bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supply chain transactional barriers to design cost management
Authors: Ross Andrew , Goulding Jack
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a better understanding of the factors that can influence the availability of cost information to support design and production decision making at the early stages of project team formation.

Design/methodology/approach

An investigation of the current practice of the exchange of financial information between supply chain organisations in the UK construction industry that was undertaken using a portal survey with 710 estimators. The survey sought data on the extent and maturity of the relationships that existed between contractors and their supply chain, and the effect this had on the gathering of subcontract price information.

Findings

The data analysis established that a significant difference existed in the approaches adopted by respondent organisations to the collection of subcontract price data for three different procurement approaches, and that main contracting organisations were developing closer relationships with their supply chain.

Practical implications

The paper concludes by suggesting that the use of supply chain price information for pre‐contract negotiation and post‐contract governance can influence the propensity of the supply chain to provide “richer” information on the costs assumptions made within their estimates to improve the empirical basis for future decision making.

Originality/value

The paper takes an original approach to the construction estimating process by considering supply chain price information available to the estimator.
nD modelling: industry uptake considerations
Authors: Lee A. , Sexton M.G.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the key enablers and obstacles to the effective adoption and use of nD modelling technology.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores the feasibility of industry absorbing and diffusing nD modelling technology by considering key technology transfer issues; namely, organisational direction, inter‐organisational networks and the knowledge characteristics of technology. Findings from semi‐structured interviews around a diagnostic technology transfer framework are used to offer implications for theory and practice.

Findings

The results from 15 survey interviews indicate that construction professionals appreciate the potential significant benefits of nD modelling technology, but at present, nD modelling technology is seen as too embryonic; too far removed from construction firms' “comfort zones”; requiring too much investment; and, containing too many risks.

Originality/value

The paper stresses that the challenge for nD modelling technology, along with any new technology, is to shift from its “technology push” emphasis, to a more balanced “market orientated” stance, which allows the technology to be shaped by both strategic design concerns, and day‐to‐day operational needs. If this trajectory is pursued, nD modelling technology could have a positive future.
Staffing managerial positions in emerging markets: a cultural perspective
Authors: Lenartowicz Tomasz , Johnson James P.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper examines the challenges facing multinational enterprises (MNEs) in finding competent managers to staff operations and subsidiaries in emerging market economies (EMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The key question examined is – who is going to manage the business expansion of MNEs in EMEs? Will it be host country nationals who know and understand the local business environment; parent country nationals (PCNs) who are sent on an overseas assignment by the parent corporation; or third country nationals (TCNs) recruited for their unique set of skills and expertise?

Findings

There is no “one size fits all” solution; for most multinational corporations (MNCs), a combination of strategies will work. One approach is to seek out EME nationals that are currently working or studying in the MNCs home country. Other MNCs seek recruits directly in the EMEs and then put the recruits through an intensive training program. An alternative is to improve the cross‐cultural training provided to expatriate PNC and TNC managers. However, despite calls for improved training that have been made over decades, there is little evidence that MNCs are investing the necessary resources in training their expatriates in the soft skills that are essential to success. With a growing need for good managers to staff their overseas operations and not enough local managers to do the job, at least in the short to medium term, MNCs will continue to use a combination of staffing strategies, in the hope that they will be able to build up a cadre of culturally competent international managers, regardless of national origin, who can operate effectively in EME environments.

Research limitations/implications

Unless there is a marked shift in the quality and rigor of the cross‐cultural training programs currently being provided to PCNs and TCNs, we foresee plenty of storm clouds developing in the blue skies of emerging markets.

Originality/value

This paper provides a current and practitioner focused discussion of the specific cultural challenges of EMEs and develops the concept of managerial cultural competence.
Protein kinase C‐δ regulates the stability of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α under hypoxia
Authors: Lee Ji‐Won , Park Jeong Ae , Kim Se‐Hee , Seo Ji Hae , Lim Kyung‐Joon , Jeong Joo‐Won , Jeong Chul‐Ho , Chun Kwang‐Hoon , Lee Seung‐Ki , Kwon Young‐Guen , Kim Kyu‐Won
Published: June 2007

Hypoxia is a state of deficiency of available oxygen in the blood and tissues, and it occurs during several pathophysiological processes, including tumorigenesis. Under hypoxia, hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1 (HIF‐1) plays an essential role in cellular oxygen homeostasis. In the present article protein kinase C‐δ (PKC‐δ) is activated by hypoxia, increases the protein stability and transcriptional activity of HIF‐1α in human cervical adenocarcinoma cells. Moreover, the knockdown of PKC‐δ inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor expression and angiogenic activity under hypoxia. These effects were completely reversed by PKC‐δ overexpression following the knockdown of PKC‐δ. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the role of PKC‐δ as a new regulator of hypoxia‐induced angiogenesis. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1476–1481)
Mechanism of multidrug recognition by MDR1/ABCB1
Authors: Yasuhisa Kimura , Shin‐ya Morita , Michinori Matsuo , Kazumitsu Ueda
Published: June 2007

