bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions are associated with ovine high and low cortisol responsiveness to acute endotoxin challenge
Authors: You Qiumei , Karrow Niel A. , Quinton Margaret , Mallard Bonnie A. , Boermans Herman J.
Published: April 2008

Inbred rodent studies have demonstrated that cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions are exacerbated in stress‐susceptible, and attenuated in stress‐resistant strains of mice. This physiological response was, in part, mediated by activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis during the acute restraint stress. A study was conducted to examine whether or not cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions are also associated with variable cortisol responsiveness to inflammatory stress in an outbred ovine population. High (H), medium (M), and low (L) cortisol responsive sheep were identified from a population of 110 females based on their estimated breeding values for cortisol concentration measured 4 h post‐systemic challenge with Escherichia coli endotoxin (400 ng kg−1). Cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions to phytohaemagglutinin (PHA), 1‐chloro‐2, 4‐dinitrobenzene (DNCB), and Candida albicans cellular antigen (CAA) were measured in these variable cortisol‐responding sheep, in addition to serum interleukin (IL)‐6, interferon (IFN)‐γ, and ovalbumin (OVA)‐specific IgG concentrations. When compared to the M cortisol responders, both H and L cortisol responders had significantly greater cutaneous swelling during the elicitation phase in response to DNCB (P < 0.05) and CAA (P < 0.05); a similar but not significant trend was observed during the PHA challenge. The primary, but not the secondary, IgG response to OVA was significantly lower in the H and L cortisol responders when compared to the M cortisol responders. Differences in serum IL‐6 or IFN‐γ concentration were not observed across variable cortisol‐responsive groups. Together, these results demonstrate that cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions are enhanced in outbred H and L cortisol‐responding sheep, independent of systemic modulation by IL‐6 and IFN‐γ.
Prevalence of fur mites in pet rabbits in South Korea
Authors: Kim Sang‐Hun , Jun Hyung‐Kyou , Song Kun‐Ho , Gram Dunbar , Kim Duck‐Hwan
Published: April 2008

The prevalence of fur mites, Cheyletiella parasitovorax and Leporacarus gibbus, in pet rabbits in South Korea was investigated by a diagnostic evaluation of skin surface tape strips and hair coat combings. C. parasitovorax was found in 80 of 140 rabbits (57.1%) and L. gibbus in six of 140 rabbits (4.3%). Clinical signs of pruritus and scaling were observed in 17 of 80 and 76 of 80 infested rabbits, respectively.
Effects of prolonged restriction in water supply on photosynthesis, shoot development and storage root yield in sweet potato
Authors: Van Heerden Philippus Daniel Riekert , Laurie Robert
Published: April 2008

Besides the paucity of information on the effects of drought stress on photosynthesis and yield in sweet potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.], available reports are also contradictory. The aim of this study was to shed light on the effects of long‐term restricted water supply on shoot development, photosynthesis and storage root yield in field‐grown sweet potato. Experiments were conducted under a rainout shelter where effects of restricted water supply were assessed in two varieties (Resisto and A15). Large decreases in stomatal conductance occurred in both varieties after 5 weeks of treatment. However, continued measurements revealed a large varietal difference in persistence of this response and effects on CO2 assimilation. Although restricted water supply decreased leaf relative water content similarly in both varieties, the negative effects on stomatal conductance disappeared with time in A15 (indicating high drought acclimation capacity) but not in Resisto, thus leading to inhibition of CO2 assimilation in Resisto. Chlorophyll a fluorescence measurements, and the relationship between stomatal conductance, intercellular CO2 concentration and CO2 assimilation rate, indicated that drought stress inhibited photosynthesis primarily through stomatal closure. Although yield loss was considerably larger in Resisto, it was also reduced by up to 60% in A15, even though photosynthesis, expressed on a leaf area basis, was not inhibited in this variety. In A15 yield loss appears to be closely associated with decreased aboveground biomass accumulation, whereas in Resisto, combined effects on biomass accumulation and photosynthesis per unit leaf area are indicated, suggesting that research aimed at improving drought tolerance in sweet potato should consider both these factors.
An autopsy case of spinal muscular atrophy type III (Kugelberg‐Welander disease)
Authors: Kuru Satoshi , Sakai Motoko , Konagaya Masaaki , Yoshida Mari , Hashizume Yoshio , Saito Kayoko
Published: April 2008

We report an autopsy case of a 67‐year‐old man clinicogenetically diagnosed as having spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type III (Kugelberg‐Welander disease), showing slowly progressive muscle wasting and weakness of the extremities. His brother showed similar manifestations. Autopsy revealed neuronal loss and severe gliosis in the anterior horns of the spinal cord, a marked neurogenic change of skeletal muscles and mild degeneration of cardiomyocytes. Chromatolytic change was seen in the anterior horn, but not in the Clarke's and thalamic nuclei. The anterior spinal roots were atrophic, and there was loss of myelinated fibers with abundant glial bundles. In addition, degeneration was also observed in the posterior column and dentate nucleus. The pathological features were essentially similar to those of SMA I. Chronic change was prominent while acute change was mild in degree, corresponding to a very long clinical course.
Clinicopathological and immunohistochemical findings in an autopsy case of tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Boer Karin , Troost Dirk , Jansen Floor , Nellist Mark , Van Den Ouweland Ans M.W. , Geurts Jeroen J.G. , Spliet Wim G.M. , Crino Peter , Aronica Eleonora
Published: April 2008

