bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La mesure de la productivité par des fonctions de distance
Authors: Barkaoui Ahmed , Bureau Jean-Christophe , Butault Jean-Pierre
Published: August 2011

Measuring Productivity Using Distance Functions by Ahmed Barkaoui, Jean-Christophe Bureau and Jean-Pierre Butault

Productivity measures are highly sensitive to the conventions adopted to measure service flows and fixed factor utilisation costs. An approach based on distance functions can measure productivity without using data on the prices of either factors or products. This method consists of estimating Malmquist indices. It is based on less restrictive assumptions than the traditional methods and sidesteps many problems regarding data and conventions for the costs of the use of capital, family labour and the earth. This method is applied to measure the "agricultural" sector's productivity in 12 countries. An empirical comparison with traditional indices highlights the advantages and disadvantages of this approach.
Les flexions des taux d'activité sont-elles seulement conjoncturelles ?
Authors: Jacquot Alain
Published: August 2011

Les flexions des taux d'activité sont-elles seulement conjoncturelles ?

par Alain Jacquot

L'analyse macro-économique de l'offre de travail met traditionnellement en évidence des flexions conjoncturelles des taux d'activité, c'est-à-dire une sensibilité des taux d'activité au cours du cycle face aux variations (conjoncturelles) du chômage. Les résultats économétriques de cet article laissent penser que les taux d'activité présentent également une sensibilité de long terme par rapport aux inflexions (durables) du taux de chômage. L'offre de travail pourrait de ce fait à l'avenir croître davantage que ne le supposent les projections tendancielles de population active, si le taux de chômage d'équilibre venait à baisser, ou même simplement se stabiliser.
Une nouvelle évaluation empirique des coûts de l'Union monétaire européenne
Authors: Erkel-Rousse Hélène , Mélitz Jacques
Published: August 2011

A New Empirical Evaluation of the Costs of European Monetary Union by Hélène Erkel-Rousse and Jacques Mélitz

This paper presents an evaluation of the costs of European Monetary Union (EMU) using the structural VAR approach. This approach is based on a model identifying structural shocks sustained by the European Union member states and bringing into play a set of long-run constraints in the tradition of those proposed by the pioneering Blanchard and Quah article (1989). We apply this method to all member states for which data are available, i.e. Germany, Spain, France, Italy, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Our contribution here is primarily methodological, taking traditional considerations regarding the degree of shock asymmetry among member states a step further. We endeavour in particular to isolate an exchange rate shock and evaluate its short-run impact on prices and volumes for each country studied. In this way, we seek to evaluate the extent of the sacrifice made by any member state that abandons its sovereignty over monetary policy. Similarly, we attempt to isolate a domestic demand shock to measure the possible advantages to member states of having an independent fiscal policy within EMU. The degree of shock asymmetry affecting the member states of a monetary union is obviously one of the questions raised, but is not the only one.
Emploi et négociations salariales dans une union monétaire ouverte
Authors: Cahuc Pierre , Kempf Hubert
Published: August 2011

Employment and Wage Bargaining in an Open Monetary Union by Pierre Cahuc and Hubert Kempf

This paper studies the effect of alternative wage bargaining procedures, differing by level of centralisation and by time scale, in two countries where wages are negotiated for two periods in an open monetary union. It shows that the best solution for employment depends on the nature of externalities among the Union's countries and even on the extent of foreign trade and the extent of national production differentiation.
Characterization of 12 microsatellite loci for Hypochaeris chillensis (Asteraceae) and cross‐amplification in related species
Authors: Lúcio Carina C. F. , Ruas Eduardo A. , Rodrigues Luana A. , Ruas Paulo M. , Vidotto Thiago , De Souza Laís Bérgamo , Matzenbacher Nelson I. , Ruas Claudete F.
Published: August 2011

• Premise of the study: Hypochaeris is considered a biological model to understand evolutionary processes in the vascular flora of South America, particularly from the temperate portion of the continent. We report the development and characterization of microsatellite markers for H. chillensis to assess the genetic variability and patterns of population structure of the species.

• Methods and Results: Twelve microsatellite primers were isolated using a CT‐ and GT‐enriched genomic library. PCR amplification detected one to five alleles, with 2.91 alleles per locus on average. Tested for cross‐amplification, all primer pairs were successfully amplified in 10 South American species and in the putative ancestor of the group, H. angustifolia.

• Conclusions: The microsatellites can be used to assess genetic diversity and population structure of H. chillensis. Application in other species will focus on the elucidation of adaptive radiation of the genus in South America.
Towards multiple readout application of plasmonic arrays
Authors: Cialla Dana , Weber Karina , Böhme René , Hübner Uwe , Schneidewind Henrik , Zeisberger Matthias , Mattheis Roland , Möller Robert , Popp Jürgen
Published: August 2011

In order to combine the advantages of fluorescence and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) on the same chip platform, a nanostructured gold surface with a unique design, allowing both the sensitive detection of fluorescence light together with the specific Raman fingerprint of the fluorescent molecules, was established. This task requires the fabrication of plasmonic arrays that permit the binding of molecules of interest at different distances from the metallic surface. The most efficient SERS enhancement is achieved for molecules directly adsorbed on the metallic surface due to the strong field enhancement, but where, however, the fluorescence is quenched most efficiently. Furthermore, the fluorescence can be enhanced efficiently by careful adjustment of the optical behavior of the plasmonic arrays. In this article, the simultaneous application of SERS and fluorescence, through the use of various gold nanostructured arrays, is demonstrated by the realization of a DNA detection scheme. The results shown open the way to more flexible use of plasmonic arrays in bioanalytics.
Drug Market Reconstitution after Hurricane Katrina: Lessons for Local Drug Abuse Control Initiatives
Authors: Bennett Alex S. , Golub Andrew , Dunlap Eloise
Published: August 2011

