bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Enter the dragoness”: firm growth, finance,guanxi, and gender in China
Authors: Hussain Javed G. , Scott Jonathan M. , Harrison Richard T. , Millman Cindy
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this exploratory paper is to theorise and examine gender differences in the impact of financial capital on Chinese firms' growth, and investigate the role ofguanxi(connections and networks) in the process of obtaining finance.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire is used to collect comprehensive financial data from 18 women to 69 men, which is analysed empirically.

Findings

Women appear to be no more disadvantaged from obtaining finance than men in China and in some respects appear to be in a better position. Both women‐ and men‐led firms are significantly stronger in relation to having access to enough finance to grow than at the start‐up phase. A majority of participants in this study usedguanxito access finance. Furthermore, the paper finds thatguanxiis used equally by men and women, and thatguanxi‐sourced finance comprised a significant proportion of the overall capital obtained.

Research limitations/implications

One major limitation of the study is that, of the 87 questionnaires returned, 21 per cent are women and 79 per cent are men and, although the findings are not representative or generalisable, the results do suggest a number of possible avenues for future research.

Originality/value

The paper has illuminated the under‐explored area of the financing of growth in women‐led firms in China. This research agenda is particularly important because small‐ and medium‐sized enterprise finance in China is a key need‐to‐know area, there is a paucity of specific research on financing women entrepreneurs in China and of the phenomenal rise of women's entrepreneurship in China.
Are pictures worth a thousand room nights? Success factors for hotel web site design
Authors: Bender Stringam Betsy , Gerdes John
Published: February 2010

Purpose

Consumers as well as hotel web sites are evolving, changing the requirements and expectations for online hotel room reservations. Building on previous research, the purpose of this paper is to explore hotel web site design's influence on site appeal and likelihood to purchase.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology incorporates both qualitative and quantitative methods. College‐age participants visited hotel web sites detailing their impressions. Using a grounded theory‐based approach and regression analysis, web design factors are identified and assessed.

Findings

The paper finds a preference for enhanced graphical web site design. This finding contradicts prior studies. The paper also finds continued importance in: ease of use, brand loyalty site content, and site aesthetics.

Research limitations/implications

This paper uses a combination of qualitative and quantitative data. The coding of qualitative data can be affected by researcher bias. This paper also suffers from an age and geographic population bias. While this paper suggests that certain factors influence the likelihood to purchase, more extensive definition of these factors is needed. In addition, several factors, which were important in previous studies, have incongruous findings in this paper and need further examination.

Practical implications

The results give direction to the design of effective hotel web sites.

Originality/value

Rapidly evolving internet technologies and consumer behavior generate a need for ongoing research to consumer behavior. A study with valid insight and information completed previously may not accurately reflect today's internet hotel market. The findings are significant: they suggest there has been a shift in consumer preferences.
A comparative study of web site performance
Authors: Lee JungKook , Morrison Alastair M.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a set of criteria and an instrument for evaluating upscale hotel web sites and test these in a comparative study of South Korean and the US upscale hotel web sites.

Design/methodology/approach

The hotel web sites are assessed by a team of 25 trained evaluators. The study measures and compares the overall effectiveness of upscale hotel web sites and checks the correlation between overall web site effectiveness and size of upscale hotels in South Korea and the US by using balanced scorecard (BSC) approach. To evaluate and analyze upscale hotel web site performance or effectiveness, 14 upscale hotels in both South Korea and the USA are selected. These hotels are selected through Expedia.com or Hotels.com and are rated as either four‐ to five‐star.

Findings

The results show that there is no significant difference in the overall effectiveness of the upscale hotel web sites in South Korea and the USA. However, the web sites of the Korean upscale hotels perform slightly better than their US counterparts. The main conclusion drawn is that most upscale hotels in both countries are not effectively using web sites from the marketing and upscale hotel perspectives.

Originality/value

The first objective of this research study is to develop a web site evaluation tool for upscale hotels. The modified BSC approach for performance measurement is adopted as the overall framework for the evaluation process. Therefore, BSC performance measurements are adapted and developed to reflect the specific context of upscale hotel online marketing, with an upscale hotel perspective being added to the critical success factors. Also, this study compares actual upscale hotels web page in two different countries and that approach is unique.
The future of destination marketing: the case of Cyprus
Authors: Machlouzarides Haris
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend the understanding about the augmented destination marketing process that has resulted from the introduction of electronic marketing methods. It attempts to identify the factors that contribute to the process of destination marketing by introducing an integrated marketing model. This study aims to expand the domain of knowledge about the tourist buying behavior by putting forward a framework to manage the destination marketing process for Cyprus.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design adopted for this study is an exploratory one, deploying the open‐ended approach of grounded theory. A number of expert interviews are performed with senior marketing executives at the Cyprus Tourism Organization (CTO), while an extensive study of the existing procedures that are being followed in carrying out the CTO's marketing department's functions facilitated further information analysis. The actual users' expectations are derived from a web‐user behavior analysis, reflecting upon relevant marketing theories and information systems approaches.

