bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The N363S Polymorphism of the Glucocorticoid Receptor and Metabolic Syndrome Factors in Men
Authors: Buemann Benjamin , Black Eva , Holst Claus , Toubro Søren , Echwald Søren , Pedersen Oluf , Astrup Arne , Sørensen Thorkild
Published: April 2008

Objective: To test the associations between the N363S polymorphism of the glucocorticoid receptor gene (NR3C1) and factors related to the metabolic syndrome in middle‐aged men with and without juvenile‐onset obesity.

Research Methods and Procedures: This study included two groups of middle‐aged men, who were originally identified at 20 years of age at the draft boards. One group (n = 208; age, 48 ± 6 years) was selected on the basis of juvenile‐onset obesity (BMI ≥ 31 kg/m2). The other group consisted of mainly nonobese men randomly sampled from the same population in parallel with the obese men (n = 299; age, 50 ± 7 years). The subjects were genotyped for the N363S polymorphism by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism. Body composition was measured by DXA. Glucose metabolism was evaluated by an oral glucose tolerance test, and the Matsudas index was calculated as a proxy for insulin sensitivity. Serum triglycerides and total and high‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol were measured in the fasting state.

Results: Among the men with juvenile‐onset obesity, carriers (n = 17) of the 363S allele had a lower whole body fat percentage, after accounting for differences in BMI and higher Matsudas index, compared with the noncarriers. The difference in Matsudas index lost statistical significance after the difference in body fat was accounted for. In the randomly sampled men, these variables did not relate to genotype. No relationship between carriers and noncarriers was found in body fat distribution or serum lipids.

Discussion: This study suggests that, in men developing obesity early in life, the 363S allele is associated with less adiposity at a given BMI, leading to higher insulin sensitivity.
Temporal trends in use of fauna-friendly underpasses and overpasses
Authors: Bond Amy R. , Jones Darryl N.
Published: April 2008

The impact of roads on local biodiversity is a major issue associated with urbanisation. A major arterial road in the southern suburbs of Brisbane, south-east Queensland, was upgraded in 2004–05 from two to four lanes. In an attempt to minimise the impact of the larger road on local wildlife populations, a range of fauna crossing structures were constructed at the site. Monitoring of road-kill was undertaken for 4 months before construction and after the completion of construction. Assessment of the use of two underpasses and a large overpass (‘land-bridge’) started 6 months after construction using sand tracking in underpasses and scat sampling on the land-bridge. An initial 26-week period of intensive monitoring was undertaken from August 2005 to February 2006 followed by monthly monitoring from June 2006 to June 2007. On average, 1–5 tracks per day were detected in the underpasses at the start of the survey, increasing steadily to ~42 tracks per day by February 2006. The monthly survey showed regular use of the underpasses by a wide range of species and species-groups, the most abundant being ‘rodents’, most likely Rattus species, both native and introduced. The land-bridge was also used continuously by three species of macropod (red-necked wallaby, Macropus rufogriseus; swamp wallaby, Wallabia bicolor; and eastern grey kangaroo, Macropus giganteus) with brown hare (Lepus capensis) becoming increasingly common in summer 2006. The exclusion fencing was extremely effective in preventing most road-kill, at least of larger species, except following human-related breaches in the fence.
Injuries to lizards: conservation implications for the endangered pygmy bluetongue lizard (Tiliqua adelaidensis)
Authors: Fenner Aaron L. , Bull C. Michael , Hutchinson Mark N.
Published: April 2008

Understanding the potential threats of predation can play a crucial role in conservation management of threatened species. We investigated the frequency of sublethal injuries to live individuals of the endangered pygmy bluetongue lizard (Tiliqua adelaidensis). We found that there was no significant difference in the frequency of injury between males and females. However, there was a significant difference in injury frequency between adults and subadult animals and also between two close, but isolated, populations of pygmy bluetongue lizards. These data can be used, with caution, to understand the predation risks in natural populations of this species. They also suggest that predation would be a significant hazard that must be considered in any translocation program that is considered for this species.
Effects of single‐point amino acid substitutions on the structure and function neuraminidase proteins in influenza A virus
Authors: Yano Takuya , Nobusawa Eri , Nagy Alexander , Nakajima Setsuko , Nakajima Katsuhisa
Published: April 2008

In order to clarify the effect of amino acid substitutions on the structure and function of the neuraminidase (NA) protein of influenza A virus, we introduced single‐point amino acid substitutions into the NA protein of the A/Tokyo/3/67 (H2N2) strain using PCR‐based random mutation. The rate of tolerant random one amino acid substitutions in the NA protein was 47%. Rates of tolerant substitutions for the stalk and for the surface and inner portion of the head region of the NA protein were 79, 54, and 19%, respectively. Deleterious changes, such as those causing the NA protein to stop at the Golgi/endoplasmic reticulum, were scattered throughout the protein. On the other hand, the ratio of mutations with which the NA protein lost neuraminidase activity, but was transported to the cell surface, decreased in proportion to the distance from the structural center of enzyme active site. In order to investigate the effect of accumulated amino acid substitutions on the structural character of the N2NA protein during evolution, the same amino acid substitutions were introduced by site‐directed mutagenesis at 23 homologous positions on N2 proteins of A/Tokyo/3/67, A/Bangkok/15/85 (H3N2), and A/Mie/1/2004 (H3N2). The results showed a shift, or discordance, in tolerance at some of the positions. An increase in discordance was correlated with the interval in years between virus strains, and the discordance rate was estimated to be 0.6–0.7% per year.
The Fusarium mycotoxin deoxynivalenol elicits hydrogen peroxide production, programmed cell death and defence responses in wheat
Authors: DESMOND OLIVIA J. , MANNERS JOHN M. , STEPHENS AMBER E. , MACLEAN DONALD J. , SCHENK PEER M. , GARDINER DONALD M. , MUNN ALAN L. , KAZAN KEMAL
Published: April 2008

