bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Second‐harmonic microscopy of ex vivo porcine corneas
Authors: VOHNSEN B. , ARTAL P.
Published: September 2008

The ex vivo cornea of porcine eyes has been studied with second‐harmonic microscopy with a laboratory‐built system to examine the structure of collagen fibrils at different length scales, as well as the image dependence on polarization and wavelength of the illumination source. We found that collagen fibrils can effectively be visualized with second‐harmonic microscopy, in agreement with previous findings, at different wavelengths of the illumination. The same laser source used for imaging may also be used to induce changes to the corneal tissues that are observable both in the linear and second‐harmonic imaging channels. Such studies are essential first steps towards a future high‐resolution optical characterization technique for simultaneous corneal surgery and wound healing of the human eye.
Performance of a gradient‐based shift estimator in a spatially sparse data environment: tracking the sub‐pixel motion of fluorescent particles
Authors: KIRKPATRICK S.J. , DUNCAN D.D.
Published: September 2008

Through a series of numerical simulations, we investigate the suitability of a relatively new gradient‐based particle‐tracking algorithm for efficiently quantifying sub‐pixel shifts of fluorescently labelled cells or particles from a sequence of video microscopy images. The algorithm excels at estimating sub‐0.5 pixel per frame shifts in both data‐dense (e.g. laser speckle imaging) and data‐sparse (e.g. fluorescence imaging) applications. No upsampling (i.e. interpolation) is required to achieve the sub‐pixel shift resolution, and thus the approach avoids the complexity and potential errors associated with the interpolation process. An efficient matlab sub‐routine is provided for implementing the algorithm.
EM 3D contour maps provide protein assembly at the nanoscale within the neuronal porosome complex
Authors: CHO W.J. , REN G. , JENA B.P.
Published: September 2008

The neuronal porosome complex, the secretory machinery at the plasma membrane of nerve terminals, is a 12–17‐nm cup‐shaped lipoprotein structure possessing a central plug. Since the porosome is a membrane associated, multi‐protein complex measuring >650 kD, it has precluded generation of 3D crystals for x‐ray diffraction studies, nor structural analysis at the atomic level using solution magnetic resonance spectroscopy. These limitations were partially overcome in the current studies, furthering our understanding of the porosome structure. Using atomic force microscopy, electron microscopy and electron density and 3D contour mapping, finally provides at the nanoscale, the structure and assembly of proteins within the neuronal porosome complex. Results from this study demonstrate a set of eight protein units lining the porosome cup, each connected via spoke‐like elements to a central plug region within the structure. The isolation of intact porosomes for near‐atomic resolution using cryo‐electron diffraction measurements, is finally possible.
Mirrored pyramidal wells for simultaneous multiple vantage point microscopy
Authors: SEALE K.T. , REISERER R.S. , MARKOV D.A. , GES I.A. , WRIGHT C. , JANETOPOULOS C. , WIKSWO J.P.
Published: September 2008

We report a novel method for obtaining simultaneous images from multiple vantage points of a microscopic specimen using size‐matched microscopic mirrors created from anisotropically etched silicon. The resulting pyramidal wells enable bright‐field and fluorescent side‐view images, and when combined with z‐sectioning, provide additional information for 3D reconstructions of the specimen. We have demonstrated the 3D localization and tracking over time of the centrosome of a live Dictyostelium discoideum. The simultaneous acquisition of images from multiple perspectives also provides a five‐fold increase in the theoretical collection efficiency of emitted photons, a property which may be useful for low‐light imaging modalities such as bioluminescence, or low abundance surface‐marker labelling.
The successful use of botulinum toxin for the treatment of nasal hyperhidrosis
Authors: Geddoa Emad , Balakumar A. K. , Paes T. R. F.
Published: September 2008

Background  Patients with facial hyperhidrosis often experience occupational, social, and psychological problems. Botulinum toxin type A, which has been shown to be useful in the treatment of hyperhidrosis, can cause the paralysis of facial muscles if used in the skin overlying the facial muscles. It can, however, be used in the skin of the nose without significantly affecting the muscles of facial expression.

Methods  Two patients with severe nasal hyperhidrosis were treated with botulinum toxin.

Results  Two patients with severe nasal hyperhidrosis responded to a single session of treatment with intradermal injections of botulinum toxin.

Conclusions  This treatment method for nasal hyperhidrosis is simple, well tolerated, and effective, and significantly improves the quality of life of the affected individuals.
Evaluation of 23 cutaneous anthrax patients in eastern Anatolia, Turkey: diagnosis and risk factors*
Authors: Ozcan Hamdi , Kayabas Uner , Bayindir Yasar , Bayraktar Mehmet R. , Ay Selma
Published: September 2008

Background  Anthrax is a potentially fatal zoonotic disease. The diagnosis of cutaneous anthrax (CA) may be very difficult, particularly in atypical presentations and nonendemic regions.

Aim  To evaluate the clinical features and diagnostic difficulties of 23 anthrax cases seen between May 2004 and September 2006.

Methods  Twenty‐three patients with CA were included in this study. The diagnosis of CA was based on clinical findings and/or microbiologic procedures.

