bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computer‐controlled cardiopulmonary bypass system
Authors: Beppu Toshiyuki , Imai Yasuharu , Fukui Yasuhiro
Published: July 2007

To improve the safety of a cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), the authors developed a pump control system that uses a microcomputer. The system consists of a microcomputer (NEC PC9801), 12‐bit A/D converter, infusion pump, withdrawal pump, reservoir sensor, and collapse sensor. The computer controls both pumps and regulates central venous pressure (CVP) to maintain the amount of blood in the patient's body at constant.

A digital proportional‐integral (PI) control with a sampling period of 1 s is adopted for CVP controller; the control gain is determined experimentally. A screening algorithm is devised to remove artifacts introduced to the CVP measurement. This system was used in ten cases of infants with congenital heart disease, where CVP was controlled satisfactorily for all cases with no unstable operation. Most of the changes in the CVP caused by surgical manipulation were detected by the screening algorithm. Additionally, the blood balance during CPB was maintained satisfactorily. This system is useful for the improvement of the safety of CPB.
Adaptive laplacian‐gaussian filter method for edge detection and diameter estimation of coronary arteries on cineangiograms: Applications to phantom profiles
Authors: Oie Takahiro , Sato Shunsuke
Published: July 2007

Recently, the estimation of the vessel diameter and cross‐sectional area from the images of the coronary arteries has been considered, aiming at the quantitative diagnosis of the coronary artery stenoses. The edge detection of the vessel image is the clue to the estimation of the vessel diameter and the cross‐sectional area. However, no method has been established with a sufficient accuracy.

This paper proposes an adaptive Laplacian‐Gaussian filter method for the accurate edge detection of the vessel image which is an improvement of the zero‐crossing method. By the proposed method, it is shown that the edge is detected at the position corresponding to the vessel radius if the image of the vessel retains a similar shape even if the vessel diameter changes. On the other hand, the similarity of the vessel image is not maintained if there exists a blur in the imaging system.

It is shown also that the diameter can be estimated if the blur is represented by a Gaussian function. The blur of the imaging system is examined by a phantom experiment, and it is seen that the blur can be represented by the weighted sum of two Gaussian functions. Finally, it is shown that the proposed method can almost accurately extract the edge of the vessel image in such a case, and the vessel diameter can be estimated with a high accuracy.
Performance evaluation of communication networks based on FSM specifications of protocols
Authors: Nakahara Akiko , Aida Hitoshi , Saito Tadao
Published: July 2007

This paper considers the simulation method for the performance evaluation based on the formally described protocol specifications. Here, the simulation using the FSM model is outlined first, and a model called unitary token model, which is derived by simplifying the FSM model, is proposed. The configuration of an experimental system is presented which reads in such a model and executes the simulation. Then the data transfer by four layers, i.e., the transport and the lower layers in OSI model, is considered and an example is shown where the simulation actually is executed for evaluation.

From the viewpoint of the method of analysis, the model for the individual process in this paper is the general FSM model, but the waiting due to the sharing of the CPU and the channel among processes is considered as a part of the computation in the simulation. By this elaboration, the performance can be evaluated based on the independent descriptions, even in a situation where several kinds of communications exist as in the case of the two‐way communication and the multiplex system. In the simplified model, the result of evaluation can be obtained in a simple way by reducing the task in the execution, by pre‐examining the communication protocol that is executed iteratively by the process.
Improvement of a petri net‐controlled multiprocessor system
Authors: Murakoshi Hideki , Dohi Yasunori
Published: July 2007

This paper proposes a method of reducing the overhead and improving the speed of the Petri net‐controlled multiprocessor system. The authors have previously proposed a Petri net‐controlled multiprocessor system in which direct control of such operations as synchronization and exclusive control can be realized, once the parallel processing is described by a Petri net. When a microprocessor is employed as the controller, however, a large control overhead is required and the processing speed is not improved even if the high‐speed processing is considered by the parallelism. In the method described here, speed is improved by a search for firable transitions, the elimination of places that have been made superfluous by return or kill operations, the use of a functional memory with a large word width for processing global places, and the implementation of the controller in hardware. The overhead of the proposed system is evaluated by a simulation, which indicates that operation will be two orders of magnitude faster than in the previous system. The overhead ratio is small even for small‐scale processing in which the process unit (granularity) is the statement and that parallelism is thoroughly utilized.
Electromigration of the conducting polymer in organic semiconductor devices and its stabilization by cross-linking
Authors: Png Rui-Qi , Chia Perq-Jon , Sivaramakrishnan Sankaran , Wong Loke-Yuen , Zhou Mi , Chua Lay-Lay , Ho Peter K-H.
Published: July 2007

X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) measurement of the ratio of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDT) to polystyrenesulfonate (PSS) reveals accumulation of PEDT+ at the interface between the PEDT:PSSH hole-injection layer and the organic semiconductor during diode operation. This ionic drift of PEDT+ occurs even at low fields of 1Vcm−1, which will have an impact on the operational stability of the characteristics of organic light-emitting diodes. XPS and Raman spectroscopy indicate that dedoping of PEDT+ does not occur significantly in hole-only devices. Cross-linking at the 1mol% level can stabilize the conducting polymer sufficiently against electromigration.
The Nonrevolutionary Peasantry of Modern Iran
Authors: Kazemi Farhad , Abrahamian Ervand
Published: July 2007

The persistence of tradition needs explanation as much as change. It may be that people cleave to ancestral ways through general inertia, but it is more likely that there are good and sufficient reasons behind such persistence, much as there are good and sufficient reasons for change.

