bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing effective institutional managers in the 1980s‐Part 2: some new directions
Authors: Lees Stanley
Published: December 2006

In the earlier paper (published in the March 1980 issue of the Journal of Advanced Nursing) two dominant themes were developed. One was that the organizational behaviour of nurse managers could be traced to the social defence system learned during early nursing, the other was that many of the assumptions which underpin much of the current thinking on nurse management training can do little either to help them unlearn these early behaviours or to prepare them to take more innovative action in their respective roles. Part 2 analyses some implications of this. The initial discussion examines the purpose of management training and what it is intended to achieve, which embraces the issues of the transfer of course learning back to the workplace and the greater involvement of line managers in the development of their staff. By redefining nursing in terms of open‐system boundary management, some new directions are suggested which management trainers may find useful in clarifying and redefining their own task, as well as enabling nurse managers to be more innovative and effective within the constraints of their organizational situations. The implications go beyond just nursing and nurse management training. They are concerned with the wider range of institutions whose task is the throughput of people, and which tend to be managed by groups of professionals.
Making use of unsolicited research data
Authors: Cormack Desmond F.
Published: December 2006

Two hundred and fifty‐one unsolicited comments, relating in general terms to the research subject, were recorded during the collection of data for the writers current research concerning the role of the psychiatric nurse. The paper demonstrates how such‘unofficial’comments may be used to further our understanding of the research process generally and of the research subject in particular. The comments are analysed and used to highlight a number of areas which are of concern to nurses, for example the difficulty which some respondents had with thinking about nursing activity in specific terms, and relating it to individual patients. The role of trade unions in the decision making process preceding, and following, entry to data collection sites is discussed That lines of communication between the researcher, nurse administrators and trade unions be clarified is one of the recommendations made in this paper. Other recommendations include the proposal that, where possible, research respondents be given an opportunity to make general and specific comment relating to the research in which they are being asked to participate.
An overview of evaluation research in nursing
Authors: Luker Karen A.
Published: December 2006

This paper attempts to explain some general issues in evaluation and evaluative research in the health care field with specific reference to nursing. The evaluation process and nursing process are contrasted and methods used in evaluative research discussed. The case is made for more emphasis to be placed on the evaluation phase of the nursing process and process‐outcome evaluation is advocated as a means of encouraging progress in the hitherto neglected area of evaluative research in nursing.
From task assignment to patient allocation: a change evaluation
Authors: Chavasse Judith
Published: December 2006

The way in which nursing work in a ward is planned and allocated amongst the staff available has a considerable influence on the continuity of patient care, nurse‐patient relationships, nurses' satisfaction with their role and the learning experiences of students. An attempt was made to explore these factors when it was decided to change the organization of a medical ward from task assignment to patient allocation. The change‐over was accomplished successfully using a form of action research and the evaluation indicated general satisfaction with the new system.
Polygamy: a cultural trait and maternal and child health
Authors: George Theresa
Published: December 2006

This study indicates that it is probable that the cultural trait of polygamy was instituted as an adaptive measure in a particular ecology within a particular tribal group. Polygamy perpetuated because of its positive contribution to maternal and child health. The study further indicates that it is also probable that monogamy as a foreign cultural trait and its introduction without concomitant changes in other spheres of the ecosystem (biophysical and social environment) must have produced a negative effect on maternal and child health. The particular ecosystem is described and its effects on maternal and child health are pointed out.
A phenomenological look at giving an injection
Authors: Field Peggy‐Anne
Published: December 2006

Phenomenology attempts to get beyond the surface structure of experience to examine the underlying meaning of the realities of everyday life. In this paper, the writer attempts to answer the question, what is it like to give an injection? The paper is based on essays and interviews with ten experienced nurses, ten undergraduate nursing students and four diabetic patients who administered their own insulin. The author explores the meaning of the language used relating to an injection, the meaning that giving an injection has for the nurse, the feelings involved in preparing and giving the injection, and the meaning of the patient's response to the nurse. Two particular client groups create additional feelings for the nurse; the child and the unconscious patient. The phenomenologist never reaches a conclusion. The essay should challenge the reader to respond by saying,‘Yes, it is like this,’ or ‘No, I don't believe it is like that.’ In responding, further understanding is developed. The aim of the author is to stimulate readers so they better understand the anxiety nursing students feel about giving an injection.
The process of ageing
Authors: Barrowclough Fred , Pinel Carl
Published: December 2006

An increasing elderly population involves nurses with older people in a wide sphere of activities. It is essential that an understanding of ageing and its effects is included as part of the knowledge which is common to all nurses. The study of gerontology has intensified in recent years but an interest in the phenomenon of ageing can be traced back through the centuries. A number of theories about the causes of ageing have been put forward but the evidence in support of these is still inconclusive. Control of the ageing process remains beyond mankind, but it is known that environmental and hereditary factors contribute to the rate of ageing.

Knowledge about the effects of ageing is accumulating. The influence of ageing on the functions of the body can be measured. Most functions are reduced in efficiency and the lowered levels of performance have to be considered in their relation to the medical and nursing care of older people.

