bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low BMI at age 20 years predicts gestational diabetes independent of BMI in early pregnancy in Japan: Tanaka Women’s Clinic Study
Authors: Yachi Y. , Tanaka Y. , Nishibata I. , Sugawara A. , Kodama S. , Saito K. , Sone H.
Published: May 2012

Diabet. Med. 30, 70–73 (2013)

Aims  Maternal obesity and weight gain since early adulthood are known predictors of gestational diabetes in Western countries. However, their impact has not been evaluated well in Asia, where mean BMI levels are generally lower than in Western countries. We therefore examined the associations of BMI at age 20 years and BMI change since age 20 years with the risk of gestational diabetes in Japanese pregnant women.

Methods  Six hundred and twenty‐four consecutive pregnant women without recognized diabetes before pregnancy, whose initial obstetric clinic visit was before 13 weeks’ gestation, were prospectively observed. Weight at age 20 years was self‐reported. Baseline height and weight measurements were obtained at the initial obstetric visit. Multivariate logistic regression analysis estimated the risk of incident gestational diabetes for BMI change since 20 years and BMI at age 20 years.

Results  Twenty‐eight women developed incident gestational diabetes. By multivariate logistic regression analysis that adjusted for maternal age, parity and baseline BMI, we observed a statistically significant inverse association between BMI at age 20 years and incidence of gestational diabetes (odds ratio 0.68, 95% CI 0.51–0.92). Similarly, when we assessed the association of BMI change since age 20 years, adjusted for maternal age and parity, BMI change was associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes (odds ratio 1.26, 95% CI 1.03–1.53). When we focused on the threshold of risk of gestational diabetes, women with BMI at 20 years of less than 18 kg/m2 had a 6.30‐fold (2.26–17.59) greater risk than women with both BMI at age 20 years of 18 kg/m2 or more and BMI change since age 20 years of less than 1.85.

Conclusions  Both low BMI at age 20 years and BMI change since age 20 years were significantly associated with increased risk of incident gestational diabetes.
Subsidising patient dispensing fees: The cost of injecting equity into the opioid pharmacotherapy maintenance system
Authors: CHALMERS JENNY , RITTER ALISON
Published: May 2012

Introduction and Aims. Australian pharmacotherapy maintenance programs incur costs to patients. These dispensing fees represent a financial burden to patients and are inconsistent with Australian health‐care principles. No previous work has examined the current costs nor the future predicted costs if government subsidised dispensing fees.

Design and Methods. A system dynamics model, which simulated the flow of patients into and out of methadone maintenance treatment, was developed. Costs were imputed from existing research data. The approach enabled simulation of possible behavioural responses to a fee subsidy (such as higher retention) and new estimates of costs were derived under such scenarios.

Results. Current modelled costs (AUS$11.73m per month) were largely borne by state/territory government (43%), with patients bearing one‐third (33%) of the total costs and the Commonwealth one‐quarter (24%). Assuming no behavioural changes associated with fee subsidies, the cost of subsidising the dispensing fees of Australian methadone patients would be $3.9m per month. If retention were improved as a result of fee subsidy, treatment numbers would increase and the model estimates an additional cost of $0.8m per month. If this was coupled with greater numbers entering treatment, the costs would increase by a further $0.4m per month. In total, full fee subsidy with modelled behavioural changes would increase per annum government expenditure by $81.8m to $175.8m.

Discussion and Conclusions. If government provided dispensing fee relief for methadone maintenance patients, it would be a costly exercise. However, these additional costs are offset by the social and health gains achieved from the methadone maintenance program.[Chalmers J, Ritter A. Subsidising patient dispensing fees: The cost of injecting equity into the opioid pharmacotherapy maintenance system. Drug Alcohol Rev 2012;31:911–917]
On the conduct of monetary policy in Vietnam
Authors: Pham Thi Thu Tra , Riedel James
Published: May 2012

Vietnam has the highest inflation rate in Southeast Asia (over 20 per cent year‐on‐year in 2011). This paper examines the extent to which inflation in Vietnam is due to its conduct of monetary policy. It is argued that, had the central bank implemented policy on a more timely basis, inflation would not have been as high as it was, but the more fundamental problem is that the central bank does not have the tools it needs to conduct monetary policy effectively. Monetary policy is further complicated by Vietnam's exchange rate policy. By choosing to peg the currency and maintain fairly free capital mobility, the country has all but given up the ability to pursue an independent monetary policy. As a consequence, the central bank is forced to attempt to sterilise its foreign exchange interventions, which it is ill‐equipped to do. The paper argues that financial sector liberalisation is needed not only to promote growth but also to maintain macroeconomic stability.
Cumulative Advantages and the Emergence of Social and Ethnic Inequality: Matthew Effects in Reading and Mathematics Development Within Elementary Schools?
Authors: Baumert Jürgen , Nagy Gabriel , Lehmann Rainer
Published: May 2012

