bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepatitis B virus x protein in the pathogenesis of hepatitis B virus‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kew Michael C
Published: January 2011

Currently available evidence supports a role for the hepatitis B virus (HBV) x gene and protein in the pathogenesis of HBV‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HBx gene is often included, and remains functionally active, in the HBV DNA that is frequently integrated into cellular DNA during hepatocellular carcinogenesis. HBx protein promotes cell cycle progression, inactivates negative growth regulators, and binds to and inhibits the expression of p53 tumour suppressor gene and other tumour suppressor genes and senescence‐related factors. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for HBx protein‐induced HCC remain uncertain. Only some of the more fully documented or more recently recognised mechanisms are reviewed. During recent years evidence has accumulated that HBx protein modulates transcription of methyl transferases, causing regional hypermethylation of DNA that results in silencing of tumour suppressor genes, or global hypomethylation that results in chromosomal instability, thereby playing a role in hepatocarcinogenesis. HBx protein has both anti‐apoptotic and pro‐apoptotic actions, apparently contradictory effects that have yet to be explained. Particularly important among the anti‐apoptotic properties is inhibition of p53. Recent experimental observations suggest that HBx protein may increase the expression of TERT and telomerase activity, prolonging the life‐span of hepatocytes and contributing to malignant transformation. The protein also interferes with nucleotide excision repair through both p53‐dependent and p53‐ independent mechanisms. Carboxy‐terminal truncated HBx protein loses its inhibitory effects on cell proliferation and pro‐apoptotic properties, and it may enhance the protein's ability to transform oncogenes. Dysregulation of IGF‐II enhances proliferation and anti‐apoptotic effects of oncogenes, resulting in uncontrolled cell growth.
Hepatocyte growth factor twenty years on: Much more than a growth factor
Authors: Nakamura Takahiro , Sakai Katsuya , Nakamura Toshikazu , Matsumoto Kunio
Published: January 2011

Liver regeneration depends on the proliferation of mature hepatocytes. In the 1980s, the method for the cultivation of mature hepatocytes provided an opportunity for the discovery of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) as a protein that is structurally and functionally different from other growth factors. In 1991, the scatter factor, tumor cytotoxic factor, and 3‐D epithelial morphogen were identified as HGF, and Met tyrosine kinase was identified as the receptor for HGF. Thus, the connection of apparently unrelated research projects rapidly enriched the research on HGF in different fields. The HGF‐Met pathway plays important roles in the embryonic development of the liver and the placenta, in the migration of myogenic precursor cells, and in epithelial morphogenesis. The use of tissue‐specific knockout mice demonstrated that in mature tissues the HGF‐Met pathway plays a critical role in tissue protection and regeneration, and in providing less susceptibility to chronic inflammation and fibrosis. In various injury and disease models, HGF promotes cell survival, regeneration of tissues, and suppresses and improves chronic inflammation and fibrosis. Drug development using HGF has been challenging, but extensive preclinical studies to address its therapeutic effects have provided significant results sufficient for the development of HGF as a biological drug in the regeneration‐based therapy of diseases. Clinical trials using recombinant human HGF protein, or HGF genes, are in progress for the treatment of diseases.
Hepatitis C virus: How genetic variability affects pathobiology of disease
Authors: Chayama Kazuaki , Hayes C Nelson
Published: January 2011

As an RNA virus, hepatitis C virus (HCV) shows a characteristically high level of nucleotide diversity. Accumulation of nucleotide substitutions in the virus has resulted in diversification into quasispecies, subtypes and distinct genotypes. Pathobiological studies linking nucleotide and amino acid sequences with clinical findings have identified relationships between certain genotypes and characteristic biological properties. Genotype 3 HCV infection was found to be associated with a high level of liver steatosis. Genotypes 1 and 4 were found to be more resistant to interferon (IFN) based therapies than genotypes 2 and 3. Studies of genotype 1 sequences obtained from patients treated with IFN have identified a relationship between favorable response to interferon therapy and amino acid substitutions in the NS5A region (interferon response determining region; ISDR). Further studies have identified a relationship between the effect of IFN therapy and other regions of the NS5A protein. More recently, a relationship has been found between poor response to peg‐IFN plus ribavirin combination therapy and substitutions at amino acid 70 and 91 in the core protein. Furthermore, a correlation between human genetic variation in the IL28B (IFN‐lamda 3) locus and core amino acid substitutions has been characterized.