Ageing also has psychological and social implications. Changes in behaviour patterns can occur as a result of the influence of ageing on personality, intellect and memory. There are also changes in the social circumstances of older people resulting from such factors as retirement and bereavement.

The growing problem of an elderly population is stimulating increasing research into the causes and effects of ageing.
The composition of the nursing profession in South Africa in the mid‐seventies and its implications for provision of health care
Authors: Mashaba T.G.
Published: December 2006

An analysis of the composition of the nursing profession in South Africa reveals that the nurses were a heterogenous group with diverse dialects and cultures drawn from all social classes. Because of the unifying influence of the statutory control through the South African Nursing Council and the two official languages the nurses were organized into a strong and a stable profession. The predominant religion was Christianity, and the large majority of nurses were female, mainly young and married. The 116 189 member‐strong profession was constituted by registered nurses, enrolled nurses, and nursing assistants. Although there was a variety of postbasic specialities for registered nurses there was still a good number of these nurses who were singly qualified, a certain portion who were doubly qualified and a minority who were triply qualified. A number of temporarily or permanently non‐practising nurses constitute a reserve force to be relied on in a national emergency. This quantitative and qualitative state of the nursing profession had several implications for patient care. Some aspects reveal weak areas. The recommended remedial planning and re‐organization arises from the obvious need and scope for improvement.
Developing effective management for the general nursing service
Authors: Blake Jenny , Towell David
Published: December 2006

Directors of nursing services and their colleagues in the new units created by NHS restructuring face major challenges in developing effective management for the general nursing service. Emerging ideas within the profession on the organization of nursing work, severe pressures arising from financial constraints at a time of growing health care needs, and restructuring itself each demand a carefully planned response. Beginning from the basic management cycle involved in implementing the nursing process, this paper offers a redefinition of the main functions of nursing management as a whole in meeting these challenges and provides a check‐list for reviewing existing management practice.

The use of this check‐list is then illustrated by a case study in one health district. In this example, managers sought external assistance in planning a programme of action to strengthen nursing leadership. Similar efforts elsewhere are likely to rely mainly on a range of self‐help methods. This paper is intended to provide a tool for designing and implementing these local strategies of management development.
‘Tell it as it is’—qualitative methodology and nursing research: understanding the student nurse's world
Authors: Melia Kath M.
Published: December 2006

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the utility of qualitative methods for Nursing research, to this end a case is made for the use of fieldwork methods. The paper focuses upon a study which was concerned with student nurses' accounts of their experience of being learners of nursing. An overview of the students' construction of their nursing world is given and then the discussion moves to one particular aspect described as ‘nursing in the dark’. This is a conceptual category which deals with the data pertaining to the student's difficulties concerning what they could say to patients. The reader is thus furnished with a substantive as well as a methodological view of the study. The analysis draws upon the work of Glaser & Strauss, both in the attempt to generate ground theory and by reference to their work concerning awareness contexts.
The Norton score: an early warning of pressure sores?
Authors: Goldstone Leonard A. , Goldstone Jennifer
Published: December 2006

This paper investigates the predictive power of the Norton score in the problem of anticipating pressure lesions, and looks at some variants on that score. The Norton score is now nearly 20 years old but is still not in frequent use by nurses, and has been the subject of little research, especially in its predictive ability. By following the progress of two matched samples over a 15‐month period in a district general hospital it is established that the Norton score does perform at least as well as a number of reasonable variants of it, and that in particular the physical score and incontinence score are the crucial elements. A follow‐up sample in which the variants are retested confirms the usefulness of the Norton score.
Attitudes of 2325 active and inactive nurses to aspects of their work
Authors: Moores B. , Singh B. B. , Tun A.
Published: December 2006

As a part of an ongoing larger study concerned with nurse manpower planning, an attempt has been made to investigate the reasons for the non‐participation in the labour force of such a large proportion of qualified nurses. In an attempt to collect information on this topic a questionnaire was developed and distributed to a sample of nurses. The article describes in some detail the two different ways in which the names and addresses of the sample were generated. The first method involved making contact by the simple expedient of dropping leaflets through letterboxes while the second involved tracing respondents through their last known address when they originally qualified. The success of these two approaches is contrasted which should be of value to anyone contemplating a similar name‐capturing exercise. A total of 2325 questionnaires were returned and computer analysed. This article presents the results of one part of that analysis i.e. the factor analysis conducted on the attitudinal questions contained in the document. A five‐factor solution yielded highly interpretable results and the factor loadings are presented along with the pattern of responses. The factor scores are then contrasted for three different groups of respondents: the grouping being based on whether the respondent was working full‐time, part‐time or not at all.
A clinical trial of a bead bed system for the prevention of pressure sores in elderly orthopaedic patients
Authors: Goldstone L. A. , Norris M. , O'Reilly M. , SRN J. White
Published: December 2006

