bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kava in Arnhem Land: a review of consumption and its social correlates
Authors: Clough Alan R. , Burns Christopher B. , Mununggurr Ngarrawu
Published: June 2007

The debate about the effects and public health importance of the way Aboriginal people drink kava has been confounded by claims, based on anecdote, of imputed health effects. Anecdote and comment have promoted the perception that dosage levels among Aboriginal people are much greater than in Pacific island societies. In this paper we review published data about kava consumption, and evaluate it with respect to information collected from observation of one Aboriginal community in Arnhem Land (Northern Territory) where people tend to consume kavaat a steady tempo; 37g of kava powder containing around 3800mg of kava lactones in 670ml of water in an hour. The highest levels of consumption in Arnhem Land have been reported to be up to 900g/week of kava powder with heavy consumers drinking at least 610g/week, levels comparable to estimates for Pacific‐island societies. The significance of a steady drinking tempo means that an individual's weekly kava consumption relates directly to the amount of time spent drinking which, in turn, is correlated with categories of social setting of drinking (p < 0.0002). Lone drinkers appear to be the heaviest users while lowest consumption takes place in private domestic situations, where people enjoy kava as part of family group activities. Surrogates of consumption levels may be found in local socio‐economic circumstances. This approach may be useful when more direct measurement of consumption is difficult or impossible.
Clobazam maintenance among methadone maintenance patients with problematic benzodiazepine use: five case studies
Authors: WICKES WENDY A. , DARKE SHANE , ROSS JOANNE
Published: June 2007

The aim of this pilot study was to determine the potential of maintenance with clobazam in patients on methadone who we also benzodiazepine dependent. Five individuals we recruited and four were maintained on clobazam for a minimum of 3 months prior to reduction. Three subjects we abstinent from other benzodiazepines at 3 months. Clobazam was given as a single daily dose and was reported by the clients as less sedating than diazepam There is potential for clobazam to be used as a maintenance benzodiazepine.
The empirical testability of Skog's theory of collective drinking behaviour
Authors: GMEL GERHARD , REHM JÜRGEN
Published: June 2007

The objects of this study we (1) to review systematically Skog's theory of collective drinking behaviour and its interpretations by alcohol researchers, and (2) to give examples of how Skog's theory and these different interpretations have been empirically tested and to indicate how they might be tested. Based on a computer‐aided search of the literature, a reconstruction of the theory and possible alternative interpretations is provided. Different interpretations of Skog's theory are possible and can be found in the literature. Surprisingly, there is little empirical evidence, especially recent evidence, to support Skog's key assumptions. Suggestions for further research are given.
EUROPE AND THE ‘AMERICANIZATION’ OF BRITISH SOCIAL POLICY
Authors: Holmwood John
Published: June 2007

This paper identifies and seeks to resolve the paradox that British social policy appears to have diverged from its EU partners in the period since membership and to have converged with that of the USA. Existing historical institutionalist approaches stress common regime characteristics of Britain and the USA in explanation of British difference from other member states. The present paper challenges such accounts and argues that the explanation lies in the transformation (and demise) of the post-Imperial/Commonwealth system of political economy in which the British economy (and related social policy) was embedded. This transformation has also produced internal problems within the British state giving rise to its reorganization with devolved Assemblies in Scotland and Wales. The final part of the paper addresses how this latter development has created a ‘fault-line’ in the British social policy debate with the possibility of reversing the trend toward Americanization.
Acute effects of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) on haematology parameters and hepatic EROD-activity in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Ek Helene , Dave Göran , Birgersson Göran , Förlin Lars
Published: June 2007

The objectives of the present study were to examine the toxicological effects of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene on the hepatic ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activity and some haematological variables, in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). This study was a first attempt to identify possible biomarkers for forthcoming fish monitoring studies close to ammunition dumping sites at sea and in lakes. The fish were divided into four groups; one received an intraperitoneal injection of peanut oil only (control), while the other three groups were injected with peanut oil and 100, 200 or 400 mg 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (kg b.w.)−1, respectively. The fish groups were kept in continuously flowing, aerated, and filtered fresh water at a temperature of 12°C for three days. Blood collected from caudal vessels was analysed for haematocrit, haemoglobin, methaemoglobin and different white blood cell number, and the blood plasma was analysed for 2,4,6-Trinitrotoluene and its metabolites by gas chromatograph and mass spectrometer. The microsomal fraction of the liver was analysed for ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activity. All fish groups treated with 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene had a significantly increased methaemoglobin concentration compared to the control group. The leukocytes count was increased in rainbow trout treated with the highest dose (400 mg 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (kg b.w.)−1), and the ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase activity was significantly inhibited in fish treated with the two highest doses (200 and 400 mg 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (kg b.w.)−1. Chemical analysis by gas chromatograph and mass spectrometer revealed the presence of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene in a pooled plasma sample of fish treated with the highest dose. The present study suggests that chemical analysis of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene in blood plasma may be suitable as a direct confirmation of exposure to this compound, while increased methaemoglobin levels may be a promising aid as a general biomarker in field monitoring of possible exposure in fish caught close to ammunition dumping sites.
Reproductive Caste Performs Intranidal Tasks Instead of Workers in the Ant Mystrium oberthueri
Authors: Molet Mathieu , Peeters Christian , Follin Isabelle , Fisher Brian L.
Published: June 2007

