bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Italy as a major Ice Age refuge area for the batMyotis myotis(Chiroptera: Vespertilionidae) in Europe
Authors: RUEDI MANUEL , WALTER SIMON , FISCHER MARTIN C. , SCARAVELLI DINO , EXCOFFIER LAURENT , HECKEL GERALD
Published: March 2008

The distribution of biota from the temperate regions changed considerably during the climatic fluctuations of the Quaternary. This is especially true for many bat species that depend on warm roosts to install their nursery colonies. Surveys of genetic variation among European bats have shown that the southern peninsulas (Iberia and the Balkans) harbour endemic diversity, but to date, no such surveys have been conducted in the third potential glacial refuge area, the Apennine peninsula. We report here the phylogeographical analysis of 115 greater mouse‐eared bats (Myotis myotis) sampled throughout Italy, and show that 15 of the 18 different haplotypes found in the mitochondrial control region of these bats were unique to the Apennine peninsula. Colonies within this region also showed substantial genetic structure at both mitochondrial (ΦST = 0.47,P < 0.001) and nuclear markers (FST = 0.039,P < 0.001). Based on a comprehensive survey of 575 bats from Europe, these genetic markers further indicate that central Italian populations ofM. myotisare more closely related to Greek samples from across the Adriatic Sea, than to other Italian bats. Mouse‐eared bat populations from the Apennine peninsula thus represent a complex mixture of several endemic lineages, which evolvedin situ, with others that colonized this region more recently along an Adriatic route. Our broad survey also confirms that the Alps represent a relatively impermeable barrier to gene flow for Apennine lineages, even for vagile animals such as bats. These results underline the conservation value of bats from this region and the need to include the Apennine peninsula in phylogeographical surveys in order to provide a more accurate view of the evolution of bats in Europe.
Transgenesis and neuronal ablation in parasitic nematodes: revolutionary new tools to dissect host–parasite interactions
Authors: LOK J. B. , ARTIS D.
Published: March 2008

Ease of experimental gene transfer into viral and prokaryotic pathogens has made transgenesis a powerful tool for investigating the interactions of these pathogens with the host immune system. Recent advances have made this approach feasible for more complex protozoan parasites. By contrast, the lack of a system for heritable transgenesis in parasitic nematodes has hampered progress toward understanding the development of nematode‐specific cellular responses. Recently, however, significant strides towards such a system have been made in several parasitic nematodes, and the possible applications of these in immunological research should now be contemplated. In addition, methods for targeted cell ablation have been successfully adapted from Caenorhabditis elegans methodology and applied to studies of neurobiology and behaviour in Strongyloides stercoralis. Together, these new technical developments offer exciting new tools to interrogate multiple aspects of the host–parasite interaction following nematode infection.
Deep‐water foreland basin deposits of the Cerro Toro Formation, Magallanes basin, Chile: architectural elements of a sinuous basin axial channel belt
Authors: HUBBARD STEPHEN M. , ROMANS BRIAN W. , GRAHAM STEPHAN A.
Published: March 2008

Coarse‐grained deep‐water strata of the Cerro Toro Formation in the Cordillera Manuel Señoret, southern Chile, represent the deposits of a major channel belt (4 to 8 km wide by >100 km long) that occupied the foredeep of the Magallanes basin during the Late Cretaceous. Channel belt deposits comprise a ca 400 m thick conglomeratic interval (informally named the ‘Lago Sofia Member’) encased in bathyal fine‐grained units. Facies of the Lago Sofia Member include sandy matrix conglomerate (that show evidence of traction‐dominated deposition and sedimentation from turbulent gravity flows), muddy matrix conglomerate (graded units interpreted as coarse‐grained slurry‐flow deposits) and massive sandstone beds (high‐density turbidity current deposits). Interbedded sandstone and mudstone intervals are present locally, interpreted as inner levée deposits. The channel belt was characterized by a low sinuousity planform architecture, as inferred from outcrop mapping and extensive palaeocurrent measurements. Laterally adjacent to the Lago Sofia Member are interbedded mudstone and sandstone facies derived from gravity flows that spilled over the channel belt margin. A levée interpretation for these fine‐grained units is based on several observations, which include: (i) palaeocurrent measurements that indicate flows diverged (50° to 100°) once they spilled over the confining channel margin; (ii) sandstone beds progressively thin, away from the channel belt margin; (iii) evidence that the eroded channel base was not very well indurated, including a stepped margin and injection of coarse‐grained channel material into surrounding fine‐grained units; and (iv) the presence of sedimentary features common to levées, including slumped units inferring depositional slopes dipping away from the channel margin, lenticular sandstone beds thinning distally from the channel margin, soft sediment deformation and climbing ripples. The tectonic setting and foredeep architecture influenced deposition in the axial channel belt. A significant downstream constriction of the channel belt is reflected by a transition from more tabular units to an internal architecture dominated by lenticular beds associated with a substantially increased degree of scour. Differential propagation of the fold‐thrust belt from the west is speculated to have had a major control on basin, and subsequently channel, width. The confining influence of the basin slopes that paralleled the channel belt, as well as the likelihood that numerous conduits fed into the basin along the length of the active fold‐thrust belt to the west, suggest that proximal–distal relationships observed from large channels in passive margin settings are not necessarily applicable to axial channels in elongate basins.
Evaluating non‐adherence to immunosuppressant medications in pediatric liver transplant recipients
Authors: Stuber Margaret L. , Shemesh Eyal , Seacord Debra , Washington James , Hellemann Gerhard , McDiarmid Susan
Published: March 2008

