bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The positive interaction of work and family roles
Authors: Warner Melissa A. , Hausdorf Peter A.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the predominant theoretical frameworks used to describe the interaction between work and family roles and present an integrative model of work‐family enrichment. The goal is to better understand the psychological processes underlying work‐family enrichment and to identify ways in which work‐family enrichment can be increased. A conceptual and testable model depicting the direct and indirect relationships involved in work‐family enrichment is provided.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of past theories describing the work‐family interface is provided, followed by the presentation of a theoretical and testable model depicting the relationships between work‐family enrichment and need theory.

Findings

It is suggested that the basic needs of competence, autonomy, and relatedness are presented as important psychological benefits that directly impact affect within a domain and indirectly influence work‐family enrichment and quality of life.

Research limitations/implications

This paper suggests several future directions that researchers can undertake to advance the understanding of positive linkages between work and family. These future directions include: testing the propositions related to need theory through a daily study approach, examining organizational and personal antecedents and consequences associated with work‐family enrichment, and testing the aspects of the presented model to further the new area of research, integrating work‐family enrichment and need theory.

Practical implications

This paper highlights several practical recommendations for individuals and organizations. These include: the need to focus beyond work‐family conflict towards work‐family enrichment, incorporating basic psychological need fulfillment into employees' developmental goals, and for employees to seek psychological benefits to buffer any costs within a role when trying to balance work and family.

Originality/value

This paper addresses several gaps in the previous work‐family literature including: the primary focus on the negative interaction between work and family; the lack of theoretical exploration into how and why multiple roles can lead to work‐family enrichment; and specifically, the integration of need theory as an explanation for work‐family enrichment.
Development and test of new dimensions of altruistic buying behavior
Authors: Hopkins Raymond A. , Powers Thomas L.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is show how altruism provides a basis for understanding motivations that consumers may possess, especially as it relates to their response to buy‐national marketing campaigns. The paper aims to report research that examines traditional measures of altruism to determine whether there are differing or additional dimensions of altruism.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a survey of 212 consumers and their responses to previously validated altruism scales. These scales were factor‐analyzed to identify new dimensions of altruism.

Findings

Eight dimensions of altruism are empirically identified and are demonstrated to be different by demographic groupings and their responses to altruism‐based marketing programs.

Originality/value

Patterns of altruistic behavior can enable marketers to estimate the relative size and behavioral patterns of altruism‐based market segments.
Policy and research in a post‐conflict context
Authors: Rutaisire John , Gahima Charles
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the relationship between policy development and research evidence with specific reference to the Rwandan Teacher Development and Management Policy introduced in 2005. It aims to highlight the complexity of implementing large‐scale system wide change in the specific context of a small African nation emerging from a recent period of intense conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper seeks to link analysis of teacher education policy in Rwanda with a review of international scholarship and research.

Findings

The paper argues that much has been achieved by the Rwandan Teacher Development and Management Policy, but that further work is necessary if the policy is to lead to tangible and meaningful change at school level. It also concludes that international research on teacher education and development can provide a useful rationale for Rwandan education policy, but it is vital that policy implementation reflects the specificity of the Rwandan context.

Research limitation/implications

The paper has implications for contexts seeking to adopt similar system wide policy changes, and seeking to link international research with specific national circumstances.

Originality/value

Education research into the specific contexts of sub‐Saharan African nations remains underdeveloped. This paper makes a small contribution to addressing this deficit.
Job satisfaction of physicians in Russia
Authors: O'Leary Patrick , Wharton Natalia , Quinlan Thomas
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the relationship between job characteristics and job satisfaction amongst physicians in Russia.

Design/methodology/approach

Overall satisfaction and relative satisfaction on the bases of facility and gender were measured. Approaches included the perception vs expectation paradigm, and statistical techniques using chi‐square, independent samples t‐tests, and logistic regression.

Findings

The study finds that, overall, male doctors report higher levels of satisfaction than female doctors, while those who work in polyclinics are more satisfied than those employed by hospitals. Female physicians are more satisfied in their relations with patients and colleagues than their male counterparts. The majority of physicians are dissatisfied with administration and time constraints.

Practical implications

This paper provides practical advice to hospital and polyclinic managers in Russia as attempts at reforming and restructuring the healthcare system gather momentum.

Originality/value

There is scant empirical data on the job satisfaction of physicians in Russia. This paper found that job characteristic variables such as clinical autonomy, resources, time, and administration moderate physician satisfaction relationships in Russia, just as they do in the West.
Creating patient value in glaucoma care: applying quality costing and care delivery value chain approaches
Authors: de Korne Dirk F. , Sol Kees (J.C.A.) , Custers Thomas , van Sprundel Esther , van Ineveld B. Martin , Lemij Hans G. , Klazinga Niek S.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore in a specific hospital care process the applicability in practice of the theories of quality costing and value chains.

Design/methodology/approach

In a retrospective case study an in‐depth evaluation of the use of a quality cost model (QCM) and the applicability of Porter's care delivery value chain (CDVC) was performed in a specific care process: glaucoma care over the period 2001 to 2006 in the Rotterdam Eye Hospital in The Netherlands.

Findings

The case study shows a reduction of costs per product by increasing the number of outpatient visits and surgery combined with a higher patient satisfaction. Reduction of costs of non‐compliance by using the QCM is small, due to the absence of (external) financial incentives for both the hospital and individual physicians. For CDVC to be supportive to an integrated quality and cost management the notion “patient value” needs far more specification as mutually agreed on by the stakeholders involved and related reimbursement needs to depend on realised outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

The case study just focused on one specific care process in one hospital. To determine effects in other areas of health care, it is important to study the use and applicability of the QCM and the CDVC in other care processes and settings.

