bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ON A MULTIPLE THREE‐DECISION PROCEDURE FOR COMPARING SEVERAL TREATMENTS WITH A CONTROL
Authors: Liu W.
Published: February 2008

summary

For the two‐sided comparisons of several treatments with a control, a common statistical problem is to decide which treatments are better than the control and which are worse than the control. This paper studies a multiple three‐decision procedure for this purpose, proposed by Bohrer (1979) and Bohrer et al. (1981), and provides tables of critical points to facilitate the application of the procedure. The paper defines a power function of the procedure, and tabulates sample sizes necessary to guarantee a given power level. It addresses the problem of optimal sampling allocation in order to maximize the power for a given total sample size, and considers generalization to the situation where the treatments might have unequal numbers of observations.
BORIS VLADIMIROVICH GNEDENKO, 1912–1995 A PERSONAL TRIBUTE
Authors: Vere‐Jones David
Published: February 2008

summary

A brief account is given of Gnedenko's life and work, and of the writer's personal contacts with him.
ESTIMATING EQUATIONS AND NON‐LINEAR FUNCTIONAL RELATIONSHIPS
Authors: Morton Richard , Patefield Mike , Bowtell Phil
Published: February 2008

summary

A nonlinear functional relationship is defined as anR‐dimensional manifold inP‐dimensional space. The formulation of the model may be explicitly in terms ofR‐dimensional vectors of incidental parameters or implicitly by a (P‐R)‐dimensional vector function of constraints. The objective is to estimate and make inference about aK‐vector of parameters θ which defines the manifold. Each observedP‐vector has its expectation lying on the manifold, and the error vector has a variance matrix defined in terms of a further vector of parameters

The theory of estimating equations in the presence of incidental parameters is extended and applied to the explicit formulation, to give equations suitable for estimating θ given knowledge of only the first two moments. The method has a geometrical interpretation. Estimating equations for are chosen to be those which would be optimal if the normality assumption were true. First order corrections to the biases of these estimates are included.

An example where the manifold is a circle centred on the origin is used to illustrate the theory. Further examples incorporate more general features, including the estimation of two variance parameters and estimation in higher dimensions.
SOME REMARKS ON THE MEAN, MEDIAN, MODE AND SKEWNESS
Authors: Sato Michikazu
Published: February 2008

summary

Many sufficient conditions for inequalities about the mean, median, mode and skewness have been obtained. The paper presents a theorem that unifies already known results, gives some counter‐examples, and considers the cases of Pearson distributions.
LOWER BOUNDS FOR THE DIVERGENCE OF DIRECTIONAL AND AXIAL ESTIMATORS
Authors: Kakarala Ramakrishna , Watson Geoffrey S.
Published: February 2008

Consider estimation of a unit vector parameter a in two classes of distributions. In the first, α is a direction. In the second, α is an axis, so that –α and α are equivalent: the aim is to obtain the projector ααt. In each case the paper uses first principles to define measures of the divergence of such estimators and derives lower bounds for them. These bounds are computed explicitly for the Fisher‐Von Mises and Scheidegger‐Watson densities on the g‐dimensional sphere, ωq. In the latter case, the tightness of the bound is established by simulations.
A NOTE ON MULTIVARIATE LOGISTIC MODELS FOR CONTINGENCY TABLES
Authors: Kauermann Goran
Published: February 2008

The log‐linear model is a tool widely accepted for modelling discrete data given in a contingency table. Although its parameters reflect the interaction structure in the joint distribution of all variables, it does not give information about structures appearing in the margins of the table. This is in contrast to multivariate logistic parameters, recently introduced by Glonek & McCullagh (1995), which have as parameters the highest order log odds ratios derived from the joint table and from each marginal table. Glonek & McCullagh give the link between the cell probabilities and the multivariate logistic parameters, in an algebraic fashion. The present paper focuses on this link, showing that it is derived by general parameter transformations in exponential families. In particular, the connection between the natural, the expectation and the mixed parameterization in exponential families (Barndorff‐Nielsen, 1978) is used; this also yields the derivatives of the likelihood equation and shows properties of the Fisher matrix. The paper emphasises the analysis of independence hypotheses in margins of a contingency table.
BAYESIAN ANALYSIS OF VECTOR ARFIMA PROCESSES
Authors: Ravishanker Nalini , Ray Bonnie K.
Published: February 2008

