bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors related to infant apnoea and cyanosis: A population‐based study
Authors: PONSONBY A‐L , DWYER T , COUPER D
Published: March 2008

Objectives: To examine the relationship between infant and parental characteristics and parental report of infant cyanosis and also hospital admission for apnoea/cyanosis.

Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted. It involved the one‐fifth of Tasmanian live births who were assessed, using a perinatal score, as being at higher risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). From 1 May 1988 to 30 April 1993, 6213 infants (89% of eligible infants) participated in the hospital (4 days postnatal age) and home interview (5 weeks postnatal age). Data on usual sleep position and infant history of cyanosis were collected at home interview. Hospital admission records for apnoea/cyanosis in the first year of life were linked to data on cohort infants in Southern Tasmania.

Results: Several factors were related to parental reports of cyanosis, with strong associations observed for very premature infants <28 weeks (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 6.06, 95% confidence interval [2.47, 14.85]), history of fits (AOR 5.59 [2.35, 13.13]); and the administration of antihistamine medication during the first month of life (AOR 3.03 [1.12, 8.18]). The median age at hospital admission was 7 weeks postnatal age. A family history of asthma, a history of fits, a history of turning blue while feeding or trouble breathing while feeding were associated with parental reports of cyanosis, breathing difficulties and also with hospital admission for apnoea/cyanosis. Other factors such as prematurity, maternal smoking, bottle feeding and a history of fever were significantly related to the infant history of cyanosis but not to hospital admission. This may partly reflect the low incidence rate (1.37%) for hospitalization for apnoea/cyanosis in the first year of life among these cohort infants.

Conclusions: Several infant and parental characteristics are associated with increased risk of infant apnoea/cyanosis in this study but further population‐based work with a larger group of infants hospitalised for apnoea/cyanosis should be conducted. The finding of an association between the administration of antihistamine medication and infant cyanosis highlights the possibility of adverse side‐effects if antihistamine medication is administered to young infants.
Blood pressure measurement in preschool children: The Hisayama study
Authors: IGARASHI H , FUKUSHIGE J , AKAZAWA K , NOSE Y , UEDA K
Published: March 2008

Objective: To establish the blood pressure (BP) measurement protocol for Japanese preschool children, systolic BP (K1) and diastolic BP (K4, K5) were measured along with anthropometric values.

Methodology: Commercially available mercury sphygmomanometers were used. In the first group of children (group A), BP was measured in 79 boys and 85 girls using a cuff 9 cm wide and 23 cm long. In the second group (group B), the length and circumference of the upper right arm of 147 boys and 139 girls were measured to select cuffs appropriate for their sizes. Blood pressure measurements were performed twice on the right arm of the children in the seated position at a mean interval of 5 min.

Results: There were no significant differences in the anthropometric values (height, bodyweight, body mass index [BMI], length and circumference of the upper arm) between groups A and B. The BP values at K1, K4 and K5 in the first measurement of group B were 91 ± 9, 54 ± 8, and 48 ± 10 mmHg (boys) and 90 ± 9, 54 ± 8, and 48 ± 12 mmHg (girls), respectively. There were no significant differences between the first and second measurements in both groups, however, there were significant differences in the first and second measurements of K4 between groups A and B. Multiple regression analysis by the stepwise method revealed a strong correlation between K1 and the length of the upper arm in the boys and the bodyweight in the girls: between K4 and the bodyweight in the boys and the BMI in the girls, and between K5 and the height in the boys and the upper arm circumference in the girls.

Conclusions: From these results it would appear that a single measurement is sufficient under appropriate measurement conditions such as rest before measurement and the choice of the cuff size according to the upper arm circumference, and that BP is closely correlated with the anthropometric values in preschool children.
Pulmonary surfactant concentration during transition from high frequency oscillation to conventional mechanical ventilation
Authors: DARGAVILLE PA , SOUTH M , McDOUGALL PN
Published: March 2008

Objective: To test the hypothesis that conventional mechanical ventilation (CV) provides a greater stimulus to secretion of pulmonary surfactant than high frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFO).

Methodology: Sequential examination of surfactant indices in lung lavage fluid in a group of six infants with severe lung disease (group 1), ventilated with HFO and then converted back to CV as their lung disease recovered. A similar group of 10 infants (group 2) ventilated conventionally throughout the course of their illness were studied for comparison. In groups 1 and 2, two sequential tracheal aspirate samples were taken, the first once lung disease was noted to be improving, and the second 48–72 h later. Group 1 infants had converted from HFO to CV during this time.

Results: A marked increase in concentration of total surfactant phospholipid (PL) and disaturated phosphatidylcholine (DSPC) was seen in group 1 after transition from HFO to CV; the magnitude of this increase was significantly greater than that sequentially observed in group II (total PL: 9.4‐fold increase in group 1 vs 1.8‐fold in group 2, P=0.006; DSPC: group 1 6.4‐fold increase vs. group 2 1.7‐fold, P=0.02).