The social scientist studying the modern world is inevitably struck by the importance of peasant rebellions. In some countries--such as Russia, Yugoslavia, Albania, China, Cuba, and Vietnam--peasant rebellions have helped bring about communist revolutions. In others--such as Mexico, Algeria, Kenya, and recently Angola--they have contributed toward the success of nationalist revolutions. In yet other countries--including Spain, Greece, Peru, India, Phillippines, Malaya, and Indonesia--they have helped shake, even though they have not destroyed, the foundations of the old order. The social scientist studying Iran, however, is struck not by the importance but by the conspicuous absence of any large-scale peasant rebellions in the modern era.
Women in the Islamic Republic of Iran
Authors: Nashat Guity
Published: July 2007

The image of the Iranian woman clad in the traditional chador, pointing her fist in the air or carrying a machine gun, has become one of the hallmarks of the most recent revolution in Iran. But, in spite of the role played by women in toppling the shah's regime, women have lost more from the change of government than has any other group that participated in the revolution. This loss is evident in (1) the abrogation of laws enacted under the previous regime that introduced a measure of equality for women; (2) the dwindling of employment opportunities available to women due to the deteriorating economic situation; (3) the long-term policy of the current government to encourage women to stay at home; and (4) a massive and persistent campaign to convince women that their own welfare and the welfare of society is best preserved if the roles of men and women are kept separate and if contact between the sexes is kept at a minimum.
Zoroastrians In Muslim Iran: Selected Problems of Coexistence and Interaction During the Early Medieval Period
Authors: Choksy Jamsheed K.
Published: July 2007

The Arab conquest of the Sasanian empire (633-651 A.D.) provided the Iranian peoples with their first extensive contact with Islam. Prior to this, encounters between Zoroastrians and Muslims had generally been restricted to the lower reaches of the Mesopotamian plain. More importantly, this conquest installed Islam as the religion of the new rulers, replacing Zoroastrianism, referred to as the good religion (Phl.weh dēn) by its followers, which had enjoyed royal favor under the Sasanians. The conquest of the Sasanian empire resulted in large numbers of Arabs entering and eventually settling on Iranian territory. The presence of these Arabs on the Mesopotamian plain and Iranian plateau, and their eventual settlement there, naturally resulted in coexistence and social interaction between Muslims and the native Zoroastrians. This interaction would initially have been slow, as the Arab troops were confined to military garrisons (Ar.Amşār).
Explaining the Yugoslav meltdown, 2: A Theory about the Causes of the Yugoslav Meltdown: The Serbian National Awakening as a “Revitalization Movement”*
Authors: Ramet Sabrina P.
Published: July 2007

The argument to be presented here is that the Yugoslav meltdown involved three factors or sets of factors: first, the various underlying problems such as economic deterioration, political illegitimacy, and structural factors which drove the system toward crisis; second, the presence and persistence of inter-ethnic resentments deriving from irreconcilable national historical narratives in which Yugoslavia's constituent peoples cast each other as “the Enemy” (usually across the Serb–non-Serb cleavage) and specifically stoked by certain ambitious political figures; and third, the emergence, in Serbia, of a national “revitalization movement” led by Slobodan Milošević, nurturing grandiose territorial fantasies. I shall also argue that understanding the Serb national awakening of the late 1980s as a “revitalization movement” helps to understand the nature of what happened in Serbia, in particular how Serb nationalists could construe theirinitiativesasresponsesto some perceived threat coming from outside the community of Serbs, the phases in the development of that movement, and its role in impelling socialist Yugoslavia toward breakup and meltdown.
The Nature of Russia's Identity: The Theme of “Russia and the West” in Post-Soviet Culture
Authors: Marsh Rosalind
Published: July 2007

The aim of this essay is to present a brief overview of the treatment in post-Soviet culture and the media, especially in literature, film andpublitsistikaon historical themes, of certain aspects of the perennial debate about “Russia and the West.” I will ask whether the West is still regarded as Russia's “Other,” or whether, in a period when Russia has been more open to the West than ever before, and Western and Russian tastes in historical and other fiction appear to be converging, such a polar opposition can now be seen as fundamentally outdated.
The European social fund and British labour market policies — the unfulfilled local authority dimension
Authors: Teague Paul
Published: July 2007

This article describes and analyses the contribution made by the European Social Fund to training and employment initiatives in Britain. It argues that the full potential of the ESF for an innovative exchange of international experience is held back by central government's decision to channel most ESF money through the MSC.
“Action for cities” and the urban environment
Authors: McLaren Duncan
Published: July 2007