A general framework is presented for Bayesian inference of multivariate time series exhibiting long‐range dependence. The series are modelled using a vector autoregressive fractionally integrated moving‐average (VARFIMA) process, which can capture both short‐term correlation structure and long‐range dependence characteristics of the individual series, as well as interdependence and feedback relationships between the series. To facilitate a sampling‐based Bayesian approach, the exact joint posterior density is derived for the parameters, in a form that is computationally simpler than direct evaluation of the likelihood, and a modified Gibbs sampling algorithm is used to generate samples from the complete conditional distribution associated with each parameter. The paper also shows how an approximate form of the joint posterior density may be used for long time series. The procedure is illustrated using sea surface temperatures measured at three locations along the central California coast. These series are believed to be interdependent due to similarities in local atmospheric conditions at the different locations, and previous studies have found that they exhibit ‘long memory’ when studied individually. The approach adopted here permits investigation of the effects on model estimation of the interdependence and feedback relationships between the series.
NONPARAMETRIC AUTOCOVARIANCE FUNCTION ESTIMATION
Authors: Hyndman R.J. , Wand M.P.
Published: February 2008

Nonparametric estimators of autocovariance functions for non‐stationary time series are developed. The estimators are based on straightforward nonparametric mean function estimation ideas and allow use of any linear smoother (e.g. smoothing spline, local polynomial). The paper studies the properties of the estimators, and illustrates their usefulness through application to some meteorological and seismic time series.
GOODNESS OF FIT FOR THE BINOMIAL DISTRIBUTION
Authors: BEST D.J. , RAYNER J.C.W.
Published: February 2008

Goodness of fit testing for the binomial distribution can be carried out using Pearson's X2p statistic and its components. Applications of this technique are considered and compared with recently suggested empirical distribution function tests. Diagnostic use of components is discussed.
Exploring the Etiology of Perfectionism and Perceptions of Self‐worth in Young Athletes
Authors: McArdle Siobhain , Duda Joan L.
Published: February 2008

This study assessed the main and interactive effects of perceived parental expectations and perceived parental criticism on 180 young talented athletes' perfectionistic tendencies and level and reported fluctuation in self‐esteem. A potential quadratic effect of perceived parental expectations on the targeted dependent variables was also tested. Moderated hierarchical regression analyses indicated that perceived parental criticism was the strongest predictor of concerns over mistakes and doubts about actions whereas perceived parental expectations were positively related to personal standards only. Self‐esteem was predicted by high perceived parental expectations and low perceived parental criticism. Children's reported fluctuation in self‐esteem was highest when perceived parental criticism was high and perceived parental expectations were deemed high or low. The results argue against a unidimensional and linear examination of factors relating to the etiology of perfectionism and perceptions of self‐worth.
Habitus and Homeland: Educational Aspirations, Family Life and Culture in Autobiographical Narratives of Educational Experience in Rural Wales
Authors: Baker Sally , Brown B.J.
Published: February 2008

We use the concept of habitus to illuminate the autobiographical narratives of participants from disadvantaged backgrounds in mid‐twentieth century rural Wales who were successful at university. The participants’ constructions of their habitus and aspirations drew upon a number of themes that intersected with their ideas of Welsh culture. Images of Welsh culture, history and national identity played a significant role in their accounts. The participants’‘aspirational habitus’ involved a rich blend of images and symbolic resources and a sense that they had a right to be at university. This has implications for how we conceive of habitus and its role in guiding people from rural to largely urban intellectual cultures. The participants’ experiences were made possible by virtue of the isolation of their rural communities and the corresponding significance of their social milieu, which consolidated their value system by attaching considerable significance to educational achievement.
Third‐Party Certification in the Global Agrifood System: An Objective or Socially Mediated Governance Mechanism?
Authors: Hatanaka Maki , Busch Lawrence
Published: February 2008

Third‐party certification (TPC) is becoming an integral component of the global agrifood system. However, little is known about its functions, structures and practices. In this article we examine the emergence of TPC as a governance mechanism, its organisational structure, and its practices. Distinguishing between two forms of ‘independence’– organisational and operational – we argue that TPC exhibits organisational, but not operational independence. Thus, in contrast to the view of TPC as an objective governance mechanism, we argue that TPC is embedded in social, political and economic networks. This finding, we argue, raises questions as to how TPC is structured and operates, who gets to decide the ways it is structured and operates, and the ways that TPC might differentially impact on actors in the food and agricultural sector.
Medications used to treat Parkinson’s disease and the risk of gambling
Authors: Imamura A. , Geda Y. E. , Slowinski J. , Wszolek Z. K. , Brown L. A. , Uitti R. J.
Published: February 2008

Recent case–series studies indicated that a medication used to treat Parkinson’s disease (PD), in particular Pramipexole, is associated with gambling. A case–series study cannot test this hypothesis; therefore, we need to design a case–control or cohort study to test the aforementioned hypothesis. Typical of a case–control design, we sampled on the dependent variable, which we defined as incident gambling in PD. A research neurologist, who was kept uninformed of the case–control status, retrospectively measured the exposure of interest (i.e. medications used to treat PD) by using the medical database system of Mayo Clinic Jacksonville. Eleven patients with PD without history of gambling, but had newly developed gambling, were matched by age and sex to the control group of 37 PD patients without gambling at a ratio of one case to at least three controls. Disease duration, age, and sex did not differ between cases and controls. Combined therapy with Pramipexole and levodopa did not increase the risk of gambling as compared to monotherapy with Pramipexole (OR, 0.15; 95% CI, 0.01–1.26). Treatment with Pramipexole was associated with increased risk of gambling and this association approached significance (OR, 3.6; 95% CI, 0.9–14.9). Patients with PD who newly developed gambling behavior were more likely to have been taking Pramipexole than other anti‐PD medication. However, the association between Pramipexole and gambling behavior is not necessarily etiologic.
Responses to poverty in post‐apartheid South Africa: some reflections
Authors: Mubangizi Betty Claire
Published: February 2008

