bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Herbicide application and direct drilling improves establishment and yield of chicory and plantain
Authors: Glassey C. B. , Clark C. E. F. , Roach C. G. , Lee J. M.
Published: June 2012

The herbs chicory (
C

ichorium intybus
L.) and plantain (
P

lantago lanceolata
L.) are increasingly popular summer forage cropping options for dairy producers. However, the impact of different establishment methods on their productivity is largely unknown. Four establishment methods for chicory and plantain crops sown into non‐cultivated ryegrass pastures in spring were compared. Establishment methods included direct‐drilling or broadcasting seed into existing pastures, with or without herbicide application before sowing in a 2 × 2 factorial design. It was hypothesized that plant establishment and growth would be enhanced by spraying to kill existing ryegrass pasture and direct‐drilling herbs (Spray and Drill, SD) compared with broadcasting seed with no herbicide application (Unsprayed and Broadcast, UB). This hypothesis was supported with an additional 2·1–2·3 t DM ha−1 grown over 201 d from swards established by SD, compared with swards established by UB. The SD method also increased the plant density of the herbs and reduced the proportion of weed species. Spraying and direct drilling is more expensive than broadcasting seed with no herbicide application, but the increase in yield means that extra feed can be supplied at less than half the cost of purchasing the equivalent amount of feed. Therefore, for optimal economic outcomes, chicory and plantain swards should be established by applying herbicide to existing pasture and direct‐drilling seed.
Paediatric oral pathology in a Chilean population: a 15‐year review
Authors: ZUÑIGA MANUEL DONOSO , MÉNDEZ CRISTIAN ROSAS , KAUTERICH RAFAEL RUBÍ , PANIAGUA DANIEL CARPIO
Published: June 2012

Background.  There is only limited information available in Chile regarding the frequency of biopsied oral lesions in paediatric patients.

Aim.  To determine the frequency of histologically diagnosed lesions in oral pathology specimens from paediatric patients in a Chilean population over a 15‐year period.

Design.  Oral and maxillofacial biopsy records of patients aged 16 years or under were retrieved by visual inspection from the archives of public and private Oral Pathology Health Services in Valdivia, Chile, during the period 1995–2010. Records that contained anatomical site and histopathological diagnoses of the specimen were included. The study population was divided into three age groups according to dentition stage. Oral lesions were classified as inflammatory/reactive, cystic, or tumour/tumour‐like.

Results.  A total of 542 biopsy specimens from children were found. These represented 20.6% of all oral biopsies. The average age was 11.1 years, with female predilection. The most common category of oral lesions was inflammatory/reactive (75.8%), followed by tumour/tumour‐like (16.8%) and cystic (7.4%) lesions. The mucocele was the most commonly found lesion, followed by pyogenic granuloma and irritation fibroma, which taken together accounted for 63.8% of all paediatric oral biopsies. The most common localisation for lesions was the lower lip (50.3%).

Conclusions.  The vast majority of oral lesions found were predominantly inflammatory/reactive and benign types, although malignant lesions can present themselves in children.
Mitochondrial genomes reveal the global phylogeography and dispersal routes of the migratory locust
Authors: MA CHUAN , YANG PENGCHENG , JIANG FENG , CHAPUIS MARIE‐PIERRE , SHALI YASEN , SWORD GREGORY A. , KANG LE
Published: June 2012

The migratory locust, Locusta migratoria, is the most widely distributed grasshopper species in the world. However, its global genetic structure and phylogeographic relationships have not been investigated. In this study, we explored the worldwide genetic structure and phylogeography of the locust populations based on the sequence information of 65 complete mitochondrial genomes and three mitochondrial genes of 263 individuals from 53 sampling sites. Although this locust can migrate over long distances, our results revealed high genetic differentiation among the geographic populations. The populations can be divided into two different lineages: the Northern lineage, which includes individuals from the temperate regions of the Eurasian continent, and the Southern lineage, which includes individuals from Africa, southern Europe, the Arabian region, India, southern China, South‐east Asia and Australia. An analysis of population genetic diversity indicated that the locust species originated from Africa. Ancestral populations likely separated into Northern and Southern lineages 895 000 years ago by vicariance events associated with Pleistocene glaciations. These two lineages evolved in allopatry and occupied their current distributions in the world via distinct southern and northern dispersal routes. Genetic differences, caused by the long‐term independent diversification of the two lineages, along with other factors, such as geographic barriers and temperature limitations, may play important roles in maintaining the present phylogeographic patterns. Our phylogeographic evidence challenged the long‐held view of multiple subspecies in the locust species and tentatively divided it into two subspecies, L. m. migratoria and L. m. migratorioides.
Minimal requirements for inhibition of MraY by lysis protein E from bacteriophage ΦX174
Authors: Tanaka Shiho , Clemons Jr William M.
Published: June 2012

