bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A third allele in the horse albumin system
Authors: Sandberg K.
Published: August 2010

Starch gel electrophoresis according to Gahne (1966) reveals three new phenotypes designated FI, I and IS in horse serum albumin. Family material comprising 97 sire families with a total number of 2742 foals and their dams and population material comprising 2867 adult horses representative of the Swedish Trotter breed were examined. The results were consistent with a genetic theory of three codominant, autosomal alleles F, I and S controlling the six albumin phenotypes observed. The gene frequencies were estimated to be 0.489, 0.049 and 0.462, respectively, for the F, I and S genes in the Swedish Trotter breed. The risk of making false exclusions in paternity controls in the albumin system, if the I allele is not considered, is discussed.
T and B lymphocyte subpopulations and activation/differentiation markers in patients with selective IgA deficiency
Authors: Litzman J , Vlková M , Pikulová Z , Štikarovská D , Lokaj J
Published: August 2010

Selective deficiency of immunoglobulin A (IgAD) and common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) are genetically closely related diseases, both of unknown pathogenesis. A plethora of abnormalities in lymphocyte subpopulations and expression of activation markers were repeatedly documented in CVID patients, while almost no data are available about lymphocyte subpopulations in IgAD patients. We determined basic lymphocyte subpopulations and those subpopulations that were reported to be abnormal in CVID patients (CD25, human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-DR CD45RA, CD45RO, CD27, CD28 and CD29 on both CD4+ and CD8+ cells, CD57 and CD38 on CD8+ cells, CD21, CD27, IgM, IgD on B lymphocytes) in 85 patients with IgAD, 47 patients with CVID and in 65 healthy controls. Statistical analysis was performed by the Mann–Whitney U-test; significant P-values were determined by means of Bonferoni's correction. Our results showed an increase in the relative number of CD8+ cells and a decrease in the absolute number of CD4+ cells compared to healthy people, but similar abnormalities in CVID patients were much more expressed. IgAD patients had significantly decreased expression of HLA-DR and increased expression of CD25 on CD4+ lymphocytes, also CD29 expression was decreased on CD8+ cells, while other activation/differentiation markers on T cells (including the expression of CD45RA and CD45RO antigens) were not changed. There were no statistically significant abnormalities in B lymphocyte developmental stages in IgAD patients compared to healthy controls. Our observation showed that the majority of T and B lymphocyte subpopulation abnormalities described previously in CVID are not present in IgAD patients.
Estimation of activity coefficients of individual ions in solutions with ionic strengths up to 0.3 mol dm−3
Authors: RITSEMA C. J.
Published: August 2010

For chemical speciation calculations concerning soil solutions it is essential to convert ionic concentrations to activities. For dilute solutions with ionic strengths up to 0.3 mol dm−3, relations are given for calculating the single‐ion activity coefficients of 26 ions. Using the mean‐salt method, measured mean activity coefficients have been converted into single‐ion activity coefficients. For each ion, the variation in ion activity coefficient with ionic strength has been curve‐fitted with the first degree extension of the Debye‐Hückel equation. The ion‐dependent parameters in the extended Debye‐Hückel equation have been quantified.

The derived set of relations can be incorporated in geochemical models, which makes calculating ion activities in soil solutions with variable ionic strengths up to 0.3 mol dm−3 simple and accurate. With an ion speciation model it is shown for various solutions with ionic strengths up to 0.3 mol dm−3 that the type of equation chosen for calculating single‐ion activity coefficients can lead to differences in computed ion speciation.
Habitat use by short‐toed eagles Circaetus gallicus and their reptilian prey during the breeding season in Dadia Forest (north‐eastern Greece)
Authors: BAKALOUDIS D.E. , VLACHOS C.G. , HOLLOWAY G.J.
Published: August 2010

The area surrounding and including Dadia Forest, north‐eastern Greece, is well known for its diversity of breeding raptors, including many species of conservation concern. Dadia Forest has been exploited by humans for many centuries, but more recent social and economic changes have stimulated proposals that the forest should be subject to habitat management to protect the fauna of the region.

We examined the distribution of reptiles over nine different habitat types with a view to assessing the importance of these habitats for foraging by short‐toed eagles Circaetus gallicus. In addition, data on the diet of the species were collected from direct observations at nests.

The short‐toed eagle relies heavily on snakes for food. The most important prey species was the grass snake Nutrix natrix, although the Montpellier snake Malpolon monspessulunus and large whip snake Coluber jugularis also featured prominently as prey items at certain nests. Montpellier snakes and large whip snakes were distributed across all habitat types, but grass snakes were concentrated in areas of mainly intensive, but also non‐intensive, cultivation.

Analysis showed that short‐toed eagles concentrated their foraging efforts in three habitat types: intensive and non‐intensive cultivation and grasslands. Grass snakes were abundant on cultivated land but relatively scarce on grassland. Forested areas were largely avoided by foraging eagles. The data show that for the short‐toed eagle the distribution and abundance of prey items on the ground does not reflect food availability.