I discuss in this article the challenge of addressing people's psychosocial needs when the causes of problems are environmental or structural. I argue that poverty can be addressed only by tackling its structural causes and removing social inequalities. In so doing, I argue that a range of antipoverty measures introduced by the government have proved ineffective, including neoliberal measures to foster economic growth, such as GEAR and ASGISA, public works programmes, social security, and poverty alleviation projects (PAPS) which, while mildly effective, were poorly administered. My strategy of choice is an ‘all hands to the pumps’ approach involving participatory community development, social action, policy change and joint partnership between civil society, the state and the private sector. I do not suggest particular approaches or solutions but highlight the role of social workers and community development workers in poverty alleviation.
Critical commentary on ‘Social work as art revisited’
Authors: Healy Karen
Published: February 2008

While agreeing with the importance of art as a stimulus for the imagination in social work practice, Healy takes issue with the broader aspirations of the article. Healy questions whether art can or should be used to foster “a collective moment of political truth” for social work, as such an inspiration is likely to gloss over the important differences in context and purpose that profoundly shape the nature of social work in the wide variety of contexts where it is practised. Healy argues for the recognition of art as a possible contributor to knowledge and practice but contends that an ongoing and productive engagement with other forms of knowing is equally if not more critical to the development of social work knowledge and identities.
Gait choice in desert‐living black‐backed jackals
Authors: Goldenberg F. , Glanzl M. , Henschel J. R. , Funk S. M. , Millesi E.
Published: February 2008

Gait selection is a strategy used by quadrupeds to meet the demands of locomotion under variable environmental conditions. The movement of black‐backed jackals Canis mesomelas within a desert area was investigated. The usage and distribution of gaits in three distinct desert environments in the Namib Desert, Namibia, were analysed. The areas were chosen based on topographical differences: a bare, a featureless sand plain in an interdune valley, a large sand dune and a narrow dune valley with clumped plant growth. Fresh jackal tracks were recorded by GPS once a week for 1 year. Gait types, gait segment lengths and the rate of switches between gaits were analysed. Trot was the most frequently used gait in all areas, followed by walk and the two types of gallop. Jackals used faster gaits, with the lowest number of gait switches in the interdune plain. Movements on the sand dune were characterized by shorter gait segment lengths and frequent gait changes. In the dune valley, movements were slower and the rate of gait changes was intermediate between the other two areas. The strongest influence on gait choice and on gait changes was found to be the terrain topography, mainly the grade. Gait and track choice can be seen as a dynamic adaptation to a demanding environment like the Namib Desert.
Variation in anhydrobiotic survival of two eutardigrade morphospecies: a story of cryptic species and their dispersal
Authors: Faurby S. , Jönsson K. I. , Rebecchi L. , Funch P.
Published: February 2008

Studies of geographic variation in anhydrobiotic tolerance may increase our understanding of the population dynamics of terrestrial meiofauna and the relative importance of local adaptation and microhabitat niche separation. Although anhydrobiosis in tardigrades has been studied extensively, few studies have dealt with intraspecific variation in survival and none of these included genetic data to validate the intraspecific nature of the comparisons. Such data are necessary when working with meiofauna as cryptic species are common. We analysed the anhydrobiotic survival and genetic variation in cytochrome oxidase subunit I of two eutardigrades (Richtersius coronifer and Ramazzottius oberhaeuseri) from Italy and Sweden to detect possible local adaptation. Survival was analysed as a multidimensional contingency table and showed that anhydrobiotic survival was higher in Sweden for Ra. oberhaeuseri whereas no significant geographic variation was found for Ri. coronifer. Our genetic analysis indicated the coexistence of two cryptic species of Ra. oberhaeuseri in Italy, only one of which was found in Sweden. It could not be determined whether the variation in Ramazzottius is intra‐ or interspecific due to the presence of these cryptic species. We suggest that geographic variation in anhydrobiotic survival may be a general phenomenon in tardigrades but further research is necessary to determine the degree of intraspecific variation. The genetic analysis showed indications of long‐term isolation of the individual populations of Ri. coronifer but recent dispersal in one of the cryptic species of Ramazzottius. We found higher survival in Ra. oberhaeuseri than in Ri. coronifer. These results indicate a possible coupling between anhydrobiotic survival and dispersal rate.
Brain heparanase expression is up‐regulated during postnatal development and hypoxia‐induced neovascularization in adult rats
Authors: Navarro Fabrice P. , Fares Raafat P. , Sanchez Pascal E. , Nadam Jérémie , Georges Béatrice , Moulin Colette , Morales Anne , Pequignot Jean‐Marc , Bezin Laurent
Published: February 2008

