bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hubbell's local abundance distribution: insights from a simple colonization rule
Authors: Conlisk John , Conlisk Erin , Harte John
Published: November 2009

A simple colonization rule yields Hubbell's local abundance distribution with less math, more intuition, and weaker assumptions.
Beiträge zur Biographie Thomas Manns aus München
Authors: Lehnert Herbert
Published: November 2009

Der Thomas‐Mann‐Förderkreis München veranstaltet Vorträge und gibt eine „Thomas‐Mann‐Schriftenreihe“ heraus, sowie eine besondere Reihe von „Fundstücken“ aus dem Umkreis von Thomas Manns Leben in München und Umgebung. Der Förderkreis und seine Publikationen halten das Nachleben der Familie Thomas Manns, früherer Mitbürger Münchens, zusammen mit dem seines Werkes in München und in der Welt lebendig. In München hat Thomas Mann vierzig Jahre gelebt und einen großen Teil seines Werkes geschaffen, aber diese vierzig Jahre Lebens in der Heimat seiner Frau hatten nicht gut geendet. Schon seit 1922 hatte die bedeutendste bürgerliche Zeitung, Münchener Neueste Nachrichten, eine feindliche Haltung eingenommen. Die Feindlichkeit nationalistischer Bildungsbürger Münchens gipfelte im März 1933 im „Protest der Richard‐Wagner‐Stadt München“. Der Mangel an Solidarität verletzte Thomas Mann tief, eine Verletzung, die nach 1945 nachwirkte. Der Förderkreis unter seinem Vorsitzenden Dirk Heißerer stellt sich den zwei Seiten der Beziehung Thomas Manns zu München, den familiären und freundschaftlichen Bindungen auf der einen Seite und der Feindlichkeit auf der anderen.
„Literature of the Soul“. Die Kafka‐Rezeption der chinesischen Autorin Can Xue
Authors: Halfmann Roman
Published: November 2009

Der Artikel konzentriert sich auf das Frühwerk Can Xues um die Motivation des Bezugs auf Kafkas Leben und Werk zu veranschaulichen: Die Fokussierung einer als repräsentativ zu bezeichnenden Kurzgeschichte soll demnach das Klima der achtziger Jahre in der chinesischen Literatur einfangen und somit Ursache und Absicht des Bezugs zu Kafka erhellen. Es wird sich zeigen, dass Can Xue in ihren Texten eine Synthese aus chinesischen und Kafkaschen Motive anstrebt, sich jedoch allein auf Kafka als Autor des Traums konzentriert. Einerseits übernimmt Can Xue demnach das Kafkasche und stellt es in ihren Erzählungen originär dar, andererseits kann durchaus eine verfehlte Rezeption festgestellt werden, da der grundsätzliche Charakter von Kafkas Werken verloren geht.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Imbalance of T‐cell Transcription Factors Contributes to the Th1 Type Immunity Predominant in Pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Jianjun Zhou , Yali Hu , Zhiqun Wang , Mingming Zheng , Xia Zhao
Published: November 2009

Problem  Extensive studies have demonstrated that Th1 type immunity is predominant in pre‐eclampsia, but there is little concern with regard to the intracellular mechanisms behind this initial T‐cell polarization. In this study, we investigated whether the imbalance of the T‐cell transcription factors contributes to it.

Method of study  A total of 15 pre‐eclamptic patients and 15 healthy pregnant women were enrolled in this study. The expression levels of transcription factors for Th1 (T‐bet), Th2 (GATA3), Th17 (RORc) and Treg (FOXP3) cells, together with the Th1/Th2 status, were simultaneously investigated in both peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and decidua.

Results  The expression levels of FOXP3 mRNA were decreased in both PBMCs and decidua from pre‐eclamptic patients compared with healthy pregnant women (P < 0.05), and T‐bet mRNA and RORc mRNA were significantly increased (P < 0.05), while Th1/Th2 balance shifted toward the Th1 immunity. Furthermore, there was a negative correlation between FOXP3 mRNA and Th1 cells (P < 0.05), and the expression level of T‐bet mRNA correlated strongly with Th1 cells (P < 0.05).

Conclusion  Decreased expression of FOXP3 mRNA and increased expression of T‐bet mRNA may contribute to Th1 type immunity predominant in pre‐eclampsia.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Comparative Analysis of Peripheral Natural Killer Cells in the Two Phases of the Ovarian Cycle
Authors: Pantazi Ageliki , Tzonis Panagiotis , Perros Gerasimos , Graphou Olga , Keramitsoglou Theodora , Koussoulakos Stavros , Margaritis Loukas , Varla‐Leftherioti Marighoula
Published: November 2009

Problem

Changes in endometrial Natural Killer (NK) cells during the luteal phase of the ovarian cycle are important in initiating/maintaining a subsequent pregnancy. In the present study it was investigated whether during the menstrual cycle changes occur also in peripheral blood (PB) NKs.

Method of study

Blood samples during the follicular and the luteal phase were collected from 30 women without fertility problems. Samples were analyzed by flow‐cytometry for: (1) NK cells (CD3−CD16+CD56+) and (2) intracellular production of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) by NK cells. For the comparison and correlation of the two populations between the two phases, Wilcoxon signed‐rank test and Spearman’s Coefficient were used.

