bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heparins: Process-related physico-chemical and compositional characteristics, fingerprints and impurities
Authors: Mascellani Giuseppe , Spelta Franco , Liverani Lino
Published: September 2009

During the past 25 years, heparin extraction and purification processes have changed. The results of these changes are reflected by the continuous increase in potency of the International Standard for heparin. This increase is due not only to a higher purity, but also to a number of changes in the physicochemical characteristics of heparin. For long time, all these changes have been disregarded as non-critical by regulatory authorities. Heparin marketing authorisation was reviewed only two years ago and Pharmacopoeia monographs were reviewed just for the addition of new tests, mainly aimed at tackling the oversulfated chondroitin sulfate (OSCS) crisis. Currently, heparin monographs are again under revision. Such changes, different for each manufacturer, have caused a further increase in the heterogeneity of individual batches of heparin. This review aims at showing that chemical, physical and biological characteristics of heparin (such as disaccharide composition, amount of low sulfated and high sulfated sequences, molecular weight profiles [MW], activities, structural artifacts, fingerprints and glycosaminoglycans impurities) are all process-dependent and may significantly vary when different processes are used to minimise the content of dermatan sulfate. The wide heterogeneity of the physico-chemical characteristics of currently marketed heparin and the lack of suitable and shareable reference standards for the identification/quantification of process-related impurities caused, and are still causing, heated debates among scientific institutions, companies and authorities.
M118 – A rationally engineered low-molecular-weight heparin designed specifically for the treatment of acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Qi Yi , Long Alison , Capila Ishan , Sasisekharan Ram , Guerrero Luis , Fier Ian , Roach James , Venkataraman Ganesh , Kishimoto Takashi
Published: September 2009

The initial choice of anticoagulant therapy administered in emergency departments for acute coronary syndromes (ACS) has important consequences for subsequent patient care, as neither unfractionated heparin (UFH) nor low-molecularweight heparin (LMWH) are ideally suited for all potential clinical treatment pathways. UFH remains widely used for surgical interventions because of the ability to rapidly reverse its anticoagulant activity. However, the unpredictable pharmacokinetic profile of UFH presents safety issues, and the low subcutaneous bioavailability limits the utility of UFH for patients who are medically managed. LMWH has superior pharmacokinetic properties, but its anticoagulant activity cannot be effectively monitored or reversed during surgery. There is an unmet medical need for a baseline anticoagulant therapy that addresses these shortcomings while retaining the beneficial properties of both UFH and LMWH. We describe here M118, a novel LMWH designed specifically for use in the treatment of ACS. M118 shows broad anticoagulant activity, including potent activity against both factor Xa (∼240 IU/mg) and thrombin (factor IIa; ∼170 IU/ mg), low polydispersity, high (78%) subcutaneous bioavailability in rabbits, and predictable subcutaneous and intravenous pharmacokinetics. Additionally, the anticoagulant activity of M118 is monitorable by standard coagulation assays and is reversible with protamine. M118 demonstrates superior activity to conventional LMWH in a rabbit model of abdominal arterial thrombosis without increasing bleeding risk, and is currently being evaluated in a phase II clinical trial evaluating efficacy and safety in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.
Direct inhibitors of coagulation proteins – the end of the heparin and low-molecular-weight heparin era for anticoagulant therapy?
Authors: Perzborn Elisabeth , Heitmeier Stefan , von Degenfeld Georges , Dittrich-Wengenroth Elke , Buchmüller Anja , Gerdes Christoph , Misselwitz Frank , Laux Volker
Published: September 2009

Heparins, either unfractionated or low-molecular-weight (UFH and LMWHs), and vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) are currently the anticoagulants of choice for the prevention of post-operative venous thromboembolism (VTE) and for the treatment of acute venous and arterial thromboembolism. While VKAs are widely used in the US, LMWHs are the standard of care in the EU. Although efficacious, these agents are associated with a number of drawbacks, such as the risk of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, the need for frequent coagulation monitoring in the case of UFH and VKAs, and the parenteral mode of administration in the case of heparins, which can lead to problems associated with patient compliance. There is a need for new anticoagulants that overcome these limitations. Direct, small-molecule inhibitors of coagulation proteins targeting a single enzyme in the coagulation cascade – particularly thrombin or Factor Xa – have been developed in recent years. Two agents, the direct thrombin inhibitor dabigatran and the direct Factor Xa inhibitor rivaroxaban, have recently been approved in the EU and several other countries for the prevention of VTE after total hip or knee replacement surgery. Here we will review data that suggest that the antithrombin-independent mechanism of action of these agents, particularly that of direct Factor Xa inhibitors, leads to increased efficacy with similar safety profiles compared with the antithrombin-dependent heparins. Although the end of the heparins era is not to be expected, the new anticoagulants presented in this review potentially represent the future of anticoagulation.
Detection and neutralisation of heparin by a fluorescent ruthenium compound
Authors: Szelke Helga , Harenberg Job , Krämer Roland
Published: September 2009

