bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moral Realism
Authors: Shafer-Landau Russ
Published: April 2005

This is a book in metaethics that defends a brand of moral realism known as non‐naturalism. The book has five Parts. Part I outlines the sort of moral realism that the author wishes to defend, and then offers critiques of expressivism and constructivism. Part II is devoted to issues in metaphysics. It argues that moral realists have adequate replies to worries based on supervenience and the alleged causal inefficacy of moral facts. Part III is devoted to issues of moral motivation. It argues that motivational internalism is false, and that a Humean theory of action is also mistaken. Part IV is devoted to an extended discussion of moral reasons. It argues that externalism about reasons is true, that moral rationalism is true, and that moral realism has an adequate account of moral disagreement. Part V is devoted to moral epistemology. It argues for the self‐evidence of pro tanto moral principles, and for a version of reliabilism about ethical knowledge.
The Non-cognitivist Challenge 1
Authors: Shafer-Landau Russ
Published: April 2005

Sets out the contours of the moral realism that the author wishes to defend, and provides an extended series of arguments against non‐cognitivism and expressivism. Seeks to establish a presumptive case for moral cognitivism.
The Justification of Verdictive Beliefs 12
Authors: Shafer-Landau Russ
Published: April 2005

Develops a version of reliabilism about moral knowledge, in an effort to explain how we can have knowledge of all‐things‐considered moral verdicts. Considers a number of objections to reliabilism, and seeks to show how we might begin the task of identifying reliable moral belief‐forming processes.
The Catholic Church and its Mission
Authors: O'Collins SJ Gerald , Farrugia SJ Mario
Published: April 2005

By gathering disciples and calling ‘the twelve’, Jesus created some minimal organization, which grew after Pentecost into the ‘one, holy, catholic, and apostolic’ Church of the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed. After some developments in the Middle Ages and at the time of the Reformation, teaching about the nature and function of the Catholic Church flowered in the last two centuries. Vatican I (1869–70) defined the primacy and infallibility of the Pope but did not have the chance to complete its full teaching on the Church. This happened at Vatican II (1962–65), where biblical, patristic, ecumenical and liturgical influences combined to produce such rich developments as teaching on the collegiality of bishops, the universal call to holiness, and relations to other Christians and to non-Christians.
John among the Orthodox, 150–c.170
Authors: Hill Charles E.
Published: April 2005

The OJP asserts that there is a paucity or even an absence of use of the Johannine Gospel among representatives of the orthodox churches in the period before Irenaeus. This thesis is tested by examining the evidence of nine writers or documents for the period 150–c.170, including Melito of Sardis, Tatian, the Egerton Gospel, and Celsus the anti-Christian critic. Because of its acknowledged importance, the case of Justin is given extended treatment. Against the backdrop of diverse scholarly opinions, a close study demonstrates that Justin did indeed use the Fourth Gospel and that he included it in what he called the ‘apostolic memoirs’, Gospels that were read aloud on Sundays in Roman churches.
Dynamic Consumption Theory
Authors: Bagliano Fabio-Cesare , Bertola Giuseppe
Published: April 2005

Solves the basic version of the intertemporal consumption choice model under rational expectations. Discrete‐time dynamic optimization techniques are introduced and the theoretical relationships between the dynamics of permanent income, current income, consumption, and saving are derived. Empirical tests are presented and extensions including a precautionary saving motive and optimal portfolio allocation decisions are discussed. The Appendix summarizes dynamic programming techniques applied to the optimal consumption choice.
Growth in Dynamic General Equilibrium
Authors: Bagliano Fabio-Cesare , Bertola Giuseppe
Published: April 2005

Characterizes general equilibrium interactions in a dynamic environment, focussing on the possibly endogenous growth behaviour of an economy in the long run. The treatment familiarizes readers with technical approaches and economic insights regarding the interplay of technology, preferences, market structure, externalities, and taxation in shaping the interaction of individually optimal saving and investment decisions.
The Sensory Ordering Thesis
Authors: Matthen Mohan
Published: April 2005

The Sensory Ordering Thesis is a ramified version of the Sensory Classification Thesis presented in Ch.1; it acknowledges that most sensory systems order distal objects, rather than place them in discrete classes. Sense features Agenerate@ their sub-classes in an interesting sense noticed by W. E. Johnson: the perceptual grasp of inclusive features such as red is based on a grasp of graded similarity relations among the sub-classes thereof. Variation with respect to a single sensory parameter such as colour is invariable in a number of significant ways, but ‘overall‘ similarity with respect to several sensory parameters is variable across different graphical representations. This shows that overall similarity is an artefact, while similarity with respect to a single parameter is forced upon us by sensory cognition.
Pluralistic Realism
Authors: Matthen Mohan
Published: April 2005

A catalogue of mismatches between experienced colour and the physical counterparts of colour is presented. Does it show, as C. L. Hardin has argued, that colour is not real? No. It is proposed that a physically specifiable sense feature is real in the action-relative sense if there is some innate activity that would be disrupted by a failure of classification. This permits a plurality of idiosyncratic sensory classifications, while at the same time makes room for the idea that a sensory state might be wrong.
Sensing and Doing
Authors: Matthen Mohan
Published: April 2005