Findings

The paper provides insights into the augmented process of destination marketing planning and suggests specific ways through which National Tourism Organizations can manage it efficiently. The contribution of this study towards building on the body of knowledge is significant as the process of destination marketing planning is characterized by complexity due to the diverse interests of the stakeholders involved.

Originality/value

This paper successfully introduces the concept of integrated marketing as the sole enabler for the CTO to maximize the effectiveness of its marketing efforts worldwide.
Disaster impact analysis based on inter‐relationship of critical infrastructure and associated industries
Authors: Ho Oh Eun , Deshmukh Abhijeet , Hastak Makarand
Published: February 2010

Purpose

Natural disasters, such as Hurricane Katrina (the most destructive natural calamity in US history), have destructive impact on residents, critical infrastructure, as well as, functions and services of associated industries in the affected areas. In addition, due to a lack of both understanding of natural disaster impacts and preparedness to the hurricane, it was revealed that the emergency‐related organizations were not prepared to maximize the use of the critical infrastructure to mitigate the impacts. The purpose of this paper is to help those organizations have more understanding of disaster impacts and facilitate their decision making in order to prepare better mitigation plans.

Design/methodology/approach

A disaster impact mechanism and inter‐relationships based on the main functions of associated industries are derived through an extensive literature review and case analyses. Based on these inter‐relationships, a decision support system is developed and evaluated using a winter flood disaster event in the USA as a case study. The level of inter‐relation is chosen as a metric to measure the weights for inter‐relationships between critical infrastructure and associated industries. These weights are obtained through expert interviews and surveys.

Findings

The healthcare industry, for example, is revealed as the most dependent industry and the electricity and transportation infrastructure are the most significant to the communities and the associated industries.

Originality/value

The cell model of the disaster impact mechanism, the inter‐relationship approach, and the use of the concept of level‐of‐service in this paper will contribute to improving the methodology in the area of disaster impact analysis and mitigation.
Resourcing for a resilient post‐disaster reconstruction environment
Authors: Chang Yan , Wilkinson Suzanne , Seville Erica , Potangaroa Regan
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the resourcing issues that concern the provision of resources required for reconstruction projects after a disaster and to enable them to be integrated into a holistic planning process.

Design/methodology/approach

Triangulation methodology is adopted in this paper including both quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative approach, namely statistic analysis with the aid of questionnaires and SPSS is employed to identify the key factors affecting resource availability in post‐disaster reconstruction situations. The qualitative semi‐structured interviews and desk reviews of government and media documents are conducted to further interpret outcomes in the questionnaire session.

Findings

Based on empirical research, the major finding of the paper is that in order to arrive at a resilient and sustainable built environment after a disaster, resourcing efforts should be made around four components – resourcing facilitator: legislation and policy; resourcing implementer: construction industry; resourcing platform: construction market; and resourcing access: transportation system.

Originality/value

The original part of this paper is in raising the importance of resourcing for achieving a resilient post‐disaster built environment, and in presenting a thorough overhaul of the resourcing components. The paper also offers a vision of comprehensive planning and preparedness to facilitate resourcing operations in post‐disaster reconstruction; pinpoints possible constraints inherent in post‐disaster resourcing environment; and provides a direction‐setting framework to achieve the vision with built environment resilience considerations incorporated.
An examination of decision making in post disaster housing reconstruction
Authors: Hayles Carolyn S.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the key challenges facing non‐governmental organisations (NGOs) during decision making in post disaster housing reconstruction.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive literature review was undertaken to establish the key challenges facing disaster management practitioners. Following this review, practitioners from leading NGOs were asked to discuss their experiences of post disaster housing reconstruction including the issues of hazard risk and appropriate mitigation including increasing vulnerability due to climate change, end‐users and stakeholder consultation in planning and design, technological solutions, and constructing the build; as these were identified in the literature as the principal challenges being faced by practitioners in the pursuit of sustainable construction.

Findings

The research results presented in this paper provide clear insights into the decision‐making practices of these NGOs and establish where improvements need to be made. The results also establish that knowledge management activities need to be more focused to ensure that lessons learnt previously are implemented elsewhere; critical in hazard mitigation and meeting the challenges of increased vulnerability due to climate change.

Research limitations/implications

The paper includes recommendations for improved knowledge transfer and dissemination of “lessons learnt” in order to capture knowledge gained on projects. Future research will build on this through a detailed examination of the project management process applied to recently completed case studies. Key intervention points in the life cycle of projects will be identified and anticipated knowledge requirements for each stage mapped.

