bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new solution for an old problem: the regiochemical distribution of the acyl chains in galactolipids can be established by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Guella Graziano , Frassanito Rita , Mancini Ines
Published: August 2003

Electrospray ionization‐quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometry (ESI‐QITMS), either in positive‐ or in negative‐ion mode, has been used to establish the chemical structures (chain length, degree of unsaturation, positional distribution) of the fatty acids attached to the primary (sn‐1) and secondary (sn‐2) hydroxyl groups of the glycerol moiety of natural monogalactosyl‐ (MGDG) and digalactosyldiacylglycerols (DGDG), isolated from the freshwater dinoflagellate Glenodinium sanguineum and from a marine diatom belonging to the genus Chaetoceros. Fragmentation by collision‐induced dissociation of a single component in MGDG and DGDG mixtures, separated by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and detected on‐line by tandem positive‐ion ESI‐MS, leads to a clear‐cut determination of the positional distribution of the sn‐glycerol‐bound fatty acyl chains. Reversed‐phase liquid chromatography allowed a partial resolution of the component mixture before ESI‐MS/MS analysis. These results were validated by comparison with ESI‐MS data obtained for the sn‐2 lysoglyceroglycolipids synthesized via regiospecific enzymatic hydrolysis of the corresponding diacylglycerols by Rhizopus arrhizus lipase. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Post‐occupancy evaluation of zoo Atlanta's Giant Panda Conservation Center: Staff and visitor reactions
Authors: Wilson Megan , Kelling Angela , Poline Laura , Bloomsmith Mollie , Maple Terry
Published: August 2003

Construction of a new zoo animal exhibit impacts animals, visitors, and staff, and considerable attention should be paid to evaluation of the exhibit. In November 1999, Zoo Atlanta received two giant pandas from the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Sichuan, China, which presented an opportunity to evaluate the new giant panda exhibit. The present study documents the reactions of staff and visitors to Zoo Atlanta's Giant Panda Conservation Center by a post‐occupancy evaluation (POE). Confidential interviews were conducted with 23 staff, and 145 zoo visitors completed questionnaires. Staff and visitors were asked to assign quality ratings to specific areas of the exhibit, and complete a series of open‐ended questions. The findings suggest that staff and visitors evaluated Zoo Atlanta's giant panda exhibit favorably. On a five‐point scale, the exhibit received mean ratings of 3.64 from the staff and 4.50 from the visitors. With a few exceptions, most areas of the exhibit met or exceeded staff expectations. Staff and visitors identified a number of strengths and weaknesses of the exhibit. Staff most frequently recommended changes to the pandas' space and the ability to address husbandry issues, while a large number of visitors did not suggest any changes, or did not respond to the question. Visitors that did respond to the question most often recommended that the zoo display additional pandas and modify the pandas' space. There were no significant differences in visitors' ratings of the different areas of the enclosure, or in their overall impressions of the exhibit, as a function of the pandas' location. The results are examined in terms of general implications for zoo exhibit design, construction, and evaluation, and in light of the goals of this facility. The study highlights the benefits of conducting POEs in a zoo setting. Zoo Biol 22:365–382, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Imprint cytology versus frozen section: intraoperative analysis of sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer
Authors: Liang Rhea , Craik Jan , Juhasz Eva S. , Harman C. Richard
Published: August 2003

Background:  Intraoperative analysis of the sentinel node status in breast cancer adds the benefit of proceeding to axillary dissection at the same time as the primary breast operation, without the need for a second trip to theatre. However, the method of intra­operative analysis must be both rapid and accurate for use in this setting.

Methods:  A prospective series of 20 consecutive patients in one hospital who underwent sentinel node biopsy was performed. Intraoperative evaluation by imprint cytology and frozen section was compared with the final histopathological results. The time taken for both procedures was recorded.

Results:  A total of 21 sentinel node procedures was performed. The sentinel node was found in 20 procedures (95%). The average time to perform intraoperative pathological analysis was 17 min (range: 5−35 min). Of the eight positive sentinel nodes, five were positive on imprint cytology alone and five were positive on frozen section alone (62.5% accuracy). The statistical false negative rate was 18.8% and the ‘false reassurance rate’ (patients with an initially negative node that was subsequently positive on formal histology who required a second trip to theatre for axillary dissection) was 37.5%. All patients with a negative sentinel node had a negative axilla.

Conclusions:  Intraoperative analysis of sentinel lymph nodes in breast cancer can be performed quickly. Imprint cytology and frozen section show comparable accuracy in predicting sentinel node status.
Curriculum Reform in Budgeting and Financial Management: Preliminary Thoughts on the Dimension of the Field
Authors: Alexander James R.
Published: August 2003

Editors‘ note: In January 1984, Dick Hickman, chairperson‐elect of the Section on Budgeting and Financial Management, American Society for Public Administration, appointed a task force of about 30 ASPA members on Budgeting and Financial Management Curriculum Reform. The task force is charged to report at the Indianapolis meeting of ASPA in 1985. Professor James R. Alexander was appointed chairman of the task force, and in this capacity convened a double‐session roundtable on curriculum reform at the Denver meeting of ASPA in April. This article is Professor Alexander's presentation at that session. The task force welcomes any comments, suggestions, or critiques on this important subject. Such communications may be addressed to Professor James R. Alexander, Department of Political Science, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown, Johnstown, Pennsylvania 15904.
Federal Deficits, Debt and Interest Costs
Authors: Van de Water Paul N. , Ruffing Kathy A.
Published: August 2003