The DNA phage ΦX174 encodes the integral membrane protein E whose expression leads to host cell lysis by inhibition of the peptidoglycan synthesis enzyme MraY. Here we use mutagenesis to characterize the molecular details of the E lysis mechanism. We find that a minimal 18‐residue region with the modified wild‐type sequences of the conserved transmembrane helix of E is sufficient to lyse host cells and that specific residues within and at the boundaries of this helix are important for activity. This suggests that positioning of the helix in the membrane is critical for interactions with MraY. We further characterize the interaction site of the transmembrane helix with MraY demonstrating E forms a stable complex with MraY. Triggering cell lysis by peptidoglycan synthesis inhibition is a traditional route for antimicrobial strategies. Understanding the mechanism of bacterial cell lysis by E will provide insights into new antimicrobial strategies using re‐engineered E peptides.
Esophageal distension parameters as potential biomarkers of impaired gastrointestinal function in diabetes patients
Authors: Frøkjær J. B. , Brock C. , Brun J. , Simren M. , Dimcevski G. , Funch‐Jensen P. , Drewes A. M. , Gregersen H.
Published: June 2012

Background  Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, postprandial fullness, and abdominal pain, are frequent in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). The pathogenesis is complex and multi‐factorial. To determine easy accessible and valid biomarkers for disordered GI function in DM patients, we aimed to study esophageal mechanical parameters and their relation to symptoms typically arising from the digestive tract.

Methods  Seventeen patients with longstanding DM and GI symptoms and 13 healthy controls were studied using ultrasound monitored esophageal distension. The sensory response was recorded and their symptoms registered. Biomechanical parameters, such as compliance and stiffness were computed from luminal diameters during distension based on the ultrasound images and from pressure data. Biomechanical and sensory parameters were correlated with the clinical data.

Key Results  Diabetes patients had reduced esophageal sensitivity compared with controls (P = 0.046). The esophageal compliance was reduced (P = 0.004) and the esophageal stiffness was increased (P = 0.004) in the diabetes patients. Among patients, both postprandial fullness/early satiety and bloating correlated negatively to the esophageal compliance parameters (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions & Inferences  Patients with long‐standing DM and GI symptoms had reduced esophageal sensitivity together with reduced compliance and increased stiffness, which were correlated to the patients’ GI symptoms. Biomechanical parameters obtained during distension may serve as biomarker for similar pathophysiologic effects of diabetes in the stomach and small bowel. They may contribute to our understanding of the pathophysiology underlying GI dysfunction and symptoms in patients with longstanding DM.
The Impact of Early Age at First Childbirth on Maternal and Infant Health
Authors: Gibbs Cassandra M. , Wendt Amanda , Peters Stacey , Hogue Carol J.
Published: June 2012

The objective of this review was to assess whether early age at first childbirth is associated with increased risk of poor pregnancy outcomes. Early age at childbirth is variously defined in studies of its effect on maternal and infant health. In this systematic review, we limit analysis to studies of at least moderate quality that examine first births among young mothers, where young maternal age is defined as low gynaecological age (≤2 years since menarche) or as a chronological age ≤16 years at conception or delivery. We conduct meta‐analyses for specific maternal or infant health outcomes when there are at least three moderate quality studies that define the exposure and outcome in a similar manner and provide odds ratios or risk ratios as their effect estimates. We conclude that the overall evidence of effect for very young maternal age (<15 years or <2 years post‐menarche) on infant outcomes is moderate; that is, future studies are likely to refine the estimate of effect or precision but not to change the conclusion. Evidence points to an impact of young maternal age on low birthweight and preterm birth, which may mediate other infant outcomes such as neonatal mortality. The evidence that young maternal age increases risk for maternal anaemia is also fairly strong, although information on other nutritional outcomes and maternal morbidity/mortality is less clear. Many of the differences observed among older teenagers with respect to infant outcomes may be because of socio‐economic or behavioural differences, although these may vary by country/setting. Future, high quality observational studies in low income settings are recommended in order to address the question of generalisability of evidence. In particular, studies in low income countries need to consider low gynaecological age, rather than simply chronological age, as an exposure. As well, country‐specific studies should measure the minimum age at which childbearing for teens has similar associations with health as childbearing for adults. This ‘tipping point’ may vary by the underlying physical and nutritional health of girls and young women.
Evidence‐based disparities: examining the gap between health expectations and experiences
Authors: Vashdi Dana R. , Zalmanovitch Yair
Published: June 2012

Context In a time of economic austerity, one of the most daunting questions is who decides on healthcare rationing? In the current study, we sought to examine if the public can in fact provide meaningful information regarding healthcare policy issues. Based on theories of public policy, this paper tries to find out if patients behave akin to ‘responsible citizens’ and can provide differentiated expectations between three healthcare dimensions.

Methods One thousand two‐hundred eleven individuals participated in a telephone interview. Participants were asked two series of questions, one regarding their views on the primary care, prevention and promotion practices they experience with their healthcare provider and one regarding the importance of these practices to them. We calculated a difference score representing the gap in each healthcare dimension.