In this review we briefly summarize the discovery, classification and nomenclature of HCV genotypes and subtypes. We also discuss amino acid substitutions within specific regions that have been reported to be associated with outcome of IFN and peg‐IFN plus ribavirin combination therapy.
Management of gastric varices
Authors: Hashizume Makoto , Akahoshi Tomohiko , Tomikawa Morimasa
Published: January 2011

Although the incidence of bleeding from gastric varices is relatively low (10%–36%), the bleeding is massive once it has occurred and it increases the patient's mortality. The management of esophageal variceal bleeding is highly differentiated with several effective treatments available. In contrast, bleeding from gastric varices continues to be a therapeutic challenge. In the last decade, there have been increasing reports regarding the management of gastric varices. In this article we review recent progress in the management of gastric varices and discuss further expected studies.
Cell death and hepatocarcinogenesis: Dysregulation of apoptosis signaling pathways
Authors: Schattenberg Jorn Markus , Schuchmann Marcus , Galle Peter Robert
Published: January 2011

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a disease with a poor prognosis despite recent advances in the pathophysiology and treatment. Although the disease is biologically heterogeneous, dysregulation of cellular proliferation and apoptosis both occur frequently and contribute to the malignant phenotype. Chronic liver disease is associated with intrahepatic inflammation which promotes dysregulation of cellular signaling pathways; this triggers proliferation and thus lays the ground for expansion of premalignant cells. Cancer emerges when immunological control fails and transformed cells develop resistance against cell death signaling pathways. The same mechanisms underlie the poor responsiveness of HCC towards chemotherapy. Only recently advances in understanding the signaling pathways involved has led to the development of an effective pharmacological therapy for advanced disease. The current review will discuss apoptosis signaling pathways and focus on apoptosis resistance of HCC involving derangements in cell death receptors (e.g. tumor necrosis factor‐alpha [TNF], CD95/Apo‐1, TNF‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand [TRAIL]) and associated adapter molecules (e.g. FADD and FLIP) of apoptotic signaling pathways. In addition, the role of the transcription factor nuclear factor‐kappaB (NFκB) and members of the B cell leukemia‐2 (Bcl‐2) family that contribute to the regulation of apoptosis in hepatocytes are discussed. Eventually, the delineation of cell death signaling pathways could contribute to the implementation of new therapeutic strategies to treat HCC.
Hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury: Contemporary perspectives on pathogenic mechanisms and basis for hepatoprotection—the good, bad and deadly
Authors: Teoh Narci C
Published: January 2011

Hepatic ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury is an important clinical problem complicating liver surgery and transplantation. The pathogenesis underlying reperfusion injury after warm ischemia is complex, encompassing a multitude of different cell types and signalling mechanisms innate and/or mobilized to the liver. Since the author's 2003 review in the Journal, considerable progress has been achieved in enhancing our understanding of some of the pathogenic pathways and crucial mediators of hepatic inflammation such as the heme oxygenase system, CXC chemokines, Toll‐like receptors as well as the mode of parenchymal cell death in IR injury. A better appreciation of these mechanisms will accelerate efforts in designing optimal interventions to prevent hepatic IR injury and improve outcomes after liver transplantation.
Reactive oxygen and mechanisms of inflammatory liver injury: Present concepts
Authors: Jaeschke Hartmut
Published: January 2011

Liver cell death induced by stresses such as ischemia‐reperfusion, cholestasis and drug toxicity can trigger a sterile inflammatory response with activation of innate immune cells through release of damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). A similar inflammatory response can be induced by pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) such as endotoxin. Both DAMPs and PAMPs activate through toll‐like receptors the resident macrophages (Kupffer cells) and recruit activated neutrophils and monocytes into the liver. Central to this inflammatory response is promotion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation by these phagocytes. ROS are the principal toxic mediators by which inflammatory cells kill their targets, e.g. bacteria during host defense but also hepatocytes and other liver cells. The mechanism of ROS‐induced cell killing during inflammation involves the promotion of mitochondrial dysfunction through an intracellular oxidant stress in hepatocytes leading mainly to oncotic necrosis and less apoptosis. The additional release of cell contents amplifies the inflammatory injury. However, an inflammatory oxidant stress insufficient to directly cause cell damage can induce transcription of stress defence genes including antioxidant genes. This preconditioning effect of ROS enhances the resistance against future inflammatory oxidant stress and promotes the initiation of tissue repair processes. Despite the substantial progress in our understanding of mechanisms of inflammatory liver injury during the last decade, more research is necessary to better understand the role of ROS in acute liver inflammation and to develop clinically applicable therapeutic strategies that selectively target the detrimental effects of oxidant stress without compromising the vital function of ROS in host defense.
A field study of seed germination in the endangered Trillium reliquum Freeman (Trilliaceae)
Authors: THOMPSON JACOB S. , LEEGE LISSA M.
Published: January 2011

