bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The treatment of keloids with pneumatic technology: a pilot study
Authors: Kim Hyun Kyu , Park Mi Kyung , Kim Beom Joon , Kim Myeung Nam , Kim Chan Woong , Kim Sung Eun
Published: November 2012

Background  Keloid scars derive from abnormal fibrous wound healing when the mechanisms controlling tissue repair and regeneration malfunction. Previous studies have reported a reduction in hyaluronic acid among fibroblasts cultured from keloid tissue compared with the levels in normal skin. Here, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of subdermal minimal surgery using hyaluronic acid as a novel treatment in keloid scars.

Objective  To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of subdermal minimal surgery technology in the treatment of keloids.

Materials and methods  Ten Korean patients (Fitzpatrick skin type II–IV) with keloids on the upper arms were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent three sessions of subdermal minimal surgery at three‐week intervals. Scar assessments were performed at baseline, before each treatment session, and three months after the final treatment, with three different assessment methods. Specifically, in addition to the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), two independent physicians performed global assessment evaluations regarding the final cosmetic results. As a final form of assessment, participant satisfaction was assessed using a four‐point scale.

Results  All volunteers completed three treatment sessions, and nine of 10 patients were satisfied with the procedure. The average VSS score decreased three months after the final treatment, and global assessment showed clinical improvement of the scars. No adverse events occurred, except transient spot bleeding at entry points and slight post‐procedure edema, which resolved within 48 hours.

Conclusion  Subdermal minimal surgery technology may help to improve keloids on the upper arm without noticeable adverse effects.
Skin manifestations of nutritional deficiency disease in children: modern day contexts
Authors: Lee Lara Wine , Yan Albert C.
Published: November 2012

Nutritional deficiency syndromes, such as scurvy, pellagra, and beriberi are of historical significance but have largely disappeared from modern society. However, certain populations of children in modern society are at risk of severe nutritional complications. The rarity of these syndromes and lack of understanding about modern‐day risk factors for nutritional deficiency often delays diagnosis. Dermatologists must maintain an appropriate index of suspicion for these characteristic syndromes as many of the deficiency states present with cutaneous manifestations. Here we review the cutaneous manifestations of macronutrient and micronutrient deficiency syndromes as well as those populations of children that remain at risk for developing severe disease.
Diffuse gastroduodenitis associated with ulcerative colitis: Treatment by infliximab
Authors: Chiba Mitsuro , Ono Iwao , Wakamatsu Hideki , Wada Isao , Suzuki Katsuhiko
Published: November 2012

Diffuse gastroduodenitis resembling ulcerative colitis in respect to macro‐ and microscopic findings occurs in ulcerative colitis, although it is rare. Reports of gastroduodenitis associated with ulcerative colitis treated with infliximab are rare. A 58‐year‐old man had tarry stool in March 2011. He had a history of ulcerative colitis that was diagnosed in 1984. He underwent subtotal colectomy in 1991. Endoscopy and radiography revealed diffuse friable mucosa throughout the duodenum and an ulcer in the middle of the descending portion, resulting in a narrow portion.In the stomach, numerous small aphthae were observed in the antrum. Biopsy specimens of the duodenum and antrum showed marked inflammatory cell infiltration in both areas and cryptitis in the duodenum. Standard induction therapy of infliximab was started in April. The ulcer in the descending portion became a scar without diffuse mucosal friability in September 2011.
Do Fund Flow‐Return Relations Depend on the Type of Investor? A Research Note
Authors: Humphrey Jacquelyn E. , Benson Karen L. , Brailsford Timothy J.
Published: November 2012

This study investigates whether the relation between aggregate fund flow and market returns differs between retail and institutional funds. For the retail fund sample, we document a contemporaneous relation between flow and market returns and also find evidence of feedback trading. In contrast, there is little evidence of a relation between flow and market returns for the institutional fund sample. Consequently, it appears that retail and institutional fund investors use different investment strategies, with retail investors following a more naive strategy. We find no evidence of flow inducing price pressure for either type of fund.
The politics of rapid growth
Authors: Grabowski Richard
Published: November 2012

Institutions are thought to be the critical antecedents of rapid economic growth. However, the effectiveness of similar institutions varies dramatically from country to country or even from region to region or from time to time. The differences in the effectiveness of institutions are attributed to the political process (the exercise of leadership in constructing coalitions that give policy legitimacy). Political processes resulting in elite coalitions with narrow interests are not likely to result in rapid growth, whereas elite coalitions where interests are encompassing in nature are likely to create states that are developmental and innovative. Whether elite coalition interests are encompassing or not depends on the extent to which political processes result in the incorporation of the developmental needs of the agricultural sector into the interests of the ruling coalition. This is most likely to occur when an agricultural technology backlog has accumulated over time. These ideas are illustrated with an analysis of the Vietnamese experience.
The ASEAN investment area, other FDI initiatives, and intra‐ASEAN foreign direct investment
Authors: Masron Tajul Ariffin , Yusop Zulkornain
Published: November 2012

The idea of establishing ASEAN as a single market and production base that will make ASEAN a dynamic and competitive location requires, among others, the free flow of investment. As part of the effort to promote regional investment, particularly intra‐ASEAN investment, several schemes have been implemented such as the 1998 Framework Agreement on the ASEAN Investment Area (AIA). This study investigated the impact of the AIA and other foreign direct investment (FDI) initiatives on intra‐ASEAN FDI.