Fusarium species infect cereal crops worldwide and cause the important diseases Fusarium head blight and crown rot in wheat. Fusarium pathogens reduce yield and some species also produce trichothecene mycotoxins, such as deoxynivalenol (DON), during infection. These toxins play roles in pathogenesis on wheat and have serious health effects if present in grain consumed by humans or animals. In the present study, the response of wheat tissue to DON has been investigated. Infusion of wheat leaves with DON induced hydrogen peroxide production within 6 h followed by cell death within 24 h that was accompanied by DNA laddering, a hallmark of programmed cell death. In addition, real‐time PCR analysis revealed that DON treatment rapidly induced transcription of a number of defence genes in a concentration‐dependent manner. Co‐treatment with DON and the antioxidant ascorbic acid reduced these responses, suggesting their induction may be at least partially mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), commonly known to be signalling molecules in plants. Wheat defence genes were more highly expressed in wheat stems inoculated with a DON‐producing fungal strain than those inoculated with a DON‐non‐producing mutant, but only at a late stage of infection. Taken together, the results are consistent with a model in which DON production during infection of wheat induces ROS, which on the one hand may stimulate programmed host cell death assisting necrotrophic fungal growth, whereas, on the other hand, the ROS may contribute to the induction of antimicrobial host defences.
Radioiodine therapy (RAI) for Graves’ disease (GD) and the effect on ophthalmopathy: a systematic review*
Authors: Acharya Shamasunder H. , Avenell Alison , Philip Sam , Burr Jennifer , Bevan John S. , Abraham Prakash
Published: April 2008

Background  An association between radioiodine therapy (RAI) for Graves’ disease (GD) and the development or worsening of Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) is widely quoted but there has been no systematic review of the evidence.

Aims  We undertook a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess whether RAI for GD is associated with increased risk of ophthalmopathy compared with antithyroid drugs (ATDs) or surgery. We also assessed the efficacy of glucocorticoid prophylaxis in the prevention of occurrence or progression of ophthalmopathy, when used with RAI.

Methods  We identified RCTs regardless of language or publication status by searching six databases and trial registries. Dual, blinded data abstraction and quality assessment were undertaken. Random effects meta‐analyses were used to combine the study data. Ten RCTs involving 1136 patients permitted 13 comparisons. Two RCTs compared RAI with ATD. Two RCTs compared RAI with thyroidectomy. Four RCTs compared the use of adjunctive ATD with RAI vs. RAI. Five RCTs examined the use of glucocorticoid prophylaxis with RAI.

Results  RAI was associated with an increased risk of ophthalmopathy compared with ATD [relative risk (RR) 4·23; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2·04–8·77] but compared with thyroidectomy, there was no statistically significant increased risk (RR 1·59, 95% CI 0·89–2·81). The risk of severe GO was also increased with RAI compared with ATD (RR 4·35; 95% CI 1·28–14·73). Prednisolone prophylaxis for RAI was highly effective in preventing the progression of GO in patients with pre‐existing GO (RR 0·03; 95% CI 0·00–0·24). The use of adjunctive ATD with RAI was not associated with any significant benefit on the course of GO.

Conclusion  RAI for GD is associated with a small but definite increased risk of development or worsening of Graves’ ophthalmopathy compared with ATDs. Steroid prophylaxis is beneficial for patients with pre‐existing GO.
Effects of T4 replacement therapy on glucose metabolism in subjects with subclinical (SH) and overt hypothyroidism (OH)
Authors: Handisurya Ammon , Pacini Giovanni , Tura Andrea , Gessl Alois , Kautzky‐Willer Alexandra
Published: April 2008

Objective  To evaluate β‐cell function and insulin sensitivity in subjects with overt (OH) and subclinical hypothyroidism (SH) before and after T4 replacement therapy.

Background  Disturbances in glucose metabolism have been observed in hypothyroid states. However, the clinical significance and potential reversibility of these alterations by T4 replacement therapy remain to be elucidated especially in patients with SH.

Design and patients  Parameters of glucose metabolism have been investigated in subjects with OH (n = 12) and SH (n = 11). Insulin sensitivity has been assessed by the euglycaemic–hyperinsulinaemic clamp technique and β‐cell function by mathematical modelling of data derived from an oral glucose tolerance test.

Results  Fasting and dynamic glycaemia as assessed by the AUCGlucose remained unaltered following substitution therapy (P > 0·05). Insulin sensitivity significantly improved only in subjects with OH (P < 0·05). Fasting insulin and proinsulin concentrations increased proportionally in both groups (P < 0·05) with the proinsulin : insulin ratio remaining unchanged (P > 0·05). Total insulin secretion was higher in OH before initiation of therapy (P < 0·05). In both groups, dynamic parameters including total insulin secretion, hepatic insulin extraction and the adaptation index were significantly attenuated (P < 0·05) after restoration of thyroid function, whereas the disposition index and the basal insulin secretion rate remained unaltered (P > 0·05).