Current federal government deficits are of a size unprecedented since World War II. While budget surpluses have been infrequent, deficits before 1982 were small enough that the federal debt shrunk in relation to the size of the economy. Now, however, the federal deficit is stuck at about 5 percent of gross national product, and the ratio of federal debt to gross national product (GNP) is growing rapidly. These large deficits are driving up interest rates, hurting American exports, turning the United States into a debtor nation, and causing government interest outlays to spiral. The possibilities are limited for lowering interest costs through directly reducing interest rates or introducing new Treasury debt management strategies. The only way to cage the interest monster is to enact a substantial package of tax increases and cuts in noninterest spending. We list some possible elements of such a package and show how they might be combined to tame the growth of debt.
Optimally Allocating Federal Money to Cities
Authors: Nagel Stuart S.
Published: August 2003

The purpose of this article is to discuss some basic methods for optimally allocating federal money to cities. Optimally allocating in this context means using the quantitative methods of operations research, management science, and related fields in order to allocate federal money to cities in such a way as to (1) maximize benefits subject to a given budget, (2) minimize costs subject to a minimum satisfaction level, or (3) maximize benefits minus costs. The basic methods include (1) allocating by marginal rates of return, which partly relies or statistical regression analysis; and (2) allocating by part/whole percentages, which partly relies on ideas associated with multiattribute utility theory. The basic methods will be illustrated with the example of allocating anticrime dollars to cities, although one could easily reason by analogy to allocation in any subject matter area.
Europeanization and the “Needle's Eye”: The Transformation of Employment Policy in Germany1
Authors: LIEBERT ULRIKE
Published: August 2003

What have been the impacts of Europeanization in European Union (EU) member states in the domain of employment policy from a gender perspective? The essay explores this question for one of the traditional “male breadwinner–female caretaker” gender policy regimes in the EU—the case of Germany. Since German women's employment status is behind the status of women in many other EU countries, it has been expected that the impact of European (EC) equal opportunity and equal treatment norms on domestic policy change has remained minimal (Ostner & Lewis, 1995). This, however, is not the case any more. On the contrary, it is argued that Europeanization, although against considerable domestic resistances and with delays, helps to “gender” German public employment policy, namely in three respects: with respect to underlying gender norms, regarding the distinction of gender specific target groups and scope, and the introduction of innovative gender‐sensitive policy instruments. This claim is illustrated by three examples. An explanation for these shifts is developed that accounts for member state change despite misfits with EU norms, not as a consequence of legal compliance mechanisms, but as an outcome of a combination of three mechanisms—the politicization of controversial issues, shifts in dominant discourses, and political advocacy building—conducive to the “gendering” of Europeanization.
Regulation of Aging by Germline Stem Cells
Authors: Tatar Marc
Published: August 2003

The author discusses a recent paper published in
Science
(see
Arantes-Oliveira
) that shows that germline stem cells in the worm
Caenorhabditis elegans
send a signal to a steroid hormone receptor and a forkhead-family member to stimulate reproduction and shorten longevity. The author compares the new results to previous findings in the fruit fly and discusses possible mechanisms behind the inverse relationship between reproduction and life-span extension.
In vivo effects of an Er:YAG Laser, an ultrasonic system and scaling and root planing on the biocompatibility of periodontally diseased root surfaces in cultures of human PDL fibroblasts
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Aoki Akira , Sculean Anton , Georg Thomas , Scherbaum Werner , Becker Jürgen
Published: August 2003

Background and Objectives

The aim of the present study was to investigate the in vivo effects of an Er:YAG laser (ERL), an ultrasonic system and scaling and root planing (SRP) on the biocompatibility of periodontally diseased root surfaces in cultures of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDL).

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Forty single rooted teeth, considered for extraction due to severe periodontal destruction, have been randomly assigned to the following groups: (1) ERL at 160 mJ/pulse and 10 Hz, or (2) Vector® ultrasonic system (VUS), or (3) SRP using hand instruments, or (4) untreated control (C). Immediately after instrumentation, all test and control teeth were extracted and root specimens (4 mm2) were prepared from all mesial and distal surfaces (n = 80). Following the prescribed treatments, the root specimens were incubated with human PDL fibroblast cultures. Adherent cells were stained with methylene blue and counted using a reflected light microscope and the cell density per mm2 was calculated. Additionally, the cell morphology was investigated using SEM (n = 8 teeth).