Results  All patients with a diagnosis of CA were followed up. One patient experienced toxemic shock. Twenty‐two patients had a history of animal contact. Only one patient did not recall any history of suspicious contact. The clinical presentation of CA was typical in 20 patients (87%). Two patients were initially misdiagnosed with insect bites and one patient with angioedema. Cultures from the lesions were positive for Bacillus anthracis in seven cases (30.4%). Gram stain from the lesions revealed Gram‐positive rods in eight cases (34.8%). Fifteen patients (65.2%) were diagnosed by clinical presentation and a history of contact with sick animals and/or contaminated animal products.

Conclusion  CA is a very contagious and important infectious disease worldwide. Early and accurate diagnosis dramatically affects the prognosis of the disease. The diagnosis of CA may be difficult, especially in atypical presentations and nonendemic areas. Thus, CA should be kept in mind, especially in these situations.
Examination of specific DNA by PCR in patients with different forms of Lyme borreliosis
Authors: Pícha Dušan , Moravcová Lenka , Holečková Daniela , Žd’árský Emanuel , Valešová Marie , Marešová Vilma , Hercogová Jana , Vanousová Daniela
Published: September 2008

Background  Borrelial specific DNA was examined in a group of 62 patients with different forms of Lyme borreliosis (LB) (32 patients suffered from neuroborreliosis, 19 manifested erythema migrans, and 11 joint involvement).

Methods  Nested‐PCR system with five newly derived primers was used in parallel. The study was organized prospectively, the presence of DNA was tested for plasma, CSF, joint fluid and urine before treatment, and plasma, joint fluid and urine were examined after treatment.

Results  Before therapy, 36 patients (58.1%) were DNA positive on the whole; 21 positive patients (65.6%) were found in the group of neuroborreliosis, 8 (42.1%) showed signs of skin involvement, and 7 (63.6%) were positive in arthritis. After treatment, 11 patients (36.7%) were positive in neuroborreliosis, 3 (17.6%) in skin form, and 6 (54.5%) in joint form of LB. Among 97 positive amplifications the most frequent target was found in primer corresponding with 16S rDNA (50 samples, 51.5%). Lower but very similar results were obtained with primers for OspA (18 positive amplifications; 18.6%), OspC (13 positive amplifications; 13.4%), and flagellin (13 positive amplifications; 13.4%). There were 11 patients in whom only DNA and no specific antibodies were found.

Conclusions  Specific DNA was found in all clinical groups of LB with similar sensitivity. Examination of the borrelial DNA in urine displayed the same sensitivity as in CSF and had a two times higher sensitivity than in plasma.
Dermoscopic patterns of superficial basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Scalvenzi Massimiliano , Lembo Serena , Francia Maria Grazia , Balato Anna
Published: September 2008

Background  Superficial basal cell carcinoma (BCC) presents as a scaly, pink to red–brown patch and is predominantly located on the trunk. Clinical diagnosis may not be always easy and implicates a variety of differential diagnoses; in this situation dermoscopy has been reported improving the diagnostic accuracy. This study investigated dermoscopic patterns of superficial BCC focalizing the most specific and frequent structures in order to improve the diagnostic accuracy.

Limitations  Study population referred to skin lesion clinic.

Methods  Dermoscopic patterns of 42 superficial BCCs were analyzed and photographed. These cases represented the 8% of all BCCs excised in our Department between 2005 and 2006.

Results  Dermoscopic structures observed in the 42 superficial BCCs consisted of shiny white to red areas (100%), “erosions” (78.6%), short fine telangiectasias (SFTs) (66.6%), leaf‐like areas (16.6%), arborizing telangiectasias (14.3%), blue–gray globules (14.3%) and large blue–gray ovoid nests (4.7%).

Conclusions  Our study identifies the presence of shiny white to red areas, SFTs and “erosions” as main dermoscopic criteria of superficial BCC. Other dermoscopic features, such as leaf‐like areas, arborizing telangiectasias, blue–gray globules and large blue–gray ovoid nests, are not strongly associated with the diagnosis of superficial BCC but they are useful in the differential diagnosis from other pigmented and nonpigmented skin lesions.
Hematidrosis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Da Silva Carvalho Ana Carolina , Machado‐Pinto Jackson , Nogueira Gustavo Carneiro , Almeida Luiz Maurício Costa , Nunes Maurício Buzelin
Published: September 2008

The authors report the case of a 9 year‐old female who had bleeding episodes around the mouth after strenuous exercise or prolonged exposure to heat. Characteristically, bleeding occurred right after sweat drops started appearing on the surface of the skin around the mouth. The bleeding episodes ceased spontaneously.
Development of an interactive computer program for advance care planning
Authors: Green Michael J. , Levi Benjamin H.
Published: September 2008

Objective  To describe the development of an innovative, multi‐media decision aid for advance care planning.

Background  Advance care planning is an important way for people to articulate their wishes for medical care when they are not able to speak for themselves. Living wills and other types of advance directives are the most commonly used tools for advance care planning, but have been criticized for being vague, difficult to interpret, and inconsistent with individuals’ core beliefs and values.

