bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Theory of Legal Dynamics Reconsidered*
Authors: WEINBERGER OTA
Published: August 2007

Abstract. The author criticizes Kelsen's distinction between static and dynamic systems of norms and his theory of legal dynamics. The author moreover presents the institutionalist conception of legal dynamics. Kelsen's concept of static systems is incompatible with normological scepticism: The deduction of rules from a basic principle depends on additional premises; even in static systems there is a kind of dynamics produced by actual facts. Kelsen's conception of legal dynamics is also incompatible with normological scepticism and with Kelsen's demand of purity of jurisprudence. In the institutionalist conception Iegal dynamics is rather conceived as an interplay of legal norms and facts. Empowering relations, the principle of co‐validity, temporal limits of norms, derogation, legal validity and the basic norm are analysed accordingly. Appendices deal with Paulson's empowering theory of legal norm and Lippold's double‐faced reconstruction of the legal order.
Deon in Deontics
Authors: CONTE AMEDEO G.
Published: August 2007

Abstract.

The starting point of deontic logic is the distinction between non‐normative necessity and normative necessity. The first part of the paper shows that the distinction between normative necessity and non‐normative necessity occurs already in Aristotle's Orgunon. The second part of the paper makes a further distinction within normative deon itself: The distinction between deontic deon and anankastic deon. Anankastic deon behaves differently from deontic deon in a very important respect: Deontic indifference has no anankastic counterpart.
Application Discourse and the Special Case‐Thesis*
Authors: DWARS INGRID
Published: August 2007

Abstract.

Klaus Günther's (1988) book developed the distinction between two kinds of discourse, the foundation discourse and the application discourse. In an article (Günther 1989a) following the publication of the book, he used this basic distinction as the starting point for a criticism of the special case‐thesis as defended by Robert Alexy (1978, 32ff., 263ff.; Alexy 1989, 16ff., 213ff.). The aim of this article is to criticize this criticism in its turn and to show that the special case‐thesis does not need the reformulation which Günther proposes. It should be clear from the outset that this concerns an internal discussion in the field of discourse theory; certain discourse‐theoretical premises are taken for granted. In order to understand Giinther's criticism I will first give a brief account of the distinction he has made.
Legal Paternalism and Legal Moralism: Devlin, Hart and Ten*
Authors: HÄYRY HETA
Published: August 2007

Abstract

H. L. A. Hart in his Law, Liberty, and Morality (1963) defended the view that legal paternalism and legal moralism can be clearly distinguished from each other. Hart also stated that while legal moralism is always unacceptable, paternalistic laws are often justifiable. In this paper it is argued that Hart held the right view for the wrong reasons. Hart defended legal paternalism by claiming, against J. S. Mill, that for various psychological reasons individuals do not know their own interests best. It will be shown in the paper that if this view is taken, it is impossible to reject legal moralism. The fact that paternalism is sometimes justifiable while moralism is not can be more firmly founded on a distinction made by C. L. Ten (1971). Ten's point is that in matters which concern only the individuals themselves, their actions cannot be legitimately restricted by appeals to the consequences of their action alone. Paternalistic control can be justified only if the decision‐making abilities of the controlled individual are temporarily diminished.
A Roman Catholic Concept of Justice
Authors: LOMBARDIVALLAURI LUIGI
Published: August 2007

Abstract

The author collates a Roman Catholic concept of justice with the general principles of law and justice. He explores the Church's stand on earthly justice and deals extensively with divine justice, moving to the criticism of its dogmas from original sin to redemption, ecclesiology and the sacraments to hell, purgatory and paradise and the problems these concepts entail. He concludes by focussing on a paradox in Catholic thinking and the new trend in Catholic theology.
Some Remarks on the Notions of Legal Order and Legal System
Authors: MORESO JOSÉ JUAN , NAVARRO PABLO EUGENIO
Published: August 2007

Abstract

In this paper, the authors discuss some problems related to the existence and identity of legal norms and legal systems. Firstly, two criteria for identification of legal norms are analyzed: linguistic criteria and non‐linguistic criteria. Secondly, the dynamics of legal systems and the distinction between legal system and legal order are examined (close to Raz's distinction between momentary legal system and legal system). Based on the logical relations of membership and inclusion, two ways of analysing the change of legal systems are suggested. Thirdly, a criterion for identification of legal orders (from Bulygin) is discussed and it is shown that this criterion does not explain adequately, on the one hand, the existence of some norms, i.e., customary norms; and, on the other, the existence of invalid norms; i.e., unconstitutional norms. The main conclusions of this paper are: (a) the concepts of legal system and legal order could not explain the existence of law in a given society; (b) the concepts of legal system and legal order could be considered models of rational normative systems.
Self‐Defeating Civic Republicanism*
Authors: CHRISTODOULIDIS EMILIOS A.
Published: August 2007