This article examines the development of social and ethnic disparities in academic achievement in elementary schooling. It investigated whether reading and mathematics development in 136 mixed‐ability classes shows path‐dependent processes of cumulative advantage (Matthew effects) from Grades 4 to 6 (Grade 4 mean age = 10.62, SD = 0.57) resulting in growing inequality. Status‐dependent processes of cumulative advantage, their interaction with path‐dependent processes, and consequences for the degree of social and ethnic inequality are examined. Two complementary methods for analyzing multilevel data are used: growth curve and quasi‐simplex models. No evidence for a Matthew effect was found in either domain. A compensation effect emerged for reading, to the benefit of ethnic minorities. A fan‐spread effect was found for mathematics, partly attributable to status‐dependent processes of cumulative advantage.
The Impact of the Corporate Governance Code on Earnings Management – Evidence from Chinese Listed Companies
Authors: Chen Jean J. , Zhang Haitao
Published: May 2012

This study investigates the impact of the 2002 Chinese Code of Corporate Governance for Listed Companies on earnings manipulations. We find that, in general, the 2002 CODE had a positive effect on curbing earnings management through the introduction of independent non‐executive directors to the board of directors and the audit committee, and accounting/financial experts to the audit committee. Although such an impact was minimal when the firms were state‐controlled, it became significant once they were privately controlled. Overall, we find regulatory reform on corporate governance plays an important role in deterring the use of earnings management.
BUSINESS CYCLES IN THE EQUILIBRIUM MODEL OF LABOR MARKET SEARCH AND SELF‐INSURANCE*
Authors: Nakajima Makoto
Published: May 2012

I introduce risk‐aversion, labor‐leisure choice, capital, individual productivity shocks, and market incompleteness to the standard model of labor search and matching and investigate the model’s cyclical properties. I find that the model can generate the observed large volatility of unemployment and vacancies with a reasonable replacement rate of unemployment insurance benefits of 64%. Labor‐leisure choice plays a crucial role through additional utility from leisure when unemployed and further amplification from adjustments of hours worked. On the other hand, the borrowing constraint or individual productivity shocks do not significantly affect the cyclical properties of unemployment and vacancies.
ESTIMATING THE IMPACT OF IMMIGRANTS ON THE HOST COUNTRY SOCIAL SECURITY SYSTEM WHEN RETURN MIGRATION IS AN ENDOGENOUS CHOICE*
Authors: Kirdar Murat G.
Published: May 2012

This article estimates immigrants’ fiscal impact on the German pension insurance and unemployment insurance systems when return migration is an endogenous choice. For this purpose, it develops a dynamic stochastic model of joint return migration and saving decisions and estimates it using longitudinal data on immigrants from five countries. The results indicate that exogenous return migration—which has been the practice of the literature so far—underestimates the state coffers’ net gain substantially; e.g., the unemployment insurance system’s net gain from Turks arriving after age 30 falls by an amount that is roughly equal to their annual earnings at arrival.
GLOBAL BUSINESS CYCLES: CONVERGENCE OR DECOUPLING?*
Authors: Kose M. Ayhan , Otrok Christopher , Prasad Eswar
Published: May 2012

We analyze the evolution of the degree of global cyclical interdependence over the period 1960–2008. Using a dynamic factor model, we decompose macroeconomic fluctuations in output, consumption, and investment into a global factor, factors specific to country groups, and country‐specific factors. We find that during 1985–2008, there is some convergence of business cycle fluctuations among industrial economies and among emerging market economies. Surprisingly, there is a concomitant decline in the relative importance of the global factor. We conclude that there is evidence of business cycle convergence within each of these two groups of countries but divergence (or decoupling) between them.
The unexpected force of acute stroke leading to patients’ sudden death as described by nurses
Authors: Rejnö Åsa , Danielson Ella , von Post Iréne
Published: May 2012

Scand J Caring Sci; 2013; 27; 123–130

The unexpected force of acute stroke leading to patients’ sudden death as described by nurses

Stroke occurs suddenly and unexpectedly and its consequences can mean the difference between life and death. Research into stroke is extensive but largely focused on patients who survive. The aim of the study was to describe how nurses experience the patient’s death and dying, when patients are afflicted by acute stroke and whose lives cannot be saved. The study had a descriptive design with a hermeneutical approach. Interviews were carried out with ten nurses in stroke units at three hospitals. Data were interpreted using hermeneutic textual interpretation based on Gadamer’s philosophy. The study shows that sudden death, when unexpected forces intervene in the lives of patients afflicted by acute stroke, was described by the main theme sudden death ‐ the unexpected force and the following three sub‐themes: death comes unexpectedly and without warning to the patient; the relatives are at the mercy of the unexpected and the nurses find themselves in demanding situations. The new understanding emphasizes that the unexpected and demanding situations the nurses are put in can be understood as ethical dilemmas and value conflicts because they are not free to give their time to preserving the dying patient’s dignity and are not able to give the good care they wish to. A more flexible organization could support the nurses in making use of the creative forces in the unexpected event which an acute stroke that leads to death constitutes.
The number of p16INK4a positive cells in human skin reflects biological age
Authors: Waaijer Mariëtte E.C. , Parish William E. , Strongitharm Barbara H. , van Heemst Diana , Slagboom Pieternella E. , de Craen Anton J.M. , Sedivy John M. , Westendorp Rudi G.J. , Gunn David A. , Maier Andrea B.
Published: May 2012

