bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grapevine Viruses in the Atacama Region of Chile
Authors: Fiore Nicola , Zamorano Alan , Rivera Lucia , González Flor , Aballay Erwin , Montealegre Jaime , Pino Ana María
Published: September 2011

Vineyards in the Atacama region in Chile were surveyed from 2007 to 2009 for the presence of viruses. This region is an important area of table grape production, supplying international markets with its fruits in the off season of the Northern Hemisphere. Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) assay was used to detect the most economically important grapevine viruses in 1000 samples, including symptomatic and asymptomatic plants. The rate of positive samples was 8.8% for Grapevine leafroll‐associated virus 1 (GLRaV‐1), 46.8% for Grapevine leafroll‐associated virus 2 (GLRaV‐2), 9.1% for Grapevine leafroll‐associated virus 3 (GLRaV‐3), 12.3% for Grapevine virus A (GVA), 30.7% for Grapevine fleck virus (GFkV) and 9.6% for Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV). Overall virus infection was 68.7%. DNA sequencing confirmed the identification of viruses in selected samples, and comparative analysis indicated that Chilean isolates have moderate‐to‐high molecular identities with corresponding virus reference strains selected from GenBank. The high level of viral infection observed indicates that viruses are involved in decreasing table grape production in the region. This is the first extensive virus survey performed in the Atacama region, is also the first study of genetic comparison of grapevine viruses developed in South America with a wide spectrum of viruses and isolates and provides an assessment of grapevine viruses on table grape.
A case of adrenal insufficiency secondary to syphilis and difficulties in the diagnostic work‐up
Authors: Gnanasegaram Maneka , Coutts Ian
Published: September 2011

We report a case of Addison's disease presumed to be secondary to syphilis. The patient presented with adrenal failure and a maculopapular rash on his trunk and palms. Syphilis was suspected but the non‐treponemal serological test used (the rapid plasma reagin test (RPR)) was falsely negative due to the prozone phenomenon. Treatment with benzathine penicillin resulted in normalization of adrenal function and resolution of the cutaneous findings. Repeat testing of the previously obtained serum sample showed the RPR to be positive on increasing dilutions of serum, consistent with the prozone effect.
Human papillomavirus in adolescents: Lessons learned from decades of evaluation
Authors: Jayasinghe Yasmin L , Moore Elya E , Tabrizi Sepehr N , Grover Sonia R , Garland Suzanne M
Published: September 2011

Knowledge regarding the natural history of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and its clinical sequelae in adolescents has increased significantly over the last decade; as a result, there have been world‐wide recommendations for less aggressive Pap screening and management of cervical dysplasias in young women. It is important that adolescent health providers understand these issues, as knowledge of HPV and its sequelae in the Australian community is limited, despite the introduction of a national immunisation programme. Parents and young women have expressed a desire for further information to make informed choices. This paper reviews the natural history of HPV infection in adolescents and the evidence behind new conservative guidelines for cervical screening, plus prophylactic vaccination in young women.
Strophiole of seeds of the black locust acts as a water gap
Authors: KARAKI TAKAYUKI , WATANABE YOKO , KONDO TETSUYA , KOIKE TAKAYOSHI
Published: September 2011

In Japan the black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) is undergoing rapid habitat expansion, which has an adverse effect on native vegetation. It is therefore a priority to clarify the regeneration characteristics of the black locust and establish adequate management of this invasive species in Japan. To determine the germination characteristics of physically dormant black locust seeds, we observed anatomical features of the seed coat and identified the water gap that acts as a signal detector. Our microscopic observations showed that seed coats of this species had hilum, micropyle and strophiole. The anatomical features of these regions correspond to the general characteristics of papilionoid legume seeds. Based on our microscopic observations, water absorption blocking experiments and a dye tracking experiment, we identified the strophiole as a water gap in black locust seeds. Our results suggest that the opening of the strophiole is important for water uptake to the embryo and subsequent germination of black locust seeds under natural conditions.
Identifying the residual stress field developed by hole cold expansion using finite element analysis
Authors: HOUGHTON S. J. , CAMPBELL S. K.
Published: September 2011

The split sleeve cold expansion process is a cost effective method of enhancing the fatigue performance of aircraft fastener holes. However, the 3‐D nature of the induced residual stress fields is not fully understood. For this research, 2‐D and 3‐D models with uniform hole expansion and 3‐D models with expansion produced by contact with a rigid mandrel were developed. The models’ relative capabilities of capturing the residual stress fields were then evaluated. The residual stress profiles varied significantly through the thickness of the workpiece and were also strongly influenced by the direction of mandrel motion. Therefore the uniform expansion models were inadequate. The 3‐D contact models indicate that the mandrel entry face is the critical fatigue location, reporting the lowest circumferential compressive stresses adjacent to the hole. The effect of varying the frictional coefficient and plastic hardening laws were also investigated using the 3‐D contact models.
Cavernous smooth muscle hyperplasia in a rat model of hyperlipidaemia‐associated erectile dysfunction
Authors: Qiu Xuefeng , Fandel Thomas M. , Lin Guiting , Huang Yun‐Ching , Dai Yu‐Tian , Lue Tom F. , Lin Ching‐Shwun
Published: September 2011

Study Type – Aetiology (case control)

Level of Evidence 3b

What’s known on the subject? and what does the study add?

