bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined treatment with ranitidine and saline antacids prior to obstetric anaesthesia
Authors: THOMPSON E. M. , LOUGHRAN P. G. , MCAULEY D. M. , WILSON C. M. , MOORE J.
Published: March 2007

Ranitidine 150 mg was given to 126 patients requiring elective Caesarean section under general anaesthesia: 43 women had ranitidine alone, 43 had this supplemented by a pre‐induction dose of sodium citrate and 40 patients had ranitidine plus sodium bicarbonate. All three sub‐groups provided satisfactory gastric pH and volume. Ranitidine 150 mg was given orally every 6 hours to women in labour, Of 221 patients requiring general anaesthesia during labour, 103 women received 30 ml 0.3 M sodium citrate and 118 women, 20 ml of 8.4% sodium bicarbonate 10 minutes before induction of anaesthesia. In the citrate sub‐group there was one patient with a gastric pH less than 2.5 (mean pH 6.2, SEM 0.13 range 2.1–8.4). In the bicarbonate sub‐group the lowest gastric acidity was 3.8 (mean pH 8.3, SEM 0.11 range 3.8–9.83).
Variable influences of iodine on the T‐cell recognition of a single thyroglobulin epitope
Authors: Jiang Hong Y. , Li Haiyan S. , Carayanniotis Karen , Carayanniotis George
Published: March 2007

We have previously shown that iodotyrosyl formation within certain innocuous thyroglobulin (Tg) peptides confers on them immunopathogenic properties. In this report, we generated a panel of T‐cell hybridoma clones specific for the immunogenic 16 mer Tg peptide p179 (amino acids 179–94) or its iodinated analogue (I‐p179), with a view to examining the effects of a single iodine atom at the Y192 amino acid residue on T‐cell recognition. We found that the peptide p179 was subdominant, and its binding to both Ak and Ek molecules was not significantly influenced by iodine. T‐cell receptor (TCR) engagement was unaffected by the bulky iodine atom in two clones that responded to both analogues but it was sterically hindered in two other clones that recognized only p179. One clone was reactive only to I‐p179, suggesting that the iodine atom is an integral part of its TCR ligand. Truncation analysis localized the determinant seen by all clones within the 11 mer peptide p184 (amino acids 184–194), suggesting that the cross‐reactive clones were not activated by a minimal epitope lacking Y192 and that the negative influence of iodine was not the result of a flanking residue effect. These results demonstrate, at the clonal level, variable influences of a single iodine atom on the recognition of a single Tg peptide. Iodination of tyrosyl‐containing, immunopathogenic Tg peptides may have unpredictable effects at the polyclonal level, depending on the extent of iodination at the particular site, and the relative number or effector function of autoreactive T‐cell clones that are switched on or off by the neoantigenic determinant.
Sperm indexes obtained using computer‐assisted morphometry provide a forecast of the freezability of canine sperm
Authors: Núñez‐Martínez I. , Moran J. M. , Peña F. J.
Published: March 2007

Sperm morphometric indexes obtained after principal component analysis were used to investigate its value as diagnostic tests for freezability. Semen from six dogs was frozen–thawed following a standard protocol. Before freezing, computer‐assisted analysis of sperm morphometry (CASMA) was performed. The principal component analysis (a statistical technique for simplifying a dataset, by reducing multidimensional datasets to lower dimensions for analysis) performed in the data obtained after the CASMA analysis gave four morphometric indexes. After thawing, ejaculates were evaluated for early changes in sperm membranes using the combination of two fluorescent probes, YO‐PRO‐1 and ethidium homodimer and flow cytometry. Significant differences in the percentages of intact membranes post‐thaw were observed among dogs (p < 0.01). Significant non‐parametric correlations were found between index 3 and the percentage of intact membranes after thawing (R = 0.432 p < 0.05). Receiving operating system curves demonstrate a good diagnostic value for indexes 2 and 3 in the prediction of freezability, with areas under the curve of 0.798 and 0.786, respectively.
Status of black grass (Alopecurus myosuroides) resistance to acetyl‐coenzyme A carboxylase inhibitors in France
Authors: DÉLYE C , MENCHARI Y , GUILLEMIN J‐P , MATÉJICEK A , MICHEL S , CAMILLERI C , CHAUVEL B
Published: March 2007

