bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and function of archaeal RNA polymerases
Authors: Werner Finn
Published: August 2007

RNA polymerases (RNAPs) are essential to all life forms and therefore deserve our special attention. The archaeal RNAP is closely related to eukaryotic RNAPII in terms of subunit composition and architecture, promoter elements and basal transcription factors required for the initiation and elongation phase of transcription. RNAPs of this class are large and sophisticated enzymes that interact in a complex manner with DNA/RNA scaffolds, substrates NTPs and a plethora of transcription factors – interactions that often result in an allosteric regulation of RNAP activity. The 12 subunits of RNAP play distinct roles including RNAP assembly and stability, catalysis and functional contacts with exogenous factors. Due to the availability of structural information of RNAPs at high‐resolution and wholly recombinant archaeal transcription systems, we are beginning to understand the molecular mechanisms of archaeal RNAPs and transcription in great detail.
Outcomes of preterm children according to type of delivery onset: a nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Morken Nils‐Halvdan , Källen Karin , Jacobsson Bo
Published: August 2007

The objective of the study was to investigate whether spontaneous and iatrogenic preterm births are associated with different paediatric outcomes. A nationwide population‐based study comprising 1 010 487 singletons used data from 1991 to 2001 from the Swedish Medical Birth Register and the Swedish Hospital Discharge Register. Intrauterine fetal deaths, unknown type of delivery onset and congenital malformations were excluded. Neonatal, perinatal and long‐term neurological outcomes were studied. Spontaneous preterm births were compared with iatrogenic preterm births. Odds ratios (OR) and hazard ratios (HR) for outcome variables were obtained using the Mantel–Haenszel technique and Cox analyses respectively. Adjustments were made for gestational age at birth, maternal age, parity and smoking. The preterm population consisted of 34 215 (73.2%) spontaneous preterm infants and 12 511 (26.8%) iatrogenic preterm infants.

Spontaneous preterm infants were at increased risk of cerebral palsy at gestational age 28–31 weeks (HR: 1.86 [95% CI: 1.12, 3.10]), and of sepsis at gestational age 32–33 weeks (HR: 1.58 [95% CI: 1.28, 1.96]). Other outcome variables were associated with iatrogenic preterm birth, especially respiratory and gastrointestinal diagnoses. In conclusion, spontaneous preterm birth and iatrogenic preterm birth are associated with different paediatric outcomes.
Risks and causes of mortality among low‐birthweight infants in childhood and adolescence
Authors: Lin Chih‐Ming , Chen Chi‐Wen , Chen Pei‐Tau , Lu Tsung‐Hsueh , Li Chung‐Yi
Published: August 2007

The purpose of the study was to estimate the risks of mortality among infants with low birthweight (LBW, <2500 g) during their childhood and adolescence using a prospective cohort design. A total of 341 249 livebirths were registered in the 1985 Taiwan Birth Registry. We identified the 11 701 LBW singletons and randomly selected the same number of normal‐birthweight (NBW) singletons. Study subjects of both LBW and NBW groups were linked, through the individual's unique personal identification number, to the Taiwan Death Registry to identify those who died between 1985 and 2003. Using the life‐table method, we calculated the age‐specific and cumulative survival rate for both LBW and NBW groups. We used Cox's proportional hazard model with adjustment for potential confounders to estimate the age‐specific hazard ratio (HR) of mortality. Age‐specific causes of mortality were presented for both groups.

The result showed that the cumulative survival rate over an 18‐year period for the LBW and NBW subjects was estimated at 95.83% and 99.37%, respectively. Significantly increased adjusted HR of mortality associated with LBW was limited to ages <1 year (boys: 8.99; girls: 8.29) and 1–4 years (boys: 2.19; girls: 2.25). Conditions originating in the perinatal period and congenital anomalies were the most prevalent cause of death among LBW and NBW, respectively. Between ages 1 and 18 years, injury and poisoning became the top ranked causes of death irrespective of birthweight and gender. Although there were small numbers of congenital anomalies, they were still a leading cause of death for LBW subjects, but not for NBW subjects, at ages 5–18 years. The LBW subjects were also likely to suffer from respiratory causes at 5–18 years. This study suggested, therefore, that LBW infants tended to have significantly elevated mortality rates under the age of 5 years, and were vulnerable to more non‐injury deaths in their childhood and adolescence.
Internal anatomy of a mixed siliciclastic–carbonate platform: the Late Cenomanian–Mid Turonian at the southern margin of the Spanish Central System
Authors: GARCÍA‐HIDALGO JOSÉ F. , GIL JAVIER , SEGURA MANVEL , DOMÍNGUEZ CARMEN
Published: August 2007