Division of labour improves the efficiency of animal societies. Efficiency is further improved in many social insects where morphologically specialized adults perform different tasks. In ants, the wingless worker caste performs non‐reproductive activities and sometimes exhibits multiple phenotypes when requirements between brood care and expert foraging diverge. Mystrium rogeri from Madagascar is a specialist predator on large centipedes, and the worker caste is highly polymorphic in size. In contrast, M. oberthueri has only large workers. The replacement of the queen caste by wingless intermorphs much smaller than workers explains this evolutionary shift in M. oberthueri. Many intermorphs occur in each colony but only a few mate and reproduce. In order to determine their contribution to non‐reproductive tasks, we performed multivariate analyses on behavioural data recorded by scan sampling from four M. oberthueri colonies in the laboratory. In unmanipulated colonies, workers and intermorphs exhibited two distinct behavioural profiles. Workers focused on guarding and foraging, while intermorphs performed brood care and nest cleaning, regardless of whether they reproduced or not. This pattern of polyethism where the reproductive caste completely takes charge of some non‐reproductive tasks is novel, as confirmed by our observations of one colony of M. rogeri where non‐reproductive tasks were restricted to workers, as in most ants. When isolated from one another, M. oberthueri workers and intermorphs developed less distinctive behavioural patterns. Some workers cared for the brood, but the intermorphs could not hunt because of their small mandibles. Such plasticity in polyethism at the colony level confers the ability to react to unexpected changes, including variable proportions of workers and intermorphs.
Endothelial dysfunction and low‐grade inflammation and the progression of retinopathy in Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Spijkerman A. M. W. , Gall M.‐A. , Tarnow L. , Twisk J. W. R. , Lauritzen E. , Lund‐Andersen H. , Emeis J. , Parving H.‐H. , Stehouwer C. D. A.
Published: June 2007

Aims  To study whether microalbuminuria, endothelial dysfunction and low‐grade inflammation are associated with the presence and progression of diabetic retinopathy.

Methods  Patients with Type 2 diabetes (n = 328) attending a diabetes clinic were followed for 10 years and examined annually during the last 7 years. Retinopathy was assessed after pupillary dilatation by direct ophthalmoscopy (baseline) and two‐field 60° fundus photography (follow‐up). Urinary albumin excretion, and markers of endothelial function (von Willebrand factor, tissue‐type plasminogen activator, soluble E‐selectin (sE‐selectin), and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1) and inflammatory activity (C‐reactive protein and fibrinogen) were determined.

Results  The prevalence of retinopathy was 33.8%. The median diabetes duration at baseline was 7 years (interquartile range 2–12 years). The highest tertiles of baseline urinary albumin excretion and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) were associated with prevalent retinopathy: odds ratio (OR) 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.80 (1.44–5.46) and 2.19 (1.11–4.32), respectively. Progression of retinopathy occurred in 188 patients. The second and third tertiles of baseline sE‐selectin were associated with progression of retinopathy [1.44 (1.04–2.01) and 1.61 (1.19–2.18)] but not independently of HbA1c. None of the other markers was significantly associated with the presence or progression of retinopathy. High baseline HbA1c was significantly associated with progression of retinopathy: 1.65 (1.21–2.25).

Conclusions  In this population of patients with Type 2 diabetes who attended a diabetes clinic, there was some evidence for a role of endothelial dysfunction in the progression of retinopathy. We could not demonstrate a role for low‐grade inflammation. Our study emphasizes the importance of glycaemic control in the development and progression of retinopathy.
The videoconferencing learning environment: Technology, interaction and learning intersect
Authors: Saw K. G. , Majid Omar , Abdul Ghani N. , Atan H. , Idrus R. M. , Rahman Z. A. , Tan K. E.
Published: June 2007

This paper is a study on the interaction patterns of distance learners enrolled in the Mathematics and Physics programmes of Universiti Sains Malaysia in the videoconferencing learning environment (VCLE). Interaction patterns are analysed in six randomly chosen videoconferencing sessions within one academic year. The findings show there are more interactions in the graphics display mode than the video display mode. The graphics display mode, which involves the simultaneous interaction of the teacher, students and course materials, shows greater student engagement in the VCLE. The focus on a three‐component interaction in distance learning differs from previous studies which looked at distinct types of two‐component interactions. The types of communicative interaction, in particular the explanatory and cognitive types which are dominant in the graphics display mode, are discussed within the construct of learning. The higher number of teacher‐initiated interactions may also imply that the teacher plays a crucial role in creating and maintaining a community of inquiry focused on exploring and developing content as well as giving feedback on concepts, ideas or solutions.
An empirical investigation of students' behavioural intentions to use the online learning course websites
Authors: Chang Su‐Chao , Tung Feng‐Cheng
Published: June 2007

