bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photocatalytic and Magnetic Properties of the Fe‐TiO2/SnO2 Nanofiber Via Electrospinning
Authors: Zhang Rui , Wu Hui , Lin Dandan , Pan Wei
Published: November 2009

Fe‐doped TiO2/0.03SnO2 hybrid nanofiber has been prepared via electrospinning method. The magnetic property versus Fe‐doping content was characterized, and the corresponding photocatalytic activity under visible light radiation was evaluated by using Rhodamine B (RhB) degradation as a probe reaction. The hybrid nanofiber has proved to be an excellent visible light‐excitable photocatalyst with much higher photocatalytic activity than undoped TiO2/SnO2 hybrid nanofibers. The magnetic properties have also been characterized for the Fe‐TiO2/SnO2 nanofibers before and after annealing under vacuum atmosphere, and nanofibers shows obvious ferromagnetic property at room temperature as they were annealed. It is believed that this nanofiber may become a potential photocatalyst in environmental remediation.
Orientation‐Control Synthesis of KTa0.25Nb0.75O3 Nanorods
Authors: Hu Yong‐Ming , Gu Hao‐Shuang , Zhou Di , Wang Zhao , Chan Helen Lai‐Wa , Wang Yu
Published: November 2009

Single‐crystalline KTa0.25Nb0.75O3 (KTN) nanorods with an orthorhombic perovskite structure were synthesized via a polymer‐assisted hydrothermal method. The preferred crystallographic orientation of the nanorods were found to be controllable by using different types of polymers in the process; that is, [001]‐oriented KTN were obtained upon the use of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and [110]‐oriented ones were formed with the use of a combination of polyacrylic acid and PVA. The two types of nanorods showed different properties. The [110]‐oriented nanorods exhibited a better photocatalytic decolorization efficiency but very likely a lower thermal conductivity (as indicated by the Raman spectrum measurements) than the [001] nanorods.
(100) Three‐Axis‐Oriented BaTiO3 Thin Film with BaZrO3 Buffer Layer on MgO(100) Prepared by Chemical Solution Deposition Method
Authors: Hosokura Tadasu , Kageyama Keisuke , Takagi Hiroshi , Sakabe Yukio
Published: November 2009

(100) three‐axis‐oriented BaTiO3 thin film with BaZrO3 buffer layer was prepared on an MgO(100) substrate by the chemical solution deposition method. The epitaxial growth of the (100) BaTiO3 layer was enabled by inducing a BaZrO3 bottom layer. Transmission electron microscopy revealed cube‐on‐cube epitaxial growth. The BaTiO3 thin film exhibited a (100) three‐axis‐orientation that followed the (100) orientation of the MgO substrate and the (100) orientation of the BaZrO3 bottom layer, as observed from an X‐ray pole figure measurement and the selected area electron diffraction patterns.
Chemistry, Processing, and Microwave Dielectric Properties of Mn‐Substituted KTaO3 Ceramics
Authors: Axelsson Anna‐Karin , Pan Yuya , Valant Matjaz , Alford Neil McN.
Published: November 2009

Mn‐doped KTaO3 samples were prepared by the solid‐state method. From the analysis of A‐and B‐site substitution characteristics, we determined the solid solubility limits for both doping mechanisms, the influence on unit cell parameters, the phase relations, and the sintering characteristics. The sintered samples were used for the analysis of microwave dielectric properties. From the temperature and frequency dependence of permittivity and dielectric loss as a function of Mn content in KTaO3 the behavior of polar regions, induced by the doping, was estimated.
Proton Distributions and Hydrogen Bonding in Crystalline and Glassy Hydrous Silicates and Related Inorganic Materials: Insights from High‐Resolution Solid‐State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Xue Xianyu , Kanzaki Masami
Published: November 2009

Solid‐state 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy has developed into a versatile, high‐resolution method for elucidating the detailed structures of both crystalline and amorphous materials. Here, we summarize our recent endeavors in applying this method to crystalline and glassy silicates and related inorganic materials. We first present updated correlations between 1H chemical shift and O⋯O and H⋯O distances of O–H⋯O hydrogen bonds, derived from a comprehensive 1H chemical shift database containing both original high‐quality fast magic angle spinning (MAS) and two‐dimensional combined rotation and multiple pulse spectroscopy (CRAMPS)‐MAS NMR data and literature MAS NMR data for a large number of inorganic compounds, including phosphates, silicates, (oxy)hydroxides, borates, sulfates, and carbonates. These correlations may be used to estimate hydrogen‐bonding distances for inorganic oxide materials of unknown structures. We then present case studies for the application of high‐resolution two‐dimensional 1H CRAMPS‐MAS NMR to unravel the order/disorder of proton distributions in crystalline high‐pressure hydrous silicates. Finally, we summarize some of our results on the water speciation in hydrous (alumino)silicate glasses of a range of compositions obtained through comprehensive 1H MAS NMR, and 29Si–1H and 27Al–1H double‐resonance NMR experiments, and analyze them in the framework of a quasi‐chemical model.
Subsistence and semi‐subsistence farming in selected EU new member states
Authors: Davidova Sophia , Fredriksson Lena , Bailey Alastair
Published: November 2009