Hurricane Katrina accomplished what no law enforcement initiative could ever achieve: It completely eradicated the New Orleans drug market. However, Katrina did little to eliminate the demand for drugs. This article documents the process of the drug market reconstitution that occurred 2005–2008 based on in-depth interviews and focus groups with predominately low-income drug users and sellers. Before Katrina, the drug market was largely characterized by socially-bonded participants involved with corporate style distribution. After Katrina, a violent freelance market emerged. The conclusion draws recommendations for law enforcement for dealing with drug markets after a major disaster.
Le RSA : redistribution vers les travailleurs pauvres et offre de travail
Authors: Allègre Guillaume
Published: August 2011

Résumé Le RSA a remplacé le RMI, l’API et leurs mesures d’intéressement au 1 er Juin 2009. La réforme vise un double objectif, redistributif et incitatif : il s’agit d’une part, d’augmenter le niveau de vie des ménages de travailleurs pauvres et d’autre part, de supprimer les trappes à inactivité qu’engendreraient des gains à la reprise d’emploi trop faibles par rapport aux revenus d’inactivité (RMI ou API). En créant un écart entre revenus d’inactivité et revenus d’activité, le RSA entend également revaloriser le travail et rétribuer l’effort. Le premier effet du RSA est bien d’élever le niveau de vie des ménages de travailleurs pauvres. Du fait de son caractère familialisé, le RSA cible relativement bien les ménages de travailleurs les plus pauvres. Toutefois, le ciblage du RSA et son caractère familialisé créent des effets ambigus en termes de gains financiers à la reprise d’emploi et à l’augmentation des revenus d’activité. Ces effets sont ici estimés par microsimulation. Nous trouvons que la prestation bénéficie majoritairement aux ménages les plus pauvres : environ 65 % des dépenses de RSA activité sont perçues par les ménages des deux premiers déciles de niveau de vie. Si tous les ménages potentiellement bénéficiaires recouraient à la prestation, près de 400 000 individus sortiraient de la pauvreté grâce à cette mesure. À l’aide d’un pur modèle d’offre de travail, nous estimons également l’impact du RSA sur l’offre de travail des femmes seules et mariées sur la base des données de l’Enquête revenus fiscaux 2003. Sur l’ensemble de l’échantillon, en net, 12 000 individus renonceraient à travailler ; l’offre de travail à temps plein serait réduite de 21 000 et l’offre de travail à mi-temps augmenterait d’environ 9 000, soit des effets sur l’offre de travail relativement faibles. En conclusion, nous proposons des voies de réforme du RSA.
Réévaluation des modèles d'estimation précoce de la croissance
Authors: Charpin Françoise
Published: August 2011

Résumé Dans le n? 108 de la Revue de l’OFCE, des modèles d’estimation précoce de la croissance française ont été proposés et évalués en pseudo temps réel sur la période 2001-2007. La crise financière a quelque peu dégradé leur performance. Le changement de base des comptes trimestriels en mai 2011 modifie aussi sensiblement les résultats car il affecte la croissance du PIB sur toute la période d’estimation des modèles. Ainsi le moment est venu de faire le point sur les outils de prévision à court terme présentés dans l’article de F. Charpin (2009). C’est aussi l’occasion de les confronter à d’autres modèles et d’évaluer l’ensemble de nos outils en pseudo temps réel sur la période allant du 1 er trimestre 2001 au 1 er trimestre 2011.
Visual Performance of an Apodized Diffractive Multifocal Intraocular Lens With +3.00-D Addition: 1-year Follow-up
Authors: Santhiago Marcony R. , Wilson Steven E. , Netto Marcelo V. , Espíndola Rodrigo F. , Shah Ravindra A. , Ghanem Ramon C. , Bechara Samir J. , Kara-Junior Newton
Published: August 2011

PURPOSE:

To determine whether implantation of a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) with a lower addition (+3.00 diopters [D]) at the lens plane results in better intermediate visual acuity 1 year after surgery compared with a multifocal IOL with higher addition (+4.00 D).

METHODS:

This prospective, randomized, double-masked study included 80 eyes from 40 patients. Twenty patients were implanted bilaterally with the ReSTOR +3.00-D add IOL and 20 patients were implanted bilaterally with the ReSTOR +4.00-D add IOL. Primary outcome measures were distance, intermediate, and near visual acuity. Secondary outcomes were defocus curves, best reading distance, mesopic and photopic contrast sensitivity, quality of life, and spectacle independence. Monocular and binocular visual acuity were measured as uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity at 4 m, uncorrected near and distance-corrected near visual acuity at 40 cm, and uncorrected intermediate visual acuity and distance-corrected intermediate visual acuity at 50, 60, and 70 cm.