Abstract:  Non‐adherence with recommended immunosuppressant medications is common post‐pediatric liver transplant and is the most important reason for organ rejection in long‐term survivors. However, there is currently no validated, standard method to measure adherence, with a well‐defined threshold, making it extremely difficult to evaluate interventions to improve adherence. Previous studies have suggested that the degree of fluctuation of medication blood levels over time can provide an idea about how regularly the medication is being taken. The present study, conducted at UCLA medical center, sought to identify a specific threshold value of the s.d. of individual tacrolimus blood levels in pediatric liver transplant recipients which would be associated with rejection episodes in these patients. A threshold of 3.0 has been identified in other studies, and was supported by the analysis of retrospective data from 96 subjects. However, further analysis found that a s.d. of 2.5 appeared to have a better fit with the data. These findings suggest the utility of monitoring the s.d. of routine tacrolimus blood levels in pediatric liver transplant recipients for detecting non‐adherence to immunosuppressant medication prior to clinical rejection, allowing earlier interventions.
Screening of Thai medicinal plants for anticandidal activity
Authors: Rukayadi Yaya , Shim Jae‐Seok , Hwang Jae‐Kwan
Published: March 2008

Medicinal plants are often used in the treatment of various ailments. In this study, 23 of Thai medicinal plants were screened for their anticandidal activity against six pathogenic Candida species: C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. guilliermondii, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis. The methanol extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. fruit, Trigonostemon reidioides (Kurz) Craib root, Usnea siamensis Vain whole plant, Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. rhizome, and Albizia myriophylla Benth. stem showed anticandidal activity against one or more species of Candida. Among them, A. myriophylla Benth. showed broad anticandidal activity. The susceptibility tests of A. myriophylla Benth. extract, in terms of minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC), were performed by the broth microdilution techniques as described by the Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute. MICs of A. myriophylla Benth. extract to all Candida species was ranged 100–500 μg ml−1. The killing activity of A. myriophylla Benth. extract was fast acting against all Candida tested; the reduction in the number of CFU ml−1 was >3 log10 units (99.9%) in 2 h. This study indicates that A. myriophylla Benth. extract has considerable anticandidal activity, deserving further investigation for clinical applications for the treatment of candidiasis.
Porcine Luteal Function in Relation to IGF‐1 Levels Following Ovulation During Lactation or After Weaning
Authors: Langendijk P , Van Den Brand H , Gerritsen R , Quesnel H , Soede NM , Kemp B
Published: March 2008

Contents This study presents relationships between peripheral progesterone and Insulin‐like Growth Factor‐1 (IGF‐1) concentrations during the early luteal phase in sows. Data were derived from three experiments, one with primiparous weaned sows (n = 21) and two with multiparous sows that either ovulated during lactation (n = 23) or after weaning (n = 12). The sows that ovulated during lactation did so due to an intermittent suckling regime (inhibition of suckling for 12 h each day from day 14 of lactation) or due to treatment with PG600. IGF‐1 concentrations varied considerably among experiments, and were the lowest in the multiparous sows, regardless of whether they were weaned or lactating: 68 ± 5 and 85 ± 8 ng/ml in the two experiments with multiparous sows vs 188 ± 15 ng/ml in the primiparous sows. Progesterone concentrations were lowest for the lactating sows. Overall, the increase in progesterone during the early luteal phase was strongly correlated with IGF‐1 concentrations (r = 0.7). However, the correlation was low in multiparous lactating sows (r = 0.28; p < 0.10) and nonsignificant in multiparous weaned sows (r = 0). The weaned multiparous sows had IGF‐1 levels comparable to lactating multiparous sows, but higher progesterone levels. In conclusion, these data show a positive relationship between peripheral IGF‐1 and progesterone concentrations in vivo during the early luteal phase. In lactating sows, IGF‐1 concentrations are probably a limiting factor for progesterone secretion, although other factors may be involved.
Effects of Ovum Pick‐up Frequency and FSH Stimulation: A Retrospective Study on Seven Years of Beef Cattle In Vitro Embryo Production
Authors: De Roover R , Feugang JMN , Bols PEJ , Genicot G , Hanzen Ch
Published: March 2008

Contents

The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the number of follicles, cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) and cultured In Vitro Produced (IVP) embryos obtained from 1396 non‐stimulated Ovum Pick‐up (OPU) sessions on 81 donor animals in a twice weekly OPU scheme. Results were obtained from 640 sessions following FSH‐LH superstimulation, on 112 donors subjected to OPU once every 2 weeks. The stimulation protocol started with the insertion of an ear implant containing 3 mg norgestomet (Crestar, Intervet, Belgium) 8 days before puncture (day −8). The dominant follicle was ablated by ultrasound‐guided follicle puncture on day −6. On day −3 and day −2, cows were injected with FSH (Ovagen, ICP) twice daily (8 am to 8 pm), i.e. a total dose of 160 μg FSH and 40 μg LG per donor per stimulation cycle. Animals were punctured 48 h after the last FSH injection (day 0). Progesterone implants were removed the next day. Stimulated donor cows were treated with this protocol at 14‐day intervals. Follicles were visualized with a Dynamic Imaging ultrasound scanner, equipped with a 6.5 MHz sectorial probe. Follicles were punctured with 55 cm long, 18 gauge needles at an aspiration pressure corresponding to a flow rate of 15 ml/min. Cumulus oocyte complexes were recovered and processed in a routine IVF set‐up.

