bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foreign Direct Investment, Domestic Investment and Economic Growth in China: A Time Series Analysis
Authors: Tang Sumei , Selvanathan E. A. , Selvanathan S.
Published: August 2010

This paper investigates the causal link between foreign direct investment (FDI), domestic investment and economic growth in China for the period 1988–2003 using a multivariate VAR system with error correction model (ECM) and the innovation accounting (variance decomposition and impulse response function analysis) techniques. The results show that while there is a bi‐directional causality between domestic investment and economic growth, there is only a single‐directional causality from FDI to domestic investment and to economic growth. Rather than crowding out domestic investment, FDI is found to be complementary with domestic investment. Thus, FDI has not only assisted in overcoming shortage of capital, it has also stimulated economic growth through complementing domestic investment in China.
An Application of Multinomial Logistic Regression to Estimating Performance of a Multiple-Screening Test with Incomplete Verification
Authors: Lloyd Chris J. , Frommer Donald J.
Published: August 2010

The paper describes a method of estimating the performance of a multiple-screening test where those who test negatively do not have their true disease status determined. The methodology is motivated by a data set on 49927 subjects who were given K=6 binary tests for bowel cancer. A complicating factor is that individuals may have polyps in the bowel, a condition that the screening test is not designed to detect but which may be worth diagnosing. The methodology is based on a multinomial logit model for Pr(S|R6), the probability distribution of patient status S (healthy, polyps or diseased) conditional on the results R6 from six binary tests. An advantage of the methodology described is that the modelling is data driven. In particular, we require no assumptions about correlation within subjects, the relative sensitivity of the K tests or the conditional independence of the tests. The model leads to simple estimates of the trade-off between different errors as the number of tests is varied, presented graphically by using receiver operating characteristic curves. Finally, the model allows us to estimate better protocols for assigning subjects to the disease group, as well as the gains in accuracy from these protocols.
Simple Non-Parametric Estimators for Unemployment Duration Analysis
Authors: Wichert Laura , Wilke Ralf A.
Published: August 2010

We consider an extension of conventional univariate Kaplan–Meier-type estimators for the hazard rate and the survivor function to multivariate censored data with a censored random regressor. It is an Akritas-type estimator which adapts the non-parametric conditional hazard rate estimator of Beran to more typical data situations in applied analysis. We show with simulations that the estimator has nice finite sample properties and our implementation appears to be fast. As an application we estimate non-parametric conditional quantile functions with German administrative unemployment duration data.
TURNOVER IN POWER AS A RESTRAINT ON INVESTING IN INFLUENCE: EVIDENCE FROM THE POSTCOMMUNIST TRANSITION
Authors: MILANOVIC BRANKO , HOFF KARLA , HOROWITZ SHALE
Published: August 2010

We develop and implement a method for measuring the frequency of changes in power among distinct leaders and ideologically distinct parties that is comparable across political systems. We find that in the postcommunist countries, more frequent changes in power in the early years of transition are associated with better governance in the later years. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that more frequent turnover in power lowers the returns to firms seeking to buy political influence: i.e. that government turnover serves as a restraint on investing in influence regardless of the ideology of the government.
OBJECTIVES AND ENTITLEMENTS TO RIGHTS IN GOVERNMENT FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Authors: Likierman Andrew , Creasey Pauline
Published: August 2010

This article examines the academic and professional accounting approaches to defining rights in relation to the objectives of information contained in the financial statements provided by government. These approaches are put in the historical context of philosophical arguments about the rights of citizens to have information from the state. The implication of the analysis is that it is not sufficient to assert that needs should be met or that rights exist without clarification.
ACCRUAL ACCOUNTING REFORMS: ONLY FOR BUSINESSLIKE (PARTS OF) GOVERNMENTS
Authors: Christiaens Johan , Rommel Jan
Published: August 2010

Based on governmental accounting experiences and on the rising criticism of accrual accounting, this paper proposes that accrual accounting in governments will only succeed in businesslike (parts of) governments in the coming years. This proposition leans on the inappropriate transfer of the accrual accounting framework from the profit sector, the underestimation of difficulties considering accrual budgeting and the lack of attention to the political dimension. This paper points out that the advocates of accrual accounting have neglected some important considerations.
Analyst Forecasts and the Cross Section of European Stock Returns
Authors: McKnight Phillip J. , Todd Steven K.
Published: August 2010

We examine revisions to earnings forecasts by equity analysts and their role in predicting stock returns. We provide evidence that European stocks with net upward revised forecasts earn higher future returns than otherwise similar stocks. This effect is not concentrated in small stocks, stocks with low analyst coverage, or stocks with low book‐to‐market ratios. We find differences in the return continuation patterns of stocks with upward versus downward revisions, namely, bad news travels quickly, but good news travels slowly. This result is consistent with investors' attaching greater significance to poor earnings forecasts, but adopting a wait‐and‐see approach to good news.
The Impact of Payoff Interdependence on Trust and Trustworthiness
Authors: Güth Werner , Levati M. Vittoria , Ploner Matteo
Published: August 2010