We assessed the contributions of target site‐ and non‐target site‐based resistance to herbicides inhibiting acetyl‐coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC) in Alopecurus myosuroides (black grass). A total of 243 A. myosuroides populations collected across France were analysed using herbicide sensitivity bioassay (24 300 seedlings analysed) and ACC genotyping (13 188 seedlings analysed). Seedlings resistant to at least one ACC‐inhibiting herbicide were detected in 99.2% of the populations. Mutant, resistant ACC allele(s) were detected in 56.8% of the populations. Among the five resistant ACC alleles known in A. myosuroides, alleles containing an isoleucine‐to‐leucine substitution at codon 1781 were predominant (59.5% of the plants containing resistant ACC alleles). Comparison of the results from herbicide sensitivity bioassays with genotyping indicated that more than 75% of the plants resistant to ACC‐inhibiting herbicides in France would be resistant via increased herbicide metabolism. Analysis of herbicide application records suggested that in 15.9% of the populations studied, metabolism‐based resistance to ACC‐inhibiting herbicides was mostly selected for by herbicides with other modes of action. Our study revealed the importance of non‐target site‐based resistance in A. myosuroides. Using herbicides with alternative modes of action to control populations resistant to ACC‐inhibiting herbicides, the recommended management approach, may thus be jeopardised by the widespread occurrence of metabolism‐based resistance mechanisms conferring broad‐spectrum cross‐resistance.
Reversible chronic pulmonary fibrosis associated with MMF in a pediatric patient: A case report
Authors: Reynolds B. C. , Paton J. Y. , Howatson A. G. , Ramage I. J.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  We describe a case of chronic mineralizing pulmonary elastosis in a seven‐yr‐old boy following DD renal transplantion for Wilms tumour. Fourteen months post‐transplantion he developed respiratory symptoms with lung biopsy demonstrating chronic mineralizing pulmonary elastosis thought to be secondary to immunosuppression with MMF. Symptomatic resolution occurred following MMF cessation.
Survival of ovarian allografts in an experimental animal model
Authors: Gosden Roger G.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Transplantation of ovarian tissue is a promising strategy for fertility preservation in young cancer patients with premature ovarian failure if they have cryopreserved their own tissue before undergoing gonadotoxic treatment. However, extension of ovary donation to children and adults seeking treatment for hypogonadism is controversial unless the tissue does not provoke an immune reaction or specific tolerance can be safely and effectively achieved. The survival of heterotopic ovarian allografts was tested in a mouse model. Isografts were placed under the kidney capsule of ovariectomized animals differing at the H‐2 haplotype (H‐2d or H‐2k). Within three wk, and in contrast to isografts, the allografts were rejected, although their survival was extended when donor and host strains shared the same haplotype (H‐2k). Allograft survival was not improved if the tissue was implanted orthotopically. When monoclonal antibodies to CD4 antigens were administered at doses exceeding those effective for long‐term tolerance to cardiac allografts, graft survival was prolonged in one of two strain combinations, but they failed to restore fertility. These results indicate that the ovary is not an immunologically privileged organ, as the older literature suggested, and chronic immunosuppression is likely to be required for ovarian allografts in clinical settings.
Live encapsulated porcine islets from a type 1 diabetic patient 9.5 yr after xenotransplantation
Authors: Elliott Robert B. , Escobar Livia , Tan Paul L. J. , Muzina Maria , Zwain Sahar , Buchanan Christina
Published: March 2007

Abstract: Background:  The long‐term viability and function of transplanted encapsulated neonatal porcine islets was examined in a diabetic patient. Methods and results: A 41‐yr‐old Caucasian male with type 1 diabetes for 18 yr was given an intraperitoneal transplant of alginate‐encapsulated porcine islets at the dose of 15 000 islet equivalents (IEQs)/kg bodyweight (total dose 1 305 000 IEQs) via laparoscopy. By 12 weeks following the transplant, his insulin dose was significantly reduced by 30% (P = 0.0001 by multiple regression tests) from 53 units daily prior to transplant. The insulin dose returned to the pre‐transplant level at week 49. Improvement in glycaemic control continued as reflected by total glycated haemoglobin of 7.8% at 14 months from a pre‐transplant level of 9.3%. Urinary porcine C‐peptide peaked at 4 months (9.5 ng/ml) and remained detectable for 11 months (0.6 ng/ml). The patient was followed as part of a long‐term microbiologic monitoring programme which subsequently showed no evidence of porcine viral or retroviral infection. At laparoscopy 9.5 yr after transplantation, abundant nodules were seen throughout the peritoneum. Biopsies of the nodules showed opacified capsules containing cell clusters that stained as live cells under fluorescence microscopy. Immunohistology noted sparse insulin and moderate glucagon staining cells. The retrieved capsules produced a small amount of insulin when placed in high glucose concentrations in vitro. An oral glucose tolerance test induced a small rise in serum of immuno‐reactive insulin, identified as porcine by reversed phase high pressure liquid chromatography. Conclusion: This form of xenotransplantation treatment has the potential for sustained benefit in human type 1 diabetics.
Early use of terlipressin in catecholamine‐resistant shock improves cerebral perfusion pressure in severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Salluh J. I. F. , Martins G. A. R. , Santino M. S. , Araújo L. V. , Freitas G. G. , Verdeal J. C. R.
Published: March 2007

Background:  Maintaining adequate cerebral perfusion pressure is an essential aspect in the treatment of severe acute brain injury. To accomplish this therapeutic goal vasopressors are usually required. Vasopressin is an important endogenous stress hormone and the infusion of low‐dose vasopressin and terlipressin has been used to reverse severe hypotension.

Case report:  A 14‐year‐old male patient was admitted to the emergency room after a motorcycle accident. The patient had suffered severe traumatic brain injury, the Glasgow coma score (GCS) was four and there were signs of aspiration of gastric contents. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome and shock refractory to fluid management, norepinephrine and steroid replacement ensued. A terlipressin infusion, as a bolus dose of 1 mg, is associated with the ability to improve cerebral perfusion pressure with concomitant reduction of 80% of norepinephrine doses.

Discussion:  The present report illustrates the potential benefits of terlipressin in refractory shock in a patient with severe traumatic brain injury. An increase in cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) and a huge decrease in the dose of norepinephrine were observed. In the setting of severe brain injury associated with refractory hypotension, terlipressin may improve mean arterial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure.