The possible effect of changes in habitat management on the short‐toed eagle population in Dadia is discussed, in particular the establishment of exclusion zones that could result in progressive canopy closure.
Applying the results of ecological studies to land‐use policies and practices
Authors: McCRACKEN DAVID I , BIGNAL ERIC M.
Published: August 2010

Summary

Good progress has been made in bringing the importance of high‐nature‐conservation‐value farming systems to the attention of a wider audience. However, simply having a broad appreciation of which farming systems are good for certain species or species assemblages is of little use without a detailed understanding of how each particular farming system functions and integrates with the species reliant upon that system as a whole.

Many species have intimate and complex interactions with the annual farming cycle, and their presence on any one piece of farmland is determined not only by the farm management occurring at that time but also by the management practised over the previous weeks and months. Since their exact farm management requirements are not fully understood, it would currently be difficult (if not impossible) to put in place the exact set of conditions necessary to ensure the continued occurrence of many desired species.

Consequently, a detailed understanding of the ecological relationships involved is essential before advice can be provided on how best to develop any individual farming system (and the associated policies) so that the ecological characteristics of the system of value to the wildlife assemblages are maintained.

These issues are highlighted and illustrated with reference to the findings from research into the ecology and requirements of the choughPyrrhocorax pyrrhocoraxand the effects of farm management practices on ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) and leatherjackets (Diptera: Tipulidae), which together can form important prey items for birds associated with grassland habitats.
Identifying hotspots for plant invasions and forecasting focal points of further spread
Authors: Ibáñez Inés , Silander Jr John. A. , Allen Jenica M. , Treanor Sarah A. , Wilson Adam
Published: August 2010

1.To ensure the successful detection, control and eradication of invasive plant species, we need information that can identify areas prone to invasions and criteria that can point out which particular populations may become foci of further spread. Specifically, our work aimed to develop statistical models that identify hotspots of invasive plant species and evaluate the conditions that give rise to successful populations of invasive species.

2.We combined extensive data sets on invasive species richness and on species per cent ground cover, together with climate, local habitat and land cover data. We then estimated invasive species richness as a function of those environmental variables by developing a spatially explicit generalized linear model within a hierarchical Bayesian framework. In a second analysis, we used an ordinal logistic regression model to quantify invasive species abundance as a function of the same set of predictor variables.

3.Our results show which locations in the studied region, north‐eastern USA, are prone to plant species invasions given the combination of climatic and land cover conditions particular to the sites. Predictions were also generated under a range of climate scenarios forecasted for the region, which pointed out at an increase in invasive species incidence under the most moderate forecast. Predicted abundance for some of the most common invasive plant species,Berberis thumbergii,Celastrus orbiculatus,Euonymus alata,Elaeagnus umbellataandRosa multiflora, allowed us to identify the specific conditions that promote successful population growth of these species, populations that could become foci of further spread.

4.Synthesis and applications.Reliable predictions of plants’ invasive potential are crucial for the successful implementation of control and eradication management plans. By following a multivariate approach the parameters estimated in this study can now be used on targeted locations to evaluate the risk of invasions given the local climate and landscape structure; they can also be applied under different climate scenarios and changing landscapes providing an array of possible outcomes. In addition, this modelling approach can be easily used in other regions and for other species.
Environmental impact assessment of offshore wind farms: a simulation‐based approach
Authors: Pérez Lapeña Blanca , Wijnberg Kathelijne M. , Hulscher Suzanne J. M. H. , Stein Alfred
Published: August 2010

1.  Assessing and monitoring the impact of offshore wind farms on marine fauna is vital if we want to achieve ecologically sustainable development of this renewable energy resource. Given the complexity of the marine environment, a method capable of accommodating spatio‐temporal behaviour of specific species and their interrelation with other marine phenomena is an essential prerequisite for investigating whether or not there has been any measurable impact to date.

2.  This paper presents a method based on geostatistical simulation to assess whether pre‐ and post‐construction collected bird count data suggest displacement of birds due to the wind farm. The method takes into account spatial autocorrelation in species abundance at various scales, pre‐ and post‐construction differences in environmental conditions and in survey effort and design.

3.   We demonstrate that taking these factors into account influences the conclusions about a wind farm’s impact on bird life. In particular, incorporating spatial autocorrelation in seabird numbers is an important factor in reducing the risk of wrongly identifying an effect of a wind farm on bird abundance.