Heparin and low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) are commonly monitored by determination of activated clotting times or chromogenic assays. Despite their wide use, these assays determine the biological activity and not the concentration of the anticoagulants. They may be inaccurate in some circumstances such as certain disease states. In addition, there is a significant interest in alternative tests for the point-of-care detection of heparin and LMWH. Their binding to small molecules for the detection in biological matrices is poorly explored. We describe here a new optical molecular probe for the detection of LMWH in serum samples. The polycationic ruthenium compound 1 is applicable to the quantification of heparin by monitoring 630 nm fluorescence. In addition, compound 1 is a rare example of a non-polymeric low molecular weight compound which neutralises the anticoagulant activity of heparin and LMWH in plasma samples. Limitation of the method is its low sensitivity currently being improved by structural modification of compound 1.
Effects of tissue factor, thrombomodulin and elevated clotting factor levels on thrombin generation in the calibrated automated thrombogram
Authors: Machlus Kellie , Colby Emily , Wu Jogin , Koch Gary , Key Nigel , Wolberg Alisa
Published: September 2009

Elevated procoagulant levels have been correlated with increased thrombin generation in vitro and with increased venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk in epidemiological studies. hrombin generation tests are increasingly being employed as a high throughput method to provide a global measure of procoagulant activity in plasma samples. The objective of this study was to distinguish the effects of assay conditions [tissue factor (TF), thrombomodulin, platelets/lipids] and factor levels on thrombin generation parameters, and determine the conditions and parameters with the highest sensitivity and specificity for detecting elevated factor levels. Thrombin generation was measured using calibrated automated thrombography (CAT) in corn trypsin inhibitor (CTI)-treated platelet-free plasma (PFP) and plateletrich plasma (PRP). Statistical analysis was performed using logarithms of observed values with analysis of variance that accounted for experiment and treatment. he relative sensitivity of lag time (LT), time to peak (TTP), peak height and endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) to elevated factors XI, IX,VIII, X, and prothrombin was as follows: PFP initiated with 1 pM TF > PFP initiated with 5 pM TF > PRP initiated with 1 pM TF. For all conditions, inclusion of thrombomodulin prolonged the LT and decreased the peak and ETP; however, addition of thrombomodulin did not increase the ability of CAT to detect elevated levels of individual procoagulant factors. In conclusion, CAT conditions differentially affected the sensitivity of thrombin generation to elevated factor levels. Monitoring the peak height and/ or ETP following initiation of clotting in PFP with 1 pM TF was most likely to detect hypercoagulability due to increased procoagulant factor levels.
The role of the vascular endothelium in arenavirus haemorrhagic fevers
Authors: Kunz Stefan
Published: September 2009

Viral haemorrhagic fevers (VHF) caused by arenaviruses are among the most devastating emerging human diseases.The most important pathogen among the arenaviruses is Lassa virus (LASV), the causative agent of Lassa fever that is endemic to West Africa. On the South American continent, the New World arenavirus Junin virus (JUNV), Machupo (MACV), Guanarito (GTOV), and Sabia virus (SABV) have emerged as causative agents of severe VHFs. Clinical and experimental studies on arenavirus VHF have revealed a crucial role of the endothelium in their pathogenesis. However, in contrast to other VHFs, haemorrhages are not a salient feature of Lassa fever and fatal cases do not show overt destruction of vascular tissue.The functional alteration of the vascular endothelium that precede shock and death in fatal Lassa fever may be due to more subtle direct or indirect effects of the virus on endothelial cells. Haemorrhagic disease manifestations and vascular involvement are more pronounced in the VHF caused by the South American haemorrhagic fever viruses. Recent studies on JUNV revealed perturbation of specific endothelial cell function, including expression of cell adhesion molecules, coagulation factors, and vasoactive mediators as a consequence of productive viral infection.These studies provided first possible links to some of the vascular abnormalities observed in patients; however, their relevance in vivo remains to be investigated.
Increased Production of CXCL16 in Experimental and Clinical Heart Failure
Authors: Dahl Christen Peder , Husberg Cathrine , Gullestad Lars , W�hre Anne , Damås Jan Kristian , Vinge Leif Erik , Finsen Alexandra V. , Ueland Thor , Florholmen Geir , Aakhus Svend , Halvorsen Bente , Aukrust Pål , �ie Erik , Yndestad Arne , Christensen Geir
Published: September 2009

Background—

Inflammation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of heart failure (HF), but knowledge about the production and role of inflammatory actors remains incomplete. On the basis of its role in vascular inflammation, vascular proliferation, and matrix degradation, we hypothesized a role for the chemokine CXCL16 in the pathogenesis of myocardial remodeling and development of HF.

Methods and Results—

Our main findings were (1) patients with chronic HF (n=188) had increased plasma levels of CXCL16, which correlated with disease severity. (2) Left ventricular tissue from patients with end-stage HF (n=8) showed enhanced CXCL16 levels compared with nonfailing left ventricular (n=6) as assessed by Western blotting. (3) In mice with postmyocardial infarction HF, expression of CXCL16, as assessed by real-time RT-PCR, was increased in the infarcted and the noninfarcted areas of left ventricular 3 and 7 days after coronary ligation, indicating early onset of CXCL16 production. Furthermore, mice exposed to aortic banding had enhanced CXCL16 expression in left ventricular, indicating that CXCL16 expression is not related to ischemia alone. (4) In vitro, CXCL16 promoted proliferation and impaired collagen synthesis in myocardial fibroblasts, and in cardiomyocytes and myocardial fibroblasts, CXCL16 increased matrix metalloproteinase activity, primarily reflecting increased matrix metalloproteinase-2 levels. (5) By using specific inhibitors, we showed that the effect of CXCL16 on fibroblasts involved activation of Jun N-terminal kinase.

