bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scanning Electron Microscopic Study of the Lingual Papillae in the Arctic Fox (Alopex lagopus L., 1758)
Authors: Jackowiak H. , Godynicki S. , Skieresz‐Szewczyk K. , Trzcielińska‐Lorych J.
Published: August 2009

This study aims to show the distribution and the three‐dimensional structure of the lingual papillae in the arctic fox. The macro‐ and microscopic structure of the tongue and its lingual papillae was studied in 11 adult arctic foxes. Two types of mechanical papillae were distinguished on the dorsal surface of the tongue – filiform papillae and conical papillae. The gustatory papillae in the arctic fox are represented by fungiform, vallate and foliate papillae. The keratinized filiform papillae on the anterior part of tongue are composed of one big posterior process accompanied by 10–12 secondary anterior processes. The number of anterior processes of filiform papillae undergo a complete reduction within the area between the posterior part of the body of the tongue and area of the vallate papillae. The conical papillae cover the whole dorsal surface of the root of the tongue, including the lateral parts surrounding the area of the vallate papillae and the posterior part of the root. The size of the conical papillae increases towards the root of the tongue but their density decreases. In the arctic fox, there are three pairs of vallate papillae distributed on the plan of a triangle. The diameter of vallate papillae in each successive pair is bigger. The wall surrounding the body of the vallate papilla and its gustatory trench is composed of six to eight conical papillae joined at various degree. The foliate papillae on both margins of the tongue consist of seven to nine laminae.
A Landmark Analysis‐Based Approach to Age and Sex Classification of the Skull of the Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus monachus) (Hermann, 1779)
Authors: Brombin C. , Mo G. , Zotti A. , Giurisato M. , Salmaso L. , Cozzi B.
Published: August 2009

This work aimed at applying geometric morphometric analysis techniques to the skull of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus, Hermann, 1779). Inferential analyses were performed using a non‐parameteric permutation framework based on a series of skulls of different age classes belonging to individuals of both sexes. Our goal was to establish whether a statistical approach based on osteometric measurements and surface analysis of photographs of the left lateral plane of the skull may lead to a different and scientifically sound method of age and sex classification in this critically endangered marine mammal. Our data indicate that non‐parametric combination methodology enables the researcher to give local assessment using a combination with domains. Developing geometric morphometric techniques in a non‐parametric permutation framework could be useful in solving high dimensional and small sample size problems as well as classification problems, including zoological classification of specimens within a specific population. The Mediterranean monk seal is believed to be the world’s rarest pinniped and one of the most endangered mammals of the world, with fewer than 600 individuals currently surviving. The use of shape analysis would allow new insights into the biological characteristics of the monk seal by simply extracting potentially new information on age and size from museal specimens.
Immunohistochemical Localization of the Progesterone and Oestrogen α Receptors in the Uterine Horns of the African Giant Rat (Cricetomys gambianus)
Authors: Madekurozwa M.‐C. , Oke B. O. , Akinloye A. K.
Published: August 2009

The present study investigated the immunolocalization of the progesterone and oestrogen α receptors in the uterine horns of the African giant rat during the oestrous cycle. The progesterone and oestrogen α receptors were demonstrated in various cellular constituents of the endometrium, myometrium and perimetrium. The intensity of progesterone and oestrogen α receptor immunostaining in the endometrial and myometrial layers of the uterine horns varied during the oestrous cycle. The intensity of oestrogen α receptor immunoreactivity in the luminal epithelium was high during pro‐oestrus, oestrus and dioestrus. Progesterone and oestrogen α receptor immunoreactivity in the endometrial epithelia was absent during metoestrus. Moderate to strong immunostaining for the progesterone and oestrogen α receptors was demonstrated in the myometrial smooth muscle cells during pro‐oestrus, oestrus and dioestrus. The intensity of progesterone and oestrogen α receptor immunostaining in the myometrial smooth muscle cells was low during metoestrus. Stromal cells in the perimetrium consistently expressed progesterone and oestrogen α receptor immunoreactivity throughout the oestrous cycle. The findings of the study indicate that in the giant rat the immunolocalization of the progesterone and oestrogen α receptors, in endometrial and myometrial regions of the uterine horns, varies during the oestrous cycle.
Increased Risk of Conception Failure in German Holstein Friesian Cows with Chronic Endometritis
Authors: Tsousis G , Sharifi AR , Hoedemaker M
Published: August 2009

Contents

The objective of this retrospective field study was to evaluate the effect of chronic clinical endometritis (CCE) on days open in German Holstein Friesian cows. Two hundred and sixty‐four cows diagnosed with CCE from day 14 to 42 postpartum were included in this study. A Cox’s proportional hazards regression model with stepwise forward selection for days open was used and the variables type of vaginal discharge, ovarian cysts and a marked loss of body condition score proved to be significant with hazard ratios of 1.5, 2.0 and 1.9 respectively. Although not remaining in the model, a weak positive effect of treatment for CCE and a negative effect of high milk production could also be found in the univariate analysis. These results suggest that the suppression of fertility of animals diagnosed with CCE varies according to the different symptoms, which could be used to support decisions regarding treatment. Management factors such as a marked loss in body condition and high milk production prolonged the number of days open of animals with CCE.
Overview of the epidemiology of exercise immunology
Authors: SHEPHARD ROY J
Published: August 2009