Results

Cell counts within each group yielded the following means and standard deviations (cells/mm2): ERL, 111 ± 27; VUS, 75 ± 25; SRP, 41 ± 17; control, 25 ± 11. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant differences in the number of attached cells between the test and control groups (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.01, respectively). ERL and VUS treated specimens showed significantly higher numbers of cells/mm2 than the SRP group (P < 0.001, respectively). The difference between the ERL and VUS group was statistically significant (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The results of the present study indicate that (i) ERL, VUS, and SRP promote the attachment of PDL fibroblasts on previously diseased root surfaces, (ii) periodontally diseased root surfaces inhibit the adherence of PDL fibroblasts, and (iii) the surface structure of ERL and VUS instrumented roots seem to offer better conditions for the adherence of PDL fibroblasts than SRP. Lasers Surg. Med. 33:140–147, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kinetics and mechanism of acid‐catalyzed hydrolysis of the diazo functional group of diazophenylacetamide
Authors: Chang J. A. , Kresge A. J.
Published: August 2003

The acid‐catalyzed hydrolysis of diazophenylacetamide giving mandelamide as product was found to occur with a normal (kH/kD>1) hydronium ion isotope effect and to be subject to general acid rather than specific hydronium ion catalysis. This shows that the reaction occurs by rate‐determining hydron transfer from the catalyzing acid to the diazo carbon atom of the substrate, followed by rapid displacement of the diazo group by water. Comparison of the rate of this reaction with those of the same process for other diazophenylacetic acid functional derivatives, PhCN2COX, reveals that the reactivity of these substrates is controlled by the electron‐releasing resonance ability of the group X. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mapping low‐resolution three‐dimensional protein structures using chemical cross‐linking and Fourier transform ion‐cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry
Authors: Dihazi Gry H. , Sinz Andrea
Published: August 2003

Techniques in mass spectrometry (MS) combined with chemical cross‐linking have proven to be efficient tools for the rapid determination of low‐resolution three‐dimensional (3‐D) structures of proteins. The general procedure involves chemical cross‐linking of a protein followed by enzymatic digestion and MS analysis of the resulting peptide mixture. These experiments are generally fast and do not require large quantities of protein. However, the large number of peptide species created from the digestion of cross‐linked proteins makes it difficult to identify relevant intermolecular cross‐linked peptides from MS data. We present a method for mapping low‐resolution 3‐D protein structures by combining chemical cross‐linking with high‐resolution FTICR (Fourier transform ion‐cyclotron resonance) mass spectrometry using cytochrome c and hen egg lysozyme as model proteins. We applied several homo‐bifunctional, amine‐reactive cross‐linking reagents that bridge distances from 6 to 16 Å. The non‐digested cross‐linking reaction mixtures were monitored by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOFMS) to determine the extent of cross‐linking. Enzymatically digested reaction mixtures were separated by nano‐high‐performance liquid chromatography (nano‐HPLC) on reverse‐phase columns applying water/acetonitrile gradients with flow rates of 200 nL/min. The nano‐HPLC system was directly coupled to an FTICR mass spectrometer equipped with a nano‐ESI (electrospray ionization) source. Cross‐linking products were identified using a combination of the GPMAW software and ExPASy Proteomics tools. For correct assignment of the cross‐linking products the key factor is to rely on a mass spectrometric method providing both high resolution and high mass accuracy, such as FTICRMS. By combining chemical cross‐linking with FTICRMS we were able to rapidly define several intramolecular constraints for cytochrome c and lysozyme. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of computerized image analysis in the morphometric characterization of giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) spermatozoa obtained from the epididymis 4 hours postmortem
Authors: Pérez‐Garnelo S.S. , Delclaux M. , Talavera C. , López M. , De la Fuente J.
Published: August 2003

The reproductive tract of Chu‐Lin, a giant panda that had died at Madrid Zoo, was removed. Four hours postmortem the epididymides was cut with a blade, and the spermatozoa were collected and immersed in a freezing medium. The sample was kept under refrigeration at 5°C. After 4 hr the sperm suspension was aspirated into 0.25‐mL straws, which were held for 7 min in nitrogen vapors before they were plunged into liquid nitrogen. To characterize sperm population and distribution, a morphometric study of the triple‐stained smears of the thawed semen sample was undertaken with the aid of computerized image analysis. Spermatozoa with intact acrosomes were selected and assessed using an immersion lens (1,000×) and bright‐field illumination. The software made it possible to take six basic linear measurements of each spermatozoon: maximum head width (HW), base of the head (BH), maximum head length (HL), midpiece length (ML), midpiece width (MW), and terminal piece length (TL). The system was connected to a data base from which derived parameters could be calculated: head form factor (HL/HW), total flagellum length (TFL), total sperm length (TSL), and the proportion of each of the sections in relation to the whole. The results of the morphometric study did not demonstrate the existence of sperm subpopulations, as the measurements of the 100 spermatozoa analyzed were relatively homogeneous with regard to their distribution for each of the parameters considered. The sperm head of the giant panda displayed a relatively rounded morphology, and the HL/HW was 1.24±0.03. Mean head length was 5.05±0.08 µ, and mean head width was 4.07±0.08 µ. The mean total length of the giant panda spermatozoon was 49.26±0.67 µ. Zoo Biol 22:355–364, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sexual function after aortic surgery
Authors: Magee Reginald
Published: August 2003

Background:  Male patients attending for follow up after aortic surgery have often commented that there has been a change in their sexual function.