4.
 Synthesis and applications. The development of offshore wind farms is often in conflict with nature conservation interests. Environmental impact assessment and monitoring is essential to protect and manage the marine environment. The method described here will allow scarce data to be utilized effectively as a basis for well‐informed environmental decisions. In addition, the method will assist in the design of optimal monitoring procedures at a given site, balancing costs and effectiveness in detecting potentially harmful impacts.
Variation in Coccus hesperidum L. (Homoptera: Coccidae)
Authors: Blair Catherine A. , Blackith R. E. , Boratyński K.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

An account is given of variation in 18 characters in a number of females taken from a homogeneous population of Coccus hesperidum. The latent roots and vectors obtained from the correlation matrix of these characters are discussed and an interpretation of the vectors is given.
A modification of Popham's method for demonstrating the physical gill in Corixa (Hemiptera: Corixidae)
Authors: Broughton W. B.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

Modifications of the two experiments carried out by Popham in connection with the physical gill of Corixa are described, and the results obtained are discussed.
Sugar meals in Phlebotominae and Simuliidae (Diptera)
Authors: Lewis D. J. , Domoney Cheryl R.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

The significance of sugar‐feeding by blood‐sucking Nematocera is briefly discussed, with special reference to Phlebotominae and Simuliidae. An account is given of the sugar content of the crops of some of these flies, as shown by chromatography.
Observations on the biology of nymphs of Paragomphus cognatus (Rambur) (Odonata: Gomphidae).: I. Habitat selection in relation to substrate particle size
Authors: Keetch D. P. , Moran V. C.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

An account is given of the importance of the size of substrate particles in the choice of habitat by nymphs of an aquatic sand‐burrowing dragonfly, Paragomphus cognatus (Rambur). An attempt is made to localise the sensory receptors involved in making this choice.
Structure of the plastron in Lipsothrix, and the polyphyletic origin of plastron respiration in Tipulidae
Authors: Hinton H. E.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

The fine structure of the plastron of the spiracular gills of the pupa of a tipulid fly, Lipsothrix remota, is described. Evidence is provided for the view that plastron‐bearing spiracular gills have been independently evolved on at least four occasions in the Tipulidae and that at least two groups of the family have independently invaded the sea.
Field observations on periodicity and site preference in oviposition by Aedes aegypti (L.) and related mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in Kenya
Authors: McClelland G. A. H.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

An analysis is given of the numbers of eggs laid by females of Aedes (Stegomyia) spp. on black and white substrates, at different heights above ground, and at different times in Ganda, Kenya.
Notes on the biology of some short‐horned grasshoppers from Eastern Nigeria (Orthoptera: Acridoidea)
Authors: Jerath M. L.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

Notes are given on the biology of ten species of short‐horned grasshoppers common in Eastern Nigeria. The ovarian stages found in females of nine of these species are recorded.
Experimental studies on diapause in stoneflies. I. Nymphs of Capnia bifrons (Newman)
Authors: Khoo S. G.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

An account is given of the influence of environmental conditions on diapause in different instars of Capnia bifrons.
The anatomy and histology of the proventriculus of Ips cembrae Heer (Coleoptera: Scolytidae)
Authors: Balogun R. A.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

The structure of the proventriculus of lps cembrae is described, and the function of the proventricular teeth and bristles is discussed.
Species diversity and seasonal abundance in tropical Sphingidae (Lepidoptera)
Authors: Owen D. F.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

An account is given of species diversity in two samples of Sphingidae obtained by different methods of trapping in Freetown, Sierra Leone. Seasonal abundance and resulting seasonal changes in diversity are discussed.
Nocturnal insect flight direction in relation to the wind
Authors: Brown E. S.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

An account is given of the direction of flight in night‐flying insects in Kenya with special reference to the influence of wind direction.
The nymph of Habrophlebiodes gilliesi Peters (Ephemeroptera: Leptophlebiidae)*
Authors: Tsui Philip T. P. , Peters William L.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

The previously unknown nymph of Habrophlebiodes gilliesi Peters from Hong Kong is described and compared with Habrophlebiodes prominem Ulmer from Sumatra.
The prescutum in Hymenoptera
Authors: Compere Harold , Rosen David
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

Evidence is presented to show that the prescutum is no more than a topographical subdivision of the scutum in the Hymenoptera.
The maxillae of the British species of Isoperla (Plecoptera: Perlodidae)
Authors: Hynes H. B. N. , Macphee Fiona M.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

The characters that separate the nymphs of Isoperla grammatica and I. obscura are discussed.
Observations on the development of Mycocecis ovalis Edwards (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) on the fungus Hypoxylon rubiginosum (Pers. ex Fr.)
Authors: Evans R. E.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

The life cycle and seasonal biology of Mycocecis ovalis is described from field and laboratory observations, and an account is given of the way in which midge larvae construct canopies on the host fungus, Hypoxylon rubiginosum.
Mallophaga from birds of the Indian subregion. Part VI Falcolipeurus Bedford*
Authors: Tandan B. K.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

An account is given of the eight species of Folcolipeurus parasitic on Falconiformes in the Indian subregion. An artificial key to males and females of the species and a host‐parasite list are included. The male and female of F. longiphallus are re‐described.
Some new Alluaudomyia from the Congo Republic (Nematocera: Ceratopogonidae)
Authors: Stam A. B.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

Two new species of Alluaudomyia are described from males and females taken at Coquilhatville, Congo Republic. The male of A. sordidipennis is described from specimens taken in the same locality.
Notes on some British species of Pemphigus Hartig (Homoptera: Aphidoidea) forming galls on Poplar, with the description of a new species
Authors: Stroyan H. L. G.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