Heparanase is an endo‐β‐d‐glucuronidase which specifically cleaves extracellular and cell surface heparan sulphates at intra‐chain sites. Its enzymatic activity is strongly implicated in cell dissemination associated with tumor metastasis and inflammation. Indeed, heparanase gene is expressed in various tumors and its over‐expression is correlated with increased tumor vascularity and metastatic potential of tumor cells. However, heparanase expression in non‐invasive and non‐immune tissue, including brain, has received less attention. Using RT‐qPCR, western blot and histological analysis, we demonstrate in the adult rat that heparanase transcript is differentially expressed according to brain area, and that heparanase protein is mainly detected in neurons. Furthermore, we provide evidence that heparanase transcript and protein reach their greatest levels at early postnatal stages, in particular within the neocortex characterized by intensive structural plasticity. Using the in vitro model of PC12‐induced neuronal differentiation, we suggest that developmental regulation of heparanase may coincide with axonal and dendritic pathfinding. At adulthood, we demonstrate that the increased heparanase transcript level correlates in the hippocampus with enhanced angiogenesis following repeated hypoxia exposures. Taken together, our results emphasize the potential importance of heparanase in brain homeostasis, both during development and adaptative responses to severe environmental challenges.
Modulation of adenosine A1 and A2A receptors in C6 glioma cells during hypoxia: involvement of endogenous adenosine
Authors: Castillo Carlos A. , León David , Ruiz María Angeles , Albasanz José Luis , Martín Mairena
Published: February 2008

During hypoxia, extracellular adenosine levels are increased to prevent cell damage, playing a neuroprotective role mainly through adenosine A1 receptors. The aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of hypoxia in both adenosine A1 and A2A receptors endogenously expressed in C6 glioma cells. Two hours of hypoxia (5% O2) caused a significant decrease in adenosine A1 receptors. The same effect was observed at 6 h and 24 h of hypoxia. However, adenosine A2A receptors were significantly increased at the same times. These effects were not due to hypoxia‐induced alterations in cells number or viability. Changes in receptor density were not associated with variations in the rate of gene expression. Furthermore, hypoxia did not alter HIF‐1α expression in C6 cells. However, HIF‐3α, CREB and CREM were decreased. Adenosine A1 and A2A receptor density in normoxic C6 cells treated with adenosine for 2, 6 and 24 h was similar to that observed in cells after oxygen deprivation. When C6 cells were subjected to hypoxia in the presence of adenosine deaminase, the density of receptors was not significantly modulated. Moreover, DPCPX, an A1 receptor antagonist, blocked the effects of hypoxia on these receptors, while ZM241385, an A2A receptor antagonist, was unable to prevent these changes. These results suggest that moderate hypoxia modulates adenosine receptors and cAMP response elements in glial cells, through a mechanism in which endogenous adenosine and tonic A1 receptor activation is involved.
Inhibition of nucleolar transcription as a trigger for neuronal apoptosis
Authors: Kalita Katarzyna , Makonchuk Denys , Gomes Cynthia , Zheng Jing‐Juan , Hetman Michal
Published: February 2008

In post‐mitotic neurons, the mechanisms of the apoptotic checkpoint that is activated by DNA damage remain unclear. Here we show that in cultured cortical neurons, the DNA damaging agent camptothecin (CPT) reduced transcription of rRNA and disrupted nucleolar staining for B23/nucleophosmin suggesting DNA damage‐induced nucleolar stress. Although CPT activated the pro‐apoptotic protein p53, the CPT‐induced nucleolar stress was unaffected by p53 inhibition. In addition, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor‐mediated protection from CPT‐induced apoptosis prevented neither nucleolar stress nor p53 activation. Therefore, inhibition of rRNA transcription might be upstream of the pro‐apoptotic p53 activity. Indeed, short hairpin RNA‐mediated inhibition of a RNA‐Polymerase‐I co‐factor, transcription initiation factor IA, attenuated rRNA transcription causing nucleolar stress and p53‐dependent neuronal apoptosis. The protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide blocked apoptosis that was induced by over‐expressed shTIF‐IA or active form of p53. Also, the general transcription inhibitor actinomycin D triggered nucleolar stress and activated p53. However, it did not induce apoptosis except at the low concentration of 0.05 μg/mL with stronger inhibitory activity against nucleolar than extranucleolar transcription. Hence, nucleolar stress‐activated apoptosis requires extranucleolar transcription. This study identifies the nucleoli of post‐mitotic neurons as sensors of DNA damage coupling reduced rRNA transcription to p53‐mediated apoptosis that requires de novo expression of protein‐coding genes. Thus, rDNA selectivity of DNA damage may determine its ability to induce neuronal apoptosis.
Enhanced exercise‐induced plasma cytokine response and oxidative stress in COPD patients depend on blood oxygenation
Authors: Jammes Yves , Steinberg Jean Guillaume , Ba Abdoulaye , Delliaux Stéphane , Brégeon Fabienne
Published: February 2008