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant, multisystem disorder caused by mutations in either the TSC1 or TSC2 genes and characterized by developmental brain abnormalities. In the present study we discuss the neuropathological findings of a 32‐year‐old patient with a germ‐line mutation in the TSC2 gene. Post mortem MRI combined with histology and immunocytochemical analysis was applied to demonstrate widespread anatomical abnormalities of gray and white matter structure. TSC brain lesions were analyzed for loss of heterozygosity (LOH) on chromosome 16p13. The neuropathological supratentorial abnormalities were represented by multiple subependymal nodules (SENs) and cortical tubers. In addition to cerebral cortical lesions, cerebellar lesions and hippocampal sclerosis were also observed. LOH was not found in the cortical tubers and SENs of this patient. Immunocytochemical analysis of the TSC brain lesions confirmed the cell‐specific activation of the mTOR pathway in cortical tubers, SENs and cerebellum, as well as differential cellular localization of hamartin and tuberin, the TSC1 and TSC2 gene products. Examination of the pathological brain regions revealed activated microglial cells and disruption of blood‐brain barrier permeability. Predominant intralesional cell‐specific distribution was also detected for the multidrug transporter protein P‐gp, possibly explaining the mechanisms underlying the pharmacoresistance to antiepileptic drugs. Autopsy findings confirm the complexity of the brain abnormalities encountered in TSC patients and proved useful in clarifying certain aspects of the pathogenesis, epileptogenesis and pharmacoresistance of TSC lesions.
Predictors for wheezing phenotypes in the first decade of life
Authors: MIDODZI William K. , ROWE Brian H. , MAJAESIC Carina M. , SAUNDERS L. Duncan , SENTHILSELVAN Ambikaipakan
Published: April 2008

Background and objective:  This study examined prenatal, perinatal and early childhood predictors of wheezing phenotypes in the first decade of life.

Methods:  Information on current wheezing, was collected prospectively from five surveys conducted every 2 years over the first decade of life. Five wheezing phenotypes were defined: non‐wheezers, preschool, primary‐school, intermittent and persistent wheezers. Logistic regression with adjustment for survey design was used to determine the predictors of wheezing phenotypes.

Results:  Data on 2711 children were used in the analysis. Early respiratory infection, the child's allergy and parental asthma were significant risk factors for preschool, intermittent and persistent wheeze. The child's allergy and parental asthma had stronger associations with persistent wheeze than with preschool wheeze. Breastfeeding was a significant predictor of both preschool and intermittent wheezing. Daycare attendance was a risk factor for preschool wheeze but a protective factor for primary‐school wheezing. Crowding at home was a protective factor for both preschool and primary‐school wheeze. Parental smoking was a significant factor for preschool wheeze.

Conclusion:  This study identified different predictors for each wheezing phenotype with some degree of overlap. The observed differential effects for these conditions raises the possibility that there are different aetiologies for asthma among children.
Diagnosis of pulmonary aspiration: A mouse model using a starch granule test in bronchoalveolar lavage
Authors: PINTO Leonardo A. , DIAS Ana Christina O. , MACHADO Denise C. , JONES Marcus H. , STEIN Renato T. , PITREZ Paulo M.
Published: April 2008

Background and objective:  Pulmonary aspiration (PA) is a significant respiratory disease in children. However, the diagnosis of aspiration is often difficult owing to the poor efficacy of currently available diagnostic tests. The aim of this study was to assess in a mouse model the specificity of starch granule detection in BAL as a new method for detecting PA in children.

Methods:  Twenty BALB/c mice were divided into the following groups according to the solution instilled into the airways: corn flour milk 7.5%—a source of starch (CM), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, normal saline and a control group. BAL was performed 2 days after instillation. Detection of starch granules and lipid‐laden macrophages were compared in BAL.

Results:  Starch granules were detected in BAL fluids from all mice in the CM group (food aspiration model), whereas no starch granules were detected in the other three groups, demonstrating a sensitivity and specificity of 100%. On the other hand, lipid‐laden macrophages were found in all mice from all the groups studied.

Conclusions:  The detection of starch granules in BAL is a simple and highly specific method for the diagnosis of PA in an experimental model. Clinical studies using the starch granule detection method in BAL should be tested in at risk patients to evaluate the utility of this method for investigating PA.
Observational studies on the effect of dietary antioxidants on asthma: A meta‐analysis
Authors: GAO Jinming , GAO Xiang , LI Weijuan , ZHU Yuanjue , THOMPSON Philip J.
Published: April 2008

Background and objective:  It has been suggested that the rapid increase in asthma prevalence may in part be due to a decrease in the intake of dietary antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E and β‐carotene. Epidemiological studies investigating the association between dietary antioxidant intake and asthma have generated inconsistent results. A meta‐analysis was undertaken to examine the association between dietary antioxidant intake and the risk of asthma.

