bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HLA‐DR6 association confers increased resistance to T. rubrum onychomycosis in Mexican Mestizos
Authors: Asz‐Sigall Daniel , López‐García Lirio , Vega‐Memije María Elisa , Lacy‐Niebla Rosa María , García‐Corona Cristina , Ramírez‐Rentería Claudia , Granados Julio , Villa Antonio , Ameen Mahreen , Arenas Roberto
Published: November 2010

Background  Onychomycosis is multifactorial in origin. Studies have suggested an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance and human leukocyte antigen DR4 (HLA‐DR4) has been shown to protect against onychomycosis in an Ashkenazi Jewish population.

Aim  This study investigates HLA class II association in a Mexican Mestizo population with Trichophyton rubrum onychomycosis.

Methods  This was a prospective case–control study. Mexican Mestizos with a clinical diagnosis of onychomycosis and culture positive for T. rubrum were recruited, together with age‐ and sex‐matched controls. First‐degree relatives were also investigated for onychomycosis. Case–control samples were HLA typed by polymerase chain reaction sequence‐specific primer based analysis.

Results  Twenty‐one cases and 42 controls were recruited with a mean age of 40 years (range: 18–58 years). HLA‐DR6 was found in seven (33%) cases and 19 (45%) controls [P < 0.023, odds ratio (OR) = 0.088, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.01–0.71]. Six (29%) cases and three (7%) controls had an affected child (P < 0.043, OR = 9.15, 95% CI: 1.07–78.31), and 13 (62%) cases and 12 (29%) controls had an affected first‐degree relative (P < 0.02, OR = 4.0, 95% CI: 1.1–14.3).

Conclusions  These results suggest that HLA‐DR6 confers protection against the development of onychomycosis in a Mexican Mestizo population. Having an affected first‐degree relative significantly increases the risk of onychomycosis, suggesting genetic susceptibility.
The role of drugs in the induction and/or exacerbation of psoriasis
Authors: Basavaraj Kabbur Hanumanthappa , Ashok Navya Mysore , Rashmi Ramesh , Praveen Thaggikuppe Krishnamurthy
Published: November 2010

Psoriasis is a common skin disorder; knowledge of the factors that may induce, trigger, or exacerbate the disease is of primary importance in clinical practice. Drug intake is a major concern in this respect, as new drugs are constantly being added to the list of factors that may influence the course of this disease. Drug ingestion may result in exacerbation of pre‐existing psoriasis, in induction of psoriatic lesions on clinically uninvolved skin in patients with psoriasis, or in precipitation of the disease in persons without family history of psoriasis or in predisposed individuals. In view of their relationship to drug‐provoked psoriasis, therapeutic agents may be classified as drugs with strong evidence for a causal relationship to psoriasis, drugs about which there are considerable but insufficient data to support the induction or aggravation of the disease, and drugs that are occasionally reported to be associated with aggravation or induction. This review focuses on the most common causative agents for drug‐induced, drug‐triggered, or drug‐aggravated psoriasis, such as β‐blockers, lithium, synthetic antimalarial drugs, nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory agents, and tetracyclines, and the mechanisms of action of these drugs in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
Japanese spotted fever with acute hepatic failure: was it associated with Epstein‐Barr virus?
Authors: Kondo Makoto , Kurokawa Ichiro , Yamanaka Kei‐ichi , Akachi Shigehiro , Nishii Masami
Published: November 2010

Background An 81‐year‐old female experiencing high fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite was admitted to our hospital and diagnosed with acute cholecystitis. Her condition did not improve and an eschar and erythema subsequently appeared. We then diagnosed Japanese spotted fever (JSF). She recovered immediately after the administration of minocycline. This case differed from other cases because the patient had a remarkably acute hepatic failure.

Methods Considering that the present case might be associated with other factors, we performed a repeat polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on the patient's blood that had been collected on admission and stored.

Results Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) was detected in her blood by PCR.

Conclusion We consider this case might be associated with EBV.
Cutaneous endometriosis
Authors: Fernández Vozmediano J. M. , Armario Hita J. C. , Cuevas Santos J.
Published: November 2010

A 32‐year old patient presented with an asymptomatic, non‐specific tumour located at the site of a previous cesarian scar. The tumor had never bled but its size changed and the color and consistency varied coinciding with the menstrual cycle. The dermatopathologic study showed the existence of ectopic endometrial glandular tissue in the whole thickness of the reticular dermis.
HLA‐DR alleles associated with skin warts induced by human papillomavirus infection
Authors: García‐Corona Cristina , Vega‐Memije Elisa , Barquera Rodrigo , Granados Julio
Published: November 2010

Background  The skin wart is a benign proliferation of the skin and mucous, secondary to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.

Objectives  The objective of this study is to determine gene frequencies of HLA‐DR alleles in Mexican patients with skin warts and compare them with those present in ethnically matched healthy subjects.

Methods  Fifty‐two patients with clinically and histologically confirmed skin warts from the Dermatology Outpatient Clinic, with results of high‐resolution DNA typing for HLA‐DR polymorphism.

Results  HLA‐DR3 and DR9 were increased (P = 0.0029, OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.3–4.7 and P = 0.0062, OR: 5.4, 95% CI: 1.4–19.5, respectively), and HLA‐DR6 allele was found decreased (P = 0.0002).