Conclusion: These findings suggest that intermittent lung inflation during CV produces more secretion of surfactant phospholipid than continuous alveolar distension on HFO, and raise the possibility that conservation and additional maturation of surfactant elements may occur when the injured lung is ventilated with HFO.
Kidney damage after renal ablation is worsened in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (−/−) mice and improved by combined administration of L‐arginine and antioxidants
Authors: MENDOZA MONICA G ARELLANO , CASTILLO‐HENKEL CARLOS , MEDINA‐SANTILLAN ROBERTO , JARILLO LUNA R ADRIANA , ROBLES HILDA VARGAS , ROMO EUNICE , RIOS AMELIA , ESCALANTE BRUNO
Published: March 2008

Aim  Reduction in nitric oxide (NO) levels during kidney failure has been related to the reaction of NO with superoxide anions to yield peroxynitrite which possesses the biological activity responsible for renal damage. However, stimulation of the NO pathway ameliorates the progression of kidney failure. Thus, it is unclear whether NO prevents or acts as the compound responsible for the cytotoxicity observed during kidney failure.

Methods  We evaluated the development of kidney failure in animals that were wild type and deficient in endothelial NO synthase (eNOS (−/−)) and tested the effects of an antioxidant treatment and NO precursors on the generation of superoxide anion and kidney failure parameters.

Results  In wild‐type mice, five‐sixths nephrectomy increased proteinuria from 3.0 ± 0.35 to 14.5 ± 0.76 mg protein/24 h (P < 0.05), blood pressure from 83.1 ± 1.8 to 126.6 ± 1.7 mmHg (P < 0.05), and superoxide production from 1.4 ± 0.6% to 74.3 ± 0.8% (P < 0.05). The effects of five‐sixths nephrectomy on the eNOS (−/−) mice were greater compared with wild‐type mice. Proteinuria increased from 6.7 ± 0.5 to 22.7 ± 2.0 mg protein/24 h (P < 0.05), blood pressure increased from 93.3 ± 0.9 to 151.2 ± 3.4 mmHg (P < 0.05), and superoxide production increased from 12.9 ± 0.5% to 99.8 ± 1.3% (P < 0.05). The nitrotyrosine levels were lower in eNOS (−/−) mice as compared to wild‐type mice. A combination of L‐arginine and antioxidant treatment ameliorated renal damage. The effect was improved in wild‐type animals.

Conclusion  Our data support the relevance of NO as an antagonist to superoxide in renal tissues and suggest that the loss of this mechanism promotes the progression of kidney failure.
Natural history of immunoglobulin A nephropathy and predictive factors of prognosis: A long‐term follow up of 204 cases in China
Authors: LV JICHENG , ZHANG HONG , ZHOU YANG , LI GUANGTAO , ZOU WANZHONG , WANG HAIYAN
Published: March 2008

Aim:  Immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerulonephritis worldwide. However, its natural history and risk factors are not well understood. Our aim was to identify the clinical and pathological factors that could predict disease prognosis in Chinese patients.

Methods:  We studied 204 biopsy‐diagnosed IgAN patients, who were followed for an average of 6.1 years (range, 4–15 years). Chronic kidney disease (CKD) classified according to the Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative practice guidelines. Renal pathological lesions were graded single‐blindedly according to the Haas classification. The glomerular filtration rate was estimated by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation for Chinese subjects.

Results:  Patients with CKD were classified as stage 1 (38.10%), stage 2 (35.40%), stage 3 (13.30%), stage 4 (9.90%) and stage 5 (3.30%). During the follow up, 31 patients had progressed to end‐stage renal disease. The renal survival rate following biopsy was 85.1% at the fifth year, and 77.1% at the 10th year. Univariate analysis indicated that patients who were male, had hypertension, proteinuria of more than 1 g/day, renal impairment (estimated glomerular filtration rate, <60 mL/min.1.73 m2), and a high histological grading were associated with poor prognosis. Multivariate analysis indicated that the relative risk of renal failure for patients was 3.9 (P = 0.000) for patients with renal impairment, 2.8 (P = 0.019) for patients with hypertension, and 2.0 (P = 0.003) for patients with high histological grading.

Conclusion:  We described the natural history of IgAN through follow ups of a relatively large cohort of patients. Most patients were biopsied at an early stage; however, the long‐term prognosis was still poor. Patients with renal impairment, hypertension and advanced histological involvement had the highest risk for disease progression.
Can daclizumab reduce acute rejection and improve long‐term renal function in tacrolimus‐based primary renal transplant recipients?
Authors: CHEUNG CHI YUEN , LIU YAN LUN , WONG KIM MING , CHAN HOI WONG , CHAN YIU HAN , WONG HO SING , CHAK WAI LEUNG , CHOI KOON SHING , CHAU KA FOON , SHEK CHI CHUNG , LI CHUN SANG
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY:  Aims:  To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a tacrolimus‐based immunosuppressive regimen with and without induction therapy using daclizumab in first cadaveric renal transplant recipients.

