bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chinese working in groups: Effort dispensability versus normative influence
Authors: Hong Ying‐yi , Wyer Jr Robert S. , Fong Candy P. S.
Published: July 2008

Chinese participants were found less likely to social loaf when working in groups than did North Americans. This result was attributed mainly to the collectivism and individualism characterizing Chinese and North Americans, respectively. However, this explanation does not address how Chinese people's social loafing tendency may vary across situations. If Chinese participants are concerned about their relations with coworkers, they should be more likely to conform to the performance level of their coworkers. This prediction is in opposition to effort dispensability, which is usually found among North Americans, whereby individuals adjust their effort in reverse to that of their coworkers. Consistent with our prediction, findings from three studies revealed that Chinese participants tended to conform to the performance level of their coworkers when their performance is made public (vs kept anonymous) and when they have high (vs low) relational concerns. These findings have implications for unpacking nuanced cultural influences on behaviours.
Reaching the Board: Factors Facilitating the Progression of Marketing Executives to Senior Positions in British Companies
Authors: Bennett Roger
Published: July 2008

The scarcity of marketing executives on the boards of directors of large British companies has been the subject of much discussion in recent years. Yet empirical research into the antecedents of board membership for marketing managers has been sparse. This study surveyed senior marketers in 209 registered companies in the food and beverages manufacturing sector with the aim of establishing some of the main factors that distinguish marketing managers who had attained board level positions and those who had not. Possible determinants of board membership covered by the investigation comprised the personal background of the manager (elite credentials, functional specialism, knowledge of general and financial management, social behaviour, emotional intelligence), the competitive environment of the business, whether marketing performance was measured systematically, and the degree of the sales orientation of the firm.
Black Market and Official Exchange Rates: Long‐run Equilibrium and Short‐run Dynamics
Authors: Caporale Guglielmo Maria , Cerrato Mario
Published: July 2008

This paper presents further empirical evidence on the relationship between black market and official exchange rates in six emerging economies (Iran, India, Indonesia, Korea, Pakistan, and Thailand). First, it applies both time series techniques and heterogeneous panel methods to test for the existence of a long‐run relationship between these two types of exchange rates. Second, it tests formally the validity of the proportionality restriction implying a constant black‐market premium. Third, it also analyses the short‐run dynamic responses of both markets to shocks. Finally, it tries to shed some light on the determinants of the market premium. Evidence of slow reversion to the long‐run equilibrium is found. Further, it appears that capital controls and expected currency devaluation are the two main factors affecting the size of the premium and determining the breakdown in the proportionality relationship.
Loaning Supplementary Benefit and the Introduction of the Social Fund
Authors: Grover Chris
Published: July 2008

This paper discusses an episode in social security policy making that has until now remained unexplored. This is the review, at the request of then Labour Secretary of State for Social Services, Richard Crossman MP, in the latter months of 1969 and early 1970 into the possibility of introducing loans to the Supplementary Benefit system as a replacement for some exceptional needs and exceptional circumstances payments. The paper examines files held at the National Archives to discuss the nature and extent of the proposed scheme and the objections of civil servants to loaning Supplementary Benefit. The paper demonstrates how the worst‐case scenario outlined by civil servants in 1970 was introduced some 15 years later as Social Fund loans. The paper then discusses economic, ideological and social change that provided the context for the introduction of loans as part of the Social Fund in the 1980s.
Models for Potentially Biased Evidence in Meta-Analysis using Empirically Based Priors
Authors: Welton N. J. , Ades A. E. , Carlin J. B. , Altman D. G. , Sterne J. A. C.
Published: July 2008

We present models for the combined analysis of evidence from randomized controlled trials categorized as being at either low or high risk of bias due to a flaw in their conduct. We formulate a bias model that incorporates between-study and between-meta-analysis heterogeneity in bias, and uncertainty in overall mean bias. We obtain algebraic expressions for the posterior distribution of the bias-adjusted treatment effect, which provide limiting values for the information that can be obtained from studies at high risk of bias. The parameters of the bias model can be estimated from collections of previously published meta-analyses. We explore alternative models for such data, and alternative methods for introducing prior information on the bias parameters into a new meta-analysis. Results from an illustrative example show that the bias-adjusted treatment effect estimates are sensitive to the way in which the meta-epidemiological data are modelled, but that using point estimates for bias parameters provides an adequate approximation to using a full joint prior distribution. A sensitivity analysis shows that the gain in precision from including studies at high risk of bias is likely to be low, however numerous or large their size, and that little is gained by incorporating such studies, unless the information from studies at low risk of bias is limited. We discuss approaches that might increase the value of including studies at high risk of bias, and the acceptability of the methods in the evaluation of health care interventions.
Sampling Bias and Logistic Models
Authors: McCullagh Peter
Published: July 2008

