bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arteriovenous fistula as stable venous access in children with severe haemophilia
Authors: MANCUSO M. E. , BERARDINELLI L.
Published: January 2010

Summary.  Treatment for children with severe haemophilia is based on prophylaxis and, if inhibitors occur, on immune tolerance induction (ITI). Both regimens require frequent infusions at early ages and therefore an adequate venous access is essential. Peripheral veins represent the best option; however, central venous catheters (CVCs) have been used to facilitate regular treatment. Unfortunately, survival of CVCs is affected by infectious and/or thrombotic complications that often lead to premature removal and consequent treatment discontinuation. This aspect may have an impact on treatment outcome, especially in the case of ITI. In light of this, internal arteriovenous fistula (AVF) has been proposed as an alternative option because of a lower rate of infectious complications. Moreover, AVF is easy to use in the home setting and is well accepted by children and parents. The possible complications are postoperative haematoma and transient symptoms of distal ischaemia; one case of symptomatic thrombosis has been reported to date. Other complications include loss of patency, aneurysmatic dilatation and limb dysmetria. A regular follow‐up is mandatory to allow early remedial interventions. Surgical AVF dismantlement is recommended as soon as transition to peripheral vein access is possible.
Emerging and re‐emerging infections at the turn of the millennium
Authors: ZANETTI A. R. , ZAPPA A.
Published: January 2010

Summary.  After World War II, mankind believed that infectious diseases were on the way to being defeated. Unfortunately, they still are the second worldwide cause of death. Globalization changes promote the emergence of new infections and pandemics; international deliveries and travelling facilitate the dissemination of infectious agents; man‐induced environmental changes create new opportunities for contacts between species, leading to infections in aberrant hosts, including man; global warming enables insects, a major vector of pathogens, to thrive in more countries. The main pandemics have been caused by viruses, such as HIV and novel subtypes of influenza viruses. In addition, prion proteins are a threat. The transmission of the Creutzfeld Jakob disease variant through blood transfusion and the recent discovery of prion protein in the spleen of a haemophilia patient are a matter of further concern. The end of the war against infectious diseases is not in sight. Mankind’s battle with pathogens has lasted millennia and is destined to continue.
The effects of an in utero exposure to 2,3,7,8‐tetrachloro‐dibenzo‐p‐dioxin on male reproductive function: identification of Ccl5 as a potential marker
Authors: Rebourcet D. , Odet F. , Vérot A. , Combe E. , Meugnier E. , Pesenti S. , Leduque P. , Déchaud H. , Magre S. , Le Magueresse‐Battistoni B.
Published: January 2010

2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin (TCDD) and dioxin‐like compounds are widely encountered toxic substances suspected of interfering with the endocrine systems of humans and wildlife, and of contributing to the loss of fertility. In this study, we determined the changes in testicular gene expression caused by in utero exposure to TCDD along with the intra‐testicular testosterone levels, epididymal sperm reserves, daily sperm production (DSP) and testis histology. To this purpose, female pregnant Sprague–Dawley rats orally received TCDD (10, 100 or 200 ng/kg body weight) or vehicle at embryonic day 15, and the offspring was killed throughout development. Hepatic Cyp1a1 gene expression was measured in the offspring to confirm the exposure to TCDD. The gross histology of the testes and intra‐testicular testosterone levels were normal among the studied groups. Sperm reserves were altered in 67‐day‐old rats of the TCDD‐200 group, but not in 145‐day‐old animals or in the other TCDD‐exposed groups. Nonetheless, fertility was not altered in males of the TCDD‐200 group, and the F2 males generated had normal sperm reserves and DSP. Microarray analysis permitted the identification of eight differentially expressed genes in the 4‐week‐old testes of the TCDD‐200 compared with that of the control group (cut‐off value ± 1.40), including the down‐regulated chemokine Ccl5/Rantes. Inhibition of Ccl5/Rantes gene expression was observed throughout development in the TCDD‐200 group, and at 67 and 145 days in the TCDD‐100 group (animals of younger ages were not examined). Ccl5/Rantes gene expression was mostly confined in Leydig cells. F2 males generated from males of the TCDD‐200 group had normal levels of Ccl5/Rantes in testis and Cyp1a1 in liver, which might indicate that Ccl5/Rantes is a marker of TCDD exposure in testis such as Cyp1a1 in liver. In conclusion, we demonstrated a decrease in Ccl5/Rantes RNA levels and a transitory decline in sperm reserves in the testes of rats of TCDD‐dosed dams.
Phthalate exposure and asthma in children
Authors: Bornehag C. G. , Nanberg E.
Published: January 2010

