bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Photoluminescence-Based Field Method for Detection of Traces of Explosives
Authors: Menzel E. Roland , Menzel Laird W. , Schwierking Jake R.
Published: March 2005

We report a photoluminescence-based field method for detecting traces of explosives. In its standard version, the method utilizes a commercially available color spot test kit for treating explosive traces on filter paper after swabbing. The colored products are fluorescent under illumination with a laser that operates on three C-size flashlight batteries and delivers light at 532 nm. In the fluorescence detection mode, by visual inspection, the typical sensitivity gain is a factor of 100. The method is applicable to a wide variety of explosives. In its time-resolved version, intended forin situwork, explosives are tagged with europium complexes. Instrumentation-wise, the time-resolved detection, again visual, can be accomplished in facile fashion. The europium luminescence excitation utilizes a laser operating at 355 nm. We demonstrate the feasibility of CdSe quantum dot sensitization of europium luminescence for time-resolved purposes. This would allow the use of the above 532 nm laser.
Using Health Utility Index (HUI) for Measuring the Impact on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQL) Among Individuals with Chronic Diseases
Authors: Mo Frank , Choi Bernard C.K. , Li Felix C.K. , Merrick Joav
Published: March 2005

Quality of life is an important indicator in assessing the burden of disease, especially for chronic conditions. The Health Utilities Index (HUI) is a recently developed system for measuring the overall health status and health-related quality of life (HRQL) of individuals, clinical groups, and general populations. Using the HUI (constructed based on eight attributes: vision, hearing, speech, mobility, dexterity, cognition, emotion, and pain/discomfort) to measure the HRQL for chronic disease patients and to detect possible associations between HUI system and various chronic conditions, this study provides information to improve the management of chronic diseases.This study is of interest to data analysts, policy makers, and public health practitioners involved in descriptive clinical studies, clinical trials, program evaluation, population health planning, and assessments. Based on the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) for 2000–01, the HUI was used to measure the quality of life for individuals living with various chronic conditions (Alzheimer/other dementia, effects of stroke, urinary incontinence, arthritis/rheumatism, bowel disorder, cataracts, back problems, stomach/intestinal ulcers, emphysema/COPD, chronic bronchitis, epilepsy, heart disease, diabetes, migraine headaches, glaucoma, asthma, fibromyalgia, cancers, high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, thyroid condition, and other remaining chronic diseases). Logistic Regression Model was employed to estimate the associations between the overall HUI scores and various chronic conditions. The HUI scores ranged from 0.00 (corresponding to a state close to death) to 1.00 (corresponding to perfect health); negative scores reflect health states considered worse than death. The mean HUI score by sex and age group indicated the typical quality of life for persons with various chronic conditions. Logistic Regression results showed a strong relationship between low HUI scores (≤ 0.5 and 0.06–1.0) and certain chronic conditions. Age- and sex-adjusted Odds Ratio (OR) andpvalues showed an effect among individuals diagnosed with each chronic disease on the overall HUI score. Results of this study showed that arthritis/rheumatism, heart disease, high blood pressure, cataracts, and diabetes had a severe impact on HRQL. Urinary incontinence, Alzheimer/other dementia, effects of stroke, cancers, thyroid condition, and back problems have a moderate impact. Food allergy, allergy other than food, asthma, migraine headaches, and other remaining chronic diseases have a relatively mild effect. It is concluded that major chronic diseases with significant health burden were associated with poor HRQL. The HUI scores facilitate the measurement and interpretation of results of health burden and the HRQL for individuals with chronic diseases and can be useful for development of strategies for the prevention and control of chronic diseases.
The Assimilation of Assistive Technology in Residential Care Centers for People with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Carmeli Eli , Cahana Carmit , Merrick Joav
Published: March 2005

People with intellectual disability (ID) require special support in order to achieve independence in their daily life. Persons with ID are less exposed to assistive technology, although studies have shown that the availability of aids afford an opportunity to reach independence and cooperation. The aim of this study was to examine the nature of the relationship between involvement of the physiotherapy (PT) team and the degree to which assistive technology was used. A questionnaire was sent to all PTs employed at all 54 residential care centers for persons with ID of the Division for Mental Retardation at the Ministry of Social Affairs in Israel. A significantly positive correlation was found between the degree of involvement of the PT and the utilization of assistive technology. The study results may be summarized by stating that PTs demonstrated a great deal of involvement, particularly in relation to the extent of their work in the residential care centers. PT's awareness of the importance was indicated as the major reason to use assistive technology.
The Use of Developmental Rehabilitation Services. Comparison between Bedouins and Jews in the South of Israel
Authors: Lubetzky Hasia , Shvarts Shifra , Merrick Joav , Vardi Gideon , Galil Aharon
Published: March 2005