Abstract

The author discusses the recent attempt by constitutional theorists to develop a theory about the empowerment of political community through law. Having outlined the civic republican position, he then examines Ackerman's example of the difference between marriage and love, as an analogy for law and politics, or in republican terminology, “constitutional” and “ordinary” politics respectively. These oppositions are set up around the purchase they offer to the question of community. In turning Ackerman's example against him, his objective is to show that the language of law inhibits rather than facilitates the quest for community.
A Formal Theory of the Rule of Law*
Authors: SUMMERS ROBERT S.
Published: August 2007

Abstract

The author presents a relatively formal theory of the rule of law which includes three basic components: conceptual, institutional and axiological. He then emphasizes the differences between a formal and a substantive theory of the rule of law and highlights the advantages and limits of the former. Finally, the author indicates the importance of this type of theory, namely the values it implies such as predictability, justified reliance, autonomous choice, minimization of disputes and legitimacy.**
Justification and Application of Norms*
Authors: ALEXY ROBERT
Published: August 2007

Abstract

According to the author there is no doubt that one has to distinguish between the justification and the application of norms. Problems are seen only to arise if one asks what exactly the distinction is and which consequences have to be drawn from it. Recently, Klaus Günther, in particular, has searched for this distinction and connected it with far‐reaching conclusions concerning the theory of norms, arguments, and morals. His theses are the object of the author's considerations.
Institutional Theory of Action and Its Significance for Jurisprudence
Authors: WEINBERGER OTA
Published: August 2007

Abstract

Once affirmed that a formal and finalistic theory of action is one of the four pillars of neo‐institutionalism, the author introduces the concept of Freedom of action, which is based on two points: the empirical existence of a scope for action and an information process which determine the choice between alternative actions. He then analyzes different versions of determinism and the distinction between descriptive and practical sentences, and concludes that a theory of action based on the information process has to deal with the structures of teleological thought. In this sense he stresses the practical relevance of the plurality of ends, often conflicting with each other. Finally, he explains how formal teleology is used in his theory of action and how this theory provides methodological achievements for jurisprudence.*
Double Pairs*
Authors: MARfN RAFAEL HERNANDEZ
Published: August 2007

Abstract

This article discusses C. E. Alchourrdn and E. Bulygin's ideas regarding the distinction between strong permission and weak permission. The author takes for granted that the distinction between the two terms should be placed at the level of the assertive metalanguage about norms. But the symbolizations and the definitions of strong and weak permissions offered by Alchourrdn and Bulygin, as well as their thesis concerning the relations between the two concepts are challenged.
Dyzenhaus on Positivism and Judicial Obligation
Authors: HARTNEY MICHAEL
Published: August 2007

Abstract

The author criticizes the argument in Dyzenhaus (1991) that a study of South African judicial decisions establishes the superiority of Dworkinian anti‐positivism over legal positivism. Among the claims criticized are: (1) Positivism and anti‐positivism each imply a specific theory of judicial duty, and the decisions of South African judges are explained by their adherence to one or the other of these theories; (2) resistance to South African government policy was morally required of judges; (3) the only theory which supports this resistance (anti‐positivism) is therefore the correct one; (4) the cases establish that judges do not have discretion in hard cases; (5) Dworkin's theory does not imply that South African judges are required to apply the wicked principles embedded in their legal system; (6) positivism involves a pragmatic contradiction.
The Idea of “Free Public Reason”
Authors: AUDARD CATHERINE
Published: August 2007

Abstract. In this paper the nature and the role of Rawls's idea of a “free public reason” are examined with an emphasis on the divide between the private and the public spheres, a divide which is the hallmark of a liberal democracy. Criticisms from both the so‐called Continental tradition and the Communitarian opponents to liberalism insist on the ineffectiveness of such a conception, on its inability to establish a political consensus on democracy. But it would be a mistake to see a contractarian theory of justice, such as Rawls's justice as fairness, as grounding the social contract in a public use of reason. Such a contract would indeed be susceptible to endless conflicts and renegotiations and would never achieve consensus. Therefore, a distinction must be made between the values of justice that are present in and through the “original” contractual position and the that regulate the public sphere and guarantee its stability.
Social Justice and Individual Ethics*
Authors: PARIJS PHILIPPE VAN
Published: August 2007

Abstract. If one is committed to a “Rawlsian” conception of justice, is one not also necessarily committed to a “Christian” personal ethics? MOE explicitly, if one believes that social justice requires the maximinning of material conditions, should one not use one's time and resources as well as one can in order to assist the poorest? The paper offers a very partial answer to these questions by arguing for the following two claims: (1) Contrary to what is implied by some egalitarian critics of Rawls, the idea of a well‐ordered society does not require maximin‐guided choices at the individual level, and hence leaves room for legitimate incentive payments.

(2) Despite Rawls's own neglect of this fact, a limited form of patriotism does constitute an individual “natural duty” following from a commitment to maximin social justice.
Defeating the Inference from General to Particular Norms*
Authors: KARLSSON MIKAEL M.
Published: August 2007

Abstract.

