bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interferon monotherapy of chronic hepatitis C in dialysis patients: meta‐analysis of clinical trials
Authors: Fabrizi F. , Dixit V. , Messa P. , Martin P.
Published: August 2007

Summary.  The efficacy of monotherapy with interferon (IFN) (conventional or pegylated IFN) in dialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C remains unclear, although a number of clinical trials have been published addressing this issue. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of monotherapy by conventional or pegylated IFN in dialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C by performing a systematic review of the literature with a meta‐analysis of clinical trials. The primary outcome was sustained virological response (SVR; as a measure of efficacy), and the secondary outcome was drop‐out rate (as a measure of tolerability). We used the random‐effects model of Der Simonian and Laird, with heterogeneity and sensitivity analyses. We identified 28 clinical trials (645 unique patients), of which six (21.4%) had a controlled design. In the group of trials based on conventional IFN, the summary estimate for SVR and drop‐out rate was 39% [95% confidence interval (CI) 32–46] and 19% (95% CI 13–26) respectively. The summary estimate for SVR rate in patients with the hepatitis C virus genotype 1 was 33% (95% CI 19–47). In the subset of trials using pegylated IFN, the summary estimate for SVR and drop‐out rate was 31% (95% CI 7–55) and 27% (95% CI 1–52) respectively. The most frequent side‐effects requiring interruption of treatment were flu‐like symptoms, and gastrointestinal and haematological changes. A relationship between age and drop‐out rate was found, even if no statistical significance was reached (P = 0.064). The studies were heterogeneous with regard to SVR and drop‐out rate. No publication bias was observed. One‐third of dialysis patients with chronic hepatitis C were successfully treated with conventional or pegylated IFN monotherapy. Preliminary evidence does not support additional benefit due to monotherapy with pegylated IFN on the viral response in the chronic kidney disease (CKD) population. Tolerance to IFN monotherapy was unsatisfactory, particularly to pegylated IFN. The optimal antiviral treatment of chronic hepatitis C in dialysis populations is currently under active investigation.
The rice nuclear gene, VIRESCENT 2, is essential for chloroplast development and encodes a novel type of guanylate kinase targeted to plastids and mitochondria
Authors: Sugimoto Hiroki , Kusumi Kensuke , Noguchi Ko , Yano Masahiro , Yoshimura Atsushi , Iba Koh
Published: August 2007

Guanylate kinase (GK) is a critical enzyme in guanine nucleotide metabolism pathways, catalyzing the phosphorylation of (d)GMP to (d)GDP. Here we show that a novel gene, VIRESCENT 2 (V2), encodes a new type of GK (designated pt/mtGK) that is localized in plastids and mitochondria. We initially identified the V2 gene by positional cloning of the rice v2 mutant. The v2 mutant is temperature‐sensitive and develops chlorotic leaves at restrictive temperatures. The v2 mutation causes inhibition of chloroplast differentiation; in particular, it disrupts the chloroplast translation machinery during early leaf development [Sugimoto et al. (2004)Plant Cell Physiol. 45, 985]. In the bacterial and animal species studied to date, GK is localized in the cytoplasm and participates in maintenance of the guanine nucleotide pools required for many fundamental cellular processes. Phenotypic analysis of rice seedlings with RNAi knockdown of cytosolic GK (designated cGK) showed that cGK is indispensable for the growth and development of plants, but not for chloroplast development. Thus, rice has two types of GK, as does Arabidopsis, suggesting that higher plants have two types of GK. Our results suggest that, of the two types of GK, only pt/mtGK is essential for chloroplast differentiation.
Characterization of Arabidopsis ABCG11/WBC11, an ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporter that is required for cuticular lipid secretion†
Authors: Bird David , Beisson Fred , Brigham Alexandra , Shin John , Greer Stephen , Jetter Reinhard , Kunst Ljerka , Wu Xuemin , Yephremov Alexander , Samuels Lacey
Published: August 2007

ABCG11/WBC11, an ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporter from Arabidopsis thaliana, is a key component of the export pathway for cuticular lipids. Arabidopsis wbc11 T‐DNA insertional knock‐out mutants exhibited lipidic inclusions inside epidermal cells similar to the previously characterized wax transporter mutant cer5, with a similar strong reduction in the alkanes of surface waxes. Moreover, the wbc11 knock‐out mutants also showed defects not present in cer5, including post‐genital organ fusions, stunted growth and a reduction in cutin load on the plant surface. A mutant line previously isolated in a forward genetics screen, called permeable leaves 1 (pel1), was identified as an allele of ABCG11/WBC11. The double knock‐out wbc11 cer5 exhibited the same morphological and biochemical phenotypes as the wbc11 knock‐out. A YFP‐WBC11 fusion protein rescued a T‐DNA knock‐out mutant and was localized to the plasma membrane. These results show that WBC11 functions in secretion of surface waxes, possibly by interacting with CER5. However, unlike ABCG12/CER5, ABCG11/WBC11 is important to the normal process of cutin formation.
Transcription factor AtMYB103 is required for anther development by regulating tapetum development, callose dissolution and exine formation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Zai‐Bao , Zhu Jun , Gao Ju‐Fang , Wang Chen , Li Hui , Li Hong , Zhang Hui‐Qi , Zhang Sen , Wang Dong‐Mi , Wang Quan‐Xi , Huang Hai , Xia Hui‐Jun , Yang Zhong‐Nan
Published: August 2007