Some communities have peripheral zones inhabited by persons with a different culture than the majority of the general population, such as the Aboriginals in Australia, the Native Americans in the U.S. and Canada, the Eskimos in Lapland, and the Bedouins in Israel. These citizens are not receiving the same medical or rehabilitation services as the citizens of the metropolitan areas due to the fact that health and welfare programs are not adapted to their unique needs. At the Soroka University Medical Center in Beer-Sheva, Israel, the health and rehabilitation services have a very large and heterogeneous catch-up population serving most of the south of Israel. The purpose of this study was to look at the utilization and the number of appointments for child rehabilitation services by the Bedouin population compared to the general population in the south of Israel at the Zusman Child Development Center (CDC).The records of appointments to the CDC between the years 19951999 inclusive were studied and we randomly chose to limit the study to January, April, July, and October of each year, and randomly chose the daily records of nine therapists, three from each discipline (occuptional therapy [OT], physical therapy [PT], and speech and language therapy [SLT]). There were 8,504 appointments during these 4 months of the years 19951999, 2,255 of which were for Bedouin and 6,249 for Jewish children. Noncompliance with therapy appointments (NCTA) for the same period for both the Bedouins (31%) and Jewish children (26%), with a significant difference between the two populations, was noted. Of all the Jewish childrens appointments, the percentage of all three services was similar: 33% to PT, 38% to OT, and 29% to SLT, but for the Bedouin children, the percentage between the three services was significantly different: 62% to PT, 34% to OT, and 3% to SLT. These results seem to indicate that the Bedouin families prefer the PT and OT over the SLT. Our results enhanced the need for planning a model for supplying health services adapted to clients coming from different cultures. According to this model, we need to take into consideration the cultural differences, the accessibility to rehabilitation services, and the economical impact on the family; all in all, to give a better solution to the patient with special needs.
Hydrogen Bonding in Human P450-Substrate Interactions: A Major Contribution to Binding Affinity
Authors: Lewis David F.V.
Published: March 2005

The importance of hydrogen bonding, a relatively strong intermolecular force of attraction between molecules in biological systems, is discussed in the respect of P450 substrate affinity towards one or more of the human P450 enzymes that are generally associated with drug and other xenobiotic metabolism. It is shown that calculation of hydrogen bond distances and energies based on simple empirical relationships provide values that agree closely with experimental findings. It is thus possible to estimate the hydrogen bond contribution to P450 enzyme-substrate binding affinity based on modelled interactions and by use of these relatively simple formulae, particularly when employed in conjunction with substrate-lipophilicity relationships.
Recurrence Prevention in Patients with Urinary Tract Stone Disease
Authors: Tiselius Hans-Göran
Published: March 2005

Formation of urinary tract concrements is a common disease and steps should be taken in order to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and to give the patients appropriate advice and medical treatment. This present article summarizes the principles for recurrence preventive measures in patients with uric acid, infection, cystine and calcium stone disease. Categories of stone formers are identified with the aim of providing a basis for an individualised treatment with a reasonable patient's compliance. The recommendations are in line with those given by the EAU guideline group for urolithiasis.
Snoezelen or Controlled Multisensory Stimulation. Treatment Aspects from Israel
Authors: Merrick Joav , Cahana Carmit , Lotan Meir , Kandel Isack , Carmeli Eli
Published: March 2005

In Israel today, with a total population of over 6 million persons, the Division for Mental Retardation (DMR) provides services to 23,000 persons with intellectual disability (ID). Of the 23,000, residential services are provided to more than 6,000 in close to 60 residential centers, another 2,000 are provided residential care in hostels or group homes in the community in about 50 locations, while the rest are served with day-care kindergarten, day-treatment centers, sheltered workshops, or integrated care in the community. The first Snoezelen room (controlled multisensory stimulation) in the DMR was established at the Bnei Zion residential care center in 1995. The Snoezelen method is now used in Israel in more than 30 residential care centers and 3 community settings. Since the year 2000, a physiotherapist has been employed in order to supervise the treatment and development of the method nationally. Professional staff meetings take place every 4 months. A certification course has been established on a national basis for individuals from different professions (occupational therapists, physiotherapists, teachers, music therapists, nurses, speech therapists, or caregivers). Snoezelen has proved to be an important instrument and a powerful therapeutic tool among the various treatment modules employed in Israel for persons with ID. This paper presents the concept illustrated with two case stories.
Patterns in Abundance and Seasonality of Insects in the Siruvani Forest of Western Ghats, Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Southern India
Authors: Arun P. R. , Vijayan V. S.
Published: March 2005

The seasonal abundance patterns of insects inhabiting the understory vegetation of a mixed deciduous forest were examined with the help of the sweep-net sampling method. During the study period of 2 years, insects were sampled regularly from the understory vegetation of the three selected habitats (moist-deciduous, riverine, and teak plantation) of the mixed deciduous forest. Insect abundance was maximum in the moist-deciduous habitat and minimum in the teak plantation. Generally, insect abundance was the highest during the southwest monsoon in all habitats. The temporal pattern of fluctuations in the insect abundance followed more or less the same pattern in all the three habitats studied. The insect abundance of the understory vegetation varied among the habitats studied, while the pattern of seasonal fluctuations in insect abundance was comparable among habitats. Composition of the insect community also indicated prominent seasonal changes within habitats than interhabitat changes within a season.
Effect of Interactions on the Nutrient Status of a Tropical Soil Treated with Green Manures and Inorganic Phosphate Fertilizers
Authors: Bah Abdul R. , Rahman Zaharah A. , Hussin Aminuddin
Published: March 2005