Results  We developed a multimedia, computer‐based decision aid for advance care planning (‘Making Your Wishes Known: Planning Your Medical Future’) to overcome many of the limitations of standard advance directive forms. This computer program guides individuals through the process of advance care planning, and unlike standard advance directives, provides tailored education, values clarification exercises, and a decision‐making tool that translates an individual’s values and preferences into a specific medical plan that can be implemented by a health‐care team. Pilot testing with 50 adult volunteers recruited from an outpatient primary care clinic showed high levels of satisfaction with the program. Further pilot testing with 34 cancer patients indicated that the program was perceived to be highly accurate at representing patients’ wishes.

Conclusions  This paper describes the development of an innovative decision aid for advance care planning that was designed to overcome common problems with standard advance directives. Preliminary testing suggests that it is acceptable to users and is accurate.
QUANTITATIVE FUNCTIONAL IMAGING AND KINETIC STUDIES WITH HIGH‐Z CONTRAST AGENTS USING SYNCHROTRON RADIATION COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
Authors: Adam JF , Bayat S , Porra L , Elleaume H , Estève F , Suortti P
Published: September 2008

There is an increasing demand in diagnostic radiology for extracting additional morphological and functional quantitative parameters from three‐dimensional computed tomography (CT) images. Synchrotron radiation computed tomography (SRCT) is the state‐of‐the‐art method in preclinical X‐ray CT, because its performance is close to the theoretical limits in terms of accuracy and precision.

The SRCT method with monochromatic X‐ray beams yields absolute high‐Z element contrast agent concentrations, without errors arising from beam hardening or scatter artefacts, by using digital subtraction techniques of the sinograms. Each pixel of the reconstructed difference images provides a quantitative concentration versus time curve of inhaled or injected high‐Z contrast agents (xenon or iodine) with a high sensitivity. This is the key point of two functional imaging techniques that were developed at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility: brain perfusion and lung function (ventilation and perfusion).

These two imaging techniques provide parametric images expressed in absolute perfusion parameters (blood volume, blood flow, mean transit time and capillary permeability) or ventilation parameters (lung volume, regional lung ventilation, bronchial lumen size, regional airway and lung compliance) with a high accuracy and precision.

The aim of the present brief review is to give a snapshot of the status and perspectives of these two imaging techniques, with emphasis on the performances and interests for functional imaging. Two separate sections will then describe the results obtained so far using SRCT as an in vivo functional imaging tool for measuring changes in haemodynamics and ventilation, in the investigation of experimental pathophysiology and in the effects of therapeutic intervention.
PRENATAL EXPOSURE TO ZYMOSAN RESULTS IN HYPERTENSION IN ADULT OFFSPRING RATS
Authors: Liao Wenqiang , Wei Yanling , Yu Changan , Zhou Jianzhi , Li Shuhui , Pang Yan , Li Geng , Li Xiaohui
Published: September 2008

Events in utero appear to have a significant role in the development of cardiovascular dysfunction in adulthood. In the present study, we evaluated the effects of prenatal exposure to zymosan, a non‐infectious and non‐bacterial agent capable of inducing inflammation, on mean systolic arterial pressure (MSAP) in rat offspring at 6–66 weeks of age.

Pregnant rats were divided into three groups: (i) a control group, administered 0.5 mL, i.p., saline on gestation Days 8, 10 and 12; (ii) a zymosan‐treated group, given 2.37 mg/kg, i.p., zymosan on gestation Days 8, 10 and 12; and (iii) a pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) + zymosan‐treated group, which was given 100 mg/kg, i.p., PDTC 1 h before zymosan. At 6, 16, 26, 36, 56 and 66 weeks of age, MSAP was determined in rat offspring from all three groups. Serum levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α were determined in dams, as well as in offspring at 24 and 56 weeks of age. In addition, protein levels of nuclear factor (NF)‐κB (p65) in the myocardium and kidney of offspring were determined at 24 weeks of age.

The results showed that MSAP and NF‐κB (p65) levels in the myocardium and kidney of offspring from the zymosan‐treated group were increased significantly compared with control. This increase was inhibited by concomitant treatment with PDTC. Serum TNF‐α levels in dams exposed to zymosan and in their offspring at 56 weeks of age (but not at 24 weeks of age) were significantly increased compared with levels in the control group. Following lipopolysaccharide treatment (1 mg/kg, i.p.) of adult rat offspring at 24 weeks of age, there was a further increase in serum TNF‐α levels in offspring in the zymosan‐treated group compared with the other two groups.

The findings of the present study suggest that non‐bacterial inflammation during gestation can lead to hypertension in offspring and that NF‐κB signalling may play a critical role in this process.
Living in the country and studying in the city. The art of passing exams and remaining sane
Authors: Grant Cameron C. , Pinnock Ralph , Innes Asher M. , Sullivan Michael James
Published: September 2008

Background:  Doctors working in smaller centres have fewer resources available to help them pass the specialist examination components of their training.

Aim:  To describe the delivery of a teaching programme that helps paediatricians in training in both peripheral and regional centres in New Zealand (NZ) to successfully prepare for their specialist written examinations.

Methods:  The teaching programme was initially developed for paediatricians in training in Auckland and then developed into a national teaching resource. Real‐time visual and auditory communication among the various teaching sites was established by the NZ Telepaediatric Service. The sessions were also available for subsequent review, initially as a DVD recording or via a Telepaediatric service videoconferencing unit and, since 2007, as a webcast.