Findings In all three healthcare dimensions, the mean gap is in the positive side of the axis indicating that the public does not receive what it expects to receive, or in policy terms there is ‘a responsiveness deficit’. The mean gap in relation to primary care is significantly lower than the mean gap in both preventive care and health promotion.

Conclusions The public can provide meaningful information even in areas of endless demand and can provide an addition point of view to be considered by policy makers in complicated healthcare rationing decisions.
Subjective expectations regarding length and health‐related quality of life in Hungary: results from an empirical investigation
Authors: Péntek Márta , Brodszky Valentin , Gulácsi Ádám László , Hajdú Ottó , van Exel Job , Brouwer Werner , Gulácsi László
Published: June 2012

Background

Subjective expectations regarding future health are rarely studied, yet may have implications for medical decision making, health behaviour and health economic analysis.

Objective

To study people's subjective expectations regarding length and future quality of life in Hungary and compare these with previous findings from the Netherlands.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was performed, using a questionnaire that was put on a highly frequented web journal during 1 day. Main socio‐demographic variables and health status of the voluntary participants were registered using the EQ‐5D questionnaire. People were asked about the age they expected to live and the health status they expected to have at ages 60, 70, 80 and 90, using the EQ‐5D descriptive system. Responses were matched and compared to age‐ and gender‐specific life expectancy data from the Hungarian National Statistics and to age‐ and gender‐specific EQ‐5D scores from a prior nationally representative survey in Hungary.

Results

In total, 9407 people were included in the analysis with mean age of 36.1 (SD 10.6) years, mainly qualified (degree 74.0%), employed (86.0%) men (67.1%). People overestimated their life expectancy (women, 1.6; men, 8.2 years) and expected a sharp deterioration in health at the age 70. Age, current health status, perception of a healthy lifestyle and kins' age at death were important explanatory factors for subjective expectations. Subjective life expectancy correlates strongly with expected future health status.

Conclusions

The striking similarities between two surveys from distinct nations suggest that people's (mis)expectations regarding length and future quality of life are probably rather generalizable between jurisdictions within Europe.
Calcium‐Dependent Tolerant Response of Cell Wall in Maize Mesocotyl Under Flooding Stress
Authors: Porto B. N. , Alves J. D. , Magalhães P. C. , Castro E. M. , Campos N. A. , Souza K. R. D. , Magalhães M. M. , Andrade C. A. , Santos M. O.
Published: June 2012

The aim of the present study was to find out the effect of calcium on flooded maize seedlings by anatomical and ultra‐structural analyses and by measuring the enzyme activity and gene expression of polygalacturonase (PG) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). For this, maize seeds were placed to germinate in germination paper saturated with CaCl2 0.75 %. Then, 4‐day‐old seedlings were subjected to flooding in the presence or absence of CaCl2. Mesocotyl sections were sampled daily for the anatomical and ultra‐structural analyses, RT‐qPCR and activity of SOD and PG. The results showed that the presence of calcium in the flooding buffer increases the tolerance of maize seedlings by 1 day when compared to seedlings flooded in the absence of this element. The reason for this longer survival is that calcium maintains the integrity of the cell wall and attenuates the effects of oxidative stress. Owing to this fact, the seedlings remained alive and firm for up to 7 days.
Treatment strategy for rectal carcinoids: A clinicopathological analysis of 229 cases at a single cancer institution
Authors: Kasuga Akiyoshi , Chino Akiko , Uragami Naoyuki , Kishihara Teruhito , Igarashi Masahiro , Fujita Rikiya , Yamamoto Noriko , Ueno Masashi , Oya Masatoshi , Muto Tetsuichiro
Published: June 2012

Background and Aim:  A treatment strategy for tumors with only venous invasion and characteristics of small rectal carcinoids with metastasis have not been clearly documented. The present study aims to determine the risk factors for lymph node metastasis and to elucidate characteristics of small tumors with metastasis.

Methods:  We investigated a total of 229 patients with rectal carcinoids. The relationship between each clinicopathological variable and the presence of lymph node metastasis was evaluated.

Results:  Tumor size (larger than 10 mm), presence of central depression, depth of tumor invasion, lymphatic invasion, and venous invasion were significantly associated with the incidence of lymph node metastasis (P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed that tumor size (odds ratio: 63.3, P < 0.001) and venous invasion (odds ratio: 40.9, P < 0.001) were independently predictive of lymph node metastasis. In 204 patients with small (no larger than 10 mm) tumors, 10 patients had lymph node metastasis. All 10 tumors had low proliferation values indicated by mitosis and Ki‐67 index. Multivariate analysis for the 204 patients revealed that only venous invasion was independently associated with metastasis (odds ratio: 40.1, P < 0.001). Five‐year disease free survival rates of the total patients with metastasis and without metastasis were 81.1% and 95.5%, respectively (P < 0.001, log‐rank test).

