bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Metaphysical Status of the Embryo: Some Arguments Revisited
Authors: ODERBERG DAVID S.
Published: October 2008

abstract  This paper re‐examines some well‐known and commonly accepted arguments for the non‐individuality of the embryo, due mainly to the work of John Harris. The first concerns the alleged non‐differentiation of the embryoblast from the trophoblast. The second concerns monozygotic twinning and the relevance of the primitive streak. The third concerns the totipotency of the cells of the early embryo. I argue that on a proper analysis of both the empirical facts of embryological development, and the metaphysical importance or otherwise of those facts, all three arguments are found wanting. None of them establishes that the embryo is not an individual human being from the moment of conception.
The Economic Effects of the EU Budget: A VAR Analysis*
Authors: ASDRUBALI PIERFEDERICO , KIM SOYOUNG
Published: October 2008

This article analyses the allocation, redistribution and stabilization role of the EU budget from 1976 to 2001. We use impulse responses from VAR models to infer the dynamic effect of a country's GNP on its disposable income – defined as GNP plus net EU budget transfers – both in the short run (stabilization) and in the long run (redistribution). In addition, we measure the allocation role of net budget transfers through their ‘dynamic multiplier’ effect on a country's GNP, circumventing the difficult task of estimating allocation via costs and benefits of trade flows. By disaggregating our data by sub‐period and by budget component, we discover how diverse the above effects can be in different decades, for different budget programmes and for different Member States. Finally, our framework allows us to establish some additional stylized facts that help derive relevant economic relations and useful policy conclusions.
US Outward Foreign Direct Investment in the European Union and the Implementation of the Single Market: Empirical Evidence from a Cohesive Framework
Authors: FILIPPAIOS FRAGKISKOS , PAPANASTASSIOU MARINA
Published: October 2008

In this article we investigate the determinants of US outward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the European Union for the period 1982–2002. The data set allowed us to discern differences in the pattern of US FDI between EU core and EU periphery countries, as well as over different time periods during the last two decades. The results indicate that the US FDI pattern varies among different groups of countries and that there was a restructuring in multinational firms' investment activity after the implementation of the single market plan. Agglomeration factors, market size, qualified and productive labour and cost efficiency of local production seem to dominate in the location choice of US investors.
Institutional Stimulation of Deliberative Decision‐Making: Division of Labour, Deliberative Legitimacy and Technical Regulation in the European Single Market
Authors: GEHRING THOMAS , KERLER MICHAEL
Published: October 2008

Institutions stimulate deliberative decision‐making if they hinder stakeholders from introducing bargaining power into the decision process. This article explores the conditions for, and limits of, the creation of deliberative legitimacy in single market regulation. An assessment of the standardization procedure demonstrates that legitimacy arises only from the combination of political and technical deliberation.
Regional Deals and the Global Imperative: The External Dimension of the European Union Savings Tax Directive
Authors: SHARMAN J.C.
Published: October 2008

This article examines how an internal deal to tax non‐resident EU savings came to depend on the co‐operation of non‐member jurisdictions. These efforts were both motivated and sabotaged by a policy narrative asserting that increased capital mobility poses a new global imperative for national and regional policy‐making.
Opposing Integration on Matters of Social and Normative Preferences: A New Dimension of Political Contestation in the EU
Authors: LECONTE CECILE
Published: October 2008

With the enlargement of the EU agenda, an increasing number of actors contest the legitimacy of EU‐level decisions in policy areas where ethical preferences are at stake. This discourse, which is articulated by mainstream political parties and civil society actors, represents a new type of political contestation in the Union.
Functional analysis of the heavy metal binding domains of the Zn/Cd‐transporting ATPase, HMA2, in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wong Chong Kum Edwin , Jarvis Renée S. , Sherson Sarah M. , Cobbett Christopher S.
Published: October 2008

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2008.02699.xCommentary p 3
HMA P‐type ATPases are the major mechanism for root‐to‐shoot Cd translocation in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wong Chong Kum Edwin , Cobbett Christopher S.
Published: October 2008

DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-8137.2008.02699.xCommentary p 3
Precipitation timing and magnitude differentially affect aboveground annual net primary productivity in three perennial species in a Chihuahuan Desert grassland
Authors: Robertson Traesha R. , Bell Colin W. , Zak John C. , Tissue David T.
Published: October 2008

DOI:10.1111/j.1469-8137.2008.02695.xCommentary p 5
The marine phycotoxin gymnodimine targets muscular and neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subtypes with high affinity
Authors: Kharrat Riadh , Servent Denis , Girard Emmanuelle , Ouanounou Gilles , Amar Muriel , Marrouchi Riadh , Benoit Evelyne , Molgó Jordi
Published: October 2008

