bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and Biological Prognostic Factors in 179 Cases with Sinonasal Carcinoma Treated in the Italian Piedmont Region
Authors: Airoldi Mario , Garzaro Massimiliano , Valente Guido , Mamo Carlo , Bena Antonella , Giordano Carlo , Pecorari Giancarlo , Gabriele Pietro , Gabriele Anna Maria , Beatrice Fabio
Published: March 2009

Objectives: In spite of aggressive surgery and high-dose radiotherapy, the long-term survival of patients with sinonasal cancer remains disappointing. In this paper, we report data from 179 consecutive cases treated in the Italian Piedmont region between 1996 and 2000 according to a fixed protocol. Methods: Clinical and pathological data and the following biological parameters were analyzed: microvessel density and growth fraction by CD31 and Ki-67 positivity, respectively, and immunohistochemical expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Results: The median follow-up period was 75 months (range 45–108 months). Median overall survival was 26 months; 2- and 5-year overall survival rates were 52 and 36%, respectively. Patients with T1-T2 adenocarcinoma and squamous cell cancers (SCC) had better median survival than those with other lesions (p < 0.05). Patients treated with surgery with or without radiotherapy had better survival (p < 0.01), while chemotherapy had a marginally favorable effect (p = 0.09). The type of surgery and radiotherapy dose had no impact on survival; in contrast, there was a strong association between Ki-67 expression and microvessel density and overall survival (p < 0.05 and p = 0.039, respectively), while VEGF-C was a prognostic factor in SCC patients only (p < 0.05). Conclusions: In sinonasal cancer, tumor stage and histology have a clear impact on survival; surgery with or without radiotherapy represents the main choice of treatment for such tumors. The efficacy of neoadjuvant and concomitant chemoradiotherapy needs to be further investigated. The proliferative index and angiogenesis show a major role in the natural history of this cancer.
Trastuzumab Combined with Pegylated Liposomal Doxorubicin in Patients with Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Christodoulou Christos , Kostopoulos Ioannis , Kalofonos Haralabos P. , Lianos Evangelos , Bobos Mattheos , Briasoulis Evangelos , Gogas Helen , Razis Evangelia , Skarlos Dimosthenis V. , Fountzilas George
Published: March 2009

Objective: Combination of trastuzumab and anthracyclines in metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is precluded due to cardiotoxicity. Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) is the least cardiotoxic among the anthracyclines. We performed a phase II study of trastuzumab and PLD with biomarker evaluation. Methods: Patients with MBC and HER2 overexpression, assessed as 3+ at local laboratories, received trastuzumab 8 mg/kg as loading dose followed by 6 mg/kg in combination with PLD 30 mg/m2, both given every 3 weeks. To be eligible, patients should have received first-line chemotherapy for MBC or should have relapsed within a year of adjuvant taxane. Tumor tissue blocks were collected for central review and exploratory biomarker evaluation. Left-ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was closely monitored by cardiac ultrasound. Results: Among 37 patients, an overall response rate of 22% was observed with a progression-free survival (PFS) of 6.5 months (0.8–31.1, 95% CI 2.7–10.3) and a survival of 18.7 months (1.6–40.8, 95% CI 3.7–33.7). No decline in LVEF was noticed. Overexpression of mTOR and TOP2A gene alterations were associated with better PFS. PTEN gene deletion was associated with resistance to treatment. Conclusion: Trastuzumab combined with PLD every 3 weeks is feasible, effective and safe in HER2-positive patients.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Immunohistochemical Studies in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Using the Survival Tree Model
Authors: Iguchi Tomohiro , Yamashita Natsumi , Aishima Shinichi , Kuroda Yousuke , Terashi Takahiro , Sugimachi Keishi , Taguchi Ken-ichi , Taketomi Akinobu , Maehara Yoshihiko , Tsuneyoshi Masazumi
Published: March 2009

Objective: Various immunohistochemical studies have been performed regarding intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), including the cell cycle-related proteins (p27, cyclin D1, 14-3-3σ, p53, cyclin B1 and Ki-67), the proto-oncogenes (c-erbB-2 and c-Met), the extracellular matrix proteins (tenascin and laminin) and others (β-catenin, epidermal growth factor receptor, osteopontin, aquaporin 1, MUC5AC and fascin). Nevertheless, none of these have been proven to be a predictive power of the prognosis with high specificity and sensitivity for ICC. Methods: Sixty-one patients with ICC were selected and ICC specimens were immunohistochemically stained with the above 16 markers, as previously reported. Results: The immunoreactivity of osteopontin, tenascin and Ki-67 divided the patients with ICC into 4 subgroups by the survival tree model. There was a significant relationship between the location of the tumor, TNM classification, histological differentiation, tumor size, lymphatic permeation, perineural invasion, lymph node metastasis, intrahepatic metastasis and viral infection among the 4 subgroups. In addition, there was a significant difference in survival among the 4 subgroups. Conclusion: In this study, the subgrouping by the survival tree model might be helpful for predicting the patients’ prognosis in ICC.
Electoral Protests and Democratization Beyond the Color Revolutions
Authors: Kalandadze Katya , Orenstein Mitchell A.
Published: March 2009