Methods:  The MEDLINE database was searched for observational studies in English‐language journals from 1966 to March 2007. Data were extracted using standardized forms. Pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random effects model. Ten studies were eligible for inclusion. Seven studies, comprising 13 653 subjects, used asthma or wheeze as their outcome; three studies explored the effect of antioxidant intake on lung function.

Results:  A higher dietary intake of antioxidants was not associated with a lower risk of having asthma. The pooled OR for having asthma were 1.06 (95% CI: 0.79–1.43) for subjects with a higher dietary vitamin C intake compared with those with a lower intake; 0.88 (95% CI: 0.61–1.25) for vitamin E; and 1.12 (95% CI: 0.77–1.62) for β‐carotene. There was no significant association between dietary antioxidant intake and lung function except for a positive association between vitamin C intake and an increase in FEV1 (29.1 mL, 95% CI: −0.4–58.6, P = 0.05).

Conclusions:  This meta‐analysis does not support the hypothesis that dietary intake of the antioxidants vitamins C and E and β‐carotene influences the risk of asthma.
Cave invertebrate assemblages differ between native and exotic leaf litter
Authors: HILLS NICOLE , HOSE GRANT C. , CANTLAY ANDREW J. , MURRAY BRAD R.
Published: April 2008

Abstract Allochtonous leaf litter is an important source of energy and nutrients for invertebrates in cave ecosystems. A change to the quality or quantity of litter entering caves has the potential to disrupt the structure and function of cave communities. In this study, we adopted an experimental approach to examine rates of leaf litter decomposition and the invertebrate assemblages colonizing native and exotic leaf litter in limestone caves in the Jenolan Caves Karst Conservation Reserve, New South Wales, Australia. We deployed traps containing leaf litter from exotic sycamore (Acer pseudoplatanus) and radiata pine (Pinus radiata) trees and native eucalypts (Eucalyptusspp.) in twilight zones (near the cave entrance) and areas deep within the caves for 3 months. Thirty‐two invertebrate morphospecies were recorded from the litter traps, with greater richness and abundance evident in the samples from the twilight zone compared with areas deep within the cave. Sycamore litter had significantly greater richness and abundance of invertebrates compared with eucalypt and pine litter in samples from the twilight zone, but there was no difference in richness or abundance among litter samples placed deep within the cave. Relative rates of decay of the three litters were sycamore > eucalypt > pine. We discuss the potential for the higher decomposition rates and specific leaf area in sycamores to explain their higher invertebrate diversity and abundance. Our findings have important implications for the management of exotic plants and the contribution of their leaf litter to subterranean ecosystems.
Neurotoxic and neurotrophic roles of proNGF and the receptor sortilin in the adult and ageing nervous system
Authors: Al‐Shawi Raya , Hafner Angela , Olson Jessica , Chun Soyon , Raza Saba , Thrasivoulou Christopher , Lovestone Simon , Killick Richard , Simons Paul , Cowen Timothy
Published: April 2008

The precursor form of the nerve growth factor (proNGF), forms a heterotrimeric complex with the receptors p75 and sortilin; this complex has been implicated in neuron cell death. However, it is not known whether proNGF and the receptors p75 and sortilin contribute to age‐ and disease‐related neurodegeneration. Here we show that proNGF induces cell death in subpopulations of basal forebrain and peripheral sympathetic neurons of old, but not of young, adult rodents. In contrast, proNGF appears to induce neurite outgrowth rather than cell death of young adult sympathetic neurons. We have examined the neurotoxic role of proNGF in old age, and find that proNGF protein is elevated during ageing in the projection areas of some populations of vulnerable central and peripheral neurons; caloric restriction, which has known neuroprotective effects, partially prevents these increases. Sortilin was found to play a significant part in the observed patterns of age‐related proNGF‐mediated neurotoxicity. In particular, survival of aged neurons was rescued by neurotensin, an alternative sortilin ligand that blocks the sortilin‐mediated effects of proNGF. Furthermore, sortilin immunoreactivity increases markedly in ageing rodent basal forebrain and sympathetic neurons; in contrast, p75 levels are either unchanged or reduced. From these data we propose that selective age‐related neuronal atrophy and neurodegeneration may be mediated by increased sortilin expression in neurons, together with elevated levels of proNGF expression in some targets.
Neuroplasticity in brain reward circuitry following a history of ethanol dependence
Authors: Hansson Anita C. , Rimondini Roberto , Neznanova Olga , Sommer Wolfgang H. , Heilig Markus
Published: April 2008