With the development of the Internet in the era of knowledge‐driven economy, e‐learning is experiencing rapid growth. The online learning course websites are drawing more attention as well. This research combines the innovation diffusion theory and the technology acceptance model, and adds two research variables, perceived system quality and computer self‐efficacy to propose a new hybrid technology acceptance model to study students' behavioural intentions to use the online learning course websites. This research finds that compatibility, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived system quality and computer self‐efficacy were critical factors for students' behavioural intentions to use the online learning course websites. By explaining students' behavioural intentions from a user's perspective, the findings of this research help to develop more user‐friendly websites and also provide insight into the best way to promote new e‐learning tools for students.
Changes in parent‐assessed oral health‐related quality of life among young children following dental treatment under general anaesthetic
Authors: Malden P. E. , Thomson W. M. , Jokovic A. , Locker D.
Published: June 2007

Abstract – 

Objective:  To estimate the nature and magnitude of changes in oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) among children having dental treatment under general anaesthetic (GA) and to examine the evaluative properties of the Child Oral Health‐related Quality of Life Questionnaire (COHQOL©).

Methods:  Data from a consecutive clinical sample of the parents/caregivers of children receiving dental treatment under GA at Wellington and Kenepuru Hospitals were collected from parents using the Parental‐Caregivers Perception Questionnaire (P‐CPQ) and the Family Impact Scale (FIS), which both form part of the COHQOL© Questionnaire. The first questionnaire was completed before treatment or while the participant's child was undergoing treatment. The follow‐up questionnaire was completed 1–4 weeks afterward. Treatment‐associated changes in OHRQoL were determined by comparing baseline and follow‐up data for the mean scores and the prevalence of impacts. The discriminative properties of the instrument were confirmed and then its evaluative properties were assessed (by examining its test–retest reliability, responsiveness and longitudinal construct validity). The minimally important difference was determined for the overall scale and subscales.

Results:  Complete baseline and follow‐up data were obtained for 202 and 130 participants, respectively (64.4% follow‐up rate). The evaluative properties of the P‐CPQ and FIS were acceptable. There were substantial and highly statistically significant reductions in mean P‐CPQ and FIS scores after treatment, with effect sizes ranging from moderate to large, depending on the subscale being examined. The minimally important difference was shown by almost two‐thirds of the children treated.

Conclusion:  The provision of dental treatment under GA for young children with severe dental caries experience is associated with substantial and highly significant improvements in both their OHRQoL and in the impact on their families. The P‐CPQ and the FIS show promise as evaluative measures for use in dental health services research.
Influence of Thermodynamic Effect on Synchronous Rotating Cavitation
Authors: Yoshida Yoshiki , Sasao Yoshifumi , Okita Kouichi , Hasegawa Satoshi , Shimagaki Mitsuru , Ikohagi Toshiaki
Published: June 2007

Synchronous rotating cavitation is known as one type of cavitation instability, which causes synchronous shaft vibration or head loss. On the other hand, cavitation in cryogenic fluids has a thermodynamic effect on cavitating inducers because of thermal imbalance around the cavity. It improves cavitation performances due to delay of cavity growth. However, relationships between the thermodynamic effect and cavitation instabilities are still unknown. To investigate the influence of the thermodynamic effect on synchronous rotating cavitation, we conducted experiments in which liquid nitrogen was set at different temperatures (74K, 78K, and 83K). We clarified the thermodynamic effect on synchronous rotating cavitation in terms of cavity length, fluid force, and liquid temperature. Synchronous rotating cavitation occurs at the critical cavity length of Lc∕h≅0.8, and the onset cavitation number shifts to a lower level due to the lag of cavity growth by the thermodynamic effect, which appears significantly with rising liquid temperature. Furthermore, we confirmed that the fluid force acting on the inducer notably increases under conditions of synchronous rotating cavitation.
Turbulent Jet Mixing Enhancement and Control Using Self-Excited Nozzles
Authors: Vandsburger Uri , Yuan Yiqing
Published: June 2007

A new self-excited jet methodology was developed for the mixing enhancement of jet fluid with its surrounding, quiescent, stagnant, or coflowing fluid. The nozzles, of a square or rectangular cross section, featured two flexible side walls that could go into aerodynamically-induced vibration. The mixing of nozzle fluid was measured using planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) from acetone seeded into the nozzle fluid. Overall, the self-excited jet showed enhanced mixing with the ambient fluid; for example, at 390Hz excitation a mixing rate enhancement of 400% at x∕D=4 and 200% at x∕D=20 over the unexcited jet. The mixing rate was sensitive to the excitation frequency, increasing by 60% with the frequency changing from 200 to 390Hz (corresponding to a Strouhal number from 0.052 to 0.1). It was also observed that the mixing rate increased with the coflow velocity. To explain the observed mixing enhancement, the flow field was studied in detail using four-element hot wire probes. This led to the observation of two pairs of counter rotating large-scale streamwise vortices as the dominant structures in the excited flow. Shedding right from the nozzle exit, these inviscid vortices provided a rapid transport of the momentum and mass between the jet and the surrounding fluid at a length scale comparable to half-nozzle diameter. Moreover, the excited jet gained as much as six times the turbulent kinetic energy at the nozzle exit over the unexcited jet. Most of the turbulent kinetic energy is concentrated within five diameters from the nozzle exit, distributed across the entire jet width, explaining the increased mixing in the near field.
Embattled Ranchers, Endangered Species, and Urban Sprawl: The Political Ecology of the New American West
Authors: Sheridan Thomas E.
Published: June 2007