The findings on the impact of the AIA, measured via several proxies, do not provide strong evidence of benefits from the AIA, or from other investment‐promoting initiatives. With equal treatment given to non‐ASEAN investors, ASEAN members may have to provide separate incentives to enhance local entrepreneurs' competitiveness, which should in the long run be translated into higher FDI from ASEAN—either to other ASEAN members or to non‐ASEAN countries. Overall, the results do not argue wholly against the idea of the AIA, given that some of the AIA proxies have a significant impact. Moreover, it is early days yet, and a larger impact may come with time.
Economic crisis and policy response in Malaysia: the role of the new economic policy
Authors: Doraisami Anita
Published: November 2012

Since achieving independence in 1957, Malaysia has experienced three recessions, each of which emanated from different sources of vulnerability. This paper analyses the policy response to economic crisis, in particular, the role of the New Economic Policy (NEP) which was introduced in 1970 and which remains in force today. It concludes that in spite of the diversity in the proximate causes of the crises, the policy response was consistent and sought to ensure that NEP objectives were paramount and the vested interests that had emerged as a result of the NEP and which were linked to the ruling party were preserved.
The geographic extent of global supply chains: evidence from Southeast Asia
Authors: Machikita Tomohiro , Ueki Yasushi
Published: November 2012

We study the extent to which inter‐firm relationships are locally concentrated and what determines firm differences in geographic proximity to domestic or foreign suppliers and customers. From micro‐data on self‐reported customer and supplier data of firms in Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, we measure the distances between firm pairs, that is, the distance to the main supplier and the distance to the main customer for the surveyed firms. The distances to suppliers and customers are shorter for indigenous firms in these Southeast Asian countries; but the arm's length differs across countries. The distance between firm pairs differs widely across firms within narrowly defined industries and countries. We find that both firm‐level transaction costs and capabilities affect the distances between customers and suppliers. The distance to suppliers is longer for firms that have accepted guest engineers from the main supplier to maintain production processes. Further, we find that the distances to suppliers and customers are longer for firms that have undertaken organisational change or improved marketing practices.
The distance from external balance: Pacific Island states
Authors: Stewart Curtis , Wood Richard
Published: November 2012

This paper seeks to illustrate the potential relevance of the ‘distance from external balance’ concept as a calibration tool for use in the analysis of the external imbalances experienced by small island states. The paper draws on data from several Pacific Island countries to illustrate the measurement and policy issues involved. The paper defines the distance from external balance, provides estimates of its magnitude for the selected Pacific Island countries, and illustrates how the distance from external balance has changed over time. It is found that the small microstates are furthest from external balance. Finally, policy options to address cases of chronic external imbalance are identified.
Conservation tenders: linking theory and experiments for policy assessment*
Authors: Schilizzi Steven , Latacz‐Lohmann Uwe
Published: November 2012

Auction theory has mostly focussed on target‐constrained auctions and is less well developed for budget‐constrained tenders, which are the norm in environmental policy. This study assesses a theoretical model developed for budget‐constrained tenders in its capacity to predict tendering performance under information deficiencies typical of field applications. If complemented by laboratory experiments, the model is able to make the correct policy recommendation when comparing the tender to an equivalent fixed‐price scheme, even with poor predictive accuracy. This holds even if the policymaker has only limited information on the model’s key input variables.
Effort optimisation in artisanal fisheries with multiple management objectives, collective quotas and heterogeneous fleets*
Authors: Castillo Carlos , Dresdner Jorge
Published: November 2012

In this study, we analyse effort optimisation in common rights‐based joint‐stock artisanal fisheries when several objectives are pursued by the authorities and the fleets are heterogeneous. The purpose is to discuss policy options available to the authorities and their implications in terms of trade‐offs between goals. We apply a multi‐objective programming model to the sardine and anchovy artisanal fisheries in central southern Chile. The results suggest that the regulatory system generates inefficient solutions for profit and employment maximisation goals. Moreover, the fleet structure of the artisanal organisations is central for the outcomes obtained by different policy simulations. To improve effort assignment, the authorities should seek to increase flexibility in the system.
Cameron and Liberal Conservatism: Attitudes within the Parliamentary Conservative Party and Conservative Ministers
Authors: Heppell Timothy
Published: November 2012

Research Highlights and Abstract

This article:

Contributes to the development of academic research on the internal dynamics of the Conservative Party under the leadership of David Cameron. Contributes to the development of academic research on the processes of ministerial selection within British Government. Contributes to the development of academic research on cohort effects within parties, and the analysis of comparisons and differences between different parliamentary cohorts. Contributes to the development of academic research on the constraints upon Prime Ministerial power when in coalition.