Originality/value

QCM and a CDVC can be useful tools for hospital management to manage the outcomes on both quality and costs, but impact is dependent on the incentives in the context of the existing organisational and reimbursement system and asks for an agreed on operationalisation among the various stakeholders of the notion of patient value.
Comparison of low cost, insulated aluminium substrates used as integrated heat sinks with conventional technology
Authors: Eisermann E. , Höll K. , Smetana W. , Tusler W. , Unger M. , Whitmarsh J.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe two new thick film paste systems (one glass‐based and the other polymer‐based) for insulating aluminium substrates and allowing components like high‐intensity light‐emitting diodes to be attached to a conductor deposited on the dielectric.

Design/methodology/approach

Comparative measurements of the thermal resistance of different substrates mounted with metal‐oxide semiconductor field‐effect transistors were made.

Findings

The thermal advantages of these two technologies have been proved.

Originality/value

This paper presents useful comparative data from a replicated application using different combinations of substrates. The paper shows how the superior properties of the two new systems have been proven by thermal resistance measurements. From a thermal point of view, it is only the expensive 4 W m−1 K−1 insulated metal substrate that competes with the “low cost” systems.
Comparison between models for p‐n junctions parameters extraction
Authors: Pesenti G.C. , Boudinov H.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare different junctions' parameters extraction models.

Design/methodology/approach

I‐V curves of p+‐n and pwell‐n diodes were measured. Five models for parameters extraction on I‐V characteristics of diodes in an educational poly‐Si gate pwell complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology were applied. The junctions' areas were 30 × 30 μm for the source‐body p+‐n junction of the PMOS transistor and 220 × 250 μm for the pwell‐body junction. The diodes were sintered in forming gas (10 percent of H2) in the temperature interval of 450‐525°C for times from 30 min up to 4 h.

Findings

It was shown that the best annealing regimes are different for both kinds of junctions.

Originality/value

The paper shows that the best annealing regime for p+‐n diodes (the lowest n and I0 values) is 450°C, 30 min and for the pwell‐n diodes (the lowest I0 values) is 525°C, 60 min. So, for the different kinds of junctions in one integrated circuit, different annealings could give the best parameters and the optimization depends on the specific characteristics of the developed technology.
Electrical properties and electrical equivalent models of thick‐film and LTCC microcapacitors
Authors: Miś Edward , Dziedzic Andrzej , Nitsch Karol
Published: May 2009

Purpose

A capacitor is a basic electronic passive component. Thick‐film technology allows manufacturing of capacitors covering the range of small and medium capacitances and they have been investigated in depth already. Low temperature co‐fired ceramics (LTCC) technology makes it possible to fabricate buried capacitors, which leads to increased packaging density, but such components’ properties are not well known. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of investigations on thick‐film and LTCC capacitors made in various technological variants.

Design/methodology/approach

Thick‐film and LTCC capacitors were made in various technological variants. Different capacitor inks, metallurgy of electrodes and component constructions were investigated. Basic electrical properties and stability were determined. An electrical equivalent circuit of such components was developed based on frequency and temperature characteristics.

Findings

Simple electrical equivalent circuits of self‐made thick‐film and LTCC micro‐capacitors were developed based on measurements in frequency and temperature domain. Good fitting accuracy was obtained. The bulk material section of model is predominant in the low‐frequency range. Interface region and serial resistance influence are revealed at higher frequency, affecting mainly dissipation factor value. Also, temperature and thermal ageing have affected strongly on that part of the model.

Originality/value

The paper usefully examines the electrical properties and electrical equivalent models of thick‐film and LTCC micro‐capacitors.
Service cost model and cost comparative studies
Authors: Mas Machuca Carmen , Moe Øyvind , Eberspächer Joerg , Jaeger Monika , Gladisch Andreas
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a service cost model which can be used to evaluate the impact of different management functionalities or network platforms to the service cost.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the validation of the importance that OpEx has on the overall TCO, a classification of the costs is proposed, based on their relation to the network. Two main types of costs have been identified: network based costs and service based costs. Both cost types have been modeled as a set of interconnected processes based on the network and service life cycle respectively. Network and service cost models have been integrated into a single framework. These models have been implemented as Markov chains, which include the dynamic behavior of services. Two different methods for the implementation (analytical versus non‐analytical) have been compared from the implementation and computation time point of view. The proposed service model has been used in two case studies: cost comparison of different types of services on different platforms; and impact of the service type distribution on the overall service cost on different platforms.

Findings

This paper finds the utility that the proposed cost model has. It has been shown that the impact on the overall service cost that a particular network platform capability such as the possibility of establishing point to multipoint connections has.. The proposed network and service cost models can be used on different types of networks and services.