Limitations  The major histocompatibility complex contribution in the infection and elimination of the virus is not clear and perhaps also contributes to a series of events not well established yet.

Conclusions  This study follows the preponderant role of class II genes in the susceptibility or resistance to the development of skin warts caused by HPV infection.
Topical nadifloxacin 1% cream vs. topical erythromycin 4% gel in the treatment of mild to moderate acne
Authors: Tunca Mustafa , Akar Ahmet , Ozmen Ibrahim , Erbil Hakan
Published: November 2010

Topical antibiotics are the mainstay of therapy in mild to moderate inflammatory acne. Topical erythromycin is one of the most common prescribed topical antibiotics. Nadifloxacin, another topical antibiotic for acne, was recently introduced into the market in our country. In this study, we compared the efficacies and safety of topical nadifloxacin 1% cream and erythromycin 4% gel in acne. A total of 86 patients with mild to moderate facial acne were randomized into two treatment groups. The efficacies of the drugs were assessed by lesion counts. An acne severity index (ASI) was also calculated. In both groups, there was a significant reduction in lesion counts and ASI scores beginning from the first visit at week 4. This reduction continued throughout the 12‐week study period. Both treatments were well tolerated. We conclude that when topically applied, both nadifloxacin 1% cream and erythromycin 4% gel are equally effective and safe treatments for mild to moderate facial acne.
Multiple nodules on the trunk and arms
Authors: Motswaledi Hendrick M.
Published: November 2010

What is your diagnosis?
Cutaneous spindle cell squamous cell carcinoma in nevus sebaceous
Authors: Zhou‐Wei Wu , Wei‐min Shi , Yue Sun , Xiao‐Jie Li , Jun Song
Published: November 2010

A case of a 28 year‐old Chinese male who presented with a rapidly growing tumor within a nevus sebaceous on his right cheek. The tumor was excised and immunohistochemical analysis and histology were consistent with spindle‐cell squamous cell carcinoma. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first report of cutaneous spindle‐cell squamous cell carcinoma developing in nevus sebaceous in the English literature. This report highlights the importance of early excision of any nevus sebaceous with a history of change.
Ritodrine‐induced erythematous papular eruption in 14 pregnant women
Authors: Sato Yoshihiro , Teraki Yuichi , Izaki Seiichi , Baba Kazunori
Published: November 2010

Background  Ritodrine hydrochloride, a β2‐adrenergic agonist, has been used for the treatment of pre‐term labor as a relatively safe agent, although tolerable side‐effects have been occasionally reported.

Objective  The purpose of this study was to assess our clinical experience of skin eruptions caused by ritodrine.

Methods  Fourteen pregnant women with pruritic skin eruptions associated with the administration of ritodrine for pre‐term labor were examined in Saitama Medical Center Hospital between 2005 and 2008.

Results  Patients included both primigravidas and multigravidas. Their mean age was 33.7 years (range: 27–41 years). Almost all subjects were in the third trimester of pregnancy. Skin eruptions occurred 7–27 days (mean: 14.9 days) after the start of intravenous or oral ritodrine. In eight patients, the eruption occurred after an increase in the dose of the drug. The reaction was characterized by a pruritic, erythematous, papular eruption, mainly distributed on the abdomen and upper extremities. Lymphocyte transformation tests for ritodrine were positive in five of the eight patients.

Conclusions  Ritodrine‐induced, erythematous, papular eruption probably occurs more frequently than has been previously estimated. An immunologic mechanism may play a role in the development of this eruption caused by ritodrine, although the reaction is somewhat dependent on the dose.
A Canadian online survey to evaluate awareness and treatment satisfaction in individuals with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis
Authors: Poulin Yves , Papp Kim A. , Wasel Norman R. , Andrew Robin , Fraquelli Elisa , Bernstein Geula , Chan Daphne
Published: November 2010

Background  Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with comorbidities and decreased quality of life. This survey is aimed to better understand the impact of disease on Canadian patients, and to examine awareness and use of available treatment options.

Methods  An online survey was conducted using a consumer panel. Eligible subjects reported diagnoses of psoriasis and moderate/severe/very severe plaque psoriasis within the past 5 years, and either: psoriasis covering ≥ 3% of body surface area; psoriasis on a sensitive area, or current use of systemic and/or phototherapy or light therapy for psoriasis.

Results  A total of 514 panelists completed the survey; 65% reported current moderate/severe/very severe psoriasis. Awareness of available treatment options ranged from 98% for prescription topical agents to 75% for photo/light therapy, and < 50% for prescription oral (49%) or injectable (35%) medications. A total of 92% of respondents had been treated with and 61% were currently taking prescription topical agents. Photo/light therapy had been used by 38% and was currently used by 7% of respondents. Prescribed oral medication had been taken by 25% and was currently used by 8%. Few subjects had been treated with injectables in the past (10%) or currently (5%). Overall, 24% of respondents were very satisfied with their current treatment. A total of 63% of respondents taking injectables were very satisfied, compared with 38% of those taking prescribed oral medication and 21% of those receiving photo/light therapy.

