bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Rights and Economics: The Conceptual Basis for their Complementarity
Authors: Seymour Dan , Pincus Jonathan
Published: June 2008

Human rights theorists and economists have tended to talk past, rather than to, each other, especially in the field of development. On one level this is to be expected. Human rights theory adopts a normative, deontological approach, while economists see their discipline as a positive science and are comfortable with its consequentialism. But a closer look at the relationship suggests more complementarities. Human rights theory can help provide a normative framework that avoids some of the pitfalls of welfare theory, and can help economists deal with issues of exploitation and power relations. These complementarities have increased in importance as the development discourse incorporates legal and political issues previously considered beyond the scope of economists and development practitioners.
Engaging Indigeneity in Development Policy
Authors: Marschke Melissa , Szablowski David , Vandergeest Peter
Published: June 2008

This article explores how development programming in rural poverty and the environment can work with indigenous peoples. It draws on research conducted in Asia and Latin America to suggest how indigeneity can be understood as specific kinds of marginalisation intersecting with self‐identification and recognition as indigenous. Current obstacles to effective engagement with indigenous peoples are outlined, and suggestions are offered for pro‐actively addressing their experience. Two critical areas where there are opportunities for donors to support indigenous peoples' priorities include ‘FPIC’ (Free Prior and Informed Consent) and a careful consideration of the implications of niche‐market engagement.
Self‐esteem in patients with borderline and avoidant personality disorders
Authors: LYNUM L. I. , WILBERG T. , KARTERUD S.
Published: June 2008

This study compared self‐esteem in patients with avoidant personality disorder (APD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD). Patients diagnosed with one or more personality disorders answered the questionnaire Index of Self Esteem as part of a comprehensive evaluation within the setting of a treatment trial. Our hypotheses were that (1) both patients with APD and patients with BPD would report low levels of self‐esteem, (2) patients with APD would report lower self‐esteem than patients with BPD. We further expected that (3) patients with higher levels of depression would report lower levels of self‐esteem, but that (4) both borderline and avoidant personality pathology would contribute to explained variance in self‐esteem beyond what would be accounted for by depression. All of our hypotheses were supported. The results from our study showed a significant difference in self‐esteem level between the two personality disorders, patients with APD reporting lower self‐esteem than patients with BPD. Subjects with both disorders were measured to have self‐esteem levels within the range that presumes clinical problems. Self‐esteem represents an important quality of subjective experience of the self, and the study of self‐esteem in PDs can offer new and important knowledge of PDs as self‐pathology.
Exploring the gender typing of management characteristics in an egalitarian context
Authors: KUSTERER HANNA LI
Published: June 2008

The present studies sought to investigate what kind of stereotypes are used in Sweden to describe male and female managers, and whether gender‐neutral characteristics are used in the description of requisite management characteristics. In Study 1, participants answered open‐ended questions on good, bad, female and male management. Requisite management characteristics showed a greater resemblance to the descriptions of female managers than male. In Study 2, female managers were rated more positively than men, and attributes ascribed to men in Study 1 were considered just as descriptive of women. Although participants described female managers more positively than male, responses often implied a norm of men as managers. In this way, prescriptive aspects of the stereotype may still work against female managers, despite the more feminine description of management.
Prevalence and correlates of gambling among 16 to 19‐year‐old adolescents in Norway
Authors: MOLDE HELGE , PALLESEN STÅLE , BARTONE PAUL , HYSTAD SIGURD , JOHNSEN BJØRN HELGE
Published: June 2008

There is evidence that young people are at high risk of developing gambling disorders. The prevalence and correlates of gambling among youth therefore merit closer study. During spring 2004, a sample of 1,351 boys and girls (aged 16–19 years) from 151 high‐school classes (clusters) participated in an internet survey about gambling. The response rate was 69.8%. The instruments used in the survey were the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test and the Massachusetts Adolescent Gambling Screen, in addition to questions about demography. Controlling for the design effect, the estimated prevalence rate was 2.5% for pathological gambling and 1.9% for problem gambling. In all, 7.3% of the boys and 0.6% of the girls fulfilled the criteria for pathological or problem gambling. The results of item analysis of the DSM‐IV subscale of MAGS provide support for differential item functioning between boys and girls. A multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that gender (male: OR = 9.09), depression (OR = 9.23), alcohol abuse (OR = 3.62), and dissociation (OR = 1.96) were related to problem and pathological gambling. These results support the view that gambling disorders are best understood as part of an addictive behavior spectrum (Jacobs, 2000).
A Loose Coupling Technique for Integrating GIS and Multi‐Criteria Decision Making
Authors: Ghosh Debasis
Published: June 2008

Spatial decision making is characterized by problems associated with multiple and conflicting alternatives relating to geographical features and their attributes. As such, the search for the best possible alternative from a large set of such alternatives can be a daunting task. The aim of integrating GIS with Multi‐Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) is to develop a well‐defined process that can scan through such extensive fields of choice to arrive at the best possible solution. Goal Programming is one tool (developed in conjunction with MCDM) that can handle a problem with multiple, conflicting and incommensurable alternatives, and this article explains how the loose coupling technique can integrate MCDM with GIS to assist decision making among competing alternatives. As an example, this methodology has been applied for community development purposes in the Hooghly District of West Bengal, India.
Decomposing Malaria Mosquito Aquatic Habitat Data into Spatial Autocorrelation Eigenvectors in a SAS/GIS® Module
Authors: Jacob Benjamin G , Griffith Daniel A , Novak Robert J
Published: June 2008

