bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FUNCTIONAL DIVERSITY OF MAMMALIAN TYPE 2C PROTEIN PHOSPHATASE ISOFORMS: NEW TALES FROM AN OLD FAMILY
Authors: Lu Gang , Wang Yibin
Published: September 2010

The Type 2C protein phosphatases (PP2C) represent a highly conserved gene family in the mammalian genome. Recent studies have revealed that PP2C isoforms possess unique patterns of tissue and subcellular distribution associated with diverse functionalities.

The functional importance of PP2C isoforms has been shown in a plethora of signalling networks controlling cell differentiation, proliferation, growth, survival and metabolism. However, little is known about the regulatory mechanisms of PP2C at the molecular level. It is uncertain how PP2C isoforms are recruited, activated and inactivated during signalling transduction processes.

In the present paper, an overview of the critical functions of individual PP2C isoforms in regulating cellular signalling events will be provided, along with our perspectives on the challenging issues to be addressed. It is clear that a better understanding of the complex biological effects elicited by specific signalling pathways involving PP2C isoforms has great potential for developing novel therapies for a variety of human diseases, including cancer, diabetes and neural disorders, as well as cardiovascular diseases.
HOW I DO NEUROSURGERY: PARASAGITTAL MENINGIOMAS
Authors: Aung T.H. , Wong W.K. , Mo H.P.
Published: September 2010

Abstract: While meningiomas are histologically categorised as benign neoplasm of the brain, surgical extirpation of some of these tumours are technically demanding to the neurosurgeon. When complications arise from surgery, significant neurological morbidity and even mortality can occur. In order to minimise post‐operative complications and improve the outcome careful pre‐operative planning and sound operative techniques need to be developed. In a retrospective study of 80 meningiomas operated in the past 5 years, we identified 22 parasagittal meningiomas that came under our scrutiny. Operative outcome of these patients and our operative strategy will be discussed.

Patients demographics: In a retrospective study, 22 tumours in the parasagittal region were identified among 68 supratentorial meningiomas with the remaining 12 in the infratentorial compartment. Interestingly all the patients were females with only 2 males operated in the last 2 years. Their age range from 39 to 86 with an average age of 60 years. Headache seizure and hemiparesis were the 3 main symptoms with 2 patients presenting with bilateral weakness of the lower limbs.

Almost 60% of the tumours were psamommatous type and transitional type was seen in 6 patients. Four patients had atypia.

The majority of the tumours were in the middle third of the sagittal sinus with only one in the posterior third of the sagittal sinus. In 3 patients the sinus was partially blocked and 5 patients had total occlusion of the sinus.

Essentials of the operative procedure: Attention was given to proper positioning of the patient. Mayfield clamp was used for fixation of the head and craniotomy was performed by high speed drill with a single drill hole for anchoring the craniotome. Retractors are no longer used since early 1999 and meningiomas were devascularized at an early stage before exenteration.

Outcome: Total excision could be achieved in 70% of the tumours including 3 patients with total occlusion of the middle third of the sagittal sinus. Nineteen patients had good outcome and 3 patients suffer from moderate disability. We encounter no mortality.

Conclusion: Surgery of parasagittal meningiomas still pose a challenge to neurosurgeons and good results could be obtained if the vascular supply is cut off at an early stage. This also allowed drainage of cerebrospinal fluid and facilitated the dissection without use of retractors on the brain.
Pupil dilation using a pledget sponge: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: McCormick Austin , Srinivasan Sathish , Harun Shabbir , Watts Mark
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Background:  To show that a pledget soaked in mydriatics and placed in the lower conjunctival fornix is as effective as drops in providing mydriasis for cataract surgery.

Methods:  A randomized, masked, controlled trial of 56 patients assigned to either a pledget group (n = 25) or a control eye drops group (n = 31) was carried out. Controls had the routine practice of repeated topical mydriatic drops: tropicamide, phenylepherine and atropine. The trial group had a 3‐mm pledget trimmed, soaked in mydriatics and placed in the inferior fornix for 20 min. Pupil diameter was measured using a photographic technique with a standard scale shown in each picture. Two masked observers measured the pupils using the scale of the ruler in the developed photograph. All patients completed a 0–10 stinging score prior to surgery.

Results:  There were no complications. The mean pupil diameter in the control group was 7.23 (6.91–7.94 95% confidence intervals [CI]) and 7.44 (6.96–7.92 95% CI) in the pledget group. There was no statistically significant difference in pupil diameter between the two groups: difference between means 0.21 (−0.32 to 0.75 95% CI) and Student’s t‐test of the difference between means (t = 0.8 and two‐tailed) probability P = 0.43. There was no significant difference in the stinging scores: Mann–Whitney test P = 0.69.

