bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Giacomo Devoto 1898–1974
Authors: Ramat Paolo
Published: November 2010

The paper essays to give a brief survey of the imposing and complex work of Giacomo Devoto (1897–1974), with particular emphasis on its principal traits seen both from the point of view of the history of linguistics and its scientific significance. Especial attention is drawn first of all to Devoto’s position vis-à-vis Benedetto Croce’s Idealism and the linguistic positivism of the first half of the 20th century. It seems possible to define Devoto’s position as a dialectic one between these two intellectual currents, which eventually led to an historicism, which actually was typical of the Italian linguistic tradition. From this viewpoint then Devoto’s understanding of language as an ‘institution’ is examined, including his intervention in the dispute between N. Ja. Marr and Stalin. After having dealt with his concept of a ‘stylistics of language’, which returns to regarding langue as an historicaland social institution, and its difference from a literary stylistics, Devoto’s Indo-European studies are examined. Here, the question of the relationship between linguistics and the other disciplines concerned with antiuqty is discussed, a relationship which Devotohad been obliged on several occasions to come back to. The ‘Devotian’ position is presented critically with the help of discussions which Devoto himself had entertained, with archaeologists and with linguists.
Generation of stable multi-jets by flow-limited field-injection electrostatic spraying and their control via I–V characteristics
Authors: Gu W , Heil P E , Choi H , Kim K
Published: November 2010

The I–V characteristics of flow-limited field-injection electrostatic spraying (FFESS) were investigated, exposing a new way to predict and control the specific spraying modes from single-jet to multi-jet. Monitoring the I–V characteristics revealed characteristic drops in the current upon formation of an additional jet in the multi-jet spraying mode. For fixed jet numbers, space-charge-limited current behaviour was measured which was attributed to space charge in the dielectric liquids between the needle electrode and the nozzle opening. The present work establishes that FFESS can, in particular, generate stable multiple jets and that their control is possible through monitoring the I–V characteristics. This can allow for automatic control of the FFESS process and expedite its future scientific and industrial applications.
High rate straining of tantalum and copper
Authors: Armstrong R W , Zerilli F J
Published: November 2010

High strain rate measurements reported recently for several tantalum and copper crystal/polycrystal materials are shown to follow dislocation mechanics-based constitutive relations, first at lower strain rates, for dislocation velocity control of the imposed plastic deformations and, then at higher rates, transitioning to nano-scale dislocation generation control by twinning or slip. For copper, there is the possibility of added-on slip dislocation displacements to be accounted for from the newly generated dislocations.
Electro-optic effect and optical rectification in gold nanoparticles immobilized above a gold surface
Authors: Uchiho Yuichi , Shimojo Masayuki , Kajikawa Kotaro
Published: November 2010

Second-order nonlinear optical effects, a linear electro-optic (EO) effect and optical rectification (OR), were observed in surface immobilized gold nanospheres (SIGNs) above a gold surface with a gap of about 1.4 nm. The EO and OR measurements were performed in an attenuated total reflection geometry under a surface plasmon resonance condition. While it has been reported that the SIGN structure shows considerable second-harmonic generation activity, there has been no report on a linear EO effect and OR in the SIGN structure. The effective second-order susceptibilities of a single SIGN structure were evaluated to be 13 pm V−1 (EO) and 40 pm V−1 (OR). Although the theory predicts that the susceptibilities of EO and OR will be equal, the observed susceptibilities were different. The reasons for this discrepancy are discussed.
Characterization of interface states in a-Si : H/c-Si heterojunctions by an expression of the theoretical diffusion capacitance
Authors: Zhong C L , Yao R H , Geng K W
Published: November 2010

Capacitance spectroscopy under illumination and at a forward bias close to the open-circuit voltage (V
oc) has recently been proposed to characterize interface states in a-Si : H/c-Si heterojunctions, and the interface defect density, D
it, is estimated from the simulations of capacitance. In this paper, the theoretical diffusion capacitance, C
D, is presented for measurement to directly characterize the interface states. By solving the excess minority carrier density in c-Si when interface states are introduced, the expression of C
D is developed as a function of D
it, the excess minority carrier density out of c-Si depletion and diffusion regions, Δn, and the carrier diffusion lengths in c-Si. C
D decreases with increasing D
it since the interface states act as recombination centres to decrease the excess carrier density in c-Si. The measurement is sensitive to D
it down to 1010 cm−2 eV−1. Accordingly, in the measurement of Δn and the carrier diffusion lengths in c-Si, the interface states can be characterized directly and accurately by the theoretical diffusion capacitance.
Pulsed corona plasma source characterization for film deposition on the inner surface of tubes
Authors: Pothiraja Ramasamy , Bibinov Nikita , Awakowicz Peter
Published: November 2010

A microplasma jet has been constructed for chemical vapour deposition on the inner surface of narrow long tubes and is tested on a quartz tube with the inner diameter of 6 mm and the outer diameter of 8 mm. A long plasma filament (>100 mm) is generated inside the tube in argon with methane admixture. Depending on the quantity of admixture in argon, the negative as well as the positive corona discharges are ignited. Both modes of plasma are characterized using optical emission spectroscopy. For this purpose, nitrogen is admixed with argon and its emission is used for the determination of gas temperature, electron velocity distribution function and electron density at various places along the axis of the tube. The formation of active species, such as C, C2 and CH during the dissociation of methane, is observed through their characteristic emission. The rate of methane dissociation is determined at various places along the axis of the tube during both modes of discharge. Since the chemical kinetics of the film growth process is different, different kinds of films are obtained during different modes of discharge.
The influence of residual charge on surface discharge propagation
Authors: Deng Junbo , Matsuoka Shigeyasu , Kumada Akiko , Hidaka Kunihiko
Published: November 2010

