bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PKCδ regulates IL‐12p40/p70 production by macrophages and dendritic cells, driving a type 1 healer phenotype in cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Guler Reto , Afshar Mona , Arendse Berenice , Parihar Suraj P. , Revaz‐Breton Melanie , Leitges Michael , Schwegmann Anita , Brombacher Frank
Published: January 2011

The protein kinase C (PKC) family is involved in the regulation of many intracellular signalling pathways. Here, we report that the PKCδ isoform regulates IL‐12p40/p70 production in macrophages and DC and that PKCδ deficiency in mice transforms the 129/Sv healer to a non‐healer strain during cutaneous leishmaniasis. Leishmania major‐infected PKCδ−/− 129/Sv mice developed a rapid increase in footpad swelling and parasite burden with disease progression, leading to necrosis and ulceration similar to non‐healer BALB/c mice. Moreover, PKCδ−/− mice failed to develop delayed‐type hypersensitivity responses against Leishmania antigen. PKCδ−/− macrophages were fully functional with normal MHC class II surface expression and GM‐CSF production, recruitment to the draining lymph node and killing effector functions by NO production. In contrast, macrophages and DC produced significantly reduced IL‐12p40 and IL‐12p70 compared to the WT cells. Decreased IL‐12 production resulted in diminished Th1 differentiation, as determined by a striking reduction in IFN‐γ by antigen‐specific stimulated CD4+ T cells isolated from popliteal lymph nodes of L. major‐infected PKCδ−/− mice, explaining the “non‐healer” phenotype. We conclude from these data that PKCδ is a regulator of IL‐12p40/p70 production by DC and macrophages, driving the healer phenotype during cutaneous leishmaniasis.
In vivo suppressive function of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells is limited to the inflammatory site
Authors: Haverkamp Jessica M. , Crist Scott A. , Elzey Bennett D. , Cimen Cansu , Ratliff Timothy L.
Published: January 2011

Current paradigms suggest that, despite the heterogeneity of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSC), all Gr‐1+CD11b+ cells can exert suppressive function when exposed to inflammatory stimuli. In vitro evaluation shows that MDSC from multiple tissue sites have suppressive activity, and in vivo inhibition of MDSC enhances T‐cell function; however, the relative capacity of MDSC present at localized inflammatory sites or in peripheral tissues to suppress T‐cell responses in vivo has not been directly evaluated. In the current study, we observed that during a tissue‐specific inflammatory response, MDSC inhibition of CD8+ T‐cell proliferation and IFN‐γ production was restricted to the inflammatory site. Using a prostate‐specific inflammatory model and a heterotopic prostate tumor model, we showed that MDSC from inflammatory sites or from tumor tissue possess immediate capacity to inhibit T‐cell function, whereas those isolated from peripheral tissues (spleens and liver) were not suppressive without activation of iNOS by exposure to IFN‐γ. These data suggest that MDSC are important regulators of immune responses in the prostate during acute inflammation and the chronic inflammatory setting of tumor growth, and that regulation of T‐cell function by MDSC during a localized inflammatory response is restricted in vivo to the site of an ongoing immune response.
The STATus of PD‐L1 (B7‐H1) on tolerogenic APCs
Authors: Sumpter Tina L. , Thomson Angus W.
Published: January 2011

Expression by DCs of co‐inhibitory molecules such as programmed death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1/B7‐H1/CD274), a member of the B7 superfamily, is crucial for the downregulation of T‐cell responses and the maintenance of immune homeostasis. Exposure of immature DCs to danger‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPS) or pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) generally results in their maturation and acquisition of immunostimulatory function. However, exposure of DCs to TLR ligands early during their differentiation can inhibit further differentiation and confer tolerogenic properties on these APCs. A report in this issue of The European Journal of Immunology reveals that early inhibition of human DC differentiation from blood monocytes by TLR agonists is associated with a tolerogenic phenotype and Treg generation. The tolerogenic function of these APCs is dependent on MAPK‐induced IL‐6 and IL‐10 production, which drives STAT‐3‐mediated PD‐L1 expression. These observations link IL‐10 and IL‐6 to PD‐L1 expression, providing a new dimension to the anti‐inflammatory properties of these cytokines. These findings also have implications for understanding the inherent function of DCs in non‐lymphoid tissues such as the liver and lung, where they are exposed to PAMPs that are found constitutively in the local microenvironment.
Molecular Electrocatalysts for the Oxidation of Hydrogen and the Production of Hydrogen – The Role of Pendant Amines as Proton Relays
Authors: DuBois Daniel L. , Bullock R. Morris
Published: January 2011

Electrocatalysts for efficient conversion between electricity and chemical bonds will play a vital role in future systems for storage and delivery of energy. Our research on functional models of hydrogenase enzymes uses nickel and cobalt, abundant and inexpensive metals, in contrast to platinum, a precious metal used in fuel cells. A key feature of our research is a focus on the use of pendant amines incorporated into diphosphane ligands. These pendant amines function as proton relays, lowering the barrier to proton transfers to and from the catalytically active metal site. The hydride acceptor ability of metal cations, along with the basicity of pendant amines, are key thermochemical values that determine the thermodynamics of addition of H2 to a metal complex with a pendant amine incorporated into its ligand. Nickel catalysts for oxidation of H2 have turnover frequencies up to 50 s–1 (at 1 atm H2 and room temperature). Nickel and cobalt catalysts for production of H2 by reduction of protons were studied; one of them has a turnover frequency over 1000 s–1.
Optically Active Tripodal Dendritic Polyoxometalates: Synthesis, Characterization and Their Use in Asymmetric Sulfide Oxidation with Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Jahier Claire , Coustou Marie‐Flora , Cantuel Martine , McClenaghan Nathan D. , Buffeteau Thierry , Cavagnat Dominique , Carraro Mauro , Nlate Sylvain
Published: January 2011