Originality/value

Interviews with practitioners reporting first hand on the challenges they face in the field. Useful for those supporting practitioners through research and development as well as donor organisations as it has been revealed that a lot of issues arise as a result of the way projects are funded.
Identification of genes preferentially methylated in hepatitis C virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Deng Ying‐Bing , Nagae Genta , Midorikawa Yutaka , Yagi Koichi , Tsutsumi Shuichi , Yamamoto Shogo , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Kokudo Norihiro , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Kaneda Atsushi
Published: February 2010

Chronic infections by hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) appear to be the most significant causes of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Aberrant promoter methylation is known to be deeply involved in cancer, including in HCC. In this study, we analyzed aberrant promoter methylation by methylated DNA immunoprecipitation‐on‐chip analysis on a genome‐wide scale in six HCCs including three HBV‐related and three HCV‐related HCCs, six matched noncancerous liver tissues, and three normal liver tissues. Candidate genes with promoter methylation were detected more frequently in HCV‐related HCC. Candidate genes methylated preferentially to HBV‐related or HCV‐related HCCs were detected and selected, and methylation levels of the selected genes were validated by quantitative methylation analysis using MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry using 125 liver tissue samples, including 61 HCCs (28 HBV‐related HCCs and 33 HCV‐related HCCs) and 59 matched noncancerous livers, and five normal livers. Among analyzed genes, preferential methylation in HBV‐related HCC was validated in one gene only. However, 15 genes were found to be methylated preferentially in HCV‐related HCC, which was independent from age. Hierarchical clustering of HCC using these genes stratified HCV‐related HCC as a cluster of frequently methylated samples. The 15 genes included genes inhibitory to cancer‐related signaling such as RAS/RAF/ERK and Wnt/β‐catenin pathways. Methylation of dual specificity phosphatase 4 (DUSP4), cytochrome P450, family 24, subfamily A, polypeptide 1 (CYP24A1), and natriuretic peptide receptor A (NPR1) significantly correlated with recurrence‐free survival. It was indicated that genes methylated preferentially in HCV‐related HCC exist, and that DNA methylation might play an important role in HCV‐related HCC by silencing cancer‐related pathway inhibitors, and might perhaps be useful as a prognostic marker. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Review of phenotypic markers used in flow cytometric analysis of MGUS and MM, and applicability of flow cytometry in other plasma cell disorders
Authors: Raja Karthick R. M. , Kovarova Lucie , Hajek Roman
Published: March 2010

Flow cytometric immunophenotyping is considered an indispensable tool for the diagnosis, classification and monitoring of disease in monoclonal gammopathies. The clinical sensitivity of flow cytometry is comparable with advanced molecular methods. Clinical application of flow cytometry in monoclonal gammopathies has various dimensions, such as differential diagnosis of malignant plasma cell disorder from reactive plasmacytosis, identifying the progression risk in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) and asymptomatic multiple myeloma (MM), and minimal residual disease detection. Flow cytometry‐based clonality assessment with immunophenotyping encourages and enables the most stringent method of diagnosis and follow‐up. The objective of this review is to update the malignant plasma cells phenotypic profile of MGUS and MM. The most comprehensive antigens, such as CD19, CD27, CD28, CD45, CD56 and CD117, play a significant role in the characterization of normal and malignant plasma cells. Several research groups described the putative phenotype of myeloma cell progenitors, but no remarkable suggestion could be made because of disparity. This review also focuses on the association of malignant phenotypic markers and chromosomal aberrations that identify the specific prognostic features in monoclonal gammopathies.
Asparaginase‐related venous thrombosis in UKALL 2003‐ re‐exposure to asparaginase is feasible and safe
Authors: Qureshi Amrana , Mitchell Chris , Richards Sue , Vora Ajay , Goulden Nick
Published: March 2010

We report the incidence and outcome of venous thrombosis (VT) in the UK acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) 2003 trial. VT occurred in 59/1824 (3·2%) patients recruited over 5 years with 90% occurring during a period of Asparagine depletion. Pegylated Escherichia Coli Asparaginase (Peg‐ASP) 1000 units/m2 was used throughout. Thirty‐four children received further Peg‐ASP, most with concurrent heparin prophylaxis. There were no episodes of bleeding or recurrent thrombosis. Optimal Asparagine depletion is central to success of modern regimes for treatment of ALL. This report confirms a significant risk of thrombosis with such therapy, but demonstrates that re‐exposure to Asparaginase is feasible and safe.
Ant nest location, soil nutrients and nutrient uptake by ant‐associated plants: does extrafloral nectar attract ant nests and thereby enhance plant nutrition?
Authors: Wagner Diane , Fleur Nicklen E.
Published: March 2010

1.As central place foragers, ants accumulate organic debris near their nests. Consequently, soil nutrient stocks are often enriched near the nest site. We investigated the hypothesis that plant‐derived food sources, such as extrafloral nectar (EFN), can encourage soil‐dwelling ant colonies to nest near the plant, thereby inadvertently providing the plant with an additional source of mineral nutrients. The study focused on a population ofAcacia constricta, a North American shrub bearing EFNs.

2.Several lines of evidence supported the notion that food rewards drew ant nests close toA. constrictaplants. Firstly, ant species that visit EFNs nested significantly closer toA. constrictaplants than would be expected by chance, whereas this was not the case for two ant species that do not visit EFNs. Secondly,A. constrictaplants with an ant nest occurring naturally underneath the canopy had greater foliar volume, more EFNs per leaf and more EFNs per cm of leaf rachis than plants lacking an ant nest under the canopy. Thirdly, experimental supplementation of the nectar resources on acacias led to the establishment of significantly more new nests near the plant, relative to controls. However, nectar supplementation did not affect acacia seed production within the year of the study.