Methods:  A survey of patients attending vascular outpatient clinic and private practice following aortic surgery was carried out by personal interview.

Results:  Of those who were sexually active before operation, 40% thought that there had been a diminution in performance and 11% thought that there was some improvement. Similar results have been found in other centres.

Conclusions:  Aortic surgery carries a risk of diminution in sexual function as a consequence of the operation. It is the duty of the surgeon to warn patients of this risk when seeking informed consent.
Training Surgeon Scientists
Authors: Toouli James
Published: August 2003

Beginning in 1995, College research resources were orientated towards the support and training of surgeon scientists. A questionnaire was sent to recipients of College awards in order to gauge a measure of outcome of this policy. Although it is early days, a significantly high number of awardees have either completed or are completing research degrees. There has been a successful allocation of National Health and Medical Research Council funding to the College surgeon scientists and a large number are already in academic positions. A significant number of publications have resulted from the College‐funded research. At this early stage, the programme for creating surgeon scientists appears to be on track.
Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding: initial Tasmanian experience
Authors: Semple Craig W. , Chehata Ashraf , Wilkinson Stephen , Wertheimer Michael A.
Published: August 2003

Background:  The laparoscopic adjustable gastric band (LAGB) is a minimally invasive, adjustable and reversible bariatric pro­cedure. The present paper reports an initial 2 year experience at Royal Hobart Hospital, Tasmania.

Methods:  Between February 1999 and June 2001, 207 patients underwent LAGB insertion (176 female, 31 male). The mean age was 43 years (range: 16−74 years). Mean preoperative weight was 125 kg (range: 83−210 kg) and mean body mass index (BMI) was 45.9 (range: 32.6−67.0). The Bioenterics LAGB (Inamed, Chullora, NSW, Australia) was used in all cases. The average follow up was 17 months (range: 3−24 months). Three patients were lost to follow up (1.5%).

Results:  The average weight loss was 12.4 kg at 3 months, 25.3 kg at 1 year and 34.8 kg at 2 years. The average BMI was reduced from 45.9 preoperatively to 41.3 at 3 months, 36.9 at 1 year and 33.5 at 2 years. Reoperation for band slippage occurred in 24 patients (11%), and the injection reservoir required changes in 22 patients (11%). There were three perforations while inserting the LAGB, two non‐fatal pulmonary emboli (1%) and two cases of deep vein thrombosis (1%). There has been no mortality.

Conclusions:  Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is a safe and effective method of achieving significant (P < 0.0001) weight reduction in the morbidly obese.
Preoperative cardiac assessment for patients with infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms: a survey of current practice by vascular surgeons in New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory
Authors: Wong Shen , Appleberg Michael , Neale Michael L. , Fisher Charles M. , Lewis David R.
Published: August 2003

Background:  The reported mortality rate following open elective repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) varies between 0  and 12%. Much of the mortality and major morbidity is caused by cardiac events. The evidence regarding best practice for cardiac assessment and optimization of this patient group is unclear. The aim of the present study was to evaluate current practice of cardiac risk factor assessment by vas­cular surgeons in New South Wales (NSW) and Australian Capital Territory (ACT) for patients undergoing open elective repair of infrarenal AAA.

Methods:  A postal questionnaire was sent to 46 surgeons in NSW and ACT identified as expressing a principal or major interest in vascular surgery. If no response was received within 3 weeks, a second questionnaire was sent and if no response was received after the second mailing, a telephone survey of non‐responders was conducted. Data were collated regarding the importance of risk factors elicited by clinical history, preoperative investigation, referral for cardiological opinion, use of perioperative beta‐blockade and the timing of aortic surgery in relation to coronary artery revascularization and acute myocardial infarction.

Results:  The overall response rate was 87% (40/46) and the median (range) response time was 14 (4−109) days. Only 22 of 40 and 23 of 40 surgeons consider diabetes mellitus or renal impairment, respectively, to be important when assessing cardiac risk and 34 of 40 surgeons do not employ a validated risk index in preoperative assessment. Sixteen of 40 surgeons refer all patients needing AAA repair to a cardiologist, while 24 of 40 would initiate cardiac investigations themselves (either stress electrocardiography, scintigraphy or echocardiography). Seventeen surgeons always or usually commenced perioperative beta‐blockade with wide variations in the commencement (1 to > 28 days preoperatively) and duration (< 1 week to > 28 days postoperatively) of treatment. The timing of AAA repair following coronary revascularization ranged from < 1 week to 6 months and delay in surgical repair of AAA following myocardial infarction ranged from < 1 week to > 6 months.

Conclusion:  Preoperative assessment of cardiac risk in patients for repair of AAA lacks consensus among vascular surgeons in NSW and ACT. The diversity of clinical practice may rest with the paucity of prospective trials published in the medical literature or the influence of local institutional facilities.
Routine circumcision practice in Western Australia 1981−1999
Authors: Spilsbury Katrina , Semmens James B. , Wisniewski Z. Stan , Holman C. D’Arcy J.
Published: August 2003

Background:  Routine neonatal circumcision has declined in most English‐speaking countries. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the trends in incidence of routine circumcision in Western Australia and current patterns of the procedure according to sociodemographic factors.