The Late Cenomanian–Mid Turonian succession in central Spain is composed of siliciclastic and carbonate rocks deposited in a variety of coastal and marine shelf environments (alluvial plain–estuarine, lagoon, shoreface, offshore‐hemipelagic and carbonate ramp). Three depositional sequences (third order) are recognized: the Atienza, Patones and El Molar sequences. The Patones sequence contains five fourth‐order parasequence sets, while a single parasequence set is recognized in the Atienza and El Molar sequences. Systems tracts can be recognized both in the sequences and parasequence sets. The lowstand systems tracts (only recognized for Atienza and Patones sequences) are related to erosion and sequence boundary formation. Transgressive systems tracts are related to marine transgression and shoreface retreat. The highstand systems tracts are related to shoreface extension and progradation, and to carbonate production and ramp progradation. Sequences are bounded by erosion or emergence surfaces, whose locations are supported by mineralogical analyses and suggest source area reactivation probably due to a fall in relative sea‐level. Transgressive surfaces are subordinate erosion and/or omission surfaces with a landward facies shift, interpreted as parasequence set boundaries. The co‐existence of siliciclastic and carbonate sediments and environments occurred as facies mixing or as distinct facies belts along the basin. Mixed facies of coastal areas are composed of detrital quartz and clays derived from the hinterland, and dolomite probably derived from bioclastic material. Siliciclastic flux to coastal areas is highly variable, the maximum flux postdates relative sea‐level falls. Carbonate production in these areas may be constant, but the final content is a function of changing inputs in terrigenous sediments and carbonate content diminishes through a dilution effect. Carbonate ramps were detached from the coastal system and separated by a fringe of offshore, fine‐grained muds and silts as distinct facies belts. The growth of carbonate ramp deposits was related to the highstand systems tracts of the fourth‐order parasequence sets. During the growth of these ramps, some sediment starvation occurred basinwards. Progradation and retrogradation of the different belts occur simultaneously, suggesting a sea‐level control on sedimentation. In the study area, the co‐existence of carbonate and siliciclastic facies belts depended on the superimposition of different orders of relative sea‐level cycles, and occurred mainly when the second‐order, third‐order and fourth‐order cycles showed highstand conditions.
Cleome, a genus closely related to Arabidopsis, contains species spanning a developmental progression from C3 to C4 photosynthesis
Authors: Marshall Diana M. , Muhaidat Riyadh , Brown Naomi J. , Liu Zheng , Stanley Susan , Griffiths Howard , Sage Rowan F. , Hibberd Julian M.
Published: August 2007

C4 photosynthesis involves alterations to leaf development, cell biology and biochemistry. Different lineages of C4 plants use varying mechanisms to generate the C4 pathway. Although the biochemistry of C4 photosynthesis was described around 20 years ago, the phylogenetic distance between Arabidopsis and the traditional C4 models has not facilitated the transfer of knowledge from Arabidopsis research to understanding C4 systems. We show that Cleome, a genus closely related to Arabidopsis, contains species spanning a developmental progression from C3 to C4 photosynthesis. The majority of species we assessed are C3 plants but have increased venation in leaves. Three C3 species have both increased venation and enlarged bundle sheath cells, and there is also a tendency to accumulate proteins and transcripts needed for C4 photosynthesis. Cleome gynandra shows all the characteristics needed for efficient C4 photosynthesis, including alterations to leaf biochemistry, cell biology and development, and belongs to the NAD‐dependent malic enzyme subtype. Combined with its phylogenetic proximity to Arabidopsis, the developmental progression from C3 to C4 photosynthesis within the genus provides a potentially excellent new model to increase our understanding of C4 photosynthesis, and provide insights into its evolution.
Detection of copy number changes at the NF1 locus with improved high‐resolution array CGH
Authors: Shen MH , Mantripragada K , Dumanski JP , Frayling I , Upadhyaya M
Published: August 2007

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common autosomal dominant disease caused by various types of mutations in the NF1 gene. We have previously developed a locus‐specific DNA microarray for detection of copy number changes at the NF1 locus by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) analysis. The original array contains 183 probes pooled from 444 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products. In the current work, we have used 493 probes derived from single PCR products (200–998 bp in size) to construct a higher resolution array with a smaller average probe size for molecular diagnosis of NF1. This has improved the average resolution from 12.6 kb in the previous array to 4.5 kb in the current version. The performance of the newly constructed microarray was validated with 14 well‐characterized NF1 mutations for CGH analysis. These mutations represent deletions from ∼7 kb to over 2 Mb in size. Using this array, we examined a total of 55 NF1 patients for copy number changes at the NF1 locus, detecting deletions in four of them. These results demonstrate that a locus‐specific microarray constructed from single PCR products can efficiently detect copy number changes at the NF1 locus, providing a simple method for the molecular diagnosis of NF1.
A distinct spectrum of SLC26A4 mutations in patients with enlarged vestibular aqueduct in China
Authors: Wang Q‐J , Zhao Y‐L , Rao S‐Q , Guo Y‐F , Yuan H , Zong L , Guan J , Xu B‐C , Wang D‐Y , Han M‐K , Lan L , Zhai S‐Q , Shen Y
Published: August 2007