In one-shot investment games where each player’s payoff is a convex combination of own and other’s profit, we measure trust by the amount given to the trustee and trustworthiness by the amount returned to the trustor by the trustee. Does the degree of payoff interdependence increase both trust and trustworthiness or one but not the other or neither of them? According to our experimental data, trust remains unaffected by the extent of interdependence whereas trustworthiness reacts positively to it.
No passage to India? Initial responses of UK trade unions to call centre offshoring
Authors: Bain Peter , Taylor Phil
Published: August 2010

This article focuses on the first wave of call centre offshoring from the UK to India (2002–04). Trade union responses in five case‐study companies are documented. Drawing upon theories of union power resources, including international action, the relative efficacy of these union responses is analysed.
The impact of Investors in People on employer‐provided training, the equality of training provision and the ‘training apartheid’ phenomenon
Authors: Hoque Kim
Published: August 2010

This article draws on data from WERS 2004 to provide a follow‐up to previous research using WERS 98, which evaluated the relationship between Investors in People (IiP) and training. This follow‐up is undertaken in order to consider whether the Standard, which was revised in 2000, is now more effective in ensuring that recognised workplaces genuinely engage in training activity. An evaluation is also undertaken of the Standard's new aim of ensuring equal opportunities with regard to training provision. In the event, the analysis demonstrates that the proportion of employees in IiP workplaces that have not received formal training did not change between 1998 and 2004, but employees were now less likely to disagree that managers at their workplaces encourage people to develop their skills. However, the analysis finds greater evidence of inequality of training provision in IiP workplaces than in non‐IiP workplaces and that the Standard neither boosts training levels for typically disadvantaged employee groups, nor overcomes the ‘training apartheid’ phenomenon.
Excess Money Growth and Inflation Dynamics*
Authors: Roffia Barbara , Zaghini Andrea
Published: August 2010

This paper analyses the short‐run impact of periods of strong monetary growth on inflation dynamics for 15 industrialized economies. We find that when robust money growth is accompanied by large increases in stock and house prices and loose credit conditions, the probability of recording an inflationary outburst over a three‐year horizon is significantly increased. In contrast, significant money stock expansions that are not associated with sustained credit increases and strong dynamics in other asset prices seem to be less likely to have inflationary consequences and are thus less worrying from a policy perspective.
SOCIAL WORK WITH THE MENTALLY HANDICAPPED
Authors: McKEOWN R.
Published: August 2010

“The mentally handicapped cannot respond to social work techniques. Behaviour modificaton provides the only system that will help them develop new patterns of functioning”. A remark from a colleague made me stop and think. Had I taken myself out of the mainstream of social work into an area of work that was, perhaps, more appropriate to other disciplines? My reflections form the basis of this article…
A critical look at our: ATTITUDES TO MENTAL HANDICAP
Authors: NELKI JULIA
Published: August 2010

“We are all handicapped … all carrying the weight of our self‐centredness, our fears, our incapacity to communicate, our difficulties in generosity. If we could realise that these are not the normal and the abnormal, but just people going along at different speeds … And if only those who think they are normal could unite and create homes and schools for those who are wounded!” Jean Vanier, L'Arche, 1964.
Special education: in search of a concept
Authors: GRIFFITHS JOHN
Published: August 2010

The following article is intended simply to raise some basic issues regarding the education of mentally handicapped children. It does not set out to provide any answers, or to come down on one side or the other. It does provide a starting point from which debate and discussion can grow.
The paediatrician's role in the early years — a clinical medical officer's view
Authors: MYANT AUDREY
Published: August 2010

SUMMARY: Two aspects of impact of paediatric work on the education of the handicapped are discussed. The first is the effect on the size of the handicapped population and the degree of handicap of its members. The second is the individual assessing and guiding role of the paediatrician.
International symposium on Inborn errors of metabolism in humans held in Interlaken, Switzerland, 1980
Authors: CROSSLEY JANE E.
Published: August 2010

The 18th meeting of the Society for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism (SSIEM) was a joint meeting with the International Society for Inborn Errors of Metabolism, and was a sequel to their meeting in Tel Aviv in 1977.

The SSIEM, founded in 1963 following a symposium entitled Neurometabolic disorders in childhood, exists to promote an exchange of ideas between professional workers in different disciplines who are interested in the biochemical basis of inherited diseases. One of the ways it pursues this aim is by arranging annual meetings on particular topics. In the past subjects have included: Biochemical approaches to mental handicap in children; Inborn errors of skin, hair and connective tissue; Organic acidurias; Carbohydrate metabolism; and more broadly based topics, such as Treatment and Medico‐social management. The Society also publishes a quarterly journal and has a membership of over 300, including members from overseas as well as the UK and Eire.
THE HOSPITAL INFORMATION BOOKLET
Authors: SPENCER DOUGLAS A.
Published: August 2010

Most mental handicap hospitals today provide free some form of information sheet or booklet for the parents and relatives of their patients, and for visitors. As such handouts act as a form of ambassador for the hospitals, they need to be compiled with care.
Sensory reinforcement table—an evaluation*
Authors: GOODALL ELIZABETH , CORBETT JOHN , MURPHY GLYNIS , CALLIAS MARIA
Published: August 2010

A table, which provides sensory reinforcement on completion of form board tasks, was evaluated for use in teaching and occupying severely mentally handicapped children.