Descriptive and biological notes are given on five British species of the subgenus Pemphigus from galls on poplars, with special reference to the alate migrantes. One, a new species which migrates from midrib pocket galls to the roots of Aethusa cynapium, is described.
A note on some British Coccoidea, with new additions to the British Fauna
Authors: Boratyński K. L. , Williams D. J.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

Changes in the British lists of Diaspididae, Coccidae, Eriococcidae and Pseudo‐coccidae are discussed and reasons given for the synonymy now proposed. The female of Parthenolecanium rufulum is redescribed and figured.
A new species of Thuleaphis H.R.L. (Homoptera: Aphidoidea) from Wales, Scotland and Iceland
Authors: Jacob F. H.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

A new species of Thuleaphis is recorded from Sedum rosea in Wales, Scotland and Iceland. All morphs of the species are described, and biometric data given for 79 specimens. Notes on the biology and distribution are included.
Two new species of Thaumastocoridae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) from Australia
Authors: Rose H. A.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

A new species of Thaumastocoris is described from a male specimen taken in Queensland. A new species of Baclozygum is described from males and females also takein Queensland A key to the species of Baclozygum is included. Host records of some Australian Thaumastocorinae are given.
An extraordinary Australian Cecidomyiid, possibly related to the Nymphomyiidae (Diptera, Nematocera)
Authors: Colless Donald H.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

A new genus and species of Cecidomyiidae are described from two females taken in Western Australia. The relationship of the new genus to the Nymphomyiidae and other families of Nematocera is discussed.
A new species of Stylogaster Macquart, 1835 (Diptera: Conopidae, Stylogasterinae) from New Guinea
Authors: Smith Kenneth G. V.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

A new species of Stylogaster is described from a single male taken in New Guinea. A key to the species of the genus occurring in the Indo‐Australasian region is given.
A new genus and species of Chilocorini (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) from Pakistan*
Authors: Ahmad Rafiq , Ghani M. A.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

A new genus of Chilocorini is erected for one new species described from males and females taken in West Pakistan.
The putative fossil genus Palexorista Townsend and its identity with Prosturmia Townsend (Diptera: Tachinidae)
Authors: Crosskey R. W.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

The genus Palexorista is shown to be a recent form, and the name Prosfurmia is placed in synonymy. A diagnosis of the genus is given, and its affinities are discussed. A list of described forms assignable to Palexorista is included.
The brachypterous genera and species of Eucoilidae (Hymenoptera), with descriptions and figures of some type species
Authors: Quinlan J.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

Keys are given to the brachypterous genera of Eucoilidae and the brachypterous species of Kleidotoma. Redescriptions are given of seven species of Kleidotoma. one species of Glauraspidia and one species of Aphyoptera.
Notes on the genus Napomyza Westwood (Diptera: Agromyzidae)
Authors: Griffiths GrahamC. D.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

A new European species of Napomyza bred from Bellis is described, and notes are given on four other species of Napomyza.
A revision and redescription of the genus Glyptoapteva Kormilev (Hemiptera: Aradidae)
Authors: Monteith G. B.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

The Australian genus Glyptoaptera Kormilev and its type‐species G. woodwardi are redescribed, and a key is given to all species and subspecies now included in the genus. Four of the species are described as new, and three allopatric populations of one of these species are given subspecific rank.
Notes on some species of Cavariella Del Guercio, 1911 (Homoptera: Aphidoidea)
Authors: Stroyan H. L. G.
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

The validity of Cavariella angelicae is confirmed, and the taxonomic status of C. hendersoni and C. konoi is discussed. The fundatrix of C. hillerislambersi, and the alate and apterous viviparous females, alate male and oviparous female of C. salicis are described. A key to the species of Cavariella so far described and known to be residentin the United States and Canada is included.
On the taxonomy of Dipriodonta sericea Warren (Lepidoptera: Drepanidae)
Authors: WILKINSON CHRISTOPHER
Published: August 2010

SYNOPSIS

Details are given of a computer‐aided assessment of the taxonomic position of the species Dipriodonta sericea Warren. A complete taxonomic account of sericea is given for the first time, and its affinities with related species are discussed.
Rapid and convenient purification of tonin from rat submandibular gland
Authors: EL‐THAHER TALAL S. , BAILEY GRAHAM S.
Published: August 2010

Tonin was isolated from rat submandibular glands by a very convenient procedure consisting of sequential anion‐exchange, hydrophobic interaction and gel filtration chromatographies. The method is superior to earlier purifications as it consists of fewer stages, resulting in a much higher recovery (41%) of tonin. The final preparation was seen to be pure on SDS gel electrophoresis (Mr 32 800) and on gel isoelectric focusing (pI 6.15). The stability of tonin and its interaction with various inhibitors were investigated, and compared with the corresponding behaviour of rat tissue kallikrein.
Signaling networks that regulate muscle development: Lessons from zebrafish
Authors: Ochi Haruki , Westerfield Monte
Published: August 2010

