bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SUPERFICIAL TYPE SERRATED ADENOMA IN ULCERATIVE COLITIS RESECTED BY ENDOSCOPIC SUBMUCOSAL DISSECTION
Authors: Tanaka Shinji , Oka Shiro , Kaneko Iwao , Yoshihara Masaharu , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: September 2010

A female patient with a 17‐year history of an entire type of ulcerative colitis (UC) showed a superficial elevated lesion in the rectum on surveillance colonoscopy. A standard colonoscopic picture showed a slightly red lesion in the background reticular mucosa in the remission stage of UC after a longstanding chronic inflammation. A chromoendoscopic picture using  indigo  carmine  dye‐spraying  showed  a  distinct  superficial  elevated  lesion  with  slight  marginal  elevation  of  12 mm  in diameter. A magnified view showed a slightly irregular type II pit pattern (Kudo & Tsuruta's classification). Ultrasonographic view using a high frequency ultrasound probe (20 MHz) showed that this lesion was confined to the intramucosal layer. As submucosal fibrosis due to previous repeated inflammations made it difficult to perform strip biopsy, an endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) method using a Hook knife was undertaken. A completely resected histological specimen showed a serrated adenoma.
USEFULNESS OF MAGNIFYING ENDOSCOPY IN UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL TRACT: HISTORY AND RECENT STUDIES
Authors: Kato Mototsugu , Shimizu Yuichi , Nakagawa Souichi , Yamamoto Junji , Asaka Masahiro
Published: September 2010

Although clinical trials using magnifying optical endoscopy have been reported, magnifying endoscopies have been remarkably developed in the period of electronic endoscopy. Magnifying electronic endoscopies with 80 or 100‐fold magnification are used for routine endoscopic examination of upper gastrointestinal tract in Japan. Magnifying endoscopy is used to visualize the microstructure and microvascular architecture of gastrointestinal surface mucosa. Microsurface structure of the mucosa includes normal structure, changed structure by inflammation and biological response, and tumor‐specific structure. Microvascular architecture includes normal vascular system and tumor microvessels. Magnifying endoscopy is starting to play an important role in diagnosis of any upper gastrointestinal diseases by assessment of magnified observation. Magnifying endoscopy holds a great deal of promise in the near future because magnifying endoscopic observation is approaching optical biopsy.
CLINICAL EVALUATION OF THE MULTI‐BENDING SCOPE IN VARIOUS ENDOSCOPIC PROCEDURES OF THE UPPER GI TRACT
Authors: Yahagi Naohisa , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Kakushima Naomi , Kodashima Shinya , Nakamura Masanori , Omata Masao
Published: September 2010

The multi‐bending scope is one of the technological innovations that is making possible new techniques in endoscopic diagnosis and treatment. The multi‐bending function makes it easier to approach sites that would be hard to reach with conventional scopes. Not only is this useful for observation and biopsies of difficult‐to‐approach sites, it is also expected to be very useful in various endoscopic treatments such as endoscopic submucosal dissection, endoscopic mucosal resection, and endoscopic hemostasis. Unfortunately, despite these obvious advantages, the incorporation of multifunctionality and high image quality results in a heavier and wider scope with reduced maneuverability. For practical clinical use, a balance between functionality and maneuverability is essential. We believe that making further improvements in this area is crucial to the successful development of this technology.
ROLE OF PERORAL CHOLANGIOSCOPY IN THE PREOPERATIVE DIAGNOSIS OF MALIGNANT MIDDLE and LOWER BILE DUCT CANCERS: A PRELIMINARY STUDY USING 10 FR PLASTIC STENT
Authors: Itoi Takao , Sofuni Atsushi , Moriyasu Fuminori
Published: September 2010

To date, peroral cholangioscopy (POCS) with working channel for biopsy is a less than an essential means for endoscopic diagnosis of bile duct lesions. One of these reasons is that the durability of the baby scope is much improved, too delicate for use on tough lesions. Furthermore, in operable cases, it has a major disadvantage in that we cannot observe the proximal site of stricture. In this study, we introduced new methods to observe and perform the biopsy at proximal site of stricture using 10Fr plastic stent. After this method, we performed observation of proximal site of stricture without dilation and could diagnose precise incision line preoperatively in all cases. Importantly, all procedures were done within one week from the first endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Although further investigation and development of baby scopes are necessary, POCS using 10Fr plastic stent will make it possible to evaluate the hepatic site of spreading cancer in patients with middle or lower bile duct cancer.
CLINICAL EVALUATION OF THE PERCUTANEOUS TRANSHEPATIC VIDEOCHOLANGIOSCOPE WITH THIN DIAMETER (XCHF‐XP240)
Authors: Katanuma Akio , Maguchi Hiroyuki , Itokawa Fumihide , Osanai Manabu , Takahashi Kuniyuki
Published: September 2010