Downregulation of the transcription factor AtMYB103 using transgenic technology results in early tapetal degeneration and pollen aberration during anther development in Arabidopsis thaliana. This paper describes the functional analysis of the AtMYB103 gene in three knock‐out mutants. Two male sterile mutants, ms188‐1 and ms188‐2, were generated by ethyl‐methane sulfonate (EMS) mutagenesis. A map‐based cloning approach was used, and ms188 was mapped to a 95.8‐kb region on chromosome 5 containing an AtMYB103 transcription factor. Sequence analysis revealed that ms188‐1 had a pre‐mature stop codon in the AtMYB103 coding region, whereas ms188‐2 had a CCT→CTT base‐pair change in the first exon of AtMYB103, which resulted in the replacement of a proline by a leucine residue in the R2R3 domain. The third mutant, an AtMYB103 transposon‐tagging line, also showed a male sterile phenotype. Allelism tests indicated that MS188 and AtMYB103 belong to the same locus. Cytological observation revealed defective tapetum development and altered callose dissolution in ms188 plants. Additionally, most of the microspores in mature anthers were degraded and surviving microspores lacked exine. AtMYB103 encoded an R2R3 MYB protein that is predominantly located in the nucleus. Real‐time RT‐PCR analysis indicated that the callase‐related gene A6 was regulated by AtMYB103. Expression of the exine formation gene MS2 was not detected in mutant anthers. These results implicate that AtMYB103 plays an important role in tapetum development, callose dissolution and exine formation in A. thaliana anthers.
Plasma concentration of rabeprazole after 8‐week administration in gastroesophageal reflux disease patients and intragastric pH elevation
Authors: Yamano Hiro‐o , Matsushita Hiro‐o , Yanagiwara Seiko
Published: August 2007

Background and Aim:  The plasma concentration of rabeprazole in patients treated for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) has not been reported, although the concentration in healthy volunteers has been reported previously. Here, CYP2C19 genotype effects of rabeprazole on the area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC) and the pH elevation were studied in GERD patients.

Methods:  Rabeprazole 10 mg/day was administrated for 8 weeks. AUC of rabeprazole in 18 Helicobacter pylori‐negative GERD subjects (five CYP2C19 homozygous extensive metabolizers [homEM], eight heterozygous extensive metabolizers [hetEM] and five poor metabolizers [PM]) were determined after the final medication. Intragastric pH was recorded for 24 h at baseline and after the final medication.

Results:  The AUC in the PM group (957 ng·h/mL) was significantly higher than those of homEM (375 ng·h/mL) and hetEM (542 ng·h/mL) groups. Median 24‐h pH curves, median 24‐h pH values and 24‐h and nocturnal pH > 4 and pH > 3 holding times did not significantly differ among these groups. Disappearance of erosive lesions was observed after the treatment in all subjects with grade A, B or C at baseline irrespective of CYP2C19 genotypes.

Conclusion:  The AUC of rabeprazole depended on the CYP2C19 genotypes in Japanese GERD patients; however, the intragastric pH elevation was independent of CYP2C19 genotypes, which is consistent with the CYP2C19 genotype‐independent healing efficacy of erosive lesions by rabeprazole. The present low AUC values indicated that abnormal accumulative effects on AUC did not occur during the period of the 8‐week administration of rabeprazole.
Helicobacter pylori infection and allergic diseases: Epidemiological study in Japanese university students
Authors: Shiotani Akiko , Miyanishi Teruo , Kamada Tomoari , Haruma Ken
Published: August 2007

Background and Aim:  A negative association between Helicobacter pylori infection and allergic diseases has not been consistent. The aim of this study was to examine the association between allergic diseases and H. pylori infection in Japan.

Methods:  Newly enrolled university students completed health survey questionnaires regarding general health and the presence of allergic diseases. Helicobacter pylori status was determined by the presence of serum H. pylori IgG and the presence of allergic manifestations was confirmed by interview.

Results:  A total of 1953 students had a routine health survey; H. pylori status was determined in 777 including 369 with allergic diseases and 408 controls. The reported frequency of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, urticaria, bronchial asthma and mixed diseases was 29.0%, 11.1%, 2.0%, 0.9% and 5.0%, respectively. Helicobacter pylori infection was diagnosed less frequently in the allergic group compared with controls (11.4% vs 17.6%, P = 0.015). Helicobacter pylori infection was less frequent in men with allergic diseases (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.27–0.89).

Conclusion:  Allergic diseases are frequent in young Japanese adults and are negatively associated with H. pylori infection especially in men.
Epidemiological features of biliary atresia in Taiwan, a national study 1996–2003
Authors: Tiao Mao‐Meng , Tsai Shang‐Shyue , Kuo Hsin‐Wei , Chen Chao‐Long , Yang Chun‐Yuh
Published: August 2007

Background and Aim:  The incidence of biliary atresia (BA) varies among different countries. It is supposed to be higher in Asian countries than in Western countries; however, the incidence of BA in Taiwan has not been well investigated. The aim of this study was to analyze the epidemiological characteristics and the incidence of BA in Taiwan.