Methods:  Since January 2001, we studied the effect of daclizumab in a non‐randomized and prospective study of 36 sequential first cadaveric renal transplant recipients. They were compared with a historical control group of 21 sequential first cadaveric renal transplant recipients without induction therapy. All patients received tacrolimus, azathioprine and corticosteroids as concomitant immunosuppressive therapy. Daclizumab was given at 1 mg/kg infusion 2 h before transplantation and then every 14 days for four more doses. Outcomes measured included incidence of acute rejection, patient survival, graft survival, annualized change in creatinine clearance (CrCl), cardiovascular risk profile, infection and malignancy.

Results:  Fewer biopsy proven acute rejections were observed in the induction treatment group: 11.1% (4/36) versus 19% (4/21) but the rejection free survival was similar (P = 0.37). The patient survival and graft survival were comparable. The renal function was similar in both groups. There were also no significant difference in infection, malignancy and cardiovascular risk profile in both groups.

Conclusion:  Adding daclizumab to a tacrolimus‐based therapy is safe but cannot further improve clinical efficacy.
Gadolinium and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis: Association or causation (Review Article)
Authors: KURTKOTI JAGADEESH , SNOW THOMAS , HIREMAGALUR BALAJI
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY:  With widespread availability of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), it has become standard practice for patients with severe renal impairment or previous severe reactions to iodine‐containing contrast media to receive gadolinium‐based MRI contrast agents instead of traditional radiographic contrast agents, particularly for magnetic resonance angiography. However, there is growing concern about the use of gadolinium contrast agents in the presence of severe renal insufficiency, because of increasing reports of nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NFD)/nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF), associated with the exposure to certain gadolinium‐containing contrast agents. In this review we explore the causal link between gadolinium exposure and NSF, using an established system of epidemiological criteria proposed by Bradford Hill. Though the current evidence makes gadolinium a strong suspect as an aetiologic agent for NSF in the presence of severe renal failure, the die is not cast yet. At this stage there needs to be cautious approach to the use of gadolinium‐containing contrast agents in the presence of severe renal failure (glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min per 1.73 m2).
Safety and efficacy of using a surgivac pump for the drainage of chronic indwelling pleural catheters in malignant pleural effusions
Authors: AL‐HALFAWY Ahmed , LIGHT Richard
Published: March 2008

Background and objective:  This descriptive study assessed whether a reusable commercially available surgivac pump was a safe and affordable method for draining chronic malignant pleural effusions with an indwelling pleural catheter.

Methods:  Patients who were managed as outpatients using this technique were recruited over a 5‐year period in Cairo, Egypt. The indwelling pleural catheters were inserted under local anaesthesia in a bronchoscopy suite. Patients were instructed by a trained nurse on how to drain the catheter using the surgivac pump.

Results:  Fifty‐five patients were included in the study. Successful pleurodesis was achieved in 42 (76.3%) over a mean period of drainage of 19.1 days (range 12–59 days). In all patients, the surgivac pump was successful in draining their pleural fluid and there were no complications related to the device itself.

Conclusion:  The use of a surgivac pump to drain malignant effusions via a chronic indwelling pleural catheter is safe and results in a pleurodesis comparable to the more commonly used negative pressure containers (vacuum bottles).
Influence of corn density and planting pattern on the growth of common lambsquarters (Chenopodium album L.)
Authors: SABERALI SAYYED F. , BAGHESTANI MOHAMMAD A. , ZAND ESKANDAR
Published: March 2008

Crop density and spatial arrangement affect the potential of intraspecific and interspecific competition as they increase the canopy light absorption. The effects of the corn density and planting pattern on the growth of common lambsquarters (Chenopodium album L.) was studied in a randomized, complete block design with three replications and factorial arrangement at University College, Aburaihan, Iran, in 2003. The plant density was the recommended density and 1.5‐fold the recommended density. The planting pattern treatment also was performed at two levels: one‐ and two‐row planting. The common lambsquarters density was 0, 5, 10, and 15 plants m−1 per row. The results showed that the leaf area index, biomass production, crop growth rate, and inflorescence biomass of the dry matter of common lambsquarters were decreased by increasing the corn density. But, the leaf area index, biomass production, crop growth rate, and inflorescence biomass of the dry matter of common lambsquarters under the two‐row planting pattern were less than under the one‐row planting pattern, although these differences were not significant.
Acetylcholine‐induced seizure‐like activity and modified cholinergic gene expression in chronically epileptic rats
Authors: Zimmerman Gabriel , Njunting Marleisje , Ivens Sebastian , Tolner Elsa , Behrens Christoph J. , Gross Miriam , Soreq Hermona , Heinemann Uwe , Friedman Alon
Published: March 2008