The influence of residual charge on propagation of surface discharge is experimentally investigated using high-speed framing and streak cameras, and an electrostatic probe. When consecutive impulse voltages are applied 25 times with a change in polarity, the propagation length of the surface discharge increases gradually from 79 to 164 mm and hardly converges. Under such a condition, the potential gradient in the surface leader channel decreases with the consecutive number of impulses, while that in the surface streamer remains constant and the value is 0.5–0.6 kV mm−1. With the residual charge of a previous opposite polarity discharge on an insulator, the propagation velocity increases to three to eight times as large as that of the surface discharge on a clear insulator without any residual charge. The peak current of the surface discharge with a residual charge also becomes much higher than that without a residual charge.
Spectroscopic properties of Ho3+ single-doped and Tm3+/Ho3+ co-doped LiLa(MoO4)2 crystals
Authors: Tang Jianfeng , Chen Yujin , Lin Yanfu , Gong Xinghong , Huang Jianhua , Luo Zundu , Huang Yidong
Published: November 2010

Spectroscopic properties of Ho3+ : LiLa(MoO4)2 and Tm3+/Ho3+ : LiLa(MoO4)2 single crystals relevant to the 2 µm laser of Ho3+ ions have been investigated. The polarized absorption spectra of the crystals were measured. The stimulated emission cross sections of the 5I7 → 5I8 transition for Ho3+ ions were estimated. The fluorescence spectra around 2 µm and upconversion fluorescence spectra in the visible region under excitation at 795 nm were measured. The fluorescence decay curves of the 3H4 and 3F4 multiplets of Tm3+ ions and the 5I7 multiplet of Ho3+ ions were recorded. The cross relaxation of 3H4 + 3H6 → 3F4 + 3F4 between Tm3+ ions and the following energy transfer between the 3F4 multiplet of Tm3+ ions and the 5I7 multiplet of Ho3+ ions in the Tm3+/Ho3+ : LiLa(MoO4)2 were analysed.
The Role of α-Glucosidase in Germinating Barley Grains
Authors: Stanley Duncan , Rejzek Martin , Naested Henrik , Smedley Mark , Otero Sofía , Fahy Brendan , Thorpe Frazer , Nash Robert J. , Harwood Wendy , Svensson Birte , Denyer Kay , Field Robert A. , Smith Alison M.
Published: November 2010

The importance of α-glucosidase in the endosperm starch metabolism of barley (Hordeum vulgare) seedlings is poorly understood. The enzyme converts maltose to glucose (Glc), but in vitro studies indicate that it can also attack starch granules. To discover its role in vivo, we took complementary chemical-genetic and reverse-genetic approaches. We identified iminosugar inhibitors of a recombinant form of an α-glucosidase previously discovered in barley endosperm (ALPHA-GLUCOSIDASE97 [HvAGL97]), and applied four of them to germinating grains. All four decreased the Glc-to-maltose ratio in the endosperm 10 d after imbibition, implying inhibition of maltase activity. Three of the four inhibitors also reduced starch degradation and seedling growth, but the fourth did not affect these parameters. Inhibition of starch degradation was apparently not due to inhibition of amylases. Inhibition of seedling growth was primarily a direct effect of the inhibitors on roots and coleoptiles rather than an indirect effect of the inhibition of endosperm metabolism. It may reflect inhibition of glycoprotein-processing glucosidases in these organs. In transgenic seedlings carrying an RNA interference silencing cassette for HvAgl97, α-glucosidase activity was reduced by up to 50%. There was a large decrease in the Glc-to-maltose ratio in these lines but no effect on starch degradation or seedling growth. Our results suggest that the α-glucosidase HvAGL97 is the major endosperm enzyme catalyzing the conversion of maltose to Glc but is not required for starch degradation. However, the effects of three glucosidase inhibitors on starch degradation in the endosperm indicate the existence of unidentified glucosidase(s) required for this process.
Rituximab in combination with CODOX‐M/IVAC: a retrospective analysis of 23 cases of non‐HIV related B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma with proliferation index >95%
Authors: Mohamedbhai Sajir G. , Sibson Keith , Marafioti Teresa , Kayani Irfan , Lowry Lisa , Goldstone Anthony H. , Linch David C. , Ardeshna Kirit M.
Published: November 2010