3.Soil from the nests of three, EFN‐visiting ant species contained higher average stocks of most mineral nutrients than nearby soils outside the influence of the nest.

4.To test whetherA. constrictacan assimilate the nutrients in ant nests, we fed15N‐labelled food toDorymyrmexsp. (smithicomplex) workers nesting near acacias. Twenty‐four days later, the leaves of acacias with an experimentally fed ant colony under the canopy contained significantly higher15N and %N than acacias without a nest under the canopy, indicating that acacias assimilated and benefited from nutrients derived from ants.

5.Synthesis.The results indicate that nectar resources can attract the nests of some ant species, and that plants may benefit from access to soil nutrients derived from ant nests. Our data support the hypothesis that EFNs may confer nutritive, as well as protective, benefits.
Complex interplay between the LysR‐type regulator AtzR and its binding site mediates atzDEF activation in response to two distinct signals
Authors: Porrúa Odil , Platero Ana Isabel , Santero Eduardo , Del Solar Gloria , Govantes Fernando
Published: March 2010

AtzR is a LysR‐type regulator responsible for activation of the cyanuric acid utilization operon atzDEF. AtzR binds the PatzDEF promoter region at a strong recognition element, designated the repressor binding site, and a weaker binding determinant, the activator binding site (ABS). AtzR activates transcription in response to two dissimilar signals, nitrogen limitation and cyanuric acid. In the present work we analyse the structure and function of the cis‐acting elements involved in AtzR activation of atzDEF. Hydroxyl radical footprinting assays revealed that the ABS is composed of three functional subsites spaced at one helix‐turn intervals. Two modes of interaction with the ABS are detected in vitro: AtzR binds at the ABS‐2 and ABS‐3 subsites in the absence of inducer, and relocates to interact with the ABS‐1 and ABS‐2 subsites in the presence of cyanuric acid. In vivo mutational analysis indicates that ABS‐1 and ABS‐2 are required for full PatzDEF activation in all conditions. In contrast, ABS‐3 acts as a ‘subunit trap’ that hinders productive AtzR interactions with ABS‐1 and ABS‐2. Our results strongly suggest an activation model in which cyanuric acid and nitrogen limitation cooperate to reposition AtzR from an inactive, ABS‐3 bound configuration to an active, ABS‐1‐ and ABS‐2‐bound configuration.
Genetics professionals' experiences with grief and loss: implications for support and training
Authors: Geller G , Rushton CH , Francomano C , Kolodner K , Bernhardt BA
Published: February 2010

Geller G, Rushton CH, Francomano C, Kolodner K, Bernhardt BA. Genetics professionals' experiences with grief and loss: implications for support and training.

This study was designed to determine the degree to which clinical genetics professionals are comfortable with grief and loss, whether discomfort with grief and loss is associated with clinician distress, and what factors predict comfort with grief and loss for the purpose of developing recommendations for support and training. We surveyed 300 clinical geneticists (MDs), genetic counselors (GCs) and genetic nurses randomly selected from their professional associations. Out of 225 eligible clinicians, 172 completed surveys (76% response rate). The vast majority of respondents have clinical interactions with patients and families who are experiencing grief, loss and/or death. However, nearly 20% of respondents reported that they did not feel ‘comfortable in the presence of grief and loss'. Twenty‐nine percent of respondents disagree or strongly disagree that they ‘have been adequately trained to address issues of death, dying, grief/bereavement, and end of life care’. Reported discomfort with grief and loss was strongly correlated with clinician distress. Predictors of comfort with grief and loss included perceived adequacy of training, tolerance for uncertainty, significant personal experiences of loss and deriving meaning from patient care. In conclusion, as follows. A significant minority of clinical genetics professionals experience discomfort in the presence of grief and loss, and feel inadequately prepared for such experiences. Greater attention should be paid to training clinicians in how to deal with grief and loss, and supporting them through such difficult experiences in an effort to reduce their distress.
Refining the phenotype associated with MEF2C haploinsufficiency
Authors: Novara F , Beri S , Giorda R , Ortibus E , Nageshappa S , Darra F , Dalla Bernardina B , Zuffardi O , Van Esch H
Published: February 2010

Novara F, Beri S, Giorda R, Ortibus E, Nageshappa S, Darra F, dalla Bernardina B, Zuffardi O, Van Esch H. Refining the phenotype associated with MEF2C haploinsufficiency.