Methods:  National Health Insurance (NHI) was implemented in Taiwan in 1995, and covers most of the population (>99%). We use the NHI database to investigate the epidemiological features of BA and compare Taiwan's annual BA incidence with that of other countries.

Results:  We identified 327 new BA cases during the period from 1996 to 2003. The overall incidence of BA was 1.46 cases per 10 000 live births (0.89–1.90 per 10 000). The estimation was 1.32–1.65 per 10 000 after adjustment for the misdiagnosis rate. The peak incidence occurred in 2002 (1.90 per 10 000), accompanying Taiwan's dengue fever epidemic in 2002. The 5‐year overall survival rate during 1999–2003 was higher than that during 1996–1998 (74.8% vs 61.1%, P = 0.014).

Conclusion:  Taiwan has the second‐highest incidence of BA reported in world literature. Viral infection outbreaks remain a potential candidate as a cause of BA. The management of BA has been improving, with a better 5‐year overall survival rate.
Value of repeat endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration for suspected pancreatic cancer
Authors: Eloubeidi Mohamad A , Varadarajulu Shyam , Desai Shilpa , Wilcox C Mel
Published: August 2007

Background and Aims:  Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) is a safe and accurate technique for diagnosing pancreatic cancer. The value of repeat EUS‐FNA in patients with high clinical suspicion for pancreatic cancer after an inconclusive index study is unknown. Our aims were to determine the yield and success of repeat EUS‐FNA and the reasons for failure of initial EUS‐FNA.

Methods:  This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data in a tertiary University based referral center for pancreatico‐biliary disorders. All patients who underwent more then one EUS‐FNA for evaluation of suspected pancreatic cancer over a five and a half year period were included in this analysis.

Results:  Of the 547 procedures performed on 517 patients, 24 (4.6%) patients underwent 51 repeat EUS‐FNA procedures. Initial EUS‐FNA was atypical/suspicious in 10 (41.6%), benign in 10 (41.6%), malignant in two (8.3%), and failed/indeterminate in two (8.3%) patients. Eight of 10 (80%) patients with atypical/suspicious findings at initial EUS‐FNA were diagnosed with malignancy on repeat EUS‐FNA. Of the 10 patients with benign findings at initial EUS‐FNA, repeat study diagnosed two (20%) with malignancy and the rest were confirmed benign on long‐term follow up (average 530 days, SD 369 days). Of the two patients with indeterminate findings at initial EUS‐FNA, repeat study diagnosed one patient with malignant disease and the other with benign disease that was confirmed by long‐term follow up. Of the two patients diagnosed with neoplastic disease at initial EUS‐FNA, repeat EUS‐FNA with immunostains downgraded both to chronic pancreatitis. Repeat EUS‐FNA facilitated determination of the true status of disease in 20 of 24 patients (accuracy 84%). Suspected reasons for failed initial EUS‐FNA were: coexisting pancreatitis (n = 10; 42%), technical difficulty due to scope positioning in uncinate lesion/sedation failure (n = 4; 16.7%), difficult cytology (partly cystic, extensive necrosis, well‐differentiated adenocarcinoma) (n = 4; 16.7%), presence of ascites or collaterals (n = 3; 12.5%), pathologist's interobserver variation (n = 2; 8.33%), and unknown reason in one patient.

Conclusion:  Repeat EUS‐FNA is warranted in patients with high clinical suspicion for pancreatic cancer despite indeterminate or negative findings at initial EUS‐FNA.
Serum YKL‐40 as a marker of disease activity and stricture formation in patients with Crohn's disease
Authors: Erzin Yusuf , Uzun Hafize , Karatas Adem , Celik Aykut Ferhat
Published: August 2007

Background and Aim:  YKL‐40 is secreted by macrophages and neutrophils and is a growth factor for vascular endothelial cells and fibroblasts. Elevated serum levels of YKL‐40 have been reported in patients with various inflammatory conditions and ongoing fibrosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum concentrations of YKL‐40 and disease activity, acute phase reactants, and the presence of strictures in patients with Crohn's disease (CD).

Methods:  We studied the serum concentrations of YKL‐40 in 41 patients with CD, in which 12 had an endoscopically‐ or radiologically‐proven stricture formation. Forty‐six age‐ and sex‐matched healthy volunteers served as controls and a multivariate regression analysis was performed to find out the independent predictors of intestinal strictures and clinical activity.

Results:  The serum YKL‐40 concentrations in the patients were significantly higher than that in the healthy controls (105.69 ± 88.08 ng/mL [range 20.23–333.57]vs 44.92 ± 24.89 ng/mL [range 18.31–113.43], P = 0.000) and patients with a stricture formation had significantly higher YKL‐40 levels than those without strictures (167.50 ± 119.30 ng/mL [range 23.62–333.57]vs 80.12 ± 56.38 ng/mL [range 20.23–259.19], P = 0.003). Significant correlations were noted between YKL‐40 levels and clinical activity (r = 0.681; P = 0.000) and the presence of intestinal strictures (r = 0.457; P = 0.003). The multivariate regression analysis found the serum YKL‐40 levels to be an independent predictor of intestinal strictures (P = 0.001) and clinical activity (P = 0.001).