Sensory systems do not passively pick up features available in the ambient energy patterns. According to the Coevolution Thesis propounded here, they provide an organism with discriminatory abilities that subserve action-modes that evolve in parallel. The kind of action served is not merely bodily motion. A proper general understanding takes account of the epistemic uses of sense perception. The Aeffector organs@ that are important for the coevolution of sense perception are thus internal units that analyse and store information. The primary content or meaning of a sensory state is specified in terms of epistemic action, its secondary content or extension may be specified in physical terms.
Christianity and the Concept of Religion
Authors: Hodgson Peter C.
Published: April 2005

Hegel in his lectures first sets forth a philosophical definition of the concept of religion, then traces the development of the concept in the various determinate religions of humanity, and finally finds the consummation of the concept in the Christian religion. The concept of religion can be approached both empirically and phenomenologically. When the latter takes on speculative form it grasps religion as the self-consciousness of absolute spirit mediated in and through finite consciousness: religion is both a divine and a human action. This truth appears partially in the historical religions and completely in Christianity, which is described by Hegel as the consummate or absolute religion, the revelatory and revealed religion, and the religion of truth, freedom, and reconciliation. The chapter examines Hegel’s speculative redescription of the Christian metanarrative and asks whether his claims on behalf of this religion are excessive, heterodox, and/or heretical.
Christianity and World Religions
Authors: Hodgson Peter C.
Published: April 2005

The second and longest part of the lectures treats religions other than Christianity under the theme of ‘determinate religion’. It is a topic in which Hegel evinced a growing fascination, but he never achieved a satisfactory arrangement of the materials. What he offers has more the character of a geography or typology of religions than of a history of religions, despite his claim to track the movement of spirit through history. This chapter focuses on Hegel’s affinity with and critique of Asian religions and his evolving treatment of Judaism. The chapter concludes by proposing that the depth structure of Hegel’s thinking is closer to religious pluralism than to inclusivism, and that he envisions a future religion of free and concrete spirit.
3 The Priority of Theory
Authors: Rynhold Daniel
Published: April 2005

It is argued that for all their differences, the naturalist models of both Maimonides and Soloveitchik share certain related assumptions about the nature of rationality and the relationship that subsequently holds between a theory and a practice. Defining and refining this view termed the priority of theory approach (PoT), with particular reference to Maimonides and Soloveitchik, is the task of this chapter. The PoT theorist takes a position described as weak foundationalism that emphasizes the importance of a set of discursive principles for the justification of any practice. Essentially for the normative PoT theorist, a necessary condition of the rationality of any practice is that it should be capable of being articulated in a set of principles to which it must therefore conform in order to be rational.
6 The Spectre of Relativism
Authors: Rynhold Daniel
Published: April 2005

Having presented both the PoT and PoP approaches, this chapter deals in more detail with various aspects of one of the central challenges for the PoP approach, namely, that of relativism. The central theme of the chapter is that many of the objections are based upon assumptions made from a PoT perspective. The practical orientation and the ability of practices to engender reasoned confidence allows the PoP approach to deal with the problems on its own terms rather better than the PoT approach, which suffers from the same problems but seems less able to address them even on its own terms.
7 Conclusion: The Practice of Jewish Philosophy
Authors: Rynhold Daniel
Published: April 2005

Looks at some of the implications for Jewish philosophy in general of taking this PoP approach to the justification of practices. It is argued that Jewish philosophy has been presented as having a critical function. In a Rortian manner, it is an anti-system building, lending its voice to the anti-theory lobby, at least in the practical sphere. Theory does not, however, become obsolete, but is rather undertaken as an interpretative enterprise, leading to the idea of Jewish philosophy as interpretation.
Coprecipitation and Processing of Mullite Precursor Phases
Authors: Zhou Minghua , Ferreira José M. F. , Fonseca António T. , Baptista João L.
Published: April 2005

Ultrafine powders of aluminum‐rich mullite precursor phases were prepared by spraying mixed acid solutions of silicic acid and aluminum chloride into ammonium hydroxide at different pH values. The aluminum‐rich composition was chosen to avoid abnormal grain growth of the mullite grains caused by silica‐rich liquid phases. The influence of coprecipitation pH on particle size, zeta potential, and the mixing degree of aluminum and silicon in the precipitated powders and on the sintered microstructures have been described. In the basic pH region, the degree of mixing of both components increased as the pH of coprecipitation decreased. Under these conditions, direct slip casting of the coprecipitated slurries was possible, and fine and equiaxed microstructures could be obtained in the sintered bodies.
Thermodynamic Properties of Manganese Oxides
Authors: Fritsch Sophie , Navrotsky Alexandra
Published: April 2005