Results demonstrate that, expressed per session, FSH stimulation prior to OPU increases production efficiency with significantly more follicles punctured and oocytes retrieved. However, when overall results during comparable 2‐week periods are considered (four non‐stimulated sessions vs one stimulated), more follicles are punctured and more oocytes are retrieved using the non‐stimulated protocol. No significant differences in the number of cultured embryos could be detected, indicating that FSH/LH stimulation prior to OPU might have a positive effect on in vitro oocyte developmental competence as more embryos are cultured with less, presumably better‐quality, oocytes.
Enhancement of Ovulatory Follicle Development in Maiden Sheep by Short‐term Supplementation with Steam‐flaked Corn
Authors: Letelier C , Gonzalez‐Bulnes A , Hervé M , Correa J , Pulido R
Published: March 2008

Contents

The effect of a short‐term nutritional supplementation with steam‐flaked corn on metabolism and folliculogenesis was evaluated in 14 maiden sheep. Oestrus was synchronized with two prostaglandin F2α doses given 10 days apart. From day 11 to 15 of the oestrous cycle induced with prostaglandins, half of the ewes (group 2M) were supplemented with steam‐flaked corn, double the daily maintenance ration of the control sheep (group 1M). Body weight and condition remained unaffected, but the energetic supply increased plasma concentrations of glucose (3.6 ± 0.1 vs 4.3 ± 0.1 mmol/l, p < 0.0001) for the first 4 days and 3‐hydroxybutyrate (0.323 ± 0.58 vs 0.582 ± 0.04 mmol/l, p < 0.005) from day 2 to 4. The profile of insulin secretion was also affected by the treatment, increasing in group 2M to reach significant differences on days 13 and 14 (p < 0.05). From similar values at the start of the food supply, the treatment induced a higher follicular development in group 2M (1.1 ± 1.2 vs 7.4 ± 1.06 total follicles in day 15, p < 0.05), as evidenced by the lineal increase in the number of larger follicles (>4 mm, p < 0.005). Then, the number of follicles >4 mm in size in 2M was around 60% higher on day 16 (7.86 ± 0.45 vs 4.86 ± 0.63, p < 0.005). Thereafter, the mean number of corpora lutea per ewe was around 30% higher in group 2M (1.43 ± 0.2 vs 1.10 ± 0.1, although differences were not found to be statistically significant). These data suggest that the use of diets containing high starch sources, like the steam‐flaked corn, increases folliculogenesis and ovulation rate in sheep and can be applied in short‐term feeding practices.
Functional Activity of Frozen Thawed Chinchilla lanigera Spermatozoa Cryopreserved with Glycerol or Ethylene Glycol
Authors: Ponzio MF , Busso JM , Fiol de Cuneo M , Ruiz RD , Ponce AA
Published: March 2008

Contents

The cryopreservation of spermatozoa constitutes a valuable tool for the captive breeding management of valuable and/or threatened species. Chinchilla lanigera is a species almost extinct in the wild, and the domestic counterpart has one of the most valuable pelts in the world. The objectives of this study were to: (i) compare the functional activity of post‐thawed chinchilla spermatozoa cryopreserved at −196°C either with glycerol (G) or ethylene glycol (EG) as cryoprotectants (1 m final concentration) and (ii) investigate the effects of incubating the gametes for 4 h in the presence or in the absence of the cryoprotectants; evaluations were performed taking into account motility, viability, response to hypo‐osmotic shock and acrosome integrity of the cells. Parameters reflecting post‐thaw (0 h) sperm functional activity were significantly lower than those of freshly ejaculated gametes. When comparing the cryoprotectant efficiency of G vs EG, neither cryoprotectant agent offered appreciable advantages. After 4 h of incubation, in the presence or absence of the cryoprotectant agent, a rapid and significant decrease was found in all functional parameters and remained at ∼ 20–30% motile, viable and viable acrosome intact cells. Viability was significantly lower when the cryoprotectant was removed from the media (possibly due to the centrifugation process). With respect to the maintenance of sperm membrane integrity, only ∼ 10% of cells showed membrane resistance to hypo‐osmotic conditions after the 4 h incubation period. These results constitute new insights for cryopreservation protocols and the development of assisted reproductive techniques in this species.
Charcoal haemoperfusion in Amitriptyline poisoning: Experience in 20 children
Authors: BEK KENAN , ÖZKAYA OZAN , MUTLU BİRGÜL , DAĞDEMİR AYHAN , SUNGUR METİN , AÇIKGÖZ YONCA , İŞLEK İSMAİL , BAYSAL KEMAL
Published: March 2008

Aim:  Tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) toxicity is common among children and adults due to widespread use. Amitriptyline (AT) is one of the most commonly prescribed TCAs. Current guidelines do not recommend charcoal haemoperfusion (HP) for AT overdose due to high protein binding and large volume of distribution. However evidence regarding the efficacy of charcoal HP in addition to supportive measures is accumulating in the published reports.