Results:  In association with the development of this teaching programme, the percentage pass rate for the paediatric specialist examinations has increased significantly for those exam candidates that access the teaching sessions remotely from other NZ centres (60% vs. 82%, χ12 = 4.28, P = 0.04). Between 80 and 90% of NZ candidates now pass the examination. In comparison, the pass rate for Australian candidates sitting the identical examination remains between 60 and 70%.

Conclusions:  Telepaediatrics has enabled interactive sessions to be conducted with students in peripheral and the other regional centres as well as those attending in person in Auckland. Its development has enabled examination pass rates in smaller centres to increase.
Epidemiology of acute rheumatic fever in New Zealand 1996–2005
Authors: Jaine Richard , Baker Michael , Venugopal Kamalesh
Published: September 2008

Aim:  Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and its sequela chronic rheumatic heart disease remain significant causes of morbidity and mortality in New Zealand, particularly among Māori and Pacific peoples. Despite its importance, ARF epidemiology has not been reviewed recently. The aims of this study were to assess trends in ARF incidence rates between 1996 and 2005 and the extent to which ARF is concentrated in certain populations based on age, sex, ethnicity and geographical location.

Methods:  This descriptive epidemiological study examined ARF incidence rates using hospitalisation data (1996–2005) and population data from the 1996 and 2001 censuses. Rates were compared by using rate ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

Results:  New Zealand's annual ARF rate was 3.4 per 100 000. ARF was concentrated in certain populations: 5‐ to 14‐year‐olds, Māori and Pacific peoples and upper North Island areas. From 1996 to 2005, the New Zealand European and Others ARF rate decreased significantly while Māori and Pacific peoples’ rates increased. Compared with New Zealand European and Others, rate ratios were 10.0 for Māori and 20.7 for Pacific peoples. Of all cases, 59.5% were Māori or Pacific children aged 5–14 years, yet this group comprised only 4.7% of the New Zealand population.

Conclusion:  ARF rates in New Zealand have failed to decrease since the 1980s and remain some of the highest reported in a developed country. There are large, and now widening, ethnic disparities in ARF incidence. ARF is so concentrated by age group, ethnicity and geographical area that highly targeted interventions could be considered, based on these characteristics.
Antibiotic prophylaxis for childhood urinary tract infection: A national survey
Authors: Chevalier Isabelle , Benoît Geneviève , Gauthier Marie , Phan Véronique , Bonnin Anne‐Claude Bernard , Lebel Marc H
Published: September 2008

Aims:  To describe attitudes of paediatricians and paediatric nephrologists regarding antibiotic prophylaxis for urinary tract infection (UTI) and determine the factors associated with its use.

Method:  A self‐administered questionnaire was mailed to Canadian paediatricians (1136) and paediatric nephrologists (42).

Results:  The response rate was 58.1% (684 physicians); 436 who had made a decision about antibiotic prophylaxis for childhood UTI in the previous year were included in the analysis. Of these, 407 (93.3%) were certified in paediatrics and 29 (6.7%) were paediatric nephrologists. Most respondents prescribed prophylaxis for children with grade III‐V vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) (96.5%–98%); 69.8 and 92.8% prescribed it for children with grades I and II VUR, respectively. Factors significantly associated with use of prophylaxis for children with grade I VUR were frequency of decision‐making about prophylaxis, city size and province. Fifteen percent of physicians felt that their practice regarding antibiotic prophylaxis for children with VUR was evidence based. A hundred one respondents (24.3%) prescribed prophylaxis for infants with a first febrile UTI in the absence of VUR. Nineteen percent felt that their practice regarding antibiotic prophylaxis for these infants was evidence based. Prescription of prophylaxis for children >12 months with recurrent UTI in the absence of VUR was influenced by frequency of pyelonephritis (88.5% of respondents) and presence of voiding dysfunction (53.8%). Nine percent of physicians felt that their practice for these children was evidence based.

Conclusion:  Opinions of Canadian paediatricians and paediatric nephrologists regarding antibiotic prophylaxis for UTI in children vary widely, probably because of the paucity of solid evidence about prophylaxis.
Acute suicidality after commencing atomoxetine
Authors: Paxton Georgia Armat , Cranswick Noel Edward
Published: September 2008

An 11 year old boy developed acute agitation and suicidal ideation after commencing atomoxetine shortly after it was approved for use in Australia. The clinical features were similar to reactions described in response to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. The case highlights the importance of close monitoring when starting newly registered medications. An increased risk of suicidal thinking was subsequently identified for this drug leading to a Food and Drug Administration alert and a boxed warning in September 2005, however there are still no other published case reports of acute suicidality.
Stimulus‐selective spiking is driven by the relative timing of synchronous excitation and disinhibition in cat striate neurons in vivo
Authors: Azouz Rony , Gray Charles M.
Published: September 2008

