bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
16 Agreement in two Arawak languages: Baure and Kurripako
Authors: Danielsen Swintha , Granadillo Tania
Published: March 2009

This chapter discusses the agreement systems of two genetically and geographically disparate Arawak languages, Kurripako and Baure. While Kurripako exhibits semantic alignment, the differential treatment of Baure intransitive subjects relates to parts of speech. It is hypothesized, however, that the Baure system developed from one similar to that of Kurripako.
Measurement of Spaghetti Speck Count, Size, and Color Using an Automated Imaging System
Authors: Symons S. J. , Venora G. , Van Schepdael L. , Shahin M. A.
Published: March 2009

An objective imaging method was developed to count dark specks in spaghetti. The method simultaneously measured individual speck size and color and the overall color of the spaghetti. Spaghetti samples were prepared from durum wheat samples collected from the Prairie Registration Recommending Committee for Grains (PRRCG) durum wheat cooperative trials during four consecutive crop years from 2002 inclusive to 2005. Differences in speck counts were found between samples within each year. From year to year, the baseline for speck counts varied with the highest numbers in 2005 and the lowest numbers in 2004. For comparison, three technicians also counted the number of specks in each sample. These visual counts were not consistent between technicians or technician to the imaging method, supporting the need for this objective approach. Spaghetti speck counts did not relate to the speck counts of the semolina subsequently used to prepare the product. Speck sizes were consistent across samples and between years, indicating a consistent milling method for all the samples. Differences in speck count numbers could not be attributed to differences in speck color or pasta color. The imaging method gave very consistent speck counts and color measurements over the four years.
Flowability Properties of Commercial Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS)
Authors: Bhadra Rumela , Muthukumarappan K. , Rosentrater Kurt A.
Published: March 2009

Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), the major coproduct from the corn‐based fuel ethanol industry, is primarily used as livestock feed. Due to high protein, fiber, and energy contents, there is a high demand for DDGS. Flowability of DDGS is often hindered due the phenomenon of caking. Shipping and handling of DDGS has thus become a major issue due to bridge formation between the DDGS particles. The objective of this investigation was to measure flowability characteristics of DDGS samples from five ethanol plants in the north central region of the United States. Carr and Jenike tests were performed and the resulting data were mathematically compared with a previously developed empirical model. The largest particles had an average geometric mean diameter (GMD) of 1.19 mm, while the lowest particle size had an average GMD of 0.5 mm. Soluble solid levels were ≈10.5–14.8% (db). The effective angle of friction (δ) was 43.00–57.00°. Additionally, a few parameters exhibited fairly high linear correlations, including aerated and packed bulk densities (r = 0.97), geometric standard deviation and Carr compressibility (r = 0.71), geometric standard deviation and Hausner ratio (r = –0.70). Overall flowability assessment indicated that the commercial DDGS samples did have the potential for flow problems, although no samples exhibited complete bridging. Quantifying DDGS flowability is a necessary step toward overcoming this logistical challenge facing the fuel ethanol industry.
Effects of Suni Bug (Eurygaster spp.) Damage on Milling Properties and Semolina Quality of Durum Wheats (Triticum durum L.)
Authors: Koksel Hamit , Ozderen Tulin , Olanca Burcu , Ozay Dilek Sivri
Published: March 2009

Economic losses due to suni‐bug (Eurygaster spp. and Aelia spp.) damage are important for the cereal industry in East European and Middle East countries. Samples of five durum wheat cultivars (Diyarbakir, Firat, Ege, Svevo, and Zenith) with zero, medium, and high levels of suni‐bug damage were used to determine the effects of suni‐bug damage on milling properties and semolina quality. As the damage level increased, semolina yields of all cultivars decreased significantly. The loss of semolina yield was greater than decreases in total yield of semolina plus flour, indicating that semolina yields were affected to a higher extent than were flour yields. The ash contents of the semolina samples increased significantly in all cultivars with increasing suni‐bug damage. The falling number values were not correlated with suni‐bug damage level and amylase activities of all samples were quite low. The pasting properties did not differ to a great extent depending on the suni‐bug damage level. Gluten quality of semolina samples substantially deteriorated as suni‐bug damage level increased, as determined by SDS‐sedimentation and mixograph analyses. It was concluded that suni‐bug damage would decrease profits of durum wheat millers substantially by affecting semolina yield and quality.
Wet‐Milling Characteristics of 10 Lines from Germplasm Enhancement of Maize Project Compared with Five Corn Belt Lines
Authors: Taboada‐Gaytan Oswaldo , Pollak Linda M. , Johnson Lawrence A. , Fox Steven R.
Published: March 2009