Locomotion mediated by skeletal muscle provides a basis for the behavioral repertoire of most animals. Embryological and genetic studies of mouse, bird, fish and frog embryos are providing insights into the functions of the myogenic regulatory factors (MRFs) and the signaling molecules that regulate activity of MRFs. Nevertheless, our understanding of muscle development remains somewhat limited. Fundamental goals are to elucidate how mesodermal cells are induced during gastrulation to form muscle precursor cells and how muscle precursor cells acquire specific cell fates, such as slow and fast muscle cells. In this review, we focus on studies of zebrafish muscle development that have advanced our understanding of the molecular genetics of muscle cell induction and specification.
Inhibitors of arachidonic acid metabolism modulate the insulin‐like growth factor‐1‐induced growth of proximal tubular cells in primary culture
Authors: GEKLE Michael , POLLOCK Carol A
Published: August 2010

Summary:Insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) is involved in the regulation of kidney growth during maturation as well as during regenerative processes. Some observations point to eicosanoids as possible intracellular mediators. In rat proximal tubular cells in primary culture we found that IGF‐1 (100 ng/mL) stimulated the release of arachidonic acid. We therefore investigated the effects of different inhibitors of arachidonic acid handling on IGF‐1‐induced hypertrophy (increase in cell protein) and hyperplasia (increase in cellular thymidine incorporation and cell number). the hypertrophic response was abolished by dibucaine (inhibitor of phospholipase A2) or proadifen (inhibitor of cytochrome P‐450 enzymes). Clotrimaole (inhibitor of epoxygenase) reduced the hypertrophic response significantly. Indomethacin (inhibitor of cyclooxygenase) or NDGA (nordihydroguaiaretic acid; inhibitor of lipoxygenase) did not affect IGF‐1‐ induced hypertrophy. the hyperplastic response was abolished completely in the presence of dibucaine, and reduced significantly in the presence of proadifen or clotrimazole. Indomethacin did not affect the hyperplastic response, whereas NDGA reduced it slightly under certain conditions. From our results we conclude that the action of IGF‐1 on growth of proximal tubular cells is, at least in part, mediated by arachidonic acid or its cytochrome P‐450 metabolites. the underlying mechanism of action might be either stimulated metabolism or enhanced release of arachidonic acid.
Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) activity in urine of patients with glomerulonephritis is related to their renal functional and structural changes
Authors: DOMINGUEZ GCS , COSTA RS , DANTAS M , KIMACHI T , PIUCI CR , COIMBRA TM
Published: August 2010

SUMMARY: Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) has been considered the principal cytokine involved in the pathogenesis of renal fibrosis. In the present study, we evaluated TGF‐β activity in occasional samples from 22 normal individuals and 29 patients (11 with focal glomerulosclerosis, 11 with membranous nephropathy, five with Berger disease, one with type I membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis and one with postinfectious glomerulonephritis) using a CCL‐64 mink lung cell growth inhibition assay.

A significantly increased urinary TGF‐β activity (reported in relation to urine creatinine, Ucreat, and median) was observed in patients with glomerulonephritis compared with normal individuals (P<0.01). the patients with Berger disease [median (Md) = 9.96/10 μg Ucreat.], membranous glomerulonephritis (Md = 7.23/10 μg Ucreat.) and focal glomerulosclerosis (Md = 16.6/10 μg Ucreat.) showed higher urinary TGF‐β than normal individuals (Md = 1.09/10 μg Ucreat.) (P<0.01). We found a positive correlation between the TGF‐β activity in the urine of these patients and the incidence of segmental glomerulosclerosis (r= 0.45, P<0.05) and their plasma creatinine levels (r= 0.87, P<0.01). A negative correlation was observed between the TGF‐β activity in the urine of these patients and their creatinine clearance (r=−0.75, P<0.01).

Our data suggest that measurement of urinary TGF‐β activity could be a useful non‐invasive procedure for the evaluation of renal TGF‐β production, permitting the assessment of prognosis and the evaluation of therapeutic efficacy in patients with renal disease.
Macrophages and HLA‐DR(+) cells in acutely rejecting kidney transplants, predict subsequent graft survival, even after reversal of the acute episode
Authors: ALEXOPOULOS Efstathios , LEONTSINI Maria , PAPADIMITRIOU Menelaos
Published: August 2010

SUMMARY:Renal graft biopsies from 19 selected patients with acute cellular rejection (ACR) were analysed using a panel of monoclonal antibodies. All patients had only one episode of ACR, which was completely reversible. In 11 patients (group 1) graft function slowly deteriorated over a period of 14 (± 17) months after the episode. In the remaining eight (group 2) graft function remained stable over a similar period of observation. In group 1 there was a significantly increased inflitrate of glomerular and interstitial monocytes/macrophages (MM) when compared with group 2. Also, the expression of HLA‐DR antigen by the tubular cells were stronger in group 1, while T‐cells in the glomeruli and the interstitium were equally distributed in both groups. We conclude that large numbers of MM and HLA‐DR expressing cells (glomerular, interstitial and tubular) in rejecting kidneys predict a more rapid decline of follow‐up renal function despite reversal of the acute episode. This may suggest that subclinical ongoing injury continues in some patients and perhaps more intense immunosuppression is necessary to prevent graft loss.
Antiproteinuric and anti‐inflammatory effects of thiazolidinedione (Review Article)
Authors: SZETO CHEUK‐CHUN , LI PHILIP KAM‐TAO
Published: August 2010