Originality/value

The paper presents a general service cost model that can be used to study the impact of any management functionality or network platform has on the service cost.
Volunteer Support for Mothers with New Babies: Perceptions of Need and Support Received
Authors: MacPherson Kristen , Barnes Jacqueline , Nichols Michelle , Dixon Sharon
Published: May 2009

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 55 mothers of infants. Some had received Home‐Start during their infant’s first year, others were offered the support but declined and the remainder were not offered Home‐Start. Most of their support had come from informal sources, such as family and friends with less from professionals. Mothers who received Home‐Start described beneficial aspects, in particular, the extent of practical support provided, preferable to calling on close relatives or friends. Difficulties related to volunteer characteristics and administrative problems. Overall volunteer support can be important to complement informal and formal support, but needs careful management.
Meta‐analysis on the effect of dopexamine on in‐hospital mortality
Authors: Gopal S. , Jayakumar D. , Nelson P. N.
Published: May 2009

The objective of the study was to determine whether dopexamine alters in‐hospital mortality. The following databases were searched, Embase (1974–July 2007), Medline (1950–July 2007), CINAHL, PubMed and Cochrane Clinical Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). Two reviewers independently checked the quality of the studies and extracted data. Six randomised controlled trials totalling 935 patients were included. Mortality was not significantly different with dopexamine treatment (relative risk 0.75, 95% confidence interval 0.48–1.18, p = 0.22). In conclusion, dopexamine does not improve in‐hospital mortality in patients undergoing major abdominal surgery and in the critically ill.
Identification of C‐glycoside analogues that display a potent biological activity against murine and human invariant natural killer T cells
Authors: Li Xiangming , Chen Guangwu , Garcia‐Navarro Raquel , Franck Richard W. , Tsuji Moriya
Published: May 2009

We have recently shown that α‐C‐galactosylceramide (α‐C‐GalCer) stimulates invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells and preferentially induces a T helper 1 (Th1)‐type response in mice. However, α‐C‐GalCer was found to be a rather weak ligand against human iNKT cells in vitro. Therefore, in this study, we sought to identify a compound that displays a strong stimulatory activity against human iNKT cells, by determining the biological activities of several C‐glycoside analogues. From the in vitro screening assays, we found that almost all C‐glycoside analogues, which have an E‐alkene linker between sugar and lipid moieties, are able to activate human iNKT cells and to induce the maturation and activation of human dendritic cells through iNKT‐cell activation. In summary, although α‐galactosylceramide (α‐GalCer) remains the strongest iNKT‐cell ligand, our study identified E‐alkene‐linked C‐glycoside analogues as potent human iNKT‐cell stimulants, and indicated that these analogues could be used as a therapeutic agent in the future for diseases resolved by Th1‐type responses.
Transcriptional profiling of the sperm storage organs ofDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Prokupek A. M. , Kachman S. D. , Ladunga I. , Harshman L. G.
Published: April 2009

The occurrence of female sperm storage across taxa indicates the importance of this complex and dynamic process. Organs responsible for sperm storage (SSOs) and proteins expressed therein, are important in fundamental aspects of reproduction and could play a major role in evolutionary processes such as post‐mating sexual selection. Given the essential role of SSOs, it is surprising that the process of sperm storage is so poorly understood. This study investigated the transcriptome of femaleDrosophila melanogasterSSOs (seminal receptacle and spermathecae). Spermathecae were enriched for proteases and metabolic enzymes while the seminal receptacle was enriched for genes involved in localization, signaling and ion transport. Differences in functional gene categories indicate that these organs play unique roles in sperm storage.
Trichophyton rubrum as the causative agent of tinea capitis in three children
Authors: Schwinn A. , Ebert J. , Müller I. , Bröcker E.‐B.
Published: April 2009

Summary. Tinea capitis, which is caused by Trichophyton rubrum, is only rarely described in medical literature. Incidence of this disease appears to lie well below 1% in Europe. Microsporum canis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Trichophyton tonsurans are the predominant causative agents discussed here. In April 1993 T. rubrum was isolated from typical pathological changes to the capillitium area in three children from a Nigerian family, who had been living in Germany for 3 years. All three children revealed multiple, round or irregularly formed, partially infiltrated, partially pustular, hairless areas measuring up to 2 cm in diameter and covered with tightly clinging scales. The childrens' parents did not suffer from any dermatological complaints. The oldest child had had these pathological changes for about 5 months, the other two for a shorter length of time. Therapy with 10 mg kg‐1 body weight of griseofulvin led to rapid recovery over a period of 4 weeks.

Zusammenfassung. Tinea capitis, hervorgerufen durch Trichophyton rubrum, wird in der Literatur nur selten beschrieben. In Europa scheint die Inzidenz weit unter einem Prozent zu liegen. Bei diesem Krankheitsbild finden sich bei uns als Erreger vorwiegend Microsporum canis, Trichophyton mentagrophytes und Trichophyton tonsurans. Im April 1993 konnte bei drei Kindern einer nigerianischen Familie, welche seit drei Jahren in Deutschland leben, von typischen Veränderungen aus dem Bereich des Capillitiums T. rubrum isoliert werden. Es fanden sich dort bei allen Kindern multiple bis zu zwei Zentimeter messende, runde oder unregelmäßig geformte, teilweise infiltrierte, teils pustulöse, haarlose Areale, welche mit fest anhaftenden Schuppen bedeckt waren. Die Eltern der Kinder waren hauterscheinungsfrei. Bei dem ältesten Kind bestanden die Veränderungen seit ungefähr 5 Monaten, bei den beiden anderen Kindern kürzer. Eine Therapie mit 10 mg/kg Körperge‐wicht Griseofulvin über vier Wochen fuhrte zu einer raschen Abheilung.
Discrimination of strains of Candida albicans isolated from deep and superficial sites by resistotyping
Authors: Hunter P.R.
Published: April 2009

Summary. Resistotyping was used to characterise 106 strains of Candida albicans classified as to whether they came from deep or superficial infections. The data were analysed by logistic regression analysis. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups of strains. After removal of variables by the log‐likelihood method four resistotyping agents were found to predict source of strain: boric acid, benzalkonium chloride, malachite green and mercurochrome. Whilst there were phenotypic differences between strains isolated from deep and superficial sites it is not clear whether this strain represents different strain types or strain histories.