Cellular senescence is a defense mechanism in response to molecular damage which accumulates with aging. Correspondingly, the number of senescent cells has been reported to be greater in older than in younger subjects and furthermore associates with age‐related pathologies. Inter‐individual differences exist in the rate at which a person ages (biological age). Here, we studied whether younger biological age is related to fewer senescent cells in middle‐aged individuals with the propensity for longevity, using p16INK4a as a marker for cellular senescence. We observed that a younger biological age associates with lower levels of p16INK4a positive cells in human skin.
Diagnostic accuracy of pre‐treatment biopsy for grading soft tissue sarcomas in dogs
Authors: Perry J. A. , Culp W. T. N. , Dailey D. D. , Eickhoff J. C. , Kamstock D. A. , Thamm D. H.
Published: May 2012

Histologic grade is an important prognostic factor for both local recurrence and metastatic potential with canine soft tissue sarcoma (STS). Pre‐treatment biopsy with identification of tumour grade may aid in prognostication and determination of surgical margins necessary for local control. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the grading accuracy of various pre‐treatment biopsy techniques (wedge, punch, needle‐core) forSTSin dogs. Medical records of 68 dogs diagnosed with aSTSvia pre‐treatment biopsy and confirmed by excisional biopsy were evaluated. The concordance in grade between excisional and pre‐treatment biopsies was 59%. Of the 41% that lacked concordance, 29% of pre‐treatment biopsies underestimated and 12% overestimated grade. The method of pre‐treatment biopsy did not significantly effect grade concordance. Based on these data, needle‐core biopsy appears to be similar in accuracy compared to open biopsy, however, grading determined by pre‐treatment biopsy in general should be interpreted with caution.
Effect of IntraperitonealPERIDAN™Concentrate Adhesion Reduction Device on Clinical Findings, Infection, and Tissue Healing in an Adult Horse Jejunojejunostomy Model
Authors: Morello Samantha , Southwood Louise L. , Engiles Julie , Slack JoAnn , Crack Aaron , Springate Christopher M. K.
Published: May 2012

Objective

To evaluate the effect ofPERIDAN™Concentrate on clinical findings, infection, and tissue healing in adult horses undergoing celiotomy and jejunojejunostomy.

Study Design

Block randomized blinded experimentalin vivostudy.

Animals

Adult horses (n = 12).

Methods

Horses had jejunojejunostomy at 2 sites and were administered 5Lof dilutedPERIDAN™Concentrate (6 horses) orLactatedRinger'sInjection (LRS) control intraperitoneally (6 horses) before body wall closure. Postoperative monitoring comprised physical examinations, serial hematology, coagulation and chemistry panels, and ultrasonographic examination. Horses were euthanatized 10 days postoperatively. Anastomoses and linea alba incisions were tested for mechanical strength; and tissue healing, inflammation, and infection were assessed by histological evaluation. Data were analyzed using a mixed modelANOVA. Level of significance wasP< .05.

Results

No physical examination differences were observed between groups. Statistically significant differences were observed in leukocyte and neutrophil counts, prothrombin time, antithrombinIIIactivity, intestinal bursting pressures, and histologic healing grade in the mid region of the linea alba. These differences were minimal, and of no observable clinical significance. Other blood variable and histologic differences between groups were not significant.

Conclusions

PERIDAN™Concentrate was safely administered intraperitoneally to healthy horses undergoing celiotomy and anastomosis.
Intraoperative cell salvage in radical prostatectomy does not appear to increase long‐term biochemical recurrence, metastases, or mortality
Authors: Raval Jay S. , Nelson Joel B. , Woldemichael Elen , Triulzi Darrell J.
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND: Blood management strategies help to conserve allogeneic red blood cells, a finite resource. Intraoperative cell salvage (ICS) is an effective method of allogeneic avoidance. However, concerns persist about the safety of ICS in surgical oncology cases, including radical prostatectomy (RP). Previous findings do not support these concerns. We hypothesized that ICS would not increase rates of long‐term prostate cancer recurrence characterized by biochemical failure, disease dissemination, or mortality.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Consecutive patients undergoing RP by a single urologist over two 3‐month periods 1 year apart were analyzed retrospectively. Patients in the first period had preoperative autologous donation (PAD) but not ICS (PAD group), whereas those in the second period had ICS only (ICS group). Variables assessed included patient demographics, prostate‐specific antigen levels at surgery and end of follow‐up, clinical stage, operative time, surgical margin status, pathologic stage and grade, Gleason score sum, length of hospital stay, biochemical recurrence, metastases, and mortality.

RESULTS: A total of 116 consecutive patients were analyzed. Of these, 32 patients in the PAD group and 42 patients in the ICS group had follow‐up of at least 4.75 years. There was a significantly higher rate of biochemical failure (34.4% vs. 9.5%; p = 0.02) and metastases (12.5% vs. 0%; p = 0.03) in the PAD group versus the ICS group; there was no significant difference in mortality (9.4% vs. 0%; p = 0.08).

