bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance‐Based Regulation and Regulatory Regimes: The Saga of Leaky Buildings
Authors: May Peter J.
Published: February 2004

Regulatory reformers have widely endorsed greater use of a performance‐based approach to regulation that defines objectives in terms of desired outcomes. The appeal of the performance‐based approach is as much about introducing a regime that overcomes problems of overly rigid rules and inflexible enforcement as it is about regulating for results. The case of leaky buildings in New Zealand provides a cautionary tale of a flawed performance‐based regulatory regime. It allowed for flexibility without sufficient accountability and in so doing showed the Achilles’ heel of performance‐based regulation.
Regulating Quality of Care in Nursing Homes in Hong Kong: A Social‐Ecological Investigation
Authors: Cheng Sheung‐Tak , Chan Alfred C. M.
Published: February 2004

A social‐ecological model aided by an adversarial methodology was employed to study the regulation of private nursing homes in Hong Kong over a five‐year period. Specifically the study addresses the way quality of care and its definitions changed in response to shifting socio‐political‐economic conditions. The study began when only 2 percent of the industry was licensable. It was found that an initial period of harmful capture was replaced by a period of cooperation between government and the industry, following increased resource flow into the system that made it possible for desirable trade‐offs to occur between the two parties. Six‐and‐a‐half years after the introduction of the regulatory ordinance, all homes in the market achieved licensure status.
Sales and Use Tax Simplification and Voluntary Compliance
Authors: Cornia Gary C. , Sjoquist David L. , Walters Lawrence C.
Published: February 2004

Because of difficulties collecting sales taxes on Internet sales, several states have engaged in an effort (the Streamlined Sales Tax Project, SSTP) to simplify their sales tax systems. One hope among SSTP proponents is that a simplified system will result in Internet vendors voluntarily collecting the sales tax. We address two issues:

Will states adopt the extensive reforms proposed by the SSTP?

Will vendors voluntarily collect the sales tax?

We argue that states are unlikely to adopt extensive reforms, but if they did, many vendors would voluntarily collect sales taxes.
Public Preferences for Program Tradeoffs: Community Values for Budget Priorities
Authors: Blomquist Glenn C. , Newsome Michael A. , Stone D. Brad
Published: February 2004

A growing literature concerns techniques to improve community‐based reforms and citizen‐centered governance in order to reinforce the trust in democratic government. We analyze a contingent choice technique that systematically collects information about individual citizens' relative values of a set of state public programs. Individual citizens are asked to allocate a fixed increment of public funds. Individuals reveal their marginal willingness to trade off (MWTTO) additions in one program for additions in another. MWTTO values provide program rankings and information concerning the relative strength of citizen preferences. An example of a contingent choice survey is described.
Eliciting the Public's Budgetary Preferences: Insights from Contingent Valuation
Authors: Brubaker Earl R.
Published: February 2004

Contingent valuation studies can provide useful insights for designers and users of surveys eliciting the public's comprehensive budgetary preferences. Such studies attempt to elicit the public's monetary valuations of specific nontraded goods to support decisions of managers in the public sector. Although controversial, these surveys provide much useful methodological analysis and evidence relevant to avoiding bias and unreliability of surveys intended to elicit more general budgetary preferences. Significantly refined over the past several decades, the underlying methodology shows substantial promise for further development. Collaboration of specialists knowledgeable about public budgeting and finance with specialists in economics, survey methods, and market research could contribute greatly to designing, implementing, and evaluating surveys of the citizenry's public budgetary preferences.
The State of the Tobacco Settlement: Are Settlement Funds Being Used to Finance State Government Budget Deficits? A Research Note
Authors: Johnson Craig L.
Published: February 2004

In the Master Settlement Agreement, the major U.S. tobacco companies agreed to pay approximately $229 billion between 1999 and 2025 to 46 states, the District ofColumbia, and five U.S. territories. The windfall raises important spending andfinancing decisions for state governments. This research note analyzes how governments are spending their settlement proceeds, especially whether states are using funds to finance current budget deficits, and investigates the financing practice by several states of selling their right to future settlement proceeds to support the issuance and repayment of tobacco securitization bonds.
Influences on Release‐Site Fidelity of Translocated Elk
Authors: Larkin Jeffery L. , Cox John J. , Wichrowski Michael W. , Dzialak Matthew R. , Maehr David S.
Published: February 2004

Several eastern states are considering the restoration of free‐ranging elk populations via translocation from western populations. Optimal habitat immediately surrounding release sites has been found to enhance elk reintroduction success in western states. Little information exists, however, to aid eastern managers in identifying release sites with the highest chance of restoration success. We monitored the movements of 415 translocated elk released at three sites in southeastern Kentucky to identify landscape characteristics that enhance release‐site fidelity. The distance elk moved after release differed among sites (F2,322 = 4.63,p = 0.01), age classes (F2,322 = 4.37,p = 0.01), and time intervals (F2,322 = 40.74,p < 0.001). At 6 and 12 months post‐release, adults (15.81 ± 17.32 and 16.38 ± 20.29) and yearlings (13.91 ± 16.44 and 14.61 ± 21.11) moved farther than calves (8.06 ± 14.03 and 9.37 ± 14.40). The release site with the highest fidelity was privately owned, 15% open, and had the highest amount of edge compared with the other release sites. The two remaining sites contained large amounts of expansive openland or forest cover with lower amounts of edge. Additionally, both sites were publicly owned and experienced a higher degree of human‐generated disturbance compared with the site to which elk were most faithful. When selecting release sites, managers should avoid areas dominated by a single cover type with little interspersion of other habitats. Rather, areas with high levels of open‐forest edge (approximately 5.0 km/km2) and limited‐human disturbance will likely enhance release‐site fidelity and promote restoration success.
An Experimental Evaluation of Different Methods of Restoring Phyllospadix torreyi (Surfgrass)
Authors: Bull J. Scott , Reed Daniel C. , Holbrook Sally J.
Published: February 2004