During the last decades more than 100 000 new chemicals have been introduced to the environment. Many of these new chemicals and many common consumer products that include these have been shown to be toxic in animal studies and an increasing body of evidence suggests that they are also impacting human health. Among the suspect chemicals, the endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are of particular concern. One such chemical group is the phthalates, used in soft poly vinyl chloride (PVC) material and in a huge number of consumer products. During the same period of time that the prevalence of these modern chemicals has increased, there has been a remarkable increase in several chronic illnesses, including asthma and allergy in children. In this article we outline the scientific knowledge on phthalate exposure for asthma and airway diseases in children by examining epidemiological and experimental peer review data for potential explanatory mechanisms. Epidemiological data point to a possible correlation between phthalate exposure and asthma and airway diseases in children. Experimental studies present support for an adjuvant effect on basic mechanisms in allergic sensitization by several phthalates. Despite variations in the experimental design and reported result in the individual studies, a majority of published reports have identified adjuvant effects on Th2 differentiation, production of Th2 cytokines and enhanced levels of Th2 promoted immunoglobulins (mainly IgG1 but also IgE) in mice. A limited amount of data do also suggest phthalate‐induced enhancement of mast cell degranulation and eosinophilic infiltration which are important parts in the early inflammation phase. Thus, some of the early key mechanisms in the pathology of allergic asthma could possibly be targeted by phthalate exposure. But the important questions of clinical relevance of real life exposure and identification of molecular targets that can explain interactions largely remain to be answered.
Prospective association of low serum total testosterone levels with health care utilization and costs in a population‐based cohort of men
Authors: Haring R. , Baumeister S. E. , Völzke H. , Kohlmann T. , Marschall P. , Flessa S. , Nauck M. , Wallaschofski H.
Published: January 2010

Despite the burgeoning interest in the field of andrology, no studies have specifically addressed the impact of serum testosterone levels on healthcare utilization and costs. We analysed data from the population‐based cohort Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP), Germany, to assess the association of serum testosterone levels with self‐reported health care utilization and costs at baseline and at 5 years follow up. Study sample comprised 2023 men at baseline, of whom 1530 men were repeatedly examined. Low and high serum testosterone levels, defined according to the age‐specific 10th and 90th percentile, were compared with reference subjects with serum testosterone levels ≥10th −≤90th percentile. Two‐part econometric models were applied adjusting for socio‐economic and medical confounders.

Cross‐sectional models revealed higher numbers of outpatient visits and higher costs for both, men with low (+19.1 and +19.9%, respectively) and high serum testosterone levels (+25.3 and +30.2%, respectively), whereas number of inpatient days and costs were not associated with serum testosterone levels. Adjustment for age, educational level, income, waist circumference, smoking status, physical activity and alcohol consumption did not considerably alter the results. Longitudinal models revealed a significant association of low serum testosterone levels with increased number of follow‐up outpatient visits (age‐adjusted: +28.6%) and costs (+38.0%) only. Low and high serum testosterone levels were associated with increased short‐term outpatient health care costs, whereas low serum testosterone levels appear to be predictive of long‐term outpatient health care costs. Cost‐effectiveness studies of available treatments are necessary to identify benefits for physicians, patients and health care system as a whole.
Temporal and anatomical sensitivities to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin leading to premature acyclicity with age in rats
Authors: Jablonska O. , Shi Z. , Valdez K. E. , Ting A. Y. , Petroff B. K.
Published: January 2010

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand‐activated transcription factor that mediates diverse dioxin toxicities. While the acute effects of activation of the AhR pathway by 2,3,7,8‐tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin (TCDD) have been a focus of past study, the role of this pathway in normal physiology and ageing is unclear. The purpose of this study was to identify the portion of the reproductive axis [ovary vs. hypothalamus and pituitary gland (H‐H axis)] and the stages of the reproductive lifespan (foetal and early post‐natal life vs. adolescence and adulthood) that are particularly sensitive to the effects of TCDD during female reproductive ageing. Adult pregnant Lewis rat dams were dosed with corn oil vehicle or TCDD (50 ng/kg‐week by gavage) on days 14 and 21 of gestation and post‐natal days 7 and 14 to provide in utero and lactational (IUL) exposure to pups. Female pups (n = 96) were weaned on post‐natal day 21 and dosed with TCDD or vehicle weekly. Half of the pups were used as donors for ovary transplantation while the remainder were recipients. Following ovary transplantation, rats (n = 6–8 per group) received weekly TCDD or vehicle again until sacrifice at 8 months of age. Beginning at vaginal opening, reproductive cycles were monitored by vaginal cytology for 10 days each month. Blood samples were collected at 22.00 h on proestrus to measure concentration of 17β‐oestradiol in serum. Real‐time PCR was used to determine differences in Cyp1a1, Cyp19a1, Cyp17a1, LH receptor (LHR), FoxA2 and FoxJ1 genes expression between control and remaining groups. IUL exposure of the H‐H axis plus adult exposure of the whole body to TCDD significantly delayed puberty in females rats. Data analysis revealed an accelerated onset of acyclicity by 5 months in all groups involving IUL exposure of the developing ovary to TCDD. 17β‐oestradiol was significantly decreased in animals receiving TCDD during IUL exposure of the H–H axis. CYP1a1 expression was markedly greater in the liver than in ovarian tissue and correlated with ongoing TCDD exposure. Aromatase, 17α‐hydroxylase and LHR gene expressions were largely unchanged (or occasionally elevated) by TCDD. FoxA2 and FoxJ1 mRNAs were similarly of limited value mechanistically, although FoxJ1 was much higher in TTT females (receiving TCDD as donor, recipient and adult). This study reveals a particular sensitivity of the developing ovary to TCDD leading to early loss of reproductive function with age.
Catalase can protect spermatozoa of FSH receptor knock‐out mice against oxidant‐induced DNA damage in vitro
Authors: Libman J. , Gabriel M. S. , Sairam M. R. , Zini A.
Published: January 2010