We developed a percutaneous transhepatic videocholangioscope with thin diameter (XCHF‐XP240, video PTCS) in collaboration with Olympus Optical Co., Ltd. (Tokyo, Japan). Its outer diameter is 3.7 mm and channel diameter, 1.2 mm. We used it 40 times in 19 cases (M : F = 15 : 4; average age, 69.1) between April 1998 and October 2004. The indication for use were differential diagnosis of bile duct cancer from other diseases in eight cases, diagnosis of tumor extension of papillary‐type bile duct cancer in three cases, diagnosis of postoperative recurrences of remnant bile duct cancer in three cases, treatment of bile duct stone in two cases, evaluation after placement of expandable metallic stent in two cases and evaluation after radiation therapy for mucin‐producing bile duct tumor in one case. Advantages of the videocholangioscope are: (i) because of the thin diameter, it can be used via expanding percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage fistula to the size of 12 Fr; (ii) clear images are obtained; (iii) a multiple number of people can observe through the monitor screen; and (iv) it can be used for biliary stone treatment. It is particularly useful for the evaluation of intramucosal superficial extension of papillary‐type bile duct cancer. As it can be applicable not only in preoperative close examination or stone treatment but also to surgical operation. Production of the device for the market is highly anticipated.
BREAST CANCER IN THE ELDERLY: TREATMENT OF OPERABLE DISEASE
Authors: Hainsworth P. J. , Henderson M. A. , Bennett R. C.
Published: September 2010

Book reviews in this article:

Between 1976 and 1985 122 elderly patients aged 70 years and over, were treated for ‘operable’ invasive breast cancer (UICC stage I‐IIB). A tendency towards less aggressive investigation and treatment was noted in the elderly. Of 117 patients undergoing surgery, 79 (68%) had ‘full’ conventional treatment, either mastectomy with axillary clearance, sampling or radiotherapy, or local excision with radiotherapy. In 38 patients (32%) management of the breast or axilla was considered to have been less complete than the usual practice for younger patients (‘limited’ treatment group), either local excision without radiotherapy or simple mastectomy alone.

The ‘limited’ treatment group were significantly older than the ‘full’ treatment group but were comparable for tumour size, clinical nodal status and oestrogen and progesterone receptor levels. Although there was no survival difference between the groups, those in the ‘limited’ treatment group were more likely to develop locoregional recurrence (χ12 = 9.2, P = 0.002, log rank test). In practice, management of the elderly often appears to be influenced by chronological age rather than clinical or biological factors. It is suggested that elderly patients sufficiently fit to undergo surgery should be treated along the lines applicable to younger patients.
PANCREATICOJEJUNOSTOMY FOR CHRONIC PANCREATITIS
Authors: Wilson T. G. , Hollands M. J. , Little J. M.
Published: September 2010

Book reviews in this article:

The treatment of chronic pancreatitis commonly yields disappointing results. Patients with chronic pancreatitis and a dilated pancreatic duct can be treated by longitudinal pancreaticojejunostomy. In order to evaluate the procedure, 20 patients undergoing pancreaticojejunostomy were followed for a median time of more than 5 years. Their clinical characteristics and outcomes have been compared with a group of 43 patients with chronic pancreatitis and small pancreatic ducts. There were no differences between the two groups in the major epidemiological parameters, except that calcification in the gland was more frequently noted in those with large ducts.

The operation of longitudinal pancreaticojejunostomy could be accomplished with an acceptable morbidity. There was one death in the postoperative period. Seventy‐six per cent of patients were found to have benefited clinically at five years, compared with 48% of those with small duct disease. This difference was statistically significant.

Patients who benefited were defined by four factors; they were carrying out their usual occupation at the time of surgery, they were not narcotic dependent at the time of surgery, they had a pancreatic duct width greater than 7 mm and, they had totally abstained from alcohol from before the operation to the time of follow‐up.

Longitudinal pancreaticojejunostomy probably remains the best surgical treatment for suitable patients with chronic pancreatitis. The operation should only be performed when the pancreatic duct is greater than 7 mm in width. In such patients the operation produces considerable improvement of pain with minimal metabolic disturbance.
INGUINAL SURGERY IN ATHLETES WITH CHRONIC GROIN PAIN: THE ‘SPORTSMAN'S’ HERNIA
Authors: Malycha Peter , Lovell Greg
Published: September 2010

Book reviews in this article:

Fifty athletes with chronic undiagnosed groin pain underwent surgical exploration and inguinal hernia repair. Six months later, all athletes were sent questionnaires to assess their return to sport, level of pain (using analogue pain scores) and the overall result of their surgery. Operative findings revealed a significant bulge in the posterior inguinal wall in 40 athletes. Forty‐four athletes (88%) replied to the questionnaire. Forty‐one athletes (93% of respondents) had returned to normal activities. Pain scores indicated a marked improvement in their level of pain (P < 0.001). Thirty‐three athletes (75%) rated the result as good and 10 (23%) as improved.