The safety and efficacy of rituximab with CODOX‐M/IVAC (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, methotrexate/ifosfamide, etoposide, high dose cytarabine) was retrospectively analysed in 23 patients with non‐human immunodeficiency virus‐related B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma with proliferation index >95% [14 with classical Burkitt lymphoma (BL), five with B‐cell lymphoma unclassifiable, with features intermediate between diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and BL, and four with DLBCL]. Six (26%) low‐risk (LR) patients received three cycles of CODOX‐M and 17 (74%) high‐risk (HR) cases were assigned to four cycles of alternating CODOX‐M/IVAC. Rituximab 375 mg/m2 was infused on days 1 and 10 of each cycle. Toxicity was comparable to that reported with CODOX‐M/IVAC, with no treatment‐related death. Two patients developed grade 3 rituximab‐induced delayed neutropenia, with no adverse outcome. After completing treatment, 83% LR patients and 71% HR patients achieved CR by positron emission tomography–computerized tomography (PET–CT). Three (13%) patients received salvage treatment. At a median follow‐up of 34 months (range = 18–75), 19 (83%) patients (100% LR and 74% HR) were alive, including one case undergoing salvage for late relapse. Four HR patients (17%) had died, three from primary progressive disease and one from treatment‐refractory relapse 2 months after achieving CR. These results with R‐CODOX‐M/R‐IVAC compare favourably with existing data using CODOX‐M/IVAC and warrant further prospective studies. The potential pitfalls of PET–CT to assess response are highlighted.
1:1 mobile inquiry learning experience for primary science students: a study of learning effectiveness
Authors: Looi C.‐K. , Zhang B. , Chen W. , Seow P. , Chia G. , Norris C. , Soloway E.
Published: November 2010

This paper presents the findings of a research project in which we transformed a primary (grade) 3 science curriculum for delivery via mobile technologies, and a teacher enacted the lessons over the 2009 academic year in a class in a primary school in Singapore. The students had a total of 21 weeks of the mobilized lessons in science, which were co‐designed by teachers and researchers by tapping into the affordances of mobile technologies for supporting inquiry learning in and outside of class. We examine the learning effectiveness of the enacted mobilized science curriculum. The results show that among the six mixed‐ability classes in primary (grade) 3 in the school, the experimental class performed better than other classes as measured by traditional assessments in the science subject. With mobilized lessons, students were found to learn science in personal, deep and engaging ways as well as developed positive attitudes towards mobile learning.
Imaging of human colon cancer cells using He‐Ion scanning microscopy
Authors: BAZOU D. , BEHAN G. , REID C. , BOLAND J.J. , ZHANG H.Z.
Published: November 2010

Due to its low beam current and charge compensation mechanism He‐Ion scanning microscopy is a very promising tool for imaging biological cells. However, to obtain relevant information, the method used for sample preparation is also critical. In this work, we have used a Carl Zeiss Orion Plus helium‐ion microscope to study the effect of sample gold coating on the morphology of human colorectal adenocarcinoma Caco2 cells. The fixative glutaraldehyde was used and the selective gold coating of the samples was investigated. A comparative study with standard scanning electron microscopy is presented.
Functional characterisation of a complex mutation in the α(1,4)galactosyltransferase gene in Taiwanese individuals with p phenotype
Authors: Wang Y.‐C. , Chang C.‐F. , Lin H.‐C. , Lin K.‐S. , Lin K.‐T. , Hung C.‐M. , Lin T.‐M.
Published: November 2010

Background and objective: Individuals with p phenotype lack P1, Pk and P antigens on red blood cells, presumably as a result of deficiency in the enzyme α(1,4)galactosyltransferase (A4GALT). The aim of this study was to explore the molecular background of a Taiwanese family with p phenotype.

Materials and methods: Blood samples from two p siblings and seven family members were investigated. The coding region of the A4GALT gene was analysed by polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing. The wild‐ and mutant‐complementary DNAs (cDNAs) of A4GALT were cloned into an expression vector and transfected to Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells. Pk expression on the transfected cells was analysed by flow cytometry and the activities of A4GALT were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results: The two individuals with p phenotype were homozygous for the complex mutation, which was caused by a combined deletion and insertion between nt 418 and 428. No expression of Pk and no enzyme activity were observed in cells transfected with the mutant construct.

Conclusion: The first case of p phenotype in Taiwan was caused by a non‐functional allele resulting from a homozygous complex mutation of A4GALT gene.
Moment of Addition of LH to the Culture Medium Improves In Vitro Survival and Development of Secondary Goat Pre‐antral Follicles
Authors: Silva CMG , Castro SV , Faustino LR , Rodrigues GQ , Brito IR , Saraiva MVA , Rossetto R , Silva TFP , Campello CC , Figueiredo JR
Published: November 2010

Contents

The present study investigated the effects of time of addition of luteinizing hormone (LH) to culture medium on the in vitro development of caprine pre‐antral follicles. Pre‐antral follicles (≥150 μm) were isolated from fragments of the goat ovarian cortex and individually cultured for 18 days in the absence (control) or presence of 100 ng/ml LH, added on days 0, 6 or 12 of culture. Follicular development was assessed based on antral cavity formation, increased follicular diameter as well as follicular and fully grown oocyte (>110 μm) viability. The results showed that after 18 days of culture, the percentage of surviving follicles in the control treatment was significantly lower when compared to other treatments (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in antrum formation, follicular diameter and oocyte viability. The addition of LH at D6 of culture significantly increased the rates of oocytes ≥110 μm and the resumption of meiosis (p < 0.05). In contrast, when LH was added at the onset of culture, only germinal vesicle oocytes were obtained. In conclusion, the moment of addition of LH to the culture medium affects the performance of in vitro culture of caprine pre‐antral follicles. The addition of LH to the medium from day 6 of culture onward improved the rates of follicular survival, as well as the ability of oocytes to resume meiosis. However, prolonged exposure to LH (addition at the onset of culture onward) showed detrimental effects for the meiotic resumption.
Clinical Use of GnRH Agonists in Canine and Feline Species
Authors: Fontaine E , Fontbonne A
Published: November 2010