Results

The differences in percentages of CD3−CD16+CD56+ cells and that of CD3−CD16+CD56+/IFN‐γ+ cells between the follicular and the luteal phase were not statistically significant (10.61 ± 5.11 versus 9.76 ± 4.57 and 6.48 ± 7.90 versus 7.30 ± 6.77, respectively, P > 0.05). The correlation between the two variables (NK% and NK/IFN‐γ%) was weakly positive (P = 0.07) only in the follicular phase.

Conclusion

The study did not reveal menstrual cycle‐depended changes in PB NK cells. Thus, a suggestion to measure these cells in a specific phase of the cycle in order to predict the outcome of a subsequent pregnancy in women with fertility problems is objected.
The use of dental sealants in adults: a long‐neglected preventive measure
Authors: Gore DR
Published: November 2009

To cite this article:
 
Int J Dent Hygiene 8, 2010; 198–203 DOI: 10.1111/j.1601‐5037.2009.00425.x Gore DR. The use of dental sealants in adults: a long‐neglected preventive measure.

Abstract:  The consensus among the general public appears to be that dental sealants are intended to be used primarily with children whose teeth are in the early developmental stage, yet little attention is given to the preventive long‐term aspects when applying them to adult permanent dentition. This article explores the rationale and substantiates the use of dental sealants among the adult population in reducing occlusal pit‐and‐fissure caries while accentuating a beneficial oral health lifestyle.
Infections and treatment of wounds in survivors of the 2004 Tsunami in Thailand
Authors: Doung‐ngern Pawinee , Vatanaprasan Thanong , Chungpaibulpatana Jessada , Sitamanoch Wiwat , Netwong Taweesak , Sukhumkumpee Somboon , O'Reilly Michael , Henderson Alden , Jiraphongsa Chuleeporn
Published: November 2009

On 26 December 2004, a tsunami devastated the west coast of Thailand and caused 8457 injuries and 5395 deaths. Data were collected from 26 December 2004 to 31 January 2005 at four public hospitals to describe the character and treatment of wounds of 523 persons who were injured during tsunami and sought medical treatment. Wounds were contaminated with mud, sand, debris and sea water and had an infection rate of 66·5% (674/1013). Most wounds (45%) had poly‐microbial infection with gram‐negative rods such asEscherichia coli,Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus and Pseudomonas species. The risk of wound infection increased with size of the wound and presence of an open fracture. Infections occurred more frequently on the lower than upper trunk of the body. Early treatment with antibiotics was protective against wound infection. Many patients asked to have their wounds sutured so that they could return to their village to look for their families and to repair damage. This report suggests that wounds should be aggressively debrided and suturing postponed if possible. Patients should be given broad spectrum antibiotics to assist with wound healing.
Clinician's perspectives on the treatment of venous leg ulceration
Authors: Cullen George H , Phillips Tania J
Published: November 2009

Treatment of venous leg ulcers (VLU) represents a considerable challenge to the health care professional and to the patient alike. Much of the current literature regarding VLU focuses on either wound pathophysiology and treatment of chronic venous insufficiency or the patients' experience of the condition. We present two studies that examine more closely the clinicians' experience of treating VLU and reflect upon how that understanding may further enhance better outcomes for patients in the future. The first of these studies is a qualitative investigation of 49 clinicians treating VLU in the UK and USA. The second is a quantitative, online survey of 304 clinicians' beliefs, attitudes and practices in the UK, Germany and USA. Findings show that the clinicians' experience of treating VLU is often accompanied by frustration and dissatisfaction with treatment challenges and uncertain outcomes. Practices and treatment choices were found to vary widely and differ by countries. We conclude that a key aspect in improving VLU treatment is in listening to the frustrations of the clinician when considering new approaches to therapy.
Diabetes foot ulceration in a Nigerian hospital: in‐hospital mortality in relation to the presenting demographic, clinical and laboratory features
Authors: Ekpebegh Chukwuma O , Iwuala Sandra O , Fasanmade Olufemi A , Ogbera Anthonia O , Igumbor Ehi , Ohwovoriole Augustine E
Published: November 2009

This prospective study assessed in‐hospital mortality from diabetic foot ulcer in relation to the demographic, clinical and laboratory features at presentation. Forty‐two patients admitted with diabetic foot ulcer were followed up from admission till discharge from hospital. Those who survived or died were compared for any differences in demographic, clinical and laboratory parameters at presentation. The mean age and duration of diabetes for the 42 patients were 56.1 ± 1.9 years and 8.3 ± 1.1 years, respectively. The in‐hospital mortality rate amongst the 42 subjects was 40.5%. Ulcer grade 4, leucocytosis and anaemia were more prevalent in those who demised in comparison with survivors.
Venous leg ulcers: patient concordance with compression therapy and its impact on healing and prevention of recurrence
Authors: Moffatt Christine , Kommala Dheerendra , Dourdin Nathalie , Choe Yoonhee
Published: November 2009

This study aimed to review available data on the reasons attributed to patient non concordance with compression therapy for the treatment of venous leg ulcers (VLUs), the frequency of non concordance and its effects on clinical outcomes. The biomedical literature was searched for publications on VLUs, compression therapy and concordance over the past 20 years. Physical, aesthetic and cosmetic factors, patient lack of education about VLUs, cost of therapy and issues with treatment by clinicians were all reported to influence concordance with compression therapy. The search identified 10 studies reporting patient concordance with compression stockings or bandages; while non concordance ranged from 2% to 42% of patients in three randomised controlled trials, it was generally higher in real‐world studies, ranging from 9.7% to 80%. Another set of six studies indicated that the healing rate was half and the median time to complete healing was twice as long when patients were not concordant. Further, recurrence rates were 2–20 times greater when patients did not comply with the use of stockings following VLU healing. In conclusion, published biomedical literature has documented that non concordance with compression therapy negatively impacts the outcome of VLUs, highlighting the need to improve patient concordance to maximise therapeutic benefits.
Diabetes Mellitus and Sexuality—Does it Really Matter?
Authors: Nowosielski Krzysztof , Drosdzol Agnieszka , Sipiński Adam , Kowalczyk Robert , Skrzypulec Violetta
Published: November 2009

Introduction

The extent to which diabetes may influence sexuality has not yet been established. Identifying the risk factors of female sexual dysfunctions will facilitate the introduction of effective therapeutic models that aim to normalize the glycemic control and will enhance sexual functioning.