The surfgrass Phyllospadix torreyi is an abundant seagrass found on rocky exposed shores of the Pacific coast of North America. In southern California surfgrass populations are adversely affected by a range of natural events and anthropogenic activities. Few attempts have been made to develop restoration methods for surfgrass, and none have investigated the efficacy of using different life stages. We evaluated several techniques for restoration in intertidal and subtidal habitats using: (1) laboratory‐reared seedlings transplanted to the field (2) sprigs (short lengths of rhizome containing a few shoots) transplanted from undisturbed populations, and (3) plugs (a cohesive clump of shoots and rhizomes) transplanted from undisturbed populations. We calculated the net change in the aerial coverage of surfgrass after 6 months, taking into account the recovery or additional losses from the donor population, and amount of effort involved in transplanting. Transplanted seedlings survived poorly and had minimal rhizome growth at both the intertidal and the subtidal sites, yet the individuals that did survive showed a 275% increase in leaf number. Survivorship of transplanted plugs was high in both habitats; however, physical disturbances to the donor populations exacerbated damage sustained at the time of collecting, yielding a substantial net loss in surfgrass. Sprigs transplanted to the subtidal had higher survivorship (71 versus 48%) and a greater increase in the aerial coverage of rhizome (86 versus 42%) than those transplanted to the intertidal. Of the three techniques, transplanted sprigs had the greatest overall increase in aerial coverage per unit effort, suggesting that this method may be the most effective approach for restoring P. torreyi.
Sand Dune Restoration in North Brittany, France: A 10‐Year Monitoring Study
Authors: Rozé Françoise , Lemauviel Servane
Published: February 2004

Dunes, which account for 13% of the Ille et Vilaine north Brittany coast, France, were degraded by high tourist pressure, and they were restored from 1988 onward. Ten years after commencing work an assessment of the restoration was made on three dunes: Les Chevrets, L'Anse Du Guesclin, and Le Verger. Annual monitoring of the vegetation and dune morphology provided an opportunity to study the restoration process. The dune front, which is similar to a reference pioneer dune, lies in front of the mobile dune. The highest part of the dune is an advanced stage of mobile dune. The restoration of the fixed rear dune was accomplished neither in terms of vegetation composition nor in terms of species richness. The vegetation parameter study allows differentiation between the dune front, the dune summit, and the rear dune. The variation in species richness and floristic composition from one zone to another can be explained by abiotic factors such as salinity and the accretion of sand. The restoration was satisfactory in terms of the geomorphology. Marram grass is a good tool for restoring the topography, but it will take a very long time to restore the conservation value of the dune.
Structural Attributes of Schizachyrium scoparium in Restored Texas Blackland Prairies
Authors: Derner Justin D. , Polley H. Wayne , Johnson Hyrum B. , Tischler Charles R.
Published: February 2004

Structural attributes of the C4, perennial bunchgrass Schizachyrium scoparium in restored prairies may be affected by the time since restoration. One hundred plants each in 8‐, 17‐, and 23‐year‐old restored prairies and a native Texas Blackland prairie were assessed for the presence/absence and diameter of a hollow crown (i.e., dead center portion), degree of fragmentation, plant height, and tiller density. Structural attributes of S. scoparium plants were generally (1) different between recent (8 years) and older (17 and 23 years) restored prairies (2) similar between the 17‐ and 23‐year‐old restored prairies, and (3) more similar between the 8‐ and 17‐year restored prairies and the native, remnant prairie than between the 23‐year restored prairie and the native prairie. Plants were shorter in restored prairies, regardless of time since restoration, than in the native prairie. Mean basal area of plants was 80–163% greater in the 17‐ and 23‐year restored prairies compared with the native and 8‐year restored prairies. Percentage of hollow crowns and fragmentation was smallest in the 8‐year restored prairie, largest in the 17‐ and 23‐year restored prairies, and intermediate in the native prairie. Tiller density exhibited inverse second‐order polynomial decreases with increasing plant basal area for all prairies. In contrast to tiller density, diameter of hollow crowns increased logarithmically with increasing plant basal area. Structural attributes of S. scoparium in restored prairies changed predictably with age, despite growing in different communities.
Can Carbon Addition Increase Competitiveness of Native Grasses? A Case Study from California
Authors: Corbin Jeffrey D. , D'Antonio Carla M.
Published: February 2004

