bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural abundance of 15N in barley as influenced by prior cropping or fallow, nitrogen fertilizer and tillage
Authors: Doughton JA , Saffigna PG , Vallis I
Published: November 2004

The 15N abundance of nitrogen was measured in barley grown with 0, 50 and 100 kg/ha of applied nitrogen after pretreatments of either fallow or grain sorghum, where sorghum stubble was either incorporated, removed or retained on the soil surface (zero-till). Barley 15N abundance was assumed to reflect that of assimilated soil mineral nitrogen. Fallowing soil prior to establishment of barley accumulated 226 kg NO3-N/ha to a depth of 120 cm and resulted in an 88% increase in 15N enrichment of nitrogen in barley compared with that grown after sorghum. 15N enrichment was assumed to be mostly the result of isotope fractionation between 14N and 15N during denitrification of the large excess of NO3-N present prior to and during the experiment. Nitrogen fertilizer additions caused 15N depletion of nitrogen in barley. However, where fertilizer additions resulted in excess availability of NO3-N, subsequent denitrification and 15N enrichment of this NO3-N partially counterbalanced the 15N depleting effect of fertilizer additions. Where soil NO3-N levels were low (<25 kg NO3-N/ha) following sorghum there were no differences in 15N abundance of nitrogen in barley between tillage treatments. With additions of nitrogen fertilizer and the availability of excess NO3-N for denitrification, differences between tillage treatments occurred with some being significant. The ranking of stubble management treatments in terms of their effect on 15N enrichment of nitrogen in barley was incorporated > removed > surface retained.
Inoculum pressure and the development of stem rust epidemics in barley
Authors: Dill-Macky R , Rees RG , Platz GJ
Published: November 2004

The effects of inoculum pressure on the development of epidemics of Puccinia graminis tritici in two barley cultivars with different levels of resistance were examined in two field experiments. Treatments were established by inoculation of foci within plots and/or the strategic use of fungicides. Additional 'rust-free' treatments were maintained to provide comparisons of grain yield and quality. Relationships between rust severity, rust incidence and grain yield and quality were also examined. Initial inoculum levels were important in determining disease severity and incidence for individual epidemics; however, severe epidemics developed under most 'rusted' treatments of the susceptible cultivar Galleon and reduced grain yield by up to 58%. Epidemics under corresponding treatments of the moderately resistant cultivar Grimmett were less severe, and the value of the resistance was evident with yield losses not exceeding 12%. Yield reductions were usually associated with reduced grain size and weight.
Effect of Phytophthora root and stem rot on the response of field-grown soybean to Saturated Soil Culture
Authors: Troedson RJ , Ryley MJ , Byth DE , Irwin JAG
Published: November 2004

Phytophthora root and stem rot, caused by Phytophthora megasperma Drechs. f. sp. Glycinea Kuan & Erwin, is an important disease of soybean in several major growing areas across the world. Susceptible genotypes can be completely devastated, but cultivars with a high level of field resistance are available. Although high soil moisture is known to predispose to infection by Phytophthora, in the absence of this disease soybean is relatively tolerant to soil waterlogging, and has been shown to respond positively to continuous watering in the Saturated Soil Culture (SSC) system. The impact of Phytophthora on plants grown in SSC was investigated at two sites in south-east Queensland. At both sites, there were no differences between plants grown in SSC and conventional furrow-irrigated treatments in the rate or ultimate extent of disease development: susceptible cultivars succumbed to the disease, while cultivars with field resistance remained free of symptoms. A fungicidal seed dressing improved emergence and reduced initial disease infection, and improved seed yield in some cultivars. It was concluded that Phytophthora root and stem rot is not a limitation to the use of Saturated Soil Culture in soybean providing resistant cultivars are available.
Responses of some grain and pasture legumes to 16 strains of cucumber mosaic virus (CMV)
Authors: Wahyuni WS , Francki RIB
Published: November 2004

The symptoms and host ranges of 16 strains of cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) from both Subgroup I and II were compared on selected pasture and grain legumes. None infected either Arachis hypogea or Glycine max, although 13 other plant species were infected. The observation that success of inoculation varied with the time of year, may limit the usefulness of the biological differentiation of strains. No hosts tested distinguished Subgroup I or II isolates. The distribution of symptoms and virus in Medicago spp. was uneven and the virus was first detected in some cultivars 6-12 weeks after inoculation, indicating that any test for resistance to CMV in these species would have to be prolonged. Most cultivars of lupin tested were severely affected by several strains of CMV, which caused necrosis and death under conditions which excluded other pathogens.
Effects of early defoliation on the seedling growth of subterranean clover
Authors: Rossiter RC
Published: November 2004