Integrated nutrient management systems using plant residues and inorganic P fertilizers have high potential for increasing crop production and ensuring sustainability in the tropics, but their adoption requires in-depth understanding of nutrient dynamics in such systems. This was examined in a highly weathered tropical soil treated with green manures (GMs) and P fertilizers in two experiments conducted in the laboratory and glasshouse. The treatments were factorial combinations of the GMs (Calopogonium caeruleum, Gliricidia sepium, andImperata cylindrica) and P fertilizers (phosphate rocks [PRs] from North Carolina, China, and Algeria, and triple superphosphate) replicated thrice. Olsen P, mineral N, pH, and exchangeable K, Ca, and Mg were monitored in a laboratory incubation study for 16 months. The change in soil P fractions and available P was also determined at the end of the study. Phosphorus available from the amendments was quantified at monthly intervals for 5 months by33P-32P double isotopic labeling in the glasshouse usingSetaria sphacelataas test crop. The GMs were labeled with33P to determine their contribution to P taken up bySetaria, while that from the P fertilizers was indirectly measured by labeling the soil with32P. The P fertilizers hardly changed Olsen P and exchangeable cations during 16 months of incubation. The legume GMs and legume GM+P did not change Olsen P, lowered exchangeable Ca, and increased exchangeable K about threefold (4.5 cmol[+]kg−1soil) in the first 4 months, even as large amounts of NH4-N accumulated (~1000 mg kg soil−1) and soil pH increased to more than 6.5. Afterwards, Olsen P and exchangeable Ca and Mg increased (threefold) as NH4+-N and soil pH declined. The legume GMs also augmented reversibly sorbed P in Al-P and Fe-P fractions resulting in high residual effect in the soil, while fertilizer-P was irreversibly retained. The GMs increased PR-P utilization by 40 to over 80%, mobilized soil P, and markedly enhanced uptake of N, K, Ca, and Mg. Thus GMs+PRs is an appropriate combination for correcting nutrient deficiencies in tropical soils.
Quality of Life: A Longitudinal Analysis of Correlates of Morale in Old Age
Authors: Shahtahmasebi Said
Published: March 2005

This paper examines recurrent continuous morale in old age within a statistical modelling paradigm. The Anglicised Philadelphia Geriatric Centre Morale Scale was used as a small component of a major longitudinal study of old age in rural North Wales, U.K. The literature review and cross-sectional analysis of morale in old age is published elsewhere. This paper deals with the aspect of the longitudinal analysis of morale in old age. The proposed statistical modelling relates recurrent morale to a set of explanatory variables that includes subjective as well as objective measures. In order to assess the degree to which explanatory variables influence morale, an adequate statistical model must handle the possibility that substantial variation between respondents will be due to unmeasured and potentially unmeasurable variables (residual heterogeneity), multicollinearity, and past behaviour effect. These applications are illustrated using morale in old age from the North Wales Longitudinal Study Old Age. The results suggested a strong presence of heterogeneity effect, i.e., current levels of morale appear to be individual specific and independent of its previous levels.
Primary Renal Carcinoid Tumor
Authors: Daneshmand Siamak , Chandrasoma Shahin , Wilson Shandra
Published: March 2005

Primary carcinoid tumors originating in a normal kidney are exceptionally rare. We describe a case of a 52-year-old woman who presented with vague back pain and was found to have a 4-cm mass in the medial aspect of the left kidney. Radical nephrectomy and retroperitoneal lymphadenectomy were performed. Histopathology revealed a typical carcinoid tumor with 1 out of 17 lymph nodes involved. She has no evidence of recurrence or metastasis on 7-month follow-up.
Physical Fitness and Functional Ability of Children with Intellectual Disability: Effects of a Short-Term Daily Treadmill Intervention
Authors: Lotan Meir , Isakov Eli , Kessel Shlomo , Merrick Joav
Published: March 2005

Persons with intellectual disability (ID) and associated multiple disabilities have been found by many researchers to be a population with deficient physical fitness measures, which can be explained by an inactive lifestyle, a result of lack of awareness of the positive physical effects of physical exercise, or lack of motivation for any motor activity. Various plans for physical exercise have been put forward, but many are found impractical in nonresearch-based intervention. In this study, 15 children with ID on a motor functioning level of 7—14 months used a treadmill daily for 2 months. Our findings indicated a most significant improvement in the level of physical fitness of the participants (p < 0.005), as measured by pulse at rest and during effort. The improvement in physical fitness modestly (r = 0.5), but significantly (p < 0.05), correlated with a significant (p < 0.0007) improvement in functional ability of the participating children. Further examination a year after intervention terminated showed a return to preintervention pulse-at-rest values. The research examined the treadmill training method and found that it can be operated with the support of an unskilled staff person under the supervision of a physiotherapist. The research was performed under real-life conditions, enabling relatively easy implementation in the existing conditions of special education centers. This method is a type of exercise that is easy to operate without entailing long-term budgetary expenses and might improve the health status of children with ID, who are a population at risk for developing heart-related diseases at a young age.
The Physiology Constant Database of Teen-Agers in Beijing
Authors: Wei-Qi Wei , Guang-Jin Zhu , Cheng-Li Xu , Shao-Mei Han , Bao-Shen Qi , Li Chen , Shu-Yu Zu , Xiao-Mei Zhou , Wen-Feng Hu , Zheng-Guo Zhang
Published: March 2005