MDR1/ABCB1, a member of the ABC group of proteins, is clinically important because it is not only involved in multidrug resistance in cancer but also affects the pharmacokinetic properties of various drugs. The most puzzling feature of MDR1 is that it recognizes and transports such a wide variety of substrates. In the present review, the function of MDR1 is compared with that of other ABC proteins, particularly MDR2/ABCB4, to understand the mechanism of drug recognition and transport by MDR1. MDR2, the amino acid sequence of which has 86% similarity to that of MDR1, excretes phosphatidylcholine and cholesterol in the presence of bile salts. ABCA1 transfers phospholipids, preferentially phosphatidylcholine, and cholesterol to lipid‐free apoA‐I to generate pre‐β‐HDL, and ABCG1 excretes phospholipids, preferentially sphingomyelin, and cholesterol. Cholesterol also binds directly to MDR1 and modulates substrate recognition by MDR1. Cholesterol may fill the empty space of the drug‐binding site and aid the recognition of small drugs, and facilitates the ability of MDR1 to recognize compounds with various structures and molecular weights. Eukaryote ABC proteins may retain similar substrate binding pockets and move bound substrates in an ATP‐dependent manner. The prototype of eukaryote ABC proteins might be those involved in membrane lipid transport. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 1303–1310)
Flow cytometric detection of circulating tumour cells in nucleophosmin/anaplastic lymphoma kinase‐positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma: comparison with quantitative polymerase chain reaction
Authors: Damm‐Welk Christine , Schieferstein Jutta , Schwalm Simone , Reiter Alfred , Woessmann Willi
Published: June 2007

Quantification of occult circulating tumour cells in blood or bone marrow (BM) enables the identification of patients with a high risk for relapse in nucleophosmin/anaplastic lymphoma kinase (NPM‐ALK)‐positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). We have developed a flow cytometric (FCM) assay to quantify the rare ALK‐ and CD30‐positive ALCL cells. When ALCL cells were admixed with normal peripheral blood or BM, ALK‐ and CD30‐positive cells could be detected above background level at an added concentration of 10−5 for all three cell lines tested. Sensitivity and costs of the assay were compared with quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for NPM‐ALK. The results of the FCM assay and quantitative PCR for NPM‐ALK correlated. The sensitivity of the PCR exceeded that of the FCM by at least one log. Quantitative PCR was more time‐consuming and expensive than FCM. Both methods were compared on BM or blood samples from 11 ALCL patients. FCM using antibodies against ALK and CD30 can sensitively and specifically detect the circulating ALCL cells in BM or blood. This method needs to be tested in a larger cohort of patients to determine whether it has sufficient sensitivity to be used as a substitute for quantitative PCR.
Patients with severe Graves’ ophthalmopathy have a higher risk of relapsing hyperthyroidism and are unlikely to remain in remission
Authors: Eckstein Anja K. , Lax Hildegard , Lösch Christian , Glowacka Diana , Plicht Marco , Mann Klaus , Esser Joachim , Morgenthaler Nils G.
Published: June 2007

Objective  To evaluate the relationship between severity of Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) and relapse/remission rate of associated thyroid disease.

Patients and methods  One hundred and fifty‐eight patients with Graves’ disease (GD) were seen within the first 6–12 months after the onset of GO and were followed for at least 18 months. During treatment, GO was classified as mild (n = 65) or severe course (n = 93) by severity and activity scores. All patients received standard anti‐thyroid drug (ATD) treatment for 1 year, and in cases of relapse another cycle of ATD, thyroidectomy or radioiodine therapy.

Results  Following ATD treatment, 27 patients (42%) with a mild course of GO went into thyroid disease remission, while only seven (8%) patients with a severe course of GO achieved remission (P < 0·0001). Eventually, 32 patients (49%) with a mild course needed definitive thyroid therapy and the remaining 9% preferred another cycle of ATD. However, among patients with a severe GO course, 84% needed definitive therapy (P < 0·0001) and 8% opted for another course of ATD treatment. The probability of relapse could also be predicted by TBII levels 12 months after initiation of ATD therapy, as 96·8% of patients with TBII levels above 7·5 IU/l relapsed (odds ratio 24·3).

Conclusion  Patients with severe GO and high TBII are unlikely to go into remission. This allows early decision‐making regarding definitive treatment of the thyroid in GD patients with severe GO or very high TBII levels.
Consistency between an allometric approach and optimal partitioning theory in global patterns of plant biomass allocation
Authors: MCCARTHY M. C. , ENQUIST B. J.
Published: June 2007

Optimal partitioning theory (OPT) suggests that plants should allocate biomass to the organ that acquires the most limiting resource. An implied assumption of this is that there are trade‐offs in allocation between leaf, stem and root functions.

Recently, an alternative approach, allometric biomass partitioning theory (APT), was developed to predict how plants should divide their metabolic production between leaves, stems and roots, based on the constraints of body size. APT predicts that, for an allometrically ideal plant, leaf mass should scale to the 3/4th power of body size, and stem and root mass should scale isometrically to body size.

In this study, we combine OPT with APT by investigating biomass partitioning not accounted for by allometric constraints across broad environmental gradients.

Intraspecific variability in biomass allocation shows correlations with environmental factors that would be predicted by OPT. However, interspecifically, these patterns either do not appear or are greatly reduced.

Our study suggests that, after size is accounted for, intraspecific residual variation in biomass allocation may be partially explained by environmental factors in a manner consistent with OPT. However, the particular patterns vary between species, obscuring large‐scale patterns.