SUMMARY:  Type 2 diabetes is the most common cause of chronic renal failure worldwide. Only a few oral antidiabetic drugs can be used for treating type 2 diabetes in patients with renal failure. Among them is thiazolidinedione, which is the agonist of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)‐γ. PPAR‐γ receptors are expressed in many tissues including the kidney. Recently, beneficial effects of PPAR‐γ agonists on several aspects related to renal function have been reported. These drugs have been shown to have favourable haemodynamic and anti‐inflammatory effects on the kidneys. On the other hand, there is a rising concern on the association between thiazolidinedione treatment and the risk of cardiovascular disease. In the present paper, we review the recent studies that evaluated these potential effects of thiazolidinedione in patients with kidney diseases.
Reduction of proteinuria by rosiglitazone in non‐diabetic renal disease
Authors: KINCAID‐SMITH PRISCILLA , FAIRLEY KENNETH F , FARISH STEPHEN , BEST JAMES D , PROIETTO JOSEPH
Published: August 2010

Aim:  To investigate the effect of a thiazolidinedione on proteinuria in patients with non‐diabetic renal disease.

Methods:  In an open‐label randomized cross‐over study, 40 adults with chronic non‐diabetic renal disease completed the study. In a random fashion, one group was treated for 4 months with 4 mg of rosiglitazone first followed by a 4‐month period of standard treatment. The opposite order was used for the second group.

Results:  Baseline urinary protein excretion rate was 1.45 g/24 h. On rosiglitazone, there was a drop of urinary protein level of 0.24 g/24 h (P = 0.045). In contrast, there was a trend for proteinuria to increase during the control period (0.12 g/24 h, P = 0.18). The urine protein level on rosiglitazone was lower than on usual treatment (0.36 g/24 h, P = 0.002, 95% CI 0.15–0.58). There was a similar beneficial effect on systolic blood pressure which was reduced by rosiglitazone by 7.8 mmHg (P = 0.006, 95% CI 2.6–13.1). Although average fasting glucose was only 5.8 mmol/L, there was a significant Spearman correlation between fasting glucose and a reduction in urinary protein levels (r = 0.34, P = 0.045).

Conclusion:  It is concluded that thiazolidinediones may have a role in the management of non‐diabetic proteinuria of various aetiologies. In this study the average body mass index was 28.9 kg/m2. It will be important to repeat these studies in non‐overweight subjects with non‐diabetic proteinuria and in addition to trial maximal therapeutic doses of the thiazolidenedione.
THE IMPACT OF GENDER ON VOLUNTARY AND INVOLUNTARY EXECUTIVE DEPARTURE
Authors: BECKER‐BLEASE JOHN R. , ELKINAWY SUSAN , STATER MARK
Published: August 2010

We examine the frequency and conditions of executive departure from S&P 1500 firms. Based upon published news reports, we find that female executives are more likely than male executives to depart their positions voluntarily and involuntarily in the presence of controls for firm performance, firm governance, and human capital. We also find that women are less likely than men to depart voluntarily as firm size increases or board size decreases but more likely to be dismissed as the board becomes more male dominated. (JEL G30, G32, G34, J44)
Party-Cluster Formations in Multi-Party Systems
Authors: Mendilow Jonathan
Published: August 2010

An examination of the multi-party system in Israel and to a large extent also in France during the last two decades reveals the emergence of three distinct types of party clusters. These approximate to a limited extent to Kirchheimer's catch-all thesis, but reveal motives and conditions other than those he postulated. The party clusters are distinguished as Conglomerate Blocs, Proportionally Amalgamated Parties and Unitary Amalgamated Parties. An analysis of the party systems in at least these two countries show the conditions likely to foster the formation of such party configurations, their modes of operation, and the internal stresses they generate.
Representation, Reapportionment, and the Supreme Court
Authors: Redenius Charles M.
Published: August 2010

The reapportionment of congressional and state legislative districts occasioned by decennial censuses has generated intense political and judicial conflict. This conflict has made clearer several obstacles to a deeper understanding of the nature of representation. It has also led to the fashioning of a new equal protection jurisprudence by the Supreme Court in an attempt to grapple with apportionment disputes. The Court has established clear standards for redistricting congressional and state legislative seats. Yet after two decades, the Court has still not produced judicially manageable standards to deal with the problems of partisan gerrymandering, affirmative gerrymandering, ‘political fairness’, and the Court's impact on public policy. A review of the pertinent cases makes it possible to forecast the probable outcome of litigation involving these issues in the 1980 round of reapportionments.
Human Needs, Human Wants, and Political Consequences
Authors: Watt E. D.
Published: August 2010