The sight of thousands of people demonstrating for clean elections and an end to corrupt postcommunist regimes led many observers to declare that the so-called color revolutions had finally brought democracy to Serbia, Georgia, Ukraine, and Kyrgyzstan. But how successful have these electoral revolutions actually been? The authors analyze all cases of electoral revolutions worldwide since 1991, distinguishing between failed and successful electoral revolutions, to conclude that even successful electoral revolutions have shown insignificant or no democratic progress in their wake. Electoral revolutions are ineffective at advancing democratization because they place too great an emphasis on elections themselves and do not address other fundamental obstacles to democratization in hybrid and authoritarian regimes. International influences have proven more successful in promoting democratization in countries of postcommunist Europe.
The Chinese Intelligence Scale for Young Children
Authors: Guo Boliang , Aveyard Paul , Dai Xiaoyang
Published: March 2009

The Wechsler intelligence test has four factors representing four components of intellectual function. In China, there are marked cultural, educational, and economic disparities between rural and urban dwellers, which could lead to cultural bias. The aim of this study was to apply the four-factor structure to responses to the Chinese Intelligence Scale for Young Children (CISYC) of 820 rural and 664 urban children aged 3 to 7 years. Measurement invariance testing using confirmatory factor analysis showed that the same four factors nested under a higher-order factor held for both rural and urban children. The general intelligence factor mean and variance were invariant and the means and range of scores for rural and urban children were similar. The results show no evidence of cultural bias and that the four factors can be interpreted similarly to those in the Wechsler intelligence test.
Direct and Inverse Problems of Item Pool Design for Computerized Adaptive Testing
Authors: Belov Dmitry I. , Armstrong Ronald D.
Published: March 2009

The recent literature on computerized adaptive testing (CAT) has developed methods for creating CAT item pools from a large master pool. Each CAT pool is designed as a set of nonoverlapping forms reflecting the skill levels of an assumed population of test takers. This article presents a Monte Carlo method to obtain these CAT pools and discusses its advantages over existing methods. Also, a new problem is considered that finds a population ability density function best matching the master pool. An analysis of the solution to this new problem provides testing organizations with effective guidance for maintaining their master pools. Computer experiments with a pool of Law School Admission Test items and its assembly constraints are presented.
Immediate Feedback and Opportunity to Revise Answers to Open-Ended Questions
Authors: Attali Yigal , Powers Don
Published: March 2009

Two experiments examine the psychometric effects of providing immediate feedback on the correctness of answers to open-ended questions, and allowing participants to revise their answers following feedback. Participants answering verbal and math questions are able to correct many of their initial incorrect answers, resulting in higher revised scores. In addition, the reliability of these scores is significantly higher than the reliability of scores based on no feedback. Finally, anxiety is significantly lower following a test section with feedback and revision.
The Analytical Model of Shear Properties of the Pre-impregnated Woven Fabric Composite
Authors: Wang Wei  , Du Xingwen
Published: March 2009

The pre-impregnated woven fabric composite is the material which is used in the space inflatable structures for the state of uncured. So studying on properties of the pre-impregnated woven fabric composite is important for the space inflatable structures. The pre-impregnated woven fabric composite has its own properties which are not similar with the fabric or the fabric reinforced composite because of the existence of the uncured resin. In this paper, a picture frame analytical model is developed to account for large shear deformation and to calculate the stress and stiffness of the fabric. A meso-structure model which explains the uncured resin impede the structure to deform is also proposed. The picture frame experiment results are presented to validate this model. Results show the equation explains the properties of the material well. This paper may provide useful information for the further investigation in the characteristics of the space inflatable structures' materials.
Activation Energy and Thermodynamic Parameters of Cyclization in Purified Natural Rubber Latex Using a Trimethyl Silyl Triflate
Authors: Riyajan Sa-Ad
Published: March 2009

