bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple pulmonary embolism in patients with ventriculoatrial shunts: a report on two cases
Authors: SOPPI E. , JÄRVENTIE G. , SIITONEN L.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. Pulmonary embolism occurred in two patients with a Spitz‐Holter shunt. One patient had a massive pulmonary embolism which resulted in the development of pulmonary hypertension. The patient suffered another episode of embolism during warfarin therapy and died. Autopsy revealed a massive belateral pulmonary embolism. No thrombi were found in the venous system. The other patient had experienced symptoms that suggested recurrent pulmonary embolism before the established diagnosis. Thereafter she has constantly been treated with oral anticoagulant therapy without the recurrence of emboli.
Effect of interferon alpha‐2b in advanced multiple myeloma
Authors: RÖDJER S. , VIKROT O. , WAHLIN A. , WESTIN J.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. The antitumour effect of recombinant human interferon (rh‐IFN) alpha‐2b was studied in 22 patients with advanced multiple myeloma (MM). Nine of 14 evaluable cases were refractory to cytostatic therapy; five were in relapse. rh‐IFN was administered s.c. three times per week, in escalating doses starting with 2 times 106 IU m−2 and if possible up to 15 times 106 IU m−2. Two patients (one refractory, one relapsing) showed a partial response, defined as a 50% reduction of the serum M‐component. Three further patients had a minor, significant but short‐lived response. Subjective side‐effects grade 1–2 were noted during rh‐IFN therapy in all patients. In three cases thrombocytopenia necessitating platelet transfusions occurred. Although a fraction of patients with advanced MM obviously respond to rh‐IFN, this type of therapy may be more effective, alone or in addition to chemotherapy, in patients with a low tumour cell burden.
Cyclosporin A treatment of severe steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome in adults
Authors: NYROP M. , OLGAARD K.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. Ten adult patients with a severe nephrotic syndrome resistant to conventional immunosuppression were treated with cyclosporin A (CyA) for a mean period of 11 months. CyA was effective in all but two patients, as evaluated by 24‐h urine protein excretion and clinical appearance. In general the best effect of CyA was seen in patients with minimal change disease and in those who had normal kidney function before CyA was initiated. CyA‐induced nephrotoxicity was observed in four patients. There was no correlation with the duration of CyA therapy. Hypertension was accentuated and required multidrug treatment in five patients. This side‐effect tended to be most pronounced among patients with reduced kidney function at onset of CyA therapy.