Conclusion:  Patients with CD, particularly those with a stricture formation, have significantly higher levels of YKL‐40. YKL‐40 seems to be a useful marker of disease activity as well as stricture formation in patients with CD.
Water quality characteristics of two reservoir lakes in eastern Connecticut, USA
Authors: Nadim Farhad , Hoag George E. , Ogden Fred L. , Warner Glenn S. , Bagtzoglou Amvrossios C.
Published: August 2007

The Mansfield Hollow Lake (MHL) and Willimantic Reservoir (WR) are two reservoirs located in eastern Connecticut in the north‐eastern USA. The MHL was constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers in 1952, being primarily fed by the Fenton, Mount Hope and Natchaug Rivers. The WR lies downstream from the Mansfield Hollow Dam. The physical and chemical characteristics of MHL, WR, and the three streams discharging into them were intensively evaluated during four sampling quarters in 2001 and 2002. This study focused on possible sources of eutrophication, and occurrence of trace amounts of selected priority pollutants, in the sediments and waters of MHL and WR. Analytical results for total dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus and chlorophyll‐a indicated that, in terms of eutrophication status, the waterbodies can be classified as mesotrophic. Comparison of the analytical results in this study to historical limnological data reported for lakes in southern New England and eastern Connecticut indicates that the median levels of total nitrogen, total phosphorus, dissolved inorganic carbon, calcium, magnesium, and iron measured in this study were higher than previously reported median values.
The relevance of species‐based indicators as a tool for evaluating the structure of exploited fish assemblages: a comparative study of two tropical lakes in Mali, West Africa
Authors: Kantoussan Justin , Ecoutin Jean Marc , Simier Monique , Fontenelle Guy , Thiaw Omar Thiom , Laë Raymond
Published: August 2007

A comparative study of the fish communities in two lake ecosystems in Mali (Lakes Manantali and Selingue) was based on monitoring small‐scale fishery landings for a 13‐month period. The main difference between the two lakes is the fishing pressure, being higher in Lake Selingue and lower in Lake Manantali. The effects of fishing on the structure of the fish communities in the two lakes were analysed with the use of diversity indices, rank species abundance (RSA) and abundance–biomass comparative curve (ABC) methods. The diversity differed significantly between the lakes, being higher for Lake Selingue. Analysis of the community structure, using RSA curves, indicated a more regular distribution of the weights between fish species for Lake Selingue than for Lake Manantali. The two lakes exhibited different exploited fish community structures. For Lake Selingue, the fishery was based on smaller‐sized species, compared to that for Lake Manantali. The indicators based on the species composition of exploited fish communities, in terms of abundance and life‐history traits, seemed to be more relevant in this study. Indicators such as diversity indices and RSA curves depend strongly on the exploitation strategy, being unreliable for evaluating exploited fish communities from catch data.
Baseline assessment of metals and hydrocarbons in the sediments of Lake Mulwala, Australia
Authors: Baldwin D. S. , Howitt J. A.
Published: August 2007

An assessment of hydrocarbon and metal/metalloids (arsenic, cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, selenium, zinc) contamination in sediments from Lake Mulwala, Australia, was undertaken. The objectives of the study were: (i) to determine the extent of contamination in the lake sediments, compared to Australian and international sediment quality guidelines, and (ii) to attempt to identify the contaminant sources to the lake. With the exception of a few samples containing elevated levels of arsenic and/or mercury, the levels of all contaminants in the sediment samples taken from the lake were below the ‘lower trigger’ of the Australian Sediment Quality Guidelines that would warrant further investigation. High molecular weight hydrocarbons (up to 700 mg kg−1) were found in most sediment samples. Non‐metric statistical analysis indicated that the contaminant distribution was different in different parts of the lake, with the lowest concentrations generally found at the influent to the lake. No definitive source(s) of contamination could be identified for either metalloids or hydrocarbons.
The changing face of the Ethiopian rift lakes and their environs: call of the time
Authors: Ayenew Tenalem , Legesse Dagnachew
Published: August 2007