This paper summarizes the results of the trial of the Beaufort Bead Bed system designed to reduce the incidence and severity of pressure sores. Elderly orthopaedic admissions were allocated alternately to the Beaufort system and to the usual trolley, table and bed surfaces, and followed from admission to hospital until separation. The incidence of pressure sores was 15‐6% in the 32 ‘trial’ patients, which was significantly less than the 48‐8% in the 43 ‘control’ patients, as was the mean maximum diameter of the pressure sores incurred: 6‐4 mm for the ‘trials’ as against 29‐5 mm for the ‘controls’. In particular the trial group were free from pressure lesions to the heel, which affected 32‐6% of the control group. The groups were well matched on a variety of criteria on admission, and we conclude that the Beaufort system successfully reduces the incidence and severity of pressure sores for elderly orthopaedic patients. The system – renamed recently the ‘Neumark‐Macclesfield Support System’– is now in regular and satisfactory use.
Academic espionage: dysfunctional aspects of the publish or perish ethic
Authors: Mensah Lynette L.
Published: December 2006

There are many dysfunctional manifestations relative to the tenure and promotion process. These are disruptive to academic life. Much of this is encouraged by the university because of their publish or perish ethic. Excellence in classroom teaching and success in the field of clinical and human endeavours are not highly valued in deliberations to grant tenure and advancement in academic rank. Research and publications are the major yardsticks upon which a faculty member is judged. This prevailing perspective poses a dilemma for many nursing faculty who have high clinical workloads and have not been socialized for academic survival. The pressures to publish and research can be achieved in a realistic and non‐stressful way. Three aspects seem to be particularly relevant to facilitate this achievement; these are: anticipatory planning, balancing the workload, and understanding the interpersonal dimensions of collegeality.
Work environments of different types of nursing subunits*
Authors: Leatt Peggy , Schneck Rodney
Published: December 2006

Based upon organizational theory, the purpose of this research was to identify and describe similarities and differences in the work environments of nine different types of nursing subunits (intensive care, medical, surgical, psychiatric, auxiliary, rehabilitation, rural, paediatric and obstetrical) in hospitals. Six measures of nursing subunit environment were developed: these included measures of nursing subunit autonomy, and the complexity and pervasiveness of other medical and hospital groups interacting with the nursing subunit. Data were collected by questionnaire from headnurses in 157 nursing subunits located in 24 hospitals in Alberta, Canada.

The results indicated that the types of nursing subunits were similar in their degree of autonomy from both physicians and administration in the larger context in which they were located but were significantly different in terms of number and heterogeneity of groups outside nurses with which they interacted and the extent to which such groups pervaded the subunits. For example, intensive care units appeared as the type of nursing subunit with the greatest need for interaction with physicians, paramedicals, hotel services and so on, whereas, psychiatric subunits appeared to be the least dependent on groups outside nursing in the hospital. These findings have implications for the management practices and educational programme for nursing.
The community mental health nurse: a new professional role
Authors: Hall Valerie , Russell Oliver
Published: December 2006

This review of recent literature explores the similarities and differences between the work of community psychiatric nurses and their mental handicap counterparts. The comparisons which have been made between groups of nurses are related to the authors own research studies. These included an observations study of one community mental handicap nursing team and a national survey of all such teams in England and Wales. The importance of trade union membership, the place of the Community Psychiatric Nursing Association and the implication of joint training courses are discussed. The emergence of a new professional role that of the ‘community mental health nurse’ is discussed and the implications which this might have for the future organization of community psychiatric nursing services is outlined.
The task of nursing and risk of smoking
Authors: Murray M. , Swan A. V. , Mattar N.
Published: December 2006

A survey of hospital nurses was conducted to determine whether certain aspects of nurses' working and living conditions could explain their smoking practices. Nurses (246) of all grades answered a questionnaire about their smoking practices, job characteristics, job satisfaction, life satisfaction and anxieties. The prevalence of regular smoking was low among first and second year student nurses but reached 22% among final year students and 27% among staff nurses. Those nurses who reported stress at work, high and low overall job satisfaction, low lifestyle satisfaction and high anxiety about patients were more likely to smoke. The importance of these factors was especially marked among final year students. It seems that the changes in the life and work routine of nurses during their final year of training appear to increase their risk of regular smoking.
Skeletons in the closet: exploring personal family background as a prerequisite for family nursing
Authors: Green Clarissa P. , Carty Elaine , Gordon Ilene T. , Murphy Ann
Published: December 2006

A nurse's family background, values and experiences will either positively or negatively affect the kind of care he or she gives. This depends on whether the nurse either has explored his/her background and uses it as a valuable resource or fails to see that it may affect care or even be a restriction to quality care. An individual can take specific steps to use family background as a potent and valuable resource. This paper describes a collection of self‐directed and group exercises developed at the University of British Columbia School of Nursing that can be used to explore family background and hence use it more positively.
Successfully Teaching Biblical Languages Online at the Seminary Level: Guiding Principles of Course Design and Delivery
Authors: Harlow Joel
Published: December 2006