The entorhinal cortex (EC) plays an important role in temporal lobe epilepsy. Under normal conditions, the enriched cholinergic innervation of the EC modulates local synchronized oscillatory activity; however, its role in epilepsy is unknown. Enhanced neuronal activation has been shown to induce transcriptional changes of key cholinergic genes and thus alter cholinergic responses. To examine cholinergic modulations in epileptic tissue we studied molecular and electrophysiological cholinergic responses in the EC of chronically epileptic rats following exposure to pilocarpine or kainic acid. We confirmed that while the total activity of the acetylcholine (ACh)‐hydrolysing enzyme, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was not altered, epileptic rats showed alternative splicing of AChE pre‐mRNA transcripts, accompanied by a shift from membrane‐bound AChE tetramers to soluble monomers. This was associated with increased sensitivity to ACh application: thus, in control rats, ACh (10–100 µm) induced slow (< 1Hz), periodic events confined to the EC; however, in epileptic rats, ACh evoked seconds‐long seizure‐like events with initial appearance in the EC, and frequent propagation to neighbouring cortical regions. ACh‐induced seizure‐like events could be completely blocked by the non‐specific muscarinic antagonist, atropine, and were partially blocked by the muscarinic‐1 receptor antagonist, pirenzepine; but were not affected by the non‐specific nicotinic antagonist, mecamylamine. Epileptic rats presented reduced transcript levels of muscarinic receptors with no evidence of mRNA editing or altered mRNA levels for nicotinic ACh receptors. Our findings suggest that altered cholinergic modulation may initiate seizure events in the epileptic temporal cortex.
Ileostomy revision using noncutting linear stapler
Authors: Skærlund M.‐L. , Jacobsen L. , Tøttrup A.
Published: March 2008

Objective  The study aimed to evaluate the outcome of ileostomy revision for retraction and prolapse using noncutting linear stapler.

Method  Forty five patients undergoing a total of 94 stapled revisions between 1.1.1995 and 31.12.2005 were identified by the unique code for stomal revision. Medical records for all patients were examined.

Results  Thirty‐five (77.8%) of the 45 patients were women. In 43 (95.6%), the indication was stomal retraction. Median follow‐up was 28 months (2–122). One or more stapling procedures resulted in a normal stoma at follow‐up in 18 (41.9%) of 43 patients treated for stomal retraction. When other types of repair were included, a normal stoma was achieved in 30 (69.8%) of 43 patients. Patients with a low BMI had the lowest success rate (44%), but none of the possible factors analysed for influence on success had a statistically significant impact. Two patients were treated for prolapse, and both needed other types of revision.

Conclusions  Stapled ileostomy revision is easy to perform and has a low morbidity. Less than half the patients achieve a satisfactory long‐term result after one or more stapling procedures. Many patients still benefit from other types of revision when stapling has failed.
Penile and Scrotal Paget’s disease: 130 Chinese patients with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Wang Zhong , Lu Mujun , Dong Guo‐Qin , Jiang Yue‐Qing , Lin Mei‐Sui , Cai Zhi‐Kang , Ying Jun , Ren Xiaomin , Liu Benchun
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVES

To report a retrospective series of 130 Chinese patients with penoscrotal extramammary Paget’s diseases (EMPD), with a long‐term follow‐up, and thus improve the diagnosis and therapy of this disease.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The history, clinical presentation, pathology, treatment, and prognosis of 130 patients were analysed. All cases were confirmed by skin biopsy, and then the patients had local wide resection to remove the involved skin and subcutaneous tissue. The large defective wound was reconstructed using a split‐thickness skin graft or local flap.

RESULTS

Forty‐five patients were evaluated by frozen‐section biopsy of the margins during surgery, five of whom had positive margins and then had an extended resection immediately. Most of these patients had local skin or adjacent scrotal flaps to cover their skin defects. Of the 130 patients, 81 had a mean (range) follow‐up of 3.2 (0.5–10) years after surgery. Five of nine patients with positive margins and three (4%) of 72 with negative margins had tumour recurrence. Five patients died from metastatic disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Penoscrotal EMPD needs be differentiated from other chronic dermatitis. A 3 cm surgical margin should be sufficient and frozen‐section pathological examinations are necessary for some complicated conditions. Skin grafts or local flaps are good for large skin defects.
Impact of language on development of auditory‐visual speech perception
Authors: Sekiyama Kaoru , Burnham Denis
Published: March 2008

The McGurk effect paradigm was used to examine the developmental onset of inter‐language differences between Japanese and English in auditory‐visual speech perception. Participants were asked to identify syllables in audiovisual (with congruent or discrepant auditory and visual components), audio‐only, and video‐only presentations at various signal‐to‐noise levels. In Experiment 1 with two groups of adults, native speakers of Japanese and native speakers of English, the results on both percent visually influenced responses and reaction time supported previous reports of a weaker visual influence for Japanese participants. In Experiment 2, an additional three age groups (6, 8, and 11 years) in each language group were tested. The results showed that the degree of visual influence was low and equivalent for Japanese and English language 6‐year‐olds, and increased over age for English language participants, especially between 6 and 8 years, but remained the same for Japanese participants. This may be related to the fact that English language adults and older children processed visual speech information relatively faster than auditory information whereas no such inter‐modal differences were found in the Japanese participants’ reaction times.
Sources of Industrial Growth in Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe: Some Estimates
Authors: Shaaeldin Elfatih
Published: March 2008