The Ethiopian rift is characterized by many perennial rivers, and a chain of lakes that vary in size, and hydrological and hydrogeological settings. The water resources of the Rift lakes are one of the focal points for large‐scale development in Ethiopia over the last few decades. Some of the lakes and their influent rivers are used for irrigation, soda abstraction, fish farming and recreation, and also support a wide variety of endemic birds and wild animals. Ethiopia's major mechanized irrigation farms and commercial fishery are confined within the Rift region. A few of the lakes have shrunk in surface area because of excessive water abstractions, while others have expanded because of increased surface run‐off and groundwater inflows from percolated irrigation water. Excessive land degradation, deforestation and over‐irrigation have changed the hydrological setting of a few Rift lakes. Human activities, in combination with changes in climate and geology, have influenced the hydrological setting and the water quality of the lakes, with the salinity and major ion composition dramatically changed in some of them. This study tries to address the challenges associated with development of these surface‐water resources, focusing on environmental problems arising over the past few decades on three lakes (Abiyata, Beseka and Ziway) situated along the tectonically active Rift floor. The methods utilized in this study include field hydrological and hydrogeological mapping, supported by aerial photographs and satellite imagery interpretations, as well as hydrometeorological and hydrochemical data analysis, and catchment hydrological modeling. A converging‐evidence approach was adapted to reconstruct the temporal and spatial variations of the lake water levels and surface areas. The study results revealed that the major changes in the Rift Valley are related primarily to recent improper use of water from the large rivers draining the Rift Valley floor and the lake catchments, and from direct lake water abstractions aggravated intermittently by climatic and land use changes. These changes represent grave environmental consequences on the fragile Rift ecosystem that demands urgent intervention in the context of an integrated, basin‐wide water management approach. This study emphasizes lake water level changes and human influences on these changes. It also assesses human interactions and water quality changes, including land use changes and environmental repercussions on the lakes, as well as providing recommendations on how these issues should be addressed.
Factors influencing primary productivity in Panshet and Ujjani Reservoirs, India
Authors: Vaidya Shanti , Dhilipkumar Radhakrishnan , Swain Kishore Kumar , Prabhakar Vuppati Mark , Basu Apurba Kumar
Published: August 2007

Nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations and their ratios are important factors influencing the primary productivity of a reservoir. Based on analyses of Panshet and Ujjani Reservoirs in Maharashtra, India, it was observed that, in addition to their nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations and ratios and other chemical constituents, physiographical factors such as geography, catchment land use, water basin morphology, bathymetry and changing water levels or flushing rates also influenced the productivity of these two reservoirs.
Eutrophication, phytoplankton dynamics and nutrient removal in two man‐made urban lakes (Palácio de Cristal and Serralves), Porto, Portugal
Authors: Xavier L. , Vale M. , Vasconcelos V. M.
Published: August 2007

Urban lakes are prone to eutrophication because of a number of factors, including a high water residence time (slow flushing rate), and high nutrient loads from artificial feeding of waterfowl and fish by visitors and from waterfowl faeces, falling leaves and nutrient run‐off from adjacent areas. This study focuses on the ecology of two similar‐sized urban lakes in Porto, Portugal, that exhibit some differing characteristics conducive to different trophic states and nutrient removal efficiencies. Although similar in many aspects, the two reservoirs developed quite diverse phytoplankton communities. The higher nitrogen load to Palácio de Cristal Lake could be the result of the higher concentration in its underground influent stream, while a less‐oxidized nitrogen form (ammonia) is higher in Serralves Lake. Nitrate concentrations are higher in Palácio de Cristal Lake than in Serralves as a result mainly of high nitrate loads (maximum values above 80 mg L−1) in its influent stream. Interestingly, however, its nitrate removal efficiency is greater than for Serralves Lake. Cyanobacteria are the dominal phytoplankton In both lakes throughout the year. However, only one genus of this group (Pseudoanabaena mucicola) was the dominant phytoplankton in Palácio de Cristal Lake, while five Cyanobacteria species co‐dominated in Serralves lake. Regular monitoring of Cyanobacteria and their toxins in urban recreation lakes is advised.
Management of metastatic carcinoma of the uveal tract: an evidence‐based analysis
Authors: Kanthan Gowri L , Jayamohan Jay , Yip Desmond , Conway R Max
Published: August 2007

Abstract

Uveal metastasis from carcinoma is the most common cause of ocular malignancy in adults and represents an increasing problem in the context of an ageing population and enhanced survival of stage IV cancer patients. The reported prevalence of clinically evident uveal metastases in carcinoma patients ranges from 2% to 9%, with breast and lung cancer together accounting for between 71% and 92% of cases. Most patients (66–97%) have a known history of cancer and, although the majority have metastatic lesions elsewhere, up to 33% may present with an isolated ocular metastasis. These lesions may progress rapidly and are potentially sight‐threatening. Early diagnosis and appropriate timely treatment are therefore of paramount importance to maintain patients' quality of life. The diagnosis is usually clinical and detailed descriptions of symptomatology and physical characteristics are provided. In 21–50% of patients, involvement is bilateral. External beam radiotherapy (EBRT), chemotherapy, hormone and biological therapies, brachytherapy, transpupillary thermotherapy, laser photocoagulation/photodynamic therapy and enucleation are therapeutic modalities described in the literature for the management of uveal metastases. The strongest evidence favours timely EBRT for the management of sight‐threatening uveal metastases. The published evidence supporting EBRT for sight‐threatening uveal metastases was given a grade B (strong support for recommendation). Newer alternative therapies are emerging and may have a role in selected patients; however, there are unfortunately few large studies examining such treatments for carcinoma metastatic to the eye. The role of these modalities will be further clarified with the results of larger comparative trials.
Peripheral ulcerative keratitis due to a ‘long lost’ hard contact lens
Authors: Bhatt Priya R , Lam Fook C , Roberts Fiona , Ramaesh Kanna
Published: August 2007