RESULTS:

Twelve months postoperatively, no statistically significant difference between groups in distance and near visual acuity was noted. The ReSTOR +3.00-D add group performed better than the ReSTOR +4.00-D add group at all intermediate distances studied. The ReSTOR +4.00-D group chose a reading distance 8 cm closer than the +3.00-D group. Both groups performed similarly with respect to contrast sensitivity, quality of life, and spectacle independence rates.

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients implanted with a multifocal IOL with lower addition (ReSTOR +3.00 D) had better performance at intermediate distances compared with the ReSTOR +4.00-D add IOL with similar performance for distance and near visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and quality of life.
TLR Regulation of SPSB1 Controls Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase Induction
Authors: Lewis Rowena S. , Kolesnik Tatiana B. , Kuang Zhihe , D’Cruz Akshay A. , Blewitt Marnie E. , Masters Seth L. , Low Andrew , Willson Tracy , Norton Raymond S. , Nicholson Sandra E.
Published: August 2011

The mammalian innate immune system has evolved to recognize foreign molecules derived from pathogens via the TLRs. TLR3 and TLR4 can signal via the TIR domain-containing adapter inducing IFN-β (TRIF), which results in the transcription of a small array of genes, including IFN-β. Inducible NO synthase (iNOS), which catalyzes the production of NO, is induced by a range of stimuli, including cytokines and microbes. NO is a potent source of reactive nitrogen species that play an important role in killing intracellular pathogens and forms a crucial component of host defense. We have recently identified iNOS as a target of the mammalian SPSB2 protein. The SOCS box is a peptide motif, which, in conjunction with elongins B and C, recruits cullin-5 and Rbx-2 to form an active E3 ubiquitin ligase complex. In this study, we show that SPSB1 is the only SPSB family member to be regulated by the same TLR pathways that induce iNOS expression and characterize the interaction between SPSB1 and iNOS. Through the use of SPSB1 transgenic mouse macrophages and short hairpin RNA knockdown of SPSB1, we show that SPSB1 controls both the induction of iNOS and the subsequent production of NO downstream of TLR3 and TLR4. Further, we demonstrate that regulation of iNOS by SPSB1 is dependent on the proteasome. These results suggest that SPSB1 acts through a negative-feedback loop that, together with SPSB2, controls the extent of iNOS induction and NO production.
Combining Liver- and Blood-Stage Malaria Viral-Vectored Vaccines: Investigating Mechanisms of CD8+ T Cell Interference
Authors: Forbes Emily K. , Biswas Sumi , Collins Katharine A. , Gilbert Sarah C. , Hill Adrian V. S. , Draper Simon J.
Published: August 2011

Replication-deficient adenovirus and modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) vectors expressing single pre-erythrocytic or blood-stage Plasmodium falciparum Ags have entered clinical testing using a heterologous prime-boost immunization approach. In this study, we investigated the utility of the same immunization regimen when combining viral vectored vaccines expressing the 42-kDa C terminus of the blood-stage Ag merozoite surface protein 1 and the pre-erythrocytic Ag circumsporozoite protein in the Plasmodium yoelii mouse model. We find that vaccine coadministration leads to maintained Ab responses and efficacy against blood-stage infection, but reduced secondary CD8+ T cell responses against both Ags and efficacy against liver-stage infection. CD8+ T cell interference can be minimized by coadministering the MVA vaccines at separate sites, resulting in enhanced liver-stage efficacy in mice immunized against both Ags compared with just one. CD8+ T cell interference (following MVA coadministration as a mixture) may be caused partly by a lack of physiologic space for high-magnitude responses against multiple Ags, but is not caused by competition for presentation of Ag on MHC class I molecules, nor is it due to restricted T cell access to APCs presenting both Ags. Instead, enhanced killing of peptide-pulsed cells is observed in mice possessing pre-existing T cells against two Ags compared with just one, suggesting that priming against multiple Ags may in part reduce the potency of multiantigen MVA vectors to stimulate secondary CD8+ T cell responses. These data have important implications for the development of a multistage or multicomponent viral vectored malaria vaccine for use in humans.
The Stability of a Model Substrate for Topoisomerase 1-Mediated DNA Religation Depends on the Presence of Mismatched Base Pairs
Authors: Gmeiner William H. , Salsbury Freddie , Olsen Chris M. , Marky Luis A.
Published: August 2011

Topoisomerase 1 (Top1) enzymes regulate DNA superhelicity by forming covalent cleavage complexes that undergo controlled rotation. Substitution of nucleoside analogs at the +1 position of the DNA duplex relative to the Top1 cleavage site inhibits DNA religation. The reduced efficiency for Top1-mediated religation contributes to the anticancer activity of widely used anticancer drugs including fluoropyrimidines and gemcitabine. In the present study, we report that mismatched base pairs at the +1 position destabilize the duplex DNA components for a model Top1 cleavage complex formation even though one duplex component does not directly include a mismatched base pair. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal G-dU and G-FdU mismatched base pairs, but not a G-T mismatched base pair, increase flexibility at the Top1 cleavage site, and affect coupling between the regions required for the religation reaction to occur. These results demonstrate that substitution of dT analogs into the +1 position of the non-scissile strand alters the stability and flexibility of DNA contributing to the reduced efficiency for Top1-mediated DNA religation. These effects are inherent in the DNA duplex and do not require formation of the Top1:DNA complex. These results provide a biophysical rationale for the inhibition of Top1-mediated DNA religation by nucleotide analog substitution.
Prevention and Management of Bacterial Infections in Cirrhosis
Authors: Taneja Sunil K. , Dhiman Radha K.
Published: August 2011