Methods:  Hospital morbidity data were used to conduct a population‐based study of all circumcisions performed in Western ­Australian hospitals during 1981−1999. Medicare insurance rebate statistics were used to estimate the numbers of circumcisions performed outside of hospital on boys <6 months of age between 1994 and 1999.

Results:  In 1994, 9.8% of boys were circumcised before reaching 6 months of age, falling to 7.9% by 1999. Boys <6 months of age were 3.3 times more likely to undergo a hospital‐performed circumcision if they lived in country areas compared with metro­politan Perth. Middle socioeconomic class families were twice as likely to circumcise a son than those in the higher and lower socioeconomic groups. The decreasing circumcision rate in boys <6 months of age was partly offset by an increase in routine circumcisions in boys older than 6 months of age during 1981−1999.

Conclusion:  Circumcision remains a relatively common procedure in Western Australia. Based on total routine circumcision rates in 1999, 10.2% of boys will be circumcised by the time they reach 15 years of age. The routine circumcision rate in boys <6 months is falling in contrast to a rising routine circumcision rate in older boys. Risk factors for a circumcision before 6 months of age include living in country areas and a middle socioeconomic status.
Ownership Structure Changes in the Insurance Industry: An Analysis of Demutualization
Authors: Viswanathan Krupa S. , Cummins J. David
Published: August 2003

Abstract

This article focuses on the demutualization process and investigates why certain mutuals undergo this organizational structure change. The primary motivation for conversion is access to capital. By statute, mutual firms are limited in their capital‐raising activities while stock firms can attract funds through a variety of stock and debt offerings. By examining the financial characteristics of firms that demutualize, changes in business practices in the years surrounding conversion can be observed. Determinants of the conversion decision are explored through logistic regression. In the years before demutualization, converting property‐liability mutuals exhibit significantly lower surplus‐to‐asset ratios. This capital constraint eases after demutualization. Converting life‐health mutuals hold a significantly lower proportion of liquid assets; in addition, they have a higher proportion of separate accounts under management. This liquidity constraint and increased focus on a higher managerial discretion activity drive the demutualization decision. For both property‐liability and life‐health converting mutuals, support for the access to capital hypothesis is found.
Incremental Thinking: “The Lack of a Budgetary Theory”
Authors: Key V. O.
Published: August 2003

Editor's Note: More than 40 years ago. V.O. Key identified the basic budgeting question as: ”On what basis shall it be decided to allocate x dollars to activity A instead of activity B?“ Despite decades of budgetary research and innovation, the question remains unanswered and probably unanswerable. As Key recognized, a solution to this problem would constitute a full‐blown theory of government. Although neither Key nor others have provided a firm answer to this basic question. Key's article is a valuable reminder that budgeting is much more than technique. This lesson is immediately forgotten when the latest reform comes to market promising a neat formula for dividing the budget pie. The lesson is relearned again when administrative and political pathologists seek cause and effect for the failure of the most recent promising innovation.
Reflections on the Olivetti Papers
Authors: Salvemini Maria Teresa
Published: August 2003

Editor's Note: Professor Salvemini, professor of economics at the University of Bari and advisor to the Italian Minister of the Treasury, attended the Olivetti Conference on Budgetary problems in the fall of 1981. Papers from the conference were published in the Autumn 1982 issue of this journal. After reviewing both the conference proceedings and the papers published in Public Budgeting & Finance, Professor Salvemini has provided some further reflections and thoughts on the ideas presented at that conference.
The Capital Budget: History and Future Directions
Authors: Bozeman J. Lisle
Published: August 2003

While there is a substantial body of literature concerning capital programming and budgeting in the private sector, there is only a modest literature on this subject in the public sector. Government researchers and public administration scholars have, for about seventy‐five years, recognized the value of budgeting for operating expenses and have tried to develop theoretical frameworks for the public budgeting process. However, very little of this attention has been devoted to capital budgeting. As Alan Steiss has stated,“ The theory of capital budgeting has not been set forth; rather the emphasis... has been on devising and improving the techniques of capital budgeting.” Michael White has called capital budgeting an “elusive subject” that “lacks clear definitions, organized traditions of inquiry, conceptual boundaries, standard questions, and reliable data sets.”
Equal Employment Policy in Germany: Limited Results and Prospects for Reform
Authors: KOCH ANGELIKA
Published: August 2003

This article contributes to feminist debates on equal employment policy in Germany by pointing out the shortcomings of current German equal employment policy in the private sector and by suggesting a new approach to shore‐up the gaps of current policy. The first section of the article critically assesses existing legislation and the voluntary regulation of gender equality in the private sector by the social partners. The second section addresses prospects for reform and discusses a new approach to gender equality in the workplace. The article concludes with suggestions for a more effective equal opportunity law as a crucial part of a labor policy that includes issues of gender equality.
Perturbative Renormalization by Flow Equations
Authors: Müller Volkhard F.
Published: August 2003