Two experiments were conducted in an open-sided glass shelter at Perth during winter. Subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum, L.) seedlings were grown in shallow seed boxes at low plant densities, 2 4 and 2 0 plants/dm2. The effects of a single defoliation involving mainly the removal of cotyledons only, on shoot growth and leaf production were measured at harvest, c. 5 weeks after sowing. Total shoot dry weights were reduced by 15-30% when 40-60% of the leaf area was removed by single defoliations from days 7 to 19 after planting. However, the growth was reduced by almost 70% when both cotyledons were removed (days 7 to 9) before emergence of the unifoliate leaf, i.e. when all of the leaf area was removed. In general, the relative reduction in growth largely depended on the percentage of leaf area removed, rather than on time of removal. Defoliation also reduced the size of trifoliate leaves, and total numbers of trifoliate leaves at harvest. There was a linear relationship between total leaf numbers and shoot dry weights. In the field, these findings are probably of more relevance in terms of insect damage, especially from redlegged earth mites, than for grazing by sheep.
The Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) Anticancer Activity of a Range of Porphyrin Dimers and Related Compounds Derived from Hematoporphyrin
Authors: Byrne Christopher J. , Cooper Mathew A. , Cowled Prudence A. , Johnstone Robert A. W. , Mackenzie Lorraine , Marshallsay Lorely V. , Morris Ian K. , Muldoon Craig A. , Raftery Mark J. , Yin Sek Sau , Ward A. David
Published: November 2004

The synthesis of diporphyrins and analogous compounds related to those present in the oligomeric fraction (Photofrin II) obtained from hematoporphyrin derivative (HPD) is described. The photodynamic activity of these compounds, in vivo, varies from inactive to as active as Photofrin II. Factors that are important in determining this anticancer activity of the synthetic compounds are the presence of hydrophobic side chains, as well as the propionic acid side chains of the hematoporphyrin derived materials, and the nature of the linking group between the porphyrins.
Atrazine mineralisation rates in New Zealand soils are affected by time since atrazine exposure
Authors: Aislabie J. , Hunter D. , Ryburn J. , Fraser R. , Northcott G. L. , Di H. J.
Published: November 2004

To understand more clearly the groundwater contamination potential of herbicides applied to New Zealand soils, experimental field plots were established on 2 different soil types: Himatangi, a sandy dune soil, and Kiripaka, a silty clay derived from basalt. A mix of triazine herbicides, containing atrazine, terbuthylazine, and hexazinone, was applied to the plots at 10 kg a.i./ha. At various times after application, soil was removed from the plots and analysed for residual levels of herbicides, in vitro rates of mineralisation of 14C-ring-labelled atrazine, and numbers of atrazine-degrading microbes. Atrazine and terbuthylazine were below detectable levels (<0.01 mg/kg) in Himatangi topsoil 18 months after pesticide application but still detectable in topsoil from the Kiripaka site. Hexazinone was detectable in topsoil from both soil plots 18 months after application. Atrazine adsorption isotherms were constructed for topsoil and subsoil from both plots, with estimated Kf values ranging from 0.53 to 4.69 μg1–n mLn/g. A single application of atrazine was sufficient to enhance the rate of 14C-atrazine mineralisation in vitro by topsoil from both plots, and subsoil from the Kiripaka site. Rates of mineralisation of atrazine in the soil from the plots increased 1–6 months after pesticide application and remained elevated for 18–24 months. The numbers of atrazine degraders detected did not correlate with atrazine mineralisation rates. An atrazine-degrading bacterium, identifed as Arthrobacter nicotinovorans, was isolated from Himatangi soil exhibiting enhanced rates of atrazine-mineralisation activity.
Value of color Doppler ultrasonography in the evaluation of orbital vascular flow in end-stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Saygili Ö. Barutcu , Pelit A. , Torun D. , Tarhan N. C. , Pelit A. , Yildirim T. , Pourbagher A.
Published: November 2004

Purpose: To evaluate choroidal and retinal vascular flow dynamics by means of color Doppler ultrasonography in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis and to compare these findings with healthy controls.

Material and Methods: Color Doppler ultrasonography and spectral analysis of nasal and temporal posterior ciliary and central retinal artery flow of both eyes were performed in 20 patients (40 eyes) and 22 controls (44 eyes) to assess peak systolic flow velocity, end-diastolic flow velocity, and resistive indices (RI). Patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and any cardiac pathology were not included in the study. A general ophthalmologic examination was performed in all patients and controls.

Results: The average peak-systolic and end-diastolic blood flow velocities of nasal (12.88±4.91/6.88±3.26) and temporal (15.22±9.59/6.41±3.97) posterior ciliary artery and central retinal artery (14.94±8.38/6.7±4.13) in patients were significantly higher than the corresponding values of the controls. The RI values of nasal (0.52±0.10) and temporal (0.58±0.12) posterior ciliary artery and central retinal artery (0.55±0.11) in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis were significantly lower than in the controls.