Abstract

Peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) is a disorder consisting of a crescent‐shaped destructive inflammation of the perilimbal corneal stroma. PUK can occur in a variety of ocular and systemic conditions including infections, lid abnormalities, dermatological disorders and connective tissue disorders. We present a case of PUK associated with a hard contact lens (CL) retained in the superior fornix for over 16 years. After removal of the embedded CL, a superior forniceal conjunctival pedicle graft was performed to prevent corneal perforation. The patient was managed postoperatively with a combination of topical steroids and antibiotics. The use of systemic immunosuppressive therapy was not necessary. Micro‐trauma and micro‐keratitis may have occurred as a result of the mechanical effect of the CL but if this was the sole mechanism, one would expect presentation at a much earlier date. We discuss the pathogenetic mechanisms which may have contributed to the development of this ulceration. This report highlights the importance of lid eversion when examining patients with anterior segment pathology.
THE NEW MODEL OF THE RAILWAY INDUSTRY IN SPAIN WITHIN THE EUROPEAN FRAMEWORK
Authors: BAREA J. , DIZY D. , RUIZ O.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT**:  This study identifies the strengths and weaknesses of the the new regulatory framework for railways in Spain. We offer a description of the present situation of the railway industry in Spain, following the coming into force of the new Railway Industry Law in January 2005. We also analyse the international experience in light of the principles underlying the liberalization of the railway industry in Europe and, in particular, the cases of the United Kingdom and France. These two models are suitable for our purposes based on these main items: the degree of effective competition, the similarity to the Spanish case, the rail market growth and the geographical location. Our conclusions are that Spain has overcome some mistakes made by the countries mentioned above, like leaving infrastructure investment or security aspects in the hands of the private sector, however others have been committed, such as the excessive influence of the government on the basic actors of the industry or defining a complex system without well defined responsibilities.
MODES OF GOVERNANCE IN THE DUTCH SOCIAL HOUSING SECTOR
Authors: RUYS Pieter H.M. , BRUIL Jan , DIX Henry
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT**:  We describe and analyze five consecutive modes of governance in the Dutch social housing sector. We compare these institutional forms with the five policy values that the sector was assumed to realize. For that purpose we propose and use a new, analytical framework based on a separation principle that is applied to the coercion domain (the governance of transactions) as well as to the interaction domain (the welfare values). The consecutive modes of governance were introduced to cope with the changing welfare policies, but with varying results. In this paper we show that the implemented modes of governance in the Dutch social housing sector did not always realize the values that the sector was supposed to deliver. The framework we propose also facilitates the discussion about the concept of a social enterprise and the embedding of a service of general interest in the European Union.
THE PROVISION OF LOCAL PUBLIC SERVICES THROUGH MIXED ENTERPRISES: THE ITALIAN CASE
Authors: BOGNETTI G. , ROBOTTI L.
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT**:  The rules regulating the creation of mixed enterprises companies (public‐private companies) for the provision of local public services have been subjected, in Italy, to a rather complex evolution over time. The new rules introduced allow the creation of a mixed private public enterprise, with either public or private majority; in any case the private shareholder must be selected through a public tender procedure. The data seems to show that mixed enterprises have been used by municipalities as a tool that allows the exploitation of economies of scale and of scope, without necessarily losing control of the leadership and direction of the local utility. Better flexibility of mixed enterprises is also shown by the proportion of mixed enterprises acting outside the territory which is higher than the proportion of public enterprises similarly engaged. Moreover the presence of multi‐service units is proportionally higher in mixed enterprises.
THE STRATEGIC PROCESS AND ITS IMPACT ON THE OUTCOME OF A TENDER
Authors: MATTISSON Ola , THOMASSON Anna
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT**:  A competitive tendering process within a public organization does not always render the anticipated results, i.e., the intended strategy is not always realized. This paper shows that the way the strategy process is managed by the parties involved in the tender is of importance to the outcome. Previous research has mainly focused on the situation ex ante the tendering process. This paper contributes to the research on competitive tendering by focusing on the management that takes place ex post the tendering process. For this purpose a theoretical framework consisting of a process‐based approach on strategy formation is applied to the analysis of two case studies of competitive tendering in the Swedish water and sewage sector.
THE GOVERNANCE OF PUBLIC ENTERPRISES: THE QUEBEC EXPERIENCE
Authors: BERNIER Luc , SIMARD Louis
Published: August 2007

ABSTRACT**: Have public enterprises become obsolete policy instruments? Should they be privatized or can their governance be radically transformed so that they could still be used as policy instruments? The world around them has changed and forced governments to move. After a discussion on the arguments in favour of privatization, this article suggests an analysis of three cases in the Canadian province of Quebec. Considering the pressures linked to the liberalization of trade resulting from NAFTA, this article suggests that the governance of public enterprises can be transformed and adapted and that consequently, it is not useful or necessary to privatize them. There is in reality a lot of room in the public enterprise governance to reform them, room that has been neglected over the last decades.
Talking about Australian Pressure Groups: Adding Value to the Insider/Outsider Distinction in Combating Homelessness in Western Australia
Authors: McKinney Bianca , Halpin Darren
Published: August 2007