In summary, differences due to environmental variability can be incorporated with allocation patterns related to total mass to help understand how plants should allocate biomass in response to changes in both size and environment.
The histology of acute autochthonous hepatitis E virus infection
Authors: Malcolm P , Dalton H , Hussaini H S , Mathew J
Published: June 2007

Aim:  To document the histological appearances of liver biopsies in autochthonous hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection.

Methods and results:  Four patients were serologically positive for HEV; three had no traditional risk factors, the fourth had recently returned from China. All four consumed meat products. Liver histology of the three autochthonous (locally acquired) cases showed portal tracts expanded by a severe mixed polymorph and lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrate, with a geographical distribution of polymorphs at the interface and lymphocytes centrally. Moderate to severe interface hepatitis and cholangiolitis were present. There was a striking acinar mixed inflammatory infiltrate made up of polymorphs, lymphocytes and macrophages; frequent apoptotic hepatocytes, focal necrosis, cholestatic rosettes and zone 3 canalicular and cytoplasmic bilirubinostasis were noted. Significant steatosis, megamitochondria and Mallory bodies were not present. There was no evidence of iron, copper or α1‐antitrypsin accumulation. By contrast, the histology of the imported case of HEV infection showed less intense portal and acinar inflammation, no cholangiolitis and no geographical distribution of the portal inflammatory infiltrate.

Conclusion:  The histological appearances of autochthonous HEV infection are sufficiently distinctive to consider the diagnosis in an acute setting and possibly to differentiate it from the endemic form of the disease.
Lipopolysaccharide desensitizes monocytes–macrophages to CD40 ligand stimulation
Authors: Sinistro Anna , Ciaprini Chiara , Natoli Silvia , Sussarello Emanuele , Carducci Francesca Calò , Almerighi Cristiana , Capozzi Marcella , Bolacchi Francesca , Rocchi Giovanni , Bergamini Alberto
Published: June 2007

Polymicrobial sepsis induces the suppression of macrophage function as determined by a reduction of pro‐inflammatory cytokine production upon re‐exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro. Here, we examined whether macrophages were refractory to only LPS or if they were unable to respond to other stimuli such as CD40 ligand (CD40L). Monocytic cells exposed in vitro to LPS showed a dose‐dependent reduction of their ability to produce interleukin‐12 and tumour necrosis factor‐α upon subsequent CD40L stimulation, as compared to cells stimulated with CD40L alone. Similarly, LPS interfered with the up‐regulation of CD40, CD80 and CD86 induced by CD40L in monocytic cells. The effect of LPS on the response of monocytes to CD40L was similar whether these cells were directly exposed to LPS or cocultured with LPS‐pretreated cells, indicating that soluble factors released by LPS stimulation could mediate tolerance to CD40L. We also show that the functional alterations induced by LPS in monocytes can be reversed by indomethacin, thus suggesting a role for inducible cyclooxygenase in mediating the LPS‐induced hyporesponsive state of monocytes to CD40L. In conclusion, we propose that in vitro CD40L tolerance may be an appropriate model of monocyte alteration observed during septic immunosuppression and may help in the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
The use of cone beam computed tomography in the management of external cervical resorption lesions
Authors: Patel S. , Dawood A.
Published: June 2007

Aim  To report the use of cone beam computed tomography in the assessment of external cervical resorption lesions.

Summary  Asymptomatic external cervical resorption lesions were diagnosed radiographically in two patients. Clinical examination in both cases was unremarkable. Cone beam computed tomography scans revealed the true nature of the lesions in three dimensions. The resorption lesion in case 1 was confined predominantly to the buccal aspect of the root, the lesion had not perforated into the root canal. A mucoperiosteal flap was raised to gain access to the lesion, the resorptive lesion was excavated and the defect repaired with glass ionomer cement. In case 2 the cone beam computed tomography scan revealed that the resorptive lesion was more extensive than it appeared radiographically, making the prognosis of reparative treatment very poor. In this case, the patient was advised to have the tooth extracted.

Key learning points 

The true extent of external cervical resorption lesions cannot always be estimated from conventional radiographs.

Cone beam computed tomography can be a useful diagnostic tool in the management of external cervical resorption lesions.
Evaluating the effectiveness of preoperative interventions: the appropriateness of using the children's emotional manifestation scale
Authors: Li Ho Cheung William
Published: June 2007

Aims.  This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of two preoperative nursing interventions and examining the appropriateness of using the Children's Emotional Manifestation Scale in evaluating the effectiveness of preoperative interventions.

Background.  There is some evidence that the Children's Emotional Manifestation Scale can be used as an objective assessment tool in documenting children's emotional responses. However, it is uncertain from previous study that whether the scale can be used in evaluating the effectiveness of preoperative interventions.

Design.  A randomized controlled trial, between subjects design was carried out in a well‐established day surgery unit.

Method.  Children (7–12 years of age; n = 203) admitted for elective day surgery during a 13‐month period, were recruited. By using a simple randomization method, 97 of children were assigned to the experimental group receiving therapeutic play intervention and 106 children were assigned to the control group receiving routine information preparation.