CONCLUSION: ICS appears to be a safe and effective method of allogeneic blood conservation in patients undergoing RP. The findings suggest that there is no increased risk of biochemical failure, disease dissemination, or mortality at 5 years post‐RP as a result of ICS use.
Analysis of stored and transplanted cord blood units from KoreaCORD: reappraisal of banking guidelines and selection strategy
Authors: Lee Young‐Ho , Kwon Young‐Hee , Hwang Kyoujung , Jun Hyunju , Lee Mi‐Ae , Jang Hyung‐In , Nah Jung‐Hwa , Koo Hong‐Hoe , Hwang Tai‐Ju
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND: We analyzed the characteristics of stored and transplanted cord blood (CB) units from the Korean network for public CB donation (KoreaCORD) to reassess the banking guidelines and optimize CB selection based on cell dose and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatching.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed data, with regard to total nucleated cell (TNC) count and HLA match in the KoreaCORD registry from August 2001 to December 2010.

RESULTS: A total of 21,914 CB units have been registered, of which 904 units (4.1%) contained less than 5 × 108 TNCs, which did not meet the present storage criteria for public CB banking in Korea. Although the proportion of stored CBs providing TNC of 5 × 108 to 7.9 × 108 was 45.7%, only 22.0% of all transplanted CBs were derived from these stored CBs. In the single CB transplantation setting, 79% (85/108) of CB units provided 4 × 107 TNCs/kg or more in the transplanted one‐mismatch (1‐MM) CB units and 51% (19/37) of CBs provided 6 × 107 TNCs/kg or more in the transplanted 2‐MM CB units.

CONCLUSIONS: The minimal requirement of TNCs for banking of CB units for public banking should be evaluated and increased to support the selection of CB units with higher cell doses, especially for use in the 1‐ and 2‐MM transplant settings.
Early‐Mid Term Follow‐Up Results of Percutaneous Closure of the Interatrial Septal Defects with Occlutech Figulla Devices: A Single Center Experience
Authors: AYTEMIR KUDRET , OTO ALI , ÖZKUTLU SÜHEYLA , KAYA ERGÜN BARIŞ , CANPOLAT UĞUR , YORGUN HIKMET , ŞAHINER LEVENT , KABAKÇI GIRAY
Published: May 2012

Background:

Percutaneous closure of secundum type atrial septal defect (ASD) and patent foramen ovale (PFO) has gained widespread use in recent years. Herein, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of the Occlutech® Figulla devices for PFO and ASD closure in a reference tertiary center.

Methods:

All 143 patients (46.9% male, mean age 39.3 ± 12.2 years) who underwent transcatheter PFO (n = 85) and ASD (n = 58) closure with Occlutech® Figulla devices between February 2009 and October 2011 were included in this study. An echocardiographic follow‐up examination was performed at the 1st, 6th, and 12th month visits.

Results:

The devices were successfully implanted in all 143 patients (100%). In‐hospital periprocedural complications were device embolization (0.7%; 1 ASD patient), atrial fibrillation (1.4%; 1 ASD and 1 PFO patients), supraventricular tachycardia (0.7%; 1 PFO patient), and vascular access hematoma (0.7%; 1 ASD patient). Among ASD patients, 2 patients had trivial (jet width <1 mm in diameter) and 1 patient had small (1–2 mm) residual shunts before hospital discharge, which disappeared after the 6‐month visit. During the mean 15.4 ± 9.6 months follow‐up, all patients were asymptomatic and no ischemic stroke, cardiac perforation, device erosion, embolization, thrombus formation, or malposition of the device was observed.

Conclusions:

Percutaneous PFO and secundum type ASD closure with the novel Occlutech® Figulla Occluder devices without left atrial central pin and with significantly reduced meshwork was safe, feasible, and effective. (J Interven Cardiol 2012;25:375–381)
Paradoxical gas embolism after SCUBA diving: Hemodynamic changes studied by echocardiography
Authors: Boussuges A. , Pontier J. M. , Schmid B. , Dussault C.
Published: May 2012

Hemodynamic changes induced by self‐contained underwater breathing apparatus diving were investigated using Doppler echocardiography. We detected circulating bubbles in both right and left cavities of the heart and in the cerebral circulation in two divers with a large patent foramen ovale. A reduction in the left ventricular preload was suggested by echocardiographic measurements. The decreased cardiac preload was paralleled to a lower stroke volume and cardiac output. These findings were also observed in divers with no evidence of circulating bubbles. In these subjects, pulmonary vascular resistances remained unchanged while an increase was observed in the two divers with arterial bubbles. This increase could promote right‐to‐left shunting.
Epidemiological Study of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Use for the Improvement of Sexual Function in Young Korean Men: The Korean Internet Sexuality Survey (KISS), Part II
Authors: Choi Woo Suk , Song Sang Hoon , Son Hwancheol
Published: May 2012

Introduction

Few studies have been conducted on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for improving sexual function.

Aims

We investigate CAM use for improving sexual function and propose a model explaining what leads to CAM use.

Methods

Participants between 20 and 59 years old were recruited from an Internet research panel representing young Korean men. Participants were asked to complete questionnaires on demographic details, attitude toward sexual activity, sexual function, CAM use, and desire to use CAM. Subjects were classified into three subgroups. Men who use CAM, men who desire but do not actually use CAM, and men who neither use nor desire to use CAM were allocated to groups A (actual user), P (potential user), and N (nonuser), respectively.