Conclusion:  In the setting of severe brain injury associated with refractory hypotension, terlipressin may have a role as a rescue therapy.
Pre‐emptive stellate ganglion block increases the patency of radial artery grafts in coronary artery bypass surgery
Authors: Yildirim V. , Akay H. T. , Bingol H. , Bolcal C. , Iyem H. , Doğanci S. , Demirkilic U. , Tatar H.
Published: March 2007

Background:  We evaluated the role of pre‐emptive stellate ganglion block (SGB) in preventing radial artery spasm and increasing radial artery graft patency in patients undergoing off‐pump coronary artery bypass surgery.

Methods:  In this prospective randomized study, 100 patients were divided into two equal groups (n= 50). In group A, SGB was achieved using 10 ml of ropivacaine and, in group B, SGB was not performed. Radial artery blood flow was measured pre‐ and intra‐operatively. Post‐operative clinical determinants (S–T segment elevation, use of inotropic agents, incidence of atrial fibrillation) were recorded. Early coronary angiography was performed.

Results:  According to blood flowmeter measurements, the radial artery blood flow was significantly increased in patients with SGB. The incidence of atrial fibrillation, the need for inotropic agents and S–T segment elevation were all decreased in the SGB group. Angiographic intervention revealed that the incidence of graft spasm was also lower in the SGB group.

Conclusion:  Pre‐emptive SGB is an effective method for increasing radial artery blood flow and preventing radial artery spasm. Complications related to radial artery spasm may be decreased and patients may have a more comfortable post‐operative period with this method.
Effects of sternotomy on heart–lung interaction in patients undergoing cardiac surgery receiving pressure‐controlled mechanical ventilation
Authors: De Blasi R. A. , Palmisani S. , Cigognetti L. , Iasenzaniro M. , Arcioni R. , Mercieri M. , Pinto G.
Published: March 2007

Background:  The key concept underlying the dynamic indexes of preload dependence is the physiological heart–lung interaction. During sternotomy this interaction undergoes various changes, some of which remain unclear. Our primary aim was to investigate how the interaction changes during sternotomy by evaluating pulse pressure variations (PPV) with the chest closed and after sternotomy in patients ventilated using the pressure‐controlled mode.

Methods:  We prospectively studied 25 patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) receiving pressure‐controlled ventilation. Standard hemodynamic data, PPV and tidal volume delivered were recorded before and after sternotomy, and, with the chest open, before and after positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP) was applied and inspiratory pressure was increased.

Results:  Sternotomy left all variables statistically unchanged from values before thoracotomy although in the subgroup of patients with a PPV > 8% (56%) sternotomy significantly reduced PPV (from 14.4 ± 5.2% to 8.9 ± 4.5%). With the chest open, when PEEP was applied at 5 cm H2O, tidal volume decreased (from 643 ± 83 to 587 ± 104 ml) and stroke volume decreased (from 77 ± 17 to 72 ± 15 ml) but PPV remained unchanged. When PEEP was discontinued and inspiratory pressure was increased by 5 cm H2O, tidal volume increased (from 643 ± 83 to 814 ± 89 ml) and PPV increased (from 8.2 ± 3.9% to 12.3 ± 6.8%) but stroke volume remained unchanged.

Conclusions:  In patients ventilated in the pressure‐controlled mode, except those with a pre‐sternotomy PPV > 8% (fluid responders), sternotomy leaves standard hemodynamic data and PPV unchanged. When the chest wall is open, cyclic changes (tidal volume) but not continuous changes (PEEP) in intrathoracic pressure directly influence PPV.
No impact of a phytogenic feed additive on digestion and unspecific immune reaction in piglets
Authors: Muhl A. , Liebert F.
Published: March 2007

Two 35 day experiments were conducted to examine the influence of a commercial phytogenic feed additive (PFA) on nutrient digestibility and unspecific immune reaction of piglets in the post‐weaning period. The PFA composition was inulin, an essential oil mix (carvacrol and thymol), chestnut meal (tannins), and cellulose powder as carrier substance. In each experiment, immediately after weaning 40 male castrated piglets were divided into four experimental groups (n = 10). Diets were based on wheat, barley, soy bean meal and fishmeal using lysine as the first limiting amino acid. In experiment 1, graded levels of the PFA were supplied (A: control; B: 0.05% PFA; C: 0.1% PFA; D: 0.15% PFA). Experiment 2 utilized equal diets with 0.1% of the PFA, but different lysine supply (A: control; B: 0.1% PFA; C: +0.35% lysine; D: 0.1% PFA + 0.35% lysine). At the end of the experimental period, acute phase proteins (APPs) haptoglobin and C‐reactive protein were examined in individual blood plasma samples. Following each growth study, 16 animals (n = 4) were taken for sampling of ileal chyme and assessing of praecaecal digestibility of protein and amino acids. In addition, digesta samples of the duodenum and the total pancreatic tissue were utilized for determining the enzyme activity ofα‐amylase and trypsin. APP, praecaecal digestibility and enzyme activities did not significantly respond to the PFA supplementaion in diets.
Effects of steroidal implantation and ractopamine‐HCl on nitrogen retention, blood metabolites and skeletal muscle gene expression in Holstein steers
Authors: Walker D. K. , Titgemeyer E. C. , Sissom E. K. , Brown K. R. , Higgins J. J. , Andrews G. A. , Johnson B. J.
Published: March 2007