Recently, submicroscopic deletions of the 5q14.3 region have been described in patients with severe mental retardation (MR), stereotypic movements, epilepsy and cerebral malformations. Further delineation of a critical region of overlap in these patients pointed to MEF2C as the responsible gene. This finding was further reinforced by the identification of a nonsense mutation in a patient with a similar phenotype. In brain, MEF2C is essential for early neurogenesis, neuronal migration and differentiation. Here we present two additional patients with severe MR, autism spectrum disorder and epilepsy, carrying a very small deletion encompassing the MEF2C gene. This finding strengthens the role of this gene in severe MR, and enables further delineation of the clinical phenotype.
Novel splice‐site mutations and a large intragenic deletion in PLA2G6 associated with a severe and rapidly progressive form of infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy
Authors: Tonelli A , Romaniello R , Grasso R , Cavallini A , Righini A , Bresolin N , Borgatti R , Bassi MT
Published: February 2010

Tonelli A, Romaniello R, Grasso R, Cavallini A, Righini A, Bresolin N, Borgatti R, Bassi MT. Novel splice‐site mutations and a large intragenic deletion in PLA2G6 associated with a severe and rapidly progressive form of infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy.

Infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy, INAD, is a severe progressive psychomotor disorder with infantile onset and characterized by the presence of axonal spheroids throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems. A subset of INAD patients shows also brain iron accumulation which represents instead the distinctive feature of the idiopathic neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation, NBIA. These diseases share the same causative gene, PLA2G6, encoding iPLA2‐VIA, a calcium‐independent phospholipase. Mutations that lead to a complete absence of protein are associated with a severe INAD profile, while compound heterozygous mutations with possibly a residual protein activity are instead associated with the less severe NBIA phenotype. Here we describe two INAD patients both with an unusually rapid disease progression and a peculiar neuroradiological presentation in one of them. Compound heterozygosity for a large intragenic deletion and a nonsense mutation was found in one of them while the other is carrying two novel splice‐site mutations. Breakpoint‐sequence analysis suggests a non‐allelic‐homologous‐recombination (NAHR) event, probably underlying the rearrangement. These findings, while supporting the genotype–phenotype correlation already observed in INAD patients, provide the first sequence characterization of a genomic rearrangement in PLA2G6 gene, thus orienting the search for missing mutant alleles in PLA2G6 related diseases.
Parental origin of apparently balanced de novo complex chromosomal rearrangements investigated by microdissection, whole genome amplification, and microsatellite‐mediated haplotype analysis
Authors: Grossmann V , Höckner M , Karmous‐Benailly H , Liang D , Puttinger R , Quadrelli R , Röthlisberger B , Huber A , Wu L , Spreiz A , Fauth C , Erdel M , Zschocke J , Utermann G , Kotzot D
Published: February 2010

Grossmann V, Höckner M, Karmous‐Benailly H, Liang D, Puttinger R, Quadrelli R, Röthlisberger B, Huber A, Wu L, Spreiz A, Fauth C, Erdel M, Zschocke J, Utermann G, Kotzot D. Parental origin of apparently balanced de novo complex chromosomal rearrangements investigated by microdissection, whole genome amplification, and microsatellite‐mediated haplotype analysis.

Complex chromosomal rearrangements (CCRs) are rare findings in clinical cytogenetics. As a result of the high risk of unbalanced segregation, familial cases are even rarer and maternal transmission occurs more frequently than paternal transmission. Analogous to Drosophila and mice, as well as to CCRs involving the Y chromosome or a clinically relevant associated deletion, a preferential origin in spermatogenesis has been assumed but not proven directly and systematically thus far. Here, we investigated three healthy adults, one healthy child, and one child with multiple congenital anomalies and various balanced de novo CCRs. The analyses were performed in each case on 10 copies of a derivative chromosome and their normal homologs by glass‐needle microdissection, whole genome amplification (WGA), and microsatellite‐mediated haplotype analysis. With respect to the number of chromosomes involved in each case and in all cases together, the number of chromosomal segments in each case and in all cases together, and the number of breakpoints in each case and in all cases together, the conformity for paternal origin of all derivative chromosomes and maternal origin of their normal homologs makes formation in paternal germline more likely than a postzygotic formation with an accidental uniformity. In conclusion, our results confirm the preferential formation of de novo balanced CCRs in the paternal germline.
Evolution of reproductive effort in viscous populations: the importance of population dynamics
Authors: LION S.
Published: March 2010

I present two ecological models for the evolution of reproductive effort in viscous populations with empty sites. In contrast with previous studies, I show that limited dispersal needs not have a positive effect on the evolutionarily stable allocation of resources to fecundity versus survival. Rather, depending on the feedback between the trait and the population dynamics, population viscosity may have no effect or even lead to a decrease in the evolutionarily stable reproductive effort when individuals can degrade their environment during their lifetime. I show that the different evolutionary outcomes can be explained by the asymmetry in the level of kin competition resulting from investing into juveniles or into adults.
Clinical management of short children with low serum immunoglobulin but no immunodeficiency features
Authors: Meazza Cristina , Cerutti Paola , Pagani Sara , Boncimino Agata , Marconi Massimo , Avanzini Antonia , Bozzola Mauro
Published: March 2010

Background:  In children of different ages investigated for failure to thrive, low (below the cut‐off for age) immunoglobulin (Ig) values can be detected, without any clinical evidence of humoral immunodeficiencies. To better characterize infants presenting with diminished immunoglobulin levels, we studied IgG subclasses, in vitro Ig production and B cell subpopulation.