Main Outcome Measures

CAM use, desire to use CAM, questionnaires on self-reported sexual function and attitude toward sexual activity, International Index of Erectile Function-5, Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool, and Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF-36).

Results

Among 443 subjects with a mean age of 39.2 ± 10.2 years, 49 (11.1%) used CAM for improving sexual function (group A). Dietary supplements were most commonly used. Overall mean satisfaction for the used CAM was 55.5 ± 24.2%. There were 192 (43.3%) men who desired but did not use CAM (group P). According to multivariate analysis, risk factors for desiring CAM included drinking (odds ratio [OR] = 2.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.28–3.91), regarding sex a very important part of life (OR = 2.16; 95% CI = 1.41–4.09), self-reported erectile dysfunction (ED) (OR = 5.08; 95% CI = 1.60–16.1), and self-reported premature ejaculation (PE) (OR = 3.34; 95% CI = 1.65–6.76). Risk factors for actual CAM use included smoking (OR = 2.49; 95% CI = 1.11–5.61), a strongly positive attitude toward sexual activity (OR = 3.77; 95% CI = 1.42–9.99), low role emotion points on the SF-36 (OR = 0.98; 95% CI = 0.97–0.99), and self-reported non-PE (OR = 0.22; 95% CI = 0.06–0.73).

Conclusions

Smoking, drinking, self-reported ED, self-reported PE, attitude toward sexual activity, and emotional problems play roles in making decisions concerning CAM use.
Phenotypic and allelic profile of ABO and Rhésus D blood group system among blood donor in Antananarivo
Authors: Randriamanantany Z. A. , Rajaonatahina D. H. , Razafimanantsoa F. E. , Rasamindrakotroka M. T. , Andriamahenina R. , Rasoarilalamanarivo F. B. , Hanitriniala S. P. , Herisoa F. R. , Rasamindrakotroka A. , Rakoto Alson O. A.
Published: May 2012

This study assessed the phenotypic and allelic profiles of ABO and Rhesus D blood group system among first time blood donors at the National Centre of Blood Supply of Antananarivo. We collected through this retrospective study all data registered during 7 years of practice (from 2003 to 2009). Age and sex were analysed with the result of ABO and RhD screening. They were tested both with Beth Vincent and Simonin tests which were performed in a plate, by using commercial monoclonal antibody (Diaclone® et Eryclone®), and home‐made red cells tests. The Rh D was performed with the same commercial kits. The frequencies of alleles were calculated by using Bernstein method. Data about 45 857 donors were obtained. A male predominance (80.46%) was found and most of our donors were aged <40 (74.92%). 98.90% of the donors were Rh D positive. Phenotypic distribution of each ABO antigen was, respectively, 22.61, 29.66, 6.13 and 41.60% for A, B, AB and O antigen. Allelic frequencies of A, B and O were 0.1559, 0.1987 and 0.6454. These results confirmed the fact that Madagascan population had admixed ethnic origin.
Estimation of methane emission rates from a rice paddy field using a naturally ventilated tunnel
Authors: Kato Futoshi , Inoue Naoto , Kasuga Shigemitsu , Yoshikawa Anna , Hayakawa Tomokazu , Murata Haruka , Kasajima Shinya
Published: May 2012

A novel system for monitoring methane emission from a flooded paddy field was developed in order to quantify the greenhouse gas emission in near‐natural conditions. A paddy field planted with rice was covered by a semi‐open vinyl tunnel (1.8 × 10 × 2.5 m), and the methane concentrations inside and outside the tunnel were measured continuously from the booting stage to the ripening stage (August–September) using a methane gas detector. Methane emission rates were calculated on an hourly basis from the differences between the internal and external methane concentrations and the natural diffusion rates determined using a tracer gas method. The results indicated that the paddy field emitted 0.41–1.32 g methane m−2 day−1 during the two growth stages. The vinyl tunnel had no adverse effect on the growth and yield of rice plants inside. Despite the disadvantage of non‐accurate estimation under windy conditions, the technique is considered to be of potential value for evaluating methane emissions from a flooded paddy field.
The Capitalization of Area Payments into Farmland Rents: Micro Evidence from the New EU Member States
Authors: Ciaian Pavel , Kancs d’Artis
Published: May 2012

This study investigates the impact of the Single Area Payment Scheme (SAPS) on farmland rental rates in the New EU Member States. Using a unique set of farm level panel data with 20,930 observations for 2004 and 2005 we are able to control for important sources of endogeneity. According to our results, the SAPS has a positive and statistically significant impact on land rents in the EU. However, the estimated incidence is smaller than predicted theoretically. Land rents capture only 19 cents of the marginal SAPS EUR, and around 10% of the SAPS benefit nonfarming landowners through higher farmland rental prices. As the share of rented land is higher in corporate farms than individual ones, family farms benefit more from the SAPS than corporate farms do.