Previous studies examining the seeds of most Trillium species have reported double dormancy, a type of seed dormancy where two cold periods and one warm period are needed for complete germination. In the present paper, we describe a field study examining the federally endangered Trillium reliquum Freeman (Trilliaceae) in which moderate to high numbers of seeds germinated after one winter following seed production. Sixteen baskets with seeds were placed in four T. reliquum populations (four baskets in each population) in Georgia, USA, in June 2005. In spring 2006, all seed baskets contained seedlings. Germination percentages ranged from 33.3 to 83.3% across sites with a mean of 56.9 ± 3.9%. Trillium reliquum had higher germination percentages compared with other field‐based germination studies with other Trillium species. Our findings will inform future demographic studies of T. reliquum and suggest that double dormancy in seeds may not be as widespread as previously reported within the genus Trillium.
Consequences of forest fragmentation in an understory plant community: extensive range expansion of native dwarf bamboo
Authors: TOMIMATSU HIROSHI , YAMAGISHI HIROKI , TANAKA IPPEI , SATO MASATOSHI , KONDO RENZO , KONNO YASUO
Published: January 2011

Understory bamboo species are important and influential components of temperate forests in at least several parts of the world. Here we report a study testing the effect of forest fragmentation on the dynamics of the dwarf bamboo Sasa chartacea and on forest herb communities in the Tokachi plain of Hokkaido, Japan. We studied 16 forest fragments of different sizes and small plots established in these fragments to examine the relationship between the abundance of S. chartacea, landscape and environmental conditions, and forest herb communities. Sasa chartacea was more abundant near forest edges and in smaller fragments, suggesting that the species has expanded its local range and increased its abundance in response to forest fragmentation. Edge‐related changes in light and soil moisture might have facilitated this range expansion. The species richness of forest herbs was strongly negatively related to the density of S. chartacea. Because much larger variation in species richness was explained by S. chartacea density than distance to the nearest forest edge, the expansion of S. chartacea has likely excluded other understory species by competition. In addition, the density of S. chartacea significantly explained variation in the species composition of forest herbs across plots. Taken together, our results emphasize the key roles of dwarf bamboos in changing plant communities following forest fragmentation.
Association of lower hemoglobin level with depressive mood in elderly women at high risk of requiring care
Authors: Umegaki Hiroyuki , Yanagawa Madoka , Endo Hidetoshi
Published: January 2011

Aim:  Despite the high prevalence of anemia and depression in the elderly, there have been few studies exploring the association between these two conditions. In the current study, we analyzed the association of hemoglobin level and depressive mood in a group of community‐dwelling elderly at high risk of requiring care.

Methods:  All participants at a health check in a group of community‐dwelling elderly (1163 men and 2651 women) filled out a basic yes/no questionnaire consisting of simple assessments of their instrumental activities of daily living (7 items), memory problems (3 items), walking status (5 items), dysphagia (3 items), nutritional status (2 items) and depressive mood (5 items). Other examinations, including blood testing, were also performed. Multiple regression analysis with the score of depressive mood in the basic checklist was performed. The hemoglobin level was set for an explanatory value after adjustment for age, blood pressure, electrocardiogram abnormality, instrumental activities of daily living, walking status, nutritional status, dysphagia and memory problems.

Results:  It was found that 30.5% of women and 31.8% of men had anemia. When the subjects were divided with depressive score of 2 points or more (the highest possible score was 5) and less, those with a higher depressive score had significantly lower hemoglobin levels than those with a lower score. Multiple regression analysis showed that lower hemoglobin level was significantly associated with depressive mood only in women (P = 0.046) but not in men (P = 0.579).

Conclusion:  Lower hemoglobin level was significantly associated with depressive mood in elderly women at high risk for care, but not in elderly men at high risk for care. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 262–266.
Galantamine (Reminyl) once daily outcome and satisfaction survey (RODOS) in mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: A study in a real life population
Authors: Van Puyvelde Katrien , Mets Tony ,   for the RODOS Study Group
Published: January 2011

Aim:  To record in real life the appreciation of elderly patients, their caregivers and physicians of a once daily formulation of prolonged release of galantamine in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.

Methods:  A prospective, multicenter, observational study was conducted in 128 elderly patients, treated for 6 months with galantamine, donepezil or rivastigmine.

Results:  Of the patients treated with galantamine, 82 of the 97 (84.5%) were continuing their treatment after 6 months. These patients reported their condition as improved in 49%, unchanged in 47% and worsened in 4%. Caregivers rated global evaluation as 37% better, 41% unchanged and 22% worse. Physicians rated global clinical impression of change as 46% better, 34% unchanged and 20% worse. Measurements of cognition and behavior remained stable. The appreciation of physicians and caregivers corresponded well (P < 0.001). The incidence of serious side‐effects possibly related to galantamine was 9.3%, which was not different from that in patients treated with other cholinesterase inhibitors.