The property of natural rubber (NR) is more interesting, except for some properties which need to improve. The cyclization reaction is an interesting reaction for modified NR to thermoplastic elastomer. The kinetic cyclization of deproteinized natural rubber (DPNR) or purified NR latex effectively performed in latex phase by using trimethylsilyl-trifluoromethane sulphonate or trimethyl silyl triflate (TMSOTF) is studied at various temperatures and times. The cyclized products are confirmed by NMR spectroscopies including one and 2D NMR. The kinetic of cyclization is investigated. It is found that the degree of cyclization in DPNR is a function of cyclization conditions. The rate constant (k) is 200 (s-1) at 100°C based on 95% of regression and the activation energy of cyclization in DPNR latex is 147.66kJ/mol. Some thermodynamic parameters: enthalpy, entropy, and free energy activation of 144.6kJ/mole, -269.11J/mole, and 246.9kJ/mole, respectively, are obtained for the cyclization of DPNR. The kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of cyclization obtained from this study indicate that an increase in the process temperature would increase the rate of cyclization formation.
Mechanical Properties and Fracture Surface Morphology of Dehp and Dinch Based Vinyl Plastisols
Authors: Crespo J.E. , Sánchez L. , Balart R. , López J.
Published: March 2009

Owing to the relevance of plasticized PVC in the industrial plastic transformation sector, mainly in such sectors as interior decoration (furniture, wood) toys, household goods, shoes, auxiliary sectors, etc., this material makes an interesting study subject from the perspective of quality improvement, benefits, and versatility. The present study analyzes the fracture behavior of vinyl plastisols. With this objective, a low-toxicity plasticizer derived from dicarboxilate di-isononyl-cyclohexane-1,2-dicarboxylate,- DINCH and another plasticizer derived from ftalate, diethylhexyl phthalate — DEHP, widely employed at an industrial level, albeit with toxicity problems, has been used. The basis of this study is an analysis of the effects of the DINCH and DEHP plasticizers used, and their concentration in the fracture of the plastisol in order to optimize the service response of the material. This is conducted by means of a study of the fracture morphologies of the plastisols, in order to determine the mechanisms which cause the crack and to carry out a classification of the resulting topography of the fracture. This is directly linked to the plasticizer concentration, to the type of plasticizer used, and to the mechanical response obtained from the material.
Model Selection Methods for Mixture Dichotomous IRT Models
Authors: Li Feiming , Cohen Allan S. , Kim Seock-Ho , Cho Sun-Joo
Published: March 2009

This study examines model selection indices for use with dichotomous mixture item response theory (IRT) models. Five indices are considered: Akaike's information coefficient (AIC), Bayesian information coefficient (BIC), deviance information coefficient (DIC), pseudo-Bayes factor (PsBF), and posterior predictive model checks (PPMC). The five indices provide somewhat different recommendations for a set of real data. Results from a simulation study indicate that BIC selects the correct (i.e., the generating) model well under most conditions simulated and for all three of the dichotomous mixture IRT models considered. PsBF is almost as effective. AIC and PPMC tend to select the more complex model under some conditions. DIC is least effective for this use.
Organizations and Risk in Late Modernity
Authors: Gephart Robert P. , Van Maanen John , Oberlechner Thomas
Published: March 2009

Risk is an important but under-investigated feature of organizations in Late Modernity. This paper introduces the Special Issue on Organizations and Risk in Late Modernity. The rationale for the special issue is discussed. An overview of important approaches to risk research and organizations is provided to frame the special issue. These approaches include the cognitive science approach, which takes a positivist perspective and assumes that risks are objective and knowable. This view is contrasted with socio-cultural theories based in work by Mary Douglas, Ulrich Beck, Anthony Giddens and Michel Foucault. Charles Perrow's organizational theory of the production of risk and accidents due to interactive complexity, and Karl Weick's theory of risk sensemaking, are then discussed. The paper then reviews the contributions of papers in the special issue and outlines issues for future research on risk and organizations.
Reputational Risk as a Logic of Organizing in Late Modernity
Authors: Power Michael , Scheytt Tobias , Soin Kim , Sahlin Kerstin
Published: March 2009

This paper argues that it is useful to regard `reputational risk' as a pervasive logic of organizing and organizational attention. First, we suggest that the risk management agenda has expanded from its roots in technical analysis to become a cornerstone of good governance and responsible actorhood. We illustrate this claim in the context of English universities. Second, we suggest that this expansion in the reach and significance of risk management has increased organizational orientations to reputational risk and to more defensively and legalistically framed forms of asset management. Specifically, organizations are responding to the growth of external bodies which evaluate and rank, and thereby generate reputational risk. In the context of universities, we argue that this leads both to specific transformations in organizational practices in response to ranking systems, and also to an increased generalized concern with reputational risk, which is a symptom of late modern insecurity.
Grandmother Caregiving, Family Stress and Strain, and Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Musil Carol , Warner Camille , Zauszniewski Jaclene , Wykle May , Standing Theresa
Published: March 2009