Results.  Children receiving therapeutic play preparation reported statistically significant lower anxiety levels, fewer negative emotions and lower heart rates and mean arterial blood pressures than children receiving information preparation. Children with high preoperative anxiety levels manifested more negative emotional behaviour during anaesthesia induction and were associated with faster heart rates and higher mean blood pressures.

Conclusion.  The study demonstrates the appropriateness of using the Children's Emotional Manifestation Scale in evaluating the effectiveness of preoperative nursing interventions and presents clear evidence to support the effectiveness of therapeutic play intervention in preparing children for surgery when compared with the information preparation approach.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This study contributes towards enriching the experience of using child‐sensitive research tools in evaluating the effectiveness of preoperative nursing interventions. The findings heighten the awareness of the importance of integrating therapeutic play as an essential component of holistic and quality nursing care to prepare children for surgery.
A structured literature review of pain assessment and management of patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Williams Allison , Manias Elizabeth
Published: June 2007

Aims and objectives. This paper reviews the literature concerning nurses’ assessment and management of pain in adult patients with chronic kidney disease, and proposes implications for clinical practice to support the control of pain in these patients.

Background. Chronic kidney disease is a worldwide public health concern with increasing incidence and prevalence, poor patient outcomes and high cost. Patients with kidney disease often experience pain. Optimal pain assessment and management are key clinical activities; however, inadequate pain control by health professionals persists. Renal failure compounds this problem because of the small margin between pain relief and toxicity, and the patient's concomitant health problems.

Conclusions. The literature review uses 93 articles that were published in medical‐ and other health‐related journals, including 12 medical and pharmaceutical studies specifically relating to pain control in adults with kidney disease. Very little research has been conducted on pain in patients with kidney disease prior to requiring dialysis or kidney transplantation for survival. However, past research showed pain is common and analgesics are underprescribed in patients on dialysis in end‐stage kidney disease. The review indicates that an interest in nephrotoxicity and analgesic‐induced morbidity dominates over an interest in pain relief in patients with kidney disease. Most analgesics are excreted renally or by the liver, and the use of simple analgesics such as paracetamol is cautioned.

Relevance to clinical practice. Findings from the literature review highlight specific difficulties relating to effective pain control in patients with chronic kidney disease. Research is required to identify and overcome barriers to effective pain management, including the development of specific tools to facilitate interventions that optimize analgesic outcomes in patients with chronic kidney disease.
The presence and meaning of chronic sorrow in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Isaksson Ann‐Kristin , Gunnarsson Lars‐Gunnar , Ahlström Gerd
Published: June 2007

Aim and objectives. The aim of this study was to explore the presence and meaning of chronic sorrow and the presence of depression in a fairly large group of persons with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Background. MS is a chronic and progressive neurological disease with a variety of symptoms. The patients have to live with losses of different kinds. A few earlier studies have used the concept of chronic sorrow to illustrate the emotional situation of such patients.

Method. Sixty‐one patients were interviewed about the occurrence of chronic sorrow and, thereafter, screened for depression. Thirty‐eight (62%) of them fulfilled the criteria for chronic sorrow. The interviews were analysed with latent content analysis.

Results. Seven themes describe the losses that caused sorrow: loss of hope, loss of control over the body, loss of integrity and dignity, loss of a healthy identity, loss of faith that life is just, loss of social relations and loss of freedom. The sorrow was constantly present or periodically overwhelming. Only four of the 38 patients with chronic sorrow had symptoms of being mildly depressed.

Conclusion. Chronic sorrow meant loss of hope, of control over the body, of integrity and of identity. The concept of chronic sorrow complements that of depression in providing important new knowledge relevant to understanding the consequences MS can have for the individual.

Relevance to clinical practice. Knowledge of the meaning of chronic sorrow can contribute to the nurse's ability to give psychological support and promote a sense of hope and control in the MS patient.
β‐tubulin affects cellulose microfibril orientation in plant secondary fibre cell walls
Authors: Spokevicius Antanas V. , Southerton Simon G. , MacMillan Colleen P. , Qiu Deyou , Gan Siming , Tibbits Josquin F.G. , Moran Gavin F. , Bossinger Gerd
Published: June 2007

Cellulose microfibrils are the major structural component of plant secondary cell walls. Their arrangement in plant primary cell walls, and its consequent influence on cell expansion and cellular morphology, is directed by cortical microtubules; cylindrical protein filaments composed of heterodimers of α‐ and β‐tubulin. In secondary cell walls of woody plant stems the orientation of cellulose microfibrils influences the strength and flexibility of wood, providing the physical support that has been instrumental in vascular plant colonization of the troposphere. Here we show that a Eucalyptus grandisβ‐tubulin gene (EgrTUB1) is involved in determining the orientation of cellulose microfibrils in plant secondary fibre cell walls. This finding is based on RNA expression studies in mature trees, where we identified and isolated EgrTUB1 as a candidate for association with wood‐fibre formation, and on the analysis of somatically derived transgenic wood sectors in Eucalyptus. We show that cellulose microfibril angle (MFA) is correlated with EgrTUB1 expression, and that MFA was significantly altered as a consequence of stable transformation with EgrTUB1. Our findings present an important step towards the production of fibres with altered tensile strength, stiffness and elastic properties, and shed light on one of the molecular mechanisms that has enabled trees to dominate terrestrial ecosystems.
Effects of otic betamethasone on intradermal testing in normal dogs
Authors: Ginel Pedro J. , Garrido Cristina , Lucena Rosario
Published: June 2007

Otitis externa is common in atopic dogs and is frequently treated using potent glucocorticoids topically. These preparations can cause adrenal suppression and affect skin test reactivity. The purpose of this study was to determine if an otic product containing betamethasone could decrease skin reactivity in normal dogs.