Résumé: Resume: Pour etudier les sources de croissance industrielle au Kenya, en Tanzanie, en Zambie et au Zimbabwe, nous avons utilise dans cet ouvrage la methode de la formation de production appliquee a la croissance, le taux de croissance du facteur de la productivite globale (T.F.P.G.) sont calculees sur une periode allant de 1964 a 1983 pour ces pays. Pour le Zimbabwe le taux de croissance du T.F.P.G. est positif mais n'a aucune signification. Donc, pour tous ces pays une croissance de facteur des moyens de production influe en grande partie sur la croissance industrielle. En comparant des etudes faites sur les pays developpes avec celles faites sur les pays en developpement nous constatons que la contribution de l'augmentation des facteurs de production est relativement negligeable, mais celle du T.F.P.G. est significative. Puis, dans ce document nous considererons les causes approximatives de la performance nulle du T.F.P.G. dans ces pays etudies. Puis nous analyserons les variations de la capa‐cite d'exploitation, des tailles du marche, des politiques macro‐economiques, des structures du marche, du niveau de developpement des capacites techno‐logiques.

Abstract: This paper utilizes a growth accounting production function approach to analyze the sources of industrial growth in Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Rates of Total Factor Productivity Growth (TFPG) are calculated for these countries during periods in between 1964 and 1983. The estimates indicate negative growth rates of TFP in Kenya, Tanzania and Zambia. For Zimbabwe the growth rate of TFP is found to be positive but insignificant. Hence, for all of these countries increase in factor inputs mostly accounts for manufacturing growth. By comparison studies for developed countries and some developing countries showed a relatively unimportant contribution from increased inputs and a significant contribution from TFPG. The paper, then considers some of the proximate causes of the poor performance in TFPG in the countries—studied. The roles of changes of capacity utilization, market size, macro‐economic policies, market structures, level of development of technological capability are analyzed.
Stratégies de développement et ouverture sur l'extérieur
Authors: Guillaumont Patrick
Published: March 2008

Résurné: Cet article examine d'abord la notion de strategie de developpe‐

ment: il en propose une definition et des criteres de mesure: la strategie de

developpement, mode de developpement choisi par le pays, autrement dit ce

qui ne resulte pas de I'environnement, est appreciee a travers divers indicateurs,

dits de performance, de choix structurels et de choix instrumentaux. Les indi‐

cateurs sont mesures en purgeant les donnees brutes de I'influence de l'envi‐

ronnement.

Abstract: This paper first considers the concept of development strategy, of which it offers a definition and measurement criteria. Development strategy is defined as the development pattern chosen by the country, that is to say the pattern which does not result from the environmental factors. It can be appreciated by several indicators of ‘performance’, ‘structural choices’ and ‘instrumental choices’, most of them measured by eliminating from gross variables the influence of the environment.

This methodology is then applied to the study of the trade strategy. The ‘openness’ of ‘outward orientation’ is here defined and measured by the level of export‐GDP ratio which does not result from environment. Environmental variables acting on the export ratio, as estimated by a cross‐sectional analysis, are the per capita income level, the country size, and the mineral exports. This ‘revealed’ outward (or inward) orientation is compared between African and non African countries. Finally, the implications of an informal trade for the outward orientation index are discussed in the case of African countries.
Money, Inflation and Adjustment Policy in Africa: Some Further Evidence
Authors: London Anselm
Published: March 2008

Abstract: In view of the explicit link between inflation and the rate of monetary expansion that is invariably incorporated into many macroeconomic adjustment programmes in Africa, this paper, using both cross‐section and time series econometric analysis, provides some new empirical evidence on the relationship between money and inflation in Africa. It is shown that although, broadly speaking, the simple monetarist inflation model appears to hold when tested in cross‐section equations covering several countries and averaged over several years, the same is generally not true for individual countries in time series analysis or in cross‐section studies covering shorter time periods. In fact, the result of the analysis strongly suggest that factors other than the rate of monetary expansion have played an important role in determining short‐run inflation trends in Africa. With respect to the implications of these findings for the conduct of current macroeconomic policy and in particular, given the apparently lesser role that ought to be assigned to monetary factors over the short run, the paper urges greater flexibility in deploying policy instruments towards inflation targets in individual African countries and cautions against the application of rules based on regional results in favour of those derived from country‐specific findings.

Résumé:

Compte tenu du lien explicite entre inflation et taux d'expansion monetaire, auquel il est invariablement fait reference dans de nombreux pro‐grammes d'ajustements macro‐economique en Afrique, cet article, s'appuyant sur une analyse economique de donnees transversales et chronologiques fournit de nouvelles preuves empiriques des relations qui existent entre la monnaie et l'inflation en Afrique. On montre que, de facon generale, mkme si le simple modele monetariste d'inflation parait ktre valide lorsqu'on effectue des tests sur des equations transversales couvrant plusieurs pays et qu'on calcule sa moyenne sur plusieurs annees, il n'en est pas de mCme, pour les pays consideres isolement, dans l'analyse de series chronologiques ou dans les etudes transver‐sales couvrant des periodes plus courtes. De fait, les resultats de l'analyse donnent fortement a penser que des facteurs autres que le taux d'expension monetaire ont joue un role important dansla determination des tendances inflationnistes a court terme en Afrique. En ce qui concerne les consequences de