Conclusion—

We show enhanced myocardial CXCL16 expression in experimental and clinical HF. The effect of CXCL16 on cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts suggests a role for CXCL16 in matrix remodeling and ultimately in the development of HF.
Interleukin-33 Prevents Apoptosis and Improves Survival After Experimental Myocardial Infarction Through ST2 Signaling
Authors: Seki Kenjiro , Sanada Shoji , Kudinova Anastacia Y. , Steinhauser Matthew L. , Handa Vandna , Gannon; Joseph , Lee Richard T.
Published: September 2009

Background—

ST2 is an interleukin (IL)-1 receptor family member with membrane-bound (ST2L) and soluble (sST2) isoforms, and sST2 is a biomarker for poor outcome in patients with myocardial infarction (MI). IL-33, the recently discovered ligand for ST2, activates nuclear factor κB and thus may regulate apoptotic cell death. We tested the hypothesis that IL-33 is cardioprotective after MI through ST2 signaling.

Methods and Results—

IL-33 protected cultured cardiomyocytes from hypoxia-induced apoptosis, and this cardioprotection was partially inhibited by sST2. IL-33 induced expression of the antiapoptotic factors XIAP, cIAP1, and survivin. To define the cardioprotective role of IL-33 in vivo, we performed a blinded and randomized study of ischemia/reperfusion in rats. IL-33 reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis, suppressed caspase-3 activity, and increased expression of IAP family member proteins. IL-33 decreased both infarct and fibrosis volumes at 15 days; furthermore, both echocardiographic and hemodynamic studies revealed that IL-33 improved ventricular function. To determine whether cardioprotection by IL-33 is mediated through ST2 signaling, a randomized and blinded study of ST2
−/−
versus wild-type littermate mice was performed in 98 mice subjected to MI. At 4 weeks after MI, IL-33 reduced ventricular dilation and improved contractile function in wild-type mice but not in ST2
−/−
mice. Finally, IL-33 improved survival after MI in wild-type but not in ST2
−/−
mice.

Conclusion—

IL-33 prevents cardiomyocyte apoptosis and improves cardiac function and survival after MI through ST2 signaling.
Chronic Vagus Nerve Stimulation Improves Autonomic Control and Attenuates Systemic Inflammation and Heart Failure Progression in a Canine High-Rate Pacing Model
Authors: Zhang Youhua , Popović Zoran B. , Bibevski Steve , Fakhry Itaf , Sica Domenic A. , Van Wagoner David R. , Mazgalev Todor N.
Published: September 2009

Background—

Autonomic dysfunction, characterized by sympathetic activation and vagal withdrawal, contributes to the progression of heart failure (HF). Although the therapeutic benefits of sympathetic inhibition with β-blockers in HF are clear, the role of increased vagal tone in this setting has been less studied. We have investigated the impact of enhancing vagal tone (achieved through chronic cervical vagus nerve stimulation, [VNS]) on HF development in a canine high-rate ventricular pacing model.

Methods and Results—

Fifteen dogs were randomized into control (n=7) and VNS (n=8) groups. All dogs underwent 8 weeks of high-rate ventricular pacing (at 220 bpm for the first 4 weeks to develop HF and another 4 weeks at 180 bpm to maintain HF). Concomitant VNS, at an intensity reducing sinus rate ≈20 bpm, was delivered together with the ventricular pacing in the VNS group. At 4 and 8 weeks of ventricular pacing, both left ventricular end-diastolic and -systolic volumes were lower and left ventricular ejection fraction was higher in the VNS group than in the control group. Heart rate variability and baroreflex sensitivity improved in the VNS dogs. Rises in plasma norepinephrine, angiotensin II, and C-reactive protein levels, ordinarily expected in this model, were markedly attenuated with VNS treatment.

Conclusions—

Chronic VNS improves cardiac autonomic control and significantly attenuates HF development in the canine high-rate ventricular pacing model. The therapeutic benefit of VNS is associated with pronounced anti-inflammatory effects. VNS is a novel and potentially useful therapy for treating HF.
Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Patients With Transcatheter Closure of Secundum Atrial Septal Defects
Authors: Yong Gerald , Khairy Paul , De Guise Pierre , Dore Annie , Marcotte Francois , Mercier Lise-Andree , Noble Stephane , Ibrahim Reda
Published: September 2009

Background—

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) may develop in patients with atrial septal defects (ASD); however, little is known about associated risk factors and its evolution after transcatheter ASD closure.