Sensory stimulation was found to be more effective than edibles or social reinforcement in occupying two children working at skills already acquired. The addition of sensory reinforcement to social reinforcement was found to enhance learning new skills in three children. Sensory stimulation was no more effective than conventional reinforcers with five children whose performance at form board tasks was generally very low.

It is suggested that the use of such equipment be investigated further with larger numbers of children.
What do you think of it so far?
Authors: Passfield David
Published: August 2010

A consumer survey into the opinions of 20 mentally handicapped men, former long stay hospital residents, two years after moving into warden‐controlled, independent living accommodation has shown that the men are generally satisfied with the move and are able to cope with the demands of independent living after a long period of institutional‐isation.
TRAINING STAFF
Authors: Wood Jim , Berry Ian , Cowell Bill
Published: August 2010

SUMMARY. The article describes an approach to organising an in‐service scheme to provide direct care staff with skills in up‐to‐date teaching and handling techniques. Aspects of organisation and implementation are covered, and problems of maintenance and evaluation are included. An important benefit of the strategies employed is the improved level of cooperation between two major disciplines towards the common purpose of resident care and progress.
Behavioural relaxation training: explorations with adults who are mentally handicapped
Authors: Lindsay William R. , Baty Frances
Published: August 2010

Behavioural relaxation training is a recently developed method to help individuals cope with their anxiety. The present study describes its use with adults who are mentally handicapped. Three case studies are presented to illustrate its successful implementation.
Do the professionals understand?
Authors: MacLachlan Mary , Dennis Pam , Lang Hilary , Charnock Sybil , Osman Jill
Published: August 2010

The article describes the early feelings and experiences of five mothers in coming to terms with the severe mental and physical handicaps of their children, now young adults, as explored in a group setting with two professional workers. It goes on to give their views on the services they have received to date and the kind of provision they would like to see in future.
Parents with mental handicaps and adequate child care — a review
Authors: Tymchuk Alexander J. , Andron Linda , Unger Olivia
Published: August 2010

Although there has been much concern about people with mental handicaps as parents, available evidence shows that: they do not necessarily have children who are mentally handicapped; they have fewer or the same number of children as the norm; while some provide inadequate child care, others provide adequate care; and they can develop parenting skills.

Despite these tentative conclusions, there is a critical need for additional research that systematically addresses parenting issues with this group of people and seeks to answer the following questions. What are the predictors of adequate parenting? What types and frequency of training are useful? How do other factors such as emotional disturbance, stress, and health‐related problems influence acquisition and maintenance of parenting skills?
Staff turnover in a small home service: a study* of facilities for adults with severe and profound mental handicaps
Authors: de Kock Ursula , Felce David , Saxby Helen , Thomas Mair
Published: August 2010

Turnover of staff in a small home service for adults with severe and profound mental handicaps was compared to that in a number of larger units also based in the community and serving people with similar handicaps. Turnover was higher in the two small homes studied although recruitment was able to match staff loss so that the proportion of staff in post was maintained. Reasons for staff leaving were discussed. The main difference between the settings to account for the difference in turnover was size.
AIDS and people with mental handicaps
Authors: Jones Chris
Published: August 2010

People with mental handicaps are not generally considered a “high risk” group in relation to the spread of AIDS. However, carers and educators have a responsibility to translate the basic messages about AIDS into a form which is understandable and appropriate for them.

Some individuals who are mentally handicapped may be very much at risk through certain sexual behaviour coupled with ignorance. Many others may be caused needless anxiety because of mistaken or half‐understood ideas about AIDS.

A strategy for educating people with mental handicaps about AIDS is suggested.
Implementing change in a long stay hospital using an individual review system
Authors: Laws Matt , Bolt Liz , Gibbs Vicky
Published: August 2010

This article describes the process of implementing change to an individual review system in a long‐stay hospital.

A new review system was devised, piloted, and evaluated. Despite the constraints of the institution (such as large size, and limited resources of staff and time) substantial improvements were made over a two‐year period.
Hearing in people with mental handicaps: A REVIEW OF 100 ADULTS
Authors: Yeates Sybil
Published: August 2010

A pilot project was undertaken which examined the hearing of 100 adults with mental handicaps. The adults had been referred because of a suspected hearing problem and this was confirmed in 37 per cent of the sample. A further 14 per cent were found to have adequate hearing and 19 per cent to require additional objective electrophysiological tests. The remaining 30 per cent were deemed to require supervision, having hearing levels at the lowest acceptable limits.

Of the 37 people requiring amplification, 14 had previously been supplied with hearing aids; but only one person was using the correct aid and remained in touch with a hospital department.