The use of corn (Zea mays L.) hybrids with high grain yield and starch extractability has steadily increased in the processing industry. In light of widespread corn seed industry participation in the Germplasm Enhancement of Maize Project (GEM), which seeks to enhance exotic germplasm, future hybrids may contain more exotic sources in genetic backgrounds. It is necessary to establish and monitor physical, compositional, and milling characteristics of the new exotic breeding materials to determine the processing value. The present study was conducted to determine the wet‐milling characteristics of a set of GEM lines compared with typical Corn Belt lines. Ten GEM lines introgressed with exotic materials from Argentina, Chile, Cuba, Florida, and Uruguay and previously identified as having different starch yields, three commercial inbred lines, and two public inbred lines (B73 and Mo17) were analyzed using both near‐infrared transmittance (NIT) and a 100‐g wet‐milling procedure. There were statistical differences (P < 0.05) in the yield of wet‐milled fractions (starch, fiber, gluten, and germ). The GEM lines AR16035:S19‐227‐1‐B and CUBA117:S1520‐562‐1‐B had similar or better starch yield and starch recovery than B73 and the other adapted inbred lines, indicating that they may be useful in improving the proportion of extractable starch present in kernels of hybrids. Residual protein levels in the starch and gluten fractions were 0.26–0.32% and 38–45%, respectively. The starch yield of GEM lines from wet milling correlated positively with starch content from NIT and was negatively correlated with protein content of the corn kernels. Oil content in the germ varied from 50 to 60%. Our results indicate that incorporating GEM lines in a breeding program can maintain or even improve wet‐milling characteristics of Corn Belt materials if lines with appropriate traits are used.
MicroRNA-125b is a novel negative regulator of p53
Authors: Le Minh T.N. , Teh Cathleen , Shyh-Chang Ng , Xie Huangming , Zhou Beiyan , Korzh Vladimir , Lodish Harvey F. , Lim Bing
Published: March 2009

The p53 transcription factor is a key tumor suppressor and a central regulator of the stress response. To ensure a robust and precise response to cellular signals,p53gene expression must be tightly regulated from the transcriptional to the post-translational levels. Computational predictions suggest that several microRNAs are involved in the post-transcriptional regulation ofp53. Here we demonstrate that miR-125b, a brain-enriched microRNA, is a bona fide negative regulator of p53 in both zebrafish and humans. miR-125b-mediated down-regulation of p53 is strictly dependent on the binding of miR-125b to a microRNA response element in the 3′ untranslated region ofp53mRNA. Overexpression of miR-125b represses the endogenous level of p53 protein and suppresses apoptosis in human neuroblastoma cells and human lung fibroblast cells. In contrast, knockdown of miR-125b elevates the level of p53 protein and induces apoptosis in human lung fibroblasts and in the zebrafish brain. This phenotype can be rescued significantly by either an ablation of endogenous p53 function or ectopic expression of miR-125b in zebrafish. Interestingly, miR-125b is down-regulated when zebrafish embryos are treated with γ-irradiation or camptothecin, corresponding to the rapid increase in p53 protein in response to DNA damage. Ectopic expression of miR-125b suppresses the increase of p53 and stress-induced apoptosis. Together, our study demonstrates that miR-125b is an important negative regulator of p53 and p53-induced apoptosis during development and during the stress response.
A genome scan for quantitative trait loci affecting three ear traits in a White Duroc × Chinese Erhualian resource population
Authors: Ma J. , Qi W. , Ren D. , Duan Y. , Qiao R. , Guo Y. , Yang Z. , Li L. , Milan D. , Ren J. , Huang L.
Published: March 2009

Chinese Erhualian pigs have larger and floppier ears compared with White Duroc pigs (small, half‐ or fully‐pricked ears). To identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for ear weight and area as well as erectness, a genome‐wide scan with 194 microsatellites was performed in a White Duroc × Chinese Erhualian resource population (>1000 F2 animals). Twenty‐three genome‐wide significant QTL and 12 suggestive QTL were identified. All QTL for ear erectness and size detected in two previous studies, bar two on SSC6 and 9, were confirmed here. The 1% genome‐wide significant QTL at 70 cM on SSC5 and at 58 cM on SSC7 have profound and pleiotropic effects on the three ear traits, with Erhualian alleles increasing weight and area but decreasing erectness. Notably, the 95% confidence interval of the QTL for weight and area on SSC7 spanned only 3 cM. New QTL reaching 1% genome‐wide significance were found on SSC8 (at 37 cM) for all three ear traits, on SSC4 and 16 for weight and area, and on SSCX for area. Unexpectedly, Erhualian alleles at these loci were associated with lighter and smaller or erect ear. Some new suggestive QTL were also found on other chromosome regions. Almost all the QTL for weight and area had essentially additive effects, while the QTL for erectness on SSC2, 5 and 7 showed not only additive effects but also partial dominance effects of Erhualian alleles. The two most significant QTL on SSC7 and SSC5 could be promising targets for fine mapping and identification of the causative mutations.
Emerging combination treatment strategies containing novel agents in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma
Authors: Lonial Sagar , Cavenagh Jamie
Published: March 2009

Treatment strategies for multiple myeloma have changed substantially over the past 10 years following the introduction of bortezomib and the immunomodulatory drugs thalidomide and lenalidomide. In the front‐line setting, combination regimens incorporating these novel agents are demonstrating substantial activity, which is translating into improved outcomes compared with previous standards of care. Response rates and depth of response that were previously only seen with high‐dose therapy plus stem‐cell transplantation (HDT–SCT) can now be achieved with new induction regimens utilizing these novel agents. This has raised the need for trials that will determine the clinical benefit of early SCT in patients that have already achieved a high quality of response. Here, we review the improvements in response and outcome that are seen with these novel‐agent regimens, both as induction therapy prior to HDT–SCT and in non‐transplant patients, and highlight the latest data from key studies of various novel combinations, including regimens featuring bortezomib plus thalidomide or lenalidomide. We also review data on response and outcomes in patients with poor prognostic characteristics that indicate that the adverse impact typically seen with these factors may be overcome using novel‐agent therapy.
Lymphoid tissue inducer cells: architects of CD4 immune responses in mice and men
Authors: Kim M-Y , Kim K-S , McConnell F , Lane P
Published: March 2009