Physiology constants of adolescents are important to understand growing living systems and are a useful reference in clinical and epidemiological research. Until recently, physiology constants were not available in China and therefore most physiologists, physicians, and nutritionists had to use data from abroad for reference. However, the very difference between the Eastern and Western races casts doubt on the usefulness of overseas data. We have therefore created a database system to provide a repository for the storage of physiology constants of teen-agers in Beijing. The several thousands of pieces of data are now divided into hematological biochemistry, lung function, and cardiac function with all data manually checked before being transferred into the database. The database was accomplished through the development of a web interface, scripts, and a relational database. The physiology data were integrated into the relational database system to provide flexible facilities by using combinations of various terms and parameters. A web browser interface was designed for the users to facilitate their searching. The database is available on the web. The statistical table, scatter diagram, and histogram of the data are available for both anonym and user according to queries, while only the user can achieve detail, including download data and advanced search.
Cardiac Murmur Prompting Diagnosis of Metastatic Nonseminomatous Germ Cell Testicular Neoplasia in an 18-Year-Old Patient
Authors: Chung Steve Y. , Davies Benjamin , Bastacky Sheldon , Gupta Dilip , Pound Charles R.
Published: March 2005

Most retroperitoneal tumors such as renal cell carcinoma have been associated with tumor thrombus extending into the renal vein, inferior vena cava (IVC), and heart. The retroperitoneal metastatic potential of testicular tumors is well known. We report here the first instance of a cardiac murmur prompting diagnosis of metastatic testicular neoplasia in an 18-year-old patient. Chemotherapy was delayed and after successful surgical resection of the ventricular mass, the patient recovered uneventfully. This case underscores the need to pursue abnormal cardiac exams in newly diagnosed testicular cancer patients.
Ruptured Left Gastric Artery Aneurysm Successfully Treated by Thrombin Injection: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Chandran S. , Parvaiz A. , Karim A. , Ghafoor I. , Steadman B. , Pearce N. W. , Primrose J.N.
Published: March 2005

This short report describes the successful use of a new minimally invasive technique for the treatment of acute gastric artery aneurysm rupture. It emphasises the importance of persistence and multiple imaging modalities in the presence of gastrointestinal bleeding. The photographs and case history clearly illustrate the nonoperative management and highlight learning points for experienced surgeons and trainees alike in the management of this potentially fatal condition.
SEMANTICS‐ASSISTED PROBLEM SOLVING ON THE SEMANTIC GRID
Authors: Chen Liming , Shadbolt Nigel Richard , Tao Feng , Goble Carole , Puleston Colin , Cox Simon James
Published: March 2005

In this paper we propose a distributed knowledge management framework for semantics and knowledge creation, population, and reuse on the grid. Its objective is to evolve the Grid toward the Semantic Grid with the ultimate purpose of facilitating problem solving in e‐Science. The framework uses ontology as the conceptual backbone and adopts the service‐oriented computing paradigm for information‐ and knowledge‐level computation. We further present a semantics‐based approach to problem solving, which exploits the rich semantic information of grid resource descriptions for resource discovery, instantiation, and composition. The framework and approach has been applied to a UK e‐Science project—Grid Enabled Engineering Design Search and Optimisation in Engineering (GEODISE). An ontology‐enabled problem solving environment (PSE) has been developed in GEODISE to leverage the semantic content of GEODISE resources and the Semantic Grid infrastructure for engineering design. Implementation and initial experimental results are reported.
A parasitism gene from a plant‐parasitic nematode with function similar to CLAVATA3/ESR (CLE) of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: WANG XIAOHONG , MITCHUM MELISSA G. , GAO BINGLI , LI CHUNYING , DIAB HANANE , BAUM THOMAS J. , HUSSEY RICHARD S. , DAVIS ERIC L.
Published: March 2005

The Hg‐SYV46 parasitism gene is expressed exclusively in the dorsal oesophageal gland cell of parasitic stages of the soybean cyst nematode, Heterodera glycines, and it encodes a secretory protein that contains a C‐terminal motif of the CLAVATA3/ESR‐related (CLE) family in Arabidopsis thaliana. In shoot and floral meristems of Arabidopsis, the stem cells secret CLV3, a founding member of the CLE protein family, that activates the CLV1/CLV2 receptor complex and negatively regulates WUSCHEL expression to restrict the size of the stem cell population. Mis‐expression of Hg‐SYV46 in Arabidopsis (ecotype Columbia‐0) under control of the CaMV35S promoter resulted in a wus‐like phenotype including premature termination of the shoot apical meristem and the development of flowers lacking the central gynoecium. The wus‐like phenotype observed was similar to reports of over‐expression of CLV3 and CLE40 in Arabidopsis, as was down‐regulation of WUS expression in the shoot apices of 35S::Hg‐SYV46/Col‐0 plants. Expression of 35S::Hg‐SYV46 in a clv3‐1 mutant of Arabidopsis was able partially or fully to rescue the mutant phenotype, probably dependent upon localization and level of transgene expression. A short root phenotype, as reported for over‐expression of CLV3, CLE40 and CLE19 in roots, was also produced in primary 35S::Hg‐SYV46/Col‐0 transgenic plants. The results suggest a functional similarity of HG‐SYV46 to plant‐secreted CLE ligands that may play a role in the differentiation or division of feeding cells induced in plant roots by parasitic nematodes.
High tissue expression of tumour‐associated trypsin inhibitor (TATI) associates with a more favourable prognosis in gastric cancer
Authors: Wiksten J‐P , Lundin J , Nordling S , Kokkola A , Stenman U‐H , Haglund C
Published: March 2005

Aims : The tumour‐associated trypsin inhibitor (TATI) is a 6‐kDa protease inhibitor with potential inhibitory effects on tissue degradation. In serum, increased levels have been associated with adverse prognosis in different forms of cancer. We assessed the tumour tissue expression and prognostic value of TATI in a surgically treated, single‐institution series of patients with gastric cancer.