Conclusion: Choroidal and retinal blood flow velocities are higher and RI values for all three vessels lower in patients with end-stage renal disease undergoing hemodialysis compared to healthy controls. These alterations may be related to either increased choroidal blood flow or vasoconstriction of the proximal vessels.
Diversity of bartonellae associated with small mammals inhabiting Free State province, South Africa
Authors: Pretorius Anne-Marié , Beati Lorenza , Birtles Richard J.
Published: November 2004

The prevalence and diversity of bartonellae infecting the blood of 10 small mammal species inhabiting nine Nature Reserves of the Free State province, South Africa, was assessed using phenotypic, genotypic and phylogenetic methods. Of 86 small mammals sampled, 38 animals belonging to five different species yielded putative bartonellae. Thirty-two isolates were confirmed as bartonellae and were characterized by comparison of partial citrate synthase gene (gltA) sequences. Phylogenetic reconstructions derived from alignment of these sequences with those available for other bartonellae indicated that the South African rodent-associated isolates formed two distinct clades within the radius of the genusBartonella. One of these clades also included recognizedBartonellaspecies associated with rodents native to Eurasia but not to the New World, whereas the second clade contained exclusively isolates associated with South African rodents. Comparison ofgltAsequences delineated the isolates into a number of ecologically distinct populations and provided an indication that a combination of phylogenetics and the identification of sequence clusters in housekeeping protein-encoding genes could be developed as a key criterion in the classification of bartonellae. This study is the first to investigate wildlife-associated bartonellae in Africa, adding support to their ubiquity and broad diversity and to the paradigm that the phylogenetic positions of theBartonellaspecies encountered today have been influenced by the geographical distribution of their hosts.
Saccharothrix xinjiangensis sp. nov., a pyrene-degrading actinomycete isolated from Tianchi Lake, Xinjiang, China
Authors: Hu Yu-Ting , Zhou Pei-Jin , Zhou Yu-Guang , Liu Zhi-Heng , Liu Shuang-Jiang
Published: November 2004

A pyrene-degrading isolate, strain PYX-6T, was obtained from Tianchi Lake, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, and was identified by means of polyphasic taxonomy. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity, strain PYX-6T was closely related to members of the genus Saccharothrix. Its 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to each of Saccharothrix syringae, Saccharothrix australiensis, Saccharothrix algeriensis and Saccharothrix coeruleofusca was 98 %. Chemotaxonomic and physiological properties of strain PYX-6T further supported its affiliation to the genus Saccharothrix. DNA–DNA hybridization results and physiological and biochemical tests allowed genotypic and phenotypic differentiation of strain PYX-6T from recognized Saccharothrix species. Therefore, strain PYX-6T represents a novel species, for which the name Saccharothrix xinjiangensis sp. nov. is proposed, with type strain PYX-6T (=AS 4.1731T=JCM 12329T).
Streptococcus equi subsp. ruminatorum subsp. nov., isolated from mastitis in small ruminants
Authors: Fernández Elena , Blume Verena , Garrido Patricia , Collins Matthew D. , Mateos Ana , Domínguez Lucas , Fernández-Garayzábal José F.
Published: November 2004

Six isolates of an unknown Gram-positive, catalase-negative, chain-forming, coccus-shaped organism isolated from ovine and caprine mastitis were characterized by phenotypic and molecular taxonomic methods. On the basis of cellular morphology and the results of biochemical tests, the organism was tentatively identified as a streptococcal species. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequencing studies confirmed that the organism is a member of the genusStreptococcus, withStreptococcus equias its closest phylogenetic relative (98·8 % similarity). DNA–DNA pairing studies showed that the unidentified organism displayed more than 70 % relatedness to the type strains ofS. equisubsp.equiand subsp.zooepidemicus. Despite the relatively high DNA–DNA reassociation values, biotyping and ribotyping allowed clear differentiation of the unknown bacterium from the two recognized subspecies ofS. equi. On the basis of phenotypic and molecular genetic evidence, it is proposed that the unknownStreptococcusisolates from ovine and caprine mastitis be classified as a novel subspecies,Streptococcus equisubsp.ruminatorumsubsp. nov. The type strain is CECT 5772T(=CCUG 47520T=Mt 167T).
Janibacter melonis sp. nov., isolated from abnormally spoiled oriental melon in Korea
Authors: Yoon Jung-Hoon , Lee Hyang Burm , Yeo Soo-Hwan , Choi Jae-Eul
Published: November 2004

Two Gram-positive bacterial strains, CM2104Tand CM2110, isolated from the inner part of abnormally spoiled oriental melon (Cucumis melo) in Korea, were subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic study. The cell-wall peptidoglycan of strains CM2104Tand CM2110 containedmeso-diaminopimelic acid as the diagnostic diamino acid. The predominant menaquinone was MK-8(H4). The major fatty acids detected in the two strains were iso-C16 : 0, C17 : 1ω8cand C18 : 1ω9cor C17 : 0. The DNA G+C content of the two strains was 73 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that the strains formed a coherent cluster with a clade comprising twoJanibacterspecies,Janibacter limosusandJanibacter terrae. Strains CM2104Tand CM2110 exhibited a 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity value of 99·7 % and a mean DNA–DNA relatedness level of 89 %. Strains CM2104Tand CM2110 showed 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity levels of 97·8–98·4 % to the type strains ofJ. limosusandJ. terrae. DNA–DNA relatedness between strains CM2104Tand CM2110 and the type strains of these twoJanibacterspecies was 7–11 %. On the basis of the phenotypic and phylogenetic data and genomic distinctiveness, strains CM2104Tand CM2110 should be placed within the genusJanibacteras members of a novel species, for which the nameJanibacter melonissp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is CM2104T(=KCTC 9987T=DSM 16063T=JCM 12321T).
Thermosinus carboxydivorans gen. nov., sp. nov., a new anaerobic, thermophilic, carbon-monoxide-oxidizing, hydrogenogenic bacterium from a hot pool of Yellowstone National Park
Authors: Sokolova Tatyana G. , González Juan M. , Kostrikina Nadezhda A. , Chernyh Nikolai A. , Slepova Tatiana V. , Bonch-Osmolovskaya Elizaveta A. , Robb Frank T.
Published: November 2004

