the development of the proposed intervention. These findings can now be incorporated into the development of the education programme.
Active commuting to and from school and BMI in elementary school children – preliminary data
Authors: Heelan K. A. , Donnelly J. E. , Jacobsen D. J. , Mayo M. S. , Washburn R. , Greene L.
Published: April 2005

Background  United States National Health Objectives include increasing the proportion of trips made by walking to and from school for children who live within 1.6 km to 50%. The purpose of this objective is to increase the level of physical activity among children. However, the impact of walking, bicycling or skating (active commuting) to and from school on the prevalence of overweight is unknown.

Methods  Body mass index (BMI) was measured for 320 children (age 10.2 ± 0.7 years) in September. Over 5 months, an active commuting index (SI) and daily physical activity were estimated via questionnaire. In April, BMI and body fat were measured.

Results  A significant positive association was found between April BMI and SI adjusting for September BMI (partial r = 0.03, P < 0.05). Positive associations were found between SI and physical activity before school (r = 0.17, P < 0.05) and daily moderate intensity physical activity (r = 0.13, P < 0.05). There were no significant association between SI and BF (P > 0.05).

Conclusions  This preliminary data suggests that active commuting does not appear to provide sufficient amounts of physical activity to attenuate BMI; however, it may contribute to the attainment of physical activity recommendations. Future research is needed to objectively measure the impact of active commuting on the prevalence of overweight.
Drowning of babies in bath seats: do they provide false reassurance?
Authors: Sibert J. , John N. , Jenkins D. , Mann M. , Sumner V. , Kemp A. , Cornall P.
Published: April 2005

Aims  To investigate the problem of children drowning in bath seats by examining case reports, by looking at the epidemiology of bath drowning in children under two years of age and by reviewing the literature.

Methods  We describe two babies: one who drowned and one nearly drowned in the bath whilst in a bath seat. We examined the RoSPA/RLSS UK database of cases of children under two years drowning in the bath for the years 1989–2003. Cases are ascertained through a press cutting system. We conducted an all language literature search of original articles, references, textbooks and conference abstracts 1951 – October 2004 in 11 standard databases.

Results  The two cases illustrate how parents can have a false sense of security with bath seats. We found six cases of babies under two years drowning in the UK associated with bath seats in the time period 1989–2003. They were all boys: five of the six were under one year of age. This compared with 47 children of similar age drowning in the bath not associated with a bath seat. The literature is sparse with only four papers since 1966.

Discussion  A baby drowning after being placed in a bath seats is a rare but definite cause of death. Bath seats appear to give a false sense of security (even if not encouraged by the manufacturers). It is unclear whether putting a baby in a bath seat represents an increased risk of drowning compared with a baby without a seat. Without knowing the numbers of mothers that use bath seats it is difficult to come to firm conclusions on the risks to babies. New research is needed to clarify this issue. Whether in a seat or not it is clear that the main risk to babies in the bath is being left unsupervised.
School re‐entry after a cancer diagnosis: physician attitudes about truth telling and information sharing1
Authors: Mayer D. K. , Parsons S. K. , Terrin N. , Tighiouart H. , Jeruss S. , Nakagawa K. , Iwata Y. , Hara J. , Saiki‐Craighill S.
Published: April 2005

Background  School re‐entry for children with cancer hallmarks a return to age‐appropriate activities; a process fraught with adjustment challenges. The paediatric oncologist is in a pivotal role of setting the tone and providing direction to the child, family, and other members of the health care and school team about this process. Understanding physicians’ attitudes and behaviours regarding school re‐entry will provide insight into these practices.

Methods  A four‐part survey (general attitudes, patient factors, work cultures and respondent characteristics) was developed and mailed to the members of US and Japanese paediatric oncology professional societies. Japanese (n = 362) and US (n = 350) paediatric oncologists comprised the study sample; the average respondent was a male in his mid‐forties providing clinical care ≥ 5 hours/week practising for about 15 years. Responses to a hypothetical scenario reflecting the range of how school re‐entry issues for a child on treatment may be handled was the outcome variable in this report.

Results  US physicians (284/350, 84.5%) endorsed telling everyone (the school officials and classmates) about a child's diagnosis and treatment to facilitate the transition back to school. In contrast, only 93/359 (25.9%) of the Japanese respondents endorsed telling everyone. Japanese physicians were more likely to endorse telling everyone if they believed it was the physician's responsibility to tell children the truth at diagnosis (P < 0.001), if they did not believe that awareness of cancer dashes hope (P = 0.002), and were not influenced by type of cancer the child had (P = 0.003).