There is a worldwide interest in studying SLC26A4 mutations that are responsible for enlarged vestibular aqueduct (EVA) in different ethnic background and populations. The spectrum of SLC26A4 mutations in Chinese population is yet to be fully characterized. In this study, all the 21 exons of SLC26A4 were screened in 107 Chinese patients with hearing loss associated with EVA or both EVA and Mondini dysplasia (MD), taken from six multiplex and 95 simplex families. The two types of control populations consisted of 84 normal‐hearing subjects and 46 sensorineural hearing loss subjects without inner ear malformations. Biallelic mutations were found in 12 patients from multiplex families and 84 patients (88.4%) from the simplex families. In addition, monoallelic variant was detected in nine patients in the remaining 11 simplex families. Overall, up to 97.9% patients were found having at least one possible pathogenic variant in SLC26A4, with most having biallelic variants consistent with recessive inheritance of this disorder. A total of 40 mutations including 25 novel mutations were identified in the Chinese patients but were not detected in all the controls except for one normal subject. For the Chinese mutation spectrum of SLC26A4 gene, IVS7‐2A>G mutation was the most common form accounting for 57.63% (102/177) of all the mutant alleles.
Induction of flowering by 5‐azacytidine in some plant species: relationship between the stability of photoperiodically induced flowering and flower‐inducing effect of DNA demethylation
Authors: Kondo Hiroshi , Miura Takashi , Wada Kaede C. , Takeno Kiyotoshi
Published: August 2007

The flower‐inducing effect of 5‐azacytidine, a DNA demethylating reagent, was examined in several plant species with a stable or unstable photoperiodically induced flowering state under non‐inductive photoperiodic conditions. The long day plant Silene armeria, whose flowering state is stable and the short day plant Pharbitis nil, whose flowering state is unstable were induced to flower by 5‐azacytidine under a non‐inductive condition. Thus, the replacement of photoinduction by 5‐azacytidine treatment is not specific to Perilla frutescens. On the other hand, 5‐azacytidine did not induce flowering in Xanthium strumarium whose flowering state is stable and Lemna paucicostata whose flowering state is unstable. Thus, epigenetics caused by DNA demethylation may be involved in the regulation of photoperiodic flowering irrespective of the stability of the photoperiodically induced flowering state.
Weak response of porcine C5a receptor towards human C5a in miniature pig endothelial cells and PMNs
Authors: Yi Kye Sook , Lee Sukmook , Kang Yoon‐Ho , Bae Yoe‐Sik , Hwang Seung Yong , Ha Insu , Kim Hyori , Kim Min Soo , Cho Bumrae , Kang Hee Jung , Bang Ki Tae , Kim Jae Yong , Yang Jaeseok , Chung Junho , Ahn Curie
Published: August 2007

Abstract: Background: The anaphylatoxin C5a is a potent inflammatory molecule generated during complement activation. Although some reports have implicated C5a in xenograft rejection, to date, the molecular compatibility between human C5a and porcine C5a receptor (C5aR) has been little studied. To examine the need for pC5aR‐deficient pig in xenotransplantaion, we aimed to look at the degree of direct interaction between human C5a (recipient side) and porcine endothelial cells (PECs) and porcine polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) (donor side).

Methods: Following the treatment of human C5a to isolated porcine PMNs, transmigration of PMNs was measured by Transwell system and superoxide generation by cytochromecreduction assay. Next, the effects of human C5a on several intracellular signaling pathways were further checked; actin cytoskeletal change was observed under a confocal microscope after staining with Alexa Fluor‐546‐phalloidin, intracellular calcium mobilization was measured by spectrofluorophotometer. The degree of direct effect of human C5a on porcine PMNs was compared with that in human PMNs. Finally, microarray was performed to monitor the effect of human C5a on gene expression of PEC and the expression of several candidate proteins was checked by flow cytometry.

Results: We found that human C5a was able to induce chemotaxis, superoxide generation, actin cytoskeletal change, and intracellular calcium mobilization in porcine PMNs. However, higher concentration of human C5a was required to stimulate porcine PMNs in comparison with activating human PMNs. The amino acid sequences of porcine C5aR with those of human C5aR showed a sequence homology of only 67%. To elucidate the effect of human C5a to PECs, microarray analysis following the treatment of PECs with human C5a was performed. These data showed that human C5a did not significantly affect gene transcription patterns in PECs. Additionally, treatment of PECs with human C5a also did not induce protein expression of several cell adhesion molecules, including vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1, intercellular adhesion molecule‐1, P‐selectin, and E‐selectin, or secretion of interleukin‐8 from PECs.

Conclusions: These results suggest that human C5a may play a minor role on PEC activation possibly due to molecular incompatibility across the species barrier.
Occurrence of Alfalfa Bacterial Stem Blight Disease in Kurdistan Province, Iran
Authors: Harighi B.
Published: August 2007

During spring and summer of 2004 and 2005, a new disease of alfalfa was observed for the first time in some areas of the Kurdistan province in Iran. Symptoms were initially yellowed area on leaves, within which water‐soaked, irregular spots developed. These spots eventually coalesced to produce large necrotic areas. Symptoms on petiole and stem include water‐soaked lesions, which later turned brown. Gram negative and rod‐shaped bacteria were isolated from infected tissues. From the results of LOPAT tests (levan production, oxidase reaction, potato soft rot, arginine dihydrolase and tobacco hypersensitivity) and other phenotypic, biochemical and physiological properties investigated, the causal bacterium have been identified as Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae. Pathogenicity of selected strains was confirmed by injecting a bacterial suspension into leaf tissue from the underside of leaves.
Inducible Proteins in Citrus Rootstocks with Different Tolerance Towards the Root Rot Pathogen Phytophthora palmivora
Authors: Albrecht U. , Bowman K. D.
Published: August 2007