It is concluded that athletes with chronic groin pain who are unable to compete in active sport should be considered for routine inguinal hernia repair if no other pathology is evident after clinical examination and investigation.
OMENTOPLASTY IN ABDOMINOPERINEAL RESECTION OF THE RECTUM
Authors: Rice M. L. , Hay A. M. , Hurlow R. H.
Published: September 2010

Book reviews in this article:

An omental pedicle graft, based on the right gastro‐epiploic artery to facilitate perineal healing, was used in 20 cases of abdominoperineal resection of the rectum. There was one postoperative death. Primary healing of the perineum occurred in all cases. The technique is described and recommended.
VERTICAL SUBLUXATION OF THE PATELLA: AN UNUSUAL FEATURE OF MULTIPLE EPIPHYSEAL DYSPLASIA
Authors: Coates Christopher J. , Williamson David M. , Menelaus Malcolm B.
Published: September 2010

Book reviews in this article:

Abnormally shaped, usually double‐layered, patellae are recognized as occurring in multiple epiphyseal dysplasia. The case described is unusual in that an associated defect appeared in the femur and resulted in mechanical symptoms.
Book Review And Books Received
Authors: Buxton Brian
Published: September 2010

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SURGICAL REVASCULARIZATION OF THE HEART: THE INTERNAL THORACIC ARTERIES: By G. E. Green R. N. Singh and S. A. Sosa.
Species loss leads to community closure
Authors: Lundberg P. , Ranta E. , Kaitala V.
Published: September 2010

Global extinction of a species is sadly irreversible. At a local scale, however, extinctions may be followed by re‐invasion. We here show that this is not necessarily the case and that an ecological community may close its doors for re‐invasion of species lost from it. Previous studies of how communities are assembled have shown that there may be rules for that process and that limitations are set to the order by which species are introduced and put together. Instead of focusing on the assembly process we randomly generated simple competitive model communities that were stable and allowed for two to 10 coexisting species. When a randomly selected single species was removed from the community, the cascading species loss was recorded and frequently the resulting community was more than halved. Cascading extinctions have previously been recorded, but we here show that the relative magnitude of the cascade is dependent on community size (and not only trophic structure) and that the reintroduction of the original species lost often is impossible. Hence, species loss does not simply leave a void potentially refilled, but permanently alters the entire community structure and consequently the adaptive landscape for potential re‐invaders.
Arbuscular mycorrhizae respond to elevated atmospheric CO2 after long‐term exposure: evidence from a CO2 spring in New Zealand supports the resource balance model
Authors: Rillig M.C. , Hernández G.Y. , Newton P.C.D.
Published: September 2010

The resource balance model predicts that under elevated atmospheric CO2, plants should preferentially allocate photosynthate to acquiring below‐ground resources. Only short‐term experiments are available to test this hypothesis, while long‐term responses are really of interest in global change ecology. Arbuscular mycorrhizae represent one mode of below‐ground nutrient acquisition available to the vast majority of plants. Percent root colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), AMF soil hyphal length, and soil concentrations of the AMF protein glomalin increased linearly along a CO2 gradient provided in a grassland by a CO2 spring in Northland, New Zealand. These results are an important confirmation of numerous short‐term studies, and present the first test of the resource balance model, applied to AMF, after long‐term elevated CO2 exposure.
Evidence of mitochondrial DNA clones of Siberian sturgeon, Acipenser baerii, within Russian sturgeon, Acipenser gueldenstaedtii, caught in the River Volga
Authors: Jenneckens I. , Meyer J.‐N. , Debus L. , Pitra C. , Ludwig A.
Published: September 2010

Eleven of 34 sturgeons caught in the River Volga classified morphologically as Acipenser gueldenstaedtii were identified as Acipenser baerii from sequence analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome‐b gene. The Caspian Sea and its tributaries including the Volga are not native habitats of A. baerii. No A. baerii haplotype was observed in A. gueldenstaedtii from the Sea of Azov or the South Caspian Sea. Genetic contamination of A. gueldenstaedtii with A. baerii or A. baerii hybrids has occurred in the Volga. Crosses and backcrosses of these specimens with native A. gueldenstaedtii resulted in the loss of the morphological diagnostic A. baerii features. These findings are of special concern for conservation and management programmes, as well as for specimen identification for caviar trading control.
Effects of beaver on the thermal biology of an amphibian
Authors: Skelly D.K. , Freidenburg L.K.
Published: September 2010

It is often assumed that ecological interactions happen at rapid rates relative to evolutionary change. In this study we examined the development and physiology of an amphibian (Rana sylvatica) from populations found in forested wetlands, and from wetlands that had been cleared by reinvading beaver (Castor canadensis). Embryos from beaver wetlands hatched at lower rates when raised in a shaded, common garden setting compared with embryos from forested wetlands. Larvae from beaver wetlands had higher critical thermal maxima compared with conspecifics from forested wetlands. These patterns suggest that R. sylvatica populations may have diverged rapidly (in less than 36 years) in response to changes in their environment induced by another species. Other agents of thermal change, such as anthropogenic landscape conversion or alteration of global climate, could have analogous impacts on wetland dependent species such as amphibians.
Efficacy of the entomopathogenic nematodes Steinernema kraussei and Heterorhabditis megidis against the black vine weevil Otiorhynchus sulcatus in open field‐grown strawberry plants
Authors: Haukeland Solveig , Lola‐Luz Theodora
Published: September 2010

Entomopathogenic nematodes are commercially available for inundative biological control of many insects, including the black vine weevil Otiorhynchus sulcatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Currently, there is a lack of commercial application tests in field‐grown crops comparing the efficacy of different species of entomopathogenic nematodes.

Field trials were carried out under different growing conditions in Ireland and Norway to evaluate the efficacy of two commercially available nematode species on the market for control of the black vine weevil Heterorhabditis megidis and Steinernema kraussei.