Factor analysis and cluster analysis are used to analyze the attitudes and perceptions of agricultural households toward farming, commercialization, and barriers to and drivers for increased integration in agricultural markets. Data come from farms in five EU New Member States. The contribution of unsold output to total household income is valued. Stepwise linear regression is employed to detect variables useful in explaining the degree of agricultural market integration of farm households. The analysis indicates that subsistence farming is of utmost importance for the rural poor, particularly in Bulgaria and Romania. The proportion of consumption from own production, manual cultivation techniques, and distance to an urban center are negatively correlated with output sales. Rural development policies targeted at rural physical and market infrastructure might relieve some of these constraints.
Is there a future for small farms in developed countries? Evidence from the French case
Authors: Aubert Magali , Perrier‐Cornet Philippe
Published: November 2009

This research aims to identify the specific characteristics of small farms in developed countries and the factors that influence their survival and growth. Using the case of France, we employ statistical and econometric analysis of data from the Farm Structure Survey (N = 70,000) for the period 2000–2007. The principal findings suggest that small farms are no more likely than other farms to employ “alternative” strategies to the predominant model of increasing farm size, nor are they more likely to diversify on‐farm activities or operate under quality‐labeled production systems, with the notable exception of organic agriculture. However, where small farms do adopt or practice these activities, they are seen to have a favorable effect in ensuring their survival and growth. In contrast, we are unable to conclude that pluriactivity of farm households has a positive impact on the survival of small enterprises. The effect of geographical location on small farms is largely expressed in their concentration in mountainous or disadvantaged regions. Overall, the trajectory of small farms is marked by farm exit, principally as the result of farmers retiring at the end of their careers. The small farm sector is also revitalized by both larger farms declining and thus being reclassified as small farms, as well as the progressive entry into agriculture of small farm holders whose income was previously derived largely off‐farm.
Small producers, supermarkets, and the role of intermediaries in Turkey's fresh fruit and vegetable market
Authors: Bignebat Céline , Koç Ahmet Ali , Lemeilleur Sylvaine
Published: November 2009

A wide range of empirical studies show the extent to which the rise of supermarkets in developing countries transforms domestic marketing channels. In many countries, the exclusion of small producers from so‐called dynamic marketing channels (that is, remunerative ones) has become a concern. Based on data collected in Turkey in 2007 at the producer and the wholesale market levels, we show that intermediaries are important to understanding the impact of downstream restructuring (supermarkets) on upstream decisions (producers). Results show first that producers are not aware of the final buyer of their produce, because intermediaries hinder the visibility of the marketing channel, thereby restricting a producer's choice to that of the first intermediary. Econometric results show that producers who are indirectly linked to the supermarkets are more sensitive to their requirements in terms of quality and packaging than to the price premia compensating the effort made to meet standards. Therefore, the results lead us to question the role of the wholesale market agents who act as a buffer in the chain and protect small producers from negative shocks, but who stop positive shocks as well, and thereby reduce incentives.
Association of IL‐1 gene complex members with ankylosing spondylitis in Chinese Han population
Authors: Guo Z. S. , Li C. , Lin Z. M. , Huang J. X. , Wei Q. J. , Wang X. W. , Xie Y. Y. , Liao Z. T. , Chao S. Y. , Gu J. R.
Published: November 2009

There are reports of IL‐1 complex gene polymorphisms in ankylosing spondylitis (AS; MIM 106300), but the results have been inconsistent among populations. Moreover, few studies examine the association between IL‐1 complex gene polymorphisms and clinical symptoms of AS patients. We investigated polymorphisms of IL‐1 complex with AS in the Chinese Han population in this study. Chinese Han AS patients and ethnically matched healthy controls were genotyped for five single nucleotide polymorphisms (IL1β+3953, β‐511, F10.3, RN.4, RN.6/1) and the IL1RN.VNTR of IL‐1 gene cluster. Allele, Genotype and haplotype frequencies were compared between cases and controls by SHEsis software. The frequency of allele C of the marker IL1F10.3 was significantly increased in AS patients versus controls [p = 0.001, odds ratio (OR) = 1.54, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.19–1.20;p = 0.002, respectively]. Strong linkage disequilibrium was identified between IL1B‐511, IL1B+3953 and RN4 in both patients and healthy controls (D′ > 0.95). Haplotypes of pairs of these markers (6) were also significantly associated with AS. The strongest associations observed was between allele combination B‐511‐T/B+3953‐C/F10.3‐C/RN4‐T/RN2VNTR‐1/RN6.1‐C and AS (p = 3.32 × 10−5, OR = 4.41, 95% CI=2.1–9.3). Clinical manifestation showed week association between RN2VNTR A2 allele and risk of peripheral arthritis (OR = 0.2, 95% CI = 0.07–0.91). The IL‐1 gene cluster is associated with AS in Chinese population. This finding provides strong statistical support for the previously observed relationship and indicates possible association between clinical manifestation and genetic factor.
Classical biological control program for the mealybugOracella acutain Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Clarke Stephen R. , Yu Hai‐Bin , Chen Mu‐Rong , DeBarr Gary L. , Sun Jiang‐Hua
Published: November 2009