In healthy subjects, hypoxemia and exercise represent independent stressors promoting the exercise‐induced cytokine response and oxidative stress. We hypothesized that hypoxemia in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may affect the cytokine production and/or the changes in oxidant–antioxidant status in response to maximal exercise. Exercise‐induced changes in PaO2 allowed to transiently increase or decrease baseline hypoxemia and to point out its specific action on muscle metabolism. COPD patients with severe to moderate hypoxemia (56 < PaO2 < 72 mmHg) performed an incremental cycling exercise until volitional exhaustion. Two cytokines [interleukin (IL)‐6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α] and three blood indices of oxidative stress [plasma thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and two antioxidants, reduced erythrocyte glutathione (GSH), and reduced plasma ascorbic acid, RAA] were measured at rest, then during and after exercise. The changes in the cytokine levels and oxidant–antioxidant status were analysed in relation with the baseline PaO2 and its exercise‐induced variations. Data were compared with those obtained in an age‐ and body mass index‐matched group of healthy subjects. Compared with healthy subjects, COPD patients presented a marked accentuation of exercise‐induced increase in IL‐6 level and earlier changes in their oxidant–antioxidant status. Resting levels of IL‐6 and TNF‐α and exercise‐induced peak variations of TBARS, IL‐6 and TNF‐α were negatively correlated with the baseline PaO2. In COPD patients, the peak increases in IL‐6 and TBARS were attenuated when exercise hyperventilation reduced the baseline hypoxemia. Our study indicates that the PaO2 level affects both the exercise‐induced oxidative stress and cytokine response in hypoxemic COPD patients.
Molecular and diffusion tensor imaging of epileptic networks
Authors: Luat Aimee F. , Chugani Harry T.
Published: February 2008

Summary

Several studies have shown that seizure‐induced cellular and molecular changes associated with chronic epilepsy can lead to functional and structural alterations in the brain. Chronic epilepsy, when medically refractory, may be associated with an expansion of the epileptic circuitry to involve complex interactions between cortical and subcortical neuroanatomical substrates. Progress in neuroimaging has led not only to successful identification of epileptic foci for surgical resection, but also to an improved understanding of the functional and microstructural changes in long‐standing epilepsy. Positron emission tomography (PET), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) are all promising tools that can assist in elucidating the underlying pathophysiology in chronic epilepsy. Studies using PET scanning have demonstrated dynamic changes associated with the evolution from acute to chronic intractable epilepsy. Among these changes are data to support the existence of secondary epileptogenesis in humans. MRI with DTI is a powerful tool which has the ability to characterize microstructural abnormalities in epileptic foci, and to demonstrate the white matter fibers and tracts participating in the epileptic network. In this review, we illustrate how PET and DTI can be applied to depict the functional and microstructural alterations associated with chronic epilepsy.
Epileptic networks studied with EEG‐fMRI
Authors: Gotman Jean
Published: February 2008

Summary

It is not easy to determine the location of the cerebral generators and the other brain regions that may be involved at the time of an epileptic spike seen in the scalp EEG. The possibility to combine EEG recording with functional MRI scanning (fMRI) opens the opportunity to uncover the regions of the brain showing changes in metabolism and blood flow in response to epileptic spikes seen in the EEG. These regions are presumably involved in the abnormal neuronal activity at the origin of epileptic discharges. This paper reviews the methodology involved in performing such studies, including the special techniques required for recording the EEG inside the scanner and the statistical issues in analyzing the fMRI signal. We then discuss the results obtained in patients with different types of focal epileptic disorders and in patients with primary generalized epilepsy. The results in general indicate that interictal epileptic discharges may affect brain areas well beyond the presumed region in which they are generated. The noninvasive nature of this method opens new horizons in the investigation of brain regions involved and affected by epileptic discharges.
Frank H. Knight's Criticism of Henry George
Authors: Emmett Ross B.
Published: February 2008

Abstract.  The ferocity of Knight's comments on Henry George may come as a surprise to those who are not familiar with his criticisms of other economists and philosophers. But, in fact, his criticisms of George are not due to specifically Knightian insights on George's approach, but rather reflect the different philosophical framework from which neoclassical economists like Knight think. At the core of Knight's disagreements with George is his neoclassical theory of rent, as the Georgist critics of Knight understand. The article reviews the philosophical, economic, and ethical ideas that underlay Knight's neoclassicism, and hence inform his criticism of George.
Apprehending the Social Philosophy of Henry George
Authors: McCann Charles R.
Published: February 2008