In a regression model, the joint distribution for each finite sample of units is determined by a function px(y) depending only on the list of covariate values x=(x(u1),…,x(un)) on the sampled units. No random sampling of units is involved. In biological work, random sampling is frequently unavoidable, in which case the joint distribution p(y,x) depends on the sampling scheme. Regression models can be used for the study of dependence provided that the conditional distribution p(y|x) for random samples agrees with px(y) as determined by the regression model for a fixed sample having a non-random configuration x. The paper develops a model that avoids the concept of a fixed population of units, thereby forcing the sampling plan to be incorporated into the sampling distribution. For a quota sample having a predetermined covariate configuration x, the sampling distribution agrees with the standard logistic regression model with correlated components. For most natural sampling plans such as sequential or simple random sampling, the conditional distribution p(y|x) is not the same as the regression distribution unless px(y) has independent components. In this sense, most natural sampling schemes involving binary random-effects models are biased. The implications of this formulation for subject-specific and population-averaged procedures are explored.
Revisiting Politicization: Political Advisers and Public Servants in Westminster Systems
Authors: EICHBAUM CHRIS , SHAW RICHARD
Published: July 2008

In recent times much has been made of the threat some argue is posed by political advisers to the impartiality of the Westminster civil service. Drawing on survey of senior New Zealand civil servants, this article examines the degree to which political advisers are perceived as a threat to civil service neutrality and describes the form taken by that threat as variously perceived. On the evidence reported, it is suggested that traditional understandings of “politicization” need to be reconceptualized if they are to fully account for the nature of the relationship between political and civil service advisers. To existing conceptions of politicization, therefore, the article proposes adding another: “administrative politicization,” allowing for different gradations of politicization to be identified, and enabling a nuanced assessment of the nature and extent of a risk to civil service neutrality that, the data suggest, is not as great as is sometimes alleged.
The Impact of League Tables on University Application Rates
Authors: Gunn Rod , Hill Steve
Published: July 2008

In the UK, the popular use of league tables in assessing the comparative standing of universities has escalated to such an extent that most UK national newspapers now publish them. A review of literature to date suggests there has been little academic research undertaken to establish the value of such tables or to assess their impact upon student application rates. This paper explores the relationship between league position and application rates in the UK, using rankings from the Sunday Times as an example, with important lessons for higher education across the globe. Results show that in the period when league tables were newly introduced, there was a significant negative association between league table position (ranked from highest to lowest) and the change in application rates (that is, the higher the league position, the faster the growth in applications) an association that subsequently weakened and may have even have reversed. The paper goes on to explore the notion of various divisions within the overall league table, suggesting that there are effectively two ‘selecting’ divisions, typically choosing from a surplus of applicants, and two ‘recruiting’ divisions, typically working to avoid an applications shortfall against target numbers.
Comparing Research and Teaching in University Promotion Criteria
Authors: Parker Jonathan
Published: July 2008

This article categorises the different criteria and weightings used to determine promotions in UK universities. The criteria were analysed to determine the extent to which they recognise research and teaching equally as evidence for promotion. The results show that universities have largely adopted formal parity in the criteria for senior and principal lecturers. However, for the higher and more prestigious ranks of reader and professor most universities exclusively require research excellence and do not allow similar applications based on teaching activities. Furthermore, there is a distinct and significant difference between promotion criteria in pre‐ and post‐1992 universities, with the post‐1992 universities much more likely to recognise research and teaching equally.
‘Time Out’ for Women: Innovation in Scotland in a Context of Change
Authors: MALLOCH MARGARET , McIVOR GILL , LOUCKS NANCY
Published: July 2008

Abstract: The 218 Centre was set up following consistent concerns about the increasing number of women in prison in Scotland and the high‐level needs of many of these women. It is an innovative and high‐profile attempt to develop appropriate responses to women in the criminal justice system. It offers women an opportunity for ‘time out’ of their normal environment without resorting to ‘time in’ custody, providing both residential and community‐based services. This article outlines some of the issues and challenges which characterised the early development and operation of the 218 Centre. It illustrates the ways in which some of the issues that arose during the evaluation resonate with current and ongoing debates within criminology, and draws attention to the difficulties in using the criminal justice system to address other issues.
Child Labour in West Africa: Different Work – Different Vulnerabilities
Authors: Bøås Morten , Hatløy Anne
Published: July 2008