This article identifies the ideological composition of the parliamentary Conservative party (PCP) in order to determine the location and numeric strength of the critics of Cameron. By constructing a data set of attitudes across two ideological divides—the social, sexual and morality divide and the European divide—the article identifies the following. First, despite Cameron's social liberal emphasis both the PCP and his ministerial team is predominantly Thatcherite—i.e. socially conservative. Second, despite numerically having a Eurosceptic PCP and ministerial team, with Europhilia now an inconsequential rump, Cameron faces a minority ‘hard’ Eurosceptic faction of rebels who oppose his ‘soft’ Euroscepticism. Third, the influx of new parliamentarians elected in 2010 may increase social liberal strength, but they are overwhelmingly Eurosceptic, with a significant tranche of hard Eurosceptics amongst them. Finally, through a process of ideological mapping of these two ideological divides the research identifies a core of 50 socially conservative and hard Eurosceptics who are the critics of Cameron.
Explicit and Implicit Lexical Knowledge: Acquisition of Collocations Under Different Input Conditions
Authors: Sonbul Suhad , Schmitt Norbert
Published: November 2012

To date, there has been little empirical research exploring the relationship between implicit and explicit lexical knowledge (of collocations). As a first step in addressing this gap, two laboratory experiments were conducted that evaluate different conditions (enriched, enhanced, and decontextualized) under which both adult native speakers (Experiment 1) and advanced nonnative speakers of English (Experiment 2) acquire collocations. Three different tests of collocational knowledge were used to assess gains after treatment: two traditional explicit tests (form recall and form recognition) and an innovative implicit test (priming). Results from mixed‐effects modeling showed that all conditions led to significant long‐term gains in explicit form recall and recognition both for natives and nonnatives, while no condition facilitated implicit collocational priming effects either for natives or nonnatives.
Age Effects in a Study Abroad Context: Children and Adults Studying Abroad and at Home
Authors: Llanes Àngels , Muñoz Carmen
Published: November 2012

This study examines the effects of learning context and age on second language development by comparing the language gains, measured in terms of oral and written fluency, lexical and syntactic complexity, and accuracy, experienced by four groups of learners of English: children in a study abroad setting, children in their at‐home school, adults in a study abroad setting, and adults in their at‐home university. Results show that the study abroad context was superior to the at‐home context, and more advantageous for children than for adults in comparative gains, although adults outscored children in absolute gains. The interaction between learning context and age suggests that studying abroad was particularly beneficial for children, who also had more opportunities for oral language practice.
The Indian nation and selective amnesia: representing conflicts and violence in Indian history textbooks
Authors: Guichard Sylvie
Published: November 2012

‘Unity is always obtained by means of brutality’ wrote Ernest Renan. Following this idea, this article investigates how social conflicts and violence are included or muted in national history. This is done by comparing the successive series of history textbooks used in India in the postindependence period. The historical narratives contained in the textbooks were influenced by different conceptions of the Indian nation, and these variations allow us to observe and better understand what is remembered or forgotten in the national narrative. We will see that conflicts and violence are referred to when they involve the nation against its ‘other’ but depictions of conflicts within the nation as it is imagined are avoided. Thus, certain violent episodes of the past find a place in the national historical narrative, yet violence in itself is never described.
Poverty and Dependency in Indigenous Rural Livelihoods: Mapuche Experiences in the Andean Foothills of Chile
Authors: Vergara Elvis Parraguez , Barton Jonathan R.
Published: November 2012

Rural livelihoods are complex systems of interrelating factors that include human, social, natural, physical and financial capitals. By looking at these capitals in the context of a rural Mapuche community in the Andean foothills, in the local area of Curarrehue (Araucanía Region), it is possible to discern the different challenges being faced and how these can be contextualized in terms of poverty and vulnerability linked to a limited resource base, and also the strong dependent relation with the state and its diverse public policies in the region. Using semi‐structured interviews with the community members, public‐sector officers and academics, and also field observations, this complex local scenario is analysed with a view to understanding the threats that exist for Mapuche livelihoods and the assets that they can mobilize to counter these threats. The paper concludes that physical, natural and financial assets are severely limited and remain the reasons why there is heavy dependency on state resources to maintain these subsistence livelihoods. Traditional knowledge is losing ground against increasingly transcultural influences and practices, while endemic biodiversity is being replaced with monoculture. Consequently, community members (human capital) – in particular, the younger generations – are leaving the community to seek more viable livelihood options, mostly in urban areas. These factors point to the limitations of these local livelihoods based on dependent small‐scale subsistence farming continuing in their current form. This situation poses a serious challenge for Mapuche rural communities and their traditional practices, and also for the Chilean state and the relationship between the two.
The response of vegetation at the end of the last glacial period (MIS 3 and MIS 2) in littoral areas of NW Iberia
Authors: Gómez‐Orellana Luis , Ramil‐Rego Pablo , Muñoz Sobrino Castor
Published: November 2012