Increased cavernous smooth muscle content has been repeatedly observed in rat models of hyperlipidaemia – associated erectile dysfunction. This study shows that the increased smooth muscle content is due to hyperplasia.

OBJECTIVE

• To investigate the structural changes, including possible smooth muscle hyperplasia, in the penis of a hyperlipidaemia‐associated erectile dysfunction (ED) animal model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

• Hyperlipidaemia was induced in rats through a high‐fat diet.

• Penile tissues of normal and hyperlipidaemic rats were stained with Alexa‐488‐conjugated phalloidin and/or with antibodies against rat endothelial cell antigen, neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), and collagen type IV (Col‐IV) before image and statistical analyses were carried out.

• The main outcome measures were the smooth muscle, endothelial, Col‐IV and nNOS content of the corpus cavernosum.

RESULTS

• Phalloidin intensely stained all smooth muscle in the penis, revealing the circular and longitudinal components of cavernous smooth muscle (CSM).

• The CSM content was significantly higher in the hyperlipidaemic than in the normal rats (P < 0.05).

• Cell numbers in both circular and longitudinal CSM were significantly higher in the hyperlipidaemic than in the normal rats (P < 0.05).

• Cavernous endothelial content was significantly lower in hyperlipidaemic than in normal rats (P < 0.05).

• nNOS‐positive nerves within the dorsal nerves, around the dorsal arteries, and in the corpora cavernosa were all significantly lower in the hyperlipidaemic than in the normal rats (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

• Hyperlipidaemia is associated with reduced nNOS‐positive nerves, reduced endothelium, and increased CSM in the penis.

• The increased CSM is attributable to hyperplasia.

• These structural changes may explain why hyperlipidaemic men are more likely to develop ED.
Focal laser interstitial thermotherapy (LITT) at 980 nm for prostate cancer: treatment feasibility in Dunning R3327‐AT2 rat prostate tumour
Authors: Colin Pierre , Nevoux Pierre , Marqa Mohamad , Auger Florent , Leroy Xavier , Villers Arnauld , Puech Philippe , Mordon Serge , Betrouni Nacim
Published: September 2011

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Focal ablation of prostate cancer by laser interstitial thermotherapy (LITT) consists of including a tissue necrosis by thermotherapy using diffusing laser fitres located in the prostate. Because of its compatibility with magnetic resonance imaging, LITT offers the advantage in terms of lesion targeting and real‐time monitoring processing over other minimally invasive techniques using transrectal ultrasound. Moreover, the feasibility of MRI thermometry allows real‐time monitoring of LITT treatment.

Our study proves reproducibility of laser interstitial thermotherapy at 980 nm in homogenous prostate cancer model.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the feasibility and reproducibility of laser interstitial thermotherapy (LITT) as a minimally invasive method for the treatment of prostate cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Heterotopic tumours of prostatic adenocarcinoma (Dunning R3327‐AT2) were induced in 10 male Copenhagen rats.

After preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a 10‐mm cylindrical diffusing fibre developed by our research department was inserted under ultrasonographic guidanceinto the tumour.

LITT was performed with a 980‐nm diode laser (power 5 W) for75 s (fluence rate of 1145 J/cm2).

Non‐enhanced T2‐weighted and dynamic gadolinium‐enhanced T1‐weighted MRI examinations were performed at baseline, 1 and 48 h after the procedure and correlated with histological findings.

RESULTS

The necrosis lesions induced by LITT were visible on MRI.

The mean (SD) ellipsoid necrosis volumes were 0.748 (0.075) mL at 1 h and 0.982 (0.052) mL at 48 h after the LITT procedure, and significantly different (P < 0.001).

Histological analysis showed a strong correlation (r = 0.87) with the mean necrosis volume obtained by MRI at 48 h after LITT.

CONCLUSIONS

In a prostatic adenocarcinoma model, 980‐nm LITT induces reproducible necrosis volumes.

Further characterization of the response to LITT in an animal model and in human tissues will be important in establishing the efficacy of the procedure for prostate cancer focal therapy.
The effect of surgical intervention for stress urinary incontinence (UI) on post‐prostatectomy UI during sexual activity
Authors: Jain Rajat , Mitchell Sarah , Laze Juliana , Lepor Herbert
Published: September 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

It is well recognized that RP is associated with short‐ and long‐term SUI and erectile dysfunction. The incidence, clinical significance and treatment of UI during sexual activity is less well understood. The present study demonstrates the effectiveness of both an AUS and male sling to improve sexual QOL in men presenting with both SUI and UI during sexual activity.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the impact of anti‐incontinence surgical procedures (artificial urinary sphincter [AUS] or male sling) on bother due to urinary incontinence (UI) during sexual activity after radical prostatectomy (RP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between October 2000 and December 2007, 27 men in a large single‐surgeon RP series underwent anti‐incontinence surgery with an AUS or male sling.