Zusammenfassung. Einhundertsechs Stämme von Candida albicans wurden mit Resistotypisierung darauf hin charakterisiert, ob sie von tiefliegenden oder oberflächlichen Infektionen herstammen. Die Datenanalyse erfolgte mittels logistischer Regressions‐Analyse. Zwischen den beiden Gruppen von Stämmen bestand ein statistisch signifikanter Unterschied. Nach Eliminierung von Variablen nach der log‐likelihood‐Methode wurden vier Resistotyp‐Merkmale gefunden, die es ermöglichten, die Herkunft des Stammes vorherzusagen: Borsäure, Benzalkoniumchlorid, Malachitgrün und Chromquecksilber. Zwischen den von tiefliegenden und oberflächlichen Infektionen isolierten Stämmen gab es phänotypische Unterschiede. Es ist nicht klar, ob diese unterschiedliche Typen repräsentieren oder nur historische Stammdifferenzierungen darstellen.
Orointestinal yeast colonization of paediatric oncologic patients during antifungal prophylaxis: results of quantitative culture and Candida serology and comparison of three polyenes
Authors: Hoppe J. E. , Friess D. , Niethammer D.
Published: April 2009

Summary. The orointestinal yeast colonization of 46 children with newly diagnosed malignancies was studied prospectively and longitudinally with quantitative cultures during remission induction chemotherapy. The initial colonization rate was 24%; only 28% of the patients remained free of yeasts during their entire treatment although all of them continuously received oral polyenes as antifungal prophylaxis. A randomized comparison of natamycin (suspension, lozenges), nystatin (suspension) and amphotericin B (suspension, lozenges) failed due to serious problems with patient compliance. Natamycin was best accepted by the patients and natamycin lozenges were the most efficacious drug in the oral cavity. The effectivity of the suspensions of nystatin and amphotericin B was similar; both were equally efficacious in the oral cavity and the gut. Assessment of faecal polyene concentrations by HPLC showed the highest results for amphotericin B (mean 6808 μg g‐1). Regularly performed Candida serology (indirect haemagglutination, indirect immunofluorescence and immunodiffusion precipitation) revealed significant titre increases in 63% of the patients. In six cases, the synopsis of clinical picture, culture and serology strongly suggested systemic yeast invasion.

Zusammenfassung. Die orointestinale Sproß‐pilz‐Besiedlung von 46 Kindern mit neudiagnosti‐zierten Malignomen wurde während der Remissionsinduktionschemotherapie prospektiv longitudinal mit quantitativen Kulturen untersucht. Die initiale Besiedlungsrate betrug 24%; nur 28% der Patienten blieben pilzfrei während der gesamten Behandlung, obwohl alle Patienten kontinuierlich prophylaktisch ein orales Polyen‐Antimykotikum erhielten. Der Versuch, randomisiert Natamycin (Suspension, Lutschtabletten), Nystatin (Suspension) und Amphotericin B (Suspension, Lutschtabletten) zu vergleichen, scheiterte an erheblichen Problemen mit der Patientencompliance. Natamycin wurde von den Patienten am besten akzeptiert, und Natamycin‐Lutschtabletten waren in der Mundhöhle das effektivste Mittel. Die Wirksamkeit der Suspensionen von Nystatin und Amphotericin B war ähnlich; beide waren gleich effektiv in Mundhöhle und Darm. Die Messung der Polyen‐Stuhlkonzentrationen mittels HPLC ergab die höchsten Werte für Amphotericin B (Mittelwert 6808 μg g‐1). Regelmäßige Candida‐serologische Begleituntersuchungen (indirekte Hämagglutination, indirekte Immunofluoreszenz und Immun‐diffusionspräzipitation) zeigten signifikante Titeranstiege bei 63% der Patienten. In sechs Fallen ergab die Synopse von Klinik, Kultur und Serologie starke Verdachtsmomente fur eine systemische SproBpilz‐Invasion.
Inhibition of growth and mycotoxin production ofAlternaria alternatainhabiting decayed fruits by pesticides
Authors: Omar S. A. , Mahmoud A.‐L. E.
Published: April 2009

Summary.The effect of the two pesticides, cuprosan and sumi oil, on growth and mycotoxin production by two strains ofAlternaria alternataisolated from decayed fruits was studied. Mycelial biomass of the two strains was significantly inhibited with most applied doses, however, cuprosan pwas most effective. Sumi oil exhibited significant inhibitory effect on theAlternariastrain isolated from decayed lemons, whereas, it suppressed mycelial biomass of that isolated from decayed tomatoes at only higher doses (250 ppm). Mycelial respiration of the two tested strains was mainly inhibited by most used doses. However, CO2evolution was occasionally promoted. Synthesis of alternariol (AOH) and its monomethyl ether (AME) by the examined strains was mainly inhibited by pesticide application in a manner similar to that of mycelial growth.