A new anaerobic, thermophilic, facultatively carboxydotrophic bacterium, strain Nor1T, was isolated from a hot spring at Norris Basin, Yellowstone National Park. Cells of strain Nor1Twere curved motile rods with a length of 2·6–3 μm, a width of about 0·5 μm and lateral flagellation. The cell wall structure was of the Gram-negative type. Strain Nor1Twas thermophilic (temperature range for growth was 40–68 °C, with an optimum at 60 °C) and neutrophilic (pH range for growth was 6·5–7·6, with an optimum at 6·8–7·0). It grew chemolithotrophically on CO (generation time, 1·15 h), producing equimolar quantities of H2and CO2according to the equation CO+H2O→CO2+H2. During growth on CO in the presence of ferric citrate or amorphous ferric iron oxide, strain Nor1Treduced ferric iron but produced H2and CO2at a ratio close to 1 : 1, and growth stimulation was slight. Growth on CO in the presence of sodium selenite was accompanied by precipitation of elemental selenium. Elemental sulfur, thiosulfate, sulfate and nitrate did not stimulate growth of strain Nor1Ton CO and none of these chemicals was reduced. Strain Nor1Twas able to grow on glucose, sucrose, lactose, arabinose, maltose, fructose, xylose and pyruvate, but not on cellobiose, galactose, peptone, yeast extract, lactate, acetate, formate, ethanol, methanol or sodium citrate. During glucose fermentation, acetate, H2and CO2were produced. Thiosulfate was found to enhance the growth rate and cell yield of strain Nor1Twhen it was grown on glucose, sucrose or lactose; in this case, acetate, H2S and CO2were produced. In the presence of thiosulfate or ferric iron, strain Nor1Twas also able to grow on yeast extract. Lactate, acetate, formate and H2were not utilized either in the absence or in the presence of ferric iron, thiosulfate, sulfate, sulfite, elemental sulfur or nitrate. Growth was completely inhibited by penicillin, ampicillin, streptomycin, kanamycin and neomycin. The DNA G+C content of the strain was 51·7±1 mol%. Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain Nor1Tbelongs to theBacillus–Clostridiumphylum of the Gram-positive bacteria. On the basis of the studied phenotypic and phylogenetic features, we propose that strain Nor1Tbe assigned to a new genus,Thermosinusgen. nov. The type species isThermosinus carboxydivoranssp. nov. (type strain, Nor1T=DSM 14886T=VKM B-2281T).
Sulfuricurvum kujiense gen. nov., sp. nov., a facultatively anaerobic, chemolithoautotrophic, sulfur-oxidizing bacterium isolated from an underground crude-oil storage cavity
Authors: Kodama Yumiko , Watanabe Kazuya
Published: November 2004

A facultatively anaerobic, chemolithoautotrophic, sulfur-oxidizing bacterium, strain YK-1T, was isolated from an underground crude-oil storage cavity at Kuji in Iwate, Japan. The cells were motile, curved rods and had a single polar flagellum. Optimum growth occurred in a low-strength salt medium at pH 7·0 and 25 °C. It utilized sulfide, elemental sulfur, thiosulfate and hydrogen as the electron donors and nitrate as the electron acceptor under anaerobic conditions, but it did not use nitrite. Oxygen also served as the electron acceptor under the microaerobic condition (O2 in the head space 1 %). It did not grow on sugars, organic acids or hydrocarbons as carbon and energy sources. The DNA G+C content of strain YK-1T was 45 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis, based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence, showed that its closest relative was Thiomicrospira denitrificans in the ‘Epsilonproteobacteria’, albeit with low homology (90 %). On the basis of physiological and phylogenetic data, strain YK-1T should be classified into a novel genus and species, for which the name Sulfuricurvum kujiense gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is YK-1T (=JCM 11577T=MBIC 06352T=ATCC BAA-921T).
Kazachstania aerobia sp. nov., an ascomycetous yeast species from aerobically deteriorating corn silage
Authors: Lu Hui-Zhong , Cai Yimin , Wu Zuo-Wei , Jia Jian-Hua , Bai Feng-Yan
Published: November 2004

In an investigation of the yeast biota involved in silage deterioration, a considerable number of strains belonging to Saccharomyces and related genera were isolated from aerobically deteriorating corn silage in Tochigi, Japan. Analysis of sequences of the internal transcribed spacer and the large-subunit rRNA gene D1/D2 domain and electrophoretic karyotyping indicated that two of the strains, NS 14T and NS 26, represent a novel species with close phylogenetic relationships to Kazachstania servazzii and Kazachstania unispora. It is proposed that the novel species be named Kazachstania aerobia sp. nov., with NS 14T (=AS 2.2384T=CBS 9918T) as the type strain.
Vascular endothelial growth factor controls neuronal migration and cooperates with Sema3A to pattern distinct compartments of the facial nerve
Authors: Schwarz Quenten , Gu Chenghua , Fujisawa Hajime , Sabelko Kimberly , Gertsenstein Marina , Nagy Andras , Taniguchi Masahiko , Kolodkin Alex L. , Ginty David D. , Shima David T. , Ruhrberg Christiana
Published: November 2004