The need both for diagnosis and, most importantly, on‐going help for people with hearing problems and the staff who work with them is imperative.
Accepting and developing the sexuality of people with mental handicaps
Authors: Rose John
Published: August 2010

Over recent years there has been a greater acknowledgement of the right of people with mental handicaps to express their sexuality. Considerable effort has been made to help others, mainly professionals working with them, to come to terms with this. It is argued that, because of different cares and concerns, their parents need a different type of help from that generally offered.

A workshop is described which enabled parents to examine some of the issues that face their children as they reach adolescence and adulthood, so that they could take a positive attitude towards the development of the sexuality of their sons and daughters. Evaluation of the sessions demonstrated that attendance had been found useful by the parents. It seems likely that similar workshops would be well received.
Words used to refer to people with mental handicaps
Authors: Nursey Ann , Rohde Jenifer , Farmer Richard
Published: August 2010

As part of a larger, questionnaire‐based study parents of children with mental handicaps and doctors with some involvement in this field were presented with a variety of words sometimes used to refer to people with mental handicaps. They were asked to indicate how often they felt each term should be used. Both groups strongly favoured the use of “mentally handicapped” and “learning difficulties”. Doctors were significantly more inclined than parents to accept “dull”, “backward”, and “developmentally delayed”.
Improving the Quality of Life Through Music: A Case Study
Authors: Hooper Jeff , Lindsay Bill
Published: August 2010

This study reports the effect of relaxing music on the anxiety and agitation of a disturbed mentally handicapped woman. While the emphasis is on the short term effect of treatment, the study suggests that there may be other long term effects which in turn reflect an improved quality of life.
Sexual Abuse within Services for People with Learning Disabilities
Authors: Allington Carolyn L. J.
Published: August 2010

This study was concerned with ascertaining the extent to which staff working with people with learning disabilities are aware of issues around the topic of sexual abuse. A questionnaire was completed by 107 staff from day care and residential facilities at both Health Authority and Local Authority services. The data generated indicated that nearly a third of staff (32%) never discuss the subject in their worksettings despite the fact that all felt people with learning disabilities to be at risk of sexual abuse, with the majority (68%) believing them to be at a higher degree of risk than other people. The majority of staff (88%) felt that further information should be provided in their workplaces. The implications of these data are considered with respect to staff training, support and empowerment.
Selecting an Assessment Instrument for Use with Adults With a Profound Mental Handicap and Multiple Impairments
Authors: Holmes Sophie
Published: August 2010

This paper considers the issues involved in assessment of adults with a profound mental handicap and multiple handicaps. Five criterion‐referenced schedules are reviewed in terms of their theoretical basis, validity, reliability and age appropriateness. The findings show that none of the available assessments satisfactorily deal with all the relevant issues. Users of assessments must decide which are the most pertinent issues in each individual case. Selection of an assessment instrument is therefore likely to involve compromising the formal aspects of measurement or age appropriateness, as there are no assessment schedules available which encompass both these issues. Further research is required to either standardise existing age appropriate schedules or adapt the only reliable assessment available to make it relevant to the lives of adults.
The Martian Dinner Party Game
Authors: Murdoch Heather
Published: August 2010

This article argues for an empathetic, holistic approach to task analysis skills, formerly perceived as components of behavioural teaching approaches. It suggests that analysis of behaviours and contexts may lead to more appropriate presentation of information to clients with multiple disabilities. The Martian dinner party game is a training exercise supporting the practice of analytical skills in a context allowing discussion of factors affecting their use.
Using Video‐tapes in Alcohol Interventions for People with Learning Disabilities: An Exploratory Study
Authors: McMurran Mary , Lismore Kelly
Published: August 2010

Drinking may be perceived as a highly valued activity by people with learning disabilities and some may, therefore, be prone to drinking to excess without taking the likely negative consequences into account. Alcohol interventions are important and the issue of how these might best be used with this group requires attention. A brief intervention is described in this paper which includes the use of a video‐taped problem drinker to whom clients were asked to give advice. An evaluation, which involved asking clients to specify how they would reduce their drinking, lent some support to the effectiveness of the video‐tape as a teaching method. After viewing the video, clients were able to suggest more specific strategies for behaviour change.
Challenging Behaviour Project Team: A Six Month Pilot Project Evaluation
Authors: Scorer Stephen , Cate Tim , Wilkinson Leigh , Pollock Philip , Hargan Jim
Published: August 2010

The establishment of a support team is an increasingly adopted response to people with challenging behaviour. This paper reports on the establishment of such a team on a six month project basis within South Tees Health Authority. The project team was presented with a unique opportunity to carry out a short, intensive trial and study of the support team approach, and produce an evaluation of its effectiveness. Substantial progress was made with five of the six clients despite the brevity of the project. The case studies reported include data collected during the six month project and further follow up measures taken eight months later.
Perinatal complications increase the risk of postpartum depression. The Generation R Study
Authors: Blom EA , Jansen PW , Verhulst FC , Hofman A , Raat H , Jaddoe VWV , Coolman M , Steegers EAP , Tiemeier H
Published: August 2010

Please cite this paper as: Blom E, Jansen P, Verhulst F, Hofman A, Raat H, Jaddoe V, Coolman M, Steegers E, Tiemeier H. Perinatal complications increase the risk of postpartum depression. The Generation R Study. BJOG 2010;117:1390–1398.