We present a geostatistical approach that accounts for spatial autocorrelation in malaria mosquito aquatic habitats in two East African urban environments. QuickBird 0.61 m data, encompassing visible bands and the near infra‐red (NIR) bands, were selected to synthesize images of Anopheles gambiae s.l. aquatic habitats in Kisumu and Malindi, Kenya. Field sampled data of An. gambiae s.l. aquatic habitats were used to determine which ecological covariates were associated with An. gambiae s.l. larval habitat development. A SAS/GIS® spatial database was used to calculate univariate statistics, correlations and perform Poisson regression analyses on the An. gambiae s.l. aquatic habitat datasets. Semivariograms and global autocorrelation statistics were generated in ArcGIS®. The spatially dependent models indicate the distribution of An. gambiae s.l. aquatic habitats exhibits weak positive autocorrelation in both study sites, with aquatic habitats of similar log‐larval counts tending to cluster in space. Individual anopheline habitats were further evaluated in terms of their covariations with spatial autocorrelation by regressing them on candidate spatial filter eigenvectors. This involved the decomposition of Moran's I statistic into orthogonal and uncorrelated map pattern components using a negative binomial regression. The procedure generated synthetic map patterns of latent spatial correlation representing the geographic configuration of An. gambiae s.l. aquatic habitat locations in each study site. The Gaussian approximation spatial filter models accounted for approximately 13% to 32% redundant locational information in the ecological datasets. Spatial statistics generated in a SAS/GIS® module can capture spatial dependency effects on the mean response term of a Poisson regression analysis of field and remotely sampled An. gambiae s.l. aquatic habitat data.
A Clustering‐Based Approach to the Capacitated Facility Location Problem1
Authors: Liao Ke , Guo Diansheng
Published: June 2008

This research develops a clustering‐based location‐allocation method to the Capacitated Facility Location Problem (CFLP), which provides an approximate optimal solution to determine the location and coverage of a set of facilities to serve the demands of a large number of locations. The allocation is constrained by facility capacities – different facilities may have different capacities and the overall capacity may be inadequate to satisfy the total demands. This research transforms this special location‐allocation problem into a clustering model. The proposed approach has two parts: (1) the allocation of demands to facilities considering capacity constraints while minimizing the cost; and (2) the iterative optimization of facility locations using an adapted K‐means clustering method. The quality of a location‐allocation solution is measured using an objective function, which is the demand‐weighted distance from demand locations to their assigned facilities. The clustering‐based method is evaluated against an adapted Genetic Algorithm (GA) alternative, which integrates the allocation component as described above but uses GA operations to search for ‘optimal’ facility locations. Experiments and evaluations are carried out with various data sets (including both synthetic and real data).
GIScience Journals Ranking and Evaluation: An International Delphi Study
Authors: Caron Claude , Roche Stéphane , Goyer Daniel , Jaton Annick
Published: June 2008

Researchers’ fame in most scientific fields is closely linked to their publishing capacity, both in terms of quantity and quality. In GIScience, as in other fields, this situation demands that the researcher evaluate and to be very familiar with the scientific journals in which they could publish. Some specialized journals (e.g. Journal of Citation Reports or JCR) are devoted to ranking these reviews according to various methods and criteria. Compared to other scientific communities, GIScience is relatively new and constantly evolving. Therefore, the journals of this field do not benefit from any real formal ranking yet. The objective of this paper is to present the process and results of a study aimed at addressing this gap. More specifically, the challenge is to elaborate an importance ranking of the scientific journals in the field of GIScience. To do so, both a qualitative (Delphi study carried out with 40 international experts) and a quantitative (JCR impact factor) approach has been implemented. This triangulation method leads to an early global ranking of the journals of this field.
Network Density Estimation: A GIS Approach for Analysing Point Patterns in a Network Space
Authors: Borruso Giuseppe
Published: June 2008

Human activities and more generally the phenomena related to human behaviour take place in a network‐constrained subset of the geographical space. These phenomena can be expressed as locations having their positions configured by a road network, as address points with street numbers. Although these events are considered as points on a network, point pattern analysis and the techniques implemented in a GIS environment generally consider events as taking place in a uniform space, with distance expressed as Euclidean and over a homogeneous and isotropic space. Network‐spatial analysis has developed as a research agenda where the attention is drawn towards point pattern analytical techniques applied to a space constrained by a road network. Little attention has been put on first order properties of a point pattern (i.e. density) in a network space, while mainly second order analysis such as nearest neighbour andK‐functions have been implemented for network configurations of the geographical space. In this article, a method for examining clusters of human‐related events on a network, called Network Density Estimation (NDE), is implemented using spatial statistical tools and GIS packages. The method is presented and compared to conventional first order spatial analytical techniques such as Kernel Density Estimation (KDE). Network Density Estimation is tested using the locations of a sample of central, urban activities associated with bank and insurance company branches in the central areas of two midsize European cities, Trieste (Italy) and Swindon (UK).
Estimation of Parameters in the NLAR(p) Model
Authors: Zhu Fukang , Wang Dehui
Published: June 2008