The modern American West is one of the most contested landscapes in the world, yet anthropologists are just beginning to grapple with its dynamic political ecology. Since World War II, the West has been transformed from an overwhelmingly rural landscape dominated by extractive industries to an overwhelmingly urban landscape characterized by explosive urban, suburban, and ex-urban growth. This review surveys the literature to explore a number of interrelated topics, including (a) the changing economies of the rural West and the production and destruction of space across Western landscapes; (b) the institutional contexts of resource control on public lands; (c) ideological clashes and political maneuvering among interest groups who claim access to those lands; and (d) the struggle to move beyond polemics and dualities and mobilize, in the words of the Quivira Coalition, a “radical center” committed to “foster ecological, economic, and social health on western landscapes.”
Queer Studies in the House of Anthropology
Authors: Boellstorff Tom
Published: June 2007

This review examines anthropological research on sexuality published in English since 1993, focusing on work addressing lesbian women, gay men, and transgendered persons, as well as on the use of history, linguistics, and geography in such research. Reviewing the emergence of regional literatures, it investigates how questions of globalization and the nation have moved to the forefront of anthropological research on questions of sexuality. The essay asks how questions of intersectionality, inclusion, and difference have shaped the emergence of a queer anthropology or critical anthropology of sexuality, with special reference to the relationship between sexuality and gender.
Infrared Detector Arrays for Astronomy
Authors: Rieke G.H.
Published: June 2007

Use of infrared detector arrays in astronomy began roughly 20 years ago, and our detection capabilities in parts of this spectral range have doubled about every seven months since then. A variety of approaches are now used for detector arrays operating from 1 μm to 1 mm and beyond. They include direct hybrid arrays of InSb and HgCdTe photodiodes that operate from 0.6 μm to 5 μm, and of Si:As impurity band conduction detectors from 5 μm to 28 μm; a number of approaches to photoconductive detector arrays in the far-infrared; and bolometer arrays read out by transistors or superconducting devices in the far-infrared through millimeter-wave spectral range. The underlying principles behind these approaches are discussed. The application of these principles is illustrated through detailed discussion of a number of state-of-the-art detector arrays.
The Search for the Missing Baryons at Low Redshift
Authors: Bregman Joel N.
Published: June 2007

At low redshift, only about one-tenth of the known baryons lie in galaxies or the hot gas seen in galaxy clusters and groups. Models posit that these “missing baryons” are in gaseous form in overdense filaments that connect the much denser virialized groups and clusters. About 30% is cool (<105 K) and is detected in Lyα absorption studies, but about half is predicted to lie in the 105–107 K regime. Gas is detected in the 2–5 × 105 K range through OVI absorption studies (7% of the baryons) and possibly near 105 K from broad Lyα absorption (20% of the baryons). Hotter gas (0.5–2 × 106 K) is detected at zero redshift by OVII and OVIII Kα X-ray absorption, and the OVII line strengths seem to correlate with the Galactic soft X-ray background, so it is probably produced by Galactic halo gas, rather than a Local Group medium. There are no compelling detections of the intergalactic hot gas (0.5–10 × 106 K) either in absorption or emission and these upper limits are consistent with theoretical models. Claimed X-ray absorption lines are not confirmed, while most of the claims of soft emission are attributable to artifacts of background subtraction and field-flattening. The missing baryons should become detectable with moderate improvements in instrumental sensitivity.
SNP Genotyping: Technologies and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Kim Sobin , Misra Ashish
Published: June 2007

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the most frequently occurring genetic variation in the human genome, with the total number of SNPs reported in public SNP databases currently exceeding 9 million. SNPs are important markers in many studies that link sequence variations to phenotypic changes; such studies are expected to advance the understanding of human physiology and elucidate the molecular bases of diseases. For this reason, over the past several years a great deal of effort has been devoted to developing accurate, rapid, and cost-effective technologies for SNP analysis, yielding a large number of distinct approaches. This article presents a review of SNP genotyping techniques and examines their principles of genotype determination in terms of allele differentiation strategies and detection methods. Further, several current biomedical applications of SNP genotyping are discussed.
Noninvasive Human Brain Stimulation
Authors: Wagner Timothy , Valero-Cabre Antoni , Pascual-Leone Alvaro
Published: June 2007