In all, 16 of these 27 men completed a questionnaire retrospectively capturing bother attributable to UI during arousal and orgasm and the impact of the AUS/male sling on UI and sexual quality of life (QoL).

RESULTS

In all, 15 men were evaluable. Of these, 11 were sexually active; four and seven men underwent AUS and sling placement, respectively.

All 11 men had a marked improvement in stress UI symptoms, which was the primary indication for surgery.

All men undergoing AUS had an improvement in their sexual QoL, and most (three of four men) indicated marked improvement.

Slightly more than half of men undergoing the sling procedure reported marked improvement in sexual QoL.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows a beneficial effect of anti‐incontinence surgery on UI during sexual activity.

Whether these surgical approaches would benefit men with significant bother due to UI limited to sexual activity warrants further investigation.
Diagnosis of isolated high‐grade prostatic intra‐epithelial neoplasia: proposal of a nomogram for the prediction of cancer detection at saturation re‐biopsy
Authors: Roscigno Marco , Scattoni Vincenzo , Freschi Massimo , Abdollah Firas , Maccagnano Carmen , Galosi Andrea , Lacetera Vito , Montironi Rodolfo , Muzzonigro Giovanni , Deho Federico , Deiana Gianfranco , Belussi Domenico , Chinaglia Daniela , Montorsi Francesco , Da Pozzo Luigi F.
Published: September 2011

Study Type – Diagnostic (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Multifocality, age, PSA values, and biopsy protocols regarding the predictive value of high grade PIN have been discussed extensively in the literature.

Our study developed for the first time a predictive nomogram that could be helpful for patient counselling and to guide the urologist to perform rPBX after an initial diagnosis of isolated HGPIN.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate factors that may predict prostate cancer (PCa) detection after the initial diagnosis of high‐grade prostatic intra‐epithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) on prostate biopsy (PBx) with six to 24 random cores.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 262 patients submitted from 1998 to 2007 to prostate re‐biopsy (rPBx) after an initial HGPIN diagnosis in tertiary academic centres.

HGPIN diagnosis was obtained on initial systematic PBx with six to 24 random cores.

All patients were re‐biopsied with a ‘saturation’ rPBx with 20–26 cores, with a median time to rPBx of 12 months.

All slides were reviewed by expert uropathologists.

RESULTS

Plurifocal HGPIN (pHGPIN) was found in 115 patients and monofocal HGPIN (mHGPIN) was found in 147 patients.

In total, 108 and 154 patients, respectively, were submitted to >12‐core initial PBx and ≤12‐core initial PBx.

Overall PCa detection at rPBx was 31.7%. PSA level (7.7 vs 6.6 ng/mL; P= 0.031) and age (68 vs 64 years; P= 0.001) were significantly higher in patients with PCa at rPBx.

PCa detection was significantly higher in patients with a ≤12‐core initial PBx than in those with a >12‐core initial PBx (37.6% vs 23.1%; P= 0.01), as well as in patients with pHGPIN than in those with mHGPIN (40% vs 25.1%; P= 0.013).

At multivariable analysis, PSA level (P= 0.041; hazards ratio, HR, 1.08), age (P < 0.001; HR, 1.09), pHGPIN (P= 0.031; HR, 1.97) and ≤12‐core initial PBx (P= 0.012; HR, 1.95) were independent predictors of PCa detection.

A nomogram including these four variables achieved 72% accuracy for predicting PCa detection after an initial HGPIN diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

PCa detection on saturation rPBx after an initial diagnosis of HGPIN is significantly higher in patients with a ≤12‐core initial PBx than those with a >12‐core initial PBx and in patients with pHGPIN than in those with mHGPIN.

We developed a simple prognostic tool for the prediction of PCa detection in patients with initial HGPIN diagnosis who were undergoing saturation rPBx.
Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) combined with bortezomib inhibits renal cancer growth by enhancing histone acetylation and protein ubiquitination synergistically
Authors: Sato Akinori , Asano Takako , Ito Keiichi , Sumitomo Makoto , Asano Tomohiko
Published: September 2011

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The treatment modality for advanced renal cancer is limited and new treatment approaches are urgently needed. Beneficial effects of bortezomib combined with SAHA have recently been reported. However, there are no previous reports of this combination being tested against renal cancer and its further mechanisms of action should be clarified.

This study examined the combined effects of these two clinically feasible drugs and showed that the combination inhibits renal cancer cell proliferation by enhancing both protein ubiquitination and histone acetylation synergistically.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the combined effect of two clinically feasible drugs, the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib and the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), on human renal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effectiveness of the combination of bortezomib (10–20 nm) and SAHA (1–5 µm) on renal cancer cells (Caki‐1, ACHN, A‐498, 786‐O, 769‐P) was assessed by MTS assay, colony formation assay, cell cycle analysis, and apoptosis assay.

In vivo efficacy was evaluated using murine subcutaneous (s.c.) tumour models.

Protein ubiquitination, unfolded protein response, histone acetylation, and changes in the expression of HDAC were evaluated by western blotting.

RESULTS

The combination of SAHA and bortezomib induced apoptosis and inhibited cancer cell proliferation synergistically (combination indices <1) and colony formation significantly (P < 0.05).