Conclusion  In summary, SH and OH are characterized by attenuated basal plasma insulin levels and increased glucose‐induced insulin secretion. T4 replacement therapy partially ameliorates the insulin secretion profile and reduces the demand on pancreatic β‐cells after glucose challenge to an extent that exceeds any effect attributable to the improvement in insulin sensitivity.
Spontaneous mutagenesis associated with nucleotide excision repair in Escherichia coli
Authors: Hasegawa Kimiko , Yoshiyama Kaoru , Maki Hisaji
Published: April 2008

The vast majority of spontaneous mutations occurring in Escherichia coli are thought to be derived from spontaneous DNA lesions, which include oxidative base damage. Systems for removing intrinsic mutagens and repairing DNA lesions contribute to the suppression of spontaneous mutations. Nucleotide excision repair (NER) is a general DNA repair system that eliminates various kinds of lesions from DNA. We therefore predicted that NER might be involved in suppression of spontaneous mutations, and analyzed base substitutions occurring spontaneously within the rpoB gene in NER‐proficient (wild‐type), ‐deficient and ‐overproducing E. coli strains. Surprisingly, the mutation frequency was lower in NER‐deficient strains, and higher in NER‐overproducing strains, than in the NER‐proficient strain. These results suggest, paradoxically, that NER contributes to the generation of spontaneous mutation rather than to its suppression under normal growth conditions, and that transcription‐coupled repair also participates in this process. Using E. coli strains that carried an editing exonuclease‐deficient polA mutation, we further obtained data suggesting that unnecessary NER might account for these findings, so that errors introduced during repair DNA synthesis by DNA polymerase I would result in unwanted base substitutions. The repair system itself may thus be an important generator of spontaneous mutation.
Distribution of the Dormouse Muscardinus avellanarius in Wales, on the edge of its range
Authors: BRIGHT P.W.
Published: April 2008

A questionnaire, data from a public participation survey, past records and nestbox counts were used to review Dormouse distribution and status in Wales. At the turn of the century Dormice were reported from all Welsh counties. In the three decades from 1940 they were known from only seven 1‐km squares; this rose to 26 squares in the 1970s after a Mammal Society survey. Dormice are currently (1990–93) known from 107 1‐km squares, only 0.5% of Wales, and are clearly rare. They have recently been ‘rediscovered’ in North Wales and Glamorgan. However, despite an increase in recording effort, very few sites have been found in northern Wales, implying a decline in status, and relatively few in the west compared to the east. Large tracts of Dyfed and Powys, where there is some suitable habitat, seem to lack Dormice.

More than half of known Dormouse sites are in the deciduous margins of conifer plantations (36%) or in oak Quercus spp. woods (22%), both likely to be poor‐quality habitats. Population densities at three sites are within the range of those measured in England. Forty per cent of known sites had some protected status, but 53% of sites were considered threatened, due to clear felling during forestry operations or lack of coppice woodland management.

Dormouse distribution in Wales, on the western edge of the species' distributional range, seems to be strongly restricted by habitat suitability and climate. Many populations are likely to be threatened by replanting of ancient woodland and subsequent management harmful to the Dormouse's needs. Only 11% of ancient woodlands in Wales are large (> 20 ha). Dormice may therefore often occur in small woods, where their survival is likely to depend critically on the maintenance of hedgerows between woods. A programme of practical conservation and research is proposed to safeguard Dormouse populations.
The winter diet and parasitic fauna of a population of Rednecked Wallabies Macropus rufogriseus recently introduced to Scotland
Authors: WEIR ALISON , MCLEOD JAYNE , ADAMS COLIN E.
Published: April 2008

Although the Red‐necked Wallaby is native to south‐east Australia and Tasmania, at least four colonies have become established in the UK and two of these still survive. Here we provide the first account of a colony that became established following the deliberate release of four individuals to an island in Loch Lomond, Scotland in 1975. Data presented here show that this population is well established, having grown to at least 26 individuals by 1992. Wallaby diet in winter (a critical period for survival in the other remaining UK population) is composed of Blaeberry Vaccinium myrtillus and Heather Calluna vulgaris, each making up 35% of the plant fragments by occurrence in faecal pellets, with grasses making up a further 13%. Two species of parasitic coccidian protozoa and four species of strongyle nematode were found in faecal samples from this colony but the infection rate was low compared with what limited published data exist for this species. The possible reasons for the success of this most northerly of the UK wallaby populations are its isolation, the maritime climate and vegetation structure of the inhabited area.
Courtship behaviour in Macropodoidea (kangaroos, wallabies and rat Kangaroos) — phylogenetic and ecological influences on ritualization
Authors: Gansloßer Udo
Published: April 2008

The courtship and sexual behaviour in Macropodoidea (kangaroos, wallabies and rat‐kangaroos) is reviewed. Data from studies on free‐ranging and captive animals are included, because comparisons revealed no significant differences in type and pattern of behavioural elements. The use of sequential analysis permits quantitative comparisons between species as well as between age classes of any given species, with regard to aspects such as fixation, repetition and predictability of displays, but also with regard to homologies in behaviour.