The aetiology of sperm DNA damage is likely multi‐factorial with abnormal compaction of nuclear DNA, abortive apoptosis and oxidative stress implicated as potential causes of DNA damage. The objective of this study was to evaluate DNA damage in spermatozoa from wild‐type (WT) and FSH receptor knock‐out (FORKO) mice, compare the relative susceptibility of spermatozoa from these animals to oxidative DNA damage, and examine the protective effect of the antioxidant catalase on sperm DNA damage. Epididymal spermatozoa from FORKO mice (n = 5) and WT controls (n = 5) were extracted and incubated with or without catalase. Sperm DNA damage was assessed immediately after epididymal extraction (time 0 control) and following 2‐h incubation at 37 °C. DNA damage was measured by the sperm chromatin structure assay and the results expressed as the %DNA fragmentation index or %DFI. Freshly retrieved epididymal spermatozoa from WT mice had a significantly lower mean (±SD) %DFI than that of FORKO mice (2.7 ± 1.8 vs. 6.4 ± 2.9%, p < 0.05). Prolonged (2‐h) incubation of FORKO mice spermatozoa resulted in a significant increase in %DFI compared with the time 0 control (17.9 ± 9.2% vs. 6.4 ± 2.9%, respectively, p < 0.05) and the addition of catalase protected these spermatozoa from DNA damage (9.8 ± 4.1 vs. 17.9 ± 9.2%, respectively, p < 0.05). However, incubation of WT mice spermatozoa did not increase %DFI significantly (5.8 ± 5.0 vs. 2.7 ± 1.8, respectively, p > 0.05) and the addition of catalase (vs. no catalase) did not result in a significant reduction in %DFI (5.8 ± 5.0 vs. 7.7 ± 6.5%, respectively, p > 0.05). These data indicate that catalase may protect sperm nuclear DNA from oxidative stress in vitro. The data also demonstrate the differential susceptibility of WT and FORKO mice spermatozoa to oxidative stress.
Relationships between growth and disease resistance in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum)
Authors: Overturf K , LaPatra S , Towner R , Campbell N , Narum S
Published: January 2010

Rainbow trout from 23 families were evaluated for growth and resistance to the bacterial coldwater disease (BCWD) caused by Flavobacterium psychrophilum and infectious haematopoietic necrosis (IHN) caused by IHN virus. Average family weights were between 161 and 263 g with an average of 225 g at 213 days post‐fertilization with specific growth rates ranging from 2.37 to 2.88. Per cent survival of fish challenged with F. psychrophilum was between 18% and 100%, while for those challenged with IHNV, the range was between 12% and 93%. Significant positive correlations were found for end body weight and resistance to IHN (P < 0.05) and for early body weight and resistance to BCWD (P < 0.1). However, no significant correlations were detected between resistance to both pathogens or disease resistance and overall genetic diversity or diversity within the major histocompatibility locus.
Regulation of morphological differentiation in S. coelicolor by RNase III (AbsB) cleavage of mRNA encoding the AdpA transcription factor
Authors: Xu Weijing , Huang Jianqiang , Lin Richard , Shi Jing , Cohen Stanley N.
Published: January 2010

RNase III family enzymes, which are perhaps the most widely conserved of all ribonucleases, are known primarily for their role in the processing and maturation of small RNAs. The RNase III gene of Streptomyces coelicolor, which was discovered initially as a global regulator of antibiotic production in this developmentally complex bacterial species and named absB (antibiotic biosynthesis gene B), has subsequently also been found to modulate the cellular abundance of multiple messenger RNAs implicated in morphological differentiation. We report here that regulation of differentiation‐related mRNAs by the S. coelicolor AbsB/RNase III enzyme occurs largely by ribonucleolytic cleavage of transcripts encoding the pleiotropic transcription factor, AdpA, and that AdpA and AbsB participate in a novel feedback‐control loop that reciprocally regulates the cellular levels of both proteins. Our results reveal a previously unsuspected mechanism for global ribonuclease‐mediated control of gene expression in streptomycetes.
A review of the morphologically diverse leafhopper subfamily Stegelytrinae (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) with description of new taxa
Authors: WEI CONG , WEBB MICHAEL D. , ZHANG YALIN
Published: January 2010

Abstract. The morphologically diverse leafhopper subfamily Stegelytrinae is reviewed and its biology and biogeography are discussed as well as its classification, monophyly and relationship to Deltocephalinae s.l. In addition, the first stegelytrine is recorded east of Wallace's and Weber's lines, extending the distribution of the subfamily outside the Oriental and Palaearctic regions. A checklist and key to the genera of the subfamily are given. The following new genera and species are described: Honguchia rubrofascia Wei & Webb, gen.n & sp.n. from Sabah; H. superba Wei & Webb, sp.n. from Sumatra; Yaontogonia flavopicta Wei & Webb, gen.n & sp.n. from Brunei and Sabah; Y. darjeelingensis Wei & Webb, sp. n. from West Bengal; Sychentia breviata Wei & Webb, gen.n & sp.n. from Malaysia; Louangana stellata Wei & Webb, gen.n & sp.n. from Laos; Shangonia sarawakensis Wei & Webb, gen.n & sp.n. from Sarawak; Quiontugia fuscomaculata Wei & Zhang, gen.n. & sp.n. from Hainan; and Neophansia wallacei Wei & Webb, gen.n & sp.n. from New Guinea.
Phylogeny and revision of the Neotropical bee genus Rhectomia s.l. Moure (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Augochlorini)
Authors: GONÇALVES RODRIGO B.
Published: January 2010