In s.c. tumour models a 10‐day treatment with a combination of SAHA (50 mg/kg) and bortezomib (60 µg/kg) inhibited tumour growth significantly (P < 0.05).

Mechanistically, SAHA combined with bortezomib enhanced protein ubiquitination synergistically and enhanced histone acetylation by inhibiting the expression of HDACs.

CONCLUSION

SAHA combined with bortezomib inhibits the proliferation of renal cancer cells in vitro and in vivo, and the effectiveness of the combination is due to its synergistic enhancement of histone acetylation and protein ubiquitination.
Is there a contemporary role for percutaneous needle biopsy in the era of small renal masses?
Authors: Phé Véronique , Yates David R. , Renard‐Penna Raphaële , Cussenot Olivier , Rouprêt Morgan
Published: September 2011

Study Type – Diagnostic (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The diagnosis of small renal masses (SRMs) has increased in recent years partly as a consequence of the liberal use of radiological imaging in an ageing co‐morbid population. Our knowledge of the natural history of SRMs now informs us of the indolent nature of most SRMs which parallels the expansion of management strategies for SRMs, including nephron sparing surgery, radiofrequency ablation, cryotherapy and active surveillance. Though conventional imaging has improved, imaging does not have the ability to characterise the biological or aggressive potential of an SRM.

Renal mass biopsy (RMB) has increased in popularity in recent years and is a potential valuable tool in the assessment of SRMs. The facts that (1) a significant number of SRMs are diagnosed in an elderly patient cohort, (2) 20% of SRMs are benign on formal histology, (3) there are various management strategies now available and (4) modern RMB has a diagnostic accuracy >90% with few complications, are all reasons why there has been renewed interest in RMB. However, clinical judgement is paramount as there remains an unpredictable non‐negligible risk of disease progression and metastasis whilst on surveillance.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate based on the best available data whether there is a contemporary role for percutaneous needle biopsy in the era of small renal masses.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

SRMs are acknowledged to be tumours less than 4 cm and account for 48%–66% of new kidney cancers. Renal mass biopsy (RMB), traditionally limited to specific clinical scenarios and with inherent diagnostic accuracy problems has increased in popularity in recent years and is a potential valuable tool in the assessment of SRMs. Our discussion focusses on these issues.

We performed a thorough Medline literature review using a combination of the following keywords; small renal mass, renal biopsy, percutaneuous renal biopsy, renal mass biopsy and renal cell carcinoma. We identified the seminal articles with data/information pertaining to renal mass biopsy in small renal masses.

RESULTS

The facts that 1) a significant number of SRMs are diagnosed in an elderly patient cohort, 2) 20% of SRMs are benign on formal histology, 3) there are various management strategies now available and 4) modern RMB has a diagnostic accuracy >90% with few complications, are all reasons why there has been renewed interest in RMB.

CONCLUSION

There is a contemporary role for RMB in the era of SRM as the incorporation of molecular profiling of tissue from RMB would augment our ability to risk stratify SRMs on an individual patient basis and adopt management accordingly. However, clinical judgement is paramount as there remains an unpredictable non‐negligible risk of disease progression and metastasis whilst on surveillance.
A substantive and methodological review of family‐based treatment for eating disorders: the last 25 years of research
Authors: Downs Karly J. , Blow Adrian J.
Published: September 2011

This article provides a substantive and methodological review of all research studies published in the last 25 years that have evaluated a family‐based intervention as a central component in the treatment of eating disorders (specifically anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa). While in the past 25 years there has been an increase in research exploring the efficacy of family therapy in the treatment of eating disorders, there has not been a comprehensive review of all these studies. Rather, reports of studies of family therapy and eating disorders are scattered in a wide range of journals and disciplines. Here we summarize the findings, provide a critique of the methodologies used, discuss methodological challenges and suggest next steps for research and clinical practice.
CONVERGENCE OF PRODUCTIVITY LEVELS AMONG THE EU COUNTRIES: EVIDENCE FROM A PANEL OF INDUSTRIES
Authors: ULUSOY VEYSEL , YALCIN ERKAN
Published: September 2011

We investigate whether economic integration stimulates income convergence and whether changes in production, specialisation and trade patterns associated with the enlargement process foster economic growth and convergence among countries. We examine income convergence via endogenous growth model for countries in which the scale factor stemming from learning‐by‐doing is a prevailing feature. We illustrate a clear connection between externalities and trade among EU countries. Empirical evidence based on a panel of industries shows that learning from export and import related scale effect do significantly affect the convergence process. We find that there is a low speed of convergence across the EU manufacturing. This implies that the degree of cross‐manufacturing productivity inequality disappears in the very long‐run. This in turn implies that manufacturing sectors, which are predicted, to be more productive in the past, are the same sectors that are also productive today.
Considering Privacy as a Public Good and Its Policy Ramifications for Business Organizations
Authors: BORNA SHAHEEN , SHARMA DHEERAJ
Published: September 2011