Gymnodimines (GYMs) are phycotoxins exhibiting unusual structural features including a spirocyclic imine ring system and a trisubstituted tetrahydrofuran embedded within a 16‐membered macrocycle. The toxic potential and the mechanism of action of GYM‐A, highly purified from contaminated clams, have been assessed. GYM‐A in isolated mouse phrenic hemidiaphragm preparations produced a concentration‐ and time‐dependent block of twitch responses evoked by nerve stimulation, without affecting directly elicited muscle twitches, suggesting that it may block the muscle nicotinic acetylcholine (ACh) receptor (nAChR). This was confirmed by the blockade of miniature endplate potentials and the recording of subthreshold endplate potentials in GYM‐A paralyzed frog and mouse isolated neuromuscular preparations. Patch‐clamp recordings inXenopusskeletal myocytes revealed that nicotinic currents evoked by constant iontophoretical ACh pulses were blocked by GYM‐A in a reversible manner. GYM‐A also blocked, in a voltage‐independent manner, homomeric human α7 nAChR expressed inXenopusoocytes. Competition‐binding assays confirmed that GYM‐A is a powerful ligand interacting with muscle‐type nAChR, heteropentameric α3β2, α4β2, and chimeric α7‐5HT3neuronal nAChRs. Our data show for the first time that GYM‐A broadly targets nAChRs with high affinity explaining the basis of its neurotoxicity, and also pave the way for designing specific tests for accurate GYM‐A detection in shellfish samples.
Role of methionine 35 in the intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis dysregulation and Ca2+‐dependent apoptosis induced by amyloid β‐peptide in human neuroblastoma IMR32 cells
Authors: Piacentini Roberto , Ripoli Cristian , Leone Lucia , Misiti Francesco , Clementi Maria Elisabetta , D’Ascenzo Marcello , Giardina Bruno , Azzena Gian Battista , Grassi Claudio
Published: October 2008

Amyloid β‐peptide (Aβ) plays a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. We recently reported that the redox state of the methionine residue in position 35 of amyloid β‐peptide (Aβ) 1–42 (Met35) strongly affects the peptide’s ability to trigger apoptosis and is thus a major determinant of its neurotoxicity. Dysregulation of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis resulting in the activation of pro‐apoptotic pathways has been proposed as a mechanism underlying Aβ toxicity. Therefore, we investigated correlations between the Met35 redox state, Aβ toxicity, and altered intracellular Ca2+ signaling in human neuroblastoma IMR32 cells. Cells incubated for 6–24 h with 10 μM Aβ1–42 exhibited significantly increased KCl‐induced Ca2+ transient amplitudes and resting free Ca2+ concentrations. Nifedipine‐sensitive Ca2+ current densities and Cav1 channel expression were markedly enhanced by Aβ1–42. None of these effects were observed when cells were exposed to Aβ containing oxidized Met35 (Aβ1–42Met35‐Ox). Cell pre‐treatment with the intracellular Ca2+ chelator 1,2‐bis(2‐aminophenoxy)ethane‐N,N,N’,N’‐tetraacetic acid acetoxymethyl ester (1 μM) or the Cav1 channel blocker nifedipine (5 μM) significantly attenuated Aβ1–42‐induced apoptosis but had no effect on Aβ1–42Met35‐Ox toxicity. Collectively, these data suggest that reduced Met35 plays a critical role in Aβ1–42 toxicity by rendering the peptide capable of disrupting intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis and thereby provoking apoptotic cell death.
The Relationship Between Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension and Obesity
Authors: Hannerz Jan , Ericson Kaj
Published: October 2008

Objective.— Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) is usually considered to result from deficient intracranial absorption of cerebrospinal fluid, but has also been suggested to be caused by decreased cranial venous flow because of increased intrathoracic pressure resulting from intra‐abdominal obesity. To test this hypothesis, cerebrospinal fluid pressure (Pcsf), extracranial venous pressure (Pvf), intracranial venous pressure, and body mass index (BMI) were studied in patients with IIH with papilledema compared with patients with chronic tension‐type headache (CTTH).

Design and Subjects.— The Pcsf and the pressures in frontal veins without (Pvf) and with bilateral compression of the supraorbital branch of the frontal veins and the superficial facial veins (Pvfc), the latter considered to be about equal to Pvfc, were studied in 10 consecutive patients with IIH with papilledema. Ten consecutive CTTH patients were used for controls. Orbital phlebography was performed to confirm that the compression of facial veins other than the frontal veins resulted in adequate communication between the frontal vein used for the studies and the cavernous sinus.

Results.— Cerebrospinal fluid pressure was between 200 and 250 mm water in 5 of the CTTH patients and above 350 mm water in all IIH patients.

Body mass index was >25 in all CTTH patients and similar in the 2 groups.

Cerebrospinal fluid pressure was similar to Pvfc in all 10 CTTH patients but significantly greater in 6 of the 10 IIH patients. Pvf was similar in the 2 groups and related to BMI.

Conclusions.— Chronic tension‐type headache patients may be prone to have Pcsf > 200 mm water and BMI > 25. Papilledema because of intracranial hypertension occurred in the present study at Pcsf > 350 mm water. The findings of Pvfc and Pcsf being similar in all CTTH patients support the suggestion that the techniques used for measuring intracranial venous pressure are adequate. The findings of similar BMI in the CTTH and the IIH patients who differed significantly as to Pcsf refute the hypothesis that obesity precedes, and is the cause of, intracranial hypertension in IIH. The difference between Pcsf and Pvfc in 6 of the IIH patients also does not support such a hypothesis but may indicate that IIH is due to deficient intracranial cerebrospinal fluid absorption.