This paper describes and discusses the palaeobotanical data obtained from organic levels of two exposed deposits on the Atlantic shore of the northwestern Iberian Peninsula. Radiocarbon dating assigns these levels to a period of marine regression at the end of MIS 3 and the beginning of the Last Glacial Maximum. The pollen record shows an initial predominance of tree taxa (mainly deciduous, including the presence of Fagus far from its current limit), followed by an episode of partial forest retraction related to the end of MIS 3 and the beginning of the Last Glacial Maximum. However, the presence of numerous tree taxa in the record, even during the cold intervals associated with Heinrich events, points to the existence of sheltered refugia for these species during this period, in keeping with the conclusions of recent reviews of the vegetation dynamics of this region for the Lateglacial and the Holocene.
Comparison of Peritoneal Fluid Values after Laparoscopic Cryptorchidectomy using a Vessel‐Sealing Device (Ligasure™) Versus a Ligating Loop and Removal of the Descended Testis
Authors: Seabaugh Kathryn A. , Goodrich Laurie R. , Morley Paul S. , Bohn Andrea , Rao Sangeeta , Hendrickson Dean A.
Published: November 2012

Objective

To determine the effect of unilateral laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy and removal of the descended testis on peritoneal fluid values, and to compare effect between 2 methods for cryptorchid testis vessel hemostasis.

Study Design

Randomized clinical study.

Animals

Stallions (n = 10) with unilateral abdominal cryptorchid testis.

Methods

During standing laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy, blood vessels within the mesorchium of the cryptorchid testis were either sealed and transected with the LigaSure Atlas™ or 2 ligating loops were placed proximal to the testis and the tissue transected with laparoscopic scissors. The testis was removed through the body wall. After laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy, stallions were anesthetized and the descended testis was removed using a closed technique leaving the scrotal incision open. Abdominocenteses were performed before surgery, and 24, and 72 hours after surgery.

Results

Values for peritoneal total nucleated cell count (TNCC), total protein concentration (TP), and red blood cell count (RBCC) were all elevated at 24 and 72 hours when compared with baseline. Median TNCC for LigaSure™ (59,780 cells/μL) was nearly twice that of the ligating loop (32,880 cells/μL) at 24 hours postoperatively. There was no statistically significant difference in TNCC, TP, or RBCC between groups.

Conclusions

TNCC, TP, and RBCC increase appreciably from baseline 24 hours after laparoscopic cryptorchidectomy and closed castration but are markedly reduced by 72 hours.
A real options model to assess the role of flexibility in forestry and agroforestry adoption and disadoption in the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley
Authors: Frey Gregory E. , Mercer D. Evan , Cubbage Frederick W. , Abt Robert C.
Published: November 2012

Efforts to restore the Lower Mississippi Alluvial Valley's forests have not achieved desired levels of ecosystem services production. We examined how the variability of returns and the flexibility to change or postpone decisions (option value) affects the economic potential of forestry and agroforestry systems to keep private land in production while still providing ecosystem services. A real options analysis examined the impact of flexibility in decision making under agriculture, forestry, and agroforestry and demonstrated that adoption of forestry or agroforestry systems is less feasible than would be predicted by deterministic capital budgeting models.
Sustainability of market‐based community distribution of Sprinkles in western Kenya
Authors: Suchdev Parminder S. , Shah Ami , Jefferds Maria Elena D. , Eleveld Alie , Patel Minal , Stein Aryeh D. , Macdonald Barbara , Ruth Laird
Published: November 2012

To evaluate the sustainability of market‐based community distribution of micronutrient powders (Sprinkles®, Hexagon Nutrition, Mumbai, India.) among pre‐school children in Kenya, we conducted in August 2010 a follow‐up survey, 18 months after study‐related marketing and household monitoring ended. We surveyed 849 children aged 6–35 months randomly selected from 60 study villages. Nutritional biomarkers were measured by fingerstick; demographic characteristics, Sprinkles purchases and use were assessed through household questionnaires. We compared Sprinkles use, marketing efforts and biomarker levels with the data from surveys conducted in March 2007, March 2008 and March 2009. We used logistic regression to evaluate associations between marketing activities and Sprinkles use in the 2010 survey. At the 2010 follow‐up, 21.9% of children used Sprinkles in the previous 7 days, compared with 64.9% in 2008 (P < 0.001). Average intake was 3.2 sachets week−1 in 2008, 1.6 sachets week−1 in 2009 and 1.1 sachets week−1 in 2010 (P < 0.001). Factors associated with recent Sprinkles use in 2010 included young age [6–23 months vs. 24–35 months, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.5, P = 0.02], lowest 2 quintiles of socio‐economic status (aOR = 1.7, P = 0.004), household attendance at trainings or launches (aOR = 2.8, P < 0.001) and ever receiving promotional items including free Sprinkles, calendars, cups and t‐shirts (aOR = 1.7, P = 0.04). In 2010, there was increased prevalence of anaemia and malaria (P < 0.001), but not iron deficiency (P = 0.44), compared with that in 2008. Sprinkles use in 2010 was associated with decreased iron deficiency (P = 0.03). Sprinkles coverage reduced after stopping household monitoring and reducing marketing activities. Continued promotion and monitoring of Sprinkles usage may be important components to sustain the programme.
Waiting times for Aged Care Packages: The need to know
Authors: Griffiths Maria , Russell Robyn , Brunker Gillian , Boccalatte Margaret , Goldstraw Paul
Published: November 2012