The application of epidemiological methods to exercise immunology is reviewed briefly, with particular reference to the possible influences of physical activity, exercise and training on susceptibility to upper respiratory infections. Available reports are arbitrarily rated in terms of limiting factors: the quality of the assessment of physical activity, the precision of diagnosis of upper respiratory infection and overall methodology. The pattern of physical activity has often been clearly established but, in part because of the problems associated with the competitive environment, assessments of infection and overall methodology have often been less than optimal. Although there is some evidence that susceptibility to infection is increased by either a single bout of very heavy activity or a period of heavy training, reports are far from unanimous, and in certain respects fail to meet the classical epidemiological criteria of a causal relationship. The issue is important to both the health and the success of the international competitor, and merits definitive investigation, using optimal methods to assess both activity patterns and infection.
Effects of exercise on the immune system in the elderly population
Authors: Bruunsgaard Helle , Pedersen Bente Klarlund
Published: August 2009

Immunosenescence is characterized by impaired cellular immune function concomitant with increased inflammatory activity. Immune dysfunction is associated with increased mortality risk in elderly people. An important part of human ageing is characterized by a decline in the ability of individuals to adapt to environmental stress. Exercise has been suggested as a prototype for studying the effects of stress factors on the cellular immune system. Studies of interactions between an acute bout of exercise and immune function may be a useful and an ethically acceptable tool to investigate cell trafficking, immune mobilization/deficiency and the acute phase response during physical stress situations in relation to human ageing. Elderly humans have a preserved ability to recruit T lymphocytes and NK cells in response to an acute bout of exercise. Physical exercise training programs do not result in major restoration of the senescent immune system in humans. However, highly conditioned elderly humans seem to have a relatively better preserved immune system, although it is not possible to conclude if this is linked to training or other lifestyle‐related factors.
Binding of Tamm‐Horsfall protein to complement 1q measured by ELISA and resonant mirror biosensor techniques under various ionic‐strength conditions
Authors: Rhodes Diana C J
Published: August 2009

The purpose of the present study was to quantify the binding affinity between Tamm‐Horsfall protein (THP) and complement 1q (C1q) using ELISA and a resonant mirror biosensor. In ELISA, immobilized THP was incubated with soluble C1q under both low and physiological ionic‐strength conditions. Tamm‐Horsfall protein bound C1q with an equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) of 1.9 ± 0.6 nmol/L in low ionic‐strength Tris buffers (20 mmol/L NaCl, pH 7.5) and with a lower affinity (KD of 13.4 ± 4.7 nmol/L) in physiological‐strength Tris buffers (154 mmol/L NaCl, pH 7.5). A resonant mirror biosensor, which monitors binding events in real‐time, was used to quantify the KD of this reaction, as well as to estimate the kinetic parameters. In these studies, THP and C1q bound with an association rate constant, kass, of 1.25 × 105 L/mol per s and a dissociation rate constant, kdiss, of 0.002–0.005/s. The calculated KD for the THP/C1q binding in low ionic‐strength buffers was higher (averages of 10–15 nmol/L) than that obtained by the ELISA, while physiological ionic‐strength buffers still reduced the affinity of this binding by an order of magnitude. In conclusion, THP consistently bound C1q with high affinity using several techniques. At least a portion of this interaction involved electrostatic events, as demonstrated by the influence of ionic strength on the binding affinity.
Structural empowerment, job satisfaction, and turnover intention of Chinese clinical nurses
Authors: Cai Chunfeng , Zhou Zongkui
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to examine the levels of workplace structural empowerment perceived by Chinese clinical nurses, as well as to identify the relationship between nurses' perceptions of empowerment and job satisfaction, and turnover intention. A total of 189 staff nurses from two hospitals in central China completed a self‐administered questionnaire. The results indicated that these nurses perceived moderate levels of workplace empowerment. Structural empowerment and job satisfaction were found to be negatively related to turnover intention. These findings have important implications for administrators providing an effective work environment for clinical nurses.
Thai women's experience of intimate partner violence during the perinatal period: A case study analysis
Authors: Saito Amornrat Sricamsuk , Cooke Marie , Creedy Debra K. , Chaboyer Wendy
Published: August 2009

This exploratory descriptive study is part of a larger program that investigated the prevalence and frequency of different forms of intimate partner violence during pregnancy and the immediate post‐partum period among Thai women and the associated maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Two case studies are used to illustrate the different experiences of victims, as well as the barriers to seeking help and the strategies used to manage their circumstances. The study highlights the neglect of women's rights by police and community leaders, the attribution of blame to women, and their perceived sense of powerlessness and a lack of knowledge about the available resources.
Role conflict, role ambiguity, and burnout in nurses and physicians at a university hospital in Turkey
Authors: Tunc Tulin , Kutanis Rana Ozen
Published: August 2009