The main objective of this study is to discuss the ramifications of considering privacy as a public good for business organizations. Using an extensive literature review, an attempt to achieve this objective is made by trying to answer the following questions: (1) What are the historical and philosophical roots of privacy? (2) How is the concept of privacy defined and what are the controversies surrounding different definitions of privacy? (3) Does an individual have a right to privacy? (4) If the answer to question three is in affirmative, what are the philosophical and legal foundations of that right? (5) How can an individual's privacy be invaded? (6) Is privacy right an individual right or does it have a societal value? (7) What are the reasons for considering privacy as a public good? Finally, the article offers prescriptive insights for organizations to successfully obtain information from consumer while respecting their privacy.
Minority-Veto Referendums: An Alternative to Bicameralism?
Authors: Bulmer W. Elliot
Published: September 2011

This article discusses minority-veto referendum mechanisms as an alternative to bicameralism. Based on an examination of such mechanisms in the Scottish National Party's draft constitution for Scotland and in the constitutions of Denmark and Latvia, the article argues that such minority-veto referendums are ‘constraining’ rather than ‘consensual’ devices – they enable the actions of the parliamentary majority to be restrained and checked, but do not guarantee protection to permanent socio-cultural minorities. Minority-veto referendums are also unable to perform the full range of functions that can be provided by a strong second chamber – they cannot replace second chambers as a means of representing wider public interests or bringing specialist advice to bear on legislative decisions. The article concludes with the view that minority-veto referendum mechanisms cannot be regarded as a comprehensive substitute for strong bicameralism in all cases, but that they can nevertheless provide a means of checking the power of parliamentary majorities, and are particularly suitable for small and relatively homogeneous countries.
The Swedish Pirate Party and the 2009 European Parliament Election: Protest or Issue Voting?
Authors: Erlingsson Gissur Ó. , Persson Mikael
Published: September 2011

In the 2009 Swedish European Parliament election, the Pirate Party gained 7.1 per cent of the votes. We evaluate the sudden and unexpected success of the Pirate Party by testing two competing explanations: did voters cast their votes for the party as a protest against the established parties, or can the result be explained by voters' opinions regarding the party's main political issues? Contrary to popular beliefs, empirical evidence indicates that the success of the Pirate Party cannot be explained with reference to protest voting. Rather, the most important reason why individuals voted for the Pirate Party was the importance they ascribed to the party's main political issues.
Are Public Bodies Still ‘Male, Pale and Stale’? Examining Diversity in UK Public Appointments 1997–2010
Authors: Flinders Matthew , Matthews Felicity , Eason Christina
Published: September 2011

There has been a notable surge in research on the shift from elected government to appointed governance. As the work of public bodies and the decisions made by their board members can impact upon the everyday lives of citizens, the extent to which their boards are both representative and diverse is of great salience. Focusing on the boards of public bodies in the UK, this article explores whether the Labour government's ambition to improve diversity in public appointments was achieved over its three terms of office, and seeks to explain why public boards have remained ‘male, pale and stale’.
Public Debate on the Future of the European Union: A Viable Legitimising Strategy?
Authors: Hoffmann Lars , Monaghan Elizabeth
Published: September 2011

In this article we analyse the phenomenon of public debate on the future of Europe which has been become a preferred tool of EU policymakers over the last decade. We assess the potential legitimacy benefits of such a public debate process and examine in detail two case studies: the Convention on the Future of Europe and the Debate Europe website. We compare these two public debates with regard to their composition, objectives and working procedures. Our findings show that public debate is no panacea for the EU's ongoing legitimacy-related problems and they also point to general challenges for citizens' involvement in the ongoing European integration process.
‘How Happy are You …?’ Subjective Well-Being in East Germany Twenty Years after Unification
Authors: Hogwood Patricia
Published: September 2011

Since the unification of Germany in 1990, East Germans have largely approximated the characteristics of the ‘happiness profile’ — but not the overall levels of happiness – of West Germans. Current patterns of subjective well-being among East Germans raise concerns about the contingency of identification with the democratic system of the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG); the further entrenchment of financial jealousies between East and West Germany; and the development of a ‘happiness gap’ between the richest and poorest in East German society. A ‘materialist pessimist’ outlook in both West and East Germany may best be explained by cultural factors.
The Devolution of Policing in Northern Ireland: Politics and Reform
Authors: Perry Robert
Published: September 2011

This article looks at the devolution of policing in Northern Ireland. It begins with an outline of the historical context of policing in Northern Ireland and looks at the concept of legitimacy. I examine the motives and rhetoric of those involved in the devolution of policing in Northern Ireland. I also outline the reforms to policing as well as the difficulties faced on the ground. Where appropriate I compare developments in Northern Ireland with other post-conflict situations. This article is written from the perspective of commending those politicians, police officers and others who have taken risks for peace and whose leadership has led to the devolution of policing in Northern Ireland, which represents a completion of the devolution of powers to Northern Ireland as promised in the Good Friday Agreement of 1998. I argue that honesty about the past is key to the process of ‘conflict resolution’ — for the police, politicians and paramilitaries.
Job satisfaction and quit intentions of offshore workers in the UK North Sea oil and gas industry
Authors: Dickey Heather , Watson Verity , Zangelidis Alexandros
Published: September 2011