The author argues that in order to maintain, with the later Kelsen, that particular norms are not deducible from general norms, it is unnecessary to deny (1) that norms are propositional, (2) that norms have truth value, (3) that there are normative facts, or (4) that norms fall within the compass of logic. It is claimed that general norms, like many generalizations in science, are not, typically, unrestricted universal generalizations, but generalizations of a different kind, which have sometimes been called normic generalizations. Normic generalizations may have truth value and describe facts; and there is no obvious reason for thinking that they fall outside the compass of logic. Yet they do not deductively imply the instances which fall under them. Exceptions to a generalization of this sort need not constitute falsifying instances; in some cases, at least, they serve rather to qualify the scope or power of the generalization. The logic of such generalizations is thus not deductive. Granting that general norms are typically of this kind, we may accept Kelsen's conclusion about the non‐deducibility of particular from general norms without accepting the grounds upon which he accounted for this fact.
Cultural Sovereignty, Relativism, and International Human Rights: New Excuses for Old Strategies
Authors: BAYEFSKY ANNE F.
Published: August 2007

Abstract. Although the Charter of the United Nations embodied an unresolved tension between state sovereignty and the inviolability of human rights, the fall of the Berlin Wall seemed to herald universal acceptance of the legitimacy of international concern for the protection of human rights. Since that time, however, the sovereignty of states has been pushed with renewed vigour under the guise of cultural sovereignty. Three examples of the role of cultural sovereignty in the international human rights sphere are proposed to demonstrate that the real interest of states is not the protection of cultural identity, but non‐interference, supremacy and control. The paper identifies cultural sovereignty with cultural relativism and argues that the ideology of relativism, combined with the inadequacies of legal positivism, have significantly harmed the efficacy and character of the international human rights regime.
Natural Law: Alive and Kicking? A Look at the Constitutional Morality of Sexual Privacy in Ireland
Authors: O'CONNELL RORY
Published: August 2007

Abstract. This article discusses the role of moral argument in the Constitutional case law of the Irish courts. It looks at the debate on the constitutional morality of sexuality in four major cases: a 1973 case protecting the right to use contraceptives; a 1984 case which upholds discrimination against gay men; a 1987 case limiting access to abortion information; and a 1992 case which finds a limited right to abortion in the Constitution. These cases show the role of the courts in contributing to a debate on political morality, both proposing new visions of political morality, and elaborating on the requirements of the current one.
Patrick Geddes: Founder of Environmental Sociology
Authors: Studholme Maggie
Published: July 2007

On the basis of a close reading of two early articles by Patrick Geddes, which form the basis of his later approach to sociology, it is argued that Geddes should be reclaimed by sociologists from the geographers and the town planners, as the founder of a distinctive environmental sociology in Britain at around the turn of the last century. Certain of Geddes’ arguments are seen to be comparable with those of Durkheim, in particular, and Marx to a somewhat lesser extent. Moreover, his work contains a distinctively sociological account of the ‘structuring’ of social (and environmental) reality via the creative agency of human beings actively working in a variety of environments. Geddes’ naïve optimism may make him as much Utopian as sociological, but does not invalidate his contribution to the development of a classical environmental sociology.
England – Whose England? Narratives of Nostalgia, Emptiness and Evasion in Imaginations of National Identity
Authors: Byrne Bridget
Published: July 2007

This paper explores the contested and racialised nature of Englishness as a national identity. Based on qualitative interviews of white mothers in London, the paper examines the different ways in which the interviewees positioned themselves in relation to concepts of Englishness. National identity involves ways of being, a sense of place and belonging. It is produced through forms of myth-making and narrative production which depend on particular constructions of time and space. This paper examines how nation-ness is imagined and lived by the interviewees. It asks how constructions of Englishness related to constructions of the self and how imaginings of belonging involved imagining of otherness. It also describes how, for some of the interviewees, the domestic, particularly in notions of cleanliness and dirt, as well as food and consumption, was a key metaphor for explaining their relationship to national identity.
The Secretary as Supporter, Team Worker and Independent: A Case for Societal Comparison
Authors: Truss Catherine
Published: August 2007

Recent developments in cross‐national comparisons of women's work have led to some new and challenging findings. This article aims to contribute to this debate by presenting one study which examined secretarial work in three European countries. The methodological issues connected with cross‐national research on gender are addressed, and it is suggested that the ‘societal’ approach offers the most potential for cross‐national gender research. Findings are discussed in the areas of demographics, education and training, job content and mobility, and interlinkages between national institutions and the secretarial occupation are explored. Differences between the national samples highlight the importance of carrying out cross‐national research in this area.
‘We've Got One of Those’: The Peripheral Status of Women in Male Dominated Industries
Authors: Corcoran‐Nantes Yvonne , Roberts Ken
Published: August 2007

This article uses evidence from 269 interviews in five companies to consider whether (i) equal opportunity laws, policies and practices, (ii) more women gaining post‐entry professional qualifications, establishing themselves on the lower rungs of hitherto male careers, and working full‐time, combined with (iii) projected skill shortages, are likely to break down gender segmentation and lead to greater equality in employment during the 1990s. The evidence suggests that even females who start strongly and appear potential high‐fliers are still being obstructed by harsh, in some respects, and in other ways patronizing, workplace cultures, coupled with demands for career commitment that are incompatible with the domestic responsibilities which it is assumed women will adopt, and which the majority are in fact still adopting at least at certain stages during their working lives. The effects in the companies studied were to deflect women out of mainstream careers into peripheral occupations, or into peripheral jobs within skilled mainstream occupations. In these companies neither the men nor the exceptional women who were succeeding appeared a likely source of pressure for change, and male domination remained fully compatible with the firms' preferred skill formation strategies.
Polarization in Mothers' Employment
Authors: Glover Judith , Arber Sara
Published: August 2007