Abstract. In this article, we study a new Laplace autoregressive model of orderp– NLAR(p). Conditional least squares, weighted conditional least squares and maximum quasi‐likelihood are used to estimate the model parameters. Comparisons among these estimates of the NLAR(2) model are given via simulation studies.
Evaluating Specification Tests for Markov‐Switching Time‐Series Models
Authors: Smith Daniel R.
Published: June 2008

Abstract.  We evaluate the performance of several specification tests for Markov regime‐switching time‐series models. We consider the Lagrange multiplier (LM) and dynamic specification tests of Hamilton (1996) and Ljung–Box tests based on both the generalized residual and a standard‐normal residual constructed using the Rosenblatt transformation. The size and power of the tests are studied using Monte Carlo experiments. We find that the LM tests have the best size and power properties. The Ljung–Box tests exhibit slight size distortions, though tests based on the Rosenblatt transformation perform better than the generalized residual‐based tests. The tests exhibit impressive power to detect both autocorrelation and autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (ARCH). The tests are illustrated with a Markov‐switching generalized ARCH (GARCH) model fitted to the US dollar–British pound exchange rate, with the finding that both autocorrelation and GARCH effects are needed to adequately fit the data.
Statistical analysis of a spatio‐temporal model with location‐dependent parameters and a test for spatial stationarity
Authors: Rao Suhasini Subba
Published: June 2008

Abstract.  In this article, we define a spatio‐temporal model with location‐dependent parameters to describe temporal variation and spatial nonstationarity. We consider the prediction of observations at unknown locations using known neighbouring observations. Further, we propose a local least squares‐based method to estimate the parameters at unobserved locations. The sampling properties of these estimators are investigated. We also develop a statistical test for spatial stationarity. To derive the asymptotic results, we show that the spatially nonstationary process can be locally approximated by a spatially stationary process. We illustrate the methods of estimation with some simulations.
Consistent estimation and order selection for nonstationary autoregressive processes with stable innovations
Authors: Burridge Peter , Hristova Daniela
Published: June 2008

Abstract.  A possibly nonstationary autoregressive process, of unknown finite order, with possibly infinite‐variance innovations is studied. The ordinary least squares autoregressive parameter estimates are shown to be consistent, and their rate of convergence, which depends on the index of stability, α, is established. We also establish consistency of lag‐order selection criteria in the nonstationary case. A small experiment illustrates the relative performance of different lag‐length selection criteria in finite samples.
Finite Sample Theory of QMLE in ARCH Models with Dynamics in the Mean Equation
Authors: Iglesias Emma M. , Phillips Garry D. A.
Published: June 2008

Abstract. We provide simulation and theoretical results concerning the finite‐sample theory of quasi‐maximum‐likelihood estimators in autoregressive conditional heteroskedastic (ARCH) models when we include dynamics in the mean equation. In the setting of the AR(q)–ARCH(p), we find that in some cases bias correction is necessary even for sample sizes of 100, especially when the ARCH order increases. We warn about the existence of important biases and potentially low power of thet‐tests in these cases. We also propose ways to deal with them. We also find simulation evidence that when conditional heteroskedasticity increases, the mean‐squared error of the maximum‐likelihood estimator of the AR(1) parameter in the mean equation of an AR(1)‐ARCH(1) model is reduced. Finally, we generalize the Lumsdaine [J. Bus. Econ. Stat. 13 (1995) pp. 1–10] invariance properties for the biases in these situations.
NON‐LINEAR PRICING AND EQUALITY OF OPPORTUNITY
Authors: Andersson Tommy
Published: June 2008

This paper investigates non‐linear pricing schedules that are based on Roemer's equality of opportunity (EOp) criterion, and compare them with the maximin and the utilitarian non‐linear pricing schedules. The main results suggest that the EOp policy offers a reasonable compromise between the maximin and the utilitarian policies in the sense that: (1) the consumption for each individual is highest under the utilitarian policy and lowest under the maximin policy, and (2) the individuals in the extreme positions rank the EOp policies between the maximin and the utilitarian policy in terms of utility level.
THE EFFECTS OF LABOUR MARKET FLEXIBILITY IN THE MONETARY THEORY OF PRODUCTION
Authors: Pacella Andrea
Published: June 2008

The aim of the present work is to study the effects of labour market flexibility on aggregate demand, productivity and employment within the theoretical framework of the Monetary Theory of Production. It is shown that labour market flexibility may not produce unidirectional effects on aggregate demand, productivity and employment, the working of the monetary market being decisive in establishing their levels.
THE HEX GAME THEOREM AND THE ARROW IMPOSSIBILITY THEOREM: THE CASE OF WEAK ORDERS
Authors: Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: June 2008

