bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low dose tamsulosin for stone expulsion after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: Efficacy in Japanese male patients with ureteral stone
Authors: Kobayashi Masayuki , Naya Yukio , Kino Mika , Awa Yusuke , Nagata Maki , Suzuki Hiroyoshi , Yamaguchi Kunio , Nozumi Kuniyoshi , Ichikawa Tomohiko
Published: April 2008

Objective:  We evaluated the efficacy of low dose tamsulosin after extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) in Japanese male patients with ureteral stone.

Methods:  One hundred and two Japanese male patients with ureteral stones who underwent ESWL were randomly divided into three groups. Group A (38 patients) was given tamsulosin (0.2 mg/day); group B (30 patients) was given c horeito, a herbal medicine (7.5 g/day); and group C (34 patients) received no medication. Stone clearance was assessed at 1, 7, 14, and 28 days after ESWL using plain abdominal radiography and abdominal ultrasonography. After 28 days, stone delivery was checked every 2 weeks.

Results:  The stone‐free rate was 84.21%, 90%, and 88.24% for groups A, B, and C, respectively (P = 0.3425). The mean expulsion time was 15.66 ± 6.14 days in group A, 27.74 ± 25.36 days in group B, and 35.47 ± 53.70 days in group C. The expulsion time of group A was significantly shorter than that of groups B (P = 0.0116) and C (P = 0.0424).

Conclusions:  The addition of tamsulosin to conservative treatment appeared to be effective in shortening the stone expulsion time.
A novel quantitative method for measuring obstruction in the upper urinary tract: The ‘obstruction coefficient’
Authors: Lovasz Sandor , Lovasz Laszlo , Nyirady Peter , Romics Imre
Published: April 2008

Objectives:  To define an exact pressure‐flow correlation in the upper urinary tract using an improved measurement method, to quantitatively characterize the degree of postrenal obstruction and to find a simple way of calculating it in everyday urological practice.

Methods:  The data of 112 cases were included in the analysis. The dynamic method of a multistep, constant pressure perfusion study was used to precisely measure a wide range of pressure‐flow dependences. Values of established parameters measuring the degree of obstruction were compared: the intrapelvic pressure, the ureteral opening pressure and the newly introduced ‘obstruction coefficient’.

Results:  Pressure‐flow relations can be best presented by a parabolic curve described by the simple formula Y = AX2 + B. Depending on the degree of obstruction, the shape of this curve can be characterized by a single number, that we defined as the ‘obstruction coefficient’. Computer‐based evaluation software for the easy calculation of this coefficient is presented here and freely available on demand. The Whitaker‐test, the ureteral opening pressure, and the ‘obstruction coefficient’ showed significant correlation proving that the latter was clinically applicable in measuring the degree of obstruction.

Conclusion:  Calculation of the ‘obstruction coefficient’ enables us to exactly define the degree of upper urinary tract obstruction and to safely monitor for a long period conditions inhibiting ureteric passage.
Health‐related quality of life in Japanese men with localized prostate cancer: Assessment with the SF‐8
Authors: Sugimoto Mikio , Takegami Misa , Suzukamo Yoshimi , Fukuhara Shunichi , Kakehi Yoshiyuki
Published: April 2008

Objectives:  To evaluate health related quality of life (HRQOL) using the Medical Outcomes Study 8‐items Short Form Health Survey (SF‐8) questionnaire in Japanese patients with early prostate cancer.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional analysis was done in 457 patients with prostate cancer treated with radical prostatectomy, external beam radiotherapy, brachytherapy, androgen deprivation therapy, and watchful waiting or a combination these therapies. General HRQOL was measured using the Japanese version of the SF‐8 questionnaire and disease‐specific HRQOL was assessed using the Japanese version of the Extended Prostate Cancer Index Composite.

Results:  The external beam radiotherapy group reported significantly lower values for the physical health component summary score (PCS) in comparison to the radical prostatectomy and brachytherapy groups (P < 0.05). In the analysis of both the PCS and the mental health component summary score (MCS) over time after treatment, higher scores with time were found in the radical prostatectomy group. No significant change over time after androgen deprivation therapy in the PCS was found. In contrast, the MCS was found to deteriorate in the early period, showing a significant increase over time.

Conclusions:  SF‐8 in combination with the Extended Prostate Cancer Index Composite has shown to be a helpful tool in the HRQOL assessment of Japanese patients treated for localized prostate cancer.
Perioperative antibiotics in radical cystectomy with ileal conduit urinary diversion: Efficacy and risk of antimicrobial prophylaxis on the operation day alone
Authors: Hara Noboru , Kitamura Yasuo , Saito Toshihiro , Komatsubara Shuichi , Nishiyama Tsutomu , Takahashi Kota
Published: April 2008

Objective:  To determine the optimum schedule for perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis (AMP) for bladder cancer patients submitted to radical cystectomy with ileal conduit urinary diversion.

Methods:  We studied 77 consecutive bladder cancer patients who underwent radical cystectomy with ileal conduit. The 1‐day group (n = 33) received pre‐, intra‐ and postoperative administrations of 2 g of piperacillin on the operation day alone; the 3‐day group (n = 44) received antibiotics for 3 days or more (same schedule as the 1‐day group on the operation day and every 12 h thereafter). The study was designed and postoperative complications including surgical‐site infection (SSI) were defined according to the modified Centers for Disease Control and Prevention criteria.