Aim

To establish local waiting times for access to Aged Care Packages (ACPs). ACPs are federally funded and designed to support older people to remain independent in their own homes for as long as possible. Access to an ACP is via the Aged Care Assessment Services (ACAS) process. Initial investigations suggested that significant waiting times existed locally.

Methods

Analysis of ACAS data was undertaken retrospectively and prospectively to identify type of ACP and date of approval. Date of provision was obtained from ACP providers.

Results

Two hundred and eighty‐five ACPs were approved, but only 35 were provided. At up to 12 months after approval, 88% of the cohort were still waiting to receive an appropriate package.

Conclusion

Long waiting times exist, which has implications both for the individual and the care/health sectors. It is suggested that monitoring waiting times should be a requirement for the future.
Measures of economies with an arbitrarily large number of equilibria
Authors: Loi Andrea , Matta Stefano
Published: November 2012

Balasko (1978) shows that in a compact subset of the space of economies, not too many economies can have too many equilibria. We extend Balasko’s result to the whole set of economies for a suitable measure. We show that the measure of economies with a large number of equilibria approaches zero as this number tends to infinity. An analogous result in the infinite‐dimensional setting is also established.
A model of ideological transmission with endogenous parental preferences
Authors: Ghidi Paolo Melindi
Published: November 2012

Under what conditions can a given trait, such as religion or language, be preserved in the long run? To answer this question I develop a dynamic framework of ideological transmission in families in which parents are biased towards children’s traits and socioeconomic activities are modeled in the shape of a trust‐matching process. I model how children are educated to a specific ideological trait that later in life will influence the well‐being of the family. Compared to the existing literature, my model yields two new results. First, paternalistic preferences in children’s education at time t are a necessary but not a sufficient condition to ensure the preservation of heterogeneity in the long‐run distribution of traits. Second, my model is able to reproduce historical events in which a reversal of parents’ evaluation of traits has been observed. Assuming myopic agents does not change the qualitative results of the model.
Consumption externalities, market imperfections and optimal taxation
Authors: Chang Juin‐jen , Chen Jhy‐hwa , Shieh Jhy‐yuan
Published: November 2012

In a dynamic model with a keeping‐up‐with‐the Joneses preference and market imperfections, we attempt to investigate under what circumstances and for what reason the optimal tax should be state‐varying. We extend the Ljungqvist and Uhlig (2000) proposition to include preferences that exhibit non‐homotheticity. We show that a keeping‐up‐with‐the‐Joneses preference (a non‐intertemporally‐dependent preference) can lead the social planner to commit to a state‐contingent tax on labor income. Moreover, the optimal labor income tax can be either procyclical or countercyclical with respect to economic fluctuations, this crucially depending on whether the level of contemporaneous consumption increases or decreases the wedge between the intertemporal substitution elasticity of households and of the social planner.
Fair allocations in large economies with unequal production skills
Authors: Cato Susumu
Published: November 2012

This paper considers the problem of fair allocation among individuals with unequal production skills. We introduce the concept of productivity‐adjusted average no‐envy. It is shown that equal‐income Walrasian allocations are the only surviving allocations that are productivity‐adjusted average envy‐free and efficient when the original economy is infinitely replicated. We also examine local versions of productivity‐adjusted average no‐envy and other equity concepts.
Standard Operating Procedures for Vascular Surgery in Erectile Dysfunction: Revascularization and Venous Procedures
Authors: Sohn Michael , Hatzinger Martin , Goldstein Irwin , Krishnamurti Sudhakar
Published: November 2012

Introduction

The impact of penile blood supply on erectile function was recognized some 500 years ago. At the turn of the 20th century first results of penile venous ligation were published and in 1973 the first surgical attempts to restore penile arterial inflow were undertaken. Numerous techniques were published in the meantime, but inclusion criteria, patient selection, and success evaluation differed extremely between study groups.

Aim

To develop evidence-based standard operating procedures (SOPs) for vascular surgery in erectile dysfunction, based on recent state of the art consensus reports and recently published articles in peer-reviewed journals.

Methods

Based on the recent publication of the consensus process during the 2009 International Consultation on Sexual Medicine in Paris, recommendations are derived for diagnosis and surgical treatment of vascular erectile dysfunction. In addition several recent publications in this field not mentioned in the consensus statements are included in the discussion.