The insider/outsider model, first developed in the 1970s by Wyn Grant in the United Kingdom, is perhaps the most common analytical device deployed by Australian scholars in making sense of pressure or interest group behaviour. The British literature has since witnessed a high level of debate, critique and refinement of the original model, and we argue this also adds value to the discussion of group life in Australia. This article operationalises and compares two insider/outsider models commonly used to make sense of the public policy advocacy of pressure groups: (i) the conventional or orthodox models of insider/outsider and (ii) the so‐called ‘Aberdeen’ insider/outsider model. It is argued that the latter model is more analytically powerful than the current understanding of insider and outsider pressure groups; that ideology is less of a determining factor in the ascription of status than the existing understanding implies; and that the Aberdeen model is applicable in the Australian context. These arguments are sustained via the examination of a case study of the policy advocacy of two social service groups in Western Australia during the State Homelessness Taskforce in 2001: the Western Australian Council of Social Service and the Tenants Advice Service of Western Australia.
The Combet Case and the Appropriation of Taxpayers' Funds for Political Advertising – An Erosion of Fundamental Principles?
Authors: Lindell Geoffrey
Published: August 2007

This article contains a critical discussion of Combet v The Commonwealth (2005) and the reasons given by the High Court in that case, for dismissing the legal challenge to the present government's political advertising campaign in support of its Workchoice legislation which was conducted before the publication or enactment of that legislation. It also deals with the implications of the case for the declining significance in modern times of the parliamentary appropriation process as a means of ensuring the accountability of governments for the expenditure of taxpayers' funds. The article concludes with a discussion of the possibility of future parliaments (regardless of their political complexion) reasserting their control over the appropriation process and restricting the use of government advertising for political purposes.
Australia's Political Institutions and the Corruption of Public Opinion1
Authors: Marsh Ian
Published: August 2007

This article explores structural causes for the decline in the quality of Australia's political and policy conversations. Three are nominated. The first concerns the changing role of the major party organisations. These no longer contribute to agenda setting; they are no longer forums for activist and interest mobilisation; they no longer mobilise and cue a mass base. The second structural change concerns the rise in the role of the media. This is now the primary bridge between the formal political system and the surrounding society, a role for which it is singularly ill‐equipped. The third change concerns the misalignment between the formal political system and Australian society. The formal system was formed in the early twentieth century when Australian society was broadly divided by class allegiance. Those days are long gone. Class has decomposed. A variety of new concerns differentiate and pluralise social attitudes. Possible remedies are then discussed.
From New Public Management to Public Value: Paradigmatic Change and Managerial Implications
Authors: O'Flynn Janine
Published: August 2007

Both practitioners and scholars are increasingly interested in the idea of public value as a way of understanding government activity, informing policy‐making and constructing service delivery. In part this represents a response to the concerns about ‘new public management’, but it also provides an interesting way of viewing what public sector organisations and public managers actually do. The purpose of this article is to examine this emerging approach by reviewing new public management and contrasting this with a public value paradigm. This provides the basis for a conceptual discussion of differences in approach, but also for pointing to some practical implications for both public sector management and public sector managers.
Referendum Design: An Exercise in Applied Social Choice Theory
Authors: Nurmi Hannu
Published: August 2007

The formal status of the referendum institution in democratic system varies from consultative and optional to mandatory and binding. Despit the formal status, it can be argued that in all systems the legislators can hardly ignore the referendum results. The article presents two arguments: (1) The results of social choice theory suggest that the number of alternatives in referenda should to be restricted to two in order to a void severe problems of interpretation and agenda manipulation. (2) The consultative referendum system may lead to quite dramatic norm conflicts for both legislators and voters. Taken together, these two arguments imply that referenda are appropriate only in cases where there is natural way to dichotomize the issue at hand. Moreover, whenever a referendum is called, its result should be binding.
The New Elites in the Baltic States: Recirculation and Change
Authors: Steen Anton
Published: August 2007

Regime change is closely connected to elite change. although classical theories of elite rule would predict considerable elite continuity. The basic question is how the downfall of communist regimes and introduction of democracy have affected elite patterns in the three Baltic states. The data indicate a combination of continuity and change: circulation of indigenous elites has taken place, while Russians are excluded from power in important state institutions. Elite continuity is explained by lack of “alternative elites” and a need for competent leaders in the state building process. Elite change is explained by ethnic cleavages which raise the issue of indigenous control over power positions.
Still the Politics of Compromise? Agenda Setting Strategy in Sweden
Authors: Hinnfors Jonas
Published: August 2007

A host of literature describes Sweden as the epitome of a consensual policy style country founded on rational and anticipatory behavior. However, recent research holds that consensus has yielded to a more conflict‐ridden climate. Earlier research saw a consensual atmosphere as logically connected to anticipatory behavior, whereas conflict was connected to reaction. This article questions these linkages and claims that the present usage of the concept of anticipation does not fully acknowledge the strategic implications of policy style. The point is that policy style may be studied by examining how politicians set the political agenda. Designing a typology for measuring agenda setting in the Swedish Parliament's standing committee system gives us a research tool for studying the development of Swedish policy style from 1973–1991. The results show that the trend towards less consensus and more reactive political behavior in the Swedish society does not automatically amount to a less anticipatory policy style. On the contrary, real and open political antagonisms about the agenda give the parties strong incentives to use strategic anticipation to set the future agenda. Seen in this light, anticipation is not necessarily opposed to reaction. Growing conflictual reaction has not eroded anticipation in Sweden. Instead, both trends exist alongside each other. The parties do indeed make vivid use of their anticipatory means which may even strengthen democratic legitimacy in Sweden.
How and Why Bureaucrats Control their Governance Structure
Authors: Damgaard Jens Bejer
Published: August 2007