Contents

GnRH (gonadotrophin releasing hormone) is a key hormone of reproductive function in mammals; agonist forms have been largely developed, and data concerning their use in small animal reproduction are now abundant. GnRH agonists act by a two‐step mechanism. First, their agonist properties on the pituitary will cause marked LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle‐stimulating hormone) secretion into the bloodstream, accompanied by an increase in the concentrations of sex steroid hormones. Then, in case of constant administration, GnRH agonists will lead to pituitary desensitization, and FSH and LH levels will collapse. These two effects have been widely documented, and these compounds have many potential benefits in a clinical context, capitalizing both on their stimulating and sterilizing effects.
Multiorgan Engraftment of Human Somatic Cells in Swine Foetuses After Intra‐Blastocyst Transplantation
Authors: Estrada J , Li P , Mir B
Published: November 2010

Contents

Adult human stem cells, mainly from hematopoietic lineage, have been injected into developing pre‐immune animal foetuses, and xenogenic engraftment of liver and other organs has been reported. We isolated a rare cell population from adult human liver, fat and skin. Colonies with few cells became visible as early as 2–3 days, and a fully formed colony took 10–14 days to form. These colonies were named as liver‐derived cell lines (LDCs), fat‐derived cell lines (FDCs) and skin‐derived cell lines (SDCs). All these cells express few pluripotency markers like Klf4, c‐myc and Sox2. Pig blastocysts were injected with LDCs, FDCs and SDCs and transferred to recipient pigs. We achieved an overall pregnancy rate of 71.4% at day 35. The foetuses were analysed for human cell chimerism in liver, kidney and heart both by RT‐PCR and real‐time PCR using primers specific to human and pig mitochondrial DNA. The percentage of foetuses showing chimerism was 17.4% (4/23), 12.5% (2/16) and 11.1% (1/9) for LDCs, FDCs and SDCs, respectively. Of these, 42.9% (three out of seven) showed chimerism in liver and 71.4% (five out of seven) showed kidney chimerism. However, we did not detect any chimerism in the heart. The level of chimerism varied and was in the range of one human cell per one hundred thousand to one million pig cells.
The Stress Response of Frequently Electroejaculated Rams to Electroejaculation: Hormonal, Physiological, Biochemical, Haematological and Behavioural Parameters
Authors: Damián JP , Ungerfeld R
Published: November 2010

Contents

Electroejaculation (EE) is a technique widely used to collect semen in ruminants, which produces a stress response with negative effects on animal welfare. The aim of this paper was to characterize the stress response during conventional EE in rams that have been frequently electroejaculated. Blood samples were collected since 20 min before and until 120 min after electroejaculating 10 rams. Electroejaculation affected hormone concentration, as cortisol increased, and testosterone decreased after EE. Heart and respiratory rate increased 10 min after EE. Several blood parameters, such as glycaemia, an increase in total protein and creatine kinase concentrations and a decrease in haematocrit, haemoglobin, red blood cell and alkaline phosphatase concentrations. The rams vocalized 13.8 ± 2.4 times, and the largest length of vocalizations during EE was associated with the numbers of pulses in which the rams ejaculated. In this paper, we provide a complete characterization of the stress response to EE in rams. We showed that although rams have been frequently electroejaculated, an important stress response including changes in respiratory rate, testosterone concentrations, haematological and biochemical parameters were observed, besides the changes in cortisol concentrations and heart rate, suggesting that rams were not habituated to EE. In addition, we described the main parameters of vocalizations and its relation with the moment of EE. The information displayed on the frequent use of EE in the rams should be considered in relation to the welfare implications.
Animal models of psychogenic cardiovascular disorders: what we can learn from them and what we cannot
Authors: Nalivaiko Eugene
Published: November 2010

1. Epidemiological and clinical studies from the past 50 years provide unequivocal evidence for a close association and causative links between psychological stresses and cardiovascular dysfunction in humans. Not surprisingly, numerous animal experiments have been undertaken in an attempt to clarify underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. The present review focuses on animal models that provide insight into the mechanisms of stress‐induced cardiovascular dysfunction.

2. Great success was achieved in elucidating the neural pathways and neurotransmitters responsible for the cardiac consequences of acute stressors, such as stress‐induced ventricular arrhythmias and stress cardiomyopathy. These disturbances were reproduced successfully in canine and rodent models. The most important finding from these animal models is that these disturbances are mediated by elevated sympathetic outflow to the ventricular myocardium.