Based on data from four different surveys – street children in Accra, Ghana; street children in Bamako, Mali; children and youth in alluvial‐diamond production in Kono district, Sierra Leone; and war‐affected children in Voinjama district, Liberia – this article analyzes how children and youth seek to use different economic strategies to shape their lives. In each of these cases, child labour is a consequence of poverty, steep school fees and the family need for the income that the children can earn. The results show school attendance among the children is low, and lowest among the street children and highest among the children in Voinjama who have recently returned after the war. All the children in this article live under difficult circumstances, but those working in the mines, or living a life as street children are particularly prone to respectively physical and mental stress. The type of labour performed in the alluvial diamond mines is extremely hard and repetitive. The life of a street child in West Africa is also very hard. It is a life that only the boldest and bravest will endure. The most fortunate ones are the returnee children in Voinjama. They have survived the Liberian civil war with their family or family‐related networks intact. The children in the study are not just passive victims of structures and actions they do not comprehend, but also people who try to adapt to a situation where education is less an option than it used to be. Faced with these constraints the children, either as miners or as street children, try to assume responsibility for their lives by the choice of the economic strategy that they are currently using. The study also indicates that efforts to support these groups should pay more attention to their lived realities of work and migration.
Multicultural Meanings of Social Support among Immigrants and Refugees
Authors: Stewart Miriam , Anderson Joan , Beiser Morton , Mwakarimba Edward , Neufeld Anne , Simich Laura , Spitzer Denise
Published: July 2008

Canada continues to be a prominent immigrant and refugee‐receiving country in worldwide migration, resettlement, and search for refuge, yet there is a gap in our understanding of these newcomers’ views of the specific meanings of social support and their support needs and resources. The purpose of this study was to understand the meanings of social support for immigrants and refugees in Canada, and to explore the types and adequacy of formal supports. Individual interviews were conducted with 60 service providers and policymakers initially (Phase 1), and 120 immigrants and refugees (60 Chinese, 60 Somali) in the second phase. The implications of these findings were elicited in group interviews (Phase 3) of policy decision‐makers, advocates, service providers, and managers. This investigation revealed many interrelated challenges facing refugees and immigrants such as language difficulties, inadequate information on services, poor health, racism, needs for retraining, rejection of foreign qualifications, unemployment, social isolation, social insecurity, dwindling social networks, and family conflicts. The study also illuminated culturally and socio‐economically determined perceptions of social support and support‐seeking strategies. Limited personal resources and dwindling social networks are an impediment to coping with integration and settlement challenges. In many cases, newcomers’ efforts to seek help are thwarted by systemic obstacles. Newcomers experienced extensive unmet support needs, which service providers cannot adequately meet due to bureaucratic and resource constraints. Policies in various sectors that affect the lives of immigrants and refugees are inadequate for bridging their support deficiencies. These support gaps hinder the successful settlement and integration of newcomers. Policies and programs fostering culturally relevant support, and inter‐sectoral collaboration among organizations addressing the support needs of immigrants and refugees are timely.
Reduced Habituation of Trigeminal Reflexes in Patients with Episodic Cluster Headache During Cluster Period
Authors: Perrotta A , Serrao M , Sandrini G , Bogdanova D , Tassorelli C , Bartolo M , Coppola G , Pierelli F , Nappi G
Published: July 2008

A growing body of evidence supports the pivotal role of the hypothalamus in the pathophysiology of cluster headache (CH). On the basis of animal studies, it has been suggested that a hypothalamic dysfunction can lead to a habituation deficit of brainstem reflex responses, as result of a stress-like condition. Taking into account these findings, we tested the hypothesis that habituation of brainstem reflexes may be impaired in CH patients. The habituation phenomenon of the late components (R2 and R3) of the blink reflex was studied in 27 CH patients during the cluster period, in 22 migraine patients interictally and in 20 control subjects. A significant habituation deficit in the R2 and R3 components was found in CH compared with both controls and migraineurs. The lack of habituation in CH, more pronounced than in migraine, points to abnormal processing of sensory stimuli at the trigeminal level that could be driven by hypothalamic dysfunction during the cluster period.
A review of photodynamic therapy in cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Van Der Snoek EM , Robinson DJ , Van Hellemond JJ , Neumann HAM
Published: July 2008

We present a review of six clinical studies investigating the use of photodynamic therapy (PDT) using porphyrin precursors for the treatment of Old World cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Thirty‐nine patients with a total of 77 lesions received PDT using a range of treatment schedules following topical application of aminolevulinic acid (ALA) or methyl‐aminolevulinate (MAL). The tissue response to PDT is accompanied by a mild burning sensation, erythema and reversible hypo‐ and hyperpigmentation. Few mechanistic studies have addressed the principles underlying the use of PDT for CL. All six reviewed papers suggest that PDT with porphyrin precursors is relatively effective in treating CL. Data are still limited, and PDT cannot at this point be recommended in routine clinical practice. The mechanism of action of this promising therapeutic modality needs to investigated further and additional controlled trials need to be performed.
The Second Time as Farce? The EU Takeover Directive, the Clash of Capitalisms and the Hamstrung Harmonization of European (and French) Corporate Governance*
Authors: CLIFT BEN
Published: July 2008