There is growing interest in the addition of carbon (C) as sucrose or sawdust to the soil as a tool to reduce plant‐available nitrogen (N) and alter competitive interactions among species. The hypothesis that C addition changes N availability and thereby changes competitive dynamics between natives and exotics was tested in a California grassland that had experienced N enrichment. Sawdust (1.2 kg/m) was added to plots containing various combinations of three native perennial bunchgrasses, exotic perennial grasses, and exotic annual grasses. Sawdust addition resulted in higher microbial biomass N, lower rates of net N mineralization and net nitrification, and higher concentrations of extractable soil ammonium in the soil. In the first year sawdust addition decreased the degree to which exotic annuals competitively suppressed the seedlings of Nassella pulchra and, to a lesser extent, Festuca rubra, both native grasses. However there was no evidence of reduced growth of exotic grasses in sawdust‐amended plots. Sawdust addition did not influence interactions between the natives and exotic perennial grasses. In the second year, however, sawdust addition did not affect the interactions between the natives and either group of exotic grasses. In fact, the native perennial grasses that survived the first year of competition with annual grasses significantly reduced the aboveground productivity of annual grasses even without sawdust addition. These results suggest that the addition of sawdust as a tool in the restoration of native species in our system provided no significant benefit to natives over a 2‐year period.
Research Priorities for Conservation of Metallophyte Biodiversity and their Potential for Restoration and Site Remediation
Authors: Whiting S. N. , Reeves R. D. , Richards D. , Johnson M. S. , Cooke J. A. , Malaisse F. , Paton A. , Smith J. A. C. , Angle J. S. , Chaney R. L. , Ginocchio R. , Jaffré T. , Johns R. , McIntyre T. , Purvis O. W. , Salt D. E. , Schat H. , Zhao F. J. , Baker A. J. M.
Published: February 2004

Plants that have evolved to survive on metal‐rich soils—metallophytes—have key values that must drive research of their unique properties and ultimately their conservation. The ability of metallophytes to tolerate extreme metal concentrations commends them for revegetation of mines and metal‐contaminated sites. Metallophytes can also be exploited in environmental technologies, for example, phytostabilization, phytoremediation, and phytomining. Actions towards conserving metallophyte species are imperative, as metallophytes are increasingly under threat of extinction from mining activity. Although many hundreds of papers describe both the biology and applications of metallophytes, few have investigated the urgent need to conserve these unique species. This paper identifies the current state of metallophyte research, and advocates future research needs for the conservation of metallophyte biodiversity and the sustainable uses of metallophyte species in restoration, rehabilitation, contaminated site remediation, and other nascent phytotechnologies. Six fundamental questions are addressed: (1) Is enough known about the global status of metallophytes to ensure their conservation? (2) Are metallophytes threatened by the activities of the minerals industry, and can their potential for the restoration or rehabilitation of mined and disturbed land be realized? (3) What problems exist in gaining prior informed consent to access metallophyte genetic resources and how can the benefits arising from their uses be equitably shared? (4) What potential do metallophytes offer as a resource base for phytotechnologies? (5) Can genetic modification be used to “design” metallophytes to use in the remediation of contaminated land? (6) Does the prospect of using metallophytes in site remediation and restoration raise ethical issues?
The Otx binding site is required for the activation of HpOtxL mRNA expression in the sea urchin, Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus
Authors: Hayashibara Yasunori , Mitsunaga‐Nakatsubo Keiko , Sakamoto Naoaki , Shimotori Taishin , Akasaka Koji , Yamamoto Takashi
Published: February 2004

Two distinct types of orthodenticle‐related (HpOtxE and HpOtxL) mRNA are transcribed from a single HpOtx gene by altering the transcription start site and by alternative splicing, and their expressions are differentially regulated during early development of the sea urchin Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus. To understand the mechanism of this regulation, we screened for the enhancer element involved in the stage‐specific expression of HpOtxL mRNA. Different portions of the HpOtx gene, including the 5′‐flanking region and the first intron, were ligated to the minimal HpOtxL promoter driving a luciferase gene, and their constructs were introduced into fertilized eggs using a particle gun. The enhancer element responsible for proper expression consistent with that of the endogenous HpOtxL was found in the first intron of the HpOtx gene. External and internal deletion analyses showed that the 334 bp region (from +8838 bp to +9171 bp) was required for enhancer activity. In addition, deletion of an Otx binding site within the 334 bp region markedly reduced reporter expression. These results suggest that the Otx binding site within the HpOtxL enhancer is required for the activation of HpOtxL mRNA expression. The promoter preference of the HpOtxL enhancer is also discussed.
CDK1/cyclin B regulation during oocyte maturation in two closely related lugworm species, Arenicola marina and Arenicola defodiens
Authors: Chausson Fabienne , Paterson Lesley A. , Betteley Katherine A. , Hannah Lucie , Meijer Laurent , Bentley Matthew G.
Published: February 2004