Patients with cirrhosis of liver are at risk of developing serious bacterial infections due to altered immune defenses. Despite the widespread use of broad spectrum antibiotics, bacterial infection is responsible for up to a quarter of the deaths of patients with liver disease. Cirrhotic patients with gastrointestinal bleed have a considerably higher incidence of bacterial infections particularly spontaneous bacterial peritonitis. High index of suspicion is required to identify infections at an early stage in the absence of classical signs and symptoms. Energetic use of antibacterial treatment and supportive care has decreased the morbidity and mortality over the years; however, use of antibiotics has to be judicious, as their indiscriminate use can lead to antibiotic resistance with potentially disastrous consequences. Preventive strategies are still in evolution and involve use of antibiotic prophylaxis in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding and spontaneous bacterial infections and selective decontamination of the gut and oropharynx.
Cell-Specific Aptamers as Emerging Therapeutics
Authors: Meyer Cindy , Hahn Ulrich , Rentmeister Andrea
Published: August 2011

Aptamers are short nucleic acids that bind to defined targets with high affinity and specificity. The first aptamers have been selected about two decades ago by anin vitroprocess named SELEX (systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment). Since then, numerous aptamers with specificities for a variety of targets from small molecules to proteins or even whole cells have been selected. Their applications range from biosensing and diagnostics to therapy and target-oriented drug delivery. More recently, selections using complex targets such as live cells have become feasible. This paper summarizes progress in cell-SELEX techniques and highlights recent developments, particularly in the field of medically relevant aptamers with a focus on therapeutic and drug-delivery applications.
Immobilization of HRP Enzyme on Layered Double Hydroxides for Biosensor Application
Authors: Baccar Zouhair M. , Hafaiedh Imène
Published: August 2011

We present a new biosensor for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) detection. The biosensor was based on the immobilization of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme on layered double hydroxides- (LDH-) modified gold surface. The hydrotalcite LDH (Mg2Al) was prepared by coprecipitation in constant pH and in ambient temperature. The immobilization of the peroxidase on layered hybrid materials was realized via electrostatic adsorption autoassembly process. The detection of hydrogen peroxide was successfully observed in PBS buffer with cyclic voltammetry and the chronoamperometry techniques. A limit detection of 9 μM of H2O2was obtained with a good reproducibility. We investigate the sensitivity of our developed biosensor for H2O2detection in raw milk.
Time and Costs of Insulin Treatment in the Care of Newly Registered Type 2 Diabetes Patients in Diabetes Clinics across Japan (JDDM 22)
Authors: Oishi Mariko , Yokoyama Hiroki , Abe Nobuyuki , Iwasaki Kouichi , Okuguchi Fuminobu , Kawai Koichi , Sugimto Hidekatsu , Takamura Hiroshi , Takeda Hiroshi , Doi Kunihiro , Hirao Kouichi , Ikeda Shunya
Published: August 2011

Aims

To study the time and costs of insulin treatment of newly registered outpatients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods

In total, 355 patients with T2DM were registered on their first visit to one of 11 diabetes clinics across Japan. Of these, 313 were not being treated with insulin (the non-insulin group), whereas 42 were (the insulin group). In the insulin group, 26 were already on insulin at the first visit, whereas 16 were started on insulin after their first visit. The time and costs involved in the care were recorded over the following 5 months.

Results

In the first 3 months, considerable time was expended in both groups, with the time spent by physicians a little (but significantly) longer for the insulin group. The total time expended by all care providers was approximately 1.3-fold greater for the insulin compared with the non-insulin group. The total cost and total cost/min for the insulin group was almost twice that for the non-insulin group. Over the 5-month period, mean HbA1c in the non-insulin group improved from 8.0% to 6.5%, with 72% achieving a glycemic target of HbA1c ≤ 6.5%. In contrast, in the insulin group, mean HbA1c improved from 9.4% to 7.6%, with only 39% achieving the target. There were no reports of major hypoglycemic events in either group and body mass index remained stable.

Conclusions

The insulin therapy for T2DM can be achieved safely and effectively at outpatient clinics, even though it requires considerably more time and resources than non-insulin therapy.
Composition Operators Induced by Analytic Maps to the Polydisk
Authors: Izuchi Kei Ji , Nguyen Quang Dieu , Ohno Shûichi
Published: August 2011

We study properties of composition operators induced by symbols acting from the unit disk to the polydisk. This result will be involved in the investigation of weighted composition operators on the Hardy space on the unit disk and, moreover, be concerned with composition operators acting from the Bergman space to the Hardy space on the unit disk.
Level Raising and Anticyclotomic Selmer Groups for Hilbert Modular Forms of Weight Two
Authors: Nekovář Jan
Published: August 2011

In this article we refine the method of Bertolini and Darmon and prove several finiteness results for anticyclotomic Selmer groups of Hilbert modular forms of parallel weight two.
On the Notion of Visibility of Torsors
Authors: Agashe Amod
Published: August 2011