This article focuses on the EU Takeover Directive and its transposition into French law. French outcomes diverge from European Commission aspirations for greater clarity and uniformity. The clash of European capitalisms as well as heightened uncertainty and differentiation in takeover regulation exacerbate problems of asymmetric vulnerability of EU states (and firms) to the European Commission's liberal reform agenda. This explains the failings of EU‐level harmonization of varieties of capitalism and corporate governance.
Effect of human activities on Egyptian vulture breeding success
Authors: Zuberogoitia I. , Zabala J. , Martínez J. A. , Martínez J. E. , Azkona A.
Published: July 2008

Habitat loss, electrocution on power poles and persecution by humans are the main threats to birds of prey. Nevertheless, the effects of human disturbance on endangered species are becoming notorious due to the increasing recreational use of the natural environment. We evaluated the effects of human disturbances on Egyptian vulture Neophron percnopterus breeding success and developed conservation measures based on minimum distance of effect and buffer areas in a high human density area of northern Spain. A total of 100 breeding attempts of 15 breeding pairs were monitored over 8 years. Human disturbances affected 42 of the breeding attempts. Those disturbances related to and originating in forestry work had the most severe effect on breeding success, being associated with the loss of 100% of 13 breeding attempts, while human disturbances related to free‐time activities caused 44% failures in 25 breeding attempts by four pairs, two of them within Natural Parks. The breeding success was significantly less in territories affected by disturbances than in those free of disturbances. Some pairs affected by disturbances changed their nest site, increasing breeding success. Adults were prevented from entering the nest to feed chicks when anyone was detected at an average distance of 307 m, while an average distance of 837.5 m allowed them access. The maximum alert distance was estimated at 605 m and the buffer area was 57 ha. We discuss the application of our results for management schemes and conservation of this species.
Molecular paternity determination in captive bonobos and the impact of inbreeding on infant mortality
Authors: Van Coillie S. , Galbusera P. , Roeder A. D. , Schempp W. , Stevens J. M. G. , Leus K. , Reinartz G. , Pereboom Z.
Published: July 2008

Inbreeding and the loss of genetic diversity may lower fitness and reduce the potential for a population to adapt to changing environments. In small populations, for example in captive populations or populations of endangered species, this can have considerable consequences for their survival. We investigated the effects of inbreeding on infant mortality in the world captive population of bonobosPan paniscus. Using a combination of studbook data and high‐quality pedigree data from genotyped individuals, inbreeding information was available for 142 captive‐born individuals. For the determination of paternities that were unresolved in the studbook, nuclear microsatellite DNA was amplified from hair and blood samples using the Great Ape Kit and PowerPlex®16 System. In total, 54 bonobos (17 offspring and their putative parents) were genotyped at eight tetranucleotide repeat microsatellite loci. Inbreeding coefficients were calculated for each individual for whom paternity was confirmed by either studbook data or DNA analysis. We found significantly higher infant mortality in inbred offspring compared with non‐inbred offspring, suggesting that inbreeding reduces infant survival in captive bonobos. In addition, we argue that the total magnitude of inbreeding depression is probably underestimated in this captive population. In conclusion, even though the breeding programme of captive bonobos is aimed at avoiding inbreeding, closely related individuals do occasionally produce offspring that do show inbreeding depression. There is, however, no indication that this currently threatens the long‐time survival of the captive population of bonobos.
The microvascular architecture of the choroid plexus in fetal human brain lateral ventricle: a scanning electron microscopy study of corrosion casts
Authors: Zagorska‐Swiezy K. , Litwin J. A. , Gorczyca J. , Pitynski K. , Miodonski A. J.
Published: July 2008

The microvascular architecture of developing lateral ventricle choroid plexus was investigated by corrosion casting and scanning electron microscopy in human fetuses aged 20 gestational weeks. The areas with different microvascular patterns corresponded to the particular parts of the mature plexus: anterior part, glomus, posterior part, the villous fringe and the free margin. In the posterior part, densely packed parallel arterioles and venules were surrounded by sheath‐like capillary networks. Other areas contained compact capillary plexuses of the primary villi: the most prominent, protruding basket‐ and leaf‐shaped plexuses were observed in the villous fringe, whilst less numerous and smaller plexuses occurred in the anterior part and glomus. The capillaries of the plexuses had a large diameter and sinusoidal dilations, and showed the presence of occasional short, blind sprouts indicative of angiogenesis. Short anastomoses between arterioles supplying the plexuses and venules draining them were only rarely observed. In the upper area of the choroid plexus, the superior choroidal vein was surrounded by a capillary network forming small, glomerular or rosette‐shapes plexuses. The free margin of the choroid plexus was characterized by flat, multiple, arcade‐like capillary loops. The general vascular architecture of the human choroid plexus at 20 gestational weeks seems to be similar to that of postnatal/mature plexus, still lacking, however, the complex vascular plexuses of the secondary villi.
The large‐scale detoured migration route and the shifting pattern of migration in Oriental honey‐buzzards breeding in Japan
Authors: Yamaguchi N. , Tokita K‐I. , Uematsu A. , Kuno K. , Saeki M. , Hiraoka E. , Uchida K. , Hotta M. , Nakayama F. , Takahashi M. , Nakamura H. , Higuchi H.
Published: July 2008