The Arrow impossibility theorem when individual preferences are weak orders is equivalent to the HEX game theorem. Because Gale showed that the Brouwer fixed point theorem is equivalent to the HEX game theorem, this paper indirectly shows the equivalence of the Brouwer fixed point theorem and the Arrow impossibility theorem. Chichilnisky showed the equivalence of her impossibility theorem and the Brouwer fixed point theorem, and Baryshnikov showed that the impossibility theorem by Chichilnisky and the Arrow impossibility theorem are very similar. Thus, Chichilnisky and Baryshnikov are precedents for the result—linking the Arrow impossibility theorem to a fixed point theorem.
The recent evolution of social security coverage in Brazil
Authors: Ansiliero Graziela , Paiva Luís Henrique
Published: June 2008

Abstract  This article describes and assesses indicators of social security coverage in Brazil over the period 1992 to 2006 for employed workers and the elderly. While the coverage of retired workers has shown some degree of stability over the past years, that of employed workers changed significantly over the period, showing clear signs of deterioration between 1992 and 2002, and of recovery since then. Fewer self‐employed persons in agriculture in rural areas (Special Insured Persons, workers with specific social security schemes) accounts for most of the deterioration. The economic recovery and an increase in new registered jobs accounts for most of the improvement in coverage between 2003 and 2006. Administrative and institutional factors also played a relevant role, especially in promoting the inclusion of domestic and self‐employed workers as social security contributors.
Not‐so‐distant cousins: Family benefits in the United Kingdom and Australia
Authors: Hodgson Helen , Boden Rebecca
Published: June 2008

Abstract  Recent trends in tax transfers have seen an increasing interdependence of tax and welfare systems in determining access to and the quantum of benefits, particularly in relation to in‐work benefits, such as family support. Both the United Kingdom and Australia have adopted family support mechanisms that appear to operate in a similar way, but closer examination of the detail reflects the differences in underlying policy in the two jurisdictions. This article examines, first, the institutional and policy basis for the design of the family tax transfer system in each jurisdiction and, second, the issues raised by the interdependence of tax and social security concepts in the design of in‐work benefits.
Pension reform in China
Authors: Salditt Felix , Whiteford Peter , Adema Willem
Published: June 2008

Abstract  This article analyses China's progress in creating a national old‐age insurance system, providing a detailed description of the system and an assessment of the degree to which it has so far realised its primary goal of social security for more people. Since 1997, there have been many reforms, but despite progress, the scope of the system is limited, with the coverage rate among urban employees being below 50 per cent. The rural population largely remains outside the system, and it seems likely that the majority of the population will be dependent on family support for many years to come. There is a “demographic window” until around 2015 to address these shortcomings. Extending coverage through improved compliance by employees and companies as well as the continuing financial commitment towards the National Social Security Fund are crucial to create the financial and institutional basis that can cushion the effects of a much older population in the years ahead.
The likelihood of a basic income in Germany
Authors: Opielka Michael
Published: June 2008

Abstract  The article discusses whether the likelihood of Germany introducing a basic income policy — that is independent of labour market participation — has increased in recent years. A brief description of the main elements of the German welfare state is followed by a critical analysis of more recent developments in guaranteeing a basic income, not least with the 2003 merger of unemployment benefits and social assistance. Since then the resulting fears of downward mobility felt even by the middle classes have reignited the 1980's debate about a basic income. Two models (the “basic income guarantee” and the “solidarity citizen's income”) are used to discuss practical system design problems and the chances of realizing a basic income policy.
The “Papy‐boom”: A historical opportunity for French public hospitals
Authors: Holcman Robert
Published: June 2008

Abstract  The French public hospital system represents a major element in overall social security expenditure and ongoing reforms are having a significant impact on its financial equilibrium and the internal management of its activities. Nonetheless, the system has been unable to achieve the productivity objectives imposed on it. Significantly, staffing costs account for three quarters of its expenditure, yet most employees are civil servants who cannot be laid off easily. The only possibility for meaningful change in the size of its workforce may lie in the demographic revolution now affecting the French population, which will see half the present staff of public hospitals reaching retirement age within the next decade.
Habitat factors affecting site occupancy and relative abundance of four‐horned antelope
Authors: Krishna Y. C. , Krishnaswamy J. , Kumar N. S.
Published: June 2008

The four‐horned antelope is endemic to the Indian sub‐continent. It was formerly distributed widely in deciduous forests throughout its range, but the current distributional patterns of this low‐density species are largely unknown and conservation efforts are hampered by the lack of information on species–habitat relationships. We investigated the habitat factors influencing four‐horned antelope occurrence and abundance in Bandipur National Park, an important four‐horned antelope conservation site in India. Detection/non‐detection data, collected under a systematic sampling framework, were used to test a priori hypotheses incorporating covariates believed to influence occurrence and abundance. The best fitting models for four‐horned antelope occurrence and relative abundance reveal that the tree‐savanna deciduous habitat sub‐type, characterized by relatively open habitats with a lower tree density and a high degree of deciduousness, is most preferred by the species. Four‐horned antelope conservation efforts in Bandipur National Park and other reserves should be focused on areas typified by tree‐savanna habitats. Four‐horned antelope occurrence was negatively related to the alien weed Lantana camara. The prolific spread of this weed in Indian deciduous forests is a likely threat.
Opposing effects of retinoid signaling on astrogliogenesis in embryonic day 13 and 17 cortical progenitor cells
Authors: Faigle Roland , Liu Lidong , Cundiff Paige , Funa Keiko , Xia Zhengui
Published: June 2008