Transposed temperature drop calorimetry and hightemperature drop solution calorimetry in molten 2PbO·B2O3 at 977 K were used to study the energetics of some manganese oxides, namely pyrolusite (MnO2), bixbyite (Mn2O3), hausmannite (Mn3O4), and manganosite (MnO). The enthalpies of oxidation at 298 K in the manganeseoxygen system, which were determined by appropriate thermodynamic cycles, were (in kJ/mol of oxygen): –441.4 ± 5.8 for the reaction 6MnO + O2→ 2Mn3O4, –201.8 ± 8.7 for the reaction 4Mn3O4+ O2→ 6Mn2O3, and –162.1 + 7.2 for the reaction 2Mn2O3+ O2→ 4MnO2. These values agreed very well with previous data that were obtained using equilibrium measurements that were reported in the literature. Thus, direct calorimetric measurements were well suited to obtain reliable enthalpy of formation data for oxides that contain manganese in the 2+, 3+, and 4+ states. Using these new values of enthalpies and reliable standard entropies, the phase‐stability diagram of the manganeseoxygen system was constructed.
Grain Boundary Mobility in Y2O3: Defect Mechanism and Dopant Effects
Authors: Chen Pei‐Lin , Chen I‐Wei
Published: April 2005

The effects of the dopants, Mg2+, Sr2+, Sc3+, Yb3+, Gd3+, La3+, Ti4+, Zr4+, Ce4+, and Nb5+, on the grain boundary mobility of dense Y2O3 have been investigated from 1500° to 1650°C. Parabolic grain growth has been observed in all cases over a grain size from 0.31 to 12.5 μm. Together with atmospheric effects, the results suggest that interstitial transport is the rate‐limiting step for diffusive processes in Y2O3, which is also the case in CeO2. The effect of solute drag cannot be ascertained but the anomalous effect of undersized dopants (Ti and Nb) on diffusion enhancement, previously reported in CeO2, is again confirmed. Indications of very large binding energies between aliovalent dopants and oxygen defects are also observed. Overall, the most effective grain growth inhibitor is Zr4+, while the most potent grain growth promoter is Sr2+, both at 1.0% concentration.
Analysis of the Single‐Fiber Pullout Test Using Raman Spectroscopy: Part III, Pullout of Nicalon Fibers from a Pyrex Matrix
Authors: Yang Xugang , Bannister Damian J. , Young Robert J.
Published: April 2005

Single‐fiber pullout specimens consisting of Nicalon fibers and a Pyrex‐glass matrix were fabricated using a specially designed, simple mold. Raman spectroscopy was used to map the distribution of fiber strain within the glass matrix following deformation of the fiber section in air, and the results were compared with those predicted by theoretical analyses. It was demonstrated that the behavior also could be modeled using a partial debonding theory and that the force balance equilibrium allowed the variation of inter‐facial shear stress along the interface to be derived. The partial debonding theory showed that debonding occurred at an interfacial shear stress of 60 ± 20 MPa and that the friction shear stress following debonding was 23 ± 8 MPa for the specimen investigated. Furthermore, it was shown that the fracture toughness of the fiber‐matrix interface was 1.8 ± 0.6 J·m–2.
Oxidation and Corrosion of SiC(particulate)/Al/Al2O3 Composites in Sodium Silicate at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Kern William A. , McNallan Michael J. , Tressler Richard E.
Published: April 2005

Ceramic‐matrix composites (CMCs) fabricated by the directed metal oxidation process (DimoxTM) may have applications in heat exchangers in high‐temperature corrosive environments such as those in the glass industry. The oxidation and corrosion properties of such CMCs with and without preformed metal‐free surface layers have been investigated in the temperature range of 1000–1300°C. The untreated CMCs experienced rapid oxidation in air leading to mass increases of 100 to 140 mg/cm2 in less than 1 h. This occurred by oxidation of residual metal in the composite to form Al/Al2O3 deposits on the surface. After the initial formation of the oxidation product, there is little further reaction during up to 300‐h exposures to oxidizing atmospheres. Experimental composite coupons with metal‐free surfaces were resistant to oxidation except for localized events associated with flaws. Small amounts of sodium silicate (2 to 40 mg/cm2) painted on the surfaces produced no corrosive effects on any of the specimens. Dynamic corrosion experiments, in which a continuous mist of sodium silicate was sprayed onto the surfaces, produced corrosion at 1300°C.
Long‐Time Relaxation from Relaxor to Normal Ferroelectric States in Pb0.91 La0.06 (Zr0.65 Ti0.35 O3
Authors: Dai Xunhu , Xu Z. , Viehland Dwight
Published: April 2005

Pb0.91 La0.06 (Zr0.65 Ti0.35)O3 (PLZT 6/65/35) is a relaxor ferroelectric near and above the temperature of the dielectric maximum (∼180°C). The relaxor state can persist to room temperature upon fast cooling. However, this relaxor state gradually changes to a normal ferroelectric over a long time period at 25°C, characterized by an elimination of relaxor‐like dielectric dispersion and a significant rhombo‐hedral broadening and subsequent splitting of the (220) X‐ray diffraction peak. A transmission electron microscopy (TEM) bright‐field image of a long‐time relaxed sample revealed normal micrometersized ferroelectric domain contrast with relaxor‐like “tweed” structure on the submi‐crometer scale. The gradually structural evolution is discussed in terms of development of correlations between relaxor polar clusters.
Effects of small intestinal and gastric glucose administration on the suppression of plasma ghrelin concentrations in healthy older men and women
Authors: Parker Barbara A. , Doran Selena , Wishart Judith , Horowitz Michael , Chapman Ian M.
Published: April 2005

Objective  Ghrelin is a peptide hormone secreted primarily from the gastric mucosa. It plays a role in energy balance by stimulating appetite, thereby increasing food intake and enhancing weight gain and fat mass deposition. Plasma ghrelin concentrations increase with fasting and are suppressed by nutrient intake. The aim of this study was to examine in humans the relative contributions of small intestinal and gastric nutrient exposure to postprandial suppression of ghrelin, to determine whether gastric exposure is necessary for ghrelin suppression.