Results:  No significant differences were found between the 1‐day group and 3‐day group in terms of total SSI (18.1% vs 20.5%), superficial incisional SSI (12.1% vs 13.6%), deep incisional SSI (12.1% vs 13.6%), space SSI (12.1% vs 11.4%), postoperative ileus (18.2% vs 11.4%), febrile urinary tract infections (15.2% vs 15.9%) or pneumonia (3.0% vs 4.3%), respectively. In both groups, disease stage and patients' underlying conditions such as diabetes did not have an influence on the incidence of postoperative complications.

Conclusion:  One‐day AMP had equivalent efficacy to that of the standard prophylaxis protocol for preventing septic complications following radical cystectomy with ileal conduit. This finding supports the hypothesis that delivery of antibiotics on the operation day is critical in this setting
Stimuli through Toll‐like receptor (TLR) 3 and 9 affect human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) production in a choriocarcinoma cell line
Authors: Komine‐Aizawa Shihoko , Majima Hiroko , Yoshida‐Noro Chiikako , Hayakawa Satoshi
Published: April 2008

Aim:  Toll‐like receptors (TLR) are expressed mostly on mucosal innate immune cells which recognize microorganism‐associated structures, the so called pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMP). Recently, possible roles of TLR in placental tissue, especially their role in protecting the conceptus from maternal infection, have been discussed, but the physiopathological roles of TLR in placental functions have yet to be examined.

Methods:  The choriocarcinoma cell line BeWo was used as a model of trophoblast stem cells. First, the expression of TLR 1‐9 on BeWo cells was investigated using reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction. Then, the cells were treated with TLR 1‐9 agonists, using the human TLR 1‐9 agonist kit (Pam3CKS4, HKLM, Poly (I:C), Escherichia coli K12 lipopolysaccharide (LPS), Salmonella typhimurium flagellin, FSL1, imiquimod, ssRNA 40, and ODN 2006). The concentration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the cell culture supernatants was examined on ELISA.

Results:  BeWo cells constitutively expressed TLR 1‐9 mRNA in the presence or absence of forskolin. The TLR 3 agonist, Poly(I:C), and the TLR 9 agonist, CpG‐DNA (ODN2006), upregulated hCG production but had minimal effects in the absence of forskolin. Stimulation with the other TLR agonists produced no remarkable increase, whether in the presence or absence of forskolin.

Conclusions:  TLR 3 and TLR 9 agonists upregulated hCG production in BeWo cells. The present observations suggest alternative roles of TLR signaling in the control of placental functions and blastocyst‐endometrial dialogue, as well as in pathophysiology, including for infertility and ectopic pregnancy.
Perinatal magnetic resonance fetal lung volumetry and fetal lung‐to‐liver signal intensity ratio for predicting short outcome in isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia and cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung
Authors: Matsushita Mitsuru , Ishii Keisuke , Tamura Masaki , Takahashi Yasuhiro , Kamura Takeshi , Takakuwa Koichi , Tanaka Kenichi
Published: April 2008

Aim:  To evaluate the usefulness of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in predicting the risk of lethal pulmonary hypoplasia in fetuses.

Methods:  The subjects consisted of 15 fetuses (29–40 weeks' gestation), including fetuses with major malformation diagnosed on prenatal ultrasonography. MRI using a 1.5 T magnet and half‐Fourier acquisition single‐shot fast spin‐echo sequences were applied to all fetuses at 29–36 weeks. Fetal lung‐to‐liver signal intensity ratio (LLSIR) was calculated by medians of region‐of‐interest analysis; estimated fetal bodyweight (FBW), by ultrasonography; and estimated fetal lung volume (FLV), by planimetric measurement of total lung volume. FLV/FBW was also calculated. The presence of the pulmonary hypoplasia in neonates was identified based on clinical and anatomico‐pathological findings. Differences in LLSIR and FLV/FBW were analyzed for surviving and non‐surviving neonates.

Results:  Ten surviving neonates had a median LLSIR of 3.00, range: 1.60–4.40, while that in seven non‐surviving neonates was 2.21, range: 0.70–3.72; no significant difference was found between the groups. Surviving neonates had a median FLV/FBW of 11.4, range: 7.1–15.7, while that in non‐surviving neonates was 4.4, range: 3.1–5.7. FLV/FBW in non‐surviving neonates was significantly lower than that of the FLV/FBW for surviving fetuses (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  Low FLV/FBW may be useful in prenatally predicting mortality in fetuses with pulmonary hypoplasia.
Randomized comparison of dry tablet insertion versus gel form of vaginal misoprostol for second trimester pregnancy termination
Authors: Pongsatha Saipin , Tongsong Theera
Published: April 2008

Aim:  To compare the effectiveness of vaginal misoprostol between dry tablet insertion and gel form for second trimester pregnancy termination.