What patterns of synaptic input cause cortical neurons to fire action potentials? Are they stochastic in nature, or do action potentials arise from the specific timing of synaptic input? We addressed these questions by measuring the membrane potential fluctuations associated with the generation of visually evoked action potentials in cat striate cortical neurons in vivo. In response to visual stimulation, action potentials occurred at the crest of large‐amplitude, transient depolarizations (TDs) riding on sustained depolarization of the membrane potential. The magnitude, duration and rate of depolarization of these transient events were tuned for stimulus orientation. Using numerical simulations, we find that these transient events can arise from the temporal interplay between synchronous excitation and inhibition. To validate these findings, we made conductance measurements, at the preferred stimulus orientation, and showed that the TDs arise either from an increase in excitatory conductance, or from a combination of increased excitatory and decreased inhibitory conductance, both riding on sustained changes in synaptic conductances. The properties of the TDs and their underlying conductance suggest that they arise from a specific temporal interplay between synchronous excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs. Our results illustrate a mechanism by which the timing of synaptic inputs determines much of the spiking activity in striate cortical neurons.
Protein kinase C epsilon contributes to basal and sensitizing responses of TRPV1 to capsaicin in rat dorsal root ganglion neurons
Authors: Srinivasan Rahul , Wolfe Darren , Goss James , Watkins Simon , De Groat William C. , Sculptoreanu Adrian , Glorioso Joseph C.
Published: September 2008

Phosphorylation of the vanilloid receptor (TRPV1) by protein kinase C epsilon (PKCɛ) plays an important role in the development of chronic pain. Here, we employ a highly defective herpes simplex virus vector (vHDNP) that expresses dominant negative PKCɛ (DNPKCɛ) as a strategy to demonstrate that PKCɛ is essential for: (i) maintenance of basal phosphorylation and normal TRPV1 responses to capsaicin (CAPS), a TRPV1 agonist and (ii) enhancement of TRPV1 responses by phorbol esters. Phorbol esters induced translocation of endogenous PKCɛ to the plasma membrane and thereby enhanced CAPS currents. These results were extended to an in‐vivo pain model in which vHDNP delivery to dorsal root ganglion neurons caused analgesia in CAPS‐treated, acutely inflamed rat hind paws. These findings support the conclusion that in addition to receptor sensitization, PKCɛ is essential for normal TRPV1 responses in vitro and in vivo.
Stoichiometry of soil enzyme activity at global scale
Authors: Sinsabaugh Robert L. , Lauber Christian L. , Weintraub Michael N. , Ahmed Bony , Allison Steven D. , Crenshaw Chelsea , Contosta Alexandra R. , Cusack Daniela , Frey Serita , Gallo Marcy E. , Gartner Tracy B. , Hobbie Sarah E. , Holland Keri , Keeler Bonnie L. , Powers Jennifer S. , Stursova Martina , Takacs‐Vesbach Cristina , Waldrop Mark P. , Wallenstein Matthew D. , Zak Donald R. , Zeglin Lydia H.
Published: September 2008

Extracellular enzymes are the proximate agents of organic matter decomposition and measures of these activities can be used as indicators of microbial nutrient demand. We conducted a global‐scale meta‐analysis of the seven‐most widely measured soil enzyme activities, using data from 40 ecosystems. The activities of β‐1,4‐glucosidase, cellobiohydrolase, β‐1,4‐N‐acetylglucosaminidase and phosphatase g−1 soil increased with organic matter concentration; leucine aminopeptidase, phenol oxidase and peroxidase activities showed no relationship. All activities were significantly related to soil pH. Specific activities, i.e. activity g−1 soil organic matter, also varied in relation to soil pH for all enzymes. Relationships with mean annual temperature (MAT) and precipitation (MAP) were generally weak. For hydrolases, ratios of specific C, N and P acquisition activities converged on 1 : 1 : 1 but across ecosystems, the ratio of C : P acquisition was inversely related to MAP and MAT while the ratio of C : N acquisition increased with MAP. Oxidative activities were more variable than hydrolytic activities and increased with soil pH. Our analyses indicate that the enzymatic potential for hydrolyzing the labile components of soil organic matter is tied to substrate availability, soil pH and the stoichiometry of microbial nutrient demand. The enzymatic potential for oxidizing the recalcitrant fractions of soil organic material, which is a proximate control on soil organic matter accumulation, is most strongly related to soil pH. These trends provide insight into the biogeochemical processes that create global patterns in ecological stoichiometry and organic matter storage.
A flexible sand coating (Conniflex) for the protection of conifer seedlings against damage by the pine weevil Hylobius abietis
Authors: Nordlander Göran , Nordenhem Henrik , Hellqvist Claes
Published: September 2008

1 A new method for the physical protection of conifer seedlings against feeding damage by Hylobius abietis (L.), is described and evaluated in field trials in Swedish forest plantations.

2 The lower 60% of the stem of the seedling is protected by the Conniflex coating, consisting of fine sand (grain size = 0.2 mm) embedded in an acrylate dispersion that remains flexible after drying.

3 Seedlings are treated in the nursery by a large‐scale application procedure involving four steps: (i) spraying the seedlings with water; (ii) application of fixative to the lower sections of the stems, (iii) application of fine sand to the fixative; and (iv) drying of the fixative.