A series of structurally well‐defined enantiopure tripodal allyl dendritic structures bearing three amine groups have been synthesized. The hydrogenation of the allyl groups in the presence of a Pd/C catalyst gave the corresponding enantiopure n‐propyl counterparts. Treatment of these n‐propyl amino dendrimers with heteropolyacid H3PW12O40 and excess H2O2 gave the enantiopure n‐propyl {PO4[WO(O2)2]4}3– salts. Characterization of these dendritic POM hybrids in solution by NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, UV/Vis spectrophotometry, circular dichroism (CD), vibrational circular dichroism (VCD) and fluorimetry indicates the presence of POM–ligand interactions and confirms their optical and chiroptical properties. The hybrid compounds selectively oxidized sulfides to the corresponding chiral sulfoxides with up to 13 % enantiomeric excess (ee), highlighting the transfer of chirality from the dendritic wedges to the inorganic cluster. The properties of the POM anion, especially its solubility and regio‐ and stereoselectivity, are sensitive to the structure of the cation. The catalyst was recovered by precipitation without any discernible loss in activity, selectivity or enantioselectivity over three catalytic cycles at –50 °C. Interestingly, a dendritic effect was noted in the enantioselectivity as the dendritic‐POM hybrids are more selective than their non‐dendritic counterparts. The ee resulting from chirality transfer to the anionic POM unit is comparable to that obtained in our previous work with monopodal dendritic polyoxometalates (14 %) despite the polyvalency of the highly charged tripodal ligand, which is rationalized by different spectroscopic methods.
Synthesis and genotoxicity of Schiff base transition metal complexes
Authors: Kara Yasemin , Avar Baris , Kayraldiz Ahmet , Guzel Bilgehan , Kurtoglu Mukerrem
Published: January 2011

A new ONNO‐type azomethine ligand, 2,2′‐(ethane‐1,2‐diylidenedinitrilo)dibenzoic acid, (YLH2) (1) has been prepared by the condensation of 2‐aminobenzoic acid and glyoxal. The coordination compounds [Ni(YL)] (2), [Co(YL)] (3), [Cu(YL)(H2O)] (4), [Zn(YL)] (5), and [Cd(YL)] (6) of the YLH2 ligand with five transition metal ions, Ni(II) Co(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II) have been prepared. The structures of these new azomethine compounds are proposed on the basis of the elemental analyses, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, and X‐ray powder diffraction patterns. Elemental analyses indicate a ligand metal ratio of 1:1 in the coordination compounds. X‐ray powder diffraction parameters for [Cu(YL)(H2O)] and [Cd(YL)] compounds correspond to orthorhombic and monoclinic structures, respectively. The ligand acts as a tetradentate ligand bending through oxygen atoms of the hydroxyl groups of benzoic acid and nitrogen atoms of the azomethine groups. In addition, the ligand and its metal complexes have been studied for their possible genotoxic potential. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 22:119–130, 2011; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.20665
Disseminated tumor cells in the bone marrow of patients with ductal carcinoma in situ
Authors: Sänger Nicole , Effenberger Katharina E. , Riethdorf Sabine , Van Haasteren Viviane , Gauwerky Johannes , Wiegratz Inka , Strebhardt Klaus , Kaufmann Manfred , Pantel Klaus
Published: January 2011

Detection of disseminated tumor cells (DTCs) in bone marrow is an independent prognostic factor in primary breast cancer. Here, we conducted a proof‐of‐principle study to evaluate whether this tumor cell spread occurs already in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). After preoperative screening by stereotactic core biopsy, 30 consecutive women with DCIS were included. Bone marrow aspirates, taken at the time of primary surgery, were subjected to DTC detection by a standardized immunoassay using the established monoclonal anti‐cytokeratin antibodies A45‐B/B3 and AE1/AE3. DTCs were detected in 4 of 19 cases of pure DCIS (21.1%) and in four of seven cases of DCIS with microinvasion (57.1%). After a median follow‐up time of 22 months, two initially DTC‐positive patients suffered from contralateral carcinoma and contralateral DCIS at months 12 and 30, respectively, whereas the remaining patients were relapse free. Thus, hematogenous tumor cell dissemination into bone marrow is an early event in breast cancer development.
Cancer in first‐degree relatives and risk of testicular cancer in Denmark
Authors: Nordsborg Rikke Baastrup , Meliker Jaymie R. , Wohlfahrt Jan , Melbye Mads , Raaschou‐Nielsen Ole
Published: January 2011