Heterorhabditis megidis was evaluated not only at temperatures ideal for this species (soil temperatures above 10 °C), but also in the low temperature trials with S. kraussei as a ‘positive control’. Steinernema kraussei is sold as a cold active product and was therefore evaluated at low soil temperatures (below 10 °C).

The overall results indicated that H. megidis was effective as long as temperatures were optimum (not dropping below 10 °C). For S. kraussei, the results obtained were rather disappointing, where control barely reached 50% in the trial with the coldest temperature. Temperature and soil type appeared to be a major limiting factor for the efficacy of both nematode species.

On the basis of the results and experience obtained in these trials, the future implications for biological control of O. sulcatus with entomopathogenic nematodes in commercial field‐grown strawberry production are discussed.
Renoprotective action of l‐carnitine in fructose‐induced metabolic syndrome
Authors: Rajasekar P. , Viswanathan P. , Anuradha C. V.
Published: September 2010

Aim:  Rats fed high dosage of fructose that form a well‐known experimental model of the metabolic syndrome also display progressive renal disturbances. The present study evaluates the influence of l‐carnitine (CA) administration on oxidant–antioxidant balance, protein damage and lipid levels in kidney of rats administered high dose of fructose.

Methods:  Adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups of 10 rats each. Groups I and IV animals received starch‐based control diet, while groups II and III rats were fed a high‐fructose diet (60 g/100 g). Groups III and IV animals additionally received CA (300 mg/kg/day) for 60 days. The extent of lipid peroxidation, enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidants and lipid levels were measured after 60 days. The accumulation of nitrated and oxidatively modified proteins in kidney was also measured by immunohistochemical study with specific antibodies.

Results:  Fructose‐fed rats exhibited increased levels of peroxidation end products, diminished antioxidant status, increased staining for the presence of 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal, 2,4‐dinitrophenol and 3‐nitrotyrosine protein adducts and lipid accumulation in kidney. CA administration attenuated these pathological renal alterations.

Conclusions:  The benefits of CA in this model suggest the therapeutic use of CA to counter the kidney changes associated with metabolic syndrome.
CASE REPORT: Bilateral phacoemulsification in an orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus)
Authors: Montiani‐Ferreira Fabiano , Lima Leandro , Bacellar Marianna , D’Otaviano Vilani Ricardo G. , Fedullo José Daniel , Lange Rogério R.
Published: September 2010

A 14‐year‐old, female, captive‐born orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) developed bilateral cataracts. Ultrasonography, electroretinography and cataract correction using phacoemulsification were performed bilaterally. This case report aims to describe the ophthalmic procedures performed in this animal critically endangered of extinction. The surgery successfully restored vision and normal activity to the patient.
Mydriatic effect of topically applied rocuronium bromide in tawny owls (Strix aluco): comparison between two protocols
Authors: Barsotti Giovanni , Briganti Angela , Spratte Johanna Roselinde , Ceccherelli Renato , Breghi Gloria
Published: September 2010

Objective To evaluate the mydriatic efficacy of a neuromuscular blocking agent (rocuronium bromide) applied topically to only one eye of nocturnal birds of prey and to assess for any general and/or local adverse effects due to its use.

Animal studied Twelve healthy adult tawny owls (Strix aluco) were randomly divided in two groups.

Procedures Six birds (Group 1) received a single dose of 0.35 mg of rocuronium bromide. The second group of subjects (Group 2) received two doses of 0.35 mg of rocuronium bromide (total 0.70 mg/eye). In both groups, the curariform agent was instilled topically. Pupil diameter was measured with a pupillary gauge in 10 min intervals for a total of 100 min and then every 20 min for a total of 240 min. The assessment of the pupillary light reflex was performed using a standard light source during pupillary size recording.

Results Maximal pupillary diameter was 11.5 ± 0.3 mm for Group 1 and 11.0 ± 0.6 mm for Group 2 and no statistically significant differences were detected among the two groups. The maximal pupillary diameter was achieved at T80 for Group 1, and at T60 for Group 2. A complete fundus examination was possible on all treated eyes of subjects of both groups. The drug did not cause any noticeable adverse effects in any of the examined birds.

Conclusion Results of the present study suggest that a single topical administration of 0.35 mg of rocuronium bromide to the eyes of healthy tawny owls results in sufficient mydriasis to allow for a complete examination of the fundus.
CASE REPORT: Bilateral vision loss in a captive cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus)
Authors: Walser‐Reinhardt Ladina , Wernick Morena B. , Hatt Jean‐Michel , Spiess Bernhard M.
Published: September 2010