Abstract The mealybugOracella acuta, native to the southeastern US, was accidentally introduced into slash pine plantations in Guangdong Province in China in 1988. A classical biological control program was initiated in 1995, and the parasitoidsAllotropa oracellae,Acerophaus coccois, andZarhopalus debarriwere imported from the US. A total of 19 972 parasitized mealybugs were shipped to China from 1996–2004, from which 15 430 wasps emerged, 12 933 of which were the three target species. Efforts to establish a mass‐rearing program for the parasitoids in China failed. Five field release sites were established, and 6 020 parasitoids were released. Only 118 individuals of the three imported species were collected during establishment checks, although several wasps were collected 1–2 years after the last parasitoid release. Over 2 000Anagyrus dactylopii, a cosmopolitan parasitoid, emerged from the parasitized mealybugs collected, a majority from the Taishan area near the site of the original introduction ofO. acuta. To date the imported parasitoids have failed to establish, and natural enemies have not noticeably reduced mealybug populations.
People, Space and Place: a Multidimensional Analysis of Unemployment in Metropolitan Labour Markets
Authors: BAUM SCOTT , MITCHELL WILLIAM F.
Published: November 2009

It is becoming increasingly apparent that, in order to understand a range of socio‐economic outcomes, research needs to be focused on a multi‐dimensional approach that accounts for individual characteristics and behaviours together with locality and activity within space and place. Within labour market analysis there is a need to situate empirical analysis within a conceptual framework that considers both the assets of individuals within the labour force and the social and local labour market contexts in which they find themselves. Using a broad notion of employability, this paper develops an analysis of unemployment in Australia's metropolitan labour markets. Specifically it uses a combination of individual survey data and aggregate labour market data to consider the associations between these multi‐level factors. It finds that, while individual characteristics are important in understanding unemployment in metropolitan areas, it is equally the case that the strength of spatially distinct labour markets also plays a role. The paper reaches the conclusion that, while contemporary labour market policy tends to focus on individual characteristics, there is a need to widen the policy understanding of labour market outcomes so that other broader contexts, including the impact of space and place, are also seen as being influential.
Towards Robust Development of Retail Planning Policy: Maintaining the Viability and Vitality of Main Street Shopping Precincts
Authors: BAKER ROBERT G.V. , WOOD STEPHEN
Published: November 2009

The deregulation of shopping hours has created a fluid environment where time‐poor, affluent and mobile households can access shopping opportunities away from traditional retail precincts. The consequence has been the substantial decline of the viability and vitality of many main streets in eastern Australia. This greater temporal fluidity, however, requires stronger land use regulations if traditional town or suburb main streets are to maintain economic viability and social vitality. A suite of simple definitions of retail form are suggested and a number of assessment guidelines are proposed as meeting the requirements for more robust retail development assessment, including considerations of the geography of localities, place and the built form environment.
Immigrants in the Labour Market: Transnationalism and Segmentation
Authors: Lusis Tom , Bauder Harald
Published: November 2009

Various theories speak towards the labour market segmentation of an immigrant workforce. Theoretical frameworks such as Dual Labour Market Theory or Hierarchy Theory provide some value in outlining why immigrants are often found in the least desirable forms of employment. However, most theories do not consider the phenomenon of immigrant transnationalism and how forces at multiple scales shape labour market trajectories. In this paper we argue that traditional theories primarly consider socioeconomic factors in destination countries, and focus on factors at the local or national scale of analysis. In contrast, the literature on transnationalism illustrates how socioeconomic processes that operate at the global scale also influence the employment trajectories of immigrants. The integration of transnationalism with traditional labour market theories therefore provides a more complete picture when trying to understand the segmentation of an immigrant workforce.
Lythrum hyssopifolia (lesser loosestrife) poisoning of sheep in Victoria
Authors: Lancaster MJ , Nimmo JS , Lenghaus C , Gill IJ , Crawford RD , Badman RT , Samuel JL , Werner CJ , Button C , Kvalheim N
Published: November 2009

Objective  To document an ovine disease attributed to the consumption of Lythrum hyssopifolia (lesser loosestrife).

Procedures  Historical and histological review of field and experimental cases.

Results  1–20% mortality occurred in sheep flocks grazing paddocks where L. hyssopifolia was the predominant green vegetation. Well‐documented disease outbreaks occurred in summer on nine farms across Victoria between 1974 and 2002. Liver damage occurred in all nine outbreaks, with kidney damage in at least eight. Hepatocyte necrosis was usually zonal to midzonal (zone 2) in the liver samples from four farms and periacinar (zone 3) in those from three farms, but some livers showed only single‐cell necrosis. Multinucleate hepatocytes near necrotic areas were a feature in six cases. Proximal tubular epithelium appeared to be the primary renal target and brown granules were often present in renal tubules. Biochemical and histological evidence of liver and kidney damage was obtained from two sheep experimentally pen‐fed harvested L. hyssopifolia.

Conclusion  Chemicals in L. hyssopifolia are toxic to ovine hepatocytes and renal tubular epithelial cells.
Unilateral scrotal pyocele in ram caused byStaphylococcus capitis
Authors: Lacasta D , Ferrer LM , Ramos JJ , Ortín A , Vela AI , Latre MV
Published: November 2009

A massive unilateral scrotal pyocele caused byStaphylococcus capitisin a 6‐year‐old ram is reported. Ultrasound examination of the right hemiscrotum showed an irregular hyperechoic mass in an anechoic fluid. A dense exudate was collected from the scrotum for microbiological analysis. Grossly, there was an extensive greenish purulent exudate and a completely atrophied right testis. Coagulase‐negativeS. capitiswas isolated in pure culture. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of genital infection byS. capitisin rams. This microorganism should be included in the differential diagnosis of ovine genital infections.
Fescue‐associated oedema of horses grazing on endophyte‐inoculated tall fescue grass (Festuca arundinacea) pastures
Authors: Bourke CA , Hunt E , Watson R
Published: November 2009

A new form of toxicity called equine fescue oedema is described. The clinical signs included inappetence, depression, and subcutaneous oedema of the head, neck, chest and abdomen. Affected horses had very low plasma albumin values.