All‐trans retinoic acid (RA) is a differentiation factor in many tissues. However, its role in astrogliogenesis has not been extensively studied. Here, we investigated the effect of RA on the regulation of astrogliogenesis at different cortical developmental stages. We prepared rat cortical progenitor cells from embryonic day (E) 13 and E17, which correspond to the beginning of neurogenic and astrogliogenic periods, respectively. Surprisingly, RA promoted astrogliogenesis at E17 but inhibited astrogliogenesis induced by ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) at E13. The inhibitory effect of RA on astrogliogenesis at E13 was not due to premature commitment of progenitors to a neuronal or oligodendroglial lineage. Rather, RA retained more progenitors in a proliferative state. Furthermore, RA inhibition of astrogliogenesis at E13 was independent of STAT3 signaling and required the function of the α and β isoforms of the RA receptors (RAR). Moreover, the differential response of E13 and E17 progenitors to RA was due to differences in the intrinsic properties of these cells that are preserved in vitro. The inhibitory effect of RA on cytokine‐induced astrogliogenesis at E13 may contribute to silencing of any potential precocious astrogliogenesis during the neurogenic period.
Intrastriatal injection of colchicine induces striatonigral degeneration in mice
Authors: Liang Yajie , Li Shurong , Wen Can , Zhang Yanling , Guo Qiang , Wang Hanzhi , Su Bingyin
Published: June 2008

Recent studies from environmental toxicology and molecular genetics demonstrate that midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons are particularly vulnerable to microtubule depolymerizing agents, indicating the involvement of microtubule dysfunction in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease. Here we show that intrastriatal injection of colchicine (COL), a well‐known microtubule disruptor, induced degeneration of striatonigral pathway. Microtubule disruption caused by unilateral injection of COL blocked the retrograde axonal transport of fluorogold previously injected into striatum and induced substantial death of striatal and DA neurons in substantia nigra pars compacta. Furthermore, COL‐induced pathologic changes were associated with robust glial reaction, which may be conducive to the degeneration of striatonigral pathway. We also found that intrastriatal injection of COL resulted in side bias in spontaneous turning activities and apomorphine‐induced rotational behavior. Together, our results provide in vivo data lending support to the concept that microtubule dysfunction may play a significant role in the death of DA neurons, though glial reaction may be involved and contribute to the degenerative process. Moreover, intrastriatal COL may serve as another experimental model of striatonigral degeneration (Parkinson’s variant of multiple system atrophy), given the concurrent loss of both striatal and DA neurons.
Opposition Party Support in Africa: An Elite–Mass Analysis
Authors: Kotzé Hennie , García-Rivero Carlos
Published: June 2008

The existence of a healthy, respected and respectful opposition is a common feature of democratic politics. For a democracy to function properly, it needs an opposition to provide political contestation and electoral competition, thus limiting the power of the ruling party. In other words: no opposition – no democracy.

In this regard, Africa has a poor track record. During the 1950s and 1960s, euphoria swelled throughout the continent following political independence from colonial rule. These new African democracies, however, rapidly began succumbing to authoritarianism. Political repression, single-party states and military rule flourished, causing authoritarian forms of government to become the norm throughout the continent. Opposition parties were, and in many countries still are, severely restricted and have generally had little chance to be heard. This is especially so in the many single-party states, characterized by a lack of democratic experience and culture, which became prevalent in post-independence Africa.
The Art of Handing Over: (Mis)Managing Party Leadership Successions
Authors: Bynander Fredrik , 't Hart Paul
Published: June 2008

SECURING ORDERLY TRANSITION OF POWER FROM ONE RULER TO another is a classic problem for polities of any kind. Historically, ruler succession episodes were often marred by fierce competition and infighting among members of the ruling elite. Even in stable democratic systems with effective electoral and other procedures for replacing heads of government, leadership rotation within political parties retains some of these brutal qualities. Party leadership successions are mostly ad hoc affairs, frequently rooted in either the incumbent's state of mind, dissatisfaction with the incumbent's performance within the party, or internal power struggles. Comparative studies find that party leadership successions often generate widespread uncertainty, agony and even trauma within parties and thus they weaken rather than consolidate or strengthen a party's public support base.
Declining Trust in Elites and Why We Should Worry About It – With Empirical Evidence from Germany
Authors: Kaina Viktoria
Published: June 2008

‘WITHOUT TRUST WE WILL NOT SOLVE OUR PROBLEMS,’ WARNED Johannes Rau, the former German Federal president in his last ‘Berlin speech’ in May 2004. As one reason for an alarming loss of trust in Germany, creating a serious obstacle to necessary changes, he identified an irresponsible, egoistic and greedy behaviour among parts of German elites. Actually, Johannes Rau did not blame only political elites but also elite members in other sectors such as business, trade unions or mass media. His statement implies that parts of German elites are causing a decline in trust in Germany by losing touch with the people. Likewise, various observers in the public discourse argue that the immoral, cynical and increasingly incompetent behaviour of several elite members especially fosters a crisis of trust in Germany by creating a diffuse climate of distrust, pessimism, uncertainty andZukunftsangst.
The Legislative Effects of Presidential Partisan Powers in Post-Communist Russia
Authors: Chaisty Paul
Published: June 2008