This article assumes that bureaucrats, like other actors, follow their interests. However, it is also recognized that bureaucrats in political environments face a multilevel game situation with unstable property rights, where priorities between institutional position and more pecuniary goods, e.g. budget maximization, especially in reform situations have to be made. Thus, bureaucrats realize that in order to obtain the latter, the precondition is a secured institutional position and that this position has to be obtained through a bargaining process involving transaction costs, externally due to negotiations with the political principals, and internally through union organization. Empirically, the phenomenon it examined in the case of the Danish day care system which went through a reform period during the late eighties and early nineties. It suggests that although demand for day care rose significantly during this period, day care workers (and their unions) worked for – and succeeded in – securing their institutional position.
Dynamic Opinion Representation
Authors: Holmberg Sören
Published: August 2007

Two models of opinion change in a representative democracy are subjected to an empirical test based on data from a series of surveys with voters and members of parliament in Sweden covering the period 1968–1994. An elite‐driven opinion model proved to fit the data better than a mass‐driven model. Voter opinions shifted more often in the direction of member opinions than vice versa. A run‐from‐above representation model is more valid for the Swedish case than an idealistic run‐from‐below model.
Environmental Policy as Democratic Proclamation and Corporatist Implementation: A Comparative Study of Environmental Taxation in the Electricity Sector in the Nordic Countries as of 1994
Authors: Midttun Atle , Hagen Oskar
Published: August 2007

The Nordic countries generally rank as one of the forerunners of environmental policies and figure in the front line with the most ambitious policy goals in international fora. However, since effective environmental action, for instance through environmental taxation, generally puts a burden on industry, a unilateral introduction of environmental measures by one or a few nations may seriously affect their industrial competitiveness, given an open and competitive economy. Given their persistent and often unilateral avant‐garde environmental engagement, the paper discusses how the Nordic countries deal with this dilemma. Theoretically, the paper seeks an answer by recursion to Rokkan's famous distinction between functional and electoral/numerical politics. Empirically the paper finds support for the Rokkan perspective through a systematic analysis of Nordic environmental taxation policies, documenting that the two channels of policy making do indeed produce different results that are compatible with a dual‐policy solution to the prisoners' dilemma of avant‐garde environmental politics.
From Qualified Majority to Simple Majority: The Effects of the 1992 Change in the Finnish Constitution
Authors: Mattila Mikko
Published: August 2007

This paper analyzes the consequences of the 1992 change in the voting rule in the Finnish Parliament. Before this reform, one third of all Parliament members could delay a law proposal for reconsideration by the Parliament. This rule was abolished in 1992 which meant that the Finnish Parliament finally adopted a simple majority rule to decide on new legislation. The empirical part of this article analyzes the effects of the reform on the parliamentary parties voting power. The voting power of the big parties increased compared to that of the small parties. However, the variation among smaller parties was greater. The biggest losers were medium size parties. Considering the government and the parliament as institutions, the emphasis clearly moved to the government. Considering parties in the government coalitions as a whole (adding up their share in the government and in the Parliament), the picture was quite clear. The opposition lost at least some of its voting power. This change was clearest in the case of the party government model in which the opposition lost its voting power completely.
Influence of unilateral disc displacement on the stress response of the temporomandibular joint discs during opening and mastication
Authors: Pérez del Palomar A. , Doblaré M.
Published: August 2007

The temporomandibular joint plays a crucial role in human mastication acting as a guide of jaw movements. During these movements, the joint is subjected to loads which cause stresses and deformations in its cartilaginous structures. A perfect balance between the two sides of the joint is essential to maintain the physiological stress level within the tissues. Therefore, it has been suggested that a derangement of the joint is a contributing factor in the development of mandibular asymmetry, especially if problems of the temporomandibular joint start in childhood or adolescence. To analyze the movement of the mandible and the stresses undergone by the discs, two finite element models of the human temporomandibular joint including the masticatory system were developed, one corresponding to a healthy joint and the other with a unilateral anterior disc displacement with their movement controlled by muscle activation. A fibre‐reinforced porohyperelastic model was used to simulate the behaviour of the articular discs. The stress distribution was analyzed in both models during free opening and closing, and during the introduction of a resistant force between incisors or molars. It was found that a slight unilateral anterior disc displacement does not lead to mandibular asymmetry but to a slight decrease of the maximum gape. With the introduction of a restriction between incisors, the maximum stresses moved to the anterior band in contrast to what happened if the restriction was imposed between molars where maximum stresses were located more posteriorly. Finally, the presence of a unilateral displacement of the disc involved a strong change in the overall behaviour of the joint including also the healthy side, where the maximum stresses moved to the posterior part.