Familial aggregation of testicular cancer has been reported consistently, but it is less clear if there is any association between risk of testicular cancer and other cancers in the family. We conducted a population‐based case–control study to examine the relationship between risk of testicular cancer and 22 different cancers in first‐degree relatives. We included 3,297 cases of testicular cancer notified to the Danish Cancer Registry between 1991 and 2003. A total of 6,594 matched controls were selected from the Danish Civil Registration System, which also provided the identity of 40,104 first‐degree relatives of case and controls. Familial cancer was identified by linkage to the Danish Cancer Registry, and we used conditional logistic regression to analyze whether cancer among first‐degree relatives was associated with higher risk of testicular cancer. Rate ratio for testicular cancer was 4.63 (95% CI: 2.41–8.87) when a father, 8.30 (95% CI: 3.81–18.10) when a brother and 5.23 (95% CI: 1.35–20.26) when a son had testicular cancer compared to no familial testicular cancer. Results were similar when analyses were stratified by histologic subtypes of testicular cancer. Familial non‐Hodgkin lymphoma and esophageal cancer were associated with testicular cancer; however, these may be chance findings. The familial aggregation of testicular and possibly other cancers may be explained by shared genes and/or shared environmental factors, but the mutual importance of each of these is difficult to determine.
Apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease is inversely associated with response to radiotherapy in pediatric ependymoma
Authors: Bobola Michael S. , Jankowski Pawel P. , Gross Mary E. , Schwartz Jeffery , Finn Laura S. , Blank A. , Ellenbogen Richard G. , Silber John R.
Published: January 2011

Apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease (Ap endo) is a key DNA repair activity that confers radiation resistance in human cells. Here we examined the association between Ap endo activity and response to radiotherapy in pediatric ependymomas, tumors for which treatment options are limited and survival rates are only about 50%. We assayed Ap endo activity in 36 ependymomas and expression of Ape1/Ref‐1, the predominant Ap endo activity in humans, in 44 tumors by immunostaining. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to analyze the association of activity or expression with progression‐free survival or with overall survival. Activity varied 13‐fold and was not associated with tumor or patient characteristics. In univariate models with Ap endo activity entered as a continuous variable, the hazard ratio for progression increased by a factor of 2.18 for every 0.01 unit increase in activity (p ≤ 0.003) in 24 grade II ependymomas. Risk for death increased by a factor of 1.89 (p ≤ 0.02) in the same population. The fraction of Ape1/Ref‐1 immunopositive cells varied widely within individual tumors and was not associated with either progression‐free or with overall survival. Suppressing Ap endo activity in pediatric ependymoma cells significantly increased radiation sensitivity, suggesting that the association of activity with radiation response reflected, at least in part, repair of radiation‐induced DNA lesions. Our data indicate that Ap endo activity is predictive of outcome following radiotherapy, and suggest that Ape1/Ref‐1 promotes radiation resistance in pediatric ependymomas. Our findings support the use of inhibitors of Ap endo activity to overcome resistance.
CD103 is a hallmark of tumor‐infiltrating regulatory T cells
Authors: Anz David , Mueller Wolfgang , Golic Michaela , Kunz Wolfgang G. , Rapp Moritz , Koelzer Viktor H. , Ellermeier Jonathan , Ellwart Joachim W. , Schnurr Max , Bourquin Carole , Endres Stefan
Published: January 2011

Regulatory T cells (Treg) mediate tolerance towards self‐antigens by suppression of innate and adaptive immunity. In cancer patients, tumor‐infiltrating FoxP3+ Treg suppress local anti‐tumor immune responses and are often associated with poor prognosis. Markers that are selectively expressed on tumor‐infiltrating Treg may serve as targets for immunotherapy of cancer. Here we show that CD103, an integrin mediating lymphocyte retention in epithelial tissues, is expressed at high levels on tumor‐infiltrating FoxP3+ Treg in several types of murine cancer. In the CT26 model of colon cancer up to 90% of the intratumoral FoxP3+ cells expressed CD103 compared to less than 20% in lymphoid organs. CD103+ Treg suppressed T effector cell activation more strongly than CD103neg Treg. Expression of CD103 on Treg closely correlated with intratumoral levels of transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β) and could be induced in a TGF‐β‐dependent manner by tumor cell lines. In vivo, gene silencing of TGF‐β reduced the frequency of CD103+ Treg, demonstrating that CD103 expression on tumor‐infiltrating Treg is driven by intratumoral TGF‐β. Functional blockade of CD103 using a monoclonal antibody did however not reduce the number of intratumoral Treg, indicating that CD103 is not involved in homing or retention of FoxP3+ cells in the tumor tissue. In conclusion, expression of CD103 is a hallmark of Treg that infiltrate TGF‐β‐secreting tumors. CD103 thus represents an interesting target for selective depletion of tumor‐infiltrating Treg, a strategy that may help to improve anti‐cancer therapy.
Genome‐wide linkage scan for prostate cancer susceptibility in Finland: Evidence for a novel locus on 2q37.3 and confirmation of signal on 17q21‐q22
Authors: Cropp Cheryl D. , Simpson Claire L , Wahlfors Tiina , Ha Nati , George Asha , Jones MaryPat S. , Harper Ursula , Ponciano‐Jackson Damaris , Green Tiffany A. , Tammela Teuvo L. J. , Bailey‐Wilson Joan , Schleutker Johanna
Published: January 2011