Let J be an abelian variety and A be an abelian subvariety of J , both defined over Q. Let x be an element of H 1(Q; A ). Then there are at least two definitions of x being visible in J : one asks that the torsor corresponding to x be isomorphic over Q to a subvariety of J , and the other asks that x be in the kernel of the natural map H1 (Q;A ) → H 1(Q; J ). In this article, we clarify the relation between the two definitions.
On the p-norm of an Integral Operator in the Half Plane
Authors: Liu Congwen , Zhou Lifang
Published: August 2011

We give a partial answer to a conjecture of Dostanić on the determination of the norm of a class of integral operators induced by the weighted Bergman projection in the upper half plane.
Randers Metrics of Constant Scalar Curvature
Authors: Esra Sengelen Sevim , Shen Zhongmin
Published: August 2011

Randers metrics are a special class of Finsler metrics. Every Randers metric can be expressed in terms of a Riemannian metric and a vector field via Zermelo navigation. In this paper, we show that a Randers metric has constant scalar curvature if the Riemannian metric has constant scalar curvature and the vector field is homothetic
On Certain Multivariable Subnormal Weighted Shifts and their Duals
Authors: Athavale Ameer , Patil Pramod
Published: August 2011

For every subnormalm-variable weighted shift S (with bounded positive weights), there is a corresponding positive Reinhardt measure μ supported on a compact Reinhardt subset ofℂm. We show that, form≥ 2, the dimensions of the 1-st cohomology vector spaces associated with the Koszul complexes of S and its dual S are different if a certain radial function happens to be integrable with respect to μ (which is indeed the case with many classical examples). In particular, S cannot in that case be similar to. We next prove that, form≥ 2, a Fredholm subnormalm-variable weighted shift S cannot be similar to its dual.
High concentrations of coarse particles emitted from a cattle feeding operation
Authors: Hiranuma N. , Brooks S. D. , Gramann J. , Auvermann B. W.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. Housing roughly 10 million head of cattle in the United States alone, open air cattle feedlots represent a significant but poorly constrained source of atmospheric particles. Here we present a comprehensive characterization of physical and chemical properties of particles emitted from a large representative cattle feedlot in the Southwest United States. In the summer of 2008, measurements and samplings were conducted at the upwind and downwind edges of the facility. A series of far-field measurements and samplings was also conducted 3.5 km north of the facility. Two instruments, a GRIMM Sequential Mobility Particle Sizer (SMPS) and a GRIMM Portable Aerosol Spectrometer (PAS), were used to measure particle size distributions over the range of 0.01 to 25 μm diameter. Raman microspectroscopy was used to determine the chemical composition of particles on a single particle basis. Volume size distributions of dust were dominated by coarse mode particles. Twenty-four hour averaged concentrations of PM10 (particulate matter with a diameter of 10 μm or less) were as high as 1200 μg m−3 during the campaign. The primary constituents of the particulate matter were carbonaceous materials, such as humic acid, water soluble organics, and less soluble fatty acids, including stearic acid and tristearin. A significant fraction of the organic particles was present in internal mixtures with salts. Basic characteristics such as size distribution and composition of agricultural aerosols were found to be different than the properties of those found in urban and semi-urban aerosols. Failing to account for such differences may lead to errors in estimates of aerosol effects on local air quality, visibility, and public health.
Radiative forcing estimates in coupled climate-chemistry models with emphasis on the role of the temporal variability
Authors: Déandreis C. , Balkanski Y. , Dufresne J. L. , Cozic A.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. This paper describes the impact on the sulphate aerosol radiative effects of coupling the radiative code of a global circulation model with a chemistry-aerosol module. With this coupling, temporal variations of sulphate aerosol concentrations influence the estimate of aerosol radiative impacts. Effects of this coupling have been assessed on net fluxes, radiative forcing and temperature for direct and first indirect effects of sulphate. The direct effect responds almost linearly to rapid changes in concentrations whereas, the first indirect effect shows a strong non-linearity. In particular, sulphate temporal variability causes a large modification of the short wave net fluxes at the top of the atmosphere (+0.24 and +0.22 W m−2 for respectively, the present and preindustrial periods that are about 30 % of the total radiative forcing of sulfate). The effect is particularly important in regions with low-level clouds and intermediate sulphate aerosol concentrations (from 0.1 to 0.8 μg (SO4) m−3 in our model). If computation of the aerosol direct radiative forcing is quite straightforward and has few effects; quantifying the first indirect radiative forcing requires first to tackle technical issues. We show that preindustrial sulphate concentrations have to be calculated with the same meteorological trajectory than that used for computing present ones. If this condition is not satisfied, the error on the estimation of the first indirect radiative forcing is of 60 %. Solutions are proposed to assess radiative forcing properly. In the reference method, the coupling between chemistry and climate results in a global average increase of 8 % in the first indirect radiative forcing. This change reaches 50 % in the most sensitive regions. However, the reference method is not suited to run long climate simulations. We present other methods that are simpler to implement in a coupled chemistry/climate model and that offer the possibility to assess radiative forcing.
Organic matter mineralization and trace element post-depositional redistribution in Western Siberia thermokarst lake sediments
Authors: Audry S. , Pokrovsky O. S. , Shirokova L. S. , Kirpotin S. N. , Dupré B.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. This study reports the very first results on high-resolution sampling of sediments and their porewaters from three thermokarst (thaw) lakes representing different stages of ecosystem development located within the Nadym-Pur interfluve of the Western Siberia plain. Up to present time, the lake sediments of this and other permafrost-affected regions remain unexplored regarding their biogeochemical behavior. The aim of this study was to (i) document the early diagenesic processes in order to assess their impact on the organic carbon stored in the underlying permafrost, and (ii) characterize the post-depositional redistribution of trace elements and their impact on the water column. The estimated organic carbon (OC) stock in thermokarst lake sediments of 14 ± 2 kg m−2 is low compared to that reported for peat soils from the same region and denotes intense organic matter (OM) mineralization. Mineralization of OM in the thermokarst lake sediments proceeds under anoxic conditions in all the three lakes. In the course of the lake development, a shift in mineralization pathways was evidenced from nitrate and sulfate to Fe- and Mn-oxyhydroxides as the main terminal electron acceptors in the early diagenetic reactions. This shift was promoted by the diagenetic consumption of nitrate and sulfate and their gradual depletion in the water column due to progressively decreasing frozen peat lixiviation occurring at the lake's borders. Trace elements were mobilized from host phases (OM and Fe- and Mn-oxyhydroxides) and partly sequestered in the sediment in the form of authigenic Fe-sulfides. Arsenic and Sb cycling was also closely linked to that of OM and Fe- and Mn-oxyhydroxides. Shallow diagenetic enrichment of particulate Sb was observed in the less mature stages. As a result of authigenic sulfide precipitation, the sediments of the early stage of ecosystem development were a sink for water column Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb and Sb. In contrast, at all stages of ecosystem development, the sediments were a source of dissolved Co, Ni and As to the water column. However, the concentrations of these trace elements remained low in the bottom waters, indicating that sorption processes on Fe-bounding particles and/or large-size organo-mineral colloids could mitigate the impact of post-depositional redistribution of toxic elements on the water column.
The role of karst in engineering and environmental geosciences
Authors: Ho H. C.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. Karst is a unique landform developed by soluble rock. It usually relates to the groundwater drainage system, and provides important water resources. Current researches indicate that karst is closely related to the Earth system and environmental protection, and it can also create potential natural hazards such as sinkhole flooding and land subsidence in urban area. Its relationship with hydrogeology has also been an important factor for studying water pollution and nutrient cycles in engineering geosciences and agricultural geology.
Cities as Organisms: Allometric Scaling of Urban Road Networks
Authors: Samaniego Horacio , Moses Melanie E.
Published: August 2011