Objective  To examine whether specific pregnancy and delivery complications are risk factors for postpartum depression.

Design  A prospective longitudinal study.

Setting  Rotterdam, the Netherlands.

Population  A cohort of 4941 pregnant women who enrolled in the Generation R Study.

Methods  Information on perinatal complications was obtained from the midwife and hospital registries or by questionnaire. Logistic regression analyses were used to calculate the risk of postpartum depression for the separate perinatal complications.

Main outcome measures  Postpartum psychiatric symptoms were assessed 2 months after delivery using the Edinburgh postnatal depression scale.

Results  Several perinatal complications were significantly associated with postpartum depression, namely: pre‐eclampsia (adjusted OR, aOR 2.58, 95% CI 1.30–5.14), hospitalization during pregnancy (aOR 2.25, 95% CI 1.19–4.26), emergency caesarean section (aOR 1.53, 95% CI 1.02–2.31), suspicion of fetal distress (aOR 1.56, 95% CI 1.08–2.27), a medically indicated delivery provided by an obstetrician (aOR 2.43, 95% CI 1.56–3.78), and hospital admission of the baby (aOR 1.45, 95% CI 1.10–1.92). Unplanned pregnancy, thrombosis, meconium‐stained amniotic fluid, and Apgar score were not associated with postpartum depression after adjustment for confounding factors, such as pre‐existing psychopathological symptoms and sociodemographic characteristics. The risk of postpartum depression increased with the number of perinatal complications women experienced (P < 0.001).

Conclusions  We showed that several pregnancy and delivery complications present a risk for women’s mental health in the postpartum period. Obstetricians, midwives, general practitioners, and staff at baby well clinics should be aware that women who experienced perinatal complications—especially those with a number of perinatal complications—are at risk for developing postpartum depression.
Parents as partners: parents’ perceptions of partnership in Northeren Ireland
Authors: Quinn Frank
Published: August 2010

The introduction of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs in Northern Ireland has brought to the foreground the issue of parents as partners. Twenty parents of children attending two schools in Belfast for children experiencing learning difficulties were interviewed to determine their perceptions of their role during the process of Stages 4 and 5 of the implementation of the Code. The parents emphasised a sense of anger, frustration and isolation.
A profile of early childhood special education in Taiwan, Republic of China
Authors: Kang Ya‐Shu A. , Haring Kathryn A. , Lovett David L.
Published: August 2010

This article presents the results of a survey examining existing early childhood special education practices in Taiwan, the Republic of China. Descriptive data on personnel representing several disciplines currently providing early childhood services were gathered through a questionnaire survey of 134 programmes in Taiwan. The following characteristics of professionals and paraprofessionals (e.g. teaching assistants) in these early childhood intervention programmes were documented: title of job(s); years of experience; levels of education; receipt of specialised early intervention training; types of licence/credential/certification; and in‐service training opportunities. Further, programme information such as the following was collected: total number of all children; number of children with special educational needs; staff–child ratio for centre‐based programmes; type of service(s) provided by the programme or programme setting(s); and staff case load for home‐based programmes.
Content accessibility of special education organisations’ Web sites
Authors: Flowers Claudia , Bray Marty , Algozzine Robert F.
Published: August 2010

Professional organisations play a central role in efforts to make public and private facilities and resources accessible. Hundreds of organisations have formed to support the development and maintenance of services to individuals with disabilities. The World Wide Web (WWW) has become a valuable resource for individuals with disabilities, but on‐line barriers create significant limitations in content accessibility. This study evaluated the content accessibility of professional organisation home pages. One hundred and eighty‐seven home pages were evaluated for content accessibility. The results indicated that 72% of them had significant accessibility problems that severely affect their usability by people with disabilities. The types of accessibility problems are presented, as well as methods for validating and areas for improving Web sites.
The self‐esteem of children with physical disabilities: a review of the research
Authors: Fox Mark
Published: August 2010

The prevalent view is that children with physical disabilities are likely to have greater emotional and psychological problems, including lower self‐esteem, than that of their able‐bodied peers (Arnold & Chapman, 1992). The basis for this is explored and the psychological research analysed to see whether it supports such a view. The analysis highlights the assumptions that have been made when researching this area, and the methodological difficulties in the research. The findings are that present research does not support the view that children with physical disabilities have a lower self‐esteem than their able‐bodied peers. It is suggested that a recognition of the psychological resilience of these children may be a helpful starting point when considering future research in this area.
Individualised educational programmes. Part I: a literature review
Authors: Millward Alan , Baynes Anne , Dyson Alan , Riddell Sheila , Banks Pauline , Kane Jean , Wilson Alastair
Published: August 2010