3. In contrast, attempts to induce psychogenic hypertension in rodents produced inconsistent and contentious results. More recent studies using biotelemetry raised serious doubts regarding the validity of earlier results obtained with the tail‐cuff method and it remains unclear whether chronic stress can lead to sustained hypertension in animal models.
Hepatitis B virus DNA and hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after resection: The lower, the better!
Authors: You Hong , Jia Ji‐Dong
Published: November 2010

See article in J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2010; 25: 1876–1882.
Noncardiac chest pain: An unsatisfactory ‘diagnosis’?
Authors: Hebbard Geoff
Published: November 2010

See article in J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2010; 25: 1855–1860.
Rhabdoid glioblastoma: Case report and literature review
Authors: He Miao‐Xia , Wang Jian‐Jun
Published: November 2010

Rhabdoid glioblastoma is a recently described entity in which a glioblastoma is associated with a rhabdoid component. Although rhabdoid glioblastoma has not appeared in the new World Health Organization classification of tumors of the CNS, it has a specific morphological feature and highly aggressive clinic process. Up to now, there have been six cases of rhabdoid glioblastoma reported in the literature. We report rhabdoid glioblastoma in the right front temporal lobe from a 31‐year‐old Chinese man. This tumor consisted of rhabdoid tumor cells with an eccentric nucleus and an eosinophilic cytoplasm. The tumor had an area appearing to be glioblastoma with microvascular proliferation and necrosis, and lacked a primitive neuroectodermal tumor component, and a mesenchymal component. Vimentin, epithelial membrane antigen, GFAP and integrase interactor (INI‐1) expression were found in the tumor cells. Genetic abnormalities which include monosomy or a deletion of chromosome 22 were not found in this tumor. After 3 months post‐surgery, the tumor was widespread in leptomeningia and the patient died. In conclusion, rhabdoid glioblastoma is a rare glioblastoma with poor prognosis; the differential diagnosis contained other rhabdoid tumors. This case will contribute to the profile of rhabdoid glioblastoma with typical morphology and immunophenotype, genetic and clinic features.
Rosette‐forming glioneuronal tumor of the fourth ventricle with advanced microvascular proliferation – a case report
Authors: Matyja Ewa , Grajkowska Wieslawa , Nauman Pawel , Ozieblo Artur , Bonicki Wieslaw
Published: November 2010

Rosette‐forming glioneuronal tumor (RGNT) of the fourth ventricle is a recently described novel type of primary brain tumor that was included into the current WHO classification of CNS tumors. It is a very rare, slowly growing, mixed neoplasm at cerebellar localization with distinctive morphological pattern. We present an unusual case of a 20‐year‐old patient with RNGT of the fourth ventricle with advanced microvascular proliferation. MRI revealed the solid‐cystic tumor mass largely involving the cerebellar vermis and left hemisphere with compression of the fourth ventricle. Microscopically, the tumor showed classical architectural pattern with two distinctive components. The main component consisted of neurocytic rosettes formed by round, isomorphic nuclei arranged around eosinophilic, fibrillar cores with strong synaptophysin expression. The perivascular rosettes with cell arrangement along blood vessels were observed only sporadically. The second neoplastic component consisted of spindle or stellate astroglial cells with piloid process and Rosenthal fibers, strongly resembling pilocytic astrocytoma. Focally, the astroglial cells showed increased cellularity but without marked nuclear atypia. The glial part of the tumor revealed advanced proliferation of microvessels. The vessels of glomeruloid type exhibited multilayered endothelial proliferation and marked mitotic activity. MIB1 labelling index was generally low; however, in areas exhibiting microvascular proliferation its expression was significantly increased up to 20%. This report demonstrates the unique case of RGNT with conspicuous microvascular proliferation of glomeruloid type and extensive endothelial proliferation. As there is still limited clinical experience with RGNT, further studies are necessary to evaluate the biology of this type of tumor.
Parents' estimate of food allergy prevalence and management in Italian school‐aged children
Authors: Caffarelli Carlo , Coscia Alessandra , Ridolo Erminia , Povesi Dascola Carlotta , Gelmett Chiara , Raggi Vera , Volta Elio , Vanell Maurizio , Dall'Aglio Pier Paolo
Published: November 2010

Background:  Despite the increasing prevalence of food allergy, few studies have assessed the prevalence of perceived food‐induced symptoms among school‐aged children. There is also a paucity of data on how children with food reactions are managed. We investigated the frequency and characteristics of perceived food reactions in school‐aged children.

Methods:  Children aged 5–14 years were included in this cross‐sectional study. A standardized self‐administered questionnaire on food reactions was handed out to 900 parents.

Results:  We achieved a response rate of 69%. The lifetime prevalence of parental perceived allergic reactions to food was 10.5%; the point prevalence was 1.6%. Medical care included a call to a general practitioner in 54% of cases, self‐management in 37%, an emergency call in 6%, and hospitalization in 3%. Antihistamines were administered in 45% of food reactions, topical steroids in 24%, oral or parenteral steroids in 16%, and epinephrine in 1.5%. In children who reported food reactions, skin prick tests for foods were performed in 54% of cases; the oral food challenge test was performed in 7.5%.

Conclusion:  Parent perception of food allergic disorders is common in school‐aged children. Few children have undergone diagnostic tests to ascertain clinical food hypersensitivity. This is warranted to avoid unnecessarily restricted diets. Efforts should be made to train primary care physicians to manage food‐allergic children.
Conservative resection and adjuvant plaque brachytherapy for early‐stage conjunctival melanoma
Authors: Karim Rushmia , Conway R Max
Published: November 2010

Abstract

Background:  To describe the outcome of patients treated by conservative surgical excision followed by adjuvant plaque brachytherapy for early‐stage primary or recurrent conjunctival melanoma.

Design:  Retrospective, non‐comparative, interventional case series.

Participants:  We reviewed 19 eyes in 19 consecutive patients presenting with biopsy proven conjunctival melanoma with pathologic stage pT1c or less.