Dans la présente étude, nous avons étudié les répercussions du Régime de paiement unique à la surface (RPUS) sur les taux de location de terres agricoles dans les nouveaux États membres de l’Union européenne. À l’aide d’un ensemble unique de données de panel sur les exploitations agricoles renfermant quelque 20 930 observations recueillies en 2004 et en 2005, nous avons pu maîtriser des sources d’endogénéité importantes. Nos résultats montrent que le RPUS a des répercussions positives et statistiquement significatives sur les loyers fonciers dans les pays de l’Union européenne. L’incidence estimative est toutefois inférieure à la valeur prévue théoriquement. Les loyers fonciers ne s’emparent que de 19 cents l’euro du RPUS marginal, et près de 10 p. 100 du RPUS profitent aux propriétaires fonciers non exploitants en raison des prix de location de terres plus élevés. Comme la part des terres louées est plus élevée dans le cas des fermes constituées en société que dans le cas des fermes individuelles, les fermes familiales profitent davantage du RPUS.
Correlation functions for extended mass galaxy clusters
Authors: Iqbal Naseer , Ahmad Naveel , Hamid Mubashir , Masood Tabasum
Published: May 2012

The phenomenon of clustering of galaxies on the basis of correlation functions in an expanding Universe is studied by using equation of state, taking gravitational interaction between galaxies of extended nature into consideration. The partial differential equation for the extended mass structures of a two-point correlation function developed earlier by Iqbal, Ahmad & Khan is studied on the basis of assigned boundary conditions. The solution for the correlation function for extended structures satisfies the basic boundary conditions, which seem to be sufficient for understanding the phenomena, and provides a new insight into the gravitational clustering problem for extended mass structures.
Surviving spouses, surviving children and the reform of total intestacy law in England and Scotland: Past, present and future
Authors: Burns Fiona
Published: May 2012

England and Scotland have very different legal systems in relation to succession generally and intestacy in particular. Nevertheless, they have faced similar problems and tensions when attempting to reform the law of intestacy. This article considers the basic division of an intestate estate between spouses and children (and other issue). It is argued that prior to the twentieth century intestacy law in both jurisdictions was underpinned by a dynastic model in which the estate was preserved for successive generations. However, in the twentieth century the interests of the spouse became the primary focus of intestacy distribution. Recommendations (by law commissions in both jurisdictions) for further reform of the law are marked by a further intensification of the rights of the spouse (potentially leading to a further decline in the entitlement of children and issue). The Commissions have not only jettisoned dynastic intestacy, but also the earlier framing of intestacy rules based on the examination of wills and the ‘presumed intention’ of the intestate. Instead, the Commissions have preferred to formulate rules which are generally supported by empirical evidence such as public opinion surveys; and tempered by the aims of simplicity and administrative efficiency. This article contends that in order to create a division of assets reflecting acceptable standards, the aim of modern intestacy legislation ought to be the distribution of assets to those classes of family members who are likely to be the most economically vulnerable (such as aged spouses, minors and disabled adults). In any event, the ageing population and the needs of surviving aged spouses are likely to have a significant impact upon the framing of intestacy law in the future.
Management of Giant Cell Tumor of Bone: Computerized Tomography Based Selection Strategy and Approaching the Lesion Through the Site of Cortical Break
Authors: Puthoor Dominic K , Puthezhath Kishore
Published: May 2012

Objective

A retrospective study was carried out in patients with giant cell tumor of bone to compare the functional and radiographic outcome of curettage and bone grafting using a novel CT based selection strategy to that of patients of a similar age treated with anatomic/standard curettage and bone grafting.

Methods

Curettage and bone grafting after CT classification was performed in 31 patients and curettage and bone grafting without CT classification in 20. The surgical approach for curettage in the CT classified group of patients was through the site of the cortical break, irrespective of the standard approach to the particular region of bone involved. The aim of this approach was to achieve wide excision of the possibly involved soft tissue.

Results

At similar duration of follow up (72 months) in patients with a similar mean age (33 years), Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scores for CT classified patients were similar to those of patients who had undergone standard curettage. However, the postoperative recurrence rate in the CT classified group was significantly less (12.9%) than in the non‐CT classified group.

Conclusion

A CT based selection strategy is a valid preoperative tool for evaluation of giant cell tumor. Further, for curettage these lesions are better approached through the site of cortical break, irrespective of standard approaches, so that adequate soft tissue clearance can be achieved.
Principles of Management of Thoracolumbar Fractures
Authors: Dai Li‐yang
Published: May 2012

There is little consensus on treatment of thoracolumbar fractures, which are one of the most controversial areas in spine surgery. The great variations in clinical decision making may come from differences in evaluation of spine stability with these fractures. Few high‐quality studies concerning optimal treatment of thoracolumbar fractures have been conducted. This article reviews the conflicting results and recommendations for management of thoracolumbar fractures of currently published reports. Specifically, it addresses issues regarding evaluation of stability, indications for operative treatment, timing of surgery, surgical approach, and fusion length.
Factors Influencing Segmental Lumbar Lordosis After Lateral Transpsoas Interbody Fusion
Authors: Kepler Christopher K. , Huang Russel C , Sharma Amit K , Meredith Dennis S , Metitiri Ochuko , Sama Andrew A , Girardi Federico P , Cammisa Frank P
Published: May 2012

Objective

Although contributions to sagittal alignment have been characterized for anterior, posterior and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion, sagittal alignment after lateral transpsoas interbody fusion (LTIF) has not yet been characterized. This study examined the ability of LTIF to restore lumbar lordosis and identified factors associated with change in sagittal alignment.