Activities of defence‐related proteins (β‐1,3‐glucanases, chitinases and peroxidases) and concentrations of total soluble phenolics were measured in roots and leaves of non‐infected and infected plants to investigate the response of different citrus rootstock genotypes to the root rot pathogen Phytophthora palmivora Butler. Infection with the pathogen increased concentrations of total proteins, total phenolics and β‐1,3‐glucanase activity in roots of all genotypes, and increases were associated with the extent of root mass reductions and thus susceptibility of the plants. Root chitinase and root peroxidase levels were slightly reduced or unaltered upon infection. β‐1,3‐Glucanase activity was also elevated in leaves of infected plants, but increases did not differ between tolerant and susceptible rootstocks. Effects of root infection on leaves were typically the reverse of effects on roots for chitinase‐ and peroxidase levels and more pronounced in susceptible rootstock genotypes. Although differences in enzyme expression were observed between susceptible and tolerant citrus seedlings, effects were usually associated with disease progression, and not with resistance to P. palmivora. It is suggested that increased activities of the proteins and soluble phenolics studied are not implicated in the primary defence to Phytophthora root diseases, but may contribute to the inhibition of the pathogen during infection in tolerant citrus.
Polyclonal Antibodies to the Coat Protein of Carnation etched ring virus Expressed in Bacterial System: Production and Use in Immunodiagnosis†
Authors: Raikhy G. , Hallan V. , Kulshrestha S. , Zaidi A. A.
Published: August 2007

Carnation etched ring virus (CERV), is the most widespread virus in carnation cultivars after Carnation mottle virus. It's incidences has been reported worldwide. It has double stranded DNA genome with the length of ∼8 kbp. Primers were designed for CERV coat protein gene (1482 bp) amplification and directional and inframe cloning in expression vector, pET‐28a(+) (Novagen, USA), using Escherichia coli strain BL 21 strain competent cells. Expression conditions for maximum recovery of soluble recombinant protein was standardized. The in vitro expressed protein was purified and was used as an antigen for raising antisera. Both intramuscular and sub‐cutaneous routes were used separately for antisera production and the antisera was purified. Some of the antisera was used for enzyme conjugate preparation. This antiserum and conjugate were then used for formulation of an ELISA‐based diagnostic kit for CERV detection. Its properties were compared with the commercially available kit. In all cases, with both glasshouse and field material, the antibodies had good detectability and specificity. These antibodies combine specificity to the target protein and versatility with regard to all the more important serological techniques.
Potential of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens for Control of Alternaria cosmosa and A. patula of Cosmos sulfurous (Yellow Cosmos) and Tagetes patula (French Marigold)
Authors: Wu W. S. , Wu H. C. , Li Y. L.
Published: August 2007

Alternaria cosmosa and Alternaria patula are seed‐borne pathogens of Cosmos sulfurous Cav. (yellow cosmos) and Tagetes patula L. (French marigold), respectively. Bacterial strains were isolated from the two hosts to compare their potential to control the Alternaria species with the control provided by the fungicides, prochloraz and pyrifenox. Eight of 73 strains (11%) from C. sulfurous and four of the 128 (3%) from T. patula were found to be effective antagonists by in vitro screening. The efficacy of these active strains as antagonists of the two seed‐borne pathogens was evaluated in laboratory, glasshouse and field experiments. The most effective strains, Cb 6 from C. sulfurous and strain TpE 1 from T. patula, were both identified as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and were able to reduce disease severity as seed or foliar treatments of their respective host in most experiments.
Development of Diagnostics for DNA A and DNA β of a Begomovirus Associated with Mesta Yellow Vein Mosaic Disease and Detection of Geminiviruses in Mesta (Hibiscus cannabinus L. and H. sabdariffa L.) and Some Other Plant Species
Authors: Chatterjee A. , Sinha S. K. , Roy A. , Sengupta D. N. , Ghosh S. K.
Published: August 2007

Occurrence of yellow vein mosaic disease of mesta (Hibiscus cannabinus L. and H. sabdariffa L.) was found to be endemic in parts of India. For rapid and sensitive diagnosis of the Begomovirus associated with this disease, a radiolabelled diagnostic method has been developed. Southern hybridization and nucleic acid spot hybridization using radiolabelled probes to the coat protein (CP) gene of DNA A and DNA β of the virus were able to detect the virus both in plants and in viruliferous whiteflies. These probes detected the presence of the same virus in experimentally infected Vigna plants showing only leaf crumpling symptoms. These probes were also able to detect infection in other crops, ornamentals and weed plants showing characteristic symptoms of whitefly‐transmitted geminiviruses. Polymerase chain reaction amplification through primers specific to the CP gene, full‐length DNA A and full‐length DNA β molecules using DNA isolated from all infected plants and viruliferous whiteflies detected presence of same virus in them.
Randomized trial on the therapeutic equivalence between Eprex and GerEPO in patients on haemodialysis
Authors: GOH BAK‐LEONG , ONG LOKE‐MENG , SIVANANDAM SAROJINI , LIM TECK‐ONN , MORAD ZAKI ,   FOR THE BIOGENERIC EPO STUDY GROUP
Published: August 2007

Aim:  Treatment of renal anaemia with epoetin is well established. However, epoetin is expensive. Biogeneric epoetin with proven efficacy would reduce cost and improve access to therapy. We conducted this first ever comparative study of a biogeneric and the original product.