In conclusion, CyA is effective in the treatment of severe steroid resistant adult nephrotic syndrome. For most patients in the present study. CyA reduced proteinuria by at least 70% to less than 3.5 g of protein per day in 8 of 10 patients: only two patients were unresponsive to CyA treatment.
Low dose acetylsalicylic acid and thromboxane release at the site of plug formation in vivo in elderly patients with cardiovascular disease
Authors: THORNGREN M. , ECKERT B. , VINGE E.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. Thromboxane B2 (TXB2) levels in bleeding time blood and in serum were measured in 13 elderly patients with cardiovascular disease, seven of whom were receiving continuous treatment with low dose acetylsalicylic acid (ASA, 125 mg every second day — 250 mg daily) for prevention of stroke. Blood sampling was performed openly, but assays of TXB2 were performed by a blinded investigator. In patients treated with ASA, median serum TXB2‐levels were 4% and TXB2‐levels in bleeding‐time blood were < 16% of the corresponding levels in patients without ASA (P < 0.01). The results show that in elderly atherosclerotic patients very low doses of ASA substantially suppress TXB2 formation, not only in serum but also at the site of local haemostasis. The extent of suppression is comparable to that previously reported from young healthy subjects.
Lipid peroxides, glutathione peroxidase, high density lipoprotein subfractions and apolipoproteins in young adults
Authors: LUOMA P. V. , STENGÅRD J. , KORPELA H. , RAUTIO A. , SOTANIEMI E. A. , SUVANTO E. , MARNIEMI J.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. Lipid peroxides have been implicated in the initiation of atherogenesis. In this study of 23 young healthy subjects, high levels of serum lipid peroxides were associated with low serum HDL2 cholesterol concentrations and low HDL2/HDL3 cholesterol and apolipo‐protein A‐I/A‐II ratios. Low levels of LDL cholesterol and apolipoprotein B, and low apolipoprotein B/A‐I ratios were typical of subjects with high serum glutathione peroxidase activities. Serum lipid peroxide levels varied widely in subjects without abnormal cholesterol, HDL cholesterol or LDL cholesterol concentrations. This variation may play a role in the frequent occurrence of coronary artery disease in normolipidaemic individuals.
Pharmacokinetics of intravenous recombinant human erythropoietin in patients with chronic renal failure
Authors: SALMONSON T. , DANIELSON B. G. , GRAHNÉN A. , WIKSTRÖM B.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. In order to improve our understanding of the dose‐concentration and concentration‐effect relationships, the pharmacokinetics of recombinant erythropoietin were studied after the initial dose (n = 6) and after repeated doses (n = 9) administered intravenously in patients with chronic renal failure. Several venous blood samples were collected before (to obtain the baseline concentration) and after an intravenous dose of erythropoietin. A radioimmunoassay was used to determine the erythropoietin concentration in the samples. The apparent volume of distribution at steady state was 4.2 ± 0.9 1 (initial dose) and 3.7 ± 0.61 (repeated dosing), which is close to the assumed plasma volume in these patients. The half‐life was 5.3 ± 1.3 h and 5.8 ± 1.2 h in the two groups, respectively, and is therefore too short for any accumulation to be expected when dosing three times per week. Consequently, no difference in baseline values could be detected between the groups. The clearance of erythropoietin in the groups was estimated to be 11.4 ± 7.0 ml min −1 and 7.8 ± 3.8 ml min−1, respectively. Erythropoietin kinetics did not differ after repeated dosing compared to the single initial dose. Intravenous administration of erythropoietin will result in high peak concentrations followed by a rapid decline to basal values.
Unintentional self‐intoxication with inorganic calcium
Authors: McALISTER N. H. , ABRAMS H. B. , SCHLOSSER R. , STURTRIDGE W.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. A 40‐year‐old woman with previous parathyroidectomy for adenoma was found to have a serum calcium level of 5.35 mmol l−1 (21.4 mg dl−1). Inadvertent calcium overdose had occurred because of her mistaken belief that if some prescribed calcium was good, then more was better. Her misconception is in contrast with that of patients with Münchausen's syndrome, who deliberately made themselves hypercalcaemic by ingesting calcium or Vitamin D surreptitiously. Inorganic calcium is increasingly promoted for its presumed, though unproven, effectiveness in prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Massive overdose can be associated with serious risks, as illustrated by the present case, which we believe represents the highest serum calcium level yet reported in an ambulatory patient.
Long‐term follow‐up in isolated ventricular septal defect considered too small to warrant operation
Authors: OTTERSTAD J. E. , ERIKSSEN J. , MICHELSEN S. , NITTER‐HAUGE S.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. An isolated ventricular septal defect (VSD) was diagnosed in 70 patients (39 men and 31 women, mean age 29 years, range 10‐64 years). Surgery was judged unnecessary. The follow‐up period was at least 10 years, or until death or 31 December 1988, comprising a mean duration of 21 (range 6‐29) years. The mortality was 11/69 (one lost to follow‐up), and was not significantly higher than in a matched ‘normal’ group. Six deaths were cardiac, four of which could probably be related to the VSD. The follow‐up study revealed that: (1) 14 (22%) subjects had major, VSD‐related complications, and cardiac surgery was indicated in eight patients; (2) six (10%) had minor complications. By the end of 1988, 24% of subjects had significant dyspnoea, 22% had chest pain and 19% used cardioactive drugs. Only 33% were receiving regular cardiac control in a hospital. Thus unoperated adults with a small VSD should be monitored closely, since this condition is far from benign.
Parasympathetic nervous system activity in hypothyroidism determined by R‐R interval variations on electrocardiogram