In many countries currently, health‐care professionals experience burnout in their professional life. This study explored the relationship between burnout, and role conflict and role ambiguity in nurses and physicians at a university hospital in Turkey. The data were collected by questionnaires that included sociodemographic variables, Maslach's Burnout Inventory (MBI), and Rizzo's Role Conflict and Role Ambiguity Scales. Two hundred and fifty one health‐care professionals (170 physicians and 81 nurses) responded to the survey. There was a strong positive correlation between the MBI and Rizzo's Role Conflict and Role Ambiguity Scales. The nurses showed significantly higher levels of role conflict, role ambiguity, and burnout compared to the physicians. A multiple regression analysis showed that role conflict and role ambiguity might help to explain the higher level of burnout experienced by the nurses compared to the physicians. Future research is needed to develop preventive measures for the burnout of health‐care professionals.
Abundance ofZetaproteobacteriawithin crustal fluids in back‐arc hydrothermal fields of the Southern Mariana Trough
Authors: Kato Shingo , Yanagawa Katsunori , Sunamura Michinari , Takano Yoshinori , Ishibashi Jun‐ichiro , Kakegawa Takeshi , Utsumi Motoo , Yamanaka Toshiro , Toki Tomohiro , Noguchi Takuroh , Kobayashi Kensei , Moroi Arimichi , Kimura Hiroyuki , Kawarabayasi Yutaka , Marumo Katsumi , Urabe Tetsuro , Yamagishi Akihiko
Published: August 2009

To extend knowledge of subseafloor microbial communities within the oceanic crust, the abundance, diversity and composition of microbial communities in crustal fluids at back‐arc hydrothermal fields of the Southern Mariana Trough (SMT) were investigated using culture‐independent molecular techniques based on 16S rRNA gene sequences. Seafloor drilling was carried out at two hydrothermal fields, on‐ and off‐ridge of the back‐arc spreading centre of the SMT. 16S rRNA gene clone libraries for bacterial and archaeal communities were constructed from the fluid samples collected from the boreholes. Phylotypes related toThiomicrospirain theGammaproteobacteria(putative sulfide‐oxidizers) andMariprofundusin theZetaproteobacteria(putative iron‐oxidizers) were recovered from the fluid samples. A number of unique archaeal phylotypes were also recovered. Fluorescencein situhybridization (FISH) analysis indicated the presence of active bacterial and archaeal populations in the fluids. TheZetaproteobacteriaaccounted for up to 32% of the total prokaryotic cell number as shown by FISH analysis using a specific probe designed in this study. Our results lead to the hypothesis that theZetaproteobacteriaplay a role in iron oxidation within the oceanic crust.
A distinct population of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in New Zealand: evidence for local dispersal by insects and human‐aided global dispersal in oak barrels
Authors: Goddard Matthew R. , Anfang Nicole , Tang Rongying , Gardner Richard C. , Jun Casey
Published: August 2009

Humans have used S. cerevisiae to make alcoholic beverages for at least 5000 years and now this super‐model research organism is central to advances in our biological understanding. Current models for S. cerevisiae suggest that its population comprises distinct domesticated and natural groups as well as mosaic strains, but we generally know little of the forces which shape its population structure. In order to test the roles that ecology and geography play in shaping the S. cerevisiae species we examined nine variable microsatellite loci in 172 strains of S. cerevisiae isolated from two spontaneous grape juice ferments, soil, flowers, apiaries and bark in New Zealand. Bayesian analysis shows that the S. cerevisiae in NZ comprise a subdivided but interbreeding population that out‐crosses ∼20% of the time. Some strains contributing to spontaneous ferments cluster with NZ soil/bark isolates, but others cluster with isolates from French oak barrels. It seems some strains have been globally dispersed by humans in oak barrels while some are locally vectored by insects. These data suggest geography is more important than ecology in shaping S. cerevisiae's population structure.
Identification of potential therapeutic targets in hypertension‐associated bladder dysfunction
Authors: Yono Makoto , Yoshida Masaki , Yamamoto Yasuhiro , Imanishi Aya , Fukagawa Atsushi , Latifpour Jamshid , Eto Masatoshi
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVE

To investigate differential gene expression profiles in the bladder of spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR), as the underlying mechanisms involved in hypertension‐associated bladder dysfunction remain to be clarified.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

SHR and normotensive Wistar‐Kyoto (WKY) rats were distributed initially in three groups: group 1 received doxazosin (30 mg/kg/day); group 2 received nifedipine (30 mg/kg/day); and group 3 received the vehicle orally for 4 weeks. The alterations in gene expression levels of candidate genes identified by microarray analysis with potential biological relevance were verified by real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