Government inner city policy has failed to solve problems of unemployment, dereliction, homelessness and social stress. The problems and their possible solutions are linked to environmental problems and the need for environmentally sustainable development in urban areas. Government policy on these issues is incoherent, and existing policies under ‘Action for Cities’ will not reverse current trends of environmental degradation.
Greening the local economy
Authors: Gibbs D.C.
Published: July 2007

While there has been a growing awareness of environmental issues in recent years, there has been little attempt to integrate environmental policy with economic development issues. This paper argues that this is an issue which should be addressed by local authorities and suggests ways in which local authorities could begin to move towards sustainable local economic development.
Stakeholding and the Local Economy
Authors: Imrie Rob , Wilks-Heeg Stuart
Published: July 2007

During the 1980s local economic policy became an issue of major political concern. The polarisation of the New Right market‐led strategies advanced by the Thatcher governments and the New Left-inspired counter-response, typified by the last years of the GLC, reflected the tenor of national political and economic debates at the time. Arguably, in the 10 years since the abolition of the GLC, local economic development has been devoid (some might say spared) of any “big idea” arising from wider political debates. Recently, however, there have been signs that a new political direction may be emerging at the national level with significant implications for local economic policy. That direction is the notion of stakeholding.
Re-booting the Local Economy
Authors: Southern Alan
Published: July 2007

Many local economic strategies today include reference to a communications infrastructure that involves electronic networks alongside that of roads and railways. Information and communication technologies (ICTs), often referred to as the “information superhighway” or informatics, are considered useful to stimulate local economic activity. This paper, based on a North East case study, suggests that the importance of ICTs to local economic strategy lies in the rationale of key local strategy makers, while the use of ICTs for local economic development means that the local governance of ICTs will become a salient feature in future economic development
Local Economic Development Strategies for the UK Computer Services Sector
Authors: Coe Neil M.
Published: July 2007

This article considers ways in which local economic policy makers can best proceed with respect to the development of the computer services industry, one of the fastest-growing sectors of the British economy. I suggest that knowledge of the structural and locational dynamics of the industry is necessary before effective interventions can be made. My analysis indicates that while policies focusing on the attraction of investment from outside the local area, or on infrastructural and communications upgrading may well be ineffective, the provision of seed funding and advice for new and recent start-ups, in conjunction with attempts to stimulate the local market for computer services, may have positive impacts.
Random breath testing in Australia: a complex deterrent
Authors: Homel Ross
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Australian road fatalities are currently at their lowest level for many years. It is argued that one reason for this decline is the success of random breath testing (RBT) and random stopping programs in some parts of Australia. There is evidence that RBT in New South Wales has been a remarkably successful law, with a 36% decline in alcohol‐related fatalities which has been sustained for 5 years. Survey data support the conclusion that RBT in NSW has had a powerful and sustained deterrent impact especially on heavy drinkers, although there is evidence that deterrence is an unstable process. However, RBT and random stopping have not been as successful in other parts of Australia. The key ingredients for success appear to be continued, highly visible police enforcement, with about one motorist in three being tested each year, together with extensive publicity, particularly in the early stages. The mechanisms whereby RBT may change drink‐driving behaviour are complex. They include simple deterrence, reductions in pressures to drink in group situations, and alterations in drinking patterns (including the adoption of practices such as counting drinks rather than relying on feelings, leading to less drink‐driving but probably also a reduction in total alcohol consumption). The NSW experience suggests that a successful deterrent may eventually bring about changes in attitudes to drinking and driving (“moral deterrence”.
Alcohol and the eastern colonies 1788–1901
Authors: Powell K. C.
Published: July 2007

Abstract:In the early years of the Australian colonies alcohol consumption was heavy but is shown to be lower than in some other countries at that time. The decade of the 1830s saw the highest per capita consumption although the gold rush period of the 1850s was probably comparable. From 1860 to 1900 consumption fell strongly. Causes and consequences of rises and falls in consumption levels are presented for the convict era, the gold rush years and the post‐gold rush period to the end of the century. The response to drunkenness is discussed including the attempts of the anti‐drink movement to achieve prohibition.
Stepping on to foreign shores
Authors: Saunders John B. , Saunders Bill
Published: July 2007

Abstract: The 20,000 kilometre journey from the United Kingdom to Australia has been made for 200 years by explorers, tradesmen, entrepreneurs, families keen to explore the land of opportunity and by a fair number of adventurers, paupers and vagabonds. Nowadays, the essential qualification for a Briton to gain entry into Australia is to be a drug and alcohol specialist. In this paper two professional brethren give their impressions of the drug and alcohol field in Australia from an old world perspective.
The Role of the Controlled Drinking Goal in the Prevention of Alcohol Problems
Authors: Heather Nick
Published: July 2007

Abstract:The role of the controlled drinking goal is examined in relation to the three traditional levels of preventive activity — primary, secondary and tertiary. It is shown that this goal of intervention, and the methods of behaviour change associated with it, have important potential applications at each of these levels. An integrated approach to treatment and prevention, based on a social learning perspective on drinking behaviour and problems, is recommended.
Microvascular Solute and Water Transport
Authors: CURRY FITZ‐ROY E.
Published: July 2007

Objective: This review evaluate [1] the regulation of water and solute transport across the endothelial barrier in terms of pore theory and the glycocalyx‐junction‐break model of capillary permeability; and [2] the mechanisms regulating permeability based on experiments using cultured endothelial cells and intact microvessels.