Conclusions  Most respondents with moderate to severe psoriasis were unaware of all treatment options; systemic treatments were not commonly utilized. Treatment satisfaction rates were low, highlighting the need to ensure greater patient education on and use of available therapeutic options.
Vocal Repertoire of Captive Capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris): Structure, Context and Function
Authors: Barros Kamila S. , Tokumaru Rosana S. , Pedroza Janine P. , Nogueira Selene S. C.
Published: November 2010

In this work we describe the structure, behavioral context and functionality of the vocal repertoire of capybaras, a social Caviomorph rodent. Additionally, since territoriality is present in this species, we hypothesize the occurrence of vocal differences among social groups. We analyzed a total of 2069 calls emitted by 28 animals from three different social groups. The capybara’s repertoire is comprised by seven call types (whistle, cry, whine, squeal, bark, click and tooth‐chattering). The vocalizations were functionally categorized as contact, alarm, distress and agonistic calls considering their behavioral contexts. The click calls emitted by the adults of the three captive capybara groups were significantly different, confirming our hypothesis of social groups’ vocal differences. The richness of interactions mediated by vocalization in capybaras suggests that the species’ communication is an important mechanism to regulate social encounters and to alert members of the group about environmental cues.
Partial Foetal Retention Following Aglepristone Treatment in a Bitch
Authors: Rigau T , Rodríguez‐Gil J‐E , García F , del Alamo MM Rivera
Published: November 2010

Contents

This short communication describes the case of partial foetal retention in an 18‐month‐old female French bulldog following induction of abortion owing to an undesired mating. Abortion was induced with aglepristone administered in two consecutive protocols of a dual injection 1 day apart. After failure of the first treatment to achieve abortion, 15 days later, a second treatment was administered. Delivering of aborted foetus occurred 2 days after the last administration. Five weeks after the abortion, the female showed a weak haemorrhagic vaginal discharge. On ultrasound examination, the presence of uterine wall distension as well as a puppy skull inside the uterus was observed. This clinical case makes clear that although aglepristone is a very reliable drug, follow‐up of the female during treatment and in the immediate post‐partum is necessary to ensure a good outcome.
Calcium oxalate crystal deposition in metabolic syndrome model rat kidneys
Authors: Okamoto Masanori , Kohjimoto Yasuo , Iba Akinori , Saji Fumie , Hara Isao , Shigematsu Takashi
Published: November 2010

Objective:  Although an epidemiological link between the metabolic syndrome and kidney stone formation has been reported, the mechanism by which metabolic syndrome promotes kidney stone formation has yet to be elucidated. We investigated calcium oxalate (CaOx) kidney stone formation in a rat metabolic syndrome model.

Methods:  We induced hyperoxaluria in 8‐week‐old male Otsuka Long‐Evans Tokushima fatty (OLETF) rats, and a control strain, Long‐Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO) rats, by administering 1.0% ethylene glycol (EG) as their drinking water for 2 weeks. Rats were divided into four groups: LETO‐C (control, n = 7); LETO‐SF (stone forming, n = 8); OLETF‐C (n = 7); and OLETF‐SF (n = 8). Urine and blood samples were collected for biochemistry testing, and the kidneys were harvested for estimation of crystal deposition and determinations of the expression of osteopontin (OPN) and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1).

Results:  Administration of EG induced hyperoxaluria to the same degree in both strains. The OLETF‐SF group showed a higher grade of renal crystal deposition and significantly higher renal calcium content than the LETO‐SF group. Although the OLETF‐C group excreted significantly higher amounts of uric acid and more acidic urine than the LETO‐C group, similar differences were not observed in rats given EG. Significant upregulation of both OPN and MCP‐1 was seen in the kidneys of hyperoxaluric rats, with higher levels of expression in the OLETF‐SF group than the LETO‐SF group.

Conclusions:  The present results show for the first time that OLETF rats form more renal CaOx crystal deposits compared with control rats under EG‐induced hyperoxaluric conditions. The model described here should be useful for investigating the mechanisms by which the metabolic syndrome promotes CaOx kidney stone formation.
Profilin 1 overexpression in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Minamida Satoru , Iwamura Masatsugu , Kodera Yoshio , Kawashima Yusuke , Ikeda Masaomi , Okusa Hiroshi , Fujita Tetsuo , Maeda Tadakazu , Baba Shiro
Published: November 2010

Objectives:  To gain information about overexpressed antigens in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) by using a chemical proteomics approach.

Methods:  RCC cell line 769P was cultured and proteome analysis was subsequently carried out in the culture supernatants. By using sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS), proteins in the culture supernatants were searched. A MEDLINE search to define the functions of the identified proteins was carried out.

Results:  Four differentially regulated proteins (profilin 1, amyloid beta A4 protein [APP], proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 1 inhibitor [ProSAAS], galectin‐3‐binding protein [LGALS3BP]) were selected. These were not overexpressed in normal kidney tissue or reported in RCC. Their levels were measured through western blotting of normal kidney and RCC tissues. No differences were observed in the expression levels of APP, ProSAAS or LGALS3BP between RCC and normal kidney tissues. Profilin 1 was overexpressed in RCC tissue. On the basis of this observation, an immunohistochemical analysis of profilin 1 in normal kidney and RCC tissues was carried out. In normal tissues, tubules that were sources of RCC stained positive for profilin 1. In RCC tissue, in contrast, the stromal cells in the tumors stained positive.