If human need is to serve as a political norm, it must first have the status of ascertainable fact. Its proponents hold that it has that status: that genuine needs can be ascertained, by reference to the circumstances in which human beings normally flourish. Some of the recent writing on human needs and politics has been marked by excessive confidence, and has been justly criticized as naïve and tendentious. But the critics have not shown, and seem to have thought it unnecessary to show, that a reasoned choice among models of human excellence is impossible. Consequently, the consideration of human needs in politics cannot be regarded as a dead end, notwithstanding the poor showing of its best-known recent protagonists.
Corruption: An Alternative Approach to its Definition and Measurement
Authors: Kurer Oskar
Published: August 2010

Discussion of the definition of corruption has progressed little since Heidenheimer's groundbreaking distinction between definitions centred on public opinion, public office and public interest. All these definitions have been severely criticised. I suggest that underneath these traditional concepts of corruption lurks a much older one based on distributive justice – namely the ‘impartiality principle’, whereby a state ought to treat equally those who deserve equally. This principle provides a much more plausible reason for why the public condemns corruption than alternative approaches, and, moreover, it is recognised fairly universally: the implicit distinction between ‘public’ and ‘private’ is certainly neither as ‘modern’ nor as ‘Western’ as many have claimed. The universality of the principle of impartiality does not imply universality of its content: who deserves equally, or, alternatively, on which grounds discrimination is ruled out, will be answered differently at different periods in time and will vary from society to society. The impartiality principle provides a starting point for the discussion of both corruption in ‘traditional’ societies and contemporary political corruption – corruption involving violations of specific non-discrimination norms governing the access to the political process and the allocation of rights and resources. The impartiality principle calls for rule-bound administration and thus underpins the public office definition of corruption. A central element of the analysis of corruption is the study of specific non-discrimination norms and their comparison across time and place. This approach leads to a significant enrichment of the concept of corruption.
‘Taking charge of your health’: discourses of responsibility in English‐Canadian women's magazines
Authors: Roy Stephannie C.
Published: August 2010

This article presents an examination of the ways in which responsibility for health is constructed in popular English‐Canadian women's magazines. Women's magazines are a unique media form, acting as guidebooks for women on matters relating to feminine gender roles and are important to examine as part of the corpus of societal discourses which frame our understandings of what it means to be healthy and how good health is achieved. Using discourse analysis several techniques were found which reinforce women's individual responsibility to create and maintain good health for themselves and their families. The magazines instruct women/readers directly about their health‐related responsibilities and outline the negative consequences of inaction or incorrect action. The magazines also use the traditional discursive technique of women's personal accounts as both cautionary tales and inspirational stories to encourage readers to actively pursue healthy behaviours. Reflecting and reinforcing the discourse of healthism, women's magazines consistently present health as an important individual responsibility and a moral imperative which creates an entrepreneurial subject position for women. The article concludes by discussing the implications for women's magazine audiences within the ongoing feminist debate about this cultural industry.
‘HIV/AIDS is our business’: the moral economy of treatment in a transnational mining company
Authors: Rajak Dinah
Published: August 2010

This article is concerned with the moral economy of HIV treatment in a transnational mining company. Based on multi‐sited ethnography in the world's third biggest mining company, I explore how relations between employer and employee are being transformed as a result of corporate HIV programmes, creating connections between the personal realm of sexual conduct and family life and the political economy of global corporate capitalism. I argue that corporate social responsibility serves as a mechanism through which the company consolidates its authority over a particular field of society, in this case its workforce, conflating the exigencies of human care with the interests of capital.

Le présent article concerne l'économie morale du traitement du VIH au sein d'une société minière internationale. Sur la base d'une ethnographie multi‐site de la troisième société minière mondiale, l'auteur explore la manière dont les relations entre employeur et employé se transforment sous l'effet des programmes de lutte contre le VIH mis en place par l'entreprise. Ils créent des liens entre le domaine personnel du comportement sexuel et de la vie familiale et l'économie politique du capitalisme mondialisé. L'auteur avance que la responsabilité sociale de l'entreprise est instrumentalisée par celle‐ci pour renforcer son autorité sur un secteur particulier de la société, en l'occurrence sa main‐d'œuvre, télescopant ainsi les exigences humanitaires du soin et les intérêts du capitalisme d'entreprise.
THE NEW CAREERS PROJECT AT VACAVILLE: A CALIFORNIAN EXPERIMENT
Authors: Hodgkin Nancy
Published: August 2010

The New Careers programme at Vacaville differed from other official training or treatment programmes in several important ways:

1. The goals of the programme were clearly differentiated from those of the Administration.

2. It had “enclave” status, with clearly defined areas of autonomy and clearly defined areas of subjection to the outer authority.

3. The programme goals were seen as “betterment” goals by the participants.

The experiment indicated the following:

1. That a “betterment” programme could take place in a closed prison.

2. The existence of a reservoir of untapped potential in the prison population.

3. That this potential could be brought out in as short a period as four months.

4. That commitment to a socially acceptable cause can be achieved in this period and that this commitment is not ephemeral but can be long‐lasting, gaining strength as links with the community are made.

5. That it can be transmitted – initial expenditure on staff can be cut and training carried on with minimal professional supervision.