Conclusions: The current form of the glycocalyx‐junction‐break model of capillary permeability describes the selectivity of the capillary wall (pore size) in terms of the space between the fibers of a quasi‐periodic matrix on the endothelial cell surface and the area for exchange (pore number) in terms of the length and frequency of breaks in the tight junction strands. An independent test of this model in a range of mammalian microvascular beds is new experimental evidence that the colloid osmotic pressure of plasma proteins is developed across the glycocalyx, not across the whole microvessel wall. We are beginning to understand that endothelial cells may change their phenotype in response to physical and chemical stresses. Such changes in phenotype may explain changes in the regulation of endothelial barrier function in intact microvessels that have previously been exposed to injury and differences in the regulation of contractile mechanisms between endothelial cells in vivo and in vitro.
Inflammatory Responses Underlying the Microvascular Dysfunction Associated with Obesity and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Singer Georg , Granger Neil
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT

Obesity is a growing health care problem that is increasing the incidence and morbidity of cardiovascular diseases. Emerging evidence suggests that obesity is associated with a systemic inflammatory response that is characterized by endothelial cell dysfunction, oxidative stress, and the activation of circulating immune cells. Adipocytes produce and release a variety of cytokines (IL‐1, TNF‐α) and cytokine‐like substances (leptin, resistin) that appear to mediate the inflammatory response that accompanies obesity. The abrogating influence of weight loss on the inflammatory response supports this contention. The insulin resistance that often accompanies obesity may also contribute to this inflammatory phenotype. Studies in experimental animals and clinical studies suggest that the microvascular dysfunction associated with pathological states, such as sepsis, is greatly exacerbated by obesity. Although the microvasculature appears to be a major target for the deleterious inflammatory consequences of obesity, relatively little attention has been devoted to characterizing the effects of obesity on inflammatory responses in different regional vascular beds and to defining the mechanisms that underlie the resultant microvascular dysfunction.
Regulation of Vascular Function and Insulin Sensitivity by Adipose Tissue: Focus on Perivascular Adipose Tissue
Authors: Eringa Etto C. , Bakker Wineke , Smulders Yvo M. , Serné Erik H. , Yudkin John S. , Stehouwer Coen D.A.
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT

Obesity is associated with insulin resistance, hypertension and cardiovascular disease, but the mechanisms underlying these associations are incompletely understood. Microvascular dysfunction may play an important role in the pathogenesis of both insulin resistance and hypertension in obesity. Adipose tissue‐derived substances (adipokines) and especially inflammatory products of adipose tissue control insulin sensitivity and vascular function. Recently, adipose tissue associated with the arterial tree, called perivascular adipose tissue (PAT) has been shown to produce a variety of adipokines and to trigger vascular inflammation. This review summarizes the mechanisms linking adipose tissue to (micro)vascular function, inflammation and insulin resistance with a special focus on the role of PAT in the regulation of vascular tone, endothelial function, inflammation and insulin sensitivity.
The evolving role of the Head of Department
Authors: Kerry Trevor
Published: July 2007

This paper examines three concepts relating to the role of heads of department (HoDs) in secondary schools: boundary management; the roles of subject leadership and departmental functioning as HoD activities; and the place of HoDs in evolving school hierarchies. To throw light on the
last an empirical study is reported that explores hierarchies in middle management across three professions, and draws comparisons. The paper rejects boundary management as an appropriate model. It concludes that hierarchical models in education are very different from those in the military
or in business and establishes a typology against which to view the research data.
A specific assay for discriminating between peroxidase and lipoxygenase activities
Authors: Fontana Mario , Costa Mara , Mosca Luciana , Rosei Maria Anna
Published: July 2007

Peroxidases are widespread heme‐containing enzymes able to catalyze the oxidation of a large array of organic substrates. There is growing interest in the measurements of peroxidase activity. We noticed that many substrates used in the routine assays for the biological and cytological determinations of peroxidase could be oxidized by lipoxygenase. We found interesting to set up a procedure to detect selectively peroxidase. In the present note, we report a fluorometric test for peroxidase detection using phenolic compounds or hydroxycoumarins.
Bitter taste of monosaccharide pentaacetate esters
Authors: Malaisse Willy J. , Malaisse‐Lagae Francine
Published: July 2007