Noninvasive brain stimulation with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is valuable in research and has potential therapeutic applications in cognitive neuroscience, neurophysiology, psychiatry, and neurology. TMS allows neurostimulation and neuromodulation, while tDCS is a purely neuromodulatory application. TMS and tDCS allow diagnostic and interventional neurophysiology applications, and focal neuropharmacology delivery. However, the physics and basic mechanisms of action remain incompletely explored. Following an overview of the history and current applications of noninvasive brain stimulation, we review stimulation device design principles, the electromagnetic and physical foundations of the techniques, and the current knowledge about the electrophysiologic basis of the effects. Finally, we discuss potential biomedical and electrical engineering developments that could lead to more effective stimulation devices, better suited for the specific applications.
Wing Vein Patterning in Drosophila and the Analysis of Intercellular Signaling
Authors: Blair Seth S.
Published: June 2007

The positioning and elaboration of ectodermal veins in the wing of Drosophila melanogaster rely on widely utilized developmental signals, including those mediated by EGF, BMP, Hedgehog, Notch, and Wnt. Analysis of vein patterning mutants, using the molecular and genetic mosaic techniques available in Drosophila, has provided important insights into how a combination of short-range and long-range signaling can pattern a simple epidermal tissue. Moreover, venation has become a powerful system for isolating and analyzing novel components in these signaling pathways. I here review the basic events of vein patterning and give examples of how changes in venation have been used to identify important features of cell signaling pathways.
Influence of Electric Field and Mechanical Stresses on the Fracture of Ferroelectrics
Authors: Schneider Gerold A.
Published: June 2007

This chapter reviews experimental results that allow one to interpret the essential features of fracture in ferroelectric ceramics under electric and mechanical load. First, crack growth measurements on unpoled and poled ferroelectric ceramics are reviewed, and numerous experiments that demonstrate the existence and relevance of a domain-switching zone are presented. Thereafter the review concentrates on results of fracture experiments with applied electric fields and addresses the controversial outcomes of such experiments. Theoretical fracture mechanical concepts are then introduced. One part of the discussion focuses on electrical boundary conditions used at the crack surface because they decisively determine the predicted energy release rate. The other part of the discussion, which concerns theoretical concepts, discusses the predicted switching zones around cracks and their influence on the stress intensity factor and energy release rate. Finally, this chapter attempts to mirror the tremendous theoretical framework against the existing experimental results and critically review the relevance of the developed fracture mechanics concepts of piezoelectric ceramics.
Development of a Combined Biological and Chemical Process for Production of Industrial Aromatics from Renewable Resources
Authors: Sariaslani F. Sima
Published: June 2007

Production of industrial aromatic chemicals from renewable resources could provide a competitive alternative to traditional chemical synthesis routes. This review describes the engineering of microorganisms for the production of p-hydroxycinnamic acid (pHCA) and p-hydroxystyrene (pHS) from glucose. The initial process concept was demonstrated using a tyrosine-producing Escherichia coli strain that overexpressed both fungal phenylalanine/tyrosine ammonia lyase (PAL) and bacterial pHCA decarboxylase (pdc) genes. Further development of this bioprocess resulted in uncoupling the pHCA and pHS production steps to mitigate their toxicity to the production host. The final process consists of a fermentation step to convert glucose to tyrosine using a tyrosine-overproducing E. coli strain. This step is followed by a single biotransformation reaction to deaminate tyrosine to pHCA through immobilized E. coli cells that overexpress the Rhodotorula glutinis PAL gene. Finally, chemical decarboxylation of pHCA produces pHS. This multifaceted approach, which integrates biology, chemistry, and engineering, has allowed development of an economical process at scales suitable for industrial applications.
Morphogenesis in Candida albicans
Authors: Whiteway Malcolm , Bachewich Catherine
Published: June 2007

Candida albicans is termed a dimorphic fungus because it proliferates in either a yeast form or a hyphal form. The switch between these forms is the result of a complex interplay of external and internal factors and is coordinated in part by polarity-regulating proteins that are conserved among eukaryotic cells. However, yeast and hyphal cells are not the only morphological states of C. albicans. The opaque form required for mating, the pseudohyphal cell, and the chlamydospore represent distinct cell types that form in response to specific genetic or environmental conditions. In addition, hyperextended buds can form as a result of various cell cycle–related stresses. Recent studies are beginning to shed light on some of the molecular controls regulating the various morphogenetic forms of this fascinating human pathogen.
Effects of Brain Evolution on Human Nutrition and Metabolism
Authors: Leonard William R. , Snodgrass J. Josh , Robertson Marcia L.
Published: June 2007

The evolution of large human brain size has had important implications for the nutritional biology of our species. Large brains are energetically expensive, and humans expend a larger proportion of their energy budget on brain metabolism than other primates. The high costs of large human brains are supported, in part, by our energy- and nutrient-rich diets. Among primates, relative brain size is positively correlated with dietary quality, and humans fall at the positive end of this relationship. Consistent with an adaptation to a high-quality diet, humans have relatively small gastrointestinal tracts. In addition, humans are relatively “undermuscled” and “over fat” compared with other primates, features that help to offset the high energy demands of our brains. Paleontological evidence indicates that rapid brain evolution occurred with the emergence of Homo erectus 1.8 million years ago and was associated with important changes in diet, body size, and foraging behavior.
Reniform in U.S. Cotton: When, Where, Why, and Some Remedies
Authors: Robinson A. Forest
Published: June 2007