Main Outcome Measure

The Oxford system of evidence-based review was systematically applied. Due to the generally low level of evidence in this field expert opinions were accepted, if published after a well-defined consensus process in peer-reviewed journals.

Results

Referring to penile revascularization it may be concluded, that in the face of missing randomized trials, only recommendations grade D may be given: this kind of surgery may be offered to men less than 55 years, who are nonsmokers, nondiabetic, and demonstrate isolated arterial stenoses in the absence of generalized vascular disease.

The evidence level for recommendations concerning penile venous ligations may be even lower. Too many unsolved controversies exist and universal diagnostic criteria for patient selection as well as operative technique selection have not been unequivocally established. This kind of surgery is still considered investigational but may be offered in special situations on an individualized basis in an investigational or research setting after obtaining written consent, using both pre- and postoperatively validated measuring instruments of success evaluation.

Conclusions

SOPs for penile revascularization procedures can be developed, concerning a highly selected patient group with isolated arterial stenoses. Based on the available data it is not yet possible to define SOPs for surgical treatment of corporal veno-occlusive dysfunction.
Characterization of a β‐1,3‐glucan recognition protein from the beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Bang Kyeongrin , Park Sujin , Cho Saeyoull
Published: November 2012

The β‐1,3‐glucan recognition protein gene from Spodoptera exigua (SeβGRP) was cloned and characterized. The cDNA of this gene is 1 644 nucleotides in length and the predicted polypeptide is 491 amino acids (aa) in length, with a calculated molecular mass of 54.8 kDa. The first 22 aa encode a predicted secretion signal peptide. A BLAST search, multiple sequence alignment, and phylogenetic analysis of the aa sequence of SeβGRP revealed that this protein is most similar to the β‐1,3‐glucan recognition protein (βGRP) family of pattern recognition proteins. Using reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction, we detected the presence of SeβGRP transcripts in the egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages of S. exigua. In addition, the SeβGRP transcript was expressed in all the tissues examined including the brain, hemocytes, fat body, intestine, and cuticle. There were no changes in SeβGRP mRNA levels in larvae infected with ultraviolet (UV)‐killed Escherichia coli DH5α compared with the control larvae inoculated with the water; however, SeβGRP mRNA levels were markedly elevated 4–8 h after infection and slightly induced 12–24 h after infection in larvae injected with UV‐killed Fusarium oxysporum. This may be because β‐1,3‐glucan is the main component of the cell wall of F. oxysporum, but not E. coli DH5α.
Feminist Geography 30 Years on – They Came, They Saw But Did They Conquer?
Authors: JOHNSON LOUISE C.
Published: November 2012

Feminist geography emerged in Australia in the 1980s, spurred on by the local Women's Liberation Movement and inspired by the academic activism emanating from England, Canada, and the United States. Producing critical evaluations of male‐dominated geography departments, curriculum, and journals, feminist geographers proceeded to stake claims in each of these spheres while also substantially revising the content of geographical research. There were significant interventions into urban, social, cultural, and economic geography and in environmental discourses, as well as into the gendered research process. Having arrived, identified, and addressed these issues, the discipline was critiqued and transformed over the 1980s and 1990s. Crucial to the strength of this critique were key individuals, the Gender and Geography Group within the Institute of Australian Geographers, and the role played by journals such as Geographical Research and the Australian Geographer in providing spaces for feminist work. However, as the new century dawned, the agenda changed and the anger and urgency dissipated as the broader and university contexts altered. It was a period of consolidation, as feminist insights and approaches were focused on key subject areas – such as the home, identity, and sexuality – and became more mainstream. However, is this work and the presence of women in the academy an indication of success or of co‐option? This paper will trace these various shifts – from the arrival to the mainstreaming of feminist geography – and analyse what might be read as a retreat from feminist politics and practice within the discipline in Australia. I will conclude by re‐stating the case to advance a new feminist agenda in the face of continuing gender inequality within the academy, in Australia, and across the globe.
Physical activity in obesity and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Strasser Barbara
Published: November 2012

Biological aging is typically associated with a progressive increase in body fat mass and a loss of lean body mass. Owing to the metabolic consequences of reduced muscle mass, it is understood that normal aging and/or decreased physical activity may lead to a higher prevalence of metabolic disorders. Lifestyle modification, specifically changes in diet, physical activity, and exercise, is considered the cornerstone of obesity management. However, for most overweight people it is difficult to lose weight permanently through diet or exercise. Thus, prevention of weight gain is thought to be more effective than weight loss in reducing obesity rates. A key question is whether physical activity can extenuate age‐related weight gain and promote metabolic health in adults. Current guidelines suggest that adults should accumulate about 60 minutes of moderate‐intensity physical activity daily to prevent unhealthy weight gain. Because evidence suggests that resistance training may promote a negative energy balance and may change body fat distribution, it is possible that an increase in muscle mass after resistance training may be a key mediator leading to better metabolic control.
The genetics of alcohol dependence
Authors: Rietschel Marcella , Treutlein Jens
Published: November 2012