This study used the resiliency model of family stress, adjustment, and adaptation as the framework to examine the main and moderating effects of social support and resourcefulness in the relationship between family life stresses and strain and depressive symptoms in grandmothers raising grandchildren, grandmothers in multigenerational homes, and noncaregivers to grandchildren. A sample of 486 Ohio grandmothers, recruited using random and supplemental convenience methods, completed mailed surveys. Analysis of variance was used to examine differences in family life stresses and strain, resourcefulness, support, and depressive symptoms across the three groups of grandmothers. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were used to examine whether family stresses and strains affected the grandmother's depressive symptoms and whether social support and resourcefulness moderated the relationship between family stresses and strain and grandmothers' mental health. Grandmothers raising grandchildren reported more depressive symptoms, but in multiple regression analyses of the full sample that controlled for demo-graphics, primary caregiving status was not related to depressive symptoms. More strain and less subjective support and resourcefulness were associated with higher depressive symptoms for all grandmothers, with 33% to 54% explained variances of such symptoms for each caregiving group and the full sample. Subjective support moderated the effects of strain and instrumental support moderated the effects of family life stresses on depressive symptoms. Social support and resourcefulness may help protect grandmothers from the effects of family stresses and strain, and interventions to enhance these factors may assist grandmother caregivers to achieve better mental health.
`I went to a language unit': Adolescents' views on specialist educational provision and their language difficulties
Authors: Simkin Zoë , Conti-Ramsden Gina
Published: March 2009

The opinions of adolescents about their earlier specialist educational provision in the UK, i.e. language units, have received little attention in the literature. This study examines the views of young people and their parents on language units and also evaluates opinions concerning the young people's language difficulties. One hundred and thirty-nine adolescents with specific language impairment (SLI) aged approximately 16 years, who had all attended a language unit at 7 years of age, were interviewed along with their parents and teachers. A broadly positive experience of language unit attendance was reported by young people and their parents. However, a fifth of adolescents and nearly a third of parents thought there had been too little educational support during schooling. In addition, a fifth of the adolescents felt there were lots of ways in which they could not do things currently due to language difficulties. It was also found that nearly a third of the young people had tried to hide their language difficulties in the past year. Within the context of an overall positive picture of results, young people with SLI may require support during adolescence with regard to their continued language difficulties, their confidence and self-esteem.
Evaluation of Core Vocabulary intervention for treatment of inconsistent phonological disorder: Three treatment case studies
Authors: McIntosh Beth , Dodd Barbara
Published: March 2009

Children with unintelligible speech differ in severity, underlying deficit, type of surface error patterns and response to treatment. Detailed treatment case studies, evaluating specific intervention protocols for particular diagnostic groups, can identify best practice for children with speech disorder. Three treatment case studies evaluated the efficacy of Core Vocabulary intervention for three boys with inconsistent speech disorder. The cases examined the effects of previous intervention, use of default preferred word plans and behaviour disorder on intervention outcome. Inconsistent speech disorder was diagnosed after Diagnostic Evaluation of Articulation and Phonology assessment. A Core Vocabulary approach to intervention was selected to focus on planning whole word production rather than surface error patterns or specific sound features. Individual differences between cases led to different amounts of intervention and the number of words taught during intervention. All three boys showed gains in intelligibility, accuracy and consistency of word production. Core Vocabulary intervention was shown to be appropriate for all three children, although their individual differences required clinical adaptation of the approach.
Aggressors; Winners; Victims and Outsiders
Authors: Anderson Alistair , Drakopoulou Dodd Sarah , Jack Sarah
Published: March 2009

This article explores how people in the European schools' environment understand entrepreneurship, by tapping into the metaphors that they employ to describe entrepreneurs. Metaphors, where the characteristics of one thing are attributed creatively to another, have previously been shown to be a rich repository of socially constructed meanings.We find that across the European Schools' environment, the entrepreneur is a conflicted social archetype, simultaneously perceived as an aggressor and a winner, a victim and an outsider. Most transnational homogeneity existed in relation to the perception of the entrepreneur as a predatory aggressor, while positive constructions of the entrepreneur were more likely to be diverse between the six countries studied.These social constructions within European schools must be taken seriously if enterprise education is to be effective.We must take account of national divergence in understandings of the entrepreneur, as well as recognizing the pan-European suspicion of their predatory potential.
Argumentation Schema and the Myside Bias in Written Argumentation
Authors: Wolfe Christopher R. , Britt M. Anne , Butler Jodie A.
Published: March 2009

This article describes a cognitive argumentation schema for written arguments and presents three empirical studies on the “myside” bias—the tendency to ignore or exclude evidence against one's position. Study 1 examined the consequences of conceding, rebutting, and denying other-side information. Rebuttal led to higher ratings of agreement and quality and better impressions of the author than when the same arguments excluded other-side information (i.e., exhibited the myside bias). In Study 2, claims had a significantly greater impact on agreement ratings and reasons had a significantly greater impact on quality ratings. When participants were given myside reasons supporting other-side claims, they acknowledged argument strength while making relatively minor changes in agreement. In Study 3, the authors found that a brief, theoretically motivated written tutorial was effective in improving undergraduate students' written argumentative essays by significantly increasing the precision of claims, improving the elaboration of reasons, and reducing the myside bias.
Community Violence, Social Support Networks, Ethnic Group Differences, and Male Perpetration of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Raghavan Chitra , Rajah Valli , Gentile Katie , Collado Lillian , Kavanagh Ann Marie
Published: March 2009