The following case report describes a 1‐year‐old female cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) with bilateral blindness and unresponsive pupils. For comparison, a second healthy 2.5‐year‐old male cheetah without visual deficits was also examined. Clinical examination of both animals included biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy, tonometry, and electroretinography. The young female cheetah showed no menace response, no direct or indirect pupillary light reflex, and no dazzle reflex in either eye. Fundus lesions, as detected by indirect ophthalmoscopy, are described for the female animal. In both eyes, the fundus color was green/turquoise/yellow with multiple hyperpigmented linear lesions in the tapetal area around the optic nerve. The optic nerve head was dark gray and about half the normal size suggesting bilateral optic nerve hypoplasia and retinal dysplasia or differentially optic nerve atrophy and chorioretinal scarring. The ERG had low amplitudes in the right eye but appeared normal in the left eye compared with the male cheetah. Blood levels did not suggest current taurine deficiency. This is addressed to some degree in the discussion. Bilateral optic nerve hypoplasia or optic nerve atrophy is a rare anomaly in cats and has not yet been described in a cheetah.
Ocular disease in the guinea pig (Cavia porcellus): a survey of 1000 animals
Authors: Williams David , Sullivan Ann
Published: September 2010

Objective Anecdotal evidence has suggested that guinea pigs have a high prevalence of ocular lesions. Here we undertook a survey of 1000 guinea pigs from populations of animals kept as laboratory animals, breeding show cavies, animals kept as pets and those from rescue and rehoming centers. Each animal was examined to assess for ocular abnormalities.

Procedures A full ophthalmic examination was performed on each animal with direct and indirect ophthalmoscopy and with slit lamp biomicroscopy. Measurement of tear production using the Schirmer tear test 1 and intraocular pressure using the Tonopen applanation tonometer after topical anesthesia was undertaken in selected animals.

Results Forty‐five percent of animals examined had some ocular abnormality. The majority were lens lesions including 17% with cataract and 21% with subclinical lens abnormalities such as nuclear sclerosis. Other abnormalities included conjunctivitis in 4.7% and keratitis in 3.6%. Lipid deposition in conjunctiva was observed in 2.3% of guinea pigs and ciliary body heterotopic bone formation in 0.8% of animals.

Conclusions This study shows a high proportion of eyes with some degree of abnormality in animals otherwise considered healthy. Information on diseases of the guinea pig eye is important given the use of the species as a laboratory rodent and also the number kept as pets and show animals.
An exercise programme for patients with diabetic complications: a study on feasibility and preliminary effectiveness
Authors: Otterman N. M. , van Schie C. H. M. , van der Schaaf M. , van Bon A. C. , Busch‐Westbroek T. E. , Nollet F.
Published: September 2010

Diabet. Med. 28, 212–217 (2011)

Aims  To investigate the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of an exercise programme for patients with diabetic complications.

Methods  In this pre‐post design study, 22 patients from a diabetic foot outpatient clinic participated in a 12‐week individualized exercise programme, consisting of aerobic and resistance exercise, with specific safety precautions. Feasibility was assessed on the basis of programme adherence, adverse events, achievement of the target training intensity and patient satisfaction. Preliminary effectiveness was evaluated with pre‐post‐changes in blood glucose regulation (HbA1c), muscle strength (isometric peak torque) and perceived limitations in functioning (Patient Specific Function Scale with visual analogue scale).

Results  Twenty patients completed the exercise programme with a high mean attendance (85%). No training‐related severe adverse events occurred. The target training intensity was achieved by 70% of the participants. Patient satisfaction was high. HbA1c decreased from 8.2% before to 7.8% after the programme (P = 0.005), muscle strength increased from 136.4 to 150.4 Nm (P = 0.046) and perceived limitations in functioning decreased from 7.2 to 5.8 mm (P = 0.003).

Conclusions  The prescribed exercise programme had a potentially positive effect on blood glucose regulation, muscle strength and perceived limitations in functioning in patients with diabetic complications.
Factors associated with medication adherence to oral hypoglycaemic agents in different ethnic groups suffering from Type 2 diabetes: a systematic literature review and suggestions for further research
Authors: Peeters B. , Van Tongelen I. , Boussery K. , Mehuys E. , Remon J. P. , Willems S.
Published: September 2010

Diabet. Med. 28, 262–275 (2011)

Aims  To synthesize knowledge regarding the different factors that may influence adherence to oral hypoglycaemic agents in different ethnic groups through a systematic review of the literature.

Methods  Thirteen databases were searched and 1201 articles were screened by two authors independently from each other. Different quantitative study designs were included if the study population included at least one ethnic group other than White people, medication adherence was a dependent variable and a clear description was given of the method used to measure medication adherence.

Results  Demographic, disease‐related and treatment‐related, socio‐economic and cultural factors were associated with medication adherence in the populations that were studied. However, to synthesize results, the number of studies was too small and the included studies differed too much with respect to their study designs and the ethnic groups that were studied. We discuss several methodological challenges with respect to measuring medication adherence, measuring ethnicity and study designs that need to be resolved to make future studies comparable. We propose methodological improvements for future research.