Since a relationship between intracranial hypertension and obesity is established and obesity is not found to cause intracranial hypertension in IIH, intracranial hypertension may be suggested to be the primary cause of weight increase in IIH. Obesity, however, may secondarily increase the preexistent IIH.
Clinical Relevance of Efficacy Endpoints in OTC Headache Trials
Authors: Pageler Lutz , Diener Hans‐Christoph , Pfaffenrath Volker , Peil Hubertus , Aicher Bernhard
Published: October 2008

Objective.—This analysis evaluates and ranks efficacy endpoints often used in headache trials concerning their clinical relevance in relation to the patient‐related criterion “global assessment of overall efficacy” based on data gained in a large trial investigating different over‐the‐counter drugs in the treatment of headache.

Background.—The original study showed a significant superiority of the fixed combination of acetylsalicylic acid+ paracetamol+caffeine over the combination without caffeine, the single preparations, and placebo in the treatment of headache.

Methods.—For 1734 patients included in the efficacy analysis we investigated the correlation of patient's global efficacy assessment with the endpoints “time to 50% pain relief” (primary endpoint), “time to be pain‐free,” pain intensity difference, sum of pain intensity difference, and extent of impairment of daily activities. Patients recorded pain intensity on a visual analog scale. Efficacy, tolerability, and extent of impairment of daily activity were assessed on verbal rating scales. A logistic regression, proportional odds model was adapted to the time to event data.

Results.—The highest correlation with patient's global efficacy assessment was demonstrated for the primary endpoint time to 50% pain relief (r = 0.6727) and the sum of pain intensity difference (r = 0.7037). The frequency distribution of patient's global efficacy assessment depended primarily on the time to 50% pain relief and similarly, but to a somewhat lesser extent, on the reduction of pain intensity to 10 mm as assessed on the visual analog scale. More than 86% of the patients assessed efficacy as very good or good when their pain was reduced by 50% at least within 1 hour after drug intake. The patients accept a longer time span than 2 hours for reaching no pain to give a positive global evaluation of efficacy.

Conclusions.—The time to 50% pain relief proved to be the best predictor for the global assessment of efficacy by the patient and is a useful endpoint for a univariate analysis.
Nasal Sumatriptan as Adjunctive Therapy for idiopathic Trigeminal Neuralgia: Report of Three Cases
Authors: Shimohata Keiko , Shimohata Takayoshi , Motegi Ryoichiro , Miyashita Kou
Published: October 2008

We examine the effect of nasal sumatriptan as an adjunctive therapy in 3 patients with idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia refractory to carbamazepine (CBZ) and found that this therapy might be suitable for patients for whom the CBZ dose cannot be increased, who are under poor pain control, and who are not candidates for nerve blocks or surgery.
Family History for Chronic Headache and Drug Overuse as a Risk Factor for Headache Chronification
Authors: Cevoli Sabina , Sancisi Elisa , Grimaldi Daniela , Pierangeli Giulia , Zanigni Stefano , Nicodemo Marianna , Cortelli Pietro , Montagna Pasquale
Published: October 2008

Objectives.— To assess whether family history for chronic headache (CH) and drug overuse could represent a risk factor for headache chronification.

Background.— Among factors investigated as risk factors for chronification of headache disorders, familial liability for CH and drug overuse has been rarely investigated.

Patients and Methods.— A total of 105 consecutive patients with daily or nearly daily headache, and 102 consecutive patients with episodic headache matched by age, sex, and type of headache at onset, underwent a structured direct interview about family history for episodic headache, CH with and without medication overuse, substance abuse/dependence, and psychiatric disorders.

Results.— In total, 80 out of 105 patients with CH received a diagnosis of medication overuse headache (MOH), 21 patients were classified as chronic migraine (CM), and 4 as chronic tension‐type headache (CTTH) without drug overuse. Some 38.1% of CH patients reported family history for CH vs only 13.7% of episodic headaches (P = .001). Familiality for CH with medication overuse was reported by 25.7% of cases vs 9.8% of controls (P = .0028). A familial history of substance abuse was reported by 20% of patients vs 5.9% of controls (P = .0026). In all, 28.7% of MOH patients reported family history for CH with medication overuse (P = .0014) and 21.2% for substance abuse (P = .002). Relatives of patients with MOH were more likely than control relatives to suffer from CH (OR = 4.19 [95% CI 2.05‐8.53]), drug overuse (OR = 3.7 [95% CI 1.66‐8.24]), and substance abuse (OR = 4.3 [95% CI 1.65‐11.19]). No differences regarding family history for episodic headache and for psychiatric disorders were found. No differences in family history for CH with drugs overuse and for substance abuse were found between CH patients without overuse and controls. Fifteen CH patients reported family history for alcohol abuse (P = .0003).

Conclusions.— The significantly increased familial risk for CH, drug overuse, and substance abuse suggests that a genetic factor is involved in the process of headache chronification.
Persistent Trigeminal Artery Causing “Double” Neurovascular Conflict
Authors: Clerici Angelo Maurizio , Merlo Paola , Rognone Felice , Noce Monica , Rognone Elisa , Bono Giorgio
Published: October 2008

We report the case of a 73‐year‐old woman who presented with right VI nerve palsy and homolateral atypical trigeminal neuralgia; standard neuroradiological investigation of orbital/retroorbital regions and intracranial arteries excluded the most commonly demonstrable underlying causes while brain magnetic resonance (T1‐weighted fat suppression; T2‐weighted thin‐section) and magnetic resonance angiography disclosed the evidence of “double” neurovascular conflict because of persistent trigeminal artery with aneurysmal dilation.