It also showed that learning ability has little relation to prior achievement and that suitability for this type of training can be predicted.
EX‐OFFENDERS AND ENTERPRISE
Authors: RIEPLE ALISON , HARPER MALCOLM
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Offenders are by their nature potentially greater risk‐takers than the general population, as are entrepreneurs. For this and reasons such as difficulty in finding employment, many offenders are likely to work in their own businesses. The provision of training in running a small business or self‐employment can improve the chances of success. Offenders, as a group of people with special needs, may benefit from the provision of this type of training.

This paper describes the initial results of a study which examined the potential of offenders for running small business and the current provision of small business training in prisons and probation services in the UK.
THE LONG‐TERM PREDICTIVE UTILITY OF THE BASE EXPECTANCY SCORE
Authors: GOTTFREDSON STEPHEN D. , GOTTFREDSON DON M.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: The Base Expectancy Score, developed in the early 196Os, continued a tradition of practical behauioural prediction pioneered by Burgess, the Gluecks, Mannheim and Wilkins, and others. We provide a brief historical ouerview of this tradition and of the development of the BE scale, and examine its predictive validity over more than a 25 year period and over a variety of outcome criteria of recent interest to the ‘criminal career’ research paradigm. The scale is found to be remarkably robust over the period and criteria considered.
Accumulation of chlorophyll catabolites photosensitizes the hypersensitive response elicited by Pseudomonas syringae in Arabidopsis
Authors: Mur Luis A. J. , Aubry Sylvain , Mondhe Madhav , Kingston‐Smith Alison , Gallagher Joe , Timms‐Taravella Emma , James Caron , Papp Istvan , Hörtensteiner Stefan , Thomas Howard , Ougham Helen
Published: August 2010

Commentary p4
Post‐return experiences and transnational belonging of return migrants: a Dutch—Moroccan case study
Authors: DE BREE JUNE , DAVIDS TINE , DE HAAS HEIN
Published: August 2010

In this article we explore the links between return migration, belonging and transnationalism among migrants who returned from the Netherlands to northeast Morocco. While transnationalism is commonly discussed from the perspective of a receiving country, this study shows that transnationalism also plays a vital role in reconstructing post‐return belonging. Return migration is not simply a matter of ‘going home’, as feelings of belonging need to be renegotiated upon return. While returnees generally feel a strong need to maintain various transnational practices, the meanings they attach to these practices depend on motivations for return, gender and age. For former (male) labour migrants, transnational practices are essential for establishing post‐return belonging, whereas such practices are less important for their spouses. Those who returned as children generally feel uprooted, notwithstanding the transnational practices they maintain. The amount of agency migrants are able to exert in the return decision‐making process is a key factor in determining the extent to which returnees can create a post‐return transnational sense of home.
Visual short‐term memory for unfamiliar visual stimuli
Authors: Sapkota R. , Pardhan S. , Tavassoli A. , Van Der Linde I.
Published: August 2010

Purpose:  Visual short‐term memory (VSTM) for briefly presented visual stimuli has been estimated at 4–6 items for real‐world objects (Luck and Vogel, 1997). To measure the fundamental capacity of VSTM the use of real‐world objects is undesirable, since estimates are confounded by verbal descriptors and/or long‐term memory support (Olsson and Poom, 2005). The purpose of this study is to measure the accuracy and capacity of VSTM for unfamiliar, non‐categorical visual stimuli.

Method:  Stimuli were random grayscale noise patterns subtending 2°× 2, displayed at a distance of 57 cm. A series of reference stimuli were presented sequentially at the centre of a computer display for 500 ms each. Following this, a blank interval of 500 ms, and then a test stimulus were displayed. Signal present test stimuli originated from a random index in the study series. The probability of a signal present trial was 50%. Observers were instructed to indicate, via a numeric keypad, if the test stimulus was present in the study series (yes/no). Series length was increased from 1 to 5 across blocks of trials. The number of blocks completed for each series length, S, was 2S, where each block comprised 100 trials (i.e. 3000 trials per observer were completed). Four normal/corrected‐to‐normal observers participated in the study. The number of objects encoded in VSTM was calculated using Cowan's formula (Cowan, 2001).

Results:  Across series lengths 1–5, average performance rate (pooled across observers) decreased exponentially from 95% for series length 1, to 60% for series length 5. The number of stimuli encoded in VSTM, determined using Cowan's formula, was found to be 1.52, achieved for series length 3. Beyond series length 3, the number of items encoded was found to decrease, at 0.92, 1.30, 1.52, 1.35 and 1.40 for series lengths 1–5, respectively. For series lengths > 1, large recency effects were found by analysis of the reference indices of correctly identified signal present test stimuli.

Conclusions:  We find that the capacity of VSTM for serially presented non‐categorical visual stimuli is limited to 1.5 items, in line with VSTM capacity estimates of Olsson and Poom (2005), rather than the more commonly cited 4–6 items (Cowan, 2001; Luck and Vogel, 1997), and is seen to decrease exponentially with increases in series length or decreases in recency. A suite of related experiments are underway to construct a memory performance model under varying stimulus presentation scenarios, including parallel display and variable location.