Mitogen‐activated and extracellular regulated kinase (MEK) and extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase (ERK) pathways may underlie ethanol‐induced neuroplasticity. Here, we used the MEK inhibitor 1,4‐diamino‐2,3‐dicyano‐1,4‐bis(2‐aminophenylthio)butadiene (UO126) to probe the role of MEK/ERK signaling for the cellular response to an acute ethanol challenge in rats with or without a history of ethanol dependence. Ethanol (1.5 g/kg, i.p.) induced expression of the marker genes c‐fos and egr‐1 in brain regions associated with both rewarding and stressful ethanol actions. Under non‐dependent conditions, ethanol‐induced c‐fos expression was generally not affected by MEK inhibition, with the exception of the medial amygdala (MeA). In contrast, following a history of dependence, a markedly suppressed c‐fos response to acute ethanol was found in the medial pre‐frontal/orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), nucleus accumbens shell (AcbSh) and paraventricular nucleus (PVN). The suppressed ethanol response in the OFC and AcbSh, key regions involved in ethanol preference and seeking, was restored by pre‐treatment with UO126, demonstrating a recruitment of an ERK/MEK‐mediated inhibitory regulation in the post‐dependent state. Conversely, in brain areas involved in stress responses (MeA and PVN), an MEK/ERK‐mediated cellular activation by acute ethanol was lost following a history of dependence. These data reveal region‐specific neuroadaptations encompassing the MEK/ERK pathway in ethanol dependence. Recruitment of MEK/ERK‐mediated suppression of the ethanol response in the OFC and AcbSh may reflect devaluation of ethanol as a reinforcer, whereas loss of an MEK/ERK‐mediated response in the MeA and PVN may reflect tolerance to its aversive actions. These two neuroadaptations could act in concert to facilitate progression into ethanol dependence.
Osmotic modulation of stimulus‐evoked responses in the rat supraoptic nucleus
Authors: Bhumbra G. S. , Orlans H. O. , Dyball R. E. J.
Published: April 2008

Neural information is conveyed by action potentials along axons to downstream synaptic targets. Synapses permit functionally relevant modulation of the information transmitted by converging inputs. Previous studies have measured the amount of information associated with a given stimulus based either on spike counts or on the relative frequencies of spike sequences represented as binary strings. Here we apply information theory to the phase–interval stimulus histogram (PhISH) to measure the extent of the stimulus‐evoked response using the statistical relationship between each interspike interval and its phase within the stimulus cycle. We used the PhISH as a novel approach to investigate how different osmotic states affect the flow of information through the osmoreceptor complex of the hypothalamus. The amount of information conveyed from one (afferent) element of the complex, the anteroventral region of the third ventricle (AV3V), to another (an efferent element), the supraoptic nucleus, was increased by hypertonic stimulation (intravenous mannitol, z = 4.39, P < 0.001) and decreased by hypotonic stimulation (intragastric water, z = −3.37, P < 0.001). Supraoptic responses to AV3V stimulation differed from those that follow stimulation of a hypothalamic element outside the osmoreceptor complex, the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), which also projects to the supraoptic nucleus. Thus osmosensitive gain control mechanisms differentially modulate osmotically dependent and osmotically independent inputs, and enhance the osmoresponsiveness of supraoptic cells within a physiological range. The value of the novel approach is that its use is not limited to the osmoreceptor ensemble but it can be used to investigate the flow of information throughout the central nervous system.
Regulation of neurofilament dynamics by phosphorylation
Authors: Shea Thomas B. , Chan Walter K.‐H.
Published: April 2008

Neurofilament (NF) phosphorylation has long been considered to regulate axonal transport rate and in doing so to provide stability to mature axons. Studies utilizing mice in which the C‐terminal region of NF subunits (which contains the vast majority of phosphorylation sites) has been deleted has prompted an ongoing challenge to this hypothesis. We evaluate the collective evidence to date for and against a role for NF C‐terminal phosphorylation in regulation of axonal transport and in providing structural support for axons, including some novel studies from our laboratory. We present a few suggestions for further experimentation in this area, and expand upon previous models for axonal NF dynamics. Finally, we address how C‐terminal phosphorylation is regionally and temporally regulated by a balance of kinase and phosphatase activities, and how misregulation of this balance can contribute to motor neuron disease.
Zoophytophagy in the plantbug Nesidiocoris tenuis
Authors: Sanchez Juan Antonio
Published: April 2008

1 The zoophytophagy of Nesidiocoris tenuis (Reuter) (Heteroptera: Miridae) was characterized in relation to prey availability and environmental factors by: (i) monitoring its population dynamics in tomato greenhouses; (ii) analysis of the influence of N. tenuis and whitefly density, temperature and humidity on the intensity of N. tenuis plant feeding; and (iii) laboratory assays under controlled conditions to determine the intensity of plant feeding in relation to prey availability, temperature and humidity.

2 A negative relationship was found between plant feeding and predated whiteflies in tomato greenhouses. Plant feeding was directly related to N. tenuis density and temperature and inversely related to whitefly density. The significance of prey availability and temperature was corroborated in laboratory assays. The intensification of plant feeding at low prey density indicates switching from zoophagy to phytophagy as prey become scarce.