Mating systems in macropodoids, depending on distribution of resources for females, are diverse with respect to male/male competition. Correlating with basic types of the mating system, a variable degree of length and complexity in courtship is found. An attempt to compare the degree of ritualization is made by attributing point‐scores (on fixation, exaggeration, incompleteness and predictability of courtship sequences). The resulting point‐score is compared with a phylogenetic tree of the super‐family and with the basic types of mating systems to discuss influences of phylogeny and mate acquisition on ritualization processes.
Dinucleotide repeat polymorphisms of RAD51, BRCA1, BRCA2 gene regions in breast cancer
Authors: Nowacka‐Zawisza Maria , Brys Magdalena , Romanowicz‐Makowska Hanna , Kulig Andrzej , Krajewska Wanda M.
Published: April 2008

Recent studies suggest that genetic polymorphisms of the DNA repair genes have been implicated in breast cancer risk. BRCA1 and BRCA2, two breast cancer susceptibility genes, are essential to maintain chromosomal integrity. This is mediated via regulation of RAD51 during homologous recombination. Dinucleotide polymorphism repeats in the 15q14–21, 17q21 and 13q12–13 regions, where the RAD51, BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are located, respectively, have been evaluated. The polymorphism was determined using the following microsatellite markers: D15S118, D15S214, D15S1006, D17S855, D17S1323, D13S260 and D13S290. Genotypes containing the (CA)17 or (CA)19 alleles in the RAD51 region were found to be associated with a decreased breast cancer risk. Genotype containing the (CA)17 allele in the 13q12–13 region was found to be associated with an increased breast cancer risk. The results indicate that dinucleotide CA repeat polymorphism at RAD51 and BRCA2 gene regions might be associated with genetic susceptibility to breast cancer.
Lymphatic invasion according to D2‐40 immunostaining is a strong predictor of nodal metastasis in superficial squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus: Algorithm for risk of nodal metastasis based on lymphatic invasion
Authors: Tomita Natsumi , Matsumoto Toshiharu , Hayashi Takuo , Arakawa Atsushi , Sonoue Hiroshi , Kajiyama Yoshiaki , Tsurumaru Masahiko
Published: April 2008

In squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the esophagus, D2‐40 immunostaining has recently been used to detect lymphatic invasion, but invasion detected using D2‐40 immunostaining for a predictor of nodal metastasis was controversial. Therefore, the usefulness of detecting lymphatic invasion by D2‐40 immunostaining as a predictor of nodal metastasis was examined in superficial (mucosal and submucosal) SCC of the esophagus. A total of 115 superficial SCC of the esophagus were examined on immunohistochemistry using D2‐40. It was found that lymphatic invasion demonstrated on D2‐40 immunostaining was mainly detected in the lamina propria mucosa. Lymphatic invasion was found in 37 cases and the invasion detected in the entire tumor tissue was statistically correlated with nodal metastasis. Based on the lymphatic invasion according to D2‐40 immunostaining, an algorithm was devised for the risk (low, intermediate and high) of nodal metastases in superficial SCC in the esophagus. In conclusion, the detection of lymphatic invasion on D2‐40 immunostaining in tumor tissue is a strong predictor for nodal metastasis in superficial SCC of the esophagus. Lymphatic invasion was found mainly in the lamia propria mucosa, thus the devised algorithm is useful for determining the optimal treatment strategy after endoscopic mucosal resection for esophageal SCC.
Galactosialidosis associated with IgA nephropathy: Morphological study of renal biopsy
Authors: Koike Kentaro , Hamaguchi Takeshi , Kitamura Hiroshi , Imasawa Toshiyuki , Joh Kensuke
Published: April 2008

Galactosialidosis is an autosomal recessive lysosomal disease associated with a deficiency of β‐galactosidase and neuraminidase. Described herein is the case of a young adult who had been diagnosed with galactosialidosis at 8 years of age. At the age of 30 years, proteinuria and hematuria appeared and the patient underwent a renal biopsy 1 year later. Light microscopy of the kidney sections indicated fine granular contents in the cytoplasm of glomerular endothelial and epithelial cells, arteriolar smooth muscles and proximal tubular epithelial cells on periodic acid silver–methenamin (PAM) stain. Electron microscopy of these cells indicated enlarged, smooth endoplasmic reticulum and lysosomes containing 150 nm‐wide rods with a fine lattice structure at 66 Å periodicity. Moreover, electron‐dense deposits were located in the paramesangial area. Immunofluorescence staining indicated diffuse and global anti‐human IgA and C3‐positive staining as a mesangial pattern. Given these findings this patient was therefore diagnosed with both galactosialidosis and IgA nephropathy. This is the first report to describe light and electron microscopy observations of storage materials in the kidneys in young/adult galactosialidosis.
Sclerosing variant of epithelioid angiomyolipoma
Authors: Matsuyama Atsuji , Hisaoka Masanori , Ichikawa Kazuhito , Fujimori Takahiro , Udo Kazuma , Uchihashi Kazuyoshi , Aoki Shigehisa , Hashimoto Hiroshi
Published: April 2008