Conclusion:  In a real life setting, galantamine once daily is safe and is favorably appreciated by patients, their caregivers and physicians. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 256–261.
Cardiovascular protection afforded by caloric restriction: Essential role of nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Shinmura Ken
Published: January 2011

Caloric restriction is an established intervention, of which anti‐aging effects are scientifically proven. It has pleiotropic effects on the cardiovascular system: vascular protection, improvement of myocardial ischemic tolerance and retardation of cardiac senescence. First, increasing evidence from both experimental and clinical studies supports the concept that “a man is as old as his arteries”. Caloric restriction could prevent the progression of atherosclerosis and vascular aging through direct and indirect mechanisms. Second, the hearts of senescent animals are more susceptible to ischemia than those of young animals. We demonstrated that short‐term and prolonged caloric restriction confers cardioprotection against ischemia/reperfusion injury in young and aged rodents. Furthermore, we showed that the increase in circulating adiponectin levels and subsequent activation of adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase are necessary for the cardioprotection afforded by short‐term caloric restriction. In contrast, the mechanisms by which prolonged caloric restriction confers cardioprotection seem more complicated. Adiponectin, nitric oxide synthase and sirtuin may form a network of cardiovascular protection during caloric restriction. Recently, by using genetically engineered mice, we found that, in addition to endothelial nitric oxide synthase, neuronal nitric oxide synthase plays an essential role in the development of cardioprotection afforded by prolonged caloric restriction. Third, long‐term caloric restriction has cardiac‐specific effects that attenuate the age‐associated impairment seen in left ventricular diastolic function. It is possible that long‐term caloric restriction partially retards cardiac senescence by attenuating oxidative damage in the aged heart. Overall, we strongly believe that caloric restriction could reduce morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular events in humans. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 143–156.
Spiroplasma found in the eyes of scrapie affected sheep
Authors: Bastian Frank O. , Boudreaux Charles M. , Hagius Sue D. , Bulgin Marie S. , Sorensen‐Melson Sharon J. , Enright Frederick M. , Elzer Philip H.
Published: January 2011

Objective  Scrapie, a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) occurring naturally in sheep, characteristically shows a severe retinopathy that is well developed in the terminal phases of the disease. In this study, we set out to demonstrate similar retinal changes in our ruminant spiroplasmosis TSE model.

Procedure  The eyes from deer, sheep, and goats that were inoculated intracranially with the laboratory strain of spiroplasma (suckling mouse cataract [SMCA] strain of Spiroplasma mirum) or with Spiroplasma sp. isolated from the brains affected with scrapie or with chronic wasting disease were examined by light microscopy for pathologic changes and by immunocytochemistry for distribution of spiroplasma antigen. The eyes were also obtained from a research flock of sheep with terminal scrapie, from which the intraocular tissues were submitted aseptically for culture assay in M1D broth or as explants on bovine corneal endothelia (BCE).

Results  The eyes from the spiroplasmosis ruminant models showed retinopathy remarkably similar to eye lesions seen in sheep with scrapie. The spiroplasma antigen accrued in the ruminant model eye tissues, particularly in the retina, the vitreous humor, and the corneal endothelia. A Spiroplasma sp. grew out of the scrapie‐affected eyes both in the M1D broth and in the BCE cultures but did not expand. These new spiroplasma isolates differed immunologically from SMCA.

Conclusion  These data showed a clear association of spiroplasma with scrapie suggesting that these bacteria have a role in the pathogenesis of TSE and that the eye should be a research focus for future studies of TSE.
Efficacy of topically applied liposome‐bound tetracycline in the treatment of dry eye model
Authors: Shafaa Medhat W. , El shazly Laila H. , El shazly Amany H. , El gohary Amal A. , El hossary Ghada G.
Published: January 2011

Objective  To evaluate the effects of liposome‐bound tetracycline eye drops in a rabbit dry eye model evaluating their advantage of being less allergic, preservative free and prolonged action compared with other tear substitutes.

Procedures  New Zealand albino rabbits were equally divided into control group and dry eye induced groups. Dryness was induced in 24 eyes of 12 healthy adult male albino rabbits by instilling atropine sulfate eye drops 1% three times daily for 1 week, then animals were subdivided into four groups; group 1 (rabbits with dry eye model), groups 2, 3, and 4: rabbits with dry eye model treated for 7 days starting on 7th day of dryness induction with either tetracycline, empty liposome, or combined tetracycline with liposome as topical eye drops respectively. Schirmer (STT) test and tear break up time (TBUT) were assessed on days 0, 2, 4, 7, 9, 11, and 14. Animals were sacrificed on day 14 and histopathological examination of the cornea and conjunctiva was performed.

Results  Tear break up time and STT test values were significantly improved in groups 2, 3, 4 as compared with group 1. The histopathological examination showed normal cytoarchitecture of corneas and conjunctivae in groups 2, 3, 4 against the dryness effect that continued to affect the cornea and conjunctival epithelium in group 1. There was a significant improvement in the group treated with liposome‐bound tetracycline eye drops (group 4) as compared with tetracycline alone (group 2) and empty liposome (group 3).