Abstract. This paper revises the bees currently considered to belong to the genus Rhectomia s.l. and proposes a species phylogeny based on morphological characters, using other Corynurina as outgroups. The results indicate that Rhinocorynura Schrottky renders Rhectomia s.l. paraphyletic. Consequently, Corynurella is removed from synonymy with Rhectomia s.s., and Paracorynurellagen.n. is proposed. The topology among these genera is: outgroup [(Rhectomia s.s. + Rhinocorynura) (Paracorynurellagen.n. + Corynurella)]. Nine species are assigned to Corynurella: C. brokopondoisp.n., C. caeruleasp.n., C. cognatasp.n., C. decorasp.n., C. harrisoni (Engel), C. mourei Eickwort, C. nigrasp.n., C. singularissp.n. and C. triangulatasp.n. Three new species are described in Paracorynurellagen.n.: type species P. betoisp.n., P. excavatasp.n., P. reticulatasp.n.; P. difficillima (Ducke) comb.n. is transferred from Rhinocorynura. Three species are recognized in Rhectomia s.s.: R. catarinasp.n., R. liebherri Engel and R. pumilla Moure. The male of R. liebherri is described for the first time. Keys for the identification of the genera and species are provided.
Non‐jumping plant‐lice in Cretaceous amber (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Psylloidea)
Authors: OUVRARD DAVID , BURCKHARDT DANIEL , AZAR DANY , GRIMALDI DAVID
Published: January 2010

Abstract.Liadopsylla apedeticasp.n.Ouvrard, Burckhardt & Azar andL. hesperiasp.n.Ouvrard & Burckhardt are described from Lebanon and New Jersey amber, respectively, constituting the first descriptions of Psylloidea preserved in Cretaceous amber.Liadopsylla hesperiais the first representative of Liadopsyllidae found in the New World.Liadopsylla apedeticais remarkably well preserved, showing conical, mobile metacoxae. This suggests that Liadopsyllidae did not jump the way extant psyllids do. It is proposed that enlarged metacoxae fused with the complex metathoracic furcae constitute a synapomorphy of extant Psylloidea. This trait was first observed in fossils from the Eocene. As such, the inability to jump in a few extant members of Psylloidea is a secondary loss that probably occurred several times independently. The families Liadopsyllidae and Malmopsyllidae are also redefined; within Liadopsyllidae, the genusMesopsyllais synonymized withLiadopsylla. The origin and palaeobiogeography of the Liadopsyllidae are briefly discussed.
Arsenic Stress in Plants
Authors: Panda S. K. , Upadhyay R. K. , Nath S.
Published: January 2010

Being a toxic metalloid and group I carcinogen, Arsenic (As) poses a threat to plants, especially to crops which are consumed by human beings, and sooner or later results in hyper/hypopigmentation and skin cancer. It is a well‐known fact that South‐East Asia is suffering from groundwater As contamination, and according to a recent report, the contamination has been found also in Hungary, Mexico, Argentina, Australia, United States, etc. Thus, As contamination has become a global problem. As is toxic even at low concentration because it has no known function as nutrients. Arsenite (III) and arsenate (V) are the main phytoavailable forms of inorganic arsenic. Being analogous to phosphate, As(V) is transported by a phosphate‐cotransport system in plants, whereas As(III) is transported through ‘OsNIP2.1’ (member of aquaporin superfamily) in rice. Besides, ‘AsSe1’ (As‐accumulation gene), ‘AsTol’ (As‐tolerance gene) and ‘OsACR2.1’ (an arsenate reductase gene) have also been identified. The production of phytochelatins (PCs), a metal‐binding thiol peptide, in response to As stress may hold a way of proper As tolerance in plants but still needs a thorough study. However, with the proper knowledge of arsenic speciation, transportation, accumulation, overexpression in crop plants may result in ways to develop arsenic tolerant transgenics.
Clinical relevance of single administration of prophylactic antimicrobial agents against febrile events after removal of ureteral stents for patients with urinary diversion or reconstruction
Authors: Hashimoto Jiro , Takahashi Satoshi , Kurimura Yuichiro , Takeyama Koh , Kunishima Yasuharu , Tsukamoto Taiji
Published: January 2010

Objective:  To assess the efficacy of antimicrobial prophylaxis when removing ureteral stents after urinary diversion or reconstruction and to establish the most appropriate prophylactic protocol to prevent febrile events.

Methods:  We retrospectively investigated the incidence of febrile events in the two studies. Study 1 consisted of 39 patients who received antimicrobial prophylaxis and 31 who did not. Study 2 included 48 patients who were given oral fluoroquinolone (FQ) and 27 who had intramuscular injection of an aminoglycoside (AG).

Results:  In study 1, the incidence of febrile events was significantly lower in patients receiving antimicrobial prophylaxis (26.0%) than in those not receiving it (51.6%) (P = 0.025, χ2 test). In study 2 there was a 13% incidence of febrile events, which was much lower than the incidence found in study 1. The incidence of these events was similar between the two study groups, being 13% for those receiving FQ and 15% for those receiving AG.