Conclusions:  Venous invasion as well as tumor size and lymphatic invasion indicates high malignant potential to metastasize to lymph node and would provide useful information in considering the addition of radical surgery. Postoperative pathological examinations of specimens obtained by local resection are very important to avoid underestimation.
Current relevance of pharmacogenetics in immunomodulation treatment for Crohn's disease
Authors: Roberts Rebecca L , Barclay Murray L
Published: June 2012

No drug therapy is completely risk free, and the costs associated with non‐response and adverse effects can exceed the cost of the therapy. The ultimate goal of pharmacogenetic research is to find robust genetic predictors of drug response that enable the development of prospective genetic tests to reliably identify patients at risk of non‐response or of developing an adverse effect prior to the drug being prescribed. Currently, thiopurine S‐methyltransferase (TPMT) deficiency is the only pharmacogenetic factor that is prospectively assessed before azathioprine or 6‐mercaptopurine immunomodulation is commenced in patients with Crohn's disease (CD). As yet no other inherited determinant of drug response has made the transition from bench to bedside for the management of this disease. In this review we summarize what is known about TPMT deficiency and explore whether there is evidence to support a role of other genetic polymorphisms in predicting the response of CD patients to thiopurine drugs, methotrexate, and anti‐tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) therapy.
Stories of women involved in a postpartum depression peer support group
Authors: Montgomery Phyllis , Mossey Sharolyn , Adams Sara , Bailey Patricia H.
Published: June 2012

Living through postpartum depression (PPD) might lead women to seek a variety of support to re‐establish their well‐being, including a hybrid of traditional and non‐traditional services. Within this mix, some women participate in peer groups; however, there is a paucity of research regarding their subjective experiences of engaging in this type of support. The purpose of this study was to describe how women talked about living through PPD in the context of a peer support group. This focused ethnography was a component of a larger participatory action study in northern Ontario, Canada. The seven members of a 5‐week peer support group described their postpartum experiences through written, visual, and spoken stories. Using structural narrative analysis, stories about recovery were identified across the data. Three groups of recovery stories were labelled as illness, mothering wisdom, and mobilizing. The findings suggested that women actively sought and established a therapeutic space for PPD recovery with peers. As such, health‐care providers are encouraged to acknowledge the merits and advocate for the multiple and diverse alliances women might require to actualize recovery.
Factors associated with the use of intrusive measures at a tertiary care facility for children and youth with mental health and developmental disabilities
Authors: Stewart Shannon L. , Baiden Philip , Theall‐Honey Laura
Published: June 2012

This study seeks to identify some of the explanatory factors associated with the use of intrusive measures among children with mental health and developmental disabilities in psychiatric facilities. Intrusive intervention data were collected using an organizational database that was developed internally at a tertiary care facility. The sample was composed of 338 children/youth aged between 6 and 18 years (mean = 12.33, standard deviation = 2.70) admitted within a 2‐year period. Logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between chemical restraint, physical restraint and secure isolation, and programme type after controlling for demographic and other relevant client characteristics. The study found that the number of chemical restraints and secure isolations was higher for clients with developmental disabilities than for clients with mental health, whereas the number of physical restraints was lower for clients with developmental disabilities than clients with mental health issues. Demographic variables also predicted specific types of intrusive measures. The results of this study outline the differential factors associated with specific types of intrusive measures to control aggressive and self‐harm behaviours. The paper also outlines cultural change initiatives, organizational interventions, and policy implications for best practice services for children/youth in psychiatric facilities to further reduce intrusive measures.
Visual capabilities and cortical maps in BALB/c mice
Authors: Yeritsyan Naira , Lehmann Konrad , Puk Oliver , Graw Jochen , Löwel Siegrid
Published: June 2012

By combining behavioural analyses with intrinsic signal optical imaging, we analysed visual performance and visual cortical activity in the albino mouse strain BALB/c, which is increasingly being used as an animal model of neuropsychological disorders. Visual acuity, as measured by a virtual‐reality optomotor system, was 0.12 cycles per degree (cyc/deg) in BALB/c mice and 0.39 cyc/deg in pigmented C57BL/6 mice. Surprisingly, BALB/c mice showed reflexive head movements against the direction of the rotating stimulus. Contrast sensitivity was significantly lower in BALB/c mice (45% contrast at 0.064 cyc/deg) than in C57BL/6 mice (6% contrast). In the visual water task, visual acuity was 0.3 cyc/deg in BALB/c mice and 0.59 cyc/deg in C57BL/6 mice. Thus, the visual performance of BALB/c mice was significantly impaired in both behavioural tests – visual acuity was ∼ 0.3 cyc/deg lower than in C57BL/6 mice, and contrast sensitivity was reduced by a factor of ∼ 8. In BALB/c mice, visual cortical maps induced by stimulation of the contralateral eye were normal in both activation strength and retinotopic map quality. In contrast, maps induced by ipsilateral eye stimulation differed significantly between the strains – activity in a region representing 15° to 19° elevation in the visual field was significantly weaker in BALB/c mice than in C57BL/6 mice. Taken together, our observations show that BALB/c mice, like the albino animals of other species, have a significantly lower visual performance than C57BL/6 mice and a modified cortical representation of the ipsilateral eye that may impair stereopsis. Thus, our results caution against disregarding vision as a confounding factor in behavioural tests of neuropsychological disorders.
The expanding burden of cardiometabolic risk in China: the China Health and Nutrition Survey
Authors: Yan S. , Li J. , Li S. , Zhang B. , Du S. , Gordon‐Larsen P. , Adair L. , Popkin B.
Published: June 2012