Using secondary analysis of large, nationally representative government data sets, we explore the interaction of occupational class and the age of youngest child in mothers' labour force participation. We show that levels of full‐time working vary markedly in each occupational class and by age of youngest child. Within part‐time working, the principal form of labour force participation for mothers, there are marked class differences in eligibility for ‘short‐term’ and ‘long‐term’ employment rights, as well as in the ‘quality’ of part‐time working. We suggest that the impact on mothers' employment of the age of the youngest child is mediated by mothers' occupational class and conclude that there is growing evidence of polarities in the employment experience of mothers in different occupational classes.
Work Psychology, Women and Stress: Silence, Identity and the Boundaries of Conventional Wisdom
Authors: Clark Heather , Chandler John , Barry Jim
Published: August 2007

It is argued that there has been a close connection between work psychologists and management which has produced a discourse about stress. In this discourse workers are positioned as victims whose suffering may be overcome through behavioural technologies. Having drawn attention to the assumptions, limitations and silences of the literature, recent debates surrounding gender and the politics of identity are considered in order to outline the possibility of a complementary approach to the study of gender and work stress. Theoretical and practical issues are addressed.
Continuity of Midwifery Care in England: A New Professional Project?
Authors: Sandall Jane
Published: August 2007

Over the last decade, an increasing amount of research has examined the relationship between gender and professionalization using female professional projects to illustrate how the generic notion of a profession has been a gendered one.

This paper develops Witz's (1990) theory of professional strategies in female‐dominated occupations particularly regarding midwives in Britain in the twentieth century and suggests that an important dimension that also needs to be critically examined in midwifery history is the interaction of gender and social class within midwifery. Furthermore it documents the traditional emphasis in midwifery on the single woman's career path. This historical analysis has resonance today as midwifery in Britain is undergoing a renaissance. The role of the midwife and the current organization of the maternity services are being reviewed with the intention of providing increased choice and control over the reproductive process for women and increased continuity of care with a midwife. These changes are viewed as midwives' new professional project and the implications for midwives and women discussed.

The aim of this paper is to explore the explanatory power of these approaches to current developments in maternity care and by drawing historical parallels, consider the impact that this professionalizing strategy may have for those who are excluded from this process of ‘dual closure’. Furthermore, this paper asks whether this new way of working empowers midwives, women, both or neither?
How does a re‐colonizing population of Asian elephants affect the forest habitat?
Authors: Pradhan N. M. B. , Wegge P. , Moe S. R.
Published: July 2007

The Asian elephant Elephas maximus is currently re‐colonizing the Bardia National Park in lowland Nepal. We studied their impact on woody vegetation in the nutrient‐rich floodplain and in the relatively nutrient‐poor sal forest. The types and extent of tree impact were recorded along fixed‐width transects (335 km). Species composition, density and size classes ≥8 cm diameter breast height (dbh) were recorded in 15‐m radius random plots (n=95). Impact was higher in the floodplain complex than in the sal‐dominated forest. Our hypothesis that elephants were more selective on species in the nutrient‐poor sal forest was only partly supported; the niche breadth of impacted trees was slightly higher in the floodplain complex. Pushed‐over trees accounted for the highest proportion of impact (55%), followed by killed trees (39%). Of the pushed trees, 10% were not used for food. Among food trees, elephants selectively impacted size class 12–16 cm dbh, whereas non‐food trees were impacted independently of size. A large proportion of the freshly browsed trees had been felled previously, indicating that most felled trees survived, enabling elephants to feed on them again. This may reflect an evolutionary adaptation among long‐lived species with high site fidelity. Owing to preferential use but low abundance, two species in sal forest, Grewia spp. and Desmodium oojeinense, were found to be particularly vulnerable to local extinction due to elephants. Although the elephants had impacted a large number of species (62, 73% of all), 56.4% of the impacted trees consisted of Mallotus phillippinensis. A recently observed increase in the density of M. phillippinensis and the concurrent reduction of the hardly utilized Shorea robusta indicates that the rapidly growing elephant population may modify the composition of the forest by increasing its preferred food species.
Limiting similarity and species assemblages in the short‐tailed fruit bats
Authors: York H. A. , Papes M.
Published: July 2007