We propose a statistical approach to determine the features of urban road networks affecting accessibility. Our approach is inspired by metabolic scaling theory (MST) in biology (West et al. 1997).

We study the structure of road networks across 425 cities of different sizes in the USA. We show decentralization as an important difference between urban road networks and biological vascular networks. Per capita road capacity is independent of the spatial extent of cities. Driving distances do depend on the size of the city, although not as much as is predicted by a completely centralized model. This intermediate pattern between centralized and decentralized extremes may reflect a mixture of different travel behaviors.

The approach presented here offers a novel macroscopic perspective on the differences between small and large cities and on how the road infrastructure and traffic might change as cities grow.
Sprawl and Accessibility
Authors: Bruegmann Robert
Published: August 2011

This essay argues that many of the assumptions that have been made about sprawl are misleading or just wrong. Nowhere has this been more the case than in debates about transportation and access. Because of this, it is not surprising that a good many of the policies advocated by proponents of Smart Growth would almost certainly lead to reduced mobility and impaired accessibility for a large part of the population. At very least, the debates over sprawl have pitted private vs. public transportation in a way that has contributed to serious underfunding of transportation infrastructure of all kinds.
Intraretinal cyst secondary to longstanding retinal detachment
Authors: Verdaguer Paula , Nadal Jeroni
Published: August 2011

Purpose

To describe the diagnosis and management of an intraretinal cyst.

Case Report

A 34-year-old man with a history of retinal detachment presented sudden loss of vision in the left eye. Visual acuity was hand movement. Examination revealed hematic vitreous haze and ultrasound showed a rounded mobile object in the vitreous cavity.

Results

After differential diagnosis ruled out cysticercosis, pars plana vitrectomy revealed a neovascularized intraretinal macrocyst attached to a posterior flap of a 13-year-old retinal tear. Retinotomy and retinectomy were performed, removing this cyst located in the upper retina together with a portion of detached retina. At 1 year, the retina had adapted and the vitreous cavity was clear. Final visual acuity was 18/20.

Conclusions

Intraretinal cysts are usually asymptomatic and associated with long-standing retinal detachment, as seen in our clinical case. Periodic fundus examination is essential for their detection. Surgical treatment of the underlying condition usually leads to complete resolution.
Intravitreal bevacizumab for choroidal neovascularization secondary to laser photocoagulation for central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Pikkel Joseph , Rumelt Shimon
Published: August 2011

Purpose

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a rare complication after laser photocoagulation for disorders such as central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

Methods

We report 2 patients who developed CNV after laser treatment for persistent CSC and were treated by 3 1.25-mg intravitreal injections of bevacizumab in 1-month intervals.

Results

In both patients, best-corrected visual acuity improved from 20/120 to 20/80 and from counting fingers at 3 feet to 20/100 over 12 months of follow-up.