Conclusions:  Prophylactic administration of antimicrobials reduces the incidence of febrile events after removal of ureteral stents. Both FQ and the AG are equally effective in this setting.
Advances in the management of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Grimpen F. , Pavli P.
Published: January 2010

Our understanding of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is constantly evolving, and many new treatment options have emerged recently. This review critically examines the evidence for these new developments and aims to provide an overview for medical professionals involved in the care of patients with IBD. Proposed changes in the use of aminosalicylates, immunosuppressants and biological agents are described, and the evidence for several promising novel agents is reviewed.
Long‐term community non‐invasive ventilation
Authors: Chang A. Y. , Marsh S. , Smith N. , Neill A.
Published: January 2010

Background:  Community non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) is increasingly used to treat chronic type 2 respiratory failure. Minimal information is published regarding patient acceptability or benefit. Records at our institution have information gaps.

Aims:  To survey patients on chronic NIV – collecting demographics, ventilator usage, health‐related quality of life, adequacy of service provision and compare with clinical best practice.

Methods:  Audit tool developed and results analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results:  Of 73 patients identified, 45 (62%, mean age 55 years) completed the study. Obesity hypoventilation (37%) and overlap syndrome (22%) were the commonest indications. Reported compliance was high (96% using nocturnal NIV, mean 7.2 h) with 75% on treatment ≥2 years. Most patients lived at home (77%) and although one‐third received home care, one‐half were working. Nearly all (98%) report positive responses, including improved sleep and energy (83%), breathing (42%), driving or work (18%). Most (62%) have not been in hospital in the last 12 months. Negative aspects included practical issues with machine or mask, loss of intimacy and gaps in patient follow up. The provision of practical information, access to well‐informed staff and the establishment of support networks were suggestions for service improvement.

Conclusion:  NIV provides a range of symptomatic benefits and maintains patients in the community with a reasonably good quality of life. To ensure a high level of care and patient satisfaction, several service areas warranting further development were identified. Our results should help promote this highly effective therapy and aid the development of Australasian NIV service guidelines.
Face scanning distinguishes social from communication impairments in autism
Authors: Falck‐Ytter Terje , Fernell Elisabeth , Gillberg Christopher , Von Hofsten Claes
Published: January 2010

How closely related are the social and communicative impairments in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Recent findings in typically developing children suggest that both types of impairment are highly heritable but have only moderate behavioural and genetic overlap. So far, their respective roles in social perception are poorly understood. Here we show that when looking at other people’s faces, children with ASD who are better at socio‐emotional behaviours than non‐verbal communication look more at the eyes, while those with the opposite profile look more at the mouth (Study 1). For the mouth area, a similar pattern was observed for inverted faces, suggesting that information from this area is perceived on a featural basis. In Study 2, we found that when shown a person performing manual actions, ‘eye‐lookers’ from Study 1 tended to look most at the face of the actor, while ‘mouth‐lookers’ from Study 1 tended to look at the action itself (hand/objects). This result was found in both ASD and typical development. In Study 3, the main finding in Study 1 was replicated in a new sample. Taken together, we interpret these results as supporting the view that the neural systems underlying socio‐emotional versus non‐verbal communication skills are separable, a finding that has important theoretical and clinical implications. The results also suggest that a similar differentiation of looking behaviour may operate in normal development.
MEASUREMENT AND DETERMINANTS OF EFFICIENCY AND PRODUCTIVITY IN THE FURTHER EDUCATION SECTOR IN ENGLAND
Authors: Bradley Steve , Johnes Jill , Little Allan
Published: January 2010

This study uses data for nearly 200 further education providers in England to investigate the level of efficiency and change in productivity over the period 1999–2003. Using data envelopment analysis we find that the mean provider efficiency varies between 83 and 90 percent over the period. Productivity change over the period was around 12 percent, and this comprised 8 percent technology change and 4 percent technical efficiency change. A multivariate analysis is therefore performed, which shows that, in general, student‐related variables such as gender, ethnic and age mix are more important than staff‐related variables in determining efficiency levels. The local unemployment rate also has an effect on provider efficiency. The policy implications of the results are that further education providers should implement strategies to improve the completion and achievement rates of white males, and should also offer increased administrative support to teachers.
REVISITING THE REAL WAGES–UNEMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP. NEW RESULTS FROM NON‐LINEAR MODELS
Authors: Christopoulos Dimitris K. , León‐Ledesma Miguel A.
Published: January 2010

We examine the long‐run real wages–unemployment relationship for five OECD countries over the period 1960:1–2001:4. Given the theoretical possibility of non‐linear equilibrium due to downward real wage rigidity we employ econometric tests that allow for the presence of non‐linearities in the long‐run equilibrium. We adopt the notion of ‘hidden co‐integration’ suggested by Granger and Yoon. This methodology has several advantages with respect to other non‐linear models. We find statistical evidence that, in general, there is a long‐run positive relation between real wages and unemployment only when both are affected by positive shocks. We also find a negative relationship between unemployment and productivity. The empirical analysis is complemented with the estimation of error correction models for all countries.
PUBLIC EDUCATION EXPENDITURES, HUMAN CAPITAL INVESTMENT AND INTERGENERATIONAL MOBILITY: A TWO‐STAGE EDUCATION MODEL
Authors: Mimoun Mohamed Ben , Raies Asma
Published: January 2010