Methods

Twenty‐nine patients and 67 levels were studied. Segmental lordosis, anterior‐posterior cage position, and cage obliquity were measured on preoperative and postoperative radiographs and CT scans. Change in sagittal alignment was analyzed with respect to demographic information and measures of cage position and obliquity to identify factors associated with segmental alignment change.

Results

Mean lordosis increased 3.7° at instrumented segments, increasing from 4.1° preoperatively to 7.8° postoperatively. Although increases at each level were significant, there were no significant differences between levels. Lordosis increase was inversely‐associated with preoperative lordosis; levels with the least preoperative lordosis gained the most lordosis. Cage obliquity and height were not significantly associated with lordosis change. Anterior cage placement resulted in the largest lordosis gain (+7.4°/level) while posterior placement was prokyphotic (−1.2°/level). There were no significant associations with age, sex or body mass index.

Conclusion

Anteroposterior cage placement is an important intraoperative determinant of postoperative alignment; anterior placement results in greater lordosis while middle/posterior placement has a minimal effect on sagittal alignment.
Awareness of the Historical Role of the Church and Change in Self‐Esteem among Older African Americans
Authors: Krause Neal , Hayward R. David
Published: May 2012

The purpose of this study is to see if greater awareness of the historical role of the church in the black community is associated with a greater sense of self‐worth among older African Americans. A latent variable model is evaluated that contains the following core hypotheses: (1) older blacks who go to church more often will receive more spiritual support (i.e. encouragement to adopt religious teachings and beliefs) from fellow church members; (2) greater spiritual support is associated with greater awareness of the role that has been played by the church in the black community; and (3) greater awareness of the historical role of the church is associated with a greater sense of self‐worth. Findings from a nationwide survey of older African Americans provide support for each of these linkages. Greater confidence may be placed in the findings because they are based on data that have been gathered at more than one point in time.
Global Governance and Integrative Balancing: EU Efforts to Respond to the Global Challenge
Authors: Ágh Attila
Published: May 2012

In the early 21st century globalisation has radically transformed the whole world. In the rapidly globalising world the main issue for the EU is globalisation‐cum‐regionalisation, namely to increase policy cooperation with its own neighbourhood to strengthen its global position and to avoid systemic failure in its partner countries by offering them a win‐win game through regional organisations. Globalisation has unleashed the process of regionalisation at various levels, so restructuring the political space around the globe. New territorial units have been organised in order to be able to withstand the pressure of globalisation, and to be more effective in the global competition that has also generated the need for global governance. The basic principle in the recent regionalisation efforts by the EU is ‘integrative balancing’, empowering unequal external partners through meaningful cooperation. In this spirit the EU has recently transformed its global policy in both aspects of globalisation‐cum‐regionalisation. It has accelerated common institution building with neighbouring states. The EU has also established an active cooperation framework with the newly emerging global powers as ‘strategic partners’. Altogether, the European Council concluded in October 2010 that ‘wider governance reform should be delivered’ in the EU’s global policy.1

Policy Implications

The rise of the multilateral world order requires a clear EU strategy for the regionalisation of its own neighbourhood. The increasing tensions in both the southern and eastern rims have also been pushing the EU in this direction.

The EU regionalisation strategy needs an institutional separation of the southern and the eastern mega‐regions, given the basic differences between them concerning ‘European perspectives’, that is, their different opportunities for EU membership.

There can be no gap between the polity and policy approaches in EU regionalisation. This means that the EU cannot extend its regulative regimes to neighbouring regions without building proper common institutions with the partner states concerned in those policy fields, in which common policies have been intensified.

Integrative balancing mechanisms have to be invented and implemented by the EU in order to upgrade its partner states instead of simply imposing strict conditionalities upon them.
Gridlock and Innovation in Global Governance: The Partial Transnational Solution
Authors: Hale Thomas , Held David
Published: May 2012

The political institutions that manage transborder problems are changing, offering new avenues around the inadequacies of the existing multilateral order. Several trends in global politics – for example the emergence of new powers, the growing challenge of collective action problems and the complexity of institutions that seek to address them – have made it increasingly difficult to govern transnational problems through multilateral cooperation. Global priorities ranging from climate change, to the Doha trade round, to financial stability are faced with gridlock. But even as ‘traditional’ intergovernmental institutions stall, new kinds of transborder institutions are emerging alongside them. These institutions bring new kinds of actors, public and private, into global governance, and deploy innovative governance ‘technologies’ to make rules and provide public goods. We evaluate these new institutions in the areas of financial and environmental governance. While no panacea, we argue that innovative institutional forms offer a partial solution for the challenges of contemporary interdependence.

Policy Implications

Gridlock in many international negotiations and multinational institutions can hobble intergovernmental agreements. New kinds of governance arrangements may help meet some of the governance gaps that multilateral institutions are failing to fill.

Scholars have only begun to catalogue the new forms of global governance that play an increasingly prominent role in world politics.

We must also strive to explain these changes and study their implications. Together, these tasks form an important future research agenda.

Policy makers should familiarize themselves with the full range of transborder governance institutions. These include transgovernmental networks, multistakeholder initiatives, voluntary regulations and innovative tools for adjudication and financing. Such instruments may offer functional benefits over more ‘traditional’ governance arrangements, especially when political factors constrain the latter.