Genome‐wide linkage studies have been used to localize rare and highly penetrant prostate cancer (PRCA) susceptibility genes. Linkage studies performed in different ethnic backgrounds and populations have been somewhat disparate, resulting in multiple, often irreproducible signals because of genetic heterogeneity and high sporadic background of the disease. Our first genome‐wide linkage study and subsequent fine‐mapping study of Finnish hereditary prostate cancer (HPC) families gave evidence of linkage to one region. Here, we conducted subsequent scans with microsatellites and SNPs in a total of 69 Finnish HPC families. GENEHUNTER‐PLUS was used for parametric and nonparametric analyses. Our microsatellite genome‐wide linkage study provided evidence of linkage to 17q12‐q23, with a heterogeneity LOD (HLOD) score of 3.14 in a total of 54 of the 69 families. Genome‐wide SNP analysis of 59 of the 69 families gave a highest HLOD score of 3.40 at 2q37.3 under a dominant high penetrance model. Analyzing all 69 families by combining microsatellite and SNP maps also yielded HLOD scores of > 3.3 in two regions (2q37.3 and 17q12‐q21.3). These significant linkage peaks on chromosome 2 and 17 confirm previous linkage evidence of a locus on 17q from other populations and provide a basis for continued research into genetic factors involved in PRCA. Fine‐mapping analysis of these regions is ongoing and candidate genes at linked loci are currently under analysis.
Indirubin inhibits tumor growth by antitumor angiogenesis via blocking VEGFR2‐mediated JAK/STAT3 signaling in endothelial cell
Authors: Zhang Xiaoli , Song Yajuan , Wu Yuanyuan , Dong Yanmin , Lai Li , Zhang Jing , Lu Binbin , Dai Fujun , He Lijun , Liu Mingyao , Yi Zhengfang
Published: January 2011

Tumor angiogenesis is one of the hallmarks of the development in malignant neoplasias and metastasis. Many angiogenesis inhibitors are small molecules from natural products. Indirubin, the active component of a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Banlangen, has been shown to exhibit antitumor and anti‐inflammation effects. But its roles in tumor angiogenesis, the key step involved in tumor growth and metastasis, and the involved molecular mechanism is unknown. Here, we identified that indirubin inhibited prostate tumor growth through inhibiting tumor angiogenesis. Using chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay and mouse corneal model, we found that indirubin inhibited angiogenesis in vivo. We also showed the inhibition activity of indirubin in endothelial cell migration, tube formation and cell survival in vitro. Furthermore, indirubin suppressed vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2‐mediated Janus kinase (JAK)/STAT3 signaling pathway but had little effects on the activity of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase in endothelial cell. Our study provided the first evidence for antitumor angiogenesis activity of indirubin and the related molecular mechanism. Our investigations suggested that indirubin was a potential drug candidate for angiogenesis related diseases.
Tumor eradication by immunotherapy with biodegradable PLGA microspheres—an alternative to incomplete Freund's adjuvant
Authors: Mueller Marc , Schlosser Eva , Gander Bruno , Groettrup Marcus
Published: January 2011

In experimental tumor immunotherapy, incomplete Freund's adjuvant (IFA) has been considered as the “gold standard” for T‐cell vaccination in mice and humans in spite of its considerable adverse effects. Recently, we succeeded in eliciting strong CTL responses in mice after vaccination with biodegradable poly(D,L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres (MS). In our study, we compared the immune response to IFA and PLGA‐MS containing ovalbumin (OVA) and CpG‐oligodeoxynucleotide (MS‐OVA/CpG) or we used a mixture of MS‐OVA/CpG and MS‐polyI:C. A single vaccination with MS‐OVA/CpG elicited long‐lasting titers of IgG1 and IgG2a, but only low IgE titers, and also the T‐cell response was biased toward Th1 differentiation. Antigen presentation to CD4+ and CD8+ cells and activation of a cytotoxic T‐cell response in mice vaccinated with PLGA‐MS and IFA lasted for over 3 weeks. Preconditioning of the injection site with TNF‐α and heterologous prime‐boost regimen further enhanced the cytotoxic response. PLGA‐MS were as efficient or superior to IFA in eradication of preexisting tumors and suppression of lung metastases. Taken together, PLGA‐MS are well‐defined, biodegradable and clinically compatible antigen carrier systems that compare favorably with IFA in their efficacy of tumor immunotherapy in mouse models and hence deserve to be tested for their effectiveness against human malignant diseases.
Evidence-based policy on dietary calcium and vitamin D
Authors: Reid Ian R , Avenell Alison
Published: January 2011

The Institute of Medicine's report on calcium and vitamin D makes a positive contribution by grounding its recommendations on the available evidence base. The committee does not substantially change recommended dietary intakes for calcium and modestly increases those for vitamin D based on the need for a median serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D of 40 nmol/L. They do not support the suggestion that all adults should have levels >75 nmol/L. The committee concludes that current evidence does not support nonskeletal benefits for vitamin D or calcium, and notes that higher intakes of both could have adverse health consequences. The present authors are generally in agreement with these conclusions, with some caveats regarding the evidence base used. However, we believe that the central role of sunlight exposure in determining vitamin D status needs to be explicitly reflected in public policy in this area. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Letting go of little Albert: Disciplinary memory, history, and the uses of myth
Authors: Harris Ben
Published: January 2011