Methods and results : Using a monoclonal anti‐TATI antibody, immunohistochemistry was performed on formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tumour specimens from 336 patients. TATI expression was observed in 265 (79%) of the tumours. There was a significant association between high TATI expression and low stage (P = 0.007), superficial tumours (P = 0.005), and absence of nodal (P = 0.015) and of distant metastases (P = 0.022). In univariate analysis, patients with high TATI expression had a significantly more favourable 5‐year cumulative survival compared with patients with negative to moderate immunostaining (43% and 28%, respectively, P = 0.006). On multivariate survival analysis stratified for estimated cure of surgery, stage (P < 0.0001) and age (P = 0.022) at the time of surgery were independent prognostic factors.

Conclusions : High TATI expression in tumour tissue was detected more frequently in patients with early‐stage gastric cancer and seems to correlate with a favourable outcome.
Controversies of the cardiac mucosa and Barrett's oesophagus
Authors: Chandrasoma P
Published: March 2005

Confusion regarding the diagnosis of Barrett's oesophagus exists because of a false dogma that cardiac mucosa is normally present in the gastro‐oesophageal junctional region. Recent data indicate that the only normal epithelia in the oesophagus and proximal stomach are squamous epithelium and gastric oxyntic mucosa. When this fact is recognized, it becomes easy to develop precise histological definitions for the normal state (presence of only squamous and oxyntic mucosa), metaplastic oesophageal columnar epithelium (cardiac mucosa with and without intestinal metaplasia, and oxynto‐cardiac mucosa), the gastro‐oesophageal junction (the proximal limit of gastric oxyntic mucosa), the oesophagus (that part of the foregut lined by squamous and metaplastic columnar epithelium), reflux disease (the presence of metaplastic columnar epithelium), and Barrett's oesophagus (cardiac mucosa with intestinal metaplasia). It is also possible to assess accurately the severity of reflux which is directly proportional to the amount of metaplastic columnar epithelium, and the risk of adenocarcinoma which is related to the amount of dysplasia in intestinal metaplastic epithelium present within the columnar lined segment of the oesophagus. Histopathological precision cannot be matched by any other modality and can convert the confusion that exists regarding diagnosis of Barrett's oesophagus to complete lucidity in a manner that is simple, accurate, and reproducible.
Expression of D2‐40 in lymphatic endothelium of normal tissues and in vascular tumours
Authors: Fukunaga M
Published: March 2005

Aims : To evaluate the expression of D2‐40 in normal lymphatic endothelium and vascular tumours or tumour‐like lesions of the skin and soft tissue. D2‐40 is a novel monoclonal antibody to a Mr 40 000 O‐linked sialoglycoprotein that reacts with a fixation‐resistant epitope in lymphatic endothelium.

Methods and results : Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded sections from 30 normal tissue samples, including skin, soft tissue, stomach, and colon, and 84 vascular tumours or vascular tumour‐like lesions were immunostained with monoclonal antibodies to D2‐40 and CD31. Normal lymphatic endothelial cells in all normal tissues expressed D2‐40. Its positive staining delineated flattened channels or open spaces lined by a single layer of endothelial cells whose lumena were sometimes filled with lymphocytes. Ten of 10 cases of lymphangioma, nine of 10 Kaposi's sarcomas (KSs), one of five spindle cell haemangiomas, one of one reactive angioenodotheliomatosis, one of one vascular transformation of lymph node sinuses, three of three Dabska tumours, one of 10 epithelioid haemangioendotheliomas (HEs) and seven of 15 angiosarcomas were positive for D2‐40. Positively staining angiosarcomas were characterized by epithelioid or papillary endothelial cells. Twenty‐two non‐spindle cell haemangiomas, one retiform HE and one Kaposiform HE, and five glomus tumours were negative for D2‐40. In comparison, CD31 was expressed in five of 10 lymphangiomas, nine of 10 KSs, 27 of 27 haemangiomas, three of three Dabska tumours, 10 of 10 epithelioid HEs, 15 of 15 angiosarcomas and one of one each of retiform HE, Kaposiform HE, reactive angioendotheliomatosis, and vascular transformation of node sinuses. Five glomus tumours were negative for CD31.

Conclusions : The monoclonal antibody D2‐40 is a highly sensitive and specific marker of lymphatic endothelium in normal tissue and a subset of vascular lesions, including KS, Dabska tumour, and lymphangioma. The findings support the concept that these tumours show at least partial lymphatic endothelial differentiation. Subsets of angiosarcomas and HEs show both vascular and lymphatic endothelial differentiation. D2‐40 can be used in a panel of markers to classify vascular tumours. There is no requirement for epitope retrieval. This novel monoclonal antibody also has the potential for increasing the accuracy of detection of lymphatic invasion in primary tumours and could be widely applied for this purpose in surgical pathology.
Multidrug resistance‐associated protein (MRP1) gene is strongly expressed in gastric carcinomas. Analysis by immunohistochemistry and real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR
Authors: Lacueva J , Perez‐Ramos M , Soto J L , Oliver I , Andrada E , Medrano J , Perez‐Vazquez T , Arroyo A , Carrato A , Ferragut J A , Calpena R
Published: March 2005

Aims : To assess MRP1 protein and MRP1 mRNA levels in gastric carcinomas and in non‐neoplastic mucosa remote from the tumours. MRP1 gene expression may play a role in the complex pattern of chemoresistance present in gastric carcinomas.