A role of this almost rare vascular condition in causing painful ophthalmoplegia is discussed.
Bilateral Idiopathic Trochleitis as a Cause of Frontal Cephalgia
Authors: Zaragoza‐Casares Pablo , Gómez‐Fernández Teresa , De Liaño Miguel Angel Zato Gómez , Zaragoza‐Garcia Pablo
Published: October 2008

Trochleitis is defined as the inflammation of the trochlea and peri‐trochlear region, in particular the sheath of the superior oblique muscle; being bilateral is an extremely rare event. We think that is important to bear in mind for physicians as a remote possibility in ruling out causes of headache.
Migraine in Adolescents: Validation of a Screening Questionnaire
Authors: Valentinis Luca , Valent Francesca , Mucchiut Marco , Barbone Fabio , Bergonzi Paolo , Zanchin Giorgio
Published: October 2008

Background.— Few studies in adolescents deal with the level of agreement between questionnaire and interview information in relation to headache symptoms.

Objective.— To evaluate the validity of a self‐administered questionnaire on headache for use in epidemiological studies of Italian high school students.

Methods.— The questionnaire incorporated all items required for diagnosing migraine according to the criteria from the 2004 International Classification of Headache Disorders. The migraine diagnoses obtained from questionnaires were validated against the gold standard diagnoses by a headache specialist.

Results.— Out of 104 students answering the questionnaires, 93 (89.4%) participated in extensive semi‐structured interviews by a neurologist. The chance‐corrected agreement rate (kappa) was 0.66, which is considered good. The questionnaire‐based migraine diagnosis had a sensitivity of 67.3%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100%, and negative predictive value of 73.3%.

Conclusions.— The results indicate that our self‐administered questionnaire may be an acceptable instrument in determining the prevalence of migraine sufferers in the northeast Italy adolescent population, useful in identifying subjects with “definite” migraine.
A Case of CP Angle Epidermoid Mimicking Hemicrania Continua: Is It Different From Primary HC?
Authors: Prakash Sanjay , Tandon Nidhi , Padmanabhan Deepak , Dhawan Rishi
Published: October 2008

Hemicrania continua (HC)‐like headache has been described with various intra‐ and extracranial pathologies. We describe a female patient with HC‐like headache of 6‐year duration with an epidermoid in cerebello‐pontine angle, in whom indomethacin was successfully withdrawn after surgery. We also review the reports of various other symptomatic HC and compare with primary HC.
The Presentation of Headache in Neuro‐Behçet's Disease: A Case‐Series
Authors: Kale Nilufer , Agaoglu Jale , Icen Murat , Yazici Isil , Tanik Osman
Published: October 2008

Introduction.— Behçet's disease (BD) is a chronic, relapsing, multisystemic, inflammatory disorder with unknown etiology. Neurological involvement is observed in about 5% of the patients with BD and headache is a frequently reported symptom with or without neurological involvement. In this case‐series, we aim to demonstrate the secondary headaches associated with neuro‐Behçet's disease in consecutive BD patients who had been referred for neurologic evaluation.

Methods.— The case‐series included 17 patients (11 males [65%]), mean age 41 ± 11.4, who met the criteria for BD established by the International Study Group for BD and developed headache during the disease course.

Results.— Seventeen BD patients were identified, the neurologic presentations included in parenchymal involvement 12 (70%), extraparenchymal involvement/venous thrombosis in 5 (30%), seizure disorder in 2 (12%), and psychiatric problems/depression or anxiety in 5 (30%) patients, respectively. The characteristics of the headache according to the patients' reports included subacute, moderate to severe headache with unilateral localization and throbbing quality accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and aggravation upon awakening.

Conclusion.— Because neurological involvement is one of the most devastating aspects of BD, the need to treat neurological involvement as early as possible, the possible role of headache onset as an early indicator for neurological involvement in this relatively uncommon disease should be kept in mind.
Clinical Significance of Brush Allodynia in Emergency Patients With Migraine
Authors: Friedman Benjamin , Bijur Polly , Greenwald Peter , Lipton Richard , Gallagher E. John
Published: October 2008

Background.— Cutaneous brush allodynia may be a practical and readily assessable marker of progression of an acute migraine attack. We determined the relative frequency of this finding in emergency department (ED) patients with acute migraine and tested the hypothesis that the presence of cutaneous brush allodynia prior to initial treatment in the ED could predict poor 2‐hour and 24‐hour pain intensity outcomes.

Methods.— As part of a multicenter ED‐based clinical trial testing the benefit of dexamethasone vs placebo for the adjuvant parenteral treatment of acute migraine, cutaneous brush allodynia was assessed prior to treatment using an established methodology. In addition to dexamethasone or placebo, all patients received intravenous metoclopramide + diphenhydramine as primary treatment for their migraine. Pain intensity outcomes were assessed in the ED 2 hours after medication administration and again by telephone 24 hours after medication administration.