Abstract.  Reformed Theological Seminary's Virtual Campus has successfully taught the biblical languages online since 1999. This article describes the theoretical principles that underlie the design and asynchronous delivery of online Greek and Hebrew to part‐time adult distance students. The structure and administration of the courses is discussed, as well as how the students interact with their instructor and with the material. The fields of Adult Education, Learner Autonomy, and Distance Education suggest that online students must learn differently than traditional in‐class students by being more responsible for their learning. Research also suggests that online instructors must teach differently, assuming a role more like a learning coach. Finally, the literature suggests that institutions must interact with distance students differently than traditional in‐class students. The article concludes with a definition of “success” in these courses and description of the time commitment expected of faculty in these courses.
Why Do Students Keep Writing Me Sermons? Teaching Biblical Studies Cross‐Culturally in New Zealand
Authors: Wall Lynne
Published: December 2006

Abstract.  Students from different cultural backgrounds respond in a variety of ways to my teaching of biblical studies. Some sermonize or plagiarize quite unselfconsciously in their written assignments, while others consistently hand in work late or are silent members of the class. As I struggled with what these behaviors were saying about my teaching, I came to realize that limited ability in spoken and written English was not the only barrier. Deeper issues were at stake here about the nature of cross‐cultural communication, teaching, and learning. In this note I analyze the issues of faith, authority, and styles of teaching and learning which underlie the “clash of educational cultures” (Ballard and Clanchy 1997, viii) occurring in the cross‐cultural classroom. Then I suggest a number of strategies that I have developed to build bridges of understanding between the various educational cultures, to encourage deeper participation and to develop critical thinking.
Serotonin and epilepsy
Authors: Bagdy Gyorgy , Kecskemeti Valeria , Riba Pal , Jakus Rita
Published: December 2006

In recent years, there has been increasing evidence that serotonergic neurotransmission modulates a wide variety of experimentally induced seizures. Generally, agents that elevate extracellular serotonin (5‐HT) levels, such as 5‐hydroxytryptophan and serotonin reuptake blockers, inhibit both focal and generalized seizures, although exceptions have been described, too. Conversely, depletion of brain 5‐HT lowers the threshold to audiogenically, chemically and electrically evoked convulsions. Furthermore, it has been shown that several anti‐epileptic drugs increase endogenous extracellular 5‐HT concentration. 5‐HT receptors are expressed in almost all networks involved in epilepsies. Currently, the role of at least 5‐HT1A, 5‐HT2C, 5‐HT3and 5‐HT7receptor subtypes in epileptogenesis and/or propagation has been described. Mutant mice lacking 5‐HT1Aor 5‐HT2Creceptors show increased seizure activity and/or lower threshold. In general, hyperpolarization of glutamatergic neurons by 5‐HT1Areceptors and depolarization of GABAergic neurons by 5‐HT2Creceptors as well as antagonists of 5‐HT3and 5‐HT7receptors decrease the excitability in most, but not all, networks involved in epilepsies. Imaging data and analysis of resected tissue of epileptic patients, and studies in animal models all provide evidence that endogenous 5‐HT, the activity of its receptors, and pharmaceuticals with serotonin agonist and/or antagonist properties play a significant role in the pathogenesis of epilepsies.
In vivo regulation of an Aplysia glutamate transporter, ApGT1, during long‐term memory formation
Authors: Collado Maria Sol , Lyons Lisa C. , Levenson Jonathan M. , Khabour Omar , Pita‐Almenar Juan D. , Schrader Laura , Eskin Arnold
Published: December 2006

Regulation of glutamate transporters often accompanies glutamatergic synaptic plasticity. We investigated the mechanisms responsible for the increase in glutamate uptake associated with increased glutamate release at the Aplysia sensorimotor synapse during long‐term sensitization (LTS) and long‐term facilitation. An increase in the Vmax of transport, produced by LTS training, suggested that the increased glutamate uptake was due to an increase in the number of transporters in the membrane. We cloned a high‐affinity, Na+‐dependent glutamate transporter, ApGT1, from Aplysia central nervous system that is highly enriched in pleural sensory neurons, and in pleural‐pedal synaptosome and cell/glial fractions. ApGT1, expressed in Xenopus oocytes, demonstrated a similar pharmacological profile to glutamate uptake in Aplysia synaptosome and cell/glial fractions (strong inhibition by threo‐beta‐benzyloxyaspartate and weak inhibition by dihydrokainate) suggesting that ApGT1 may be the primary glutamate transporter in pleural‐pedal ganglia. Levels of ApGT1 and glutamate uptake were increased in synaptosomes 24 h after induction of LTS by electrical stimulation or serotonin. Regulation of ApGT1 during LTS appears to occur post‐transcriptionally and results in an increased number of transporters in synaptic membranes. These results suggest that an increase in levels of ApGT1 is responsible, at least in part, for the long‐term increase in glutamate uptake associated with long‐term memory.
GAP‐43 regulates NCAM‐180‐mediated neurite outgrowth
Authors: Korshunova Irina , Novitskaya Vera , Kiryushko Darya , Pedersen Nina , Kolkova Kateryna , Kropotova Ekaterina , Mosevitsky Mark , Rayko Mikhail , Morrow John S. , Ginzburg Irith , Berezin Vladimir , Bock Elisabeth
Published: December 2006

The neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), and the growth‐associated protein (GAP‐43), play pivotal roles in neuronal development and plasticity and possess interdependent functions. However, the mechanisms underlying the functional association of GAP‐43 and NCAM have not been elucidated. In this study we show that (over)expression of GAP‐43 in PC12E2 cells and hippocampal neurons strongly potentiates neurite extension, both in the absence and in the presence of homophilic NCAM binding. This potentiation is crucially dependent on the membrane association of GAP‐43. We demonstrate that phosphorylation of GAP‐43 by protein kinase C (PKC) as well as by casein kinase II (CKII) is important for the NCAM‐induced neurite outgrowth. Moreover, our results indicate that in the presence of GAP‐43, NCAM‐induced neurite outgrowth requires functional association of NCAM‐180/spectrin/GAP‐43, whereas in the absence of GAP‐43, the NCAM‐140/non‐receptor tyrosine kinase (Fyn)‐associated signaling pathway is pivotal. Thus, expression of GAP‐43 presumably acts as a functional switch for NCAM‐180‐induced signaling. This suggests that under physiological conditions, spatial and/or temporal changes of the localization of GAP‐43 and NCAM on the cell membrane may determine the predominant signaling mechanism triggered by homophilic NCAM binding: NCAM‐180/spectrin‐mediated modulation of the actin cytoskeleton, NCAM‐140‐mediated activation of Fyn, or both.
Activation of GABAA receptors facilitates astroglial differentiation induced by ciliary neurotrophic factor in neural progenitors isolated from fetal rat brain
Authors: Yoneyama Masanori , Fukui Masaki , Nakamichi Noritaka , Kitayama Tomoya , Taniura Hideo , Yoneda Yukio
Published: December 2006

Immunocytochemical analysis confirmed the validity of isolation procedures of neural progenitors capable of self‐replication and differentiation from discrete fetal rat brain structures. A reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed the expression of particular GABAA receptor (GABAAR), GABABR‐1 and GABACR, but not GABABR‐2, subunits in neocortical cells before commitment. Sustained exposure to the GABAAR agonist muscimol at 100 μmol/L led to significant increases in the mitochondrial activity and the total areas of neocortical neurospheres formed during the cultivation for 12 days in a manner sensitive to a GABAAR antagonist, with lactate dehydrogenase release being unchanged. Moreover, prior sustained exposure to muscimol significantly facilitated the subsequent expression of an astroglial marker protein in cells differentiated by ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) toward an astroglial lineage, with a concomitant decrease in the neuronal marker protein expression, in an antagonist‐sensitive manner on Western blotting analysis. However, muscimol failed to significantly affect the expression of both marker proteins in cells differentiated in either the presence or absence of all‐trans‐retinoic acid. These results suggest that prior activation of GABAAR may preferentially facilitate the commitment by CNTF of neural progenitor cells toward an astroglial lineage after simulation of the self‐replication activity in the developing rat brain.
Calnuc binds to Alzheimer’s β‐amyloid precursor protein and affects its biogenesis
Authors: Lin Ping , Li Feng , Zhang Yun‐wu , Huang Haining , Tong Gary , Farquhar Marilyn Gist , Xu Huaxi
Published: December 2006

Calnuc, a Golgi calcium binding protein, plays a key role in the constitution of calcium storage. Abnormal calcium homeostasis has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Excessive production and/or accumulation of β‐amyloid (Aβ) peptides that are proteolytically derived from the β‐amyloid precursor protein (APP) have been linked to the pathogenesis of AD. APP has also been indicated to play multiple physiological functions. In this study, we demonstrate that calnuc interacts with APP through direct binding to the carboxyl‐terminal region of APP, possibly in a calcium‐sensitive manner. Immunofluorescence study revealed that the two proteins co‐localize in the Golgi in both cultured cells and mouse brains. Over‐expression of calnuc in neuroblastoma cells significantly reduces the level of endogenous APP. Conversely, down‐regulation of calnuc by siRNA increases cellular levels of APP. Additionally, we show that over‐expression of calnuc down‐regulates the APP mRNA level and inhibits APP biosynthesis, which in turn results in a parallel reduction of APP proteolytic metabolites, sAPP, CTFs and Aβ. Furthermore, we found that the level of calnuc was significantly decreased in the brain of AD patients as compared with that of age‐matched non‐AD controls. Our results suggest a novel function of calnuc in modulating the levels of APP and its proteolytic metabolites, which may further affect the patho/physiological functions of APP including AD pathogenesis.
Excessive hippocampal acetylcholine levels in acetylcholinesterase‐deficient mice are moderated by butyrylcholinesterase activity
Authors: Hartmann Joachim , Kiewert Cornelia , Duysen Ellen G. , Lockridge Oksana , Greig Nigel H. , Klein Jochen
Published: December 2006