We describe the detoured migration route of the Oriental honey‐buzzardPernis ptilorhyncus, showing differences between autumn and spring migration, using data from 10 adult individuals marked with satellite transmitters. In autumn, the migration routes were very similar from Japan to the south end of the Malay Peninsula. The wintering sites were distributed within the Philippines, Borneo and the Malay Archipelago. During autumn, migration of the birds had few long‐term stopover sites, instead, sometimes decidedly slowing their migration rate while proceeding in a consistent direction. During spring migration, the honey‐buzzards penetrated into southern China, moving north to the base of the Korean Peninsula. The birds then went south through the Korean Peninsula to reach Japan. Before travelling to China, all spring migrants stopped for several weeks in south‐east Asia. The slow rate of travel in the autumn suggests that migrants were foraging and replenishing their energy reserves. Instead of a migration strategy that uses only a few long‐term stopover sites, honey‐buzzards may adopt a strategy based on a number of short‐term stay sites.
Sex ratios observed in 80 species of parrots
Authors: Taylor T. D. , Parkin D. T.
Published: July 2008

A number of potential evolutionary and physiological factors may be involved in avian sex ratio bias so that under certain conditions a sex ratio bias may favour males or females within a population. In addition different factors may be important in manipulating sex ratio bias through the different life stages. In this study sex ratio bias was examined in a total of 16 570 captive parrots, representing 80 species, many of which are endangered in the wild, using database records originating form commercial laboratories that offer genetic sexing. Within the species examined 72% showed a male bias this was significant in three species, when adjusted for multiple comparisons. This preliminary study is limited due to lack of data on the age of the individuals sampled. However, the large dataset do suggest that this phenomenon should be further considered by investigators working at a species level where such data can be collected.
Variations in body melanization impact desiccation resistance inDrosophila immigransfrom Western Himalayas
Authors: Parkash R. , Ramniwas S. , Rajpurohit S. , Sharma V.
Published: July 2008

Ectothermic species face problems of water balance under colder and drier climatic conditions in montane localities. We investigated five ecophysiological traits (body melanization, desiccation resistance, rate of water loss or gain and body size) in eight populations ofDrosophila immigransfrom an altitudinal gradient (600–2226 m) in the Western Himalayas. The traits showed bell‐shaped variability patterns characteristic of quantitative traits. For body melanization, we observed high heritability (0.65) on the basis of parent–offspring regression. A comparison of highland versus foothill populations showed significant divergence for all the traits except body size. Darker flies from the highlands exhibited higher desiccation resistance but reduced rate of water loss or gain as compared with lighter flies from the foothills, which showed lower desiccation resistance and higher rates of water loss as well as gain. Lack of differences in the amount of epicuticular lipids cannot account for differential reduction in cuticular water loss in altitudinal populations. However, within‐ as well as between‐population differences in body melanization can account for changes in desiccation resistance and reduction in cuticular water loss. Analyses of highland versus lowland populations as well as in assorted darker and lighter flies from a highland population have shown differences in haemolymph and dehydration tolerance. For the mechanistic basis of desiccation resistance, our results on wild populations ofDrosophila immigransare not in agreement with those reported for laboratory‐selected desiccation‐resistant strains inDrosophila melanogaster. Thus, ecophysiological mechanisms could be different under laboratory versus field selection.
The lenses of nationhood: an optical model of identity
Authors: KAUFMANN ERIC
Published: July 2008

ABSTRACT.This paper tries to make the case for a model of political identity based on an optical metaphor, which is especially applicable to nations. Human vision can be separated into sentient object, lenses and inbuilt mental ideas. This corresponds well to identity processes in which ‘light’ from a bounded territorial referent is refracted through various lenses (ideological, material, psychological) to focus in certain ways on particular symbolic resources like genealogy, history, culture or political institutions. Distinguishing between referent, lenses and resources helps us more precisely situate many hitherto disparate problems of national identity. These include the ‘ethnic‐civic’ dilemma, the mystery of national identity before nationalism, and the relationship between local and national, and individual and collective, identities. The model also clarifies the place of universalist ideology, which currently fits poorly within the leading culturalist and materialist theories of nationalism.
Complement C3 and C4 expression in C1q sufficient and deficient mouse models of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Zhou Jun , Fonseca Maria I. , Pisalyaput Karntipa , Tenner Andrea J.
Published: July 2008