The molecular mechanisms underlying oocyte maturation in the annelid polychaetes Arenicola marina and Arenicola defodiens were investigated. In both species, a hitherto unidentified hormone triggers synchronous and rapid transition from prophase to metaphase, a maturation process which can be easily reproduced in vitro. Activation of a roscovitine‐ and olomoucine‐sensitive M‐phase‐specific histone, H1 kinase, occurs during oocyte maturation. Using affinity chromatography on immobilized p9CKShs1, we purified CDK1 and cyclin B from oocyte extracts prepared from both phases and both species. In prophase, CDK1 is present both as an inactive, but Thr161‐phosphorylated monomer, and as an inactive (Tyr15‐phosphorylated) heterodimer with cyclin B. Prophase to metaphase transition is associated with complete tyrosine dephosphorylation of the cyclin B‐associated CDK1, with phosphorylation of cyclin B, and with dramatic activation of the kinase activity of the CDK1/cyclin B complex. We propose that Arenicola oocytes may provide an ideal model system to investigate the acquisition of the ability of oocytes to be fertilized that occurs as oocyte shift from prophase to metaphase, an important physiological event, probably regulated by active CDK1/cyclin B.
Muscle differentiation in tentacles of Sepia officinalis (Mollusca) is regulated by muscle regulatory factors (MRF) related proteins
Authors: Grimaldi Annalisa , Tettamanti Gianluca , Rinaldi Liliana , Brivio Maurizio F. , Castellani Diletta , De Eguileor Magda
Published: February 2004

The tentacles of Sepia officinalis are muscular structures that can be quickly everted and ‘super‐elongated’ to capture prey. The speed and super‐elongation are achieved by the presence of both cross‐striated and helical muscles. In the present study, the complex organization and differentiation of various fibers of the cuttlefish were examined from an early stage of development (stage 26), when the embryo is still inside the egg gel‐coating, until the juvenile stage (two weeks after hatching).

The muscles start to differentiate centrifugally from the area around the axial nervous system where two types of myoblasts can be recognized. Smooth fibers (referred to here as ‘smooth‐like’ fibers because of their similarity to vertebrate smooth fibers) appear first, then bundles and layers of circomyarian helical and cross‐striated fibers differentiate. In Sepia, two muscle‐specific transcription factors (MRF), Myf5‐like and MyoD‐like, have been identified and they are differently expressed during development. Myf5 was detected at first in myoblasts, which give rise to helical smooth‐like fibers, while MyoD was expressed later in the other population of myocytes from which circomyarian helical and cross‐striated fibers derive. The effective role of these two MRF in tentacle muscle differentiation was confirmed by RNA interference experiments. Injection of double stranded (ds)RNA Myf5 inhibited differentiation of smooth‐like fibers, whereas injection of dsRNA MyoD resulted in inhibition of cross‐striated and circomyarian helical fibers.
Developmental regulated expression of syndecan‐1 and glypican in pectoralis major muscle in turkeys with different growth rates
Authors: Liu Xiaosong , McFarland Douglas C. , Nestor Karl E. , Velleman Sandra G.
Published: February 2004

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans, syndecan‐1 and glypican, are low‐affinity receptors for fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2). Since FGF2 stimulates skeletal muscle cell proliferation but inhibits differentiation, differences in syndecan‐1 and glypican expression might affect muscle development and growth by changing the intensity of FGF2 signaling. In the present study, the pectoralis major muscle from 14 to 24‐day‐old‐embryos, and from 1 to 16‐week‐old birds from a turkey line (F) selected for increased 16‐week bodyweight and its genetic control line (RBC2), were used to address how syndecan‐1 and glypican are expressed during skeletal muscle formation. The expression of syndecan‐1 and glypican was measured by semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. For males, the F‐line embryos expressed more syndecan‐1 (days 14 and 16) and glypican (days 14 and 18) than the RBC2 line. Similar line differences for males were observed during posthatch development. The male embryos from both lines expressed more syndecan‐1 at days 18 through 22 and more glypican at days 20 and 22 than the corresponding females. The temporal and spatial distribution of syndecan‐1 and glypican was detected by in situ hybridization. Syndecan‐1 was identified in all muscle fibers at all embryonic stages studied, whereas the glypican was detected from embryonic day 18. The data from the current study provided new information about the expression of syndecan‐1 and glypican as it relates to skeletal muscle growth properties.
Does continuous glucose monitoring have clinical utility in contemporary management of diabetes?
Authors: Cameron FJ , Ambler GR
Published: February 2004

Abstract:  Continuous, automated and non‐invasive blood glucose monitoring systems have long been a goal to assist management of diabetes mellitus. The first continuous, albeit invasive, device available in Australia is the Medtronic MiniMed Continuous Glucose Monitoring System (CGMS), which is available for physician‐supervised use to give a continuous blood glucose profile (5‐minutely readings, viewable only after download by the physician) for periods of 72 h. With the availability of this technology, there is a need to assess the accuracy, reproducibility and ability to detect significant clinical events (particularly hypoglycaemia) and blood glucose patterns. The question of whether this technique allows long‐term improvement of metabolic control also arises. We present four case studies to illustrate the use of CGMS in clinical practice and have reviewed the rapidly emerging literature. We conclude that CGMS is a useful clinical tool in the management of diabetes mellitus, provided that it is appropriately applied and the limitations are understood.
Quality of life of adolescents suffering from epilepsy living in the community
Authors: Benavente‐Aguilar I , Morales‐Blánquez C , Rubio EA , Rey JM
Published: February 2004

Objectives:  To examine the quality of life of a population sample of adolescents suffering from epilepsy.