We analyzed the morphometrics of seven taxa of short‐tailed fruit bats Chiroptera: Phyllostomidae: Carollia, (Carollia benkeithi, Carollia brevicauda, Carollia castanea, Carollia perspicillata azteca, Carollia perspicillata perspicillata, Carollia sowelli and Carollia subrufa) to assess within‐taxon variation and to address the possibility that morphological distinctions facilitate sympatry within this genus of ecologically similar bats. Whereas morphological similarities were found among species in certain combinations of allopatric taxa, members of sympatric assemblages differ significantly, indicating that there is a consistent representation of morphotypes within various assemblages of Carollia despite changes in species composition across the range of the genus. Furthermore, the differences in the skull size and shape among taxa correspond to potential differences in food‐handling abilities and point to dietary differentiation among species as a factor in the facilitation of coexistence.
Can mite parasitism affect the condition of bat hosts? Implications for the social structure of colonial bats
Authors: Lourenço S. I. , Palmeirim J. M.
Published: July 2007

Ectoparasitism may be recognized as one of the main costs of coloniality, but little is known about how it affects the fitness and social structure of bats, the most gregarious of mammals. We studied these issues using the colonial batMiniopterus schreibersiiand its haematophagous parasitic miteSpinturnix psias a model. Body condition is an important indicator of individual fitness that is potentially affected by ectoparasitism. Thus, we measured host body condition and mite loads in a total of 969 bats throughout the annual cycle. Mites were rare while hosts hibernated, increased in abundance in spring and peaked during nursing season of bats, when they were particularly abundant on lactating females and young bats. This strong seasonal variation in mite loads is related to the reproductive cycle of mites, which in turn appears to be synchronized with the reproductive cycle of their hosts. Mite loads and the condition of bats were negatively correlated, and information available suggests that this may be due to an effect of parasitism, although other possible causes for this trend cannot be excluded. However, a negative correlation was only observed during the bat's nursing season, when mites were most abundant, and heavily parasitized bats lost about 10% of their weight. Mite parasitism did not seem to be a significant disadvantage of coloniality, except in nurseries, where it might impose some costs. However, as females and young usually aggregate in these colonies, we presume that for them such costs are probably offset by advantages of group living. Adult males, however, are usually absent from nurseries, which may be a strategy to minimize mite parasitism. Overall, the results suggest that ectoparasitism may play a role in determining the social structure ofM. schreibersiiand of many other temperate bats that have similar life cycles and ectoparasitic loads.
Is fecundity the ultimate cause of female‐biased size dimorphism in a dragon lizard?*
Authors: Stuart‐Smith J. , Swain R. , Stuart‐Smith R. D. , Wapstra E.
Published: July 2007

Fecundity selection is one of the most influential underlying driving forces responsible for body size differences between the sexes of a species. Reproductive output is one of the most important aspects of an animal's life‐history strategy, and any trait that acts to improve this will be under strong selection. Body size is one potential trait that can influence fecundity and when a species exhibits female‐biased size dimorphism, fecundity provides an ideal starting point for understanding why dimorphism in body size exists. Female‐biased sexual size dimorphism is uncommon in vertebrates, including lizards. To explore the relationship between female‐biased size dimorphism and fecundity, we examined maternal size and clutch data collected over four years from a temperate‐zone agamid, Rankinia (Tympanocryptis) diemensis. We measured the following descriptors of reproductive output: clutch size and mass, relative clutch mass (RCM), average egg mass and offspring size. We found a positive relationship between maternal size and clutch size and mass, but no relationship between maternal size and RCM, average egg mass or hatchling size, demonstrating that the relative reproductive output is not influenced by female size, and that the only way to increase reproductive output is for the female to attain a greater body size. There exists an overall strong relationship between maternal body size and fecundity, thereby providing a potential explanation as to why female size is under selection in this species.
Man‐made environmental changes affect the boundary between two taxa of Laudakia
Authors: Federman R. , Werner Y. L.
Published: July 2007

This project tested whether, and how, man‐made changes in the environment would affect the boundary between parapatric‐related taxa of Laudakia (Reptilia: Agamidae), whose distributions meet at a boundary between ecological regions. Israel is ecologically diverse with a mesic (Mediterranean) north and an arid (Saharo‐Arabian) south. The lizard hardun Laudakia stellio is represented in Israel mainly by two subspecies: the Mediterranean Lau. s. ssp. and the desert Lau. s. brachydactyla. These are conventionally distinguished by the key character, number of subdigital lamellae under the fourth toe, visible in museum specimens examined for the purpose. The results revealed that during 1935–1978, the boundary between the two subspecies had shifted 15 km southwards. This is interpreted as resulting from the documented southwards spread of irrigated agriculture. During this time, the average subdigital count of each subspecies near the inter‐taxa boundary shifted slightly towards the average of the other subspecies. In each subspecies, in this area, at the same time, the coefficient of variation of the subdigital count increased. The last two processes are interpreted as reflecting reciprocal migration, enhanced by the documented expanded road system and intensified human transportation. Hence, in this case, anthropogenic developments have changed both the location and the genetic structure of the boundary between two parapatric taxa.
Analysis of forelimb function in basal ceratopsians
Authors: Senter P.
Published: July 2007