Results.— An assessment of cutaneous brush allodynia was performed in 182 migraineurs from 3 different EDs, of whom 26 (14%, 95% CI: 10‐20%) had cutaneous brush allodynia. A pain‐free state within 2 hours of medication administration was achieved by 46% of the allodynic patients and by 47% of the nonallodynic patients (P = .91). Median headache intensity over the 24 hours after ED discharge, as measured on a pain intensity scale from zero to 10, was 3 in the allodynic patients and 3 in the nonallodynic patients (P = .23).

Conclusions.— Cutaneous brush allodynia is an uncommon finding in the ED, occurring in fewer than 1 in 5 migraineurs. It does not seem to have prognostic relevance for the ED‐based management of the acute migraine attack.
Exertional Headache as Unusual Presentation of the Syndrome of an Elongated Styloid Process
Authors: Maggioni Ferdinando , Marchese‐Ragona Rosario , Mampreso Edoardo , Mainardi Federico , Zanchin Giorgio
Published: October 2008

We present the case of a 34‐year‐old man with a 2‐year history of pain related to efforts in heavy lifting, beginning in the right ear and radiating to the neck and to the vertex. He underwent multiple negative neuroimaging examinations, until a 3‐dimensional computerized tomography scan of the pharyngeal region evidenced an elongated styloid process. A diagnosis of Eagle's syndrome was made. The excision of the elongated styloid process was performed, resulting in complete and lasting pain relief. We focus on Eagle's syndrome and in particular on this atypical presentation.
Response of Cluster Headache to Kudzu
Authors: Sewell R. Andrew
Published: October 2008

Objective.— To describe the self‐treatment of cluster headache with kudzu.

Background.— Many cluster headache patients take over‐the‐counter (OTC) kudzu extract in the belief that it helps their cluster attacks. Kudzu's actual efficacy has not been studied.

Methods.— A database of cluster headache patients was questioned about their use of various alternative remedies to treat their cluster headache. Of 235 patients identified, 16 had used kudzu, consented to interviews, and provided medical records.

Results.— In total, 11 (69%) experienced decreased intensity of attacks, 9 (56%) decreased frequency, and 5 (31%) decreased duration, with minimal side effects.

Conclusion.— Anecdotal evidence suggests that a component in OTC products labeled as kudzu may prove useful in managing cluster headache. This hypothesis should be tested with a randomized clinical trial.
Industry Signals Relayed by Corporate Earnings Restatements
Authors: Akhigbe Aigbe , Madura Jeff
Published: October 2008

This study finds that downward earnings restatements are associated with negative industry valuation effects. These effects are more pronounced when the valuation effects and the change in earnings of the firm restating its earnings are worse, when the restatement is initiated for reasons other than fraud, when the bubble was bursting, and when the restatement is subsequent to the publicity regarding Enron's fraud. The negative industry effects are more pronounced in industries that have a higher level of accruals and intangible assets, weaker sales growth, and a higher degree of stock volatility.
The Information Content of Multiple Stock Splits
Authors: Huang Gow‐Cheng , Liano Kartono , Manakyan Herman , Pan Ming‐Shiun
Published: October 2008

We examine the relationship between the frequency of stock splits and firms' motives for splitting their stock. Compared to their peers, infrequent splitters show higher post‐split operating performance, but not so for frequent splitters. We find that split ratio and liquidity change explain the stock split announcement effect for the frequent splitters. In contrast, the change in operating performance in the split year explains the announcement effect for the infrequent splitters. Our results suggest that frequent splits are more consistent with the trading range‐improved/liquidity hypothesis and infrequent splits are more consistent with the signaling hypothesis.
U.S. Monetary Policy Surprises and Currency Futures Markets: A New Look
Authors: Wang Tao , Yang Jian , Simpson Marc W.
Published: October 2008

Intraday currency futures prices react to both surprises in the federal funds target rate (the target factor) and surprises in the anticipated future direction of Federal Reserve monetary policy (the path factor) in similar magnitude, and the reaction is short‐lived. Dollar‐denominated currency futures prices drop significantly in response to positive surprises (i.e., unexpected increases) in the target and path factors, but have generally little response to negative surprises. A monetary policy tightening during expansionary periods leads to an appreciation of the domestic currency, while a monetary policy loosening during recessionary periods tends to have no significant impact.
The External Funding of Academic Finance Research
Authors: Kuipers David R. , Pruitt Stephen W.
Published: October 2008

We analyze the external funding of academic finance research. We show that funding is uncommon, particularly for U.S.‐based faculty, and is related to predictable attributes of an author's reputational capital. Further, when research is funded we find it is associated with better articles, as measured by publication in the most prestigious journals and the receipt of increased citations over time. Our study has relevance for every stakeholder in the university's research mission in finance.
INSURER EXPOSURE TO EXTRACONTRACTUAL LIABILITY UNDER STATE UNFAIR CLAIMS SETTLEMENT PRACTICES ACTS: AN EMPIRICAL TEST
Authors: Regan Laureen , Carroll Anne
Published: October 2008

Abstract: Litigation against insurers for bad faith actions has increased. The authors examine how the exposure of insurers has changed with particular emphasis on the impact of Unfair Claims Settlement Practices Acts.
PRIVACY AND THE THREAT OF REGULATION
Authors: Brown Daniel J. , Gammill Linda , Meintjes Riaan , Nielson Norma L. , Seville Mary Alice
Published: October 2008