Conclusions:  Profilin 1 can be a key element in the pathological processes of RCC, such as tumorigenesis and/or tumor growth. Thus, it has the potential to serve as a diagnostic or progression biomarker and therapeutic target in RCC.
Management of hypertrophic pylorus stenosis with ultrasound guided single shot epidural anaesthesia – a retrospective analysis of 20 cases
Authors: Willschke Harald , Machata Anette‐Marie , Rebhandl Winfried , Benkoe Thomas , Kettner Stephan C. , Brenner Lydia , Marhofer Peter
Published: November 2010

Aim:  To retrospectively describe the performance of ultrasound guided thoracic epidural anaesthesia under sedation for anaesthesia management of open pyloromyotomy.

Background:  Anaesthesia management for hypertrophic pylorus stenosis (HPS) is usually performed under general anaesthesia with tracheal intubation. Only a few publications describe avoidance of tracheal intubation in infants by using spinal or caudal anaesthesia. The present retrospective analysis describes the performance of ultrasound guided thoracic epidural anaesthesia under sedation for anaesthetic management of open pyloromyotomy.

Methods:  Twenty consecutive infants scheduled for pyloromyotomy according to the Weber–Ramstedt technique were retrospectively analysed. After sedation with nalbuphine and propofol, an ultrasound guided single shot thoracic epidural anaesthesia was performed with 0.75 ml·kg−1 ropivacaine 0.475%. Insufficient blockade was defined as increase of HR > 15% from initial value and/or any movements at skin incision. In those cases we were prepared for rapid sequence intubation according to the departmental standard.

Results:  All pyloromyotomies could be performed under single shot thoracic epidural anaesthesia and sedation. One case of moderate oxygen desaturation was treated with intermittent ventilation via face mask.

Conclusions:  Thoracic epidural anaesthesia under sedation for pyloromyotomy has been a useful technique in this retrospective series of infants suffering from HPS. In 1/20 infants short term assisted ventilation via face mask was required. Undisturbed surgery was possible in all cases.
Comparison of effective inspired concentration of sevoflurane in preterm infants with different postconceptual ages
Authors: Yu Ling , Sun Hongwei , Yao Lan , Feng Yi , Yang Baxian
Published: November 2010

Objective:  Screening examination for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is stressful and painful to the neonate. Sevoflurane has been used successfully in anesthesia for full‐term and premature neonates and has been recently used for pediatric outpatient procedures. In this study, we examined the effective inspired concentration of sevoflurane to prevent movement in response to stimulation of examination in 50% of patients (EIC50) of sevoflurane, as well as the response of sevoflurane to age in the preterm outpatients undergoing fundus examination.

Methods:  Preterm pediatric outpatients at different postconceptual ages (duration from the mother’s last menstrual period to the date when the examination for ROP was performed) with <44 weeks (group A) and 44–64 weeks (group B) undergoing fundus examination were included. SpO2 and ECG were monitored in operation room. In the process of anesthetic induction, the oxygen flow rates were 3 l·min−1, and subjects spontaneously breathed 6% sevoflurane by mask. The time to loss of movement was recorded as induction time. Six percent sevoflurane was inhaled continuously for the same duration, and then the inspired concentration of sevoflurane was adjusted to maintenance concentration. When no movement or crying was observed, the speculums were used to keep the eyelids open, and then the eye examinations were performed by the same ophthalmologist. During induction time and maintenance time, the occurrence of coughing, clenching, gross purposeful movement, breath holding or desaturation to SpO2 < 95% was recorded. After completion of the procedure, patients were observed in the same room until spontaneous eye opening or verbalization occurred. Up and down method was used to determine subsequent maintenance concentration in each group. The initial maintenance concentration was 3%. The gradient of increase or decrease was 0.5%. If the preceding subject had not moved, the sevoflurane concentration was decreased by 0.5%; if the preceding subject had moved, the concentration was increased by 0.5%. When at least six independent alternations from no‐movement to movement were observed, test was terminated.

Results:  Twenty‐four pediatric outpatients completed the investigation in group A. The effective inspired concentration prevented movement in response to stimulation of examination in 50% of patients (EIC50) of sevoflurane was 2.5% in group A. Twenty‐seven patients completed the investigation and EIC50 values of sevoflurane were 3.0% in group B. The induction time in group A was significantly lower than that in group B. The gestational ages, anesthesia time, and awake time were similar in two groups.