4 A field experiment over three seasons demonstrated a significant increase in survival for coated seedlings compared with untreated seedlings. The survival rate increased from 29% to 97% for Scots pine and from 26% to 86% for Norway spruce. Coating the lower 30% of the stem (instead of 60%) provided inferior protection, resulting in only 64% survival in spruce.

5 Field trials in 11 commercial plantation areas indicated that the Conniflex sand coating was as effective in protecting seedlings as treatment with the insecticide imidacloprid.

6 The new method of coating conifer seedlings with fine sand provides an effective and environmentally sound alternative to insecticide treatment.
Cue salience and infant perseverative reaching: tests of the dynamic field theory
Authors: Clearfield Melissa W. , Dineva Evelina , Smith Linda B. , Diedrich Frederick J. , Thelen Esther
Published: September 2008

Skilled behavior requires a balance between previously successful behaviors and new behaviors appropriate to the present context. We describe a dynamic field model for understanding this balance in infant perseverative reaching. The model predictions are tested with regard to the interaction of two aspects of the typical perseverative reaching task: the visual cue indicating the target and the memory demand created by the delay imposed between cueing and reaching. The memory demand was manipulated by imposing either a 0‐ or a 3‐second delay, and the salience of the cue to reach was systematically varied. Infants demonstrated fewer perseverative errors at 0‐delay versus 3‐second delay based on the cue salience, such that a more salient visual cue was necessary to overcome a longer delay. These results have important implications for understanding both the basic perceptual‐motor processes that produce reaching in infants and skilled flexible behavior in general.
BUILDING IN LOCAL ALL'ANTICA STYLE: THE PALACE OF DIOMEDE CARAFA IN NAPLES
Authors: DE DIVITIIS BIANCA
Published: September 2008

This article considers some of the historiographical prejudices which can explain the peripheral status held by quattrocento Neapolitan architecture in both national and international scholarship. It also investigates the misunderstandings of the specific nature of local antiquarian culture. Naples is a paradigmatic and precocious example of a local antiquarian tradition which had no direct link with Florence and Rome, or with the revival of classical orders. Rather, it developed from local sources and remains, still widely visible at the time, both in the city and in its surroundings. Diomede Carafa's palace, built in the mid‐fifteenth century in the heart of the historical centre of Naples, exemplifies the specific ways in which buildings in the all’antica style were constructed in Naples. The architecture of the palace reveals not just a full awareness of the ideas and fashions which were then circulating throughout fifteenth‐century Italy, but also a striking independence in the choice and use of the available sources.
FROM SOCIAL VIRTUE TO REVETTED INTERIOR: GIOVANNI ANTONIO DOSIO AND MARBLE INLAY IN ROME, FLORENCE, AND NAPLES
Authors: NAPOLI JOHN NICHOLAS
Published: September 2008

The present article examines the work of Giovanni Antonio Dosio – a Tuscan‐born architect of the late sixteenth century – for patrons in the cities of Rome, Florence and Naples, approaching these projects as part of the socio‐artistic practice of displaying magnificence. The article considers the means by which the magnificent work sought to impress, and explores the range of messages that were communicated and evoked by the magnificent act. Dosio's Neapolitan projects shared the complex associations and claims of his work in Rome and Florence, but responded to the unique set of demographic, political and religious circumstances experienced by southern Italy and its capital city. Ultimately, Dosio's projects in Naples aimed at the most universal of claims: vehemently proclaiming Christian piety in the face of Ottoman incursions in the eastern Mediterranean, and laying claim to the worldwide reach of the Roman church which, operating in concert with Spanish imperial interests, extended to the Americas and beyond.
Visual Comparison of Hierarchically Organized Data
Authors: Holten Danny , Van Wijk Jarke J.
Published: September 2008

We provide a novel visualization method for the comparison of hierarchically organized data. Our technique visualizes a pair of hierarchies that are to be compared and simultaneously depicts how these hierarchies are related by explicitly visualizing the relations between matching subhierarchies. Elements that are unique to each hierarchy are shown, as well as the way in which hierarchy elements are relocated, split or joined. The relations between hierarchy elements are visualized using Hierarchical Edge Bundles (HEBs). HEBs reduce visual clutter, they visually emphasize the aforementioned splits, joins, and relocations of subhierarchies, and they provide an intuitive way in which users can interact with the relations. The focus throughout this paper is on the comparison of different versions of hierarchically organized software systems, but the technique is applicable to other kinds of hierarchical data as well. Various data sets of actual software systems are used to show how our technique can be employed to easily spot splits, joins, and relocations of elements, how sorting both hierarchies with respect to each other facilitates comparison tasks, and how user interaction is supported.
Code Flows: Visualizing Structural Evolution of Source Code
Authors: Telea Alexandru , Auber David
Published: September 2008

Understanding detailed changes done to source code is of great importance in software maintenance. We present Code Flows, a method to visualize the evolution of source code geared to the understanding of fine and mid‐level scale changes across several file versions. We enhance an existing visual metaphor to depict software structure changes with techniques that emphasize both following unchanged code as well as detecting and highlighting important events such as code drift, splits, merges, insertions and deletions. The method is illustrated with the analysis of a real‐world C++ code system.
Raycasting of Light Field Galleries from Volumetric Data
Authors: Rezk‐Salama C. , Todt S. , Kolb A.
Published: September 2008

The paper describes a technique to generate high‐quality light field representations from volumetric data. We show how light field galleries can be created to give unexperienced audiences access to interactive high‐quality volume renditions. The proposed light field representation is lightweight with respect to storage and bandwidth capacity and is thus ideal as exchange format for visualization results, especially for web galleries.