CURRENT SCHOLARSHIP ON PRESIDENTIAL POLITICAL SYSTEMS FINDS that the distribution of power between presidents and assemblies can vary significantly from one presidential polity to the next, and can even change within the same presidential regime over a relatively short period of time. Presidents are shown to exercise different levels of control over the law-making process according to thede jurelegislative powers at their disposal – initiation, veto, veto override, budgetary and decree powers– and their de facto partisan power – the level of disciplined party support that they command within assemblies. Different combinations of these powers can have strikingly different institutional, behavioural and policy effects. Indeed, such variation has led some analysts to question the usefulness of models of executive–legislative relations that are based solely on the traditional distinction between presidential and parliamentary political systems.
How to Approach a Monster: A Comparison of Different Approaches in the Historiography of Early Modern Monster Literature
Authors: Dunthorne Anna
Published: June 2008

This essay won the 2007 History Compass Graduate Essay Prize, Europe Section.

Monsters multiplied over the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, in scholastic treatises, wonderbooks and cheap pamphlets. A Plymouth preacher complained that ‘the common sort make no further use of prodigies and strange births, than as a matter of wonder and table‐talk’. They should, he said, ‘look higher, and take notice of the special hand of God’. Idle wonder or moral purpose; there was more than one way to look at monsters in early modern Europe. The same might be said of historical approach. Historians have used monster literature to reflect on issues of difference, morality and control, conceptions of the supernatural and the dynamics of print culture. This article looks at the historiography of monsters or monstrosity and considers how modernising narratives might continue to influence the direction of historical enquiry. With a focus on particular historical accounts, I ask whether a return to the textual content and functions of these sources might shed new light on old questions or modify the ways we ask them.
Contrasting metamorphic histories of lenses of high‐pressure rocks and host migmatites with a flat orogenic fabric (Bohemian Massif, Czech Republic): a result of tectonic mixing within horizontal crustal flow?
Authors: ŠTÍPSKÁ P. , SCHULMANN K. , POWELL R.
Published: June 2008

Migmatites with sub‐horizontal fabrics at the eastern margin of the Variscan orogenic root in the Bohemian Massif host lenses of eclogite, kyanite‐K‐feldspar granulite and marble within a matrix of migmatitic paragneiss and amphibolite. Petrological study and pseudosection modelling have been used to establish whether the whole area experienced terrane‐wide exhumation of lower orogenic crust, or whether smaller portions of higher‐pressure lower crust were combined with a lower‐pressure matrix. Kyanite‐K‐feldspar granulite shows peak conditions of 16.5 kbar and 850 °C with no clear indications of prograde path, whereas in the eclogite the prograde path indicates burial from 10 kbar and 700 °C to a peak of 18 kbar and 800 °C. Two contrasting prograde paths are identified within the host migmatitic paragneiss. The first path is inferred from the presence of staurolite and kyanite inclusions in garnet that contains preserved prograde zoning that indicates burial with simultaneous heating to 11 kbar and 800 °C. The second path is inferred from garnet overgrowths of a flat foliation defined by sillimanite and biotite. Garnet growth in such an assemblage is possible only if the sample is heated at 7–8 kbar to around 700–840 °C. Decompression is associated with strong structural reworking in the flat fabric that involves growth of sillimanite in paragneiss and kyanite‐K‐feldspar granulite at 7–10 kbar and 750–850 °C. The contrasting prograde metamorphic histories indicate that kilometre‐scale portions of high‐pressure lower orogenic crust were exhumed to middle crustal levels, dismembered and mixed with a middle crustal migmatite matrix, with the simultaneous development of a flat foliation. The contrasting P–T paths with different pressure peaks show that tectonic models explaining high‐pressure boudins in such a fabric cannot be the result of heterogeneous retrogression during ductile rebound of the whole orogenic root. The P–T paths are compatible with a model of heterogeneous vertical extrusion of lower crust into middle crust, followed by sub‐horizontal flow.
The role of heterogeneous strain in the development and preservation of a polymetamorphic record in high‐P granulites, western Canadian Shield
Authors: MAHAN K. H. , GONCALVES P. , FLOWERS R. , WILLIAMS M. L. , HOFFMAN‐SETKA D.
Published: June 2008