The authors examined how witnessing community violence influenced social support networks and how these networks were associated with male-to-female intimate partner violence (IPV) in ethnically diverse male college students. The authors assessed whether male social support members themselves had perpetrated IPV (male network violence) and whether female social support members had been victimized by intimates (female network victimization). The results indicated an association between community violence and male network violence; both factors were significantly associated with higher levels of IPV. Furthermore, the relationship between community violence and IPV was partially mediated by male network violence. Additionally, the results indicated a moderated relationship such that male participants who reported the highest levels of exposure to community violence and male network violence were at highest risk for IPV. However, this relationship did not hold across all ethnicities and races. The findings suggest that the mechanisms associating community violence, networks, and IPV are multifaceted and differ across ethnicity and race.
Factors Related to Engagement in Risky Appearance Management Behaviors
Authors: Lee Jaeha , Johnson Kim K. P.
Published: March 2009

Using self-objectification theory we investigated variables that predict engagement in risky appearance management behaviors among female college students. We found self-objectification was related to engagement in risky appearance management behaviors. Interaction about appearance with friends and family members was also related to engagement in risky appearance management behaviors. Both beliefs about appearance and internalization of appearance ideals were influences on self-objectification.
A Method to Identify and Validate Social Norms Related to Dress
Authors: Freeburg Beth Winfrey , Workman Jane E.
Published: March 2009

The purpose of this three-phase study was to develop a method to identify and validate social norms related to dress, specifically body modifications. In Phase 1, the process of social control framed the preliminary identification of 35 body modification norms using reports in advice columns. In Phase 2, some of the 35 norms were empirically validated by human participants, leading to the conclusion that a minimum of 61% consensus was needed to either confirm or refute a statement as a norm. In Phase 3, a more powerful statistical analysis and a second sample of human participants validated the norms based on strength of consensus. Subgroup analyses were used to investigate statements that were neither confirmed nor refuted. Between Phase 2 and 3 samples, agreement on the statements related to body modifications was 83%. Limitations of the study and suggestions for further research are provided.
Social Anxiety as Predictor of Personal Aesthetic Among Women
Authors: Reilly Andrew , Rudd Nancy A.
Published: March 2009

Social anxiety is the psychological condition a person experiences due to fear of making an embarrassing impression, and is experienced more by women than men. Appearance management behaviors, or activities engaged in to create a personal aesthetic, are categorized as routine and non-routine. Using Schlenker and Lear's model of social anxiety and self-presentation and Rudd and Lennon's Model of Body Aesthetics we propose that social anxiety and appearance management behaviors are related. Using an internet survey method, data were collected from 287 women. Results reveal a link between social anxiety and some routine behaviors and the likelihood to engage in some non-routine behaviors. Results are discussed in terms of objectification and internalization of beauty standards.
Marx, Globalization and Alienation: Received and Underappreciated Wisdoms
Authors: Archibald W. Peter
Published: March 2009

At the World Congress of Sociology in 2006, the official rationale for re-examining `alienation' within a global context was that alienating factory work has now been eradicated, humanized and/or simply compensated for by high levels of consumption in post-industrialized societies, with alienation from work having been `exported' to offices there and sweatshops in newly industrializing countries. However, alienation from work in industrially developed countries does not appear to have decreased, nor have longstanding inequalities in alienation favoring high status employees been reversed. Instead, any credible account must recognize cyclical and long-term economic crises and continued downsizing that have produced levels of un- and under-employment and job insecurity in industrially developed countries that have sometimes rivaled those in the Great Depression of the 1930s. Specifically how these trends have affected alienation is taken up in a subsequent article.
Globally Segmented Labor Markets: The Coming of the Greatest Boom and Bust, Without the Boom
Authors: Asimakopoulos John
Published: March 2009

A world social structure of accumulation (SSA) is forming based on global segmentation of labor, financialization, and a neoliberal trade regime. Unlike its Fordist era counterpart, this SSA lacks a corresponding regime for consumption because it has outsourced production to low-wage authoritarian regions. This is resulting in inadequate purchasing power within developed nations for whom global production is intended, raising the potential of global crisis. In fact, these emerging structures may implode before any significant accumulation occurs when the US consumer debt bubble that has been fueling consumption bursts. The article concludes that the emerging system is intensifying class contradictions embedded in private property relations that will lead to intensified downturns. Therefore, the only structural solution is not reform but fundamental reorganization of socioeconomic relations. However, this requires a new transnational labor-activist movement willing to challenge the legitimacy of capitalism with radical counter-ideology and militant direct action.
The Social Determinants of Ideology: The Case of Neoliberalism in Southern Europe
Authors: Tsatsanis Emmanouil
Published: March 2009