We show in this paper that, depending on the initial distribution of material wealth and that of individuals’ abilities, economies converge in the long run towards different proportions of the skilled workforce and different levels of average wealth. We also show that the growth process raises net economic mobility, the long‐run proportion of the skilled population and the long‐run levels of wealth held by both rich and poor dynasties. Unless the income tax rate is too high, the increase in total public funds is associated, in the long run, with higher net mobility, a larger fraction of the skilled workers and higher levels of wealth of all the dynasties. In addition, the reallocation of public expenditures from basic to advanced education can result in lower mobility, a lower long‐run size of the skilled workforce, and a lower long‐run level of wealth held by rich dynasties, if the transfer of resources comes at the expense of excessively lowering the quality of education at the basic schooling level.
ETHICAL BLIND‐SPOTS: WHY SOCRATES WAS NOT A COSMOPOLITAN
Authors: Chappell Timothy
Published: January 2010

Though Socrates can easily look like a cosmopolitan in moral and political theory, a closer reading of the relevant texts shows that, in the most important sense of the term as we now use it, he turns out – disappointingly, perhaps – not to be. The reasons why not are instructive and important, both for readers of Plato and for political theorists; they have to do with the phenomenon that I shall call ethical blind‐spots.
SECRECY IN CONSEQUENTIALISM: A DEFENCE OF ESOTERIC MORALITY
Authors: De Lazari‐Radek Katarzyna , Singer Peter
Published: January 2010

Sidgwick's defence of esoteric morality has been heavily criticized, for example in Bernard Williams's condemnation of it as ‘Government House utilitarianism.’ It is also at odds with the idea of morality defended by Kant, Rawls, Bernard Gert, Brad Hooker, and T.M. Scanlon. Yet it does seem to be an implication of consequentialism that it is sometimes right to do in secret what it would not be right to do openly, or to advocate publicly. We defend Sidgwick on this issue, and show that accepting the possibility of esoteric morality makes it possible to explain why we should accept consequentialism, even while we may feel disapproval towards some of its implications.
WHEN DOES MORALITY WIN?
Authors: Smilansky Saul
Published: January 2010

I describe a case involving two countries at war, Benevolentia and Malevoran. Malevoran is an unjust aggressor, which does not follow the requirements of the prevailing morality of warfare. The leadership and army of Benevolentia closely follow those requirements, and as a direct result Benevolentia loses. I claim that this is a reductio of the prevailing morality of warfare: in the victory of Malevoran over Benevolentia morality has lost. I draw some tentative conclusions concerning the morality of warfare, and urge that we need to gain a richer understanding of what it means for morality to win, see this as a distinct and important moral consideration, and think afresh how morality can triumph much more often.
Weakness, Belonging, and the Intercordia Experience: The Logic and Limits of Dissonance as a Transformative Learning Tool
Authors: Locklin Reid B.
Published: January 2010

Educational theorist Richard Kiely highlights the central importance of “high intensity dissonance” in successful international service‐learning. This essay applies Kiely's model of dissonance and transformative learning to Intercordia, an international service‐learning program offered at the University of St. Michael's College and the University of Toronto, in partnership with the Non‐Governmental Organization (NGO) Intercordia Canada. By placing its students in situations of significant vulnerability and weakness, the Intercordia program attempts to problematize familiar assumptions about the otherness of oppressed persons and thereby to encourage an authentic sense of belonging across boundaries of difference. The results, as reported by participants in the program, are quite profound. At the same time, the program design invites critical questions about how, and to what extent, such transformative experiences of dissonance should be scripted for students as an expected and desired result of their international service.
Residential Mobility, Quality of Neighbourhood and Life Course Events
Authors: Rabe Birgitta , Taylor Mark
Published: January 2010

Neighbourhood characteristics affect the social and economic opportunities of their residents. Although various studies have analysed housing adjustments at different life stages, little is known about neighbourhood quality adjustments, or movements into ‘better’ or ‘worse’ neighbourhoods. On the basis of a model of optimal housing consumption we analyse the determinants of residential mobility and the associated neighbourhood quality adjustments, drawing on data from the British Household Panel Survey and indices of multiple deprivation. We measure quality of neighbourhood both subjectively and objectively and find that not all life course events that are associated with moves lead to neighbourhood quality adjustments. Single people are negatively affected when ceasing to live with parents and couples by a husband’s unemployment. Couples having a new baby move into better neighbourhoods.
Staying Together for the Sake of the Home?: House Price Shocks and Partnership Dissolution in the UK
Authors: Rainer Helmut , Smith Ian
Published: January 2010

The paper explores the importance of unanticipated house price shocks for marital dissolution in the UK by using individual household data from the British Household Panel Survey and county level house price data from the Halifax house price index. Results suggest that positive and negative house price shocks have asymmetric effects on the probability of partnership dissolution. Negative house price shocks significantly increase the risk of partnership dissolution, whereas positive house price shocks do not have a significant effect in general. The destabilizing effect of negative house price shocks is particularly pronounced for couples with dependent children, low family income and high mortgage debt. Results are robust to a wide variety of specifications.
Bayesian Inference for Generalized Stochastic Population Growth Models with Application to Aphids
Authors: Gillespie Colin S. , Golightly Andrew
Published: January 2010