In this article a self-contained exposition of proving perturbative renormalizability of a quantum field theory based on an adaption of Wilson's differential renormalization group equation to perturbation theory is given. The topics treated include the spontaneously broken SU(2) Yang–Mills theory. Although mainly a coherent but selective review, the article contains also some simplifications and extensions with respect to the literature.
Transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) with short duration laser exposures induce heat shock protein (HSP) hyperexpression on choroidoretinal layers
Authors: Desmettre Thomas , Maurage Claude‐Alain , Mordon Serge
Published: August 2003

Background and Objectives

To assess a choroidal heat shock protein hyperexpression after transpupillary thermotherapy (TTT) performed with exposures shorter than 60 seconds.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Nine male pigmented rabbits were anesthetized and TTT was performed on their right eye with a 810 nm diode laser (Iridis, Quantel‐Medical (France)) (spot size: 1.3 mm). Three exposure durations (60, 30, or 15 seconds) were used with three ranges of power for each duration (“high,” “mild,” or “low”). A series of laser impacts was delivered to the posterior pole of the retina. Left eyes were used as controls. Twenty‐four hours after laser irradiation, the animals were killed and histological study was performed on chorioretinal layers. Tissue samples were fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin. A monoclonal antibody was used to detect Hsp70 immunoreactivity (mouse IgGl, SPA‐810, Stress Gen, Victoria, BC, Canada), followed by a biotinylated goat anti‐mouse antibody (Dako, Glostrup, Denmark), revealed by the avidin–biotin complex (Vectastain kit, Vector Laboratries, Burlingame, CA, USA) and the AEC chromogen. Retinal structures were further identified by HES coloration.

Results

During the experiments, the laser spots were not visible except for the strongest “high” powers for each exposure duration, where a whitening was discernable at the end of the laser exposures. A strong HSP70 immunoreactivity was detected in choroidal, non‐pigmented cells for laser exposures lasting 60, 30, or 15 seconds with “mild” laser powers. On the contrary, rare HSP hyperexpression was detected with “high” or “low” laser powers lasting 60, 30, or 15 seconds. No HSP‐70 immunoreactivity was detected on control eyes nor outside of the irradiated zones of treated eyes.

Conclusions

Transpupillary laser irradiation lasting 15, 30, or 60 seconds induces an hyperexpression of HSP on choroidal layers. This could be a basis for the use of TTT with “short” laser exposures. Lasers Surg. Med. 33:102–107, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mid‐gestation Down syndrome screening test and pregnancy outcome among unstimulated assisted‐conception pregnancies
Authors: Shulman Adrian , Maymon Ron
Published: August 2003

Objectives

Alteration of mid‐gestation serum markers in assisted‐conception pregnancies is believed to be attributable to ovarian superovulation treatment modalities. We compared alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), and unconjugated estriol (uE3) in two groups of unstimulated assisted‐conception pregnancies, that is, own‐oocyte frozen embryos (own‐FET) versus oocyte‐donated (OD) embryos.

Methods

Forty‐three OD‐conceived and 31 own‐FET‐conceived singleton parturient women (aged 29 ± 4 years and 31 ± 4 years respectively, P < 0.05) were followed from embryo transfer throughout pregnancy.

Results

The daily pattern of first‐trimester serum β‐hCG was similar in both groups. The OD group had only significantly increased AFP concentrations compared to the own‐FET group (1.38 vs 0.99 median MoM respectively, P = 0.002). Although there were no chromosomal abnormalities and no fetal or neonatal deaths in either group, 12% OD women and 6.5% own‐FET women were found screen‐positive. Eight OD women and 11 FET women had an adverse obstetric outcome (P = NS).

Conclusion

OD embryos are a unique clinical model for evaluating the uterine compartment and its contribution to mid‐gestation serum marker secretion. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Liquid chromatography/mass spectrometric determination of patulin in apple juice using atmospheric pressure photoionization
Authors: Takino Masahiko , Daishima Shigeki , Nakahara Taketoshi
Published: August 2003

This paper describes a comparison between atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI) and the recently introduced atmospheric pressure photoionization (APPI) technique for the liquid chromatography/mass spectrometric (LC/MS) determination of patulin in clear apple juice. A column switching technique for on‐line extraction of clear apple juice was developed. The parameters investigated for the optimization of APPI were the ion source parameters fragmentor voltage, capillary voltage, and vaporizer temperature, and also mobile phase composition and flow rate. Furthermore, chemical noise and signal suppression of analyte signals due to sample matrix interference were investigated for both APCI and APPI. The results indicated that APPI provides lower chemical noise and signal suppression in comparison with APCI. The linear range for patulin in apple juice (correlation coefficient >0.999) was 0.2–100 ng mL−1. Mean recoveries of patulin in three apple juices ranged from 94.5 to 103.2%, and the limit of detection (S/N = 3), repeatability and reproducibility were 1.03–1.50 ng mL−1, 3.9–5.1% and 7.3–8.2%, respectively. The total analysis time was 10.0 min. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of sample preparation and instrumental parameters in the matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry of noncovalent peptide/peptide complexes
Authors: Zehl Martin , Allmaier Günter
Published: August 2003