Conclusions

The favorable outcome suggests that intravitreal injection of bevacizumab may be beneficial for patients who develop CNV after laser photocoagulation. The favorable outcome may be related to the limited pathology.
Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Antagonists in Acute Coronary Syndromes Undergoing PCI: A Long Way to Select Optimal Agent and Route
Authors: Puddu Paolo Emilio , Schiariti Michele , Bugiardini Raffaele
Published: August 2011

Antiplatelet treatment in patients with an acute coronary syndrome (ACS), without or with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), forces to keep the balance between potential threats and optimal clinical advantages. Apart from clopidogrel, glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa inhibitors (abciximab and 2 small molecules, tirofiban and eptifibatide) have come to the clinical scene. Recent evidence (2009–2011) is reviewed pointing to pharmacoeconometric considerations of concern in times of budget restrictions worldwide. In ACS, when clopidogrel plus aspirin are on, there might be no advantage to add small molecules. Whereas in STEMI patients treated by primary PCI, all 3 GP IIb/IIIa antagonists might be superimposable, when only ACS is present and PCI is elective, definite distinction among the 3 agents, both pharmacoeconomically and pharmacodynamically, might be invoked. There are still points open to debate. Among these the route (upstream versus downstream) is still a matter of uncertainties. Moreover, theoretically, there might be differences not only between abciximab and small molecules (mostly superimposable) but also between tirofiban and eptifibatide (the former being potentially more potent). Thus, a long way is needed before a prominent agent among GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors may be selected. The game is still open, a role will be played soon by new agents.
Endocrine Alterations Are the Main Determinants of Cardiac Remodelling in Restrictive Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Carlomagno Guido , Mercurio Valentina , Ruvolo Antonio , Senatore Ignazio , Halinskaya Irina , Fazio Valeria , Affuso Flora , Fazio Serafino
Published: August 2011

Objective. Anorexia nervosa is a condition of reduced hemodynamic load, characterized by varying degrees of cardiac remodelling, only in part related to reduced body mass; the mechanism for such variability, as well as its clinical significance, remains unknown. Aim of the study was to assess the possible influence of a great number of clinical, biochemical, and endocrine factors on cardiovascular parameters in restrictive anorexia nervosa.
Method. Twenty-five female patients hospitalized for restrictive anorexia nervosa underwent extensive cardiovascular, clinical, and biochemical evaluation. Results. Height-adjusted and cardiac workload-matched left ventricular mass was significantly related to several endocrine parameters, blood pressure, and vasoreactivity. On multivariate analysis, IGF/GH ratio and systolic blood pressure were the only independent predictors of height-adjusted ventricular mass (adj- ; ); when matching for cardiac workload, left ventricular mass was independently predicted only by GH and FT3 levels. All effects were independent of patient's weight and BMI. Conclusions. Indices of endocrine impairment seem to be the most relevant determinants of left ventricular hypotrophy in anorectic patients, apparently independent of reduced hemodynamic load and BMI. In particular, IGF/GH ratio and FT3 seem to particularly affect left ventricular mass in this population.
Numerical Solution of the Kirchhoff Plate Bending Problem with BEM
Authors: Zozulya V. V.
Published: August 2011

Direct approach based on Betty's reciprocal theorem is employed to obtain a general formulation of Kirchhoff plate bending problems in terms of the boundary integral equation (BIE) method. For spatial discretization a collocation method with linear boundary elements (BEs) is adopted. Analytical formulas for regular and divergent integrals calculation are presented. Numerical calculations that illustrate effectiveness of the proposed approach have been done.
The Results of Vascular and Biliary Variations in Turks Liver Donors: Comparison with Others
Authors: Ozsoy Mustafa , Zeytunlu Murat , Kilic Murat , Alper Mehmet , Sozbilen Murat
Published: August 2011

Objective. To evaluate liver anatomy with a view to access unerring surgery in liver donors. Summary Background Data. Liver transplantation, the unique curative treatment option for end-stage hepatic failure, has become routinely practicable, which was inconceivable in the past. But, the vascular and biliary anatomy of the liver has not been completely disclosed yet. Methods. From 1994 to 2009, we have done a research on 496 liver donors. The data were accumulated and categorized according to the most widely used classification systems. Results. Of 496 liver donors, 393 (79.1%) underwent the right donor hepatectomy, 98 (19.9%) were performed the left lateral segmentectomy, and 5 donors (1%) underwent the left donor hepatectomy surgery. Given the data regarding to 398 liver donors undergone right and left donor hepatectomy, arteries, bile ducts, and portal vein showed classical anatomy in 107 (21.6%) donors. Variations in all three systems were found in 16 donors (3.2%). In the remaining 275 donors (75.2%), anatomical variations were found at either of arterial, biliary, or portal system. Conclusions. Our study could come up to actual estimate in liver anatomy as any of donors have not been removed in our institute due to high hilar dissection technique.
Anorectal Motility and Sensation Abnormalities and Its Correlation with Anorectal Symptoms in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Sallam Hanaa S. , McNearney Terry A. , Chen Jiande Z.
Published: August 2011