Conclusion:  The use of a pledget cellulose sponge to deliver mydriatics prior to cataract surgery is as effective as the conventional method of repeated drop administration and was not associated with any adverse effects.
Presumed herpetic endotheliitis following phacoemulsification surgery*
Authors: Vajpayee Rasik B , Sharma Namrata , Verma Kamna , Saxena Tishu , Tandon Radhika
Published: September 2010

Abstract

The authors present an observational case series. Three cases of presumed herpetic endotheliitis presented as cases of pseudophakic bullous keratopathy many years after successful phacoemulsification surgery. All patients had reduction of vision in the involved eye, corneal oedema and secondary glaucoma. The patients were treated with medical therapy consisting of topical corticosteroids, antiviral and antiglaucoma drugs. Resolution of corneal oedema, control of glaucoma and restoration of visual acuity were achieved in all cases. Specular microscopy performed thereafter demonstrated relatively normal endothelial cell counts. The authors conclude that pseudophakic bullous keratopathy occurring after phacoemulsification surgery may be caused by herpetic endotheliitis.
Multifocal objective perimetry compared with Humphrey full‐threshold perimetry in patients with optic neuritis
Authors: Pakrou Nima , Casson Robert , Kaines Andrew , Selva Dinesh
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Background:  The aim of the study is to compare multifocal visual evoked potential (mfVEP) objective perimetry with Humphrey full‐threshold visual field (HVF) perimetry, in the assessment of patients with optic neuritis (ON).

Methods:  We assessed 16 patients with clinically diagnosed ON. A comparison was made between the HVF and mfVEP, based on the global severity indices of both tests and number and topography of significant abnormalities detected. The latency data and inter‐eye asymmetry findings on the mfVEP were also evaluated.

Results:  From a total of 128 quadrants analysed in the 16 patients (100 affected, 28 unaffected eyes), HVF perimetry identified a scotoma in 39/128 (30.5%) quadrants, all of which were in affected eyes; the mfVEP detected a scotoma in 68/128 (53.1%) quadrants using amplitude and/or asymmetry data (XV2 = 7.2485, P = 0.0071). Latency plots on the mfVEP identified a significant latency deviation cluster in 20/25 (80%) affected eyes. Abnormalities were also detected in 4/7 (57%) unaffected eyes. The global severity indices in the affected eyes showed a high correlation between the two tests (r = 0.73).

Conclusions:  The mfVEP detected more abnormalities in patients with ON than HVF perimetry. The use of latency recordings as well as combined amplitude and asymmetry plots is advantageous and has the potential to detect abnormalities not otherwise detected on HVF perimetry.
Modification of the surface properties of a lens material to influence posterior capsular opacification
Authors: Yuen Conrad , Williams Rachel , Batterbury Mark , Grierson Ian
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Purpose:  To study the effect of surface properties of materials on cellular behaviour and the formation of posterior capsular opacification (PCO).

Methods:  Polymethylmethacrylate, silicone and a hydrophobic acrylic were plasma treated and used in tissue culture. The changes in surface properties were quantified by dynamic contact angle measurements. Bovine lens epithelial cells (BLECs) were seeded onto these materials and cultured for 1 month. Serial photographs were taken. The cells were then fixed and stained to facilitate counting.

Results:  Plasma treatment significantly increased the hydrophilicity of surfaces. BLECs grew on all surfaces but significantly more cells adhered to the treated than the untreated surfaces. On the untreated surfaces the BLECs had a fibroblastic morphology whereas on the treated surfaces the cells maintained their epithelial morphology.

Conclusions:  Posterior capsular opacification is a form of wound healing and the behaviour of lens epithelial cells is central to its progression. Emphasis has been on the elimination of residual lens epithelial cells to combat PCO. This study demonstrated that the phenotype of BLECs was influenced by the surface properties of the intraocular lens materials. Gas plasma treatment of the materials increased their hydrophilicity and allowed the adhered BLECs to maintain their normal epithelial morphology. We believe that controlled growth of lens epithelial cells may reduce the incidence of PCO.
Thirteen‐year follow up of isolated foveal retinoschisis in a 24‐year‐old woman
Authors: Chen Fred K , McAllister Ian L , Chelva Enid S
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Foveal retinoschisis is rarely found in women. An 11‐year‐old girl, from non‐consanguineous parents, presented with bilateral visual loss from isolated foveal retinoschisis as confirmed by a normal fluorescein angiogram and characteristic optical coherence tomogram. Psychophysical and electrophysiological studies demonstrated mild contrast sensitivity loss, dyschromatopsia and normal full field electroretinographic responses. Visual acuity, foveal retinoschisis, electroretinography, electro‐oculography and visual evoked responses remained stable after 13 years but a reduction in pattern electroretinography amplitude was noted. No mutation was found in the coding regions of the RS1 gene. Isolated foveal retinoschisis may be a form of macular dystrophy. Longer‐term follow up may contribute to our understanding of this rare disease.
Case of recurrent macular haemorrhage after removal of a sub‐internal limiting membrane haematoma secondary to retinal artery macroaneurysm
Authors: Hotta Kazuki , Hotta Junko
Published: September 2010