Patients  Twelve healthy older (age range 65–85 years) men (n = 7) and women (n = 5) were studied.

Design  On three separate days, equivolaemic (315 ml) intragastric (IG) and intraduodenal (ID) carbohydrate solutions (both 300 kcal) or intragastric water (control) were infused over 150 min.

Measurements  Food intake was quantified at a buffet meal offered immediately following each 150‐min infusion. Blood ghrelin, cholecystokinin and glucose concentrations were measured.

Results  There was a 25% suppression of mean plasma ghrelin concentrations following ID glucose (ID 2016 vs. control 2686 ng/l, P < 0·0001) and a 19% suppression following IG glucose (IG 2181 vs. control 2686 ng/l, P < 0·0001), with ghrelin concentrations slightly (7·6%) and nonsignificantly lower after ID than after IG glucose infusions (P = 0·2). There was no difference between the treatments for the amount of food consumed at the buffet meal (P = 0·88).

Conclusions  Although the primary source of ghrelin is the gastric mucosa, these results suggest that small intestinal nutrient exposure is sufficient for food‐induced plasma ghrelin suppression in humans, and that gastric nutrient exposure is not necessary for suppression.
Evaluation of GH reserve in patients with adrenal incidentalomas and biochemical evidence of subclinical autonomous glucocorticoid hypersecretion
Authors: Tzanela M. , Zianni D. , Stylianidou Ch. , Karavitaki N. , Tsagarakis S. , Thalassinos N. C.
Published: April 2005

Objective Although it is well established that overt hypercortisolism in patients with active Cushing's syndrome leads to a profound suppression of stimulated GH secretion, the role of subclinical autonomous glucocorticoid hypersecretion (SAGH), currently detected with increasing frequency in patients with adrenal incidentalomas, on GH secretory reserve has received little attention. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether SAGH in patients presented with adrenal incidentalomas has a negative effect on GH secretory reserve.

Design and Patients Sixteen patients with overt Cushing's syndrome (CS) and 36 patients with adrenal incidentalomas were investigated. The latter group was further divided in 23 patients who demonstrated an adequate suppression of cortisol levels (of < 70 nmol/l) following the low‐dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST) and in 13 patients, who failed to suppress (cortisol levels post‐LDDST > 70 nmol/l). The former group was defined as normocortisolaemic (NC) and the latter group as representing patients with SAGH. The combined pyridostigmine + GHRH test (PD + GHRH) was used to assess the GH secretory reserve of these patients.

Results Peak GH levels following PD + GHRH administration were significantly lower in CS patients compared to both the NC and SAGH group of patients with adrenal incidentalomas (2·2 ± 0·7 vs. 18·9 ± 2·6 and 21·5 ± 3·6 µg/l, respectively, P < 0·05); no difference was observed in peak GH responses between the NC and SAGH group of patients. A subnormal GH response (defined as GHmax < 12·8 µg/l) was observed in all 16 patients with CS. However, only seven NC and three SAGH patients failed to respond adequately. Correlation analysis revealed a negative correlation between peak GH response to PD + GHRH and plasma cortisol concentrations in CS patients (R =−0·6, P = 0·012), while in patients with adrenal incidentalomas such a correlation was absent. Contrary to patients with CS in whom body mass index (BMI) was not correlated to peak GH, a significant negative correlation between peak GH response to PD + GHRH and BMI was disclosed in patients with adrenal incidentalomas (R =−0·49, P = 0·003). In these patients, again contrary to CS patients, a significant negative correlation was also found between peak GH post PD + GHRH and age (R = −0·46, P = 0·002).

Conclusions In conclusion, our results provide evidence that, contrary to patients with overt CS, SAGH does not affect the GH secretory response to provocative stimulation.
Effect of growth hormone and 17β‐oestradiol treatment on metabolism and body composition in girls with Turner syndrome
Authors: Gravholt Claus Højbjerg , Hjerrild Britta Eilersen , Naeraa Rune Weis , Engbaek Frode , Mosekilde Leif , Christiansen Jens Sandahl
Published: April 2005

Objective Girls with Turner syndrome (TS) receive GH treatment during childhood, and in adolescence this treatment may be combined with oestradiol. We have studied the effects of this combined treatment on metabolism and body composition.

Material and methods We performed a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized, crossover study. All girls with TS (n = 8, 16 ± 2 years) were treated with placebo + placebo, GH + placebo or GH + 17β‐oestradiol for 2 months, and were studied at the end of each period. Controls (n = 10, 14 ± 2 years) were studied once without treatment. Twenty‐four‐hour sampling of oestradiol, growth factors, insulin, glucose, lipolytic and gluconeogenic precursors was performed, followed by an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and assessment of body composition and mineral content.