The North Sea oil and gas industry currently faces recruitment and retention difficulties because of a shortage of skilled workers. One means of retaining existing employees is to improve workers’ job satisfaction. In this paper, we investigate the determinants of job satisfaction and intentions to quit within this industry sector. We find that individuals in good financial situations, those whose skills are closely related to their job and those who received training reported higher levels of job satisfaction. Furthermore, we establish the importance of job satisfaction, promotion prospects and training opportunities in determining workers’ intentions to quit their job.
The Making of Pro‐Poor Growth
Authors: Carmignani Fabrizio
Published: September 2011

A system of three endogenous equations is used to estimate the determinants of poverty dynamics. The system incorporates: (i) the direct effect of growth and income inequality on poverty, (ii) the feedback effect of poverty on inequality and growth, and (iii) different channels through which economic policies can contribute to poverty reduction. Results suggest that countries tend to move towards one of two possible equilibria. The positive (virtuous) equilibrium is characterized by fast growth, decreasing inequality, and rapid poverty reduction. The negative (vicious) equilibrium involves slow (or even negative) growth, sharpening inequalities, and resilient poverty. The policy mix is critical in determining to which of the two equilibria a country converges.
The Impact of Fixed Exchange Rates on Fiscal Discipline
Authors: El‐Shagi Makram
Published: September 2011

In this paper, it is shown that contrary to standard arguments, fiscal discipline is not substantially enhanced by a fixed exchange rate regime. This study is based on data from 116 countries collected from 1975 to 2004, and uses various estimation techniques for dynamic panel data, in particular a generalized method of moments estimation in the tradition of Arellano and Bover [Journal of Econometrics (1995), 68, 29] and Blundell and Bond [Journal of Econometrics (1998), 87, 115]. Contrary to previous papers on this topic, the present paper takes into account that the consequences of a new exchange rate regime do not necessarily fully manifest immediately.
Tax evasion and competition
Authors: Goerke Laszlo , Runkel Marco
Published: September 2011

Using a Cournot oligopoly model with an endogenous number of firms and evasion of indirect taxes, we show that more intense competition may have the negative side effect of increasing tax evasion, thereby, lowering public revenues and welfare. This will be the case if market entry costs decrease. A similar result will hold if marginal production costs fall and demand is either weakly concave, or convex and inelastic. The result of more competition, less evasion and higher public revenues will be obtained if (a) marginal production costs fall and demand is convex and elastic or (b) the demand elasticity increases. As a policy implication, we prove that tax enforcement should be intensified if there is a negative trade‐off between competition and evasion.
Impacts of Internal Financing on Investment Decisions by Optimistic and Overconfident Managers
Authors: Kamoto Shinsuke
Published: September 2011

The paper examines the interactions of investment decisions by managers who display optimistic and overconfident biases on the prospects of firm growth and riskiness with internal financing. The model demonstrates that the investment threshold for optimistic and overconfident managers can both rise above and fall below the threshold to maximize the market value of the firm, depending on the level of internal funds. It also derives the optimal level of internal funds that induces the managers to maximize the market value of the firm and illustrates the impacts of managerial optimism and overconfidence.
Beyond the fad: a critical review of consumer fashion involvement
Authors: Naderi Iman
Published: September 2011

Fashion involvement has been regarded as an important research topic in consumer research. Despite the importance of this topic, no attempt has been made in the past to review, assess and consolidate extant research on fashion involvement. This study presents a comprehensive and critical review and analysis of the recent studies on involvement in the context of fashion clothing to indicate the current state and identify possible gaps. A content analysis of the current peer‐reviewed journal articles published on this research topic reveals a paucity of research on a number of antecedents and consequences of involvement. Further, the findings show that the research method is biased towards the survey method as opposed to experimentation. In this paper, the results of the content analysis outlining methodologies, sample characteristics, variables and major findings are provided and analysed, followed by directions for future research, theoretical and managerial implications, and limitations.
The process, logistics and challenges of implementing clinical supervision in a generalist tertiary referral hospital
Authors: Brunero Scott , Lamont Scott
Published: September 2011

Scand J Caring Sci; 2012; 26; 186–193

The process, logistics and challenges of implementing clinical supervision in a generalist tertiary referral hospital

Clinical supervision (CS) has been identified within nursing as a process for improving clinical practice and reducing the emotional burden of nursing practice. Little is known about its implementation across large tertiary referral hospitals. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the implementation of clinical supervision across several different nursing specialities at a teaching hospital in Sydney, Australia. Using a model of nursing implementation science, a process was developed at the study site that facilitated the development, implementation and evaluation of the project. After a 6‐month study period, the CS groups were postevaluated using a survey tool developed for the project. A total of nine CS groups were in operation over the 6‐month study period. A predominant focus within the sessions was one of the collegial support and developing standards of practice. The process was able to achieve wide hospital‐based support for the role of CS from the senior nurse executives to junior nurses. Whilst there was overall positive support for the CS groups, logistical and resource challenges remain, in the effective roll out of CS to large numbers of nurses.
Goal programming to model human decision making in ultimatum games
Authors: Beullens Patrick , Zaibidi Nerda Z. , Jones Dylan F.
Published: September 2011