Abstract: This article reviews the laws and related issues surrounding the gathering and use of personal information by the insurance profession. We examine the applicability of these laws to the insurance industry and conclude the article by exploring the issue of s elf‐regulation as a means to deal with these issues.
THE TRANSITION TO A SINGLE INSURANCE MARKET IN THE EUROPEAN UNION
Authors: Ennsfellner Karl C. , Dorfman Mark S.
Published: October 2008

Abstract: The European single insurance market incorporates the member stales of the European Union (EU). The legal framework for the market was enacted on June 30, 1994. The framework provides, above all, for a closely integrated supervisory (regulatory) system, a single license for the whole market and single home country control. Currently, some significant obstacles are slowing the realization of the European single insurance market, while several important economic policy and public interest questions remain to be answered.
FROM COMPETITION TO REGULATION: THE SIX‐YEAR BATTLE TO REGULATE CALIFORNIA'S INSURANCE MARKETS
Authors: Fields Joseph A. , Ghosh Chinmoy , Klein Linda S.
Published: October 2008

Abstract: The passage of California's Proposition 103 in November 1988 changed the State's regulatory structure for insurers from a competitive to a heavily regulated system. The six‐year legal battle that followed resulted in several California Supreme Court and United States Supreme Court rulings and an ultimate implementation of rate roll backs on property‐liability insurers on November 22, 1994. The study examines both property‐liability and life insurers' returns. While only property‐liability insurers are affected by the rale rollback and prior approval rate regulation, both life and property‐liability insurers are affected by the proposition's other provisions. This paper examines the effect of successive changes on both types of insurance companies and analyzes the differential impact of the changes in regulatory structure.
THE REASONABLE EXPECTATIONS DOCTRINE: UNDERSTANDING THE LAW AND THE LORE BEHIND UPHOLDING THE REASONABLE EXPECTATIONS OF INSURANCE POLICYHOLDERS
Authors: Anderson Eugene R. , Fournier James J.
Published: October 2008

Abstract: The authors examine the increasing recognition by the courts that an insurance policy is a consumer product, not merely a contract. This evolution has been the result of an increasing focus on the reasonable expectations doctrine. A review of the legal environment involving reasonable expectations and insurance coverage is presented.
DEVELOPMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL LIABILITY RISK MANAGEMENT AND INSURANCE IN THE UNITED STATES: LESSONS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Authors: Anderson Dan R.
Published: October 2008

Abstract: The United States has the most developed system of environmental laws and regulations in the world. Not surprisingly, its systems for managing and insuring environmental risks are also the most evolved. Lessons can be learned from examining systems in the United States, particularly their considerable problems. The purposes of this paper are (1) to examine the development of U.S. environmental liability risk management and insurance systems, and (2) to present potential opportunities in this area for risk financing groups and other countries.
TOP MANAGEMENT TEAM CHARACTERISTICS AND LIFE INSURER PERFORMANCE: DO TOP MANAGERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
Authors: Puleo Victor A. , Marlin Dan
Published: October 2008

Abstract: This study examines the impact of top management team characteristics on life insurer performance. The authors argue that greater social cohesion among team members makes it less likely that the insurer will be able to adapt to the changes that have characterized the U.S. life insurance industry over the past decade and will, therefore, be detrimental to performance. Our findings support this assertion and suggest that life insurers driven by more diversified top management teams outperform life insurers with more homogenous top management teams.
ISSUES IN MULTI‐STATE PRODUCER REGULATION
Authors: Ferguson William L. , Johnson Joseph E.
Published: October 2008

Abstract: Oversight of the producer licensing process is a vital regulatory function aimed at protecting public interests inherent to insurance transactions. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), through a separate business entity formed in conjunction with private business, the Insurance Regulatory Information Network (IRIN), recently implemented a new program designed to allow better tracking of “rogue” agents, eliminate costly and error‐prone duplicate data entry, and streamline the producer licensing and continuing education processes among/across the states. The heart of the NAIC effort is a wide‐area client/server electronic network built around their Producer Data Base (PDB), which is designed to provide both regulators and industry with detailed, timely information on individual producers. The PDB spans a wide spectrum, from personal demographics to licenses and professional designations held, continuing education progress, and agency appointments, renewals and terminations, as well as complaints registered with and disciplinary actions taken by other regulators. This research investigates the development and implementation of the PDB/IRIN project. Though likely to be effective as a regulatory tool, we find significant risks exist in IRIN with regard to privacy, breach of confidentiality and reduced due‐process protection, as well as threats to important private personal interests such as individual credit histories. The expanded role of NAIC reflected in IRIN may run counter to the federalist ideal of continued state control of insurance regulation. We also anticipate structural changes, such as displacement of smaller, local producers and continuing education providers.
TORT REFORM AND MASS TORTS: TOBACCO AS AN EXAMPLE
Authors: Schmit Joan T.
Published: October 2008