Abstract

The authors report the case of an 80‐year‐old man with sub‐internal limiting membrane haematoma secondary to retinal artery macroaneurysm in the right eye. Corrected visual acuity was 6/60 in the right eye. Vitreous surgery was performed. The internal limiting membrane over the haematoma was removed by pulling with a soft‐tipped extrusion cannula, and then the haematoma was removed with a vitreous cutter. One month post surgery vision had improved to 6/9. Two months post surgery, however, the same macroaneurysm ruptured again, and vision decreased to 6/60. Clinicians should be aware that recurrent macular haemorrhage may occur after removal of sub‐internal limiting membrane haematoma secondary to macroaneurysm.
Spontaneneous hydrops in pellucid marginal degeneration: documentation by OCT‐III
Authors: Ramamurthy Balasubramanya , Mittal Vikas , Rani Alka , Ram Mohan , Sangwan Virender S
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Corneal pellucid marginal degeneration (PMCD) is an idiopathic condition characterized by non‐inflammatory, non‐ulcerative thinning of inferior peripheral cornea. PMCD has been reported occasionally complicated with hydrops owing to break in descemet membrane. We herein report a 38‐year‐old man, who presented with sudden dimness of vision in right eye. Clinical findings and Orbscan II were suggestive of PMCD in both eyes with hydrops in right eye. Slit‐lamp and optical coherence tomography of right eye showed central descemet’s detachment without any break. Patient underwent descemetopexy by isoexpansile C3F8 (14%) and is doing well with significant improvement in the hydrops.
Choroidal neovascular membrane in radiation retinopathy
Authors: Berker Nilufer , Aslan Ozlem , Batman Cosar , Elgin Ufuk , Ozkan Seyhan Sonar
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Radiation retinopathy can occur years after the initial radiotherapy of the cancers of head and neck. It generally has a fulminant course, and can cause a variety of severe retinal abnormalities. Choroidal neovascularization has been rarely reported in radiation retinopathy. In this case report, a 21‐year‐old boy is presented who developed fulminant radiation retinopathy and choroidal neovascular membrane 4 years after receiving radiotherapy for his nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour of the orbit in a 7‐year‐old child
Authors: Ahmad Syed M , Tsirbas Angelo , Kazim Michael
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour (IMT) is a rare low‐grade lesion in the spectrum of myofibroblastic tumours. Systemic IMT is a well‐described entity, but orbital IMT is extremely uncommon. These tumours are detected incidentally or through site‐specific complaints. Their presentation may clinically and radiologically mimic that of a malignant neoplasm, thus necessitating a biopsy. Even with reports of persistence, local recurrence and malignant transformation the overall prognosis remains favourable.
Dilated conjunctival vessels in a patient undergoing epoprostenol therapy
Authors: Foroozan Rod , Chan‐Kai Brian , Marx Douglas P
Published: September 2010

Abstract

A 44‐year‐old man with primary pulmonary hypertension was referred for a possible carotid‐cavernous fistula. Since initiation of epoprostenol therapy 3 months prior to presentation, he noticed progressive redness in both eyes and a macular rash, primarily involving the face and abdomen. Examination revealed engorged superficial conjunctival vessels in both eyes. Magnetic resonance imaging and angiography of the brain and orbits revealed no evidence of an arteriovenous fistula. Epoprostenol, a vasodilator, was associated with dilated conjunctival vessels in this patient.
Nodular scleritis and Sweet's syndrome
Authors: Wong Melissa Hsing Yi , Su Daniel Hsien Wen , Loh Raymond Ser Keat
Published: September 2010

Abstract

The authors report a case of nodular scleritis in Sweet's syndrome. The patient was a 40‐year‐old Malay woman with a history of Sweet's syndrome presented with a 6‐day history of a red and painful right eye associated with blurred vision. Clinical examination revealed nodular scleritis of the right eye which was deemed secondary to Sweet's syndrome after investigations for other systemic diseases were negative. The patient demonstrated good response to systemic corticosteroid therapy with complete resolution of scleritis in the right eye. However, her inflammatory skin condition worsened each time the systemic corticosteroids were tapered so colchicine and dapsone were added to treat the dermatologic disease. Ocular manifestations are uncommon in Sweet's syndrome but it is important to diagnose and treat them. This will prevent ocular morbidity and ensure a good clinical outcome.
Retinal vessel diameter in normal and glaucomatous eyes: the Beijing eye study
Authors: Wang Shuang , Xu Liang , Wang Yunshong , Wang Yaxing , Jonas Jost B
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Purpose:  To assess retinal vessel diameter in adult Chinese with and without glaucoma.

Methods:  The population‐based, cross‐sectional study included 4439 of the 5324 subjects asked to participate (response rate 83.4%), all aged 40 years or older. This study was divided into a rural part (1973 subjects [44.4%]) and an urban part (2466 subjects [55.6%]). Colour optic disc and fundus photographs were morphometrically examined for 2418 subjects. The retinal vessel diameters were measured at the optic disc border and at a distance of 2 mm to the optic disc border. The main outcome measure was the retinal vessel diameter.