Here, I present the first study of forelimb function in basal ceratopsians [Correction added after publication 28 July 2007: in the preceding sentence ‘Here, I present the first study of forelimb function in basal ceratopsiansDinosauria Orthischia’ was corrected to ‘Here, I present the first study of forelimb function in basal ceratopsians’]. I examined forelimb bones and casts ofPsittacosaurus neimongoliensis,Psittacosaurus mongoliensis,Leptoceratops gracilisandProtoceratops andrewsi. ForPs. neimongoliensisandL. gracilis, I used manual manipulations of bones and casts to determine the range of motion at available forelimb joints. I then used range of motion and morphology to test the predictions of several hypotheses of forelimb function. Forelimb morphology and range of motion indicate thatPsittacosauruswas an obligate biped and thatLeptoceratopsandProtoceratopswere capable of quadrupedal locomotion. Forelimb mobility was too limited inPsittacosaurusfor the hands to reach the mouth.LeptoceratopsandProtoceratopsare members of an evolutionary radiation in which an extension of the glenoid enabled the forelimbs to sprawl laterally for transverse pivoting, perhaps for display, but quadrupedal locomotion was accomplished with the elbows tucked in. InProtoceratops, the radius crosses over the ulna, causing the palms to face caudally. InLeptoceratops, the radius does not cross over the ulna; the palms face largely medially and the fingers have been reoriented so that flexion produces a caudal, propulsive force, even without caudally facing palms.
Rhythmic diel movements of pandalid shrimps in the western Mediterranean continental shelf and upper slope
Authors: Aguzzi J. , Company J. B. , Abelló P. , García J. A.
Published: July 2007

In marine ecosystems, information on diel rhythmic movements of species is of importance to characterize temporal changes in the community structure. In this sense, patterns of bottom trawl catches of the pandalid caridean shrimps Chlorotocus crassicornis, Plesionika gigliolii and Plesionika martia were analysed, as a proxy of the timing and duration of their presence on the seabed, close to the autumn equinox (October) and the summer solstice (June) on the continental shelf (100 m) and the upper slope (400 m). The size structure of catches was also studied for each species to assess the possible occurrence of a modulation of rhythmic movements during ontogeny. Data showed marked diel patterns of catchability on the bottom in association with light intensity cycles in both sampling seasons and depths. Chlorotocus crassicornis on the shelf showed nocturnal peaks in catches. On the slope, Pl. gigliolii showed mainly a higher catchability at dusk and dawn, whereas the catchability of Pl. martia was mainly higher during the day time. Juveniles and adults of Pl. gigliolii and Pl. martia showed ontogenetic differences in their occurrence patterns. This phenomenon is discussed by comparing the reported catchability patterns with those of some prey species that also show rhythmic behaviour in association with the day–night cycle.
Pituitary luteinizing hormone responses to single doses of exogenous GnRH in female social Cape ground squirrels exhibiting low reproductive skew
Authors: Jackson T. P. , Waterman J. M. , Bennett N. C.
Published: July 2007

The Cape ground squirrel Xerus inauris is unusual among social mammals as it exhibits a low reproductive skew, being a facultative plural breeder with not all females breeding within a group. We investigated pituitary function to assess whether there was reproductive inhibition at the level of the pituitary and potentially the hypothalamus in breeding and non‐breeding female Cape ground squirrels. We did so during the summer and winter periods by measuring luteinizing hormone (LH) responses to single doses of 2 g exogenous gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) and physiological saline administered to 42 females from 11 colonies. Basal LH concentrations of females increased in response to the GnRH challenge. Basal plasma LH concentrations were greater during winter, when most oestrus events are observed. However, we found no differences in plasma LH concentrations between breeding and non‐breeding females. We showed that the anterior pituitary of non‐breeding female ground squirrels is no less sensitive to exogenously administered GnRH than that of breeding females. We therefore concluded that the pituitary is no more active in breeding than non‐breeding females. The lack of differentiation in response to GnRH suggests that either non‐breeding females have ovaries that are less sensitive to LH or that they refrain from sexual activity with males through an alternative mechanism of self‐restraint.
Spatial ecology of the mulgara in arid Australia: impact of fire history on home range size and burrow use
Authors: Körtner G. , Pavey C. R. , Geiser F.
Published: July 2007

Knowledge about the spatial ecology of small mammals in relation to fire history in arid zones in general and Australia in particular is limited. Here, we report data on the spatial ecology of the brush‐tailed mulgara Dasycercus blythi in the hummock grasslands of Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park during winter 2006, the beginning of the breeding season for this species. About 73% of the study area had been burnt in 2002 and spinifex cover was sparse. Mulgaras Marsupialia: Dasyuridae (six males and three females) were implanted with radio‐transmitters and monitored daily for between 6 and 55 days. All mulgaras appeared to use defined home ranges, which overlapped extensively with those of several neighbours. Spatial overlap occurred between as well as within sexes. On average, males (25.5 ha) occupied significantly larger home ranges than females (10.8 ha). Mulgaras used a number of burrows within home ranges and several were used by more than one individual. Moreover, occasionally, two individuals used the same burrow simultaneously. Home ranges and burrows encompassed both mature spinifex Triodia basedowii and open regrowth areas and mulgaras did not exhibit a significant preference for either habitat type. However, three males were killed by introduced‐predators and they all lived predominantly in the open regrowth area. We conclude that mulgaras do not select the dense cover of mature spinifex habitat, and might be subjected to increased risk from introduced predators, especially following fire.
The forced vergence cover test and phoria adaptation
Authors: Toole Andrew J. , Fogt Nick
Published: July 2007