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease resulting in progressive cognitive decline. Amyloid plaque deposits consisting specifically of β‐amyloid peptides that have formed fibrils displaying β‐pleated sheet conformation are associated with activated microglia and astrocytes, are colocalized with C1q and other complement activation products, and appear at the time of cognitive decline in AD. Amyloid precursor protein (APP) transgenic mouse models of AD that lack the ability to activate the classical complement pathway display less neuropathology than do the APPQ+/+ mice, consistent with the hypothesis that complement activation and the resultant inflammation may play a role in the pathogenesis of AD. Further investigation of the presence of complement proteins C3 and C4 in the brain of these mice demonstrate that both C3 and C4 deposition increase with age in APPQ+/+ transgenic mice, as expected with the age‐dependent increase in fibrillar β‐amyloid deposition. In addition, while C4 is predominantly localized on the plaques and/or associated with oligodendrocytes in APPQ+/+ mice, little C4 is detected in APPQ−/− brains consistent with a lack of classical complement pathway activation because of the absence of C1q in these mice. In contrast, plaque and cell associated C3 immunoreactivity is seen in both animal models and, surprisingly, is higher in APPQ−/− than in APPQ+/+ mice, providing evidence for alternative pathway activation. The unexpected increase in C3 levels in the APPQ−/− mice coincident with decreased neuropathology provides support for the hypothesis that complement can mediate protective events as well as detrimental events in this disease. Finally, induced expression of C3 in a subset of astrocytes suggests the existence of differential activation states of these cells.
Translation arrest and ribonomics in post‐ischemic brain: layers and layers of players
Authors: DeGracia Donald J. , Jamison Jill T. , Szymanski Jeffrey J. , Lewis Monique K.
Published: July 2008

A persistent translation arrest (TA) correlates precisely with the selective vulnerability of post‐ischemic neurons. Mechanisms of post‐ischemic TA that have been assessed include ribosome biochemistry, the link between TA and stress responses, and the inactivation of translational components via sequestration in subcellular structures. Each of these approaches provides a perspective on post‐ischemic TA. Here, we develop the notion that mRNA regulation via RNA‐binding proteins, or ribonomics, also contributes to post‐ischemic TA. We describe the ribonomic network, or structures involved in mRNA regulation, including nuclear foci, polysomes, stress granules, embryonic lethal abnormal vision/Hu granules, processing bodies, exosomes, and RNA granules. Transcriptional, ribonomic, and ribosomal regulation together provide multiple layers mediating cell reprogramming. Stress gene induction via the heat‐shock response, immediate early genes, and endoplasmic reticulum stress represents significant reprogramming of post‐ischemic neurons. We present a model of post‐ischemic TA in ischemia‐resistant neurons that incorporates ribonomic considerations. In this model, selective translation of stress‐induced mRNAs contributes to translation recovery. This model provides a basis to study dysfunctional stress responses in vulnerable neurons, with a key focus on the inability of vulnerable neurons to selectively translate stress‐induced mRNAs. We suggest a ribonomic approach will shed new light on the roles of mRNA regulation in persistent TA in vulnerable post‐ischemic neurons.
Is UK biofuel supply from Miscanthus water‐limited?
Authors: Richter G. M. , Riche A. B. , Dailey A. G. , Gezan S. A. , Powlson D. S.
Published: July 2008

Sustainable Miscanthus plantings encouraged under publicly funded schemes should be based on sound economic and environmental assessments. We developed an empirical yield model for Miscanthus from harvestable dry matter yields at 14 field trials in the UK to estimate site‐specific and regional yields derived from meteorological variables and soil available water. Harvestable yields of crops established for at least 3 years at 14 arable sites across the UK ranged from 5 to 18 t/ha, averaging at 12.8 (±2.9) t/ha. Variables considered to affect yield were number of years after planting, length of season (Tair > 9 °C), temperature, global solar radiation, precipitation and potential evapotranspiration during the season, and soil available water capacity (AWC). At a single site (Rothamsted), AWC and the relative average potential soil moisture deficit during the main growing season explained 70% of annual yield variation (RMSE = 1.38 t/ha, P < 0.001). For the complete UK data set (n = 67), yield variation was related to AWC, air temperature and precipitation (RMSE = 2.1 t/ha, P < 0.01). Linking soil survey and spatially interpolated weather data we calculated an overall national average dry matter yield of 9.6 t/ha. As shown for two counties (Oxfordshire and North Yorkshire), estimated yield may decrease by 1 t/ha, and its uncertainty may rise from 15 to >20%, when soil survey instead of local soil data are used. Using data from a single weather station can introduce a bias (<1 t/ha) because of differences in elevation and local temperature and precipitation. Overall, it seems most important for bioenergy plantings to assure sufficient water supply from the soil (AWC > 150 mm) during the main growing season.
Determinants of regime type in newly independent states
Authors: ROST NICOLAS , BOOTH JOHN A.
Published: July 2008