Results:  Diameters of the retinal arteries were significantly (P < 0.001) the widest in the temporal inferior region, followed by the temporal superior region (P < 0.001), the nasal superior region (P < 0.001) and finally the nasal inferior region. Except for the nasal inferior vein, the same held true for the retinal veins. The sequence of the main four vessel trunks with respect to their diameters was not associated with age, gender or hyperopia versus myopia. The artery diameters showed a tendency to decrease in older age, while the vein diameters decreased across all age groups. Eyes with glaucomatous optic nerve damage showed significantly (P < 0.001) thinner arteries while the retinal vein diameters were not different.

Conclusions:  Diameters of the retinal arterioles and veins are the widest in the temporal inferior arcade, followed by the temporal superior arcade, the nasal superior arcade and finally the nasal inferior arcade. Retinal artery diameters decrease with glaucoma, and retinal vein diameters decrease with age.
Association between stature, ocular biometry and refraction in an adult population in rural Myanmar: the Meiktila eye study
Authors: Wu Hui Min , Gupta Aanchal , Newland Henry S , Selva Dinesh , Aung Tin , Casson Robert J
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Purpose:  To study the association between adult stature and ocular biometric parameters and refraction.

Methods:  In a population‐based cross‐sectional ophthalmic survey of 2418 adults (≥40 years old) living in the rural villages in central Myanmar, height and weight were measured using a standardized protocol, and body mass index was calculated. Non‐cycloplegic refraction and corneal curvature were determined by an autorefractor. Ultrasound pachymetry was performed and ocular biometry, including axial length, anterior chamber depth, lens thickness and vitreous chamber length were measured using A‐mode ocular ultrasonography.

Results:  Height and weight were significantly correlated with age, gender and all the ocular biometric parameters, except lens thickness. After adjusting for age and gender, taller and heavier persons had eyes with longer axial length, deeper anterior and vitreous chambers, and flatter and thicker corneas than shorter persons. Height was not significantly correlated with refraction, and heavier persons tended to be less myopic (P < 0.001). Multivariate linear regression models revealed consistent results with the findings for association between height, weight and ocular biometry and refractive error.

Conclusions:  Adult stature is independently associated with vitreous chamber length and corneal radius in this Burmese population. Heavier persons were slightly hyperopic.
Resolution of primary acquired melanosis with atypia after minimal mitomycin C treatment
Authors: Chen Jern Yee , Chappell Angela J , Klebe Sonja , Mills Richard A
Published: September 2010

Abstract

The most effective dose of mitomycin C (MMC) in the treatment of primary acquired melanosis (PAM) with atypia of the conjunctiva and cornea has yet to be established. This case report describes successful treatment of PAM with atypia with a single four day cycle of 0.02% MMC.
Ida Mann Lecture 2007: Planet Eye
Authors: McMenamin Paul G
Published: September 2010

Abstract

The concept for this lecture arose as a consequence of the invitation from the College to give the ‘Ida Mann Lecture’ arriving recently after I had enjoyed the beautiful David Attenborough series ‘Planet Earth’ on television. It struck me as not too fanciful an idea at the time to make an analogy between ‘Planet Earth’ and the eye and thus the idea of giving an Attenborough‐like tour of the ocular microenvironments and making the analogy between various immune cells in the eye and wildlife on planet Earth was born. I could only hope that in some small measure my presentation would inspire and educate an audience of ophthalmologists on the amazing world of ocular immune cells in the way that David Attenborough enraptures millions of television viewers with his beautiful series.
The fourth New Zealand cataract and refractive surgery survey: 2007
Authors: Pick Zelda S , Leaming David V , Elder Mark J
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Background:  To examine the current practice and changing trends for cataract and refractive surgery in New Zealand (NZ) between 1997 and 2007.

Methods:  A self‐administered confidential postal questionnaire was sent to all consultant ophthalmologists practising in NZ in 2007, eliciting surgical volumes and technique, anaesthetic, preferred equipment and patient management. Results were compared with previous NZ surveys and international surveys of surgeons in Northern America, Europe and the UK.

Results:  From the 113 ophthalmologists surveyed 88% responded, comprising 86 cataract surgeons and 20 refractive surgeons. Key findings for cataract surgeons were: 65% routinely used sub‐Tenon's anaesthetic, 20% topical anaesthetic, 24% favoured intracameral antibiotics, 88% operated via clear corneal or anterior limbal incisions and 61% used temporal incisions. Acrylic foldable intraocular lenses (IOLs) were preferred, 27% of surgeons routinely used aspheric IOLs, 31% used presbyopia‐correcting IOLs and 63% expressed high interest in toric IOLs. Of the refractive surgeons, 83% would perform bilateral LASIK at the same surgical event; phakic IOL was the treatment of choice for 30‐year‐old −12D myopes, and clear lens exchange for 45‐year‐old +5D hyperopes.