The pentaacetate esters of several, but not all, monosaccharides were recently found to stimulate insulin release from rat pancreatic islets. We have now compared the taste of solutions of either these esters or the corresponding unesterified monosaccharides. The sweet taste of the latter monosaccharides (0.22 M) ranged as follows: D‐glucose ≅D‐galactose ≅D‐mannoheptulose > L‐glucose. None of the esters (1.7 mM) displayed a sweet taste. However, the α‐ and β‐anomer of D‐glucose pentaacetate, the α‐anomer of D‐mannose pentaacetate and the β‐anomer of L‐glucose pentaacetate all displayed a bitter taste, whilst both α‐ and β‐D‐galactose pentaacetate yielded doubtful results. Since such a situation is comparable to that characterizing the islet B‐cell response to these esters, it is proposed that the intracellular interaction between the esters or their hydrolytic products and a protein involved in the recognition of bitter taste in taste buds may participate in their insulinotropic action.
Vitamin B6 deficiency affects antioxidant defences in rat liver and heart
Authors: Cabrini Luciana , Bergami Raffaella , Fiorentini Diana , Marchetti Mario , Landi Laura , Tolomelli Brunella
Published: July 2007

We have evalued the effects of a diet containing normal amounts of lipids and a marginal content of vitamin B6 on lipid peroxidation. Pyridoxal phosphate concentrations of plasma and liver indicated that an initial deficiency state was reached. Vitamin B6 deficiency led to peroxidative stress: TBARS production was higher in the liver (+18·6%) and even more in the heart (+61%) of deficient rats as compared with controls. Furthermore, significant stimulation of glutathione‐dependent enzymes occurred in both heart and liver of deficient rats: glutathione peroxidase activity increased in heart (+144%) and liver (+505%); glutathione reductase increased in heart (+54·9%) and liver (+15·5%). No difference in the total glutathione content of the organs of the two groups was observed. The reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio was significantly lower in deficient rats. Although the activity of glutathione‐dependent enzymes was significantly greater in deficient rats than in controls, this stimulation was only partially able to counteract the peroxidative damage due to vitamin B6 deficiency.
Caspase‐8 in Apoptosis: The Beginning of “The End”?
Authors: Kruidering Marieke , Evan Gerard I.
Published: July 2007

Caspase‐8 is a member of the cysteine proteases, which are implicated in apoptosis and cytokine processing. Like all caspases, caspase‐8 is synthesized as an inactive single polypeptide chain zymogen procaspase and is activated by proteolytic cleavage, through either autoactivation after recruitment into a multimeric complex or trans‐cleavage by other caspases. Thus, ligand binding‐induced trimerization of death receptors results in recruitment of the receptor‐specific adapter protein Fas‐associated death domain (FADD), which then recruits caspase‐8. Activated caspase‐8 is known to propagate the apoptotic signal either by directly cleaving and activating downstream caspases or by cleaving the BH3 Bcl2‐interacting protein, which leads to the release of cytochrome c from mitochondria, triggering activation of caspase‐9 in a complex with dATP and Apaf‐1. Activated caspase‐9 then activates further “downstream caspases, ” including caspase‐8. Knockout data indicate that caspase‐8 is required for killing induced by the death receptors Fas, tumor necrosis factor receptor 1, and death receptor 3. Moreover, caspase‐8‐/‐ mice die in utero as a result of defective development of heart muscle and display fewer hematopoietic progenitor cells, suggesting that the FADD/caspase‐8 pathway is absolutely required for growth and development of specific cell types.
Interview: Angela Mason on trips to Skegness, Maoists and briefings with the minister
Authors: Hunter Shona , Swan Elaine
Published: July 2007

Purpose

To explore the experience of a key member of the UK equalities policy‐making elite, interrogating her shift from activist to top‐ranking equalities professional. To focus attention on the under‐explored area of lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender equalities work.

Design/methodology/approach

The interview is prefaced with a critical commentary on current UK equalities policy, contextualising the interview discussion, which links personal and collective histories and provides a comparison of equalities work over time.

Findings

Angela Mason, while top‐ranking civil servant, continues to claim the label activist. Like a variety of other equalities workers she uses multiple tactics to appeal to different constituents at different times and in different contexts.

Originality/value

This is an interview with one of the key protagonists in the development of UK equalities policies over the last 30 years. It is unique in its focus on the current overhaul of UK equalities policy from an “insider” and in its timing at the interim point of this reorganisation (October 2006).
Consumers' product evaluations in emerging markets
Authors: Hamzaoui Essoussi Leila , Merunka Dwight
Published: July 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate, in an emerging market, the simultaneous effects of country of design (COD), country of manufacture (COM), and brand image on consumers' perceptions of bi‐national products. A comprehensive model broadens country‐of‐origin literature by incorporating brand image and the concepts of fit and congruity borrowed from brand extension research. Perceptual (in) coherences that might exist among COD, COM, and the brand are incorporated.

Design/methodology/approach

Tunisia is the emerging market studied. A total of 389 respondents evaluated different product combinations (COD/COM/brand) in two categories. Relationships between constructs are tested using structural equation modelling.