Methods:  Patients with primary or recurrent early‐stage conjunctival melanoma were identified and treated using a conservative resection technique (tractional micro‐dissection) involving avoidance of deep dissection and modest lateral clearance followed by adjuvant plaque brachytherapy.

Main Outcome Measure:  Local recurrence and ocular complications.

Results:  Mean age was 55.2 years and male : female (8:11). Mean follow up was 43.1 months (range 30.1–54.3 months). All patients were treated by conservative resection followed by adjuvant Iodine‐125 plaque brachytherapy. The treatment dose was 100 Gy to a depth of 1.5–3.0 mm. Outcomes: median visual acuity and intraocular pressure were unchanged after surgery. Six patients experienced corneal ulceration in the immediate postoperative period. No patients experienced recurrence at the treatment site or metastases. Three patients experienced new lesions distant from the treatment site.

Conclusions:  Conservative resection and adjuvant plaque brachytherapy is an effective and well‐tolerated modality for the management of patients with early‐stage conjunctival melanoma.
Change in vision disorders among Hong Kong preschoolers in 10 years
Authors: Fan Dorothy SP , Lai Connie , Lau Henry HW , Cheung Eva YY , Lam Dennis SC
Published: November 2010

Abstract

Background: To determine the change in refractive error and the prevalence of amblyopia and strabismus among preschool children in Hong Kong over a period of 10 years.

Design: Two cross‐sectional population‐based studies conducted in 1996 to 1997 (part A) and 2006 to 2007 (part B)

Participants: Children attending randomly selected kindergarten participated in the study.

Methods: Ocular alignment, visual acuity, cover and uncover tests, cycloplegic refraction, slit‐lamp and fundi examination were performed under a standardized testing environment.

Main Outcome Measures: The prevalence of amblyopia (best‐corrected visual acuity ≤6/12 in one or both eyes, or a bilateral difference of ≥2 best‐corrected visual acuity lines), strabismus and significant refractive error (hyperopia ≥+2.50 D; myopia ≥−1.00 D; astigmatism ≥2.00 D) among preschool children.

Results: Of the 601 children in part A of the study, reduced visual acuity was presented in 3.8%; whereas strabismus was found in 1.8%. The commonest type of refractive error was astigmatism in 6.3% of children, followed by hyperopia (5.8%) and myopia (2.3%). Among 823 children in part B, reduced visual acuity was presented in 2.7% of children, and strabismus was found in 1.7%. The commonest type of refractive error was myopia (6.3%), followed by astigmatism (5.7%) and hyperopia (5.1%). The percentage of children having myopia has significantly increased (P = 0.001).

Conclusion: A significant increase in myopia has been noted in Hong Kong preschoolers. Visual screening programmes may need to be tailored to correspond to the local population and be adjusted accordingly from time to time.
Central corneal thickness and related factors in an elderly American Chinese population
Authors: Wang Dandan , Singh Kuldev , Weinreb Robert , Kempen John , He Mingguang , Lin Shan
Published: November 2010

Abstract

Background:  To assess central corneal thickness and related factors in an elderly American Chinese population residing in San Francisco.

Design:  Cross‐sectional community based study.

Participants:  American Chinese aged 40 years and older were enrolled using random cluster sampling and volunteer screening in the Chinatown district of San Francisco.

Methods:  The following data were obtained: central corneal thickness by ultrasound pachymetry, intraocular pressure by Goldmann applanation tonometry, axial length by A‐scan biometry, refractive status and corneal curvature by autorefractor. History of systemic and ocular diseases was collected via standard questionnaire.

Main Outcome Measures:  Central corneal thickness.

Results:  Of 311 eligible subjects, 274 consented to study participation, and 228 phakic eyes were analyzed. Mean corneal thickness was 524.1 ± 31.1 µm, 545.5 ± 30.9 µm and 538.9 ± 31.8 µm in the sampling cluster, volunteer group and all subjects, respectively. A multiple linear regression model showed corneal thickness to be negatively associated with age (standardized regression coefficient [SRC] = −0.21; P = 0.016) and corneal curvature (SRC = −0.19; P = 0.018) but positively correlated with intraocular pressure (SRC = 0.20; P = 0.023).

Conclusions:  The distribution of central corneal thickness among this American Chinese population is similar to that reported in studies from East Asia. The independent factors associated with thinner corneas included older age, lower intraocular pressure and greater corneal curvature. While descendents of Chinese immigrants in America have, on average, thicker corneas than their ancestors, this phenomenon is potentially impacted by the level of intraocular pressure.
Population‐based study of self‐reported ocular trauma in Fiji
Authors: Brian Garry , du Toit Renee , Ramke Jacqueline , Szetu John
Published: November 2010

Abstract

Background:  To characterize causes, risk factors and outcomes for ocular trauma among adults aged ≥40 years in Fiji.

Design:  Population‐based cross‐sectional survey; multistage cluster random sampling.

Participants:  1381 (= 73.0% participation); eight provinces on Viti Levu.

Methods:  Interview‐based questionnaire. Visual acuity measurement. Dilated ocular examination.

Main Outcome Measures:  Circumstances, management and consequences of self‐reported ocular trauma.