Results GH induced insulin resistance, which was not aggravated further by concomitant oestradiol treatment. The 24‐h integrated serum 17β‐oestradiol was reduced compared to controls (0·58 ± 0·32 vs. 2·81 ± 2·78 nmol/l/24 h, P = 0·032), but increased during GH + oestrogen (E2) treatment without reaching control levels, while GH + placebo caused a further reduction (anova, P = 0·008). Total fat mass was increased in girls with TS compared with controls (P = 0·009), while lean body mass (P = 0·02) and bone mineral content (P = 0·04) was decreased, with specific regional characteristics in body composition.

Conclusion GH treatment induces insulin resistance and changes in body composition in TS, which is not further compromised by concomitant oestradiol treatment. Body composition is changed in TS, with specific regional changes, in comparison with controls. Integrated 24‐h oestradiol is low in TS, and is only partially restored during treatment with standard doses of 17β‐oestradiol.
A new sustained‐release preparation of human growth hormone and its pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and safety profile
Authors: Jostel Andreas , Mukherjee Annice , Alenfall Jan , Smethurst Linda , Shalet Stephen M.
Published: April 2005

Objective  Adult GH replacement is currently given by daily subcutaneous (sc) injections. Recently, sustained‐release (SR) preparations of GH have been developed, the preparations being characterized by a dominant early release, resulting in supraphysiological early GH peaks, and a rapid decline thereafter. We present data on a new SR GH preparation.

Design  Phase I/II study of hGH‐Biosphere® (SkyePharma AB, Malmö, Sweden), a new SR preparation of recombinant human GH in amylopectin microspheres coated with polylactide‐coglycolide.

Patients  Eight adults with severe, untreated GH deficiency (stimulated GH peaks between < 1 and 1·7 µg/l), aged 36·1 years (range 22–49 years) in good general health.

Measurements  Pharmacokinetic (PK), pharmacodynamic (PD) and safety data over a period of 28 days.

Results  The systemic and local tolerability of the drug was satisfactory, and no serious adverse events occurred. PK analysis showed a smaller early serum hGH peak followed by a broad sustained second peak of hGH (Cmax 1·20 µg/l at 7·2 days), and hGH levels were maintained above baseline for at least 14 days. The mean GH level never exceeded 1·1 µg/l, making the GH fluctuations comparable to continuous sc infusion. Resultant IGF‐I concentrations were characterized by sustained elevation at a level near Cmax of 103 µg/l (at tmax of 9·7 days), equal to an SD score of +0·8. IGF‐I generation per administered GH was more efficient compared with reports of other SR preparations.

Conclusion  hGH‐Biosphere® is a well‐tolerated SR GH preparation with superior efficacy in achieving target IGF‐I levels without causing supraphysiological GH concentrations. Our data suggest the suitability of this preparation for longer‐term trials in adults with injection frequencies of no more than once every 2–3 weeks.
Testosterone and Linear Social Dominance Status in Captive Male Dabbling Ducks in Winter
Authors: Poisbleau Maud , Fritz Hervé , Guillemain Matthieu , Lacroix André
Published: April 2005

Dominance hierarchies play an important role in avoidance and/or solving conflicts in gregarious species. In dabbling ducks (Anas species), dominance allows for feeding‐site monopolization in winter quarters where resources are generally limited. In addition, male social rank should theoretically favour access to mates. Dominance rank can be associated with morphological traits, and is often correlated with aggressiveness, a behavioural trait generally related to high testosterone levels. In this study, we investigated the existence of a winter group structure based on dominance relationships and tested for a linear hierarchy, in three species of captive male dabbling ducks (mallard Anas platyrhynchos, pintail A. acuta and wigeon A. penelope). We then analysed the relationship between dominance ranks, morphological parameters and testosterone levels measured in early (Oct.) and mid‐winter (Dec./Jan.). We found that the three male groups of the three species exhibited a linear hierarchy. Testosterone levels differed during winter and between species. Morphologic measurements, body mass and body condition were not correlated with individual dominance ranks, whereas dominant males had higher testosterone levels than subordinates. The slopes of the relationships were similar between species and winter period, but the y‐intercepts differed between species and between early and mid‐winter phases. The linear hierarchy found in the three species indicates that dominance relationships strongly structure dabbling duck groups in winter. Lack of correlation between rank and morphological characters, but correlation of rank with testosterone levels suggests that social rank is more dependent on behavioural traits such as aggressive behaviour. The differences between species and winter periods are discussed in relation to migration and wintering phenology.
Spontaneous calcific cerebral embolus
Authors: Gearry RB , Sharr JP , Avery SF
Published: April 2005