Methods:  All people aged 10−19 years diagnosed with epilepsy and without comorbid conditions in the Spanish province of Huesca were considered for the study. Quality of life was measured with the Spanish version of the Qolie‐AD‐48.

Results:  A total of 66 young people with a mean age of 15 years had active epilepsy and agreed to participate; 30.3% had experienced seizures during the previous year. There were some differences in quality of life according to gender and socioeconomic status. Quality of life decreased with increasing severity of epilepsy (r = −0.63, P < 0.01). Medication neurotoxicity was associated with a lower quality of life over and above the effect of severity of the illness (partial r = −0.58, P < 0.01). Quality of life was negatively associated with the number of seizures per year (r = −0.64, P < 0.01), longer duration of the illness (r = −0.36, P < 0.01) and earlier age of onset (r = −0.29, P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  The quality of life of young people with epilepsy in community samples varies according to gender and socioeconomic status, but severity of the epilepsy and side‐effects of medication are the main influence. This highlights the importance of optimal control of the seizures with medications with few side‐effects.
Early childhood factors influencing health‐related quality of life in adolescents at 13 years
Authors: Wilkins AJ , O'Callaghan MJ , Najman JM , Bor W , Williams GM , Shuttlewood G
Published: February 2004

Objective:  To understand the relationship of health‐related quality of life (HR‐QOL) to early life experience.

Methodology:  Eight thousand five hundred and fifty‐six women enrolled in a prospective study at their first antenatal clinic visit. At 13 years, of 5345 women remaining, a consecutive sample of 901 mother/child pairs provided data on adolescent HR‐QOL using the Child Health Questionnaire‐Parent Report form (CHQ‐PF50) and the Dartmouth COOP Functional Assessment Charts for Adolescents. The CHQ‐PF50 yielded physical (PHS) and psychosocial (PSS) summary scores. We examined the relationship between health‐related QOL and early childhood predictive variables.

Results:  PHS was related to gestation, maternal health symptoms in pregnancy, maternal anxiety at 6 months, child health and hours of childcare at 5 years (P < 0.05). PSS was related to maternal age at index visit, maternal attitude to pregnancy, maternal satisfaction with care giving and maternal depression at 6 months, and child health and behaviour problems at 5 years (internalizing and social/attentional/thought (SAT) domains) (P < 0.05). Findings from adolescent self‐reports were similar.

Conclusions:  This study has identified a number of early childhood determinants of adolescent HR‐QOL. These findings add to evidence of the effects of early adversity on the developmental pathways of children and support the need for effective early intervention.
Psychoeducational outcome at school age of preterm infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Gray PH , O'Callaghan MJ , Rogers YM
Published: February 2004

Objective:  To investigate the cognitive performance and educational attainment at school‐age of children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), compared with a preterm control group of children.

Methods:  Seventy preterm infants with BPD and 61 birth weight matched controls were prospectively followed‐up to school‐age. The Weschler Intelligence Scale for Children − III (WISC), the Wide Range Achievement Test (WRAT) and the Developmental Test of Visual Motor Integration (VMI) were administered. The results were compared between the two groups and multiple regression analyses were performed to determine the effect of confounding variables.

Results:  The children in the BPD group performed less well on the Full Scale IQ (mean 86.7 vs 93.5; 95% CI, 1.9−11.7), Verbal IQ (mean 87.1 vs 94.1; 95% CI, 2.0−12.0) and the Performance IQ (mean 88.6 vs 95.2; 95% CI, 2.0−11.2) of the WISC, the reading component of the WRAT (mean 93.8 vs 98.9; 95% CI, 0.3−9.8) and the VMI (mean 88.9 vs 93.3; 95%, CI 1.1−7.8). Despite controlling for social and biological variables, statistical differences persisted for Full Scale and Verbal IQ and reading. A Verbal IQ >1 SD below the mean was found in 41% of BPD children compared to 21% of controls, while on the reading component of the WRAT a greater proportion of BPD children also had scores>1 SD below the mean.

Conclusion:  Impaired psychoeducational performance was found in preterm children with BPD compared to controls, especially in the areas of language abilities and reading skills. This supports a greater need for special educational services and counseling for parents for these children.
Maternal haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets syndrome: Perinatal and neurodevelopmental neonatal outcomes for infants weighing less than 1250 g
Authors: Singhal N , Amin HJ , Pollard JK , Tough SC , Johnston DW , Clark DJ , Sauve R
Published: February 2004

Objectives: To study mortality and short‐term morbidity of infants born to women with HELLP (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets) syndrome and to compare the long‐term neurodevelopmental morbidity of a subgroup with birth weight (BWT) less than 1250 g (study group) with weight matched controls.

Methods: Retrospective chart review and prospective neurodevelopmental follow‐up through a Perinatal Follow‐up clinic. Analysis of perinatal and neonatal data for women diagnosed with HELLP from 1993 to 1996. Neurodevelopmental outcome for the study group was compared to a group of weight matched controls.

Results: A total of 109 infants (mean gestational age 32.6 weeks, mean BWT 1766 g) were born to 104 women with HELLP syndrome. There was a significant decrease in mortality (P = 0.002) and morbidity (P < 0.05) with increasing gestational age and birthweight. No significant differences in neonatal mortality and morbidity were present between the infants weighing less than 1250 g study and weight matched control group. However, at 3 years, the study group had fewer children with cerebral palsy (P = 0.024) and mental disability (Ptrend = 0.07). Mean cognitive index was 99 versus 91 in the controls (P = 0.101).