RESULTS

Voiding frequency was significantly higher, and mean voided volume was significantly lower in untreated SHRs than untreated WKY rats. Microarray analysis revealed that 25 of the differentially expressed genes in untreated SHRs compared to untreated WKY rats were related to Gs, Gi, Gq and G12/13 signalling, calcium handling, ion transport and smooth muscle‐related genes. Furthermore, RT‐PCR data, in accord with the microarray analysis, indicated that untreated SHRs had lower mRNA expression levels of Adcy2, Adcy3, Rgs2, Rgs3, Rgs4 and Arhgdia, and higher mRNA expression levels of Arhgef1, Arhgef11, Arhgef12, Geft, Rock1 and Rock2 than untreated WKY rats. The differential alterations in the micturition patterns and in the expression of several genes related to G‐protein signalling pathway observed in SHRs were attenuated by treatment with doxazosin, but not nifedipine.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that differential alterations in the expression of several genes related to Gs, Gq and G12/13 signalling pathways in the SHR bladder might be important in hypertension‐associated bladder dysfunction.
Environmental factors involved in carcinogenesis of urothelial cell carcinomas of the upper urinary tract
Authors: Colin Pierre , Koenig Philippe , Ouzzane Adil , Berthon Nicolas , Villers Arnauld , Biserte Jacques , Rouprêt Morgan
Published: August 2009

Primary cancers of the ureter and renal pelvis are rare tumours, >90% of which are transitional cell carcinomas. Only ≈5% of urothelial tumours arise in the upper urinary tract (UUT). Many environmental factors contribute to the development of these cancers. Some are similar to bladder cancer‐associated factors (tobacco, occupational exposure), while others are more specific to carcinogenesis of the UUT (phenacetine, Balkan endemic nephropathy [BEN], Chinese herb nephropathy or association with Blackfoot disease [BFD]). This review discusses the environmental factors involved in UUT carcinoma. Tobacco and occupational exposure remain the principal exogenous risk factors for developing these tumours. Conversely, carcinogenesis of UUT tumours resulting from phenacetine consumption has almost disappeared. Although the incidence of BEN is also on the decline, roles for aristolochic acid and the consumption of Chinese herbs in the physiopathology and induction of this nephropathy, respectively, have proposed. In Taiwan, the association of this tumour type with BFD and arsenic exposure remains unclear to date. As some genetic polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of cancer or faster disease progression, there is variability in interindividual susceptibility to the development of UUT carcinoma when exposed to the aforementioned risk factors Cytosolic sulfotransferases (SULTs) catalyse the detoxification of many environmental chemicals but also in the bioactivation of dietary and other mutagens. Polymorphism of the SULT gene, is thought to confer susceptibility to upper tract tumours.
First trimester serum neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin in gestational diabetes
Authors: D’Anna R. , Baviera G. , Corrado F. , Giordano D. , Recupero S. , Di Benedetto A.
Published: August 2009

Aims  Neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL) is highly expressed in damaged epithelia, during inflammation and cardiovascular disease. Soluble NGAL was measured in women who subsequently developed gestational diabetes.

Methods  From a cohort of 908 pregnant outpatients who participated in a screening programme for Down’s syndrome at 9–12 weeks of gestation, we considered all 41 women with a singleton pregnancy, who developed gestational diabetes in the previous 12 months, and a control group of 82 normal pregnancies. Circulating NGAL and insulin resistance by homeostasis model assessment ratio (HOMA‐IR) were determined in the first trimester.

Results  Median serum NGAL concentrations were higher in the gestational diabetes group [51.3 ng/ml (39.8–66.1 ng/ml)] compared with the control group [17.8 ng/ml (15.5–20.9 ng/ml)] (P < 0.001) and positively correlated with HOMA‐IR (P < 0.001).

Conclusions  In the first trimester, circulating NGAL was significantly increased in women who subsequently developed gestational diabetes compared with the control group.
Plantar pressures in diabetic patients with foot ulcers which have remained healed
Authors: Owings T. M. , Apelqvist J. , Stenström A. , Becker M. , Bus S. A. , Kalpen A. , Ulbrecht J. S. , Cavanagh P. R.
Published: August 2009

Aims  The recurrence of foot ulcers is a significant problem in people with diabetic neuropathy. The purpose of this study was to measure in‐shoe plantar pressures and other characteristics in a group of neuropathic patients with diabetes who had prior foot ulcers which had remained healed.

Methods  This was an epidemiological cohort study of patients from diabetes clinics of two Swedish hospitals. From a database of 2625 eligible patients, 190 surviving patients with prior plantar ulcers of the forefoot (hallux or metatarsal heads) caused by repetitive stress were identified and 49 patients agreed to participate. Barefoot and in‐shoe plantar pressures were measured during walking. Data on foot deformity, activity profiles and self‐reported behaviour were also collected.

Results  Mean barefoot plantar peak pressure at the prior ulcer site (556 kPa) was lower than in other published series, although the range was large (107–1192 kPa). Mean in‐shoe peak pressure at this location averaged 207 kPa when measured with an insole sensor. Barefoot peak pressure only predicted ∼35% of the variance of in‐shoe peak pressure, indicating variation in the efficacy of the individual footwear prescriptions (primarily extra‐depth shoes with custom insoles).