In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the multiple functions of the mouse lymphoid tissue inducer (LTi) cells in: (i) the development of organized lymphoid tissue, (ii) the generation and maintenance of CD4-dependent immunity in adult lymphoid tissues; and (iii) the regulation of central tolerance in thymus. By contrast with mouse LTi cells, which have been well described, the human equivalent is only just beginning to be characterized. Human LTi-like cells expressing interleukin (IL)-22 have been identified recently and found to differentiate into natural killer (NK) cells. The relationship of LTi cells to NK cells is discussed in the light of several studies reporting a close relationship in the mouse between LTi cells and transcription factor retinoid-related orphan receptor γt-dependent IL-22 producing NK cells in the gut. We also outline our data suggesting that these cells are present in adult human lymphoid tissues.
Decrease in expression of beta‐tubulin and microtubule abundance in flight muscles during diapause in adults of Culex pipiens
Authors: Kim M. , Denlinger D. L.
Published: March 2009

The cDNA encoding beta‐tubulin in the mosquito Culex pipiens has high similarity with the beta‐tubulins reported in other insects. In this study, we examine expression of this gene and microtubule abundance in relation to diapause and low temperature. While non‐diapausing mosquitoes express beta‐tubulin highly in their thoracic muscles, expression is quite low during adult diapause. The abundance of microtubules was also much lower in flight muscles of diapausing adults than in flight muscles from non‐diapausing individuals, as confirmed by laser confocal microscopy of tubulins stained using indirect immunofluorescence. Low temperatures decreased microtubule abundance in midguts of non‐diapausing mosquitoes, but microtubule abundance in diapausing mosquitoes was already low and remained unchanged by low temperature exposure. Overall, pixel intensity averages were higher in the flight muscles than in the midguts, and again low temperatures decreased microtubule abundance in the flight muscles of non‐diapausing females, while levels remained consistently low in diapausing females. These results clearly indicate that a decrease in microtubule abundance is evoked both by the programming of diapause and, in non‐diapausing females, by exposure to low temperatures. Quite possibly the reduced microtubule abundance in the flight muscles and reduced expression of beta‐tubulin are functionally correlated to the reduction in flight activity that is associated with low temperature and diapause.
The lectin KM+ induces corneal epithelial wound healing in rabbits
Authors: Chahud Fernando , Ramalho Leandra N. Z. , Ramalho Fernando S. , Haddad Antonio , Roque‐Barreira Maria C.
Published: March 2009

Neutrophil influx is essential for corneal regeneration (Gan et al. 1999). KM+, a lectin from Artocarpus integrifolia, induces neutrophil migration (Santos‐de‐Oliveira et al. 1994). This study aims at investigating a possible effect of KM+ on corneal regeneration in rabbits. A 6.0‐mm diameter area of debridement was created on the cornea of both eyes by mechanical scraping. The experimental eyes received drops of KM+ (2.5 μg/ml) every 2 h. The control eyes received buffer. The epithelial wounded areas of the lectin‐treated and untreated eyes were stained with fluorescein, photographed and measured. The animals were killed 12 h (group 1, n = 5), 24 h (group 2, n = 10) and 48 h (group 3, n = 5) after the scraping. The corneas were analysed histologically (haematoxylin and eosin and immunostaining for proliferation cell nuclear antigen, p63, vascular endothelial growth factor, c‐Met and laminin). No significant differences were found at the epithelial gap between treated and control eyes in the group 1. However, the number of neutrophils in the wounded area was significantly higher in treated eyes in this group. Three control and seven treated eyes were healed completely and only rare neutrophils persisted in the corneal stroma in group 2. No morphological distinction was observed between treated and control eyes in group 3. In treated corneas of group 2, there was an increase in immunostaining of factors involved in corneal healing compared to controls. Thus, topical application of KM+ may facilitate corneal epithelial wound healing in rabbits by means of a mechanism that involves increased influx of neutrophils into the wounded area induced by the lectin.
The serum D‐xylose test as a useful tool to identify malabsorption in rats with antigen specific gut inflammatory reaction
Authors: Antunes Danielle Mota Fontes , Da Costa Janilda Pacheco , Campos Sylvia Maria Nicolau , Paschoal Patrícia Olaya , Garrido Valéria , Siqueira Munique , Teixeira Gerlinde Agate Platais Brasil , Cardoso Gilberto Perez
Published: March 2009