Conclusions:  The majority of NZ cataract surgical practice remains comparable with results from international surveys. A notable exception, as in previous comparisons, is a lower use of topical anaesthetic in NZ with a higher use of sub‐Tenon's anaesthetic instead. Refractive surgery practice in NZ is generally comparable with that of American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery members.
Debt Sustainability and the Ongoing Financial Crisis: The Case of IDA‐only African Countries*
Authors: Hernández Leonardo , Gamarra Boris
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  The ongoing financial crisis has raised concerns in many circles about a potential future wave of sovereign defaults spreading among developing countries and, therefore, the need for additional rounds of debt relief in poor indebted countries. This paper addresses this issue for a group of 31 International Development Association (IDA)‐only African countries, which are in a fragile debt situation. Using the most recent debt sustainability analyses (DSAs) undertaken for these countries by the World Bank and the IMF, this paper studies the potential adverse effect of the ongoing financial crisis on the countries’ debt burden indicators, as a function of the depth and length of the crisis. The latter is measured by the fall and the duration of such fall in exports revenues, and by the terms at which each country can obtain financing to muddle through the crisis period. The analysis underscores the importance of concessional financing for these countries, especially if the crisis proves to be a protracted one. This, because the likelihood of countries being able to muddle through the crisis without defaulting on their external debt decreases with the hardening of the financial conditions faced by them — alternatively, the size of the downsizing in domestic (fiscal) expenditures needed to ensure the service of their foreign debts increases with the tightening of financial conditions.
American Labor and Europa's Recovery
Authors: MURRAY Philip
Published: September 2010

On the morrow of President Truman's election the newspapers announced that the first person the President had received was the President of the powerful American syndical organisation known throughout the world under the name of C.I.Q. (Congress of Industrial Organizations). We know that this organisation as well as the other central organisation, the American Federation of Labour, had unequivocally taken up its stand in favour of Truman's candidacy. As the legislative elections had at the same time given the majority to the Democratic Party it was immediately declared on all hands that trade‐unionism was going to exert considerable influence on American policy. These facts conferred a great importance on the memorandum addressed by Mr. Philipp Murray, in November 1947, to President Truman; a memorandum which was officially communicated by the C.I.O. to the International Trades Unions Conference for the recovery and reconstruction of Europe held in London on the 9th and 10th of March, 1948. We are especially pleased to put this document, which constitutes a declaration of principles of tie utmost interest, before the readers of the Annals.
‘I like it instead of maths’: how pupils with moderate learning difficulties in Scottish primary special schools intuitively solved mathematical word problems
Authors: Moscardini Lio
Published: September 2010

This study by Lio Moscardini of the University of Strathclyde shows how a group of 24 children in three Scottish primary schools for pupils with moderate learning difficulties responded to word problems following their teachers' introduction to the principles of Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI). CGI is a professional development programme in mathematics instruction based on constructivist principles developed at the University of Wisconsin‐Madison. The study found that the sample group of pupils were able to develop their understanding of mathematical concepts through actively engaging in word problems without prior explicit instruction and with minimal teacher adjustments. The pupils' conceptual understandings demonstrated by their solution strategies within CGI activities were generally not consistent with classroom records of assessment. The results were encouraging in illustrating the capacity of the sample group of pupils with moderate learning difficulties to reveal their mathematical thinking and considers the importance of this insight for instructional decision making.
UPSTREAM MARKET FORECLOSURE
Authors: Gabszewicz Jean J. , Zanaj Skerdilajda
Published: September 2010

This paper investigates how an incumbent monopolist can weaken potential rivals or deter entry in the output market by manipulating the access of these rivals in the input market. We analyse two polar cases. In the first one, the input market is assumed to be competitive with the input being supplied inelastically. We show that this situation opens the door to entry deterrence. Then, we assume that the input is supplied by a single seller who chooses the input price. In this case, we show that entry deterrence can be reached only through merger with the seller of the input.
A NOTE ON MARKET COVERAGE IN VERTICAL DIFFERENTIATION MODELS WITH FIXED COSTS
Authors: Liao Pei‐Cheng
Published: September 2010

With fixed costs of quality improvement, we find that a covered market outcome with an interior solution in the price stage is not a Nash equilibrium. When the degree of consumer heterogeneity is high (low) enough, an uncovered market outcome (a covered market outcome with a corner solution in the price stage) is the only Nash equilibrium. When the degree of consumer heterogeneity is moderate, both of the two market outcomes are Nash equilibria, but an uncovered market outcome yields higher social welfare than a covered market outcome with a corner solution in the price stage.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF EXCHANGE RATE APPRECIATION AND AGGREGATE ECONOMIC ACTIVITY: THEORY AND EVIDENCE FROM MIDDLE EASTERN COUNTRIES
Authors: Kandil Magda , Mirzaie Ida Aghdas
Published: September 2010

The paper examines the effects of exchange rate depreciation on real output and price in a sample of 11 developing countries in the Middle East. The theoretical model decomposes movements in the exchange rate into anticipated and unanticipated components. Unanticipated currency fluctuations determine aggregate demand through exports, imports, and the demand for domestic currency, and determine aggregate supply through the cost of imported intermediate goods. The evidence indicates that the supply channel attributed to anticipated exchange rate appreciation results in limited effects on output growth and price inflation. Consistent with theory's predictions, unanticipated appreciation of the exchange rate appears more significant with varying effects on output growth and price inflation across developing countries.
The impact of corporate social responsibility on consumer trust: the case of organic food
Authors: Pivato Sergio , Misani Nicola , Tencati Antonio
Published: September 2010