Presented herein are two unusual epithelioid angiomyolipomas (AML) displaying prominent stromal sclerosis. Both patients were middle‐aged women without a clinical history of tuberous sclerosis. One patient (case 1) had a 2 cm lesion arising in the renal cortex, and another (case 2) had a pararenal retroperitoneal tumor measuring 13 cm. Both tumors were composed of sheets or nests of polygonal epithelioid or short spindle cells having uniform round to oval nuclei and eosinophilic cytoplasm with cords of hyalinized sclerotic stroma between them. The tumor in case 2 had small areas of mature‐looking fat cells. Immunohistochemically, epithelioid tumor cells were diffusely positive for actins and desmin in both cases, and melanoma antigen recognized by T cells (MART)‐1 was positive in patient 2. Scattered HMB‐45‐immunoreactive cells were identified in the sclerotic cords of both tumors, but epithelioid tumor cells were essentially negative for HMB‐45. The characteristic clinicopathological and immunohistochemical features of the present cases are analogous to a subset of epithelioid AML or sclerosing perivascular epithelioid cell tumors previously reported.
Light affects motility and infectivity of Agrobacterium tumefaciens
Authors: Oberpichler Inga , Rosen Ran , Rasouly Aviram , Vugman Michal , Ron Eliora Z. , Lamparter Tilman
Published: April 2008

Response to changes in light conditions involves a variety of receptors that can modulate gene expression, enzyme activity and/or motility. For the study of light‐regulated effects of Agrobacterium tumefaciens, we used a global analysis approach – proteomics – and compared the protein patterns of dark‐ and light‐grown bacteria. These analyses revealed a significant reduction of FlaA and FlaB – proteins of the flagellum – when the cells were grown in light. The light effect was confirmed by SDS‐PAGE with isolated flagella. Quantitative PCR experiments showed a 10‐fold increase of the transcription level of flaA, flaB and flaC within 20 min after the transfer from light to darkness. Electron microscopy revealed that these molecular events result in a light‐induced reduction of the number of flagella per cell. These changes have major physiological consequences regarding motility, which is considerably reduced with exposure to light. The inhibitory effect of light on the motility is not unique to A. tumefaciens and was also seen in other species of the Rhizobiaceae. Previous studies suggested that the flagella function is significant for bacteria–plant interactions and bacterial virulence. In our studies, light reduced the attachment of A. tumefaciens to tomato roots and the virulence of the bacteria in a cucumber infection assay.
Spatio‐temporal niche separation of planktonic Betaproteobacteria in an oligo‐mesotrophic lake
Authors: Salcher Michaela M. , Pernthaler Jakob , Zeder Michael , Psenner Roland , Posch Thomas
Published: April 2008

We investigated the diversity of planktonic Betaproteobacteria and the seasonal population changes of betaproteobacterial taxa in an oligo‐mesotrophic lake (Piburger See, Austria). Focus was put on the vertical distribution of the investigated populations and on differences between their respective cell fractions with apparent amino acid incorporation. On average, 66% of betaproteobacterial cells and 73% of their diversity could be attributed to four clades within three lineages that were further analysed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. The numbers of bacteria from the R‐BT subclade of the beta I lineage and from the PnecB subgroup of the beta II lineage were rather constant throughout the water column. In contrast, members of another subgroup of beta II (PnecC) and bacteria related to Methylophilus (beta IV) were particularly numerous in the oxygen‐depleted zone. In general, only moderate seasonal changes in abundance were observed in the upper water layers, whereas there was a clear relationship between decreasing oxygen levels and the rise of bacteria from the PnecC and beta IV clades in deeper strata. On average, almost 80% of beta I bacteria, but < 15% of cells from the beta IV clade, showed amino acid incorporation. Our results suggest that the studied populations occupy distinct vertical and ecophysiological niches in Piburger See.
Reading Proficiency and Orthography Evidence from Hebrew and English
Authors: Shimron Joseph , Sivan Tamar
Published: April 2008

We conducted two experiments to test whether the orthography of readers’ first or second languages affects their reading time and comprehension in each. In both experiments, very skilled bilinguals read texts translated from Hebrew to English, or from English to Hebrew. Half the texts were originally written in Hebrew and the other half in English. In the first experiment, 24 native Hebrew speakers read two passages of four texts in the Hebrew version. Each read one of the texts voweled and the other one unvoweled. Twelve native English speakers read two passages from the same four texts in English. Participants in the study were either students or teachers at the University of Haifa. The English native speakers read the EngLish texts significantly faster than the native Hebrew speakers read the same texts in their Hebrew version. The origin of the text (English or Hebrew) and vowelization were nonsignificant, as was any interaction between the main factors. The comprehension of the Hebrew voweled texts was nearly significantly better than was the comprehension of the Hebrew unvoweled texts.

In the second experiment, 24 advanced bilingual, Hebrew native speakers read two passages in Hebrew (one voweled and the other unvoweled) and two in English. Again, the reading time in English was significantly shorter. Post‐hoc comparisons showed that readingtime was shorter in English than in unvoweled Hebrew, but not shorter than in voweled Hebrew. Comprehension of English was not significantly different from comprehension of voweled Hebrew, but was significantly better than comprehension of unvoweled Hebrew.
Functional Categories and Acquisition Orders
Authors: Zobl Helmut , Liceras Juana
Published: April 2008

We analyzed some earlier studies of English L1 and L2 morpheme orders, basing our analysis on current functional categories theory. Our analysis meets two long‐standing charges against morpheme order data; namely, that the heterogeneity of the morphemes does not yield up any insights into L2 acquisition and that the English language‐based orders lack generalizability.