Results:  Of participants, 20.6% recalled ocular trauma: being Melanesian (P < 0.001) and male (P < 0.001) were predictive. Age at injury was ≤15 years for 13.0%: 78.4% occurred at home; 72.4% caused by sharp objects. For injury at >15 years: 38.5% occurred inside the home, most by sharp objects (51.6%) and domestic violence (28.4%); agricultural activities caused 20.6% of injuries; non‐agricultural workplace incidents caused 16.2%, with chemicals responsible for 27.5% of these; public alcohol consumption was associated with 13.8% of injuries, mostly by assault (91.2%). Conventional medical services were the primary source of care for 47.2% of injured participants: 61.9% attended on injury day. For trauma: sample prevalence of vision impairment in at least one eye was 1.7% (95% confidence interval 1.1–2.4%), and 0.1% (95% confidence interval 0.02–0.5) for bilateral blindness. Injury at ≤15 years (P = 0.008) and at the workplace (P = 0.044) were predictive of ongoing vision impairment. Of visually impaired eyes, 36% had corneal opacity that may have been caused by relatively minor trauma.

Conclusions:  Ophthalmic service strengthening (including minor corneal trauma management) and specific injury prevention strategies (including behaviour change education and advocacy for legislation) are required to decrease the ocular trauma burden in Fiji.
Cataract and its surgery in Fiji
Authors: Brian Garry , Ramke Jacqueline , Szetu John , Qoqonokana Mundi Qalo
Published: November 2010

Abstract

Background:  To characterize cataract and its surgery among adults aged ≥40 years in Fiji.

Design:  Population‐based cross‐sectional survey using multistage cluster random sampling.

Participants:  1381 (= 73.0% participation); eight provinces on Viti Levu.

Methods:  Interview‐based questionnaire; visual acuity measured; autorefraction; dilated ocular examination.

Main Outcome Measures:  Prevalence; predictors; surgical outcomes.

Results:  Being Indian (P = 0.001), elderly (P < 0.001), and previous/current smoker (P = 0.036) were predictive of at least one unoperated vision‐impairing or operated cataract. Gender (P = 0.062) and diabetes (P = 0.384) were not. Unoperated cataract (predominantly nucleosclerosis) was the second most frequent (25.0%) cause of low vision (<6/18, ≥6/60) and commonest (71.1%) of blindness (<6/60). Ethnicity‐gender‐age‐domicile adjusted and extrapolating to the Fiji population aged ≥40 years, prevalence of cataract‐induced low vision and blindness were each 1.7% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.0–2.4%). At least one eye of 4.6% and both of 1.8% participants had surgery (86.4% extracapsular). Gender (P = 0.213), age (P = 0.472) and rural/urban domicile (P = 0.895) were not predictors of surgery among those who required it in at least one eye. After intraocular lens surgery: 50.7% had pupillary posterior capsular opacification; mean spherical equivalent was −1.37 ± 1.95D (range, −6.38 to +2.25D); mean cylindrical error was 2.31 ± 1.75D (range, 0.0 to 8.75D); ≥N8 for 39.5%; ≥6/18 for 56.6%; <6/60 for 19.7%, with 2.6% no light perception. Ethnicity‐gender‐age‐domicile adjusted and extrapolating to the Fiji population aged ≥40 years, Cataract Surgical Coverage (Person) was 47.5% (95%CI 29.2–65.8%) at <6/18, and 65.2% (95%CI 37.8–92.6%) at <6/60.

Conclusions:  Fiji cataract services and outcomes compare favourably with those of neighbouring Papua New Guinea and Timor Leste.
Intraprostatic botulinum toxin type A administration: evaluation of the effects on sexual function
Authors: Silva João , Pinto Rui , Carvalho Tiago , Botelho Francisco , Silva Pedro , Silva Carlos , Cruz Francisco , Dinis Paulo
Published: November 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

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

Intraprostatic injection of botulinum toxin type A was shown to be effective in decreasing symptoms of BPH in several recent studies. However, the possible impairment of sexual function caused by the neurotoxin had never been investigated.

This study shows that intraprostatic administration of botulinum toxin type A neither causes deterioration of sexual function (libido, orgasm, erectile function or ejaculation), nor alteration of serum testosterone levels.

OBJECTIVE

• To evaluate the consequences on male sexual function of intraprostatic injection of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT/A) as a treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Although BoNT/A is effective in decreasing symptoms of BPH, neuronal impairment caused by the neurotoxin might affect emission/ejaculation. These aspects have not been evaluated before.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• In all, 16 sexually active men aged >60 years with BPH/benign prostatic enlargement (BPE), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) ≥8 and a maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) <15 mL/s refractory to standard medical therapy volunteered for the study.

• Patients were injected transrectally, under ultrasonographic control, with 200 U of BoNT/A in the prostate. Evaluation was carried out at baseline and 1, 3 and 6 months post‐treatment. Erectile function was evaluated using the International Index of Erectile Function – Short Form (IIEF‐5) questionnaire.

• Orgasmic/ejaculatory function and libido were evaluated using questions 9, 10, 11 and 12 of the IIEF – Long Form. Total testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin were also investigated.

RESULTS

• The mean age was 73 ± 6 years. The IIEF‐5 score was 16.5 ± 6 at baseline, 15.7 ± 6 at 1 month, 16.6 ± 6 at 3 months and 15.7 ± 5 at 6 months (differences nonsignificant).

• The score for ejaculatory/orgasmic function (questions 9 and 10) remained fairly constant from baseline to the sixth month, 8.3 ± 1.9 and 8 ± 2.1 respectively.