Developing neurons accurately position their somata within the neural tube to make contact with appropriate neighbors and project axons to their preferred targets. Taking advantage of a collection of genetically engineered mouse mutants, we now demonstrate that the behavior of somata and axons of the facial nerve is regulated independently by two secreted ligands for the transmembrane receptor neuropilin 1 (Nrp1), the semaphorin Sema3A and the VEGF164 isoform of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor. Although Sema3A is known to control the guidance of facial nerve axons, we now show that it is not required for the pathfinding of their somata. Vice versa, we find that VEGF164 is not required for axon guidance of facial motor neurons, but is essential for the correct migration of their somata. These observations demonstrate, for the first time, that VEGF contributes to neuronal patterning in vivo, and that different compartments of one cell can be co-ordinately patterned by structurally distinct ligands for a shared receptor.
Logic for Nested Graphs
Authors: Preller Anne , Mugnier Marie Laure , Chein Michel
Published: November 2004

We study the expressiveness of Nested Graphs, an extension of conceptual graphs. Nesting is introduced as a formal version of the intuitive “zooming in” on descriptions of individuals. Projections are defined inductively as the formal tool for “reasoning with nested graphs.” Nested graphs are translated to “colored” formulas. Coloring represents anaphoras in a way similar to conceptual graphs. A system of Gentzen sequents is shown to be adequate and complete with respect to projections of nested graphs.
On Thanksgiving and Collective Memory: Constructing the American Tradition
Authors: Adamczyk Amy
Published: November 2004

Relying on the approach by Maurice Halbwachs who argued that collective memory is based on contemporary interests and concerns, this article shows how Thanksgiving has changed over time in accordance with the ideas of the day. Aspects of the analysis support Barry Schwartz’s theory that commemoration reflects the historical past. Similar to the pilgrims’ celebration, many people commemorate Thanksgiving by, for example, feasting and praying. But in contrast to Schwartz’s thought, this paper also shows that there are other elements of traditions that have minimal connection with the original event. Forms of commemoration like the Macy’s Day Parade challenge the idea that commemoration and celebration contain some connection to the initial occasion. In general, the findings lend support to historical research and theories that implement social constructionist approaches.
How to Count Patents and Value Intellectual Property: The Uses of Patent Renewal and Application Data
Authors: Lanjouw Jean O. , Pakes Ariel , Putnam Jonathan
Published: November 2004

Patent counts are very imperfect measures of innovative output. This paper discusses how additional data—the number of years a patent is renewed and the number of countries in which protection for the same invention is sought—can be used to improve on counts in studies that require a measure of the extent of innovation. Simple weighting schemes are proposed, which may remove half of the noise in patent counts as a measure of innovative output. We describe models of the patent application and renewal processes whose parameter estimates can be used to assess the value of the proprietary rights created by the patent laws. We illustrate their use with estimates of how the value of patent protection would vary under alternative legal rules and renewal fees and with estimates of the international flows of returns from the patent system. Recent progress in the development of databases has increased the potential for this type of analysis.
Do Substantial Horizontal Mergers Generate Significant Price Effects? Evidence From The Banking Industry
Authors: Prager Robin A. , Hannan Timothy H.
Published: November 2004

This study examines the price effects of recent US bank mergers that substantially increased local market concentration. Using the deposit interest rates that banks offer their customers as our price measure, we find that, over the 1991–94 time period, deposit rates offered by participants in substantial horizontal mergers and their local market rivals declined by a greater percentage than did deposit rates offered by banks not operating in markets in which such mergers took place. We interpret our results as evidence that these mergers led to increased market power.
Legal Form, Growth and Exit of West German Firms—Empirical Results for Manufacturing, Construction, Trade and Service Industries
Authors: Harhoff Dietmar , Stahl Konrad , Woywode Michaerl
Published: November 2004

Using a sample of approximately 11000 West German firms from all major sectors of the economy, we test predictions on the relationship between legal form, firm survival and employment growth. In our tests, we distinguish between voluntary liquidation without losses to creditors and bankruptcy, that is forced liquidation. We demonstrate that in all sectors firms under limited liability have higher growth and higher insolvency rates than comparable firms under full liability. Firms whose owners are approaching retirement age are characterised by relatively high hazards of voluntary liquidation, while the propensity to declare insolvency is not affected by the owner’s age.
The Impact of Transfer Fees on Professional Sports: An Analysis of the New Transfer System for European Football*
Authors: Feess Eberhard , Muehlheusser Gerd
Published: November 2004

We evaluate the effect of the recently approved transfer system for European professional football which will replace the current system (implemented by the Bosman judgment in 1995). The focus is on the comparison of wages, profits, the length of contracts and investment incentives. Our main findings are that (i) the new regime reduces a player's overall payoff because it increases the new club's renegotiation payoff, and (ii) since training generates a general skill, the new regime will also diminish incentives to invest in the education of young talents, because a new club benefits more from the initial club's investment.
The Hybrid Permit Cum Price Ceiling Policy Proposal: Intuition From The Prices Versus Quantities Literature
Authors: Yohe Gary W.
Published: November 2004