A critical and notoriously elusive issue in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) research is the impact of Corporate Social Performance (CSP) on the bottom line. Instead of looking for direct correlations between social and financial performance, we hypothesize that the first result of CSR activities is the creation of trust among the stakeholders. A survey conducted on consumers of organic products provided support for our hypothesis, showing that CSP influences consumer trust and that that trust in turn influences consumers' subsequent actions. The findings further suggest that intermediate variables between CSP and Corporate Financial Performance (CFP) may best support a business case for CSR.
Caries‐preventive effect of a dentifrice containing 2% sodium monofluorophosphate in a natural fluoride area in Denmark
Authors: Lind O. P. , Möller I. J. , von der Fher F. R. , Larsen M. Joost
Published: September 2010

abstract A 3‐year, unsupervised, toothbrushing study with a double‐blind, controlled design was conducted to evaluate the caries‐preventive effectiveness of a 2 % sodium monofluorophosphate dentifrice among 1,407 7‐ to 12‐year‐old children residing in an optimal, natural fluoride (= 1.2–1.4 parts/106) area of Denmark. With the initial caries lesion as a differential, two levels of clinical caries diagnosis were applied in the quantitative evaluation of the effects. A comparison of the monofluorophosphate dentifrice with a null control dentifrice indicated that its use at home, coupled with regular motivation by home visitors, conferred about a 30 % reduction in dental caries increment over a 3‐year period, beyond those anticariogenic benefits assumed to have been provided by the waterborne fluoride.
PLANNING IN REACTIVE ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: Milani A. , Poggioni V.
Published: September 2010

The diffusion of domotic and ambient intelligence systems have introduced a new vision in which autonomous deliberative agents operate in environments where reactive responses of devices can be cooperatively exploited to fulfill the agent's goals. In this article a model for automated planning in reactive environments, based on numerical planning, is introduced. A planner system, based on mixed integer linear programming techniques, which implements the model, is also presented. The planner is able to reason about the dynamic features of the environment and to produce solution plans, which take into account reactive devices and their causal relations with agent's goals by exploitation and avoidance techniques, to reach a given goal state. The introduction of reactive domains in planning poses some issues concerning reasoning patterns which are briefly depicted. Experiments of planning in reactive domains are also discussed.
RECOGNIZING SIMPLE HUMAN ACTIONS USING 3D HEAD MOVEMENT
Authors: Usabiaga Jorge , Bebis George , Erol Ali , Nicolescu Mircea , Nicolescu Monica
Published: September 2010

Recognizing human actions from video has been a challenging problem in computer vision. Although human actions can be inferred from a wide range of data, it has been demonstrated that simple human actions can be inferred by tracking the movement of the head in 2D. This is a promising idea as detecting and tracking the head is expected to be simpler and faster because the head has lower shape variability and higher visibility than other body parts (e.g., hands and/or feet). Although tracking the movement of the head alone does not provide sufficient information for distinguishing among complex human actions, it could serve as a complimentary component of a more sophisticated action recognition system. In this article, we extend this idea by developing a more general, viewpoint invariant, action recognition system by detecting and tracking the 3D position of the head using multiple cameras. The proposed approach employs Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to register the 3D trajectories in a common coordinate system and Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) to align them in time for matching. We present experimental results to demonstrate the potential of using 3D head trajectory information to distinguish among simple but common human actions independently of viewpoint.
Grammatical Inference Techniques and Their Application in Ground Investigation
Authors: Morrey Ian , Oram Adrian , Cooper David , Rogers Darren , Stephenson Paul
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Ground investigations often use trial pits and borehole cores on construction sites to determine the strata likely to be encountered at various depths. The data obtained from trial pits can be coded into a form that can be used as sample observations for input to a grammatical inference machine. A grammatical inference machine is a black box, which when presented with a sample of observations of some unknown source language, produces a grammar which is compatible with the sample. This article presents a heuristic model for a grammatical inference machine, which takes as data sentences and non‐sentences identified as such, and is capable of inferring grammars in the class of context‐free grammars expressed in Chomsky Normal Form. An algorithm and its corresponding software implementation have been developed based on this model. The software takes, as input, coded representations of ground investigation data, and produces as output a grammar which describes and classifies the geotechnical data observed in the area, and also promises the possibility of being able to predict the likely configuration of strata across the site.
A Trip Distribution Model Involving Spatial and Dominance Attributes
Authors: Cascetta Ennio , Papola Andrea
Published: September 2010