Methods:  We monitored 17 children (12 boys and five girls, age range 1–18 years) with low serum levels of one or more Ig isotypes but without any clinical or laboratory features of immunodeficiency.

Results:  Low IgM levels were frequent (52.9%). During the follow up, six of 17 cases (35.3%) normalized their immunoglobulin levels. Frequently, in the observed patients, low levels of immunoglobulins were not limited to the period of infancy. In all patients, in vitro Ig production and B lymphocyte subpopulations were within normal ranges.

Conclusions:  We suggest a quantification of serum Ig levels in children who fail to thrive in order to identify patients with low Ig levels. These children should be monitored until Ig levels normalize to exclude any immunodeficiency status. Early recognition of children with persistent hypogammaglobulinemia would allow prompt and appropriate clinical interventions.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of tumor necrosis factor α‐308 polymorphism and Kawasaki disease
Authors: Arj‐Ong Sakda , Thakkinstian Ammarin , McEvoy Mark , Attia John
Published: March 2010

Background:  There have been genetic studies assessing the association between tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α‐308 and Kawasaki disease (KD) but the results have been conflicting due to lack of power. Therefore, a systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted to increase the power for identifying the association between the TNF‐α‐308 polymorphism and KD.

Method:  Studies were identified from MEDLINE and EMBASE databases and were included if the subjects were children and the frequencies between TNF‐α‐308 and KD were reported. Data were pooled using a random effect model if heterogeneity between studies was present.

Results:  Thirteen studies were identified however only six studies were included. The pooled prevalence of minor A allele was 5.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.1%–9.5%). Gene effect was assessed using per‐allele and per‐genotype approaches. The pooled odds ratio of G versus A with the random effect model was 1.13 (95%CI: 0.34–3.27). The genotype effects for GG versus GA+AA was estimated and the pooled odds ratio was 1.08 (95%CI: 0.42–2.92).

Conclusion:  This review suggests a trend of association between the TNF‐α‐308 G‐allele and KD. However, the gene effects are heterogeneous and assessing sources of heterogeneity are limited. An updated meta‐analysis is needed if more studies are published.
Impact of tension‐free vaginal tape procedure on dysfunctional voiding in women with stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Xu Dan‐Feng , Qu Chuang‐Yu , Ren Ji‐Zhong , Jiang Hai‐Hong , Yao Ya‐Cheng , Min Zhi‐Lian , Zhu You‐Hua , Chao Lv
Published: March 2010

Objectives:  To determine the prevalence of dysfunctional voiding (DV) in female stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and its modification after tension‐free vaginal tape (TVT) procedure.

Methods:  Three hundred and sixty women with SUI were enrolled and underwent urodynamics from 2002 to 2008. DV was determined when non‐neurogenic detrusor‐sphincter dyssynergia occurred during voluntary voiding. It was further quantitatively analyzed using the tense/loose value, a parameter derived from external anal sphincter electromyogram. The distribution of other urodynamic variables was also evaluated. One hundred and fifty patients underwent the TVT procedure and forty of them were studied with urodynamics after surgery during follow up.

Results:  Overall, DV was diagnosed in ninety‐nine patients, with a prevalence of 27.5%. The functional profile length in SUI women with DV was significantly shorter than that in SUI women without DV (3.13 ± 0.76 vs 3.32 ± 0.65, P = 0.017). After the TVT procedure, the recovery of SUI between cases with and without DV showed no significant difference. The rate of DV state change after the surgery, namely from with to without DV or from without to with DV, significantly differed between the female patients with and without DV (66.7% vs 3.6%, P < 0.05) during follow up. The DV improved after the surgery in SUI women with DV.

Conclusions:  DV might represent a coexistent finding in women with SUI. The main difference of women with SUI and DV, as compared with those without DV, is a shortened functional profile length. In such cases, TVT procedure can improve DV along with the treatment of SUI.
Australian bird phenology: a search for climate signals
Authors: CHAMBERS LYNDA E. , KEATLEY MARIE R.
Published: March 2010

Temporal and climate‐related changes in avian phenology were assessed for seven species of south‐eastern Australia using data obtained from members of the public, naturalist groups and other organizations. Despite significantly warmer temperatures (∼0.02–0.03°C per year) and reduced rainfall (∼1.6–8.0 mm per year) over much of south‐eastern Australia in recent decades, most species showed no corresponding trends in their timing of migration or breeding, the notable exceptions being the grey fantail (Rhipidura fuliginosa) and the flame robin (Petroica phoenicea), which migrate through Melbourne, Victoria, during autumn and spring. In many species, however, migration or breeding timing appeared to be influenced to some extent by local, rather than regional, climate conditions, particularly local daily maximum and minimum temperatures. Whether these species will noticeably change their phenology to match projected changes in climate, perhaps when a currently unknown climate threshold is crossed, or whether these species are sufficiently flexible in their foraging strategies or food sources to be able to maintain their current timing, remains to be seen.
Immunohistochemical expression of somatostatin receptor subtypes in prostate tissue from cystoprostatectomies with incidental prostate cancer
Authors: Morichetti Doriana , Mazzucchelli Roberta , Stramazzotti Daniela , Santinelli Alfredo , Lopez‐Beltran Antonio , Scarpelli Marina , Bono Aldo V. , Cheng Liang , Montironi Rodolfo
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To examine immunohistochemically the expression of the five somatostatin receptors (SSTRs) in cystoprostatectomies (CyPs) with incidental prostate cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The five SSTRs (SSTR1–5) were evaluated in ‘normal‐looking’ epithelium (NEp), high‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) and pT2a Gleason score 6 adenocarcinoma in 20 CyP specimens with incidental prostate cancer and 20 radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens with clinically detected prostate cancer.