In 2009 American Psychologist published the account of an attempt to identify the infant “Albert B.,” who participated in Watson and Rayner's study of the conditioning of human fears. Such literal interpretations of the question “Whatever happened to Little Albert?” highlight the importance of historical writing that transcends the narrowly biographical and that avoids the obsessive hunt for “facts.” The author of a 1979 study of how secondary sources have told the story of Little Albert relates his attempts to purge incorrect accounts of that story from college textbooks. He renounces such efforts as misguided and suggests that myths in the history of psychology can be instructive, including the myth that the identity of Little Albert has been discovered. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Review article: Improving the performance of agricultural extension services in developing countries
Authors: Hulme David
Published: January 2011

Agricultural Extension. By A.W. VAN DEN BAN and H.S. HAWKINS. (Harlow, Longman, 1988, pp.328, £4.95 paperback)

Agricultural Extension Worldwide: Issues, Practices and Emerging Priorities. By WILLIAM M. RIVERA and SUSAN G. SHRAM, eds. (London, Croom‐Helm, 1987, pp.294, £25.00 hardback).

Extension Science: Information Systems in Agricultural Development. By Niels Röling. (Cambridge, Cambridge University Press, 1988, pp.233, £35.00 hardback, £11.95 paperback).

Training and Visit Extension in Practice. By John Howell, ed. (London, Overseas Development Institute, Agricultural Administration Unit Occasional Paper 8, 1988, pp.107, £4.95 paperback).
Review Article: Poverty and food: Contemporary Questions
Authors: Pankhurst Donna
Published: January 2011

Satisfying Africa's Food Needs. Food Production and Commercialisation in African Agriculture. By RONALD COHEN (ed.). (London, Lynne Rienner Publishers, 1988, pp. 244, £19.95)

Wealth, Poverty and Starvation. An International Perspective. By VIC GEORGE (Hemmel Hempstead, Wheatsheaf, 1988, pp. 234, £10.95.)

Population, Food and Rural Development, By RONALD D. LEE et al (Oxford, Clarendon Press, 1988, pp.215. £25.)
Socio‐economic differentiation among African peasants: Evidence from Acholi, Southern Sudan
Authors: House William J. , Phillips‐Howard Kevin D.
Published: January 2011

This paper is concerned with the nature and extent of inequality and poverty in a rural African economy which has yet to experience any form of modern economic growth. Southern Sudan remains one of the least developed areas in Africa, relying largely on subsistence crop cultivation and traditional pastoralism and where the only major modem sector activity is urban‐based public administration. The aim of this study is to quantify and explain the nature of differences in household well‐being in a fairly typical rural area of this economy set in the context of the Chayanov model ofpeasant behaviour. It is argued that policy‐making requires the exploration of the underlying behaviour of households and how they allocate land and labour in order to help support their survival strategies. Some general policy implications are drawn from the analysis of data collected in a small sample survey which may have a wider application in similarly neglected parts of rural tropical Africa.
Decentralised planning in Zimbabwe: A review of provincial, urban and district development planning in post‐dependence Zimbabwe (post‐1980)
Authors: Wekwete K. H.
Published: January 2011

The paper provides a detailed analysis of the nature and forms of decentralised planning existing in Zimbabwe since 1980. Most of them reflect a continuity from the colonial period with modifications to suit the new socio‐economic order. A detailed review is made of the powers that exist for planning and implementation, and also their limitations. The multiplicity of agencies has created problems, which has called for more co‐ordination particularly at provincial level. However, the conflict between territory and function is very evident, because in all cases it is planning either by sector ministries and parastatal agencies with limited territorial power, or in some cases relative autonomy exists for local planning and implementation. The conclusion to this paper is that there is a strong need for a central authority to co‐ordinate decentralised planning. This is a contradiction, if one sees decentralisation as the opposite of centralisation. Here we see the co‐existence of the two as inevitable because Zimbabwe is a unitary state which defines the limits of decentralisation.
Asian and Latin American experience: Lessons for Africa
Authors: Ranis Gustav
Published: January 2011

The historical transition growth experiences of East Asia and Latin America are outlined, with emphasis on the contrast in development strategies and resource flows at the end of their respective primary import substitution sub‐phases. The relationship between differences in initial conditions and policy regimes is then highlighted, along with the resulting marked divergence in bottom line performance with respect to both growth and equity. Lessons for sub‐Saharan Africa, which, as a late‐comer, still has some of these fateful choices ahead of it, are then suggested. In addition to some of the rather well‐known difficulties Africa faces, in terms of its endowment as well as a less favourable international setting, it is pointed out that there also exist a number of potential advantages which should not be ignored. Finally, some rather specific suggestions of possible relevance to African policymakers are put forward.
Prices in Mozambican agriculture
Authors: Tarp Finn
Published: January 2011

This article is concerned with the effectiveness and impact of agricultural price policy in Mozambique since Independence in 1975. Existing information on price‐setting and inflation is up‐dated and reviewed, and the implications of a recently compiled aggregate consumer price index are investigated. External pressure and increasing internal difficulties have induced a re‐orientation of economic policies with price and market liberalization in focus. The scope for increasing agricultural production through price reform alone is limited, but Government intervention in agricultural markets in Mozambique could nevertheless be improved. Different types of interventions undertaken and proposed are therefore considered before the article is concluded. © 2016. The Authors. Journal of International Development published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Debt: New treatment for the chronic but repentant
Authors: Faber Mike
Published: January 2011