Findings

Consumers are sensitive to the COD (more so for public than for private goods) and also value the COM of branded products. The transfer of the COD image to brand image is significant. It is very high for one product category (cars). Brand/COM congruity is also important since product evaluations decrease when consumers perceive incoherence in a manufacturing location.

Research limitations/implications

The paper used limited informational cues for products' descriptions and concentrate on fairly complex durable goods. Research design should be expanded.

Practical implications

Perceived COD competencies can benefit brand image through strong COD‐brand associations. In emerging markets, COD (through brand image) and COM effects are important for understanding consumers' perceptions of publicly versus privately used branded products.

Originality/value

The major contribution consists of a simultaneous examination of the effects of COD, COM, brand, and of their inter‐relationships. Investigating bi‐national products and related consumer behaviour in emerging markets is of particular interest as it corresponds to the reality of these markets.
Microbial Ecology of the Soppressata of Vallo di Diano, a Traditional Dry Fermented Sausage from Southern Italy, and In Vitro and In Situ Selection of Autochthonous Starter Cultures
Authors: Villani Francesco , Casaburi Annalisa , Pennacchia Carmela , Filosa Luisa , Russo Federica , Ercolini Danilo
Published: July 2007

The microbial ecology of “soppressata of Vallo di Diano,” a traditional dry fermented sausage from southern Italy, was studied by using both culture-dependent and culture-independent approaches. The ripened fermented sausages were characterized by high microbial loads of both staphylococci and lactobacilli. Using PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) targeting the variable V3 and V1 regions of the 16S rRNA gene and direct DNA sequencing, it was possible to identify
Staphylococcus xylosus
,
S. succinus
, and
S. equorum
among the staphylococci and
Lactobacillus sakei
and
L. curvatus
within the lactobacilli. Moreover,
Debaryomyces hansenii
was the main yeast species found by targeting the yeast 26S rRNA gene by PCR-DGGE. Selected strains of
S. xylosus
,
L. sakei
, and
L. curvatus
were characterized for their technological properties in the ripening conditions of the fermented sausages so as to select an autochthonous starter formulation. The selection included the determination of nitrate reductase, lipolytic, and antioxidant activity and proteolysis with myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic protein fractions. Such properties were evaluated in both in vitro and in situ assays; the latter were performed by using each strain as a starter in the laboratory-scale manufacture of soppressata of Vallo di Diano and by monitoring the microbiological and chemical changes at the end of ripening. The results show differences between the in vitro and in situ selection results and indicate that in situ evaluation of the technological performance of specific strains is better suited to selecting autochthonous starter cultures for fermented-meat products than in vitro evaluation.
Structural Characterization of the Ribosome Maturation Protein, RimM
Authors: Suzuki Sakura , Tatsuguchi Ayako , Matsumoto Eiko , Kawazoe Masahito , Kaminishi Tatsuya , Shirouzu Mikako , Muto Yutaka , Takemoto Chie , Yokoyama Shigeyuki
Published: July 2007

The RimM protein has been implicated in the maturation of the 30S ribosomal subunit. It binds to ribosomal protein S19, located in the head domain of the 30S subunit. Multiple sequence alignments predicted that RimM possesses two domains in its N- and C-terminal regions. In the present study, we have producedThermus thermophilusRimM in both the full-length form (162 residues) and its N-terminal fragment, spanning residues 1 to 85, as soluble proteins inEscherichia coliand have performed structural analyses by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Residues 1 to 80 of the RimM protein fold into a single structural domain adopting a six-stranded β-barrel fold. On the other hand, the C-terminal region of RimM (residues 81 to 162) is partly folded in solution. Analyses of1H-15N heteronuclear single quantum correlation spectra revealed that a wide range of residues in the C-terminal region, as well as the residues in the vicinity of a hydrophobic patch in the N-terminal domain, were dramatically affected upon complex formation with ribosomal protein S19.
Fine airborne urban particles (PM2.5) sequester lung surfactant and amino acids from human lung lavage
Authors: Kendall Michaela
Published: July 2007

Components of surfactant act as opsonins and enhance phagocytosis of bacteria; whether this process occurs with atmospheric fine particles has not been shown. We have studied the interactions of fine particles (urban PM2.5) and surfactant removed from normal human lungs by lavage, using a surface analysis technique. The aim was to identify which of the chemical components of brochoalveolar lavage (BAL) deposit on the surfaces of urban PM2.5. Deposition of surfactant components on urban PM2.5 surfaces was reported in previous studies, but molecular identification and relative quantification was not possible using simple data analysis. In this study, we were able to identify adsorbed components by applying an appropriate statistical technique, factor analysis. In this study, the most strongly associated mass fragment on PM2.5 surfaces exposed to BAL (and undetected on both untreated samples and saline controls) was di-palmitoyl-phosphatidylcholine, a component of lung surfactant. Amino acids were also strongly associated with BAL-exposed PM2.5 surfaces and not other sample types. Thirteen mass fragments were identified, diagnostic of the amino acids alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, serine, and valine. This study provides evidence that lung surfactant and amino acids related to opsonin proteins adsorb to nonbiological particle surfaces exposed to human lung lining fluid. Disruption of normal surfactant function, both physical and immunological, is possible but unproven. Further work on this PM-opsonin interaction is recommended.
Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction in intact rat intrapulmonary arteries is not initiated by inhibition of Na+-Ca2+ exchange
Authors: Becker Silke , Moir Lyn M. , Snetkov Vladimir A. , Aaronson Philip I.
Published: July 2007