Methods:   Here we report our experience in 20 children (15 girls, 5 boys) with acute AT overdose aged between 1.5 and 15 years, successfully managed with HP in our institution between January 2000 and February 2007.

Results:  The HP indications were mainly severe initial cardiac and respiratory involvement. After HP, all patients recovered dramatically with a mean hospital stay of 4 days (range: 2–12). Only one patient developed neurological sequelae due to prolonged hypoxia secondary to respiratory arrest.

Conclusion:   To our knowledge this is the largest case series reporting the efficacy of charcoal HP in acute AT overdose in children. Based on our findings, charcoal HP seems to be an effective treatment modality, especially in prompt correction of severe life‐threatening cardiac and respiratory findings in children with serious AT overdose and resulting in a reduction of morbidity and mortality.
Renal allograft C4d deposition in Chinese: Hong Kong perspective
Authors: YUEN SZE K , MAK YUEN F , TANG HON L , YONG SAI P , CHOW KAI M , CHU KWOK H , FUNG KA S , CHAN WAI HH , TONG KWOK L
Published: March 2008

Background:  Acute rejection constitutes a significant proportion of renal allograft loss. Peritubular capillary deposition of C4d has been recognized as the footprint of humoral alloimmunity and proven to be a sensitive and specific marker for humoral rejection in the appropriate clinical context. Its presence in indication biopsies is the most important independent risk factor for graft failure. Data are, however, scarce among Chinese subjects.

Methods:  We retrospectively reviewed all renal graft biopsies performed from 1 April 2002 to 31 March 2006 for unexplained acute renal dysfunction or delayed graft function. Renal outcomes were assessed at the time of renal biopsy and at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year afterwards. Survival was assessed by Kaplan–Meier analysis. Multivariate analysis was used to determine if C4d positivity is an independent risk factor for poor renal outcome.

Results:  Fifty‐two biopsies were included, of which 16 were positive for peritubular capillary C4d. Peritubular capillary C4d was associated with lower glomerular filtration rate and higher serum creatinine at 6 and 12 months after renal biopsies. The C4d‐positive group fares worse in terms of death‐censored graft failure, doubling of serum creatinine and reaching 50% of glomerular filtration rate at the end of the study. Peritubular capillary C4d deposition was the only significant risk factor that predicts graft failure in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion:  Our findings confirmed the independent prognostic value of peritubular capillary C4d staining on renal allograft survival in Chinese.
Molecular analysis and patterns of ALT and hepatitis C virus seroconversion in haemodialysis patients with acute hepatitis
Authors: LAMPE ELISABETH , YOSHIDA CLARA FUMIKO TACHIBANA , DE OLIVEIRA ROSANE VIEIRA , LAUER GEORG M , LEWIS‐XIMENEZ LIA LAURA
Published: March 2008

Background:  Haemodialysis (HD) continues to carry the risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission, with delayed seroconversion and often normal alanine aminotransferase (ALT) values increasing the likelihood of undetected infection and thus uninterrupted spread of HCV. The aim of this study was to identify the characteristic patterns of ALT changes and seroconversion during an outbreak of HCV in a HD unit. We also wanted to establish the relationship between infecting viruses using molecular analysis.

Methods:  All patients (n = 72) and staff (n = 23) of the HD unit were prospectively followed for 14 months. Serial measurements for ALT, HCV antibody and HCV‐RNA were performed besides HCV sequence analysis.

Results:  The initial screening for anti‐HCV and HCV‐RNA confirmed chronic infection in 16/72 (22%) subjects and identified three subjects with recent seroconversion. In addition, five cases were reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction positive alone for a total of eight recent cases. The interval between the initial observation of ALT changes and seroconversion varied from 1 to 8 months, and in several individuals ALT fluctuations only below the upper limit of normal were detected. However, relating each subject's ALT values to ALT at baseline, ALT levels increased between 1.6‐ and 4.7‐fold. Molecular analysis provided evidence for transmission from two chronically infected source patients, probably because of inappropriate infection control measures.

Conclusion:  Our data highlight the importance of well‐implemented safety precautions and regular HCV‐RNA testing to prevent the further spread of HCV in this population, and suggest the use of ALT baseline values to identify infections that may remain unnoticed otherwise.
RHEB expression in fibroadenomas of the breast
Authors: Eom Minseob , Han Airi , Yi Sang Yeop , Shin John Junghun , Cui Ying , Park Kwang Hwa
Published: March 2008