The article considers the position of certain developing countries which have accumulated major arrears to the international financial institutions (IFI) but which have also indicated their willingness to undertake programmes of stabilisation and structural adjustment. The first part of the article deals with the problem of how such chronic debtors may be brought back into the fold so as to qualify for renewed IFI financing. The second part of the article identifies four policy instruments likely to form part of any negotiated adjustment programme, and considers certain issues which may arise in determining how those instruments may best be designed and applied.
Review article: Continuing dance of the debt squads? … Or out of the debt crisis? … An extended review of four books on third world debt
Authors: Edwards Chris
Published: January 2011

A Fate Worse than Debt. By Susan George. (London, Penguin Books, 1988, pp.290, £4.50 paperback.)

The Dance of the Millions: Latin America and the Debt Crisis. By Jackie Roddick. (London, Latin America Bureau, 1988, pp.256, £5.95, paperback.)

The Debt Squads: the US, the Banks and Latin America. By SUe Branford and Bernardo Kucinski. (London, Zed Books, 1988, pp.142, £7.95, paperback: an earlier version (A Ditidura da Divida) was first published in Portuguese by Editora Brasiliense, Sao Paulo, in 1987.) Growing out of Debt. By Adrian Hewitt and BOWEN WELLS, MP (eds.). (London, Overseas Development Institute for the All Party Parliamentary Group on Overseas, Development, 1989, pp.82, £4.95 paperback.)
Regional groupings in Asia: Should SAARC follow the ASEAN model?
Authors: Bhalla Praveen
Published: January 2011

This paper attempts to compare two Asian regional groupings, the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), with special reference to the influence of geopolitical factors in their creation and development. The main features and mechanisms of cooperation within the two groupings are examined and compared and their future prospects, particularly for achieving regional stability and growth, are analysed. The aim of the comparison is not so much to assess their relative performance (as ASEAN is almost two decades older than SAARC) as to determine to which extent ASEAN is a valid model for SAARC, given the different geopolitical settings and different levels of development of the two groupings.
Imports of technology of the newly industrialising countries: An inter‐industry analysis for Mexico and Pakistan
Authors: Katrak Homi
Published: January 2011

The NICs desire to import technology from the industrially advanced countries but are concerned that imperfections in the international market for technology enable the technology suppliers to set ‘high’ prices and also to discriminate between different types of buyers.

This paper uses data of two NICs, Mexico and Pakistan, to analyse their technology payments in terms of (i) the costs of the technology suppliers, (ii) the benefits of the importing enterprises and (iii) the relative bargaining power of those parties. The possibility of discrimination between indigenous enterprises and foreign owned subsidiaries is also examined.
The potential benefits of reallocation of government subsidies in Bangladesh
Authors: Jabbar M. A. , Colman David
Published: January 2011

In this study subsidies are treated as both an element of government expenditure and a source of household income. The impacts of reallocating existing subsidy expenditure to selected alternatives are estimated upon factors such as growth, employment, personal saving indirect tax and import using a semi‐closed input‐output model. The results indicate substantial scope for deriving additional benefits by reallocating the existing subsidies on foreign wage earnings and urban food ration (enjoyed by the richer classes) to fertilizer, foodgrain procurement or rural food rations (enjoyed by the poorer classes). Reallocation of fertilizer or rural food ration subsidies have no benefits. The benefits of reallocation to production activities are higher than for consumption activities.
Review article: In defence of development banking
Authors: Mosley Paul
Published: January 2011

World Development Report 1989. By WORLD BANK. (Oxford, Oxford University Press for World Bank, 1989, pp.xxi+250, £8.95 paperback.)
Natural resource management for sustainable development. a study of feasible policies, institutions and investment activities in Nepal with special emphasis on the hills
Authors: Horberry John
Published: January 2011

The article considers feasible policies, institutions and investment activities in the Nepal Hills. It reviews the evidence on the extent of environmental degradation, its costs, and causes. The scope for policy action is considered in respect of government planning, macroeconomic instruments, and sectoral investment programmes. Amongst the recommended actions are measures to develop the rural Tarai, support to urbanisation and non‐farm income opportunities, the development of user groups, decentralization, and the greater involvement of the private sector.
Age and work‐related motives: Results of a meta‐analysis
Authors: Kooij Dorien T. A. M. , De Lange Annet H. , Jansen Paul G. W. , Kanfer Ruth , Dikkers Josje S. E.
Published: January 2011

An updated literature review was conducted and a meta‐analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between age and work‐related motives. Building on theorizing in life span psychology, we hypothesized the existence of age‐related differences in work‐related motives. Specifically, we proposed an age‐related increase in the strength of security and social motives, and an age‐related decrease in the strength of growth motives. To investigate life span developmental theory predictions about age‐related differences in control strategies, we also examined the relationship between age and intrinsic and extrinsic motives. Consistent with our predictions, meta‐analytic results showed a significant positive relationship between age and intrinsic motives, and a significant negative relationship between age and strength of growth and extrinsic motives. The predicted positive relation between age and strength of social and security motives was only found among certain subgroups. Implications of these findings for work motivation and life span theories and future research are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trend analysis of rainfall in Bharathapuzha River basin, Kerala, India
Authors: Nikhil Raj P. P. , Azeez P. A.
Published: January 2011