Methods:  A non‐blinded block randomized controlled trial was conducted on 148 pregnant women with live fetuses in the second trimester undergoing pregnancy termination. They were randomly allocated to receive vaginal misoprostol (400 μg) either dry tablet insertion (n = 72) or gel form (n = 76). The same dose was then repeated every 3 h if adequate uterine contraction was not achieved until 48 h after the initiation of misoprostol. If abortion did not occur within this period, the treatment was considered a failure and other technique of termination was then given based on the decision of the attending physicians and the cervical status.

Results:  The mean induction–abortion interval in group 1 (20.9 ± 12.3 h) was not significantly different from that in group 2 (17.7 ± 10.2 h). The mean total dose of misoprostol was also not significantly different between the two groups (group 1, 1556.9 μg; group 2, 1350.9 μg), but the adverse effects of misoprostol (chill and diarrhoea) were more common in the gel group.

Conclusion:  Tablet insertion or gel form of vaginal misoprostol have similar effectiveness but the gel form was associated with more common adverse effects.
Sexual violence among pregnant women in India
Authors: Chhabra Shakunatala
Published: April 2008

Aim:  To discover the extent of sexual violence during pregnancy, its correlation to various variables and effects, and to consider future possibilities for creating awareness in health providers, health seekers and communities for prevention.

Methods:  Two thousand pregnant women were interviewed using a semi‐structured, pre‐designed, pre‐tested questionnaire with some open‐ended questions in the local language.

Results:  Of 2000 women, 1959 (97.95%) reported that they had had sex with their partners during the current pregnancy. Of the 2000, 615 (30.7%) women had not wished to have sex during the pregnancy, but had been forced to do so.

Conclusion:  Women suffer with recurrent marital rape during pregnancy with considerable after effects. This sexual violence takes place irrespective of education or socioeconomic status.
Abruptio placentae and fetal death following a Malayan pit viper bite
Authors: Hanprasertpong Jitti , Hanprasertpong Tharangrut
Published: April 2008

Reports of venomous snakebites during pregnancy are uncommon. Little is known about maternal and fetal outcome following the venomous snakebite of a pregnant woman, and there is no consensus for proper management. In southern Thailand, Malayan pit viper (Calloselasma rhodostoma) bites are quite common, and we have some experience with bites of pregnant women. With these victims, the toxicity is most severely expressed in a bleeding disorder that is a significant cause of both morbidity and mortality in both the gravid woman and the fetus. Herein, because there are few such published reports, we report the case of a 43‐year‐old woman, gravida 5 para 4, 32 weeks pregnant who was bitten by a Malayan pit viper and, as a result, developed abruptio placentae, coagulopathy, and death of fetus in utero. She otherwise responded well to antivenom and blood components. A hysterotomy was performed and the postoperative course was unremarkable.
Prenatal diagnosis and management of a ranula
Authors: Gul Ahmet , Gungorduk Kemal , Yildirim Gokhan , Gedikbasi Ali , Ceylan Yavuz
Published: April 2008

A ranula is a mucous extravasation cyst which appears as a swelling in the submental and submandibular regions. We describe a case of congenital ranula or retention salivary cyst diagnosed at 22 weeks' gestation. The fetal growth was normal, as was the amniotic fluid volume. Follow‐up ultrasound scans revealed no changes in the size or the position of the cyst. Surgical treatment was performed two days after the delivery. There were no complications and no recurrences have occurred to date.
Diagnosis of ovarian torsion by three‐dimensional power Doppler in first trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Filho Sebastião M. Zanforlin , Júnior Edward Araujo , Serafini Paulo , Filho Hélio A. Guimarães , Pires Cláudio R. , Nardozza Luciano M. M. , Moron Antonio F.
Published: April 2008

Three‐dimensional ultrasonography in power Doppler mode (3D power Doppler) allows the appropriate quantitative assessment of the ovarian tissue vascularization. The present case is of an ovarian torsion in a pregnant woman at 6.5 weeks with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome due to in vitro fertilization. Gray‐scale images of endovaginal two‐dimensional ultrasonography revealed enlargement of the right ovary and multiple peripheral follicles. Two‐dimensional ultrasonography in color Doppler mode revealed the absence of venous flow and reduction in arterial flow to the impaired ovary. 3D power Doppler allowed the appropriate quantitative assessment of tissue vessel density of the impaired ovary, which greatly influenced the decision for conservative surgical treatment. The 3D power Doppler assessment performed after the surgery confirmed the integrity of the ovarian tissue. 3D power Doppler can help in the selection of patients with ovarian torsion for conservative surgical treatment.
Is the biopsy Gleason score important in predicting outcomes for patients after radical prostatectomy once the pathological Gleason score is known?
Authors: Vira Manish A. , Guzzo Thomas , Heitjan Daniel F. , Tomaszewski John E. , D’Amico Anthony , Wein Alan J. , Malkowicz S. Bruce
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether specific preoperative variables might better predict the concordance between biopsy and radical prostatectomy (RP) Gleason grade, and to assess the effect of the biopsy Gleason score (bGS) when controlling for the pathological GS (pGS) on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing RP.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1989 and 1998, 1088 men had RP at our institution, with a median follow‐up of 56 months. To evaluate the independent effect of bGS within categories of pGS, we stratified the sample by pGS (three categories; ≤6, 7, 8–10). Within each stratum we constructed Kaplan‐Meier plots of recurrence‐free survival by bGS (in the same three categories), assessing the significance of the differences among the three curves by the log‐rank test.