The toxicity affected 48 of 56 horses on six farms in different states of Australia, and 4 horses have died. All horses were grazing pastures that had been sown with varieties of Mediterranean tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) that carry the endophyte known as Max P or Max Q. It is proposed that a pyrrolizidine alkaloid, N‐acetyl norloline, which is produced by the Max P endophyte, may be responsible for this new toxicity in horses.
Direct Measurement of the Ultraviolet Absorption Coefficient of Single Retinal Melanosomes
Authors: Peles Dana N. , Simon John D.
Published: November 2009

A novel approach to photoemission electron microscopy is used to enable the first direct measurement of the absorption coefficient from intact melanosomes isolated from bovine retinal pigment epithelial cells. The difference in absorption between newborn and adult melanosomes is in good agreement with that predicted from the relative amounts of the monomeric precursors present in the constituent melanin as determined by chemical degradation analyses. The results demonstrate that for melanosomes containing eumelanins, there is a direct relation between the absorption coefficient and the relative 5,6‐dihydroxyindole: 5,6‐dihydroxyindole‐2‐carboxylic acid (DHI:DHICA) content, with an increased UV absorption coefficient associated with increasing DHICA content.
Comparison of UV‐absorbing Nets in Pepper Crops: Spectral Properties, Effects on Plants and Pest Control
Authors: Legarrea Saioa , Karnieli Arnon , Fereres Alberto , Weintraub Phyllis G.
Published: November 2009

In horticultural crops, the use of screens to protect plants is the usual strategy in the Mediterranean area. Screen manufacturers offer a range of netting that vary in their UV‐absorbing properties. We compared the photoeffects of seven different screens. Sweet pepper trials were conducted at the Gilat Research Center, Israel, where the spectral properties of the nets and their influence on pest infestation and crop development were evaluated. UV transmittance varied among the materials studied ranging from 40% to 70% of the incident radiation. BioNet white and P‐Optinet, which absorbed and reflected the highest amount of UV radiation, performed the best protection against the main pepper pest (thrips, whiteflies and broad mites). Spectral measurements also showed that the photosynthetically active radiation differentially penetrated the nets, which together with the amount of UV absorbed by the screenings, resulted in a range of plant height and chlorophyll content. A global understanding of the UV‐absorbing nets’ effect on pepper crops and their pests was evaluated in this work because of the importance of these screens to integrated pest management and sustainable agriculture production.
Influence of Intra‐articular Neutrophils on the Effects of Photodynamic Therapy for Murine MRSA Arthritis
Authors: Tanaka Masamitsu , Kinoshita Manabu , Yoshihara Yasuo , Shinomiya Nariyoshi , Seki Shuhji , Nemoto Koichi , Morimoto Yuji
Published: November 2009

Although there have been some reports about the cytotoxic effects of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on multidrug‐resistant bacteria, there have been few reports in which favorable results of PDT on a local infection site are described. This study aimed to verify the hypothesis that the low efficacy of PDT on a local infection site is due to the cytotoxic effect of PDT on leukocytes. PDT using Photofrin® exerted significant cytotoxicity for cultured methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Nevertheless, this therapeutic modality was not effective for a murine MRSA arthritis model. Approximately 30% of intra‐articular leukocytes, mainly neutrophils, died immediately after PDT, and a further decrease in the number of intra‐articular leukocytes and atrophy of the synovial tissue were seen 24 h after PDT. Isolated peripheral neutrophils showed significant affinity for Photofrin® and showed significant morphological damage, resulting in cell death, when they were subject to PDT using Photofrin®. These results indicate that intra‐articular neutrophils have an influence on the effects of PDT for MRSA arthritis.
Solar Ultraviolet Radiation Measurements in One of the Most Populous Cities of the World: Aspects Related to Skin Cancer Cases and Vitamin D Availability
Authors: De Paula Corrêa Marcelo , Ceballos Juan Carlos
Published: November 2009

A number of studies published in the scientific literature have shown the relationship between sun exposure and nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) and vitamin D synthesis. However, the paucity of medical data, particularly in developing countries, hampers a global assessment of the impact of sun exposure on NMSC and vitamin D. To improve knowledge on this subject, this paper presents UV index (UVI) measurements performed in São Paulo City (SPC) in the period 2005–2008. It was found that 65% of the UVI measured 2 h around local noon during the summer show very high (8 < UVI < 10) and extreme (UVI > 11) levels according to the World Health Organization (WHO) classification. During the winter, 40% of the measurements around noontime show high or very high levels. In spite of worrisome recent statistics from SPC, showing that NMSCs make up about 28% of over a million of new cases of cancer in 2008, sun protection is not considered a real problem in these urban areas. UV measurements also show that every month of the year UV levels are high enough to ensure vitamin D production in human skin from incidental sun exposure.
Effect of Bridging Units on Photophysical and DNA Binding Properties of a Few Cyclophanes
Authors: Neelakandan Prakash P. , Sanju Krishnankutty S. , Ramaiah Danaboyina
Published: November 2009