Spontaneous calcific cerebral embolus is a rare complication of calcific vascular disease such as calcified aortic plaques, and calcific aortic and mitral stenosis. Fewer than 10 case reports are described in the literature. Cerebral ischaemic symptoms may provide the indication for surgical replacement, even in the absence of valvular insufficiency or stenotic symptoms. We report a case of stroke in a young man with a known bicuspid calcific aortic valve.
Primary papillary serous cystadenocarcinoma of broad ligament
Authors: Nagar YS , Singh S , Sawlani V , Pal L , Dimri K , Lal P
Published: April 2005

A rare case of an advanced primary broad ligament carcinoma is discussed, with a review of the literature regarding its incidence, presentation and management. This patient showed a complete response to adjuvant cisplatin‐based chemotherapy following panhysterectomy and is presently without any evidence of disease, 15 months after completion of her treatment.
Perihepatitis associated with systemic lupus erythematosus: Computed tomography findings
Authors: Schoenwaelder M , Stuckey SL
Published: April 2005

The imaging findings of a 29‐year‐old woman with known systemic lupus erythematosus, and a clinical presentation and CT appearances consistent with perihepatitis are presented.
Menkes disease: A rare cause of bilateral inguinal hernias
Authors: Mandelstam SA , Fisher R
Published: April 2005

This case of Menkes disease presented with the uncommon association of bilateral inguinal hernias at the age of 4 months. Further investigation demonstrated classical skeletal and neurological changes of this rare neurodegenerative disorder.
Genetic counselling following paternal therapeutic irradiation
Authors: Bydder SA , Clarke J , Semmens J , Joseph DJ
Published: April 2005

We discuss a patient who received adjuvant radiotherapy for stage I seminoma. He was advised to avoid conception for 6 months following treatment. However, his partner became pregnant only shortly after he completed his radiotherapy (i.e. with sperm that had been irradiated). We estimated the dose received by the remaining testis as 30 cGy. Here, we review the information available to advise patients on the risks to the fetus from paternal preconception irradiation. For the population, a doubling dose for hereditary effects of 1 Gy has recently been reaffirmed (United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation 2001). However, a range of animal studies suggest conception with postmeiotic sperm carries a greater risk of genetic damage than conception with sperm derived from irradiated stem cells. We have attempted to quantify the risks in this particular case. Lead shielding of the testes may reduce radiation received from the primary beam, but internal scatter still produces a risk. In male patients who are potentially fertile, the best advice remains to delay conception after radiotherapy for as long as 6 months. Our case illustrates the need to reinforce such advice.
Aversion, awareness, and attraction: investigating claims of hyperacusis in the Williams syndrome phenotype
Authors: Levitin Daniel J. , Cole Kristen , Lincoln Alan , Bellugi Ursula
Published: April 2005

Background:  Williams syndrome (WS), a neurodevelopmental disorder, is characterized by pervasive cognitive deficits alongside a relative sparing of auditory perception and cognition. A frequent characteristic of the phenotype is adverse reactions to, and/or fascination with, certain sounds. Previously published reports indicate that people with WS experience hyperacusis, yet careful examination reveals that the term ‘hyperacusis’ has been used indiscriminately in the literature to describe quite different auditory abnormalities.

Method:  In an effort to clarify and document the incidence of auditory abnormalities in and among people with WS we collected data from parents of people with WS (n = 118) and comparison groups of people with Down syndrome, autism, and normal controls.

Results:  Our findings revealed four phenomenologically separate auditory abnormalities, all of which were significantly more prevalent in WS than the three comparison groups. Among people with WS, we found relatively few reports of true hyperacusis (lowered threshold for soft sounds) or auditory fascinations/fixations, whereas 80% reported fearfulness to idiosyncratically particular sounds, and 91% reported lowered uncomfortable loudness levels, or ‘odynacusis.’

Conclusions:  Our results confirm anecdotal reports of an unusual auditory phenotype in WS, and provide an important foundation for understanding the nature of auditory experience and pathology in WS. We conclude by reviewing the ways in which the present findings extend and complement recent neuroanatomical and neurophysiological findings on auditory function in people with WS.
Philosophy of Wolf Policies I: General Principles and Preliminary Exploration of Selected Norms
Authors: NAESS ARNE , MYSTERUD IVAR
Published: April 2005

Abstract: We, as philosopher and biologist, here present some preliminary explorations of values and norms of importance in the wolf‐man relationship. The presentation is centered around problems as we see them from the modern wolf range in Norway, where there should be a mhed community of sheep, wolves, and men. At present we have 3.2 million sheep, 4.1 million men, and 5–10 wolves. The wolves are confined to a small area containing small scattered sheep farms. The owners, with local approval, do not accept the wolves. What norms should be considered in the process of changing this wolf/sheep ratio slightly in favor of wolves? How can we work today for a viable population of wolves? This article presents some general principles and philosophical methods for discussion in the spheres of ethical attitudes and opinions in norm conflicts concerning wolves. Important is an understanding of the logical priority of the normative system, and the need for it in a systemic analysis. This should be used extensively as an analytic tool in the many intricate problems of wolf management, some of which go all the way down to the rock bottom of philosopby and political ideology.
Effective Population Size of Bison on the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
Authors: SHULL ALISA M. , TIPTON ALAN R.
Published: April 2005