The social value of choosing a marketable permit cum price ceiling mechanism over an unencumbered marketable permit scheme to limit the emission of greenhouse gases is explored. Insight from the prices versus quantities literature instructs that this relative valuation weighs the benefit of increased variability in emissions as economic conditions warrant against an increase in the expected cost of climate change. The value of the hybrid scheme is high and carries a low price ceiling when, ceteris paribus, the marginal benefit of emissions reduction is not very sensitive to changes in the regulatory environment, when the marginal cost of reducing emissions is sensitive to that environment, when the variance in marginal cost is high and/or when the distortion created by the initial allocation of permits is large. The value is correspondingly low and the ceiling high when the opposite conditions hold.
The Closure Of European Nuclear Power Plants: A Commercial Opportunity For The Gas‐Producing Countries
Authors: Pauwels Jean‐Pierre , Swartenbroekx Carine
Published: November 2004

The planned closure of nuclear power plants in Sweden, Germany, Belgium, Spain and the Netherlands and their hypothetical closure in the United Kingdom and Switzerland — two countries where this question remains open — will require their replacement by other types of production capacity, mainly gas turbine combined‐cycle power stations (GTCCs). The increase in efficiency of GTCCs and the lower carbon content of natural gas favour the use of gas for electricity generation over coal. However, carbon dioxide emissions are unavoidable and, in the context of the Kyoto Protocol, supplementary measures must be taken to compensate, where possible, for the resulting increases in emissions. The replacement of nuclear plants with a 35–40‐year lifetime by up‐to‐date GTCCs will require some 62 billion cubic metres per year of natural gas, resulting in an emission increase of about 130 million tonnes per year of CO 2. The replacement of polluting coal‐fired and oil‐fired plants by GTCCs will reduce CO 2 emissions, but will also require some extra 42 bcm/y of natural gas, at an (unrealistic) high cost. In short, gas‐producing countries will benefit from the market breakthrough of their ‘clean’ fuel, thanks to the GTCCs, and gas demand will be reinforced by the abandonment of nuclear power.
On the Existence of Visual Technical Patterns in the UK Stock Market
Authors: Dawson Edward R , Steeley James M.
Published: November 2004

The aim in this paper is to replicate and extend the analysis of visual technical patterns by Lo et al. (2000) using data on the UK market. A non‐parametric smoother is used to model a nonlinear trend in stock price series. Technical patterns, such as the ‘head‐and‐shoulders’ pattern, that are characterised by a sequence of turning points are identified in the smoothed data. Statistical tests are used to determine whether returns conditioned on the technical patterns are different from random returns and, in an extension to the analysis of Lo et al. (2000), whether they can outperform a market benchmark return. For the stocks in the FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 indices over the period 1986 to 2001, we find that technical patterns occur with different frequencies to each other and in different relativities to the frequencies found in the US market. Our extended statistical testing indicates that UK stock returns are less influenced by technical patterns than was the case for US stock returns.
WSF, ethics and pedagogy*
Authors: Andreotti Vanessa , Dowling Emma
Published: November 2004

In this paper we intend to explore the potential of the WSF as a space to promote the emergence of a new culture of politics – as a new way of making meaning about the world, of “thinking beyond modernity” and “imagining otherwise”. We start with an analysis of the ethics of the Forum and what we see as limitations for creating the conditions of nurturing such a way of thinking politics. We then examine the types of ethics, vision of the other world (utopia) and pedagogical strategies that could promote a more open and inclusive culture in order to bring in new actors into the space, to inspire other initiatives and to create new kinds of agency and relationships within the participants of the Forum. We argue that an emphasis on the promotion of the Forum as a pedagogical space can expand and increase its impact as a catalyst for change in society.
Social change, premarital nonfamily experiences, and marital dynamics
Authors: Hoelter Lynette F. , Axinn William G. , Ghimire Dirgha J.
Published: November 2004

We investigate the effects of nonfamily experiences on marital relationships in a setting characterized by high levels of arranged marriage until recently. Drawing on theoretical frameworks for the study of families and social change, we argue that the expansion of opportunities for nonfamily experiences will increase the likelihood of marital relationships based on an emotional bond between husbands and wives. Using data from 3,724 individuals in rural Nepal, we find consistent effects of educational experiences across multiple dimensions of marriage. These effects point toward the spread of education as a stimulus to marriages characterized by higher levels of love and discussions between spouses, and lower levels of conflict and spouse abuse. Results suggest that studies of marital dynamics in non‐Western settings provide a fruitful avenue for new research on marriage.
A cross‐cultural test of the work‐family interface in 48 countries
Authors: Jeffrey Hill E. , Yang Chongming , Hawkins Alan J. , Ferris Maria
Published: November 2004