This review was undertaken as part of a research project commissioned by the Scottish Executive and carried out by a team from Glasgow and Newcastle Universities between January 2000 and January 2001 when the report was published (Banks et al., 2001). The research study, entitled ‘Raising the Attainment of Pupils with Special Educational Needs’, followed the issuing of new guidelines (SOEID, 1998a; SEED, 1999) which linked the use of individualised educational programmes (IEPs) to the wider political enterprise of raising standards through target‐setting.
Peer nominations among adolescents experiencing severe learning difficulties: an exploratory study using sociometric techniques
Authors: Male Dawn B.
Published: August 2010

This paper reports on a small‐scale exploratory study which piloted the use of sociometric techniques with a class group of adolescents attending a day special school for pupils experiencing severe learning difficulties (SLD). The aim of the study was to investigate peer relationships and aspects of friendships among this population. The results indicated that the relationships and friendships of these adolescents appeared genuine and to be of significance. Statistical analysis and observation of actual behaviour indicated that choices made were stable and valid and appeared to be based on similar criteria of acceptability to ‘mainstream’ choices. The majority of adolescents were able to provide rational justifications for their choices and some were able to evaluate the relationship of others with him or her. The implications of the results are discussed with reference to a continuing trend towards inclusion.
Wave and sediment dynamics along a shallow subtidal sandy beach inhabited by modern stromatolites
Authors: ECKMAN J. E. , ANDRES M. S. , MARINELLI R. L. , BOWLIN E. , REID R. P. , ASPDEN R. J. , PATERSON D. M.
Published: August 2010

To help define the habitat of modern marine stromatolites, wave‐dominated flow and sediment transport were studied in the shallow subtidal region (1–2 m depth) along the slightly concave, windward face of Highborne Cay, Exuma, Bahamas – the only face of the cay that includes a population of stromatolites concentrated near the region of highest curvature of the beach. Wave energy impacting this island's most exposed beach was driven by local wind forcing which increases largely in response to the passage of atmospheric disturbances that typically affect the region for periods of a few days. Although some wave energy is almost always noted (maximum horizontal orbital speeds at the bottom are rarely <10 cm s−1), wave conditions remain comparatively calm until local winds increase above speeds of ≈3–4 m s−1 at which point maximum wave speeds rapidly increase to 50–80 cm s−1. Stromatolites, which are largely restricted to the shoreward side of a shallow platform reef, are sheltered by the reef beyond which wave speeds are one to four times higher (depending on tidal stage). Moreover, stromatolite populations are predominantly found along a region of this wave‐exposed beach that experiences comparatively reduced wave energy because of the curved morphology of the island's face. Maximum wave speeds are 1.4 to 2 times higher along more northern sections of the beach just beyond the locus of stromatolite populations. A quantitative model of sediment transport was developed that accurately predicted accumulation of suspended sediment in sediment traps deployed in the shallow subtidal zone along this beach. This model, coupled with in situ wave records, indicates that gross rates of suspended sediment deposition should be two to three times higher northward of the main stromatolite populations. Regions of the beach containing stromatolites nevertheless should experience significant rates of gross suspended sediment deposition averaging 7–10 g cm−2 day−1 (≈4–6 cm day−1). Results suggest that one axis of the habitat of modern marine stromatolites may be defined by a comparatively narrow range of flow energy and sediment transport conditions.
Antispasmodic effects of essential oil ofPterodon polygalaeflorusand its main constituent β‐caryophyllene on rat isolated ileum
Authors: Leonhardt Valeria , Leal‐Cardoso José H. , Lahlou Saad , Albuquerque Aline A.C. , Porto Romulo S. , Celedônio Natalia R. , Oliveira Ariclecio C. , Pereira Renalison F. , Silva Leidiane P. , Garcia‐Teófilo Taylena M.N. , Silva Anna P.F.S. , Magalhães Pedro J.C. , Duarte Gloria P. , Coelho‐de‐Souza Andrelina N.
Published: August 2010

This study investigates the effects of essential oil ofPterodon polygalaeflorus(EOPP) and β‐caryophyllene (β‐CAR). EOPP and β‐CAR relaxed the basal tone of ileum smooth muscle in a concentration‐dependent manner (IC50s = 394.35 ± 62.12 and 68.65 ± 9.51 μg/mL respectively), an effect that was unaltered by hexamethonium,L‐nitroarginine methyl ester or indomethacin. Both EOPP and β‐CAR evoked a concentration‐dependent relaxation of ileum pre‐contracted with KCl with an IC50value of 107.78 ± 10.47 and 17.35 ± 0.75 μg/mL, respectively. EOPP and β‐CAR inhibited the contractions induced by acetylcholine (ACh) and by KCl. In ileal preparations, the CaCl2‐induced contractions were reduced by EOPP (300 μg/mL) and β‐CAR (100 μg/mL). Furthermore, CaCl2‐induced contractions were also reduced by EOPP (300 μg/mL) and β‐CAR (100 μg/mL) in ileal preparations pretreated with ACh under Ca2+‐free condition and in the presence of verapamil. EOPP (100 and 300 μg/mL) and β‐CAR (30 and 100 μg/mL) reduced the ACh‐induced contractions of isolated rat ileum under Ca2+‐free conditions. In the presence of high KCl and Ca2+‐free conditions, EOPP (300 μg/mL) and β‐CAR (100 μg/mL) reduced the contractions induced by barium. A similar effect was also observed with verapamil. It is concluded that (i) β‐CAR is an important constituent involved in the myorelaxant and antispasmodic effects induced by EOPP; (ii) the inhibitory effect on intestinal contractility is myogenic and seems mainly mediated through an intracellular mechanism. However, the ability of EOPP and β‐CAR to decrease Ca2+influx through cytoplasmic membrane could not be discounted.
Effects of sphingosine‐1‐phosphate and sphingosylphosphorylcholine on intracellular Ca2+ and cell death in prostate cancer cell lines
Authors: Mulders A. C. M. , Nau S. , Li Y. , Michel M. C.
Published: August 2010