Authors: INUKAI T. , KOBAYASHI I. , KOBAYASHI T. , ISHII A. , YAMAGUCHI T. , YAMAGUCHI Y. , IWASHITA A. , OHSHIMA K. , SHIMOMURA Y. , KOBAYASHI S.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. Little is known about the relationship between hypothyroidism and the parasympathetic nervous system. R‐R interval variations revealed by electrocardiogram (ECG) are known to be a useful clinical indicator of abnormalities of parasympathetic nervous system activity. Studies were conducted in hypothyroid patients, and significant reductions in R‐R interval variations were observed in patients with primary severe hypothyroidism due to Hashimoto's thyroiditis, and in patients with Graves'disease who became severely hypothyroid during antithyroid drug therapy. R‐R interval variations were restored to normal levels in both groups of patients after treatment. The present investigation suggests that in marked hypothyroidism there are hypofunctional abnormalities in the parasympathetic nervous system in association with a reduction in the levels of serum T4 and T3.
Changes in plasma high density lipoprotein cholesterol and phospholipid in acute viral hepatitis and cholestatic jaundice
Authors: AHANEKU J. E. , OLUBUYIDE I. O. , AGBEDANA E. O. , TAYLOR G. O.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. Forty‐four male and female subjects aged 22‐57 years were studied. Thirteen patients had acute viral hepatitis, and eleven patients had cholestatic jaundice due to carcinoma of the head of the pancreas. Twenty healthy volunteers who served as controls were also included. In hepatitis patients, the mean plasma levels of total cholesterol (TC) and the high density lipoprotein (HDL)‐phospholipid/phospholipid (HDLPL/PL) ratio were reduced, and HDL‐cholesterol (HDLC), HDL‐phospholipid (HDLPL) and the phospholipid/total cholesterol (PL/TC) ratio were normal, while total phospholipid (PL) levels and the HDLC/TC ratio were significantly increased compared to the control values. In patients with cholestatic jaundice the mean plasma total cholesterol, phospholipid and HDLC levels were elevated, and HDLPL/PL, HDLPL, HDLC/TC and PL/TC remained normal compared to the control values. A comparison within the patient groups showed that plasma TC, PL and HDLC levels were significantly increased in cholestatic jaundice when compared with the corresponding levels in hepatitis patients. The mean plasma levels of HDLPL, HDLC/TC and PL/TC did not show any significant variation within the patient groups. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) correlated positively with TC, and total protein correlated negatively with TC and HDLPL, while albumin correlated negatively with TC, HDLC and HDLPL in cholestatic jaundice. Alanine amino‐transferase (ALAT) also correlated positively with PL in cholestatic jaundice, while albumin correlated positively with TC in hepatitis. The results suggest that lipoproteins might be metabolized differently in these two forms of cholestasis.
Screening for haemochromatosis: prevalence among Danish blood donors
Authors: WIGGERS P. , DALHØJ J. , KIÆR H. , RING‐LARSEN H. , PETERSEN P. HYLTOFT , BLAABJERG O. , HØRDER M.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. Hereditary haemochromatosis is an autosomal recessive disease that is genetically expressed by excessive accumulation of iron in the tissues, resulting in cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus, cardiomyopathy and hypogonadism. As the disease may be diagnosed before the appearance of symptoms, and prevented by repeated phlebotomies, there are strong implications for adoption of a screening procedure. Determinations of transferrin saturation (TS) and serum ferritin concentration (SF) were used to screen 4302 blood donors, who were selected for follow‐up studies if they fulfilled any of the following three criteria: (i) TS ≥ 0.7; (ii) TS ≥ 0.5 together with SF ≥ 150 μg l−1; (iii) SF ≥ 300 μg l−1. A total of 58 subjects who fulfilled at least one of these criteria were reinvestigated, after which 18 individuals still fulfilled at least one criterion. Fifteen subjects having SF ≥ 300 μg l−1 were offered liver biopsy and thirteen of these accepted. In one individual, no stainable iron was detected, and two subjects did not fulfil the previously established diagnostic criteria for the diagnosis of hereditary haemochromatosis. Ten subjects who had a high TS and liver iron grade 2–4 according to Bassett were classified accordingly as homozygotes. On the basis of these results, the prevalence of haemochromatosis in Denmark was estimated to be 0.0037–0.0046.
Cardiac left ventricular function before and during early thyroxine treatment in severe hypothyroidism
Authors: BERNSTEIN R. , MÜLLER C. , MIDTBØ K. , HAUG E. , NAKKEN K. F. , HERTZENBERG L. , KJØRSTAD K. E.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. In some patients with severe hypothyroidism, thyroxine replacement therapy precipitates or aggravates angina pectoris, whereas in other patients angina pectoris is ameliorated or even cured. Cardiac function in eight severely hypothyroid patients was studied by means of radionuclide ventriculography (RNV) at rest and during supine bicycle exercise before thyroxine treatment, and repeated during treatment before and after administration of 160 mg of oral verapamil. There was an exercise‐induced fall in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in two patients before therapy, and in two additional subjects after 17 d on suboptimal doses of thyroxine. Verapamil attenuated the fall and induced a significant increase in LVEF during exercise (P < 0.014). No abnormal regional cardiac wall movement (RWM) was observed. After 2 months of thyroxine treatment, LVEF increased significantly during exercise both before and after verapamil (P < 0.012 and P < 0.005). These findings are indicative of reversible coronary artery dysfunction. We recommend that, if feasible, thyroxine should be supplemented with verapamil during the early phase of treatment.
Intrafamilial outbreak of Mediterranean spotted fever
Authors: MIRANDA M. E. , GONZÁLEZ A. , MERINO J. L. , PUIG J. G.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. The existence of intrafamilial outbreaks of spotted‐fever group rickettsioses has seldom been reported, and their true incidence is not known. We here report the occurrence of Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) in three members of a family: a boy, his grandmother and his grandfather. The infection resolved uneventfully in the boy, and followed a more protracted course in the two older patients, who suffered complications including drowsiness, clotting defects and acute renal failure. This finding highlights the importance of conditioning factors such as age and associated illnesses in the prognosis of infection due to Rickettsia conorii, and suggests that strict surveillance of individuals at risk of infection is necessary for prompt recognition of the onset of the illness and initiation of antibiotic treatment without delay.
Hip fractures and the thyroid: a case‐control study
Authors: Wejda B. , Hintze G. , Katschinski B. , Olbricht Th. , Benker G.
Published: August 2009