Central cholinergic systems are involved in a plethora of brain functions and are severely and selectively damaged in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. Cholinergic dysfunction is treated with inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) while the role of butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) for brain cholinergic function is unclear. We have usedin vivomicrodialysis to investigate the regulation of hippocampal acetylcholine (ACh) levels in mice that are devoid of AChE (AChE‐/‐ mice). Extracellular ACh levels in the hippocampus were 60‐fold elevated in AChE‐/‐ mice compared with wild‐type (AChE+/+) animals. In AChE‐/‐ mice, calcium‐free conditions reduced hippocampal ACh levels by 50%, and infusion of tetrodotoxin by more than 90%, indicating continuous ACh release. Infusion of a selective AChE inhibitor (BW284c51) caused a dose‐dependent, up to 16‐fold increase of extracellular ACh levels in AChE+/+ mice but did not change ACh levels in AChE‐/‐ mice. In contrast, infusion of a selective inhibitor of BChE (bambuterol) caused up to fivefold elevation of ACh levels in AChE‐/‐ mice, but was without effect in AChE+/+ animals. These results were corroborated with two other specific inhibitors of AChE and BChE, tolserine and bis‐norcymserine, respectively. We conclude that lack of AChE causes dramatically increased levels of extracellular ACh in the brain. Importantly, in the absence of AChE, the levels of extracellular ACh in the brain are controlled by the activity of BChE. These results point to a potential usefulness of BChE inhibitors in the treatment of central cholinergic dysfunction in which brain AChE activity is typically reduced.
Paradoxical effects of hair removal systems: a review
Authors: Lolis Margarita S , Marmur Ellen S
Published: December 2006

Although a variety of lasers have proven to be clinically effective for long‐term hair removal, the use of these lasers has also been associated with undesirable side effects, such as hyper‐ and hypopigmentation, crusting, erythema, and edema. One notable side effect that seems to be underreported in the literature is the growth of fine dark hair in untreated areas close to the treated ones. This contradictory hypertrichosis is known as the paradoxical effect. In this paper, we review the published reports of the paradoxical effect and offer some possible explanations for this effect. The paradoxical effect has been documented most commonly after the use of induced pulse light and alexandrite lasers. One possible explanation is the activation of dormant hair follicles by suboptimal fluences. Another mechanism may be the synchronization of hair growth cycles by direct light stimulation.
Cutaneous epithelioid schwannomas: a rare variant of a benign peripheral nerve sheath tumor
Authors: Smith Kathleen , Mezebish David , Williams John P. , Menon Padman , Rolfe Aian , Cobb Mark , Skelton Henry
Published: December 2006

Although benign epithelioid peripheral nerve sheath tumors have been described, they are rare, and benign epithelioid schwannomas have not yet been established as a specific histologic variant.

We present four cases of tumors which we believe would meet criteria to be classified as benign epithelioid schwannomas. Biopsy specimens obtained from four different patients were examined with routine and immunohistochemical staining. All the tumors were well‐circumscribed lesions that were surrounded by a capsule containing EMA‐positive cells. The cellular component was composed of epithelioid cells, in which there was a lack of mitotic activity. Immunohistochemical studies showed the tumor cells were S‐100 protein and Leu 7 positive and HMB‐45 negative. In addition, type IV collagen encircled individual cells within the tumor, indicating a continuous basal lamina. We report a group of cutaneous epithelioid schwannomas. Although the presence of such tumors is not unexpected, this diagnosis may not be initially considered because of this rare cytoiogic feature.
Unusual expression of S‐100 protein in histiocytic neoplasms
Authors: Tomaszewski Maria‐Magdalena , Lupton Geonie P.
Published: December 2006

Twenty‐nine cases of histiocytic neoplasms, some resembling juvenile xanthogranuloma (JXG) and others resembling reticulohistiocytoma (RH), were evaluated. Immunohistochemical stains were performed. In this series, seven cases were identified that expressed S‐100 protein positive cells. The S‐100 positive cells were predominantly large mononuelear and multinucleated histiocytes with eosinophilic cytoplasm, but also in some cases xanthomatous cells and Touton giant cells. These cells also expressed a positive reaction for vimentin, KP‐1, and Factor XIIIa. There was no reactivity observed for monoclonal antibody 010(CD1a). A positive reaction for S‐100 protein is conventionally accepted as a useful differentiating feature between histioeytosis X and non‐X histiocytosis such as JXG and RH. The conflicting results of the immunohistochemical stains in the lesions we studied could be potential pitfalls in diagnosing histiocytic neoplasms.
Detection of human papillomavirus in verrucous carcinoma from HIV‐seropositive patients
Authors: Cuesta Kimberly H. , Palazzo Juan P. , Mittal Khush R.
Published: December 2006