A few novel anthracene‐based cyclophanes CP‐1, CP‐2 and CP‐3 were synthesized and their interactions with DNA were investigated employing photophysical and biophysical techniques. In methanol and acetonitrile, these systems exhibited optical properties characteristic of the anthracene chromophore. However, in the aqueous medium, the symmetric cyclophane CP‐1 showed a dual emission having λmax at 430 and 550 nm, due to the monomer and excimer, respectively. In contrast, the cyclophanes CP‐2 and CP‐3 in the aqueous medium showed structured anthracene absorption and emission spectra similar to those obtained in methanol and acetonitrile. DNA binding studies indicate that CP‐1 undergoes efficient nonclassical partial intercalative interactions with DNA resulting in the exclusive formation of a sandwich‐type excimer having enhanced emission intensity and lifetimes. The cyclophane CP‐2 having one anthracene moiety exhibited nonclassical intercalative binding with DNA, albeit with less efficiency compared with CP‐1. In contrast, CP‐3, having sterically bulky viologen bridging group showed DNA electrostatic as well as groove binding interactions. These results demonstrate that the nature of the bridging unit plays an important role in the binding mode of the cyclophanes with DNA and in the formation of the novel sandwich‐type excimer.
Rheumatology in Iran
Authors: DAVATCHI Fereydoun
Published: November 2009

Rheumatology in Iran started in the 1960s by a group of eight rheumatologists trained in France and Switzerland. The Iranian Rheumatology Society was founded in 1973. Academic rheumatology started in the city of Teheran (capital of Iran), by the Tehran University and by the National University in the ’60s. Later, Shiraz University and Mashhad University followed. After the creation of the subspecialty Board of Rheumatology in 1985, other universities graduallycreated their rheumatology sections with the help of newly trained rheumatologists. The first subspecialty rheumatology outpatient clinic was created in 1970, in Tehran. In 1973, rheumatology was recognized as an internal medicine subspecialty for the training of medical students. Thus, one‐eighth of internal medicine training was allocated to rheumatology. The subspecialty Rheumatology National Board was created in 1985. Four medical universities were approved for the training of rheumatology fellows. They were Tehran University, Beheshti University, Iran University, and Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. From 1985 to 2008, more than 150 rheumatologists got their Board of Rheumatology subspecialty. Thirty‐seven medical universities in Iran have a rheumatology section. The prevalence of musculoskeletal complaints in people aged 15 years and over, is 41.9% in urban areas and 66.6% in rural areas (P < 0.001). Two major ethnicities live in Iran; Caucasians (71.4%) and Turks (23.1%). Musculoskeletal complaints are more frequent in Turks than in Caucasians (46%vs.40.8%, P < 0.001). Men complained less than women in urban areas: 34.1% versus 50.2% (P < 0.001). The same was seen in rural areas: 51.6% versus 72.4% (P < 0.001). The most frequent complaints were (urban vs. rural): knee (25.5%vs. 39.2%), dorsolumbar spine (21.7%vs. 41.9%), shoulder (14.5%vs. 22.7%), and cervical spine (13.4%vs. 17.9%). The distribution of mechanical diseases was: low back pain (15.4%vs. 23.4%), osteoarthritis (16.6%vs. 20.5%), and soft tissue rheumatism (4.6%vs. 2.2%). The distribution of inflammatory diseases was: rheumatoid arthritis (0.33%vs. 0.19%), seronegative spondylarthropathies (0.23%vs. 1.1%), and systemic lupus erythematosus (0.04%vs. 0.06).
Fcγ receptor biology and systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: JOVANOVIC Vojislav , DAI Xilei , LIM Yan Ting , KEMENY David M. , MacARY Paul A.
Published: November 2009

The maintenance of immune homeostasis and the regulation of pro‐inflammatory responses that underlie autoimmune pathology require a coordinated interplay between cytokines, cellular receptors and downstream signaling pathways. The family of fragment crystallizable receptors for immunoglobulin G (IgG) (FcγR) represents a good example of how controlling the simultaneous triggering of activatory and/or inhibitory receptors results in a balanced immune response. FcγRs play a crucial role in linking the antibody‐mediated recognition of pathogens, allergens or auto‐antigens to the cellular arm of the immune response. In this review, we detail how dysfunction in FcγR pathways is linked to the development of the autoimmune disease, systemic lupus erythematosus.
Rheumatological medicine literacy among Middle Eastern populations
Authors: ELEISHI Hatem H. , ALLISON Barbara D.
Published: November 2009

Background:  It has been observed for years that many Middle Eastern patients with autoimmune rheumatic disorders, are more likely to be delayed in seeing a rheumatologist for their symptoms and that the rheumatology services are in general under‐utilized by the population.

Aim:  To explore if patients with autoimmune rheumatic disorders were truly delayed in seeing rheumatologists and to explore the possible reasons for that delay should any delay be documented.

Subjects and methods:  Patients suffering from chronic autoimmune rheumatic disorders were interviewed and were asked to answer a questionnaire that assesses their initial set of actions when they had their first symptoms of disease, how much time they took to see a rheumatologist and their background knowledge about rheumatology as a specialty before and after they saw a rheumatologist.