Conclusion  The use of liposome encapsulated tetracycline significantly improved STT and TBUT values as well as reverse surface ocular pathology.
Unilateral orbital lacrimal gland abscess in a horse
Authors: Greenberg Shari M. , Plummer Caryn E. , Brooks Dennis E. , Porter Michael , Farina Lisa L. , Winter Matthew D.
Published: January 2011

A 20‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding presented for evaluation of a periorbital dorsal swelling of the left eye that had been intermittently present for 3 months. Upon ocular examination, a firm, non‐painful swelling was identified under the upper eyelid in the region of the orbital lacrimal gland, and was noted to extend anteriorly from underneath the dorsal orbital rim. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a mixed echogenic mass along the dorsal orbital rim that followed the contour of the globe. CT scan showed a moderately contrast enhancing mass that was contiguous with the eyelid. Differential diagnoses included neoplasia, inflammatory lesions such as a granuloma, foreign body or abscess. Surgical exploration and excision of the mass revealed a lobular structure with a purulent center. Histopathology identified the mass as the orbital lacrimal gland with concurrent severe dacryoadenitis. Culture of the purulent center of the mass revealedbeta‐hemolytic Staphylococcus aureus. The patient was maintained on supportive care and antibiotic treatment based on sensitivity postoperatively. No recurrence was reported 40 months later. This paper aims to identify bacterial dacryoadenitis as a cause for unilateral periorbital swelling in the horse. Differential diagnoses for this presentation, as well as successful surgical management are discussed. To the author’s knowledge, this is the first case of bacterial dacryoadenitis and subsequent abscessation of the orbital lacrimal gland in the horse.
Event‐specific data envelopment models and efficiency analysis*
Authors: Chambers Robert G. , Hailu Atakelty , Quiggin John
Published: January 2011

Most, if not all, production technologies are stochastic. This article demonstrates how data envelopment analysis (DEA) methods can be adapted to accommodate stochastic elements in a state‐contingent setting. Specifically, we show how observations on a random input, not under the control of the producer and not known at the time that variable input decisions are made, can be used to partition the state space in a fashion that permits DEA models to approximate an event‐specific production technology. The approach proposed in this article uses observed data on random inputs and is easy to implement. After developing the event‐specific DEA representation, we apply it to a data set for Western Australian barley production data. Our results highlight the need for acknowledging stochastic elements in efficiency analysis.
On the regulation of spatial externalities: coexistence between GM and conventional crops in the EU and the ‘newcomer principle’*
Authors: Ceddia Michele Graziano , Bartlett Mark , De Lucia Caterina , Perrings Charles
Published: January 2011

Pollen‐mediated gene flow is one of the main concerns associated with the introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops. Should a premium for non‐GM varieties emerge on the market, ‘contamination’ by GM pollen would generate a revenue loss for growers of non‐GM varieties. This paper analyses the problem of pollen‐mediated gene flow as a particular type of production externality. The model, although simple, provides useful insights into coexistence policies. Following on from this and taking GM herbicide‐tolerant oilseed rape (Brassica napus) as a model crop, a Monte Carlo simulation is used to generate data and then estimate the effect of several important policy variables (including width of buffer zones and spatial aggregation) on the magnitude of the externality associated with pollen‐mediated gene flow.
Research and productivity in Thai agriculture
Authors: Suphannachart Waleerat , Warr Peter
Published: January 2011

This paper examines the impact that publicly funded agricultural research has on productivity in crop production within Thailand. It tests empirically the two hypotheses that, first, publicly funded research and development (R&D) in crop production is a significant determinant of total factor productivity (TFP) in the crop sector and, second, that its social rate of return is high. The statistical analysis applies error correction methods to national level time series data for Thailand, covering the period 1970–2006. Emphasis is given to public research in crop production, where most publicly funded agricultural R&D has occurred. The role of international research spillovers and other possible determinants of TFP are also taken into account. The results demonstrate that public investment in research has a positive and significant impact on TFP. International research spillovers have also contributed to TFP. The results support the finding of earlier studies that returns on public research investment have been high. This result holds even after controlling for possible sources of upward biases present in most such studies, due to the omission of alternative determinants of measured TFP. The findings raise a concern over declining public expenditure on crop research, in Thailand and many other developing countries.
Optimal vessel size and output in the Australian northern prawn fishery: a restricted profit function approach*
Authors: Pascoe Sean , Vieira Simon , Dichmont Catherine M. , Punt André E.
Published: January 2011