The sphingolipid metabolites sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) and sphingosylphosphorylcholine (SPC) can be involved in cellular growth and apoptosis, by both receptor‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms. We investigated the role of S1P and SPC in intracellular Ca2+ elevation, cell proliferation and cell death in DU 145 and PC3 hormone‐refractory prostate cancer cell lines. S1P and SPC increased intracellular Ca2+ levels, most likely in a receptor‐independent manner. Surprisingly, both S1P and SPC did not stimulate but rather reduced cell growth through induction of apoptosis. Therefore, antagonists targeted against S1P, SPC and their receptors do not appear to be promising new approaches in the treatment of hormone‐refractory prostate cancer.
Economic production quantity model with a shifting production rate
Authors: Ben‐Daya Mohamed , Hariga Moncer , Khursheed Syed Naveed
Published: August 2010

Typical models for determining the economic production quantity (EPQ) assume perfect product quality and perfect production processes. Deteriorating processes may affect production systems in several ways. They may decrease the quality of the items produced, cause production stoppage and breakdowns and/or reduce the production rate due to production process inefficiency. The purpose of this paper is to present an EPQ model that incorporates the effect of shifts in production rate on lot sizing decisions due to speed losses. The cycle starts with a certain production rate and after a random time, the production rate shifts to a lower value. A mathematical model to determine the optimal production policy under these conditions is developed and analyzed. Numerical examples are presented for illustrative purposes.
Voluntary Disclosure, Earnings Quality, and Cost of Capital
Authors: FRANCIS JENNIFER , NANDA DHANANJAY , OLSSON PER
Published: August 2010

We investigate the relations among voluntary disclosure, earnings quality, and cost of capital. We find that firms with good earnings quality have more expansive voluntary disclosures (as proxied by a self‐constructed index of coded items found in 677 firms' annual reports and 10‐K filings in fiscal 2001) than firms with poor earnings quality. In unconditional tests, we find that more voluntary disclosure is associated with a lower cost of capital. However, consistent with the complementary association between disclosure and earnings quality, we find that the disclosure effect on cost of capital is substantially reduced or disappears completely (depending on the cost of capital proxy) once we condition on earnings quality. Extensions probing alternative proxies show that our findings are robust to measures of earnings quality and cost of capital, but not to other measures of voluntary disclosure. In particular, we find opposite relations for voluntary disclosure measures based on management forecasts and conference calls, and we find no relations for a press release based measure.
Albright Hereditary Osteodystrophy
Authors: Stieler Karola , Schnabel Dirk , Atugoda Saman , Sterry Wolfram , Blume‐Peytavi Ulrike
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Albright hereditary osteodystrophy with pseudohypoparathyroidism is due to maternal loss‐of‐function mutations in the GNAS gene. Its typical clinical features encompass obesity, a round face and a short neck, osteoma of the skin, endocrinological abnormalities, and psychomotoric retardation. Here we present a 10‐month‐old Tunisian boy with a classical course of this rare disease.
Multiple Subepidermal Calcified Nodules on the Thigh Mimicking Molluscum Contagiosum
Authors: KIM HEI SUNG , KIM MIN JOO , LEE JUN YOUNG , KIM HYUNG‐OK , PARK YOUNG MIN
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Subepidermal calcified nodule (SCN) is a rare form of calcinosis cutis that presents as a solitary verrucous nodule on the face. Here, we report an unusual case of SCN. A healthy 2‐year‐old boy presented with multiple, round, hard, yellow‐white to erythematous lesions on his right thigh. Histopathologic examination of a punch biopsy specimen revealed deposition of calcium in the dermis.
Congenital Lymphedema with Tuberous Sclerosis and Clinical Hirschsprung Disease
Authors: LUCAS MICHAEL , ANDRADE YOHANNA
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Case of an 18‐month‐old child with congenital lymphedema subsequently diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis and Hirschsprung disease.
STRUCTURE AND COMPOSITION OF OOCYSTIS POLYMORPHA CELL WALLS ISOLATED FROM THE CULTURE MEDIUM1
Authors: Schwertner H. A. , Butcher W. I. , Richardson B.
Published: August 2010