Results:  Seventy‐eight patients, 57 (73%) females and 21 (27%) males were included in this study. Their ages ranged from 11 to 72 years with a mean of 38.9 ± 13 years. Patients’ explanations for their initial symptoms were ‘evil eye doing’, disease, exertion, cold weather and trauma in 44%, 37%, 20%, 16% and 8% respectively. Ninety‐six percent of patients had to make a total of 166 consultations first at other specialties before they were finally advised or directed to see a rheumatologist. Non‐rheumatologist referrals to rheumatologists happened in only 33% of the time. The duration from the onset of the disease until patients finally came to see a rheumatologist ranged from 0.5 weeks to 432 weeks with a mean of 51 ± 88 weeks.

Conclusions:  General health literacy and knowledge of the rheumatology scope of service is extremely limited among Middle Eastern patients. Most patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases make their initial consultations at clinics other than rheumatology clinics and non‐rheumatologists have been shown to consistently not refer patients with rheumatic diseases to rheumatologists. Wrong diagnosis is attributed to rheumatology symptoms by non‐rheumatologists 82% of the time. Level of education of patients, has no impact on their choice of the right specialty to be consulted for their disease symptoms.
A rare case of Paget’s disease of the bone in the Philippines
Authors: MADERAZO Esther , LI‐YU Julie
Published: November 2009

A 40‐year‐old Filipina presented with a 2‐year history of progressive bilateral inguinal and hip pain with limited range of motion. She had a bad fall which led to widespread body pains for 6 months partially relieved on multiple analgesic and anti‐inflammatory agents. There was progressive weight loss and anemia. Focused musculoskeletal examination revealed moderate degree of generalized muscle atrophy, pain‐limited range of motion of bilateral hip and shoulder joints, with equivocal muscle strength of both proximal and distal muscle groups of all extremities. Metastatic bone disease was ruled out when skeletal survey disclosed mixture of osteolytic and osteoblastic lesions, predominantly osteoblastic, on multiple sites. Bone turnover markers were elevated. Bone biopsy revealed histopathologic results compatible with Paget’s disease of the bone. Management included oral calcium and vitamin D supplement followed by parenteral zoledronic acid, and a rehabilitation program. Four months after bisphosphonate therapy, the patient reported significant relief of symptoms with complete resolution of the previously noted generalized body pains, although she ambulates with use of an assistive device. Due to the rarity of the condition among Filipinos, this case was a diagnostic dilemma in itself, as it is most likely the first published case in the Philippine literature.
Pulmonary amyloidosis in Sjögren’s syndrome: a rare diagnosis for nodular lung lesions
Authors: RODRIGUES Kenia , NEVES Fabricio S. , STOETERAU Karin B. L. , WERNER CASTRO Gláucio R. , NOBRE Luiz F. , ZIMMERMANN Adriana F. , PEREIRA Ivânio A.
Published: November 2009

Lung involvement in Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) can affect trachea, bronchus, small airways, pleura and may cause interstitial lung injury. It may also be associated with malignancies, particularly non‐Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is a well‐recognized complication of this disease. Here we describe the occurrence of localized amyloidosis presenting as pulmonary nodules in a patient with newly diagnosed SS. We highlight this rare occurrence as a diagnostic possibility that should be considered in the evaluation of pulmonary involvement in this disease.
Skin, muscle and joint disease from the 17th century: scurvy
Authors: LAU Herman , MASSASSO David , JOSHUA Fredrick
Published: November 2009

We report three cases of scurvy, with differing musculoskeletal presentations, from a tertiary teaching hospital in Sydney, Australia. Case 1 was a man with cerebral palsy who presented with knee swelling following a minor injury. In Case 2, a patient with thalassaemia major presented with purpuric rash, difficulty walking and distal thigh swelling and ecchymosis. Case 3 was a man with Down’s syndrome who presented with acute ankle arthritis. Scurvy in Cases 1 and 3 were related to abnormal dietary preferences, whereas in Case 2, scurvy was thought to be related to thalassaemia. All three cases responded rapidly to vitamin C replacement. The subjects did not appear malnourished as they had adequate carbohydrate and protein intake.
The China rheumatology workforce: a status report
Authors: ZHANG Fengchun
Published: November 2009

This article aims to provide an accurate database of the rheumatology workforce in mainland China. A face‐to‐face survey was conducted in 2007 using a custom‐designed questionnaire that included demographic information, educational background, training history, professional rank, years of working experience within the specialty, and workload. Potential rheumatology practitioners were identified by provincial rheumatology associations. The survey identified a total of 2216 rheumatologists. Seventy percent of the entire workforce had ≤ 10 years of working experience. The number of male and female rheumatologists was equal, at ages of 41 years and above. At ≤ 40 years of age, female rheumatologists predominated at 63%. The national rheumatologist density was 1.67 per million population. The rheumatology workforce in China is relatively young, indicating a rapid expansion. However, the supply of rheumatologists is still significantly below the demand level.
Salmonella infections in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a case series
Authors: GERONA Jovie G. , NAVARRA Sandra V.
Published: November 2009

Background:  Systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE) patients are highly susceptible to infections.

Aim:  We aim to present our experience regarding the manifestations and outcomes of Salmonella infections in a group of Filipino SLE patients.