Although fibroadenoma is one of the most common types of benign breast tumor, genes specific to the tumor have not been identified. Microarrays were used to identify differentially expressed genes between fibroadenoma and infiltrating ductal carcinoma. The comparative expression of one of the identified genes, RAS homolog enriched in the brain (RHEB), was further explored using reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Microarray analysis was performed on tissue samples from five patients with fibroadenoma. In the fibroadenoma samples, the genes HDAC1, ROS1, TNFRSF10A, WASP2, TYRP1, WEE1, and RHEB were expressed at levels more than twofold higher than in the normal tissues. RT‐PCR for RHEB indicated increased expression of RHEB in fibroadenoma compared to breast cancer. When studied with real‐time PCR, the average RHEB/β‐actin ratio in fibroadenoma samples was 1.99, 2.46‐fold greater than the average RHEB/β‐actin ratio in breast carcinoma of 0.81 (P < 0.01). Immunohistochemistry and PCR followed by microdissection shows increased expression of RHEB in epithelial cells compared to the stromal cells of fibroadenoma. Therefore, RHEB could be used cytopathologically to distinguish fibroadenoma from malignant breast carcinomas as a secondary diagnostic tool.
Pleural MALT lymphoma diagnosed on thoracoscopic resection under local anesthesia using an insulation‐tipped diathermic knife
Authors: Kawahara Kunimitsu , Sasada Shinji , Nagano Teruaki , Suzuki Hidekazu , Kobayashi Masashi , Matsui Kaoru , Takata Katsuyoshi , Yoshino Tadashi , Michida Tomoki , Iwasaki Teruo
Published: March 2008

A 79‐year‐old man presented with back pain. Chest CT scan showed elevated nodular lesions in the right parietal pleurae with pleural effusion. There were no intrapulmonary or mediastinal abnormalities. Under local anesthesia, right thoracoscopy and subsequent thoracoscopic pleural resection were performed using an insulation‐tipped diathermic knife (IT‐knife). The resected pleura, 2.2 cm in diameter, had a rough granular surface. Lymphoid cells histologically infiltrated diffusely into the pleura. They were composed of centrocyte‐like and monocytoid cells. On immunohistochemistry they were found to be positive for Bcl2, CD20, CD45RB and CD79a, but negative for CD3, CD5, CD10 and cyclin D1. EBV‐encoded small RNA‐1 (EBER‐1) in situ hybridization was negative. A diagnosis of extranodal marginal zone B‐cell lymphoma of mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT lymphoma) arising in the pleura was therefore made. To the authors' knowledge this is the first case in which IT‐knife was used for diagnosis of a pleural lesion. This large, single‐piece, only slightly crushed pleural specimen, enabled study of histopathological findings (listed here) that could not have been obtained on conventional biopsy: (i) lack of apparent evidence of plasmacytic differentiation; (ii) no recognition of lymphoid follicles; (iii) mesothelial cells not infiltrated by lymphoma cell clusters; (iv) thin layer of hyperplastic mesothelial cells continuously covering the surface; and (v) no proliferation of fibroblast‐like submesothelial cells.
ENDOSCOPIC QUANTIFICATION OF MUCOSAL SURFACE ROUGHNESS FOR GRADING SEVERITY OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS
Authors: Sasaki Yoshihiro , Fukuda Shinsaku , Mikami Tatsuya , Hada Ryukichi
Published: March 2008

Background:  Mucosal surface roughness is the element of Matts grading system for endoscopic severity of ulcerative colitis. The aims of the present study were to develop an image‐processing method for quantifying mucosal surface roughness and to evaluate performance of this method by comparison with visually assessed surface roughness.

Methods:  A total of 139 digitized colonoscopic pictures from 69 randomly selected patients with ulcerative colitis were used. The red frame of the endoscopic picture was processed for the mean spatial gradient reflecting the surface roughness. Three endoscopists (E1, E2, E3), unaware of the study design were asked to assess the surface roughness by using a visual analog scale (VAS) from 0 to 1. A total of three sessions for surface roughness were performed by each endoscopist on different days.

Results:  The overall mean gradient was 28.9 ± 10.9. The mean VAS did not significantly differ among endoscopists (0.42 ± 0.23 for E1, 0.45 ± 0.19 for E2 and 0.43 ± 0.28, P > 0.05). The correlation coefficient of VAS between E1 and E2, between E2 and E3, and between E3 and E1 was 0.957 (P < 0.0001), 0.914 (P < 0.0001) and 0.950 (P < 0.0001), respectively. The mean gradient correlated with the averaged VAS for each endoscopist (r = 0.711 for E1, P < 0.0001; 0.672 for E2, P < 0.0001; 0.826 for E3, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:  This method may provide a means for mucosal surface roughness as a pictorial parameter, regardless of the organ studied.
CARDIOVASCULAR TOLERANCE IN UPPER GASTROINTESTINAL ENDOSCOPY USING AN ULTRATHIN SCOPE: PROSPECTIVE RANDOMIZED COMPARISON BETWEEN TRANSNASAL AND TRANSORAL PROCEDURES
Authors: Mori Akihiro , Ohashi Noritsugu , Maruyama Takako , Tatebe Hideharu , Sakai Katsuhisa , Shibuya Takashi , Inoue Hiroshi , Okuno Masataka
Published: March 2008

Background:  Transnasal esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) has been suggested to be better tolerated by the cardiovascular system with a lower elevation of systolic blood pressure (BP) than oral EGD. However, limited information is available on the precise comparison of cardiovascular responses between the two endoscopic procedures using the same ultrathin scope.