RESULTS

Overall, only 41.1% of patients had exactly concordant findings between bGS and pGS; concordance rates did not differ significantly when stratified by preoperative variables. On multivariate analysis, a change in the pGS compared with the bGS had a significant, independent effect on recurrence rates, specifically a 15% change in risk for a one‐unit change in GS (P = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

There was only modest agreement between the bGS and the pGS; the bGS continued to have independent prognostic influence after RP and assignment of the pGS.
Comparison of stage migration patterns between Europe and the USA: an analysis of 11 350 men treated with radical prostatectomy for prostate cancer
Authors: Gallina Andrea , Chun Felix K.‐H. , Suardi Nazareno , Eastham James A. , Perrotte Paul , Graefen Markus , Hutterer Georg , Huland Hartwig , Klein Eric A. , Reuther Alwyn , Montorsi Francesco , Briganti Alberto , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Roehrborn Claus G. , De La Taille Alexandre , Salomon Laurent , Karakiewicz Pierre I.
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVE

To examine the stage migration patterns in patients treated with radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer in Europe and in the USA in the last 20 years.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1988 and 2005, RP was performed in 11 350 men: 5739 from Europe and 5611 from the USA. Independent‐samples t‐test and the chi‐square test were, respectively, used for comparisons of means and proportions. The trend test was used to test the statistical significance of trends in proportions over time.

RESULTS

Temporal patterns in patients’ age, stage and PSA level at presentation were similar on both continents. Conversely, temporal patterns in Gleason sum distribution differed. In the USA, the rate of biopsy Gleason sums of 2–5 decreased from 32.8% to 0.2% (P < 0.001), while the rate of Gleason sums of 7 and 8–10 increased (P < 0.001). Conversely, in Europe the rate of Gleason sums of 6 increased from 40% to 64% (P < 0.001) at the expense of all other Gleason sums. At RP, the rate of Gleason sums of 2–5 decreased on both continents and the rate of a Gleason sum of 7 increased in the USA. Moreover, no important differences in pathological stage trends (organ confinement, extracapsular extension and seminal vesicle invasion) distinguished either population. Finally, the rate of lymph node involvement increased in the USA but remained stable in Europe.

CONCLUSIONS

Stage and grade migration affected the USA and Europe to different extents. These differences should be accounted for when prediction tools or comparisons between the USA and Europe are considered.
Do urological symptoms cluster among women? Results from the Boston Area Community Health Survey
Authors: Hall Susan A. , Çinar Amy , Link Carol L. , Kopp Zoe S. , Roehrborn Claus G. , Kaplan Steven A. , Rosen Raymond C.
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVES

To conduct a cluster analysis of urological symptoms among women in the Boston Area Community Health (BACH) Survey, to describe the distribution of urological symptoms within each cluster, and to determine whether comorbidities, demographic characteristics, and lifestyle factors were associated with cluster membership.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The BACH Survey is a racially and ethnically diverse random sample (3205 women) of community‐dwelling residents of Boston, MA, USA, aged 30–79 years. Fourteen urological symptoms measured by participant self‐report (using previously validated scales) were included in this analysis. Cluster analyses were conducted using hierarchical and non‐hierarchical (k‐means) methods. Within clusters, demographic characteristics, risk factors for urological symptoms and the interference of symptoms with daily activities were also assessed.

RESULTS

Three‐quarters of the sample reported at least one urological symptom; four symptom clusters were identified. Most symptomatic women (54%) were assigned to Cluster 1, which was characterized by storage symptoms (nocturia and urinary frequency) with an accompanying low prevalence of other urological symptoms; a second cluster was distinguished by frequency symptoms. Clusters 3 and 4 were characterized by a high prevalence of urinary incontinence and had increased interference scores and more symptoms overall (including voiding and post‐voiding symptoms) than the other two clusters. Cluster 4 (8% of symptomatic women) was characterized by a high prevalence of nearly all urological symptoms and the highest interference score. In this most symptomatic cluster, body size and waist circumference were markedly higher, as was the prevalence of diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease than in the other cluster groups or asymptomatic women. Women in Cluster 4 were more likely to be surgically menopausal, or to have had other forms of urogynaecological surgeries than women in the other clusters.

CONCLUSION

Four distinct clusters of urological symptoms were identified among symptomatic women in the BACH Survey, two of which had a high prevalence of urinary incontinence. These cluster patterns provide a novel, empirically‐based framework for investigating aetiological mechanisms and management outcomes for common urological symptoms in women.
Beyond the cluster: methodological and clinical implications in the Boston Area Community Health survey and EPIC studies
Authors: Rosen Raymond C. , Coyne Karin S. , Henry David , Link Carol L. , Çinar Amy , Aiyer Lalitha Padmanabhan , Mollon Patrick , Kaplan Steven A. , Roehrborn Claus G. , Thompson Christine
Published: April 2008

OBJECTIVE

To test the replicability and robustness of findings about urological symptoms in men and women, classified using an objective statistical method, cluster analysis, by planned sensitivity analyses conducted within and across two large, epidemiological studies of lower urinary tract symptoms.