Conclusions  Differences in US and Japanese paediatric oncologist responses in return to school issues may reflect larger cultural issues such as: benefits and disadvantages to telling the child that he/she has cancer; hospitalization practices; and the availability of school re‐entry programs. More needs to be learned about how children, their families and schools prefer to have re‐entry issues handled during and after treatment and how these approaches affect the child's re‐entry into school.
Purification and immunoglobulin E‐binding properties of peanut allergen Ara h 6: evidence for cross‐reactivity with Ara h 2
Authors: Koppelman S. J. , De Jong G. A. H. , Laaper‐Ertmann M. , Peeters K. A. B. M. , Knulst A. C. , Hefle S. L. , Knol E. F.
Published: April 2005

Background
IgE‐binding peanut proteins smaller than 15 kDa were previously identified as potential allergens in the majority of our peanut allergic population.

Objective
To characterize the novel allergen in order to determine whether it was similar to one of the thus far identified recombinant peanut allergens (Ara h 1–7).

Methods
An IgE‐binding protein of <15 kDa was purified and identified via N‐terminal sequencing. Its IgE‐binding properties were investigated using immunoblotting, basophil degranulation, and skin prick testing. Possible cross‐reacting epitopes with other peanut allergens were studied using IgE‐immunoblotting inhibition.

Results
The purified protein is a monomeric protein with a molecular weight of 14 981 Da as determined using matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight (MALDI‐TOF) mass spectroscopy. The amino acid sequence of the first 39 N‐terminal residues is identical to that of Ara h 6, indicating that the allergen is Ara h 6. It is recognized by 20 out of 29 peanut‐allergic patients on IgE‐immunoblot, and its potent biological functionality is demonstrated by the degranulation of basophils, even at concentrations below 10 pg/mL, and by positive skin prick reactions. Ara h 6 has homology to Ara h 2, especially in the middle part and at the C‐terminal part of the protein. Almost complete inhibition of IgE–Ara h 6 interaction with Ara h 2 demonstrates that at least part of the epitopes of Ara h 6 are cross‐reactive with epitopes on Ara h 2.

Conclusions
Peanut‐derived Ara h 6 is a biologically active allergen recognized by the majority of our peanut‐allergic patient population and can be considered a clinically relevant peanut allergen.
Immunological characterization of a recombinant tropomyosin from a new indoor source, Lepisma saccharina
Authors: Barletta B. , Butteroni C. , Puggioni E. M. R. , Iacovacci P. , Afferni C. , Tinghino R. , Ariano R. , Panzani R. C. , Pini C. , Di Felice G.
Published: April 2005

Background
The presence of specific IgE antibodies to invertebrates is common among patients with rhinitis and asthma. Tropomyosin has been described as an invertebrate cross‐reactive allergen. We have recently characterized an allergenic extract from silverfish (Lepisma saccharina). Since this insect could be a new source of tropomyosin in the indoor environment, we have thought important to clone and characterize the tropomyosin from it.

Methods
Recombinant tropomyosin was cloned and characterized by means of immunoblotting with tropomyosin‐specific monoclonal antibodies, rabbit polyclonal antibodies and IgE from allergic patients. Its allergenic activity was investigated in histamine release assays. Immunoblotting and ELISA inhibition were carried out to identify the natural tropomyosin in the silverfish extract and to study the cross‐reactivity among other arthropod tropomyosins.

Results
Tropomyosin‐specific antibodies recognized in immunoblotting the natural tropomyosin in the insoluble fraction of silverfish extract. The silverfish tropomyosin (Lep s 1) was cloned and fully expressed. It shared high homology with other arthropod tropomyosins. rLep s 1 was recognized by tropomyosin‐specific monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies and by IgE of allergic patients. It was able to inhibit the IgE binding to the insoluble fraction of silverfish extract, and to induce histamine release by an arthropod‐allergic serum. Inhibition experiments revealed IgE cross‐reactivity between rLep s 1 and other arthropod tropomyosins.

Conclusion
rLep s 1 is the first allergen cloned and characterized from silverfish extract. It enabled us to identify the natural counterpart in the insoluble fraction of silverfish extract, suggesting that the tropomyosin is not readily extractable with a classic aqueous extraction procedure. rLep s 1 displayed biological activity, suggesting that it could be regarded as a useful tool to study the role of silverfish tropomyosin in the sensitization to invertebrate allergic sources.