Methods:  A prospective patient‐centered randomized study was performed to examine BP, pulse rate (P) and peripheral blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) during nasal and oral EGD using the same ultrathin endoscope. The acceptability of EGD was also assessed using a visual analog scale. A total of 1147 patients were divided into four groups: patients who preferred oral or nasal EGD underwent endoscopy according to their preference (preferred group) and patients without preference were randomly assigned to oral and nasal EGD (randomized group).

Results:  The study design excluded a bias of the patient's preference. The randomized group involved 149 patients among whom 74 and 75 cases were assigned to the transnasal and oral EGD groups, respectively. The results in the randomized group confirmed a significantly lower elevation of BP in patients undergoing transnasal EGD than those undergoing oral EGD, while the increase in P was slightly smaller in patients undergoing the nasal procedure. Changes in SpO2 were minimal in either procedure. Analyses of patient acceptability showed a favorable evaluation of nasal EGD.

Conclusions:  The present study confirmed less cardiovascular stress using nasal EGD than oral endoscopy when compared using the same ultrathin scope.
COLORECTAL INVOLVEMENT OF KAPOSI'S SARCOMA IN A HIV‐NEGATIVE CASE
Authors: Bektas Mehmet , Dokmecİ Abdulkadİr , Savas Berna , Yerlİkaya Halİs , Percİnel Sİbel , Heper Aylİn Okcu
Published: March 2008

A case of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) in a 70‐year‐old man who was using corticosteroid for the treatment of asthma is presented. KS lesions occurred in the skin, colon, and rectum. Macroscopic appearances of the lesions varied from polypoid, hemorrhagic mucosal nodules and ulcers to red macules in the mucosal plane to plaque‐like indurations of the wall. As the case was HIV negative, it is believed that KS developed due to corticosteroid‐induced immunosuppression.
Lessons of Post‐War Development Experience
Authors: Singer Hans W.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: This paper traces the development process from the optimism of the post‐war era to the present scenario of adjustment, retrenchment and stabilisation. What were the mistakes and the success stories, and the lessons that can be drawn from them these last 40 years ? The paper takes a hard look at the ‘Golden Years’ of the 1950s and 1960s; it analyses the ‘debt‐led’ growth of the 1970s and the resulting lost decade of the 1980s in Africa and Latin America. It goes on to examine the successes and failures that emerge from the history of the development process, and argues in favour of learning these lessons by resuming a policy of ‘redistributionwith growth’ and re‐establishing strong international institutions to ensure future growth in developing countries.

Résumé: Le présent document retrace le processus de développement depuisl'optimisme de l'apres‐guerre au scenario actuel de l'ajustement, de redressement et de stabilisation. Quels ont ete les erreurs et les SUCCCS et les enseignements que l'on pourrait en tirer au cours de ces 40 dernieres annees? Le document examine a fond la « belle epoque » des annees 1950 et 1960; il analyse la croissance guidee par la dette des annees 1970 et en consequence, la decennie perdue des annees 1980 en Afrique et en Amerique Latine. I1 continue en examinant les SUCCCS et les echecs provenant de l'histoire du processus de developpement et donne les raisons pour lesquelles ces enseignements doiventttre retenus en reprenant une politique de « nouvelle repartition et de croissance » et en creant de nouvelles institutions internationales assez solides capables d'assurer a l'avenir la croissance dans les pays en developpement.
Issues Concerning the Planning of Programme Loans with Particular Reference to Agricultural Sector Programme Lending
Authors: Akroyd David
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Programme loans were devised to facilitate the introduction of policy and institutional reforms required if a satisfactory environment was to be established for the achievement of economic recovery, sustained economic growth and for the successful implementation of conventional investment projects. Reform packages may be required at the level of the whole economy or at sector level. From the point of view of a financing agency the start of the planning process is the production of a policy document which can be called Economic Prospects and Country Programming. This sets the scene for possible programme loans and policy and institutional reform packages. Priorities are then agreed with government and a programme is identified, prepared and appraised. Practical issues include the composition of the preparation and appraisal mission teams, the programme description, the drawing up of a Matrix of Programme Policy and Institutional Outputs, the assessment of institutional capabilities in the borrowing country, the production of a List of Goods and Services, loan conditionality, the scheduling of loan disbursements, the arrangements to be made for the purchase of programme loan funds by users and the uses to be made of counterpart local funds, the procurement of goods and services and progress reporting and supervision.

Résumé: Les préts du programme ont été concus pour faciliter l'adoption de réformes politiques et institutionnelles nécessaires dans le cas où un environment favorable devrait étre créé pour la réalisations de la relance é conomique, las crossiance économique soutenue et pour l'exécution réussie des projets d'investissement classiques. Les trains de mesures de réformes peuvent étre nécessaires au niveau de l'ensemble de l'economie ou au niveau sectoriel. Selon un organisme de financement, le deémarrage du processus de planification consiste en la production d'un document de politique qui peut étre intitulé«Perspectives éconimiques et Programmes par Pays». Ce document étalit le contexte des éventuels préts du programme et des trains de nesures de réformes politiques et institutionnelles. Les priorité sont ensuite convenues avec le Gouvernement, puis un programme est identifi, préparé et évalué. Les questions pratiques comprennent la composition des missins de préparation et d'évalution, la description du programme, la préparatin d'un cadre de politique du programme et de rendements des structures, l'évaluation de capacités institutionnelles dans le pays emprunteur, la préparation du calendrier des décaissements des préts, les dispositins à prendre pour l'acquisition des fonds de préts du programme par les utilisteres et les utilisations éventuelles du fonds local de contrepartie, l'acquisition des biens et services, la prépartion du rapprot et l supervision de l'état d'avancement.
Coûts et avantages de la taxe de coopération régionale dans la communautééconomique de l'Afrique de l'Ouest
Authors: Djah Kouacou
Published: March 2008