Anogenital squamous cell carcinoma has been noted with increased frequency in HIV‐seropositive patients. Verrucous carcinoma is a variant of squamous cell carcinoma that tends to be locally invasive and non‐metastasizing. Although human papilloma‐virus (HPV) has been strongly implicated in other squamous neoplasms, it has been variably associated with verrucous carcinoma and has not been examined in these lesions in the HIV‐positive population. The aim of this study was to examine the association of HPV with anal verrucous carcinoma in patients with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HPV DNA in situ hybridization for HPV Types 6/11, 16/18, and 31/33/35 was performed on formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue from six cases of verrucous carcinoma and four cases of condyloma acuminatum in perianal specimens from HIV‐seropositive patients. HPV DNA sequences were identified in five of six cases of verrucous carcinoma and in all cases of condyloma acuminatum. Of the five verrucous carcinomas that harbored detectable HPV DNA, four contained HPV 6/11 and two contained HPV 16/18. One contained both HPV 6/11 and HPV 16/18. All four cases of condyloma acuminatum were positive for HPV 6/11. One patient included in this series had three chronologically separate verrucous carcinomas. The initial lesion was negative for HPV DNA. Subsequent verrucous carcinomas were positive for HPV type 6/11 and type 16/18, respectively. The data presented support the concept that verrucous carcinoma in the HIV‐seropositive population is associated with HPV, which may indeed play an important role in its pathogenesis.
Utility of deeper sections and special stains for dermatopathology specimens
Authors: Maingi Chetan P. , Helm Kiaus F.
Published: December 2006

Special (non‐hematoxylin and eosin) stains and deeper sections are routinely used in dermathopathology, although their utility has not been well established. All cases requiring special stains or deeper sections over a three‐month period were reviewed to see how often these additional studies contributed to accurate diagnosis.

In our series, deeper sections provided diagnostic information to the pathologist in 37.3% [95% confidence interval (CI) 28‐46%] of the cases in which they were performed. Deeper sections are more likely to provide a more accurate diagnosis (23.6%, 95% CI 16‐32%) rather than establish a new diagnosis not seen on the original sections (13.6%, 95% CI 7‐20%). Their use is especially helpful in assessing the presence or absence of cutaneous malignancy rather than in diagnosing inflammatory skin processes. Special stains contributed to the diagnosis in 21.1% (95% CI 11‐32%) of cases. When special stains were performed to diagnose an infection they were effective in 14,7% (95% CI 6‐24%) of the cases When special stains were performed to diagnose any other pathologic processes (neoplasm, inflammation, collagen vascular disease, and amyloid) they were effective in 31.8% (95% CI 24‐44%) of the cases.
Histamine‐containing mast cells and their relationship to NGFr‐immunoreactive nerves in prurigo nodularis: a reappraisal
Authors: Liang Yong , Marcusson Jan A. , Jacobi Henrik H. , Haak‐Frendscho Mary , Johansson Olle
Published: December 2006

The mast cell, which is a histamine‐containing cell, has been found to have far more functions in skin inflammation than hitherto understood. To investigate the appearance of mast cells in prurigo nodularis, histamine immunohistochemistry in combination with nerve growth factor receptor (NGFr) double‐staining as well as electron microscopic studies were performed. The results revealed that the histamine‐containing cell number was increased in the lesional dermis. The mast cell size was also increased and the shape had become more dendritic. They tended to contact the epidermis and even infiltrated into it. In the histamine and NGFr double‐staining, both an increased histamine‐containing mast cell number and an increased number of NGFr‐immuno‐reactive nerve fiber profiles were revealed in the upper dermis of the prurigo nodularis lesional skin. Mast cells were seen in close vicinity to NGFr‐positive nerves and sometimes even seemingly to contact single nerve fibers. At the ultrastructural level, it is obvious that the mast cell bodies become larger, having more abundant cytoplasm and organelles (e.g. mitochondria), but comparatively fewer characteristic granules. Mast cells were often observed to sprout long dendrites, with or without granules. The cells were also frequently seen to contact other cell types, and a mast cell infiltration into the epidermis was also found. The statistical results of mast cell numbers showed a significant increase in prurigo nodularis lesional skin compared to the normal controls. The present results further indicate that mast cells, together with cutaneous nerve fibers, are actively involved in the pathogenesis of the disease.
Sterile neutrophilic folliculitis with perifollicular vasculopathy: a distinctive cutaneous reaction pattern reflecting systemic disease
Authors: Magro C. M. , Crowson A. N.
Published: December 2006

The authors prospectively encountered skin biopsies from 20 patients which demonstrated a neutrophilic or suppurative and granulomatous folliculitis accompanied by a folliculocentric neutrophilic vascular reaction of Sweet's‐like or leukocytoclastic vasculitis subtypes. While in each case the histomorphology raised diagnostic consideration of bacterial folliculitis, patients frequently expressed systemic complaints such as arthritis, fever, and malaise, and special stains for micro‐organisms were negative. Among the clinical presentations were folliculitis, vasculitis, acneiform eruptions, vesiculopustular lesions, and erythema nodosum‐like lesions, with the legs, arms, and upper back being the most commonly involved sites. Nineteen patients were found to have specific underlying systemic diseases, namely, inflammatory bowel disease, Reiter's disease, Behcet's disease, hepatitis B, connective tissue disease including mixed connective tissue disease and rheumatoid arthritis, scrofuloderma, and hematologic dyscrasias. The other patient had antecedent bacterial sinusitis in the setting of atopy. The folliculocentric nature of these lesions may reflect preferential processing of antigens through the hair follicle and/or homology between bacterial and follicular heat shock proteins in the susceptible host, namely, one who responds excessively to exogenous antigenic triggers. Folliculitis with folliculocentric vasculopathy may be a clue to underlying systemic disease and/or an extracutaneous infection. Certain light microscopic features in concert with the clinical presentation may distinguish such cases from conventional infectious folliculitis.
INTRAARTERIAL CONTRAST‐ENHANCED COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY OF THE EQUINE DISTAL EXTREMITY
Authors: PUCHALSKI SARAH M. , GALUPPO LARRY D. , HORNOF WILLIAM J. , WISNER ERIK R.
Published: December 2006