Conclusions  We propose that the mean value for in‐shoe pressures reported in these patients be used as a target in footwear prescription for patients with prior ulcers. Although plantar pressure is only one factor in a multifaceted strategy to prevent ulcer recurrence, the quantitative focus on pressure reduction in footwear is likely to have beneficial effects.
Regulatory enzymes of mitochondrial β‐oxidation as targets for treatment of the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Schreurs M. , Kuipers F. , Van Der Leij F. R.
Published: August 2009

Insulin sensitizers like metformin generally act through pathways triggered by adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase. Carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1) controls mitochondrial β‐oxidation and is inhibited by malonyl‐CoA, the product of acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC). The adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase‐ACC‐CPT1 axis tightly regulates mitochondrial long‐chain fatty acid oxidation. Evidence indicates that ACC2, the isoform located in close proximity to CPT1, is the major regulator of CPT1 activity. ACC2 as well as CPT1 are therefore potential targets to treat components of the metabolic syndrome such as obesity and insulin resistance. Reversible inhibitors of the liver isoform of CPT1, developed to prevent ketoacidosis and hyperglycemia, have been found to be associated with side effects like hepatic steatosis. However, stimulation of systemic CPT1 activity may be an attractive means to accelerate peripheral fatty acid oxidation and hence improve insulin sensitivity. Stimulation of CPT1 can be achieved by elimination or inhibition of ACC2 activity and through activating transcription factors like peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors and their protein partners. The latter leads to enhanced CPT1 gene expression. Recent developments are discussed, including a recently identified CPT1 isoform, i.e. CPT1C. This protein is highly expressed in the brain and may provide a target for new tools to prevent obesity.
Motor processing difficulties: guidance for teachers in mainstream classrooms
Authors: McMURRAY SHARON , DRYSDALE JILL , JORDAN GLENDA
Published: August 2009

Difficulties in motor processing are often seen in children with specific literacy difficulties. Indeed many children with dyslexia may also have a diagnosis of dyspraxia. This article seeks to increase understanding of difficulties in motor processing and to provide practical advice to teachers to assist in identification of such difficulties. It will examine a range of presenting issues in the classroom, but with a primary focus on handwriting. Drawing on the experience of the authors and literature in this area, practical strategies are offered that may be implemented by teachers in mainstream classrooms.
Constructing the Individual Education Plan: confusion or collaboration?
Authors: GOEPEL JANET
Published: August 2009

The Special Education Needs Code of Practice (2001) states that both parents and children should be actively involved in the decisions that surround the child's special educational need. In particular, it acknowledges the ‘unique knowledge’ that children have of their own needs and advocates that they should take part in the setting and evaluating of Individual Education Plan (IEP) targets. This small‐scale research project, involving Year 6 students in a mainstream junior school, investigates to what extent there is common agreement between the teacher, parent and child with regard to the nature of the child's need. Additionally, it examines to what extent partnership is expressed through the targets shown on the IEP and in particular whether the voice of the child is heeded. This article concludes by suggesting that while some children may be willing to engage with IEP targets that are teacher‐initiated, children whose voice is overlooked are in danger of becoming disengaged from learning.
PRIVATISING CLIMATE POLICY
Authors: Dawson Graham
Published: August 2009

Existing ‘climate change’ policy instruments should be withdrawn. Climate science cannot provide the knowledge that is needed to justify them. Anthropogenic global warming is a putative interpersonal conflict rather than market failure. Where property rights need protecting, tort litigation on the basis of strict liability is appropriate. By providing a public arena for the competitive testing of scientific hypotheses, such litigation would also promote the advancement of climate science.
CATHOLICISM AND CAPITALISM1
Authors: Booth Philip
Published: August 2009

Catholic social teaching can be used to help Christians understand the appropriate role of the state in economic life. There is an intrinsic opposition to socialism but also to many of the manifestations of ‘capitalism’. An application of Catholic social teaching to economic problems should lead to a redefinition of the role of the state in many areas of life. That redefinition certainly would favour more autonomy for individuals, families and communities acting independently of the state.
CLIMATE CHANGE ISSUES: A DISSENTING VOICE
Authors: Henderson David
Published: August 2009

(The text which follows formed the basis for a brief presentation to a conference held on 22 April 2009 at the Said Business School, Oxford University. The subject of the conference was ‘Beyond Kyoto – Green Innovation and Enterprise in the 21st Century’.)