Résumé: L'existence de la communautééconomique de l'Afrique de l'Ouest (CEAO) a prmis aux Etats membres de développer les échanges commerciaux de produits insustriels. Cela a été possible grâe à l'adoption par la CEAO d'unmécanisme original“ la taxe de coopération régionale (TCR). Elle a permis la compensation des pertes de recettes ficales résultant des échanges intracommunautaires pour les pays importateurs.

Les effects de cette TCR sur les pays sont différents. II existe d'une part une catégorie de pays la Côte‐d'Ivoire, et dans une moindre mesure le Sénégal, quisupportent les coûts budgétaires de la TCR, mais dont les industries ont puprofiter di développement des échanges, et d'autre part des pays comme: le Burkina, le Mali, la mauritanie et le Niger dont les industries n'ont pu bénéficier du développement des échange, et d'autre part des pays comme: le Burkina, le Mali, la Mauritanie et le Niger dont les industries n'ont pu benéficier du développement des échanges, mais les coúts budgétaires pour ces pays sont faibles á causee de l'existence d'un systéme de compensation.

Enfin par rapport a la théorie de base des Unions douaniéres, on ne peut conclure ni á la création, ni au détournement d'échanges commerciaus dans le cas de la CEAO.

Abstract: The “Communautééconomique de l'Afrique de l'Ouest (CEAO)” has enabled its member states to develop trade in industrial products. This has been possible on account of the adoption by the CEAO of an original mechanism: The regional cooperation tax (taxe de cooperation régionale‐T.C.R.)‐It provides compensation for importing countries's losses in respect of intracommunoty trade.
Parastatal‐Led Development: The Financial Sector in Kenya, 1971–1987
Authors: Grosh Barbara
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Kenya has one of the best developed financial sectors in Africa. Much of the dynamism of the financial sector is due to the role of government, via parastatal financial institutions. Parastatal banks spurred growth generally in the seventies, and since 1979 stimulated growth outside major urban areas in particular. They were important in increased lending to Kenyans of African origin, the creation of non‐bank financial institutions, and extensive rural branching. Financial parastatals played a key role in changing the behavior of what was once a tight oligopoly, making it more dynamic and competitive.

This paper reviews the growth and development of depository institutions, including commercial banks (CB) and non‐bank financial institutions (NBFI) from 1971–87. An account is given of the entry of the Kenya government into direct participation in the sector. The performance of the parastatal firms is compared with the performance of the financial sector as a whole.

Resumé

Le Kenya posséde un des secteurs financiers les mieux développés en Afrique. Le dynamisme du secteur financier découle du rôle de l'Etat par le biais des établissements financiers parapublics. Les banques semiétatiques ont, de façon generale, favorisé la croissance dans lesannées 70 et l'ont stirnulée, depuis 1979, en dehors des principaux centresurbains en particulier. Elles ont joué un rôle important dans le volume accru des prêts octroyés aux Kenyans d'origine africaine, dans la création d'établissements financiers non bancaires et dans l'ouverture de nombreuses agences rurales. Les établissements financiers parapublics ont joué un role clé dans la modification du comportement de ce qui était jadis un oligopole fermé, le rendant plus dynamique et plus competitif. La présente analyse traite de la croissance et du développement des institutions de dépôt, y compris les banques commerciales et les établissements financiers non bancaires à partir de la période 1971‐87. On rend compte dela participation directe de 1'Etat Kenyan dans ce secteur. Et on rapproche la performance des entreprises parapubliques de celle de i'ensemble du secteur financier.
Technical Efficiency Change in Kenyan Agriculture and the Poor: A Computable General Equilibrium Analysis.
Authors: Akinboade Oludele Akinloye
Published: March 2008

Abstract: A computable general equilibrium model is used to analyze the allocative as well as distributional impact of fifty percent input specific and ten percent general technical efficiency change in Kenyan agriculture. Two alternative specifications of the labour market are adopted to assess the sensitivity of model result to particular conditions prevailing in the labour market. The Kenyan Social Accounting Matrix is used in the model, though this has been aggregated and dis‐aggregated in the light of other evidence and arranged to follow the transaction value (TV) approach. Technical efficiency change does not appear to be significantly affected by the different specifications.

Input specific technical efficiency change results in a small improvement in agricultural production, income and the GDP. The impact, though small, is mixed on labour employment. General efficiency improvement on the other hand, results in a significant boost to agricultural production and a modest improvement in GDP; it also results in a boost to household income and real consumption.