The reniform nematode, Rotylenchulus reniformis, is an emerging problem in U.S. cotton. The impact of this nematode and the extent to which it has and will continue to spread across the U.S. cotton belt are controversial. Long-term changes in cotton production and unique biological attributes of R. reniformis are key factors. Expert opinion surveys indicate that R. reniformis has replaced the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) as the major nematode of cotton in Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama. In neighboring states the incidence of heavily infested fields has increased during the past 10 years. Estimated annual loss to the U.S. cotton crop is $130M. Crop rotation and nematicides can reduce losses. Introgression of genetic resistance from primitive accessions of other cotton species offers the most promising opportunity to effectively control this pathogen in the long term. Laboratories in several institutions are currently pursuing this goal, with the promise of resistant cultivars adapted to U.S. cotton production regions within three years.
Bacteriophages for Plant Disease Control
Authors: Jones J.B. , Jackson L.E. , Balogh B. , Obradovic A. , Iriarte F.B. , Momol M.T.
Published: June 2007

The use of phages for disease control is a fast expanding area of plant protection with great potential to replace the chemical control measures now prevalent. Phages can be used effectively as part of integrated disease management strategies. The relative ease of preparing phage treatments and low cost of production of these agents make them good candidates for widespread use in developing countries as well. However, the efficacy of phages, as is true of many biological control agents, depends greatly on prevailing environmental factors as well as on susceptibility of the target organism. Great care is necessary during development, production and application of phage treatments. In addition, constant monitoring for the emergence of resistant bacterial strains is essential. Phage-based disease control management is a dynamic process with a need for continuous adjustment of the phage preparation in order to effectively fight potentially adapting pathogenic bacteria.
The Consequences of Economic Globalization for Affluent Democracies
Authors: Brady David , Beckfield Jason , Zhao Wei
Published: June 2007

In recent decades, economic globalization has grown significantly in affluent democracies. Taking this as a point of departure, we review social science research on the consequences of economic globalization for the state, the economy, and civil society. We advocate for a concrete position of empirical scrutiny, between the grand theorists and earlier empirical skeptics, and measure economic globalization as the heightening of international trade and investment. Social scientists have engaged in lively debates surrounding such topics as how globalization affects the welfare state, politics, deindustrialization, inequality, and organized labor. Among the themes that emerge from these debates are the distinct values of within- and between-country comparisons and the need for a stronger connection between theoretical accounts of globalization and empirical analyses. At the same time, many aspects of social life have been neglected by recent research on globalization. Throughout, we gauge current consensus and dissensus, identify understudied topics, and suggest directions for future research.
The Sociology of the Radical Right
Authors: Rydgren Jens
Published: June 2007

During the past two decades, the radical right has reemerged as an electoral force in Western Europe, as well as in other stable democracies such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Aside from discussing the ideology of this party family and how it relates to older forms of right-wing radicalism and extremism, such as fascism, this review deals with the question of how the emergence of radical right-wing parties can be explained and why such parties have been considerably more successful among voters in some countries than in others. Possible explanations are grouped into two parts: The first consists of so-called demand-centered explanations, that is, explanations that focus on changing preferences, beliefs, and attitudes among voters. The second consists of so-called supply-side explanations, that is, explanations that focus on political opportunity structures and party organizational factors.
Justice Lost! The Failure of International Human Rights Law To Matter Where Needed Most
Authors: Hafner-Burton Emilie M. , Tsutsui Kiyoteru
Published: June 2007

International human rights treaties have been ratified by many nation-states, including those ruled by repressive governments, raising hopes for better practices in many corners of the world. Evidence increasingly suggests, however, that human rights laws are most effective in stable or consolidating democracies or in states with strong civil society activism. If so, treaties may be failing to make a difference in those states most in need of reform — the world's worst abusers — even though they have been the targets of the human rights regime from the very beginning. The authors address this question of compliance by focusing on the behavior of repressive states in particular. Through a series of cross-national analyses on the impact of two key human rights treaties, the article demonstrates that (1) governments, including repressive ones, frequently make legal commitments to human rights treaties, subscribing to recognized norms of protection and creating opportunities for socialization and capacity-building necessary for lasting reforms; (2) these commitments mostly have no effects on the world's most terrible repressors even long into the future; (3) recent findings that treaty effectiveness is conditional on democracy and civil society do not explain the behavior of the world's most abusive governments; and (4) realistic institutional reforms will probably not help to solve this problem.
Good Things to Those Who Wait? National Elections and Government Respect for Human Rights
Authors: Richards David L. , Gelleny Ronald D.
Published: June 2007