Abstract. Objective. To investigate the prevalence of thyroid illness – especially hyperthyroidism – and exposure to thyroid hormones in patients with hip fracture. Design. A case–control study.

Setting. Two surgical/orthopaedic hospital units and 22 facilities for the aged in a moderately iodine‐deficient region of Germany.

Subjects. A total of 116 postmenopausal females with hip fracture and 402 postmenopausal female controls.

Main outcome measures. Hip fracture; thyroid disease confirmed by measurement of serum thyrotropin, total and free thyroxine and triiodothyronine; history of thyroid disease and thyroid medication obtained by a questionnaire.

Results. Of the hip fracture patients 4.3% had overt untreated hyperthyroidism, and 6.9% gave a history of past hyperthyroidism (total, 11.2%). The corresponding figures for the controls were 2.0 and 2.7%, respectively (total, 4.7%). 7.8% of the cases had been exposed to levo‐thyroxine for 3–29 years, compared to 11.2% of the controls. The odds ratio for hyperthyroidism (present and past) was 2.5(1.2–5.3, 95% confidence interval), and the odds ratio for levo‐thyroxine exposure was 0.67 (0.32–1.41) in the hip fracture patients.

Conclusions. Hyperthyroidism is found 2.5‐fold more often in hip fracture patients than in controls. Hence, hyperthyroidism appears to be a significant risk factor for hip fracture and should be investigated by clinical and, when necessary, laboratory means in hip fracture patients. In contrast, no increased risk for hip fracture could be detected after exposure to levothyroxine.
Quality of life considerations for patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Foster G. R.
Published: August 2009

Summary.  Chronic infection with the hepatitis C virus (HCV) has a profound effect on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) – with fatigue, depression and neurocognitive deficits among the most common complaints. Neuropsychiatric symptoms have prompted research to determine whether the HCV acts within the central nervous system. Replicating virus has been found in central nervous tissues, and changes in neurotransmitter levels in the frontal white matter of patients with chronic hepatitis C are correlated with impaired attention and concentration. Other symptoms of chronic hepatitis C that decrease HRQoL include associated sexual dysfunction and depression. Treatment of chronic HCV infection may temporarily worsen HRQoL, and common adverse effects of currently available agents include fatigue, muscle aches, depression and cognitive deficits. The relationship between sustained viral response and improvement in HRQoL is nonetheless well accepted. Although treatment‐related adverse effects may dissuade people from starting therapy and reduce compliance with associated reductions in sustained viral response, for the majority of patients viral clearance produces improvements in both HRQoL and long‐term prognosis. Novel agents, with improved adverse effect profiles, may afford more patients the opportunity to achieve a sustained viral response.
A redox‐active isopropylmalate dehydrogenase functions in the biosynthesis of glucosinolates and leucine in Arabidopsis
Authors: He Yan , Mawhinney Thomas P. , Preuss Mary L. , Schroeder Amy C. , Chen Bing , Abraham Linda , Jez Joseph M. , Chen Sixue
Published: August 2009

We report a detailed functional characterization of an Arabidopsis isopropylmalate dehydrogenase (AtIPMDH1) that is involved in both glucosinolate biosynthesis and leucine biosynthesis. AtIPMDH1 shares high homology with enzymes from bacteria and yeast that are known to function in leucine biosynthesis. In plants, AtIPMDH1 is co‐expressed with nearly all the genes known to be involved in aliphatic glucosinolate biosynthesis. Mutation of AtIPMDH1 leads to a significant reduction in the levels of free leucine and of glucosinolates with side chains of four or more carbons. Complementation of the mutant phenotype by ectopic expression of AtIPMDH1, together with the enzyme’s substrate specificity, implicates AtIPMDH1 in both glucosinolate and leucine biosynthesis. This functional assignment is substantiated by subcellular localization of the protein in the chloroplast stroma, and the gene expression patterns in various tissues. Interestingly, AtIPMDH1 activity is regulated by a thiol‐based redox modification. This work characterized an enzyme in plants that catalyzes the oxidative decarboxylation step in both leucine biosynthesis (primary metabolism) and methionine chain elongation of glucosinolates (specialized metabolism). It provides evidence for the hypothesis that the two pathways share a common origin, and suggests a role for redox regulation of glucosinolate and leucine synthesis in plants.
Water translocation between ramets of strawberry during soil drying and its effects on photosynthetic performance
Authors: Mao Shu‐Yan , Jiang Chuang‐Dao , Zhang Wen‐Hao , Shi Lei , Zhang Jin‐Zheng , Chow Wah Soon , Yang Jing‐Cheng
Published: August 2009

To explore the mechanisms underlying water regulation in clonal plants and its effects on carbon assimilation under water stress, we studied the responses of water status, gas exchange and abscisic acid (ABA) contents to water stress in leaves of pairs of strawberry ramets that consist of mother and daughter ramets. There was a greater decrease in photosynthetic rates (Pn) and stomatal conductance (Gs) in the disconnected mother ramets than the connected mother ramets upon exposure to water stress, indicating that water stress in mother ramets was alleviated by water translocation from the well‐watered daughter ramets. Conversely, the connected mother ramets displayed enhanced symptoms of water stress when the connected daughter ramets were exposed to water deficit. The mother ramets had lower water potential (ψw) due to their stronger osmotic adjustment than in well‐watered daughter ramets; this resulted in water flow from the connected daughter ramets to mother ramets, thus alleviating water stress of mother ramets. During soil drying, there was a striking increase in ABA concentrations in leaves of the disconnected mother ramets, whereas leaf bulk ABA was much lower in the connected and water‐stressed mother ramets than that in the drought‐affected mother ramets in the disconnected group. In this study, though Gs was linearly correlated with leaf bulk ABA and ψw, Gs in water‐stressed mother ramets in disconnected group exhibited less sensitivity to the variation in leaf bulk ABA and ψw than that in connected and water‐stressed mother ramets. Taken together, these results indicate that: (1) the flux of water translocation between the connected ramets is determined by a water potential gradient; (2) water translocation between connected ramets helps to keep sensitivity of Gs to ABA and ψw in drought‐affected ramets, thereby benefit to effectively maintain the homeostasis of leaf water status and (3) the improvements in Pn in water‐stressed ramets due to water translocation from well‐watered ramets suggest the advantages of physiological integration in clonal plants in environments with heterogeneous water distribution.
Human herpesvirus‐7 in Brazilian liver transplant recipients: a follow‐up comparison between molecular and immunological assays
Authors: Peigo M.F. , Thomasini R.L. , Puglia A.L.P. , Costa S.C.B. , Bonon S.H.A. , Boin I.F.S. , Leonardi M. , Mota N.G.S.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Human herpesvirus‐6 and ‐7 (HHV‐6, HHV‐7) remain latent after primary infection and can reactivate after transplantation. HHV‐6 active infection has been related to some clinical manifestation, but the role of HHV‐7 remains unclear. The clinical significance of HHV‐7 DNAemia is not completely known and the immune response against HHV‐7 has been poorly studied in transplantation. In this study, we investigated HHV‐7 DNAemia in liver transplant recipients and evaluated the immunoglobulin (Ig) G and IgM response against HHV‐7. A total of 22 adult liver transplant recipients were followed up for 90 days. HHV‐7 DNAemia was detected by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in DNA extracted from sera. IgG and IgM detection was performed by immunofluorescent assay using HHV‐7‐infected cord blood mononuclear cells. A significant virus antibody response was defined as either a positive IgM or a ≥4‐fold rise in the virus IgG antibody. All patients had pre‐transplant HHV‐7‐positive serostatus. Nine of 22 (40.9%) patients presented HHV‐7 DNAemia during follow‐up. All these patients had anti‐HHV‐7‐positive IgM and/or significant increase in IgG titers with concurrent or subsequent DNAemia. In patients without DNAemia and low persistent IgG antibody titers, IgM was not detected. Correlation between nested PCR and IgM detection was statistically significant (P=0.01). Our study indicates that nested PCR in DNA extraction from serum can be useful to detect and monitor HHV‐7 active infection in liver transplant recipients. IgM antibody detection also can be useful as a first immunological technique to detect active infection, especially if combined with PCR.
Bacterial screening of platelet concentrates: results of 2 years active surveillance of transfused positive cultured units released as negative to date
Authors: Koopman M. M. W. , Van't Ende E. , Lieshout‐Krikke R. , Marcelis J. , Smid W. M. , De Korte D.
Published: August 2009