Résumé: On a utilisé un modèle informatisé d'équilibre général pour analyser l'impact de l'affectation et de la distribution de cinquante pour cent du changement de l'efficacité technique liéà des facteurs spécfiques, et de dix pour cent du changement général de l'efficacité technique, sur l'agriculture kényane. On a adopté deux caractéristiques interchangeables du marché du travail pour évaluer la sensibilityé du résultat du modèle vis‐à‐vis des conditions particulières qui prévalent sur le marché du travail. La matrice de comptabilité sociale du Kenya a été utilisée dans le modèle, bien que celuici ait été globalisé puis venulé en fonction d'autres données, et aménagé pour tenir compte de la méthode de la valeur de transaction. Le changement de l'efficacité technique ne semble pas être affecté de manière significative par les différents caractéristiques.

Le changement de l'efficacité technique dûà des facteurs spécifiques provoque une petite amélioration de la production agricole, du revenu et du PIB. Et l'impact, quoique minime, est tout de même varié en ce qui concerne l'utilisation de la main‐d'œuvre. Par contre, l'amélioration de l'efficacité généerale donne une grande impulsion à la production agricole et génère une légère amélioration du PIB; il stimule également le revenu et la consommation réelle des ménages.
Economic Integration for Development in Eastern and Southern Africa: Assessment and Prospects
Authors: Mwase Ngila
Published: March 2008

Abstract: In this paper we discuss regional economic integration schemes in Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA), their theoretical basis, current status and the actual and potential efforts to transform them into meaningful instruments for cross‐border socio‐economic change. This is done in the context of the changing regional dynamics in Southern Africa. (JEL: 055; FIS).

Résumé: Dans ce document, nous examinons les programmes d'intégration régionale en Afrique australe et en Afrique de l'Est (ESA), de leur base théorique, leur état d'avancement et des efforts réels et potentiels visant à en faire des instruments significatifs de progrès socio‐économique international. Cela a été entrepris dans le cadre de l'évolution des facteurs régionaux en Afrique australe.
Devaluation et Balance Commerciale: un Modèle Appliqué aux Economies des Pays en Voie de Développement. (le cas du Cameroun).
Authors: Dontsi
Published: March 2008

Résumé: La relance économique par la politique de la dévaluation est une stratégie qui a été adoptée par certains pays en situation de recession économique. A l'heure actuelle, plusieurs pays, surtout ceux en voie de développement, qui traversent une grave crise économique, se demandent si la dévaluation de leur monnaie peut être l'une des solutions efficaces à la résolution de leurs problèmes. C'est ainsi que plusieurs débats sur la dévaluation du franc CFA sont menés, mais n'aboutissent malheureusement pas à des conclusions très convaincantes. Le présent article tente de reformuler le modèle de VANEK JAROSLAV qui a permis de retrouver la condition très restrictive de MARSHALL‐LERNER, et l'applique lorsqu'un des pays est un pays en voie de développement. Cette reformulation permet d'intégrer à l'analyse le coût des inputs intermédiaires et des biens d'équipement, d'une part, et la productivité marginale du capital productif, d'autre part. Le modèle établi est testé sur le cas du Cameroun.

Abstract: Some countries facing economic recession have adopted a monetary devaluation policy as a strategy for economic recovery. Presently, many countries, especially the developing ones facing a serious economic crisis, are asking whether by devaluating their money this could help them solve their problem. That is why a number of discussions are now being held on whether to devaluate the franc CFA. Unfortunately, the conclusions of all these debates are not very convincing. This paper is an attempt to construct basing on VANEK's pattern which permit to reach the conditions of MARSHALL‐LERNER, an algebrical pattern which should help any country wishing to adopt a devaluating monetary policy to take objective decisions. It attemps to examine both the case of an industrialised country manufacturing its own productive machines (investment material) and that of a developing country that has to import its investment and consumtion goods. The case of Cameroon have been examinated.
Econometric Analysis of External Debt Burdens of African Countries: Debt Rescheduling and Arrears of Interest
Authors: Odedokun M.O.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The study is an empirical investigation of reasons why African countries are unable to meet their external debt commitments during 1980s and immediately thereafter. It identifies the factors responsible for both temporal and cross‐country variations in interest arrears on long‐term debts as well as the proportions of debts being rescheduled. Annual data over 1980‐90 period for 39 African countries are employed and possible effects of various factors like the existing debt overhang; composition of external debts; external trade performances; foreign reserves position; foreign capital inflows; interest rate on the debts; level and growth of income; and other domestic economic indicators are tested for and confirmed. (JEL: F34; 055).

Résumé: Il s'agit d'une étude empirique des raisons pour lesquelles les pays africains n'ont pas pu honorer leurs obligations au titre de la dette extérieure, dans les anneées 80 et les années suivantes. Elle identifie les facteurs responsables des variations temporelles et internationales des arriérés d'intérêts au titre des dettes à long terme ainsi que du rééchelonnement des dettes. Les données annuelles qui ont été utilisées sont celles couvrant la période 1980‐90 pour 39 pays africains et les effets éventuels des différents facteurs (tels que l'encours actuel de la dette; la composition des dettes extérieures; les performances du commerce extérieur; la position des réserves en devises; les entrées de capitaux étrangers; les taux d'intérêt appliqués sur les dettes; le niveau et la croissance du revenu; et d'autres indicateurs économiques intérieurs) ont été testés et confirmés.