We suggest that the salient differences between the L1 and the L2 orders reduce to a number of simple contrasts. These involve (a) the category‐specific emergence of functional categories in L1 versus their cross‐category development in L2; (b) an L2 ordering hinging crucially on the lexical head versus inflectional head distinction in L2 and its absence in L1; (c) the at least coequal, or possibly even spearheading, role that inflections play vis‐à‐vis free functional categories in L1 versus the earlier and independent emergence of the latter in L2; and (d) the apparently greater difficulty that affix‐movement poses for L2 learners.
Stability of nonlinear AR‐GARCH models
Authors: Meitz Mika , Saikkonen Pentti
Published: April 2008

Abstract.  This article studies the stability of nonlinear autoregressive models with conditionally heteroskedastic errors. We consider a nonlinear autoregression of order p [AR(p)] with the conditional variance specified as a nonlinear first‐order generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity [GARCH(1,1)] model. Conditions under which the model is stable in the sense that its Markov chain representation is geometrically ergodic are provided. This implies the existence of an initial distribution such that the process is strictly stationary and β‐mixing. Conditions under which the stationary distribution has finite moments are also given. The results cover several nonlinear specifications recently proposed for both the conditional mean and conditional variance, and only require mild moment conditions.
House Building in the South Wales Coalfield, 1851‐19131
Authors: Richards J. Hamish , Lewis J. Parry
Published: April 2008

This paper attempts to plot the course of residential building in the South Wales Coalfield2 during the period 1851‐1913. The primary material is similar to that used by the late Mr. Bernard Weber in his path‐breaking article, “A New Index of Residential Construction, 1838‐1950.”3

One of the duties imposed on local authorities by the Health Act of 1848 was the drawing up, and enforcement, of Building Bye‐Laws, based on model bye‐laws issued by the Central Board of Health. Before any building could be erected, the local boards, guided by the Surveyors, had to approve the plan. Many local authorities have records showing details of the plans approved, and these form the main source of our information.
The Bank Rate Tribunal Evidence: A Symposium
Authors: Devons. Ely
Published: April 2008

The evidence taken by the Tribunal of Inquiry into allegations of a “leakage” of information about the increase in Bank rate to 7%on September 19th, 1957, contains much that is of interest not only to economists but to other social scientists as well. Its publication prompted members of the Faculty of Economics and Social Studies in the University of Manchester to hold a series of seminars, to explore the evidence successively from the point of view of the economist, the political scientist, and the sociologist. The three papers which follow are the consequence of the experiment.
THE WORK OF HARRIET ANN JEVONS (1838–1910) AFTER HER HUSBAND'S DEATH
Authors: KÖNEKAMP ROSAMOND
Published: April 2008

“DEAD! For the old pale mystery once again Sits silent on cold lips. Mere swoon of will Beneath a tyrannous wave,—can such thing kill At once the noble heart and strenuous brain…”
AGGREGATE DYNAMICS IN AN OPEN ECONOMY *
Authors: BHANDARI JAGDEEP S.
Published: April 2008

“The most serious deficiency, from the point of view of exchange dynamics, may be the assumption that export and import values react instantaneously to changes in prices and the exchange rate, while in reality, this reaction is distributed over a number of years.” (Jiirg Niehans, Journal of Political Economy, December 1977.)
R & D, INTERNATIONAL PRODUCTION AND TRADE THE TECHNOLOGICAL GAP THEORY IN A FACTOR‐ENDOWMENT MODEL
Authors: KATRAK HOMI
Published: April 2008

This paper has developed a simple model to examine three questions about the TG theory of international trade. First, to examine some reasons for inter‐country differences in the levels of R&D, secondly, whether the Heckscher‐OhIin and Human Skills theories' view of free exogenous technology has any role in the TG theory and, thirdly, whether the TG and HS theories make similar predictions about the basis and pattern of trade,

Skilled labour was assigned a dual role, namely, as an input in production as well as in R & D. A firm undertaking R&D must decide on the allocation of skilled labour between production and R&D. The optimum allocation requires that the marginal revenue product of skilled labour be equal in its two activities.

The optimum allocation was used to analyse the first and second of the above questions. It was shown that inter‐country differences in the level of R&D may arise because of differences in the endowment of skilled labour and/or in factor efficiency. Moreover, those influences cause more than proportionate differences in the level of R & D. This more than proportionate effect arises because the endogenous technology, generated by R & D, builds upon the exogenous free technology of the Heckscher‐Ohlin theory. Demand conditions in home and/or foreign markets were considered as a third possible influence on R & D.

The analyses also examined how a firm's optimal allocation of skilled labour could be affected by certain influences, such as involvement in foreign trade, entry of rival firms and government regulation.