METHODS

Sensitivity analyses were used to assess the effects of: (i) the number of urological symptoms included in the cluster analysis; (ii) the use of ordinal vs dichotomous scaling of responses; (iii) the type of cluster analysis used (hierarchical vs non‐hierarchical; random vs nonrandom seeds); and (iv) the distance metric (median difference vs root mean square) of the resulting clusters. These sensitivity analyses were conducted independently in each of the two studies, with results systematically compared using Cramer’s V statistic. Contingency tables were also used to assess the frequency of transitions or change in classification from one method to another.

RESULTS

There were marked similarities in the cluster profiles in men and women across the two studies. For both men and women, the largest clusters consisted of low‐frequency, single‐symptom profiles, with urinary frequency and urgency symptoms reported by both genders. There was a multiple, mixed and highly symptomatic cluster profile in both genders in the Boston Area Community Health (BACH) and EPIC studies. The sensitivity analyses showed stability across both BACH and EPIC studies, and varying cluster methods and solutions (Cramer’s V, 0.37–0.93).

CONCLUSION

Sensitivity analyses show that cluster profiles are quite robust from EPIC to BACH, and that gender profiles within studies are relatively consistent across the methods and variables examined. Further studies are needed to investigate the mechanisms of action and clinical management implications of these findings.
Human papillomavirus L1 protein expressed in tobacco chloroplasts self‐assembles into virus‐like particles that are highly immunogenic
Authors: Fernández‐San Millán Alicia , Ortigosa Susana M. , Hervás‐Stubbs Sandra , Corral‐Martínez Patricia , Seguí‐Simarro José M. , Gaétan Julien , Coursaget Pierre , Veramendi Jon
Published: April 2008

Cervical cancer is the second most prevalent cancer in women worldwide. It is linked to infection with human papillomavirus (HPV). As the virus cannot be propagated in culture, vaccines based on virus‐like particles have been developed and recently marketed. However, their high costs constitute an important drawback for widespread use in developing countries, where the incidence of cervical cancer is highest. In a search for alternative production systems, the major structural protein of the HPV‐16 capsid, L1, was expressed in tobacco chloroplasts. A very high yield of production was achieved in mature plants (~3 mg L1/g fresh weight; equivalent to 24% of total soluble protein). This is the highest expression level of HPV L1 protein reported in plants. A single mature plant synthesized ~240 mg of L1. The chloroplast‐derived L1 protein displayed conformation‐specific epitopes and assembled into virus‐like particles, visible by transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, leaf protein extracts from L1 transgenic plants were highly immunogenic in mice after intraperitoneal injection, and neutralizing antibodies were detected. Taken together, these results predict a promising future for the development of a plant‐based vaccine against HPV.
A comprehensive review of gastroesophageal reflux disease and obesity
Authors: Sise A. , Friedenberg F. K.
Published: April 2008

Obesity has been implicated as an important risk factor for the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A variety of physiological abnormalities have been described which likely contribute to the association of GERD and obesity. These abnormalities involve the oesophageal body, lower oesophageal sphincter and stomach. For obese patients with GERD, weight loss in conjunction with anti‐secretory medications is first‐line therapy. For those with severe obesity who fail medical weight loss treatment, bariatric surgery has been shown to be beneficial. On balance, Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass is probably the most efficacious surgery for patients with morbid obesity suffering from concomitant GERD.
The Neoliberalization of Development: Trade Capacity Building and Security at the US Agency for International Development
Authors: Essex Jamey
Published: April 2008

Abstract:  This paper examines recent changes at the US Agency for International Development (USAID) regarding the connections between trade liberalization, development, and security. USAID has adopted “trade capacity building” as a framework for development, and, in conjunction with new US national security discourses, now operates under the assumption that underdevelopment is a source of state weakness that produces insecurity. I argue that these changes in how USAID understands and undertakes development constitute the neoliberalization of development. In accordance with these shifts, USAID has redefined critical aspects of its development mission, undergone internal restructuring, and altered its relationship with other US state institutions and capital. The actual prospects for achieving security or development are slim, however, as the agency remains wedded to definitions of both that suggest the only acceptable role for the state lies in facilitating further neoliberalization and promoting the stability of capitalist class relations. An overview of USAID's historical development, and a closer examination of the place of food aid and food security in the agency's development work, demonstrate this.
South Asia's Integration with the Rest of Asia: a survey
Authors: Das Dilip K.
Published: April 2008

While there can be unforeseen difficulties, developments of the recent past point to the gradual integration of South Asia with the dynamic economies of East and Southeast Asia. Two modes of integration have been taking place: the expansion of existing subregional free trade agreements and ASEAN's initiatives as a bridge between the regional groups of Asian economies. While the present endeavours of these economies are resulting in a shallow form of integration—which may not suddenly turn towards deep integration—onward movement along the same path is certainly possible.
An Input–Output Analysis of the Philippine BPO Industry
Authors: Magtibay‐Ramos Nedelyn , Estrada Gemma , Felipe Jesus
Published: April 2008