Aims

To evaluate the influence of diabetes mellitus on female sexual functions, behaviors and depressive symptoms as well as to establish the predictors for female sexual dysfunctions in diabetic subjects.

Main Outcome Measures

To asses reported female sexual dysfunctions by using Female Sexual Function Index in diabetic females.

Methods

A total of 544 females living in the upper Silesia region aged 18–55 years old were eligible for this questionnaire-based, retrospective, cross-section study. The study group included females with diabetes mellitus (N=264), regardless its type and duration; healthy non-diabetic subjects were controls. The Blatt-Kuppermann Index was used to evaluate climacteric symptoms, the Back Depression Inventory—to screen for depressive symptoms and the Female Sexual Function Index—for sexual dysfunction in female (FSD).

Results

Multiple logistic regression revealed that the risk of desire and arousal dysfunction was lower in respondents for whom having a satisfactory sexual life was extremely important compared to those for whom it was slightly important or not important at all (referent) (OR: 0.05 and 0.01, respectively). Respondents highly satisfied with sexual contacts with their partner were at lover risk of desire, arousal, and orgasmic disorders and FSD compared to referent subjects (OR: 0.12; 0.03; 0.01 and 0.03 respectively). Depressive symptoms were associated with higher prevalence of arousal disorders and FSD (OR: 13.6 and 3.57, respectively), diabetes—orgasmic dysfunctions (OR=10.1).

Conclusions

In women, the presence of diabetes is an independent predictor of orgasmic dysfunctions. However, the presence of depressive symptoms, individual perception of sexual needs and partner-related factors are stronger predictors of female sexual dysfunctions.
Original Research—Men’s Sexual Health: Orgasmic Dysfunction After Open Radical Prostatectomy: Clinical Correlates and Prognostic Factors
Authors: Dubbelman Yvette , Wildhagen Mark , Schröder Frits , Bangma Chris , Dohle Gert
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Erectile function after radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) is extensively discussed in literature. However, less is known about orgasm after RRP.

Aim

To analyze sexual function, in particularly orgasmic function, in men before and after RRP.

Methods

Between 1977 and 2007 a RRP was performed in 1,021 men. All men were interviewed by their follow-up physician using a standardized interview about sexual function before and after RRP at regular intervals during a 2-year follow-up. The questions were related to sexual interest, sexual activity, spontaneous erections, and orgasmic function.

Main Outcome Measures

Sexual function, in particularly orgasmic function, before and after RRP. Factors potentially influencing orgasmic function, such as patients age, type of operation, pathological stage and continence status were analyzed for their predictive value.

Results

Information about preoperative and postoperative sexual activity and spontaneous erection was available in 596 and 698 men, respectively. Additional questions were asked on sexual interest (N=425) and orgasmic function (N=458).

Pre-operatively, sexual interest, sexual activity, spontaneous erections and orgasmic function were normal in 99%, 82.1%, 90.0% and 90% of men, respectively. After operation these values decreased to 97.2%, 67.3%, 29.4% and 66.8%, respectively. Orgasmic function was preserved in 141 of 192 men (73.4%) after a bilateral nerve sparing procedure, in 90 out of 127 men (70.9%) after a unilateral nerve-sparing procedure and in 75 of 139 men (54.0%) after non-nerve sparing technique. Postoperatively, orgasm was present in 123 (77.4%) men below the age of 60 years and in 183 (61.2%) men of 60 years and older (P <0.0001). Orgasmic function was significantly affected by age ≥60 years, non-nerve sparing procedure and severe incontinence (more than two pads/day).

Conclusions

After RRP, orgasmic function is still present in the majority of men. A non-nerve sparing operation, age, and severe urinary incontinence are risk factors for orgasmic dysfunction after RRP.
Predictors of Women’s Sexual Desire: The Role of Psychopathology, Cognitive-Emotional Determinants, Relationship Dimensions, and Medical Factors
Authors: Carvalho Joana , Nobre Pedro
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Deficient sexual desire is a common sexual difficulty among women, often related to medical and psychiatric problems, lack of adjustment in a relationship, or age. However, the relative contribution of each one of these dimensions is not yet well establish.

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the main predictive factors of female sexual desire.

Methods

A total of 237 women from the general population answered to a set of questionnaires assessing psychopathology, cognitive-emotional factors, dyadic adjustment, presence of medical pathologies, and menopause.

Main Outcome Measures

Psychopathology measured by the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), dysfunctional sexual beliefs measured by the Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire, thoughts and emotions in sexual context measured by the Sexual Modes Questionnaire, dyadic adjustment measured by the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, medical condition measured by the Medical History Formulation, and sexual desire measured by the Sexual Desire subscale of the Female Sexual Function Index.