Knowing the variations in the general rainfall pattern of a river basin is vital to understanding the hydrological cycle and water budget of the basin. The present study examined the general rainfall pattern in Bharathapuzha River basin of Malabar coast of Kerala, using monthly rainfall data for 34 years collected from 28 rain gauge stations. We used Mann‐Kendal's rank correlation statistics and wavelet analysis to examine the trend of rainfall. The annual rainfall, southwest monsoon, and pre‐monsoon rainfall of the basin shows a significant decrement towards the later years of the study. We assume that the global climate and the local environmental changes are the chief factors for the variation. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Towards planning and practical understanding of the need for meteorological and climatic information in the design of high‐density cities: A case‐based study of Hong Kong
Authors: Ng E.
Published: January 2011

More than half the world's population lives in cities. In tropical and subtropical regions, the growth of mega and compact cities are on the rise. The urban climatic issues of heat, humidity, lack of daylight, solar access, and urban ventilation is of topical concern to urban planners and governments. This paper puts forward a notion that a well established view of the low impact of urban climate on planning may be due to the lack of planning on the part of urban climatologists. Overly detailed and precise meteorological information, and excessively sophisticated climatic explanations and knowledge presentation do not help planners; information overload makes planners feel discouraged and ill equipped. In this paper, the understanding of Hong Kong based on the scale of planned decision making is elaborated with examples. Urban climatic information must be presented sequentially to fit the hierarchal process of planning and land use decision making. For better transfer of knowledge and communication, ‘prevailing’ and ‘criticality’ should be observed; information overload must be avoided, and spatial information must be presented graphically whenever possible. Scholars have argued that instead of the need for precision and accuracy, most of the time planners need to make balanced and reasonable decisions. Simplicity is the key. Furthermore, the advent of rapid urbanisation in the age of climate change further endows urban climatologists the burden to develop appropriate and easy‐to‐understand urban climate knowledge for planners. Resolving something complicated into something simple for planners is the only way forward. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Enhancing destination image through travel website information
Authors: Jeong Chul , Holland Stephen , Jun Soo H. , Gibson Heather
Published: January 2011

Effects of a travel website on tourists' destination images were examined. The relationship between information search using websites and destination image was studied. In addition, the validity of experimental design as a method for examining destination image was explored. A static‐group comparison design was conducted using two sets of students as experimental and control groups. A travel website search was the stimuli for the experimental group. Results revealed that exposure to a travel website significantly affected the majority of cognitive and overall destination images. Additionally, experimental design was shown to be an effective method in measuring changes in destination image. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Treatment options in trigeminal trophic syndrome: A multi‐institutional case series
Authors: Willis Mark , Shockley William W. , Mobley Steven R.
Published: January 2011

Trigeminal trophic syndrome (TTS) is an uncommon medical condition that may be encountered by otolaryngologists and facial plastic surgeons. TTS begins with damage to the trigeminal nerve or its central sensory connections, causing anesthesia in a dermatomal distribution. With repeated scratching and manipulation, an ulceration occurs, often in the alar region. In this multi‐institutional report, we summarize a small series of patients with TTS. Treatment options are discussed along with a review of the relevant literature. Although rare, it is important that practicing otolaryngologists be familiar with the classic signs and symptoms of this condition in order to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment. Laryngoscope, 2011
Clinical comparison of hearing‐impaired patients with DFNB1 against heterozygote carriers of connexin 26 mutations
Authors: Lipan Michael , Ouyang Xiaomei , Yan Denise , Angeli Simon , Du Li Lin , Liu Xue‐Zhong
Published: January 2011

Objectives:

The aim of the study is to assess clinical characteristics of individuals with nonsyndromic sensorineural hearing loss (NSSNHL) with genetic mutations in GJB2 and/or GJB6. We describe and compare one group with biallelic mutations against a group of heterozygote mutation carriers.

Methods:

A total of 350 patients between the ages of 3 months and 80 years referred to a tertiary care outpatient otology practice for NSSNHL were screened for genetic mutations. Direct sequencing of GJB2 and polymerase chain reaction analysis of GJB6 was performed and clinical data from history and physical, audiologic testing and radiographic studies were reviewed.

Results:

Thirty‐two patients were found to have biallelic mutations (incidence of 9.1%). Twenty‐five patients were found to have only one GJB2 mutation (incidence of 7.1%). Severe to profound hearing loss occurred in 85% of the homozygote group and 38% of the heterozygote group. Both groups similarly had a propensity toward bilateral, symmetric, nonprogressive hearing loss with rare inner ear malformations on radiologic imaging.

Conclusions:

These two patient populations have similar incidences in a cohort of patients evaluated for NSSNHL, which is higher than general population heterozygote carrier rates. Heterozygote mutation carriers had less hearing impairment, but most other factors demonstrated no differences. These results support the theory of an unidentified genetic factor contributing to hearing loss in some heterozygote carriers. Therefore, genetic counseling should consider the complexity of their genetic factors and the limitations of current screening. Laryngoscope, 2011
A novel method for internal nasal valve reconstruction: H‐graft technique
Authors: Tastan Eren , Demirci Munir , Aydin Emine , Aydogan Filiz , Kazikdas K. Cagdas , Kurkcuoglu Melih , Ugur M. Birol
Published: January 2011

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of a novel method for internal nasal valve reconstruction that enables lateralization of the superior segment of upper lateral cartilages (ULC) from the septum to a greater extent than the spreader graft method with lateral wall support.