Conclusion:  Anesthesia with inhaled sevoflurane by a face mask can be accomplished in preterm outpatients undergoing fundus examination without intubation and i.v. accession. The EIC50 is lower, and the induction time is shorter in smaller aged patients compared with those in older ones.
Functional landscape heterogeneity and animal biodiversity in agricultural landscapes
Authors: Fahrig Lenore , Baudry Jacques , Brotons Lluís , Burel Françoise G. , Crist Thomas O. , Fuller Robert J. , Sirami Clelia , Siriwardena Gavin M. , Martin Jean‐Louis
Published: November 2010

Ecology Letters (2011) 14: 101–112

Biodiversity in agricultural landscapes can be increased with conversion of some production lands into ‘more‐natural’– unmanaged or extensively managed – lands. However, it remains unknown to what extent biodiversity can be enhanced by altering landscape pattern without reducing agricultural production. We propose a framework for this problem, considering separately compositional heterogeneity (the number and proportions of different cover types) and configurational heterogeneity (the spatial arrangement of cover types). Cover type classification and mapping is based on species requirements, such as feeding and nesting, resulting in measures of ‘functional landscape heterogeneity’. We then identify three important questions: does biodiversity increase with (1) increasing heterogeneity of the more‐natural areas, (2) increasing compositional heterogeneity of production cover types and (3) increasing configurational heterogeneity of production cover types? We discuss approaches for addressing these questions. Such studies should have high priority because biodiversity protection globally depends increasingly on maintaining biodiversity in human‐dominated landscapes.
The PprA–PprB two‐component system activates CupE, the first non‐archetypal Pseudomonas aeruginosa chaperone–usher pathway system assembling fimbriae
Authors: Giraud Caroline , Bernard Christophe S. , Calderon Virginie , Yang Liang , Filloux Alain , Molin Søren , Fichant Gwennaele , Bordi Christophe , de Bentzmann Sophie
Published: November 2010

The opportunistic pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa has redundant molecular systems that contribute to its pathogenicity. Those assembling fimbrial structures promote complex organized community lifestyle. We characterized a new 5.8 kb genetic locus, cupE, that includes the conserved usher‐ and chaperone‐encoding genes. This locus, widely conserved in different bacterial species, contains four additional genes encoding non‐archetypal fimbrial subunits. We first evidenced that the cupE gene cluster was specifically expressed in biofilm conditions and was responsible for fibre assembly containing at least CupE1 protein, at the bacterial cell surface. These fimbriae not only played a significant role in the early stages (microcolony and macrocolony formation) but also in shaping 3D mushrooms during P. aeruginosa biofilm development. Using wide‐genome transposon mutagenesis, we identified the PprAB two‐component system (TCS) as a regulator of cupE expression, and further demonstrated the involvement of the PprAB TCS in direct CupE fimbrial assembly activation. Thus, this TCS represents a new regulatory element controlling the transition between planktonic and community lifestyles in P. aeruginosa.
Modelling sugar diffusion across plant leaf cuticles: the effect of free water on substrate availability to phyllosphere bacteria
Authors: van der Wal Annemieke , Leveau Johan H. J.
Published: November 2010

We present a continuous model for the diffusion of sugars across intact plant leaf cuticles. It is based on the flow of sugars from a source, representing the leaf apoplast, to a sink, in the shape of a hemispherical drop of water on the outside of the cuticle. Flow is a function of the difference between sugar concentrations CSource and CSink, permeability P of the cuticle, volume VSink of the water drop, as well as its contact angle α with the cuticle surface. Using a bacterial bioreporter for fructose, and a two‐compartment experimental set‐up consisting of isolated cuticles of walnut (Juglans regia) carrying water droplets while floating on solutions with increasing concentrations of fructose, we determined a value of 1 × 10−6 m h−1 for P. Using this value, we explored different scenarios for the leaching of sugars across plant leaf cuticles to reveal in quantitative terms how diffusion takes longer when VSink increases, P decreases or α increases. Bacterial growth was modelled as a function of changes in P, α and VSink and was consistent with observations or suggestions from the literature in relation to the availability of free water on leaves. These results are discussed in the light of bacteria as ecosystem engineers, i.e. with the ability to modify the plant leaf surface environment in favour of their own survival, e.g. by increasing cuticle leakage or leaf wetness. Our model represents a first step towards a more comprehensive model which will enhance our quantitative understanding of the factors that play a role in nutrient availability to bacterial colonizers of the phyllosphere, or plant leaf surface.
Diversity at its best: bacterial taxis
Authors: Krell Tino , Lacal Jesús , Muñoz‐Martínez Francisco , Reyes‐Darias José Antonio , Cadirci Bilge Hilal , García‐Fontana Cristina , Ramos Juan Luis
Published: November 2010

Bacterial taxis is one of the most investigated signal transduction mechanisms. Studies of taxis have primarily used Escherichia coli and Salmonella as model organism. However, more recent studies of other bacterial species revealed a significant diversity in the chemotaxis mechanisms which are reviewed here. Differences include the genomic abundance, size and topology of chemoreceptors, the mode of signal binding, the presence of additional cytoplasmic signal transduction proteins or the motor mechanism. This diversity of chemotactic mechanisms is partly due to the diverse nature of input signals. However, the physiological reasons for the majority of differences in the taxis systems are poorly understood and its elucidation represents a major research need.
Urothelial lesions with inverted growth patterns: histogenesis, molecular genetic findings, differential diagnosis and clinical management
Authors: Hodges Kurt B. , Lopez‐Beltran Antonio , MacLennan Gregory T. , Montironi Rodolfo , Cheng Liang
Published: November 2010

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Inverted lesions of the urinary bladder comprise a spectrum of changes ranging from von Brunn’s nests to inverted urothelial carcinoma. Differentiating these lesions is important because their proper clinical management and their expected clinical outcomes are distinctly different.