Abstract: As data regarding the U.S. tort liability system become more refined and dependable, evidence of the importance of mass torts is emerging. Much of the impetus for and debate surrounding tort reform, however, has focused on individual tort claims. The purpose of this research is to consider the unique characteristics of mass torts, particularly those that generate from latent injuries, with regard to the likely effect of currently popular tort reforms. The various tobacco litigation efforts are employed as mechanisms within which to undertake this consideration. The results indicate that care in designing tort reforms is necessary if modifications are to be effective in reducing the litigation costs associated with mass torts. Furthermore, research into the social benefit of various system structures currently being debated is warranted. The risk management and insurance community is interested in the debate and related reforms, both for purposes of reducing costs and for the purpose of increasing certainty of liability outcomes.
MARKET POWER IN THE PROPERTY/CASUALTY INSURANCE INDUSTRY
Authors: Hogan Arthur M. B. , Witt Robert C.
Published: October 2008

Abstract: Pro‐consumer groups have charged that insurance firms are able to exercise market power to reduce coverage and/or increase rates. The ability of firms to earn economic rents (abnormal profits) is a factor in banks' interest in entering insurance markets. In classical economics such collusion is usually only possible with cartels. Recent work, examining the relationship between industry structure indicates that the power that can be exercised by cartels may be more limited than under the classical paradigms. We examine the ability of insurers to exercise market power in light of these modern theories.
RISK MANAGEMENT AND INSURANCE FACULTY INTERNSHIPS
Authors: Puleo Victor A.
Published: October 2008

Abstract: The author examines the benefits of faculty internships including professional development and improved teaching skills. He also examines the ARIA internship program.
CREATING VISIBILITY FOR INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS IN HIGH SCHOOLS
Authors: Warfel William J.
Published: October 2008

Abstract: The author describes how a Summer Honors Course in Insurance and Risk Management for outstanding high school students has been devised to create visibility for the Insurance and Risk Management Program at Indiana State University. As the author points out, the same type of course could be devised at other institutions that have both 1) a Summer Honors Program, and 2) a strong undergraduate program in insurance and risk management.
Levels of damage of Scots pine and Norway spruce caused by needle miners along a SO2 gradient
Authors: Oksanen J. , Holopainen J. K. , Nerg A. , Holopainen T.
Published: October 2008

Needle damages caused by mining insects on Scots pine and Norway spruce were studied in the vicinity or a pulp mill. The abundance of needles mined by the pine bud moth Exoteleia dodecella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) on Scots pine Pinus sylvestris, and the spruce needle miner Epinotia tedella (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) on Norway spruce Picea abies had a significantly peaked response curve on logarithmic distance scale. For pine bud moth, the maximum expected population density was estimated to be at the distance of 1.35 km from the factory. The maximum expected population density for the spruce needle miner was at the distance of 1.53 km from the factory. However, for both species the curves were significantly different among transects. Both species had a peaked and significant response to sulphur level in needles as well. The maximum expected density in pine was at 1270 ppm, and in spruce at 1070 ppm sulphur concentration in pine needles. The results are consistent with earlier reports demonstrating that these mining insects frequently attack trees suffering from air pollution. The nonlinear response of both species to distance from the pulp mill suggests that E. dodecella on pine and E. tedella on spruce are rather indicators of the zone of intermediate air pollution than of strongly polluted or nearly unpolluted sites. This also agrees with the plant stress‐insect performance hypothesis indicating that insect response varies with the magnitude of stress, and at very high stress levels a tree no longer provides the insects with relevant food.
Tree dynamics in a successional Alnus‐Fraxinus woodland
Authors: Tapper Per‐Göran
Published: October 2008

Ten years of dynamic changes in the deciduous woodland at Åsmansboda, an island in the outer archipelago of Stockholm, were recorded by monitoring of individual trees. The objective was to document the process of the replacement of Alnus glutinosa (alder) by Fraxinus excelsior (ash) during succession.

Some of the understorey ashes that were recruited to the canopy benefited from gaps formed by dead alders. Others reached the canopy in the absence of a gap in the strict sense, growing in the interspace between two or more alder crowns. Almost 25% of the recorded alders died during the study period. External disturbances or senescence were not major causes of mortality. In late stages of the succession alder mortality was preceded by a decrease in crown size, and significantly associated with overtopping by ashes. The ashes exceeded the alders a few m in height and could expand horizontally above the alder crowns.
Brood care in the dung beetleOnthophagus vacca(Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae): the effect of soil moisture on time budget, nest structure, and reproductive success
Authors: Sowig Peter
Published: October 2008

Under laboratory conditions brood care behaviour, nest structure and weight of dung supply in brood chambers of the dung beetleOnthophagus vccaproved to depend on water content of the soil beneath the dung. The substrate in a bucket beneath the dung pat was dry sand (4% water content) or moist sand (8% water content). Emigrating beetles were trapped and counted at 12 h intervals. In a total of 109 replicates one pair was released on an artificial 1000 g dung pat. From 95 replicates in which brood chambers were built the following results were derived: 1) Breeding females and resident males which helped the female stayed longer in dung pats on dry sand than in those on moist sand. 2) Nest architecture was influenced by substrate moisture: length of main tunnels did not differ between nests in dry and moist sand, but total length of side tunnels was shorter in dry sand. 3) Numbers of brood chambers were equal in both substrate types, weight of the dung supplies was larger in dry sand. 4) Offspring size was not only influenced by dung provision in the brood chambers. Beetles emerging from chambers in dry sand were smaller than those emerging from moist sand even if the amount of dung supply was equal.
The feeding habits of wolves in relation to large prey availability in northern Italy
Authors: Meriggi Alberto , Brangi Anna , Matteucci Carlo , Sacchi Oreste
Published: October 2008