Methods and Results—

We conducted a cohort study on 215 adults with attempted transcatheter ASD closure from 1999 to 2006. Patients were classified according to baseline systolic pulmonary artery pressures as having no (I, <40 mm Hg), mild (II, 40 to 49 mm Hg), moderate (III, 50 to 59 mm Hg), or severe (IV, ≥60 mm Hg) PAH. Independent predictors of moderate or severe PAH were older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.10 per year;
P
<0.0001), larger ASD (OR, 1.13 per millimeter;
P
=0.0052), female sex (OR, 3.9;
P
=0.0313), and at least moderate tricuspid regurgitation (OR, 3.6;
P
=0.0043). At 15 (interquartile range, 8 to 43) months post–ASD closure, patients with higher baseline pressures were more likely to experience a ≥5-mm Hg decrease (33.7%, 73.9%, 79.2%, and 100.0% in groups I to IV,
P
<0.0001), with a larger magnitude of reduction (0, 8, 17, and 22 mm Hg;
P
<0.0001). However, normalization of pressures (<40 mm Hg) occurred less frequently in patients with more advanced PAH (90.2%, 71.7%, 66.7%, and 23.5%,
P
<0.0001). Among patients with moderate or severe PAH, independent predictors of normalization were lower baseline pressures (OR, 0.91 per mm Hg;
P
=0.0418) and no more than mild tricuspid regurgitation (OR, 0.14;
P
=0.0420).

Conclusion—

In adults with ASDs, severity of PAH is modulated by age, sex, defect size, and degree of tricuspid regurgitation. Patients with moderate or severe PAH may benefit from substantial reductions in pulmonary artery pressures after transcatheter ASD closure, although the PAH values remain elevated in a sizeable proportion.
Double Versus Single Stenting for Coronary Bifurcation Lesions
Authors: Katritsis Demosthenes G. , Siontis George C.M. , Ioannidis John P.A.
Published: September 2009

Background—

Several trials have addressed whether bifurcation lesions require stenting of both the main vessel and side branch, but uncertainty remains on the benefits of such double versus single stenting of the main vessel only.

Methods and Results—

We have conducted a meta-analysis of randomized trials including patients with coronary bifurcation lesions who were randomly selected to undergo percutaneous coronary intervention by either double or single stenting. Six studies (n=1642 patients) were eligible. There was increased risk of myocardial infarction with double stenting (risk ratio, 1.78;
P
=0.001 by fixed effects; risk ratio, 1.49 with Bayesian meta-analysis). The summary point estimate suggested also an increased risk of stent thrombosis with double stenting, but the difference was not nominally significant given the sparse data (risk ratio, 1.85;
P
=0.19). No obvious difference was seen for death (risk ratio, 0.81;
P
=0.66) and target lesion revascularization (risk ratio, 1.09;
P
=0.67).

Conclusions—

Stenting of both the main vessel and side branch in bifurcation lesions may increase myocardial infarction and stent thrombosis risk compared with stenting of the main vessel only.
Patient Registries of Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Ferreira-González Ignacio , Marsal Josep R. , Mitjavila Francesca , Parada Antoni , Ribera Aida , Cascant Purificación , Soriano Núria , Sánchez Pedro L. , Arós Fernando , Heras Magda , Bueno Héctor , Marrugat Jaume , Cuñat José , Civeira Emilia , Permanyer-Miralda Gaietà
Published: September 2009

Background—

The risk of selection bias in registries and its consequences are relatively unexplored. We sought to assess selection bias in a recent registry about acute coronary syndrome and to explore the way of conducting and reporting patient registries of acute coronary syndrome.

Methods and Results—

We analyzed data from patients of a national acute coronary syndrome registry undergoing an audit about the comprehensiveness of the recruitment/inclusion. Patients initially included by hospital investigators (n=3265) were compared to eligible nonincluded (missed) patients (n=1439). We assessed, for 25 exposure variables, the deviation of the in-hospital mortality relative risks calculated in the initial sample from the actual relative risks. Missed patients were of higher risk and received less recommended therapies than the included patients. In-hospital mortality was almost 3 times higher in the missed population (9.34% [95% CI, 7.84 to 10.85] versus 3.9% [95% CI, 2.89 to 4.92]). Initial relative risks diverged from the actual relative risks more than expected by chance (
P
<0.05) in 21 variables, being higher than 10% in 17 variables. This deviation persisted on a smaller degree on multivariable analysis. Additionally, we reviewed a sample of 129 patient registries focused on acute coronary syndrome published in thirteen journals, collecting information on good registry performance items. Only in 38 (29.4%) and 48 (37.2%) registries was any audit of recruitment/inclusion and data abstraction, respectively, mentioned. Only 4 (3.1%) authors acknowledged potential selection bias because of incomplete recruitment.

Conclusions—

Irregular inclusion can introduce substantial systematic bias in registries. This problem has not been explicitly addressed in a substantial number of them.
Epidemiology of Subtherapeutic Anticoagulation in the United States
Authors: Rose Adam J. , Ozonoff Al , Grant Richard W. , Henault Lori E. , Hylek Elaine M.
Published: September 2009

Background—

Low international normalized ratio (INR; ≤1.5) increases risk for thromboembolism. However, little is known about the epidemiology of low INR.