In this article, we review the spectrum of inverted urothelial lesions of the bladder, including current morphological criteria, key differential diagnosis, molecular genetic findings and histogenesis. We have refined the diagnostic criteria for various bladder lesions with inverted growth patterns.

A number of well‐recognized urothelial lesions with inverted morphology occur in the urinary bladder. Some are so common that they are considered normal variants of urothelium, whereas others are rare. It is important for the surgical pathologist to recognize these lesions and their overlapping morphological features, because in some cases establishing an accurate diagnosis is challenging. In this article, we review the spectrum of inverted urothelial lesions of the bladder. Emphasis is placed on differential diagnosis, molecular genetic findings, morphology and histogenesis.
The US Response to Bologna: expanding knowledge, first steps of convergence
Authors: ADELMAN CLIFFORD
Published: November 2010

The roads of incoming information to the US higher education system about the Bologna Process are varied and numerous. They include not only the on‐line and traditional trade press, but also conferences of national organisations. Whether anyone remembers much of that information, on the other hand, is an open question, as a limited survey undertaken by the author reveals. The mainstream media are not interested in Bologna, governance authorities are exclusively focused on internal issues, and the US research literature on Bologna, while growing, is still minimal. However, some of the research was picked up by the Lumina Foundation for Education, which sponsored the first US experiment with Bologna‐related reforms through a Tuning project involving three state systems and six disciplines; and a second round of this venture should begin soon. Out of this effort came Lumina's sponsorship of the first rounds of discussions concerning the potential for a national degree qualifications framework. This evolution indicates another mode of communication in the US system: a combination of personal relations and private foundations with a bold enough agenda to elevate and move both Bologna knowledge and practice to the centre of US consideration.
Qualifications Frameworks: the avenue towards the convergence of European higher education?
Authors: KARSETH BERIT , SOLBREKKE TONE DYRDAL
Published: November 2010

This article analyses one of the most important aspects of the journey towards the vision of a European Higher Education Area, namely the development of a ‘new architecture’ in which compatible qualifications frameworks are one of the main building blocks. The overall question addressed concerns how and whether signatory countries of the Bologna process, although committed to this ‘new architecture’, share the same understanding of the intentions of the qualifications frameworks. The article shows that, while the main policy documents of the Bologna process cling to the saga of successfulness with regard to the implementation of compatible qualifications frameworks at national levels, our analysis demonstrates major shortcomings which cannot be explained within a rational approach. Rather, our study indicates that the shortcomings are better understood as the lack of a shared epistemic as well as cultural understanding of the aim of a qualifications framework. By employing a theoretical lens based upon different perspectives on institutionalism and governmentality, we argue that qualifications frameworks can be understood as part of a rapidly‐expanding myth of rationality which offers global scripts to follow. On the other hand, the translation process of the qualifications frameworks shows that there are different ‘windows of opportunities’ which offer the different countries a space to manifest national mindsets and institutional practices. This becomes evident when looking into the self‐certifications reports on national qualifications framework of three countries. Finally, to understand what is at stake, the issue of power needs to be taken into account. As we suggest, it comes as no surprise that the countries in the ‘leading group’ of introducing national qualifications frameworks are all ‘well‐established’ members of the European Union.
AGRICULTURAL PRICE INSTABILITY: A SURVEY OF COMPETING EXPLANATIONS AND REMEDIES
Authors: Gouel Christophe
Published: November 2010

Abstract There are two explanations for agricultural price dynamics. One follows cobweb logic and models fluctuations driven by expectation errors but emphasises that these expectations create complex dynamics and possibly chaos. The other stems from the rational expectations tradition of dynamics driven by real shocks. The empirical evidence tends to support the latter, but is not conclusive. The rational expectations model generates an optimal dynamic path from which no improvement can be expected from public intervention. However, if we take account of all the potential market failures in agricultural markets, and especially in developing countries, this conclusion might require some qualifications, although an appropriate policy design for stability has still to be achieved. This paper surveys the positive and normative literature on agricultural prices, highlighting empirical evidence and identifying remaining unresolved issues.
Making the Case for Socio‐legal Research in Land Law: Renner and the Law of Mortgage
Authors: Whitehouse Lisa
Published: November 2010

The aim of this article is to enhance knowledge of and to encourage further research into two areas not traditionally the subject of socio‐legal research, namely, the work of Karl Renner and the English law of mortgage, for three reasons. First, an account of them supports the proposition that a true understanding of law requires knowledge of its origins, content, and function. Second, Renner's theory can contribute significantly to our understanding of law by offering an alternative to the polarized debate between legal autopoiesis and other sociological conceptions of law. Third, it has much to tell us about the relationship between legal and social change. In particular, Renner's work suggests that those seeking legal reform should look not to the legislature, but to those capable of influencing its ‘social function’. Those frustrated by the lack of doctrinal reform within the law of mortgage can take heart, therefore, from the continual process of change evident in its social function. Ultimately, however, further socio‐legal research is required, for a more developed understanding of the law of mortgage.
The Compensation Culture: Cliché or Cause for Concern?
Authors: Hand James
Published: November 2010