Study Design:

Prospective, controlled study set at a tertiary medical center.

Methods:

The study group was composed of 19 consecutive patients with pure internal nasal valve dysfunction who underwent surgery with the presented technique. All patients completed the Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) and Rhinoplasty Outcomes Evaluation (ROE) tests preoperatively and at 12th month postoperative control to compare functional and aesthetic outcomes.

Results:

Based upon pre‐ and postoperative calculations made using NOSE scores, there was significant improvement regarding nasal blockage or congestion, troubled breathing and sleeping, and air through nose during exercise, respectively (P< .05). There were no aesthetic changes encountered by the patient when pre‐ and postoperative ROE scores were compared (P> .05).

Conclusions:

The H shape of the graft not only improves the graft stability on dorsal septum but also has the advantage of combining the spreader and the splay effects. Current data from this prospective study suggest that this technique may be used in the surgical treatment of internal nasal valve dysfunction. Laryngoscope, 2011
Preparation of 3D Fibroin/Chitosan Blend Porous Scaffold for Tissue Engineering Via a Simplified Method
Authors: Ruan Yuhui , Lin Hong , Yao Jinrong , Chen Zhengrong , Shao Zhengzhong
Published: January 2011

In this work, we developed a simple and flexible method to manufacture a 3D porous scaffold based on the blend of regenerated silk fibroin (RSF) and chitosan (CS). No crosslinker or other toxic reagents were used in this method. The pores of resulted 3D scaffolds were connected with each other, and their sizes could be easily controlled by the concentration of the mixed solution. Compared with pure RSF scaffolds, the water absorptivities of these RSF/CS blend scaffolds with significantly enhanced mechanical properties were greatly increased. The results of MTT and RT‐PCR tests indicated that the chondrocytes grew very well in these blend RSF/CS porous scaffolds. This suggested that the RSF/CS blend scaffold prepared by this new method could be a promising candidate for applications in tissue engineering.

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Planar Block Copolymer Membranes by Vesicle Spreading
Authors: Dorn Jan , Belegrinou Serena , Kreiter Max , Sinner Eva‐Kathrin , Meier Wolfgang
Published: January 2011

An easy route to planar solid‐supported polymer membranes by vesicle spreading is described. Pre‐organized poly(butadiene)‐block‐poly(ethylene oxide)(PB‐PEO) assemblies were spread on two different supports, i.e. strongly hydrophilic glass surfaces and ultrasmooth gold substrates. Polymer membranes were produced on a hydrophilic support by spreading hydroxyl‐functionalized polymer vesicles, while covalently immobilized polymer membranes were obtained by spreading LA‐functionalized polymer vesicles on gold substrates. Covalently bound membranes were further incubated with the peptide polymyxin B. Interactions with the polymer membrane were detected by EIS. These systems are of great interest to fundamental membrane science and have potential in technological applications, such as drug screening and (bio)sensing.

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Tailored Media for Homogeneous Cellulose Chemistry: Ionic Liquid/Co‐Solvent Mixtures
Authors: Gericke Martin , Liebert Tim , Seoud Omar A. El , Heinze Thomas
Published: January 2011

Co‐solvents can minimize two of the major problems associated with the use of ionic liquids (ILs) as solvents for homogeneous derivatization of cellulose: high viscosity and limited miscibility with non‐polar reagents or reaction products. Thus, the effects of 18 solvents and 3 binary solvent mixtures on cellulose solutions in three ILs were systematically studied with respect to the solution phase behavior. The applicable limits of these mixtures were evaluated and general guidelines for the use of co‐solvents in cellulose chemistry could be advanced: Appropriate co‐solvents should have $E_{{\rm T}}^{{\rm N}} $ values (normalized empirical polarity) > 0.3, very low “acidity” (α < 0.5), and relatively high “basicity” (β ≥ 0.4). Moreover, novel promising co‐solvents and binary co‐solvent mixtures were identified.

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A New Modifier for Silica in Reinforcing SBR Elastomers for the Tyre Industry
Authors: Bertora Alessandro , Castellano Maila , Marsano Enrico , Alessi Matteo , Conzatti Lucia , Stagnaro Paola , Colucci Giovanna , Priola Aldo , Turturro Antonio
Published: January 2011

A new alkoxysilane was used to reduce the hydrophilic character of the silica used in reinforcing styrene/butadiene elastomers for the tyre industry. The surface properties of silica modified with 17 wt.‐% of this silane were estimated by inverse GC. A clear change from hydrophilic to hydrophobic character was observed. Styrene/butadiene copolymers loaded with modified silicas were characterized were characterized using vulcanization tests, stress/strain measurements and morphological analysis. The best tensile properties were obtained with TESPT‐modified silica. The properties of the compound loaded with sb1‐pre‐grafted silica are scantily lower that the ones of the other compounds. This difference must be ascribed to a higher crosslink density given by the sulfur deriving from the TESPT decomposition during the vulcanization process.

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