Abstract.  Since 1945, newly independent states have differed from longer lived states in their greater risk of violent conflict and more challenging environment for democratisation. The authors of this article theorise that certain economic, demographic, violence‐related and external factors should affect the regime type (level of democracy versus autocracy) in newly independent states. Examining exclusively newly independent states that have undergone major political transitions allows one to determine factors favouring democracy over autocracy under such volatile circumstances. The authors test several hypotheses, using cross‐sectional and cross‐sectional time‐series analyses, and find that economic development elevates the level of democracy in new states. Cultural heterogeneity has no effect, but external factors play an important role. Genocide and politicide reduce democracy, while civil wars have the opposite effect. These findings prove robust to alternative measurements of the dependent variable and alternative model specifications.
Should I stay or should I go? An experimental study on voter responses to pre‐electoral coalitions
Authors: GSCHWEND THOMAS , HOOGHE MARC
Published: July 2008

Abstract.  Pre‐electoral coalitions (PECs) are one of the most often used methods to coordinate entry into the electoral market. Party elites, however, do not know how voters will respond to the coalition formation at the polls. In this article, the authors report on an experimental study among 1,255 Belgian students. In order to study voter responses to the formation of PECs, respondents were presented with two ballots: one with individual parties (party vote condition) and one with coalitions (coalition vote condition). The aim of this experiment is to predict under what conditions party supporters will follow their initially preferred party into the coalition and vote for the PEC, and under what conditions they would desert the PEC at the polls. The decision whether to follow the coalition or not can be traced back to four considerations: dislike of the coalition partner; ideological congruence between coalition partners; size of the initially preferred party; and being attracted to a specific high‐profile candidate. (Dis)liking the coalition partner is independent from the ideological congruence between the two coalition partners. The study's results also show support for an adjustment effect, as respondents became more loyal toward cartels over the course of the 2003–2005 observation period.
From 2D TO 3D Through Modelling Based On A Single Image
Authors: Gonzalez‐Aguilera Diego , Gomez‐Lahoz Javier
Published: July 2008

Three‐dimensional modelling from single images remains an interesting topic of investigation in the research community, even though range sensors are becoming a common alternative for the generation of 3D information. The interest in single‐image‐based modelling is motivated by a wide spectrum of applications such as cultural heritage, civil engineering, urban planning and even criminology. In this paper a complete new production flowline is presented for modelling based on a single image. The modelling process consists of a series of familiar steps in photogrammetry and computer vision: feature extraction, vanishing point computation, camera self‐calibration, 3D reconstruction and dimensional analysis. In particular, the methodology developed for single‐image‐based modelling takes a scientific approach combining several proven techniques with robust estimators. Finally, in order to demonstrate its capabilities, the reported examples include several real situations applied in different contexts.
A Meta‐Analysis of the Effects of Ultraviolet B Radiation and Its Synergistic Interactions with pH, Contaminants, and Disease on Amphibian Survival
Authors: BANCROFT BETSY A. , BAKER NICK J. , BLAUSTEIN ANDREW R.
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  Human alterations to natural systems have resulted in a loss of biological diversity around the world. Amphibian population losses have been more severe than those of birds and mammals. Amphibian population declines are likely due to many factors including habitat loss, disease, contaminants, introduced species and ultraviolet‐B (UVB) radiation. The effect of UVB, however, varies widely among species and can vary within populations of the same species or at different life‐history stages. This variation has often led to opposing conclusions about how UVB affects amphibians. We used meta‐analysis techniques to explore the overall effects of UVB radiation on survival in amphibians. We also used recently developed factorial meta‐analytic techniques to quantify potential interactions between UVB radiation and other stressors on amphibians. Ultraviolet‐B radiation reduced survival of amphibians by 1.9‐fold compared with shielded controls. Larvae were more susceptible to damage from UVB radiation compared with embryos, and salamanders were more susceptible compared with frogs and toads. Furthermore, UVB radiation interacted synergistically with other environmental stressors and resulted in greater than additive effects on survival when 2 stressors were present. Our results suggest that UVB radiation is an important stressor in amphibians, particularly in light of potential synergisms between UVB and other stressors in amphibian habitats.
Understanding Trait‐Dependent Community Disassembly: Dung Beetles, Density Functions, and Forest Fragmentation
Authors: LARSEN TROND H. , LOPERA ALEJANDRO , FORSYTH ADRIAN
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  Anthropogenic disturbances such as fragmentation are rapidly altering biodiversity, yet a lack of attention to species traits and abundance patterns has made the results of most studies difficult to generalize. We determined traits of extinction‐prone species and present a novel strategy for classifying species according to their population‐level response to a gradient of disturbance intensity. We examined the effects of forest fragmentation on dung beetle communities in an archipelago of 33 islands recently created by flooding in Venezuela. Species richness, density, and biomass all declined sharply with decreasing island area and increasing island isolation. Species richness was highly nested, indicating that local extinctions occurred nonrandomly. The most sensitive dung beetle species appeared to require at least 85 ha of forest, more than many large vertebrates. Extinction‐prone species were either large‐bodied, forest specialists, or uncommon. These explanatory variables were unrelated, suggesting at least 3 underlying causes of extirpation. Large species showed high wing loading (body mass/wing area) and a distinct flight strategy that may increase their area requirements. Although forest specificity made most species sensitive to fragmentation, a few persistent habitat generalists dispersed across the matrix. Density functions classified species into 4 response groups on the basis of their change in density with decreasing species richness. Sensitive and persistent species both declined with increasing fragmentation intensity, but persistent species occurred on more islands, which may be due to their higher baseline densities. Compensatory species increased in abundance following the initial loss of sensitive species, but rapidly declined with increasing fragmentation. Supertramp species (widespread habitat generalists) may be poor competitors but strong dispersers; their abundance peaked following the decline of the other 3 groups. Nevertheless, even the least sensitive species were extirpated or rare on the smallest and most isolated islands.
Initial healing rates as predictive factors of venous ulcer healing: The use of a laser‐based three‐dimensional ulcer measurement
Authors: Kecelj Leskovec Nada , Perme Maja Pohar , Jezeršek Matija , Mozina Janez , Pavlović Miloš D. , Lunder Tomaž
Published: July 2008