ces conclusions pour la conduite de la politique macro‐economique actuelle et, en particulier, vu le role moins important, a ce qui semble, qu'il faudrait

accorder court terme aux facteurs monetaires, l'article preconise une plus grande souplesse dans le deploiement de la panoplie des instruments de poli‐

tique economique pour atteindre les objectifs retenus pour le taux d'inflation dam les differents pays africains et met en garde contre l'application de regles fondees sur les resultats regionaux en faveur de celles elaborees a partir de conclusions propres aux pays.
Des cours internationaux des produits de base aux défis de développement de l'Afrique
Authors: Calabre S.
Published: March 2008

Résumé: Les consequences souvent dramatiques de l'evolution recente des cours internationaux des produits de base d'exportation pour les pays africains conduisent a se demander quelle peut etre la place de ce secteur dans le developpement a venir de leurs economies. La premiere partie analyse les mecanismes de l'evolution des cours en distinguant les facteurs explicatifs de court, de moyen et de long terme. Elle examine en particulier le r61e et la portee des marches a terme. La seconde partie degage quelques perspectives generales concernant les fluctuations pluriannuelles cycliques des cours et la position de l'Afrique sur les marches internationaux des produits. Elle pose alors la question de la releve progressive eventuelle du secteur des produits de base comme secteur generateur du surplus macroeconomique exportable necessaire pour financer le developpement. En fait, une vue generale et plurisectorielle de la dynamique des economies montre que dans la plupart des cas, ce secteur va conserver une place essentielle, mais elle souligne aussi la necessite d'une profonde mutation de l'agriculture et d'un relevement des revenus ruraux.

Abstract: The often dramatic consequences of the recent trend of international export commodity prices for the African countries raise the question as to what could be the role of this sector in the future development of their economies. The first part of this paper deals with the mechanisms of the trend of prices by differentiating short, medium and long‐term explanatory factors. The second part gives some general prospects concerning cyclical multi‐year fluctuations of prices and Africa's place on the world commodity market. It therefore considers the issue of the possible and gradual take‐over by the commodities sector as the generator of the exportable macro‐economic surplus required for development financing. In fact, a general and multi‐sectoral overview of the dynamics of economies shows that in most cases, this sector will play an essential role, but it also stresses the need for a profound change in agriculture and increasing farm incomes.
Dependence and Stability of the Demand for Money in a Small open Economy: The Case of Côte‐d'Ivoire
Authors: Djeto Assam , Pourgerami Abbas
Published: March 2008

Abstract: This paper investigates the effects of foreign variables on the demand for money in Côte‐d'Ivoire during 1970. I‐1986. IV. In the model specification, we consider that Côte‐d'Ivoire is a member of the Franc zone. Within the zone, the CFA Franc is pegged to the French Franc, but outside the zone or with the generalized floating system, the CFA Franc espouses the form taken by the French Franc against other major currencies. The model satisfactorily explains behavioral relationships under these two regimes. Domestic determinants of the demand for real cash balances are the real GDP, the expected rate of inflation, the degree of credit restraint, and expectations of economic instability. International influences are captured by foreign interest and exchange rates. Stability and causality tests indicate that the money demand relation has been stable over time and is highly influenced by foreign interest rates.

Résumé: Le présent document étudie les incidences des variables extérieures sur la demande de monnaie en Côte‐d'Ivoire de 1970. I à 1986.IV. Dans la spécification du modéle, nous considérons que la COcte‐d'Ivoire est membre de la Zone Franc, mais hors de la Zone ou avec le systéme flottant généralisé, le Franc CFA adopte les formes proses par le Franc Francais par rapport aux devise fortes. Le modéle explique de manié satisfaisante les rapprots aux devises fortes. Le modéle explique de manié satisfaisante les rapprots de comportement sous ces deux régimes. Les facteurs déterminants sur la demande de bilans de trésorerie réelle sont le PIB réel, le taus d'inflation prévisionnel, le degré de pénurie de crédit, les menaces d'instabilitééconomique. Les influences internationales sont représentées par les intéréts étrangers et les taux de change. Les tests de stabilité et der cause à effect indiquent que le rapport de la demande de monnaie a éaté stable au fil du temps et est fortement influencé par les taus d'intérét étrangers.
Développement économique et démocratie en Afrique
Authors: Ndiaye Babacar
Published: March 2008

Abstract: The relationship between economic development and different political arrangements is, even in the best of circumstances, difficult to explore. However times are changing, both in Africa and dramatically so in other parts of the world. This essay seeks to reflect on aspects of this issue with special reference to Africa. It introduces the subject by drawing upon the recommendations of two recently published Reports; and proposes three broad elements which may be used in studying the inter‐action between economic development and political organization.