The approach expands an existing sphere‐hemisphere parameterization for the light field with per‐pixel depth. High‐quality paraboloid maps from volumetric data are generated using GPU‐based ray‐casting or slicing approaches. Different layers, such as isosurfaces, but not restricted to, can be generated independently and composited in real time. This allows the user to interactively explore the model and to change visibility parameters at run‐time.
Centrality Based Visualization of Small World Graphs
Authors: Van Ham F. , Wattenberg M.
Published: September 2008

Current graph drawing algorithms enable the creation of two dimensional node‐link diagrams of huge graphs. However, for graphs with low diameter (of which “small world” graphs are a subset) these techniques begin to break down visually even when the graph has only a few hundred nodes. Typical algorithms produce images where nodes clump together in the center of the screen, making it hard to discern structure and follow paths. This paper describes a solution to this problem, which uses a global edge metric to determine a subset of edges that capture the graph's intrinsic clustering structure. This structure is then used to create an embedding of the graph, after which the remaining edges are added back in. We demonstrate applications of this technique to a number of real world examples.
A Screen Space Quality Method for Data Abstraction
Authors: Johansson J. , Cooper M.
Published: September 2008

The rendering of large data sets can result in cluttered displays and non‐interactive update rates, leading to time consuming analyses. A straightforward solution is to reduce the number of items, thereby producing an abstraction of the data set. For the visual analysis to remain accurate, the graphical representation of the abstraction must preserve the significant features present in the original data. This paper presents a screen space quality method, based on distance transforms, that measures the visual quality of a data abstraction. This screen space measure is shown to better capture significant visual structures in data, compared with data space measures. The presented method is implemented on the GPU, allowing interactive creation of high quality graphical representations of multivariate data sets containing tens of thousands of items.
Ownership Concentration and Corporate Performance: A Causal Analysis with Japanese Panel Data
Authors: Hu Yabei , Izumida Shigemi
Published: September 2008

Manuscript Type: Empirical

Research Question/Issue: This study examines the causal relation between ownership concentration and corporate performance by employing Granger causality tests in panel data models and considering investment and leverage as transmission mechanisms within a simultaneous equation system.

Research Findings/Results: Using a panel of manufacturing firms listed on the first section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange from 1980 through 2005, we find that ownership concentration has a significant effect on contemporary and subsequent corporate performance. Specifically, a U‐shaped relation of concentration to performance is consistent with the expropriation effect and monitoring effect of large shareholders. However, the study fails to find that changes in performance are accompanied by changes in ownership concentration due to the relatively illiquid securities market and stable shareholding arrangement in Japan.

Theoretical Implications: Extending previous literature, the study sheds light on the endogenous and dynamic nature of the ownership–performance relationship. As exemplified by Japan, the results provide a general understanding for economies with concentrated ownership and further evidence of the international diversity of corporate governance.

Practitioner Implications: The study recommends that policy makers and managers increase their awareness of the importance of ownership structure to generate better corporate governance, introduce diversified ownership structure to enhance performance, and adopt market‐oriented reform measures to improve the liquidity and efficiency of the stock market.
Multinational Corporation Codes of Conduct: Governance Tools for Corporate Social Responsibility?
Authors: Bondy Krista , Matten Dirk , Moon Jeremy
Published: September 2008

Manuscript Type: Empirical

Research Issue: We investigate the assumption found in code and corporate social responsibility (CSR) literature that suggests codes are primarily associated with the CSR practices of an organization.

Research Findings/Results: A web‐based study of 150 corporations from three different countries indicates there is little empirical support for this link between codes and CSR. Thus, if a corporation has a code, it is more likely used to govern traditional business concerns, such as compliance with third party governance requirements, internal issues such as conflict of interest, bribery and corruption, insider trading, etc. This is consistent across all three countries. Therefore we must be cautious against assuming a link between codes and CSR. Evidence of the different governance contexts is also briefly discussed.

Theoretical Implications: Findings are addressed to theoretical debates about the construction of corporate identity, the amoralization of business, and the globalization of management practices.

Practical Implications: Stakeholders must be careful in assuming that the presence of a code indicates CSR commitments or behavior. Stakeholders need to look at the content of the code to confirm or deny this assumption, particularly such stakeholders as investors who tend to use the existence of a code as evidence of CSR practices to tick “check the box.”
Does Ownership Structure Affect Performance? Evidence from the Italian Market
Authors: Perrini Francesco , Rossi Ginevra , Rovetta Barbara
Published: September 2008

Manuscript Type: Empirical

Research Question/Issue: This paper aims at exploring the relationship between ownership structure and firm performance in the context of a small European capital market. Further developing existing literature, we acknowledge the multi‐dimensionality of ownership by including both the fraction of shares owned by the five largest shareholders and the fraction of shares owned by management.