Sixteen laboratory beagles were used in a cross‐over, blinded trial. Dogs were enrolled in two groups; one received placebo and the other a betamethasone‐containing otic preparation (Otomax®) twice daily for 2 weeks. After a 4‐week wash‐out period, treatments were switched. Dogs were intradermally tested on days 0 and 14 of each treatment period with histamine phosphate (1 : 100 000 and 1 : 200 000 w/v) and allergens common in the area. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation tests were done before and after treatment to investigate adrenal suppression.

After 2 weeks of otic betamethasone,Dermatophagoides farinae(P = 0.0034),Cynodon dactylon(P = 0.0459) and histamine 1 : 100 000 w/v (P = 0.0028) reactions were significantly reduced. Pre‐treatment post‐ACTH serum cortisol levels and those obtained after both treatments did not differ statistically (P = 0.6362). Betamethasone induced a slight but statistically significant elevation (P = 0.0002) of serum alkaline phosphatase. Despite the increase, values were within normal range.

It is concluded that, although otic betamethasone did not suppress adrenal glands, it mildly suppressed intradermal reactions to 1 : 100 000 w/v histamine,D. farinaeandC. dactylon.
Prevalence of Malassezia spp. yeasts in feline nail folds: a cytological and mycological study
Authors: Colombo Silvia , Nardoni Simona , Cornegliani Luisa , Mancianti Francesca
Published: June 2007

Malassezia spp. yeasts are commensal organisms of mammal and avian skin, but little is known about their presence on the skin of healthy cats. The purposes of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of Malassezia spp. yeasts in feline nail folds and to identify the different species. Forty‐six cats of different breeds were evaluated by cytological examination, and Malassezia spp. yeasts were seen in 61% of them. Yeasts were found in 100% of Devon Rex cats [mean 8.63/oil immersion field (high‐power field – HPF)]. Conversely, only 42% of cats of other breeds (domestic short‐haired and Persian) were positive (mean 0.59/HPF). Twenty‐one cats of different breeds were subsequently evaluated by fungal culture. Malassezia pachydermatis was isolated from 52%, M. furfur from 38%, and M. sympodialis from 9.5% of the cats. More than one species was observed in eight of 21 cats, six of which were Devon Rex. Malassezia spp. yeasts are common inhabitants of feline nail folds, especially in Devon Rex cats, and the presence of a high number of yeasts on cytology correlates with the clinical observation of brown, greasy material in the nail folds. M. pachydermatis and two lipid‐dependent species were isolated from both Devon Rex cats and cats of other breeds.
Comparative analysis of canine dermatophytosis and superficial pemphigus for the prevalence of dermatophytes and acantholytic keratinocytes: a histopathological and clinical retrospective study
Authors: Peters Jeanine , Scott Danny W. , Erb Hollis N. , Miller William H.
Published: June 2007

Acantholytic dermatophytosis is a rarely reported condition of dogs that clinically and histopathologically mimics superficial pemphigus (erythematosus, foliaceus). Histologically, periodic acid‐Schiff (PAS) and Grocott's methenamine‐silver (GMS) are often necessary to show the fungus. A retrospective histopathological study was conducted on 190 canine skin biopsy specimens: 95 each with the diagnosis of canine dermatophytosis or of superficial pemphigus. All specimens were stained with haematoxylin and eosin, PAS, and GMS. Dermatophytes were not seen in any superficial pemphigus cases. Acantholytic keratinocytes were noted in 14% of the dermatophytosis cases, none of which had clinical signs consistent with superficial pemphigus. Among cases with acantholytic keratinocytes, superficial pemphigus had significantly more acantholytic cells than dermatophytosis (P = 0.02). When comparing face and nonface cases, there was no difference in prevalence of acantholytic keratinocytes in dermatophytosis or number of acantholytic keratinocytes in superficial pemphigus. All dermatophyte cases were both GMS and PAS positive with neither stain being visually superior. No dermatophyte cases where acantholytic keratinocytes were noted had a history, clinical signs and histopathological features compatible with acantholytic dermatophytosis.
Deletion of entire HLA‐A gene accompanied by an insertion of a retrotransposon
Authors: Takasu M. , Hayashi R. , Maruya E. , Ota M. , Imura K. , Kougo K. , Kobayashi C. , Saji H. , Ishikawa Y. , Asai T. , Tokunaga K.
Published: June 2007