The specific research questions that lie at the heart of this article correspond to three related but distinct areas of inquiry: a) the ideology of neoliberalism and the broad empirical question concerning its suggested status of present-day `hegemonic' ideology; b) the explanatory power of `class' with regard to questions of ideology; and c) regional patterns of popularity of neoliberal ideas in Europe, with a focus on the countries of southern Europe (Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Greece). The findings of the study reveal that: a) there are surprisingly low levels of support for neoliberal ideas across Europe; b) class (when conceptualized and operationalized more subtly) continues to be a very useful explanatory tool of relative ideological orientation; and c) social and institutional differences between northern and southern Europe are also reflected at the ideological level.
The Quran and Poverty Alleviation
Authors: Kaleem Ahmad , Ahmed Saima
Published: March 2009

The Quran prohibits interest and encourages trade and charity as alternates. This article seeks guidance from the verses of the Quran and develops a theoretical model of charity-based Islamic microfinance institutions (MFIs), which can be used as an alternative approach to reduce poverty. The article argues that charity-based Islamic MFIs will be financially and socially sustainable as these are to be based on the concepts of brotherhood, local philanthropy, and volunteer services. Charity-based Islamic MFIs will provide money for consumption as well as production purposes and, thus, can broadly target the economic and social needs of the poorest of the poor. They can help minimize indebtedness and reduce unequal distribution of wealth in society.
Poly(ether sulfone) of Isosorbide, Isomannide and Isoidide
Authors: Chatti Saber , Hani Moez A. , Bornhorst Kirstin , Kricheldorf Hans R.
Published: March 2009

Three polyether sulfones were prepared by polycondensation of 4,4'-difluorodiphenyl-sulfone and 1,6-dianhydrosorbitol (isosorbide), 1,6-dianhydromannitol (isomannide) or 1,6-dianhydroiditol (isoidide) in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Depending on the optimization of the reaction conditions, moderate to high molecular weights were obtained. Cyclic polyethers were the predominant reaction products in the MALDI-TOF mass spectra indicating that the chain growth was mainly limited by cyclization under optimized reaction conditions. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) measurements revealed an amorphous character with glass transition temperatures in the range of 213—253°C.
Multimodal Energy Harvesting System: Piezoelectric and Electromagnetic
Authors: Tadesse Yonas , Shujun Zhang  , Priya Shashank
Published: March 2009

In this study, we report a multimodal energy harvesting device that combines electromagnetic and piezoelectric energy harvesting mechanism. The device consists of piezoelectric crystals bonded to a cantilever beam. The tip of the cantilever beam has an attached permanent magnet which, oscillates within a stationary coil fixed to the top of the package. The permanent magnet serves two purpose (i) acts as a tip mass for the cantilever beam and lowers the resonance frequency, and (ii) acts as a core which oscillates between the inductive coils resulting in electric current generation through Faraday's effect. Thus, this design combines the energy harvesting from two different mechanisms, piezoelectric and electromagnetic, on the same platform. The prototype system was optimized using the finite element software, ANSYS, to find the resonance frequency and stress distribution. The power generated from the fabricated prototype was found to be 0.25 W using the electromagnetic mechanism and 0.25 mW using the piezoelectric mechanism at 35 g acceleration and 20 Hz frequency.
Investigation of Power Harvesting via Parametric Excitations
Authors: Daqaq Mohammed F. , Stabler Christopher , Qaroush Yousef , Seuaciuc-Osório Thiago
Published: March 2009

This article presents an analytical and experimental investigation of energy harvesting via parametrically excited cantilever beams. To that end, we consider a lumped-parameter non-linear model that describes the first-mode dynamics of a parametrically excited cantilever-type harvester. The model accounts for the beam's geometric and inertia non-linearities as well as non-linearities representing air drag. Using the method of multiple scales, we obtain approximate analytical expressions describing the beam response, voltage drop across a purely resistive load, and output power in the vicinity of the first principle parametric resonance. Using these expressions, we study the effect of the electromechanical coupling and load resistance on the output power. We show that these parameters play an imperative role in determining the magnitude of the output power and characterizing the broad-band properties of the harvester. Specifically, we show that the region of parametric instability wherein energy can be harvested shrinks as the coupling coefficient increases. Furthermore, we show that there exists a coupling coefficient beyond which the peak power decreases. We also demonstrate that there is a critical excitation level below which no energy can be harvested. The amplitude of this critical excitation increases with the coupling coefficient and is maximized for a given load resistance. Theoretical findings that were compared to experimental results show good agreement and reflect the general trends.
Anonymity and Counter-Normative Arguments in Computer-Mediated Discussions
Authors: Kahai Surinder S.
Published: March 2009