Goal Programming (GP) is applied to modelling the decision making processes in the well‐known Ultimatum Game and some of its variations. The decision model for a player is a Chebychev GP model that balances her individual desires with the mental model she has of the desires of other relevant players. Fairness is modelled as a universal mechanism, allowing players to differ in their belief of what a fair solution should be in any particular game. The model's conceptual framework draws upon elements considered of importance in the field of cognitive neuroscience, and results from the field of psychology are used to further specify the types of goals in the model. Computer simulations of the GP models, testing a number of Ultimatum, Dictator and Double‐Blind Dictator Games, lead to distributions of proposals made and accepted that correspond reasonably well with experimental findings.
Malignant Pheochromocytoma Presenting as Incapacitating Bony Pain
Authors: Tan Marilyn , Camargo Carlos A. , Mojtahed Amirkaveh , Mihm Fred
Published: September 2011

Among adrenal incidentalomas, pheochromocytomas are rare. Malignant pheochromocytoma is even less common, and it typically presents with classic hormonal symptoms, such as palpitations, labile blood pressures, and headaches. Bony metastasis usually occurs late in disease, but we report an unusual case of incapacitating bony pain as the initial presentation of malignant pheochromocytoma. Our patient is a 70‐year‐old woman with neurofibromatosis type 1 and a history of primary hyperparathyroidism, who tested negative for the ret mutation. She came to medical attention with chest pain and palpitations and was incidentally found to have an adrenal mass. Serum and urine testing was consistent with pheochromocytoma. Her blood pressure was easily controlled as she awaited elective adrenalectomy; however, she quickly developed severe, diffuse bony pain. She represented with hypercalcemia, spontaneous fractures, and incapacitating pain that required such high doses of pain medications that she had to be intubated. Further imaging and bone marrow biopsy confirmed metastatic neuroendocrine tumor. She received one round of chemotherapy with no change in her bony pain, which was her primary complaint. Unfortunately, her treatment options were limited by the heavy sedation required for comfort, and in the end, it was her bony pain rather than hormonal symptoms that made her disease untreatable.▪
FCGR3B*03 allele inheritance pattern in Brazilian families and some new variants of gene FCGR3B
Authors: Terzian Claudia C.N. , Chiba Akemi K. , Santos Viviani C. , Silva Neusa P. , Bordin Jose O.
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: The FCGR3B gene encoding the FcyRIIIb receptor for immunoglobulin G has three polymorphic forms known as HNA‐1a, HNA‐1b, and HNA‐1c, encoded by the alleles FCGR3B*01, FCGR3B*02, and FCGR3B*03, respectively. It is not clear whether the inheritance of the FCGR3B*03 allele, which encodes the HNA‐1c, is linked or not to the other two alleles. The objective of this study was to identify the inheritance pattern of the FCGR3B*03 allele in Brazilians.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Blood samples from nine families with at least one FCGR3B*03(+) member, totalizing 47 individuals, were studied. The presence of the FCGR3B*01, FCGR3B*02, and FCGR3B*03 alleles was detected by the polymerase chain reaction with sequence‐specific priming method, and all DNA samples were sequenced.

RESULTS: In three of the nine studied families, the FCGR3B*03 was passed down with the FCGR3B*02, while in one family the FCGR3B*03 was inherited in linkage with FCGR3B*01. The other families were not informative regarding FCGR3B*03 inheritance. Sequencing showed for the first time one single‐nucleotide polymorphism at Position 264 resulting from a simple substitution C→T; three other different substitutions at Position 230, T→A, T→G; and the presence of three nucleotides at Position 230 (T, G, and A). The previously reported variants FCGR3B*01A227G and FCGR3BG330T were also found.

CONCLUSION: In this Brazilian FCGR3B*03(+) group we found that the inheritance of FCGR3B*03 took place by a linkage to FCGR3B*02 or to FCGR3B*01. Linkage of FCGR3B*03 to FCGR3B*02 was the most common. Additionally, we report SNPs that have not been described, suggesting that they might be more common than previously thought.
Providing ABO‐identical platelets and cryoprecipitate to (almost) all patients: approach, logistics, and associated decreases in transfusion reaction and red blood cell alloimmunization incidence
Authors: Henrichs Kelly F. , Howk Nedda , Masel Debra S. , Thayer Mark , Refaai Majed A. , Kirkley Scott A. , Heal Joanna M. , Blumberg Neil
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: There are multiple benefits to transfusing only ABO‐identical blood components. Historically our institution routinely transfused ABO‐nonidentical platelets (PLTs) and cryoprecipitate to surgical patients. In April 2005, we implemented a policy of transfusing only ABO‐identical components whenever feasible, regardless of outdating or logistic considerations.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Technical staff closely monitored product usage and adjusted blood center orders based on recent utilization and planned transfusions. When unable to provide ABO‐identical PLTs, ABO‐compatible PLTs were washed to remove incompatible plasma. Data on outdating were collected for 18 months before and after implementation. We compared transfusion reaction and red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunization incidence for 4 years preceding (2001‐2004) and subsequent (2006‐2009) to implementation.