Although the theoretical findings of the paper have not yet been empirically tested, there is some indirect support from the evidence of an earlier industry‐level study and, moreover, the findings could also be consistent with some recent empirical results that have shown a two‐way relationship between R&D and trade. Finally, the findings suggested alternative scenarios where the TG and HS theories may make different predictions about the basis and pattern of trade.
EXPECTATIONS, LEARNING AND THE KALMAN FILTER
Authors: CUTHBERTSON KEITH
Published: April 2008

Our final comments can be relatively brief. In assessing the empirical importance of expectations variables in macroeconomic behavioural equations, a variety of “expectations models” should be used. To date, the Muth‐rational expectations approach has dominated the empirical literature. A major drawback, however, is the lack of an explicit optimal learning process by agents. We have attempted to remedy this by bringing together various diverse strands in the expectations, statistics and engineering literature to formalize models that embody “optimal information extraction” by agents faced with a stochastic environment. The Khan filter provides a unified method of approaching these problems and in this paper we presented the Kalman filter in terms of the usual least squares approach familiar to applied economists. Relatively inexpensive econometric software which utilizes recursive estimation techniques has recently become available. It is hoped that this paper has provided a framework favourable to its use by applied economists particularly in investigating the role of expectations variables in economic models.
WESTERGAARD, JEVONS AND AN EARLY CONTRIBUTION TO CONSTRAINED OPTIMIZATION*
Authors: LOGAN BOB , SHIEH YEUNG‐NAN
Published: April 2008

Two or three correspondents, especially Herr Harald Westergaard of Copenhagen, have pointed out that a little manipulation of the symbols, in accordance with the simple rules of the differential calculus, would often give results which I have laboriously argued out. The whole question is one of maxima and minima, the mathematical conditions of which are familiar to mathematicians. (W. S. Jevons, The Theory of Political Economy (TPE2), 1879, p. xiii).
IGNORANT SPECULATION AND IMMORAL RISKS:MACHEATHS, TURPINS AND THE COMMERCIAL CLASSES IN NINETEENTH‐CENTURY THEORIES OF ECONOMIC FLUCTUATIONS*
Authors: PEART SANDRA J.
Published: April 2008

… it must not be forgotten that the tendencies whose order of progression has been sketched, operate upon the broad aggregate of the commercial investing community,–not upon the exceptional Macheaths and Turpins who infest its ranks, and whose predatory instincts know no orderly succession of phases, but are unchangeably vicious and vigilant. A parallel reflection applies to the suggested remedy. Ameliorate the general mental conditions of commerce, and you proportionately limit the sphere and powers of designing knaves. (Mills, 1867, p. 40).
‘I'm Not Just a Housewife’: Gendered Roles and Identities in the Home‐Based Hospitality Enterprise
Authors: Di Domenico MariaLaura
Published: April 2008

This article explores an under‐researched form of commercial hospitality provision by analysing the gender dynamics in the distinctive occupational setting of the home. The primary contribution is to extend understanding of traditionally female occupations by adding to accounts in the literature on gendered identities and occupational roles in small and micro enterprises. It is based on in‐depth interview findings from 33 home‐based commercial hospitality proprietors in Scotland. These enterprises perform the twin functions of private home and providing revenue‐generating, short‐term accommodation. The findings reveal three broad categories of proprietor; the female sole proprietor, proprietor couples and the male sole proprietor, all of whom reinforce traditional gender‐based roles and stereotypes. As an extension of domestic labour, commercial ‘home hosting’ is inherently gendered. It is argued that this is very pronounced in home‐based commercial hospitality where home and business spheres overlap.
Definition of the capsular insertion plane on the proximal humerus
Authors: Amadi Hippolite O. , Sanghavi Sanjay M. , Kamineni Srinath , Skourat Roman , Hansen Ulrich N. , Bull Anthony M. J.
Published: April 2008

The aim of this work was quantitatively to establish the relationship between the plane that hosts the humeral head lateral margin (anatomical neck) and that of the capsular insertion. Eight cadaveric shoulders were used. These were dissected, exposing the humeral head margin and the root of the capsular humeral insertion to extract digitally their outlines using a mechanical 3‐d digitizer. The datasets of the digitized outlines were applied and the geometric planes they best fitted mathematically calculated. Vector analysis techniques were finally applied to the two planes to quantify the relationship between them. The humeral head margin is circular (± 2.2% of radius), having each of its outlining points on the same plane (within ± 1.5 mm.) The capsular attachment outlining points also insert on a plane (± 1.4 mm). The two planes are related to one another by an inclination of 14.5 ± 3.6°. The relationship described here would allow for in vivo prediction of humeral attachment of capsular structures by using radiological datasets of the anatomical neck. This would be useful in patient‐specific modelling to study and understand the glenohumeral ligament kinematics during clinical examinations and to plan surgical reconstructive procedures.
Immediate single‐tooth implants in the anterior maxilla: a 1‐year case cohort study on hard and soft tissue response
Authors: De Rouck Tim , Collys Kristiaan , Cosyn Jan
Published: April 2008

Aim: The objective of the present study was to assess implant survival rate, hard and soft tissue response and aesthetic outcome 1 year after immediate placement and provisionalization of single‐tooth implants in the pre‐maxilla. All patients underwent the same strategy, that is mucoperiosteal flap elevation, immediate implant placement, insertion of a grafting material between the implant and the socket wall and the connection of a screw‐retained provisional restoration.