We analyse the effects of various treatments on cotton aphids (Aphis gossypii). The standard analysis of count data on cotton aphids determines parameter values by assuming a deterministic growth model and combines these with the corresponding stochastic model to make predictions on population sizes, depending on treatment. Here, we use an integrated stochastic model to capture the intrinsic stochasticity, of both observed aphid counts and unobserved cumulative population size for all treatment combinations simultaneously. Unlike previous approaches, this allows us to explore explicitly and more accurately to assess treatment interactions. Markov chain Monte Carlo methods are used within a Bayesian framework to integrate over uncertainty that is associated with the unobserved cumulative population size and estimate parameters. We restrict attention to data on aphid counts in the Texas High Plains obtained for three different levels of irrigation water, nitrogen fertilizer and block, but we note that the methods that we develop can be applied to a wide range of problems in population ecology.
A Bayesian Hierarchical Approach to Ensemble Weather Forecasting
Authors: Di Narzo A. F. , Cocchi D.
Published: January 2010

In meteorology, the traditional approach to forecasting employs deterministic models mimicking atmospheric dynamics. Forecast uncertainty due to partial knowledge of the initial conditions is tackled by ensemble predictions systems. Probabilistic forecasting is a relatively new approach which may properly account for all sources of uncertainty. We propose a hierarchical Bayesian model which develops this idea and makes it possible to deal with ensemble predictions systems with non-identifiable members by using a suitable definition of the second level of the model. An application to Italian small-scale temperature data is shown.
Hearing the Silences in Thomas Bernhard's Ja: Difference, Narrative, and Lyotard's Concept of the Differend
Authors: Ludden Teresa
Published: January 2010

This article examines Thomas Bernhard's largely neglected short novel Ja (1978) in terms of how silences and textual lacunae function. It uses Lyotard's concept of the differend and Wittgenstein's notion of language‐games to analyse the representation of the relationship between the narrator's inner monologue and the female character, ‘die Perserin’. It argues that the text alludes to incommensurability between the narrator's idiom and the Persian woman's history and suffering, as well as criticising the imposition of a meta‐language and practising an anti‐ventriloquism regarding the Persian woman's pain and despair, thus opening the narrative and the text up to its own silences and failings.

Dieser Artikel untersucht die Funktion des Schweigens in Thomas Bernhards Roman Ja (1978). Er nimmt Jean‐François Lyotards Konzept des Differend und Ludwig Wittgensteins Theorie der Sprachspiele zu Hilfe, um das erzählerische Monolog und die Darstellung der schweigsamen ‘Perserin’ zu analysieren. Bernhards Text bezieht sich auf Lücken und Schweigen, indem er nicht für die Perserin spricht sondern auf die Undarstellbarkeit ihres Schmerzes und ihrer Geschichte in der Sprache des Erzählers hinweist. Dadurch thematisiert der Text die Unmöglichkeit einer universalen Metasprache und eine Kritik des Erzählens überhaupt.
Staging Liminality at the German‐Polish‐Czech Border: The Trinational Theatre Production Dreiland
Authors: Wilkinson Jane
Published: January 2010

In official European political discourse, borderlands, particularly those between old and new EU Member States, are positioned as ‘meeting spaces’ in which the idea of a unified Europe can be brought to life. In academic Border Studies, these ‘meeting spaces’ are theorised as ‘in‐between’, ‘transitional’ and full of ‘liminal potential’ for change. However, both policy and theory seem to present a simplistic and uniform image of borderlands which lacks grounding in empirical research. This article argues that the study of cross‐border culture reveals a more complex reality. It explores how the concept of liminality is playfully incorporated into and problematised in a German‐Polish‐Czech cross‐border theatre production: Dreiland (2007). It looks first at the collaboration behind this trinational project before examining the themes, language and aesthetics of the play. It argues that the play successfully stages liminality, but also uncovers competing border narratives of nationhood and globalisation. The close reading of Dreiland therefore reveals gaps in European policy and academic theory and demonstrates the need for further study of cross‐border culture, thereby setting the agenda for future research.

Im offiziellen europapolitischen Diskurs werden Grenzregionen und vor allem diejenigen zwischen alten und neuen Mitgliedsstaaten der EU als ‘Räume der Begegnung’ positioniert, in denen die Idee eines vereinigten Europas ins Leben gerufen werden kann. In der wissenschaftlichen Grenzforschung werden diese Begegnungsräume als ‘dazwischen’, ‘im Übergang’ und voll mit ‘liminalem Transformationspotential’ theoretisiert. Trotzdem scheint es, dass sowohl die Politik als auch die Theorie ein zu einfaches und uniformes Bild von Grenzgebieten darstellen, dem eine empirische Grundlage fehlt. In diesem Artikel wird behauptet, dass die Analyse grenzüberschreitender Kultur eine kompliziertere Realität aufzeigt. Die spielerische Aufnahme der Idee der ‘Liminalität’ in die deutsch‐polnisch‐tschechische Theaterproduktion Dreiland (2007) und die Problematisierung dieses Konzepts auf der Bühne werden untersucht. Zunächst wird die Zusammenarbeit hinter diesem trinationalen Projekt erörtert, bevor die Analyse die Themen, die Sprache und die Ästhetik des Theaterstücks aufgreift und bearbeitet. Es wird behauptet, dass es dem Stück gelingt, die Liminalität auf der Bühne darzustellen, aber auch dass die alternativen Grenzdiskurse des Nationalismus und der Globalisierung eine gleichermaßen wichtige Rolle spielen. Die Analyse der einzelnen Aufführung von Dreiland soll dementsprechend die Lücken in der europäischen Politik und in der wissenschaftlichen Theorie aufzeigen und den weiteren Forschungsbedarf im Bereich grenzüberschreitender Kultur nachweisen.
Rethinking social work ethics: what is the real question? Responding to Stephen Webb's ‘Against difference and diversity in social work’
Authors: Jose Jim
Published: January 2010

Jose J. Rethinking social work ethics: what is the real question? Responding to Stephen Webb's ‘Against difference and diversity in social work’

Int J Soc Welfare 2010: 19: 246–252 © 2009 The Author(s), Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Publishing Ltd and the International Journal of Social Welfare.