Background  The BacT/ALERT system for bacterial monitoring of platelet concentrates (PCs) was introduced in the Netherlands in 2001. Samples are cultured for 7 days, and as a result of the short shelf‐life of PCs, they are usually released as ‘negative to date’. Therefore, some of the PCs have already been transfused at the moment of a positive signal in continued cultures in the BacT/Alert. It is unclear, however, whether these PCs are associated with more transfusion reactions.

Methods  During a 2‐year period clinical data were collected from all patients who received PCs released as ‘negative to date’ but with a positive bacterial culture after being transfused.

Results  Data of 158 patients who received PCs with confirmed positive bacterial culture tests were analysed. Two patients developed a transfusion reaction. In both PCs, Propionibacterium was cultured. The imputability as related to the transfusion was classified as unlikely in both patients.

Conclusion  Two of 158 transfusions of PCs released as ‘negative to date’, but with a confirmed positive BacT/ALERT result, were initially associated with transfusion reactions. However, the imputability of both reactions was low.
Effects of Alternative Policies on Income Redistribution: Evidence from Brazil
Authors: Dos Santos Vladimir Faria , Da Cruz Vieira Wilson , Dos Santos Reis Bricio
Published: August 2009

Despite recent successes, Brazilian income (cash) transfer policies remain controversial, and alternative approaches to income redistribution are being actively considered. This article contributes to this debate, analysing the effects of several alternative policies for income redistribution in the Brazilian economy using a computable general equilibrium model. Simulations were conducted consistent with the following policies: direct transfer of income, reduction of taxes, and incentives to agricultural exports. The results suggest that transfer of income is the most effective in promoting redistribution of income, with a positive impact on the level of welfare of the poorest households.
Organizational Identity and Legitimacy under Major Environmental Changes: Tales of Two UK Building Societies
Authors: He Hongwei , Baruch Yehuda
Published: August 2009

We studied how organizational identity (OI) and organizational legitimacy (OL) interplayed within two British building societies during drastic environmental changes over two decades. Four salient phases of environmental changes were identified in the British building society sector over the last two decades (introduction of new regulatory framework, recession, demutualization threats and post‐demutualization era). Comparative analysis of the two firms' responses to the environmental changes found that, employing distinct specific strategies, both firms accorded tremendous attention and efforts to OI narration and re‐narration in order to regain OL. Four properties were identified regarding the interplay between OI narrative and OL: level, locus, mechanism and approach. Our study contributes to the literature by (a) empirically demonstrating the role of the OI/OL interplay in understanding the relationship between organizations and external changes; (b) empirically demonstrating the valence of a narrative approach to OI as a useful perspective to study organizational change and OL; and (c) identifying the role of narrative in leading and directing such changes.
Competition and Antitrust Policy in the Enlarged European Union: A Level Playing Field?*
Authors: HÖLSCHER JENS , STEPHAN JOHANNES
Published: August 2009

With the central and eastern European countries (CEECs) increasingly included into the international division of labour in the European economic space, we are prompted to ask whether this integration operates on a level playing field with respect to competition policy. In fact, our analysis reveals that effectiveness of implementation of competition law and policy and intensity of competition are lower in the CEECs. We find no reason to believe that the new eastern EU members struggle with the recent reforms of competition policy in the EU, nor do we see the necessity for policy action to spur effective implementation.
Maintaining high fluid pressures in older sedimentary basins
Authors: BREDEHOEFT J.
Published: August 2009