Conclusion: Improved health outcomes occur with increased gestational age. Infants with BWT less than 1250 g born to women with HELLP syndrome were not at risk of increased neurodevelopmental disability compared to controls.
Five‐year surveillance of acute flaccid paralysis in Malaysia
Authors: Hussain IHMI , Ali S , Sinniah M , Kurup D , Khoo TB , Thomas TGS , Apandi M , Taha AM
Published: February 2004

Objective:  The nation‐wide surveillance for acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) was implemented in Malaysia in 1995 and further intensified in 1996 as part of the World Health Organization's (WHO) certification process for polio eradication in the Western Pacific Region. Clinical data on AFP cases during a 5‐year surveillance period from 1997 to 2001 were compiled and analysed.

Results:  Based on 517 cases of AFP reported during this 5‐year period, the overall rate of AFP was 1.2 per 100 000 children below 15 years old. The major clinical diagnosis associated with AFP were Guillain−Barre syndrome (30.2%), central nervous system infection (16.2%), transverse myelitis (10.6%) non‐polio enterovirus infection (6.2%), and hypokalaemic paralysis (5.2%). This unusual pattern with an excess of CNS infection and non‐polio enterovirus infection was attributed to the outbreak of enterovirus 71 infection nation‐wide in 1997. According to the WHO virological classification, there was no case of poliomyelitis due to wild poliovirus. Three cases were ‘polio compatible’, there were no cases of vaccine‐associated paralytic polio (VAPP), while 62 cases (12.0%) were merely classified as ‘non‐polio AFP’.

Conclusion:  Overall, these data suggest the absence of circulation of wild poliovirus in Malaysia from 1997 to 2001. The pattern of AFP in this study is different from other published reports.
Quality assurance of paediatric cardiac surgery: A prospective 6‐year analysis
Authors: Justo RN , Janes EF , Sargent PH , Jalali H , Pohlner PG
Published: February 2004

Objective:  To audit effective quality assurance methods to monitor outcomes following paediatric cardiac surgery at a single institution.

Methods:  All patients undergoing cardiac surgery from January 1996 to December 2001 were enrolled prospectively. Patients were stratified by complexity of surgical procedure into four groups, with Category 4 being the most complex procedure. Outcome measures included death, length of admission and morbidity from complications.

Results:  A total of 1815 patients underwent 1973 surgical procedures. Of these, 1447 (73.3%) were cardiopulmonary bypass procedures, and 543 (27.5%) were more complex (Category 3 and 4) procedures. Median patient age was 3.5 years (range, 1 day−20 years) and patient weight 15.0 kg (range, 900 g to 90 kg). Sixty‐six patients (3.6%) died during the study period. Of the procedures in 1996, 22.7% were classified as complex compared with 29.2% of procedures in 2001. The annual surgical mortality ranged from 1.9−4.7% (P = 0.20), and when mortality was adjusted for complexity of surgery, there was no significant yearly variation in the mortality rate (P = 0.57). Analysis of individual surgeon's results showed no significant difference in the mortality rate by complexity of surgery performed (P = 0.90). Mean ventilation times did not change significantly over time (P = 0.79). The yearly incidence of significant neurological complications ranged from 0.6% to 4.5% and the incidence of arrhythmias from 4.2% to 8.0%. No difference was detected between the years.

Conclusions:  Stratifying complexity of surgery proved valuable in monitoring surgical outcomes and detecting differences in performance over time as large subgroups were created for analysis.
Vitamin D deficiency rickets due to soybean milk
Authors: Imataka G , Mikami T , Yamanouchi H , Kano K , Eguchi M
Published: February 2004

Abstract:  We describe vitamin D deficiency rickets in an infant nursed with soybean milk (not specifically designed for infants) instead of cow's milk‐based infant formula. Symptoms included irritability and carpopedal spasm when crying. The infant's condition improved with nutrition by vitamin‐enriched cow's milk‐based infant formula, oral administration 1 alpha‐hydroxy vitamin D3 and exposure to sunlight. Content analysis of the milk showed very low calcium, phosphate, magnesium and vitamin D levels compared to cow's milk‐based infant milk formulas. This case highlights the unsuitability of soybean milk as the sole provider of infant nutrition and demonstrates the false perception that soybean milk is a healthy food for infants. It is necessary to be cautious about not only health claims for soybean milk, but also today's health and natural food booms. Social enlightenment and correction of such misperceptions are necessary.
Neonatal genital prolapse
Authors: McGlone L , Patole S
Published: February 2004

Abstract:  Genital prolapse is a rare condition in neonates. It is most commonly associated with neural tube defects such as spina bifida. A preterm, growth restricted neonate with genital prolapse without an associated central nervous system anomaly is reported. The risk factors, management and outcome of neonatal genital prolapse are reviewed. The importance of in utero undernutrition as a predisposing factor is emphasized.
Ruptured anterior cranial fossa aneurysm associated with arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Chan Tony Kam‐Tong , Data Narendra Nath , Chan Kwong‐Yau , Kwok John Ching‐Kwong
Published: February 2004