In his recent article, Stephen Webb argued that the real question for social work ethics concerns ‘recognising the Same and of restoring the principles of equality and social justice’. This argument also included raising questions about what should be considered an appropriate philosophical basis for progressive social work ethics. In his view, social work's emancipatory potential has been blunted by overstated and philosophically ill‐informed human rights claims about difference and diversity. He suggested that French philosopher Alain Badiou offers social workers a ‘set of conceptual devices for rethinking social work ethics’. I argue that pressing his points into Badiou's philosophical mould is unlikely to lead to a progressive social work practice, let alone solve the issues identified by Webb. Badiou's philosophical pronouncements about ethics are of questionable value and offer little or no assistance to social workers seeking to establish an ethical grounding for their professional practice.
Once a NEET always a NEET? Experiences of employment and unemployment among youth in a job training programme in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Yu‐Wen
Published: January 2010

Chen Y‐W. Once a NEET always a NEET? Experiences of employment and unemployment among youth in a job training programme in Taiwan

Int J Soc Welfare 2011: 20: 33–42 © 2009 The Author(s), Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Publishing Ltd and the International Journal of Social Welfare.

Ten previous participants in a job training programme, ages between 15 and 20, were interviewed face‐to‐face to determine why they were not employed, in education or in vocational training (represented by the acronym NEET) at the time, as well as their related experiences. They were also asked about their experiences and opinions regarding the training programme and their ideas about work in general. Results of the study indicate that most of the respondents did not become NEETs by choice; they did so for economic reasons. Most thought the programme was of little practical help to them and did not increase their chances of employment, but that it did give them social and emotional support and helped them feel better about themselves. Many agreed that the monetary allowance offered by the programme was a good incentive for participation. Implications of the findings for social policy and programme development, especially to the socio‐cultural context of Taiwan, are discussed.
Hong Kong: workfare in the world's freest economy
Authors: Chan Chak Kwan
Published: January 2010

Chan CK. Hong Kong: workfare in the world's freest economy

Int J Soc Welfare 2011: 20: 22–32 © 2009 The Author(s), Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Publishing Ltd and the International Journal of Social Welfare.

Workfare was introduced in many countries to suppress welfare dependency and reduce social security expenditures. However, workfare was launched in Hong Kong when there was only a relatively small social security budget and its citizens still strongly adhered to the ideologies of self‐reliance. It was found that workfare has performed several functions in Hong Kong. First, by forcing unemployed claimants to give up benefits, Hong Kong has been able to save on social security expenditures. Second, workfare has combined with Hong Kong's semi‐democratic polity so that extremely stigmatising welfare measures have been implemented. Third, it has pushed poor citizens into the labour market without having any protection over wages and working hours. Thus, the combination of workfare and a semi‐democratic polity has successfully suppressed Hong Kong's welfare demands and strengthened its self‐help spirit. As a result, Hong Kong's minimal social security scheme and its low tax policy have been maintained.
Research in Nursing in Critical Care 1995–2009: a cause for celebration
Authors: Scholes Julie
Published: January 2010

Aim: The purpose of this article is to analyse the research papers published in Nursing in Critical Care (n = 168) over the past 15 years to examine trends in methodology, theoretical contribution and authorship.

Background: Research is a contested term and the paper starts with defining the criteria by which papers were selected for the review.

Methods: The approach undertaken was a documentary review based on an adaptation of Schatzman's dimensional analysis. Papers were loaded into a matrix then categorized and grouped to determine trends and frequency.

Conclusion: Research papers published in the journal reflect a wide range of interests and broad spread of research methods. Qualitative and quantitative data are used by authors but to distinguish papers into these two categories would be over simplistic. Systematic reviews along with randomized control trials and studies using a quasi‐experimental design are the least frequently occurring approaches in the published papers, although they are growing in number in recent years. All the papers make explicit the implications for clinical practice and as such contribute to the growing body of knowledge to inform critical care nursing practice.
Expert Opinion: Migraine in Neurologists and Headache Specialists
Authors: Brockmann Nicole , Evers Stefan
Published: January 2010

(Headache 2010;50:138‐140)
The Impact of Interorganizational Imitation on New Venture International Entry and Performance
Authors: Fernhaber Stephanie A. , Li Dan
Published: January 2010

We examine the impact of interorganizational imitation on new venture international entry and subsequent performance. Using a sample of 150 U.S.–based publicly held new ventures, we find that new venture international entry is in part an imitative response to the internationalization of other firms in the venture's home country industry and/or subsets of firms with certain traits or outcomes. We also find that interorganizational imitation moderates the relationship between new venture international entry and profitability, but not the relationship between new venture international entry and sales growth. These findings contribute to the growing body of literature on new venture internationalization.