Results

Findings indicated that psychoticism was the only psychopathological dimension that significantly predicted sexual desire (β = 0.37). Conservative beliefs (β = −0.33) and age-related beliefs (β = −0.25) were also significant predictors of desire. Additionally, lack of erotic thoughts (β = −0.28), failure and disengagement sexual thoughts (β = −0.64), and thoughts related to female passivity (β = 0.31) during sexual activity were significant predictors of desire. Regarding relationship dimensions, dyadic cohesion (β = 0.37), and dyadic affection (β = 0.45) were the best predictors of sexual desire. Moreover, postmenopausal women and women with medical problems presented reduced sexual desire. A multiple regression analysis (enter method) including all these variables plus age, indicated that failure/disengagement thoughts during sexual activity was the only significant predictor of sexual desire in women (β = −0.52).

Conclusions

Results support the role of cognitive dimensions in the maintenance of women’s sexual interest, and suggest implications for assessment and treatment of sexual desire difficulties.
The Psychosocial Impact of Penile Reconstructive Surgery for Congenital Penile Deviation
Authors: Tal Raanan , Nabulsi Omar , Nelson Christian J. , Mulhall John P.
Published: November 2009

Introduction

A variety of surgical techniques to correct congenital penile deviation (CPD) have been described. Although surgical outcomes have been reported, the impact of this treatment on sexual relationship, confidence, self-esteem, and sexual function has never been established.

Aim

To assess the impact of surgical treatment for CPD on sexual relationship, confidence, self-esteem, and sexual function, employing validated instruments.

Main Outcome Measures

The Self-Esteem and Relationship (SEAR) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaires.

Methods

Prospective, longitudinal, uncontrolled study of 32 men undergoing penile reconstructive surgery for CPD. Assessment of change in sexual relationship, confidence, self-esteem, and sexual function scores.

Results

Twenty (37.5%) patients had ventral and 12 (62.5%) had lateral curvature, mean magnitude was 37 ± 12°. Significant improvement in SEAR domains scores was observed in sexual relationship (82 vs. 40, P <0.01), overall relationship (86 vs. 62, P <0.01), and confidence (88 vs. 58, P <0.001). While mean IIEF erectile function domain score was unchanged: 24 ± 3.6 and 25 ± 2.5, before and after surgery, respectively (P = 0.85), significant improvements were observed in the libido (8 vs. 5, P = 0.02) and satisfaction (22 vs. 15, P <0.01) domains of the IIEF. Predictors of improvement in SEAR and IIEF scores were perceived complete straightening and penile length preservation.

Conclusions

Penile reconstructive surgery for CPD is associated with significant improvements in overall relationship, sexual relationship, confidence, libido, and satisfaction, as reflected by higher scores in three of the four domains of the SEAR questionnaire and improvements in two of the four domains of the IIEF.
Do Patients Lie? An Open Interview vs. a Blind Questionnaire on Sexuality
Authors: Castelo-Branco Camil , Palacios Santiago , Ferrer-Barriendos Javier , Alberich Xavier , the Cervantes Study Group
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Postmenopausal women are often hesitant to discuss their sexual attitudes and experiences surrounding sexuality with her doctors. Sociocultural, ethnic, and medical background may affect the attitude towards menopause and the expectations regarding sexuality in these women.

Aim

To describe communication about sex between patients and doctors and its relation to extrinsic limiting factors.

Methods

A total of 2,332 women between 45 and 64 years old were involved in this cross-sectional survey. The study used an ad hoc questionnaire covering the demographic and reproductive variables as well as the data related to sexual activity. The Cervantes questionnaire was administered to determine the impact of sexuality on health-related quality of life.

Main Outcomes

Patients’ responses to anonymous questionnaires or direct interviews.

Results

The percentage of women who recognized having occasional or unconventional partners was twofold higher in the anonymous questionnaire than in the clinical interview. In the medical interview only 15.2% of women recognized that sexuality was not very important compared with more than 40% in the anonymous questionnaire (P < 0.001). The highest concordance between the anonymous questionnaire and the clinical interview was in women who referred to not having any sexual relationship at all (88.07%) whereas in the other conditions concordance was significantly lower (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Self-reported data on sexuality diverge from those derived from a direct interview. The proportion of women with low interest in sexuality was higher in the blind questionnaires.
High-Flow Priapism Due to a Malignant Glomus Tumor (Glomangiosarcoma) of the Corpus Cavernosum
Authors: Masson-Lecomte Alexandra , Rocher Laurence , Ferlicot Sophie , Benoît Gérard , Droupy Stéphane
Published: November 2009

Introduction

The major cause of non-ischemic high-flow priapism is post-traumatic vascular injury leading to an arterio-lacunar fistula. However, rare causes such as tumors may induce priapism. This is the first report of a malignant glomus tumor localized in the corpora cavernosa.

Aim

The aim of this case is to emphasize the importance of the initial management of priapism and to suggest new tracks on the tests to be performed when the usual exams are not sufficient.

Method

We report the case of a hypervascular penile tumor responsible for high-flow priapism as the first clinical symptom of a metastatic glomus tumor. The persistent penile tumescence was initially considered to be a stuttering priapism and treated using an oral α-adrenergic as no provoking event nor fistula was found. After a 2-week reluctance, a penile magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed.

Results

The MRI showed a hypervascular lesion at the proximal part of the right corpora. The lesion was considered as a fistula, and a selective embolization was performed. Two weeks after embolization, the patient came back to the emergency room because of syncopes and dyspnea. Examination by cardiac ultrasound and chest computed tomography revealed the presence of cardiac, pulmonary, and subcutaneous malignant glomus tumors (glomangiosarcoma). Patient received three lines of chemotherapy, and the penile tumor was surgically removed because of persistent erectile dysfunction and perineal pain.