Methods and results : A total of 57 carcinomas and respective gastric tissues were included for immunohistochemical assessment with the anti‐MRP1 monoclonal antibodies MRPr1 and QCRL‐1. Of these, 35 tumour and gastric mucosa tissues were also assessed by real‐time quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction. Medium or high MRP1 protein expression was detected in 89% and 77% of carcinomas and in 96% and 93% of non‐neoplastic gastric mucosa by MRPr1and QCRL‐1, respectively. No difference in MRP1 mRNA levels was detected between carcinomas and non‐neoplastic gastric mucosa tissues in 77% of the patients. A significant correlation was found between MRP1 mRNA level and protein expression detected in carcinomas related to non‐neoplastic gastric mucosa, although they were non‐concordant in 29% of the patients.

Conclusions : MRP1 gene is usually expressed in most gastric carcinomas and does not differ substantially from that observed in non‐neoplastic gastric mucosa remote from the tumour. However, a decrease in MRP1 gene expression is found in some carcinomas. For accurate assessment of changes in MRP1 expression between tumour and normal tissues both protein and mRNA detection are necessary.
Anti‐HLA class II antibodies in kidney retransplant patients
Authors: Arnold M.‐L. , Pei R. , Spriewald B. , Wassmuth R.
Published: March 2005

Abstract:  The relevance of anti‐HLA class II antibodies for kidney graft survival is still controversial. In part, this can be attributed to difficulties to detect and differentiate anti‐HLA class II antibodies. Anti‐HLA class II IgG antibody screening was performed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Subsequently, all anti‐HLA class II‐positive sera were subjected to the determination and specification using color‐coded microspheres coated with purified HLA antigens. In a cohort of 934 patients awaiting kidney transplantation, 41 sera (4.4%) were positive for IgG anti‐HLA class II antibodies. The presence was confirmed in 90.2% sera by retesting. Subsequently, all anti‐HLA class II‐positive patients (n = 27) who in the past had undergone a kidney transplantation with an HLA‐DR and/or –DQ‐mismatched graft were selected. In 25 of 27 sera (92.6%), the alloantibody specificities corresponded to the known previous transplant mismatches on a broad antigen level. In 20 of 27 sera (74.1%), anticlass I antibodies were detected as well. Anti‐HLA‐DP antibodies were seen in 24 of the 27 sera of this cohort. In the majority of the cases, the reactivities with different DPB1 alleles could be explained by involvement of a single, specific DPB1 epitope. Donor‐specific anti‐HLA‐DR and ‐DQ antibodies were seen in the majority of cases with graft failure following HLA class II alloantigen exposure in prior kidney transplantations. In addition, HLA‐DP may serve as a transplantation antigen in kidney transplantation, leading to a humoral response.
Building characteristics affect the risk of allergy development
Authors: Hesselmar Bill , Åberg Birgitta , Eriksson Bo , Björkstén Bengt , Åberg Nils
Published: March 2005

Damp dwellings increase the risk for house dust mite (HDM) infestation in temperate climate zones and may be associated with an increased risk for allergic disease. The aim of the study was to assess possible relationships between allergen levels in house dust, characteristics of residence buildings and allergic diseases in children. A subsample of 12‐yr‐old children, having the same address in 1991 and 1996, was selected from a population‐based sample of children from the Göteborg area. Health inspectors examined the residences of all the 109 children and several different building characteristics including humidity and indoor temperature were collected. Dust samples for analysis of HDM allergens were collected from the children's beds, and for analysis of cat and dog allergens from the living room. Current health status was assessed by questionnaires, interviews and skin prick tests (SPT). Dog or cat allergens were found in all houses, even in houses without such animals. HDM allergens were found in 60% of the houses, but only six of them had levels exceeding 2 μg/g dust. There was a strong association between HDM‐infestation and wheeze, but not with specific sensitization to HDM. The type of building (houses when compared with flats), the ventilation system and the presence of a basement had all major implications on respiratory symptoms, atopy and HDM infestation. We can conclude that dog or cat allergens were found in all houses, and a strong association between HDM infestation and indoor environment. Building construction affected both respiratory morbidity and sensitisation independently, suggesting not only worsening of symptoms but also a causative relationship with disease development.
Inverse association between Chlamydia pneumoniae respiratory tract infection and initiation of asthma or allergic rhinitis in children
Authors: Schmidt Sebastian M. , Müller Cornelia E. , Wiersbitzky Siegfried K. W.
Published: March 2005