This study tests a cross‐cultural model of the work‐family interface. Using multigroup structural equation modeling with IBM survey responses from 48 countries (N= 25,380), results show that the same work‐family interface model that fits the data globally also fits the data in a four‐group model composed of culturally related groups of countries, as well as a two‐group gender model. This supports a transportable rather than a culturally specific or gender‐specific work‐family interface model: notably, job flexibility related to reduced work‐family conflict, reduced family‐work conflict, and enhanced work‐family fit. Work‐family fit related to increased job satisfaction. Findings suggest that investment by multinational companies in job flexibility initiatives may represent a dual‐agenda way to benefit men, women, and businesses in diverse cultures.
CA for SLA: Arguments from the Chinese Language Classroom
Authors: He Agnes Weiyun
Published: November 2004

When the seminal article on the organization of turn‐taking by Sacks, Schegloff, and Jefferson (1974) was published 30 years ago, I started learning English as a foreign language. In addition to being a learner of the English language for many years, I was also trained in the traditions of Conversation Analysis (CA) and linguistic anthropology (particularly Language Socialization) in graduate school. For the present article, my objective is to explore the uses and nonuses of CA for language learning, particularly for Chinese language learning. In what follows, I take the perspective of a conversation analyst as well as that of a second language (L2) learner.

This article is divided into three main sections. The first section discusses the kinds of contributions CA can make to research on L2 learning and teaching. I propose that the basic science produced by CA research can be fruitfully applied to L2 learning and instruction and to oral language assessment. I further suggest that CA studies of classroom interaction provide richly textured descriptions of language learning contexts such as expert‐novice relations and participants' identity construction. The second section considers what CA does not do, or is not designed to do for Second Language Acquisition (SLA). I submit that, unlike language socialization research, CA does not address introspective, unobservable matters that may be important to language learning. Furthermore, unlike ethnomethodology, CA is not designed to document learning (i.e., change in behavior) over a considerable period of time. The final section concludes on a hermeneutical note: I argue that CA studies of SLA provide a part of the picture of L2 learning and teaching, a part that, crucially, compels us to reconsider the whole.
On the usage of have, dare, need, ought and used to in Australian English and Hong Kong English
Authors: Lee Jackie F. K. , Collins Peter
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  This study uses data derived from a set of elicitation tests to examine the relative popularity of the lexical and auxiliary variants of the verbs have, dare, need, ought and used to among teachers and students in Hong Kong and Australia. Australian English, it was found, favours the lexical variants, and shares patterning with American English. By contrast Hong Kong English was found to be more tolerant of the auxiliary variants (possibly a reflection of the continuing influence of British English). The students in both communities, especially the Australian students, opted more readily for the lexical variants than their teachers, suggesting that they may be more amenable to American influence.
Signaling pathways in Th2 development
Authors: Mowen Kerri A. , Glimcher Laurie H.
Published: November 2004

Summary:  In order for an immune response to be successful, it must be of the appropriate type and magnitude. Intracellular residing pathogens require a cell‐mediated immune response, whereas extracellular pathogens evoke a humoral immune response. T‐helper (Th) cells orchestrate the immune response and are divided into two subsets, Th1 and Th2 cells. Here, we discuss the mechanisms of Th2 development with a focus on signal transduction pathways that influence Th2 differentiation.
Opposing roles for IL‐13 and IL‐13 receptor α2 in health and disease
Authors: Mentink‐Kane Margaret M. , Wynn Thomas A.
Published: November 2004

Summary:  Interleukin (IL)‐13 is a key inducer of several type‐2 cytokine‐dependent pathologies. It regulates inflammation, mucus production, tissue remodeling, and fibrosis. Consequently, it has become an important therapeutic target for a number of debilitating illnesses, including asthma, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, ulcerative colitis, as well as several other diseases in which IL‐13 is believed to be overproduced. In the murine model of schistosomiasis, IL‐13 has emerged as a central mediator of chronic infection‐induced liver pathology. Although IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐10, and IL‐13 each regulate distinct aspects of the granulomatous inflammatory response, IL‐13 was identified as the primary mediator of liver fibrosis. Thus, elucidating the mechanisms that regulate the production and function of IL‐13 has become an intensive area of research. IL‐13 signaling is mediated by the type‐2 IL‐4 receptor, which consists of the IL‐4Rα and IL‐13Rα1 chains. However, another IL‐13‐binding chain, IL‐13Rα2, appears to strongly inhibit the activity of IL‐13. Animals deficient in IL‐13Rα2 fail to downmodulate granuloma formation in the chronic phase of infection. They also develop severe IL‐13‐dependent fibrosis and portal hypertension and quickly succumb to the infection. Here, we summarize findings from the schistosomiasis model, which illustrate opposing activities for IL‐13 and IL‐13Rα2 in health and disease.
Bounding Poorly Characterized Risks: A Lung Cancer Example
Authors: Ha‐Duong Minh , Casman Elizabeth A. , Morgan M. Granger
Published: November 2004