Governments across the world are mishandling climate change issues. The content, the orientation, and in particular the basis and rationale of current policies to curb emissions of (so‐called) ‘greenhouse gases’, are all open to serious question.
GLOBAL AND DIPLOMATIC POLITICAL RISKS AND FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT
Authors: DESBORDES RODOLPHE
Published: August 2009

This paper investigates whether multinational enterprises (MNEs) take into account both global and diplomatic political risks when investing abroad. Whereas global political risk is common to all foreign investors, diplomatic political risk is dyad‐specific as it is related to the overall diplomatic climate between the home and host countries. The main result of this study is that both global and diplomatic political risks matter for U.S. MNEs investing in developing countries. Their required return on investment rises when the political risk faced by all foreign investors worsens or when diplomatic tensions arise between the United States and their host countries, presumably because in both cases uncertainty about future returns increases.
A Disabled Market: Free Movement of Goods and Services in the EU and Disability Accessibility
Authors: Waddington Lisa
Published: August 2009

Individuals with a disability who wish to use goods and services can have a variety of specific needs, ranging from accessible written information to standard products and services which have disability accessibility features built into them. In light thereof, this article focuses on the impact which Community law has had, and could potentially have, on ensuring an EU‐wide market in products and services which are accessible to consumers with a disability. The article examines the (possible) impact of a variety of provisions, including the rules relating to the free movement of goods and services (Articles 28 and 49 EC, respectively), the internal market (Articles 94 and 95 EC), non‐discrimination (Article 13 EC), EU citizenship provisions, and the work of the European standardisation bodies such as CEN. The central question throughout the article is does EC law allow for, or discourage, the establishment of mandatory disability accessibility standards at the national or EU level, and have the provisions been used to permit or establish such standards to date?
A Comparative Analysis of the Drafting of European Private Law
Authors: Van Zelst Bastiaan
Published: August 2009

The development of the ‘Common Frame of Reference’ is a highly prominent topic on the agenda of European integration. However, its underlying procedures have had only limited investigation. This article discusses the European private law project by inquiring into the drafting experiences of four other private law legislative processes, with a focus on sales law. These instruments concern Article 2 (on sales) of the American Uniform Commercial Code, the Vienna Sales Convention, the Dutch Civil Code and the Directive on Consumer Sales and Associated Guarantees. Ultimately, the article asks what can the European project learn from these experiences.
Between ‘Common Values’ and Competing Universals—The Promotion of the EU's Common Values through the European Neighbourhood Policy
Authors: Leino Päivi , Petrov Roman
Published: August 2009

The aim of this article is to discuss the position of common values in defining the EU's identity by using the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) as an example. It is argued that the notion ‘common values’ is used by the EU institutions as both a universal and as an EU concept, which highlights the abstract nature of these values. This abstraction is also reflected in the way in which Russia has recently aimed to develop its own set of values which could be adopted by its neighbouring countries. The abstraction of values means that, in practice, their meaning in the context of ENP is decided by the European Commission through the implementation of Action Plans. The central position given to the promotion of common values requires that the ENP be reformulated so as to guarantee a stronger degree of participation of the neighbouring countries in the formulation and implementation of the ENP objectives.
The role of nutrition in Alzheimer’s disease: epidemiological evidence
Authors: Morris M. C.
Published: August 2009

The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) increases exponentially with age but there is limited knowledge of the modifiable risk factors for AD. However, there is growing evidence for possible dietary risk factors in the development of AD and cognitive decline with age, such as antioxidant nutrients, fish, dietary fats, and B‐vitamins. Numerous animal and laboratory studies have shown that antioxidant nutrients can protect the brain from oxidative and inflammatory damage, but there are limited data available from epidemiological studies. There is more substantial epidemiological evidence from a number of recent studies that demonstrate a protective role of omega‐3 fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid, in AD and cognitive decline. This review will focus on epidemiological evidence investigating the relationship between nutrition and AD, focusing particularly on the roles of dietary fats and antioxidants.
Nutrition and Alzheimer’s disease: pre‐clinical concepts
Authors: Kamphuis P. J. , Wurtman R. J.
Published: August 2009

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive condition characterized by neurodegeneration and the dense deposition of proteins in the brain. There is no cure for AD and current treatments usually only provide a temporary reduction of symptoms. There is thus a strong unmet need for effective preventative and therapeutic strategies and the potential role for nutrition in such strategies is rapidly gaining interest. An Alzheimer’s brain contains fewer synapses and reduced levels of synaptic proteins and membrane phosphatides. Brain membrane phosphatide synthesis requires at least three dietary precursors: polyunsaturated fatty acids, uridine monophosphate (UMP) and choline. Animal studies have shown that administration of these nutrients increases the level of phosphatides, specific pre‐ or post‐synaptic proteins and the number of dendritic spines – a requirement for new synapse formation. These effects are markedly enhanced when animals receive all three compounds together. This multi‐nutrient approach in animals has also been shown to decrease amyloid beta protein (Aβ) plaque burden, improve learning and memory through increased cholinergic neurotransmission and have a neuroprotective effect in several mouse models of AD. Whether these potential therapeutic effects of a multi‐nutrient approach observed in animal models can also be replicated in a clinical setting warrants further investigation.
Stratification in Higher Education, Choice and Social Inequalities in Greece
Authors: Sianou‐Kyrgiou Eleni
Published: August 2009