Conclusion

This case supports the use of corporal body blood gas analysis in difficult cases to discriminate high- and low-flow priapism and penile MRI when clinical history, physical examination, and aspiration are not contributory.
Pulmonary diffusion and aerobic capacity: is there a relation? Does obesity matter?
Authors: Zavorsky G. S. , Wilson B. , Harris J. K. , Kim D. J. , Carli F. , Mayo N. E.
Published: November 2009

Aim:  We sought to determine whether pulmonary diffusing capacity for nitric oxide (DLNO), carbon monoxide (DLCO) and pulmonary capillary blood volume (Vc) at rest predict peak aerobic capacity (O2peak), and if so, to discern which measure predicts better.

Methods:  Thirty‐five individuals with extreme obesity (body mass index or BMI = 50 ± 8 kg m−2) and 26 fit, non‐obese subjects (BMI = 23 ± 2 kg m−2) participated. DLNO and DLCO at rest were first measured. Then, subjects performed a graded exercise test on a cycle ergometer to determine O2peak. Multivariate regression was used to assess relations in the data.

Results:  Findings indicate that (i) pulmonary diffusion at rest predicts O2peak in the fit and obese when measured with DLNO, but only in the fit when measured with DLCO; (ii) the observed relation between pulmonary diffusion at rest and O2peak is different in the fit and obese; (iii) DLNO explains O2peak better than DLCO or Vc. The findings imply the following reference equations for DLNO: O2peak (mL kg−1 min−1) = 6.81 + 0.27 × DLNO for fit individuals; O2peak (mL kg−1 min−1) = 6.81 + 0.06 × DLNO, for obese individuals (in both groups, adjusted R2 = 0.92; RMSE = 5.58).

Conclusion:  Pulmonary diffusion at rest predicts O2peak, although a relation exists for obese subjects only when DLNO is used, and the magnitude of the relation depends on gender when either DLCO or Vc is used. We recommend DLNO as a measure of pulmonary diffusion, both for its ease of collection as well as its tighter relation with O2peak.
Life‐insurance Efficiency in China: A Comparison of Foreign and Domestic Firms
Authors: Chen Bingzheng , Powers Michael R. , Qiu Joseph
Published: November 2009

The Chinese life‐insurance industry has experienced major structural changes in recent years, primarily because of increasing demand and the entry of foreign insurers. Although the market is clearly booming, the efficiency of its growth and development is unclear. In this paper, we evaluate the efficiency of life insurers operating in China and compare foreign firms with domestic firms. We find that foreign insurers have not brought efficiency into the Chinese market, and that the market is still dominated by domestic giants. However, the gap between foreign insurers and domestic insurers is narrowing. After testing hypotheses regarding scale economy, technical progress and potential improvements, we discuss several issues of importance to life insurers, market investors and government regulators.
Skill Premium, Biased Technological Change and Income Differences
Authors: Zou Wei , Liu Lan , Zhuang Ziyin
Published: November 2009

Using 1987–2006 panel data for China, we explore the dynamics of the skill premium. The present paper focuses on the skill premium as an explanation for why income differences are so large in China. Our empirics show that: the rise in the relative supply of skilled labor results in an increase, instead of a decrease, in the skill premium; domestic investment is not complementary with skill formation; the skillpremium is higher in more developed provinces; economic openness facilitates an increase in the skill premium; whether foreign direct investment induces skill‐based technology change or not, it drives up the skillpremium. An array of policy prescriptions for reducing income differences and ensuring sustained economic growth are provided.
Impact of Cross‐Strait Trade Liberalization: A Computable General Equilibrium Analysis
Authors: Chen Kun‐Ming , Tsai Meng‐Chia , Lin Chia‐Ching , Tu Chaw‐hsia
Published: November 2009