Methods and Results—

We prospectively collected data from 47 community-based clinics located throughout the United States from 2000 to 2002. We examined risk factors for low INR (≤1.5), reasons given in the medical record for low INR, and proportion of thromboembolic events that occurred during periods of low INR. Of the 4489 patients in our database, 1540 (34%) had at least 1 low INR. Compared with men, women had an increased incidence of low INR (adjusted incidence rate ratio, 1.44;
P
<0.001). Compared with patients anticoagulated for atrial fibrillation, patients anticoagulated for venous thromboembolism had an increased incidence of low INR (adjusted incidence rate ratio, 1.48;
P
<0.001). The 5 most common reasons for low INR were nonadherence (17%), interruptions for procedures (16%), recent dose reductions (15%), no reason apparent after questioning (15%), and second or greater consecutive low INR (13%). A total of 21.8% of thromboembolic events (95% CI, 12.2 to 35.4%) occurred during periods of low INR; 58% of these events were related to an interruption of warfarin therapy.

Conclusions—

In this cohort of patients receiving warfarin, more than 1 in 5 thromboembolic events occurred during a period of low INR. Women and patients anticoagulated for venous thromboembolism were particularly likely to experience low INR. Improving adherence, minimizing interruptions of therapy, and addressing low INR more promptly could reduce the risk of low INR.
Frogs of the genus Leptobrachella (Pelobatidae)
Authors: Dring Julian
Published: September 2009

Six species are recognized: from Borneo, L. baluensis SMITH, L. mjobergi SMITH, L. parva sp.n. and L. brevicrus sp. n.; from the Bunguran Islands,L. natunae(GUNTHER) andL. serasanae sp. n. Calls ofthe Bornean species are described.
A new Forest Species of Phrynobatrachus (Anura: Ranidae) from Morogoro Region, Tanzania
Authors: Grandison A.G.C. , Howell K.M.
Published: September 2009

A new species of moderate-sized Phrynobatrachus from the forests of the Uzungwe and Uluguru Mountains of southcentral Tanzania is described. It is distinguished by having dorsal asperities in both sexes and by a reddish-orange colouration on its digits and arms, this colour sometimes extending to the shoulders. The adult male lacks femoral glands and gular folds. Comparisons are made with other East African Phrynobatrachus species.
Frequency of reproduction, clutch size and clutch energy in the lizard Anguis fragilis
Authors: Patterson J.W.
Published: September 2009

The reproductive cycle offemale Anguisfragilis from Isle of Portland, Dorset, appears to be biennial. Fewer small females were reproducing in 1977 than in 1979 and the ratio clutch size: body size showed more variability in 1977. It is considered that the droughts in the summers of 1975 and 1976 had an adverse effect on A. fragilis reproduction in 1977. Total carcass energy in females about to give birth is much less than in females which are not reproducing that year. The ratio energy in clutch: total energy in body varies from 0.29 to 0.38.
Eine neue Art des Vipera berus-Komplexes aus der Türkei
Authors: Böhme Wolfgang , Joger Ulrich
Published: September 2009

Vipera baranin. sp. from northwestern Turkey is a member of the euro-siberian group within the genus Vipera. It is characterized by the following peculiarities: 1) Higher ventral count than V. ursinii and V. kaznakovi (145). 2) ♀ with a higher subcaudal count than V. ursinii, V. kaznakovi and V. berus (37). 3) Loreal scales and head plates divided to an extent as in the western European V. aspis (5 "loreals", 34 "intercanthals and intersupraoculars", parietals fully divided into small scales). 4) Different from V. aspis in having only one row of subocular scales between eye and supralabials. 5) The three specimens known up to now are totally melanistic, with white supralabials and a bright yellow underside of tail. The possibility ofy hybrid nature of the only preserved specimen is discussed and dimissed. As long as no further material is known, the relationships of V. barani to the other species can not be clarified.
Income Distribution in the Latin American Southern Cone during the First Globalization Boom and Beyond
Authors: Bértola Luis , Castelnovo Cecilia , Rodríguez Javier , Willebald Henry
Published: September 2009

Latin America is the most unequal region in the world and there is intense debate concerning the explanations and timing of such high levels of income inequality. Latin America was also the region, not including European Offshoots, which experienced the most rapid growth during the first globalization boom. It can, therefore, be taken as an interesting case of study regarding how globalization forces impinged on growth and income distribution in peripheral regions. This article presents a first estimate of income inequality in the Southern Cone of South America (Brazil 1872 and 1920, Chile 1870 and 1920, Uruguay 1920) and some assumptions concerning Argentina (1870 and 1920), and Uruguay (1870). We find an increasing trend towards inequality between 1870 and 1920, which can be explained as a process of inequality both within individual countries and among countries. This trend is discussed along three lines: the relationship between inequality and per capita income levels; the dynamics of the expansion to new areas; and movements of relative factor prices and of the terms of trade. During the current globalization process inequality remained apparently stable, as a result of contradictory movements: within-country inequality increased, especially in the three countries with the highest per capita income; on the other hand, between-country inequality was reduced due to the process of club-convergence among the Southern Cone countries. Divergence with core countries was deepened. Some implicit results seem to show that state-led industrialization was featured by decreasing inequality, both within and among countries.
Sector Bias and Sector Dualism
Authors: Rohrbach Daniela
Published: September 2009