Conclusion  Although medication adherence is an essential part of the diabetic regimen, little is known about the association between ethnicity and medication adherence and the underlying factors that could explain this association. More research is needed in which important methodological challenges will have to be faced.
Mechanisms of change in control group drinking in clinical trials of brief alcohol intervention: Implications for bias toward the null
Authors: BERNSTEIN JUDITH A. , BERNSTEIN EDWARD , HEEREN TIMOTHY C.
Published: September 2010

Issues.Reductions in control group consumption over time that are possibly related to research design affect the impact of brief alcohol interventions (BAI) in clinical settings.Approach.We conducted a systematic review to identify research design factors that may contribute to control group change, strategies to limit these effects and implications for researchers. Studies with control groupn > 30 were selected if they published baseline and outcome consumption data, conducted trials in clinical settings in Anglophone countries and did not censor gender or age.Key Findings.Among 38 studies cited in 20 reviews through October 2009,16 met criteria (n = 31–370). In 54%, controls received alcohol specific handouts, advice and/or referral. Both the number and depth of assessments were highly variable. The percentage change in consumption ranged from−0.10 to−0.84 (mean−0.32), and effect size from 0.04 to 0.70 (mean 0.37). Published data were insufficient for meta‐analysis.Implications.Researchers should consider strategies to reduce the impact of research design factors, such as procedures to enhance sample diversity, blind subjects to study purpose to limit social desirability bias, reduce the number and depth of instruments (assessment reactivity), and finally, analytic techniques to decrease the impact of outliers and regression to the mean.Conclusions.This review identifies problems with retrospective analysis of predictors of control group change, and underscores the need to design prospective studies to permit identification, quantification and adjustment for potential sources of bias in BAI trials.[Bernstein JA, Bernstein E, Heeren TC. Mechanisms of change in control group drinking in clinical trials of brief alcohol intervention: Implications for bias toward the null.Drug Alcohol Rev2010;29;498–507]
MALE MARITAL WAGE DIFFERENTIALS: TRAINING, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS, AND FIXED EFFECTS
Authors: RODGERS WILLIAM M. , STRATTON LESLIE S.
Published: September 2010

Using the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979, we replicate previous estimates of the marital wage differential for white men, extend the analysis to African American men, then explain the within and between race differentials. We first control for formal job training, then for cognitive skills, parental background, and self‐esteem with little effect. By contrast, the white differential but not the black differential disappears in fixed‐effects estimation. We reconcile the cross‐section/panel differentials by focusing on the distinct identification conditions employed by each technique. Men who never change marital status play a significant role in white cross‐sectional estimates. (JEL J31, J12)
FINANCIAL CONTAGION ON THE INTERNATIONAL TRADE NETWORK
Authors: KALI RAJA , REYES JAVIER
Published: September 2010

We combine data on international trade linkages with a network approach to map the global trading system as an interdependent complex network. This enables us to obtain indicators of how well connected a country is into the global trading system. We use these network‐based measures of connectedness to explain stock market returns during recent episodes of financial crisis. We find that a crisis is amplified if the epicenter country is better integrated into the trade network. However, target countries affected by such a shock are in turn better able to dissipate the impact if they are well integrated into the network. A network approach can help explain why the Mexican, Asian, and Russian financial crises were highly contagious, while the crises that originated in Venezuela and Argentina did not have such a virulent effect. We suggest that a network approach incorporating the cascading and diffusion of interdependent ripples when a shock hits a specific part of the global trade network provides us with an improved explanation of financial contagion. (JEL F10, F36, F40, G15)
Strengthening the Uganda nurses' and midwives' association for a motivated workforce
Authors: Zuyderduin A. , Obuni J.D. , McQuide P.A.
Published: September 2010

ZUYDERDUIN A., OBUNI J.D. & MCQUIDE P.A. (2010) Strengthening the Uganda nurses' and midwives' association for a motivated workforce. International Nursing Review

Background:  The Ugandan Association of Nurses and Midwives (UNANM) is a dynamic proactive community. This survey of nurses, both members and non‐members of the association, was implemented in April 2007. It was the first phase of a programme‐funded Capacity Project/USAID to strengthen professional associations as part of a strategy to retain nurses.

Aim:  To better understand the needs and strengths of the association and to develop policy recommendations on how to strengthen the UNANM to retain nurses in the health sector.

Methods:  Three hundred self‐completion questionnaires were distributed, of which 217 (72%) were returned. The participants were 126 non‐members and 91 members of the UNANM.

Results:  Just over a third of the 91 members rated the UNANM to be very effective in promoting nursing (35%) and information sharing (36%). Non‐members want to receive nursing information from the UNANM (89%) and were less critical of the UNANM than members. Respondents were interested in counselling training (83%), research capacity building (80%) and sharing best practice (74%). Nurses under 30 years (12%) look to more experienced peers for guidance on coping in a stressful profession.

Conclusion:  The nurses lack continuing professional development, mentoring and networking opportunities. Tangible support for communication, nurse education and research is needed and will stimulate the development of nursing in Uganda. Most nurses do not have the means to pay for training, research or travel to attend professional meetings. Motivation to stay in nursing and quality of care can increase through investing in nursing, and this support can be channelled through associations such as the UNANM.
MATCHING OWN PRICES, RIVALS' PRICES OR BOTH?*
Authors: HVIID MORTEN , SHAFFER GREG
Published: September 2010

Many retailers promise that they will not be undersold by rivals and extend their promise to include their own future prices. That is, many retailers combine elements of both price‐matching guarantees and retroactive most‐favored‐customer clauses. This is puzzling because the extant literature has shown that each practice independently has the potential to facilitate supracompetitive prices, and thus one might think the two practices are substitutes. In this paper, we show that price‐matching guarantees and most‐favored‐customer clauses complement each other when offered unilaterally by a single firm and can lead to higher prices than either one could have facilitated by itself.
TYING, COMPATIBILITY AND PLANNED OBSOLESCENCE*
Authors: MIAO CHUN‐HUI
Published: September 2010