Individual transferable quotas (ITQs) are to be introduced into Australia’s Northern Prawn fishery in the near future. Total allowable catches (TACs) are to be set with the objective of maximising economic efficiency in the fishery. Under ITQs, vessel owners have the ability to adjust their fishing activities to maximise profits and changes in fleet structure resulting from management changes need to be considered when determining TACs. A restricted profit function for the fishery was estimated to determine the optimal vessel characteristics and output levels as a guide to how the fleet may adjust under an ITQ system. Vessels were found to be currently close to their optimal size given average historic prices and current stock conditions. However, higher tiger prawn stocks are expected to result in the average size of vessels increasing, with rising fuel prices also likely to result in capital being substituted for fishing days. Optimal average vessel‐level catches of the main species are lower than current average vessel catches for a wide range of input and output prices. These changes in vessel characteristics and behaviour need to be incorporated in the derivation of the optimal TACs if economic efficiency objectives are to be achieved.
Subsidies and distortions in China’s agriculture: evidence from producer‐level data*
Authors: Huang Jikun , Wang Xiaobing , Zhi Huayong , Huang Zhurong , Rozelle Scott
Published: January 2011

Concerned about national grain self‐sufficiency and rural household incomes, in 2004 China announced that it was planning to reverse its longstanding policy of taxing farm households and instead began to provide them with subsidies. Over the past five years, annual announcements have trumpeted rises in subsidies. Surprisingly, despite the historic turnaround of policy and the likely implication of this subsidy policy to China’s grain economy, there has been no household‐level survey‐based research that has sought to understand the effect of China’s subsidy programme on household behaviour. Using data from a national survey of more than 1000 households, we examine in detail a number of different dimensions of the subsidy programme. According to the survey‐based findings, we have shown that although agricultural subsidies per farm are low, on per unit of cultivated area basis or total amount of budget, the subsidies are high. Almost all producers are receiving them. Subsidies are mostly being given to the land contractor, not the tiller. Most importantly, the subsidies appear to be nondistorting. No matter if we look at descriptive statistics in tables, scatter plots or regression analyses, there is no evidence that grain subsidies are distorting producer decisions in terms of grain area or input use decisions.
Managing complexity in modern farming*
Authors: Kingwell Ross
Published: January 2011

Modern farming in Australia is no longer simple. Farms are large, multi‐enterprise businesses underpinned by expensive capital investments, changing production technologies, volatile markets and social challenges. The complexity of modern broadacre farming leads to the question: what is the nature of the relationship between farm business complexity and farm profitability? This study uses bioeconomic farm modelling and employs eight measures of complexity to examine the profitability and complexity of a wide range of broadacre farming systems in Australia. Rank order correlations between farm profitability and each measure of complexity show inconsistent relationships, although the most profitable farming systems are found to be reasonably complex on several criteria. Among the set of highly profitable systems are found some characterised by less complexity. A commonly acknowledged feature of farm business complexity is the annual workload of the farmer, yet the trade‐off between farm profit and this workload is found not to be large. A case is outlined where the farmer’s annual hours worked could be reduced by 9 per cent for a 3 per cent reduction in farm profit. If farmers’ workloads are proving problematic now, and in the future, then agricultural R&D, service delivery and policy development will need to focus more on being highly attractive to increasingly time‐poor farm managers.
Meeting the challenge of offshoring R&D: an examination of firm‐ and location‐specific factors
Authors: Ambos Björn , Ambos Tina C.
Published: January 2011

This paper, through a systematic survey of 83 international R&D engagements of 36 German MNCs, seeks to extend previous research on the location decisions of international R&D engagements and inform managers about the critical factors that may be considered when taking this important decision. Covering engagements in 21 countries, we show that the knowledge intensity of the industry as well as variables pertaining to the process school of internationalization play an important role when offshoring R&D.
Organizing for external technology commercialization: evidence from a multiple case study in the pharmaceutical industry
Authors: Bianchi Mattia , Chiaroni Davide , Chiesa Vittorio , Frattini Federico
Published: January 2011

External technology commercialization (ETC) is increasingly being regarded as a strategic priority by companies. ETC is the use of out‐licensing to transfer technologies that are disembodied from products to other organizations. Previous research has focused on the economic and strategic dimensions but little attention has so far been paid to how ETC should be organized. This paper explores whether and how firms operating in different contexts adopt dissimilar organizational solutions for their ETC activities. To this aim, a theoretical framework is first developed that comprises the key constitutive elements of ETC organization and a number of firm‐level and deal‐level factors that are supposed to influence organizational design choices. Based on a multiple case‐study analysis involving 16 out‐licensing deals executed in seven Italian pharmaceutical firms, the paper shows that the organization of out‐licensing tasks and the allocation of decision‐making power is shaped by, and adapts to, the relevance of ETC in the corporate strategy, the volume of ETC transactions, the stage of development of the technology being commercialized and the competitive threats due to the deal. The paper is believed to be useful for licensing and R&D managers who can find practical insights into how ETC activities can be organized and which critical contextual factors should be accounted for when designing such organization.
Western Feminism and Anti‐Imperialism: The Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom’s Anti‐Opium Campaign
Authors: Siegel Mona L.
Published: January 2011