What exactly is it about democracy that enables it to protect human rights? As part of the research program addressing that important question, this article examines the relationship between democratic national legislative and presidential elections and government respect for human rights in over 100 countries from 1981 to 2000. Both presidential (direct and semi-presidential) and lower-house national legislative elections are found to be reliably associated with greater government respect for human rights, but only in the years following an election and not in election years themselves. Interestingly, national legislative elections were found to be associated with greater government respect for human rights, while presidential elections were associated with less respect for human rights. Consequently, the authors caution that the historically popular concept of electoralism (the use of elections alone as a proxy for full democracy) is unlikely to play a positive part in any policy intending to protect human rights.
Non-linear modelling of a gas strut used in ground vehicle suspensions
Authors: Gao B. , Darling Jos , Tilley D.G. , Williams R.A. , Bean A. , Donahue J.
Published: June 2007

Gas struts are widely used in vehicle suspensions. However, they are highly non-linear and conventional linear models are not sufficient to describe their complex behaviour. In this paper, two non-linear gas strut models with different modelling approaches are presented. One is based on grey-box methods using the modular dynamic simulation package Bathfp, where both physical parameters and experimental data are used to model the strut. The other uses black-box methods in Matlab, where artificial neural networks are employed and experimental data are used to train the model. Simulation studies demonstrate that the neural network model is more suitable for real road vehicle simulations, whereas the Bathfp model is more appropriate for detailed system dynamics analysis, especially iso-frequency studies. Since the Bathfp model is able to predict the strut performance when certain parameters in the system are changed and can be easily integrated into different vehicle models, it is a useful design tool for both strut manufacturers and automotive original equipment manufacturers.
Does ketamine mimic aspects of schizophrenic speech?
Authors: Covington MichaeL A. , Riedel Wim J. , Brown Cati , He Congzhou , Morris Eric , Weinstein Sara , SempLe James , Brown John
Published: June 2007

Speech disturbances are well-known symptoms contributing to the diagnosis of schizophrenia. Subanesthetic doses of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) antagonist ketamine have been reported to produce positive and negative symptoms and cognitive impairments consistent with those seen in schizophrenia. Insofar as this is true, it constitutes evidence that the NMDA system is involved in schizophrenia. It is therefore of interest to know whether ketamine produces speech disturbances like those of schizophrenia.

Quantitative computer-aided analysis of apparently normal speech can detect clinically relevant changes and differences that are not noticeable to the human observer.

Accordingly, in this study, speech samples were analysed for repetitiousness, idea density, and verb density using software developed by the authors. The samples came from two experiments, a within-subjects study of healthy volunteers given intravenous ketamine versus placebo, and a between-groups study of patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and comparable healthy controls.

Our primary hypothesis was that in both schizophrenia and ketamine, repetitiousness wouLd increase, since perserverative speech is a well-known symptom of schizophrenia. Our secondary hypotheses were that in both schizophrenia and ketamine, idea density and verb density would decrease as indicators of cognitive impairment.

The primary hypothesis was confirmed in the schizophrenia experiment (between groups) and the ketamine experiment (within subjects).

The secondary hypotheses were disconfirmed except that in the ketamine experiment, verb density was significantly lowered. Reduced use of verbs apparently reflects a cognitive impairment of a different type than repetitiousness, and further investigation is needed to determine whether this impairment occurs in psychosis.
Binding antibodies: Vancouver's perspective
Authors: Oger J. , Gibbs E.
Published: June 2007

Binding antibodies (BAbs) and neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) develop following the use of interferon beta (IFNβ) in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). The appearance of anti-IFNβ antibodies has been associated with reduction of the therapeutic efficacy of IFNβ therapy; however, while BAbs and NAbs arise from exposure to IFNβ, they have different characteristics and different impacts on clinical outcomes. Not all patients develop BAbs and NAbs, and patients who do may revert to seronegative status for each of these antibodies, even with continued IFNβ treatment. This review examines the potential clinical and biological effect of BAbs and NAbs on therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of RRMS. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: S36—S43. http://msj.sagepub.com
Real-time TaqMan assay for myxovirus resistance protein (MxA) mRNA: a robust marker of interferon beta bioactivity in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Pachner A.R.
Published: June 2007

For many patients suffering from MS, interferon beta (IFNβ) is an effective therapeutic option; however, some patients who receive long-term IFNβ therapy for relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) develop neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) that affect IFNβ efficacy. It is therefore important to evaluate patients' therapeutic response to IFNβ over time. Myxovirus resistance protein A (MxA), a surrogate marker of individual immunologic response to IFNβ, may be a useful tool for assessing IFNβ immunogenicity. The real-time TaqMan assay for MxA messenger RNA (mRNA) has several distinct advantages, including the ability to amplify and complete quantitative analyses in one step, a high degree of quality control and prior experience and confidence in the field of quantitative viral diagnostics. The real-time TaqMan assay for MxA mRNA can be incorporated as a component of IFNβ therapy to evaluate patients during the course of treatment. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: S49—S52. http://msj.sagepub.com
Neutralizing antibodies in multiple sclerosis: a complex impact on interferon responses, magnetic resonance imaging findings and clinical outcomes
Authors: Reder A.T.
Published: June 2007