3 Nesidiocoris tenuis showed a typical predator dynamic in relation to variance in prey density. Populations increased after whitefly outbreaks and decreased after whitefly had been depleted. The rapid decrease of N. tenuis populations after whitefly decreased, however, suggests that plants are a poorer nutrient source than whitefly for this species.
Modelling the effects of inherited sterility for the application of the sterile insect technique
Authors: Kean John M. , Wee Suk Ling , Stephens Andréa E. A. , Suckling D. M.
Published: April 2008

1 The sterile insect technique (SIT) involves the release of large numbers of sterile or partially‐sterile insects into a wild pest population to dilute the number of successful wild matings, with the eventual aim of eradication or area‐wide suppression. General population models, encompassing a wide range of SIT types, were used to derive principles for optimizing the success of SIT, with particular emphasis on the application of partial sterility leading to inherited sterility in the F1 population.

2 The models show that inherited sterility can only be guaranteed to be more effective than complete sterility if matings between irradiated‐lineage partners are unsuccessful. This is widely assumed but rarely examined experimentally.

3 The models allow the critical overflooding ratio, φc, to be calculated for a particular target species, suggesting the release rate required to prevent population increase. Successful eradication using SIT alone should aim for a substantially higher release rate than suggested by φc.

4 The models show that pest populations may continue to increase in the first few generations of SIT releases, regardless of release rate, as irradiated‐lineage individuals infiltrate the population. This does not necessarily imply that the SIT programme will be unsuccessful in the longer term.

5For pests with overlapping generations, the models suggest that frequent small releases may be more effective than less frequent large releases, particularly when the average release rate is close to the critical threshold for success.
Campylobacter infection of broiler chickens in a free‐range environment
Authors: Colles Frances M. , Jones Tracey A. , McCarthy Noel D. , Sheppard Samuel K. , Cody Alison J. , Dingle Kate E. , Dawkins Marian S. , Maiden Martin C. J.
Published: April 2008

Campylobacter jejuni is the most common cause of bacterial gastroenteritis worldwide, with contaminated chicken meat considered to represent a major source of human infection. Biosecurity measures can reduce C. jejuni shedding rates of housed chickens, but the increasing popularity of free‐range and organic meat raises the question of whether the welfare benefits of extensive production are compatible with food safety. The widespread assumption that the free‐range environment contaminates extensively reared chickens has not been rigorously tested. A year‐long survey of 64 free‐range broiler flocks reared on two sites in Oxfordshire, UK, combining high‐resolution genotyping with behavioural and environmental observations revealed: (i) no evidence of colonization of succeeding flocks by the C. jejuni genotypes shed by preceding flocks, (ii) a high degree of similarity between C. jejuni genotypes from both farm sites, (iii) no association of ranging behaviour with likelihood of Campylobacter shedding, and (iv) higher genetic differentiation between C. jejuni populations from chickens and wild birds on the same farm than between the chicken samples, human disease isolates from the same region and national samples of C. jejuni from chicken meat.
Management of renal cancer in the tyrosine kinase inhibitor era: a view from 3 years on
Authors: Samlowski Wolfram E. , Wong Bryan , Vogelzang Nicholas J.
Published: April 2008

In the last 3 years there has been a dramatic increase in the treatment options for patients with metastatic renal cancer. In addition to the cytokines interferon and interleukin 2, recently approved agents include sorafenib, sunitinib, temsirolimus and bevacizumab. A plethora of agents that are likely to have clinical activity are currently in the development ‘pipeline’. This brief review is intended to overview recent developments, and to identify advances that are likely to influence treatment decisions.
Species traits are associated with the quality of bioclimatic models
Authors: Pöyry Juha , Luoto Miska , Heikkinen Risto K. , Saarinen Kimmo
Published: April 2008

Aim  To analyse the effects of nine species trait variables on the accuracy of bioclimatic envelope models built for 98 butterfly species.

Location  Finland, northern Europe.

Methods  Data from a national butterfly atlas monitoring scheme (NAFI) collected from 1991–2003 with a resolution of 10 × 10 km were used in the analyses. Generalized additive models (GAMs) were constructed for 98 butterfly species to predict their occurrence as a function of climatic variables. Modelling accuracy was measured as the cross‐validation area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver–operating characteristic plot. Observed variation in modelling accuracy was related to species traits using multiple GAMs. The effects of phylogenetic relatedness among butterflies were accounted for by using generalized estimation equations.

Results  The values of the cross‐validation AUC for the 98 species varied between 0.56 and 1.00 with a mean of 0.79. Five species trait variables were included in the GAM that explained 71.4% of the observed variation in modelling accuracy. Four variables remained significant after accounting for phylogenetic relatedness. Species with high mobility and a long flight period were modelled less accurately than species with low mobility and a short flight period. Large species (>50 mm in wing span) were modelled more accurately than small ones. Species inhabiting mires had especially poor models, whereas the models for species inhabiting rocky outcrops, field verges and open fells were more accurate compared with other habitats.