Zusammenfassung.Es wurde die Wirkung von zwei Pestiziden, Cuprosan und Sumi‐Öl, auf das Wachstum und die Mycotoxin‐Produktion von zwei Stämmen vonAlternaria alternata, die aus faulenden Früchten isoliert wurden, untersucht. Die Myzelmasse der zwei Stämme war bei den meist angewandten Pestizid‐Dosen signifikant gehemmt, wobei Cuprosan am effektivsten war. Sumi‐Öl zeigte eine signifikante Hemmwirkung bei elnem aus faulenden Zitronen isoliertenAlternaria‐Stamm, während die Myzelmasse des aus Tomaten isolierten Stammes nur bei höheren Dosen (250 ppm) reduziert wurde. Die myzeliale Atmung der zwei getesteten Stämme war bei den meisten verwendeten Dosen stark gehemmt. Jedoch war die CO2‐Entwicklung teilweise erhöht. Die Synthese von Alternariol (AOH) und seinem Monomethylether (AME) der untersuchten Stämme war durch die Pestizid‐Anwendung eben‐falls reduziert.
Use of phenotypic and genotypic fingerprinting methods in the strain identification of Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Rath P.‐M. , Marggraf G. , Dermoumi Heide , Ansorg R.
Published: April 2009

Summary. Aspergillus fumigatus isolates (n= 6) from a lung transplant recipient, one isolate from a patient who had been on the same ward and a reference strain (NCPF 2140) were compared using three typing methods: SDS‐PAGE, immuno‐blotting with serum from the transplant patient and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) assay. Neither the SDS‐PAGE, immunoblot nor RAPD assay with single primers revealed differences between the eight isolates. Digestion of one primer product with the endonuclease EcoRI discriminated between the six patient isolates and the other two strains. The RAPD assay using pairwise combined primers showed identical patterns for the patient's strains but differentiated between the two other strains. It is concluded that any single technique may fail to detect strain differences and that a spectrum of typing methods is necessary in order to reveal or to exclude cross‐infections with Aspergillus fumigatus.

Zusammenfassung. Aspergillus fumigatus‐Isolate (n=6) eines lungentransplantierten Patienten, ein Isolat von einem anderen Patienten, der auf der gleichen Station lag und ein Referenz‐Stamm (NCPF 2140) wurden mit drei Typisierungsmethoden untersucht: SDS‐PAGE, Immunoblot mit einem Serum des transplantierten Patienten und dem random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) assay. Die Isolate unterschieden sich weder in der SDS‐PAGE und im Immunoblot noch im RAPD‐Assay mit einzelnen Primern. Der Verdau eines PCR‐Produkts mit der Endonuklease EcoRI führte zu einer Differenzierung zwischen den sechs Patientenisolaten und den zwei anderen Stämmen. Der RAPD‐Assay mit paarweise kombinierten Primern erbrachte identische Muster der Patientenisolate, grenzte aber die beiden anderen Stämme voneinander ab. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, daß einzelne Techniken in der Differenzierung von Stammunterschieden versagen können und daß ein Spektrum von Untersuchungsmethoden notwendig ist, um mögliche Kreuzinfektionen auszuschließen.
Microsporum nanum ‐ a report from Malawi (Africa)
Authors: Pónnighaus J. M. , Warndorff D. , Port G.
Published: April 2009

Summary. Microsporum nanum Fuentes 1956 has been identified in scrapings from a skin lesion in a patient in Karonga District, Malawi, Africa. We believe that this is the first such identification from the African continent. The patient had a single skin lesion in his popliteal fossa and was known to rear pigs.

Zusammenfassung. Microsporum nanum Fuentes 1956 wurde von den Hautschuppen eines Patienten im Karonga Distrikt, Malawi, Afrika angezüchtet. Diese Identifizierung scheint die erste auf dem afrikanischen Kontinent zu sein. Der Patient hatte eine typische Hautläsion in der Kniekehle und hielt Schweine.
Fluorescence assay for the detection of adherent Candida yeasts to target cells in microtest plates
Authors: Zepelin Margarete Borg‐von
Published: April 2009

Summary. We describe an assay based on photometric analysis for the measurement of adherence of Candida species to epithelial target cells (Vero cell line). Adherent Candida cells were detected by staining the cells with the fluorescent dye Calcofluor white (CFW), which binds to chitin and glucan in the yeasts. The tests were performed on microtest plates, which were analysed automatically by fluorescence plate readers. The assay is based on the following steps: (i) coating of the microtest plates with target cells (e.g. Vero cells); (ii) infection with Candida: (iii) staining of Candida with CFW; (iv) rinsing to remove non‐adherent Candida cells and unbound dye; (v) detection of adherent fluorescent Candida cells. The test was able to detect 4times104 cells ml‐1. The standard deviation was ±8%. Day‐to‐day variation was ± 10% at most. The adherence of strains of different Candida species was assayed by a standard procedure. The results confirmed the order of adherence, with C. albicans ranking first, followed by C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis and C. glabrata.

Zusammenfassung. Ein photometrischer Test zur Messung der Adhärenz von Candida‐Species an epithelialen Zielzellen (Vero‐Zellen) wird beschrieben. Adhärente Candida Zellen werden mit Hilfe des Fluoreszenz‐Farbstoffes Calcofluor Weiβ (CFW), der an Chitin und Glucan bindet, nach‐gewiesen. Der Test Kann in Mikrotestplatten durchgeührt werden und mittels automati‐scher Fluoreszenz‐Plattenphotometer ausgewertet werden. Er umfaßt die folgenden Schritte: (i) Beschichtung der Mikrotestplatte mit Zielzellen (Vero‐Zellen); (ii) Infektion mit Candida; (iii) Färbung der Candida‐Zellen mit CFW; (iv) Ent‐fernung nicht‐adhärenter Candida‐Zellen und ungebundener Farbe; (v) Nachweis adhärenter fluoreszierender Candida‐Zellen. Mit dem Test ist es möglich, bis zu 4times 104 eingesetzter Hefen pro Milliliter nachzuweisen. Die üiblichen Testpara‐meter wurden bestimmt. Die Standardabweichung lag bei ±8%. Die Schwankungen von Tag zu Tag lagen bei maximal ±10%. Der Test wurde auf eine Reihe von Stämmen verschiedener Candida‐Species angewandt Die Ergebnisse bestätigen die Rangordnung der Adhärenz, mit C. albicans an erster Stelle, gefolgt von C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis und C. glabrata.
Two cases of cutaneous phaeohyphomycosis caused byCurvularia pallescens
Authors: Agrawal Abha , Singh S. M.
Published: April 2009

Summary.Two cases of cutaneous phaeohyphomycosis caused byCurvularia pallescensare described. Lesions were found on the feet, thigh and thumb and were irregularly marginated, pruritic black and occasionally purulent. Histopathology revealed heavy infection of the stratum corneum and other cutaneous layers as well as host tissue response. The fungus appeared as dark, aggregated to simple branched hyphae. Oxiconazole was most effective‘in vitro’against the pathogen. This is the first report ofC. pallescensas an opportunistic pathogen of human skin.