Six Holstein steers (231 ± 17 kg) housed in metabolism crates were used in a randomized complete block design with three blocks of two steers based on previous serum insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐I concentrations. One of the two steers in each block was implanted with 120 mg trenbolone acetate and 24 mg oestradiol‐17β on day 0. None of the steers was fed ractopamine‐HCl in the initial 28 days, and then all steers were fed 200 mg of ractopamine‐HCl per steer daily from day 28 until the end of the trial. Steers were fed a corn‐based diet (62% rolled corn, 20% expeller soya bean meal and 15% alfalfa hay) twice daily with an average dry matter intake of 4.8 kg/day. Blood and M. longissimus biopsy samples were collected prior to implantation and on days 14, 28, 42 and 56. There was an implant × ractopamine interaction for retained nitrogen (p < 0.05); ractopamine feeding led to only small improvements in nitrogen retention for implanted steers (45.9 g/day vs. 44.5 g/day), whereas ractopamine led to larger increases in nitrogen retention for non‐implanted steers (39.0 g/day vs. 30.4 g/day). Implantation increased (p < 0.05) and ractopamine tended to decrease (p = 0.06) serum IGF‐I concentrations. Implantation tended to increase (p = 0.16) and ractopamine decreased (p < 0.05) mRNA expression of IGF‐I in the M. longissimus. Ractopamine decreased mRNA expression of β1‐ and β2‐receptors in M. longissimus (p  0.02). The steroidal implant and the feeding of ractopamine both increased nitrogen retention in steers, but the combination did not yield an additive response. The two growth promotants had opposite effects on serum concentrations of IGF‐I and mRNA expression of IGF‐I in M. longissimus.
Liposomal amphotericin B (AmBisome®) efficacy in confirmed invasive aspergillosis and other filamentous fungal infections in immunocompromised hosts: a pooled analysis
Authors: Cordonnier C. , Bresnik M. , Ebrahimi R.
Published: March 2007

A pooled efficacy analysis applying current diagnostic standards for case selection was performed on previously published trials of liposomal amphotericin B for invasive filamentous fungal infections (IFFI). Favourable responses were observed in 51% of microbiologically confirmed cases of proven or probable IFFI. Despite the limitations inherent in a retrospective analysis of pooled studies, the response rates observed in this analysis were consistent with previous reports for antifungal therapy with amphotericin B deoxycholate or voriconazole in the treatment of invasive aspergillosis.
Assessment of an empowerment education programme. A randomized study in teenagers with diabetes
Authors: Viklund G. , Örtqvist E. , Wikblad K.
Published: March 2007

Aims  To determine the effects of an empowerment programme on glycaemic control and empowerment, and to study the role of parental involvement.

Methods  The wait‐list design is a randomized controlled trial lasting for 6 months, after which the control group participate in the same education programme as the intervention group. After 6 months, data from the two groups are analysed together (pre/post). Thirty‐two teenagers with Type 1 diabetes (12–17 years) completed an empowerment group education programme, meeting weekly for 6 weeks. They were also offered an extra meeting together with their parents, which resulted in three groups: together with parents, only parents and no parent involvement at all. HbA1c was measured before intervention and after 6, 12, 18 and 24 months, and empowerment before, and 6 and 12 months after.

Results  HbA1c and empowerment were similar in the intervention group and the control group 6 months after intervention. In pre/post analysis, HbA1c was significantly higher 6 and 12 months after intervention in teenagers > 14 years (from 8.4% to 9.3%; P < 0.05 to 9.6%; P < 0.01), but returned to baseline 18 months after the programme. In teenagers ≤ 14 years of age, HbA1c did not change during the study. The teenagers felt more ready for changes after the programme than before (3.9 sd = 0.5 to 4.1 sd = 0.5; P < 0.05). In the teenagers in the group that involved their parents, there was a significant decrease in HbA1c 12 and 24 months after intervention, from 8.9% (sd = 1.1) to 7.6% (sd = 1.3; P < 0.05, confidence interval 0.37, 2.26).

Conclusion  This empowerment programme for teenagers with diabetes showed no positive glycaemic or empowerment effects. Empowerment programmes for diabetic teenagers in early and middle adolescence should include parental involvement.
The codA transgene for glycinebetaine synthesis increases the size of flowers and fruits in tomato
Authors: Park Eung‐Jun , Jeknić Zoran , Chen Tony H. H. , Murata Norio
Published: March 2007

The tolerance of various species of plant to abiotic stress has been enhanced by genetic engineering with certain genes. However, the use of such transgenes is often associated with negative effects on growth and productivity under non‐stress conditions. The codA gene from Arthrobacter globiformis is of particular interest with respect to the engineering of desirable productive traits in crop plants. The expression of this gene in tomato plants resulted in significantly enlarged flowers and fruits under non‐stress conditions. The enlargement of flowers and fruits was associated with high levels of glycinebetaine that accumulated in reproductive organs, such as flower buds and fruits. The enlargement of flowers was related to an increase in the size and number of cells, and reflected the pleiotropic effect of the codA transgene on the expression of genes involved in the regulation of cell division.
Evaluation of Board Work in Fifteen Companies Belonging to the City of Stockholm
Authors: Sponbergs Peter
Published: March 2007