China faces a major increase in cardiovascular disease, yet there is limited population‐based data on risk factors, particularly in children. Fasting blood samples, anthropometry and blood pressure were collected on 9,244 children and adults aged ≥7 years in late 2009 as part of the national China Health and Nutrition Survey. Prevalent overweight, elevated blood pressure, and cardiometabolic risk factors: glucose, HbA1c, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high‐ and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C and LDL‐C), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) are presented. We found that 11% of Chinese children and 30% of Chinese adults are overweight. Rates of diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and inflammation are high and increased with age and were associated with urbanization. Approximately 42% of children have at least one of the following: pre‐diabetes or diabetes, hypertension, high TC, LDL‐C, TG, and CRP and low HDL‐C, as do 70% men and 60% women aged 18–40 years and >90% of men and women ≥60 years. In sum, the HbA1c findings suggest that as many as 27.7 million Chinese children and 334 million Chinese adults may be pre‐diabetic or diabetic. The high prevalence in less urban areas and across all income levels suggests that cardiometabolic risk is pervasive across rural and urban China.
Youth and wellbeing: experiencing bereavement and ill health in marginalised young people’s transitions
Authors: MacDonald Robert , Shildrick Tracy
Published: June 2012

Research that explores youth transitions, health, bereavement and wellbeing is rare. Rarer still is research that does this on the basis of long‐term, longitudinal, qualitative research with socioeconomically disadvantaged young people. This article draws upon biographical interviews undertaken with 186 young adults in some of England’s poorest neighbourhoods (in Teesside, North East England) to examine how experiences of health, wellbeing and bereavement interact with processes of youth transition and social exclusion. Depression was the most widespread health problem arising from the multiple pressures and hardships encountered in contexts of severe socioeconomic deprivation. Unpredictable ‘critical moments’ (for example, of bereavement) were common and had unpredictable consequences for youth transitions. It is argued that research of this sort, particularly with a close, qualitative and biographical focus on critical moments, has value for research about youth, health and wellbeing that seeks to better understand how spatially concentrated, class‐based inequalities are lived by young people and play out in their lives.
Doing the right thing? HRM and the angry knowledge worker
Authors: Cushen Jean , Thompson Paul
Published: June 2012

This paper explores the relationship between human resource (HR) practices, commitment, work and employment relations. Drawing on an in‐depth ethnography of knowledge workers within a global, high‐technology, knowledge‐intensive firm, the paper offers a multidimensional understanding of structures of influence and of commitment that interact in distinctive ways to shape the employee experience. In examining the context and content of ‘best practice’ HR in a ‘celebrated’, leading‐edge company, we have offered a more complex, grounded picture of the intent and outcome of commitment‐seeking policies. The paper demonstrates that, contrary to mainstream and critical scholarship, skilled technical workers in knowledge‐intensive firms can be uncommitted, angry and high performing at the same time.
Inequality of Wellbeing: A Multidimensional Approach
Authors: Decancq Koen , Lugo María Ana
Published: June 2012

An important aspect of multidimensional wellbeing distributions is the correlation between different dimensions. We propose two indices for measuring multidimensional inequality, derived from two underlying social evaluation functions. These functions aggregate both across dimensions and across individuals. The social evaluation functions differ only with respect to the sequencing of aggregation. Aggregating first across dimensions is more attractive since it allows the inequality index to depend on the correlation between dimensions. We illustrate both indices, and the impact of correlation sensitivity, using Russian household data between 1995 and 2005 for four dimensions of wellbeing: expenditure, health, schooling and housing quality.
Social Security: Universal Versus Earnings‐dependent Benefits
Authors: Soares Jorge
Published: June 2012

I compare the welfare implications of Bismarckian (earnings‐dependent benefits) and Beveridgean (universal benefits) social security systems. Agents are better off with a Beveridgean system than with a comparable Bismarckian system. In an environment with intragenerational homogeneity, the latter results in a larger decrease in net wages; with intragenerational skill heterogeneity, most agents benefit from the more redistributive Beveridgean system. When agents vote for the replacement rates, with intragenerational homogeneity, the resulting Bismarckian system is larger than the Beveridgean system. With intragenerational skill heterogeneity, the Beveridgean system is larger. Overall, agents are worse off with the larger system.
The Employment of Temporary Agency Workers in the UK: For or Against the Trade Unions?
Authors: Böheim René , Zweimüller Martina
Published: June 2012