RESULTS

For cytoplasm expression, the mean percentage of positive secretory cells with strong cytoplasmic staining increased from NEp to HGPIN and prostate cancer, being slightly lower in the CyP than in the RP specimens. Both in the CyP and RP specimens SSTR4 was found in the highest percentage of cells. There was membrane staining in the secretory cells for SSTR3 and SSTR4. There was nuclear staining in the secretory cells for SSTR4 and SSTR5. For SSTR1 and SSTR3 the mean proportions of positive basal cells were higher than for the other three subtypes, and greater in NEp than in HGPIN. There were positive smooth muscle and endothelial cells for all five SSTR subtypes, the highest proportions being SSTR1 and the lowest SSTR5.

CONCLUSIONS

This immunohistochemical study expands our knowledge of the expression and localization of SSTRs in the various tissue components in the prostate with incidental cancer, compared with clinically detected cancer. Such information might be useful in developing further non‐invasive strategies for the prevention and treatment of pre‐neoplastic and neoplastic lesions of the prostate.
Circulating endothelial cells and progenitors: potential biomarkers of renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Namdarian Benjamin , Tan Kevin V.S. , Fankhauser Matthew J. , Nguyen Thanh T. , Corcoran Niall M. , Costello Anthony J. , Hovens Christopher M.
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To compare the levels of circulating endothelial cells (CECs) and progenitors (CEPs) between tumour‐bearing mice and healthy controls, in human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) xenograft models. The secondary objective was to correlate CEC and CEP levels with tumour variables such as tumour volume, weight and vascularity, indicators of disease severity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two human RCC xenograft models were used. Tumour cells were inoculated either subcutaneously or beneath the renal subcapsule (orthotopic). Tumour dimensions were recorded and blood samples were taken throughout the experiment, as well as at the end of the experiment, upon which tumours were excised and prepared for histological examination. All blood samples were analysed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

CEC and CEP levels were significantly elevated in tumour‐bearing mice compared with healthy controls. In particular, there was a divergence in CEC levels between RCC‐bearing mice and controls during early phases in disease, whereas CEP levels were only elevated towards the end. Additionally, CEC levels correlated with tumour variables such as tumour volume, when tumour volume was <200 mm3 and with tumour vascularity in certain models. CEP levels did not correlate significantly with most tumour variables examined.

CONCLUSION

In human RCC xenograft models, CEC levels showed promise as an adjuvant biomarker in evaluating disease burden. RESULTS

from correlating CEC levels with tumour variables such as tumour volume, weight and vascularity suggested that CEC levels were a better prognostic indicator during early phases of tumour growth. CEP levels were elevated in tumour‐bearing mice compared with controls; however, enumerated numbers were small and require further validation in future studies.
The effect of long‐term hormonal treatment on voiding patterns during filling cystometry and on urethral histology in a postpartum, ovariectomized female rat
Authors: Breyer Benjamin N. , Wang Guifang , Lin Guiting , Shindel Alan W. , Yang Rong , Lin Ching‐Shwun , Lue Tom F.
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To study whether long‐term treatment with oestrogen (E2), selective E2 receptor modulators (SERMs), or growth hormone (GH) can prevent the development of abnormal voiding patterns during filling cystometry (CMG) in a postpartum, ovariectomized (Ovx) female rat.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Immediately after spontaneous delivery, 60 primiparous Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomly divided into six equal groups. One group served as uninjured sham controls and five groups underwent intravaginal balloon dilatation. On day seven, previously dilated rats underwent bilateral Ovx and implantation of a subcutaneous hormone‐delivery pump. The five treatment groups received normal saline (control), E2, raloxifene, levormeloxifene, or GH for 7 weeks. Conscious CMG was performed 7 weeks after Ovx. Urethral sphincter tissue was harvested for elastin immunohistochemistry and real‐time polymerase chain reaction of α1A‐adrenoceptor mRNA.

RESULTS

No abnormal voiding patterns were detected in the group treated with GH. The E2, raloxifene and levormeloxifene groups had greater detrusor overactivity and urethral relaxation incontinence than control rats. The raloxifene group had a significantly lower baseline bladder pressure and opening pressure. GH‐treated rats had higher elastin content in the urethra. Urethral α1A‐adrenoceptor mRNA concentration was significantly lower in the SERM‐treated rats compared with controls.