There are several explanations for the inequality upswing in the literature: rising globalization, the institutional re-structuring of the nation-states, as well as changes in the relation between the demand for and the supply of skills. Concerning demand changes, Kuznets and Lewis identified two inequality affecting mechanisms with regard to the agriculture-to-industry transition: sector bias — that is, inequality within sectors — and sector dualism — that is, inequality between sectors. In this article it is analyzed whether there are analogue effects on inequality from the sectoral change to the knowledge society. Following the strategy of a most-similar design and a variable oriented approach the hypotheses are tested cross-nationally and longitudinally in 19 OECD countries between 1970 and 1999. To verify sectoral effects, error component models are computed regressing the Gini-coefficient on a globalization measure, the union density, the educational attainment as well as the employment and income differential in the knowledge sector. The results show that some amount of the inequality upswing in the last few decades can be explained by the sectoral change to the knowledge society.
The Influence of the Particle Size of Silica on the Ballistic Performance of Fabrics Impregnated with Silica Colloidal Suspension
Authors: Lee Bok-Won , Kim Il-Jin , Kim Chun-Gon
Published: September 2009

This study investigated the effect of the particle size of silica colloidal suspension (SCS) in SCS-impregnated plain woven fabrics on the ballistic performance of those fabrics. In order to examine the particle size effect, spherical silica particles with average diameters of 100 nm, 300 nm, and 500 nm were used to fabricate SCS. The SCS-impregnated fabrics were subjected to ballistic tests under various boundary conditions. The fabric impregnated with SCS produced using silica particles with an average particle diameter of 100 nm showed better impact performance than those of the SCS-impregnated fabrics containing larger particles and untreated fabrics in terms of impact energy absorption and resistance to blunt trauma, while earlier failure of their primary yarns in the impacted zone under fully clamped conditions was also observed. The results of the drop impact test and yarn pull-out tests indicated that SCS-impregnated fabric with smaller particles exhibits the largest increment of inter-yarn friction at the onset shear strain for shear thickening. It was found that impregnation with SCS affected the interfacial friction of filaments and yarns, which contributes to a larger transfer of the impact energy to interaction of individual yarns in the fabric, resulting in significantly higher energy dissipation with less transverse deformation. Further, the influence of impregnation with SCS on ballistic performance was found to be closely associated with boundary conditions. Thus, the particle size of the SCS and the boundary conditions are the dominant factors that can be manipulated to fully utilize the benefits of SCS impregnated fabrics for flexible body armor.
The Denominator as the “Target”
Authors: Hom Willard C.
Published: September 2009

Various analyses have used the transfer rate as a performance indicator for community colleges, but the question of what constitutes an appropriate denominator in the transfer-rate equation remains a point of contention. This article examines the potential drawbacks of using student-reported educational goals to determine which students are included in the denominator and notes how the behavioral signal approach—based on the courses students take and complete—may be a more appropriate alternative. In addition, the article discusses the prospects of employing a “transfer opportunity diagnosis” based on multiple indicators.
Poly(Methyl Methacrylate-co-Styrene) Modified with Hydrogenated Natural Rubber
Authors: Thawornwisit S. , Charmondusit K. , Rempel G.L. , Hinchiranan N. , Prasassarakich P.
Published: September 2009

The mechanical properties of brittle polymers are improved by blending with rubbers. Due to C=C in the rubber structure, polymer/rubber blends have poor thermal and oxidative resistance. In this research, the mechanical and physical properties including the morphology of poly(methyl methacrylate-co-styrene) sheet modified by blending with hydrogenated natural rubber were investigated. The optimum styrene content in copolymer sheets for improving the mechanical properties was 20% (w/w) and inclusion of hydrogenated natural rubber at 1% (w/w) exhibited a higher thermal resistance. This implies that hydrogenated natural rubber can be used as an impact modifier and thermal resistance improver for acrylic plastics
Accessing the Impact of Regulatory and Statutory Changes to the Family and Medical Leave Act
Authors: Colopy Katie , Dielman Sandy
Published: September 2009

In 2008, Congress amended the Family and Medical Leave Act (FLMA) by the enactment of the National Defense Authorization Act. Consequently, there are now two more qualifying reasons for protected leave under the FMLA with accompanying definitions and procedures relating to what is now informally referred to as “family member military leave.” Not only has the law expanded to include additional protected leaves of absence, but the DOL also revised its FMLA regulations in 2009 with a result of dramatically changing various aspects of administration of the law for both employers and employees. As a result of all these changes, employers are now operating in a significantly different legal and regulatory arena as it relates to the FMLA. This article highlights some of the more significant changes that will require thought and action on the part of employers as they consider how best to operate under this new statutory and regulatory landscape.
Examining the Social Context in the Caregiving Experience: Correlates of Global Self-Esteem Among Adult Daughter Caregivers to an Older Parent With Cancer
Authors: Bachner Yaacov G. , Karus Daniel G. , Raveis Victoria H.
Published: September 2009