According to the hypothesis of planned obsolescence, a durable goods monopolist without commitment power has an excessive incentive to introduce new products that make old units obsolete, and this reduces its overall profitability. In this paper, I reconsider the above hypothesis by examining the role of competition in a monopolist's upgrade decision. I find that, when a system add‐on is competitively supplied, a monopolist chooses to tie the add‐on to a new system that is only backward compatible, even if a commitment of not introducing the new system is available and socially optimal. Tying facilitates a price squeeze.
CONTRACTING FOR GOVERNMENT SERVICES: THEORY AND EVIDENCE FROM U.S. CITIES*
Authors: LEVIN JONATHAN , TADELIS STEVEN
Published: September 2010

Local governments can provide services with their own employees or by contracting with private or public sector providers. We develop a model of this ‘make‐or‐buy’ choice that highlights the trade‐off between productive efficiency and the costs of contract administration. We construct a dataset of service provision choices by U.S. cities and identify a range of service and city characteristics as significant determinants of contracting decisions. Our analysis suggests an important role for economic efficiency concerns, as well as politics, in contracting for government services.
A Regional Multiplier Approach to Estimating the Impact of Cash Transfers on the Market: The Case of Cash Transfers in Rural Malawi
Authors: Davies Simon , Davey James
Published: September 2010

This article analyses the impact on the local economy of an emergency cash–transfer programme in rural Malawi. The results are of interest, given the growing use of cash transfers as development aid as well as the increasing popularity of such transfers as a form of social protection across sub–Saharan Africa. It uses a form of social accounting matrix to show that there are widespread benefits for the regional economy as a whole (with multiplier estimates of 2.02 to 2.45), especially during the most ‘lean’ periods of the year, and for small farmers and small businesses in particular, as this is where poorer households' purchases are focused; education and health also benefit.
Thought for Food: Suggestions for a systematised approach to emergency food distribution operations
Authors: ELDRIDGE CHRIS
Published: September 2010

The following paper is a synopsis of a longer report, under the same name, aimed at the people responsible for implementing relief food operations. The report attempts to fill a perceived need for a manual covering the organisation of relief operations from planning to evaluation stages. Following the initial planning phase, the distribution of relief food can be viewed as a logistics operation sandwiched between two phases of data acquisition ‐ one before the distribution of relief to targetted destinations, and the other after the distribution, to assess its efficacy and to identify problems.
Remnants and Revenants: Politics and Violence in the Work of Agamben and Derrida
Authors: Frazer Elizabeth , Hutchings Kimberly
Published: September 2010

Jacques Derrida and Giorgio Agamben both consider the question of whether there can be politics without violence, offering contrasting responses. In the case of Agamben, the remnant (that which remains) is disruptive and destabilising of present institutions; in the case of Derrida the revenant, the spectre, promises a future that is open. This reading of the two theories suggests that Derrida's response to the question of politics and violence is more persuasive than Agamben's. But the abstraction of his argument, like the tensions and contradictions in Agamben's, means that we are not hereby furnished with the resources to think politically about violence.
‘Borrowing’ Power to Influence International Negotiations: AOSIS in the Climate Change Regime, 1990–1997
Authors: Betzold Carola
Published: September 2010

While small island developing states (SIDS) are micro-contributors to anthropogenic climate change, they are among the most vulnerable to its impacts, with some islands even facing the possibility of extinction. Recognising their vital stake in an effective climate regime, small island states formed a negotiating group, the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), to represent their interests in the international climate negotiations. Given their limited power, however, to what extent, and by what means, did AOSIS impact the climate regime? Assuming that both the process and outcome of negotiations depend largely on power, this article argues that low-power parties can nonetheless exert influence in international negotiations by ‘borrowing’ power, that is, by drawing on external power sources. A framework for analysis is thus developed and used to assess AOSIS's negotiating strategies and respective successes in the climate change regime from 1990 to 1997. As the analysis reveals, AOSIS made use of external sources of power over this period, and shaped the negotiations to a remarkable degree, much more so than the a priori power distribution would predict.
Changing Norms of Accountability: Opportunities for Democratic Change
Authors: Choup Anne Marie
Published: September 2010

This article considers how civil society can bring about local-level democratic change when national political systems remain authoritarian. Existing literature has tended to focus on democratic characteristics of civil society that reinforce political democratisation. A close reading of the literature on sub-Saharan Africa, along with a Cameroonian case study, illustrates how a civic association can provide opportunities for democratic change by emphasising accountability. This article addresses an important gap in the literature by showing where democratisation opportunities may be limited to the local level but can still improve citizens' quality of life.
Structures, Agents and Criticism: Assessing Bhaskar's Fact-To-Value and Value-To-Fact Arguments
Authors: Cruickshank Justin
Published: September 2010