The ‘compensation culture’ has featured frequently in the popular press over the last decade. There have, however, been comparatively few academic studies and such studies as there have been have largely focused on personal injury claims. A compensation culture, if it exists, could extend much wider than that. This article compares the exponential increase in the use of the term ‘compensation culture’ in the national printed media since 1995 with available statistics relating to the Queen's Bench, County Courts, and employment tribunals. Far from spiralling upwards, these statistics show a broad decline across a range of claims with the exception of claims before the employment tribunals, where the government has created a slew of new heads of claim. In order to counter the misconceptions founded by the popular media, and to allow for greater scrutiny, more attention should be paid to the collection and dissemination of judicial and claims statistics.
Rural Identity in the Twenty‐first Century: A Community of Crofters or Crofting Communities?
Authors: Busby Nicole , Macleod Calum
Published: November 2010

Crofting has been subjected to a specific regulatory regime in Scots law since the introduction of the Crofters' Holdings (Scotland) Act in 1886. The Act, introduced in response to the devastation caused by the Highland clearances, provided for security of tenure and associated rights and now provides for full ownership on both individual and collective bases. Consequently, the legal framework incorporates two distinct forms of crofting identity: one based on the crofting function and the other on a broader, place‐based definition incorporating all who live within crofting communities. Used as a basis for policymaking, each definition gives rise to different outcomes. In this paper, we use empirical research to show how such distinctions are manifested in specific conflicts of interest within contemporary crofting communities. This analysis is intended to inform the current debate surrounding the future of crofting as well as to contribute to the wider literature on the use of identity in the process of resource allocation.
Queer Kinship Practices in Non‐Western Contexts: French Polynesia's Gender‐variant Parents and the Law of La République
Authors: Zanghellini Aleardo
Published: November 2010

French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France whose kinship practices accommodate transgender parenting through the involvement of gender‐variant (mahu) people in childrearing, including as adoptive parents in customary (faamu) adoption. While the existence and visibility of gender‐variant people in French Polynesia is well documented, there is no literature on their involvement in parenting, reflecting a more general dearth of research on LGBT parenting in non‐Western contexts. Drawing on the author's fieldwork in French Polynesia, this article fills this gap. The article also discusses the negative implications of France's ambivalence towards LGBT parenting for French Polynesian gender‐variant parents and the children they raise.
OPTIMAL STOCK SELLING/BUYING STRATEGY WITH REFERENCE TO THE ULTIMATE AVERAGE
Authors: Dai Min , Zhong Yifei
Published: November 2010

We are concerned with the optimal decision to sell or buy a stock in a given period with reference to the ultimate average of the stock price. More precisely, we aim to determine an optimal selling (buying) time to maximize (minimize) the expectation of the ratio of the selling (buying) price to the ultimate average price over the period. This is an optimal stopping time problem which can be formulated as a variational inequality problem. The problem gives rise to a free boundary that corresponds to the optimal selling (buying) strategy. We provide a partial differential equation approach to characterize the free boundary (or equivalently, the optimal selling (buying) region). It turns out that the optimal selling strategy is bang‐bang, which is the same as that obtained by Shiryaev, Xu, and Zhou taking the ultimate maximum of the stock price as benchmark, whereas the optimal buying strategy can be a feedback one subject to the type of averaging and parameter values. Moreover, by a thorough characterization of free boundary, we reveal that the bang‐bang optimal selling strategy heavily depends on the assumption that no time‐vesting restrictions are imposed. If a time‐vested stock is considered, then the optimal selling strategy can also be a feedback one. In terms of a similar analysis developed by the present paper, the same phenomenon can be proved when taking the ultimate maximum as benchmark.
Introduction: investing in cultural diversity
Authors: Labadi Sophia
Published: November 2010

The aim of this introduction is to contextualise the multifarious notion of cultural diversity by analysing, firstly, its relations with globalisation as well as the different normative actions undertaken by UNESCO to protect it against the negative impacts of the globalisation processes. This introduction also explains how globalisation can be beneficial for cultural diversity and contribute to new, fluid and deterritorialised phenomena. Finally, fear of cultural diversity, characterised by ethnocentric attitudes that attempt to preserve “authentic identities”, is briefly touched upon, along with the obvious limitations of such stances. The second part of this introduction presents the articles selected for this issue among the background papers commissioned by UNESCO to help to draft the 2009 World Report on cultural diversity. Each article sheds light on particular dimensions of cultural diversity: in combination, they provide a valuable overview of its multiple meanings and contexts.
Leaching of N, P and glyphosate from two soils after herbicide treatment and incorporation of a ryegrass catch crop
Authors: Aronsson H. , Stenberg M. , Ulén B.
Published: November 2010