This paper applies a computable general equilibrium model to investigate the potential economic effects of trade liberalization across the Taiwan Strait. Our simulation results reveal that cross‐Strait trade liberalization will have significant positive impacts on external trade, domestic investment and real GDP for the economies in this area in general and in Taiwan in particular. Furthermore, the negative impact from the formation of a free trade arrangement between Taiwan and Chinese Mainland on Hong Kong seems to be rather small. These results suggest that cross‐Strait trade liberalization is very likely to bring about a win–win situation for the economies in this area.
Effects of Calcium and Pressure Treatment on Thermal Gelation of Soybean Protein
Authors: Speroni F. , Jung S. , De Lamballerie M.
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  The effect of calcium and high‐pressure (HP) treatment on the heat gelation of soybean proteins was investigated. In the presence of calcium (2 to 25 mM), the gelation of dispersions of soybean protein isolate (SPI), a β‐conglycinin‐enriched fraction (7SEF), and a glycinin‐enriched fraction (11SEF) started with protein having a lower degree of denaturation. The gels from these dispersions had greater stiffness than the samples without added calcium. HP treatment had different effects on heat‐induced gelation depending on the presence of calcium and on the nature of the proteins. In the absence of calcium, gels with low stiffness were formed after HP treatment, compared with untreated samples, and regardless of the sample type (SPI, 7SEF, 11SEF). In the presence of calcium, gel stiffness was increased after HP treatment of dispersions containing β‐conglycinin (SPI and 7SEF), while the opposite effect was observed for 11SEF. In the presence of calcium, HP treatment promoted a greater contribution of hydrophobic interactions in SPI and 7SEF. In the dispersions containing β‐conglycinin, these conditions also promoted the appearance of a heterogeneous distribution of molecular sizes, from enormous aggregates to dissociated species. Our results suggest that, in the presence of calcium, HP treatment has an opposite effect on the ability of glycinin and β‐conglycinin to participate in the formation of a 3‐dimensional network upon heating.
Thermal Inactivation and Postthermal Treatment Growth during Storage of Multiple Salmonella Serotypes in Ground Beef as Affected by Sodium Lactate and Oregano Oil
Authors: Juneja Vijay K. , Hwang Cheng‐an , Friedman Mendel
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  We assessed the heat resistance of Salmonella in raw ground beef in both the absence and presence of sodium lactate, oregano oil, and in combinations of these 2 GRAS‐listed ingredients, and determined their bactericidal or bacteriostatic activities during postthermal treatment storage at 15 °C. A cocktail of 8 serotypes of Salmonella spp. was inoculated into ground beef supplemented with sodium lactate (NaL) (1.5% and 3%) and/or oregano oil (0.5% and 1%) to obtain approximately 8 log CFU/g. The ground beef samples (3 g) were vacuum‐packed and heated at 60, 65, or 71 °C in a circulating water bath for selected times to inactivate approximately 5 to 6 log CFU/g of the pathogen, and then stored at 15 °C for 15 and 30 d. Results show that especially at the lower cooking temperatures, addition of oregano oil increased the inactivation rate of Salmonella spp., whereas addition of NaL alone exhibited a protective effect against lethality and decreased the rate. Addition of combinations of oregano oil and NaL overcame this protective effect. During subsequent posttreatment storage for 15 d, Salmonella populations in the controls and in samples containing 0.5% oregano (60 and 65 °C) or 1% oregano oil (60 °C) increased to 4.5 to 6 log CFU/g. The values for all other samples were at or near undetectable levels. Results from the 30‐d storage study were similar. These findings indicate that lactate and oregano oil may be used to render Salmonella spp. more susceptible to the lethal effect of heat and to inhibit growth of Salmonella spp. that survive heat treatments.
Allied Industry Approaches to Alter Intramuscular Fat Content and Composition in Beef Animals
Authors: Dodson Michael V. , Jiang Zhihua , Chen Jie , Hausman Gary J. , Guan Le Luo , Novakofski Jan , Thompson David P. , Lorenzen Carol L. , Fernyhough Melinda E. , Mir Priya S. , Reecy James M.
Published: November 2009

ABSTRACT:  Biochemical and biophysical research tools are used to define the developmental dynamics of numerous cell lineages from a variety of tissues relevant to meat quality. With respect to the adipose cell lineage, much of our present understanding of adipogenesis and lipid metabolism was initially determined through the use of these methods, even though the in vitro or molecular environments are far removed from the tissues of meat animals. This concise review focuses on recent cellular and molecular biology‐related research with adipocytes, and how the research might be extended to the endpoint of altering red meat quality. Moreover, economic and policy impacts of such in animal production regimens is discussed. These issues are important, not only with respect to palatability, but also to offer enhanced health benefits to the consumer by altering content of bioactive components in adipocytes.
Sequence‐ and activity‐based screening of microbial genomes for novel dehalogenases
Authors: Chan Wing Yiu , Wong Max , Guthrie Jennifer , Savchenko Alexei V. , Yakunin Alexander F. , Pai Emil F. , Edwards Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2009

Dehalogenases are environmentally important enzymes that detoxify organohalogens by cleaving their carbon‐halogen bonds. Many microbial genomes harbour enzyme families containing dehalogenases, but a sequence‐based identification of genuine dehalogenases with high confidence is challenging because of the low sequence conservation among these enzymes. Furthermore, these protein families harbour a rich diversity of other enzymes including esterases and phosphatases. Reliable sequence determinants are necessary to harness genome sequencing‐efforts for accelerating the discovery of novel dehalogenases with improved or modified activities. In an attempt to extract dehalogenase sequence fingerprints, 103 uncharacterized potential dehalogenase candidates belonging to the α/β hydrolase (ABH) and haloacid dehalogenase‐like hydrolase (HAD) superfamilies were screened for dehalogenase, esterase and phosphatase activity. In this first biochemical screen, 1 haloalkane dehalogenase, 1 fluoroacetate dehalogenase and 5l‐2‐haloacid dehalogenases were found (success rate 7%), as well as 19 esterases and 31 phosphatases. Using this functional data, we refined the sequence‐based dehalogenase selection criteria and applied them to a second functional screen, which identified novel dehalogenase activity in 13 out of only 24 proteins (54%), increasing the success rate eightfold. Four newl‐2‐haloacid dehalogenases from the HAD superfamily were found to hydrolyse fluoroacetate, an activity never previously ascribed to enzymes in this superfamily.
Tuberculosis Infection in Animal and Human Populations in Three Districts of Western Gojam, Ethiopia
Authors: Fetene T. , Kebede N. , Alem G.
Published: November 2009