CONCLUSIONS

GH prevents the development of abnormal voiding patterns during filling CMG in a rat model of parturition‐induced incontinence; E2 and SERMs may worsen voiding patterns.
THE DYNAMICS OF SELLER REPUTATION: EVIDENCE FROM EBAY*
Authors: CABRAL LUÍS , HORTAÇSU ALI
Published: March 2010

We construct a panel of eBay seller histories and examine the importance of eBay's reputation mechanism. We find that, when a seller first receives negative feedback, his weekly sales rate drops from a positive 5% to a negative 8%; subsequent negative feedback ratings arrive 25% more rapidly than the first one and don't have nearly as much impact as the first one. We also find that a seller is more likely to exit the lower his reputation is; and that, just before exiting, sellers receive more negative feedback than their lifetime average.
Community-Based Restorative Justice in Northern Ireland: A Neo-Traditionalist Paradigm?
Authors: McGrattan Cillian
Published: March 2010

This article critically assesses the scholarly representation of community-based restorative justice (CBRJ) schemes in Northern Ireland. These schemes, which emerged in working-class areas following the republican and loyalist ceasefires of the 1990s, have been the subject of intense political debate and a growing body of academic literature. I argue that the academic depiction of the schemes in republican areas ignores the substantial progress made by revisionist political scientists and historians in understanding Provisional republicanism. By failing to take that research into account, CBRJ scholars are in danger of not simply promoting vague, de-contextualised policy prescriptions, but of actively reproducing republican understandings of political developments.
PROBABILIST ANTIREALISM
Authors: DOUVEN IGOR , HORSTEN LEON , ROMEIJN JAN‐WILLEM
Published: March 2010

Until now, antirealists have offered sketches of a theory of truth, at best. In this paper, we present a probabilist account of antirealist truth in some formal detail, and we assess its ability to deal with the problems that are standardly taken to beset antirealism.
THE KNOWLEDGE INHERITANCE THEORY OF DISTRIBUTIVE JUSTICE
Authors: Sternberg Elaine
Published: March 2010

This article criticises the ‘knowledge inheritance theory of distributive justice’ presented by Gar Alperovitz and Lew Daly in their Unjust Deserts: How the Rich Are Taking Our Common Inheritance and Why We Should Take It Back; Wealth and Inequality in the Knowledge Economy (New York: The New Press, 2008). The authors claim that since innovation depends far more on accumulated knowledge than on any individual's contribution, most resulting wealth is deserved equally by all members of society. Their redistributive conclusion is not justified. Illegitimately applying the concept of justice to contexts where it is at best metaphorical, the ‘knowledge inheritance theory’ massively undervalues the role of individual intellectual activity, and relies on confusions concerning the nature of society, rights, causality, and gifts.
CONTROLLING BANKERS' BONUSES: EFFICIENT REGULATION OR POLITICS OF ENVY?
Authors: Matthews Kent , Matthews Owen
Published: March 2010

The positive relationship between bank CEO compensation and risk‐taking is a well‐established empirical fact. The global banking crisis has resulted in a chorus of demands to control bankers' bonuses and thereby curtail their risk‐taking activities in the hope that the world can avoid a repeat in the future. However, the positive relationship is not a causative one. In this paper we argue that an implicit too‐big‐to‐fail policy provides the incentive for banks to take excessive risks and design compensation packages to deliver high returns. A credible no‐bailout policy will have a better chance of curbing excess risk‐taking than controlling bankers' compensation.
CHALLENGING THE EMPIRICAL EMPIRE
Authors: Jackson Helen , Ormerod Paul
Published: March 2010

Many of the problems in the British public sector directly relate to the attempt to create a world fit for the central planner in which all tasks can be set down in a system of rules. The philosophy of ‘empirical consequentialism’ underpins this entire venture. This is the view that the empirically‐proven consequences of an action are the most valid basis for moral judgment of the action and that these can be fully evaluated through expert research rather than democratic dialogue. A crucial policy challenge is to restore the value of ‘tacit knowledge’ in the public sector, allowing individuals to exercise choice and judgment responding to feedback in a process of trial and error.
Perception of the Ebbinghaus illusion in 5‐ to 8‐month‐old infants
Authors: YAMAZAKI YUKA , OTSUKA YUMIKO , KANAZAWA SO , YAMAGUCHI MASAMI K.
Published: March 2010

The Ebbinghaus illusion is a geometric illusion based on a size‐contrast between a central circle and surrounding circles. A central circle surrounded by small inducing circles is perceived as being larger than a central circle surrounded by large inducing circles. In the present study we investigated 5‐ to 8‐month‐old infants' perception of the Ebbinghaus illusion using a preferential‐looking paradigm. We measured the preference between a central circle surrounded by small inducing circles (overestimated figure) and a central circle surrounded by large inducing circles (underestimated figure). Infants showed a significant preference for the overestimated figure when the central circle was flashing, but not when it was static. Furthermore, there was no preference between the two figures when the central circles were removed. These results suggest that infants' preference reflects their perception of the size illusion of the central circle. There is a possibility that 5‐ to 8‐month‐old infants perceive the Ebbinghaus illusion.