The inappropriate immune response to foods, such as peanut, wheat and milk may be the basis in the pathogenesis of enteropathies like coeliac and Crohn disease, which present small intestinal malabsorption. A number of recent studies have utilized d‐xylose absorption as an investigative tool to study small intestinal function in a variety of clinical settings. Thus, the aim of this experimental study was to evaluate the intestinal absorption of d‐xylose in an antigen‐specific gut inflammatory reaction rat model. Animals of the experimental group were inoculated with peanut protein extract before their exposure to a challenge diet containing exclusively peanut seeds to induce the gut inflammatory reaction caused by peanut allergy. Our results show that systemic inoculation with peanut protein extract renders significantly higher antibody titres (5.085 ± 0.126 units) (P < 0.0001) than control rats (0.905 ± 0.053 units) and that the antibody titres correlate positively to an inflammatory alteration of the gut morphology (P < 0.0001). Animals pertaining to the experimental group showed an intestinal absorption of d‐xylose lower than control rats (P < 0.0001). We also observed that d‐xylose absorption correlates negatively with IgG titres and positively with morphometric parameters (Pearson correlation). In conclusion, the use of serum d‐xylose test was useful to identify the presence of small intestinal malabsorption in our antigen specific gut inflammatory reaction rat model.
Effects of individual quality, reproductive success and environmental variability on survival of a long‐lived seabird
Authors: Lescroël Amélie , Dugger Katie M. , Ballard Grant , Ainley David G.
Published: March 2009

Heterogeneity in individual quality (i.e. individuals having different performance levels that are consistent throughout life) can drive the demography of iteroparous species, but quality in the context of environmental variability has rarely been evaluated.

We investigated the demographic responses of a long‐lived seabird, the Adélie penguin (Pygoscelis adeliae), to contrasting environmental conditions as a function of reproductive success, breeding quality (BQ) and experience. A continuous index of BQ (BQI) was developed to reflect an individual's ability, relative to others, to produce viable offspring.

First, we assessed the relative importance of costs of reproduction vs. heterogeneity in quality by comparing survival and reproductive probabilities among deferred, successful and unsuccessful breeders under ‘demanding’ conditions using multistate capture–mark–recapture modelling. Then, we quantified the influence of BQI on adult survival among experienced breeders vs. the whole study population under both ‘normal’ and ‘demanding’ conditions.

Higher survival rates were exhibited by successful (74–76%) compared to unsuccessful breeders (64%); the former also more frequently reproduced successfully at year t + 1.

From 1997 to 2006, adult survival ranged from 64–79%, with BQI accounting for 91% of variability in the entire study population, but only 17% in experienced breeders. The weakened relationship between BQI and survival in experienced breeders supports the theory that selection during the first reproductive event accounts for a more homogeneous pool of experienced breeders.

No significant effect of environmental covariates on survival was evident, suggesting that what appeared to be demanding conditions were within the range that could be buffered by this species.

For the first time in seabirds, a quadratic relationship between adult survival and BQI showed that adult survival is shaped by both heterogeneity in quality and reproductive costs. Our study confirms that population demographic patterns are affected by factors at the individuals’ level (e.g., individual quality) that are obscured at population‐scale levels.
Can ant‐eating Zodarion spiders (Araneae: Zodariidae) develop on a diet optimal for euryphagous arthropod predators?
Authors: PEKÁR STANO , TOFT SØREN
Published: March 2009

Abstract Little attention is paid to the behavioural and physiological adaptations of ant‐eating predators. It is expected that there should be a strong selection for traits related to prey handling, leading to the evolution of morphological, behavioural and nutritional adaptations. Such adaptations may then entail trade‐offs in handling and utilization of alternative prey. To investigate behavioural as well as nutritional adaptations and the occurrence of the corresponding trade‐offs in two ant‐eating spiders of the genus Zodarion [Zodarion atlanticum Pekár & Cardoso and Zodarion germanicum (C. L. Koch)], spiders are reared on two diets: ants (i.e. their preferred prey) and fruit flies (i.e. an alternative prey that is nutritionally optimal for euryphagous spiders). Food consumption is observed and several fitness‐related life‐history parameters are measured. Although spiders readily accept ants, more than one‐third of 35 spiders refuse to consume fruit flies and starve. Furthermore, severe hunger does not induce these individuals to accept fruit flies. Starving spiders die before moulting to the second stadium. Spiders that eat fruit flies increase only little and slowly in weight, and all of these die during the first two stadia. By contrast, spiders on an ant diet increase dramatically in weight, and develop up to the fourth stadium. These data indicate that fruit flies are not suitable for Zodarion, supporting the hypothesis that there are behavioural and nutritional trade‐offs. Taking into account the results of previous studies, it is suggested that nutritional trade‐offs are generally important for stenophagous spiders.
Identification and characterization of novel uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase gene mutations in a large series of porphyria cutanea tarda patients and relatives
Authors: Badenas C , To‐Figueras J , Phillips JD , Warby CA , Muñoz C , Herrero C
Published: March 2009

Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) arises from decreased hepatic activity of uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase (UROD). Both genetic and environmental factors interplay in the precipitation of clinically overt PCT, but these factors may vary between different geographic areas. Decreased activity of UROD in erythrocytes was used to identify patients with UROD mutations among a group of 130 Spanish PCT patients. Nineteen patients (14.6%) were found to harbor a mutation in the UROD gene. Eight mutations were novel: M1I, 5del10, A22V, D79N, F84I, Q116X, T141I and Y182C. Five others were previously described: F46L, V134Q, R142Q, P150L and E218G. The new missense mutations and P150L were expressed in Escherichia coli. D79N and P150L resulted in proteins that were localized to inclusion bodies. The other mutations produced recombinant proteins that were purified and showed reduced activity (range: 2.3–73.2% of wild type). These single amino acid changes were predicted to produce complex structural alterations and/or reduced stability of the enzyme. Screening of relatives of the probands showed that 37.5% of mutation carriers demonstrated increased urinary porphyrins. This study emphasizes the role of UROD mutations as a strong risk factor for PCT even in areas where environmental factors (hepatitis C virus) have been shown to be highly associated with the disease.
Origin of the Gangdise (Transhimalaya) Permian arc in southern Tibet: Stratigraphic and volcanic geochemical constraints
Authors: Geng Quan‐Ru , Sun Zhi‐Ming , Pan Gui‐Tang , Zhu Di‐Cheng , Wang Li‐Quan
Published: March 2009

The well‐studied Mesozoic and Cenozoic volcanic rocks of the Gangdise Terrane, southern Tibet, are widely interpreted to have resulted from subduction of the Neotethys; however, Late Paleozoic volcanic rocks and their tectonic setting remain poorly studied. Based on new geological data, we carried out stratigraphical and geochemical analyses of Permian volcano‐stratigraphic sequences within an east–west‐trending, fault‐bounded zone of uplift in the central Gangdise Terrane. Sedimentary rocks in this area consist of platform carbonates and terrigenous clastic rocks that represent widespread shallow‐marine sedimentary basins developed around northern Gondwana. A regression or tectonic uplift event is recorded in Permian sedimentary rocks that show the local development of fluvial environments. The sedimentary succession contains evidence of two volcanic stages: a period of basaltic extrusions and younger explosive felsic magmatism. The first volcanic stage is Early and Middle Permian in age. Tholeiitic basaltic lavas are exposed around Maizhokunggar (Tangjia) and Lhunzhub in central Gangdise. The Lower Permian basalts are relatively enriched in MgO (4.58–12.19%), whereas the Middle Permian basalts are characterized by high Al2O3 contents (11.75–21.22%). Rocks of both ages are enriched in large‐ion lithophile elements (LILE) and light rare earth elements (LREE), and show pronounced negative Nb and Ta anomalies. Total REE contents and light (LREE)/heavy (HREE) ratios increased from the Early to Middle Permian. Observed variations in initial Sr, Nd, and Pb isotopes (87Sr/86Sri = 0.7013–0.7066, 207Pb/204Pbi = 15.53–15.63, and 208Pb/204Pbi = 38.04–38.64 for a given 206Pb/204Pbi; εNd = +0.69 to −11.55) can be explained by crustal interaction with mantle sources, as is characteristic of metasomatism by slab‐derived fluids or assimilation and fractional crystallization (AFC) processes during magmatic evolution. The observed geochemical signatures, coupled with stratigraphic constraints, support the hypothesis that an initial arc formed during the Permian due to southward subduction of the Paleotethys, predating the well‐known Mesozoic arc preserved in the Gangdise Terrane.
Intravitreal triamcinolone for persistent cystoid macular oedema in eyes with quiescent uveitis
Authors: Maca Saskia M , Abela‐Formanek Claudette , Kiss Christopher G , Sacu Stefan G , Benesch Thomas , Barisani‐Asenbauer Talin
Published: March 2009

Abstract

Background:  To determine the outcome following injections of triamcinolone acetate (IVTA) in the treatment of persistent cystoid macular oedema (CMO) in quiescent, non‐infectious uveitis.

Methods:  Retrospective analysis of patients with inactive uveitis requiring/not requiring immunosuppressive therapy who received IVTA because of chronic CMO refractory to previous systemic steroids. Number of IVTA (re‐)treatments, distance visual acuity, near visual acuity, mean foveal thickness, intraocular pressure, duration of CMO, type of uveitis and systemic therapy were assessed previous to and 1, 4, 12 weeks following each IVTA treatment.

Results:  Between March 2003 and May 2006, 24 eyes of 18 patients received between one and three IVTA injections. A resolution of chronic CMO was observed in 7/24 eyes (29.2%, 5 eyes after single injection of IVTA, 1 eye each after two and three injections of IVTA), a significant increase in distance visual acuity in 9/24 eyes (37.5%; 5 eyes with resolution of CMO, 4 eyes despite persistent CMO) and in near visual acuity in 13/24 eyes (54.6%; 6 eyes with resolution of CMO, 7 eyes despite persistent CMO).

Conclusions:  IVTA might be considered as a treatment for patients with chronic CMO when persistent despite previous systemic steroid therapy. Even patients without sustained resolution of CMO after IVTA might benefit in terms of transiently increasing visual acuity, but progression of cataract and rise in intraocular pressure limit repeatability.
Comparison of the corneal endothelial protective effects of Healon‐D and Viscoat
Authors: Peck Carolee M Cutler , Joos Zachary P , Zaugg Brian E , Abdel‐Aziz Salwa , Stringham Jack D , Werner Liliana , Mamalis Nick , Olson Randall J
Published: March 2009

Abstract

Background:  The use of dispersive ophthalmic viscosurgical devices (OVDs) has been shown to provide significant protection against air bubble damage to the corneal endothelium when compared with cohesive OVDs. We compared the corneal endothelial protective effects of a new dispersive OVD, Healon‐D, with Viscoat.