Arteriovenous malformation of the anterior cranial fossa is a rare entity and it carries a high rupture rate especially when it is associated with a venous aneurysm. In the present case report, we described a previously well gentlemen who presented to us with such arteriovenous malformation and our subsequent management given to the patient. Published work of this unusual pathology were reviewed, and theories of its histopathogenesis, presentation, management plan and prognosis are discussed.
AFTA and the Asian Crisis: Help or Hindrance to ASEAN Intra‐Regional Trade?
Authors: Elliott Robert J. R. , Ikemoto Kengo
Published: February 2004

Using a modified gravity equation, this paper examines ASEAN intra‐ and extra‐regional bias in bilateral trade flows and how these relationships have altered over time. We pay particular attention to the periods before and after the signing of AFTA as well as the crucial years prior to and following the Asian crisis. Given the ‘openness’ of ASEAN countries we consider not only intra‐ASEAN trade but also the effect of AFTA on non‐members. We find that trade flows were not significantly affected in the years immediately following the signing of the AFTA agreement and also that the traditional stance of ASEAN countries to outward‐oriented economic activity has not been significantly damaged but rather stimulated by the AFTA process and/or the Asian economic crisis. We do find, however, that that one effect of the Asian economic crisis was to generate a stronger desire to source imports from within the region.
Explaining Trade Flows of Singapore
Authors: Blomqvist Hans C.
Published: February 2004

The objective of this paper is twofold. First, the development of the trade patterns of Singapore and particularly between Singapore and its South‐East Asian partners will be outlined and interpreted against a backdrop of relevant trade policy measures, for example in the context of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Second, a simple model of the gravity type is applied in order to establish and quantify the role of various trade determinants. Despite the fact that Singapore has strived at being a ‘global city’, it remains rather heavily biased towards East Asia as far as foreign trade is concerned. The role of ASEAN in particular is strong, even if the role of entrepôt trade tends to exaggerate the degree of integration between the economies of Singapore and ASEAN. It also seems clear that the latter, as an organization, has not contributed much to the development of trade relations between its members. Rather the closeness and the liberalization of these economies during the last 15 years or so appear to have been decisive. It is interesting to note that the newer members of ASEAN seem to have been integrated quickly in Singapore's economic network.
Participatory Product Design by Using Conjoint Analysis in the Rural Financial Market of Northern Vietnam
Authors: Dufhues Thomas , Heidhues Franz , Buchenrieder Gertrud
Published: February 2004

Analyzing secondary and primary data (collected in 2001–2002), this paper suggests a shift in national development policies from solely promoting rural credit to supporting local savings activities. The household data (N = 260) are econometrically analyzed applying conjoint analysis (CA) methodology. The CA gave valuable insights into how to improve outreach of formal financial institutes (FFIs) by adapting the credit products to client preferences and revealed an un‐attended demand for savings instruments. Due to the enormous credit outreach of the FFIs in Vietnam, it would be more efficient to launch a credit consolidation policy and to implement a reliable and sustainable deposit collection system at the village level. However, within national policymaking, a paradigm change must take place and the capability of rural households to save needs to be recognized by policy‐makers.
BRDF Measurement Modelling using Wavelets for Efficient Path Tracing
Authors: Claustres L. , Paulin M. , Boucher Y.
Published: February 2004

Physically based rendering needs numerical models from real measurements, or analytical models from material definitions, of the Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF). However, measured BRDF data sets are too large and provide no functionalities to be practically used in Monte Carlo path tracing algorithms. In this paper, we present a wavelet‐based generic BRDF model suitable for both physical analysis and path tracing. The model is based on the separation of spectral and geometrical aspect of the BRDF and allows a compact and efficient representation of isotropic, anisotropic and/or spectral BRDFs. After a brief survey of BRDF and wavelet theory, we present our software architecture for generic wavelet transform and how to use it to model BRDFs. Then, modelling results are presented on real and virtual BRDF measurements. Finally, we show how to exploit the multiresolution property of the wavelet encoding to reduce the variance by importance sampling in a path tracing algorithm.

ACM CSS: I.3.7 Computer Graphics—Three‐Dimensional Graphics and Realism
Soft Object Modelling with Generalised ChainMail — Extending the Boundaries of Web‐based Graphics
Authors: Li Ying , Brodlie Ken
Published: February 2004

Soft object modelling is crucial in providing realistic simulation of many surgical procedures. High accuracy is achievable using the Finite Element Method (FEM), but significant computational power is required. We are interested in providing Web‐based surgical training simulation where such computational power is not available, but in return lower accuracy is often sufficient. A useful alternative to FEM is the 3D ChainMail algorithm that models elements linked in a regular, rectangular mesh, mimicking the behaviour of chainmail armour. An important aspect is the ability to make topology changes for example by cutting — an aspect that FEM finds difficult. Our contribution is to extend the 3D ChainMail technique to arbitrary grids in 2D and 3D. This extends the range of applications that can be addressed by the ChainMail approach, to include surfaces and volumes defined on triangular and tetrahedral meshes. We have successfully deployed the algorithm in a Web‐based environment, using VRML and Java linked through the External Authoring Interface.