In 1926, the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF) officially condemned imperialism as antithetical to lasting peace. A year later, following on this resolution, the League sent a delegation of WILPF members to make contact with like‐minded women in Indochina, China, and Japan. Upon the conclusion of the “mission to Asia,” the League launched a two‐year‐long effort to battle the illegal opium trade in Asia. This article argues that WILPF members undertook the anti‐opium campaign in response to two differing objectives: to showcase Western women’s competence in matters of international policy and to demonstrate the incompatibility of imperialism with peace and freedom. Even the most anti‐imperialist of WILPF members, however, had trouble articulating a specifically feminist rationale for opposing both the illegal opium trade and Western imperialism more broadly.
Hungry for Peace: Jane Addams and the Hull‐House Museum’s Contemporary Struggle for Food Justice
Authors: Lee Lisa Yun
Published: January 2011

Looking at the literal and metaphorical ways that bread manifests itself in different aspects of Jane Addams’s life and work, this essay maps out a new way of thinking about Addams’s unapologetic humanist project and efforts for peace that crossed boundaries of state and nation, gender, race, and class. The research for this work was inspired by a vibrant public program at the Jane Addams Hull‐House Museum called Re‐Thinking Soup, which is a modern day soup kitchen, democratic forum, laboratory space, and museum exhibit that is held weekly in the Residents’ Dining Hall, one of the original buildings of the Hull‐House Settlement. The essay explores the ways that Addams’s legacy and the work at Hull‐House around food can inform, educate, and expand the horizon of our imaginations on critical contemporary issues of social justice.
Annual Research Review: The promise of stem cell research for neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Vaccarino Flora M. , Urban Alexander Eckehart , Stevens Hanna E. , Szekely Anna , Abyzov Alexej , Grigorenko Elena L. , Gerstein Mark , Weissman Sherman
Published: January 2011

The study of the developing brain has begun to shed light on the underpinnings of both early and adult onset neuropsychiatric disorders. Neuroimaging of the human brain across developmental time points and the use of model animal systems have combined to reveal brain systems and gene products that may play a role in autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and many other neurodevelopmental conditions. However, precisely how genes may function in human brain development and how they interact with each other leading to psychiatric disorders is unknown. Because of an increasing understanding of neural stem cells and how the nervous system subsequently develops from these cells, we have now the ability to study disorders of the nervous system in a new way – by rewinding and reviewing the development of human neural cells. Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), developed from mature somatic cells, have allowed the development of specific cells in patients to be observed in real time. Moreover, they have allowed some neuronal‐specific abnormalities to be corrected with pharmacological intervention in tissue culture. These exciting advances based on the use of iPSCs hold great promise for understanding, diagnosing and, possibly, treating psychiatric disorders. Specifically, examination of iPSCs from typically developing individuals will reveal how basic cellular processes and genetic differences contribute to individually unique nervous systems. Moreover, by comparing iPSCs from typically developing individuals and patients, differences at stem cell stages, through neural differentiation, and into the development of functional neurons may be identified that will reveal opportunities for intervention. The application of such techniques to early onset neuropsychiatric disorders is still on the horizon but has become a reality of current research efforts as a consequence of the revelations of many years of basic developmental neurobiological science.
Internet user behaviour in France and Britain: exploring socio‐spatial disparity among adolescents
Authors: Lichy Jessica
Published: January 2011

The Internet has radically transformed society – although its diffusion has been uneven. Various studies of digital inequality have been undertaken in Anglo‐Saxon communities. Few studies have investigated digital inequality from a socio‐spatial perspective (urban vs. suburban, rather than urban vs. rural) in a French setting. This absence underscores a gap in knowledge and methodology. It highlights the complexities of gathering comparable data on Internet user behaviour beyond national borders. This paper takes a multidisciplinary approach to investigate emerging trends in Internet use across different territories (inner‐city and suburban, as opposed to urban vs. rural) by means of in‐depth interviews with Internet users aged 13–15 years old in France and Britain. The aim is to provide a broad understanding of the way in which teenage Internet users behave online in different territories. The investigation reveals a number of converging trends that are common to both France and Britain and some unexpected disparity.
South African consumers' opinions and beliefs regarding the health benefits of soy and soy products
Authors: Bosman Magdalena J.C. , Ellis Susanna M. , Jerling Johann C. , Badham Jane , van der Merwe Daleen
Published: January 2011

Studies linking diet and health and consumers' demand for health information, has led to an increasing awareness of the role of nutrition in health and disease. Interest in soy foods and an awareness of its health benefits has also increased. The objective was to assess South African (SA) consumers' opinions and beliefs regarding the health benefits of soy and soy products using different statements.