Main conclusions  These results draw attention to the importance of species traits variables for species–climate impact models. Most importantly, species traits may have a strong impact on the performance of bioclimatic envelope models, and certain trait groups can be inherently difficult to model reliably. These uncertainties should be taken into account by downweighting or excluding species with such traits in studies applying bioclimatic modelling and making assessments of the impacts of climate change.
Converse Bergmann cline in a Eucalyptus herbivore, Paropsis atomaria Olivier (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae): phenotypic plasticity or local adaptation?
Authors: Schutze Mark K. , Clarke Anthony R.
Published: April 2008

Aim  To measure latitude‐related body size variation in field‐collected Paropsis atomaria Olivier (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) individuals and to conduct common‐garden experiments to determine whether such variation is due to phenotypic plasticity or local adaptation.

Location  Four collection sites from the east coast of Australia were selected for our present field collections: Canberra (latitude 35°19′ S), Bangalow (latitude 28°43′ S), Beerburrum (latitude 26°58′ S) and Lowmead (latitude 24°29′ S). Museum specimens collected over the past 100 years and covering the same geographical area as the present field collections came from one state, one national and one private collection.

Methods  Body size (pronotum width) was measured for 118 field‐collected beetles and 302 specimens from collections. We then reared larvae from the latitudinal extremes (Canberra and Lowmead) to determine whether the size cline was the result of phenotypic plasticity or evolved differences (= local adaptation) between sites.

Results  Beetles decreased in size with increasing latitude, representing a converse Bergmann cline. A decrease in developmental temperature produced larger adults for both Lowmead (low latitude) and Canberra (high latitude) individuals, and those from Lowmead were larger than those from Canberra when reared under identical conditions.

Main conclusions  The converse Bergmann cline in P. atomaria is likely to be the result of local adaptation to season length.
The significance of children fulfilling parental roles: implications for family therapy
Authors: Byng‐Hall John
Published: April 2008

This article describes how family therapists can routinely address the important, but often overlooked, issue of how some children may play parental roles in families. In some situations such as inadequate or absent parenting, a child is drawn into the parental subsystem and becomes identified as a ‘little parent’ in a process known as parentification. As well as gaining competence in caring, this experience may also become destructive to children in a number of ways. This includes loss of childhood and, as children are unable to fulfil the parental role adequately, low self‐esteem, depression and other symptoms. The concept of family attachment scripts is used to understand the implications of a child crossing adult/child boundaries which can lead to looking after parents and siblings. Family therapy techniques help to redress the role reversal and enable the parents to take appropriate responsibility in the family. Work also focuses on how to prevent transmission of parentification down the generations. Therapists have often been parental children. How this can influence their work is illustrated by a specific case.
POST‐MERGER PRODUCT REPOSITIONING*
Authors: GANDHI AMIT , FROEB LUKE , TSCHANTZ STEVEN , WERDEN GREGORY J.
Published: April 2008

This paper analyzes the effects of mergers between firms competing by simultaneously choosing price and location. Products combined by a merger are repositioned away from each other to reduce cannibalization, and non‐merging substitutes are, in response, repositioned between the merged products. This repositioning greatly reduces the merged firm's incentive to raise prices and thus substantially mitigates the anticompetitive effects of the merger. Computation of, and selection among, equilibria is done with a novel technique known as the stochastic response dynamic, which does not require the computation of first‐order conditions.
LARGE IS BEAUTIFUL: HORIZONTAL MERGERS FOR BETTER EXPLOITATION OF PRODUCTION SHOCKS*
Authors: ZHOU WEN
Published: April 2008

The profitability of horizontal mergers is investigated in a situation in which firms face a production shock and therefore are uncertain about their future costs. I show that, due to production rationalization, small‐scale mergers can be profitable if the uncertainty is large. The efficiency gain in production also implies benign welfare consequences. Under cost uncertainty, a profitable merger always improves social welfare if no more than half of the industry's firms are allowed to merge. Finally, I show that the incentives to merge depend on the information structure. Firms are less likely to merge when they possess more information.
ADMINISTRATIVE GATEKEEPING – A THIRD WAY BETWEEN UNRESTRICTED PATIENT ADVOCACY AND BEDSIDE RATIONING
Authors: LAURIDSEN SIGURD
Published: April 2008

The inevitable need for rationing of healthcare has apparently presented the medical profession with the dilemma of choosing the lesser of two evils. Physicians appear to be obliged to adopt either an implausible version of traditional professional ethics or an equally problematic ethics of bedside rationing. The former requires unrestricted advocacy of patients but prompts distrust, moral hazard and unfairness. The latter commits physicians to rationing at the bedside; but it is bound to introduce unfair inequalities among patients and lack of political accountability towards citizens. In this paper I shall argue that this dilemma is false, since a third intermediate alternative exists. This alternative, which I term ‘administrative gatekeeping’, makes it possible for physicians to be involved in rationing while at the same time being genuine advocates of their patients. According to this ideal, physicians are required to follow fair rules of rationing adopted at higher organizational levels within healthcare systems. At the same time, however, they are prohibited from including considerations of cost in their clinical decisions.
China's Exchange Rate Policy and Its Trade Balance with the US
Authors: Xu Zhenhui
Published: April 2008

This paper investigates the claim that China's exchange rate policy causes the US trade deficit with China to grow. Although there is no evidence that changes in the exchange rate cause the trade deficit to rise in the short run, a statistically significant long‐run relationship between the RMB/dollar exchange rate and the US trade deficit with China is detected. As the value of the dollar declines (or RMB appreciates), ceteris paribus, so does the trade deficit. Hence, there is a need for China to adjust its exchange rate policy to help reduce the ever mounting US trade deficit.
Biometrology of physical properties of skin in thyroid dysfunction
Authors: Szepetiuk G , Piérard GE , Betea D , Petrossians P , Xhauflaire‐Uhoda E , Beckers A , Quatresooz P
Published: April 2008

Objective  There is ample clinical evidence that skin is responsive to physiopathological levels of circulating thyroid hormones. The aim of the study was to assess some physical changes of the skin in the presence of moderate thyroid dysfunction.