Research Findings/Results: Using panel data for the period 2000–2003 with respect to the Italian market, we find that the ownership concentration of the five largest shareholders is beneficial to firm valuation. On the contrary, managerial ownership is beneficial only in non‐concentrated firms, suggesting that the controlling owner may use his/her position in the firm to extract private benefits at the expense of the other shareholders by appointing managers that represent its own interest.

Theoretical Implications: This study provides empirical support for the agency theory and the managerial entrenchment argument. As such, it suggests new avenues of research for the ownership structure literature willing to reflect the diverging interests of different types of shareholders and to explore both endogeneity and non‐linearity issues.

Practical Implications: This study contributes to the recent debate on the effects of government regulations inspired by the Anglo‐Saxon model of corporate governance in the small European countries. In questioning the alleged competitive superiority of the widely held company, our paper also suggests that the existence of good corporate law is not a sufficient condition for the development of a corporate economy resembling the US model.
AN INTRODUCTION TO THE CLIMBING DICENTRAS – THE GENUS DACTYLICAPNOS IN CULTIVATION
Authors: Hind Nicholas
Published: September 2008

Summary The genus Dactylicapnos Wall. (Papaveraceae: Fumarioideae: Corydaleae) consists of annual and perennial climbers with half‐hardy stems, tendrils on the leaves and, in most species, perennating, tuberous rootstocks. A short history of the genus is given here and its status is discussed. At present four species appear to be in cultivation and cultivation notes for these are provided. A description of the genus is given together with a synopsis, or nomenclator, of the species and associated names.
622. DACTYLICAPNOS SCANDENS
Authors: Frisby Sue , Hind Nicholas
Published: September 2008

Summary Dactylicapnos scandens (D. Don) Hutch., a tuberous rooted perennial, widespread from NW India through to Thailand and China, is described and illustrated. The confusing history and synonymy of this species is discussed, together with the rather different fruit colour and dimorphic leaf shape of the stock used in providing the description. The problems in providing adequate herbarium specimens are emphasized as well as the importance of examining living material.
624. DACTYLICAPNOS VENTII
Authors: Frisby Sue , Hind Nicholas
Published: September 2008

Summary Dactylicapnos ventii (Khánh) Lidén is described and illustrated. Misidentification when this species was first introduced into cultivation has led to confusion with D. lichiangensis (Fedde) Hand.‐Mazz.
628. MUTISIA COCCINEA var. DEALBATA
Authors: Hind Nicholas , Sanchez Michele
Published: September 2008

Summary Mutisia coccinea St. Hil. var. dealbata (Less.) Cabrera is described and illustrated. The cultivation requirements are provided and relationships of this taxon discussed, as are aspects of the synonyms cited.
Mastery, functional disability and perceived health status in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Krokavcova M. , Nagyova I. , Van Dijk J. P. , Rosenberger J. , Gavelova M. , Middel B. , Gdovinova Z. , Groothoff J. W.
Published: September 2008

Background and purpose:  Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that is difficult to predict and to cope with. Mastery refers to the extent to which patients see themselves as being in control of the forces that affect their lives. It may play an important role in perceived health status and well‐being. The purpose of this study was to clarify whether mastery is associated with functional disability and perceived health status in MS patients and how such an association might function.

Methods:  Two hundred and three MS patients completed the Short‐Form‐36 Health Survey as well as the Pearlin–Schooler Mastery Scale. Functional disability was assessed using the Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale. Hierarchical multiple linear regression analyses were performed on the data from two MS age groups: <45 and ≥45 years of age.

Results:  Functional disability was negatively associated with perceived physical health status in both age groups and with perceived mental health status in younger age group. Mastery was positively associated with perceived health status in older age group.

Discussion:  The findings confirm that mastery might be helpful for older MS patients. Education strategies for MS patients aimed at personal empowerment for the maintaining of physical and mental well‐being may be important.
Nationwide incidence of first stroke and TIA in the Netherlands
Authors: Vaartjes I. , Reitsma J. B. , De Bruin A. , Berger‐van Sijl M. , Bos M. J. , Breteler M. M. B. , Grobbee D. E. , Bots M. L.
Published: September 2008

Background:  Information on incidence of stroke is important for developing and maintaining public health strategies in primary and secondary prevention. Nationwide data on the incidence of stroke are scarce and absent for the Netherlands.

Methods:  New cases of first stroke and stroke subtypes in the Dutch population in 2000 were identified through linkage of national registers and included hospitalized patients for first stroke and out‐of‐hospital deaths from first stroke. The number of non‐fatal, non‐hospitalized stroke patients was estimated based on data from the Rotterdam study, a population based cohort.

Results:  We identified 26 556 patients with a first stroke (20 798 hospitalized patients, 5758 out‐of‐hospital deaths). The number of non‐fatal, non‐hospitalized first stroke patients was estimated to be 12 255. Extrapolation of the data to the total Dutch population led to an overall estimate of approximately 41 000 patients with a first stroke. Stroke incidence increased with age and was higher in men than in women, except in the lowest (< 45 years) and highest age group (> 85 years).

Conclusions:  The present study provides for the first time incidence estimates of first stroke (hospitalized patients, out‐of hospital deaths and non‐fatal, non‐hospitalized patients) based upon virtually the entire Dutch population.