Mafic rocks in the Chipman domain of the Athabasca granulite terrane, western Canadian Shield, provide the first well‐documented record of two distinct high‐P granulite facies events in the same domain in this region. Textural relations and the results of petrological modelling (NCFMASHT system) of mafic granulites are interpreted in terms of a three‐stage tectonometamorphic history. Stage 1 involved development of the assemblage Grt + Cpx + Qtz ± Pl (M1) from a primary Opx‐bearing igneous precursor at conditions of 1.3 GPa, 850–900 °C. Field and microstructural observations suggest that M1 developed synchronously with an early S1 gneissic fabric. Stage 2 is characterized by heterogeneous deformation (D2) and synkinematic partial retrogression of the peak assemblage to an amphibole‐bearing assemblage (M2). Stage 3 involved a third phase of deformation and a return to granulite facies conditions marked by the prograde breakdown of amphibole (Amph2) to produce matrix garnet (Grt3a) and the coronitic assemblage Cpx3b + Opx3b + Ilm3b + Pl3b (M3b) at 1.0 GPa, 800–900 °C. M1 and M3b are correlated with 2.55 and 1.9 Ga metamorphic generations of zircon, respectively, which were dated in a separate study. Heterogeneous strain played a crucial role in both the development and preservation of these rare examples of multiple granulite facies events within single samples. Without this fortuitous set of circumstances, the apparent reaction history could have incorrectly led to an interpretation involving a single‐cycle high‐grade event. The detailed P–T–t–D history constructed for these rocks provides the best evidence to date that much of the east Lake Athabasca region experienced long‐term lower crustal residence from 2.55 to 1.9 Ga, and thus the region represents a rare window into the reactivation and ultimate stabilization processes of cratonic lithosphere.
ASDIN Clinical Case Focus: Timing of Secondary Arteriovenous Fistula Creation Avoids Tunneled Catheter Placement
Authors: Vachharajani Tushar J. , Atray Naveen K. , Gill Sarjit , Zibari Gazi , Abreo Kenneth D.
Published: June 2008

The concept of secondary arteriovenous fistula, though not novel, is seldom practiced for lack of initiative or hesitancy in deciding the appropriate timing to abandon the existing access. We report a case illustrating the benefits of implementing the strategy in an elderly diabetic dialysis patient, successfully avoiding a tunneled cuffed catheter placement.
Is Basilic Vein Transposition a Real Alternative to an Arteriovenous Bypass Graft? A Prospective Study
Authors: Chemla Eric S. , Morsy Mohamed A.
Published: June 2008

Basilic vein transpositions (BVTs) are considered to be superior to arteriovenous bypass grafts (AVGs). However, for the most part studies comparing BVTs to AVGs have been retrospective in design and without a set follow‐up protocol. In this analysis, data were prospectively collected from patients with either a BVT or a brachio‐axillary AVG. When all other native options were exhausted a BVT was performed if the vein had a diameter of 3 mm. All patients had bimonthly measurements of access inflow and recirculation using ultrasound dilution and were followed up for 2 years. Of 76 patients, 34 had a BVT and 42 an AVG (p > 0.05). BVT group: 12 were male, 22 female, the mean age was 62 and 26% were diabetic. AVG group: 22 were male, 20 female, the mean age was 57 and 56% were diabetic. The maturation delay was higher in the BVT group (6 weeks vs. 2 weeks). For the BVT and AVG groups, at 6, 12 and 24 months, respectively, primary patency was 90% vs. 76% (p < 0.05), 73% vs. 61% and 69% vs. 54% (p > 0.05). Assisted primary patency was 100% vs. 90% (p = 0.1201), 96% vs. 56% and 74% vs. 40% (p < 0.001). Secondary patency was 100% vs. 83%, 93% vs. 70% (p < 0.025) and 85% vs. 62% (p < 0.01). In the BVT group, 18 patients had 32 interventions for a total cost of $127,800, while in the AVG group, 27 patients had 54 interventions for a total cost of $227,300. This is the first prospective study to confirm that BVTs were cost effective and associated with better outcomes when compared with AVGs.
A Comparison of Transposed Brachiobasilic Fistulae with Nontransposed Fistulae and Grafts in the Fistula First Era
Authors: Pflederer Timothy A. , Kwok Sophie , Ketel Beverly L. , Pilgram Tom
Published: June 2008

This retrospective study compares outcomes of transposed brachiobasilic fistulae (avf), nontransposed avf, and grafts (avg). There were 161 (21%) transposed avf, 321 (42%) nontransposed avf, and 285 (37%) avg placed and followed over a 3‐year period. Of the nontransposed avf, 203 (63%) were forearm radiocephalic avf and 118 (37%) were upper arm brachiocephalic avf. Grafts were able to be used in shorter time than avf and had a lower primary failure rate. However, avg had a significantly higher infection rate (0.23/patient/year vs. 0.07/patient/year) and required more procedures over the life of the access than avf (2.90/patient/year vs. 0.51/patient/year). Despite a higher primary failure rate, avf had better overall patency. Among nontransposed avf, brachiocephalic avf had significantly better primary patency than radiocephalic avf (p < 0.0001). Transposed avf had better cumulative patency than either nontransposed avf or grafts (p < 0.0001). Cumulative patency was best for transposed avf, intermediate for brachiocephalic avf, and worst with radiocephalic avf and avg. There was no difference in cumulative patency between radiocephalic avf and grafts (p = 0.5601). This analysis supports the current recommendation to prefer transposed avf over avg. In addition, the data suggest that both nontransposed brachiocephalic avf and transposed brachiobasilic avf outcomes may be superior to radiocephalic fistulae.
Efficacy in reducing potassium load in irradiated red cell bags with a potassium adsorption filter
Authors: Cid Joan , Ramiro Laia , Bertran Sílvia , Martínez Núria , Claparols Montse , Maymó Rosa Ma , Puig Lluís , Pla Ramon Pau
Published: June 2008