Zusammenfassung.Zwei Fälle von kutaner Phaeohyphomykose verursacht durchCurvularia pallescenswerden beschrieben. Die Läsionen traten an den Füβen, am Oberschenkel und am Daumen auf und waren unregelmäβig begrenzt, schwarz, gelegentlich eitrig und juckend. Histopathologisch zeigte sich eine schwere Infektion des Stratum corneum und weiterer Hautschichten mit einer Wirtsabwehrreaktion. An Pilzelementen fanden sich pigmentierte. aggregierte bis einfach ver‐zweigte Hyphen. In vitro war Oxiconazol am wirksamsten gegen den Erreger. Dies ist der erste Bericht überC. pallescensals opportunistischer Erreger einer Hautmykose beim Menschen.
Diagnostic peculiarities of mycoses in immunocompromised patients
Authors: Rüchel R. , Schaffrinski Meike , Schobert Petra
Published: April 2009

Zusammenfassung. Die einheimischen tiefen Mykosen treten in typischer Weise als sekundäre Erkrankungen bei definitiv immunkompromittierten Patienten auf. Dabei wird leicht übersehen, daß die relative Überlastung der Infektionsabwehr, z. B. bei polytraumatisierten oder reoperierten Patienten, ebenfalls die Entwicklung tiefer Mykosen begünstigt. Mit unterschiedlichen Erregern, abweichendem Verlauf und verschiedenen labordiagnostischen Zeichen ist bei beiden Patientengruppen zu rechnen: Überwachungskulturen und Serologie sind bei Immunkompromittierten weniger zuverlässig als bei Traumatisierten, beim Antigennachweis verhält es sich hingegen eher umgekehrt. Auch die Morphologie von Pilzelementen in Sekreten und Biopsien wird vom Immunstatus dcs Patienten beeinflußt, wie am Beispiel der Aspergillose gezeigt wird.

Summary. Domestic invasive mycoses are typically present as secondary diseases in patients definitely immunocompromised. This truth should not obscure the fact that a transient overload of the immune system, e.g. in the polytrauma patients, may likewise favour the development of mycoses. The two groups of patients show a comparable course of infection and, to some extent, diagnostic signs: surveillance cultures and monitoring of antibodies are more helpful with trauma patients and less reliable in the typically immunocompromised patients. In the latter, however, antigen tests may yield more reliable results than in the trauma patients. The different functional capacities of the immune system in the two groups of patients may also affect the appearance of fungal elements, particularly of aspergilli, in secretions and biopsies.
Evaluation and comparison of the growth and viability of yeast‐like cells of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis
Authors: Borba Cintia de Moraes , da Silva A. M. Mendes , de Oliveira Pedrina Cunha
Published: April 2009

Summary. The growth and viability of two Paracoccidioides brasiliensis strains were evaluated in PYG and MMcM media containing no boric acid. The two P. brasiliensis strains exhibited a similar growth pattern in PYG medium, which was considered to be good compared with the growth curves in defined MMcM medium without boric acid. Calculation of cell generation time in the media studied demonstrated that the cells had greater difficulty in forming new generations in MMcM medium containing no boric acid. The present data confirm the literature view that PYG medium is the most complete in terms of nutritive substances for the growth and development of P. brasiliensis.

Zusammenfassung. Wachstum und Überlebensfähigkeit von zwei Paracoccidioides brasiliensis‐Stämmen wurden in PYG‐ und borsäurefreiem MMcM‐Medium vergleichend untersucht. Die beiden P. brasiliensis‐Stämme zeigten ein ähnliches Wachstumsmuster im PYG‐Medium, das im Vergleich zum Wachstum in dem definierten borsäurefreien MMcM‐Medium als gut eingeschätzt wurde. Die Berechnung der Generationszeit zeigte, daß die Zellen größere Schwierigkeiten hatten, in borsäurefreiem MMcM‐Medium neue Zellgenerationen zu bilden. Die Ergebnisse bestätigen die Literatur‐Meinung, daß das PYG‐Medium das vollständigste Nährmedium für optimale Vermehrung und Entwicklung von P. brasiliensis ist.
Phaeohyphomycosis due to Alternaria spp. and Phaeosclera dematioides: a histopathological study
Authors: Pec J. , Palencarova Eleonora , Plank L. , Straka S. , Pec M. , Jesenska Zdena , Filo V.
Published: April 2009

Summary. A case of phaeohyphomycosis caused by strains of both Alternaria spp. and Phaeosclera dematioides is presented. The biopsy material was studied using histological, immunohistochemical and transmission electron microscopy techniques. The agent's dematiaceous mycelia are composed of thick‐walled hyphae, branched and unbranched, with terminal vesicular formations. All the described structures occur alone or in chains within multinuclear giant foreign body‐type cells or invading an abscess. Also present are budding forms. Immunostaining of histiocytic inflammatory cells in either diffuse or granulomatous infiltrates revealed cytoplasmic positivity for lysozyme and Ki‐M1P antibody. The lymphocytic infiltrates of the upper corium show predominantly small T lymphocytes (CD3 and CD45RO positive) and absence of CD20‐positive B cells. Plasma cells occurring within the infiltrates of the deeper parts show polyclonal expression of both Ig light chains.