Most discussion about critical realism concerns the concepts of structure and agency. This neglects Bhaskar's arguments about facts and values. Bhaskar argues that we can move from facts to values with ‘explanatory critiques’ and from values to facts with ‘descriptively adequate’ accounts of ‘value impregnated’ events. The argument in this article is that both of Bhaskar's arguments are untenable and that the alternative is the value-to-value argument.
Local and Omnibus Goodness-of-Fit Tests in Classical Measurement Error Models
Authors: Ma Yanyuan , Hart Jeffrey D. , Janicki Ryan , Carroll Raymond J.
Published: September 2010

We consider functional measurement error models, i.e. models where covariates are measured with error and yet no distributional assumptions are made about the mismeasured variable. We propose and study a score-type local test and an orthogonal series-based, omnibus goodness-of-fit test in this context, where no likelihood function is available or calculated—i.e. all the tests are proposed in the semiparametric model framework. We demonstrate that our tests have optimality properties and computational advantages that are similar to those of the classical score tests in the parametric model framework. The test procedures are applicable to several semiparametric extensions of measurement error models, including when the measurement error distribution is estimated non-parametrically as well as for generalized partially linear models. The performance of the local score-type and omnibus goodness-of-fit tests is demonstrated through simulation studies and analysis of a nutrition data set.
OPTIMAL DEMAND FOR CONTINGENT CLAIMS WHEN AGENTS HAVE LAW INVARIANT UTILITIES
Authors: Carlier G. , Dana R.‐A.
Published: September 2010

We consider a class of law invariant utilities, which contains the rank‐dependent expected utility (RDU) and the cumulative prospect theory (CPT). We show that the computation of demand for a contingent claim when utilities are within that class, although not as simple as in the expected utility (EU) case, is still tractable. Specific attention is given to the RDU and to the CPT cases. Numerous examples are fully solved.
THE DOTHAN PRICING MODEL REVISITED
Authors: Pintoux Caroline , Privault Nicolas
Published: September 2010

We compute zero‐coupon bond prices in the Dothan model by solving the associated PDE using integral representations of heat kernels and Hartman–Watson distributions. We obtain several integral formulas for the price P(t, T) at time t > 0 of a bond with maturity T > 0 that complete those of the original paper of Dothan, which are shown not to always satisfy the boundary condition P(T, T) = 1.
“A Chasm of Values and Outlook”: The Carter Administration’s Human Rights Policy in Guatemala
Authors: Colby Jason M.
Published: September 2010

Scholars have often depicted Jimmy Carter’s human rights policy as naïve and counterproductive. In doing so, many have pointed to Guatemala, where Carter’s policies seemed to alienate the military government without ending its abuses. Yet such critics have failed to acknowledge the obstacles Carter’s policy faced as well as its long‐term influence on U.S. policy and on Guatemala itself. Drawing upon recently declassified documents, this article explores the challenges the administration’s human rights advocates encountered in their attempt to implement Carter’s policies. In particular, it emphasizes the resistance of both the U.S. government bureaucracy and Guatemala’s military. But it also argues that, despite these difficulties, the Carter administration achieved a shift in U.S.‐Guatemalan relations. The legacy of Carter’s human rights policy limited Washington’s role in the counterinsurgency war and helped push Guatemala toward civilian rule and peace negotiations.
Bypassing Barnett: the comprehensive spending review and public expenditure in Wales
Authors: Bristow Gillian
Published: September 2010

Under UK devolution, public expenditure is distributed to the devolved administrations by means of the population‐based Barnett formula. However, in the July 2000 Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR) the Treasury bypassed the operation of the Barnett formula to determine public expenditure levels in Wales. This was necessary in order to enable Wales to access European Objective 1 funds for economic regeneration. In so doing, the UK government has set a precedent which is destined to accelerate demands for a thorough and independent review of regional public expenditure needs.
THE EFFECT OF POLICING STRATEGIES: EVIDENCE FROM THE USA
Authors: Gimber Andrew R.
Published: September 2010

Changes in policing strategies in the USA during the 1990s coincided with a significant decline in crime, particularly in New York City. However, academic research has shown that policing strategies played a relatively minor role in reducing crime in comparison with other factors.
COMPSTAT, COMMUNITY POLICING AND THE SCIENCE OF SUCCESS: A MARKET‐BASED APPROACH TO POLICE MANAGEMENT
Authors: Holian Matt
Published: September 2010

Police departments in the USA have begun to embrace recommendations from two police management philosophies. However, it is often unclear whether these recommendations conflict with or complement each other. This article suggests that viewing these philosophies from a market‐based perspective will enable police forces in the UK to better apply their recommendations.
HOMO DEMOCRATICUS: OR WHY DEMOCRACY SHOULD NOT BE THE OBJECTIVE OF US FOREIGN POLICY
Authors: Cornell Gorka Katharine
Published: September 2010

This article argues that government efforts to support democratisation in other countries are often counterproductive because they further strengthen government institutions over and above a responsible, active, citizenry and often target the wrong recipients because of government aversion to risk. Foreign assistance programmes would do better to support individual liberties rather than democracy.
THE BUS INDUSTRY IN DANGER
Authors: Hibbs John
Published: September 2010

After seeking to placate the local government lobby while retaining the benefits of private enterprise, the Labour government's policy for bus services is slipping into a dangerous compromise which will neglect the market while seizing assets from commercial operators. Behind this lies a policy leading to the return of bus services to public ownership.