This paper provides a profile of the Philippine business process outsourcing (BPO) sector, makes comparisons with India and other BPO providers, and summarises the results of an input−output analysis of the Philippine BPO industry's inter‐sectoral linkages and its potential impact on compensation and employment. The input−output analysis shows that the BPO industry is not a key sector in terms of stimulating production in other sectors of the Philippine economy. Growth in the sector's revenues, however, can have a significant impact on compensation and employment. If appropriate policies are enacted and human capital improved, it is estimated that the Philippine BPO sector may become an important employment‐generating sector.
China's Non‐Performing Bank Loan Crisis: the role of economic rents
Authors: Suzuki Yasushi , Miah Md. Dulal , Yuan Jinyi
Published: April 2008

Various reasons have been put forward to explain the massive accumulation of non‐performing loans in China. This paper applies the financial‐restraint model as the analytical framework and argues that failure to create sufficient economic rents is the chief reason underlying the current dismal performance of banks. While the formal financial system is less important than the informal system—especially for financing the private enterprises that are playing a crucial role in economic growth—not addressing the non‐performing loan crisis in the formal financial system will likely invite an economic slow‐down.
Multinationals, Technology Upgrading, and Wages in Urban and Rural Indonesia
Authors: Takii Sadayuki
Published: April 2008

The author examines whether foreign direct investment has an effect on regional disparities in a developing country. For this purpose, the author compares the magnitude of productivity and wage spillovers derived from foreign presence to local firms in different locations. Using plant‐level panel data for Indonesian manufacturing in 1990–95, the study finds supporting evidence for the hypothesis that the effects of foreign presence on the level and growth of productivity and wages in locally owned plants are greater in regions where multinational corporation affiliates tend to have a higher concentration as compared to other regions in the same province. The findings indicate that spillovers occur locally and diffuse to neighboring regions in part, and thus that the concentration of foreign direct investment in a certain region imparts a greater positive externality on one hand, and negatively affects regional disparities on the other.
The role of two reading strategies in text comprehension: An eye fixation study in primary school children
Authors: Van Der Schoot Menno , Vasbinder Alain L. , Horsley Tako M. , Van Lieshout Ernest C.D.M.
Published: April 2008

This study examined whether 10–12‐year‐old children use two reading strategies to aid their text comprehension: (1) distinguishing between important and unimportant words; and (2) resolving anaphoric references. Of interest was the question to what extent use of these reading strategies was predictive of reading comprehension skill over and above decoding skill and vocabulary. Reading strategy use was examined by the recording of eye fixations on specific target words. In contrast to less successful comprehenders, more successful comprehenders invested more processing time in important than in unimportant words. On the other hand, they needed less time to determine the antecedent of an anaphor. The results suggest that more successful comprehenders build a more effective mental model of the text than less successful comprehenders in at least two ways. First, they allocate more attention to the incorporation of goal‐relevant than goal‐irrelevant information into the model. Second, they ascertain that the text model is coherent and richly connected.
Combining Structural Forms in the Search for Policy Tools: Incident Command Systems in U.S. Crisis Management
Authors: MOYNIHAN DONALD P.
Published: April 2008

As governments search for policy tools to deliver public services, two choices—hierarchy or network—are portrayed as stark alternatives. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has adopted a practitioner‐based innovation known as the Incident Command System (ICS) that assumes that crises require a network of responders, but that these networks should be managed by a hierarchy. While the ICS illustrates the potential for mixing hierarchies and networks, it was mandated by policymakers willing to make broad assumptions about the applicability of the ICS on limited evidence. An overdependence on practitioner claims displaced careful analysis of the underlying logics vital to understanding the operation of the policy tool. A case study of the ICS in managing an exotic animal disease outbreak points to the importance of crisis characteristics and management factors as contingencies affecting the operation of the ICS.
The Compound Machinery of Government: The Case of Seconded Officials in the European Commission
Authors: TRONDAL JARLE , VAN DEN BERG CASPAR , SUVARIEROL SEMIN
Published: April 2008

This article explores the compound machinery of government. Attention is directed toward decision making within the core executive of the European Union—the European Commission. The article studies seconded national civil servants (SNEs) hired on short‐term contracts. The analysis benefits from an original and rich body of surveys and interview data derived fromcurrentandformerSNEs. The decision‐making dynamics of SNEs are shown to contain a compound mix of departmental, epistemic, and supranational dynamics. This study clearly demonstrates that the socializing power of the Commission is conditional and only partly sustained when SNEs exit the Commission. Any long‐lasting effect of socialization within European Union's executive machinery of government is largely absent. The compound decision‐making dynamics of SNEs are explained by (1) the organizational affiliations of SNEs, (2) the formal organization of the Commission apparatus, and (3) only partly by processes of resocialization of SNEs within the Commission.
Decoding Divergence in Software Regulation: Paradigms, Power Structures, and Institutions in the United States and the European Union
Authors: EIMER THOMAS R.
Published: April 2008