Trade unions will oppose the employment of temporary agency workers if it is a move to replace workers or to curb union power. Alternatively, trade unions may encourage the employment of agency workers if it leads to higher wages for their members. Using British data from 1998 and 2004, we find no evidence for a negative association between trade union activity and the hiring of agency workers. Wages are typically higher in unionized workplaces; however, the trade union premium is lower in the presence of agency workers. Our results suggest that trade unions cannot effectively oppose the hiring of agency workers.
US Analyst Regulation and the Earnings Forecast Bias around the World
Authors: Hovakimian Armen , Saenyasiri Ekkachai
Published: June 2012

We examine the spillover effects of the Global Analyst Research Settlement (or Global Settlement) on analysts’ earnings forecasts in 40 developed and emerging markets. Prior to the Global Settlement, analysts generally made overly optimistic forecasts, this bias tending to be higher in countries with less investor protection. This forecast bias declined significantly after passage of the Global Settlement, the spillover effect being stronger for countries with lower investor protection. The spillover effect is also stronger for countries with a more significant presence of the analysts of the 12 banks directly involved in the Global Settlement.
Investigation of friction and perceived skin feel after application of suspensions of various cosmetic powders
Authors: Timm K. , Myant C. , Nuguid H. , Spikes H.A. , Grunze M.
Published: June 2012

Synopsis

The perceived skin feel during and after application of skin care products is highly important to the consumer and therefore to cosmetic formulators. Powder particles are commonly incorporated in cosmetic formulations to improve their sensory properties. Although a large variety of cosmetic powders is available, it is presently uncertain how the particles' properties affect the perceived skin feel. Well‐trained panellists usually assess the perceived skin feel; however, these tests are time‐consuming and by nature subjective. To address this complexity, the authors have systematically investigated various suspensions of cosmetic powders with regard to the perceived skin feel after application. Furthermore, an in vitro friction measurement set‐up was developed which features a tribological contact similar to the mechanical properties and the topography of the contact between finger tip and human skin. A correlation was found between the friction coefficients determined in vitro and the perceived skin feel after sample application (as assessed by a descriptive panel). The results indicate that cosmetic powder particles should be small with a rather irregular shape to better lubricate the tribological contact between finger tip and skin surface, which leads to a more ‘powdery’ skin feel. It is suggested to carry out further tests with different powder particles or other skin care formulations to fully understand the underlying mechanisms of skin feel improvement and to validate or even partly replace the results of panel testing.
Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi extract and linoleic acid from Passiflora edulis synergistically decrease melanin synthesis in B16 cells and reconstituted epidermis
Authors: Jorge A. T. S. , Arroteia K. F. , Santos Í. A. , Andres E. , Medina S. P. H. , Ferrari C. R. , Lourenço C. B. , Biaggio R. M. T. T. , Moreira P. L.
Published: June 2012

Synopsis

Several treatments for skin whitening are available today, but few of them are completely adequate, especially owing to the carcinogenic potential attributed to classical drugs like hydroquinone, arbutin and kojic acid. To provide an alternative and safer technology for whitening, we developed two botanical compounds originated from Brazilian biodiversity, an extract of Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi and a linoleic acid fraction isolated from Passiflora edulis oil. The whitening effect of these compounds was assessed using biochemical assays and in vitro models including cellular assays and equivalent skin. The results showed that S. terebinthifolius Raddi extract is able to reduce the tyrosinase activity in vitro, and the combination of this extract with linoleic acid is able to decrease the level of melanin produced by B16 cells cultured with melanocyte‐stimulating hormone. Furthermore, melanin was also reduced in human reconstituted epidermis (containing melanocytes) treated with the compounds. The combination of the compounds may provide a synergistic positive whitening effect rather than their isolated use. Finally, we demonstrated that the performance of these mixed compounds is comparable to classical molecules used for skin whitening, as kojic acid. This new natural mixture could be considered an alternative therapeutic agent for treating hyperpigmentation and an effective component in whitening cosmetics.
Preferential solubilization behaviours and stability of some phenolic‐bearing essential oils formulated in different microemulsion systems
Authors: Edris A. E. , Malone C. F. R.
Published: June 2012

Synopsis

The solubilization behaviour of a number of essential oils (EOs) containing volatile phenolic constituents was investigated in five different micellar solutions. These oils include clove bud (Eugenia caryophyllata), thyme (Thymus serpyllum) and oregano (Thymus capitatus). Ternary and pseudo‐ternary phase diagrams were constructed to assess the ability for microemulsion formation and dilutability of each system using non‐ionic surfactants. Results showed that Tween 20 (T20) was more suitable to solubilize these oils compared with Tween 80 (T80). Clove EO was found to be easily microemulsifiable compared with the other EOs, whereas oregano showed the least tendency to form a microemulsion. Particle sizes measured at different dilution lines ranged between 5.9 and 16.9 nm. The chemical composition of each EO was revealed by gas chromatography and was correlated with the observed solubilization behaviour. The presence of solubilization enhancers like poly‐ols and short‐chain alcohols improved solubilization of all EOs; however, establishment of new dilution lines was controlled by EO type. Physical stability assessment showed that all microemulsions were stable against alternate freeze/thaw cycles which extended for 1 week. On the contrary, each system showed different temperature sensitivity in the thermal stress assessment. The results of this investigation can be useful in fabrication of thermodynamically stable aqueous system carrying aromatic and bioactive phenolics for different applications in personal hygiene, cosmetic, fragrance and pharmaceutical products.
Biomarkers of oxidative stress in epidermis of Tunisian pemphigus foliaceus patients
Authors: Abida O. , Gargouri B. , Ben Mansour R. , Mseddi‐Djemal M. , Masmoudi A. , Ben Ayed M. , Abdelmoula M. , Turki H. , Lassoued S. , Masmoudi H.
Published: June 2012

Background  Reactive oxygen species play a key role in the development of many dermatological disorders.