Higher education has expanded to a remarkable extent in many countries in recent decades. Although this has led to high levels of participation, inequalities not only persist but are also strengthened. The persistence of inequalities is partly the result of policies for the widening of participation having been accompanied by institutional stratification with educational choices being unequal and socially defined. There is evidence that with the development of new university departments and the increase in the number of university entrants in Greece, a stratified system of higher education has emerged. This study draws on quantitative data that provides evidence that choice has been driven largely by the students' social class: the close relationship between social class and educational opportunities has remained intact. Furthermore, social inequalities in access and distribution in higher education persist, despite the substantial increase in participation in higher education. Social class is a key factor in the interpretation of choice of study, which, along with the performance in the national level examinations that determines entrance into universities, has also led to the increase in the stratification of higher education institutions.
Research Managers Uncovered: Changing Roles and ‘Shifting Arenas’ in the Academy
Authors: Shelley Louise
Published: August 2009

This paper draws on findings from a study that explored the changing roles and career experience of research managers and research administrators in English universities. It explores how research support has evolved during a period when the higher education sector was responding to changing science and higher education policy. These changes have impacted on research managers and research administrators roles, altered the occupational group and moved field boundaries. The paper draws on Bourdieu's theory of social practice to understand these changes and identifies a shared space of tension, the ‘shifting arena,’ where the research manager field crosses into the academic field. It is suggested that an increased understanding of this space will enhance the collaborative working of all those involved in research and help maximise research activity.
Challenges to the Work Life of Academics: The Experience of a Renowned University in the Chinese Mainland
Authors: Lai Manhong
Published: August 2009

Under the major educational reform movement in the Chinese Mainland, which began in 1985, higher education was considered the most important apparatus for national development. The Ministry of Education initiated ‘Project 985’ to develop two top national universities into world‐class universities. As part of this project to raise educational quality and academic standing, the Ministry of Education carried out a reform of the university personnel system. The reform aimed to launch a new system of employment practices based on performance and contract, with an emphasis on competition and rewards. This research focuses on the severe constraints academics at a sample university in China faced at the state, university and faculty level. First, at the state level, the state directly set the direction of academic research. Second, at the university level, the new employment reform was imposed using a top‐down model. Most academics conformed to it but some employed a ‘double bookkeeping’ strategy. ‘Administrative domination’ also reflected a centralised approach at the university. Third, at the faculty level, a few academic‐administrators held most of the decision making power. Academics urged the university to offer a more supportive environment for conducting genuine scholarship.
Is the endangered Grevy's zebra threatened by hybridization?
Authors: Cordingley J. E. , Sundaresan S. R. , Fischhoff I. R. , Shapiro B. , Ruskey J. , Rubenstein D. I.
Published: August 2009

Hybridization between an abundant species and an endangered species is cause for concern. When such hybridization is observed, it is both urgent and necessary to assess the level of threat posed to the endangered species. We report the first evidence of natural hybridization between two equids: the endangered Grevy's zebra Equus grevyi and the abundant plains zebra Equus burchelli. Grevy's zebra now number <3000 individuals globally, and occur only in northern Kenya and Ethiopia. In recent years, Grevy's zebra have become increasingly concentrated in the south of their range due to habitat loss in the north. Both species are sympatric in the Laikipia ecosystem of northern Kenya, where we have observed purportedly hybrid individuals. Using mitochondrial and Y chromosome DNA, we confirmed the hybrid status of the morphologically identified hybrids and demonstrate conclusively that all first‐generation hybrids are the offspring of plains zebra females and Grevy's zebra males. Behaviorally, hybrids integrate themselves into plains zebra society, rather than adopting the social organization of Grevy's zebra. Two hybrids have successfully raised foals to over 3 months in age, including one which has reached adulthood, indicating the fertility of female hybrids and viability of their offspring. We hypothesize that hybridization occurs due to (1) skewed sex ratios, in favor of males, within Grevy's zebra and (2) the numerical dominance of plains zebra in the region where hybridization is occurring. Stakeholders have discussed hybridization as a potential threat to Grevy's zebra survival. We argue, however, based on behavioral observations, that hybridization is unlikely to dilute the Grevy's zebra gene pool in the short term. As a conservation concern, hybridization is secondary to more direct causes of Grevy's zebra declines.
Population structure and fluctuations in the snail fauna of a Malayan limestone hill
Authors: Berry A. J.
Published: August 2009

Five out of the nine species of minute or small snails living on Bukit Chintamani, Pahang, occur in large numbers on accessible limestone faces. Prosobranchs dominate moss‐covered rock while vertiginid pulmonates are more abundant on exposed, moss‐free rock. The populations of mossy and moss‐free rock are analysed and the archaeogastropod Hydrocena is shown to be the most numerous in both situations. In all other species studied, the
A taxonomic revision of the family Haplotaxidae (Oligochaeta)
Authors: Brinkhurst R. O.
Published: August 2009