ACM CSS: I.3.5 Computer graphics: Computional Geometry and Object Modelling, I.3.2 Computer Graphics: Graphics Systems, J.3 Life and Medical Sciences
The State of the Art in Flow Visualisation: Feature Extraction and Tracking
Authors: Post Frits H. , Vrolijk Benjamin , Hauser Helwig , Laramee Robert S. , Doleisch Helmut
Published: February 2004

Flow visualisation is an attractive topic in data visualisation, offering great challenges for research. Very large data sets must be processed, consisting of multivariate data at large numbers of grid points, often arranged in many time steps. Recently, the steadily increasing performance of computers again has become a driving force for new advances in flow visualisation, especially in techniques based on texturing, feature extraction, vector field clustering, and topology extraction.

In this article we present the state of the art in feature‐based flow visualisation techniques. We will present numerous feature extraction techniques, categorised according to the type of feature. Next, feature tracking and event detection algorithms are discussed, for studying the evolution of features in time‐dependent data sets. Finally, various visualisation techniques are demonstrated.

ACM CSS: I.3.8 Computer Graphics—applications
Successive Monopolies and Regulation in a Spatial Model
Authors: Heywood John S. , Pal Debashis
Published: February 2004

A government authority regulates an upstream monopolist only if there is a sufficient welfare increase to justify doing so. A downstream firm strategically increases costs in order to force regulation upstream. The decision to regulate increases profit downstream, reduces profit upstream and reduces welfare relative to a model with no possibility for welfare‐enhancing regulation.
On the Risk–Downside Risk Tradeoff
Authors: Menezes Carmen F. , Wang X. Henry
Published: February 2004

In the last decade the literature has established the empirical importance of the tradeoff between risk and downside risk in a variety of economic settings. While the notions of risk and downside risk have been generalized in the theoretical literature, the literature has yet to provide a choice‐theoretic characterization of their tradeoff. This paper provides an analytical characterization of the risk–downside risk tradeoff and shows its relevance in the analysis of optimal decisions under uncertainty, such as the precautionary savings decision.
Patent Licensing in a Leadership Structure
Authors: Kabiraj Tarun
Published: February 2004

The question of an optimal licensing contract in a leadership structure is studied when the patent holder is a non‐producer and has three alternative licensing strategies, namely fixed fee, royalty and auction. Assuming once‐for‐all licensing contracts we show that royalty dominates other modes when the innovation is small. For larger innovations, while fee dominates royalty, auction is the equilibrium decision. In our analysis the identity of the licensee, whether a leader or a follower, is important. We also discuss the problem when there is a threat of offering a second licensing contract.
Creative Disruption — A Task‐Based Approach to Engaging With Original Works of Art
Authors: Walker Keith , Smith Liz
Published: February 2004

This paper examines the value of a task‐based approach to engaging with original works of art and focuses in particular upon the experiences of a group of PGCE Art and Design trainees when they visited an exhibition entitled, Air Guitar: Art Reconsidering Rock Music, to carry out given tasks. The extent to which a task‐based approach might creatively disrupt trainee teachers' thinking and the nature and significance of such thinking within an educational context is considered, as is the impact of the tasks on their developing understanding of the need for a diversity of approaches to critical engagement. It draws extensively upon selected responses to the tasks and the trainees' subsequent reflections on the experience. Comparisons are made between trainees' responses to particular works and references to these works that are detailed in the exhibition catalogue. This is undertaken with the intention of examining the interrelationship between understanding and knowledge when reading and responding to works of art in the gallery context. A further concern is to generate debate and challenge assumptions regarding the nature and dynamics of gallery based activities and contribute to a process of development and innovation in which all participants can play an active part.
Art Interpretation as Subject Constitution Research on the Role of Critical Art History in Teacher Education
Authors: Trafí Laura
Published: February 2004

This article describes the foundations, development and some of the findings from a research project about how the use of ‘the gaze’, as a key idea from critical art history, might affect the understanding of art by art educators. It shows how the use of this key idea involved not just the disruption of a modernist model of art interpretation (based on the author and the oeuvre), but also mediated the discursive production of the subjectivity of the interpreters as readers/writers of the work. The research was based in the interpretation of a specific artwork by Manet, A Bar at the Folies‐Bergère.
Color Mixer for Every Student
Authors: Planinšič Gorazd
Published: February 2004

This paper describes the construction and use of a color light mixer that uses different color LEDs. The idea was partly inspired by two papers.1,2 The first one describes how a standard LED can be converted into a point-light source, and the second one explains how a Ping-Pong ball can be used to mix polarized color light from two lasers.
Kick Dis Power Puck
Authors: Carlson John E.
Published: February 2004

There is a new toy available that can be used to demonstrate many interesting physics principles. It is called the “Kick Dis Power Puck” and is basically a round plastic hovercraft with a soft cushion material around the perimeter (Fig. 1). It is a product of the Estes Company, which is well known for their model rockets, and is available from advertisers in this journal.1,2 The puck has a diameter of 19.5 cm and comes in two colors, red or green. The two samples I purchased had masses of 307 g and 303 g, respectively. There is a forceful, built-in fan, which is run by a rechargeable battery and powers the puck for about 30 minutes. A 9-V battery charger completes the package, which sells for about $45.