Zusammenfassung. Es wird der Fall einer Phaeohyphomykose beschrieben, die als Doppelmykose durch Alternaria spec. und Phaeosclera dematioides verursacht wurde. Biopsiematerial wurde histologisch, immunhistochemisch und transmissionselektronenmikroskopisch untersucht. Im histologischen Bild zeigen sich dickwandige, verzweigte Hyphen mit terminal lokalisierten Blasenformen. Alle Strukturen kamen einzeln oder in Ketten vor und waren meist in vielkernigen Riesenzellen lokalisiert. Auch Sprossungsformen wurden gesehen. Die histiozytären Infiltrate waren diffus verteilt oder imponierten als Granulome; immunhistochemisch reagierten sie positive für Lysozym und Ki‐M1P‐Antikörper. Die lymphozytären Infiltrate des oberen Coriums bestanden vorwiegend aus CD3‐ und CD45RO‐positiven kleinen T‐Lymphozyten; CD20‐positive B‐Lymphozyten waren nicht nachweisbar. In den tieferen Teilen des Coriums fanden sich Plasmazellen, die positiv für die beiden leichten Immunglobulin‐Ketten reagierten.
Gesundheitsrisiken beim Umgang mit Pilzen: Ein Beitrag zur Eingruppierung von Pilzen in Risikogruppen der Sicher‐heitsvorschriften
Authors: Meinhof W. , Lüders Anja , Finkeldey Elisabeth , Balter Astrid
Published: April 2009

Zusammenfassung. Pilze werden seit langem in der industriellen Produktion verwendet. Die neuere Entwicklung der Biotechnologie führte zur erhöhten Aufmerksamkeit gegenüber dem Problem der Gesundheitsrisiken durch den industriellen Einsatz von Mikroorganismen. Um den möglichen Gefahren durch geeignete Schutzmaßnahmen begegnen zu können, ist es erforderlich, die Mikroorganismen, und damit auch die Pilze, im Hinblick auf ihr artabhängiges Gefährdungspotential zu bewerten. Zu diesem Zweck wurden Pilze in drei Gefahrengruppen eingeordnet, von Gruppe I mit den ungefährlichen Pilzen bis zu Gruppe III mit den gefährlichsten Pilzarten. Die meisten Schwierigkeiten bei der Eingruppierung entstehen bei der Entscheidung, ob ein Pilz der Gruppe I oder der Gruppe II, der die meisten pathogenen Pilze angehören, zugeordnet werden soll. Unsere Untersuchung ist als Entscheidungshilfe gedacht. Sie stützt sich auf eine Auswertung der medizinisch‐mykologischen Literatur, die in der Review of Medical and Veterinary Mycology der Jahre 1980 bis 1989 angeführt wird.

Summary. Fungi have been used for a long time in industrial production. Recent developments in biotechnology have lead to an increased awareness of possible health hazards connected with the use of microorganisms in industries. In order to avoid potential risks by appropriate protective measures it is necessary to assess the microorganisms, including fungi, with respect to their species‐related risk potential. For this purpose, fungi were classified into three risk groups of which group I contains non‐hazardous fungi and group III fungi with high risk. Most difficulties arise when it is to be decided if a fungus belongs to group I or group II which includes most pathogenic fungi. The present study was designed to provide data which facilitate the assessment of potentially hazardous fungi. It is based on the evaluation of the pertinent mycological literature as represented in the Review of Medical and Veterinary Mycology in the years from 1980 till 1989.
Gibt es Pathogenitätsfaktoren bei Pilzen?
Authors: Morschhäuser J. , Köhler G. , Hacker J.
Published: April 2009

Zusammenfassung. Seit geraumer Zeit werden sogenannte Pathogenitäts‐ oder Virulenzfaktoren bei pathogenen Bakterien intensiv studiert. Während vor allem obligat pathogene Organismen, aber auch fakultativ pathogene Bakterien derartige Faktoren ausbilden, ist ihre Präsenz und Funktion bei pathogenen Pilzen nach wie vor umstritten. In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden Daten zusammengestellt, die das Wirken von Pathogenitätsfaktoren bei Cryptococcus neoformans, Aspergillus fumigatus und Candida albicans beleuchten. Es sind unter anderem Proteasen, Haftfaktoren und Kapseln, die bei Pilzen zur Pathogenitat beitragen können. Da Pilzinfektionen in der Regel bei immunsupprimierten Personen auftreten, spielt neben der Wirkung von Pathogenitätsfaktoren der Wirtsstatus eine entscheidende Rolle im Infektionsgeschehen.