Unusual HLA‐A‘null’ alleles because of an entire gene deletion were found in three apparently unrelated Japanese families with leukemia patients. Inclusion of the entire HLA‐A gene in the deletion was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction direct sequencing of the surrounding regions of HLA‐A. Further localization of the breakpoints of the HLA‐A deletion at the centromeric and telomeric sides was performed, and these families were shown to possess the identical deletion. We then determined the genomic sequence of the HLA‐A‐deleted haplotype. Surprisingly, the haplotype turned out to carry an insertion of an SVA (SINE‐VNTR‐Alu) retrotransposon of 2 kb as well as the 14 kb deletion that included the entire HLA‐A gene.
The nature of recombination in HLA‐B*4207
Authors: Eiz‐Vesper B. , DeLuca D. S. , Blasczyk R. , Horn P. A.
Published: June 2007

The identification of the novel human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐B*4207 allele, which was found in a blood donor of Caucasian origin, is described. The sequence of the new allele differs from HLA‐B*4201 in three nucleotide substitutions in exon 2, resulting in three consecutive amino acid (AA) exchanges at position 69, 70, and 71. AA positions 69 and 70 affect the peptide‐binding site of the HLA molecule in the formation of pockets A, B, and C. Therefore, it is likely that the peptide‐binding motif of HLA‐B*4207 differs from the HLA‐B*4201 motif. HLA‐B*4207 exhibits a high level of structural homology to HLA‐B*08 alleles as well as to HLA‐B*4201. Rating of the AA variations of these alleles according to the AA distance matrix score gives the lowest overall matching score between the HLA‐B*4207 and the HLA‐B*0801 alleles, indicating a high functional similarity. To further address this, homology modeling was performed using B8 as the closest structural template. The portion of the molecule that is accessible to the T‐cell receptor and antibodies is identical between B*4207 and B*0801. Under consideration of allele frequencies, close inspection of these sequences shows that the new allele is most likely a result of a recombination involving B*0702 and B*0801. Unfortunately, patient consent could not be obtained for retrospective serological typing to definitively determine whether B*4207 reacts in the B8 serological group.
Description of a new HLA‐B allele: HLA‐B*4077
Authors: Sánchez‐Gordo F. , Balas A. , García‐Sánchez F. , Prat I. , Vicario J. L.
Published: June 2007

HLA‐B*4077 differs from B*400101, B*4036, and B*401401 in five, four, and three nucleotides, respectively. However, amino acid alignment would indicate a closer relationship with B*4036 allele, showing a single amino acid replacement at codon 131 (R>S).
Immunosenescence: deficits in adaptive immunity in the elderly
Authors: Hakim F. T. , Gress R. E.
Published: June 2007

Aging is associated clinically with increases in the frequency and severity of infectious diseases and an increased incidence of cancer, chronic inflammatory disorders and autoimmunity. These age‐associated immune dysfunctions are the consequence of declines in both the generation of new naïve T and B lymphocytes and the functional competence of memory populations. These alterations collectively are termed immunosenescence.
Identification of medication non‐adherence factors in adolescent transplant patients: The patient's viewpoint
Authors: Bullington Pamela , Pawola Larry , Walker Rosemary , Valenta Annette , Briars Leslie , John Eunice
Published: June 2007

Abstract:  Studies report a clear association between medication non‐adherence and an unfavorable transplant outcome. The adolescent population, in particular, has difficulty adhering to post‐transplant medication regimens. The purpose of this study is to identify, categorize and understand the opinions of adolescent transplant patients regarding why they may not take their medications as prescribed. From January to August 2005, nine adolescent kidney transplant patients at an urban medical center were surveyed and asked to rank‐order 33 statements regarding their opinions on why adolescents may not take their medications as prescribed. Q‐methodology, a powerful tool in subjective study, was used to identify and categorize the viewpoints of adolescents on this subject. Three factors emerged and were labeled to reflect their distinct viewpoints: (1) Medication Issues (e.g. taste, size, frequency, schedule), (2) Troubled Adolescent (e.g. poor home life, depression, overwhelming situation), and (3) Deliberate Non‐Adherer (e.g. attention‐seeker, infallible attitude). By understanding these different viewpoints and the factors that contribute to them, it may be easier to identify which management approach to non‐adherence works best in specific subgroups of patients.
Testosterone increases urinary free felinine,N‐acetylfelinine and methylbutanolglutathione excretion in cats (Felis catus)
Authors: Hendriks W. H. , Rutherfurd‐Markwick K. J. , Weidgraaf K. , Ugarte C. , Rogers Q. R.
Published: June 2007

Two days after castration, urinary free felinine plusN‐acetylfelinine decreased 24% in male cats, but, by day 5, the concentration had not decreased to that routinely found in males that have been castrated for several months. In a second experiment, three groups of castrated adult male cats received different subcutaneous injections: control (carrier), testosterone, testosterone plus estradiol. A fourth group of intact adult female cats received a testosterone injection. Urine was collected and analysed for free felinine,N‐acetylfelinine and 3‐methylbutanolglutathione. Baseline blood testosterone and estradiol concentrations were low during the pre‐period, but increased sharply after hormone injections. The concentration of all three urinary metabolites increased as a result of testosterone injections with estradiol not modulating the effect. The effect of testosterone was not gender dependent. The concentration of free felinine,N‐acetylfelinine and 3‐methylbutanolglutathione in the urine remained low in the placebo control group throughout the study. The relative molar contribution of free felinine to the total amount of felinine containing compounds increased due to testosterone treatment, while the contribution of 3‐methylbutanolglutathione andN‐acetylfelinine decreased. Testosterone increases free felinine,N‐acetylfelinine and 3‐methylbutanolglutathione excretion in castrated adult male and intact female cats, whereas estradiol does not modulate this effect.
Nutritional value and physiological effects of soya‐free diets fed to rats during growth and reproduction
Authors: Pastuszewska B. , Taciak M. , Ochtabińska A. , Tuśnio A. , Misztal T. , Romanowicz K. , Morawski A.
Published: June 2007