Objective  The purpose of this study is to examine the lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation and antioxidative profile in Tunisian pemphigus foliaceus (PF) patients.

Methods  Malondialdehyde (MDA), conjugated dienes (CD), protein thiol levels, catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were evaluated in skin biopsies of 13 patients compared to biopsies of 7 healthy controls.

Results  Oxidative stress was confirmed in these three types of patient biopsies as compared to controls. Thus, MDA, CD levels and catalase CAT and SOD activities were significantly increased in lesional, perilesional and normal biopsies of PF patients than in those of control subjects. Protein oxidative was confirmed by lower levels of protein thiols in lesional, perilesional and normal biopsies than in control’s biopsies. Otherwise, in patients, a significant rise of these biomarkers was observed in lesional and perilesional biopsies compared with normal biopsies.

Conclusion  This study shows that oxidative stress could be involved in the pathogenesis of PF by the spread of skin lesions and/or by the increase in auto‐antibodies’ reactivity.
Consumers' expectations of furniture labels during their pre‐purchase information search: an explication of proposed furniture labelling specifications
Authors: Labuschagne Adri , van Zyl Sonna , van der Merwe Daleen , Kruger Annamarie
Published: June 2012

This study aimed to investigate consumers' expectations of furniture labels during the pre‐purchase information search, in order to propose furniture labels that would serve as a more relevant source of external information during the consumer decision‐making process. A mixed‐method approach using a two‐phase exploratory design was followed. The qualitative phase consisted of semi‐structured interviews with experienced sales assistants, while the quantitative phase entailed a questionnaire filled out by consumers during furniture shopping. These results were used to design potential furniture labels during a final phase. Qualitative findings indicated participants' opinions regarding the appearance of and information on specific types of furniture. General information requested to be on furniture labels included price, care instructions, guarantees, warrantees, style and dimensions. Quantitative results showed that the majority of respondents deemed the price, materials used, cleaning instructions, guarantees and warrantees as important information that should appear on furniture labels. This coincided with their pre‐purchase search criteria. There was no practically significant difference between consumers' expectations of the information and appearance of different types of furniture labels. Consumers therefore expect all labels to be similar in appearance and to contain general information, apart from product‐specific information that would be necessary on different types of furniture, for example leather furniture. Appearance characteristics of furniture labels, such as colour, size and layout, were summarized and potential furniture labels were recommended accordingly. These labels can be used by product developers, marketers and the furniture industry to assist consumers during their pre‐purchase information search.
Gender differences in sources of shopping enjoyment
Authors: Kotzé Theuns , North Ernest , Stols Marilize , Venter Lezanne
Published: June 2012

A steady stream of research over the past few decades has focused on store and shopping mall patronage and consumers' associated enjoyment of the shopping experience. Based on previous research, the sources of shopping enjoyment were identified as shopping to socialize, shopping for bargains, shopping for gratification, shopping for entertainment, shopping for others, shopping to browse, shopping for exercise and shopping for sensory stimulation. The objective of this study was to investigate gender differences in the sources of shopping enjoyment. Data were collected through self‐administered questionnaires distributed at a large metropolitan shopping centre in the eastern suburbs of Pretoria. The findings indicate significant gender differences on all the sources of shopping enjoyment except ‘shopping for entertainment’. This study contributes to the current literature and provides valuable information to South African retailers, specifically with regard to marketing and promotional strategies aimed at male and female shoppers separately. Suggestions for future research are offered.
The power of food images to communicate important information to consumers
Authors: Fisher Hennie , du Rand Gerrie , Erasmus Alet
Published: June 2012

This paper reports on an investigative study of food magazine readers' responses when examining food images matched with aesthetic indicators. Findings could guide food stylists in compiling food images to better communicate intended messages. The Q‐sort method applied in this study is a reliable psychometric technique that involves the use of photographs, often in non–food‐related contexts such as architecture and the travel industry. In this novel application in a foods context, six food images, matched with six aesthetic indicators, were Q‐sorted by a predetermined sample of the readership of two of South Africa's most eminent food magazines. The data was factor analysed, from which seven factors emerged. Findings confirmed that Q‐sort, employing food images, could be a useful research approach for non‐verbal communication settings where the technical and artistic messaging of food stylists needs to be clarified to appropriately manipulate the assembly of food image content in order to communicate specific information to consumers. It is proposed that food stylists could purposely create images that could communicate on a non‐verbal level with consumers to ultimately change behavioural intent and eventual purchasing behaviour. This report deals with the implementation of Q‐methodology within food image research and consumers' responses to food images as part of a larger exploratory study that also investigated subsequent behavioural intent. Further investigation may expand the theoretic base upon which food stylists could pursue ways to alter consumer's behavioural intent.
Prolactin – to be reconsidered in canine mammary tumourigenesis?
Authors: Michel E. , Rohrer Bley C. , Kowalewski M. P. , Feldmann S. K. , Reichler I. M.
Published: June 2012