The article outlines characteristics of governance of companies owned by municipalities in Sweden and reports on the results of board evaluation of fifteen companies belonging to the city of Stockholm using gap analysis as a method. The contribution of the boards to a corporate governance model proposed in this article and to compliance with a Swedish code of best practice were analysed. Respondents were asked to answer questions about the importance of an issue and to what extent it had been carried out. Separate assessments of the role of the chairs and that of board members were made. Each of them evaluated the contribution of the other. An appraisal of the chair by the CEO was also included. The results show that board members had a good understanding of their duties, but there was a considerable gap with respect to their performance. Functions that are vital to corporate governance – strategy and control – gave low values. Only some board members took an active part in decisions. The boards’ task to follow up on terms of references also gave a low rating. The practice of committee work was not established, except for an executive committee. There was a lack of follow up on internal control. The performance of the chairs was evaluated to find clues to low ratings. Self assessment of the chair gave the largest gaps between importance and actual performance on answers regarding board leadership. Board members and CEOs gave the chairs constantly lower values than the chairs gave themselves. The results however indicate differences between boards with regard to their performance. The results can serve as a basis for discussions between chairs and board members about board performance. Implications for boards and for owners of companies are highlighted.
The Convergence of Disclosure and Governance Practices in the World’s Largest Firms*
Authors: Markarian Garen , Parbonetti Antonio , Previts Gary John
Published: March 2007

Many studies discuss convergence of cross‐border governance and governance‐related disclosure practices, but provide little empirical evidence to support their arguments and analysis. Our study examines the governance and disclosure practices of the world’s largest transnational firms. Using a unique dataset of 75 large firms in two time periods, 1995 and 2002, we examine both the governance practices, and disclosures regarding those governance practices, across Anglo‐Saxon and non‐Anglo‐Saxon firms. Results indicate that non‐Anglo‐Saxon firms have developed their governance practices towards promoting an independent mechanism of control, namely a mechanism that is more similar to an Anglo‐Saxon governance regime. In regard to governance‐related disclosure practices, results indicate that for both Anglo‐Saxon and non‐Anglo‐Saxon groups, disclosure practices have been evolving and converging towards more disclosures regarding governance matters.
Building a Corporate Governance Index from the Perspectives of Ownership and Leadership for Firms in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Anlin , Kao Lanfeng , Tsao Meilan , Wu Chinshun
Published: March 2007

This paper tests the relationship between ownership/leadership structures and stock returns for firms listed in Taiwan. A “Governance Index” is built based on four different aspects of the company’s governance structure: 1. CEO duality, 2. Size of the board of directors, 3. Managements’ holdings and 4. Block shareholders’ holding. This index is used as a proxy measure of the effectiveness of the corporate governance mechanism. We propose that firms under good governance should outperform those under poor governance. We find a striking relationship between our governance index and stock performance of firms. The results imply that our corporate governance index is successful in evaluating the effectiveness of the governance mechanism of firms in Taiwan.
The Pendulum Swings: The British Election of 1997
Authors: Harrop Martin
Published: March 2007

‘EVERY ELECTION GENERATES ITS OWN MYTHS, MYTHS ABOUT WHAT the politicians were saying, about what the electorate thought they were saying, and about what the electorate meant by its votes.’ Butler's and Kavanagh's comment on the 1979 election applies with even more force to the outcome in 1997. For when an opposition party secures an unexpectedly large victory, there is a seemingly insatiable demand for explanations which stress the positive appeal of the winners — and a corresponding tendency to understate the significance of disenchantment with the outgoing administration. Such myths become entrenched when, as in 1979 certainly and in 1997 probably, the election does turn out to represent a political turning-point. This article therefore applies a degree of deconstruction to the 1997 election. In the afterglow of Labour's famous victory, it is as well to remember that the campaign was rather humdrum. The outcome was predictable, the lengthy campaign had little impact on Labour's lead and turnout fell significantly. Even if the election does transpire to have initiated major change, there is precious little evidence to suggest that in 1997 (any more than in 1979) a large body of electors was voting with that end in mind. What voters intend, and what elections achieve, are two different things. If there is a lesson to be drawn from the 1997 election, it seems to be rather limited and obvious. When governments are divided and directionless, the pendulum swings.
Finer’s Comparative History of Government
Authors: Hayward J. E. S.
Published: March 2007

‘IF YOU WANT QUICK RESULTS, PLANT LETTUCE; ENDURING results take longer.’ So said Léon Walras, France's greatest nineteenth-century economist and predecessor at Lausanne of Pareto, whom Sammy Finer wrote about with admiration. Finer's last and greatest work in three volumes and over 1,600 pages will be published in May 1997 by Oxford University Press. Unlike his contemporary political scientists, Sammy Finer had the self-confidence and breadth of vision singlehandedly to take on an immense work and almost bring it to completion before death imposed its own premature conclusion. As a foretaste of its contents, the first Finer Memorial Lecture, delivered at the University of Keele on 10 May 1995, is published in this journal, with which he had an especially close affinity. It can only suggest, in the most succinct way, what is to come. I am confident that the study of comparative government will never be the same once the whole breathtaking work appears in all its magnitude.
The Separation of Powers in American Politics: Why We Fail to Accentuate the Positive
Authors: Zvesper Jhon
Published: March 2007