Methods:  Healon‐D and Viscoat were used in a randomized and masked fashion in the anterior chamber of 40 rabbit eyes during a procedure where ultrasound at 70% continuous energy was delivered for 2 min. Two millilitres of air bubbles were injected into the anterior chamber during the first minute of the procedure on each eye. Corneas were then stained with trypan blue and alizarin red and evaluated via light microscopy for endothelial injury. Both denuding of the endothelial layer, as well as damage to endothelial cells were quantified by using the Evaluation of Posterior Capsule Opacification digital imaging system.

Results:  The denuded area for eyes treated with Healon‐D and Viscoat were not significantly different (medians of 0.004167and 0.003333, respectively, P = 0.8908). There was no significant difference in the area of endothelial cell damaged (medians of 0.02183 and 0.01433, respectively, P = 0.4565). When the denuded and damaged areas were calculated together, there was also no difference in the total injured area (medians of 0.05817 and 0.05821, respectively, P = 0.5740).

Conclusion:  The new dispersive OVD Healon‐D is equally as effective as Viscoat in protecting the corneal endothelial layer from denuding and damage from air bubbles during anterior segment surgery.
Two different doses of caudal neostigmine co‐administered with levobupivacaine produces analgesia in children
Authors: KARAASLAN KAZIM , GULCU NEBAHAT , OZTURK HAYRETTIN , SARPKAYA ALI , COLAK CEMIL , KOCOGLU HASAN
Published: March 2009

Background: This study was aimed to evaluate the analgesic efficacy, duration of analgesia, and side effects of two different doses of caudal neostigmine used with levobupivacaine in children.

Methods: Sixty boys, between 5 months and 5 years, undergoing genito‐urinary surgery were allocated randomly to one of three groups (n = 20 each). Group I patients received caudal 0.25% levobupivacaine (1 ml·kg−1) alone. Groups II and III patients received neostigmine (2 and 4 μg·kg−1respectively) together with levobupivacaine used in the same dose as Group I. Pain scores were assessed using Children’s and Infant’s Postoperative Pain Scale (CHIPPS) at 15th (t1) min after arrival to postanesthetic care unit, and 1st (t2), 2nd (t3), 3rd (t4), 4th (t5), 8th (t6), 16th (t7), and 24th (t8) hour postoperatively. Duration of analgesia, amount of additional analgesic (paracetamol), score of motor blockade and complications were recorded for 24 h postoperatively, and compared between groups.

Results: CHIPPS scores were higher during t2, t3, t6, t7and t8periods, duration of analgesia was shorter, and total analgesic consumption was higher in Group I compare to neostigmine groups (P < 0.05). Duration of postoperative analgesia and total analgesic consumption were similar in Groups II and III (P > 0.05). Adverse effects were not different between three groups.

Conclusions: Caudal neostigmine in doses of 2 and 4 μg·kg−1with levobupivacaine extends the duration of analgesia without increasing the incidence of adverse effects, and 2 μg·kg−1seems to be the optimal dose, as higher dose has no further advantages.
Emergency nephrectomy due to severe urosepsis: a retrospective, multicentre analysis of 65 cases
Authors: Berger Ingrid , Wildhofen Sonja , Lee Alexander , Ponholzer Anton , Rauchenwald Michael , Zechner Othmar , Stackl Walter , Madersbacher Stephan
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVE

To assess the outcome of emergency nephrectomy in a retrospective, multicentre analysis, as emergency nephrectomy due to life‐threatening urosepsis is a rare clinical scenario with a high mortality, and there are few reports of clinical data on this issue.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We assessed retrospectively all patients who had a nephrectomy due to life‐threatening urosepsis in three referral centres in Vienna between 1994 and 2007. Patient characteristics, survival and risk factors for a fatal outcome were evaluated.