It has been proposed that a hypoxia-induced inhibition of the Na+-Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) contributes to hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV). By recording isometric tension development in rat intrapulmonary arteries (IPA), we examined the effect on HPV of maneuvers that reduce the ability of NCX to regulate intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). In some experiments, fura pentakis(acetoxymethyl) ester-3 (fura PE-3) was also used to monitor [Ca2+]i. HPV was elicited in IPA that were pretreated with 10 μM diltiazem and slightly preconstricted with PGF2α, which enhances the hypoxic response. Substitution of Na+ with Li+ increased HPV and the associated rise in [Ca2+]i. Pretreatment with ouabain (100 μM) to diminish the Na+ gradient or with the reverse-mode NCX inhibitor KB-R7943 (3 or 10 μM) had no significant effect on HPV. Combined treatment with ouabain and low-[Na+] (24 mM) solution enhanced HPV strongly. The role of NCX in Ca2+ extrusion was examined by assessing the decrease in [Ca2+]i in Ca2+-free physiological saline solution either containing or lacking Na+ following a high K+-induced loading of cellular [Ca2+]. Although the large initial rapid fall in [Ca2+] was Na+ independent, final recovery of [Ca2+] to its basal level was delayed in the absence of Na+. Therefore, HPV persisted or was increased under conditions in which forward-mode NCX was already attenuated or prevented, demonstrating that inhibition of NCX by hypoxia is unlikely to initiate HPV. Instead, NCX appears to act to inhibit HPV as would be expected if it is functioning to extrude Ca2+.
Research on scientific journals: Implications for editors and authors
Authors: Armstrong J. Scott
Published: July 2007

A review of editorial policies of leading journals and of research relevant to scientific journals revealed conflicts between‘science’and‘scientists’. Owing to these conflicts, papers are often weak on objectivity and replicability. Furthermore, papers often fall short on importance, competence, intelligibility, or efficiency. Suggestions were made for editorial policies such as: (1) structured guidelines for referees, (2) open peer review, (3) blind reviews, and (4) full disclosure of data and method. Of major importance, an author's‘Note to Referees’(describing the hypotheses and design, but not the results) was suggested to improve the objectivity of the ratings of importance and competence. Also, recommendations are made to authors for improving contributions to science (such as the use of multiple hypotheses) and for promoting their careers (such as using complex methods and obtuse writing).
Revisions of time varying seasonal filters
Authors: Dagum Estela Bee
Published: July 2007

The main purpose of this study is to analyse the magnitude and the nature of the revisions that the time varying seasonal filters of the X‐II and X‐II‐ARIMA methods introduce in the current seasonally adjusted series

The total revision is measured by the mean absolute difference of the transfer functions corresponding to the forecasting and the concurrent seasonal filters with respect to the central‘final’seasonal filter. To take into consideration the fact that the spectrum of a typical economic time series peaks at the low and seasonal frequencies, the revision measures are calculated for selected frequency intervals associated to the trend‐cycle, seasonal variations and the irregular component.
Prior Information and ARIMA Forecasting
Authors: Cholette Pierre A.
Published: July 2007

Using the method of ARIMA forecasting with benchmarks developed in this paper, it is possible to obtain forecasts which take into account the historical information of a series, captured by an ARIMA model (Box and Jenkins, 1970), as well as partial prior information about the forecasts. Prior information takes the form of benchmarks. These originate from the advice of experts, from forecasts of an annual econometric model or simply from pessimistic, realistic or optimistic scenarios contemplated by the analyst of the current economic situation. The benchmarks may represent annual levels to be achieved, neighbourhoods to be reached for a given time period, movements to be displayed or more generally any linear criteria to be satisfied by the forecasted values. The forecaster may then exercise his current economic evaluation and judgement to the fullest extent in deriving forecasts, since the laboriousness experienced without a systematic method is avoided.
On the usefulness of macroeconomic forecasts as inputs to forecasting models
Authors: Ashley Richard
Published: July 2007

A forecasting model for yt based on its relationship to exogenous variables (e.g. x̌t) must use x̌t, the forecast of x̌t. An example is given where commercially available x̌t's are sufficiently inaccurate that a univariate model for yt appears preferable. For a variety of types of models inclusion of an exogenous variable x̌t is shown to worsen the yt forecasts whenever x̌t must itself be forecast by x̌t and MSE (x̌t) > Var (x̌t). Tests with forecasts from a variety of sources indicate that, with a few notable exceptions, MSE (x̌t) > Var (x̌t) is common for macroeconomic forecasts more than a quarter or two ahead.