Objectives: To examine the associations between various patient, disease, situation, and caregiver characteristics (organized by five conceptual domains) and global self-esteem among caregiver daughters to parents with cancer. Method: Dyads comprised of 237 cancer outpatients and their adult caregiving daughter completed structured telephone interviews. Results: Two of the five domains of potential correlates significantly predicted caregiving daughters’ global self-esteem—daughters’ sociodemographics and constraints on/facilitators of caregiving. Daughters’ overall sense of self-worth was directly correlated with their household income and inversely correlated with greater depressive affect and the number of patient needs for which someone else provided assistance. It was also correlated with the daughters’ other role obligations. A higher sense of self-worth was associated with either being employed or having to care for a child/grandchild; a lower sense of self-worth was associated with having a spouse/partner. Discussion: The present analysis documents the complexity of social connectedness, demonstrating that various role obligations contribute to caregiving daughters’ global self-esteem in different ways. In the context of assuming cancer careprovision, daughters’ existing repertoire of social roles may possibly mediate the stress associated with their care involvement or serve as a buffer against the strain of the caregiving experience.
Association Between Health Education Needs and Stroke Caregiver Injury
Authors: Hinojosa Melanie Sberna , Rittman Maude
Published: September 2009

Objectives: Many stroke caregivers are inadequately informed about stroke and its sequelae and have little preparation for the physical demands of moving, lifting, and handling often required. Our objectives are to examine the association between health education needs and physical injury sustained as a result of activities related to the caregiving role. Method: A total of 276 caregivers of veterans who suffered an acute stroke event were surveyed about their information needs and injury status.We used multivariate logistic regression analysis to calculate adjusted and unadjusted odds ratios for injury status. Results: Results indicate that in the adjusted model, caregivers who had increased educational needs were almost twice as likely (OR: 1.80; 95% CI: 1.74-1.94) to have incurred an injury related to caregiving activities. Conclusions: Health education interventions that provide stroke caregivers with educational materials may help reduce caregiver injuries.
A Model of Determinant Attributes of Corporate Image in Cultural Services
Authors: Tubillejas Berta , Cuadrado Manuel , Frasquet Marta
Published: September 2009

The study of corporate image, within the strategic approach of marketing, focuses on evaluating the attributes that determine it. After reviewing the relevant literature, the present article proposes a corporate image model delimited by functional attributes that is adapted to the cultural services sector. Our objective is to evaluate the importance of these attributes or factors, so the authors develop an empirical exploratory investigation as a first phase of our study.The personal survey, by means of a structured questionnaire, was the technique employed for collecting the information that was analyzed by multiple regression analysis. The first results show that “physical environment” and “access to services” are the attributes with the strongest influence on the corporate image of cultural service organizations.
On the Role of Social Interaction in Individual Agency
Authors: De Jaegher Hanne , Froese Tom
Published: September 2009

Is an individual agent constitutive of or constituted by its social interactions? This question is typically not asked in the cognitive sciences, so strong is the consensus that only individual agents have constitutive efficacy. In this article we challenge this methodological solipsism and argue that interindividual relations and social context do not simply arise from the behavior of individual agents, but themselves enable and shape the individual agents on which they depend. For this, we define the notion of autonomy as both a characteristic of individual agents and of social interaction processes. We then propose a number of ways in which interactional autonomy can influence individuals. Then we discuss recent work in modeling on the one hand and psychological investigations on the other that support and illustrate this claim. Finally, we discuss some implications for research on social and individual agency.
Autonomy of Self at Criticality: The Perspective from Synthetic Neuro-Robotics
Authors: Tani Jun
Published: September 2009

This article investigates the phenomenological aspects of selves in relation to autonomous agents. Through a review of a series of neuro-robotics experiments conducted by the author’s group, we elucidate three different aspects of selves, namely, minimal selves, social selves and self-referential selves. Upon integrative discussions of these selves, it is suggested that genuine constructs of “authentic” selves may appear with criticality, which is self-organized in the iterative interplay between regression of past experience and lookahead prediction of future outcomes. It is concluded that genuine autonomy of agents likely originates from genuine autonomy of authentic selves.
Nitric Oxide Reduced Chlorophyll Degradation in Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) Florets During Senescence
Authors: Hyang Lan Eum  , Dae Keun Hwang  , Seung Koo Lee
Published: September 2009

Nitric oxide (NO) was applied to broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) florets and analyzed its effect on chlorophyll degradation during postharvest senescence. Florets were treated with 1000 µL/L of NO for 5 h and placed in darkness at 20°C. During storage, the NO treatment delayed yellowing and retarded the onset of chlorophyll degradation. The activity of lipoxygenase was not related to the development of yellowing during storage. However, the accumulation of malondialdehyde, which could be used as an index of lipid peroxidation, was higher in the control than observed in the NO treatment. In untreated broccoli florets during storage, lipid peroxidation influenced the yellowing of broccoli florets while NO-treated florets maintained chlorophyll levels and decreased lipid peroxidation.
Influence of Cultivar and Growth Stage on Pigments and Processing Factors on Betacyanins in Red Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.)
Authors: Khandaker Laila , Ali Md. Babar , Oba Shinya
Published: September 2009