RESULTS

In all 65 patients (44 women and 21 men; mean age 65 years) were analysed. The mean interval from the first medical consultation to hospital admission was 4.3 days. Two‐thirds of patients were admitted directly from their homes (63%), the remainder being transferred from other departments or hospitals. The most common pathological mechanism leading to urosepsis was acute pyelonephritis, often combined with nephrolithiasis. In all, 36 patients had a urological intervention before nephrectomy, i.e. percutaneous nephrostomy in 17, ureteric stent in 16 and percutaneous abscess drainage in three. Nephrectomy was performed a mean (range) of 5.7 (0–31) days after hospital admission. Thirteen patients (20%) died from septic multi‐organ failure after surgery. This group was almost 20 years older than those who survived (78.6 vs 61.8 years), had a higher comorbidity rate, had undergone endourological interventions more frequently (69% vs 52%), had a longer interval to nephrectomy (6.9 vs 5.4 days), higher C‐reactive protein level (294.9 vs 136.0 mg/L) and lower platelet counts (229.5 vs 307.7 million/L) at diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Several factors were identified that influence the outcome after emergency nephrectomy for life‐threatening urosepsis. Applied to the decision‐making process, these risk factors could have a positive impact on establishing a timely indication for nephrectomy that might ultimately reduce the high mortality rate.
Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for unresectable pulmonary metastases from renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Soga Norihito , Yamakado Koichiro , Gohara Hideo , Takaki Haruyuki , Hiraki Takao , Yamada Tomomi , Arima Kiminobu , Takeda Kan , Kanazawa Susumu , Sugimura Yoshiki
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical utility of lung radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in patients with unresectable pulmonary metastasis from renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively examined 39 patients with unresectable metastases from RCC who were treated with lung RFA. Patients with six or fewer lung metastases measuring ≤6 cm that were confined in the lung, had all lung tumours ablated (curative ablation). Patients with extrapulmonary lesions, seven or more lung tumours, or large tumours of >6 cm, had mass reduction (palliative ablation). The primary endpoints was the overall survival, secondary endpoints were safety, local tumour progression rate, and recurrence‐free survival in the curative ablation group.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in the overall survival rates between the curative and palliative groups at 1 year (100% vs 90%), 3 years (100% vs 52%) and 5 years (100% vs 52%) (P < 0.05). The maximum lung tumour diameter was also a significant prognostic factor. There was local tumour progression in 13 patients (33%) during the mean follow‐up of 25 months. The recurrence‐free survival rates were 92% at 1 year, 23% at 3 years and 23% at 5 years in the curative ablation group. Pneumothorax requiring chest tube placement (six of 89, 7%) and pneumonia (one of 89, 1%) were major complications.

CONCLUSION

Lung RFA is a safe and effective treatment for prolonging survival in patients with unresectable RCC lung metastases.
Managerial incentives and corporate leverage: evidence from the United Kingdom
Authors: Florackis Chrisostomos , Ozkan Aydin
Published: March 2009

This paper investigates the effect of managerial incentives and corporate governance on capital structure using a large sample of UK firms during the period 1999–2004. The analysis revolves around the view that managerial incentives are important in determining a firm's leverage. However, we argue that the exact impact of these incentives on leverage is likely to be determined by firm‐specific governance characteristics. To conduct our investigation, we construct a simple corporate governance measure using detailed ownership and governance information. We present evidence of a significant non‐monotonic relationship between executive ownership and leverage. There is also strong evidence suggesting that corporate governance practices have a significant impact on leverage. More importantly, the results reveal that the nature of the relation between executive ownership and leverage depends on the firm's corporate governance structure.
Protein and the demand for hard wheats*
Authors: Wilson William W. , Wilson Wesley , Dahl Bruce
Published: March 2009

Wheat protein is one of the most important specifications used in domestic and import purchase contracts and is used partly as a proxy for functional quality. The purpose of this article is to analyse the demand for wheat delineated by protein class. A choice‐based econometric model is specified and estimated using a novel dataset of pooled wheat shipments to individual importing countries. Buyers are importing countries that make purchase decisions among different protein levels. The model frames the choice in terms of attributes of the choice and of the importing countries. Results indicate that there have been shifts over time, and purchase probabilities are highly price elastic and vary across importing regions. Functional characteristics including wet gluten content and extraction rates have significant impacts on purchase probabilities. These results have implications for breeders as it clearly illustrates the role of protein and functional characteristics on demand. The results also have implications for analysts modelling wheat trade in that there are many factors impacting market segments that would not be captured in conventional demand specifications.
Urban water management: optimal price and investment policy under climate variability*
Authors: Hughes Neal , Hafi Ahmed , Goesch Tim
Published: March 2009

Australian urban water utilities face a significant challenge in designing appropriate demand management and supply augmentation policies in the presence of significant water scarcity and climate variability. This article considers the design of optimal demand management and supply augmentation policies for urban water. In particular, scarcity pricing is considered as a potential alternative to the predominant demand management policy of water restrictions. A stochastic dynamic programming model of an urban water market is developed based on data from the ACT region. Given a specification of the demand and supply for urban water state dependent optimal price and investment policies are estimated. The results illustrate how the optimal urban water price varies inversely with the prevailing storage level and how the optimal timing of investment differs significantly between rain dependent and rain independent augmentation options.
The Application of GIS in Education Administration: Protecting Students from Hazardous Roads
Authors: Masouleh Fatemah Admadi Nejad , Murayama Yuji , Rho'Dess Todd Wendell
Published: March 2009

Though enrolment by proximity is an official educational policy in Iran, the lack of clearly defined school attendance areas has resulted in an informal open enrolment system where parents may choose public schools outside their residential areas. Two major consequences of parental choice are longer commutes to schools and increased use of motor vehicle transport. To delineate school attendance areas for public female junior high schools in the city of Rasht in Northern Iran, this research used the multiplicatively weighted Voronoi diagram (MWVD) technique to construct school attendance areas. The approach was shown to be useful in developing countries like Iran where accident fatalities are not only disproportionately high but the public school system lacks sufficient educational diversity to offset the societal costs of opting out of neighbourhood schools. A GIS‐based specialist package was used for constructing the proposed school attendance areas. Given the MWVD utility in demarcating spaces so that all journeys within them are closest to a chosen point, the research concluded that proposed school attendance areas can result in shorter and more convenient commutes on foot for students. This can eliminate the need to travel by vehicle for the overwhelming majority of students and thus make their journeys more convenient and safer.
Spatial Modeling of Geotechnical Information Using GML
Authors: Bardet Jean‐Pierre , Zand Amir
Published: March 2009