Phoria adaptation (PA) provides innervation to help maintain the correct vergence posture for binocularly viewing objects. Once fusion is disrupted, such as is required for measuring a (dissociated) phoria, this innervation is slowly depleted. Thus, extended periods of monocular occlusion can be required to dissipate PA and reveal the full extent of the phoria. Two versions of a forced vergence modification of the alternating cover test (CT) have been proposed to rapidly show the full phoria. We evaluated the ability of these forced vergence CTs (FVCT‐1 and FVCT‐2) to deplete the PA induced by a 15 min adaptation period to base out prism. In both experiments, the CT followed by the FVCT was performed before and after the adaptation period. In Experiment 1 (n = 13), the FVCT‐1 was evaluated at 40 cm. Experiment 2 (n = 32) evaluated the FVCT‐2 at 4 m. In Experiments 1 and 2, the difference between pre‐ and post‐adaptation CTs showed significant PA occurred during the adaptation period (7.8Δ, p < 0.0005, and 5.4Δ, p < 0.0005 respectively). In Experiment 1, the FVCT‐1 did not reveal a larger phoria than the CT before (mean difference: 0.4Δ, p = 0.34) or after (no difference for all subjects) the adaptation period. Thus, the FVCT‐1 did not alter PA. In Experiment 2, the FVCT‐2 did show a shift in the phoria compared to the CT. However, this shift was found to be equivalent before and after the adaptation period (mean difference in shift: 0.22Δ, 95% CI: −0.52 to 0.96Δ). Thus, the FVCT‐2 shifts the phoria a constant amount independent of the amount of PA present. We conclude that neither FVCT's behaviour is dependent on the PA present. Thus, these procedures are unlikely to be effective clinical procedures for revealing the full magnitude of the phoria.
Glare susceptibility test results correlate with temporal safety margin when executing turns across approaching vehicles in simulated low‐sun conditions
Authors: Gray Rob , Regan David
Published: July 2007

The purpose of this study was to compare the results of a laboratory glare susceptibility test with the execution of turns at an intersection (turns that required the driver to cross a lane containing approaching traffic). We measured glare susceptibility by means of low and high‐contrast letter charts with and without a glare source. Driving performance in the absence and presence of simulated low sun was assessed using a simulator. In particular, we measured the difference between the time taken to complete a turn across the path of an approaching vehicle and the time to collision (TTC) with the approaching vehicle (the safety margin). The presence of glare resulted in a significant reduction in the safety margin used by drivers (by 0.65 s on average) and the mean number of collisions was significantly higher in the glare conditions than in the non‐glare conditions. The effect of glare was larger for low‐contrast than for high‐contrast oncoming vehicles. Older drivers (45–60 years) had a significantly greater reduction in safety margin than younger drivers (19–29 years), though there was a large inter‐individual variability in both age groups. We suggest that the reduction in retinal image contrast caused by low‐sun caused drivers to overestimate the TTC with approaching vehicles.
An assessment of land degradation in the Save catchment of Zimbabwe
Authors: Mambo Julia , Archer Emma
Published: August 2007

The lack of reliable baseline information on land degradation is a hindrance towards its monitoring and mitigation. Of particular interest is the identification of areas susceptible to degradation. In this study, remote sensing and GIS technologies were applied to detect and map susceptibility to land degradation in Buhera district, in Save catchment, Zimbabwe. Data used included Landsat TM and ETM imagery for 1992 and 2002, agro‐ecological zones, vegetation cover and population density. The study identified five preliminary categories of degradation susceptibility ranging from very high to low.
Quinine—A Tonic Too Bitter for Hemodialysis‐Associated Muscle Cramps?
Authors: Kobrin Sidney M. , Berns Jeffrey S.
Published: August 2007