Mammary tumours represent the most common neoplastic disease of the female dog, and the incidence in female dogs is much higher than in women. Whereas the influence of sexual steroids on breast cancer (BC) development in dogs has been studied, very little is known about the role of prolactin (PRL). New studies show that until recently, the importance of PRL in human BC development and progression has been highly underestimated. PRL plays a role in promoting benign as well as malignant neoplastic cell growth in BCin vitroandin vivo. Sporadic publications proposed a tumour promotor role in the dog. The goal of this review is to summarize our knowledge about PRL and human BC as well as canine mammary tumourigenesis, and propose future research in this area.
Use of adjuvant carboplatin for treatment of dogs with oral malignant melanoma following surgical excision
Authors: Dank G. , Rassnick K. M. , Sokolovsky Y. , Garrett L. D. , Post G. S. , Kitchell B. E. , Sellon R. K. , Kleiter M. , Northrup N. , Segev G.
Published: June 2012

Melanoma is the most common oral malignancy in dogs. This retrospective study evaluated adjuvant carboplatin chemotherapy (with or without radiation therapy) in 17 dogs with malignant oral melanoma following surgical resection. The median dosage and number of doses of carboplatin administered to the 17 dogs was 300 mg m−2(range, 150–300 mg m−2) and 4 (range, 2–11), respectively. The overall median progression‐free survival for all dogs was 259 days [95% confidence interval (CI95), 119–399 days]. The first progression‐free survival event was local recurrence in seven dogs (41%) and metastases in seven dogs (41%). The median overall survival for all dogs was 440 days (CI95, 247–633 days). The tumour was the cause of death in 10 dogs (59%). On the basis of this study, systemic therapy with carboplatin may be an appropriate adjunct to local treatment for canine malignant melanoma, although future prospective controlled studies are needed to compare treatment modalities for this aggressive neoplasia.
Frequency of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase–deficient red blood cell units in a metropolitan transfusion service
Authors: Francis Richard O. , Jhang Jeffrey , Hendrickson Jeanne E. , Zimring James C. , Hod Eldad A. , Spitalnik Steven L.
Published: June 2012

BACKGROUND: Glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is characterized by red blood cell (RBC) destruction in response to oxidative stress. Although blood donors are not routinely screened for G6PD deficiency, the transfusion of stored G6PD‐deficient RBCs may have serious adverse outcomes. By measuring G6PD enzyme activity of RBC units from a large metropolitan hospital transfusion service, we sought to determine 1) the prevalence of G6PD‐deficient RBC units, 2) if G6PD activity changes during storage, and 3) if G6PD activity in segments correlates with its activity in the bags.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Quantitative G6PD activity was measured in 301 randomly selected RBC units and 73 D+C−E− (i.e., R0r or R0R0) RBC units, all stored in additive solutions. G6PD deficiency was defined as activity less than 60% of the normal mean.

RESULTS: The frequency of G6PD‐deficient units in the general inventory was 0.3% (1/301; 95% confidence interval [CI], <0.01%‐2.1%). In contrast, its frequency in D+C−E− RBC units was 12.3% (9/73; 95% CI, 6.4%‐22.0%). G6PD activity did not significantly change during the 42‐day storage period, and G6PD activity measured in RBC storage bags and attached segments correlated well (r = 0.7‐0.9, p ≤ 0.001, Spearman rank correlation).

CONCLUSIONS: Although the frequency of G6PD‐deficient RBC units in the transfusion service general inventory was relatively low, it was significantly higher among a subset of R0r or R0R0 units. The latter are preferentially allocated for transfusion to patients with sickle cell disease to decrease the risk of RBC alloimmunization, possibly allowing more of these units to be inadvertently targeted to these patients.
The Impact of Catastrophes on Insurer Stock Volatility
Authors: Thomann Christian
Published: June 2012

Abstract

This article investigates the impact of natural catastrophes and the 9‐11 attacks on (1) the volatility of insurance stocks and (2) the correlation of insurance stocks with the market. We find that natural catastrophes increase the volatility of insurance stocks. They also have a tendency to reduce the correlation of insurance stocks and the market. Investors can, consequently, diversify natural catastrophe risk by additionally holdings of a market portfolio. However, this does not hold for 9‐11. The events of 9‐11 led to increases in volatility and, simultaneously, to an increase in correlation. We also find evidence that 9‐11 increased the beta of insurance stocks.