A laboratory study examines (a) the effects of source and participant anonymity on the incidence of counter-normative arguments during computer-mediated discussion of an issue that has a normative position, and (b) how the incidence of counter-normative arguments, in turn, affects members' agreement with the normative position. In source-anonymous groups, members know their group's composition but they do not know who has provided what input. In participant-anonymous groups, members do not know their group's composition or the source of any input. When initial opinions among group members differ, source anonymity leads to a lower incidence of counter-normative arguments compared with the identified or participant-anonymity conditions. In groups with a lower incidence of counter-normative arguments, there is greater agreement with the issue's normative position, and members also deviate less from each other after the discussion. Theoretical and practical implications of the results are presented.
Naturalistic observations of elicited expressive communication of children with autism
Authors: Chiang Hsu-Min
Published: March 2009

This study observed expressive communication of 17 Australian and 15 Taiwanese children with autism who were mute or had limited spoken language during 2 hour regular school routines and analyzed teacher instructions associated with elicited expressive communication. Results indicated: (a) the frequency of occurrence of elicited expressive communication was very low; (b) the incidence of elicited expressive communication was negatively correlated with autism severity; (c) verbal prompt and a combination of verbal prompt and modeling were the most common types of teacher instruction and the use of physical prompt was a rate event; (d) modeling and verbal prompt were positively correlated with speech and unaided augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and a combination of verbal prompt and modeling was positively associated with aided AAC; and (e) modeling, verbal prompt, and a combination of modeling and verbal prompt were positively correlated with requesting function and commenting function was positively correlated with modeling and verbal prompt.
Autistic traits predict performance on the block design
Authors: Stewart Mary E. , Watson Jennifer , Allcock Ashlie-Jane , Yaqoob Talat
Published: March 2009

The Autism-Spectrum Quotient (AQ) has been developed to measure the degree to which an adult with normal intelligence has autistic traits. Although use of the AQ has resulted in a number of important findings, few studies have assessed whether scores predict cognitive aspects of ASD. This study assessed whether AQ scores predicted performance on an adapted block design. The test was adapted with a `whole' and a `segmented' task. High AQ scorers performed better than low scorers on the `whole' task in the block design but performed equivalently on the `segmented' task, as would be predicted in the autism spectrum. These findings add to the evidence showing construct validity for the AQ.
Acute traumatic compartment syndrome: a systematic review of results of fasciotomy
Authors: Hayakawa Heloise , Aldington Dominic J , Moore R Andrew
Published: March 2009

Issues around diagnosis and treatment of acute compartment syndrome were investigated through a systematic review that examined results of 55 reports of fasciotomy published over four decades and reporting on 1920 fasciotomies. Most were reported since 2000. Injuries below the elbow and knee accounted for at least 75% of cases. The consensus was that diagnosis of compartment syndrome remains primarily based on a high index of suspicion and interpretation of clinical signs and symptoms over high technology methods of diagnosis. Compartment syndrome related amputation occurred in 5.5% of cases and death in 3.3% overall. Compared with fasciotomy before 6 h, delayed fasciotomy beyond 12 h was associated with a lower rate of acceptable outcome (15% for more than 12 h vs. 88% for <6 h), a higher rate of amputation (14% vs. 3.2%) and death (4.3% vs. 2.0%).
Towards new conceptualizations of branding: theories of the middle range
Authors: Brodie Roderick J. , de Chernatony Leslie
Published: March 2009

It is suggested there is a need to broaden theorizing about brands to include service, relational and social perspectives as well as the traditional managerial perspective. Rather than attempt to develop a grand theory about brands, a more productive approach is to focus on the interface between theory and practice, provided by the managerial, service, relational and social perspectives to develop a federation of theories. This paper provides nine perspectives which serve as a basis for this middle range thinking.
The foundations of relationship marketing: reciprocity and trade relations
Authors: Tadajewski Mark
Published: March 2009

In this paper I examine relationship marketing from an historical perspective. As a predominantly industrial marketing strategy, reciprocity was adopted by numerous organizations and discussed in detail by marketing scholars from the 1920s until the late 1970s, and these debates indicate that reciprocity was largely relationship marketing orientated in nature. By the late 1960s and early 1970s, reciprocity had fallen into disrepute. In its place arose `trade relations' and trade relations management. Reciprocity was marginalized, this paper documents, due to the focus of the Federal Trade Commission, Justice Department and the Supreme Court on a number of prominent cases of anticompetitive reciprocity. From trade relations, debates pertaining to `corporate diplomacy', `diplomatic marriage brokers', `business relations' and relationship marketing developed.
Corporate branding and brand architecture: a conceptual framework
Authors: Muzellec Laurent , Lambkin Mary C.
Published: March 2009