Methods:  Stable haemodialysis patients with haemoglobin (Hb) of at least 9 g/dL and receiving the human recombinant erythropoietin Eprex were randomized to continue Eprex or convert to GerEPO, a biogeneric epoetin, for 12 weeks. The primary efficacy variable was a change in Hb from baseline.

Results:  Ninety‐three subjects were randomized to each arm. Ninety‐two and 87 subjects on the Eprex and GerEPO arms, respectively, completed the trial. Mean Hb in both groups declined over time. The mean decline in Hb was −0.47 g/dL in the Eprex group and −0.45 g/dL in the GerEPO group. The mean difference in the change in Hb from baseline to week 12 between the two groups was 0.02. The 95% confidence interval was −0.42 to 0.46, which lies within the margin of equivalence (±0.5 g/dL). The results of intention‐to‐treat analysis were similar. There were no significant differences in the epoetin dose, iron therapy or iron stores between the groups. Patients receiving GerEPO reported more adverse events.

Conclusion:  GerEPO was therapeutically equivalent to Eprex with respect to Hb response for patients with Hb in the subtherapeutic target range as is common in this study population. The trial duration was insufficient for safety evaluation, which must await further investigation. More biogeneric products should be subjected to rigorous evaluation.
Q fever cases at a North Queensland centre during 1994–2006
Authors: Gale M. , Ketheesan N. , Govan B. , Kennedy R. L. , Norton R.
Published: August 2007

This study reviewed the epidemiological features, management and outcomes of patients with Q fever treated at a tertiary facility in North Queensland during the period from July 1994 to January 2006. Twenty‐seven patients were identified. Our findings were consistent with the observations about Q fever that have been made in other regions of Australia. A diagnosis of Q fever should be considered in patients with a non‐specific febrile illness.
Chronic disease management: time for consultant physicians to take more leadership in system redesign
Authors: Brand C. , Scott I. , Greenberg P. , Sargious P.
Published: August 2007

There is a need for system redesign to meet the needs of individuals with chronic disease. New models of chronic disease care include team‐based paradigms that focus on continuous and patient‐centred care. In such models the roles of providers and patients must change. In this article we focus on new roles for consultant physicians, as well as barriers and incentives to these roles.
On the fine structure of the creeping larva of Loxosomella murmanica: additional evidence for a clade of Kamptozoa (Entoprocta) and Mollusca
Authors: Haszprunar Gerhard , Wanninger Andreas
Published: August 2007

The creeping larva of the kamptozoan (entoproct) Loxosomella murmanica was investigated using transmission electron microscopy. The late larva exhibits a prominent apical organ connected to the ‘cerebral’ commissure of large cerebral ganglia, which supply the paired frontal organ. From the cerebral ganglia two paired nerve cords project backwards, closely resembling the tetraneuralian pattern of basal molluscs. In addition, a neural ring supplying the prototroch is present. The epidermis is composed of myoepithelial cells. Dorsally its cuticle is covered by granules of unknown composition. The prototroch consists of two ciliary rings; a downstream collecting system is not present. Although there is a one‐way gut with a lumen throughout, the larva obviously does not feed. A single pair of protonephridia is present. The foot sole shares distinct similarities with basic molluscs, particularly with those of the aplacophoran Solenogastres: The anterior part shows a huge, subepidermal pedal gland and several bundles of cirri consisting of compound cilia. The posterior part is ciliated with intraepithelial mucous cells interspersed. The dorsoventral muscle fibres show the mollusc‐like ventral intercrossing. The present results and previous findings, in particular the chitinous, non‐moulted cuticle, the sinus circulatory system, and a number of neural features shared by Kamptozoa and Mollusca, provide substantial evidence for a direct sister‐group relationship between these phyla. In addition, the basal position of the Solenogastres (Neomeniomorpha) within the Mollusca is corroborated.
Earnings Behaviour of Financially Distressed Firms: The Role of Institutional Ownership
Authors: Charitou Andreas , Lambertides Neophytos , Trigeorgis Lenos
Published: August 2007

Using a sample of 859 U.S. bankruptcy‐filing firms over the period 1986–2004, we examine the earnings behaviour of managers during the distressed period by looking at sources of abnormal accruals prior to the bankruptcy‐filing year. Results show that managers of highly distressed firms shift earnings downwards prior to the bankruptcy filing. We test and provide evidence in support of two potential contributing factors. First, top‐level management turnover among distressed firms leads new managers to earnings bath choices during the distressed period. Second, qualified audit opinions exert pressure on managers to follow more conservative earnings behaviour during the distressed period. Evidence is also provided that the management of distressed firms with lower (higher) institutional ownership has greater (lesser) tendency to manage earnings downwards. Results also show that higher institutional ownership mitigates the negative abnormal returns of firms with top management turnover. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that attempts to examine whether institutional ownership relates to market reaction in conjunction with a top management turnover or a qualified audit opinion during the distressed period. Prior studies focused on the investigation of earnings management or institutional ownership (separately) during the distressed period, but did not examine if the effect of institutional ownership on earnings behaviour also influences subsequent returns. Thus, the results of this study should be of interest to analysts, standard setters and regulatory bodies since our results show that management turnover, qualified audit opinions and firm governance mechanisms affect the quality of earnings and the level of abnormal returns.
Factors Affecting the Probability of Bankruptcy: A Managerial Decision Based Approach
Authors: Peat Maurice
Published: August 2007