We investigated wolf feeding habits in relation to the abundance of wild and domestic ungulates to test the hypothesis that large prey are preferred and that their abundance affects the use of other food categories and diet breadth. We determined diet composition by scat analysis from December 1987 to December 1992. The research was carried out in three study areas located in northern Italy and characterised by marked differences in wild and domestic ungulate abundance. In study area A (low wild and domestic ungulate availability) fruits, livestock, other vertebrates and wild ungulates made up the bulk of the diet (71% in volume). In area B (high availability of livestock) wolf diet was mainly based on sheep and wild boars (80% in volume). In study area C (high availability of wild ungulates) wild ungulates were the main food of wolves (90% in volume). Significant differences were found among study areas in the mean percentage volume of all food categories and in particular for wild ungulates, livestock, other vertebrates and fruits (p < 0.0001 in all cases). Diet breadth decreased in areas with high availability of large wild and domestic herbivores. The use of livestock species was lower where there was high abundance, richness and diversity of the wild ungulate guild. Selection for wild ungulate species was partially affected by their abundance: however other factors as prey social behaviour, adaptability to the habitat (for introduced species), and body size could have an important role in species selection by wolves. In particular in area C wild boars were selected for, roe and red deers avoided, and fallow deers and mouflons used as available. Livestock species were used in relation to their abundance and accessibility, in particular sheep were selected for and cattle avoided; but if calves bom in the pastures were considered as the only available cattle, they were selected for and sheep were used as available.

Large and in particular wild herbivores were found to be of great importance for the wolf population maintenance in northern Italy, one of the most important recovery areas of Mediterranean wolves.
Macroenvironmental factors as ultimate determinants of distribution of common toad and natterjack toad in the south of Spain
Authors: Romero Juana , Real Raimundo
Published: October 2008

We have analysed the relations between the distribution areas ofBufo bufoandBufo calamitain the south of the Iberian Peninsula. In order to characterise the localities where the species were found, we used 24 environmental variables, and we tested their influence on the distribution of both species by nonparametric methods. By means of logistic regression we calculated the odds of finding one or other species in a locality. The environmental parameters that increase the probability of presence of each species and of both species together are related with the climatic stability and with the climatic subregions.Bufo bufois more likely to be found in areas where the climate is more predictable, probably because in these areas it may exert its competitive superiority overB. calamita. In zones with very low climatic stabilityB. calamitais more likely to be found thanB. bufo, probably becauseB. bufolacks the ability to adapt to unpredictable conditions. In areas with intermediate climatic predictabilityB. bufois present, but it would be prevented from removingB. calamita, and so the odds of finding each species are equilibrated. In these areas there would be a balance between the superior competitiveness ofB. bufoand the higher adaptability ofB. calamita. With the same logistic equation we characterise the typical habitats of each species, and also the environments shared by both species.
Altitudinal effects on habitat selection of dung beetles (Scarabaeoidea: Aphodiidae) in the northern Iberian peninsula
Authors: Menéndez Rosa , Gutiérrez David
Published: October 2008

The effects or vegetation cover on the abundance and species richness of dung beetles (Aphodiidae) were examined in three altitudinal zones: lowland (520–600 m), mid‐altitude (950–963 m) and highland (1230–1275 m). Pitfall traps baited with fresh cattle dung were placed in three vegetation types at each altitudinal zone: forest, heathland and pasture. Species richness was lower in forests than in the other vegetation types. The total abundance of beetles also varied with vegetation type, but the effect was dependent on altitude. Number of individuals was higher in pasture at highlands and in heathland and forest at mid‐altitude and lowlands. An altitudinal dependence of distribution of individuals between vegetation types was also found for the more abundant species in the study area. These results could be explained if the local distribution of individuals between vegetation types was determined by microcli‐matic factors, mainly temperature. Differences in altitude between sites are associated with temperature changes, determining the habitat selection of species at each altitude.
Statistical approaches to interpreting diversity patterns in the Norwegian mountain flora
Authors: Birks H. J. B.
Published: October 2008

The richness of Norwegian mountain plants in 75 grid squares is mapped from published distributional data for 109 species. Eleven explanatory variables representing bedrock geology, geography and topography, climate, and history (relative abundance of unglaciated areas) Tor each square are used in multiple regression analysis with associated Monte Carlo permutation tests to find statistically significant predictor variables for species richness. The variance in richness explained by the four major groups or explanatory variables is established by (partial) multiple regression analysis in which the groups of predictors are entered in different orders. The variance in species richness explained by the predictor variables is partitioned into four independent components. A predictive model for species richness using partial least squares regression and all explanatory variables has a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.79. The statistical results consistently show that species‐richness patterns are well explained by modern‐day factors such as climate, geology, elevation, and geography without recourse to historical variables. The nunatak hypothesis of plant survival on unglaciated areas within Norway does not explain the observed richness patterns when modern ecological factors are considered first. The nunatak hypothesis thus appears to be redundant, a view supported by recent palaeobotanical. biosystematical, and evolutionary studies.