High fluid pressures in old geologic basins, where the mechanisms that generate high fluid pressure have ceased to operate, pose the problem of how high fluid pressures are maintained through geologic time. Recent oil and gas exploration reveals that low permeability shales, the source beds for oil and gas, contain large quantities of gas that are now being exploited in many sedimentary basins in North America. No earlier analyses of how to maintain high fluid pressure in older sedimentary basins included a shale bed as a source of adsorbed gas; this is a new conceptual element that will fundamentally change the analysis. Such a large fluid source can compensate for a low rate of bleed off in a dynamic system. If the fluid source is large enough, as the gas within these shale source beds appears to be, there will no appreciable drop in pressure accompanying a low rate of leakage from the basin for long periods. For the dynamic school of basin analysts this may provide the missing piece in the puzzle, explaining how high fluid pressures are maintained for long periods of geologic time in a crust with finite, non‐zero permeability. This is a hypothesis which needs to be tested by new basin analyses.
The role of traumatic event history in non‐medical use of prescription drugs among a nationally representative sample of US adolescents
Authors: McCauley Jenna L. , Danielson Carla Kmett , Amstadter Ananda B. , Ruggiero Kenneth J. , Resnick Heidi S. , Hanson Rochelle F. , Smith Daniel W. , Saunders Benjamin E. , Kilpatrick Dean G.
Published: August 2009

Background:  Building on previous research with adolescents that examined demographic variables and other forms of substance abuse in relation to non‐medical use of prescription drugs (NMUPD), the current study examined potentially traumatic events, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), other substance use, and delinquent behavior as potential correlates of past‐year non‐medical use of prescription drugs.

Method:  A nationally representative sample of 3,614 non‐institutionalized, civilian, English‐speaking adolescents (aged 12–17 years) residing in households with a telephone was selected. Demographic characteristics, traumatic event history, mental health, and substance abuse variables were assessed. NMUPD was assessed by asking if, in the past year, participants had used a prescription drug in a non‐medical manner. Multivariable logistic regressions were conducted for each theoretically derived predictor set. Significant predictors from each set were then entered into a final multivariable logistic regression to determine significant predictors of past‐year NMUPD.

Results:  NMUPD was endorsed by 6.7% of the sample (n = 242). The final multivariable model showed that lifetime history of delinquent behavior, other forms of substance use/abuse, history of witnessed violence, and lifetime history of PTSD were significantly associated with increased likelihood of NMUPD. Conclusions: Risk reduction efforts targeting NMUPD among adolescents who have witnessed significant violence, endorsed abuse of other substances and delinquent behavior, and/or endorsed PTSD are warranted. Interventions for adolescents with history of violence exposure or PTSD, or those adjudicated for delinquent behavior, should include treatment or prevention modules that specifically address NMUPD.
Recurrent dysosmia induced by pyrazinamide
Authors: El Aïdli Sihem , Kastalli Sarrah , Zaïem Ahmed , Lakhoua Ghozlane , Rejeibi Imen , Loueslati Mohamed Hedi , Daghfous Riadh , Belkahia Chalbi
Published: August 2009

Pyrazinamide can have adverse effects such as hepatic toxicity, hyperuricemia or digestive disorders. In rare cases, alterations in taste and smell function have been reported for pyrazinamide when combined with other drugs. We report a case of reversible olfactory disorder related to pyrazinamide in a woman, with a positive rechallenge. The patient presented every day a sensation of smelling something burning 15 min after drug intake. Dysosmia disappeared completely after pyrazinamide withdrawal and recurred after its rechallenge. The case was reported to the Tunisian Centre of Pharmacovigilance.
Construction and validation of a Tamil logMAR chart
Authors: Varadharajan Srinivasa , Srinivasan Krithica , Kumaresan Brindha
Published: August 2009

Purpose:  To design, construct and validate a new Tamil logMAR visual acuity chart based on current recommendations.

Methods:  Ten Tamil letters of equal legibility were identified experimentally and were used in the chart. Two charts, one internally illuminated and one externally illuminated, were constructed for testing at 4 m distance. The repeatability of the two charts was tested. For validation, the two charts were compared with a standard English logMAR chart (ETDRS).

Results:  When compared to the ETDRS chart, a difference of 0.06 ± 0.07 and 0.07 ± 0.07 logMAR was found for the internally and externally illuminated charts respectively. Limits of agreement between the internally illuminated Tamil logMAR chart and ETDRS chart were found to be (−0.08, 0.19), and (−0.07, 0.20) for the externally illuminated chart. The test – retest results showed a difference of 0.02 ± 0.04 and 0.02 ± 0.06 logMAR for the internally and externally illuminated charts respectively. Limits of agreement for repeated measurements for the internally illuminated Tamil logMAR chart were found to be (−0.06, 0.10), and (−0.10, 0.14) for the externally illuminated chart.

Conclusions:  The newly constructed Tamil logMAR charts have good repeatability. The difference in visual acuity scores between the newly constructed Tamil logMAR chart and the standard English logMAR chart was within acceptable limits. This new chart can be used for measuring visual acuity in the literate Tamil population.
How Quickly do Fragments of Coral “Self‐Attach” after Transplantation?
Authors: Guest James R. , Dizon Rommi M. , Edwards Alasdair J. , Franco Chiara , Gomez Edgardo D.
Published: August 2009