Setting University Hospital.  Patients and methods  A total of 119 adults suffering from hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and 60 healthy controls were enrolled in this study. Hormonal dosages (TSH, fT3, fT4) were assessed in the serum. A series of biometrological assessments were also performed on the volar and dorsal aspects of the forearms. These included electrometric assessments (Nova Dermal Phase Meter®, Corneometer®), evaporimetry (Tewameter®), colorimetry (Mexameter®), ultrasound shear wave propagation (Reviscometer®) and squamometry X. Correlations were searched between each of the serum hormonal dosages and each of the biometrological parameters.

Results  The hormonal changes in the untreated patients with thyroid dysfunction were modest in intensity. A few outlier values with regard to the normal range were found for each biometrological parameter. No correlations were found between fT3 or fT4 and each of the physical parameters. By contrast, significant negative linear correlations were found between thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) and skin hydration measured by the Corneometer® and the Nova DPM®.

Conclusion  This multipronged exploratory study shows that direct or indirect effects of TSH may influence the stratum corneum hydration. This correlation seemed very sensitive, as no other specific biophysical parameter was significantly correlated with the thyroid hormonal concentrations in the serum. However, our findings do not exclude the possibility of some other skin changes supervening in case of more severe thyroid dysfunction. The mechanism by which TSH alters the stratum corneum hydration is yet unknown.
Polyketides in insects: ecological role of these widespread chemicals and evolutionary aspects of their biogenesis
Authors: Pankewitz Florian , Hilker Monika
Published: April 2008

Polyketides are known to be used by insects for pheromone communication and defence against enemies. Although in microorganisms (fungi, bacteria) and plants polyketide biogenesis is known to be catalysed by polyketide synthases (PKS), no insect PKS involved in biosynthesis of pheromones or defensive compounds have yet been found. Polyketides detected in insects may also be biosynthesized by endosymbionts. From a chemical perspective, polyketide biogenesis involves the formation of a polyketide chain using carboxylic acids as precursors. Fatty acid biosynthesis also requires carboxylic acids as precursors, but utilizes fatty acid synthases (FAS) to catalyse this process. In the present review, studies of the biosynthesis of insect polyketides applying labelled carboxylic acids as precursors are outlined to exemplify chemical approaches used to elucidate insect polyketide formation. However, since compounds biosynthesised by FAS may use the same precursors, it still remains unclear whether the structures that are formed from e.g. acetate chains (acetogenins) or propanoate chains (propanogenins) are PKS or FAS products. A critical comparison of PKS and FAS architectures and activities supports the hypothesis of a common evolutionary origin of these enzyme complexes and highlights why PKS can catalyse the biosynthesis of much more complex products than can FAS. Finally, we summarise knowledge which might assist researchers in designing approaches for the detection of insect PKS genes.
Parent age differentially influences offspring size over the course of development in Laysan albatross
Authors: Dearborn D. C. , Anders A. D. , Juola F. A.
Published: April 2008

Offspring growth and survival are predicted to be higher for older parents, due to a variety of mechanisms, such as increased breeding experience or greater investment favored by low residual reproductive value. Yet the extent to which parent age affects offspring viability is likely to vary between different aspects of growth and survival, perhaps being most pronounced at the most stressful stages of reproduction. We studied the link between parent age and nestling growth and survival in the Laysan albatross, a long‐lived seabird with a mean first breeding age of 8 years. Offspring of older parents were more likely to survive to fledging. Among those that did fledge, nestlings of older parents grew more rapidly. However, parent age did not influence the eventual asymptotic size that nestlings reached before fledging: fast‐growing nestlings of older parents reached 90% of asymptotic size roughly 1 week sooner, but slow‐growing nestlings of younger parents eventually caught up in size before fledging. Older parents bredc. 2 days earlier than younger parents, but hatch date did not explain observed variation in offspring success. The extent to which parent age accounted for variation in size of individual nestlings was not constant but peaked near the midpoint of development. This could reflect a time period when demands on parents reveal age‐based differences in parental quality. Overall, growth and survival of offspring increased with parent age in this species, even though the late age of first breeding potentially provides a 7‐year period for birds to hone their foraging skills or for selection to eliminate low‐quality individuals.
Popular perceptions of Europe and the Nation: the case of Italy
Authors: TRIANDAFYLLIDOU ANNA
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT. To date, European identity has not mobilised a feeling of belonging or solidarity that would be comparable to the ways in which national identities stir people's passions and make them ready ‘to die for’ their nations. However, much of the related political debate and scholarly analysis has paid little attention to citizens' understanding of European identity and the way this relates to national identity. This paper aims to contribute towards filling this gap. It explores qualitatively the relationship between national and European identity among Italian citizens with a view to answering the following research questions: How do Italian citizens define Europe? Who is a European? How does feeling European relate to feeling Italian? How do citizens perceive the European integration process? The article is based on 24 qualitative interviews with Italian citizens of varying age, gender, locality of residence and socio‐economic status, conducted in spring and summer 2003. The methodology adopted follows the discourse analytical tradition.
Language, history and the nation: an historical approach to evaluating language and cultural claims
Authors: SPENCER VICKI
Published: April 2008