ONE OF THE FIRST THINGS THAT STUDENTS OF POLITICS IN THE USA learn is that the central organizing principle of the Constitution and of the political system is the separation of powers. Yet most students begin with – and few are encouraged to go beyond – a very one-sided view of that principle. For the most part, they are taught about the protective, controlling purposes rather than about the constructive, empowering purposes of the practice of separating governmental powers. They are always taught to appreciate power separation as a means of avoiding certain evils, but they are rarely taught to appreciate it as a means of attaining certain goods.
Politics in Brazil: Cardoso’s Government and the 1998 Re‐election
Authors: da Silva Simone Rodrigues , Kinzo Maria D'Alva
Published: March 2007

LAST YEAR, FOR THE FIRST TIME IN BRAZILIAN POLITICAL HISTORY, an election for the presidency of the Republic took place which permitted the current president to run for a second term. Although a practice widely adopted in the democratic world, re-election of a head of government was not authorized by the constitutions of all Latin American countries. This was due largely to its being perceived negatively, as a means of perpetuation in power – as a synonym for dictatorship. Only recently was it established in Peru, in Argentina and, last year, in Brazil, giving Messrs Fujimori, Menem and Cardoso a chance to run for and win a second term in office in their respective countries. In Brazil, the opposition accused the president in office of trying to maintain himself in power. However, the change resulted from congressional approval, in accordance with the constitution. Moreover, after having passed its first test last year, the re-election is already part of the established framework and taken as a fact of reality.
Developments in the Japanese Political Economy since the mid‐1980s: The Second Attempt at Neoliberal Reform and its Aftermath
Authors: Otake Hideo
Published: March 2007

THE DECADE FROM THE LATE 1970s TO THE LATE 1980S, WHICH BEGAN with the birth of the Thatcher and Reagan administrations and concluded with the fall of communist regimes throughout Russia and Eastern Europe, and the concurrent rise of the Asian NIES states, was the renaissance era of laissez-faire economic liberalism or neoliberalism. ‘Privatization’, ‘deregulation’, and ‘small government’ became popular slogans globally, borrowed heavily from the policy proposals of neoliberal economists such as Milton Friedman and Friedrich Hayek. It was best manifested in the world-wide trend towards privatization, involving more than one hundred countries.
Effect of Disinfection Treatments on the Hardness of Soft Denture Liner Materials
Authors: Pavan Sabrina , Arioli Filho João Neudenir , Dos Santos Paulo Henrique , Nogueira Sérgio Sualdini , Batista André Ulisses Dantas
Published: March 2007

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of disinfection treatments with chemical solutions (2% glutaraldehyde, 5% sodium hypochlorite, and 5% chlorhexidine) and microwave energy on the hardness of four long‐term soft denture liners.

Materials and Methods:
Forty rectangular specimens of four soft lining materials (Molloplast‐B, Ufi Gel P, Eversoft, and Mucopren soft) were made for each material. Ten samples of each material were immersed in different disinfectant solutions for 10 minutes or placed in a microwave oven for 3 minutes at 500 W. The hardness values were obtained with a Shore A durometer, before the first disinfection cycle (control), and also after two cycles of disinfection. Data were submitted to analysis of variance and Tukey's test (p < 0.01).

Results: The highest value of hardness was obtained for Molloplast‐B, independent of the disinfection technique. Mucopren soft demonstrated intermediate values and Ufi Gel P and Eversoft the lowest values of Shore A hardness. For Molloplast‐B, the disinfection using glutaraldehyde demonstrated the highest value of hardness. The number of disinfections had no effect on the hardness values for all the materials studied and disinfection techniques.

Conclusions

:

The application of two disinfection cycles did not change the Shore A hardness values for all the materials. The glutaraldehyde solution demonstrated the highest values of Shore A hardness for the Molloplast‐B, Mucopren soft, and Ufi Gel P materials, while Eversoft did not present any differences in hardness when submitted to different disinfection treatments.
Morphogenesis of the Freshwater Ciliate Neokeronopsis spectabilis (Kahl 1932) Warren et al., 2002, Based on a China Population (Ciliophora: Urostylidae)
Authors: WANG RUIQING , QIU ZIJIAN , CHEN JING , WARREN ALAN , SONG WEIBO
Published: March 2007

ABSTRACT. The morphogenesis of the stichotrichous ciliate, Neokeronopsis spectabilis, collected from a freshwater pond near Harbin, north China, was observed following protargol impregnation. The overall morphogenetic events are characterized by: (1) the new oral primordium originates in association with the transverse cirri; (2) the proter's undulating membrane anlage is formed following the dedifferentiation of the parental endoral and paroral membranes, while the old adoral zone of membranelles is retained; (3) the fronto‐ventral‐transverse cirral anlagen originate independently on the right of the proter's undulating membrane anlage; (4) the left and right marginal cirri are derived from new anlagen that originate within the old marginal rows; (5) the generation of the dorsal kineties is of the “two‐group‐mode” with fragmentation and hence an oxytrichid pattern; and (6) similar to that in oxytrichids, the caudal cirri are formed at the posterior ends of the rightmost and two leftmost kineties of the group 1. Some new morphological data for N. spectabilis are also presented and the systematic position of the genus Neokeronopsis is briefly discussed. We conclude that its position among the urostylids is peripheral and that it very likely represents an intermediate form between the oxytrichids and urostylids.
Prognostic value of serum angiogenic activity in colorectal cancer patients
Authors: Gonzalez Francisco‐Jesus , Quesada Ana‐Rodriguez , Sevilla Isabel , Baca Juan‐Javier , Medina Miguel‐Angel , Amores Jose , Diaz Juan Miguel , Rius‐Diaz Francisca , Marques Eduardo , Alba Emilio
Published: March 2007