Tuberculosis concurrent infection in cattle and their respective owners in North‐western Ethiopia had been investigated. Two hundred and ten cattle owners and 1220 heads of their cattle were included in the study to determine degree of tuberculosis infection in cattle owned by tuberculosis patients and tuberculosis patients. Comparative intradermal tuberculin test, bacteria culturing, acid fast staining and biochemical tests were used to conduct the study. The prevalence of tuberculosis was significantly (P < 0.001) higher in cattle owned by tuberculosis patients than in cattle owned by non‐tuberculosis owners, and infection with tuberculosis was threefold greater in cattle owned by tuberculosis‐positive owners. Further more, cattle owners who consumed raw milk were at higher risk (P < 0.001, OR = 3.23) for tuberculosis infection than those who consumed boiled milk. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (15.4%), Mycobacterium bovis (44.1%) and atypical mycobacteria (38.5%) were identified from milk collected from tuberculin‐positive cows using biochemical tests. Similarly M. tuberculosis (74.5%), M. bovis (14.9%) and atypical mycobacteria (8.5%) were identified from sputum and fine needle aspiration specimens of tuberculosis patient cattle owners. Mutual transmission of mycobacterium from animals to humans and vice versa has been signified.
Growth Model of a Plasmid‐Bearing Virulent Strain of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis in Raw Ground Beef
Authors: Bhaduri S. , Phillips J. G.
Published: November 2009

The growth kinetics of virulence plasmid‐bearing Yersinia pseudotuberculosis (YPST) in sterile ground beef were studied at temperatures ranging from 0 to 30°C. In irradiated sterile ground beef, YPST replicated from 0 to 30°C, with corresponding growth rates (GR) ranging from 0.023 to 0.622 log CFU/h at 0–25°C, and the GR was 0.236 log CFU/h at 30°C. The maximum population densities (MPD) ranged from 8.7 to 11.0 log CFU/g. The growth and MPD of YPST were reduced significantly at 30°C. Models for GR and MPD of YPST in raw ground beef (RGB) as a function of storage temperatures were produced and displayed acceptable bias and accuracy. The models were validated with rifampicin‐resistant YPST (rif‐YPST) in sterile ground beef stored at 4, 10 and 25°C. The observed GR and MPD were within 95% of the predicted values. When compared to non‐sterile retail ground beef, the growth of rif‐YPST was not inhibited and displayed similar GR at 0, 10 and 25°C and MPDs as sterile ground beef at 10 and 25°C. Moreover, there was no loss of virulence plasmid in YPST during its growth in ground beef indicating that RGB contaminated with virulence plasmid‐bearing YPST could cause disease due to refrigeration failure, temperature (10–25°C) abuse, and if the meat was not properly cooked.
Heirs of Nothing: The Implications of Transparency
Authors: KENNEDY MATTHEW
Published: November 2009

Recently representationalists have cited a phenomenon known as the transparency of experience in arguments against the qualia theory. Representationalists take transparency to support their theory and to work against the qualia theory. In this paper I argue that representationalist assessment of the philosophical importance of transparency is incorrect. The true beneficiary of transparency is another theory, naïve realism. Transparency militates against qualia and the representationalist theory of experience. I describe the transparency phenomenon, and I use my description to argue for naïve realism and against representationalism and the qualia theory. I also examine the relationship between phenomenological study and phenomenal character, and discuss the results in connection with the argument from hallucination.
The Abductivist Reply to Skepticism
Authors: BEEBE JAMES R.
Published: November 2009

Abductivists claim that explanatory considerations (e.g., simplicity, parsimony, explanatory breadth, etc.) favor belief in the external world over skeptical hypotheses involving evil demons and brains in vats. After showing how most versions of abductivism succumb fairly easily to obvious and fatal objections, I explain how rationalist versions of abductivism can avoid these difficulties. I then discuss the most pressing challenges facing abductivist appeals to the a priori and offer suggestions on how to overcome them.
The Duty of Self‐Knowledge
Authors: WARE OWEN
Published: November 2009

Kant is well known for claiming that we can never really know our true moral disposition. He is less well known for claiming that the injunction “Know Yourself” is the basis of all self‐regarding duties. Taken together, these two claims seem contradictory. My aim in this paper is to show how they can be reconciled. I first address the question of whether the duty of self‐knowledge is logically coherent (§1). I then examine some of the practical problems surrounding the duty, notably, self‐deception (§2). Finding none of Kant’s solutions to the problem of self‐deception satisfactory, I conclude by defending a Kantian account of self‐knowledge based on his theory of conscience (§3).
Imagining, Recognizing and Discriminating: Reconsidering the Ability Hypothesis1
Authors: NANAY BENCE
Published: November 2009

According to the Ability Hypothesis, knowing what it is like to have experience E is just having the ability to imagine or recognize or remember having experience E. I examine various versions of the Ability Hypothesis and point out that they all face serious objections. Then I propose a new version that is not vulnerable to these objections: knowing what it is like to experience E is having the ability to discriminate imagining or having experience E from imagining or having any other experience. I argue that if we replace the ability to imagine or recognize with the ability to discriminate, the Ability Hypothesis can be salvaged.
In situ x-ray diffraction study of Ni–Yb interlayer and alloy systems on Si(100)
Authors: Knaepen W. , Demeulemeester J. , Jordan-Sweet J. , Vantomme A. , Detavernier C. , Van Meirhaeghe R. L. , Lavoie C.
Published: November 2009