Alcohol consumption dates back to the Neolithic period, and alcohol dependence contributes substantially to the current global burden of disease. Despite this, optimal therapies and preventive strategies are lacking. Formal genetic studies of alcohol dependence have shown that genetic factors play as large a role in disease etiology as environmental factors. Molecular genetic studies may identify causal factors and facilitate the development of novel preventive and therapeutic approaches. Whereas earlier studies involved the use of linkage‐ and candidate‐gene approaches, recent years have witnessed the introduction of genome‐wide association studies (GWAS). The present review provides a brief overview of the findings of formal genetic studies, summarizes the results of earlier molecular–genetic investigations, and presents a detailed overview of all published GWAS in the field of alcohol dependence research. To date, few genome‐wide significant findings have been reported. However, through the polygenic approach, GWAS have both confirmed the existence of a multitude of novel risk genes and indicated interesting new candidates.
Effects of Green Tea Extract and α‐Tocopherol on the Lipid Oxidation Rate of Omega‐3 Oils, Incorporated into Table Spreads, Prepared using Multiple Emulsion Technology
Authors: Dwyer Sandra P.O’ , O’Beirne David , Ní Eidhin Deirdre , O’Kennedy Brendan T.
Published: November 2012

Abstract:  This study examined the effectiveness of fat and water soluble antioxidants on the oxidative stability of omega (ω)‐3 rich table spreads, produced using novel multiple emulsion technology. Table spreads were produced by dispersing an oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsion (500 g/kg 85 camelina/15 fish oil blend) in a hardstock/rapeseed oil blend, using sodium caseinate and polyglycerol polyricinoleate as emulsifiers. The O/W and oil‐in‐water‐in‐oil (O/W/O) emulsions contained either a water soluble antioxidant (green tea extract [GTE]), an oil soluble antioxidant (α‐Tocopherol), or both. Spreads containing α‐Tocopherol had the highest lipid hydroperoxide values, whereas spreads containing GTE had the lowest (P < 0.05), during storage at 5 °C, while p‐Anisidine values did not differ significantly. Particle size was generally unaffected by antioxidant type (P < 0.05). Double emulsion (O/W/O) structures were clearly seen in confocal images of the spreads. By the end of storage, none of the spreads had significantly different G′ values. Firmness (Newtons) of all spreads generally increased during storage (P < 0.05).

Practical Application:  Lipid oxidation is a major problem in omega‐3 rich oils, and can cause off‐odors and off‐flavors. Double emulsion technology was used to produce omega‐3 enriched spreads (O/W/O emulsions), wherein the omega‐3 oil was incorporated into the inner oil phase, to protect it from lipid oxidation. Antioxidants were added to further protect the spreads by reducing lipid oxidation. Spreads produced had good oxidative stability and possessed functional (omega‐3 addition) properties.
Describing the Appearance and Flavor Profiles of Fresh Fig (Ficus carica L.) Cultivars
Authors: King Ellena S. , Hopfer Helene , Haug Megan T. , Orsi Jennifer D. , Heymann Hildegarde , Crisosto Gayle M. , Crisosto Carlos H.
Published: November 2012

Abstract:  Twelve fig cultivars, including cultivars destined for the fresh and dried markets, were harvested from 6 locations and evaluated by a trained panel using descriptive sensory analysis. Instrumental measurements were taken at harvest and also during sensory analysis. Each fresh fig cultivar had a characteristic appearance and flavor sensory profile regardless of the source. The primary flavor attributes used to describe the fig cultivars were “fruity,”“melon,”“stone fruit,”“berry,”“citrus,”“honey,”“green,” and “cucumber.” Maturity levels significantly affected the chemical composition and sensory profiles of the fig cultivars. Less mature figs had a higher compression force, a thicker outer skin, and higher ratings for “green” and “latex” flavors, firmness, graininess, bitterness, tingling, and seed adhesiveness. Meanwhile, more mature figs had higher soluble solids concentration, and were perceptibly higher in “fruit” flavors, juiciness, stickiness, sliminess, and sweetness. The specific sensory terminology used for fig appearance and flavor profiles will assist with communication between marketers and consumers, which can increase fresh fig consumption.