• The sexual desire score (questions 11 and 12 of the IIEF) also remained little changed from baseline (5.9 ± 1.6) to month 6 (6.1 ± 2). Total serum testosterone, LH, FSH and prolactin did not change during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

• Intraprostatic injection of BoNT/A in patients with BPE does not impair erectile, orgasmic or ejaculatory functions and does not change libido.

• The male hormonal profile is not altered by BoNT/A injection. This facilitates the acceptance of BoNT/A as a treatment for BPH/BPE lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) refractory to standard medical management.
Bilharzial vs non‐bilharzial related bladder cancer: pathological characteristics and value of cyclooxygenase‐2 expression
Authors: Youssef Ramy , Kapur Payal , Kabbani Wareef , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Mosbah Ahmed , Abol‐Enein Hassan , Ghoniem Mohamed , Lotan Yair
Published: November 2010

Study Type – Prognostic (case series)  Level of Evidence 4

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

Bilharziasis is the reason for the high incidence of bladder cancer in Egypt. Some of the clinico‐pathological characteristics of bilharzia‐associated bladder cancer has been published before. This paper adds insight about the biology of the disease. COX‐2 shows usefulness as a prognostic marker for bilharzia‐associated bladder cancer, which might open avenues for preventive and therapeutic strategies utilizing COX‐2 inhibitors in the management of bladder cancer arising on top of chronic inflammation.

OBJECTIVE

• To assess the expression pattern of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) in bilharzial and non‐bilharzial related bladder cancer (BBC and NBBC) and its association with clinical outcome after radical cystectomy (RC). We also determined the clinico‐pathological differences between BBC and NBBC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for COX‐2 was performed on archival bladder specimens from 315 patients treated with RC between 1997 and 2003.

• Patients were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 comprised 205 patients (65%) with BBC and group 2 comprised 110 patients (35%) with NBBC.

• Clinico‐pathological differences were compared and altered IHC expression of COX‐2 was correlated with clinical outcome in both groups.

RESULTS

• The study included 315 patients (239 males and 76 females) with median age 54 y (range 31–79) and median follow up of 63.2 months after RC.

• There was significant difference in histological types, tumor stage, grade, and architecture and COX‐2 alterations between both groups (P < 0.05).

• BBC presented with lower grade, higher stage, and non‐papillary non‐urothelial carcinoma. COX‐2 overexpression was associated with pathological T stage (P= 0.01), grade (P < 0.001) and lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (P= 0.041).

• COX‐2 expression was an independent predictor of disease recurrence (HR 1.9, CI 0.99–3.626 and P= 0.05) and cancer specific mortality (HR 2.8, CI 1.155–6.73 and P= 0.023) only in BBC but not in NBBC (HR 1.6, CI 0.598–4.364, P= 0.344 and HR 0.349, CI 0.076–1.595, P= 0.175, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

• BBC differs pathologically and biologically from NBBC. BBCs present more frequently as low‐grade, high stage non‐papillary and non‐urothelial cancers. BBCs with COX‐2 alterations are associated with worse outcome after RC.

• Our findings support the need for further evaluation of COX‐2 and inflammatory signaling pathways as well as COX‐2‐targeted prevention and therapies in BC.
Adoption and Coverage of Performance‐Related Pay during Institutional Change: An Integration of Institutional and Agency Theories
Authors: Kang Sung‐Choon , Yanadori Yoshio
Published: November 2010

abstract

Whether or not to adopt and how extensively to use a newly legitimized practice are discrete decisions made by firms undergoing institutional change. The aim of this paper is to identify the distinct effects of economic, social, and political factors on the adoption of performance‐related pay practices and their coverage (i.e. the proportion of employees covered by the practices) by integrating institutional and agency theories. An empirical analysis is performed with a unique sample of Korean firms that experienced the East Asian financial crisis of 1997. The results show that while performance‐related pay adoption was influenced by economic and social factors, performance‐related pay coverage was related to political factors as well as economic and social factors. This finding suggests that while firms adopt performance‐related pay practices in search of legitimacy, they do not blindly imitate such practices but rather proactively adapt them based on economic efficiency considerations. This study makes valuable contributions to research on institutionalism and remuneration by empirically identifying the conditions under which a pay practice adopted for social legitimacy fits or fails to fit the economic needs of the adopters.
Drivers and Outcomes of Long‐term Orientation in Cooperative Relationships
Authors: Lui Steven S. , Ngo Hang‐yue
Published: November 2010

We argue in this paper that a buyer may deliberately develop long‐term orientation as a governance mechanism to deal with risks arising from exchange hazards, and to reduce the opportunistic behaviour of a supplier. While the exchange hazards of asset specificity pose a safeguarding problem, those of market uncertainty pose an adaptation problem. We test our model on a sample of 221 procurement partnerships. Our results show that satisfactory prior history of a supplier, asset specificity of the buyer and market uncertainty are all positively related to a buyer's long‐term orientation towards a supplier. Consistent with the idea that asset specificity and market uncertainty pose different governance problems, we find that satisfactory prior history reduces the positive relationship between asset specificity and a buyer's long‐term orientation, but enhances the positive relationship between market uncertainty and a buyer's long‐term orientation. We also find that a buyer's long‐term orientation fully mediates the relationship between satisfactory prior history and a supplier's opportunistic behaviour. Finally, implications on the theory and the practices of relationship governance are discussed.