Abstract: Modeling the destination choice is a difficult task and very often it represents the weakest step in travel demand modeling. This weakness is mainly due to the high number of potential alternatives and to the very limited number of available attributes. Indeed, the alternative destinations in a distribution model are generally all the (hundreds in a medium large size city) traffic zones identified in the zoning phase. Moreover, the most widely adopted specification of random utility (RU) destination choice models introduces just two categories of attributes: attractiveness attributes of the destination zone and “impedance” attributes reproducing the origin‐destination generalized cost. Through this kind of attribute alone it is quite difficult reproducing the real choice context faced by the decision maker, who generally knows only a limited part of the study area with sufficient detail to evaluate its attractiveness and the generalized transport costs of reaching it. In this regard, our article proposes two sets of new dummy‐like attributes to be used within the destination choice models to identify, within the whole choice set, a smaller subset of zones (those with nonzero value of dummy‐like attributes) more/less likely to be perceived. The former are generated by extending and applying the concept of dominance among alternatives to the framework of RU theory and can be used to identify a set of alternatives less likely to be perceived (exclusion variables) whose systematic utility will be penalized as a function of these variables. The latter are spatial variables reproducing better knowledge of zones with a privileged spatial position and can be used to identify a set of alternatives more likely to be perceived (selection variables) whose systematic utility will be improved as a function of these variables. These new attributes are tested on empirical data related to nonsystematic trips in Rome, Italy. It is also important to underline that the proposed dominance variables can be conveniently used in any other choice context.
Is Group Affiliation Profitable in Developed Countries? Belgian Evidence
Authors: Buysschaert An , Deloof Marc , Jegers Marc , Rommens An
Published: September 2010

Manuscript Type: Empirical

Research Question/Issue: It is fairly well established that business group affiliation can compensate for relatively weak institutions in emerging markets, and in Japan. However, business groups are also common in the EU, and there have not yet been any studies of business group affiliation and firm performance in the EU. Consequently, we investigate how business group affiliation affects firm performance in Belgium.

Research Findings/Insights: We find that operating profitability of group companies is significantly lower than that of stand‐alone companies, while group companies have more volatile profits than stand‐alone companies. Operating profitability of group companies does not depend on the extent of group diversification. Internal capital markets transfer funds from good performers to poorly performing group companies. The impact of group affiliation on profitability does not depend on group age or group ownership.

Theoretical Implications: Our study is, to the best of our knowledge, the first to investigate how affiliation with a business group affects company performance in a developed country other than Japan. The results raise the question why business groups endure in so many developed countries with good investor protection and well‐developed capital markets. Some explanations proposed in the literature are not confirmed.

Practical Implications: Our study offers insights to policy makers and practitioners on the value and the role of business groups in developed countries. The results raise doubts about the value of these groups in such countries and suggest that policy makers may want to consider dismantling business groups in EU countries.
The Missing Key: Institutions, Networks, and the Project of Neoclassical Sociology
Authors: Garcelon Marc
Published: September 2010

The diversity of contemporary “capitalisms” underscores the need to supplant the amorphous concept of structure with more precise concepts, particularly institutions and networks. All institutions entail both embodied and relational aspects. Institutions are relational insofar as they map obligatory patterns of “getting by and getting along”—institutional orders—that steer stable social fields over time. Institutions are simultaneously embodied as institutional paradigms, part of a larger bodily agency Pierre Bourdieu called habitus. Institutions are in turn tightly coupled to networks between various people based on, but not reducible to, strategic interests. Yet social interaction sometimes exceeds institutional boundaries, giving rise to disjunctive fields and underscoring the prominence of institutional failures in the unfolding of antagonistic relations such as warfare. Such disjunctive fields can be tracked in relation to some transnational networks at the global level without assuming developmental convergence. This last point underscores the meaning of neoclassical sociology, which eschews assumptions of developmental convergence at the global level.
RESEARCH NOTE: Language with attitude: American slang and Chinese lǐyǔ1
Authors: Moore Robert L. , Bindler Eric , Pandich David
Published: September 2010

The Mandarin registers known as lǐyǔ (俚语) have commonly been translated as ‘slang,’ though traditionally lǐyǔ has differed from slang in English by virtue of its strong link to regionalism. A newly emergent version of lǐyǔ that is prominent among young Chinese is marked not by regionalism but by its Internet‐enabled global purview. This youth‐culture lǐyǔ, like the student slang described byEble (1996), functions as a device to promote group solidarity while also serving as an identity marker for China's millennial generation. Lǐyǔ, like the numerous versions of slang described in English, Portuguese and other languages, is marked by ebullient or non‐deferential affect, an attribute that helps explains the close association between slang and swearwords. Slang and lǐyǔ lexemes, in light of the affect they entail, are the pragmatic opposites of honorifics – terms which index deference within formal, hierarchical structures.
Innovative Work Practices, Information Technologies, and Working Conditions: Evidence for France
Authors: ASKENAZY PHILIPPE , CAROLI EVE
Published: September 2010