Practical Application:  The development of a unique set of descriptors for each fresh fig cultivar allows better communication between fig growers, retailers, and consumers. Consumers who are able to correctly anticipate how a particular fig variety tastes are more likely to be satisfied and purchase more figs. This work also demonstrates the need to develop and select cultivars with high flavor attributes for future fresh fig production.
Assessing exposure to extreme climatic events for terrestrial mammals
Authors: Ameca y Juárez Eric I. , Mace Georgina M. , Cowlishaw Guy , Cornforth William A. , Pettorelli Nathalie
Published: November 2012

There is robust evidence that climate change will modify the frequency and intensity of extreme climatic events. The consequences for terrestrial biota may be dramatic, but are yet to be elucidated. The well‐established IUCN Red List does not, for example, include any explicit quantification of the current level of exposure to extreme climatic events in any species‐based risk assessment. Using globally distributed data for cyclones and droughts as well as information on the distribution of 5,760 terrestrial mammals (species and subspecies) we: (1) define mammals with significant exposure as those with an overlap of at least 25% of their extant geographic range with areas that have been impacted by either cyclones or droughts; and (2) pinpoint those with ≥75% overlap as being at the highest exposure. Although a species’ risk of negative impacts from extreme climatic events depends not only on its exposure but also its intrinsic sensitivity and adaptive capacity, identifying taxa currently exposed can help to (1) reduce the uncertainty in identifying species least likely to be resilient to future impacts, and (2) complement extinction risk assessments and provide a more informed evaluation of current conservation status, to better guide management.
Normative Reasons Contextualism
Authors: Henning Tim
Published: November 2012

This article argues for the view that statements about normative reasons are context‐sensitive. Specifically, they are sensitive to a contextual parameter specifying a relevant person's or group's body of information. The argument for normative reasons contextualism starts from the context‐sensitivity of the normative “ought” and the further premise that reasons must be aligned with oughts. It is incoherent, I maintain, to suppose that someone normatively ought to φ but has most reason not to φ. So given that oughts depend on context, a parallel view about normative reasons is needed. It is shown that the resulting view solves notorious puzzles involving apparently conflicting but equally plausible claims about reasons. These puzzles arise especially in cases where agents have limited information or false beliefs. In these cases, we feel torn between reasons claims that take into account the limitations of the agent's perspective and apparently conflicting claims that are made from a more objective point of view. The contextualist account developed here accommodates both objectivist and subjectivist intuitions. It shows that all of the claims in question can be true, provided that they are relativized to different values of the relevant information parameter. Also, contextualism yields a fruitful approach to the debate about having reasons and the alleged failure of the so‐called “factoring account”.
Gestational weight gain in accordance to the IOM/NRC criteria and the risk for childhood overweight: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Nehring I. , Lehmann S. , von Kries R.
Published: November 2012

What is already known about this subject

Gestational weight gain is a modifiable risk factor for childhood overweight.

What this study adds

Exceeding the recommended gestational weight gain increases the risk for childhood overweight by about 30%.

Interventions to avoid excessive weight gain are needed.

Background

Overweight and obesity in children are thought to be related to prenatal priming. Gestational weight gain (GWG) might be a potential modifiable risk factor for childhood overweight.

Objective

To quantify the associations of inadequate and excessive GWG with childhood overweight.

Methods

The electronic literature search in six databases was complemented by a hand search for relevant articles. Papers were selected and quality was assessed. The effect estimates of the individual studies were pooled using a random‐effects model.

Results

The literature search yielded 1492 results in total, of which seven observational studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies had medium to good quality. The pooled estimate for the association between excessive GWG and childhood overweight yielded an odds ratio (OR) of 1.38 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.21–1.57). The association between inadequate GWG and childhood overweight yielded an OR of 0.91 (95% CI: 0.85–0.98).

Conclusion

These data provide evidence for at least a 21% risk for childhood overweight related to excessive GWG. Therefore, further efforts to design appropriate interventions against excessive GWG may appear warranted.
BiOCl/Ag3PO4 Composites with Highly Enhanced Ultraviolet and Visible Light Photocatalytic Performances
Authors: Cao Baocheng , Dong Pengyu , Cao Shuai , Wang Yuhua
Published: November 2012

The BiOCl/Ag3PO4 composites have been prepared via a facile and reproducible route. In the composite, Ag3PO4 particles are deposited on the surface of plates of BiOCl. Among the as‐prepared samples, the ultraviolet (UV) and visible light photocatalytic reaction rates of BiOCl/Ag3PO4 composite with the ratio of 1:0.1 are about 4.4 times and 4.5 times than that of pure BiOCl, respectively. Overall, the BiOCl/Ag3PO4 composites not only show highly enhanced visible light photocatalytic activity but also exhibit highly improved UV photocatalytic activity, which could find enormous potential application in addressing environmental protection issues utilizing solar energy effectively.
Transparent Armor Ceramics as Spacecraft Windows
Authors: Salem Jonathan A.
Published: November 2012

The slow crack growth parameters of several transparent armor ceramics were measured as part of a program to lighten next generation spacecraft windows. Transparent magnesium aluminate (spinel, MgAl2O4) and AlON exhibit superior slow crack resistance relative to fused silica, which is the historical material of choice. For spinel, slow crack growth, strength, and fracture toughness are significantly influenced by the grain size, and alumina‐rich phases and porosity at the grain boundaries lead to intergranular fracture in coarse grain spinel. Functions describing the required mass for a desired window life imply that transparent ceramics can lighten window panes from a slow crack growth perspective.