Angiogenesis, resulting from an imbalance between angiogenic activator factors and inhibitors, is required for tumour growth and metastasis. The determination of the circulating concentration of all angiogenic factors (activators and inhibitors) is not feasible at present. We have evaluated diagnostic and prognostic values of the measurement of serum angiogenic activity in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) patients. Serum proliferative activity (PA) on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in vitro, and serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels were determined by ELISA in 53 patients with primary CRC, 16 subjects with non‐neoplastic gastrointestinal disease (SC) and 34 healthy individuals. Data were compared with clinical outcome of the patients. Although serum from CRC patients significantly increased the PA of HUVEC, compared to culture control (HUVEC in medium + 10% foetal bovine serum (FBS); P < 0.001); our results indicate that serum PA in CRC patients was similar to that of SC or healthy individuals. There was no correlation between serum PA and circulating VEGF concentrations. Surgery produced a decrease of PA at 8 hrs after tumour resection in CRC patients compared to pre‐surgery values (186 ± 47 versus 213 ± 41, P < 0.001). However, an increase in serum VEGF values was observed after surgery (280 [176–450] versus 251 [160–357] pg/ml, P = 0.004). Patients with lower PA values after surgery showed a worse outcome that those with higher PA values. Therefore, this study does not support a diagnostic value for serum angiogenic activity measured by proliferative activity on HUVEC but suggests it could have a prognostic value in CRC patients.
Progressive oxidation of cytoskeletal proteins and accumulation of denatured hemoglobin in stored red cells
Authors: Kriebardis Anastasios G. , Antonelou Marianna H. , Stamoulis Konstantinos E. , Economou‐Petersen Effrosini , Margaritis Lukas H. , Papassideri Issidora S.
Published: March 2007

Red blood cell (RBC) membrane proteins undergo progressive pathological alterations during storage. In conditions of increased cellular stress, the cytoskeleton also sustains certain modifications. The hemoglobin (Hb) content and oxidative status of the RBC cytoskeletons as a function of the storage period remain unclear. The possible Hb content and oxidative alterations occurring in the cytoskeletons in the course of storage were monitored in six units, by means of electrophoresis, immunoblotting and protein carbonylation assays. A proportion of the ghost‐bound Hb consists of non‐reducible crosslinkings of probably oxidized(denatured Hb or hemichromes.The defective Hb‐membrane association was strongly affected by the prolonged storage. A progressive accumulation of Hb monomers, multimers and high molecular weight aggregates to corresponding cytoskeletons were also evident. The oxidative index of the cytoskeletal proteins was found increased, signalizing oxidative modifications in spectrin and possibly other cytoskeletal proteins. The reported data corroborate the evidence for oxidative damage in membrane proteins with emphasis to the cytoskeletal components. They partially address the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the RBC storage lesion, add some new insight in the field of RBC storage as a hemoglobin‐ and cytoskeleton‐associated pathology and suggest the possible use of antioxidants in the units intended for transfusion.
Effects of Thalidomide on Isoprenaline‐Induced Acute Myocardial Injury: A Haemodynamic, Histopathological and Ultrastructural Study
Authors: Loh Harish K. , Sahoo Kanhei C. , Kishore Kamal , Ray Ruma , Nag Tapas C. , Kumari Santosh , Arya Dharamvir S.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  In the present study, we investigated the cardioprotective effects of thalidomide in a rat model of acute myocardial injury, induced by subcutaneous injection of isoprenaline hemisulphate (85 mg/kg per day for 2 days). Thalidomide (75/150/300 mg/kg) or vehicle (dimethylsulphoxide) or saline (0.9% NaCl) was administered orally for 14 days and isoprenaline injection on the 12th and 13th days. Cardiovascular responses (arterial and left ventricular haemodynamic parameters and heart rate) were obtained in anaesthetized rats on the 14th day. Histopathological and electronmicroscopical analysis of myocardial injury was done. The results showed that thalidomide 300 mg/kg per day orally caused significant improvement in isoprenaline‐induced reduction of cardiac function with increases in maximum rate of pressure development (+LVdP/dt, P < 0.001) and maximum rate of pressure decline (–LVdP/dt, P < 0.001) and decreases in left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure (P < 0.01), systolic arterial pressure (P < 0.001), diastolic arterial pressure (P < 0.001), mean arterial pressure (P < 0.001) and heart rate (P < 0.001). The myocardial injury caused by isoprenaline was significantly reduced by thalidomide treatment as judged by the reduction of myocardial necrosis, ultrastructural changes such as mitochondria and myofibril damage, 300 mg/kg being the most effective dose. In conclusion, oral administration of thalidomide is able to ameliorate isoprenaline‐induced myocardial injury and impaired myocardial function in spite of decreases in systolic arterial pressure, diastolic arterial pressure and mean arterial pressure, which may be due to its depressant effect on the sino‐atrial node and sedative action.
Glucose‐Based PD Solution, But Not Icodextrin‐Based PD Solution, Induces Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor‐1 and Tissue‐Type Plasminogen Activator in Human Peritoneal Mesothelial Cells via ERK1/2
Authors: Katsutani Masahira , Ito Takafumi , Masaki Takao , Kohno Nobuoki , Yorioka Noriaki
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Peritoneal dialysis (PD) solutions containing glucose are considered to cause peritoneal fibrosis. Plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) and tissue‐type plasminogen activator (t‐PA) participate in fibrogenesis of various organs, and human peritoneal mesothelial cells (HPMC) can produce PAI‐1 and t‐PA following glucose stimulation. Icodextrin has been widely used as an alternative osmotic agent. In this study, we investigated whether icodextrin‐based PD solution reduced the production of PAI‐1 and t‐PA by HPMC. We also examined the involvement of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2). Glucose‐based PD solutions increased the production of PAI‐1 and t‐PA by HPMC, whereas icodextrin‐based PD solution exerted lesser effects. Glucose‐based PD solutions activated ERK1/2, and PD98059 inhibited the production of PAI‐1 and t‐PA—responses not observed with icodextrin‐based PD solution. In conclusion, glucose‐based PD solutions, unlike icodextrin‐based PD solution, induce overproduction of PAI‐1 and t‐PA via the ERK1/2 pathway.
Application of High Spatial Resolution Laser Ablation ICP‐MS to Crystal‐Melt Trace Element Partition Coefficient Determination
Authors: Petrelli Maurizio , Caricchi Luca , Ulmer Peter
Published: March 2007