Both in the United States and the European Union, patent policy instruments in information and communication technologies are contested. Although current reform proposals would lead to a uniform patent eligibility for computer programs in both economic spheres, such an outcome is rather unlikely. In a theoretic perspective, contrasting policies in one of the most important technology sectors challenge the expectation of converging regulative regimes. In a view to reveal the structural causes for the persisting divergence, it is argued that incompatible underlying paradigms, differentiated patterns of power structure, and unsynchronized institutional arrangements may resist even strong pressures to harmonize regulative practices. The interaction between these elements will be addressed and discussed as a perspective to define restraints on the scope of convergence theories.
Pre‐Trial Defence Rights and the Fair Use of Eyewitness Identification Procedures
Authors: Roberts Andrew
Published: April 2008

This paper sets out the normative basis of a claim to procedural rights concerning the fair use of eyewitness identification procedures. It is argued that there are two aspects to suspects' procedural rights. The first aims to secure an opportunity for the suspect to participate in procedures where doing so might result in exculpatory evidence (a participatory right). The second is the state's obligation to take reasonable measures to prevent wrongful conviction on the basis of mistaken identification by providing the suspect with a satisfactory degree of procedural accuracy (a protective right). This normative analysis provides the basis of a claim that Article 6 of the European Convention on Human Rights provides a suspect with similar rights. The final part of the paper considers whether domestic procedure is compatible with these putative rights, and whether it could be said to provide an effective remedy if they were to be breached.
Ethnic Profiling: A Rising Challenge for European Human Rights Law
Authors: De Schutter Olivier , Ringelheim Julie
Published: April 2008

Ethnic profiling, defined as the use of racial, ethnic or religious background as a determining criterion for the adoption of law enforcement decisions, has been rising significantly in Europe, in particular in the wake of the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001. This article examines whether European human rights law is well equipped to deal with this challenge, and if not, how it should be reformed. Against the widely held assumption that personal data protection legislation is insufficiently protective of ‘sensitive’ data relating to race or ethnicity, it explains instead why combating ethnic profiling has been made more difficult, rather than less, by an overly protective reading of the requirements of data protection laws. It then discusses the additional measures that European states could take to address more effectively the human rights concerns prompted by the development of ethnic profiling.
The Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007 – Thirteen years in the making but was it worth the wait?
Authors: Gobert James
Published: April 2008

Despite a gestation period extending over thirteen years, the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007 is a disappointment. It is limited in its scope, restricted in its range of potential defendants and regressive to the extent that, like the discredited identification doctrine before it, it allows its focus to be deflected from systemic fault to individual fault. As a result the Act may not curb the type of short‐sighted risk management decisions that can lead to the deaths of innocent workers, consumers and members of the public. Further, by requiring DPP consent to prosecute, the Act threatens to entangle corporate manslaughter prosecutions in the political process to an unacceptable degree. Despite these weaknesses, the symbolic significance of the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007 may ultimately transcend its methodological deficiencies.
The Law and Incapacity Determinations: A Conflict of Governance?
Authors: Boyle Aisling
Published: April 2008

This article will consider the highly charged questions raised by two major sets of law reforms in England and Wales, the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the Mental Health Act 2007, which, although applying to closely related clinical populations, proceeded along entirely separate legislative paths. By justifying its proposals for reform of mental health legislation on the grounds of ‘risk’, the Government failed to take into account the implications of enforced treatment on patients who may retain decision‐making capacity.
Absurd Asymmetry – a Comment on R v Cottrell and Fletcher1 and BM, KK and DP (Petitioners) v Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission2
Authors: Nobles Richard , Schiff David
Published: April 2008

This note examines two cases in which English and Scottish courts have insisted that the English and Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commissions adopt the same definition and approach as them to alleged ‘miscarriages of justice’ in order to reduce the number of potential referrals and increase finality, and to reduce the challenge posed by these Commissions to the courts' authority in the legal sphere. The authors consider whether the courts' approach is either necessary or appropriate.
Regional Grey Matter Changes in Patients With Migraine: A Voxel-Based Morphometry Study
Authors: Kim JH , Suh S-I , Seol HY , Oh K , Seo W-K , Yu S-W , Park K-W , Koh S-B
Published: April 2008

We used voxel-based morphometry (VBM) to compare grey matter volume (GMV) between 20 migraine patients (five with aura and 15 without aura) with normal conventional magnetic resonance imaging findings and 33 healthy controls matched for age and sex. A separate analysis was also performed to delineate a possible correlation between the GMV changes and the headache duration or lifetime headache frequency. When compared with controls, migraine patients had significant GMV reductions in the bilateral insula, motor/premotor, prefrontal, cingulate cortex, right posterior parietal cortex, and orbitofrontal cortex ( P < 0.001, uncorrected for multiple comparisons at a voxel level; corrected P < 0.05 after small volume corrections). All regions of the GMV changes were negatively correlated with headache duration and lifetime headache frequency ( P < 0.05, Pearson's correlation test). We found evidence for structural grey matter changes in patients with migraine. Our findings of progressive GMV reductions in relation to increasing headache duration and increasing headache frequency suggest that repeated migraine attacks over time result in selective damage to several brain regions involved in central pain processing.
Comparisons Between Heavily T2-Weighted MR and CT Myelography Studies in Two Patients with Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension
Authors: Tsai P-H , Fuh J-L , Lirng J-F , Wang S-J
Published: April 2008