The application of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOFMS) to the direct detection and investigation of noncovalent solution‐phase complexes is far from being routine and some principal problems and questions still exist. Therefore, this study systematically investigates several main problems, namely, the effect of sample preparation and some instrument‐related parameters on the stability of the noncovalent complexes as well as the formation of nonspecific cluster ions in the case of the MALDI‐MS analysis of specific peptide/peptide complexes. The complexes formed between biologically active fragments of human gastrin I, which contain the sequence motif EEEEE, and different peptides, which contain the interacting sequence motifs RR and RKR, were chosen as examples. A broad variety of MALDI matrices and sample preparation protocols were screened systematically and evaluated. The two ‘less acidic’ matrices 2,4,6‐trihydroxyacetophenone and 6‐aza‐2‐thiothymine, in combination with carefully selected solvents and additives, turned out to allow the reproducible detection of the solution‐phase peptide/peptide complexes with good intensity, whereas the classical MALDI matrices could not be applied with the same success. Because both matrices also tend to induce the formation of nonspecific cluster ions, control experiments using nonbinding peptides were performed to definitely prove the specificity of the detected complexes. In contrast to the sensitivity of the peptide/peptide complexes to solution‐phase conditions, the gas‐phase stability during desorption/ionization was found to be extraordinary high. Neither the application of high laser fluence nor switching from continuous to delayed extraction mode as well as variation of the delay time up to 520 ns had considerable effect on the relative intensities of the specific peptide/peptide complexes. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differentiation of isomeric flavone/isoflavone aglycones by MS2 ion trap mass spectrometry and a double neutral loss of CO
Authors: Kuhn Fabian , Oehme Michael , Romero Fernando , Abou‐Mansour Eliane , Tabacchi Raffaele
Published: August 2003

The fragmentation behaviour of seven pairs of isomeric flavone/isoflavone aglycones (solely hydroxylated and/or methoxylated) was studied using ion trap mass spectrometry with atmospheric pressure ionisation (API, both electrospray and APCI) in the positive and negative ion modes. A major difference was found in the neutral loss of 56 u, which was a common feature of all isoflavones in API(+). It was identified as a double loss of CO by accurate mass tandem mass spectrometric (MS/MS) measurements using a hybrid quadrupole time‐of‐flight (Q‐TOF) instrument. Fragmentation of daidzein with 13C‐isotope labelling of the carbon C2 showed that this double loss occurred from the central ring of the molecule. A mechanism for this selective fragmentation is given. Further isoflavone‐specific fragmentations were used to develop a guideline for the identification of isoflavone structures. A software‐based neutral loss scan of 56 u in the API(+)‐MS2 mode was applied to extracts of leaves of Lupinus albus and to soy flour. The structure elucidation guideline allowed identification of hydroxy and/or methoxy isoflavones. Structures could be confirmed for those available as reference compounds. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of storage techniques for giant panda sperm
Authors: Ann Olson Mary , Yan Huang , DeSheng Li , Hemin Zhang , Durrant Barbara
Published: August 2003

Semen storage for artificial insemination is an integral part of giant panda captive breeding programs. The development of short‐ and long‐term storage techniques is needed to ensure a viable reserve of germplasm for artificial reproduction. In this study semen collected by electroejaculation from three male pandas was extended in culture medium prior to recording initial motility (MOT), speed of progression (SOP), and percent live (% L). Motility scores (MS) were calculated as MOT×SOP2. All results were expressed as % of initial MS (% IMS) and % of initial L (% IL). Experiment 1 examined the longevity of cooled sperm, both fresh and thawed. Extended fresh sperm was diluted in TEST‐Y buffer before storage at 4°C. The % IMS and % IL were recorded at 4, 8, 24, and 48 hr for males 1 and 2, and at 29, 70, and 214 hr for male 3. Additional sperm was frozen over liquid nitrogen vapor following dilution in TEST‐Y buffer with 4% glycerol and cooling to 4°C. The % IL of fresh sperm after 48 hr at 4°C was 96 and 100 for males 1 and 2, respectively. In contrast, thawed sperm from these males exhibited just 77 and 68% IL at thaw (T0). These data indicate that short‐term liquid storage is superior to freezing when sperm is to be used within 48 hr of collection. Experiment 2 compared the effects of four cooling methods on the cryosurvival of panda sperm. Sperm from male 3 was diluted in TEST‐Y buffer with 4% glycerol and cooled by four methods. Vials were frozen over liquid nitrogen vapor and stored for 5 months in liquid nitrogen. The sperm was thawed and evaluated for % IL at T0, and then reevaluated at 30 and 60 min at 37°C. There was no significant effect of the prefreeze cool method on % IMS or % IL. Zoo Biol 22:335–345, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Endocrine monitoring and its application to the management of the giant panda
Authors: Czekala Nancy , McGeehan Laura , Steinman Karen , Xuebing Li , Gual‐Sil Fernando
Published: August 2003