In this contribution we evaluate the capabilities of laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) using a 12 μm spot size. Precision, accuracy and detection limits were assessed on the USGS BCR‐2G reference material. We demonstrate that the 12 μm LA‐ICP‐MS analyses of experimentally‐grown amphibole and garnet are in excellent agreement with secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) trace element determinations on the same crystals. The 12 μm spot size configuration was subsequently used to determine trace element crystal‐melt partition coefficients (Dc/m) for a wide range of trace elements in amphibole in equilibrium with a basanitic melt. The following strategy to determine accurately and evaluate Dc/m is proposed. One or more major elements determined previously by electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) was used to ensure consistency between EPMA and the composition of the aerosol produced by the laser ablation. Measured Dc/m values were successively evaluated using the lattice strain model. The use of this strategy significantly improved the precision and accuracy of Dc/m determination when a LA‐ICP‐MS configuration with a high spatial resolution was employed.
Stream Temperature Surges Under Urbanization and Climate Change: Data, Models, and Responses1
Authors: Nelson Kären C. , Palmer Margaret A.
Published: March 2007

ABSTRACT: Multiple anthropogenic stressors, including increased watershed imperviousness, destruction of the riparian vegetation, increased siltation, and changes in climate, will impact streams over the coming century. These stressors will alter water temperature, thus influencing ecological processes and stream biota. Quantitative tools are needed to predict the magnitude and direction of altered thermal regimes. Here, empirical relationships were derived to complement a simple model of in‐stream temperature [developed by Caissie et al. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering25 (1998) 250; Journal of Hydrology251 (2001) 14], including seasonal temperature shifts linked to land use, and temperature surges linked to localized rainstorms; surges in temperature averaged about 3.5°C and dissipated over about 3 h. These temperature surges occurred frequently at the most urbanized sites (up to 10% of summer days) and could briefly increase maximum temperature by >7°C. The combination of empirical relationships and model show that headwater streams may be more pervasively impacted by urbanization than by climate change, although the two stressors reinforce each other. A profound community shift, from common cold and coolwater species to some of the many warmwater species currently present in smaller numbers, may be expected, as shown by a count of days on which temperature exceeds the “good growth” range for coldwater species.
Effect of Disabled Fastening Systems and Ballast on Vehicle Derailment
Authors: Xiao Xinbiao , Jin Xuesong , Wen Zefeng
Published: March 2007

The effect of disabled fastening systems and ballast on railway vehicle derailment is investigated by developing a nonsymmetrical coupled vehicle/track model. In the model a half passenger car is considered, and modeled with a multi-body system with 18 degrees of freedom, which runs on a tangent track at a constant speed. The tangent track is modeled as two elastic beams by discrete nonsymmetrical supporters modeling fastening systems, sleepers, and ballasts. The normal contact forces between wheels and rails are described by Hertzian elastic contact theory, and the tangential forces by the nonlinear creep theory of Shen et al. (Proceedings of the 8th IAVSD Symposium, Cambridge, MA, pp. 591–605). In the numerical analysis, the disabled rail fastening, rail pad, and ballast, on one and two sides of the track are, respectively, considered. Through a detailed analysis, derailment coefficients and the track state variations are obtained. The derailment coefficients are defined as the ratio of the lateral force to the vertical force of the wheel and rail (indicated by L∕V), duration of L∕V, and rate of the wheel load reduction (indicated by ΔV∕V), respectively. The variations of the contact points on the wheel treads, the track gauge, the track cross-level, and rail turnover angle are present in the paper. The numerical results obtained indicate that the failure of rail supports has a great influence on the vehicle running safety.