Hemodialysis patients are susceptible to muscle cramps, both during dialysis sessions as well as in the interdialytic interval. These cramps are often very painful, disruptive to the dialysis treatment, and adversely affect quality of life. There is no well‐defined means of preventing or treating these cramps. Quinine sulfate has been used with apparent success in some patients, but the Food and Drug Administration recently ordered the cessation of marketing of unapproved quinine formulations and advised consumers to avoid “off‐label” use of quinine for cramps. We review the causes and consequences of hemodialysis‐associated cramps, and discuss possible preventive measures and treatments.
Standard Citrate Versus Sequential Citrate/Anticoagulant‐free Anticoagulation During Hemodialysis: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Buturovic Jadranka , Gubensek Jakob , Cerne Darko , Ponikvar Rafael
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  In a randomized study, sequential anticoagulation for hemodialysis (citrate for the first 3.5 h, switching to 30‐min anticoagulation‐free hemodialysis) was compared to standard citrate anticoagulation. Fifty‐two hemodialysis procedures were randomized either to sequential (n = 27) or standard citrate group (n = 25). The antithrombotic effect in the circuit was visually assessed after hemodialysis using a score from 1 (total clotting) to 5 (no clotting). The antithrombotic score for sequential versus standard group was as follows: dialyzer, 4.0 ± 1.1 versus 4.8 ± 0.4 (P < 0.01); arterial bubble trap, 4.0 ± 1.2 versus 4.7 ± 0.6 (P = 0.013); venous bubble trap, 4.0 ± 1.3 versus 4.8 ± 0.6 (P < 0.01). Serum citrate levels during sequential versus standard citrate anticoagulation (µmol/L) were as follows: at the beginning, 143 ± 65 versus 148 ± 77 (not significant [NS]); after 2 h, 317 ± 157 versus 354 ± 111 (NS); at the end, 125 ± 81 versus 405 ± 133 (P < 0.01). Sequential anticoagulation reduces the final serum citrate concentration to predialysis level. It can be a good anticoagulation strategy for patients in whom the reduction of citrate load is desired.
Differential Functional Coupling Between Human Saphenous Cryoallografts and Arteries: Importance of the Arterial Type and the Biomechanical Parameter Evaluated
Authors: Bia Daniel , Zócalo Yanina , Pessana Franco , Armentano Ricardo , Pérez Héctor , Saldías María , Álvarez Inés
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to characterize and compare human great saphenous veins (HGSVs), HGSV cryoallografts, expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) segments, and elastic and muscular arteries’ biomechanics, so as to identify if the biomechanical coupling and the HGSV advantages with respect to ePTFE depend on the arterial type and/or on the biomechanical property considered. Pressure and diameter were measured in vitro, under arterial hemodynamic conditions, in elastic and muscular arteries, and in vascular substitutes: fresh and cryopreserved HGSV and ePTFE segments. The wall's dynamics (compliance, viscosity, and inertia), energy dissipation, and buffering were calculated. The coupling was quantified for each biomechanical parameter. Cryopreservation preserved HGSV biomechanics. The HGSV cryoallografts’ dynamics, energetics, and buffering were lesser with respect to both arteries, but were higher than the ePTFE. The coupling differed, depending on the arterial type and property considered. The biomechanical coupling depended on the artery and property considered. HGSV cryoallograft advantages over ePTFE were arterial type and property independent.
Studies on the Oxygenation of Human Blood by Photocatalytic Action
Authors: Subrahmanyam Aryasomayajula , Arokiadoss Thevasahayam , Ramesh T. Paul
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  The present article gave the proof of concept for oxygenating human blood using the established principles of photocatalytic action of anatase TiO2 thin films in generating oxygen from water. The photocatalytic action involves the absorption of the UV optical energy (365 nm) to split water available in the blood into oxygen and hydrogen, and the generated oxygen is attached to the hemoglobin. In the present study, an enhanced catalytic action was achieved by preparing the nanosized anatase TiO2 thin films on tin‐doped indium oxide (ITO) thin films, forming TiO2/ITO semiconducting junction. These TiO2 and ITO thin films and the semiconducting junctions were grown by the reactive DC Magnetron sputtering technique (using pure metallic targets) at room temperature (300 K) and subsequently annealed at 870 K for 60 min. The annealing process (i) influenced the formation of the anatase phase of TiO2; and (ii) diffused indium from ITO into TiO2, forming InTi2O5. The work functions of ITO and InTi2O5 were measured to be 4.72 and 4.76 eV, respectively. The higher efficacy of the photocatalytic action was attributed to the lower work function of ITO. The results clearly show that the photocatalytic action increases the oxygen content in the blood significantly.
Surgical Treatment of Epilepsy with Chronic Cerebral Granuloma Caused by Schistosoma japonicum
Authors: Lei Ting , Shu Kai , Chen Xu , Li Ling
Published: July 2007

Summary

Purpose: To study the surgical treatment of epilepsy with cerebral granuloma caused by Schistosoma japonicum.

Methods: Two hundred fifty cases of epilepsy caused by cerebral schistosomiasis from 1955 to 2004 were analyzed retrospectively.

Results: There were no deaths. Follow‐up of 196 cases for 4–5 years after operation demonstrated that 180 cases (92%) were seizure‐free or well‐controlled.

Conclusions: Surgical treatment should be considered when drug therapy fails to control epilepsy or the lesion shows mass effect. Intraoperative electrocorticography monitoring is helpful to define the extent of the resection of the lesion.
Scotosensitive and Photosensitive Myoclonic Seizures in an Infant with Trisomy 13
Authors: Torniero Claudia , Zuffardi Orsetta , Darra Francesca , Dalla Bernardina Bernardo
Published: July 2007

Summary

We describe a male carrier of trisomy 13 with scotosensitive and photosensitive myoclonic seizures appearing at the age of 8 months and persisting until death at 20 months. The seizures consisted of massive myoclonic jerks induced both by switching the room light suddenly on or off or by IPS with a frequency of 1 s. Spontaneous seizures were absent. The child also presented from the same age with breath‐holding spells. This is interesting because it represents a rare example of the co‐occurrence of scotosensitive and photosensitive seizures. Furthermore, a possible association to locus on 13q31.3 has been reported for photosensitivity, while for scotosensitivity there is no previous genetic information.