Abstract.  It is the purpose of this essay to consider but three questions regarding the social philosophy of Henry George that have to now received insufficient attention: George's views with respect to the nationalization of land, the efficacy of socialism, and the place of the individual. One may conclude that George is ostensibly an individualist, who nonetheless declares an intent to limit individuality by social restraint; he cherishes the ideals of utopian socialism, while denouncing the directed order; he advocates the nationalization of land, but then is willing to accept private ownership (albeit without aggrandizement). Much is to be done in coming to terms with the fullness of the proposals offered by this social activist and radical philosopher.
States on Steroids: The Intergovernmental Odyssey of American Climate Policy
Authors: Rabe Barry G.
Published: February 2008

Climate change has conventionally been framed as an issue that would be addressed by an international regime established through negotiation among nation‐states. The experience of policy development in the decade following the signing of the Kyoto Protocol indicates that climate change also needs to be examined as a challenge of multilevel governance. The increasingly central role of state governments in American climate policy formation squares with recent experience in other Western democracies that share authority across governmental levels. This paper examines the American experience, considering factors that have contributed to a state‐centric policy process and using that body of experience to assess competing strategic choices faced by individual states based on their mix of emission trends and policy adoption rates. In turn, the collective state experience allows for consideration of the varied political feasibility of competing climate policy tools that remain under active review in subnational, national, and international contexts. The paper concludes with a set of scenarios that explore different ways in which a state‐centric system may be integrated with expanding involvement at the national level.
The Politics of “Entrepreneurial” Economic Development Policy of States in the U.S.
Authors: Hart David M.
Published: February 2008

“Entrepreneurial” economic development strategies at the state level in the United States, which focus on nurturing home‐grown, high‐growth businesses, lack immediate payoffs for politically powerful constituencies, a condition that would seem likely to limit their appeal compared to the alternative “locational” strategy of attracting large investments from elsewhere. Nonetheless, many U.S. states have added programs with entrepreneurial attributes to their economic development portfolios in recent years. This paper explores how the political obstacles to such programs have been overcome. In a few cases, an institutional innovation in the policy‐making process drew in new participants who provided ideas for and support to programs with entrepreneurial attributes. More commonly, the preferences of executive branch officials, especially governors, appear to have been critical to the enactment and implementation of such programs. This finding suggests that economic development policy making may be more technocratic than is commonly believed.
Developing the Digital Content Industry in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Hsin‐Hann , Lee Hong‐Yuh , Yu Hsiao‐Cheng
Published: February 2008

The average global annual growth rate of digital content products has grown exponentially. This is because of the technology advancement, cost reduction, and availability of the enabling technologies, e.g., digital processing, digital storage, and digital telecommunications. The development of the digital content industry (DCI) requires a strong cultural background, creative ideas, respect of intellectual property rights, and telecommunications infrastructure, which are all dependent on government supportive policies. This study summarizes the government policies, progress, and obstacles in the development of Taiwan's DCI and compares these subjects with other countries, including the United States, EU countries, Japan, and Korea. In this paper, Taiwan's DCI opportunities and challenges will be discussed, and strategies and recommendations will be provided, based on Taiwan's unique resources and competitive advantages.
Estimating returns to soil conservation adoption in the northern Ethiopian highlands
Authors: Kassie Menale , Pender John , Yesuf Mahmud , Kohlin Gunnar , Bluffstone Randy , Mulugeta Elias
Published: February 2008

Land degradation in the form of soil erosion and nutrient depletion presents a threat to food security and sustainability of agricultural production in many developing countries. Governments and development agencies have invested substantial resources to promote soil conservation practices as part of an effort to improve environmental conditions and reduce poverty. However, limited rigorous empirical work has been done on the economics of soil conservation technology adoption. This article investigates the impact of stone bunds on value of crop production per hectare in low and high rainfall areas of the Ethiopian highlands using cross‐sectional data from more than 900 households, with multiple plots per household. We have used modified random effects models, stochastic dominance analysis (SDA), and matching methods to ensure robustness. The parametric regression and SDA estimates are based on matched observations obtained from the nearest neighbor matching using propensity score estimates. This is important, because conventional regression and SDA estimates are obtained without ensuring that there actually exist comparable conserved and nonconserved plots on the distribution of covariates. We use matching methods, random effects, and Mundlak's approach to control selection and endogeneity bias that may arise due to correlation of unobserved heterogeneity and observed explanatory variables.