BACKGROUND: The transfusion of red cell (RBC) bags with high amounts of potassium (K+) causes concern about an increased risk of cardiac arrest because of transient hyperkalemia. To prevent K+ overload, a K+ adsorption filter (PAF) is available for use at bedside. The aim of the present study was to analyze the efficacy in reducing K+ load in irradiated RBC bags with this PAF.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Whole‐blood (WB) bags were collected from volunteer donors on Day 0. RBC bags were prepared from WB bags on Day +1 and stored at 2 to 6°C. RBC bags were irradiated on Day +14 and filtered with the PAF on Day +28, according to the manufacturers' instructions. The plasma electrolyte levels (Na+, K+, Cl‐, Ca2+, and Mg2+) were measured at the different points during storage.

RESULTS: Twelve RBC bags were prepared with a final volume of 274 ± 15 mL. On Day +28, the volume of RBC bags was 257 ± 15 mL, and the PAF was used at a flow rate of 4 ± 0.7 mL per minute. K+ level after RBC bag preparation was 1.28 ± 0.59 mmol per L. The K+ level was 60.6 ± 2.68 mmol per L on Day +28, just before filtration with the PAF. After filtration, the level of K+ was 3.42 ± 2.91 mmol per L.

CONCLUSION: This study has shown a high efficacy in reducing potassium load in irradiated RBC bags with the use of the PAF.
A novel immunosuppressive pathway involving peroxynitrate‐mediated nitration of platelet antigens within antigen‐presenting cells
Authors: Semple John W. , Speck Edwin R. , Fabron Jr Antonio , Kim Rukhsana Aslam Michael , Freedman John
Published: June 2008

BACKGROUND: Studies have demonstrated that immunity against platelet (PLT) transfusions is dependent on recipient antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) and their ability to produce nitric oxide (NO). To further analyze this, we focused on NO's major metabolite peroxynitrite (ONOO‐) and its ability to affect PLT immunity.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: To address how NO and its major metabolite may mediate PLT immunity, GP91PHOX knockout (KO) mice that lack the ability to produce the ONOO‐ were transfused weekly with allogeneic BALB/c PLTs, and donor antibody development was analyzed.

RESULTS: Compared with controls, GP91PHOX KO mice developed significantly (p < 0.0001) higher‐titered immunoglobulin G (IgG) donor antibodies by two transfusions, and this immune response could be inhibited by treating the recipient mice with aminoguanidine, a relatively selective inhibitor of inducible nitric oxide synthase. In vitro nitration of PLTs did not alter PLT antibody binding but significantly inhibited the transfused PLT's ability to stimulate IgG immunity in either wild‐type or KO mice. The lack of nitrated PLT immunity correlated with an inability of APCs to mediate phagocytosis of nitrated PLTs. The lack of nitrated PLT immunity could only be restored when normal PLTs were mixed with the nitrated PLTs and transfused.

CONCLUSION: The results identify a dual role for NO metabolism within APCs that significantly modulates PLT immunity; nitration of PLT antigens leads to lack of immunity due to an inability of APCs to move PLT antigens intracellularly whereas there exists an NO‐dependent pathway that stimulates anti‐PLT immunity.
RBC‐derived vesicles during storage: ultrastructure, protein composition, oxidation, and signaling components
Authors: Kriebardis Anastasios G. , Antonelou Marianna H. , Stamoulis Konstantinos E. , Economou‐Petersen Effrosini , Margaritis Lukas H. , Papassideri Issidora S.
Published: June 2008

BACKGROUND: Red cells (RBCs) lose membrane in vivo, under certain conditions in vitro, and during the ex vivo storage of whole blood, by releasing vesicles. The vesiculation of the RBCs is a part of the storage lesion. The protein composition of the vesicles generated during storage of banked RBCs has not been studied in detail.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Vesicles were isolated from the plasma of nonleukoreduced RBC units in citrate‐phosphate‐dextrose‐adenine, at eight time points of the storage period and shortly afterward. The degree of vesiculation, ultrastructure, oxidation status, and protein composition of the vesicles were evaluated by means of electron microscopy and immunoblotting. RBCs and ghost membranes were investigated as controls.

RESULTS: The total protein content of the vesicle fraction and the size of the vesicles increased but their structural integrity decreased over time. The oxidation index of the vesicles released up to Day 21 of storage was greater than that of the membrane ghosts of the corresponding intact RBCs. The vesicles contain aggregated hemoglobin, band 3, and lipid raft proteins, including flotillins. They also contain Fas, FADD, procaspases 3 and 8, caspase 8 and caspase 3 cleavage products (after the 10th day), CD47 (after the 17th day), and immunoglobulin G.

CONCLUSION: These data indicate that the vesicles released during storage of RBCs contain lipid raft proteins and oxidized or reactive signaling components commonly associated with the senescent RBCs. Vesiculation during storage of RBCs may enable the RBC to shed altered or harmful material.