résumré

Les relations existant entre le dréveloppement réconomique et les divers dispositifs politiques sont, dans le meilleur des cas, difficiles à analyser. Mais la situation a révoluré d'une manière assez notable en Afrique et, de facon spectaculaire, dans d'autres rrégions du monde. Le prrésent article aborde divers aspects de ces relations, en se rréfrérant particulièrement à 1'Afrique. En introduction sont citrées les recommandations formulrées dans deux rapports rrécents; trois rélréments grénréraux sont proposrés, quipourraient être utilisrés pour értudier l'interaction entre le développement économique et I'organisation politique.
Integrated Strategy Approach for Poverty Alleviation: A Paramount Priority for Africa
Authors: Lele Uma , Adu‐Nyako Kofi
Published: March 2008

Abstract: This paper examines the nature and extent of poverty in Africa. It recognizes that poverty in the region is essentially a rural phenomenon and women are disproportionately affected. The paper argues for an integrated strategy approach to poverty alleviation in Africa which deals with the problem of poverty uprooting at three levels: 1) on those which can be addressed by an effective long term strategy of rapid and broad based economic growth; 2) those which require active population and human resource development policy; 3) and those which need special programs to uproot poverty

Résumé: Ce document examine la nature et la portée de la pauvreté en Afrique. Il reconnait que la pauvreté est essentiellement dans la région un phénomène rural et les femmes sont disproportionnellement touchées. Le document plaide en faveur d'une approche de stratégic intégrée de la lutte contre la pauvreté en Afrique qui traite des problèmes d'eradication de la pauvretéà trois niveaux: 1) ceux qu'on peut résoudre par une stratégic efficace à long terme de croissance économique rapide et à base étendue; 2) ceux qui exigent une politique active de developpement de la population et des ressources humaines; 3) ceux qui ont besoin de programmes spéciaux pour extirper la pauvreté.
Population and Poverty in Africa
Authors: Desai Meghnad
Published: March 2008

Summary of Abstract

This paper sets out the position in Sub‐Saharan Africa [SSA] regarding poverty and population. Africa has as much danger of starvation and depopulation [due to Aids] as of over population. The paper sets out a model of poverty based on the twin concepts of capabilities and entitlements. This is micro level approach and points to the importance of health and education as well as physical assets in analysing poverty. Issues of gender are always kept central. Income, access to public goods, physical assets and human capital are the four determinants of the status of any individual visavis poverty.

In terms of access to public goods the paper develops a new measure of poverty based on daily calorie supply, access to clean water and access to health care. It would seem that nearly 90% of the population in 25 SSA countries or as many as 350 million can be counted as poor.

Poverty is influenced by population most significantly if the household cannot afford education and health for its children. Other effects of population on poverty are thought to be transient. Poverty affects population by the complex interaction of the desire for children as insurance but an inability to ensure their survival. Population problems are most acute in societies which are developing enough to cut death rates drastically but not yet adjusted to lower infant mortality to modify their child bearing behaviour.

Policy issues are discussed in the last section which highlights once again the central importance of education, health and land reforms.
Comparative Economics of Maize and Rice Production among Resource‐Poor Farmers in Anambra State of Nigeria
Authors: Arene C. J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Maize and Rice are some of the most important grains in Nigeria. Although Nigeria has the potential to become self‐sufficient in their production, maize and rice production currently lags behind demand. This study has examined the characteristics of resource‐poor maize and rice farmers, (defined in terms of land availability, estimated income per farmer, access to credit and capital) in Anambra State of Nigeria, the impact of these characteristics on yield, and the efficiency of use of stated inputs by the farmers. It was found that low income farmers (both maize and rice) had smaller farm size, smaller loan size (credit), adopted a smaller number of recommended production technologies, had lower levels of formal education, are younger, had a smaller household size, and less number of years of farming experience than high income farmers. The regression analysis result shows that farm size, credit, level of adoption of recommended production technologies, level of formal education of fanners, and age of farmers are significantly related to the maize farmers' output, but household size and number of years of farming experience account for less. In the case of rice farmers, the regression analysis result reveals that farm size, level of adoption of recommended production technologies and number of years of farming experience are significantly related to the farmers' output, but level of formal education of farmers, age of farmers, household size, and credit account for less. The results of gross margin analysis reveal that maize and rice production are not very profitable when the present value of the Naira in relation to cost of living in Nigeria is considered.
Cue Taking and the Distribution of Japanese ODA among African Countries
Authors: Hickman John
Published: March 2008

Abstract: In the absence of important security interests or large trade volumes, are Japan's distributions of ODA in Africa motivated by the desire to increase its international prestige or to facilitate future trade ties? Data analysis indicates that the ODA distributions of other donor states and not volume trade with Japan determine Japan's ODA distribution across African states. Moreover, whether Great Britain or the United States is the leading donor state serves as the information and decision cue for Japanese development assistance decision making.