Our previous study demonstrated that heavily T2-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) myelography could successfully detect abnormal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collections in patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH); however, its ability to demonstrate ongoing CSF leakage sites is uncertain. Currently, computed tomographic (CT) myelography is still considered the study of choice for such a purpose. In this study, we compared the results of the two imaging modalities in two patients with SIH. CSF leakages, such as C1-2 extraspinal collections, CSF along nerve root sleeves, and epidural fluid collections were noted on both studies with minor discrepancies. CSF collection along nerve root sleeves demonstrated by MR myelography was the most likely ongoing leakage site in comparison with CT myelography. Targeted epidural blood patches in both patients resulted in complete headache resolution. Noninvasive, non-contrasted and time-saving MR myelography is a promising study for patients with SIH. Further large-scale validation studies are needed.
Unilateral Photophobia or Phonophobia in Migraine Compared With Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgias
Authors: Irimia P , Cittadini E , Paemeleire K , Cohen AS , Goadsby PJ
Published: April 2008

Our objective was to compare the presence of self-reported unilateral photophobia or phonophobia, or both, during headache attacks comparing patients with trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TACs)—including cluster headache, shortlasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) and paroxysmal hemicrania—or hemicrania continua, and other headache types. We conducted a prospective study in patients attending a referral out-patient clinic over 5 months and those admitted for an intramuscular indomethacin test. Two hundred and six patients were included. In episodic migraine patients, two of 54 (4%) reported unilateral photophobia or phonophobia, or both. In chronic migraine patients, six of 48 (13%) complained of unilateral photophobia or phonophobia, or both, whereas none of the 24 patients with medication-overuse headache reported these unilateral symptoms, although these patients all had clinical symptoms suggesting the diagnosis of migraine. Only three of 22 patients (14%) suffering from new daily persistent headache (NDPH) experienced unilateral photophobia or phonophobia. In chronic cluster headache 10 of 21 patients (48%) had unilateral photophobia or phonophobia, or both, and this symptom appeared in four of five patients (80%) with episodic cluster headache. Unilateral photophobia or phonophobia, or both, were reported by six of 11 patients (55%) with hemicrania continua, five of nine (56%) with SUNCT, and four of six (67%) with chronic paroxysmal hemicrania. Unilateral phonophobia or photophobia, or both, are more frequent in TACs and hemicrania continua than in migraine and NDPH. The presence of these unilateral symptoms may be clinically useful in the differential diagnosis of primary headaches.
Are Signs of Temporomandibular Disorders Stable and Predictable in Adolescents With Headache?
Authors: Liljeström M-R , Le Bell Y , Laimi K , Anttila P , Aromaa M , Jämsä T , Metsähonkala L , Vahlberg T , Viander S , Alanen P , Sillanpää M
Published: April 2008

The aim of the present study was to study changes in signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and factors predicting TMD signs in adolescents with and without headache. A population-based sample ( n = 212) of 13-year-olds with and without headache was re-examined at the age of 16. The study included a questionnaire, face-to-face interview and somatic examination. In addition, a neurological examination, a muscle evaluation and a stomatognathic examination were performed. Significant changes were seen in TMD signs during the follow-up, but TMD signs at the end of the follow-up could not be predicted by baseline headache, sleeping difficulties, depression or muscle pain. TMD signs at the age of 16 were associated with female gender and muscle pain. We conclude that considerable changes in TMD signs occur in the follow-up of adolescents with and without headache. Headache-related TMD are not predictable in adolescents with and without headache.
Improvement of pruritus and quality of life of children with atopic dermatitis and their families after joining support groups
Authors: Blessmann Weber M , De Tarso da Luz Fontes Neto P , Prati C , Soirefman M , Mazzotti NG , Barzenski B , Cestari TF
Published: April 2008

Introduction  Atopic dermatitis places a large burden on patients and their families, with greater risk of emotional disorders and behavioural problems. Preliminary evidence suggests that support groups and educational programs are helpful in reducing stress, disease and pruritus severity and improves quality of life (QoL).

Objectives  To evaluate the intensity of pruritus and the QoL in children with atopic dermatitis and their families after joining support groups.

Material and methods  Subjects were randomly assigned to intervention or control group and completed the Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI) and Family Dermatitis Impact (FDI). Pruritus was evaluated by the Yosipovitch's questionnaire for pruritus. Each patient/family unit was considered as one ‘patient’. Participants were divided into two different groups: one with children under 16 years and the second with patients’ relatives. Each unit was accompanied during 6 months.

Results  Thirty‐two patients and their relatives completed the questionnaires satisfactorily. After intervention, pruritus intensity was similar (P = 0.42), but the pattern of pruritus improved in the intervention group. Overall QoL for CDLQI instruments improved significantly (P < 0.01) and, when specific domains were analysed, personal relationships (P = 0.02) and leisure (P = 0.04) showed marked enhancement. FDI scores failed to demonstrate differences in the QoL of patients’ relatives after treatment.

Conclusion  The improvement on pruritus and QoL showed that atopic dermatitis patients had benefits with the attendance to support groups. We consider that these non‐pharmacological approaches can be a very effective accessory tools in the management of recalcitrant forms of the disease.