The phase formation in the ternary Ni/Yb/Si system was studied for Ni–Yb alloy and interlayer structures on Si(100) substrates using in situ x-ray diffraction measurements. Yb was treated as an alloying element in the Ni–Si system with Yb concentrations varying between 0 and 40 at. % of the Ni concentration. Independent of the initial structure of the sample, a Ni–Si or Ni–Yb compound was detected first which suggests that Ni is the dominant diffusing species during the solid state reactions. No pure Yb silicides were identified but a ternary phase (YbNi2Si2) formed in all samples after the Si atoms became mobile. Information about the distribution of the phases throughout the thin silicide film was obtained using ex situ Rutherford backscattering analysis. Independent of the Yb concentration, the NiSi phase formed at the substrate interface. As a result, the immobile Yb atoms shifted toward the sample surface and no detectable amount of Yb atoms was left at the Ni-silicide/Si interface after annealing.
Effect of methane addition on ultrananocrystalline diamond formation: Morphology changes and induced stress
Authors: Ramos S. C. , Azevedo A. F. , Baldan M. R. , Ferreira N. G.
Published: November 2009

The morphology and structure of ultrananocrystalline diamond grown on Si substrate by chemical vapor deposition are systematically studied by varying the methane concentration in the Ar/H2/CH4 precursor mixture. The films, analyzed by field-emission-gun scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM), showed a nanocrystallite cluster morphology that decreased its grain size (L) as a function of the CH4 addition in the gas phase. From Raman spectra, the induced stress of nanodiamond films was analyzed by the G peak shift associated with the defect incorporation and sp2 bond enhancement. The compressive stress increased as a function of CH4 addition, which also promoted the broadening of the transpolyacetylene peak as indicative of film amorphitization. The nanodiamond crystallinity was confirmed from high-resolution x-ray diffractograms, where Scherrer’s equation was applied to (111) and (200) x-ray peaks resulting in grain- size values ranging from 8.5 to 4.0 nm as the methane concentration increased, also corroborated by FEG-SEM images.
Real-Time Observation of Carbonic Acid Formation in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Adamczyk Katrin , Prémont-Schwarz Mirabelle , Pines Dina , Pines Ehud , Nibbering Erik T. J.
Published: November 2009

A Glimpse of Wet Carbonic Acid

Both carbon dioxide and bicarbonate play extraordinarily widespread roles in biochemical and geochemical reactions. It is surprising therefore that carbonic acid, the intermediate in the water-coupled interconversion of these two compounds, has never been directly characterized in aqueous solution.

Adamczyk
et al.

(p.
1690
, published online 12 November) have succeeded in glimpsing the elusive acid by inducing an aqueous photoacid (a compound rendered transiently more acidic upon light absorption) to react with dissolved bicarbonate. Using infrared spectroscopy, they show that the carbonic acid product persists for nanoseconds. Analysis of its formation kinetics affords a direct p

K
a

value of 3.5, substantially lower than the effective value derived from observations of the net bicarbonate/carbon dioxide equilibrium.
Two White Dwarfs with Oxygen-Rich Atmospheres
Authors: Gänsicke B. T. , Koester D. , Girven J. , Marsh T. R. , Steeghs D.
Published: November 2009

Stars Going Quietly or with a Bang

Stars with masses seven to ten times the mass of the Sun, which can burn carbon in their cores at their end of their lives, may end up as oxygen-neon core white dwarfs or explode as core-collapse supernovae. The defining line between these two end products of stellar evolution is not well understood.

Gänsicke
et al.

(p.
188
; published online 12 November) identified two white dwarfs whose photospheric oxygen-to-carbon abundance ratio exceeds unity. Their low carbon abundance and their large quantity of oxygen imply that they are oxygen-neon white dwarfs that lost their hydrogen envelopes. As such, they may have evolved from stars at the borderline between stars that explode as supernova and stars that form white dwarfs.
Structure of an RNA Polymerase II–TFIIB Complex and the Transcription Initiation Mechanism
Authors: Liu Xin , Bushnell David A. , Wang Dong , Calero Guillermo , Kornberg Roger D.
Published: November 2009

Dissecting TFIIB Mechanics

Eukaryotic RNA polymerase II (Pol II) requires five protein cofactors for promoter recognition and initiation of transcription. The factor TFIIB is implicated in start site selection and stabilization of the initial transcript. The co-crystal structure of Pol II and TFIIB showed an N-terminal “finger” region located in the RNA exit channel, but the core C-terminal region of TFIIB was disordered. Now

Liu
et al.

(p.
206
; published online 12 November) present a structure of the same complex determined under different conditions in which the C-terminal structure is well localized but the finger is disordered. Docking DNA into the structure suggests that the C-terminal region stabilizes initial promoter melting. After transcription of a few bases, TFIIB probably switches to the alternate conformation where the C-terminal region is released and the finger region stabilizes the initial transcript.
The Fanconi Anemia Pathway Promotes Replication-Dependent DNA Interstrand Cross-Link Repair
Authors: Knipscheer Puck , Räschle Markus , Smogorzewska Agata , Enoiu Milica , Ho The Vinh , Schärer Orlando D. , Elledge Stephen J. , Walter Johannes C.
Published: November 2009

Fanconi Cross-Links

Fanconi anemia is a rare genetic disease characterized by bone marrow failure, developmental abnormalities, and dramatically increased cancer susceptibility. Cells derived from Fanconi anemia patients are sensitive to agents that cause DNA interstrand cross-links, indicating that under normal circumstances the Fanconi pathway controls the repair of these DNA lesions.

Knipscheer
et al.

(p.
1698
, published online 12 November) found that two Fanconi anemia proteins, FANCI and FANCD2, promoted the DNA replication–coupled repair of interstrand cross-links in cell extracts. The FANCI-FANCD2 complex was required for the incisions that unhook the cross-link and for the insertion of a nucleotide across from the damaged template base during lesion bypass.