Thus, either:

available medium range forecasts for many macroeconomic variables (e.g. the GNP growth rate) are not an improvement over the sample mean (so that such variables are not useful explanatory variables in forecasting models), and/or

the suboptimization involved in directly replacing x̌t by x̌t is a luxury that we cannot afford.
Estimation and prediction under structural instability: The case of the U.S. pulp and paper market
Authors: Baudin Anders , Nadeau Serge , Westlund Anders
Published: July 2007

The objectives of this paper are: first, to show empirically the relevance of using adaptive estimation techniques over more traditional estimation approaches when economic systems are believed to be structurally unstable over time; and secondly, to compare in an empirical framework two adaptive estimation techniques: Kalman filtering and the Carbone–Longini filter. For that purpose, an econometric model for the U.S. pulp and paper market is examined under the assumption of structural instability and, hence, constitutes the basis for comparing forecasting performances and estimation accuracy achieved by each technique. A version of Kalman filtering, modified in line with the basic idea of ‘tracking’ characterizing the Carbone–Longini filter, is also presented and applied. The analysis of the results shows that it may be worth using adapative estimation methods to estimate structurally unstable models, even if there is no prior knowledge about the patterns of variation of the parameters. Also, it shows the Carbone–Longini filter and Kalman filtering as being complementary estimation techniques. An estimation/forecasting methodology involving a sequential application mode of these two techniques is suggested.
NGOs in Asia: Issues in development
Authors: Bowden Peter
Published: July 2007

In late 1988 and 1989, the author led a seven country study of NGO activities for the Asian Development Bank. Almost twenty consultants from eight different organizations were involved in the project, the purpose of which was to identify NGOs that were able to contribute to Bank financed projects, and the ways in which any collaboration could take place. The willingness of governments to support the projects was an important aspect of the assessment. During the course of the study, a number of features of NGO operations were identified which are not often reviewed in the literature. These issues, discussed in this paper, relate to the mutual benefits that would flow from greater levels of co‐operation between large donors and NGOs. The paper also discusses some of the difficulties that stand in the way.
Projects of the people or for the people: A look at villagers' participation in three projects in two villages in Tanzania
Authors: Mannion Joe , Brehony Eamonn
Published: July 2007

The study examines the extent to which villagers participated in three projects, run by nongovernment organizations (NGOs), in the Iringa Region of Tanzania. Particular attention is given to the factors influencing participation and to what might be done to ensure participation in village development projects in Tanzania. Data were obtained from interviews with randomly selected groups, the informal comments of study participants and observations, and experiences of one of the study authors in the study villages. There was very little involvement of the villagers in planning and other decisions related to the three projects. While village government leaders were involved by the project organizers, often they did not reflect villagers' views. Low levels of participation were found in two of the projects; agricultural extension and oxen training, with 54 and 78 per cent respectively in the ‘low’ category. While the ‘ten cell’ (local) leaders were responsible for implementing the projects, very few of them had any input into project decisions. Villagers would like to be more involved in project decisions and, based on the group meetings conducted as part of this study, are prepared to get involved in articulating their needs. Suggestions on how this might be achieved are presented.
Placing agricultural research and technology transfer in one organization: Two experiences from Colombia
Authors: Kaimowitz David
Published: July 2007

Based on two experiences from Colombia, placing agricultural research and technology transfer in the same institution is found to be neither a necessary, nor sufficient, condition for effective co‐ordination between the two activities or improved institutional performance. Additional factors to consider include: (1) the specificity of the problems addressed; (2) the institution's capacity to manage the co‐ordination; (3) status differences and competition over resources; (4) institutional size; and (5) the level of politicization of the technology transfer activities.
Rural development in Sudan: The Dutch aid experience
Authors: O'Keefe P. , Kirkby J. , Harnmeijer J.
Published: July 2007

This article concerns the evaluation of Dutch rural aid projects in the Sudan, with particular reference to sustainability. The general policy within which these projects were developed concerns ‘investing in people’, ‘thinking ahead’ and ‘institution strengthening’ and the evaluation is carried out within a framework of ‘themes of success’; eight projects are involved, focusing on the needs of women and refugees, smallholder credit, locust control, forestry control and cotton stalk briquetting. In terms of the immediate impact, the projects focusing on the needs of women and refugees were less successful. This was in part through weak project formulation and monitoring, lack of experience and cultural inhibitions. But all projects suffered from the effects of the macrocontext. The government's attention is upon large scale export‐generating agricultural projects, so projects concerned with other rural issues are marginal to the government's intentions. Environmental concern is seen as inhibiting economic goals; international pressures lead to ‘soil mining’. Furthermore, the international Islamic Revival produces internal conflict militating against sustainable development projects. In conclusion, all these projects are in some respects successful, but none is likely to be sustainable in the current context. However, local projects cannot be sealed off from the macrocontext; success requires the participation of international, national and local agencies and non‐government organizations.