To evaluate the role of Chlamydia pneumoniae respiratory tract infection on pediatric asthma, allergic rhinitis or atopic eczema initiation, children of three age groups (n = 1211) were prospectively studied for a C. pneumoniae infection using throat swabs and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with enzyme immunoassay (EIA) detection. Infected children (study group, SG) were examined monthly until the agent could not be detected, quantifying persistent infection. They were compared with randomly selected, non‐infected children without asthma matched for age, gender and origin (control group, CG) regarding lung function and inflammatory parameters as well as initiation of allergic diseases judged by family doctor diagnosis after, in median, 22 months. At the first follow‐up examination, SG children revealed a higher leukotriene B4 (median 36 pg/ml vs. 19, p = 0.04) and 8‐isoprostane (median 15 pg/ml vs. 12, p = 0.04) in breath condensate characterizing neutrophil, agent‐related inflammation and oxidative stress in the lower airways. Cysteinyl leukotrienes, important in acute allergic inflammation, were without difference. Local, anti C. pneumoniae secretory immunoglobulin A antibodies were higher in children after C. pneumoniae infection (optical density median 0.7 vs. 0.4, p = 0.001) confirming PCR–EIA results. At the final examination, there was no difference in pathological lung function tests, parameters of exhaled breath condensate or eosinophilia of the nasal mucosa. Incidence of asthma (0/55 vs. 5/54, p = 0.03) and allergic rhinitis [3/53 vs. 10/52, p = 0.04, odds ratio and 95% confidence interval‐OR 0.25 (0.06;0.98)] as well as prevalence of asthma [1/56 vs. 9/58, p = 0.02, OR 0.1 (0.01;0.81)] and allergic rhinitis [6/56 vs. 16/58, p = 0.03, OR 0.32 (0.11;0.88)] were lower in the SG children. There was no association in atopic eczema. Three children with persistent infection revealed a slightly higher incidence in allergic rhinitis without significance than those with single C. pneumoniae detection (1/3 vs. 2/50), however, not to the CG. In conclusion a C. pneumoniae upper respiratory tract infection may be regarded as a protective factor for childhood asthma or allergic rhinitis in a population of kindergarten and school‐age children.
Population pharmacokinetics of levocetirizine in very young children: the pediatricians’ perspective
Authors: Simons F. Estelle R. ,   on behalf of the ETAC Study Group
Published: March 2005

Developmental changes during infancy and childhood can affect drug pharmacokinetics (PK), i.e., absorption, distribution, metabolism, and renal excretion. This, in turn, influences optimal dosing, efficacy, and safety. To date, of the 40 H1‐antihistamines available worldwide, only 11 have been studied in children using a PK approach. Here, we provide the pediatricians’ perspective on the population PK of levocetirizine, the pharmacologically active enantiomer of cetirizine, in very young children who received oral cetirizine, and describe the factors that influence levocetirizine PK in this population. In a prospective, randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group, placebo‐controlled study, very young children received oral cetirizine 0.25 mg/kg twice daily for 18 months. Plasma levocetirizine concentrations were measured in timed, sparse blood samples collected at steady‐state (3, 12 and 18 months after commencement of treatment) for the purpose of monitoring safety, and levocetirizine population, PK parameters were derived by using non‐linear mixed effects modeling. In 343 children (age 14–46 months, body weight 8.2–20.5 kg), a total of 943 blood samples were obtained. Compliance with cetirizine dosing was documented. The population PK model used predicted that with increasing body weight, levocetirizine oral clearance would increase by 0.044 l/h/kg, and levocetirizine volume of distribution would increase by 0.639 l/kg. Levocetirizine PK were not influenced by eosinophilia, sensitization to allergens, allergic disease, gastroenteritis/diarrhea, or concomitant ingestion of other medications. This population PK model predicts that in very young children, the oral clearance of levocetirizine will be rapid and will increase as body weight and age increase, therefore, levocetirizine dosing should be based on body weight and age in this population. Compared with older patients, on a mg/kg basis, relatively higher doses may be needed, and twice‐daily dosing may be necessary, as previously reported for the related racemic H1‐antihistamine cetirizine.
Prevalence of allergy‐related symptoms in Singaporean children in the second year of life
Authors: Nging Tan Teng , Li‐Chern Lim Dawn , Wah Lee Bee , Bever Hugo P Van
Published: March 2005

This study describes the cross‐sectional prevalence of symptoms associated with eczema (chronic itchy rash), asthma (wheeze), and allergic rhinitis (rhinoconjunctivitis) in 1026 subjects between 18.5 and 23 months old (median age is 21 months) in Singapore. The first 2 yr cumulative prevalence of chronic itchy rash, wheeze, and rhinoconjunctivitis were 22.1% (n = 227), 22.9% (n = 235), and 8.4% (n = 86) respectively. In total, 42.2% (414 of 979) reported ever having any of these symptoms. Eczema, although prevalent, was diagnosed only in 34.4% (n = 78) of children with chronic itchy rash. Children with this eczematous rash were also more prone to wheeze (cOR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.2–3.0) and rhinoconjunctivitis (cOR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.4–2.8). Similarly, subjects who reported rhinoconjunctivitis and chronic itchy rash were 2.4 times (95% CI: 1.6–3.6) and 1.4 times (95% CI: 1.0–2.0) more at risk of wheezing respectively. Family history of allergy was a significant risk factor for chronic itchy rash (aOR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.3–2.4) and wheeze (aOR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.3–2.4). Thus, symptoms related to allergy were already prevalent during the second year of life. Significant proportions of these symptoms are likely to be due to true atopy as strong relationship with familial history and comorbidity with other potential allergic symptoms were observed.
A VPE family supporting various vacuolar functions in plants
Authors: Yamada Kenji , Shimada Tomoo , Nishimura Mikio , Hara‐Nishimura Ikuko
Published: March 2005