During 2005–2007, studies were carried out in two field experiments in southwest Sweden with separately tile‐drained plots on a sandy soil (three replicates) and on a clay soil (two replicates). The overall aim was to determine the effects of different cropping systems with catch crops on losses of N, P and glyphosate. Different times of glyphosate treatment of undersown ryegrass catch crops were examined in combination with soil tillage in November or spring. Drainage water was sampled continuously in proportion to water flow and analysed for N, P and glyphosate. Catch crops were sampled in late autumn and spring and soil was analysed for mineral N content. The yields of following cereal crops were determined. The importance of keeping the catch crop growing as long as possible in the autumn is demonstrated to decrease the risk of N leaching. During a year with high drainage on the sandy soil, annual N leaching was 26 kg/ha higher for plots with a catch crop killed with glyphosate in late September than for plots with a catch crop, while the difference was very small during 1 yr with less drainage. Having the catch crop in place during October was the most important factor, whereas the time of incorporation of a dead catch crop did not influence N leaching from either of the two soils. However, incorporation of a growing catch crop in spring resulted in decreased crop yields, especially on the clay soil. Soil type affected glyphosate leaching to a larger extent than the experimental treatments. Glyphosate was not leached from the sand at all, while it was found at average concentrations of 0.25 μg/L in drainage water from the clay soil on all sampling occasions. Phosphorus leaching also varied (on average 0.2 and 0.5 kg/ha/yr from the sand and clay, respectively), but was not significantly affected by the different catch crop treatments.
Response of organic matter to reduced tillage and animal manure in a temperate loamy soil
Authors: Viaud V. , Angers D. A. , Parnaudeau V. , Morvan T. , Aubry S. Menasseri
Published: November 2010

The impacts of tillage and organic fertilization on soil organic matter (SOM) are highly variable and still unpredictable, and their interactions need to be investigated under various soil, climate and cropping system conditions. Our work examined the effect of reduced tillage and animal manure on SOM stocks and quality in the 0–40 cm layer of a loamy soil under mixed cropping system and humid temperate climate. The soil organic carbon (SOC) and N stocks, particulate organic matter (POM), and C and N mineralization potential (301 days at 15 °C) were measured in a 8‐yr‐old split‐plot field trial, including three tillage treatments [mouldboard ploughing (MP), shallow tillage (ST), no tillage (NT)] and two fertilization treatments [mineral (M), poultry manure 2.2 t/ha/yr C (O)]. No statistically significant interactive effects of tillage and fertilization were measured except on C mineralization. NT and ST showed greater SOC stocks (41.2 and 39.7 t/ha C) than MP (37.1 t/ha C) in the 0–15 cm increment, while no statistical differences were observed at a greater depth. N stocks exhibited similar distribution patterns with regard to tillage effect. Animal manure, applied at a rate representative of typical field application rates, had a smaller impact on SOC and N stocks than tillage. The mean SOC and N stocks were higher under O than M, but the differences were statistically significant only in the 0–5 cm increment. MP showed lower C‐POM stocks than NT and ST in the 0–5 cm increment, whereas greater C‐POM stocks were measured under MP than under NT or under ST in the 20–25 cm increment. Organic fertilization had no impact on C‐POM or N‐POM stocks. In the 0–25 cm increment, NT showed a lower C and N mineralization potential than MP. Our work shows that the sensitivity of SOM to reduced tillage for the whole soil profile can be relatively small in a loamy soil, under humid‐temperate climate. However, POM was particularly sensitive to the differential effects of tillage practices with depth, and indicative of differentiation in total SOM distribution in the soil profile.
Entrepreneurs Seeking Gains: Profit Motives and Risk Aversion in Inventors’ Commercialization Decisions
Authors: Simons Kenneth L. , Åstebro Thomas
Published: November 2010

Direct evidence has been lacking on entrepreneurs’ response to individual‐specific opportunities, and recent work suggests that entrepreneurship may be a non‐profit‐seeking activity and that entrepreneurs evaluate risk oddly. We model heterogeneous inventors and inventions, outside opportunities, sunk and nonsunk costs, and risk, to guide data analysis. We use assessment data from a center paid to assess the inventions’ economic potential. Inventors’ choices whether to commercialize their inventions and later whether to remain in production were consistent with profit‐seeking motives and risk aversion.
The Old‐Boy Network and the Quality of Entrepreneurs
Authors: Bac Mehmet , Inci Eren
Published: November 2010

We study a model of network formation and start‐up financing with endogenous entrepreneurial type distribution. A hub firm admits members to its network based on signals about entrepreneurs' types. Network membership is observable, which allows lenders to offer different interest rates to network and stand‐alone entrepreneurs. We show that a network outcome can display a smaller number of high‐type entrepreneurs even though the network is neither nepotistic nor informationally disadvantaged. Although a welfare‐improving network can emerge as a technically stable or unstable equilibrium, one that decreases welfare is always formed by a technically unstable equilibrium. However, the adverse welfare effects of a network and its corresponding type configuration may persist because ex post high‐type entrepreneurs prefer to stay high type whereas those who wish to become high type may need some time to react.
Venture Capital Exit Rights
Authors: Bienz Carsten , Walz Uwe
Published: November 2010

We investigate when and how venture capital contracts use exit rights such as drag‐along and tag‐along rights. Utilizing a data set of venture capital contracts from Germany, we find that almost all contracts allocate exit rights to the venture capitalist (VC) rather than to the entrepreneur. In our data set, the vast majority of exit rights deal with the sale of the entire company to a strategic investors rather than with initial public offerings (IPOs). We show that venture capital contracts include exit rights to mitigate potential hold‐up problems of the VC in the case of exit.