This cross‐sectional study randomly selected 3001 respondents from metropolitan and rural areas in South Africa. Data of 81% of respondents (n = 2437), who had heard of soy, were used. Trained fieldworkers administered questionnaires as face‐to‐face interviews. Fifteen statements probing consumers' opinions regarding the health benefits of soy were used. The data were weighted to be representative of the total South Africa adult population (n = 18 251 000) based on gender, age, living environment and race distribution in 2000.

Effect sizes were used to determine the strength of associations (practical significance), since statistical significance could be attributed to the large study population. No practically significant differences between either gender or age groups, or between rural and metropolitan respondents' opinions were found. Most respondents in the total study population (50–75%), as well as within all race groups agreed that soy has many health benefits; soy is good for you; soy lowers cholesterol; soy is good for people with a milk allergy; soy helps keep your heart healthy; soy is good for diabetes and soy is good for growing children. Medium to large practically significant differences were found between racial groups regarding some of the statements. Practically significantly more adult Black consumers believed that soy is only for people with a low‐income, and fewer that soy milk is good for people with a milk allergy than did White, Indian and Coloured consumers. Whites were relatively more positive towards the use of soy for people with a milk allergy opposed to Blacks, while Blacks were relatively more positive than Whites towards the statement that soy helps keep your bones strong.

The results indicate that SA consumers held positive opinions and associate consumption of soy with several health benefits. The role of soy is seen more as being preventative than curative. It may represent a challenge to the food industry to design soy‐containing products that appeal to a broader spectrum of consumers.
A forecast simulation analysis of the next‐generation DVD market based on consumer preference data
Authors: Lee Jongsu , Choi Jae Young , Cho Youngsang
Published: January 2011

Just as standards wars over formats had characterized VCRs upon introduction to the market, the next‐generation DVD standards war between Blu‐Ray and HD‐DVD lasted 6 years before Blu‐Ray won the contest. Beginning with stated preference data drawn from a structured conjoint survey conducted before Blu‐Ray became the de facto standard of the next‐generation DVD format, we estimate consumer preferences on digital video players. A Bayesian mixed‐logit model is used and market share simulations are conducted under various scenarios based on the estimated parameters from Bayesian mixed‐logit model to surmise the future South Korean digital video‐player market. Results indicate that consumers feel that network size and title availability are more important than hardware‐related facets of the product, such as definition and storage capacity. The level of title availability and price of the Blu‐Ray player for Blu‐Ray's dominance over DVD will dramatically vary by the penetration rate of DVD players.
Impact of a sustained virological response on the long‐term outcome of hepatitis C
Authors: Alberti Alfredo
Published: January 2011

A sustained virological response (SVR), defined as undetectable hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐RNA 24 weeks after withdrawal from therapy (SVR‐24w), is the primary endpoint of antiviral therapy in chronic hepatitis C. There is solid evidence that patients who reach this target will remain virus free during long‐term follow‐up, with a risk of late HCV recurrence of <2% in published series using the most stringent criteria for assessing the virological response during and after antiviral therapy. Long‐term observational studies indicate that SVR‐24w has a profound impact on the natural course of chronic hepatitis C in relation to biochemical and histological remission of liver disease and improvement in quality of life. The effects of successful antiviral therapy on clinical endpoints such as the development of end‐stage liver disease, its severe complications and liver‐related mortality have been more difficult to ascertain because of the heterogeneity of the initial staging and rate of progression of chronic hepatitis C. However, most available data suggest that SVR following antiviral therapy reduces the risk of progression to cirrhosis and may prevent the development of severe liver complications and improve survival, at least in successfully treated patients who have already progressed to significant liver fibrosis or early cirrhosis. Outcome modelling suggests that these effects might also include HCV patients treated with milder forms of liver damage.
How to assess liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C: serum markers or transient elastography vs. liver biopsy?
Authors: Castera Laurent , Bedossa Pierre
Published: January 2011

The assessment of liver fibrosis is a major issue in the management of patients with chronic hepatitis C. Liver biopsy has traditionally been considered the gold standard for the evaluation of tissue damage, including fibrosis. In addition, it detects associated lesions such as steatosis, steatohepatitis or iron overload, which provide useful information for patient management and prognosis. Liver biopsy is, however, an invasive procedure, with a risk of rare but potentially life‐threatening complications and it is prone to sampling errors. These limitations have led to the development of non‐invasive methods. Currently available tests rely on two different but complementary approaches: (i) a ‘biological’ approach based on the dosage of serum biomarkers of fibrosis; (ii) a ‘physical’ approach based on the measurement of liver stiffness, using transient elastography. Although significant progress has been made in the non‐invasive diagnosis of fibrosis, it is increasingly clear that these methods will not completely replace liver biopsy. Instead, non‐invasive methods and liver biopsy should be used in an integrated approach for more efficient and convenient management of patients with chronic hepatitis C. The aim of this review is to discuss the advantages and limitations of liver biopsy and non‐invasive methods and the perspectives for their use in clinical practice.