The majority of classification models developed have used a pool of financial ratios combined with statistical variable selection techniques to maximize the accuracy of the classifier constructed. Rather than follow this approach, this article seeks to provide an explicit economic basis for the selection of variables for inclusion in bankruptcy models. This search to develop an economic theory of bankruptcy augments the existing bankruptcy prediction literature. Variables which occur in bankruptcy probability expressions derived from the solution of a stochastic optimizing model of firm behaviour are ‘proxied’ by variables constructed from financial statement data. The random nature of the lifetime of a single firm provides the rationale for the use of duration or hazard‐based statistical methods in the validation of the derived bankruptcy probability expressions. Results of the validation exercise confirm that the majority of variables included in the empirical hazard formulation behave in a way that is consistent with the model of the firm. The results highlight the need for developments in the measurement of earnings dispersion.
Modelling Credit Risk for SMEs: Evidence from the U.S. Market
Authors: Altman Edward I. , Sabato Gabriele
Published: August 2007

Considering the fundamental role played by small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the economy of many countries and the considerable attention placed on SMEs in the new Basel Capital Accord, we develop a distress prediction model specifically for the SME sector and to analyse its effectiveness compared to a generic corporate model. The behaviour of financial measures for SMEs is analysed and the most significant variables in predicting the entities’ credit worthiness are selected in order to construct a default prediction model. Using a logit regression technique on panel data of over 2,000 U.S. firms (with sales less than $65 million) over the period 1994–2002, we develop a one‐year default prediction model. This model has an out‐of‐sample prediction power which is almost 30 per cent higher than a generic corporate model. An associated objective is to observe our model's ability to lower bank capital requirements considering the new Basel Capital Accord's rules for SMEs.
A GUIDED TOUR OF THE MARKET MICROSTRUCTURE APPROACH TO EXCHANGE RATE DETERMINATION
Authors: Vitale Paolo
Published: August 2007

Abstract We propose a critical review of recent developments in exchange rate economics which have offered a novel approach to exchange rate determination. This new strand of research, the market microstructure approach to exchange rates, is motivated by some very stark empirical evidence, relating exchange rate dynamics to the imbalance in the sequence of purchases and sales of foreign currencies in the markets for foreign exchange. Through our review we outline the results this new strand of research has achieved alongside its open questions and future challenges.
The Social Licence as a Form of Regulation for Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Lynch‐Wood Gary , Williamson David
Published: August 2007

Traditional forms of regulation have been criticized for not adequately protecting the environment. Indeed, there is evidence and growing support for the view that societal pressure can act as a social licence which induces ‘beyond compliance’ behaviour. In exploring this view, the paper (a) outlines the characteristics of the social licence; (b) assesses how these characteristics can influence the environmental behaviour of small and medium enterprises; (c) presents a model which shows that social licence pressures depend on the interplay of a range of factors; and (d) applies the model to explain why societal pressures rarely induce beyond compliance environmental behaviour among small and medium enterprises.
Women Solicitors as a Barometer for Problems within the Legal Profession – Time to Put Values before Profits?
Authors: Webley Lisa , Duff Liz
Published: August 2007

This article will consider the theoretical explanations for why women are not remaining within and progressing through the ranks of the solicitors' profession in England and Wales. It sets out the findings from a Law Society commissioned project to examine the reasons why women have had a break from practice or chosen to leave the profession. Finally, it considers whether one of the purported strategies used to empower women solicitors – the business case for equality of opportunity in the solicitors' profession – is actively working against women and the profession (more broadly), and that only a return to a wider values‐based approach to professional identity will meet the criticisms raised by many of the women who participated in this research.
CARTEL PROHIBITION MAY INCREASE PRICES*
Authors: HAAN MARCO A.
Published: August 2007

In this paper, we show that a policy that forbids cartels may benefit dominant firms, and hurt consumers. When cartels are prohibited, an incumbent monopolist can commit not to form a cartel should a new entrant enter the market. This reduces the entry threat, which implies that entry occurs less often, and the incumbent monopolist is less likely to set a limit price.
What Are Modules and What Is Their Role in Development?
Authors: BUTTERFILL S.
Published: August 2007

Abstract: Modules are widely held to play a central role in explaining mental development and in accounts of the mind generally. But there is much disagreement about what modules are, which shows that we do not adequately understand modularity. This paper outlines a Fodoresque approach to understanding one type of modularity. It suggests that we can distinguish modular from nonmodular cognition by reference to the kinds of process involved, and that modular cognition differs from nonmodular forms of cognition in being a special kind of computational process. The paper concludes by considering implications for the role of modules in explaining mental development.
The Performance of Local versus Foreign Mutual Fund Managers
Authors: Otten Rogér , Bams Dennis
Published: August 2007