Abstract: POPGEN, a stochastic computer model that calculates the effective size (Ne) of a stationary bison (Bison bison) population, was used to examine the effects of changes in demographic parameters on Ne and to analyze the genetic implications of different management strategies. With all other factors constant, an increase in either heritability of fertility or family‐based mortality resulted in a decrease in Ne/N In populations where generation interval decreased (which should lead to a decrease in Ne), reproductive rates increased and variance in lifetime production of offspring decreased Ne/N increased indicating that reproductive rate andlor variance in lifetime production had a stronger influence on Ne than did generation interval. In addition, in populations where annual recruitment of breeders decreased (which should lead to a decrease in Ne) and mean lifetime production increased Ne increased indicating that mean lifetime production had a stronger influence on Ne than did annual recruitment of breeders. Our results demonstrate that effective population size can be much less than actual (8.4% to 29.6%) and that this relationship can be affected by various management practices.
Tetragametic chimerism detected in a healthy woman with mixed‐field agglutination reactions in ABO blood grouping
Authors: Drexler Camilla , Glock Barbara , Vadon Maria , Staudacher Erika , Dauber Eva‐Maria , Ulrich Silvia , Reisacher Rosemarie B.K. , Mayr Wolfgang R. , Lanzer Gerhard , Wagner Thomas
Published: April 2005

BACKGROUND: The case of a healthy woman with serologic blood group AB and her biologic father showing blood group O was investigated. Further analysis, including blood, buccal swabs, and nail clippings, revealed a tetragametic chimerism.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Blood grouping was performed with standard gel centrifugation test cards, ABO genotyping by sequence‐specific primers (SSPs) and sequence‐based typing, and HLA Class I and II typing by standard NIH cytotoxicity testing and SSP. Additionally, short‐tandem‐repeat (STR) and variable‐number tandem–repeat (VNTR) typing was performed on blood, nail clippings, and buccal swab samples. The karyotype was analyzed by G‐banded chromosomes.

RESULTS: The proposita's RBCs were typed AB with a mixed‐field agglutination whereas in molecular typing A, B, and O alleles were found. One paternal and two maternal haplotypes were determined by use of HLA typing. Interestingly, both paternal alleles were detected in 4 of 23 tested STR and VNTR loci only, with whole blood, nail clippings, and buccal swabs. The karyotype was identified as 46XX. The family members including the proposita's healthy twin children displayed no abnormal findings in tests performed.

CONCLUSION: By investigation of DNA polymorphisms, it was possible to determine a rare case of tetragametic chimerism being the result of double parental contribution of nuclei.
Imperfect Information and Stock Market Volatility
Authors: Gerlach Jeffrey R.
Published: April 2005

The purpose of this paper is to (1) develop a model to show how imperfect information can create excess volatility in asset returns and (2) provide empirical evidence consistent with the model. In this framework, variations in information quality cause the market prices to fluctuate more than the corresponding economic fundamentals. Using high‐frequency data from 1988 to 2002, the empirical evidence supports the predictions of the model by showing that economic volatility, defined as squared deviations of the quarterly gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate from its long‐run trend, can explain about half of the variation in S&P 500‐stock index quarterly volatility.
A Cross‐Section Analysis of the Determinants of Life Insurance Consumption in Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan
Authors: Hwang Tienyu , Greenford Brian
Published: April 2005

Abstract

This study examines some of the key factors affecting life insurance consumption in mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. It also attempts to gain an understanding of the different characteristics of the market in life insurance in each territory. Income and life insurance consumption are found to be strongly correlated, which is consistent with previous studies. Education is a significant factor. Price is found to be insignificant, largely conflicting with previous studies. Levels of social security are not significantly related. The one‐child policy in mainland China has a negative effect on life insurance consumption. Differences in the level of economic development reveal a variation in life insurance consumption. Generally, the more advanced the economy, the greater the life insurance consumption. However, mainland China, which is a low‐income country, shows the greatest potential.
Oviposition‐induced plant cues: do they arrestTrichogrammawasps during host location?
Authors: Fatouros Nina E. , Bukovinszkine’Kiss Gabriella , Kalkers Lucas A. , Gamborena Roxina Soler , Dicke Marcel , Hilker Monika
Published: April 2005

Plants can defend themselves against herbivorous insects before the larvae hatch from eggs and start feeding. One of these preventive defence strategies is to produce plant volatiles, in response to egg deposition, which attract egg parasitoids that subsequently kill the herbivore eggs. Here, we studied whether egg deposition byPieris brassicaeL. (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) induces Brussels sprouts plants to produce cues that attract or arrestTrichogramma brassicaeBezdeko (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae). Olfactometer bioassays revealed that odours from plants with eggs did not attract or arrest parasitoids. However, contact bioassays showed thatT. brassicaefemales were arrested on egg‐free leaf squares excised from leaves with 72 h‐old egg masses, which are highly suitable for parasitisation. We tested the hypothesis that this arresting activity is due to scales and chemicals deposited by the butterflies during oviposition and which are thus present on the leaf surface in the vicinity of the eggs. Indeed, leaf squares excised from egg‐free leaves, but contaminated with butterfly deposits, arrested the wasps when the squares were tested 1 day after contamination. However, squares from egg‐free leaves with 72 h‐old butterfly deposits had no arresting activity. Thus, we exclude that the arresting activity of the leaf area near 72 h‐old egg masses was elicited by cues from scales and other butterfly deposits. We suggest that egg deposition ofP. brassicaeinduces a change in the leaf surface chemicals in leaves with egg masses. A systemic induction extending to an egg‐free leaf neighbouring an egg‐carrying leaf could not be detected. Our data suggest that a local, oviposition‐induced change of leaf surface chemicals arrestsT. brassicaein the vicinity of host eggs.
Oviposition behaviour in Lygus rugulipennis: a morpho‐functional study
Authors: Romani Roberto , Salerno Gianandrea , Frati Francesca , Conti Eric , Isidoro Nunzio , Bin Ferdinando
Published: April 2005