There is a need for practical methods to predict the healing time of venous leg ulcers. In a prospective cohort study of 81 patients with venous leg ulcers, we used a recently described laser‐based three‐dimensional measurement of the ulcers at days 0 and 28 to estimate the predictive power of horizontal (HIHR) and vertical initial healing rates (VIHR) for wound healing by week 24. The rates were calculated by Gilman's equation [(A1−A2)/((p1+p2)/2)(0–4)] and by its modification [(V1−V2)/((A1+A2)/2)(0–4)], respectively. The influence of risk factors on both the initial healing rates was also studied. The HIHR and VIHR are important predictors of healing at 24 weeks. They are not influenced by age, ulcer duration, initial ulcer area, and insufficient sapheno‐femoral junction, and/or calf perforating veins. Together with ulcer duration, they are independent predictors of the 24‐week healing (the area under ROC curve equals to 0.9). VIHR gives us additional information and significantly improves the prediction of 24‐week healing.
Sensitivity of the Primary Stability of a Cementless Hip Stem to Its Position and Orientation
Authors: Reggiani Barbara , Cristofolini Luca , Taddei Fulvia , Viceconti Marco
Published: July 2008

Abstract:  Using computed tomography (CT)‐based preoperative planning software, we can define with good accuracy the position of a cementless hip stem inside the host bone, but previous studies suggest that the pose the surgeon achieves during freehand surgery may differ from the planned one even by some millimeters. Advances in simulation now make it possible to predict the primary stability of the stem in a given position during the preoperative planning, but is the stability predicted for the planned pose indicative of that we can expect for the achieved pose? The aim of the present study was to verify how this prediction is affected by the differences observed between the planned and the achieved poses. Two finite element models of an implanted femur were generated, one with the stem in the planned pose, and one with the stem in the achieved pose, as defined from postoperative CT scans. When compared to experimental measurements, the model with the achieved position was clearly more accurate (0.6 vs. 12% error over measured peak micromotion); however, the predictions of induced micromotions were different between the two models for less than 13%. It is thus concluded that while the implant position does have an effect on primary stability, the estimate of micromotion we can get from the planned position remains a clinically relevant indicator.
Sensitivity of Soil Restoration Indicators during Páramo Succession in the High Tropical Andes: Chronosequence and Permanent Plot Approaches
Authors: Abreu Zoraida , Llambí Luis D. , Sarmiento Lina
Published: July 2008

The aim of this study was to analyze indicators of soil restoration during secondary succession in a heterogeneous valley in the high tropical Andes. A combination of chronosequence and permanent plot methods was used to detect changes in this heterogeneous matrix. Thirty‐six plots with different fallow times (1–9 years) and four noncultivated plots with natural vegetation (páramo) were sampled twice in a 3‐year interval (1996 and 1999). The following soil properties were determined: total C and N, pH, exchangeable bases, cation exchange capacity, and microbial biomass N (MB‐N). Using the chronosequence approach, successional increases in soil pH and Mg were detected, pointing to these variables as indicators of soil restoration during the fallow period. Comparing the noncultivated páramo with the fallow plots, a significant decrease in MB‐N was found, suggesting that this is a sensitive agricultural disturbance indicator. The permanent plot analysis failed to detect successional trends in any of the study variables, probably as a result of a lack of sensitivity of the indicators used within the 3‐year interval. Nevertheless, a strong acidification was detected by the permanent plot method when fallow plots were cultivated. We conclude that the size of important soil components such as total soil organic matter or microbial biomass is not a sensitive soil restoration indicator in these heterogeneous mountain systems but that other integrative variables such as pH could be more sensitive to successional changes in key soil processes (e.g., nitrification or nutrient losses).