Urinary estrogens (n=10) and progestins (n=4) were monitored in a total of 10 giant panda females. Estrogens were evaluated with two different immunoassays during the estrous period. The two different methodologies gave similar hormonal profiles, but different quantitative results due to differences in the crossreactivity of the different assay systems. High‐pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of peak estrogen urine revealed that estrone sulfate was the major component, and estrone glucuronide was a minor component (97:3). A comparison of days of insemination in females that conceived and delivered offspring showed a correlation to insemination on days 1 and 2 post‐estrogen peak. An analysis of urinary progestins revealed that they were elevated over baseline concentrations following the estrogen surge during estrus (P<0.0004). Zoo Biol 22:389–400, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Actin expression in Taenia solium cysticerci (cestoda): tisular distribution and detection of isoforms
Authors: Ambrosio Javier R. , Reynoso‐Ducoing Olivia , Hernández‐Sanchez Hugo , Correa‐Piña David , González‐Malerva Laura , Cruz‐Rivera Mayra , Flisser Ana
Published: August 2003

Identification, localization and partial biochemical characterization of actins expressed in the larval stage of the cestode parasite Taenia solium has been carried out. Frozen tissue sections of cysticerci, the larval stage of this parasite, were reacted with rhodamine‐phalloidin, parasite actin was purified by polymerization in the presence of K+, mg++and ATP actin was analyzed by SDS—PAGE and two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis, and immunoblotting of actin was performed in PVDF membranes and with commercial anti‐actin monoclonal antibodies. Parasitic tissues showed different fibrous actin fluorescence patterns, which correlated with the expression of isoactins. Purified globular actin had a similar molecular mass to rabbit commercial actin (∼44 kDa). Actin was resolved into seven isoforms, indicating a family of actin genes.
Anterior rectal wall excision for endometriosis using the circular stapler
Authors: Woods Rodney J. , Heriot Alexander G. , Chen Frank C.
Published: August 2003

Background:  Endometriosis involving the rectum is rare but is associated with significant symptoms that are best relieved by resection of the involved segment of rectum. Resection necessitates either a segmental or anterior rectal wall excision with sutured closure. Application of a circular stapling device allows an alternative technique to resect endometriosis in this area.

Method:  Following laparascopic ablation of endometriosis elsewhere in the pelvis, the rectum must be mobilized around disease present on the anterior rectal wall. This will involve lateral and anterior extraperitoneal rectal dissection; the latter dissection mobilizing the vagina from the rectum by a sufficient length necessary to allow imbrication of the diseased area. Insertion of a circular stapler per anus allows the diseased area to be imbricated into the stapler, resulting in simultaneous excision and closure of the anterior rectal wall.

Results:  Thirty patients with anterior rectal wall endometriosis, estimated at <2 cm in diameter and not involving > one‐third of the total circumference of the rectum, have undergone successful management using this technique. Morbidity occurred in four patients, with one patient requiring further surgery.

Conclusions:  Laparascopic disc excision of deposits of endometriosis involving the anterior rectal wall can be safely performed utilizing the circular stapler without the need for open surgery, and with low morbidity.
Long‐term comparison of external valvular stenting and stripping of varicose veins
Authors: Lane Rodney J. , Graiche Joseph A. , Coroneos John C. , Cuzzilla Michael L.
Published: August 2003

Background:  The recurrence rate following stripping of the long saphenous vein is unacceptable. Repair of the terminal valve of the long saphenous vein is a physiological alternative. The aim of the present study was to prospectively compare the long‐term recurrence rates in patients having had reparative and ablative procedures at the same time.

Methods:  Patients were grouped first into those receiving high ligation and stripping of the long saphenous vein in one limb and valve repair on the contralateral side. The second group consisted of those patients who received short saphenous vein removal and valve repair of the ipsilateral long saphenous system. Finally, the effect of pregnancy on patients who received valve repairs was also studied. All patients were examined postoperatively clinically and with duplex ultrasound.

Results:  Cumulative and absolute recurrence rates for both procedures were analysed. Over the 13‐year follow‐up period, external valvular stenting produced a superior outcome. The effect of pregnancy on the venous valve repair cases resulted in recurrences in 23% of cases but there was no evidence of incompetence at the site of the valve repair.

Conclusion:  If a valve repair is possible at the saphenofemoral junction, then it should be the preferred treatment option.
Unsupervised Curve Clustering using B‐Splines
Authors: Abraham C. , Cornillon P. A. , Matzner‐Løber E. , Molinari N.
Published: August 2003

Data in many different fields come to practitioners through a process naturally described as functional. Although data are gathered as finite vector and may contain measurement errors, the functional form have to be taken into account. We propose a clustering procedure of such data emphasizing the functional nature of the objects. The new clustering method consists of two stages: fitting the functional data by B‐splines and partitioning the estimated model coefficients using a k‐means algorithm. Strong consistency of the clustering method is proved and a real‐world example from food industry is given.
Management Strategies and Budgetary Politics
Authors: Brecher Charles
Published: August 2003

The study of public sector budgeting, particularly at the state level, has been dominated by incremental models of decision making. As a result, the budget has not always been viewed as an effective management tool for governors and other senior state officials. However, there are several critical issues which state leaders repeatedly face and for which the budget is the principal instrument for implementing decisions. This article identifies four key issues for the strategic management of state government and relates alternative approaches to each issue to the nature of budgetary politics. The first section raises the issues in the form of four questions. The next sections present alternative answers and discuss their political implications. Where appropriate, examples from the state of New York are included.