Before oviposition, a Lygus rugulipennis (Poppius) (Heteroptera: Miridae) female explores the substrate with her mouthparts, performing ‘probing’ behaviour which eventually leads to a choice of oviposition site. In this study, morphological and behavioural observations were carried out in order to define the mechanisms through which female bugs recognise suitable oviposition sites. The morphological study was conducted using electron‐microscopy techniques, while the behavioural experiments aimed at the temporary (using ZnSO4) or permanent (i.e., cauterization of the rostrum and ablation of both stylets and labium) inactivation of sensory structures located in the labium tip and in the stylets, which are probably involved in oviposition site selection. The tip of the labium of L. rugulipennis females is characterised by the presence of 11–12 uniporous gustatory sensilla which are innervated by 3–6 sensory neurones. One aporous mechanoreceptor is located ventrally on both areas of the labium tip. Other aporous mechanosensilla are found more proximally on the labium. ZnSO4 labium tip treatment did not affect oviposition site selection, while stylet amputations, as well as rostrum cauterisations, resulted in almost complete oviposition failure. Labium tip‐ablated females oviposited similarly to control females. These results suggest that the sensory neurones associated with the stylets are involved in the location of the oviposition site. Uniporous gustatory sensilla on the labium tip are not involved in the final steps of the oviposition behaviour. However, they seem to play a role in assessing the suitability of the substrate as a food source.
Effect of soil‐applied complex fertiliser on an insect–host plant relationship: Liriomyza trifolii on Solanum tuberosum
Authors: Facknath Sunita , Lalljee Bhanooduth
Published: April 2005

Insects respond to very low levels of nutritional and non‐nutritional compounds in plants, which influence their acceptance and colonisation of the plant or plant part, and thereby their growth and development. Plant nutrient levels can vary within and between plants, and are influenced by external factors such as fertiliser treatments, irrigation regime, and light. Soil levels of nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium can have significant effects on the amounts of these nutrients in the plant, and thereby on pest infestation. This study reports on the influence of seven different NPK fertiliser rates in potted potato (Solanum tuberosum cv. Mondial) plants on the nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, and magnesium levels in the leaves, and the concomitant influence on infestation by, and development of, the serpentine leafminer, Liriomyza trifolii Burgess (Diptera: Agromyzidae). Results showed that increases in nitrogen in the potato leaves increased larval and pupal survival, and pupal and adult body weight and length. Potassium and phosphorus, on the other hand, decreased the host suitability of potato plants to L. trifolii, and were detrimental to the pest.
Effects of jasmonate‐induced defenses in tomato on the potato aphid,Macrosiphum euphorbiae
Authors: Cooper W. R. , Goggin F. L.
Published: April 2005

Jasmonates such as jasmonic acid (JA) are plant‐signaling compounds that trigger induced resistance (IR) to a broad range of arthropod herbivores. JA‐dependent defenses are known to reduce the growth and survivorship of many chewing insects, but their impact on piercing–sucking insects such as aphids has not been extensively investigated. In this study, induced resistance was activated in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentumMill) (Solanaceae) using a foliar application of synthetic JA, and control plants were treated with carrier solution. The life parameters of individual potato aphids and their progeny (Macrosiphum euphorbiaeThomas) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) were evaluated on the unsprayed leaves of plants in order to access the systemic effects of the foliar treatments. IR significantly reduced the longevity and net reproduction of adult aphids, as well as the percentage of juveniles to survive to maturity. These results indicate that JA application induces systemic defenses in tomato that have a direct negative impact on aphid survivorship. This study also examined aphid honeydew excretion, in order to evaluate the potential influence of induced resistance on aphid feeding behavior. The average honeydew production per aphid was comparable on plants with or without JA treatment, indicating that JA‐dependent defenses did not deter feeding. This suggests that the observed effects of JA on aphid survivorship were due to antibiotic rather than antixenotic factors. In addition to studying the effects of JA treatment on a tomato cultivar that is susceptible to aphids, this study also examined the effects of exogenous application of JA on tomato plants that carry the aphid resistance gene,Mi‐1.2. JA application did not significantly enhance or inhibit aphid control on resistant tomato. These findings expand our understanding of the effects of JA‐dependent defenses on piercing–sucking insects, and of the potential interactions between induced resistance and R‐gene mediated aphid resistance in tomato.