We investigate the impact of new work practices and information and communication technologies (ICT) on working conditions in France. We use a unique French dataset providing information on individual workers for the year 1998. New work practices include the use of quality norms, job rotation, collective discussions on work organization, and work time flexibility. Working conditions are captured by occupational injuries as well as indicators of mental strain. We find that individuals working under the new practices face greater mental strain than individuals who do not. They also face a higher probability of work injuries, at least for benign ones. In contrast, our results suggest that ICT contribute to make the workplace more cooperative and to reduce occupational risks and injuries.
Abstracts: The properties and application of a novel amphiphilic polymer as an active interfacial modifier
Authors: Ohtani Naoko , Koyanagi Ayako , Ueda Yuka , Sakamoto Kazutami , Yoshioka Masato
Published: September 2010

pp.247–253

A peptide/silicone hybrid functional polymer composed of silk peptide and silicone resin with a hydrophobic alkyl group was investigated for its compatibility and functionality as a cosmetic ingredient. We have found this polymer provides characteristic functions to modify and control various interfacial properties and named it active interfacial modifier (AIM‐FN). At the liquid/liquid interface, AIM‐FN worked as an excellent W/O emulsifier for various oils, polar or non‐polar, and even for silicone oil. In principle AIM‐FN stays at the interface between the aqueous phase and lipid phase because it is not compatible with either phase. At liquid/solid interfaces, the peptide moiety of AIM‐FN attaches to the hydrophilic solid surface and makes it water repellant and water proof with its hydrophobic silicone and alkyl residue. An emulsion formulated with AIM‐FN gives a non‐oily and non‐tacky skin feeling as AIM‐FN improves the solid/solid (skin/skin) surface property.
Abstracts: Development of an amino acid‐responsive fine liposome
Authors: Yamazaki Naoko , Hisamitsu Issei , Sumida Yasushi
Published: September 2010

pp.260–266

In this study, we attempted to develop a liposome which showed responsiveness to membrane‐fluidity to amino acids as a NMF component in the human skin. Amino acids have an amphoteric charge in solution. Therefore, we considered that the liposomes were given a one‐sided electrical charge and controlled on the surface charge, so that their membrane‐properties were varied by electrostatic forces of attraction or repulsion with the electric charges of amino acids. First, we investigated the constituent of the liposome with responsiveness to outer conditions. It was found that the liposomes containing the Dipalmitoyl phosphatidic acid (PA) showed the most effective responsiveness to 5, (6)‐Carboxyfluorescein (CF) leakage. Further, it was indicated that the surface charge and the microfluidity in the vicinity of the polar group affected the CF leakage. Next, we investigated the membrane‐fluidity in the presence of amino acids, expecting that the membrane‐fluidity was controlled by neutralization or the increase of the surface charge with the electrical charges of amino acids. As a result, the promotion of the leak was seen in the presence of an acidic amino acid (Asp) having a negative charge. On the other hand, the depression of the leak was seen in the presence of a neutral amino acid (Gly) or a basic amino acid (Lys) having a neutral or a positive charge, respectively. Lys was the most effective on the depression of the leak. Moreover, we found that the microfluidity in the vicinity of the polar group affected the depression of CF leakage. It was assumed that the depression of leakage was due to the neutralization of the surface charge and the decrease of the microfluidity in the presence of the neutral amino acid or the basic amino acid. In conclusion, we confirmed that the liposome which showed responsiveness to amino acids was prepared by mixing PA into PC liposome.
Abstracts: Natural moisturizing factors in the stratum corneum I. Effects of lipid extraction and soaking
Authors: Robinson M. , Visscher M. , Laruffa A. , Wickett R.
Published: September 2010

pp. 13–22

Natural moisturizing factor (NMF) is essential for appropriate stratum corneum hydration, barrier homeostasis, desquamation, and plasticity. It is formed from filaggrin proteolysis to small, hygroscopic molecules including amino acids. We hypothesized that common lipid extraction and soaking in water would alter the level of NMF in the upper stratum corneum (SC) and its biophysical properties. A novel method of measuring and quantifying the amino acid components of NMF is presented. Adhesive tapes were used to collect samples of the SC and were extracted with 6 mM perchloric acid for analysis by reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).The HPLC results were standardized to the amount of protein removed by the tapes. An increase in NMF was found with increased SC depth. Also, the combination of extraction and soaking was found to increase NMF loss relative to control or to extraction or soaking alone. Our results indicate that common skin care practices significantly influence the water binding materials in the upper SC. The findings have implications for the evaluation and formulation of skin care products.
Abstracts: Basic theory of emulsification
Authors: Horiuchi T.
Published: September 2010

pp.2–22

A significant problem in emulsion science concerns the selection of surfactants and the stability of emulsions. In the HLB system, emulsification needs to use an emulsifier depending on the properties of an oil. Emulsion preparations in cosmetics consist of a lot of oil ingredients. In order to prepare stable emulsions, it is necessary to select the optimal surfactant among tremendous numbers of surfactants as well as to understand the compatibility between material and material in a dispersed system. This paper reviews the HLB system, organic conception diagram and solubility parameter as a compatibility index, and the optimal selection of a surfactant by the HLB system. Furthermore, acceleration tests for emulsion stability in low and high temperature storages will be discussed in terms of the physical properties of the oil and emulsifier.