Résumé: Hormis les intérêts majeurs de sécurité ou la réalisation de gros volumes d'échanges, la répartition de l'aide publique au développement en faveur de l'Afrique est‐elle motivée par le désir de réhausser le prestige international du Japon ou de promouvoir de futurs liens commerciaux? L'analyse des données montrent que c'est la répartition de l'APD des autres pays donateurs et non le volume d'échanges avec le Japon qui influence la répartition de son aide entre les pays africains. En outre, le fait que l'aide de la Grande Bretagne ou des Etats‐Unis soit prépondérante dans un pays conditionne très largement la décision du Japon en la matière.
The Role of Seedyam Procurement Arrangements for Yam Production Specialisation in the Smallholder Cropping System of Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Okorji E.C. , Obiechina C.O.B.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: Seed yam constitutes a major input for the effective production of ware yam. This study was carried out to estimate the relative economic advantages of two alternative seed yam procurement arrangements to yam production specialisation in two geographically dispersed areas. The two arrangements are the seed yam credit in Anambra Local Government Area and the own stock supply of seedyam in the Abakaliki Local Government Area.

Data were collected through structured personal interview schedules from 108 farming households. Results of the study indicated amongst other things that the quantity of seedyam, size of farm and cash return were greater in the credit than in the own stock seedyam arrangement. In addition, cash flow and risk incidence were more favourable in the credit arrangement.

The study concluded by recommending the extension of some of the features of the credit system to other yam producing areas so as to improve the inherently low cash returns attributed to ware yam production.

Résumé: L'igname de semence constitue un facteur déterminant pour une production rentable d'ignames de consommation courante. Cette étude a été faite en vue d'évaluer les avantages économiques comparatifs entre deux options d'arrangements relatifs à la spécialisation en production d'ignames dans deux régions géographiquement éloignées. Ces deux options concernent, l'une l'octroi de crédit pour l'acquisition d'ignames de semence dans la collectivité locale d'Anambra, et l'autre la fourniture du stock d'ignames de semence par les exploitants, dans la collectivité locale d'Abakaliki.

Les données ont été collectées grâce à des interviews effectuées auprès de 108 exploitants agricoles. Les conclusions de l'étude indiquent, entre autres, que la quantité d'ignames de semence, la superficie de l'exploitation et les revenus en espèces étaient plus élevés dans l'option du crédit que dans l'option de la fourniture d'ignames de semence par les exploitants eux‐mêmes. Par ailleurs, la trésorerie et le taux de risque se sont révelés plus intéressants dans l'option du crédit.

L'étude a conclu en formulant une recommandation en faveur de l'extension de certaines clauses du système de crédit aux autres régions productrices d'ignames afin d'améliorer les faibles revenus qui caractérisent la production d'ignames de consommation courante.
Export Performance, Regional Demand, and the Prospects of Intra‐West African Trade in Vegetable Oils
Authors: Badiane Ousmane
Published: March 2008

Abstract:The present paper assesses the relative roles of internal and external factors in the decline of groundnut trade by AGC countries. Furthermore, it analyses the determinants of regional vegetable oils demand and evaluates the extent to which regional exporters can benefit from the rapid expansion of demand on regional markets.

Résumé:Ce document cherche à déterminer le rôle relatif des facteurs internes et externes dans le fléchissement du commerce de l'arachide entre les pays de l'AGC. Par ailleurs, son auteur analyse les causes détermhantes de la demande régionafe des huiles végétales et cherche àévaluer dans quelle mesure les exportateurs régionaux peuvent profiter de l'expansion rapide de la demande sur les marchés de la région
Reliability of Macroeconomic Data: An Evidence from Nigeria's Debt Data Series*
Authors: Ariyo Ademola
Published: March 2008

Abstract:This paper evaluates the causes, nature and severity of divergencies among macroeconomic data on Nigeria, using the debt data series as the contextual focus. The findings indicate significant divergencies among the debt data series being published on Nigeria by various organizations. The findings also revealed that these divergencies and inconsistencies cannot be attributed to random factors, suggesting that there are basic differences in the data‐generating and reporting procedures employed by each organization.

These findings imply that debt data on Nigeria are not reliable, and that research findings based on them cannot be valid. More importantly, policy‐oriented research may offer conflicting recommendations, thus jeopardizing the accuracy of policy decisions and projections. The paper suggest some remedial measures to overcome the data divergencies and inconsistencies.

Résumé:Ce document analyse les causes, la nature et la profondeur des divergences entre les données macroéconomiques sur le Nigeria, en partant de la série de données relatives à la dette. Les conclusions font état d'importants écarts entre les séries de données publiées par diverses organisations sur la dette du Nigeria. Les résultats révèlent également que ces divergences et écarts ne peuvent être attribués à des facteurs aléatoires, ce qui donne à penser que des différences fondamentales existent dans les procédures de production et de communication des données utilisées par chaque organisation.

Les conclusions impliquent que les données sur la dette du Nigeria ne sont pas fiables et que les recherches basées sur de telles données ne peuvent aboutir á des résultats valables. Plus important encore, la recherche tournée vers l'action peut conduire à des recommandations contradictoires, compromettant l'exactitude des décisions et des projections. Le document propose quelques mesures de redressement pour surmonter les divergences et les discordances entre les données.