A technique for regional delivery of contrast medium to the foot of the horse to increase the diagnostic utility of computed tomography (CT) for the characterization of soft tissue structures within the hoof capsule was developed. An intraarterial catheter was placed under ultrasound guidance into the medial palmar artery at the level of the carpus to facilitate a steady‐state infusion of iodinated contrast medium. Two 5 mm collimated contiguous acquisition CT scans were performed in 10 horses without lameness or radiographic evidence of distal sesamoid bone degeneration. CT examination was performed before and during regional arterial infusion of iodinated contrast medium administered at a rate of 2 ml/s. Cross‐sectional area and mean pre‐ and postcontrast attenuation of the deep digital flexor tendon and the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal joint were quantified from CT images. Soft tissue anatomy of the foot was also qualitatively characterized from pre‐and postcontrast images. Catheterization was successful and without complication in all horses. The evaluated tendons and ligaments were clearly visible and had a small (8–20 Hounsfield Unit) but significant (P<0.05, pairedt‐test) increase in attenuation during the steady‐state infusion of contrast medium. This study should enhance the diagnostic potential of CT by providing baseline quantitative data for comparison with horses affected with soft tissue injuries in the distal extremity causing lameness that is alleviated with a palmar digital nerve block.
Increased Expression Ratio of Bcl‐2/Bax Is Associated with Crocin‐Mediated Apoptosis in Bovine Aortic Endothelial Cells
Authors: Xu Guanglin , Gong Zhunan , Yu Weiping , Gao Lei , He Shuying , Qian Zhiyu
Published: December 2006

Abstract:  Crocin, extracted and purified from Gardenia jasminoids Ellis in our laboratory, has been reported to have antioxidative, hypolipidaemic and anti‐atherosclerorotic effects. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms by which crocin acts as a cytoprotective agent remain to be elucidated. In the present study, we examined the mechanisms of crocin, the digentiobiosyl ester of crocetin, on bovine aortic endothelial cell apoptosis induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The cells were obtained from the thoracic aorta of newborn calves, and apoptosis was induced by 200 µM H2O2. Before addition of H2O2, the cells were pretreated with different concentrations of crocin for 6 hr. After incubation of the cells with H2O2, a comparative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction‐based repeated amplification protocol assay was used to determine the ratio of bcl‐2/bax mRNA expression, and cells loaded with fluo‐3/AM were subjected to laser scanning confocal microscopy for detection of intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) levels. Treatment of the cells with H2O2 alone decreased the ratio of bcl‐2/bax expression to almost twice of those of untreated cells (from 0.33 ± 0.05 to 0.16 ± 0.02). In the presence of 1 and 10 µM crocin, the ratios were enhanced when compared with H2O2 alone respectively (from 0.16 ± 0.02 to 0.58 ± 0.04, 1.18 ± 0.13). The treatment of cells with crocin alone had little effect on the value of this ratio. In the presence or absence of extracellular Ca2+, H2O2 could induce intracellular calcium elevation not only in the elevation presence of extracellular Ca2+ (Hanks), but also without extracellular calcium present (D‐Hanks). But the extent of [Ca2+]i under conditions lacking extracellular calcium is less. Crocin concentration dependently inhibited the [Ca2+]i elevation induced by H2O2 under these two conditions. Our data suggest that crocin may exert anti‐atherosclerotic effects by increasing the expression ratio of bcl‐2/bax, as a result, inhibiting the bovine aortic endothelial cell apoptosis that plays an important role in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis.
Not Just Pushing and Shoving: School Bullying Among African American Adolescents
Authors: Fitzpatrick Kevin M. , Dulin Akilah J. , Piko Bettina F.
Published: December 2006

Background:  The primary purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of bullying among a sample of African American adolescents and the risk factors associated with odds that a student engages in bullying behavior.

Methods:  Using a self‐report school‐based survey, 1542 African American adolescents from a single school district (grades 5‐12) living in a midsized, Southern metropolitan region, were asked questions regarding bullying behavior and risk behaviors. A response rate of nearly 80% was obtained.

Results:  Our results indicate that bullying behavior was higher among this group of African American adolescents than reported for other general student populations (8‐12%). In addition, age, family violence, negative peer relationships, and behavioral risks all contributed to increased odds of students reporting bullying behavior.

Conclusions:  Our findings underscore the importance of intervention at an early age. Whether the intervention is in a formal or nonformal setting, specialists along with teachers, parents, and siblings need to begin a multipronged approach (data collection, training/education of school personnel, curriculum development, etc) to address the causes and consequences of bullying among adolescents.