Transplantation of coral fragments is seen as a potential method to rapidly restore coral cover to areas of degraded reef; however, considerable research is still needed to assess the effectiveness of coral transplantation as a viable reef restoration tool. Initially, during restoration efforts, coral transplants are attached artificially. Self‐attachment (i.e., growth of coral tissue onto the substrate) provides a more secure and lasting bond, thus knowledge about self‐attachment times for corals is of importance to reef restoration. While it is known that coral fragments may generate new tissue and bond to substrata within a few weeks of transplantation, surprisingly little is known about the speed of self‐attachment for most species. Two independent experiments were carried out to examine the self‐attachment times of 12 scleractinian and one non‐scleractinian coral species to a natural calcium carbonate substrate. The first experiment examined times to self‐attachment in 11 species of differing morphologies from seven families over approximately 7 months, whereas the second experiment examined three fast‐attaching Acropora species over approximately 1 month. In the first experiment, the branching species Acropora muricata had a significantly faster self‐attachment time compared to all other species, while Echinopora lamellosa had the slowest self‐attachment time. For the second experiment, A. muricata was significantly slower to self‐attach than Acropora hyacinthus (tabular) and Acropora digitifera (corymbose‐digitate). The results suggest that a combination of factors including growth rates, growth form and life history may determine how quickly fragments of coral species self‐attach after fragmentation and transplantation.
Effect of Nd2O3 Doping on the Densification and Abnormal Grain Growth Behavior of High‐Purity Alumina
Authors: Wang Chong‐Min , Chan Helen M. , Harmer Martin P.
Published: August 2009

The densification behavior and microstructural development of high‐purity Al2O3 doped with different levels of Nd2O3 were investigated. Dopant levels ranged from 100–1000 ppm (Nd/Al atomic ratio). The densification behavior of the doped powders was studied using constant heating rate dilatometry. It was found that neodymium additions inhibited densification, with a corresponding increase in the apparent activation energy. The level of grain‐boundary segregation was studied using high‐resolution analytical electron microscopy. At dilute concentrations, the degree of neodymium grain‐boundary excess was found to be consistent with a simple geometrical model relating this quantity to the overall dopant concentration and average grain size. For certain combinations of dopant level and heat treatment, supersaturation of the grain boundaries was observed, which was found to correlate with the onset of abnormal grain growth. Possible explanations for this behavior are discussed.
Should fimbriae be included in pertussis vaccines? Studies on ELISA IgG anti‐Fim2/3 antibodies after vaccination and infection
Authors: HALLANDER HANS O. , LJUNGMAN MARGARETHA , JAHNMATZ MAJA , STORSAETER JANN , NILSSON LENNART , GUSTAFSSON LENNART
Published: August 2009

The anti‐Fim response and long‐term persistence after vaccination and infection may be of importance in understanding population immunity. Longitudinal serum samples (n = 1330) from 542 non‐infected children related to a Swedish vaccine trial showed that the post vaccination (DTPa5) antibody decay curve for pertussis ELISA IgG anti‐fimbriae2/3 (anti‐Fim2/3) was bi‐phasic. A slower one followed an initial rapid decay approximately 5–6 months after the third dose at 12 months of age. After 71 months, however, 60% still had concentrations above ≥5 EU/ml, a level that had been shown to correlate with decreased risk of disease. Booster responses after re‐vaccination with DTPa5 at 4, 5 and 6 years of age were strong and appeared within 1 week after vaccination, indicating immune memory. Ninety‐six young children with verified pertussis infection, for whom we had serum samples both before, during and after the infection, showed a high response if they had been primed with fimbriae (either DTPa5 or DTPwc). In contrast, 76% of infected children not primed with fimbriae (a DTPa2 or DT group) only had concentrations below the minimum level of detection in all samples taken during and after the infection. In two Swedish seroepidemiological surveys, one from 1997 just after reintroduction of universal childhood vaccination against pertussis and one from 2007, the proportion of children 2–3 years with anti‐Fim2/3 concentrations <5 EU/ml was similar and above 90%. This reflects that the two‐ or three‐component pertussis vaccines (DTPa2 and DTPa3) that were introduced in Sweden in 1996 do not induce anti‐Fim2/3 antibodies. In previous studies it was shown in multivariate analyses that levels of IgG anti‐Fim2/3 ≥5 EU/ml reduced short‐term risk of pertussis in small children. As the antibody response to Fim2/3 after infection is poor in children who have not been primed earlier in life, inclusion of immunogenic Fim2/3 in future pertussis vaccines should be considered.
Cholinoceptive and cholinergic properties of cardiomyocytes involving an amplification mechanism for vagal efferent effects in sparsely innervated ventricular myocardium
Authors: Kakinuma Yoshihiko , Akiyama Tsuyoshi , Sato Takayuki
Published: August 2009