While new governance institutions may represent at best a partial solution to the challenges of transborder cooperation, their adaptability and flexibility suggest a significant contribution nonetheless.
Synergies between Energy Efficiency and Energy Access Policies and Strategies
Authors: Pachauri Shonali , Ürge‐Vorsatz Diana , LaBelle Michael
Published: May 2012

Policies to improve energy access and energy efficiency are often discussed, designed and assessed in isolation from each other. In this paper, we highlight possible synergies in these two domains of policy making by looking specifically at some key household end uses that are the first to be met once improved access has been provided. By building in efficiency considerations at the very inception of activities aimed at improving access, effective energy supply available is potentially increased, the level of energy services that can be provided by the existing capacity and infrastructure or from existing budgets available is also enhanced, and the potential for reducing the cost for those populations for which cost has the highest consideration is also improved. In particular, we recommend two areas where policy maybe leveraged to benefit both access and efficiency objectives, first in the setting of standards, labels and codes and second coupling energy subsidies for access with rebates or grants for more efficient end use devices.
Retrospective study of cytologic features of well‐differentiated hepatocellular carcinoma in dogs
Authors: Masserdotti Carlo , Drigo Michele
Published: May 2012

Background

Cytologic diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma is possible when hepatocytes have prominent criteria of malignancy, but is problematic when hepatocytes have a relatively normal morphologic appearance.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the cytologic features of histologically confirmed well‐differentiated hepatocellular carcinomas (WD‐HCC) in dogs to develop reasonable criteria for an accurate diagnosis when obvious criteria of malignancy in hepatocytes are lacking.

Methods

Slides of ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspirates of 15 histologically confirmed WD‐HCC in dogs were evaluated retrospectively using a scoring system (0–3) established for 33 cytologic features. For comparison, 15 cytologic samples of non‐nodular non‐neoplastic liver were evaluated using the same criteria. Statistical analysis included multiple hypothesis testing using the Benjamini–Hochberg method or false discovery rate control to correct for multiple comparisons.

Results

The most significant and useful cytologic features in the diagnosis of canine WD‐HCC were dissociation of hepatocytes, acinar or palisading arrangements of neoplastic cells, and the presence of naked nuclei and capillaries, together with mild anisocytosis, anisokaryosis, multinuclearity, and increased N:C ratios.

Conclusions

Cytologic features of canine WD‐HCC were determined. Further studies are warranted to compare these cytologic criteria among WD‐HCC, hepatomas, and hyperplastic nodules and to examine co‐variance of the 33 cytologic features.
The Complexity Crisis
Authors: Siegel Alan
Published: May 2012

A “simplification warrior” states his case.
An Interview with Philip Howard
Authors: Siegel Alan , Howard Philip K.
Published: May 2012

Hundreds of pages of regulations didn't stop Enron, and they don't stop tax cheats either. Why not redesign the law to make the most of individual judgment and collective common sense?
Executing Strategy: What Designers Can Teach Project Managers
Authors: Duck Kieran
Published: May 2012

When standard product management techniques run into a complex situation, the reactions are predictable—and unhelpful.
Public‐Sector Chief Design Officers, Anyone?
Authors: Steinberg Marco
Published: May 2012

It's the White House on the phone. Who's going to take the call?
Oral therapy for type 1 diabetes mellitus using a novel immunomodulator, FTY720 (fingolimod), in combination with sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, examined in non‐obese diabetic mice
Authors: Tsuji Takumi , Yoshida Yuya , Fujita Tetsuro , Kohno Takeyuki
Published: May 2012

Aims/Introduction:  The therapeutic effectiveness against type 1 diabetes mellitus of a novel immunomodulator, FTY720 (fingolimod), in combination with sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, was examined in the non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mouse model.

Materials and Methods:  Female NOD mice that had developed type 1 diabetes mellitus spontaneously were divided into four groups according to which therapy they received: (i) FTY720 (0.1 mg/kg, orally, six times a week) plus sitagliptin (1 mg/kg, orally, six times a week); (ii) FTY720 (0.1 mg/kg, orally, six times a week); (iii) sitagliptin (1 mg/kg, orally, six times a week); and (iv) the vehicle (water) alone. Therapeutic efficacy was evaluated in terms of survival rate, ratio of insulin‐positive β‐cells/total islet area, extent of islet inflammation (insulitis score) and blood‐glucose level.

Results:  The therapeutic administration of FTY720 plus sitagliptin significantly improved survival (83% at 70 days after onset, P < 0.05) compared with sitagliptin alone (17%) or vehicle alone (0%). The fasting‐blood glucose level, the ratio of insulin‐positive β‐cells/total islet area and the insulitis score in the surviving mice, which had been treated with FTY720 plus sitagliptin, were improved to the normal levels as in age‐matched NOD mice with normoglycemia.

Conclusions:  Combination therapy with FTY720 and sitagliptin is a promising candidate for type 1 diabetes mellitus treatment, and might allow the treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus with only oral agents. (J Diabetes Invest, doi: 10.1111/j.2040‐1124.2012.00218.x, 2012)