We find that the three methods tell a consistent story. Plots with stone bunds are more productive than those without such technologies in semi‐arid areas but not in higher rainfall areas, apparently because the moisture conserving benefits of this technology are more beneficial in drier areas. This implies that the performance of stone bunds varies by agro‐ecology type, suggesting the need for designing and implementing appropriate site‐specific technologies.
Human placental trophoblasts synthesize melatonin and express its receptors
Authors: Lanoix Dave , Beghdadi Hamza , Lafond Julie , Vaillancourt Cathy
Published: February 2008

Abstract: Although the role of melatonin on fetal development has been the subject of a number of studies, little is known about the function of melatonin in the placenta. We previously showed that melatonin receptors are expressed and are functional in JEG‐3 and BeWo cell lines, both in vitro models of human trophoblast. Local synthesis of melatonin in placenta has been proposed, but the human placenta’s ability to synthesize melatonin de novo has never been studied. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression [reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and western blot analysis] and activity (radiometric assay) of melatonin synthesizing enzymes, and characterize the expression of the melatoninergic receptors in human term villous trophoblast. The results show that arylalkylamineN‐acetyltransferase and hydroxyindoleO‐methyltransferase melatonin synthesizing enzymes are expressed and active in villous trophoblast as well as in JEG‐3 and BeWo placental choriocarcinoma cells. In addition, immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated the presence of MT1, MT2, and retinoid‐related orphan nuclear receptor α melatonin receptor proteins in both villous cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast (STB) as well as in endothelial cells surrounding the fetal capillaries and in the villous mesenchymal core. RT‐PCR and western blot analysis in primary cultures of human term trophoblast confirmed the expression of all three melatonin receptors in villous cytotrophoblast and STB cells. This study demonstrates for the first time a local synthesis of melatonin and expression of its receptors in human trophoblasts and strongly suggests a paracrine, autocrine, and/or intracrine role for this indolamine in placental function and development as well as in protection from oxidative stress.
Melatonin prevents the injury‐induced decline of Akt/forkhead transcription factors phosphorylation
Authors: Koh Phil‐Ok
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Melatonin plays a neuroprotective role against brain injury through the activation of Akt and the inhibition of apoptotic cell death. This study investigated whether melatonin modulates the anti‐apoptotic signal through the activation of Akt and its downstream targets, FKHR, AFX, and 14‐3‐3. Adult male rats were treated with melatonin (5 mg/kg) prior to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and brain tissues were collected at 24 hr after MCAO. This study confirmed that melatonin significantly reduces infarct volume and decreases the number of TUNEL‐positive cells in the cerebral cortex. Potential activation was measured by phosphorylation of PDK1 at Ser241, Akt at Ser473, FKHR at Ser256, and AFX at Ser193 using Western blot analysis. Melatonin prevented the injury‐induced reduction of pPDK1, pAkt, pFKHR, and pAFX. However, melatonin did not affect the level of 14‐3‐3, which acts as an anti‐apoptotic factor through interaction of pFKHR. Further, in the presence of melatonin, the interaction of pFKHR and 14‐3‐3 increased, compared with that of control animals. This study suggests that melatonin plays a potent protective role against brain injury and that Akt activation and FKHR phosphorylation by melatonin mediated these protective effects.
“WILT” OR “CROWN‐ROT” DISEASE OF CARNATIONS CAUSED BY FUSARIUM SP.
Authors: BIJL PAUL A. VAN DER
Published: February 2008

The disease in the carnation here commonly referred to as “Wilt” or “Crown‐rot” is caused by a fungus belonging to the genus Fusarium.

The disease usually shows as a wet rot of the stem just below the soil. The lower leaves turn a sickly colour, are usually more erect and soon the whole plant is dead.

This fungus was isolated from diseased carnations; grown in the laboratory and when inoculated into healthy plants produced the disease.

The organism grew well on all culture media, producing usually a greyish growth. Along the glass of the tubes and the bottom of Petri dishes, it showed shades of grey, yellow, brown and red.

The fungus grows best at 25o‐30o C, with something in favour of the latter temperature. No growth at 0o C. or 40o C. At 15o C. growth less vigorous than at 25o C.: at 37o C. it remains feeble. The fungus is not killed by incubation at 0o C.; cultures from 0o C. and 37o C. transferred to 30o C. showed a vigorous growth. No growth occurred in cultures transferred from 40o C. to 30o C.

The organism appears to be strictly aerobic.

It withstands high degrees of acidity but less alkalinity.

Conidia vary in size in different media and range between 14.85‐37.95μ× 3.3‐6.6μ, hyaline, fusiform to nearly straight, on some media (banana) very small; 2–6 celled.

Experiments were carried out in the laboratory with various disinfectants and fungicides; these experiments serve to act as a guide for experiments on the treatment of infected soil.

Field experiments carried out with the object of finding whether the application of quicklime or formalin solution to diseased soils would have any beneficial effect, tend to show: (a) the plot treated with formalin was no better than the control plots; (b) on the whole, the plots treated with quicklime fared a little better than the controls, but further experiments would be necessary.