RESULTS: In the year after implementation, only 11 of 410 surgical patients received ABO‐nonidentical PLTs (2.7%). There was a 5.6% increase in outdating of PLTs. Transfusing ABO‐identical components was associated with significant reductions in febrile (−46%; 8.0 to 4.3 per 10,000 components; p < 0.0001) and allergic transfusion reactions (−23%; from 7.0 to 5.4 per 10,000 components; p = 0.025). A progressive reduction in de novo RBC alloimmunization incidence also occurred (−50% by 2009; p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS: Providing ABO‐identical PLTs to almost all patients was feasible in our setting by changing ordering and inventorying procedures and making the ABO‐identical policy a staff priority. Unexpected and striking reductions in febrile and allergic reactions and RBC alloimmunization were observed, of uncertain causal relationship to this ABO policy change, which will require further study.
Transfusion‐related acute lung injury prevention measures and their impact at Canadian Blood Services
Authors: Lin Yulia , Saw Chee‐Loong , Hannach Barbara , Goldman Mindy
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: Blood operators have taken measures to reduce transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI). We classified suspected TRALI cases reported to Canadian Blood Services from 2001 to 2009 and assessed the impact of TRALI reduction measures.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Using Canadian Consensus Conference definitions, cases were reviewed by two experts or, from 2006 to 2009, a TRALI Medical Review Group (TMRG). Detection of HLA antibodies was performed using the Luminex system starting in 2008. Measures implemented from 2007 to 2009 included use of predominantly male plasma, suspension of buffy coat platelets in male plasma, and deferral of females with a pregnancy history from plateletpheresis. The buffy coat production method was implemented from 2005 to 2008.

RESULTS: Reporting of all suspected TRALI cases, as well as cases classified as definite or possible, increased from 2001 to 2004, was stable from 2004 to 2007, and declined in 2008 to 2009. The decline was most marked for plasma‐associated cases, but occurred for all components. TMRG consensus on classification was achieved in 56% of cases. Cases identified as definitive or possible TRALI were significantly more likely to have donor antibody against a corresponding recipient antigen, compared to other cases.

CONCLUSION: Hemovigilance data demonstrated an initial increase in TRALI cases, likely due to increased adverse event reporting and awareness of TRALI, followed by a decrease in cases related to all components. TRALI prevention measures and possibly the switch to the buffy coat production method may have contributed to the decline. Classification of cases remains challenging.
The Democratic Deficit in the States
Authors: Lax Jeffrey R. , Phillips Justin H.
Published: September 2011

We study how well states translate public opinion into policy. Using national surveys and advances in subnational opinion estimation, we estimate state‐level support for 39 policies across eight issue areas, including abortion, law enforcement, health care, and education. We show that policy is highly responsive to policy‐specific opinion, even controlling for other influences. But we also uncover a striking “democratic deficit”: policy is congruent with majority will only half the time. The analysis considers the influence of institutions, salience, partisan control of government, and interest groups on the magnitude and ideological direction of this democratic deficit. We find the largest influences to be legislative professionalization, term limits, and issue salience. Partisanship and interest groups affect the ideological balance of incongruence more than the aggregate degree thereof. Finally, policy is overresponsive to ideology and party—leading policy to be polarized relative to state electorates.
Market Orientation and Public Service Performance: New Public Management Gone Mad?
Authors: Walker Richard M. , Brewer Gene A. , Boyne George A. , Avellaneda Claudia N.
Published: September 2011

The backbone of theory of the market‐based approach New Public Management is that market orientation improves public service performance. In this article, market orientation is operationalized through the dominant theoretical framework in the business literature: competitor orientation, customer orientation, and interfunctional coordination. Market orientation is examined from the vantage point of three stakeholder groups in English local government: citizens, public servants, and the central government’s agent, the Audit Commission. Findings show that market orientation works best for enhancing citizen satisfaction with local services, but its impacts on the performance judgments of local managers or the Audit Commission are negligible. The conclusion discusses important implications of these findings for research, policy, and practice.
Does the Love of Money Moderate the Relationship between Public Service Motivation and Job Satisfaction? The Case of Chinese Professionals in the Public Sector
Authors: Liu Bang‐Cheng , Tang Thomas Li‐Ping
Published: September 2011

To what extent do attitudes toward money—specifically, the love of money—moderate the relationship between public service motivation and job satisfaction among public sector professionals in China? The authors collected data from full‐time public sector professionals who also were part‐time students in a master of public administration program in eastern China. After confirmatory factor analyses, the regression results show that a public servant’s love of money moderates the relationship between public service motivation and job satisfaction—that is, individuals with a strong love of money have a significantly stronger relationship between public service motivation and job satisfaction than those without, a finding that supports the “crowding‐in effect.” Alternatively, for high love‐of‐money civil servants with a “steel rice bowl” mentality, high job satisfaction is explained by the best offer (output) for the minimum amount of effort (input), at least within Chinese culture. Such findings are counterintuitive in light of Chinese personal values, equity theory, public servants’ institutional background, ethical organizational culture, and corruption.