Vacuolar processing enzyme (VPE) is a cysteine protease that has substrate specificity toward Asn and Asp residues, and found in various eukaryotic organisms including higher plants and mammals. Plant VPEs are separated into three subfamilies: seed‐type, vegetative‐type and uncharacterized‐type. VPE was originally identified as a protease responsible for the maturation of seed storage proteins, and recent research has shown that it is a key protease responsible for the maturation of various vacuolar proteins not only in maturating cotyledons, but also in vegetative tissues. Thus, the VPE‐mediated processing system is important for various vacuolar functions in the plant. Vegetative‐type VPEs are expressed during senescence or pathogen‐induced hypersensitive response. A VPE‐deficiency abolished programmed cell death during hypersensitive response in tobacco leaves after TMV infection. This suggests that vegetative‐type VPEs are involved in vacuolar‐organized programmed cell death.
Adaptive responses of Populus kangdingensis to drought stress
Authors: Yin Chunying , Peng Youhong , Zang Runguo , Zhu Yaping , Li Chunyang
Published: March 2005

We measured dry matter accumulation and allocation, photosynthesis, lipid peroxidation, osmotic adjustment, antioxidative defences and ABA content of Populus kangdingensis C. Wang et Tung under three different watering regimes (100%, 50% and 25% of the field capacity) to characterize the morphological, physiological and biochemical basis of drought resistance in woody plants. The results showed that drought stress caused pronounced inhibition of the growth and photosynthesis rate, and that the stomatal limitation to photosynthesis was dominant. The decrease in stomatal conductance effectively controlled water loss and increased water use efficiency. Drought also affected many physiological and biochemical processes, including increases in free proline, malondialdehyde and ABA content, and superoxide dismutase activity. On the other hand, the ABA content of leaves was significantly higher than that of stem and roots under all watering regimes; the high level of ABA in the leaf may result from the large import of ABA to leaves from other organs. These results demonstrate that there are a large set of parallel changes in the morphological, physiological and biochemical responses when plants are exposed to drought stress; these changes may enhance the capability of plants to survive and grow during drought periods.
Apoptosis in the Antral Follicles of Swamp Buffalo and Cattle Ovary: TUNEL and Caspase‐3 Histochemistry
Authors: Feranil JB , Isobe N , Nakao T
Published: March 2005

Contents

The present study was carried out to investigate the pattern of apoptosis in the healthy antral and atretic follicles of Philippine swamp buffaloes (BU) in comparison with Holstein‐Friesian (HF) cows. Paraffin sections of healthy follicles and various stages of atretic follicles were stained using the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT)‐mediated biotinylated deoxyuridine triphosphates (dUTP) nick end‐labelling (TUNEL) method to detect DNA fragmentation and cleaved caspase‐3 antibody to detect cells committed to undergo apoptosis. Five equidistant areas of a follicle were counted for the presence of TUNEL‐ and caspase‐3‐positive cells. Healthy follicles of BU and HF contained no TUNEL‐positive cells in the granulosa and theca layer but showed some caspase‐3 positivity. The granulosa layer of advanced atretic follicles showed a significantly higher frequency of caspase‐3 positivity than the healthy and early atretic follicles in both breeds. The frequency of caspase‐3‐positive cells of BU was significantly higher than HF in the granulosa layer of healthy, early atretic and advanced atretic follicles. In the theca interna layer, BU and HF showed a significantly lower and higher frequency of TUNEL‐positive cells in the late atretic follicles compared with advanced atretic follicle, respectively. However, the frequency of caspase‐3‐positive cells of both BU and HF in the late atretic follicles was significantly higher than the advanced atretic follicles in the theca interna layer. These results indicate that caspase‐3 and DNA fragmentation is involved in the buffalo ovarian apoptotic process.
Second Oestrus Synchronization and Precocious Embryo Viability after Puberty Induction in Gilts by the Use of Gonadotrophin Treatment
Authors: Do Lago V , Vianna WL , Gama RD , de Campos Rosseto A , Pinese ME , de Sant'Anna Moretti A
Published: March 2005

Contents

The use of exogenous gonadotrophins in puberty inducement and ovulation synchronization is a technique that has a positive influence on the management of swine. The purpose of this study was to verify the effects of a second gonadotrophin treatment [equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG) and luteinizing hormone (LH), intramuscularly (i.m.)] upon the second oestrus synchronization and fertility in gilts. Seventy‐one NAIMA® (Pen Ar Lan) gilts had their first oestrus (puberty inducement) induced by a hormonal treatment (eCG and LH). Then, they were randomly distributed into two treatments, with (T1) and without (C) gonadotrophin treatment at the second oestrus. The animals were fed with a single ration (16% of crude protein and 3286.73 kcal ME/kg), and timed artificial insemination performed at the second oestrus. Gilts were slaughtered for embryo recovery and ovary examination about 5 days after insemination. There was no evidence of a difference in the percentage of the second oestrus expression (T1 – 90.90% and C – 86.84%), the duration of the oestrus cycle (T1 – 19.62 ± 0.82 days and C – 19.67 ± 4.14 days), the percentage of follicular cysts (T1 – 15.15% and C – 18.42%) and number of ovulations (T1 – 14.60 ± 5.7 and C – 13.23 ± 4.8) between treatments (p > 0.05). However, the hormonal treatment (T1) showed minor oestrus dispersion and embryo viability (T1 – 8.4 ± 5.6 and C – 11.2 ± 4.6) (p < 0.05). These results indicate that the better synchronization and expression of the second oestrus when using gonadotrophins (eCG and LH) is followed by a lower embryo viability, which is probably the consequence of the heterogeneous follicle recruitment during the injection of eCG.