ABSTRACT. In contrast to the abstract commitment to individual rights found in liberal critics of Bill 101 and the equally ahistorical approach of multicultural theorists like Bhikhu Parekh, this paper proposes that the particular historical circumstances surrounding the current minority status of different groups is crucial in evaluating the legitimacy of one cultural group to promote its cultural needs over another group within existing states. When the culture of a group residing within a particular state is secure in a neighbouring jurisdiction, the issue at stake is not necessarily the survival of a unique culture but the cultural needs of particular individuals. It does not follow that they have no legitimate claims against the state. However, in examining the language policies in Quebec and the newly independent Baltic states, it is argued that they are different in kind to the rights due to long‐standing communities struggling for linguistic survival.
Consumer attitudes towards debt in an islamic country: managing a conflict between religious tradition and modernity?
Authors: Abdul‐Muhmin Alhassan G.
Published: April 2008

Saudi Arabia is an important country in the Islamic world, and Islam prohibits the payment and receipt of interest, a key component of modern commercial bank loans. Yet the levels of commercial bank lending in the country for private non‐commercial purposes has been rising sharply for the past decade. This study seeks an explanation for this increase by examining the nature of consumer attitudes towards debt in the country, and whether the increasing levels of consumer debt can be explained by existing positive debt attitudes. Using data from a convenience sample of consumers in the major cities of the country, the study finds general debt attitudes to be surprisingly positive, though tempered by the consumption purpose for which the debt is acquired. However, the positive attitudes are unrelated to actual debt acquisition. Rather, socio‐demographic differences in attitudes are similar to those reported in the literature. Attitudes are generally more positive among young, highly educated Saudi males than other socio‐demographic groups. This suggests a possible struggle to manage a conflict between the Islamic prohibition of interest‐based borrowing and demands of the modern economy.
Consumer bankruptcy in Utah (USA): who files and why?
Authors: Lown Jean M.
Published: April 2008

This study examined consumer debtors who filed for bankruptcy and their reasons for filing in Utah, the U.S. state that ranked first in household filing rate in 2002–2004 and consistently ranks in the top ten of the 50 states. The purpose of the study was to determine the demographic characteristics of debtors and reasons for filing. Data were collected during 2004–2005 via survey from 508 debtors. The debtors reported employment problems, medical expenses, divorce or other family problems, as well as trouble managing their finances and overuse of credit cards. More than half of the debtors owed medical providers. Debtors were more likely to report a reduction in income than job loss. Self‐employed persons were over represented. Respondent debtors are less educated, less likely to be married and less likely to own a home compared with Utahns and other Americans. Contrary to expectations, debtor households were smaller than the state average, which may be due to the young age of debtors. Results suggest that in order to reduce the bankruptcy rate in Utah, consumer educators should target renters, adults with less than a college education, divorcing persons and small business owners. Utah's mandate for a personal finance graduation requirement should be implemented early in the secondary school curriculum.
Consumers' knowledge on sizing and fit issues: a solution to successful apparel selection in developing countries
Authors: Mason Anne Mastamet , De Klerk Helena M. , Sommervile Jaqui , Ashdown Susan P.
Published: April 2008

A study was conducted in the Nairobi, Eldoret and Kisumu regions of Kenya with the objective to determine and describe the role that Kenyan female consumers' sizing and fit knowledge play in the problems that they experience when selecting apparel. The study was cross‐sectional and 201 female teachers between the ages 25 and 55 years were involved. Participants completed a questionnaire and were measured wearing body suits. Results revealed that most Kenyan female consumers frequently experience problems in getting the right size apparel items, while more than 90% of the consumers are also unsatisfied with the fit of their clothes. It was clear that most Kenyan female consumers are familiar with the non‐informative lettered and numbered size labels as well as with the size label terms that represent established body types. However, the consumers lack knowledge of the meanings of various size label descriptions used on labels of ready‐made apparel and also lack knowledge of their own key body dimensions. They are also confused as to where the cause of their problems lies and therefore blame their bodies as well as the apparel industry for their problems. The importance of knowledge in consumers' selection of apparel that would fit their specific proportions should not be underestimated. Industry should take notice that it is of no use to present consumers with size label information that is not clear, informative and understandable, as currently the case with the use of non‐informative lettered and numbered size codes.