The family Haplotaxidae is re‐defined and the genera Pelodrilus, Heterochaetella and Adenodrilus are merged in the single genus Haplotaxis. Haplotaxis dubius and Haplotaxis ascaridoides are recognized as subspecies of Haplotaxis gordioides, and H. forbesi is regarded as synonymous with H. gordioides following a re‐examination of the type material. The absence of the gizzard in H. smithii is reported for the first time, and the presence of both pairs of male pores in the same segment in H. violaceus is confirmed, the type material of both species having been examined. Pelodrilus monticola, P. tuberculatus and P. darlingensis are merged in Haplotaxis africanus (n. comb.), Pelodrilus aucklandicus is recognized as a synonym of H. hologynus hologynus (n. comb.), but P. bipapillatus is recognized as a subspecies of hologynus.
A population study of bats of the Genus Plecotus
Authors: Stebbings R. E.
Published: August 2009

In November 1960, bat colonies were found in the roof of the research station, and an ecological study began of the largest, a Plecotus colony. That colony was at first thought to consist solely of P. auritus but, in 1964, the presence of P. austriacus was confirmed, and several of the latter had been ringed early in 1961. Because of this, it has been necessary to present, here, the combined results for the two species. Population studies revealed that the colony size was constant and consisted of 36 bats of which 23 were females. Overall 38% were males but, of the juveniles, 46% were males. The survival rate for the colony as a whole was 0.750, but the mean life expectation for females was 4.2 years and for males 3.7 years. The life‐span was thought to be in excess of 16 years. Initial capture rate of 0.715 remained constant throughout the five‐year period, while the recapture rate fell by a factor of 0.30. This was attributed to sampling disturbance and not due to ringing. Mating was found to occur equally in spring and autumn. Males became mature in their first year and females in their second. The mean spring and autumn weights for mature males were generally 1.5g less than the corresponding mature female weights, and juvenilesare approximately 1.0 g less than these. Climatic effects on the bats were demonstrated with particular reference to wind velocity. This work is beingcontinued.
A new species of pseudoscorpion from Britain
Authors: Gabbutt Peter D.
Published: August 2009

A new pseudoscorpion, Chthonius (Ephippiochthonius) kewisp. n., was collected at Colne Point, Essex. The deutonymph, tritonymph and adults are described in detail, particular attention being paid to the chaetotaxy. Its taxonomic status is discussed, and keys are provided to allow its inclusion among both the European and British species. The significance of the changes in the chaetal series during development is discussed in relation to the taxonomy of the genus.
The oxygen consumption of some intertidal gastropods in relation to zonation
Authors: Sandison Eyvor E.
Published: August 2009

The series of gastropods Thais lapillus, Littorina littorea, L. littoralis anL. saxatilis inhabit successively higher intertidal zones, and it was thought that they might show respiratory adaptation in relation to their various periods of exposure and submergence. To investigate this the respiratory rates of each species in air, and in water, have been measured at regular intervals over a period of 12 hours, and also subsequent to three and 16 hours drying.
The taxonomy and biology of the centipede Scolopendra amazonicain the Sudan
Authors: Lewis J. G. E.
Published: August 2009

The life history, reproduction, food and parasites of a population of Scolopendra amazonica Bücherl from the south bank of the Blue Nile at Khartoum, Sudan are described and discussed and Sudanese specimens are compared with Indian S. amazonica and Scolopendra morsitans.
Two remarkable new trichomycterid catfishes from the Amazon basin in Brazil and Colombia
Authors: Myers George S. , Weitzman Stanley H.
Published: August 2009

Two Amazonian freshwater trichomycterid catfishes, Sarcoglanis simplex and Malacoglanis gelatinosus, are described as new genera andspecies and placed in a new subfamily Sarcoglanidinae. The relationships of this new subfamily and those of the Trichomycterinae, Nematogenyinae, Phreatobiinae and Glanapteryginae are discussed.
A histochemical study of keratinization in the domestic fowl (Gallus gallus)
Authors: Cane A. K. , Spearman R. I. C.
Published: August 2009

The microanatomy of the epidermis of the domestic fowl is described and related to the distribution of various histochemical constituents involved in keratinization.

The avian horny layer over the back is composed of a loose network of structurally solid horny cells. This is in contrast to most mammalian epidermal horny cells in which structural keratin is found only in the peripheral cytoplasm, and the interior of the keratinocyte contains soluble products of cytolysis with possibly some free keratin filaments dispersed in the fluid material.

The avian tarsal epidermal horny scales show similarities to both the scales of lizards and snakes and to mammalian tail scales which appear to be homologous structures.

It is suggested that a thin layer of cells containing no detectable disulphide bonds, found in the tarsal scale region of the young chick, is probably mechanically weak and may function as a fission plane for sloughing of the horny layer. A specialized epidermis and thickened horny layer is developed in the fowl on the plantar underside of the toes, but this is quite different in structure from the mammalian plantar epidermis.

The overlapping of zones rich in ribonucleic acid (RNA) and bound cysteine (SH) in the growing feather suggests that protein synthesis and the preparatory stages to keratin disulphide bonding normally occur concurrently in feather formation. This is in contrast to the growing hair which has a region rich in RNA followed immediately before it becomes keratinized by a discrete keratogenous zone weak in RNA but rich in bound cysteine.