In this paper we examine the performance of US equity funds (locals) versus UK equity funds (foreigners) also investing in the US equity market. Based on informational disadvantages one would expect the UK funds to under‐perform the US funds, especially in the research‐intensive small company market. After controlling for tax treatment, fund objectives, investment style and time‐variation in betas, we do not find evidence for this. In the small company segment we even find a slight out‐performance for UK funds compared to US funds. Finally we observe a home bias in the UK portfolios, which is partly attributable to UK funds investing in cross‐listed stocks in the USA.
Total Factor Productivity and Monetary Policy: Evidence from Conditional Volatility*
Authors: Apergis Nicholas , Miller Stephen M.
Published: August 2007

This paper empirically assesses whether monetary policy and its volatility affect real economic activity through their effect on the aggregate supply side of the macroeconomy. Analysts typically argue that monetary policy either does not affect the real economy (the classical dichotomy) or only affects the real economy in the short run through aggregate demand (new Keynesian or new classical theories). Real business cycle theorists try to explain the business cycle with supply‐side productivity shocks. We provide some preliminary evidence about how monetary policy and its volatility affect the aggregate supply side of the macroeconomy through their effect on total factor productivity and its volatility. Total factor productivity provides an important measure of supply‐side performance. The results show that monetary policy and its volatility exert a positive and statistically significant effect on the supply side of the macroeconomy. Moreover, the findings buttress the importance of reducing short‐run swings in monetary policy variables as well as support the adoption of an optimal money supply rule. Our results also prove consistent with the effective role of monetary policy during the so‐called ‘Great Moderation’ in US gross domestic product volatility beginning in the early 1980s.
Increasing Validity with Forced‐Choice Criterion Measurement Formats
Authors: Bartram Dave
Published: August 2007

The relative validities of forced‐choice (ipsative) and Likert rating‐scale item formats as criterion measures are examined. While there has been much debate about the relative technical and psychometric merits and demerits of ipsative instruments, the present research focused on the crucial question of whether the use of this format has any practical benefit – in terms of improved validity. An analysis is reported from a meta‐analysis data set. This demonstrates that higher operational validity coefficients (prediction of line‐manager ratings of competencies) are associated with the use of forced‐choice (r=.38) rather than rating scale (r=.25) item formats for the criterion measurement instrument when performance is rated by the same line managers on both formats and where the predictor is held constant. Thus the apparent criterion‐related validity of a predictor can increase by 50% simply by changing the format of the criterion measurement instrument. The implications of this for practice are discussed.
Mind the Gap: Between‐group differences and fair test use
Authors: Gamliel Eyal , Cahan Sorel
Published: August 2007

This paper integrates recent meta‐analytical findings regarding group differences in job‐ and educational‐related criteria and cognitive ability measures used as predictors in personnel selection and selection to higher education institutions. The findings suggest that cognitive ability measures reveal much higher group differences than the corresponding between‐group differences in job‐ and educational‐related criteria. One possible explanation for these differential gaps is that cognitive ability measures are objective and standardized while the typical measures used as job‐ and‐educational related criteria are non‐standardized subjective evaluations of job performance and academic achievement. While these findings are consistent with unbiased prediction or over‐prediction for lower scoring groups, they imply that selection is biased against them. Implications and future research are discussed.
Measurement Equivalence of 360°‐Assessment Data: Are different raters rating the same constructs?
Authors: Hannum Kelly M.
Published: August 2007

This study uses data collected using a 360°‐assessment instrument to investigate the structural equivalence of 360°‐assessment ratings, according to rater type, controlling for organizational level. Data from 533 managers and their raters were employed in the study, which used multi‐group structural equations modeling. Issues central to the implementation and use of 360°‐assessment data are also considered within the context of current research and practice.
Living The Future: The Kingdom of God in the Theologies of Jürgen Moltmann and Wolfhart Pannenberg
Authors: HARVIE TIMOTHY
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  In recent theology, both Jürgen Moltmann and Wolfhart Pannenberg have made the kingdom of God a central theme in their thought. However, there has been little ensuing discussion delimiting the precise theological insights entailed in their positions or relating this aspect of their work to their broader theological endeavours. Moreover, discussions surrounding the moral implications of the kingdom of God in these two thinkers have been oddly estranged from the theological articulations on which these ethical suggestions have been based. This article aims to address this deficit in the current debate by examining and exploring the nature and role of the kingdom of God in Moltmann and Pannenberg's thought. Once the material content of the kingdom has been explored theologically, both theologians will be critiqued on the manner in which they include the theme of judgement into the kingdom, and the subsequent ethical results.
On Enforcement, Management and Persuasion: Different Logics of Implementation Policy in the EU and the ILO*
Authors: HARTLAPP MIRIAM
Published: August 2007

This article helps to understand the effectiveness of EU legislation through analysing implementation policies and how they contribute to ensure Member State compliance. Comparing the EU and the ILO it provides new empirical data on instruments used to change Member State behaviour and presents conceptual tools to assess them along the lines of enforcement, management and persuasion.
Mediating the European Ideal: Cross‐Border Programmes and Conflict Resolution on the Island of Ireland*
Authors: HAYWARD KATY
Published: August 2007