It is urged that the spread of the disease should be prevented as far as practicable by: (a) growing one's own cuttings; (b) obtaining cuttings from healthy vigorous plants only; (c) laying Guttings in in healthy ground; (d) pulling up and destroying all plants showing any evidence of disease,

Diseased soil should be submitted to a judicious process of crop‐rotation for a few years, and all attempts made to prevent the fungus spreading from diseased to healthy areas.

The question of the existence of varieties more or less immune from the disease has thus far not received attention, though it is a problem well worth serious consideration, and the breeding of disease‐resistant varieties may yet be the ultimate solution.
“REVERSION” AND RESISTANCE TO “BIG BUD” IN BLACK CURRANTS.
Authors: LEES A. H.
Published: February 2008

Reversion is characterised by four symptoms:

“running off” of the fruit,

unusual amount of lateral wood growth,

sharp pointed leaves,

long, thin, internodes.

It is associated with and apparently caused by a check to the terminal growth through change of the terminal wood bud into:

a big bud,

a killed bud or blind bud,

a fruit bud.

It may also be associated with aphis attack.

Mite resistant varieties revert under conditions 2 (6) and 2 (c).

Seabrook's Black is mite resistant because in normal climates‐and seasons the mite kills the attacked growing point and thus starves itself. This only happens when both climate and variety favour an early and strong continued check to the, growth of the bush.

There is a form of reversion occurring in young bushes before mite or aphis are present. This form is at present unaccountable.
A COPPER EMULSION AS A FUNGICIDE.
Authors: WORMALD H. , WORMALD L. K.
Published: February 2008

Summary. An emulsion containing the equivalent of 0.4 per cent. copper sulphate, (CuSO4. 5H2O) can be made by mixing solutions of copper sulphate and soft soap, and this exhibits preventive action against the attacks of the potato blight fungus.

In conclusion, we should like to thank Dr Eyre, who indicated the possibility of preparing an emulsion by the method adopted, and at whose suggestion the above experiments were carried out.
STUDIES IN BACTERIOSIS II1.: A BROWN BLOTCH DISEASE OF CULTIVATED MUSHROOMS.
Authors: PAINE. SYDNEY G.
Published: February 2008

A disease of cultivated mushrooms is described in which patches of a chestnut brown colour so disfigure the pileus as to render the affected crop quite unmarketable.

The disease is identical with that described in America by Tolaas, but left unnamed by him.

The cause of the disease is a small bacterial parasite which may possibly be a strain of Pseudomonas fluorescens and may prove to be identical with the organism which produces Pear‐blossom Blight.

Until its identity is established by further experiment it seems well to give it a distinguishing mark, and the name Pseudomonas Tolaasi is suggested.
INVESTIGATION OF THE NATURE AND CAUSE OF THE DAMAGE TO PLANT TISSUE RESULTING FROM THE FEEDING OF CAPSID BUGS.
Authors: SMITH KENNETH M.
Published: February 2008

There are several species of Capsid bugs which normally feed on the leaves and fruit of apple trees but only one causes any damage, i.e. Plesiocoris rugicollis. This species produces the death of the tissue surrounding each puncture in the leaves made in feeding and on the fruit produces great distortion and “russeting.”

There are three possible explanations of this damage:

A purely mechanical injury produced by the insect's stylets in process of sucking.

The possibility of the bug acting as a “carrier” of bacteria and by injecting these into the plant along with the saliva so sets up a pathological state.

The injection of some secretion from the salivary glands which has a violently toxic effect on the plant tissue.

It was found impossible to reproduce by mechanical means the injury resulting from the feeding of P. rugicollis, also the fact that the other species of Capsid bug feed in a similar manner and produce no injury militates strongly against the theory of mechanical injury only.

As regards the second theory, no bacteria could be discovered in microtome sections of either damaged plant tissue or the salivary glands of the bug, and all attempts to reproduce the damage by means of bacteria failed.

The third theory was proved to be the correct explanation by several experiments and observations.

Experiments were made to try and reproduce the bug injury with various dilute poisons; in most cases a very similar appearance was produced in the foliage, but the attempts were unsuccessful in the fruit itself with the exception of the very great retarding effect in the growth of the fruit, which is one of the results of the bug injury.

By feeding the bugs on slices of potato instead of apple the same effect was produced, but on a magnified scale. The salivary glands of P. rugicollis and of Lygus pabulinus, a bug harmful to potato foliage, when placed on a freshly cut slice of potato in a petri dish, produced a violent reaction which killed much of the tissue surrounding the glands. The same experiment was carried out with the glands of one of the harmless apple‐feeding bugs Psallus ambiguus, these had no effect whatever on the potato. When the salivary glands of P. rugicollis were pricked into apple buds, the shoots were killed within 24 hours. The salivary glands of P. ambiguus when similarly treated had no effect. Observations were made showing the rate of exudation of sap from the bug's puncture in the potato and these are given for P. rugicollis and Lygus pabulinus. A list of common plants and fruit trees with their various reactions to the feeding of harmful bugs is also given.