Seven cultivars of red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.) with different leaf color were evaluated for their betacyanin and chlorophyll content at two stages of development. The effects of food processing factors such as thermal treatment, light, H2O 2, and prolonged storage on betacyanin extracts were also examined. Betacyanin concentrations were highly correlated with the leaf color index and the cultivars (Rocto joba, BARI-1, and Altopati) with better color index tended to be associated with high betacyanin. Within a shoot canopy, the apical leaves accumulated higher betacyanin than those of middle and basal leaves. While the highest concentrations of chlorophyll were found in BARI-1, however Red queen had the lowest concentrations. Color index of leaves and betacyanin concentrations were increased and chlorophyll concentrations were decreased with the plant age, which indicate that change of these colorant pigment concentrations with plant age enhance the red leaf formation in red amaranth. Low temperature, darkness, and free or low oxidants maintained the stability of betacyanin concentrations of red amaranth; prolonged storage degraded the betacyanin. Variable factors such as the cultivar of red amaranth, its degree of maturity, and the food processing factors have been shown to have a quantitatively important influence on betacyanin yields and preservation.
Improving Thermal Insulation of Concrete Sandwich Buildings
Authors: Munch-Andersen Jørgen
Published: September 2009

Increased requirement for the thermal insulation of buildings and reduction of energy consumption in order to decrease their carbon dioxide emission means that buildings only 30 years old are of a very low standard compared to today’s requirements. Therefore, there is a strong need to improve the insulation of many existing buildings. Improving insulation can be a risky business as experience has shown that different sorts of degradation will often occur after such work. On the other hand, improvement of the insulation could contribute to making a building more attractive to tenants.

This article deals with good technical solutions for improving the insulation of concrete sandwich panel buildings from the 1960s and 1970s as well as how the savings in supplied energy can be estimated in a simple and accurate manner.
A phenomenology of landscape
Authors: Barrett John C. , Ko Ilhong
Published: September 2009

Recent criticism of the accuracy of the claimed observations on monument location by workers employing a ‘phenomenological’ approach to landscape archaeology in Britain has exposed failures in the way their particular approach has been employed to explain the choices made in the siting of certain Neolithic monuments. This article explains why such errors of record may have occurred and re-examines the ways in which the phenomenology of Martin Heidegger can offer a more positive contribution to our understanding of the historical context of the creation of these monuments.
Musical Styles as Communities of Practice Challenges for learning, teaching and assessment of music in higher education
Authors: Hewitt Allan
Published: September 2009

The last three decades have been marked by significant expansion of music education within higher education, the outcomes of which can be seen in the increased numbers of students studying music and in the diversity of activity and purpose within music courses. This article interrogates the relationship between stylistic diversity and music provision, specifically in relation to teaching and assessment, and considers music styles as examples of ‘communities of practice’ into which students may be inducted through formal and informal means.
Alien Environments or Supportive Writing Communities?
Authors: Pasternak Donna L. , Longwell-Grice Hope , Shea Kelly A. , Hanson Linda K.
Published: September 2009

This article addresses the impetus for joining and maintaining writing groups in academe. The authors consider the motivations and purposes for organizing and forming such groups. Revealing the complexities of writing both as profession and in pursuit of the profession, they analyze their experiences as collaborative writers. They examine the delicate negotiations that accompany the organization and maintenance of writing groups. Their dialogue places writing groups into a sociocultural teaching and learning model with a constructivist epistemology, making concrete concerns expressed in the professional debate about publishing in higher education and sustaining learning.
‘ Making a World that is Worth Living In’
Authors: Walker Melanie
Published: September 2009

This article considers humanities teaching as a vital space where students might develop their capability as ‘practical reasoners’. The importance of this for self-development, but also for society and democratic life, is considered, while the economic purposes which currently dominate higher education are critiqued. An example is taken from the teaching of history to show how lecturers teach and students learn secular intellectual practices under pedagogical arrangements of communicative reasoning and ontological becoming.
When Crises Collide
Authors: Goodman Lisa A. , Smyth Katya Fels , Borges Angela M. , Singer Rachel
Published: September 2009

Until recently, the connection between intimate partner violence (IPV) and persistent poverty had been largely ignored. Recent research indicates, however, that the two phenomena cooccur at high rates; produce parallel effects; and, in each other’s presence, constrain coping options. Therefore, both external situational, and internal psychological difficulties are missed when women contending with both poverty and IPV are viewed through the lens of just one or just the other. This article describes mental health consequences for women who contend with both partner violence and poverty. It proposes that the stress, powerlessness, and social isolation at the heart of both phenomena combine to produce posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and other emotional difficulties. The article also introduces the term ‘‘survival-focused coping’’ to describe women’s methods of coping with IPV in the context of poverty and highlights the role that domestic violence advocates, mental health providers, and researchers can play in addressing these tightly intertwined phenomena.
Crimes Against Experience
Authors: Jones Stacy Holman
Published: September 2009

Scott proposes that literary approaches offer us one way to read how identities are discursively constituted and understood as and of experience. She encourages us to read for and write how histories (personal, political, and social) are constructed and constructive. This article focuses on how difference, knowledge production, and witnessing produce identities as “not something that was always already there simply waiting to be expressed, not something that will always exist in the form it was given.” In particular, the author considers her experience as a mother alongside Julia Kristeva’s essay “Stabat Mater,” which contrasts Catholic understandings of motherhood and femininity with her own experience of maternity, and Minne Bruce Pratt’s poetry collection Crime Against Nature, which confronts the loss of Pratt’s children following her coming out as a lesbian.