This article assesses the conditions, context and consequences of the European Union's role in conflict transformation through cross‐border activity on the island of Ireland via analysis of interviews with individuals directly involved in EU‐facilitated cross‐border programmes, as ‘mediators’ of the European ideal of cross‐border co‐operation as a means to peace‐building.
Who Governs EU Cohesion Policy? Deconstructing the Reforms of the Structural Funds
Authors: BACHTLER JOHN , MENDEZ CARLOS
Published: August 2007

This article re‐assesses the multi‐level governance debate and specifically the ‘renationalization thesis’, with respect to EU cohesion policy. It focuses on two of the principles of decision‐making under the structural funds: concentration (decisions on where the money is spent) and programming (decisions on how it is spent). The analysis takes a longitudinal approach, examining each of the policy phases from 1988 until the recent debate on the 2007–13 period. The article concludes that the role of national governments (relative to the European Commission) in key decisions on the implementation of cohesion policy has been exaggerated in the literature and that important arguments underpinning the ‘renationalization thesis’ are flawed.
The EU Annual Budgetary Procedure: The Existing Rules and Proposed Reforms of the Convention and Intergovernmental Conference 2002–04*
Authors: BENEDETTO GIACOMO , HOYLAND BJORN
Published: August 2007

This article analyses the proposed reform of the annual budgetary procedure of the European Union (EU) during the 2002–04 Convention and Intergovernmental Conference (IGC). We offer two findings. First, the European Parliament already has the power to reduce agricultural and fisheries spending subject to support from a blocking minority in the Council. Hence, a reduction of the Union's spending on agriculture and other areas of compulsory expenditure is not dependent on a reform of the budgetary procedure. Second, the proposal from the Convention would have increased EP budgetary powers while the procedure adopted by the IGC strengthens the hand of the Council, removing Parliament's right to overrule it. In constitutional bargaining, we see that Parliament gains in a deliberative forum where unanimity is not required, while it loses in a closed IGC.
The Impact of a Customs Union between Turkey and the EU on Turkey's Exports to the EU
Authors: NOWAK‐LEHMANN FELICITAS , HERZER DIERK , MARTINEZ‐ZARZOSO INMACULADA , VOLLMER SEBASTIAN
Published: August 2007

This article investigates Turkey's sectoral trade flows to the EU based on panel data from the period 1988 to 2002. Turkey's 16 most important export sectors are analysed. Emphasis is placed on the role of price competition, EU protection and transport costs in the export trade between Turkey and the EU. The empirical model used is an extended version of the gravity model. This study is also a contribution to the current discussion of whether Turkey should be granted full EU membership or a privileged partnership with the EU, which for Turkey would mean improved access to the EU market for its products, among other benefits. Our investigation focuses on the latter policy outcome: the impact of deepening the customs union between Turkey and the EU and applying the common agricultural policy (CAP) to Turkish agricultural exports. To this end, the impact of the 1996 customs union covering most industrial goods and processed agricultural goods, is evaluated on a sectoral level. We also perform simulations to quantify the impact of the potential inclusion of agricultural goods, as well as iron and steel and products thereof, into the full customs union between Turkey and the EU which is still to come.
Playing chicken with red junglefowl: identifying phenotypic markers of genetic purity in Gallus gallus
Authors: Brisbin I. L. , Peterson A. T.
Published: August 2007

We report the results of a novel experiment, in which genetically pure male red junglefowl Gallus gallus (Richardson strain) were deliberately crossed with domestic female chickens to create contaminated lines of known purity, reaching as high as 93.75%. Phenotypic characters generally used as indicators of purity (reduced or absent female comb, male eclipse plumage, etc.) all appeared to at least some extent in domestically contaminated progeny and moreso in successively more pure generations of the experiment, suggesting that such phenotypic characters may have little, if any, utility in characterizing red junglefowl stocks as to their genetic purity.
Synthesis of phosphatidylserine by base exchange in Triton‐insoluble floating fractions from rat cerebellum
Authors: Buratta Sandra , Felicetti Michela , Mozzi Rita
Published: August 2007

Phosphatidylserine (PS), which is synthesized in mammalian tissues by the exchange between free serine and the nitrogen bases present in membrane glycerophospholipids, is strictly required for protein kinase C (PKC) activity. PKC, as other molecules involved in signal transduction, is present in lipid rafts, considered as a platform for molecular signaling. Membrane microdomains enriched in components of rafts can be isolated on the basis of their insolubility in Triton X‐100 at 4°C and their low density in sucrose density gradient. This study demonstrates the existence of serine base exchange enzyme (SBEE) in Triton‐insoluble floating fractions containing associated PKC. Using two fractions of detergent‐resistant membranes from rat cerebellum, we observed a correlation between the level of SBEE activity and that of membrane‐associated PKC. This suggests that SBEE, synthesizing PS in the binding area for PKC, participates to signal transduction. The capability of SBEE to utilize not only serine but also ethanolamine, as free exchanging base, suggests a mechanism for modulating in loco PS concentration.