Oocystis polymorpha and possibly other algae which shed their parent‐cell walls during reproduction appear to be suitable organisms for cell wall research in that the cell walls can be readily collected from the culture medium. Electron micrographs of sectioned isolated cell walls, of the parent‐cell walls, and of the daughter cells appear to be identical, suggesting that the isolated cell walls are representative of those of the intact cell. Chemically, the cell walls of Oocystis polymorpha resemble the cell walls of Cyanidium and the chemically resistant cuticle fraction of Cladophora and Porphyra in their high nitrogen and low sugar and lipid contents. Pink carotenoids are the major lipid components of the cell walls.
SEASONAL PATTERNS OF REPRODUCTION IN NEW YORK. POPULATIONS OF CODIUM FRAGILE (SUR.) HARIOT SUBSP. TOMENTOSOIDES (VAN GOOR) SILVA1,2
Authors: Churchill A. Coolidge , Moeller Henry W.
Published: August 2010

The characteristics of reproduction in 2 New York populations of Codium fragile were investigated over nearly a 2‐yr period. Reproduction occurred by the exclusive formation of reproductive cells that germinated and developed, asexually. There was no evidence at any time that the reproductive cells fused and thus functioned as gametes.

The relative abundance of the reproductive organs on plants in both populations exhibited a marked seasonal variation. New fronds first initiated reproductive organs during July and attained maximum values during the autumn. Formation of new reproductive organs did not occur during the winter and early spring, and those present slowly degenerated so that minimum values occurred during April–May. Reinitiation of reproductive organs on second‐year fronds started in May–June. It is proposed that a minimum temperature between 12 and 15 C is required for the initiation of reproductive organs and that temperatures below this range are inhibitory to their formation.
ECOLOGICAL IMPLICATIONS OF CULTURE STUDIES ON NEREOCYSTIS LUETKEANA1
Authors: Vadas Robert L.
Published: August 2010

Meiospores, gametophytes grown in culture and then fragmented in a blendor, and young sporophytes of N. luetkeana, were grown at varying temperatures, light intensities, photoperiods, and densities. Vegetative growth occurred over a wider range of environmental conditions than did sexuality. Gametophytes matured at 5, 10, and 15 C but not at 20 C. Low light., 15 ft‐c (161 lux), and short day photo‐periods (8–16) inhibited or greatly retarded sexuality. Saturation intensities for sexuality occurred between 100 and 200 ft‐c (1076 and 2152 lux). Maximal rates of sexuality occurred at or above light, intensities of 3200 ft‐c hr/day on an alternating (16–8) light‐dark cycle. Light was determined to be the single most important factor in sexuality and subsequent sporophyte growth. Increased density did not affect sexuality but significantly reduced sporophyte growth. Field light intensities beneath lower canopy kelps were below minimal light requirements for gametophyte maturation. These data support, the view that light sets the lower limits on vertical distribution and that, temperature is involved in the latitudinal range of N. luetkeana. These and other studies suggest that the anomalous shallow water depth distribution of N. luetkeana in the San Juan Islands is partly the result of competition for light and not light attenuation, per se.
UTILIZATION OF DISSOLVED ORGANIC CARBON BY NATURAL POPULATIONS OF EPIBENTHIC SALT MARSH DIATOMS1
Authors: Darley W. Marshall , Ohlman Connie T. , Wimpee Barbara B.
Published: August 2010

Natural populations of pennate diatoms collected from the mudflats of a Georgia salt marsh were cleansed by differential centrifugation and tested for their ability to assimilate and respire14C‐acetate, lactate and glucose at 1 μM concentrations. A correction was made for contaminating bacterial activity. Utilization rates were measured in the light and dark and in the presence of a second substrate. Mean incorporation rates were (in pmol ·μg chl a−1· h−1± SE): acetate, 117 ± 37; lactate, 53.7 ± 20.4; glucose 13.0 ± 5.8. Using a carbon/chlorophyll ratio of 53.2 and a generation time of 48 h we calculate these algae could obtain up to 1% of their carbon heterotrophically if several usable substrates were each available at 1 μM concentrations.
OLISTHODISCUS LUTEUS(CHRYSOPHYCEAE). III. UPTAKE AND UTILIZATION OF NITROGEN AND PHOSPHORUS1
Authors: Tomas Carmelo R.
Published: August 2010

Uptake and assimilation of nitrogen and phosphorus were studied inOlisthodiscus luteusCarter. A diel periodicity in nitrate reductase activity was observed in log and stationary phase cultures; there was a 10‐fold difference in magnitude between maximum and minimum rates, but other cellular features such as chlorophylla,carbon, nitrogen, C:N ratio (atoms) · cell−1were less variable.Ksvalues (~2 μM) for uptake of nitrate‐N and ammonium‐N were observed. Phosphorus assimilated · cell−1· day−1varied with declining external phosphorus concentrations; growth rates <0.5 divisions · day−1were common at <0.5 μM PO4‐P. Phosphate uptake rates(Ks=1.0–1.98 μM) varied with culture age and showed multiphasic kinetic features. Alkaline phosphatase activity was not detected. Comparisons of the nutrient dynamics ofO. luteusto other phytoplankton species and the ecological implications as related to the phytoplankton community of Narragansett Bay (Rhode Island) are discussed.