The objective of the study was to assess the effects of substitution milk and egg for soya products in breeding diets for rats, with concomitant decrease of the dietary protein level and supplementation with amino acids. Soya‐containing (S) and two soya‐free (NS and NSA) diets were evaluated as protein and energy sources, and their effects on reproductive performance during two cycles, and on the quality of the offspring were assessed. Organ weights were registered in females and blood parameters were determined in males. In the offspring males from S and NS groups, plasma LH, testosterone and prolactin levels were measured on the 22nd and the 60th day of life. The S diet contained more protein of smaller concentration of methionine and cystine and lower biological value than both NS and NSA diets and promoted similar post‐weaning growth rate, similar body weight changes of dams during gestation and lactation and slightly lower mating efficiency. Within each reproductive cycle, the number and individual and total body weight of newborn and weanling pups did not differ but in two cycles mean number of neonates per litter and mean litter weight were significantly lower on S than on NSA diet. Plasma concentration of hormones did not differ in 22‐day‐old offspring males while in the older ones LH and prolactin levels were higher in animals fed on S than on NS diet. It is concluded that replacing soya protein by milk and egg protein with concomitant lowering dietary protein level and amino acid supplementation does not impair the growth rate and tends to improve reproductive performance. Feeding soya‐free vs. soya‐containing diets differentiates hormonal status of young males.
Growth, haematology, blood constituents and immunological status of lambs fed graded levels of animal feed grade damaged wheat as substitute of maize
Authors: Tripathi M. K. , Mondal D. , Karim S. A.
Published: June 2007

The aim of this study was to explore possibilities of utilization of animal feed grade damaged wheat (ADW) in lamb feeding, and assess the effect of ADW and its aflatoxin on intake, growth, haematology, blood biochemical constituents and immunological status. The ADW is a slightly mouldy feed resource, which is not suitable for human consumption. The experimental ADW contained dry matter (DM) 964, organic matter 974, crude protein 153, cellulose 205 and lignin 24, and starch 732 g/kg DM. ADW also contained aflatoxin B1 50 μg/kg due to mould infestation. Thirty‐five weaner lambs (90 ± 15 days of age and 16.1 ± 0.82 kg body weight) in a randomized design were fed for 91 days on one of four composite feed mixtures (roughage to concentrate ratio of 25:75) containing 0, 118, 235, 353 or 470 g/kg ADW, which replaced equal amounts of maize and at these inclusion levels ADW replaced 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% maize in lamb diets respectively. Dry matter intake (DMI) was similar in different level of ADW fed lambs but ADW inclusion linearly (p = 0.016) reduced DMI. Average daily gain (g/day) was higher (p = 0.038) in lambs fed 353 g ADW diet. Haematological attributes viz. WBC, haemoglobin (Hb) and mean corpuscular volume did not affect by ADW feeding whereas it increased haematocrit, mean cell Hb and decreased neutrophil, RBC counts and mean cell Hb concentration. Blood glucose and urea‐N increased whereas albumin and protein level reduced by ADW feeding. ADW feeding of lambs did not affect serum IgG level. The activities of serum aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphates and acid phosphates were not affected, whereas alanine aminotransferase increased linearly (p = 0.001) with increasing levels of ADW. It is concluded that ADW containing aflatoxin B1 50 μg/kg DM can safely be incorporated in growing lamb feeding up to 353 g/kg diet without affecting growth and cellular immunity, however ADW may induce a transient alteration of hepatic enzymatic activities. Further aflatoxin content of the diet should be kept within permissible limits of respective country.
Influence of amount and type of dietary fat on deposition, adipocyte count and iodine number of abdominal fat in broiler chickens
Authors: Wongsuthavas S. , Terapuntuwat S. , Wongsrikeaw W. , Katawatin S. , Yuangklang C. , Beynen A. C.
Published: June 2007

This study described the relation between the type and amount of dietary fat on the deposition of abdominal fat by broiler chickens. It was hypothesized that at higher fat intakes, the well‐known lowering effect of polyunsaturated fatty acids on the deposition of abdominal fat would be diminished. Experimental diets were formulated to contain three levels of added fat (3%, 6% and 9%). Each level had different proportions of the saturated fatty acids (SFA) and unsaturated fatty acids (UFA) by installing the ratios of 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4 and 1:5 with the use of tallow and soybean oil. Arbor Acres chicks, aged 7 days, were fed one of the 15 experimental diets until they were aged 42 days. Feed and water were provided ad libitum. There was no systematic effect of the dietary fat type and the amount on the weight gain and the feed intake. The lowest SFA:UFA ratio of 1:5 produced the lowest feed conversion rates, irrespective of the amount of the fat in the diet. The abdominal fat deposition was similar in the birds fed on diets containing either 3% or 6% added fat, but deposition was lower than in those fed 9% fat. A decrease in the SFA:UFA ratio of the diet was associated with a dose‐dependent decrease in abdominal fat, irrespective of the amount of fat in the diet. This observation leads to the rejection of the hypothesis stated above. A decrease in the dietary SFA:UFA from 1:1 to 1:4 caused a decrease in the number of the fat cells per surface unit of breast meat. It is concluded that an increased intake of soybean oil at the expense of tallow reduced the abdominal fat deposition and the number of fat cells in the breast meat of broiler chickens.
Anorexia nervosa with chronic episodes for more than 30 years in a patient with a comorbid schizotypal personality disorder
Authors: NAGATA TOMOYUKI , ONO KAZUYA , NAKAYAMA KAZUHIKO
Published: June 2007