Gastrointestinal (GI) hypomotility and symptoms are common in Scleroderma (SSc) patients yet so far uncorrelated. Eight SSc patients and matched controls were queried about their GI dysmotility symptoms and quality of life (QoL) and underwent anorectal motility and sensory tests. Specific scoring systems were developed for anorectal symptoms and anorectal dysmotility. We found that (1) the SSc patients showed low QoL and marked overall GI symptoms. The most common anorectal symptom was incomplete bowel movement (50%). (2) Compared to normal controls, SSc patients showed impaired anorectal pressures, sensations, and rectal compliance (P≤.01
for each). (3) The anorectal motility/sensation abnormality score was robustly correlated with the total anorectal symptom score (rs=.78,
P=.02). In conclusion, scleroderma patients have impaired anorectal motor and sensory functions, and the abnormality score of these anorectal functions is correlated with the total anorectal symptoms score. These scoring systems may assist clinicians in predicting dysmotility based on patient symptoms.
Late-Presenting Left-Sided Morgagni Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia in a 9-Year-Old Male
Authors: Kim Jennifer M. , Couluris Marisa , Schnapf Bruce M.
Published: August 2011

Congenital diaphragmatic hernias are common, primarily occurring through the foramen of Bochdalek. However, in contrast, defects through the foramen of Morgagni are much more rare. When late presentations occur, patients may be asymptomatic or may be critically ill with respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms. In this paper, we present a 9-year-old male who presented with recurrent, vague abdominal pain, and a previously normal abdominal CT scan. Initial investigation via an abdominal radiograph demonstrated an unexpected left lower lobe abnormality. Further evaluation and management revealed this abnormality to be an unusual left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia that appeared through the retrosternal foramen of Morgagni, a rare occurrence.
c-kit and bcl-2 Are Not Useful Markers in Differentiating Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma from Polymorphous Low-Grade Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Meer Shabnum , Singh Sunita , Altini Mario
Published: August 2011

Aims. To evaluate the immunohistochemical expression of bcl-2 and c-kit proteins in the salivary gland tumors, adenoid cystic carcinoma, and polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma with a view to tumor differentiation. Methods. Immunohistochemical studies were performed on 29 adenoid cystic carcinoma and 23 polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma archival cases with bcl-2 and c-kit antibodies using standard procedures, and the data were statistically analyzed. Results. The difference in bcl-2 expression in adenoid cystic carcinoma and polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma was not statistically significant. Whilst the difference in c-kit expression was statistically significant (), the difference proved small so as to be of no practical or diagnostic importance. Moderate to strong immunostaining was noted in adenoid cystic carcinoma with c-kit, the pattern and intensity varying within different histological subtypes, being greater the more aggressive the tumor subtype. Conclusions. Bcl-2 and c-kit are not useful as immunohistochemical markers in differentiating adenoid cystic carcinoma from polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma.
Long-Term Followup of Patients with Active J-Reservoirs after Restorative Proctocolectomy for Ulcerative Colitis with regard to Reservoir Function, Mucosal Changes, and Quality of Life
Authors: Røkke Ola , Iversen Knut , Olsen Torill , Ristesund Sølvi-May , Eide Geir Egil , Turowski Gitta Erika
Published: August 2011

Objective. Study the functional results and mucosal changes in the ileal pouch after restorative proctocolectomy with J-reservoir for ulcerative colitis. Material and Methods. Followup study of 125 patients with J-reservoir with one disease-specific- and one general (SF-36) quality of life-questionnaire, rectoscopy with biopsies, and stool samples to evaluate inflammation, dysplasia, presence of Helicobacter pylori and calprotectin level. Results. Fourteen J-reservoirs were removed or deactivated, leaving 111 patients for followup. The followup time was 6.8 (1–15) years. 87.4% of the patients were satisfied. 93.1% had some kind of functional restriction: food- (75.5%), social- (28.9%), physical- (37%) or sexual restriction (15.3%). 18.6% had often or sometimes faecal incontinence. Low daytime faecal frequency was associated with good quality of life. 13 patients (12.6%) had a less favourable result. There was no pouch-dysplasia. Calprotectin levels were increased in patients with visible pouch inflammation or history of pouchitis. HP was diagnosed by RUT in 42.3%, but was not associated with inflammation or pouchitis. Conclusions. Most patients were satisfied with the J-reservoir in spite of a high frequency of various restrictions. 12.6% (13 patients) had a less favourable functional result, partly due to a high frequency of defecations, pain, pouchitis and inflammation.
Is Surveillance Endoscopy Necessary after Colectomy in Ulcerative Colitis?
Authors: Shuno Yasutaka , Hata Keisuke , Sunami Eiji , Shinozaki Masaru , Kawai Kazushige , Kojima Tetsu , Tsurita Giichiro , Hiyoshi Masaya , Tsuno Nelson H. , Kitayama Joji , Nagawa Hirokazu
Published: August 2011

The role of surveillance endoscopic followup in colectomized patients with long standing total colitis is controversial. Here, we aimed to clarify its usefulness for the early detection of dysplasia and cancer in this group of patients. Ninety-seven colectomised UC patients followedup by surveillance endoscopy were retrospectively investigated by reviewing the pathological reports. Patients had received either subtotal colectomy and ileo-rectal anastomosis (IRA) or total proctocolectomy and ileal anal anastomosis (IPAA). Definite dysplasia was diagnosed in 4 patients, who had received IRA; among them, 2 were carcinoma with submucosal invasion, and one was a high-grade dysplasia. Postoperative surveillance endoscopy is useful for the detection of early cancer in the remaining colonic mucosa of UC patients, and those receiving IRA, in which rectal mucosa is left intact, would be good candidates. However, its effectiveness for patients receiving IPAA, in which the rectal mucosa is resected, needs further investigation.