Interferon beta (IFN-β) therapy reduces relapse rate, MRI lesion development, and delays the progression of disability in relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. As with other protein therapies, some patients develop neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) that could limit the efficacy of IFN-β. The clinical impact of NAbs is hotly debated. Non-standardized NAb assays, NAb persistence and disappearance, plus a six-month lag before a clinical effect, different IFN-β species and formulations, variable trial duration, have made interpretation of the significance of NAbs a challenging task. There is a correlation between the presence of NAb and reduced efficacy of IFN-β therapy in two- to four-year trials. However, patients destined to become NAb positive do better in the first year of IFN-β therapy. Patients with clinical worsening have surprisingly low NAb frequency and titers. Understanding the true clinical implications of NAbs will require well-controlled longitudinal studies instead of simple cross-sectional analyses, plus innovative trial designs with immune biomarkers. Multiple Sclerosis 2007; 13: S53—S62. http://msj.sagepub.com
Contexto familiar e problemas de saúde mental infantil no Programa Saúde da Família
Authors: Ferriolli Silvia Helena Tortul , Marturano Edna Maria , Puntel Ludmila Palucci
Published: June 2007

OBJETIVO: Analisar a associação entre variáveis do contexto familiar e o risco de problemas emocionais/comportamentais em crianças cadastradas em Programa Saúde da Família. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se estudo de delineamento transversal com 100 crianças entre 6 e 12 anos de idade e seus familiares, principalmente mães biológicas (82%), cadastradas em um núcleo do Programa Saúde da Família, no município de Ribeirão Preto, SP, em 2001. Problemas emocionais/comportamentais da criança, em níveis considerados de risco para o desenvolvimento de transtornos, foram identificados por meio do Questionário de Capacidades e Dificuldades. Avaliaram-se as variáveis do contexto familiar: nível socioeconômico, eventos adversos, estresse materno, depressão materna e organização e estruturação do ambiente familiar. Para análise estatística foram utilizados os modelos de regressão logística univariada e multvariada. RESULTADOS: O estresse materno mostrou-se associado a problemas de saúde mental em geral na criança (OR=2,2). Rotina diária com horários definidos e o maior acesso a atividades para preencher o tempo livre foram associados à ausência desses problemas (1/OR 1,3 e 1,9, respectivamente). O estresse materno foi também um fator de risco para sintomas de ansiedade/depressão (OR=1,6). Para hiperatividade, a instabilidade financeira foi variável de risco (OR=2,1) e todos os indicadores de estabilidade ambiental foram variáveis protetoras (1/OR entre 1,2 e 1,6). CONCLUSÕES: Indicadores do contexto familiar associados aos problemas de saúde mental em escolares podem subsidiar a atuação das equipes do Programa Saúde da Família frente à criança e sua família. Recomenda-se a utilização do Questionário de Capacidades e Dificuldades pelas equipes, a fim de identificar precocemente os problemas de saúde mental infantil.
Quando, como e o que se bebe: o processo de alcoolização entre populações indígenas do alto Rio Negro, Brasil
Authors: Souza Maximiliano Loiola Ponte de , Garnelo Luiza
Published: June 2007

O texto analisa o processo de alcoolização em populações indígenas do Alto Rio Negro, Amazonas, Brasil. Baseando-se num enfoque compreensivo sobre o que se bebe, como se bebe e quando se bebe, a etnografia privilegia o estudo do contexto sócio-cultural e histórico no qual se dá o consumo de álcool e a interpretação nativa sobre a questão; discute as transformações históricas nas formas de beber e suas correlações com as permanências e mudanças da vida social. Conclui que as formas atuais de consumo de álcool estão ligadas à adoção de comportamentos e valores engendrados na fronteira das relações interétnicas e às ressignificações da cultura tradicional que hoje enfrenta dificuldade para oferecer parâmetros para a ação e para a simbolização da vida social pelas gerações mais jovens, frente aos desafios do mundo contemporâneo.
Attributable fraction of work accidents related to occupational noise exposure in a Southeastern city of Brazil
Authors: Dias Adriano , Cordeiro Ricardo
Published: June 2007

Noise is the most frequent type of occupational exposure and can lead to both auditory and extra-auditory dysfunction as well as increasing the risk of work accidents. The purpose of this study was to estimate the attributable fraction of work accidents related to occupational noise exposure in a medium-sized city in Southeast Brazil. In this hospital-based case-control study, including 600 cases and 822 controls, the odds ratio of work accidents (controlled for several covariables) was obtained classifying occupational noise exposure into four levels and determining the prevalence at each level. Based on these data, the calculated attributable fraction was 0.3041 (95%CI: 0.2341-0.3676), i.e., 30% of work accidents in the study area were statistically associated with occupational noise exposure. The authors discuss the causes of this association and the implications for the prevention of work accidents.