This paper examines the relationships between product and corporate brands with a view to clarifying the role and function of corporate branding in the context of different brand architectures. Through the prism of rebranding decisions, brand architecture is analysed as an evolutionary strategy decision. Two broad strategies are identified: an integration strategy which seeks to achieve image alignment between corporate and product brands; and a separation strategy which seeks to shape different images for different stakeholders. Implementing these strategies within the context of the brand architecture, we introduce the concept of `ascending and descending brand extension', which leverages the strong image of the corporate brand to enhance the image and credibility of the product brand and vice versa. Based on this analysis, we propose three types of corporate branding strategy within the brand architecture framework: the `trade name', which is a basic identity over a house of brands; the `business brand', which is consciously nurtured and is aimed primarily at stakeholders other than consumers; and, finally, the `holistic corporate brand' is a fully developed corporate brand, extending across all target audiences.
Towards the holy grail of defining `brand'
Authors: de Chernatony Leslie
Published: March 2009

As an intangible asset, the meaning of `brand' varies between managers in the same organization striving to increase their brand's performance. This paper considers from an evolutionary perspective how brand interpretations vary and a unifying definition is postulated.
From goods to service branding
Authors: Brodie Roderick J.
Published: March 2009

With a growing recognition of the importance of a service orientation to marketing, the emphasis shifts to understanding the nature of value propositions and how this leads to the creation of customer experiences and value-in-use. Within this new perspective the brand functions both as an entity and a process. A theoretical framework is developed that provides this broader integrative perspective.
Brand community in search of theory
Authors: Gabbott Mark , Jevons Colin
Published: March 2009

The term `brand' has populist interpretations, technical interpretations, and conceptual interpretations. In each case marketing researchers and practitioners are dealing with a different perspective on the same phenomenon. We attempt to show that these different perspectives are an inevitable part of understanding such a contextual and dynamic phenomenon as a brand.
The cultural codes of branding
Authors: Schroeder Jonathan E.
Published: March 2009

Recent research has shifted attention from brand producers and products toward consumer response and services to understand brand value creation. Often missing from these insights, however, is a focus on cultural processes that affect contemporary brands, including historical context, ethical concerns, and representational conventions. A brand culture perspective reveals how branding has opened up to include interdisciplinary research that both complements and complicates economic and managerial analysis of branding. If brands exist as cultural, ideological, and political objects, then brand researchers require tools developed to understand culture, ideology, and politics, in conjunction with more typical branding concepts, such as equity, strategy, and value.
Branding in the post-internet era
Authors: Christodoulides George
Published: March 2009

The internet and its related e-technologies have to a large extent upset the asymmetry of information that for so many years worked in favour of brand managers. Consumers are now empowered to interact with brands and other consumers but also to create their own content on user generated content sites leading to a more participative approach to branding. Internet brands adopt a more relaxed stance on brand management, which involves the consumer in fundamental stages of the brand building process. In this context, the brand manager is no longer a `guardian' of the brand but becomes more of a brand `host'. The question is to what extent can traditional companies follow suit? Are they comfortable to cede control to consumers? Do we need a new theory of branding in an e-space?
Review: Obesity and pregnancy: an obstetrician's view
Authors: Mahmood Tahir A
Published: March 2009

Obesity is a fast growing epidemic worldwide, especially among young women with childbearing potential. Obesity during pregnancy not only increases risks for deep vein thrombosis, hypertension, and gestational diabetes mellitus but also significantly increases risks to the mother and the baby. The risk of late foetal death in obese nulliparous women is many times higher than in normal weight women, possibly secondary to placental dysfunction. This review offers a synopsis of the consequences of obesity in pregnancy. Br J Diabetes Vasc Dis 2009;9:19—22
Obesity, insulin resistance and assisted conception
Authors: Nelson Scott M
Published: March 2009

Obesity and infertility are intrinsically linked, with both maternal and paternal obesity adversely affecting fecundity and assisted conception outcomes. The potential mechanisms linking obesity to altered gonadal function are not known but may speculatively include an altered adipokine milieu, but further research is required. Regardless of mechanisms, any reduction in fertility is not overcome by assisted conception, with maternal obesity associated with increased gonadotrophin requirements, lower oocyte yields, reduced fertilisation and impaired pregnancy rates. Furthermore in those who achieve pregnancy all maternal and perinatal risks are increased in conjunction with obesity, further reducing the probability of a healthy offspring. Optimisation of preconceptual weight irrespective of whether it is a spontaneous or assisted conception is essential to minimise these risks. Fortunately assisted conception provides us with a unique opportunity to engage with patients prior to achieving a pregnancy, and clinicians must exploit this ensuring that patients are fully informed as to the advantages of providing the best possible maternal environment and the positive impact it will have on their offspring. Br J Diabetes Vasc Dis 2009;9:23—266