For diseases with more than one risk factor, the sum of probabilistic estimates of the number of cases caused by each individual factor may exceed the total number of cases observed, especially when uncertainties about exposure and dose response for some risk factors are high. In this study, we outline a method of bounding the fraction of lung cancer fatalities not due to specific well‐studied causes. Such information serves as a “reality check” for estimates of the impacts of the minor risk factors, and, as such, complements the traditional risk analysis. With lung cancer as our example, we allocate portions of the observed lung cancer mortality to known causes (such as smoking, residential radon, and asbestos fibers) and describe the uncertainty surrounding those estimates. The interactions among the risk factors are also quantified, to the extent possible. We then infer an upper bound on the residual mortality due to “other” causes, using a consistency constraint on the total number of deaths, the maximum uncertainty principle, and the mathematics originally developed of imprecise probabilities.
Combined Effects of Contaminant Desorption and Toxicity on Risk from PAH Contaminated Sediments
Authors: Shor Leslie M. , Kosson David S. , Rockne Karl J. , Young Lily Y. , Taghon Gary L.
Published: November 2004

A strong inverse correlation was observed between the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) mass fraction desorbed, a surrogate measure of bioavailability, and relative carcinogenicity, as quantified by potency equivalency factors (PEFs), for two study sediments from the New York/New Jersey Harbor estuary. Because compounds with the highest toxicity, such as dibenz(a,h)anthracene and benzo(a)pyrene (BAP), also tended to be the least rapidly and least extensively desorbed, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) default guidance may dramatically overestimate risk from exposure to PAH‐contaminated soils or sediments. A “relative risk index” (RRI) was developed to account for the combined effects of compound‐specific bioavailability and toxic potency in estimating excess cancer risk. Using this approach, estimated excess cancer risk may be diminished by as much as a factor of 159 times versus default EPA guidance. Also, the hierarchy of estimated risk between study sediments and among treatment fractions of study sediments differed using the two approaches, implying that the default approach may inaccurately determine site clean‐up priorities. The percentage contribution of each potentially carcinogenic priority PAH to total excess cancer risk was computed under various scenarios. In each case, the contribution of BAP to total excess cancer risk was remarkably invariable, for example, ranging from 48% to 52% in one sediment, and 44% to 54% in the other, over four different exposure durations. These results suggest that BAP may be an excellent indexing compound for gauging relative exposure risk across sediments. Other important contributors to total excess cancer risk were benz(a)anthracene and dibenz(a,h)anthracene. Together, these three compounds comprised nearly 90% of total excess cancer risk from all PAHs in every scenario. This integrated RRI approach may enable regulators to more accurately gauge relative risks and make more informed sediment management decisions.
Standardized Approach for Developing Probabilistic Exposure Factor Distributions
Authors: Maddalena Randy L. , McKone Thomas E. , Sohn Michael D.
Published: November 2004

The effectiveness of a probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) depends on the quality and relevance of the output from exposure and risk models, which, in turn, depends on the critical inputs to the assessment. These critical inputs are often in the form of probabilistic exposure factor distributions that are derived for the given risk scenario. Deriving probabilistic distributions for model inputs can be time consuming and subjective. The absence of a standard approach for developing these distributions can result in PRAs that are inconsistent and difficult to review by regulatory agencies. We present an approach that reduces subjectivity in the distribution development process without limiting the flexibility needed to prepare relevant PRAs. The approach requires two steps. First, we analyze data pooled at a population scale to (i) identify the most robust demographic descriptors within the population for a given exposure factor, (ii) partition the data into subsets based on these variables, and (iii) construct archetypal distributions for each subpopulation. Second, we sample from these archetypal distributions according to site‐ or scenario‐specific conditions to simulate exposure factor values and use these values to construct the scenario‐specific input distribution. The archetypal distributions developed through Step 1 provide a consistent basis for developing scenario‐specific distributions so risk assessors will not have to repeatedly collect and analyze raw data for each new assessment. We demonstrate the approach for two commonly used exposure factors—body weight (BW) and exposure duration (ED)—using data that are representative of the U.S. population. For these factors we provide a first set of subpopulation‐based archetypal distributions and demonstrate methods for using these distributions to construct relevant scenario‐specific probabilistic exposure factor distributions.
Worker Exposure Standard for Phosphine Gas
Authors: Pepelko Bill , Seckar Joel , Harp Paul R. , Kim James H. , Gray David , Anderson Elizabeth L.
Published: November 2004

The 1998 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP) re‐registration eligibility decision (RED) for phosphine fumigants has generated much interest in defining safe levels of exposure for workers and worker bystanders. This report summarizes the pertinent literature on phosphine toxicity, including animal inhalation studies and human epidemiology studies, and also describes a margin‐of‐exposure (MOE) analysis based on available worker exposure data. In addition, a safe occupational exposure limit is estimated using typical OPP assumptions, after determination of appropriate uncertainty factors, based on quality of data in the principal study and pharmacokinetic considerations. While a conservative 8‐hour time‐weighted average (TWA) of 0.1 ppm was calculated, the overall weight of evidence, from a risk‐management perspective, supports a conclusion that an occupational TWA of 0.3 ppm provides adequate health protection. In addition, a 15‐minute short‐term exposure limit (STEL) of 3 ppm was estimated. Finally, in contrast to the MOE analysis described in the OPP's phosphine RED, the MOE analysis described herein does not indicate that fumigation workers are currently being exposed to unacceptable levels of phosphine. Collectively, these findings support the occupational exposure limits of 0.3 ppm (8‐hour TWA) and 1 ppm (STEL) established in the updated applicator's manuals for phosphine‐generating products, which recently received approval from OPP.