Methods:  This study reviewed the medical records of Filipino SLE patients with documented Salmonella infection seen at the Rheumatology Clinics of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Hospital, Manila, Philippines from 2002 to 2009.

Results:  Included were 12 patients (11 female), with mean age of 25.75 years (range 11–53 years) and average SLE disease duration 4.45 years to Salmonella infection. Five had septic arthritis (knee in 4, hip in 1), one of whom had concomitant typhoid fever. Another two patients had typhoid fever only. Sepsis syndrome was noted in three. One patient each had soft tissue abscess and meningitis. Salmonella typhi was isolated in seven patients, Salmonella sp. in four, and S. enteritidis in one patient. Two patients developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), another had mixed Salmonella and Klebsiella pneumonia. Eleven patients were on high‐dose steroids for active disease, including one patient with antecedent first infusion of cyclophosphamide plus rituximab. Management consisted of antimicrobials and adjunct surgery for arthritis and abscess. Except for three patients with Salmonella sepsis, all other patients improved with appropriate therapy.
Rheumatologic services in Central Asian countries: current state of development of rheumatology in Central Asia
Authors: OMURZAKOVA Nazgul A. , YAMANO Yoshihisa , SAATOVA Guli M. , SHUKUROVA Surayo M. , MIRZAKHANOVA Mavliuda I. , KYDYRALIEVA Ryskul B. , JUMAGULOVA Aynagul S. , MIRRAKHIMOV Erkin M. , SEISENBAEV Askar Sh. , NISHIOKA Kusuki , NAKAJIMA Toshihiro
Published: November 2009

Rheumatologic and public health services of Central Asias republics have suffered hugely as a result of social and economic declines following the dissolution of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) and transition of these republics to market economies. Between 1990 and 2000 there was a mass outflow of highly skilled rheumatologists and teachers and researchers in rheumatology to countries abroad, leading to significant deprivation of rheumatological service in Central Asian countries. During this time, there was continued growth of various rheumatic diseases (RDs) including rheumatic fever, and musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders. The medical and social burden of RDs imposed on society was strongly underestimated until recent times. There is an urgent need to define the epidemiology of RDs and their impact on the quality of life of people afflicted by these conditions, and to improve the diagnostics and treatment of these conditions.
Whatever happened to economic anthropology?1
Authors: Gregory Chris
Published: November 2009

In the 1970s, economic anthropology, along with kinship and ecological anthropology, was regarded as a core discipline in the teaching of anthropology. The centrality of all these subjects was reflected in the debates of the time. For economic anthropology, understanding the articulation of modes of production was the problem; the holy trinity—tribe, peasant, capitalist—provided the key terms of the debate. These terms, and this problem, are history. The discipline of anthropology has been de‐cored over the past 30 years: economic anthropology, kinship and ecological anthropology are not even on the agenda in many universities today (ANU included). This presents us with a paradox because these academic trends are in inverse proportion to the importance of contemporary developments in the economy, the family and ecology as global problems facing humanity. This paradox must be addressed not by arguing for a rehabilitation of the core subjects of the 1970s—those days are long gone—but by taking a critical look at the implicit theories of value that inform anthropological thinking about the economy, the family and ecology today. I shall argue that, along with neoliberalism, ‘agency’ has been the key term of the new paradigm that emerged in the 1970s, that this paradigm is about to become history and that new ways of thinking about the economy will have to emerge as we all become victims of the ‘financialisation’ of Europe, the industrialisation of Asia and the desiccation of Australia.
Capitalism as culture, and economy1
Authors: Austin‐Broos Diane
Published: November 2009

Contemporary cultural anthropology has been marked by its distance from the analysis of economy. I argue that anthropology as a discipline has suffered from this distance and suggest a form in which these interests can be reconciled for the purposes of ethnographic research. The discussion is divided into three sections. In the first, I trace the ‘disappearing’ of economy from cultural anthropology. In the second, I propose a schema for bringing economy back. This schema involves adopting a phenomenology of the subject that relies on notions of value drawn from Appadurai and from Heidegger and Marx. Finally, I instance two examples of this schema in my own ethnographic research. One concerns Central Australia and pertains to recent debates about remote indigenous life. The other concerns Kingston Jamaica and references debates about gender, sex and dancehall. Both milieux involve types of change and violence that can bear on modern subjects. My suggestion is that anthropology will address these issues in more interesting ways if economy becomes a part of ethnographic analysis.
The hybrid economy and anthropological engagements with policy discourse: A brief reflection1
Authors: Altman Jon
Published: November 2009

This article advocates a crucial role for economic anthropology in the twenty‐first century. The use of anthropological techniques for primary data collection is essential for understanding the complexity of diverse local economies. This is demonstrated with reference to a remote Aboriginal economy in Arnhem Land, Northern Australia, using a ‘hybrid economy’ model that includes the customary sector as well as market and state sectors. This empirically grounded model is contrasted with a very different theoretical construct: the ‘real’ economy that is dominating Indigenous affairs policy discourse. Although the hybrid economy model is currently subordinated, mainly for ideological reasons, examples are provided to demonstrate its policy and legal influences.
Transition: How to Become a More Design‐Minded Organization
Authors: Lockwood Thomas
Published: November 2009