Our recent studies have shown that, as indicated by vagal stimulation, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor donepezil, an anti‐Alzheimer’s disease drug, prevents progression of heart failure in rats with myocardial infarction, and activates a common cell survival signal shared by acetylcholine (ACh) in vitro. On the basis of this and evidence that vagal innervation is extremely poor in the left ventricle, we assessed the hypothesis that ACh is produced by cardiomyocytes, which promotes its synthesis via a positive feedback mechanism. Rat cardiomyocytes expressed choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in the cytoplasm and vesicular acetylcholine transporter with the vesicular structure identified by immunogold electron microscopy, suggesting that cardiomyocytes possess components for ACh synthesis. Intracellular ACh in rat cardiomyocytes was identified with physostigmine or donepezil. However, with atropine, the basal ACh content was reduced. In response to exogenous ACh or pilocarpine, cardiomyocytes increased the transcriptional activity of the ChAT gene through a muscarinic receptor and ChAT protein expression, and, finally, the intracellular ACh level was upregulated by pilocarpine. Knockdown of ChAT by small interfering RNA accelerated cellular energy metabolism, which is suppressed by ACh. Although physostigmine had a minimal effect on the ChAT promoter activity by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, donepezil resulted in elevation of the activity, protein expression and intracellular ACh level even in the presence of sufficient physostigmine. Orally administered donepezil in mice increased the ChAT promoter activity in a reporter gene‐transferred quadriceps femoris muscle and the amount of cardiac ChAT protein. These findings suggest that cardiomyocytes possess an ACh synthesis system, which is positively modulated by cholinergic stimuli. Such an amplification system in cardiomyocytes may contribute to the beneficial effects of vagal stimulation on the ventricles.
Roles of Different CYP Enzymes in the Formation of Specific Fluvastatin Metabolites by Human Liver Microsomes
Authors: Toda Takaki , Eliasson Erik , Ask Birgitta , Inotsume Nobuo , Rane Anders
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Fluvastatin has been considered to be metabolised to 5‐hydroxy fluvastatin (M‐2), 6‐hydroxy fluvastatin (M‐3) and N‐desisopropyl fluvastatin (M‐5) in human liver microsomes by primarily CYP2C9. To elucidate the contribution of different CYP enzymes on fluvastatin metabolism, we examined the effect of CYP inhibitors and CYP2C‐specific monoclonal antibodies on the formation of fluvastatin metabolites in human liver microsomes. Human liver microsomes were incubated with fluvastatin with or without pre‐treatment with CYP inhibitors or monoclonal antibodies. Selective inhibitors of CYP2C9 (sulfaphenazole), CYP3A (ketoconazole) and CYP2C8 (quercetin) were employed and monoclonal antibodies were against CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP2C8/9/18/19. According to the amount of fluvastatin metabolites produced, the formation of M‐3 was found to be major pathway of fluvastatin metabolism (the relative contribution was calculated to be more than 80%). Sulfaphenazole inhibited the formation of M‐2 largely, but had little effect on the formation of M‐3. It also inhibited the formation of M‐5. Ketoconazole markedly inhibited the formation of M‐3, but did not inhibit the formation of M‐2 and M‐5. Quercetin had a moderate inhibitory effect on the formation of all three fluvastatin metabolites. Monoclonal antibodies against CYP2C9 and CYP2C8/9/18/19 markedly inhibited the formation of M‐2 and M‐5. None of monoclonal antibodies showed clear inhibition on the formation of M‐3. In contrast to previous published work, our results suggest that M‐2 and M‐5 are formed preferentially by CYP2C9, and that M‐3 is mainly formed by CYP3A. In summary, the results contribute to a better understanding of the drug‐drug interaction potential for fluvastatinin vivo.
DIETARY LIPIDS CHANGE THE EXPRESSION OF A PROLIFERATION MARKER IN MURINE 9,10‐DIMETHYL‐1,2‐BENZANTHRACENE‐INDUCED SALIVARY TUMORS
Authors: ACTIS ADRIANA B. , CREMONEZZI DAVID C. , LAMPE PAUL D. , CARINO SILVIA , VALENTICH MIRTA A.
Published: August 2009

Salivary tumors were induced by 9,10‐dimethyl‐1,2‐benzanthracene injection into the submandibulary gland of mice fed with different dietary lipids. Tumor tissue from 10 mice fed with diets containing corn oil (CO) or fish oil (FO) were immunohistochemically stained for Cx26, β‐ and γ‐catenin, BAX, Bcl‐2 and Ki‐67. The percentage of animals showing different levels of biomarker expression in epithelial, mesenchymal and stromal cells was calculated in each group. The number of nuclei positive for Ki‐67 per 500 total cells was calculated.

Reduced expression of Cx26 was observed in FO group as compared to CO. The staining was similar for β‐catenin, γ‐catenin, BAX and Bcl‐2 in both groups. The Ki‐67 labeling index was significantly different for CO and FO (0.45–0.40, P < 0.0008).

The lower expression of Ki‐67 in FO mice could indicate less cellular proliferation.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Dietary fatty acids (FAs) affect tumorigenesis. This study examines the effect of dietary lipids on proliferation, apoptosis, cell adhesion and intercellular communication level change during tumorigenesis. Since dietary lipids may be protective or act as promoters of tumorigenesis, the beneficial and negative effects of different FAs could help inform nutrition recommendations directed to the population.
Preparation and Characterization of Whey Protein Film Incorporated with TiO2 Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhou J.J. , Wang S.Y. , Gunasekaran S.
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT:  Biodegradable titanium dioxide (TiO2)/whey protein isolate (WPI) blend films were made by casting denatured WPI film solutions incorporated with TiO2 nanoparticles. X‐ray diffraction, UV‐vis spectra, and fluorescence spectra of the films showed the successful incorporation of TiO2 nanoparticles into the WPI matrix and indicated the interactions between TiO2 and WPI. Mechanical tests revealed the antiplasticizing effect of TiO2 nanoparticles on the WPI/TiO2 film. Small amounts (<1 wt%) of added TiO2 nanoparticles significantly increase the tensile properties of WPI film, but also decrease the moisture barrier properties. The addition of higher amounts (>1 wt%) of TiO2 improves moisture barrier properties but lowers the tensile properties of the film. Microstructural evaluation confirmed the aggregation and distribution of TiO2 nanoparticles within the WPI matrix and validated the results of functional properties of the WPI/TiO2 film.