Summary. Since many years so‐called pathogenicity or virulence factors of pathogenic bacteria have been studied intensively. Whereas these factors are produced especially by obligate but also facultative pathogenic bacteria, their presence and function in pathogenic fungi is still a matter of debate. In this minireview we summarize some data about possible pathogenicity factors of Cryptococcus neoformans, Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida albicans. The production of adhesins, proteases and capsules contributes to the virulence of these fungi. As fungal infections usually affect immunocompromised patients, the immune status of the host plays a decisive role in addition to the virulence factors produced by fungi.
Ein neues pharmazeutisches Konzept für die Therapie der oropharyngealen und oesophagealen Candidose mit Fluconazol
Authors: Wildfeuer A. , Laufen H. , Yeates R. A. , Zimmermann T.
Published: April 2009

Zusammenfassung. Die Applikation von Fluconazol‐Kapseln hat sich in der Candidose‐Therapie und bei immunsupprimierten Patienten zur Candidose‐Prophylaxe bewährt. Von der Darreichungsform einer Fluconazol‐Suspension wird ein zusätzlicher topischer Effekt auf den Verlauf der oropharyngealen und oesophagealen Candidose erwartet. Deshalb wurde die Pharmakokinetik des Antimykotikums im Speichel und Blut nach oraler Applikation von 100 mg Fluconazol als Suspension bzw. Kapsel im Überkreuzversuch an 12 gesunden Probanden verglichen. Dabei zeigten die nach Einnahme der Suspension oder Kapsel gemessenen Fluconazol‐Konzentrationen ein sehr älmliches Blutspiegelprofil, während sich die pharmakokinetischen Daten beider Darreichungsformen im Speichel der Probanden signifikant unterschieden. Fluconazol Cmax im Speichel betrug 551 μg/ml fünf Minuten nach Einnahme der Suspension bzw. 3 μg/ml vier Stunden nach Applikation der Kapsel. Die Ergebnisse zeigten, daß bei entsprechender Anwendung der Suspension die im Speichel vorliegenden mittleren Konzentrationen des Antimykotikums über den Beobachtungszeitraum (0–96 h) > 80% höher sind als nach Medikation der Kapsel.

Summary. Administration of fluconazole capsules is of proven worth in the treatment of candidosis of the mucous membranes, particularly in immunocompromised patients. An additional topical effect on the course of oropharyngeal and oesophageal candidosis can be expected when fluconazole is administered as a suspension. For this reason a crossover pharmacokinetic study with 12 healthy volunteers was carried out, in which the concentrations of the antimycotic were measured in saliva and plasma, after oral administration of 100 mg fluconazole as either a capsule or as a suspension. The time‐courses of the concentration of fluconazole after the two formulations were very similar in plasma but significantly different in saliva. The mean Cmax for fluconazole in saliva was 551 μg/ml 5 min after ingestion of the suspension and 3 μg/ml 4 h after taking the capsule. Over the observation time (0–96 h) the concentration of the antimycotic in saliva was more than 80% higher with the suspension than with the capsule.
Paracoccidioidomycosis: an uncommon localization in the scrotum
Authors: Tomimori‐Yamashita Jane , Tagliolatto Sandra , Porro Adriana M. , Ogawa Marilia M. , Michalany Nílceo S. , Camargo Zoilo P.
Published: April 2009

Summary. Paracoccidioidomycosis is a systemic fungal infection caused by the thermally dimorphic fungus Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. The authors present a case of a 49‐year‐old man who developed verrucous lesions on nasal mucosa and on genital localization (inguinal and scrotal), without signs of systemic disease. Direct mycological examination, culture on Sabouraud glucose medium, and biopsy were positive for P. brasitiensis. The interest of this case is the genital localization which is uncommon in this infection. Moreover, there are few cases described in the literature.

Zusammenfassung. Paracoccidioidomykose ist eine systemische Mykose, verursacht durch den dimorphen Pilz Paracoccidioides brasiliensis: Wir stellen den Fall eines 49‐Jahre alten Mannes vor, der verruköse Läsionen an der Nasenschleimhaut, der Leiste und am äußeren Skrotum zeigte, aber sonst keine Zeichen für eine systemische Erkrankung bot. Der Nachweis von P. brasiliensis gelang sowohl im mykologischen Abstrich, in der Kultur mit Sabouraud‐Glucose‐Agar und in der Biopsie. Die Lokalisation im Genitalbereich ist bei Paracoccidioidomykose sehr ungewöhnlich und bislang kaum beschrieben worden.
Localization of glycoconjugates and glycogen in yeast‐like cells and protoplasts of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis
Authors: Borba Cintia de Moraes , Meirelles M. N. S. L. , da Silva A. M. Mendes , de Oliveira P. C.
Published: April 2009

Summary. The presence and localization of storage polysaccharides and of polysaccharides as cell structure constituents of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis yeast‐like cells and protoplasts were studied using the periodic acid‐thiocarbohydrazide‐silver proteinate (PATAg) technique. Yeast‐like cells presented glycogen particles in the form of rosettes, which were mostly concentrated in regions of the cytoplasm. Cells in the budding process presented small amounts of glycogen in their matrix. The intracellular membranes and the attachment of the mother cell to the bud were clearly labelled by silver, demonstrating a large amount of glycoconjugates. The protoplasts presented a small amount of glycogen in their cytoplasm, a reduction probably due to the enzymatic treatment to which the cells were submitted.

Zusammenfassung. Vorkommen und Lokalisation von Speicherpolysacchariden und Struktur‐polysacchariden wurden mittels PATAg‐Technik an der Hefephase und an Protoplasten von Paracoccidioides brasiliensis untersucht. Zellen der Hefephase zeigten Glykogen‐Rosetten meist in zytoplasmatischen Regionen konzentriert. Knospende Hefezellen hatten geringe Glykogen‐Mengen in ihrer Matrix. Die intrazellulären Membranen und der Grenzbereich zwischen Mutterzelle und Knospe waren deutlich silbermarkiert, was auf eine hohe Konzentration von Glykokonjugaten hinweist. Protoplasten zeigten geringe Glykogen‐Konzentrationen im Zytoplasma, wahrscheinlich bedingt durch die Enzymbehandlung zur Protoplastentransformation.