Becoming a design‐minded organization is challenging and takes time, but with the right planning and a little nurturing and patience, it is not as difficult as it might first appear. Outlined here are some concrete steps you can take.
Unleashing the Full Potential of Design Thinking as a Business Method
Authors: Drews Christiane
Published: November 2009

Interviews with experts from the business, education, research, and design worlds inform Christiane Drews's exploration of design thinking as a management practice. Interestingly, perhaps due to its longer history of liaisons between design and business institutes, the US seems to have pulled ahead of Europe in this regard.
Managing Design in SMEs
Authors: Ward Antonia , Dekker Jan
Published: November 2009

In the UK, 95 percent of firms employ fewer than five people, making them the backbone of the national economy. The British government's new solutions for Business portfolio is calling on the Design Council and its Designing Demand program to help small businesses reinvent themselves.
DME: A European Design Management Journey
Authors: Brazier Sally , Cruz Barbara Quintas
Published: November 2009

Design Management Europe (DME) aims to raise awareness, particularly in small and medium‐size enterprises, of the benefits of good design management. It has done this through its annual DME Award, but it has also used storytelling to its advantage, via the DME Library.
Regular and residual Eisenstein series and the automorphic cohomology of Sp(2,2)
Authors: Grobner Harald
Published: November 2009

LetGbe the simple algebraic group Sp(2,2), to be defined over ℚ. It is a non-quasi-split, ℚ-rank-two inner form of the split symplectic group Sp8of rank four. The cohomology of the space of automorphic forms onGhas a natural subspace, which is spanned by classes represented by residues and derivatives of cuspidal Eisenstein series. It is called Eisenstein cohomology. In this paper we give a detailed description of the Eisenstein cohomologyHqEis(G,E) ofGin the case of regular coefficientsE. It is spanned only by holomorphic Eisenstein series. For non-regular coefficientsEwe really have to detect the poles of our Eisenstein series. SinceGis not quasi-split, we are out of the scope of the so-called ‘Langlands–Shahidi method’ (cf. F. Shahidi,On certainL-functions, Amer. J. Math.103(1981), 297–355; F. Shahidi,On the Ramanujan conjecture and finiteness of poles for certainL-functions, Ann. of Math. (2)127(1988), 547–584). We apply recent results of Grbac in order to find the double poles of Eisenstein series attached to the minimal parabolicP0ofG. Having collected this information, we determine the square-integrable Eisenstein cohomology supported byP0with respect to arbitrary coefficients and prove a vanishing result. This will exemplify a general theorem we prove in this paper on the distribution of maximally residual Eisenstein cohomology classes.
Growth of InSb epilayers and quantum wells on Ge(001) substrates by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Debnath M. C. , Mishima T. D. , Santos M. B. , Hossain K. , Holland O. W.
Published: November 2009

InSb epilayers and InSb/Al0.20In0.80Sb quantum well structures were grown on Ge(001) substrates by molecular beam epitaxy. Epilayers grown using a two-step process, which involved different temperatures, were characterized in situ using reflection high energy electron diffraction and studied ex situ using high-resolution x-ray diffraction, Nomarski optical microscopy, and Hall-effect measurements. The narrowest x-ray rocking curve width for 2.0- and 5.0-μm-thick InSb epilayers were 250 and 173 arc sec, respectively. Electron mobilities in the 5.0-μm-thick InSb epilayer and the InSb/Al0.20In0.80Sb single quantum well at room temperature were 34 500 and 8600 cm2/V s, respectively, which are the highest values for these films on Ge(001) substrates reported to date.
M.S. Yalin’s contribution to bedload transport in rivers: 46 years of hindsightThis paper is one of a selection of papers in this Special Issue in honour of Professor M. Selim Yalin (1925-2007).
Authors: Parker Gary
Published: November 2009

The enduring legacy of the Yalin equation of bedload transport is evaluated. The derivation of the equation includes three innovative aspects: (i) a rigorous use of dimensional analysis to simplify the formulation; (ii) a consideration of the randomness of grain placement rather than turbulence, resulting in a definable threshold of motion; and (iii) the introduction of a physically based, dynamic model of grain saltation into a bedload transport theory. The original relation remains useful today. In addition, the treatment of saltation has inspired an innovative line of research that continues to evolve today.
On the stable geometry of self-formed alluvial channels: theory and practical applicationThis article is one of a selection of papers in this Special Issue in honour of Professor M. Selim Yalin (1925–2007).
Authors: Ferreira da Silva Ana Maria
Published: November 2009

On the basis of previous work by the late Professor M. Selim Yalin and the author, the process of self-formation of alluvial streams and the final (equilibrium or regime) geometry of the self-formed stream are considered in the light of thermodynamic principles, including the first and second laws, and the Gibb’s equation; the stream is treated as an isolated and irreversible system. The present analysis suggests that stream self-formation is guided by the need of the stream to progressively decrease its average flow velocity to accommodate the increase in the entropy of the system with the passage of time. The reduction in flow velocity is achieved by an appropriate alteration of stream slope, cross-sectional geometry, and effective roughness, the regime development being the process of this appropriate alteration. A method is presented for the computation of regime width, depth, and slope. The method rests on the channel formation criterion derived from thermodynamic principles and the expression of regime flow width determined on the basis of zero net cross sediment transport rate at the regime state. The regime channels computed from this method are compared with field and laboratory data from various sources.