Abstract  Schizotypal personality disorder (SPD) has rarely been reported as an eating disorder‐related personality trait. A 23‐year‐old woman was diagnosed as having anorexia nervosa binge eating/purging type. At the age of 53 years, she was admitted to Jikei University Hospital because of excessive bodyweight loss. She was diagnosed as having SPD based on bizarre behavior, ideation and a tendency to seek isolation. She was treated with low‐dose antipsychotics, and her impulsive behavior improved. The patient's SPD was considered to have had a psychopathological contribution to her chronic episodes of anorexia nervosa.
Obsessive‐compulsive and eating disorders: Comparison of clinical and personality features
Authors: JIMÉNEZ‐MURCIA SUSANA , FERNÁNDEZ‐ARANDA FERNANDO , RAICH ROSA M. , ALONSO PINO , KRUG ISABEL , JAURRIETA NURIA , ÁLVAREZ‐MOYA EVA , LABAD JAVIER , MENCHÓN JOSE M. , VALLEJO JULIO
Published: June 2007

Abstract  The aim of the present study was to determine whether anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN) and obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD) share clinical and psychopathological traits. The sample consisted of 90 female patients (30 OCD; 30 AN; 30 BN), who had been consecutively referred to the Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital of Bellvitge, Barcelona. All subjects met DSM‐IV criteria for those pathologies. The assessment consisted of the Maudsley Obsessive‐Compulsive Inventory (MOCI), Questionnaire of obsessive traits and personality by Vallejo, Eating Attitudes Test‐40 (EAT‐40), Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). ancova tests (adjusted for age and body mass index) and multiple linear regression models based on obsessive‐compulsiveness, obsessive personality traits and perfectionism, as independent variables, were applied to determine the best predictors of eating disorder severity. On ancova several significant differences were found between obsessive‐compulsive and eating‐disordered patients (MOCI, P < 0.001; EAT, P < 0.001; EDI, P < 0.001), whereas some obsessive personality traits were not eating disorder specific. A total of 16.7% OCD patients presented a comorbid eating disorder, whereas 3.3% eating disorders patients had an OCD diagnosis. In the eating disorder group, the presence of OC symptomatology was positively associated (r = 0.57, P < 0.001) with the severity of the eating disorder. The results were maintained after adjusting for comorbidity. Although some obsessive‐compulsive and eating disorder patients share common traits (e.g. some personality traits especially between OCD and AN), both disorders seem to be clinically and psychopathologically different.
Antidepressant‐like effects of the traditional Chinese medicine kami‐shoyo‐san in rats
Authors: PARK SUNG‐WOO , KIM YOUNG‐KOUNG , LEE JUNG‐GOO , KIM SUN‐HEE , KIM JAE‐MIN , YOON JIN‐SANG , PARK YONG‐KI , LEE YONG‐KYU , KIM YOUNG‐HOON
Published: June 2007

Abstract  Kami‐shoyo‐san (KSS), a traditional Chinese medicine, has been used to treat patients with neuropsychiatric disorders. The aim of the present paper was to investigate whether KSS has antidepressant‐like effects, and to assess its mechanism of action, using male Sprague–Dawley rats given 10‐fold (KSS 10X) or 20‐fold (KSS 20X) the typical human daily dosage. Immobility time was measured by the forced swimming test, and hippocampal neurogenesis was quantified under immobilization stress. Rats given KSS 20X, but not those given KSS 10X, had a significantly lower immobility time and improved neurogenesis in the hippocampus. These results suggest that KSS possesses an antidepressant‐like effect at a behavioral and molecular level.
Relationship between heart rate and emotional memory in subjects with a past history of post‐traumatic stress disorder
Authors: NAGAMINE MITSUE , MATSUOKA YUTAKA , MORI ETSURO , FUJIMORI MAIKO , IMOTO SHIGERU , KIM YOSHIHARU , UCHITOMI YOSUKE
Published: June 2007

Abstract  Considerable evidence suggests that the adrenergic system plays an important role in the biological mechanism of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In the present pilot study the association between heart rate (HR) recorded prior to slide viewing and long‐term emotional memory was compared between human subjects with a past history of PTSD (n = 6) and healthy women controls (n = 12). The correlation between HR during the anticipatory period and emotional memory was significant for the PTSD group (r = 0.93, P < 0.001) but not for the control group (r = 0.21, NS). The adrenergic reaction appears to be associated with emotional memory, which may be strengthened in subjects with a past history of PTSD.