Geotechnical data characterizes the geometry and physical properties of soil deposits, which are determined from field observations, in‐situ and laboratory tests, and engineering analyses. Until now, geotechnical information was mainly described and exchanged as relational data, which occasionally included spatial characteristics. Hereafter, the spatial features of geotechnical data are investigated by invoking the geotechnical data model of the Association of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Specialists (AGS), which is widely used in the United Kingdom to exchange geotechnical data in engineering practice. The basic geometric objects in AGS geotechnical data are first identified. These geometric objects are mapped to basic geometric features of the Geography Markup Language (GML). AGS data can therefore be fully rendered using GML‐conformant schemas, which make geotechnical data readily importable into GML‐aware applications. The data can be also imported to mainstream GIS applications using Extensible Markup Language (XML) transformations. This article demonstrates the rendition of AGS data format to a GML‐conformant schema and illustrates the implementation of the new format through a few geotechnical examples.
Making social policy work for economic development: the Nordic experience
Authors: Kangas Olli , Palme Joakim
Published: March 2009

The Nordic welfare states offer some lessons in a development context. A main achievement has been sustainable poverty reduction. Another important lesson is that, while democratization often leads to greater pressures for social policy expansion, social policy can also contribute to democratization. The Nordic countries further demonstrate that is possible to unify social protection with a competitive and growth‐oriented economy. In a number of policy areas, particularly in relation to social services and labor market policy, the Nordic countries have also become leading modernizers. The women‐friendly dual‐earner model not only combats poverty among families with children, but also enables women to participate in the labor market. The future sustainability of the Nordic model of social policy hinges on the number of taxpayers that can be mobilized. In order to be successful in this, governments need to take a combined, or holistic, approach, and consider both micro motives and macro considerations.
Bringing social policy back in: a look at the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: Karshenas Massoud , Moghadam Valentine M.
Published: March 2009

This article examines the evolution of social policy in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) during three periods: the post‐colonial and oil‐boom period, the post‐oil period of structural adjustment, and the more recent oil‐boom period. Drawing attention to key factors that shaped both social policy and the region's lack of competitiveness during the current global era, the authors argue for a new social development strategy that would put the region back on a growth path, while also recognizing citizen participation and rights.
Latin America: a new developmental welfare state model in the making?1
Authors: Riesco Manuel
Published: March 2009

Latin America is emerging from a century of transformation – from a traditional agrarian to an urban industrial economy – where countries have taken diverse historical paths. Some have almost completed this transformation, others are taking early steps, and most are living through it. State‐led transition has followed two successive development strategies. From the 1920s to the 1980s, state developmentalism, for the most part, successfully assumed the twin challenges of economic and social progress. In the final decades of the century, Latin American states adopted the policies of the Washington consensus, which emphasized the importance of business in the framework of globalization, benefiting the affluent few. However, an unambiguous shift in direction has been taking place in Latin America since the 1997 economic crisis. This article suggests that a new developmental welfare state model is in the making. How will it evolve over the wider space of an increasingly integrated Latin America?
The reform of the developmental welfare state in East Asia
Authors: Kwon Huck‐ju
Published: March 2009

This article examines social policy reforms in East Asia and whether the welfare states in the region became more inclusive in terms of social protection while maintaining their developmental credentials. It draws on findings from the United Nations Research Institute for Social Development (UNRISD) project on social policy in East Asia, covering China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China, Japan, Malaysia, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Taiwan Province of China, and Thailand. It shows that East Asian economies responded differently to the crisis in terms of welfare reform. While Singapore and Hong Kong maintained the basic structure of the selective developmental welfare state, Korea, Taiwan, and, to a lesser extent, Thailand implemented social policy reforms toward a more inclusive one. Despite such different responses, policy changes are explained by the proposition of the developmental welfare state: the instrumentality of social policy for economic development and realization of policy changes through democratization (or the lack of it).
Private Equity Syndication: Agency Costs, Reputation and Collaboration
Authors: Meuleman Miguel , Wright Mike , Manigart Sophie , Lockett Andy
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Syndicates are a form of inter‐firm alliance in which two or more private equity firms invest together in an investee firm and share a joint pay‐off, and are an enduring feature of the leveraged buyout (LBO) and private equity industry. This study examines the relationship between syndication and agency costs at the investor‐investee level, and the extent to which the reputation and the network position of the lead investor mediate this relationship. We examine this relationship using a sample of 1,122 buyout investments by 80 private equity companies in the UK between 1993 and 2006. Our findings show that where agency costs are highest, and hence ex‐post monitoring by the lead investor is more important, syndication is less likely to occur. The negative relationship between agency costs and syndication, however, is alleviated by the reputation and network position of the lead investor firm.