Material and Methods: Thirty consecutive patients were treated for single‐tooth replacement in the aesthetic zone by means of immediate implant placement and provisionalization. Reasons for tooth loss included caries, periodontitis or trauma. At 6 months, provisional crowns were replaced by the permanent ones. Clinical and radiographic evaluation was completed at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months to assess implant survival and complications, hard and soft tissue parameters and patient's aesthetic satisfaction.

Results: One implant had failed at 1 month of follow‐up, resulting in an implant survival rate of 97%. Radiographic examination yielded 0.98 mm mesial, respectively, 0.78 mm distal bone loss. Midfacial soft tissue recession and mesial/distal papilla shrinkage were 0.53, 0.41and 0.31 mm, respectively. Patient's aesthetic satisfaction was 93%.

Conclusions: The preliminary results suggest that the proposed strategy can be considered to be a valuable treatment option in well‐selected patients.
Clinical changes in periodontium during pregnancy and post‐partum
Authors: Gürsoy Mervi , Pajukanta Riitta , Sorsa Timo , Könönen Eija
Published: April 2008

Background and Aim: Pregnancy has been presented to increase susceptibility to gingival inflammation. It is unclear whether pregnancy gingivitis exposes or proceeds to periodontitis. We examined longitudinally the severity of periodontal changes during pregnancy and post‐partum, and compared the findings with an age‐matched group of non‐pregnant women.

Material and Methods: Thirty generally healthy, non‐smoking women at an early phase of their pregnancy and 24 non‐pregnant women as controls were recruited. The pregnant group was examined three times during pregnancy and twice during post‐partum, and the non‐pregnant group three times, once per subsequent month. At each visit, visible plaque index (VPI), bleeding on probing (BOP), probing pocket depth (PPD), and clinical attachment level (CAL) were measured from six sites per tooth.

Results: In the pregnant group, BOP and PPD increased simultaneously without relation to plaque between the first and second trimesters, and thereafter decreased during subsequent visits. No changes were detected in CAL during the study period. In the non‐pregnant group, BOP stayed invariable during the follow‐up and correlated with the amount of plaque. Neither periodontal pocket formation nor significant changes in attachment levels were observed.

Conclusion: Based on this study, changes in clinical parameters during pregnancy are reversible, indicating that pregnancy gingivitis does not predispose or proceed to periodontitis.
Diarrhoea‐related morbidity and rotavirus infection in France
Authors: Desennclos JC , Rebière I , Letrillard L , Flahault A , Hubert B
Published: April 2008

To assess the importance of diarrhoea in France and, speecifically, rotavirus‐related diarrhoea among children, we reviewed data obtained from three complementary sources; (1) general practitioner (GP) sentinel surveillance; (2) hospital discharge data from paediatric hospitals; and (3) laboratory based surveillance. The GP sentinel network is based on 500 physicians who electronically notify new cases of eight illnesses, including diarrhoea, each week. It was estimated that abour 3.3 million patients seek medical attention for diarrhoea from their GP each year, with a winter outbreak associated with an increased rate of isolation of rotavirus. A national system of hospital discharge diagnosis was used to estimate the burden of diarrhoeal morbidity in two paediatric wards in Tours, France. Between 1994 and 1996, 1164 patients under 15 y of age (9.7% of all admissions) were dehydrated and 52% were under 1 y old. Hospital admissions had a seasonal pattern similar to notifications from sentinel GP for children under 5 y old. A centralized laboratory surveillance network representing 17 of the 22 French regions describes a rotavirus outbreak each winter that is concomitant of outbreaks detected by the GP sentinel network and seen in hospitals. Most of the isolates (98%) identified through this surveillance system are among children under 5 y of age. All the data reviewed in this study indicate that the epidemiology of rotavirus diarrhoea in France fits well with what has been reported in other developed countries. □Diarrhoea, general practice, hospitalization, rotavirus
Occurrennce and impact of community‐acquired and nosocomial rotavirus infections — a hospital‐based study over 10 y
Authors: Berner R , Schumacher RF , Hameister S , Forster J
Published: April 2008

The need for a rotavirus vaccine in any particular country depends primarily on the number of hospitalized cases. Since only limited data are available for Germany, we undertook a retrospective hospital‐based analysis in order to gather further information. From 1987 through 1996, a total of 3618 inpatients were hospitalized with a diagnosis of gastroenteritis (ICD 9). In 892 (25%) of them the causative organism wasa rotavirus. During the same period, 1886 (out of 8383; 22%) stool speciment tested in the hospital laboratory were obtained from rotavirus‐positive inpatients. In 49.2% the infection was community‐acquired, and in the remainder of nosocomial origin. Infants under 4 months of age(n=709; 38%) predominated among both the nosocomial and community‐acquired infections. Premature neonates made up 26% of the nosocomial, but only 2% of the community‐acquired cases of diarrhoea. The winter peak (January) was most pronounced in the age group 4‐12 months, but in those more than 1 y old the peak came a month later. The median hospitalization time for community‐acquired cases was 4 d (mean 5.9 d).The mortality was 0.1%. Rotavirus infection must therefore be regarded as a considerable burden, particularly with regard to infants and young children. Furthermore, the morbidity due to nosocomial infection with the rotavirus, analysed here in a long‐term observational study, is unexpectedly high. □Hospital‐based study, nosocomial infection, rotavirus